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"Unleashed Chaos"


Prologue
Unleashed Chaos

By scongrove

Prologue
 
Berkeley California, thirty-six years ago…


Lisa Wellington drew the blanket snuggly around the tiny infant and cradled it close, huddling in the dark. In the middle of a wooded field, she hid behind a thick pine. Looking up, she stared at the cloudless and star-filled sky. The night air was chilly, wiping away the warm sunny afternoon.

Her escape had been a miracle. An explosion had damaged the cell where she’d been held captive. She’d managed to get out before the guards could find her through all the wreckage. Severely weakened by all she’d been forced to endure, Lisa had also just given birth to twins only a week ago.

After it had been leaked out about her special gift of healing, an underground group of government military officials comprised of unethical scientist’s, took Lisa against her will. Treated like some magic wand they waved at a wound or an illness, they expected her to make it all disappear. The most ghastly experiment she’d undergone was when the German scientist, Dr. Hans Autenburg forced her to heal a patient with mental illness. For days Lisa had known what it truly was to be insane. She even thought of killing herself, but her pregnancy kept her from going through with the act. And then a ruthless physician named Dr. Hubert Crane, who served as her pediatrician, wanted to experiment on her babies after they were born. Dr. Crane was without humanity—the kind of monster that would skin an animal alive just to see how much pain it could endure before its death. He oddly resembled the evil leader of the German Nazi Party, Adolf Hitler. He even shared the same trademark hairstyle, mustache, and stern mannerism.  

She hated them for using other’s that had similar unique gifts as they’d used her. Not only did they kidnap humans, but they took Breedline against their will, forcing them to change into their wolf. They endured painful cellular modifications, mutated into a hybrid species. To them, they were just objects to provide them with knowledge and power. But now Lisa had run out of options. She was lucky to have been able to get out alive with her baby girl, regretting having to leave her son behind. When she escaped, she managed to get to the nursery only to find Tessa. Someone had taken her little boy, Steven.

Closing her eyes, she was exhausted by the weight of responsibility, sorrow, and regret. Trying to figure out her next plan of action was proving difficult. How was she going to provide for a baby alone at seventeen? She couldn’t go back home to her family. That would put them in danger. She knew her abductors were probably already searching for her, and she had no other choice but to stay on the run. That was no life for a child.

She missed her sister, Wanda. She was eight years older and took on the role of a mother for Lisa after their parents had passed away. And then her thoughts drifted to her beloved Kenneth, the father of her twins. After Lisa’s abduction, she severed the telepathic link between them to keep him safe. Her worst fear was that it was permanent, and she’d never get it back. Not having Kenneth was like living forever in the freezing cold without the sun.

In a way, she supposed it was for the best. If she tried to go back to her loved ones, they’d never be able to live a normal life, and she was determined to keep them out of harm’s way. 

The sound of a soft coo brought her back to reality. As she looked down into her daughter’s angelic face, silent tears slid down Lisa’s cheeks. She reached up and wiped them away, refusing to fall apart. Lisa was stronger than this, and she’d be strong again. She just needed to find a safe place for her daughter.   

Lisa froze when she heard a distant noise. She went so still that even her breath sounded like an echo drifting in the silence. Quietly, Lisa snuggled the baby against her chest and gently rocked, trying to keep her soothed. She would never be able to live with herself if they took Tessa away. 

As she waited in silence, ghosts invaded her mind. Lisa wondered if her sanity had been sacrificed, and worried she’d suffered through one too many experiments. Then she heard another sound, getting closer and closer. There was a man nearby, speaking in low tones. Fear was her first instinct because she could barely hear his voice.   

“Lisa… where are you?” The voice was quiet in the dark, barely above a whisper.

He moved closer, and when he did, she could see his face. It was David, one of the guards that brought meals to her every day. As time had passed during her captivity, they’d secretly become friends. He’d promised he would find a way to get her and her babies away from her confinement and to a safe place.

She inhaled through her nose and then whispered back, “I’m over here.”

As David followed her voice and got closer, she noticed he held an automatic rifle, and though he shifted, so he was standing next to her, his gaze was still trained on the distance, watching, never once looking down at her.

“Lisa, we need to get out of here now,” he murmured. “Guards are everywhere looking for you, and they’re not far away. Are you strong enough to walk?”

With all her strength, she fought through the ghosts battling for control and got to her feet. Holding onto Tessa, she looked at him, her eyes filled with despair and said, “Where’s Steven?”

He shook his head. “I’m sorry, Lisa,” he said quietly, placing his hand on her arm. “I couldn’t get to him. Dr. Autenburg’s men had got to him before I did. I don’t know where they took him.”

“After I get Tessa to a safe place, promise me you’ll bring me back… to get my son.” There was a fierce edge to her voice that reflected strength her body didn’t have. But with determination, she would find it. She would take the risk of getting captured again if that’s what it took to reunite with her son. She had to make sure Steven had a chance for a normal life and not one filled with endless, painful experiments.

David nodded. “Then we need to leave now. I’ve got a vehicle hidden not far from here,” he explained. “Where do you want to go?”

She glanced down at Tessa, and a burst of hope warmed her insides. This young in her arms was a miracle... a precious living, breathing gift from God. Lisa didn’t want to let her go, but she knew she had to do what was best for her daughter. If she stayed in her life, it would be one on the run and Tessa deserved a chance to have a normal childhood, away from danger lurking in the shadows.   
 
“Take me to Midway, Kentucky… to my sister, Wanda.”

He nodded with his lips in a thin line, worry edged in his expression. “Let’s go,” he said in a quiet, firm voice.

Ten yards away, David helped Lisa get to a jeep he had hidden behind an old barn. Opening the door for her, Lisa noticed two car seats in the back and a bag sitting beside it, apparently full of baby things. When she turned toward him, his grayish-lavender eyes softened, mesmerizing for the odd shade. “I’m sorry…” he paused, shaking his head. “I’m sorry I didn’t get to Steven in time.”

She looked down at Tessa as sadness crept through her chest. Lifting her chin back up, she said, “It’s not your fault, David. I appreciate everything you’ve done for us.”

As they drove away, he was on edge, keeping a constant look out the rearview mirror until his neck ached from all the back and forth. Focusing on the backseat, he was relieved Tessa was sound asleep, happily snuggled in the car seat appearing content. Looking away, he glanced at Lisa and said, “Is Wanda your twin sister?”

Lisa stiffened against the seat belt. When she thought about his question, it brought back memories of her childhood. Her twin sister had died in childbirth, leaving Lisa feeling empty and hollow on the inside as she grew up without her. Breedline twins were born with an unbreakable bond. She let out a deep breath, and her shoulders drooped from fatigue and weariness. “No. She’s my older sister,” she replied, turning in David’s direction. “My twin sister died at birth.”

His eyes softened, and his lips tightened. “I’m sorry, Lisa.”

“Thanks,” she said, swallowing hard. “Wanda practically raised me after our parents passed away.”

David frowned. “What happened to your parents?”

Lisa looked down and shrugged. “They died in a car accident, but I don’t think it was accidental,” she said, raising haunted eyes to his, hurt brimming in her liquid gaze. “I think their death had something to do with the people who took me.”
  
David blew out his breath. It went against his grain to ever put a woman or child in danger. Guilt swamped his eyes as he thought of being part of the monsters that had taken Lisa. Hired as a guard, David he had no idea this organization was involved in illegal activity.

He opened his mouth to speak but then fell silent. His gaze riveted to Lisa as she looked away and stared out the window. Her demeanor told him she was holding back tears. Feeling her pain, he changed the topic and said, “How did you hide your abilities from others?”

Lisa shifted her stare from the window at the passing scenery and directed it toward David again. “I just didn’t use them,” she said. “My parents drummed into me from as early as I can remember to keep it a secret. No one outside our family was ever to know.”

David’s brow arched. “That shows remarkable restraint. Does… Tessa and Steven’s father know?”

Lisa shook her head. “No. I thought it would be best if he didn’t know.” She stopped and hesitated briefly. “Kenneth’s mother was human, and she became very ill, and there was a chance she wouldn’t survive. Her illness completely devastated him. So I secretly healed her… for him.”

David smiled. “You’re special, Lisa. And I don’t mean because of your abilities. I think you’re the kindest person I’ve ever met. You deserve a happy life.”

“Thank you, David.” She smiled a little. “Thank you for being so kind to me.”

She said nothing more because if she did, she would break down and fall apart. Just for the moment, she didn’t want to think of a future—an impossible future—she couldn’t have. 

After three days on the road, they finally arrived in Midway, Kentucky. Lisa must have dozed off because she awoke when David gently nudged her shoulder.

“We’re here Lisa. You’ll need to give me directions to your sister’s place. How much farther is it?”

She sat up, wiping her tired eyes, and then studied the roadway in front of them.

“Not far,” she said, yawning, “just a few more miles.”

He nodded. “Okay. Do you think your sister will be home?”

Her chest tightened, constricting her airway. Her hands trembled, and she willed herself not to freak out. Deep breaths, she thought. Take deep breaths. She sucked in a deep breath and tried to keep her response calm and focused so David wouldn’t know she was apprehensive.

“I hope so,” she said, releasing a sigh.

After giving him directions, she closed her eyes and said a silent prayer Wanda would be home when they arrived.

A half hour later, Lisa’s pulse raced out of control until she could feel it at her temples as they drove down a long country road that led to her sister’s farmhouse.

David noticed her nervousness and put his hand on her shoulder. “You’re doing the right thing,” he said, his eyes expressing sympathy.

Gradually the anxiety drifted away, and Lisa found her focus. It was if her mind was a knotted rope that was uncoiling and loosening and finding its way free. She brought back the image of her sister’s face to the center of her focus and let everything else fall away. Subconsciously, she could hear Wanda’s soft voice, and how it always made her feel safe and loved. Her sister’s husband John was a gentle and kindhearted man. She had no doubt he would be an excellent father figure for Tessa.

The road leading down to her sister’s farm was narrow and dusty. The moon shimmered as Lisa looked at the dark sky, reminding her of home. In other circumstances, she’d be thrilled to be home, but this was not the occasion to be happy. She had no other choice but to ask her sister and John to raise Tessa. 

As they parked in front of a beautiful two-story house, Lisa sat in silence and stared out the car window. After a long moment of building up the courage, she turned to meet David’s gaze. “Please wait here,” she said, her voice laced with tears. “I won’t be long.”

David quickly got out, reached in the back seat for Tessa and handed her to Lisa. With Tessa in her arms, she slowly walked to the front door, her heart pounding in her chest. Before Lisa reached up to knock, she looked down at her daughter, knowing this might be the last time she’d see her again and whispered, “Never forget… Mommy will always love you.” She kissed Tessa on the cheek as tears streamed down her face. 

Thirty minutes later, David saw Lisa come out of the house alone. She’d been forced to do the unthinkable… give up her own flesh and blood. When Lisa got into the jeep, she sat staring ahead in silence, completely broken. Lisa and her babies were innocent in all this. David understood the sacrifice she’d made. Her children deserved a chance to grow up in a traditional home without the fears of being kept in a cage like a lab rat.

Keeping her eyes forward, she wiped her tears and muttered, “Let’s go find my son.” Her voice cracked as emotion and pain knotted her throat. 

David reached for Lisa’s hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. He waited a moment as though to allow her to gather her emotions and then turned on the ignition. “I promise I’ll do whatever I have to do to keep you—and your son—safe.” 
  
She stared up at him in awe, so shocked by his reassuring words that she couldn’t even begin to know how to respond. What could she say to that? It comforted her that he was so resolute and that he now included Steven in his vow to protect. But he was just one man, and this was not his fight. And yet she needed him. He was the only person she would allow herself to trust.

As they drove through the night, fog hovered low to the ground, making the visibility impossible on the road ahead. When David and Lisa arrived back to the compound to search for her son, the trap had already sprung. Dread filled Lisa’s stomach and rose to her throat, tightening until it was hard to breathe as the jeep came to a screeching halt. Dr. Autenburg and Dr. Crane’s men had blocked the front entrance with weapons aimed in their direction.

David kept his hands on the steering wheel, and Lisa flinched when several guards approached her door. At the same time, David’s door flew open and more guards surrounded their vehicle, motioning for them to get out. When Lisa looked at David, he whispered, “Don’t run, Lisa. Just do what they say.”

In surrender with their hands up, they slowly stepped out of the jeep. Lisa screamed when a shot fired, and David dropped to the ground. When she tried to run for him, strong fingers curled around her wrist and jerked her back. Lisa twisted free from the tight grip and flew to David, throwing herself over his body.

“No, David!” she said, her voice pleading as she shook his shoulders. “Please!”

But he wasn’t moving. David’s glassy eyes stared out with an empty gaze. Lisa could see a thick trickle of blood down the side of his face.  
  
“Get up!” a seething voice came from behind her.

Recognizing the hateful tone, laced with a German accent, Lisa froze. When she felt a tight grip on her arm, she flinched, snapping back to reality. With all her strength, she tried to pry herself free. There was a distinct sound of ripping fabric as Lisa felt herself being yanked backward—as Dr. Crane’s sleeve came off in her hand. And in that heart-stopping instant, she saw something else. On his forearm, he had a tattoo of a snake and a sword. She suddenly realized—even as she felt trapped in a strong embrace and fought to get free—the design on his skin was perfectly clear. It was a snake with its tail in its mouth, coiled around a long dagger. Staring up at him in horror, she was vaguely aware of a sharp stick piercing her arm. 

Lisa was narcotized and smuggled out of California to a prison laboratory near Munich, Germany, where all the horrific experimentations began.    

Subjected to endless and painful tests, Lisa suffered years of isolation. Refusing was not an option. Dr. Crane used her son as a threat. If Lisa refused to comply with their physical torture, they systematically tormented her with insinuations of Steven’s death. In the end, Lisa was bound to an operating table and mutated into a new specimen they called Lilith. Even though her heart froze, never to beat again, and most of her memories erased, she was still alive, her age froze in time. They transformed Lisa into something which went against the laws of nature... an abomination created by power and greed.

A glow seemed to emanate from her skin making it transparent, no longer a solid figure, but instead a glowing ghost. Her eyes were glimmering lights, like two brilliant, sparkling diamonds. But all the memories of her endless torture still burned in her mind like a blazing fire.

Blinded by their scientific craving, Dr. Hubert Crane had made a fatal mistake. He’d created his worst nightmare. Already born with the gift to heal, Lilith’s abilities developed and grew, changing with each experiment.   

With the power to manipulate the mind, Lilith used her new skills on all of Dr. Crane’s men. One by one, they slaughtered each other, including some of the scientists except for Dr. Hubert Crane and Dr. Hans Autenburg, who managed to escape with Steven.

In a heated rage of fury, Lilith burnt the laboratory to the ground and cursed her revenge. As she watched everything burn, a clear memory of the past went through her like a knife. Lilith caught a vague remembrance of two babies lying side by side in a crib, each with emerald green eyes. In her subconscious, she heard the words to a lullaby. Hearing the melody in her head, she gasped as it all shifted into a nightmare. Helplessness and frustration swamped her as cries from a baby rang deep into her conscious. As images of two infants torn from their mother’s arms came to her in a flash, Lilith covered her face with both hands and dropped to her knees.

“Please...” the words painfully broke from her throat, “don’t take my babies!”

Overwhelmed by raw emotions, Lilith slowly lowered her hands and looked up at the sky, ready to surrender the last threads of her sanity. None of this made sense. Why did she scream out just a moment ago? Was she losing her mind? Were the images real or not?
 
Lilith closed her eyes, unable to bear the memory no more. It was more than she could withstand. All of it seemed like a dream, moments drawn out of real life as if they belonged to someone else. And then they were gone. Scrubbed from her memory, Tessa and Steven faded into nothing, leaving behind a blank slate. It was if the images had never existed at all. Opening her eyes, she took a quick, shallow breath and watched everything around her turn to ash.

****
Both physicians went quiet for years, as though they disappeared from the face of the earth. Years later, police discovered Dr. Autenburg’s mutilated body back in Berkeley, California.

Dr. Hubert Crane sought new backing, billionaire clients with a hunger for research, and hired more men to hunt down Steven—who was now an adult—after he managed to escape his colleague, Dr. Hans Autenburg.    
               
To be continued...
 
 
 

 

Author Notes The journey so far...

Identical twins, Jace and Jem Chamberlain, born of the Breedline species - a race of humans that have special powers and the gift to change into wolf form - finds their life changed forever after their mother's murderer, the Chiang-shih demon... is finally destroyed freeing their evil half-brother, Sebastian Crow of his possession.

As Sebastian moves on with his new life, searching for Eve - his bonded mate - he discovers he has a twin brother who has knowledge of Eve's whereabouts and introduces him to someone far more dangerous than the Chiang-shih demon... and her name is Lilith.

With the new knowledge of Tessa's pregnancy of twin boys, Jace is drawn to protect them from his reoccurring nightmares he suspects are visions.

After Jace proposes to Tessa, she realizes he still bears the scars from his tortured past and his thirst for vengeance against Sebastian Crow. As Tessa helps Jace overcome his unquenchable fury before the Beast in him unleashes, someone from her past unexpectedly appears.

Now that there is a bit of peace in the Breedline Covenant, Jem looks forward to marrying his beloved, Mia. Unprepared for Eve's pregnancy - Mia's twin sister - they must come to terms that Sebastian or the demon might have spawned her unborn children. Either way, they may bring a whole new set of destruction and evil into the world.

Meanwhile, Dr. Helen Carrington continues with her research to find the cure for the Breedline aging process as romance blossoms between her and Alexander Crest.

As promised, Drakon Hexus returns back into Cassie's arms after helping the others destroy the demon, and hopefully, he will give her what she desires... to finally consummate their bond, bringing forth her first change into her Breedline wolf.

Tim Ross, the head council of the Breedline must face the decision he's agreed... welcoming Eve's children into the Breedline Covenant, and another mysterious guest, formally known as SPECIMEN ONE.

Kyle and Celina continue to see where their new relationship takes them, as she faces the heartache that she may not ever walk again. Kyle's cousin, Casey Barton, returns after mourning the death of his mother and finds a new romance himself. But he has secrets, and if it gets out to the Covenant, his life may change forever.

NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves, a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle, Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedline's born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem'?s adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah, a dark Wicca, murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and another council member that has turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 1
The Proposal

By scongrove

The Journey So Far…

Identical twins, Jace and Jem Chamberlain, born of the Breedline species—a race of humans that have special powers and the gift to change into wolf form—finds their life changed forever after their mother’s murderer, the Chiang-shih demon… is finally destroyed freeing their evil half-brother,  Sebastian Crow of his possession.

As Sebastian moves on with his new life, searching for Eve—his bonded mate—he discovers he has a twin brother who has knowledge of Eve’s whereabouts and introduces him to someone far more dangerous than the Chiang-shih demon… and her name is Lilith.

With the new knowledge of Tessa’s pregnancy of twin boys, Jace is drawn to protect them from his reoccurring nightmares he suspects are visions.

After Jace proposes to Tessa, she realizes he still bears the scars from his tortured past and his thirst for vengeance against Sebastian Crow. As Tessa helps Jace overcome his unquenchable fury before the Beast in him unleashes, someone from her past unexpectedly appears.

Now that there is a bit of peace in the Breedline Covenant, Jem looks forward to marrying his beloved, Mia. Unprepared for Eve’s pregnancy—Mia’s twin sister—they must come to terms that Sebastian or the demon might have spawned her unborn children. Either way, they may bring a whole new set of destruction and evil into the world.

Meanwhile, Dr. Helen Carrington continues with her research to find the cure for the Breedline aging process as romance blossoms between her and Alexander Crest.

As promised, Drakon Hexus returns back into Cassie’s arms after helping the others destroy the demon, and hopefully, he will give her what she desires… to finally consummate their bond, bringing forth her first change into her Breedline wolf. 

Tim Ross, the head council of the Breedline must face the decision he’s agreed… welcoming Eve’s children into the Breedline Covenant, and another mysterious guest—formally known as one of Dr. Hans Autenburg’s lab experiments he called SPECIMEN ONE. 
  

Kyle and Celina continue to see where their new relationship takes them, as she faces the heartache that she may not ever walk again. Kyle’s cousin, Casey Barton, returns after mourning the death of his mother and finds a new romance himself. But he has secrets, and if it gets out to the Covenant, his life may change forever.

Continued...

Death was messy, painful and without rules… especially when you were faced with decisions to risk your life and the life of the one’s you love.

An hour later, as Tessa opened her eyes, she realized she was back at the Breedline Covenant… safe and sound, lying on top of an uncomfortable, thinly padded exam table. The same one Helen gave her the exciting, but scary news that she was pregnant with twins.

“I think she’s awake,” Cassie said, looking down at Tessa with a cheerful grin on her face. “Welcome back, Tessa.”

She felt like hell, and her entire body was stiff, but she was alive.

Jace suddenly entered her vision as he leaned over and stared at her with a worried expression in his icy blue eyes.

Tessa opened her mouth to speak, but all that came out was a low whisper, “Are the babies—“

Jace smiled. Nodding his head, he took her hand and caressed it. “They’re fine,” he said softly. “Don’t worry, baby. Everyone is just fine.”   

Exhausted, Tessa closed her eyes, the faint sounds of voices carrying her off into a drifting sleep. In her dreams, her mind sensed that everything had worked out as it was supposed to. That path she had been set upon to help the Breedline fight in battle against the Chiang-shih demon had taken her precisely where she was meant to end up... safe back in Jace’s arms.

****
On the other side of the room, Celina blinked as tears sprang to her eyes when she heard her aunt Helen say, “I’m sorry, Celina, but the injury to your spine is beyond my expertise. You’ll need an orthopedic surgeon.”

Celina swallowed, trying to clear her dry throat. “I thought I was going to be okay,” her voice croaked. “I mean… I figured it was just a head injury. I wiggled my toes and...“ She took a deep breath. “Will I ever walk again?”

Trying to soothe her, Helen put her hand on Celina’s shoulder. “I have faith you will,” her voice suggested hope.  

“We’ll find you the damn best,” Kyle promised, his eyes locked on Celina’s. “Find her the best, Doc… no matter what it takes.”

“I’ll find her an excellent surgeon,” Helen said, her concerned expression soothing Kyle’s anxiety. “You have my word.”

Kyle’s shoulder sagged a bit as if all the air escaped him at once. When he nodded, Helen checked the IV in Celina’s arm. Plugged into a bag, it hung off the medical monitoring headboard. Before she left the room to give them privacy, she looked over her shoulder at Kyle. “She needs to get some rest.”

When the door clicked shut, Celina felt a warm hand on hers. It was Kyle’s hand against her own, and the connection between them eased her in ways she couldn’t explain. 

In truth, she’d lost her parents when she was just a child at the hands of her twin sister—and now she was dead. If she wasn’t ever to walk again, she still had her aunt Helen, her new family here at the Covenant, and Kyle, her Breedline bonded mate.
 
Leaning close, Kyle captured Celina’s mouth in a quick, tender kiss. “I’m so glad to have you back safe.”

“Me, too,” she whispered just as her consciousness slipped from her grasp, and she drifted asleep. In her heart, she believed she would come back to Kyle whole. One way or the other, she was going to walk again.

****
Tessa woke with Jace right by her side, sitting in a chair holding onto her hand. “How are you feeling?”

Staring up at him, she saw him for all he was:  A fierce fighter, compassionate lover, the lost soul, the Beast, and the bonded mate who was now her family.

“Forgive me,” she murmured.

Confused, he shrugged his shoulders. “Forgive you for what, honey?”

As she thought about all their ups and downs, he’d always put her first. Covering her face with her hands, she unleashed all her emotions and fell apart.

Grabbing a box of Kleenex, he placed it in her lap. “Please, baby. Don’t cry.”

Snapping a tissue out, she sniffled wiping her eyes. 

“Why would I need to forgive you?” Jace asked her again.

Clearing her throat, she muttered, “For being so hardheaded and risking the lives of our unborn children.” She snatched out another tissue. “Can you forgive me?”

“There’s nothing to forgive.” He stared at her with compassion. “You did what you had to do to save the lives of others. But part of its true.” He chuckled. “You’re definitely hardheaded.”

She laughed, and he loved the sound. “I love you.” Her wet eyes stared into his. “I love you, and I’m sorry.” She laughed again, scooting higher onto the pillows. “You’ve always done the right thing by me… always putting me first before anyone else.”

Jace grasped her hand and brought it to his lips. After he had pressed a kiss on her soft skin, he put it over his heart. As she kept it there, Jace cleared his throat. “You never gave me an answer,” he said in a raspy, tear-laced voice. In another attempt to repair his completely botched effort of proposing, he muttered, “Tessa, will you marry me?” Oh, God, he thought, please say—

Tessa smiled up at him, so much love in her eyes that it took his breath away. God, she loved this man. “Of course I’ll marry you,” she said, sincerity ringing clear in her voice.
 
Jace’s dimples beamed on each cheek, smiling at her response.

“You knew I would say yes, right?”

He leaned over and gently kissed her lips. “I was praying you would.”

“Good.” She placed her hand against his face. “Then it’s settled.”

Tenderly, he gathered her close and held her. Pulling from their embrace, he smoothed a strand of her hair behind her ear. Reaching into his pocket, Jace pulled out a small, black velvet box. When he opened it, Tessa’s eyes widened with excitement. Inside, she saw a beautiful princess cut, ruby ring.

“Oh, Jace.” She smiled at him, a gloss of tears obscuring her vision. “It’s absolutely breathtaking!”  

After Jace took it out of the box, he gently slid it on her finger. “Alexander passed this down to me, to give to you. It was my great grandmother’s wedding ring,” he said, putting his palm over her stomach to the warm and loving place that held his sons. “We’re going to be a happy family now.”

“I love you, Jace Chamberlain.”

With his fingertips, he traced over her belly and whispered, “I love you more.”

To be continued...
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil, other than protecting their life, and the life of another, they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves, a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares - that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle, Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and another council member that has turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 2
The Big Announcement

By scongrove

The Journey So Far…

Identical twins, Jace and Jem Chamberlain, born of the Breedline species—a race of humans that have special powers and the gift to change into wolf form—finds their life changed forever after their mother’s murderer, the Chiang-shih demon… is finally destroyed freeing their evil half-brother,  Sebastian Crow of his possession.

As Sebastian moves on with his new life, searching for Eve—his bonded mate—he discovers he has a twin brother who has knowledge of Eve’s whereabouts and introduces him to someone far more dangerous than the Chiang-shih demon… and her name is Lilith.

With the new knowledge of Tessa’s pregnancy of twin boys, Jace is drawn to protect them from his reoccurring nightmares he suspects are visions.

After Jace proposes to Tessa, she realizes he still bears the scars from his tortured past and his thirst for vengeance against Sebastian Crow. As Tessa helps Jace overcome his unquenchable fury before the Beast in him unleashes, someone from her past unexpectedly appears.

Now that there is a bit of peace in the Breedline Covenant, Jem looks forward to marrying his beloved, Mia. Unprepared for Eve’s pregnancy—Mia’s twin sister—they must come to terms that Sebastian or the demon might have spawned her unborn children. Either way, they may bring a whole new set of destruction and evil into the world.

Meanwhile, Dr. Helen Carrington continues with her research to find the cure for the Breedline aging process as romance blossoms between her and Alexander Crest.

As promised, Drakon Hexus returns back into Cassie’s arms after helping the others destroy the demon, and hopefully, he will give her what she desires… to finally consummate their bond, bringing forth her first change into her Breedline wolf. 

Tim Ross, the head council of the Breedline must face the decision he’s agreed… welcoming Eve’s children into the Breedline Covenant, and another mysterious guest—linked to one of Dr. Hans Autenburg’s lab experiments he created, named SPECIMEN ONE.  
 

Kyle and Celina continue to see where their new relationship takes them, as she faces the heartache that she may not ever walk again. Kyle’s cousin, Casey Barton, returns after mourning the death of his mother and finds a new romance himself. But he has secrets, and if it gets out to the Covenant, his life may change forever.

Two weeks later…

The Covenant was alive with chatter, laughter and the warm smiles that only came from being with family. All of the Breedline were present and accounted for. Even John and Sarah—Jace and Jem’s human adopted parents—were still residing there. 

Sarah had cornered Jace as soon as they’d returned after the Breedline finally destroyed the Chiang-shih demon, concerned for Tessa’s pregnancy. He had assured her she was fine, but he hadn’t shared the fact that he’d proposed to Tessa. He was saving that surprise for when they made the official announcement.

Jace’s twin brother Jem, and Alexander—their biological father—knew, but they were keeping it quiet, not wanting to ruin the big surprise.  

Thanks to Doc Helen’s handiwork and fifty stitches later, Tessa was up and around a week after the battle with the Katako. He’d snapped her shoulder open clear to the bone. She knew she was back to her usual self because she’d been up half the night… making love with Jace.

Early in the morning, Jace and Tessa headed downstairs toward the kitchen to meet everyone for breakfast. As they stood outside the door, Jace was grinning so wide; his face was starting to get sore from all the smiling.  His eyes glittered with excitement as he took Tessa’s hand and lifted it to his lips. “Let’s announce our engagement,” he murmured against her soft skin.

Tessa grinned and squeezed his hand. She was as eager as a kid at Christmas. Tessa loved the way Jace was drawing it out for maximum effect. She wanted to savor this moment for as long as possible.

When they stepped through the door, everyone who mattered to them was inside. Jace cleared his throat and then called for attention. The chatter inside hushed, and all eyes directed toward Jace and Tessa.

“Tessa and I have something we’d like to share with everyone.”

Jace glanced down at Tessa and gave her a look so filled with love she would never forget. She felt warmed all the way down to her toes by the contentment that rested so effortlessly on him.

He took a deep breath, and lifted his chin, his smile growing so broad that his teeth flashed.

With his hand entwined with hers, he blurted, “We’re getting married!”
      
The smiles in the room were instantaneous. Sarah clapped her hand over her mouth as tears filled her eyes. No longer able to contain herself, she dropped her hand as squeals of excitement burst from her lips.

“Oh Tessa,” Sarah exclaimed as she rushed over and pulled Tessa into her arms.

A chorus of cheers and congratulations went up, and everyone gathered into a big group hug.
   
John pushed his way in and gathered Tessa into a huge hug, but he was careful not to squeeze too tight. He kissed her cheek, and when he spoke, emotion coated his voice.

“I couldn’t be prouder,” he said, and then put his arm around Mia. “What a blessing to have both my sons lucky in love with two lovely young ladies.”

“This calls for a toast,” Jem called out, holding up a glass of orange juice. “To Jace and Tessa… I love you both and congratulations! I hope you’re just as happy as I am,” he added, winking at Mia. 

Everyone was quick to grab their glass and toasted to the happy occasion.

Alexander broke in, looking directly at Jace, and then he turned toward Jem. “I want to congratulate you both,” he said. With his eyes locked on everyone, his gaze expressed gratitude. And then Alexander looked directly at John and Sarah, his respect for the couple so powerful it was hard to even put into words all he felt toward them for taking care of his sons when he couldn’t. “I’m so grateful for you all. I don’t know where I’d be without you.”

“Thank you,” Tessa said, her voice as watery as her eyes were. And then she looked around the room, at every single face. “Our sons will be the luckiest children who ever lived to have such a loving family.”

Another round of congratulations swept through the room, relieving some of the solemnity. 
 
Jace briefly closed his eyes, merely absorbing the vibrations of so much joy. He was moving into a future filled with the promise of brighter days and happier times.   
    
After the celebration and breakfast, Jem strode down the hall with Jace to hit the gym. The happy announcement about Jace and Tessa getting married had lifted everyone’s spirits and brought excitement back into the Covenant, especially since Jem and Mia decided to push their wedding ahead of schedule. They were getting married in eight days.

Tessa met with Mia to help finish all the last minute wedding decisions and to show off her engagement ring. When all the arrangements were final, and Mia was satisfied with all the choices right down to the very last detail, Tessa smiled at her and reached for the door. “You’re going to make a beautiful bride, Mia. Jem’s going to love the dress.”

“Thank you, Tessa.” Mia sat on her and Jem’s big bed. “I couldn’t have done this without all your help.”
 
“You’re welcome,” Tessa replied. “And don’t be nervous. Everything is going to go just fine.”

When Tessa left, Mia nervously rubbed her sweaty palms over her jeans as she thought about walking down the aisle. When it came to getting married, most girls looked forward to being presented to their fiancé by their proud father, and their mother was supposed to be sobbing when they saw their daughter walk down the aisle in their wedding dress.

Mia, on the other hand, was walking down the aisle by herself. There was no one to give her away, and no one would be sitting on the bride’s side of the room.

She leaned against the headboard, and thought about the only family member she had, but didn’t even know. She was thinking of her twin sister, Eve. They were separated at birth and grew up without even the knowledge of one another. And now her sister was alone and pregnant… with Sebastian’s twins.

As her thoughts shifted toward Tessa’s pregnancy, she wished Eve could be like her. Tessa was more like a sister to her than a friend. Eve had done terrible things to her, but Tessa didn’t hold a grudge towards Mia, even though she looked identical to Eve.

At least she knew the Covenant and Jem’s family had accepted her. But everything else in her life before she met Jem had not been good. God, she thought. Maybe that was also the cause of her jittery nerves. She feared the things she’d done in her past would come back to haunt her. Jem was a miracle, almost too good to be true—

A knock on the door brought her head around. She frowned and sat up on the bed, then rubbed her eyes. “I’m coming,” she called out.

Moving to the edge of the bed, she got to her feet and opened the door. “Sorry to bother you,” Alexander said, holding something small in his hand.

She shook her head. “Oh, you’re fine,” she replied with a surprised expression on her face. “Jem’s downstairs in the gym with Jace if you’re looking—“

“I’m actually here to see you,” he interjected with a nervous pitch. “I was wondering if I could speak with you. I mean… you’re going to marry my son, and I thought it would be nice to talk… but if you’re busy—“

“No, please come in.” She moved aside as he entered. “I just finished going over all the wedding plans with Tessa. Please, have a seat,” she said, gesturing toward a table with two wingback chairs.

Before he sat down, he said, “Are you sure I’m not imposing?”

“Of course not.” She smiled, pulling out a chair across from him.  
 
When he sat down, he put a small, black jewelry box on top of the table. “I wanted to give you something before the wedding. It belonged to my grandmother… Jem’s great grandmother.”

As he opened the black velvet box, she saw a beautiful, antique diamond brooch in the shape of a butterfly. “Would you wear this at your wedding?”

“Oh, my,” she boasted. “It’s gorgeous.” Her hands shook when she lifted it out of the box. As Mia held it in her palm, the diamonds glistened under the hanging light above the table. When she managed to take her eyes off the brooch, she looked at Alexander. “I would love to wear it, but are you sure?”

“Yes,” he quickly replied. “It’s a wedding gift.”

With her eyes wide, she shook her head. “I couldn’t possibly accept this. It’s way too much.”

“Please, Mia.” His eyes traced over her face. “My grandmother would have loved for you to have it, and this would mean a lot to me. I want to pass it on to my son’s wife.”

“But what about Tessa?” she questioned. “This should go to her.”

“I’ve already passed my grandmother’s wedding ring to her,” he said. “Please, Mia. I want to pass it down to you, then your children and then on to their children. I would like to keep it in the family.”

“It’s breathtaking.” Her voice glittered with excitement as she admired the brooch. “Thank you, Alexander.”

He smiled. “You’re welcome, Mia. And there’s one more thing,” he added. “Since you don’t have a father… It would be an honor if you would let me walk you down the aisle.”

Instantly she placed her hand over her mouth as her eyes filled with tears. Trying not to burst out bawling, she took a deep breath. When she lowered her hand, tears fell down her cheeks. In a rush, her succubus side reached out to read his thoughts. But it didn’t make any sense. The pride and joy he was feeling were understandable only if he knew her. And as far as she was aware, she was merely a stranger to him. She had the oddest sense that he desperately wanted to be part of a family. 

“Yes.” She nodded, blinking more tears. “I would like that.”

A voice interrupted them, “So would I.”

When Mia and Alexander turned around, Jem was standing in the doorway with a look of approval stamped all over his face. He took a deep breath, and a broad smile emerged.

“Jem…” Alexander’s mouth flapped open, and he kept his eyes on Jem as if trying to decide what to say.

Without saying another word, Jem came forward with his hand extended out to Alexander.

Alexander blinked a couple of times and quickly got to his feet, and as he stood, he reached out to Jem. As their hands made contact, Jem pulled him into a hug.

Mia put her hands over her face, clearly overcome with emotion as she watched father and son embrace for the first time. You never knew where life was going to take you, she thought. And sometimes, the surprises were not bad... not bad at all.

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers.

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves, a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares, realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and another council member that has turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 3
The Angel of Healing

By scongrove

The Journey so far...

Identical twins, Jace and Jem Chamberlain, born of the Breedline species—a race of humans that have special powers and the gift to change into wolf form—finds their life changed forever after their mother’s murderer, the Chiang-shih demon… is finally destroyed freeing their evil half-brother,  Sebastian Crow of his possession.

As Sebastian moves on with his new life, searching for Eve—his bonded mate—he discovers he has a twin brother who has knowledge of Eve’s whereabouts and introduces him to someone far more dangerous than the Chiang-shih demon… and her name is Lilith.

With the new knowledge of Tessa’s pregnancy of twin boys, Jace is drawn to protect them from his reoccurring nightmares he suspects are visions.
After Jace proposes to Tessa, she realizes he still bears the scars from his tortured past and his thirst for vengeance against Sebastian Crow. As Tessa helps Jace overcome his unquenchable fury before the Beast in him unleashes, someone from her past unexpectedly appears.

Now that there is a bit of peace in the Breedline Covenant, Jem looks forward to marrying his beloved, Mia. Unprepared for Eve’s pregnancy—Mia’s twin sister—they must come to terms that Sebastian or the demon might have spawned her unborn children. Either way, they may bring a whole new set of destruction and evil into the world.

Meanwhile, Dr. Helen Carrington continues with her research to find the cure for the Breedline aging process as romance blossoms between her and Alexander Crest.

As promised, Drakon Hexus returns back into Cassie’s arms after helping the others destroy the demon, and hopefully, he will give her what she desires… to finally consummate their bond, bringing forth her first change into her Breedline wolf. 

Tim Ross, the head council of the Breedline must face the decision he’s agreed… welcoming Eve’s children into the Breedline Covenant, and another mysterious guest—linked to one of Dr. Hans Autenburg’s lab experiments he created, called SPECIMEN ONE.  
 

Kyle and Celina continue to see where their new relationship takes them as she faces the heartache that she may not ever walk again. Kyle’s cousin, Casey Barton, returns after mourning the death of his mother and finds a new romance himself. But he has secrets, and if it gets out to the Covenant, his life may change forever.


Continued...

As dawn grew near, Sebastian wrapped up his first night back in control of his body after the Beast destroyed the Chiang-shih demon. And it was frickin’ fantastic not having that thing possess his body any longer.

What was not so hot was the fact that everything felt different without his darling Eve. He felt deflated without her as if life was sucked completely out of him. Bottom line, without Eve by his side, everything seemed to be just a shadow of what it used to be. His mission was to get her back and then seek revenge against the Breedline.

A quick check of his Cartier told him he had only two hours left before closing time at the private club where he and Eve used to share a room. Still able to conjure a portal, he traveled to the parking lot at NightShade. Shit at the club grew seedier as midnight closed in, and the escorts that worked here—who looked like they just stepped out of a porn flick—were bringing in clients like bees to honey.

He stood in the dark, sniffed the air and looked to the left. The unmistakable scent of a female Breedline wafted over from the front entrance. Sebastian would pursue her to satisfy his needs before he retired for the night. 

As he kept going, walking onward to the glorious fragrance that enticed his appetite, a massive figure stepped into his path. Sebastian halted and took a deep breath as he felt a cold prickling run down his spine. It was Corbin Azzo; a Breedline that turned against his own kind to serve his father, the Chiang-shih demon.

With a confused expression, Corbin furrowed his brows and muttered, “Master?”

Before Sebastian could utter a response, the sound of footsteps came from behind, and then he heard the same irritating word repeated once again.  

Immediately Sebastian tucked one hand inside his leather Armani jacket, feeling for his weapon. For the second time in one night, he was called master. Turning around, he saw Samuel and Fredrick Mercier—both Breedline twins who had gone traitor against the council.   
    
One thought that shot through Sebastian’s mind was; he didn’t want to be like his father. He didn’t want to walk that stretch of hell on earth trying to keep others in line. All he wanted right now was to get Eve back where she belonged. Back in his arms and in his bed.

“Sorry, but your master no longer resides here,” Sebastian mouthed in a smug tone.

“Sebastian?” Samuel muttered in a thick French accent. “Is that you?”

“Yes you idiot,” he mocked with his eyes narrowed. “Your master is dead. You no longer serve a purpose with me.”

“B-but?” Fredrick stammered. “What about the Breedline council? Don’t you want to get revenge against them for killing your father?”

“Nope,” he said, kicking up his chin with arrogance. “Frankly, I don’t give a damn. So go on with your pathetic lives.” He waved his hand in dismissal. “And stay out of my way.”

“We need to talk to you,” Corbin said. “It’s important.”

Sebastian rolled his eyes. “You’re wasting your time, Corbin,” he said roughly. “I don’t have anything to say to any of you.”

In spite of the fact they were strung with weapons and probably wanted to use them on him after he practically spat in their faces, Sebastian walked away, leaving them feeling dumbfounded with their mouths hanging wide open. 

When Sebastian walked across the parking lot with his mind on the female he’d detected earlier—before the three stooges rudely interrupted—he entered the front entrance to the club’s bar.

All through the club, loud electro dance music thumped, while women dressed in bits of leather paraded by on client patrol and men glared at one another. Moving toward the bar, he found the VIP section and sat down. When the waitress came up to his table, she recognized him. With her hips tilted to one side and her hand on the other, her red coated lips formed a coy smile.

“Haven’t seen you in awhile,” she spoke in a sultry voice. “What’s your poison, sweetheart?”

“Shot of Patron,” he quickly replied.

As the waitress sauntered off, Sebastian watched the crowd, searching for the female Breedline.

Moments later, his attention was shifted to the shot glass the waitress placed on his table. After he had tossed back the tequila, he said, “Bring me another… and start a tab.”

After the fourth glass, Sebastian’s eyes narrowed, aggression flaring in them. And finally, he eyed a leggy blond at the end of the bar. With her Playboy body, she looked like sex on a stick.

She noticed him staring, and the way she looked back at him gave him the signal she was available. Sebastian’s gothic but handsome features drove most women into a sexual frenzy. He’d never had trouble picking up women in his life. They practically fell into his arms and straight into his bed. His long, silky jet black hair and his chiseled face stood out amongst the rest of the men. And he had the kind of body that looked ready for all sorts of action.

The blond across the club smiled at him, picked a cherry out of her pink liquor, and swirled her tongue around the stem. A smile emerged from Sebastian’s lips as he imagined her doing that to him.

He shifted out of his chair and headed in her direction. As Sebastian moved next to her, she looked him up and down. She cocked a brow and smiled when her eyes stopped below his waist.

When Sebastian and the blond came up against each other, her mouth dropped open. Not because she was shocked, but from the alluring scent that was coming off his body.

Holding out his hand, he murmured, “Come with me.”

Damn, she thought. His voice sounded like a sex-phone operator, all husky and mad sexed up. “Aren’t you going to ask my name?”

Still waiting for her hand, he shook his head. “Does it matter?”

As she grasped his hand, he guided her back to his old private room. It wasn’t long after they were inside when Sebastian had her bent over a chair. With her black leather skirt pushed up, he saw a tattoo of a little red heart on her hip, and a chain around her lower waist. And both were getting banged around to the rhythm of his thrusting. 
  
He roared as he climaxed, thinking she was exactly what he’d needed. Until he could get Eve back, this kind of arrangement would have to do.

As soon as Sebastian finished, he zipped up.

“What about me?” she whined.

He shrugged. “What about you?”

Standing up straight, she pushed her skirt down and pouted her bottom lip. “Are you serious?”

Ignoring her, he turned around and nonchalantly walked up to a mirror that hung on the wall. With one eyebrow cocked, he pulled his long hair back and smiled at his reflection.

With her hands on her hips, she fumed. “Excuse me? I’m talking to you?”

Annoyed, Sebastian glanced at her from the mirror. “You don’t honestly expect me to care whether you get off.” He smirked. “Remember, I’m the one paying you.”

For a moment, she seemed confused by his smug statement. She tilted her hip to one side, pursing her lips. “Did you really just say that?”

“What didn’t you understand?”

His hateful words made her brows furrow. “Fine,” she grumbled with her hand held out. “Then pay me!”

Sebastian pulled out his wallet and glanced over his shoulder. “What do I owe you?”

“Since you’re such a bastard,” she spewed, flipping her hair. “It will be five hundred.”
   
In the blink of an eye, he spun around and snatched her by the arm. Getting face-to-face, he growled, “Don’t be a bitch.”

Using her free hand, she slapped him hard across the face. “Screw you!”

Okay, the fighting definitely made her more interesting. When Sebastian’s fangs punched out into his mouth, he was ready to drink her dry.

First, there was screaming, and then a little struggle, but in the long run, it all played out in Sebastian’s favor. When he satisfied his hunger, he left the blond unconscious on the floor. Before he ducked out of the room, he turned around and threw money beside her and smiled. “You’re lucky… this time.” And then he was gone.   
  
***
As Eve’s lids drew heavy, someone or something came to her room. At first, she saw nothing, just a shifting patch of a shadow, and then a shimmering figure evolved out of the darkness. Surrounded by a brilliant glow, he had beautiful black wings that unsheathed from his back and spread wide. She could feel the warmth from his body as he hovered above her bed. His face was a human face with sun-kissed skin and long wavy dark hair. His eyes were greenish-yellow and slit-pupiled like a cat’s. Looking into his mesmerizing features, Eve seemed calm in his presence.

“Who are you?” she asked lifting herself higher on the pillow with her eyes locked on his.
 
The bright image leaned in toward her and smiled. His front teeth were sharp, pointed like feline teeth. “I am Raphael,” he said, his voice soft as a whisper.

“Are you… supposed to be an angel?” Eve queried.

“Yes,” he said grinning. “I am the angel of healing.”

A numb heaviness weighed Eve as she slowly raised her head, clenching her brows. “Why are you here?”

In the silence that followed, she watched closely as he lowered his gaze toward her small rounded belly. “I am here to heal the innocent,” he said, his voice casting into a delicate echo. And then she felt warmth spread throughout her body as he placed his hand against her skin.  

From out of nowhere, Eve drifted into a state of ease and comfort, releasing all her years of past torture and pain.

Raphael raised his head and stared at Eve; it was a look that made her eyes flood with tears. His expression was of forgiveness and love. “I have saved your unborn children,” he said after a pause. “Worry not my child, the hate in your heart will soon fade and love will take its place.” His eyes sparkled like diamonds. “And you will have no memory of me.”

As he vanished from her room, Eve felt tears pressing behind her eyes. Wiping them away, she kept them closed and floated into the most beautiful dream. She dreamt of a future filled with happiness and a loving family. 
    
To be continued...                  
 
 
 
  
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers.

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves, a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedline's born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and another council member that has turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 4
The Angel of Healing/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...

As Eve—pregnant with Sebastian’s twins—awaits her punishment for the crimes against the Breedline, she receives a mysterious visit from Raphael, the Angel of healing.  After he heals the tiny innocent lives inside her womb from the clutches of evil, Raphael mends Eve’s broken heart and the pain from her tortured childhood. Before he vanishes, he erases her memories of his visit, leaving her with peaceful thoughts as she drifts into a dream of a future filled with happiness and a loving family.    
 

Continued...

As Eve woke, she sat up feeling like she was going to be sick. When she looked down, a black cat was curled up beside her sound asleep. How did you get in here? She wondered as her stomach churned, making her nauseous. Swinging her feet off the bed, she planted them on the floor and scrambled toward the bathroom. After retching up last night’s dinner, she washed her hands and face. 
 
Glancing at herself in the mirror, she gasped. The reflection staring back was horrific. Her long hair was a tangled mess, and her face had hollowed out like all the fat had gone from her cheeks. Noticing the dark circles under her eyes, she winced when she saw the veins in her neck. They were thick and blue underneath her paper white skin.

When Eve looked down at her belly, her eyes widened. In a panic, she pulled up her nightgown. What? She couldn’t believe the size of her stomach. She was only four months along in her pregnancy but looked as if she was in her full term trimester. Overnight, it had grown to the size of a basketball. It was as if she had lost twenty pounds, except for her belly. She doubted she would even be able to pull her pants on. Under her palms, she felt a fluttering movement coming from inside. 

Her first instinct was to reach for the phone to call the Breedline’s physician. Instead, she sat on the top of the toilet, and hung her head, trying to calm down. She knew a succubus’s pregnancy went by fast, even after birth. The babies would rapidly continue to grow until they reached the growth spurt of a two-year-old. And then after, they would grow at a healthy rate.  
  
For her past crimes, the Breedline placed Eve in guarded living quarters that attached to the Covenant. It was a one bedroom, with one bathroom, a small dining area, and a tiny kitchenette. After the birth of Eve’s twins, they would be taken away from her while the council decided her fate. She hoped for a lesser punishment since she willingly gave herself over to the Breedline and helped Sarah Chamberlain escape from the Chiang-shih demon.

Eve released a long sigh, thinking about her beloved. Was Sebastian’s soul back in control of his body after being freed of the demon’s possession? And was he searching for her? Would he even still want her… and his unborn children?

Trying not to lose it completely, she headed for the closet and searched for something to wear. After going through all her clothes, and not finding a single thing that fit, she finally pulled on a pair of sweats. Turning toward the bed, she noticed the cat was gone. She quickly reached for the blanket, tugged it off the mattress and found nothing underneath. She could have sworn she’d seen a black cat lying on the bed, or was her subconscious playing tricks with her? Tossing the thought aside, she headed down a small winding stairwell as her thinking went straight to food. The sudden spike of hunger hit her so hard; Eve felt like she could eat an entire cow.

Opening a flap door that led into a small kitchen, she walked up to the cabinets and picked out a can of soup. As she poured the contents into a pot, she felt her stomach move. After heating the soup, she poured it into a bowl and reached for a baguette and some butter. Slowly maneuvering herself onto a bar stool, she picked up a spoon and dug in. “Mmmm,” she murmured contently. The warm, salty liquid tasted perfect and felt soothing as it ran down the back of her throat and into her stomach.

All at once, everything Eve had eaten headed for the fire exit at the same time, her stomach contracting without warning. Hopping off the bar stool, she barely made it to the trash as it all came back up, reverse as it went down. The heaving kept her bent over until her eyes watered, her head pounded, and her throat was nothing but raw. When it finally came to an end, she lowered her hot, sweaty forehead on the kitchen’s cool, tiled counter top. Maybe it was time to ask for the Breedline doctor, she thought. The fact that she was a half-breed and not a full blood succubus made her worry. She could have some unknown complications, or she could be getting close to being in labor. Or maybe she just needed blood.

As Eve glanced over her shoulder, her first instinct was to run and try to escape. The problem was, she had no place to go—and there were two guards right outside her door at all times. Surely if she asked, the Breedline would provide her with proper medical treatment, she thought. Shaking her head, this was precisely why she hadn’t wanted any children in the past, but now that she was pregnant, her feelings had changed.

Snapping into action, she wobbled over toward the door and slowly turned the knob. When she pulled it open, both guards instantly turned in her direction. With one hand on her stomach and the other used to prop herself up, she suddenly became dizzy. Losing her balance, she tilted backward as one of the guards rushed over just in time to catch her fall.

Gathering Eve up, the guard lifted her into his arms. “Hauld oan, miss,” he said in a heavy Scottish accent. “I’ll get ye tae th’ docur.”

“Thank you,” her voice croaked, resting her head in the crook of his arm.

With enough concealed weapons on him to blow up a tank—the guard carried her into the Breedline’s exam room. As he gently lowered her onto a thinly padded table, the other guard went to search for Helen.

Glancing around the room, Eve saw all white walls that matched the pale white floor. Over in the corner was a sterile sink with glass cabinets and various shiny, silver instruments she didn’t recognize, and not a window in sight.

“I’m going to be sick,” she mumbled into her hand.

Quickly, the guard rushed toward a trash container and grabbed it. When he brought it over to her, she dry heaved into it. After her sickness had passed, she eased back and gestured him to take it away. Fatigue held Eve in its relentless grasp, and her distressed thoughts consumed her.

“Aur ye sure yer done?” he asked.

She smiled faintly at his concern. “Yes, I think that’s all I have left in my stomach.”

Taking a seat next to the door, he had to squeeze into the chair. His massive body overflowed the armrests and the back cushion.

“What’s your name?” Eve asked in a weak tone.

He straightened in his chair. “Ye shoods be restin’, miss.”

“I’m sorry.” She drew in a breath and then let it out. “I’m just trying to pass the time.”

“Mah name is Bruce.” He cleared his throat. “Bruce Carmichael.”

“Thank you, Bruce.”

With a slight nod, his dark eyes softened.

“Do you have any children, Bruce?”

Absently, he shook his head without saying a word.

“Do you have a bonded mate?”

He gave another shake of the head.

“Do you have family here?”

He got a kick out of the lengths she went to keep the conversation going. He grinned. “Did ye used tae be a reporter?”

“Sorry,” she apologized again. “I’m just trying to make conversation. I guess it’s my nerves.”

Bruce let out a long exhale. And as he fell silent, she figured, damn it, she had made him feel awkward. God, she missed Sebastian.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and a young female came in.

She had short curly hair, a tiny frame and she couldn’t have been much over five feet tall. “I’m sorry. I got here as fast as I could,” Cassie said, entering the room. “Hi, I’m Dr. Chamberlain.” She reached down to Eve with her hand and smiled. “Helen’s tied up in an emergency at the hospital. I’m a pediatrician at the same hospital she practices. I can examine you if that’s okay.”

For a split second, Eve worried about the physician not knowing anything about her species. There were anatomical differences in the two. What if she couldn’t help her?

Waiting for her reply, Cassie said, “Miss?”

Eve snapped back to reality. “Yes, of course.” A weary question slipped into her mind. “But… you do know I’m a half-breed, right?” 

Cassie nodded. “Yes, I do. Don’t worry. I’ve treated your species before,” she explained. “If it eases your mind, I helped Helen deliver Tim and Angel’s baby. She’s also a half-breed.”

“I’m sorry.” Eve drew in a deep breath, afraid and yet determined. “I was just—“

“Don’t worry about it.” Cassie smiled. “I completely understand.”

For absolutely no good reason, Eve felt the urge to cry—and got control before the tears rolled out of her eyes. She sucked in a breath. “My name is Eve,” she uttered in a cracked, hoarse voice.

Eve noticed Cassie had a beautiful yellow diamond on her right finger as she placed her hand gently over hers. “It’s going to be okay, Eve,” Cassie reassured her. “And you are?” she said, offering her hand to the guard standing quietly over by the door.

“Bruce Carmichael.” He quickly moved closer and extended a shaking hand to the doctor. “Aam ‘er guard.”

Noticing his accent, Cassie cocked a brow. “Oh, you must be a Scottie?” 

“Aye,” he replied in a deep, raspy voice.

“I take it you’ve been ordered not to leave her sight?” 
 
He nodded in agreement. “Aye, ma’am.”

Cassie looked away, focusing back on Eve. “Okay, so let’s start off with a blood sample to speed things along.”

A few minutes later, Cassie filled a few small vials of blood. Then, she found the chart Helen had for Eve. After she looked over the file, she asked, “Have you been taking the prenatal vitamins Helen gave you?”  

“Yes,” Eve said without hesitation.

“Your chart says you should only be four months along, and … with twins?”

Eve held her breath and forced herself to remain calm. Without saying a word, she nodded in response to her question.

Cassie rolled a chair next to Eve and sat down. “I’d like to do an ultrasound so we can see what’s going on.”

“Can we do it now?” Eve nervously asked.

“Absolutely,” Cassie replied. Opening a drawer, she took out a small tube and showed it to Eve. “This is ultrasound gel. It will be a little cold, but it will help transmit signals between the ultrasound probe and the skin’s surface.”

Eve nodded as Cassie pulled back her top and revealed her rounded belly. She flinched at the cold sensation when Cassie squirted the gel onto her bare skin.

“Sorry,” Cassie said softly, moving the probe around. “Let’s see if we can hear the heartbeats.”

Suddenly, a tiny rhythm sounded out. Moving it around, Cassie noticed another rhythm that almost kept up with the first one. “Yup, we have two heartbeats,” she declared. “They’re healthy and strong, too.”

Eve was speechless. She could only blink at the ceiling tiles above her. And then Eve looked at the images displayed on the monitor. Tears instantly slid down her cheeks when she saw her babies for the first time. “Are they healthy?” she asked, wiping her tears away.

Looking away from the monitor, Cassie turned toward Eve. “Yes, they’re perfectly healthy.” She reached over with her other hand and grabbed a box of tissues. Holding it out for Eve, she said, “We’ll know more when your blood results come back from the lab. I’ll take them to the hospital as soon as I finish. Since you’re half succubus, the babies will be at full term in another two weeks. You should be ready to deliver by the end of this month.”

Eve went completely still as she grappled with what Cassie had just told her. Trying to get her brain to register, she pulled out a tissue and wiped her eyes. “I don’t understand... only two more weeks?”

“That’s normal for a succubus,” Cassie explained. “Don’t worry. I’ll make sure Helen, and I are here to monitor you until then. Would you like to know what the sexes of the babies are?”
 
In a trembling voice, Eve replied, “Y-yes, please.”

Cassie smiled. “You’re having boys.” 

Instantly, Eve’s brain snapped back into action. Taking control of herself, she inhaled a deep breath and slowly exhaled. Then, she lost it all over again as tears flowed down her cheeks, aware that Cassie and Bruce were the only ones in the room—and she was glad of it. She didn’t like anyone seeing her falling apart, and at the moment she was completely open and exposed.

As Eve collapsed in a fit of sobs, Cassie tried to calm her. “It’s okay, Eve.” Her voice was soothing. “You’re going to be fine.”

Cassie’s words filled her with hope, and her caring heart humbled her. It made her want to be a better person. All of a sudden, Eve felt her belly move. At that moment, a flush of joy flooded through her body, making her feel alive in a way she hadn’t been in a very, very long time. Eve fell in love with her sons at that moment. She smiled through her tears and stress, and her sons were the cause of it. After she had given birth, she would find a way even if it took power to move heaven and hell; she would watch her children grow up.

“Thank you, Dr. Chamberlain.”

Cassie handed her a flimsy slip of paper. “It’s a picture from the ultrasound.”

Eve reached out and took the picture. She held it up like it was her most prized possession. “Look, Bruce!” Eve’s eyes lit up with excitement. “It’s my sons!”

Bruce moved next to Eve and looked at what she was holding out. She was astonished by his reaction. He had tears built up in his eyes. His manly, tight smile was proof he was holding his emotions in check.

“Aam happy fur ye,” he told her.

“Thank you, Bruce.”

Pulling herself back from the brink, Eve held on to two things: One, she’d heard their heartbeats, healthy and strong; and two, she was ready to be a mother.

Abruptly, a knock came from the door. Opening it slightly, Bruce peeped through the crack. Pulling it open all the way, he moved aside as Angel stepped in with Natalie in her arms.

“Is everything okay?” Angel asked with a concerned expression on her face. “I heard one of the guards say Eve needed a doctor.”

“Yes, come on in, Angel,” Cassie said, motioning her over. “Everything is fine. Eve’s just getting close to her delivery date.”

Eve broke down all over again when Angel came forward. Shame slid through Eve’s chest. A wave of guilt ate at her very soul. Angel reached out with her succubus side, and got into Eve’s mind, reading her thoughts. She sensed lots of sorrow and shame along with the joy of being a new mother. Eve blamed herself for a lot of things that had happened to others she’d wronged in the past. She desperately wanted to do right by them and be forgiven.

At that moment, Natalie reached out to Eve with a big smile on her face and pure joy radiating out. “Baa-beez,” she babbled, pointing at Eve’s belly.

Life was ironic sometimes, Eve thought. “Yes,” Eve said as she wiped her eyes and looked at Natalie. “There are two babies in my belly.”

Angel smiled. “Congratulations, Eve.”

Thank you,” Eve said, choking back tears.

Angel’s reaction was what Eve needed to hear at this moment. It was hard to explain... even to herself, but suddenly everything felt different, from the way Eve looked at everyone in the Covenant to how she looked at herself. Maybe there is hope for me after all, she thought.

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for Terms and Characters, especially for new readers.

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedline's born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and another council member that has turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 5
Broken

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Katoka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her.
Now, safe back in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in.  
    

Continued...

Kyle stood in the hall outside Celina’s room with a cigarette between his lips. Putting the lighter up to his face, he flicked the little wheel several times trying to get it to ignite. With utter disgust, he gave up and put it away.

He thought about Celina on the other side of the wall, lying in bed… paralyzed. He needed a drink, and a whole bottle of whiskey would just barely take the edge off. Now was not the time to get stupid drunk, Kyle thought. Celina needed him sober.

Lying in bed, Celina’s body felt all wrong, both cumbersome and weightless at the same time, and her only hope was the spasms in her muscles that shot through her legs and moved into her feet, causing them to jerk. Surely I won’t be like this forever, she told herself. My healing powers should be kicking in by now. 

Reaching up, Kyle lightly tapped on the door. When he heard a soft voice coming from inside, he opened it and pushed his way into her room. Seeing her lying motionless made his shoulders tighten up, his jaw clench, and for a split second, he didn’t know how much more he could take.

“Kyle?”

He closed his eyes briefly at the sound of her soft voice. “Hey, babe,” he said, faking an uplifting tone. Crossing to the center of the room, he sat down in a chair beside the bed. Celina was stretched out under several blankets, immobilized with a neck brace running from her chin to her collarbone. An IV linked Celina’s arm to a bag that hung on a stainless-steel pole, and there was tubing down below that plugged into a catheter.

“How are you feeling?” 

Celina’s red hair was pulled back into a thick braid, and her skin was pale and ashen. Her bright green eyes softened. “I’d be perfect if I could get out of this bed,” she said sarcastically.


"I know.” Shaking his head, he reached up and smoothed a strand of hair out of her face.

Her mouth twitched like she was going to either smile or break down into tears. “Have you heard from Helen?”

“No,” Kyle replied, followed by a long silence.

Christ, he thought. Maybe he should hold her hand. After all, Celina had sensation above the waist. His hand trembled as he reached over and grasped hers. Man, he wished he could help her.

Her brows furrowed. “Kyle?”

He tilted his head to one side and muttered, “Yeah?”

“You don’t have to do this—“

He frowned hard. “What are you talking about?”

She let out a long sigh. “You don’t have to be with me through this if you don’t want to.”

“Of course I want to be with you.” He squeezed her hand. “I couldn’t bear the thought of being without you.”  

Kyle stared into her eyes as he sat there, unable to do anything while Celina suffered. As her pain medicine kicked in, she closed her eyes, and he felt useless. How could he help her recover? Kyle leaned in closer, feeling helpless and kissed her forehead. “You have to have faith, Celina. I promise to do everything I can to help you, but you’ve got to trust in me.”

Her lids rose, and she looked at him. “I do.” Her voice was weak. “I do have faith… in you.” And then her eyes closed as she drifted off to sleep.   
 
****
Sometimes the only way to help someone was to push out of your comfort zone and jump right into their world.

Most people knocked before entering someone’s home, but there was no reason to bother when you could walk right through just like a ghost. Chester Ewan, one of the spirits of the forest—they called themselves—walked through the Breedline Covenant’s front door without anyone seeing him. Ever since his species originated, they could go places and get into things without anyone having a clue they were around. But they could also become as corporeal as the next person, summoning themselves into a solid at their will. In one form, they were completely invisible; in the other, they were as human as anyone else, capable of eating and loving and living. It was a powerful advantage for their purpose when it came to protecting the Breedline. Now that the cat was out of the bag, the Breedline welcomed them to come and go as they pleased.

He was humbled when he sensed the presence upstairs. It was a young female with a loving heart and a broken body. Hurrying along the shiny tiled floor, he went past the entryway and stopped at the grand staircase. Looking up, a young man with spiked hair and a grim expression on his face descended the stairs. Letting out a long sigh, Chester watched as the male passed him and turned down a hallway. With that kind of sorrow radiating from a male Breedline, it suggested he was the injured females mate.

As Chester headed upstairs, his feet did not touch the steps. Instead, he floated above each one, drifting along effortlessly.

His plan he envisioned had to work. He was on the hunt for the Chosen Son. Chester had to convince Jem to use his powers to heal the female’s spinal injury. There were no other options, no future possibilities, no left or rights off this road. Jem’s abilities were powerful enough to heal any wound, but if he couldn’t control it, his gift could also be deadly.

Even though it wasn’t going to make any sense when he explained the power Jem was capable of, and he was likely to be hard to persuade, he wouldn’t refuse to help a Breedline in need. It simply wasn’t in Jem’s hardwiring.

When he reached the top of the stairs, Chester drifted to Jem’s bedroom door. There was no time to apologize for entering without as much as a knock, and hopefully, he wasn’t walking in on a romantic encounter between Jem and his mate. With courage, Chester braced himself and marched right through, looking for signs of life and found nothing. As he headed to check the bathroom, a growing panic stirred inside his gut. Making himself fully corporeal, he reached for the doorknob as it suddenly opened.

Mia let out a scream.

Under any other circumstance, the response would have been the same. Chester quickly covered his eyes, then wheeled around, tripped over a rug, and landed flat on his face.

“Chester, what the hell are you doing here?” Mia bit out, clutching tightly onto a towel wrapped around her naked body.

“I-I’m so sorry,” Chester stammered, his face turning beet red as he picked himself off the floor.

His eyes trailed over her body… up and down, finally stopping at her face.

That was when the anger came. Mia’s crimson eyes glared in his direction. “Is this some kind of a joke?” her voice ended in a low growl.

“No,” he muttered, squeezing his eyes shut with his head lowered. “Please, forgive me. I don’t have time to explain. I’m looking for your mate. It’s an emergency.”

“Haven’t you ever heard of knocking first?”  

Hesitantly opening his eyes, he lifted his chin with his famous ‘puppy eyes’ stare. Then in a nervous voice, he said, “Sorry.” And then he lowered his head again.

“Jem’s not here.” She let out a long exhale. “What’s the emergency?”

He cleared his throat. “I know you’re angry at me and I don’t blame you. But be mad at me later—just tell me where I can find Jem,” he pleaded. “The young female with red hair… the one injured… Jem has the power to heal her.”

Mia was not somebody to take orders or push around. So all he could do was patiently wait for her reply.

“Why didn’t you say so in the first place?” Mia grumbled, her face livid. “He’s downstairs in the library.”

“Thank you, Mia,” he said, lifting his chin. “By the way,” he paused and smiled at her, “Congratulations on your engagement.”

“Thanks, Chester.” She raised a brow, her lips curving into a slight grin. “But promise me you’ll knock next time.”

He bowed his head. “Yes, ma’am. You have my word.”

When Chester left, Mia quickly got dressed and went down the hall to Tim and Angel’s room. Tim would be furious with Chester for not coming to him first. He was the head of the Breedline council, and before any decisions were final, they had to present it before Tim and Tessa.

As Mia walked past all the other rooms, she hung a right that led to his room. Before she reached up to knock, she put her ear against the door and listened. When she heard sounds of a child giggling inside, she tapped her knuckles softly against the door.

“Come in,” Tim called out.

Opening the door, Mia peaked in. “I’m not interrupting anything, am I?”

“Oh, no.” He motioned her inside. “Please, come in, Mia.”

When she stepped through the door, Natalie was sitting on the floor beside Jace’s cat, petting his soft fur as he swirled his tail across her face, tickling her nose. Natalie quickly noticed Mia and got to her feet, darting over with her hands held out, squealing, “Mee-uh! Mee-uh!”
   
Mia bent to scoop Natalie into her arms. As she held her, Natalie wrapped her little arms around her neck.  She noticed Natalie’s hair was starting to grow as it curled up just below her ears. Pulling from their embrace, she looked at Mia with wide eyes pointing to the door with excitement and babbled, “Baa-beez!” 
 
Mia looked at Tim, her brows furrowed. “Did she say... babies?” 

Before Tim opened his mouth to answer, Natalie blurted, “Baa-beez! Baa-beez!”

“She’s talking about your sister’s babies,” he said. “Eve’s guards rushed her down to the examination room earlier. Helen was at the hospital, so Cassie took her place and cared for Eve.”

“Is she all right?” Mia asked with a concerned look.

“Yes, she’s fine,” he quickly confirmed. “Angel said it was just morning sickness. She found out from the guard when he was frantically looking for a doctor after Eve fainted. When Angel went down to check on Eve, she had Natalie with her. Somehow Natalie sensed Eve was pregnant with twins. Maybe it has something to do with the fact they’re both half-succubus. Angel also said Eve is going to deliver the babies within two weeks.”

“But,“ Mia hesitated with an anxious note to her voice, “she’s just four months along.”

His expression softened, easing Mia’s concern. “Angel said it’s normal for your species.”   

She sighed. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. What will happen to the babies when they’re born? I mean,” she paused shrugging her shoulders, “Eve will be punished with prison time, right?”

“After her trial, Eve’s punishment will be up to the council,” he told her. “They will put in consideration that she helped Sarah escape from Sebastian. That could give her a lesser punishment. The council will also make the decision where her twins go,” he said in a quiet, grave tone. “Most likely foster care, unless a family member steps in to take them.”

Her eyes widened. “The only family member she has is me.

Shaking his head, he reached out and placed his hand on her arm. “I don’t expect you to take on that responsibility, Mia. You didn’t even know you had a sister until recently, and considering what she’s done to you and Tessa, I—“

“But her children are innocent in all this,” she interjected, her heart twisting and sadness welling in her throat. “They don’t deserve to be just tossed over to strangers. I know what that’s like.”

Tim went silent for a moment. And then he said, “You and Jem are about to be married. Have you two talked about having children?”
   
Natalie pointed to Mia’s stomach with her eyes wide and mumbled, “Baa-beez?”

At that moment, Mia’s eyes softened along with her aching, confused heart. “No, sweetheart,” she said. “No babies in there.”

“It wouldn’t hurt to ask him, Mia,” Tim said. “Jem’s got a big heart, especially when it comes to kids.”

She considered his words for a moment. It was a suggestion she couldn’t even wrap her mind around. “But how would everyone else in the Covenant feel if we adopted them?” she said, her voice strained with utter seriousness. “How do you think Jace and Tessa would feel about having Eve and Sebastian’s children raised in this Covenant? I don’t want to burden them.”

“I think you’re underestimating them,” he implied. “Go talk to Jem first. If you need help, you’ve got me and Angel’s support.”

Her lips formed into a tight smile. “Thank you, Tim.”

“Angel also told me something about Eve,” he added. “Since Angel is a half-succubus, she read Eve’s thoughts. She sensed Eve’s shame and that she wanted to right her wrongs. Angel thinks being a mother has changed her in some way.”

“Do you think I should go speak with her?”

Tim nodded. “Yes, I do.”

As Mia lowered Natalie down to the floor, she almost forgot the reason she came in the first place. “Oh, I almost forgot why I came by,” she said eagerly. “Chester came into my room looking for Jem. He said something about Jem having the powers to heal Celina.”  

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference of Terms and Characters, especially for new readers.

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedline's born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and another council member that has turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 6
The Chosen Son

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Meanwhile, Chester Ewan— a Guardian created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. In desperation to find him, Chester barged into Jem and Mia’s room without knocking just as Mia walked out of the bathroom fresh from a shower, wearing nothing but a towel.

Shocked and angered by Chester’s lack of manners, Mia gives him the third degree. After apologizing for his rudeness, Chester explains to her about Jem’s powers to heal Celina. Mia calms down and informs Chester Jem is downstairs in the library.

While Chester rushes to the library to find Jem, Mia decides to go to Tim Ross—the head council of the Breedline—to make sure he is informed on the situation. During her visit with Tim, he confides to Mia about Eve’s—Mia’s twin sister-- condition. He explained to Mia about what Angel—Tim’s bonded mate—had told him while she visited Eve after she was rushed to the exam room by the guards. Angel had revealed that Eve is due to deliver her babies in two more weeks. He also brought up the fact that Angel sensed Eve wanted to right her wrongs, and maybe motherhood had changed her in some way. Now that Mia realized Eve was facing prison time—for her crimes against the Breedline—she decides to visit her.


Continued...  
                                

As Chester hurried downstairs in search of Jem, his primary concern was for Celina. He was not the kind of man to leave a lady in distress.

To protect and preserve the Breedline species in any way they could was the reason of the Guardian’s creation. That said, in the case of the incident he’d just had with Miss Mia Blackwood, he’d think again before he barged into her room without knocking first.

With his mind focused, Chester got to the last step and rushed to the library to find Jem. He had to convince him to heal Celina but was also concerned if his powers spun out of control, it could kill her.

Stepping through the door, Chester hung a right and barreled between the library's enormous shelves that stored thousands of books. The subtle waft of a man’s cologne told him exactly where to find Jem.

“Jem?” Chester’s voice was barely above a whisper, but his heartbeat was pounding. He’d rarely used Jem’s real name in addressing him. Ordinarily, he called him the Chosen Son, which got on Jem’s nerves.

Jem didn’t answer, but instead, he peeked around the corner of a bookshelf with a thick leather bound book in his hand. “Chester?” he said in a light whisper. “What are you doing here?”

Chester’s hands shook ever so slightly as he heard his voice. When he saw Jem’s face, he remained silent, apparently overwhelmed by his presence. In a quiet voice, Chester muttered, “It is urgent that I speak with you.”

Jem came around the corner with a concerned expression and set the book down on a nearby table. “Sure. What’s up?”

After Chester had explained how powerful his abilities were, and could heal Celina, Jem’s response was an exhale that lasted about five minutes past infinity.

“Will you help her?” Chester asked, even though he knew the answer.

“Of course,” Jem finally answered. The part where Chester explained about the dangers went unspoken at first. Sometimes the situations placed before you didn’t give you options.

Jem closed his eyes and let his head fall back against the wall. Their family was everything to the Breedline. Your mate, your blood, and the friends you considered family… that was your whole world. And along with that belief, as Celina suffered, so did the rest of the Breedline in the Covenant.

“I have no doubts you will have the ability to control your powers, chosen son.” Chester stared at Jem without blinking.

“No offense,” Jem stated firmly, “but please don’t call me that.”

Chester nodded. He knew more than a little something about how having a name permanently branded on you felt. It carried a high burden.

“It’s just Jem,” he told Chester. “Call me Jem.”

“Okay, Jem.”

The creaking sound of a door opening made them both flinch, but Jem relaxed when Tim walked in.

Desperate to make like thin air, Chester’s body began to fade into a ghostly shadow. Whenever the Guardians became nervous, their solid form would immediately change and become invisible.

“Chester, it’s just Tim,” Jem muttered knowing what it was like to trip on the outside world and fall into the Breedline rabbit hole. Having to tell his adopted parent’s about their secret had proven difficult because when it came to someone of an entirely different species, the mix could raise complications.
 
“Chester has something crucial to share,” Jem explained as Tim walked over. “This can help Celina.” And then he told him the news.

Tim looked over at Chester, frowning in thought. “We’ll see how Celina feels about this before we make any decisions. And of course, we’ll need to run this by Tessa. Nothing gets decided without her final word.”

****
After Mia had taken Natalie downstairs to her mother, she decided to visit her twin sister. She had a lot of questions to ask Eve, and she was still pissed off at her. Yeah, sure, Mia was hoping to get to a place of peace, but she wasn’t holding her breath for a miracle, which was ironic. How many times had she stared up at the ceiling at night, all nestled up next to Jem, praying that by some miracle she would find her birth parents and they would tell her they’d been searching for her all this time. Now she had a twin sister that she despised before they’d ever had the chance to meet. Could it be possible? She thought. Had motherhood changed Eve?

As Mia walked down the hallway, she glanced into a mirror on the wall. The image was identical to Eve’s, down to the length of her long, black hair, the crimson color of her eyes, and her porcelain white skin.

She looked away and headed to the Covenant’s guest house that held Eve in confinement. When she came to the front entrance, two large men with stern expressions were guarding the door. 
   
They stood straight with their brows furrowed when Mia came into view.

“I’m Mia Blackwood. Eve’s sister,” she said to the guards. “Can I please speak with her?”

The guards turned and looked at one another with puzzled expressions, waiting for the other to give her permission. After a moment of silence, Bruce Carmichael faced Mia and uttered in his Scottish accent, “Aye. Jist fur a wee while.” 
 
Mia gave them a slight nod. “Thank you.”

The other guard knocked on the door while Bruce kept his eyes on Mia. “We’ll gie ye thirty minutes.”

She nodded in agreement.
  
When the door opened from the inside, Eve looked up at Bruce and smiled.

“Yer sister is haur tae visit ye,” he said to Eve.

Eve’s eyes widened and then blinked several times when she saw Mia. Her mouth opened, but no words came out.

“I would like to talk if that’s okay with you?” Mia asked.

“Y-yes,” Eve stammered. Stepping aside, she said, “Please, come in.”

Mia walked past the guards and entered as Eve stared at her surprised. Anxiety bolted through her chest, squeezing until Eve was breathless.

She blew out her breath. “Please, have a seat,” Eve said gesturing to the kitchen table.

When Mia pulled out a chair and sat down, Eve sat across the table from her. “I never expected you would come to see me.”

Glancing down at Eve’s rounded belly, Mia’s lips formed a sympathetic smile. “I heard your due date is in just two weeks.”

“I know.” Eve placed her hand over her belly. “I can’t believe how fast they’re growing.”

“Eve,” Mia said with hesitation, swallowing nervously. “Can I ask you a question and get an honest answer from you?”

“Yes.” Her voice was shaky, but her eyes remained steady. “I promise I will be truthful.”

Mia sensed honesty in her tone. Without delay, she blurted, “Is Sebastian the father, or is the demon?”

Eve’s eyes suddenly filled with tears. “I’m not sure.” The words broke painfully from her raw throat.

Chills raced down Mia’s arms. “So they could be Sebastian’s children or the demon’s… or both?”

Tears streamed down Eve’s cheeks, and her lips quivered. “I will love them no matter who their father is. It’s not their fault. They are innocent in all this.”

“Yes, they are,” Mia agreed. “Just like Jace and Jem. They were also born into this world with the demon as their father.”

“Thank you for understanding.” Eve’s lips lifted in a half smile. “I’m glad you came to see me.”

“There’s another reason why I’m here,” Mia said. “After your trial, you will most likely go to prison, and your babies will be sent off to foster care. I don’t want to see them grow up with strangers. I couldn’t bear it if they ended up the way we did.”

Wiping her eyes, Eve shook her head. “I just don’t know what to do, Mia. I fear they will end up in a horrible home like I was.” Her voice trembled. “My foster parents tortured me for years. I was fifteen when I finally escaped and ran away. That’s when I met Sebastian. He was like me... an unloved and unwanted child.” 
   
“I won’t let that happen,” Mia declared. “If I offered, would you let me and Jem care for them?” 

Eve’s eyes widened. “You would do that?”

“Yes, Eve. That’s why I’m here.”

Eve chewed absently at her bottom lip as she fought the urge to break down. When she managed to speak, she said, “Oh, Mia. Thank you!” She reached out for Mia’s hand. “I will never be able to repay you for this.”

Mia took her hand and squeezed lightly. “Can I ask you a personal question?”    
 
Eve nodded in silence.

“How can you bear to love him?” Mia shook her head. “Sebastian has done horrible things.”

Lowering her head in shame, she took a deep breath and then looked up at Mia. “He saved me, Mia,” her voice cracked as grief overwhelmed her. “When I ran away from my foster parents, I was homeless on the streets. He took me in and gave me a home. When my foster father finally found me, he forced me back. Sebastian found me after I had been beaten and raped… and killed him. After that, I felt safe. He’s always cared for me. I know he’s ruthless and done terrible things, but he’s all I’ve ever known. I will always love him.”

Before Mia could respond, sadness spread through her. “I’m sorry you went through that.” Mia’s eyes filled with tears. “I understand now. I want to help you, Eve. I’ll make sure your children never have to suffer the way you did.”
  
“What about the Covenant?” Eve asked. “Surely everyone will oppose having my babies live here.”

“Tim and Angel have already given me their blessing,” she assured. “But I haven’t talked to Jem yet. I know he will be compassionate and understanding. Tessa has a big heart, and she will help me, but Jace is the one I’ll have to convince. His hatred for Sebastian and the demon goes deep into his soul, but I think once he’s a father himself, he’ll come around, too.”

“I don’t deserve this after all I’ve done to everyone.” Eve shook her head. “Can you ever forgive me?”

Mia went silent for a moment. “Give me time. I’ve already come this far.”

Eve wiped her wet eyes. “You’re a better person than I, sister.”

“I’m not proud of my past either,” Mia confessed. “It just takes some of us longer to find the right path. Have faith, Eve. You’ll get there, too.”

To be continued...

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 7
The Chosen Son/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Chester Ewan— a Guardian, created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. After Chester revealed to Jem of his ability, he agrees to help. When they share the news with Tim Ross—the head of the Breedline council—he is hesitant at first due to the fact if Jem’s powers got out of control, his gift could also be deadly. And then he decides to inform Tessa—their Queen—before they discuss this with Celina. 
  

Meanwhile, Mia Blackwood decides to visit her twin sister Eve, who is locked up and guarded until her trial for her past crimes against the Breedline.

Pregnant with Sebastian’s twins, Eve is grateful for her sister’s visit and asks Mia for forgiveness. After discovering Eve’s tortured childhood past, Mia is compassionate and offers to adopt her unborn children after they are born, knowing Eve will likely serve prison time. Overjoyed with Mia’s offer, Eve agrees. Now, all Mia has to do is convince her bonded mate, Jem.


Continued...  
              

When Helen returned to the Breedline Covenant, she went upstairs to give Celina the good news. She’d stayed up for hours, searching for a surgeon of the Breedline species. At the San Francisco General Hospital, they recognized Dr. Kenneth Craven as one of the best and experienced doctors in the field of orthopedics. After Helen had pleaded Celina’s case, he’d agreed to do the surgery.

Standing outside Celina’s bedroom door, her hands fidgeted with the lapels of her white coat and then the stethoscope in her pocket. With her own patients during many trauma incidents, she’d always kept her cool. It was her trademark. This was personal, though. The person on the other side of the door hit close to home for her. Celina was her niece, but more like her daughter.  

The Breedline Covenant was set up with proper equipment in the exam room now. But it didn’t have everything. They would have to transport Celina to the hospitals OR where Helen could assist with the surgery if needed.

Helen took a deep breath and reached down deep, pulling herself together. Just as she pushed the door open, she saw Celina lying on the bed still as water.

In a soft voice, Helen muttered, “Celina?”

Tim’s voice was right behind her, but she felt as if she were miles away. In fact, the whole world seemed somewhere else, nothing existing except for the expression in Celina’s eyes as she looked up at her.

“Did you find a surgeon?” Celina asked in a weak tone.

Stepping through the door, Tim came in behind Helen as Jem and Chester waited in the hallway.

“Yes, honey. I did.” She wrenched off her white coat and hung it over a nearby chair. “I’ve found you the best surgeon.”

As Helen approached her, Celina’s eyes were full of tears. “My legs… I’ve been having muscle spasms as though I could move them, but they still don’t want to corporate.”

Standing by the door, Tim cleared his throat. “I don’t mean to interrupt, but I need to speak with both of you.”

Helen motioned him over. “Of course.”

Moving to the bed, Tim stood next to Helen and glanced at Celina’s motionless body. The loss of mobility in someone so young took his breath away. Even if you were a couch potato, life in a wheelchair would seem like a death sentence.   

Celina’s eyes focused on Tim. “What is it?”

“Chester has brought some urgent information to my attention,” he said as he gathered her hand into his. “He says Jem has the power to heal you.”

Celina swallowed hard as a tear slipped out and trailed down her cheek.

Abruptly, a soft tap on the half-open door caught their attention. When Tim and Helen glanced over, Chester and Jem stood in the doorway, patiently waiting for permission to come inside. 

“Please, come in,” Celina urged.

When Chester and Jem moved closer to the bed, Helen and Tim stepped back. Before Chester spoke to Celina, he leaned down into her field of vision and smiled. His big eyes were a bright green, but not that of any other shade of green she’d ever seen. His pointed ears reminded her of the fairy tales her mother used to read to her as a child. His hair was the color of fire engine red that hung in ringlets. 

“With my guidance, the chosen son’s powers…” Chester halted his words, forgetting what Jem had asked him earlier. He shifted his eyes at Jem and cleared his throat. And then he continued as his eyes focused back to Celina. “I mean… Jem’s powers can heal you.”

Jem added, “Celina, you need to know… my gift could also be deadly.”

“Absolutely, not,” Helen interjected. “I won’t allow such a risk. I’ve found her the best surgeon. Dr. Craven wants to exam her first thing tomorrow morning.”

“Shouldn’t this be my decision?” Celina pointed out. “Surgery is risky, too.”

“Please, honey,” Helen murmured in a pleading voice. “Please don’t put your life at risk. Let the doctor at least examine you first.”  

“I agree with Helen,” Tim chimed in. “Let’s see what the doctor says before we make any hasty decisions.”

“They’re right, Celina,” Jem stated. “I would feel better if you let the doctor do the surgery first.”

Celina didn’t look at Jem, but she could feel the weight of his stare. “All right,” she agreed releasing a long sigh. “But if the surgery isn’t successful, I’m going to let Jem try to heal me. I can’t live with the fact that I didn’t try everything possible. I’m not going to spend the rest of my life in this bed.” 
  
The sound of someone clearing their throat put an end to the conversation. When they looked to the open door, Kyle was standing there. His lips turned down, and his expression grew worried. “What’s going on?” 

“Helen found a surgeon,” Celina said. “I have an appointment first thing in the morning.”

Kyle ambled forward and stood beside Jem. “Did I just hear Chester say you have the power to heal her?”

Jem was quiet for a moment. “Yes, but there is a chance it could kill her if I cannot control it,” he explained. “I’ve never done this before, Kyle. It’s a huge risk.”

“But it’s my risk and my decision,” Celina implied. “If the surgery isn’t successful, I’ll do whatever it takes to walk again.”

When Kyle moved next to Celina, he grasped her hand, squeezing gently. She felt the warm strength of his palm in hers. As he stared at her, his gaze was intense. Celina never felt so helpless in her life.  

“I promise you, baby,” Kyle leaned closer and kissed her forehead, “I’m not going anywhere. Even if you can walk or not, I’m always going to be with you.”

With a smile, she reached up and caressed his face. “Well then, I guess it’s settled. You’re stuck with me.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
   
****
Mia left Eve’s confined living quarters and went upstairs to wait for Jem. Entering their bedroom, she stopped in front of the dresser and looked into the mirror. Staring at her reflection, the ache inside her chest intensified. Her future was passing before her in a flash as she thought about what she was going to ask Jem. Asking him to take on this kind of responsibility was like looking over the edge of a cliff, and losing your balance. Rubbing her sweaty palms over her jeans, she could feel her legs shake underneath the material.

Pacing back and forth from the bedroom to the small sitting room, she finally stopped and stood still with her arms crossed over her chest. Mia’s jaw clenched hard as she stared at the door.

Startled, she jumped when it opened, and Jem walked in. Her nerves seemed shot to hell. When her eyes locked on his, her body stiffened.  
      
“Jem…”

His head swiveled around, and his stare softened when he saw her. When he noticed the worried look on her face, he arched a brow. “What’s wrong, honey?”

As he waited for her to speak, she was utterly speechless. She couldn’t move, although her mouth parted. Realizing what was in the back of her throat, she couldn’t believe she was going to put it into words.

When she didn’t respond, he stared at her in a questioning manner, wanting to know if she was okay. “Mia, are you all right?”

For god’s sake, was she really going to do this? Every one of her gut instincts told her this was going to upset him. Mia took a deep breath and swallowed some of the anxiety building in her chest. With a sudden burst of courage, she said, “Jem, I-I want to… adopt Eve’s babies.” And then she went silent and waited with every single second drawing out in agony.

The silence and the strained look on Jem’s face intensified. The expression in his eyes went from concerned to rage in a split second. He flushed red, and anger bristled visibly from him. As his eyes narrowed, his lips thinned into a firm line. Mia had never seen Jem this angry, and it unsettled her even though she knew he would eventually cool down.

Waiting for him to erupt, Mia lowered her head, not wanting to press the issue at this point. When she looked back up, his gaze peeled back layer after layer until she felt bare and vulnerable under his scrutiny. As his mouth opened, he spat out a few curse words. “I’m not taking in Sebastian’s offspring,” Jem said firmly. “Don’t ask me this again, Mia.” Before she could respond, he stormed out, slamming the door behind him.

Standing outside the door, Jem dropped his arms down to his sides, balling up his hands into tight fists. As he descended the staircase, he made a sound of exasperation. When he got down to the last step, he shot around the banister’s curling end and ducked through double doors that led into the training room. The gym was the only place he could stand to be right now. A good hour or so on the treadmill, and he might burn off some steam. Reality had a way of dumping a cold bucket of water over his head. He was positively numb over what Mia had asked him. If he agreed to adopt Sebastian’s children, it would be the worst thing he’d ever done, and he’d made some pretty stupid decisions in his life. 

After almost thirty minutes of tears, Mia finally emerged from the bedroom. Stepping out, she pulled up short when she noticed a lone figure propped against the wall outside her door.

“Tim, what are you doing out here?”

Noticing Mia’s teary eyes, Tim reached out and placed his palm on her shoulder. “Where’s Jem?”

“He’s probably in the training room.” She lowered her eyes, trying to hold back tears.

That would explain the pounding he heard, Tim thought to himself. Somebody was apparently running the hell out of one of the treadmills.

“What happened?” Tim said, putting her sad expression and Jem’s pounding together—and coming up with the feeling they’d gotten into an argument.

Her eyes flicked back up. “I told Jem about adopting Eve’s twins.”

“I’m sorry, Mia,” he said. “But you can’t blame him for his first reaction.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” As the words drifted out of her mouth, Tim had a sense she was disappointed in Jem’s behavior.

“I’ll go talk to him,” he reassured her. “Maybe I can make him come to reason.”  
   
“Thank you, Tim.”

****  
Standing outside the door, Tim braced himself before he walked into the weight room. When he stepped inside, Jem’s agitation level was off the charts.

As Tim called out his name, his voice didn’t carry over toward Jem at all. Then again, the roar of the treadmill and Jem’s thumping strides would have drowned out the engine of a revving race car. Jem’s massive body was in a fast sprint, his bare chest dripping with sweat, covering the machine and the floor.

Stepping inside, Tim slowly approached the machine next to Jem. As he ignored Tim, his lips thinned, and he had that stubborn pit bull look he got when he was pissed—and determined. Trying to get his attention, Tim waved his hand right in his face. As Jem’s eyes locked on his, they were blazing with fury.

Tim raised his voice over the noise, “Jem, how ‘bout you slow down so we can talk?”

Jem sucked in his breath and tried to calm his thoughts. Using his finger, he hit the stop button and hopped off the treadmill. Jem kept silent but still simmered with anger.

Tim pulled a weight bench over and motioned for him to sit down. “I talked to Mia,” he told him. “She came to me earlier today, and I know she wants to take in Eve’s twins when they’re born.”

Jem let out a deep breath and plopped down next to Tim. A sense of frustration gripped him, as strong as any pain he’d ever felt. After a series of heavy breaths, Jem hung his head and wearily pushed his sweat-soaked hair from his face.

“Talk to me, Jem,” Tim said in a concerned tone. “Tell me what’s going on in your head.”

Jem frowned and felt the beginnings of a throb in his left temple. He reached up and rubbed his head, closing his eyes. It was quite a while before Jem lifted his chin, and when he did, his eyes were wet, and not from sweat or exertion. “I know I overreacted.” His voice was ragged. “But I just can’t accept those kids.” He shook his head. “How do we even know if they belong to Sebastian or the demon?”

“We don’t, but they could turn out to be like you and Jace. You two inherited the demon’s genes, and you were born good,” Tim pointed out.

“Don’t you think they deserve a chance, too?”

Something clicked in his mind, and Jem closed his eyes for a moment as he brought back the image of his adopted parents. If they hadn’t given him and Jace a loving home, where would they be now? Their life would be different, he thought. Emotion knotted Jem’s throat as drops of sweat fell from his chin. He wiped his face before he looked over at Tim and said, “I’m such an asshole. What was I thinking? How could I have been so cold and selfish to Mia?”

Tim clapped his hand over Jem’s shoulder. “You just panicked, that’s all,” he said shaking his head. “Go on now. Talk to Mia.”

Tim’s words filled him with determination. Strangely, calm acceptance settled over him as he extended his hand out to Tim. “Thank you.”

With a smile, he grasped Jem’s palm into a firm handshake. “You’re welcome.” 
       
To be continued...

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers.

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves, a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 8
Mirror, Mirror

By scongrove

Previously...

After the Breedline destroyed the Chiang-shih demon, freeing Sebastian Crow of his possession, he managed to escape the Breedline’s punishment for his past crimes once again.  As Sebastian moves on with his new life, searching for Eve—his bonded mate—he stops for a drink at a private club called NightShade.  
 

When Mia asks Jem—her bonded mate—if he will agree to adopt Eve’s twins after they’re born, while she faces her crimes against the Breedline—he angrily refuses her proposal. After talking with Tim Ross—the Breedline head council—Jem realized he overreacted, and decides to take in Eve and Sebastian’s twins when they are born.

Meanwhile, Celina prepares for surgery, hopeful she will have the ability to walk again.

Continued...       
         

When Sebastian walked back into the club, he went to the VIP section and slid behind a table. Leaning against the back of a padded booth, he watched across the room as the colored lights flickered down on the crowded dance floor.

As the waitress brought him his usual two shots of Patron, Sebastian turned around and glared at the noisy group behind him. A bunch of middle-aged men with gold watches and silk suits laughed like the blowhard drunks they were—to the point that the loudest of them slammed back in his seat and knocked into Sebastian, which didn’t go over well.

Curling back his lip, Sebastian formed a snarl. “What the f—“

The gentleman cranked his head around, his long face, dark goatee and long ponytail looked similar to the guy on the cover of Zig-Zag rolling papers. His dark eyes narrowed as he slurred his words. “Wanna do something about it, boy?”

As Sebastian tilted his head back, he swallowed the vodka in one gulp and slammed down the shot glass on top of the table.

A moment later, the guy banged back so hard, Sebastian spilled his second shot he was about to drink. “Damn it to hell,” he cursed reaching for a napkin.

“Oh, sorry,” Zig-Zag guy muttered in a light chuckle. And then he made an unexpected show of lifting his pinkie up at Sebastian with a drink in his hand.

Sebastian reached inside his jacket for a weapon, fixing to get up and cut the guys throat. But out of nowhere a tall man appeared and put his hand out to stop him. “Gentlemen, what seems to be the problem?”

When Sebastian saw the guys face, his eyes widened. He had the same height, same long black hair, and the same color of eyes. It was as if Sebastian was looking at himself in a mirror.

His brows furrowed. “What the hell?”

The rude bastard Sebastian was about to kill looked up at the guy standing between them, and then back at Sebastian. As he turned to face his comrades, he burst into laughter. “Look guys, it’s dumb and dumber,” he said in an obnoxious tone. 
  
Sebastian snarled in response and then muttered a few F-bombs.

Abruptly, a waitress dressed in tight clothes walked up to Sebastian’s doppelganger. “Can I get you something to drink, Mr. Carlyle?” 

“Bring me a bottle of Dom Perignon,” he muttered in an English accent.

“Yes, sir.” She nodded and looked over at the table of men. “Would you gentlemen like another round of drinks?”

Before one of the men could open their mouth to speak, Mr. Carlyle abruptly spoke out, “Bring them their bill. They were just about to leave.”

He narrowed his eyes at the men around the table. “Isn’t that right, gentlemen?”

They were all mostly silent, their faces impassive when they saw a pair of glowing eyes staring back at them. The Zig-Zag guy’s eyes bulged. “Y-yes,” he stammered. “We were just leaving.” And then he fidgeted with his wallet, pulling out several bills and laid the money on the table. Without delay, they rose and exited the club.

“May I?” Mr. Carlyle asked Sebastian, waiting for his approval. 
  
Sebastian nodded, motioning for him to sit down.

When Sebastian’s look-alike took a seat, he switched his legs around, crossing them at the knee. As Sebastian stared at him in disbelief, he couldn’t take his eyes off him.

Still, in the grip of a violent temper, a question blurted out of Sebastian’s mouth, “Who the hell are you?”

“Thomas Carlyle,” he replied nonchalantly. “I’m your twin brother.”

Sebastian’s gut tightened, and he damn near swallowed his tongue. With his brows clenched, he said, “My mother told me you died at birth.”

Listening to Sebastian’s response, Thomas stared at him a long moment, obviously studying him with avid curiosity. He could positively see the denial in Sebastian’s eyes after he told them their mother lied.

Sebastian sent him a quick frown. “Where the hell have you been all this time?” he said, a definite smirk in his voice.

“In England, with our mother’s sister, Cathryn,” he revealed, cocking a brow. “Our mother tried to give us both away, but her sister would only take one of us.”

Sebastian leaned back and folded his arms across his chest. “Was her sister just as much of a bitch as our mother?” he asked sharply.

“Most likely worse,” Thomas grumbled.

Sebastian frowned harder. “So, is she still alive?”
 
Thomas’s lips formed into a cruel twist and answered bluntly, “No.”

 Sebastian’s lips quirked upward. “You know, I killed our mother,” he said without reserve. “I cut her throat so deep it almost severed her head.”

Without caring what Sebastian had just revealed, he kept his eyes on him and reached inside his Valentino sports coat. Pulling out a cigar, he handed it to Sebastian. “I think you’ll like this brand,” he said, shifting back in the seat and lighting up his own. “They’re dark but smooth.”

Sebastian flicked up a flame from his lighter and leaned forward for the inhale. As he took the smoke in, he could feel his brother focusing on him.

Thomas exhaled a perfect white cloud that momentarily fogged his features. “So, what do you think?”

“I like it,” Sebastian said, exhaling the expensive stogie.

Thomas grinned. “I knew you had good taste.”

Sebastian stared across the mahogany table separating them. “How did you find me?”

Rolling his cigar between his forefinger and thumb, Thomas muttered, “Lilith.”

“Who the hell is that?”

“She’s the Goddess of all power,” Thomas said with an expression growing more serious.

****
Ten minutes later, Jem exited the training room and headed upstairs. With his eyes locked on the steps, all of his emotions were in turmoil, which made sense. He’d lost his temper with Mia, something he’d never done before.

Jem cracked open the door and heard the sound of the shower running. As he moved past the bed, he saw Mia through the open bathroom door, standing underneath the water with her head down.

He could sense her emotions. It was if she were in mourning. No doubt because of how he’d reacted toward her when she asked to adopt Eve’s twins.

Stepping into the steamy bathroom, he called out to her.

Lifting her chin, she turned in his direction, and her succubus instincts dove into him, penetrating through his mind and going deep into his emotions. The images Mia saw in Jem’s mind came clear as if drawn with a quill of sadness and regret. He wanted to apologize to her.

As he kept his eyes trained on the thin glass barrier that separated them, she felt a shattering exchange with him. As she opened the shower door, his eyes went over her beautiful body, stopping at her lips.

Mia stretched out her hand, inviting him in. “Come shower with me.”

Slipping out of his clothes, Jem took her hand as she tugged him inside. He inhaled sharply, taking in the scent of her hair. Under the heated spray, his arousal twitched and hardened. When he was face-to-face with her, he locked his eyes on hers. “I’m sorry, Mia,” he whispered. “I love you.”

With that, he leaned in and tilted his head. Just before Jem kissed her, he paused, but not because he was worried she was going to turn away—he knew by the look in her eyes that she was not going to pull back. “We’ll do what’s best for Eve’s children,” he said. “They deserve a chance.”

“I love you, Jem Chamberlain,” she murmured, her lips quivering.

Jem felt the soft explosion of air against his neck as Mia sighed.

Jem and Mia reached for the other at the same moment. Their mouths finished the journey as their lips touched, soft to soft, warm to warm. Pulling her against his chest, he wrapped his thick arms around her shoulders and held her tight as he deepened the kiss. 

****
The next morning, Helen arrived at the Breedline Covenant, anxious to get Celina transported to the San Francisco General Hospital for her appointment to see Dr. Craven.

When she went upstairs, she met Kyle in the hallway outside Celina’s room. Just as she was about to say something, Kyle spoke out, “Are you sure she’ll be safe in a human hospital?”

Helen’s placed her hand on his arm. Her touch was light and soothing. “I spent years working in that hospital when I first got out of medical school. I’m familiar with all the rooms and all the equipment. There is not one square inch of the facility I don’t know like the back of my hand. Dr. Craven and I will work together and make sure she gets in and gets out fast—and I will not leave her side.

“I can’t bear to have anything happen to her again.”

“I know. Trust me, Kyle. We’ll take care of her.”

He closed his eyes briefly. One thing he knew for sure, Helen was a devoted physician. “Okay,” he said approvingly. “Give me a minute with her, though.”

When she nodded, he slowly opened the door. “Celina, it’s me… Kyle.” As he approached her bed, she looked even worse than yesterday. Celina lay motionless, her eyes were not just closed but squeezed tight as if she were in pain.

Her lids lifted slowly. “Kyle.”

“Helen’s here for you,” he told her. “She’s got an ambulance outside waiting to take you to the hospital.”

When she nodded, her lips parted, and her breath sounded like she was having trouble breathing. “Okay.”

Kyle leaned down to Celina’s face and kissed her lips gently. “I’ll be waiting for you at the hospital. As soon as you come out of surgery, I’ll be there for you.”

The door opened, and Helen put her head in. “Celina.”

Her lids fluttered. “Yes?” 
 
“We have to get going.”
 
“Okay, I’m ready.”

Kyle stood right by her side, wishing he could take her place. “I’ll be right behind you,” he whispered to her. “I’ll follow the ambulance.”

Before the paramedics loaded Celina into the ambulance, he grabbed one more glance at her. Helen got into the ambulance and looked back at Kyle, her eyes confident and full of strength. When the doors closed, he headed to his car.

Within the next hour, Celina was getting prepped for surgery after her MRI.

Flipping through some of Celina’s paperwork—which Helen was going to make sure she confiscated after all this was through—a nosey human nurse asked, “Who is she?”

“She’s a celebrity.” It wasn’t the truth, but that was all Helen could come up with at the moment.

The nurse glanced out into the corridor, her eyes searching the room. “That explains all the security.” Looking away, the nurse turned toward Helen and asked, “Where’s her consent forms? There’s nothing in the computer system.”

Dr. Kenneth Craven walked into the room. In his fifty’s, he was a tall, attractive man that reminded Helen of the actor George Clooney. Kenneth’s salt-and-pepper hair was thick, and he wore it parted on the side. He had tanned skin, a square masculine face, captivating emerald green eyes, and looked as if he kept in shape. It was a wonder why he was still single. All the nurses whispered gossip about how private he was. They’d never heard of him mentioning having been married or even children.

“I’ve got all those,” Kenneth said, stretching the truth. “You have the MRI for me?”

With her hands on her hips, the nurse stared at Helen. “Are you sure you want your name listed as the responsible party for all this? Being a celebrity, surely she can afford the surgery.”

“She has to remain anonymous, and she’ll reimburse me,” Helen quickly replied.

As Doctor Craven reviewed the MRI, he could see the area that had fused following a fracture. He wasn’t sure if the spinal cord was compressed or cut through completely, and he wouldn’t know the true extent of the damage until he got in there.

He looked over at Helen. “How many weeks since she was injured?”

“Two,” she said quietly so the nurse couldn’t hear.

He immediately frowned. “What?”

“Celina was afraid of having surgery,” she whispered, her eyes fixed on his. “We had to convince her to do this.”

“Damn it, Helen,” he cursed, his nostrils flaring. “She shouldn’t have waited this long. Spinal compressions are deadly to the delicate tunnel of nerves, and irreparable damage can occur in a matter of minutes or hours.”

As he went to turn away, she caught his arm. “I’m aware of all this. Celina is not only a Breedline, but she’s also a Wicca. Her healing powers are far greater than any Breedline.”

“Fine.” He let out a sigh. “We need to get started.” He went over to Celina, who had been placed on her stomach and bent down beside her. “I’m Dr. Craven, Celina. We’re going to start now, okay? I promise you’re not going to feel a thing.”

“Thank you, Doctor,” she said in a weak voice.

He stroked her shoulder and nodded at the anesthesiologist.   

To be continued...
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers.

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 9
Flashbacks

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Chester Ewan— a Guardian, created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. After Chester revealed to Jem of his ability, he agrees to help. When they share the news with Tim Ross—the head of the Breedline council—he is hesitant at first due to the fact if Jem’s powers get out of control, his gift could also be deadly. And then he decides to inform Tessa—their Queen—before they discuss this with Celina.   

After discussing all Celina’s options, her aunt Helen persuades her to have surgery instead of taking the risk of Jem’s powers.

Continued...   
  

The first thing Celina saw when she came awake was a blurry image of someone sitting in a chair beside her bed. She must have been in a back brace because she felt confined like being stuffed into a turtle’s shell.

As her consciousness came clear, she became aware of the beeping next to her bed and the stiffness in her back. Glancing down, she saw an IV that was attached to her arm that ran up a metal rod with a bag filled with clear liquid.

Unable to speak, she looked around the room and realized she was not in the one she’d been in previously. Inhaling through her nose, she smelt a familiar scent that reminded her of Kyle’s cologne.

“Kyle…” her voice sounded ragged.

Suddenly, she heard movement and then felt a warm hand. “Shhh,” Kyle soothed. “I’m here, baby,” he reassured, grasping her palm. “You’re okay.”

“How did it go?”

“Your surgery went fine.” He gently squeezed her hand. “I’ll go get the doctor and tell him you’re awake.”

After Kyle left, it wasn’t five minutes later, and he came back in with Dr. Kenneth Craven.

“Hello, Celina,” Kenneth said with a handsome smile. “You did well. I reset the vertebrae, and the spinal cord hadn’t got compromised entirely.”

Celina lifted her shoulders and tried to re-adjust her body, but the contraption she was in kept her from moving. “Will I walk again?”

Kenneth didn’t immediately reply. He just kept his stare, and his expression told Celina it was not good news.

“Tell me,” she urged. “I want to know the truth.”

“The surgery was not a failure, but I don’t know if you will walk just yet. Time is going to tell us more than anything else.”

Celina closed her eyes, and her heart grew heavy until the ache crawled up her throat and into her jaw. Lifting her lids, she blinked several tears. “I see,” her voice trembled.

The door to the room cracked open, and Helen peered inside wearing green scrubs. “Good, you’re awake,” she said moving inside, shutting the door behind her.

Celina tried to smile, but her lips formed a tight line. The silence that stretched out in the room seemed to last forever.

Immediately, Helen moved next to the hospital bed and reached out to caress her cheek. “It’s going to be okay, honey. You’re going to heal from this.”

“Am I?”

Helen nodded. “You have to stay positive. Your state of mind will reflect your healing.”

“Are you in any pain?” Dr. Craven asked.

Before she could respond, the pain spread through her body. She inhaled sharply as more tears trickled down her cheeks.

Celina’s visible agony splintered Kyle’s heart. He grabbed a tissue and wiped away her tears as Dr. Craven administered something for her pain. 

After her tears had been dried, and her pain eased, Celina glanced over at Dr. Craven. “Do you think there’s a chance I could walk again?”

“I honestly can’t be sure. The rules are obviously different for you since you’re a Wicca… so anything is possible.”

She nodded. “Thank you, Dr. Craven.”

“When will she be released from the hospital?” Kyle queried, trying to change the subject.

“In two weeks.”

Celina’s mouth dropped open as she grappled with what Dr. Craven said. “Oh no, I’ll miss Mia and Jem’s wedding.”

Kyle grasped her hand and squeezed. “I’m sure they’ll understand.” 

Letting out a long sigh, she said, “What about the back brace? How long do I have to wear it?”

“You’ll need to wear it for at least three months. After that, you should be good without it, but I wouldn’t do anything strenuous for another six months,” Dr. Craven pointed out.

“I’ll make sure she has everything she needs at the Covenant during her recovery,” Helen declared.

“Good,” Dr. Craven’s said approvingly. “She’ll need therapy when she gets out of the hospital.” He patted Celina’s arm. “I’ll be back in an hour to check on you. If you need anything, just press the call button by the bed. A nurse will be on duty at all hours to assist you.”

When Dr. Kenneth Craven stepped out of the room, he saw a female with long, brown hair moving in his direction. Something was off. She looked very familiar to him. She was holding hands with a tall male that had long, blond hair. As the couple came up to him, the woman said, “Excuse me, are you Celina’s surgeon?”

Suddenly, pain plowed into Kenneth’s temples—all but knocked him to his knees as he braced himself against the wall to keep from hitting the floor face first. Her voice sounded identical to someone he once knew long ago. Kenneth let all cognitive processes go lax as he breathed slowly and evenly.

Tessa scrambled over, her face next to Kenneth’s. “Are you okay?”

He froze and just stared at her. None of this made sense. For some reason, she looked exactly like his beloved, Lisa. They’d fell in love when they were just sixteen years old. A year later, she suddenly disappeared. After years of searching, he’d been unsuccessful and never saw her again.

As Kenneth kept his stare, he felt like he was going crazy. Helplessness and frustration swamped him. His mouth opened but when he tried to speak, the words wouldn’t come.

When there was no reply, Jace grasped his arm steadying him and looked back at Tessa. “Do I need to get help?”

Kenneth staggered to his feet, wobbling like he’d been on a bender from hell. The walls kept moving around him, dipping and swaying until nausea rose sharply in his stomach and into his throat, clenching and squeezing until he couldn’t breathe.

Finally, he managed to get his mouth to work. “Just let me get my feet under me.” 

Tessa looked at Jace. “Something’s wrong with him,” she said with urgency. “Go find a nurse.”

Kenneth stumbled back into the wall as Jace kept a tight grip on his arm. When he eased down to the floor, he pulled his knees to his chest. Beside him, Jace released his hand and went for help.
  
Kneeling next to Kenneth, Tessa placed her hand on his shoulder. “Hold on,” she reassured, “we’re getting you help.”

After Lisa had vanished years ago, Kenneth had suffered from severe headaches on and off ever since. The pain was astounding like someone had nailed him on top of his skull with a steel bat.

He balled his fist in agony and pressed it to his forehead. Maybe I’m losing my mind, he thought. 

It seemed forever he’d just sat there with his head hung like it weighed more than his body. Tessa stayed by his side and watched him, waiting for help to arrive.

Finally, a nurse came over with Jace close behind. She knelt down in front of Kenneth and said, “Can you hear me, Dr. Craven?”

Breathing shallowly, he croaked out a weak reply. “Yes.”

“Good,” the nurse responded, reaching for the stethoscope. “Are you in any pain?”

“My head…” he gasped squeezing his eyes tight.
 
Glancing over her shoulder, the nurse called out to another nurse nearby. “Page Dr. Carrington. We’re going to need to get him down to x-ray.”

Just as soon as the nurse paged Helen, she walked out of Celina’s hospital room and saw Kenneth on the floor.

Rushing over, Helen knelt down beside the other nurse. “What happened?”

“We’re not sure,” the nurse replied. “He fell to the floor, and he’s complaining of pain in his head. I don’t know if he hit it when he fell.”

“Jace and I were here when it happened,” Tessa said. “As far as I’m aware, he didn’t hit his head.”   

“Kenneth,” Helen said firmly, and pulled out an instrument with a small light on the end, “can you look up at me?”

When the intense pounding had mostly passed, he lifted his chin with his lids closed just in case another pounder was brought on.

“You’re going to be all right, Kenneth,” Helen reassured. “Open your eyes for me.”

When he slowly opened them, he caught a glimpse of Tessa out of the corner of his eye. Abruptly, another new flare of pain burst into his brain, causing him to brace every muscle in his body and fight for control. Scrunching his eyes tight, he cupped his hand over his face and held his breath.

“You’re going to be fine, Kenneth,” Helen said calmly.  “I need you to open your eyes.”

Focusing on Helen’s voice, he blew out a deep breath and blinked several times before he completely opened them.

Ten minutes later, Kenneth pushed to his knees and then stood with Jace gripping his hands as he pulled upward. He looked up at Jace and breathed out again as his shoulders sagged.

“Thank you.”

Jace nodded. “No problem.”

When a nurse came over with a wheelchair, they helped Kenneth sit down. Wheeling him through a hallway, he looked back at Tessa as if grappling with whether or not he saw a ghost from his past.

Helen and a nurse took him into the elevator, down to the third floor, where the medical imaging was. Members of the hospital’s staff were doing their thing, dealing with patient setup, or transport. Kenneth smiled and nodded in silence as they stared at him, their expression confused after seeing him in a wheelchair.

“Dr. Craven?”

At the sound of the MRI technician’s voice, the pain at Kenneth’s temples faded a little, as if his brain was feeling sorry for his head.

“Hey,” Kenneth said in a hoarse voice.

With a pair of reading glasses on the tip of his nose, the technician looked down at him and muttered, “What’s going on with you, Kenneth?”

He shrugged. “It’s just a migraine.”

“I think it would be best to do an MRI,” Helen suggested.

The imaging tech nodded. “There’s also something going around. I’ve had four nurses and some other staff that has been suffering from nausea and headaches lately.”

Fortunately, Helen didn’t ask him any other questions. Then again, he didn’t know there needed to be anything to share. Nobody had a clue about Kenneth’s past, or what he did outside the hospital, mostly because he’d never shared his personal life with anyone. He’d kept his private life to himself. 

“Can you stand?” the tech asked, pushing the wheelchair over toward an exam table.

“Uh …” Kenneth mumbled staring at him confused. What was the question? He thought. Oh, yeah. “Yes, I’m sure I can manage on my own.” 

Helen stood by his side with her hands on her hips. “We’ll help you on the table,” she insisted. “The last thing we need is for you to take a tumble.”

After the MRI, he was feeling better and standing on his own two feet. Looking over his results with Helen close by, the tech clapped his hand over Kenneth’s shoulder. “Everything looks normal. Go home and get some rest,” he told him. “Looks like it may just be a virus that’s going around.”

On the way out, Helen cleared her throat. “You’re not thinking of driving yourself home, are you?” 
 
Helen’s question didn’t register. Even though Kenneth’s headache backed off completely, his mind was miles away, still thinking of the young woman that looked just like his Lisa. He couldn’t forget her. His life would be easier if he could. If only he’d been able to move on, work out his issues, try to meet someone else and maybe fall in love again. Enjoy life and living. But he couldn’t forget Lisa or move on without her even after all these years.
  
The tech frowned and leaned closer. “Doc, are you okay?”

Glancing up, Kenneth wondered what exactly they’d said. His marbles seemed completely fried. “I’m sorry.” He shook his head. “What did you ask?”

“I’m driving you home,” Helen said.

Nodding, he agreed. “Yeah, I think that’s a good idea. Thank you, Helen.”

Halfway to the exit, in the row where physicians and hospital staff parked, there was a gray Honda Accord close to the security office. A quick beep blurted out when Helen unlocked the full-size sedan. She got behind the wheel and Kenneth slid into the passenger seat. Starting the engine, she put the car in reverse and said, “Buckle up.” As Helen drove over to the garage’s exit, she took out her pass card and used it without a problem to open up the gate. Then onto Main Street, she headed downtown to his building complex.

Staring out the window as they drove along, Kenneth was sure about one thing. The woman that looked almost identical to his beloved wasn’t just a coincidence. Either she was a close relative of Lisa’s, or he was losing his ever-loving mind.  

To be continued...

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. Spoiler Alert! After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 10
Love Endures All

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Chester Ewan— a Guardian, created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. After Chester revealed to Jem of his ability, he agrees to help. When they share the news with Tim Ross—the head of the Breedline council—he is hesitant at first due to the fact if Jem’s powers got out of control, his gift could also be deadly. And then he decides to inform Tessa—their Queen—before they discuss this with Celina.   

After discussing all Celina’s options, her aunt Helen persuades her to have surgery instead of taking the risk of Jem’s powers. Now that Celina is recovering from surgery, her physician—Dr. Kenneth Craven—gives her the results that there could be a possibility she would heal after time and therapy. When he told her she would not be released from the hospital in two weeks, Celina was heartbroken because she would miss Jem and Mia’s wedding.   


Continued...    

A week later, September Twenty-Sixth…

Jem was standing nervously in the foyer, shifting his weight back and forth between his two feet. He wore a black tuxedo, with a black vest and a platinum fusion necktie. His shoulder length hair was pulled back as he anxiously stood at the base of the Covenant’s grand staircase in the archway that was formed by the dining room.

Everything looked prepared for Jem and Mia’s wedding. Jace was standing handsomely next to Jem in a black suit as his best man, and Tessa was on the opposite side in a strapless chiffon gown, representing Mia’s bridesmaid. A white-haired man with a silver goatee, they all called Reverend Mike, stood behind Jem, waiting to proceed the ceremony. Other members of the wedding guests assembled in a half-circle across the way.

Among the guests were Jem and Jace’s uncle Jackson. He’d arrived early that morning from East Hampton, New York. Standing beside him was their adopted parents, John and Sarah Chamberlain. Cassie, their little sister, stood next to her fiancé, Drakon. Tim was standing beside them with his arm around Angel as she held their baby, Natalie. Casey Barton and Kyle Jones—Jem and Jace’s best friends and band mate’s—stood proudly while Kyle held onto a camera, ready to catch everything on video for Celina to view later.

Still, in the hospital, Celina had another week before she was released. Helen, the physician for the Breedline, and now considered part of their family was wearing a powder blue gown that looked stunning with her mahogany hair. She was standing by Kyle with a tissue in her hand, wiping the tears in her eyes, trying to keep her mascara from smearing. Beside Helen was Chester Ewan in a dark olive, suede suit with his wife Amelia at his side. With tiny pink flowers weaved in her snow white hair, Amelia wore a silk, long slim gown that matched the color of Chester’s suit, only lighter in shade. The rest of the Guardians spread amongst the other guests; all dressed in their finest attire.     

Glancing around the room, Jem smiled at everyone. The only person missing was his mother, Katlyn. But deep down in his heart, he knew her soul was somewhere amongst the guests; a beautiful angel with the same proud smile he’d always remembered her having since he was a child.

In the far corner, he heard the melody coming from the grand piano, accompanied by a tenor’s voice. Drakon’s amazing pipes sailed up and filtered all around the room. When the words came out, Jem’s heart melted. It was his and Mia’s song. The one he’d asked Drakon to sing, “All I Ask,” written by the artist Adele.

And then Jem felt like he’d just died and gone to heaven. Standing at the top of the staircase, with her arm entwined with Alexander’s, was his beautiful bride, Mia. She had appeared in a breathtaking cream gown that rendered him senseless and captivated the whole room. The miles of satin skirting falling about her slender body brought out the sniffles from all the ladies watching from below.

As she met his eyes, Jem mouthed the words silently; I love you.

The smile Mia gave him made his chest swell until he felt as if his body was weightless.

I love you, too, she said soundlessly, taking careful steps as Alexander guided her down the stairs.

Standing by his side, the ceremony commenced, with him and Mia promising to each other their life vows. When Reverend Mike gave the cue, Jem leaned in and pressed his lips to Mia’s. 

Turning toward the guests, the Reverend spoke out, “I present to you … Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain.”

Cheers and claps from everyone echoed all around the room. Marching through the rows of people, Jem swept Mia into his arms. He kissed her hard and then, in front of his friends and family, he boasted out loud, “I love you, Mrs. Chamberlain.”

Setting her back down on two feet, she stared up at him, looking as if she was going to burst into tears. “I love you, too.”

“Welcome to the family, Mia,” John announced, pulling her into a soft embrace. “I’m proud to have you as my daughter.”

“Oh,” Mia’s voice trembled. “Thank you.”

Sarah stretched up on her tiptoes and wrapped her arms around Jem. “I love you, honey.” Then, she turned to Mia and held out her arms. “I love you too, sweetheart.” When Mia reached out to her, Sarah pulled her into a hug. “You’re officially part of the family now.”

Cassie darted over with her arms out. “Now I have a sister!” She hugged Mia, and turned to Jem and wrapped her arms around him. “I’m so happy for you!”

Jem kissed the top of her head. “Thank you, sis.”  

With a firm handshake, Jackson said, “I’m proud of you, Jem.” Turning to Mia, he hugged her. “You look beautiful, Mia. We’re glad to have you as part of our family.”
    
Mia’s eyes filled with tears of joy. Her heart raced with excitement with the words she so longed to hear. She was part of a family now.

The celebration started rolling with voices, laughter and a lot of sparkling champagne. There was a feast set out starting with creative appetizers, and then to the sit-down dinner. A choice of either broiled salmon or baby rack of lamb coated with a blend of fresh herbs, and spices served with fresh seasonal vegetables, and golden fried potato croquette.  
  
After dinner, they presented the traditional bride and groom cake cutting. It was a three-tiered, white chocolate with raspberry. It was absolutely stunning.

Jem cut a small piece, and gently fed Mia with his hands. And then, Mia cut a small square, held it in front of Jem’s lips and to his surprise, she tenderly put it into his mouth. After it was all done, he leaned down and kissed her.

Everyone clapped and cheered at the happy occasion. Jace raised his glass high and said, “Cheers to the happy couple. I wish you many years of love and happiness!"   
  
As the guests lifted glasses of champagne and cheered, Alexander said, “I would like to make a toast.” He smiled with tears in his eyes. “To my son… your giving spirit and your love have earned you a precious gift... your beautiful bride. Cherish her,” he added, his voice cracking. “Mia, you are indeed a gift from heaven, and we welcome you into our hearts, and we rejoice in Jem’s good fortune that he found you… and you him.”

“Cheers!” Everyone stood with their glasses raised and drank in honor of the bride and groom.

When everyone at the table took their seat, Jem rose from his chair. “I would like to make a toast to my beautiful bride,” he announced, his voice thick with emotion. As he looked into Mia’s eyes, he thought back on his past. He’d waited patiently, knowing that his soul mate existed somewhere out there, waiting just like him. He only had to find her. And now he finally had. She was here, his very first true love. And now she was his wife.

He took a deep breath and nervously swallowed. “Mia, the day I met you, my world stood still. I had always hoped to meet someone like you but wondered if such a woman even existed. But when we met, you exceeded all of my expectations. Mia, you are my perfect fit. It was as if our meeting was written in the stars, arranged by some heavenly being. And the more I got to know you, the more deeply I fell in love. I knew I wanted to hear your laugh, see your smile and feel your heart beating for the rest of my life. And so today, as we join our lives together, I give you my heart.” He grasped her hand, squeezing gently. “I want you to know that as we journey through life, we will do so as partners, lovers, and best friends. I love you, Mia.”
       
After his toast, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. As tears slid down Mia’s cheeks, she stood up and placed her head against Jem’s chest. Looking up, she whispered, “Jem Chamberlain, you’re my everything.

Jace rose from his chair and hollered, “Let’s start the party!”

Focusing in Jace’s direction, Jem sent him a message telepathically. When Jace nodded in agreement, he strolled over to the DJ they’d hired and whispered something to him.

In no time, the song “Thinking Out Loud,” by Ed Sheeran began to play, silencing the guests. Jem held out his hand to Mia. “Dance with me, sweetheart.”

Accepting his hand, he guided her to the center of the dining area that resembled a ballroom. Beautiful arrangements of red and pink roses in tall vases decorated the tables. The lights were low except for the enormous crystal chandelier above the dance floor. Wrapping one arm around her waist and holding her hand with the other, Jem pulled Mia in close. Their bodies meshed together as they swayed to the romantic tempo.

“Together forever,” he whispered in her ear.

“Always,” she whispered back.  
 
****
Two days later, early in the morning, Jace quietly slipped out of bed, trying not to wake Tessa. He was eager to be downstairs when Jem and Mia got back from their honeymoon after a few days at a relaxing B&B near the beach.

While he got a shower, Tessa snuck out into the kitchen and fixed a bowl of fresh strawberries Angel had bought for her at the downtown farmers market. After everyone had first found out about her pregnancy, she’d started to get used to the spoiling—a benefit Angel had told her to enjoy.

So far, her pregnancy was healthy, well into her sixth month and feeling great. She had plenty of energy, no more morning sickness, and two babies that did laps under her rib cage every time she ate, especially if chocolate was involved.

Tessa’s pregnancy was nothing she’d prepared. She planned on her and Jace getting married before even talking about having children. After the initial shock had worn off when Helen first told her she was pregnant with twins, and already four months along, she’d fell in love with the idea of having Jace’s babies. She pictured two little blond haired, blue eyed boys that were the spitting image of him, but just a smaller version. 
 
She was hoping that, like most women, her labor would be normal. The only thing she wished could be part of her children’s lives was her biological parents. Her mother abandoned her when she was born, and she had no idea who her father was. She’d been raised by her aunt and uncle since birth, not having the slightest clue about the Breedline species. Her aunt and uncle, having only the knowledge of a human world, didn’t know anything about her real bloodline. Tessa even had a twin out there in the world somewhere. Maybe someday she would get a lead on where her twin was if they were even still alive.

A soft voice cast over from the doorway. “Are the berries any good?”

Looking across the kitchen with the bowl in her hand, Tessa beamed like she’d won the lottery. “You’re back!”

Sitting down the bowl, she held out her arms. “Did you have fun on your honeymoon?” Tessa asked, pulling Mia into a hug.

“It was incredible,” Mia boasted, reaching for a strawberry. “How are you feeling?”

Tessa put her hand on her stomach. “They’re really starting to grow.” She smoothed her palm over her rounded belly.

“What does Jace think about becoming a father now that you only have three months left?” Mia asked as she took a bite of the berry.

“He talks to my belly every night, right before we go to bed.”

Mia chuckled. “Are you serious?”

Tessa grinned. “He already has names picked out, and he wants the first born named after Jem.”

Mia’s eyes softened. “Oh, that’s so sweet. What about baby number two?”

“Jax,” Tessa told her.

“Jax?” Mia said after a pause. “Where did he come up with that name?”

“He wants our second born named after his uncle Jackson, but just spelled differently. When Jace and Jem were just kids, they nicknamed him Uncle Jacks.”

“Sounds like you and Jace are ready to be parents,” Mia said, the tone hinted despair. All at once she looked down and let out a sigh.

“What’s wrong, Mia?” 

Lifting her chin, Mia made a sound that came out as a groan. “It’s Eve.”

Tessa’s forehead wrinkled in concern as she took in the seriousness of her tone. “It’s okay, Mia. You can talk to me.”

Mia nodded, and her expression eased.

As she began to explain to Tessa about her and Jem’s decision to adopt Eve’s twins after they were born, Tessa listened quietly. Mia also told her it was a possibility Sebastian or the Chiang-shih demon could be the father of Eve’s twins. But it didn’t matter to her who their father was. Mia wasn’t going to let a stranger take in her nephews.

After she had finished talking, Tessa was silent for a moment. And then she reached over to squeeze Mia’s hand. “I understand, Mia. They’re innocent in all this just as Jem and Jace were when they were born. Both carried the very same gene. Eve’s children deserve the same chance, too.” 

“Thank you, Tessa.” Mia breathed out as tears fell from her eyes. “I needed to hear that.”

Before Tessa left the kitchen, the two of them embraced. “Now all we have to do is convince Jace.” Tessa frowned as the image of Jace’s reaction popped into her head. “I’m not sure how he’ll take the news.”

When Tessa left, Mia leaned back against the kitchen counter and was not at ease in the slightest. She knew Jace wouldn’t tolerate Eve’s children raised in the same house with his own.

Going over to the table, she pulled out a chair and sat down. Leaning forward, she placed her hands over her face. She didn’t know how long she sat there, but eventually, Jem came in and sat down beside her. “Hey,” he said softly. “You okay?”

Mia flinched at the sound of his voice. Lifting her head, she lowered her hands. Her shoulders sagged as she looked at Jem. “You startled me,” Mia said, blowing out a breath. “How long have you been sitting there?”

Scooting his chair closer, he wrapped his arm around her. “Sorry, honey. I didn’t mean to scare you.” He smiled to reassure her. “I just sat down,” he said noticing the tension in her eyes. Unable to resist, he reached with a tentative hand to caress her cheek. “Talk to me, Mia.”

For no apparent reason, the thought of having Jem’s children came to mind. Mia wondered what it would be like to have his babies. They’d spoken about it once, but she really never actually thought about it—until now.

She sat in silence for a minute, her thoughts wracking inside her brain. And then her gaze swung to him. “I told Tessa about us adopting Eve’s twins.”

His blue eyes flickered, just a hint of reaction in their depths. “What did Tessa say?”

“She understands and gives us her blessings, but—“ She turned away, no longer able to look into his eyes, into so much warmth.

In the silence that followed, he said, “She doesn’t think my brother will be okay with this, does she?”

Mia shook her head and sighed. “No.”

As Jem sat there with his arm around Mia, he thought about his mother, Katlyn. She’d loved him and Jace no matter who their father was even after the demon killed her beloved, kidnapped her and took her body against her will. The one thing she cared the most about was the love of her family. She never dwelled on the past. Her children always came first.

Jem cocked his head to the side and studied her. “I love you,” he whispered close to her ear, the only comforting words he had at the moment.

She leaned her head on his shoulder. “I love you, too.”

To be continued...        
 
  
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 11
Bittersweet Memories

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Chester Ewan— a Guardian, created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. After Chester revealed to Jem of his ability, he agrees to help. When they share the news with Tim Ross—the head of the Breedline council—he is hesitant at first due to the fact if Jem’s powers got out of control, his gift could also be deadly. And then he decides to inform Tessa—their Queen—before they discuss this with Celina. 
  

After discussing all Celina’s options, her Aunt Helen persuades her to have surgery instead of taking the risk of Jem’s powers. Now that Celina is recovering from surgery, her physician—Dr. Kenneth Craven—gives her the results that there could be a possibility she would heal after time and therapy. When he told her she would not be released from the hospital in two weeks, Celina was heartbroken because she would miss Jem and Mia’s wedding. 

Meanwhile, Tessa Fairchild—the Breedline Queen and her fiancé, Jace Chamberlain stops by the hospital to visit Celina. When Tessa introduces herself to Dr. Kenneth Craven, he has an instantaneous reaction, nearly knocking him to his knees with pain. After gathering his composure, he felt like he’d seen a ghost from the past. Tessa oddly resembled his bonded mate who suddenly vanished from his life years ago.

Now, after Sebastian Crow meets his twin brother, Thomas—who he thought died at childbirth—he gives Sebastian an offer he can’t refuse.


Continued... 
     

The next day, Celina was brought back to the Breedline Covenant and moved into another room other than the one she’d stayed in, much larger and yet everything seemed the same. Celina was lying motionless on a bed that was not her own in a state of total confinement. The back brace she had to wear was stiff and uncomfortable.

Thoughts of Kyle came to her, and she found herself thinking about the conversation the two of them had before her surgery. He’d told her he would be by her side afterward even if she never walked again. Celina would never forget what he looked like, standing over her bed, his eyes full of compassion and love.

In truth, what future could they have if she never walked again? She would be a burden, a useless body, having to let others care for her. Meanwhile, Kyle would still be a young, vibrant, sexual male deserving more than what she could offer.

As the door slowly opened, Helen walked in, and it was a relief to focus on something else.

“You’re awake,” Helen said, walking over.

“Hi, Aunt Helen,” she said hoarsely.

She glanced down at her niece, sympathy, and concern brimming in her eyes. “Are you feeling any pain?”

“No, I’m fine.” Celina forced a smile. “Have you seen Kyle?”

“He’s downstairs in the kitchen. Don’t tell him I told you, but he’s making breakfast for you. It’s probably supposed to be a surprise.”

Celina smiled for real this time as the image of Kyle preparing food for her came to mind. “I’ll make sure I have a surprised reaction when he enters the room.”    

There was a long silence, and then Celina asked, “How are you and Alexander doing?”

Helen’s eyes held hers. What to reply to that? She thought. “Let me just say,” she paused and smiled, “things are moving along slow, but I do adore him. We’re both alike in so many ways. He’s very independent, and he’s sort of old fashioned when it comes to dating.”

Celina reached out and brushed Helen’s arm. “I’m so happy for you, Aunt Helen. You deserve to be in love.”

“Thank you, honey. You deserve the same, too.”

“But what if I never walk again?” Celina’s voice cracked. “How can I give Kyle what he needs?”

Helen had no easy answer for that one. And before she could respond, Kyle walked in. “Good morning, sunshine,” he said with a tray in his hand. “How ‘bout breakfast in bed, babe?”

With a surprised expression on her face, Celina said, “That sounds great.”

“Stop torturing yourself,” Helen whispered close to her ear. “It will all work out.”

Celina smiled again, some of the agony easing from her, replacing it with hope. 

A shadow passed through Celina’s eyes, and Helen knew she was thinking of something about the past. It most likely had to do with the death of her parents, or her twin sister, Taliah.

Helen leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I’ve got to get to the hospital. I’ll be back later this evening to check on you,” she said, smoothing back a strand of hair from Celina’s face. “Page me if you need anything.”

As Kyle placed the tray of food on the nightstand, he said, “Thanks, Helen.”  
    
Walking out the door, Helen closed it from behind her. Sagging against it, she lowered her head and said a silent prayer for Celina. Hopefully, God would see her through this. Celina was too young to be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life.

When her phone buzzed, she stood straight and snapped back to reality. Digging inside her purse, she took out her phone and saw it was Dr. Kenneth Craven calling.

“Hello, this is Helen.”

After a short pause, Kenneth finally spoke. “Helen, I hope I’m not interrupting anything. I called the hospital, and the receptionist said you hadn’t made it in this morning.”

“You’re fine,” she quickly replied. “I stopped by to check on Celina before I left for the hospital.”

“How’s she doing?”

“She’s not in any pain, but she’s still frustrated,” she told him. “You can’t blame her for feeling that way considering her condition.”

“Of course,” he said sympathetically. “I understand.”

“Is everything all right, Kenneth? You’re not getting another headache, are you?”

“No, no,” he reassured. “I’m fine. But I was wondering if I could speak with you in private?” He said, pausing briefly. “Can I meet you at the hospital cafeteria over coffee, say in an hour?”

“Sure,” she agreed. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Don’t worry. I just need to ask you some questions about my incident at the hospital the other day,” he explained. “Of course, this will just be between you and me.”

“Yes, of course. I’ll see you in an hour.”

“Thank you, Helen,” he said, sounding relieved. “I appreciate this.”

When the call ended, Helen frowned deep enough to wrinkle her forehead. She wondered what was so confidential that Kenneth wanted to discuss. Was it about Celina’s surgery? Maybe she should have pressed him for more information over the phone, she thought. 

Helen exhaled, relaxing her shoulders and exited down the stairs. After she had left the Covenant, she headed to the hospital.

Almost an hour later, Helen walked into the hospital cafeteria and saw Kenneth sitting at a table with his head hung low, staring at his cup of coffee. He looked as if lost in thought.

Without hesitation, she quickly walked over to his table and cleared her throat. “Kenneth?”

Startled, he looked up. “Oh... hello, Helen,” he said, moving to his feet. He pulled out a chair for her. “Please, have a seat.”

As she sat down, he noticed she didn’t have any coffee. “Would you like a cup of coffee?”

She shook her head. “Thank you, but I’m fine. So, what did you want to talk about?”

His hands shook as he tried to find the courage to explain to Helen what was going on. Finally, he opened his mouth and let out a deep breath. “I need to ask you something important.”

Helen nodded, listening quietly.

“Who was the young woman that helped me,” he paused and took another deep breath, “when I had an episode at the hospital the other day?” 

****
Sitting across the table from his twin, Sebastian leaned back in his seat. Reaching for the bottle of champagne, he corked the bottle and tossed it. As Thomas caught it in his palm, Sebastian said, “So, what the hell do you want with me?” He poured himself a drink and took a sip. Setting the glass down, he braced himself for his twin’s response.

Thomas’s saffron eyes lifted, and after a moment, he smiled a little, flashing his white teeth as well as his fangs. “You know, I was actually getting into wanting to know you for a minute there, I truly was,” he said with somewhat of an English accent, the words coming out calm and calculating. “But now... with your cocky and condescending attitude, I’m not so sure.”

“Cut the shit,” Sebastian said sharply. “What do you want?” He poured some champagne in Thomas’s glass, and then another for himself.

Thomas’s lips formed a smirk as he picked up his glass and swallowed all of it in one gulp. “I want you to join us.”

Sebastian barked a laugh and then got back to serious. “Don’t tell me,” he shook his head with a raised brow, “you want me to help you and this Lilith, take over the world. Am I right?”

Thomas smiled. “Yeah, something like that.” He leaned in closer. “But this time with a little more dramatics involved.” He smirked and said, “Don’t you want Eve back?”  

“How do you know about her?” Sebastian snapped.

“Lilith knows all, especially when it comes to females that are expecting.”

Sebastian straightened in his chair with a confused expression on his face. “What—“

“Didn’t you know, brother?” Thomas shrugged his shoulders. “Eve is pregnant, and she’s having twins.”

****
The hospitals’ cafeteria fluorescent ceiling lights illuminated Kenneth from over his head, hitting his salt-and-pepper hair and his scruffy facial hairs he obviously neglected to shave. Going by the tone of his voice, and the tired expression in his eyes, Helen figured he hadn’t gotten much sleep last night.  

Helen looked surprised by his question. “You must be talking about Tessa, our Breedline Queen.”

His eyes widened, and his mouth opened, but no words came out. Finally after he blinked a couple of times, he said, “She’s our queen? I had no idea. Now, I feel like a total idiot.” He let out a deep breath. “I feel terrible. I didn’t get the chance to thank her. I hope she doesn’t think I was disrespectful.”

“Of course not,” Helen said. “I’m sure she completely understood. You were half conscious, Kenneth. I could take you to the Covenant to meet her if you like? You can thank her personally.”

“What’s her…,” he hesitated, swallowing hard, “if you don’t mind me asking, what’s her last name?”

“Fairchild,” Helen replied. “Why?”

A shadow crossed over his face. For a moment he simply stared off into the distance in silence.

“Kenneth?” Helen reached for his hand. “Are you all right?”

With her hand on his, Kenneth’s focus came back. He opened his mouth to speak but seemed lost for words. Helen warred with herself over whether to press the conversation. She was curious why he’d asked Tessa’s last name but didn’t want to make him uncomfortable either.

Pulling her hand back, she decided to question him further. “Is something wrong, Kenneth?”

“I think Tessa’s my daughter.”

Helen’s jaw dropped. “B-but how can that be? Are you sure?”

Kenneth’s eyebrows shot up and then came together as he stared at Helen. One thing he was sure of, Tessa was the spitting image of his beloved Lisa. She’d been only seventeen the last he laid eyes on her, but the resemblance between the two was unmistakable.  And now after hearing Tessa carried Lisa’s older sister’s last name, there was no doubt in his mind. Tessa was his flesh and blood.

Relaxing his brows, he closed his eyes for a moment. “Tessa is identical to a young woman I bonded with when I was just a teenager. Her name was Lisa Wellington. I loved her so much, Helen. I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her,” he said, his voice raw with emotion. “A year later, she just vanished. The only family she had was her older sister Wanda and her husband, John. They told me Lisa was pregnant and decided to run away. I lost contact with them after that. It’s like they all completely vanished from the face of the earth. One minute they lived in this area, the next they’d moved, leaving no trace behind. And now that you mentioned the name Fairchild, she has to be my daughter. That was her sister’s married name.”

Helen’s eyes softened. “I’m sorry, Kenneth. It must have been hard for you after all these years not knowing.”

Kenneth reached over and patted her hand. “Thank you, Helen.”

“Tessa didn’t know she was a Breedline until last year,” Helen explained. “She told me she never knew her birth parents and was raised by her aunt and uncle. I remember Tessa saying they lived somewhere out in the country. I think in Midway, Kentucky.”

“Tessa has a twin,” Kenneth said hurriedly. “Is she here in Berkeley?” 
   
Helen shook her head. “Tessa has tried to locate her, but so far she’s been unsuccessful.” 

“The young man that was with her at the hospital,” he cocked his head and sent her a curious stare, “is he Tessa’s husband?”

“No, he’s her fiancé,” she said with a smile. “His name is Jace Chamberlain, and he loves her very much, Kenneth. You would approve of him. But… there’s one more thing you should know.”

After another moment of silence, Kenneth’s throat tightened, and the tension in his jaw grew rigid anticipating what Helen was about to tell him.

“If Tessa is indeed your daughter, you’re going to be a grandfather soon.”

Gripping his cup of coffee, he took a deep breath. For years, he’d expected to hear something—either from Lisa herself or her sister. As more years slid by, however, he’d started to give up hope. Kenneth understood firsthand how families of missing persons felt. And God, that dreaded, cold stretch of not knowing was the worst. He’d given up all hope after he no longer woke up in the middle of the night wondering. Now, he’d finally found his daughter.

Kenneth grinned. “I want to meet her, Helen.”

“I’ll arrange it,” Helen said. “You’re going to be proud of her, Kenneth. She’s got the courage of ten men and a heart of gold.”   
      
To be continued... 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 12
The New Arrivals

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Chester Ewan— a Guardian, created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. After Chester revealed to Jem of his ability, he agrees to help. When they share the news with Tim Ross—the head of the Breedline council—he is hesitant at first due to the fact if Jem’s powers got out of control, his gift could also be deadly. And then he decides to inform Tessa—their Queen—before they discuss this with Celina.   

After discussing all Celina’s options, her Aunt Helen persuades her to have surgery instead of taking the risk of Jem’s powers. Now that Celina is recovering from surgery, her physician—Dr. Kenneth Craven—gives her the results that there could be a possibility she would heal after time and therapy. When he told her she would not be released from the hospital in two weeks, Celina was heartbroken because she would miss Jem and Mia’s wedding. 

Meanwhile, Tessa Fairchild—the Breedline Queen and her fiancé, Jace Chamberlain stops by the hospital to visit Celina. When Tessa introduces herself to Dr. Kenneth Craven, he has an instantaneous reaction, nearly knocking him to his knees with pain. After gathering his composure, he felt like he’d seen a ghost from the past. Tessa oddly resembled his bonded mate who suddenly vanished from his life years ago. Discussing this privately with Helen, Kenneth has no other explanation and believes Tessa is his daughter.

 Now, after Sebastian Crow meets his twin brother, Thomas—who he thought died at childbirth—he gives Sebastian an offer he can’t refuse. If Sebastian agrees to join forces with Lilith, Thomas promises to help him locate where the Breedline is keeping Eve—who is pregnant with Sebastian’s twins.   
 

Continued...

Early the next morning, Sebastian awoke with a stinger of a hangover. A hot shower sounded next to heaven; he thought as he rubbed the back of his head. The room was closing in on him as he tried to process everything that had happened in the last few days. His twin brother was alive and Eve was pregnant... with twins. And she was kept under lock and key by his archenemy. It all seemed so unreal and yet it was real.

An hour later, after showering and changing into clean clothes, he decided to call his twin brother, Thomas.  Even though Sebastian rarely prayed, he’d thanked God his brother shared the information about Eve. This evening, they would meet to discuss their next move. Thomas had offered him a deal he couldn’t refuse.

“Hello, brother,” Thomas answered on the second ring.

Sebastian breathed out heavily over the phone. “I’m in.”

“Good.” Thomas’s voice expressed instant gratification. “I’ll meet you in the club’s VIP section at nine.”

“I’ll be there.” At that point, Sebastian hung up. His head pounded, and all he was capable of doing at the moment was lying back down. There was nothing further to discuss over the phone. It wasn’t like he was going to shoot-the-shit with his brother—although even if he had, chitchat wasn’t going to get him what he wanted.

****
Upon waking, Eve thought she’d lost control of her bladder, but as she moved the blankets aside and scooted over, she saw blood on the sheets. Soon after, she felt an excruciating pain in her lower back.

Everything happened so fast after that. It was like watching someone else as she went through the motions, moving by too quick to comprehend. And suddenly, Eve managed to compose herself enough to call the guards.

Not long after she ended the call, she recognized the voice coming from downstairs. It was Bruce Carmichael. 

“Can ye hear me, Miss Eve?” He called out in a thick Scottish accent.

“Please, I need help.” Eve closed her eyes, pain contorting her features. “I think I’m in labor.”

Eve’s voice was so faint Bruce could barely hear her. While the other guard called Helen and waited by the door, Bruce charged up the stairs, taking two steps at a time.

He leaned over Eve and whispered close to her ear, “Hang oan Miss, help is oan th’ way.”

She didn’t remember much about being transferred onto a gurney and rushed downstairs—except for the constant pressure she felt in her lower abdomen. As Eve looked around, she saw blurred images of people with their mouths moving and their eyes meeting urgently across her. She couldn’t hear their voices. All she heard was the throbbing pain ringing inside her ears.  

Rushing past the Covenant’s side entrance, Bruce and Tim carried Eve into the exam room as Helen and Mia held open the doors. Eve felt her body lowered until she was on top of a firm surface. She squinted her eyes when a light above shined down onto her face.

“Tim, please go find Cassie,” Helen urged. “I’m going to need her assistance.”

After Tim had left, Bruce was reluctant to leave Eve’s side. He stood, arms crossed, his gaze never leaving her as Helen scurried back and forth, preparing to do an examination.

Mia placed her palm on his shoulder. “Bruce, I’m going to need you to wait outside. Don’t worry. Eve’s in good hands.”

He nodded in agreement, but his expression stayed grim. Bruce grudgingly left the room so Helen could do her job. But he remained close, right outside the door.

When he stepped out, Helen put her face above Eves. “Eve, can you hear me?”

With her lids squeezed tight, she nodded in response.

“Where are you having pain?”

Barely moving her lips, Eve whispered, “My lower back… and my belly.”

As Helen wheeled the ultrasound machine over, Cassie came into the room. “I’m here,” she said, sounding out of breath. After she had scrubbed up, she placed a blood pressure cuff on Eve and prepared an IV.

Staring at the monitor, Helen moved the ultrasound probe around Eve’s stomach. “One of the baby’s heart rate is slowing, and she’s still bleeding heavily,” she told Cassie. “We need to get them out now. She obviously has an abruption.”

All Eve could do was look at her sister, Mia. In a voice that was both soothing and firm, Mia said, “You’re going to be okay, Eve.”

Helen came back into Eve’s view. “We’re going to have to put you under. I don’t have time to do an epidural, okay?”

Eve nodded as tears slid down the corners of her eyes. Before Cassie placed an oxygen mask on her, Eve’s voice cracked, “Wait. I want to tell Mia their names in case—“

Mia leaned closer and grasped her hand. “Nothing’s going to happen. Everything will be just fine.”

“No,” Eve’s voice was urgent. “Please… just in case.”    

Mia nodded. “Okay.”

“My first born… Tidus,” she forced the words, “and my second born...“ Eve blinked her eyes until they completely closed.

“Eve?” Mia squeezed her hand.

Eve’s eyes slowly reopened. “Arius,” she gasped.
 
“Okay, she’s under,” Helen said. “Mia, I need you to step outside. We need to get her ready.”

The minutes stretched, seemingly days. Each minute ticked by with agonizing slowness. Bruce was unable to stay seated as he paced back and forth while Mia, Jem, Tessa, Angel and Tim sat waiting, their expressions somber.

They didn’t try to force Bruce to sit down and relax. They all had a clue he’d developed a fondness for Eve.

No longer able to contain herself, feeling sorry for him, Mia rose and went over to Bruce. To his surprise, she placed her hand on his arm. “Don’t worry, Bruce. Eve’s strong willed. She’ll be all right.”

He managed a half smile. “Thank ye, Mia,” he said in a choked voice.

When Mia sat back down next to Tessa, her shoulders sagged a bit as if all the air escaped her at once.

Tessa reached for her hand, squeezing lightly. “She’ll be just fine, Mia.” 

Mia turned in her direction, her eyes instantly going warm as she registered Tessa’s sincerity.  “You’ve got a big heart, Tessa,” she murmured. “I don’t know how you do it.”

Tessa looked at her puzzled. “Do what?”

“Forgive Eve,” Mia said. “After all she has done… you forgive her.

“I’m not the only one with a big heart,” Tessa said. “You and Jem are the most generous people I’ve ever met. Taking care of Eve’s children while she goes to trial is beyond what anyone else would do.”

Mia smiled and looked away, staring at the examination door, praying her sister and the twins would be safe in God’s hands.” 

Inside the exam room, Helen and Cassie traded medical terms back and forth along with metal clanging sounds and suction noises. They were both focused and in control.

“Okay, here’s baby number one,” Helen said, handing the baby over to Cassie.

As Cassie wrapped him up in a warm blanket, he let out an ear-piercing cry. “He’s definitely got a healthy set of lungs,” she pointed out. Placing him in a neonatal crib, she quickly cleaned him and went back to assist Helen with baby number two.

“I’ve got him,” Helen said relieved. When she handed the baby to Cassie, she quickly bundled him up in a blanket and placed him next to his brother. While she wiped him off, the baby opened his eyes. Cassie immediately covered her mouth and gasped. Silently the baby stared up at her with the deepest dark depths.

“His eyes...,“ Cassie muttered against her hand.

Helen looked at Cassie and frowned. “What’s wrong with his eyes?”

Cassie was baffled when the baby’s eyes suddenly changed, appearing gold. She lowered her hand and said, “But, I—“

“Cassie, we’ve got a problem,” Helen barked. “Eve’s still hemorrhaging. I need your help. We’re going to have to do a hysterectomy.”

Cassie shifted her focus back to Helen. “I’ll take Mia the babies.”

“All right,” Helen said. “But hurry.”

Gently, Cassie picked up Tidus and stepped outside the room.

“The babies are fine, but we’re going to have to do an emergency hysterectomy on Eve,” she explained, placing the small bundle into Mia’s arms.

“Is he the first born?” Mia asked, peeking inside the blanket. “Is this little Tidus?”

“Yes,” Cassie confirmed, reaching for the door. “I’ll bring you his brother.”

Seconds later, she came out with Arius. Jem stood up as Cassie handed the baby to him. When he looked down, he exhaled. He saw a perfectly formed, healthy little boy with dark hair. Cuddling him close, he whispered, “Hey, there, little man.”

Heading back to the exam room, Cassie stopped and looked over her shoulder. “I’ll let you know as soon as we’re finished.”

Cradled in Jem’s arms, Arius opened his eyes and cooed. Abruptly, Jem’s expression turned from soft to shell-shocked. “What the—“

Mia became aware that something wasn’t right. When Jem looked at her, he blinked in surprise with his jaw gapped open.

“What?” Mia shook her head. “Is there something wrong with him?”

“His eyes—“

When she moved beside Jem, she looked down at the baby. His pupils were just like Sebastian’s, a shimmering gold. Shifting her focus on Jem, she said, “His eyes are supposed to be this color, honey.”

Jem’s hands shook as he looked down at the baby again, and was astonished to discover they were indeed the color of gold. “B-but,” he stammered. “I thought—“ 
 
Abruptly, the baby in Mia’s arms let out a piercing cry taking the focus off Arius. Everyone immediately crowded around Jem and Mia to get a look at the new arrivals.

“Oh, they’re beautiful,” Tessa said. “Can I hold him?”

“Oh course.” Mia handed the fussy baby to her, and in no time, baby Tidus stopped crying when Tessa rocked him in her arms.

Before Jem could collect his scattered thoughts, Mia offered to take the baby he was holding. Placing him in her arms, Jem stood there numbly, watching as Mia cuddled the baby and whispered, “Hello, little Arius.”

Standing beside Mia, Angel reached out and smoothed her hand over Arius’s soft curls. “Look at all that gorgeous hair.”

Mia looked at her and smiled. “Would you like to hold him?”

“How can I resist,” Angel boasted reaching for the baby. “He’s so beautiful.”

Drakon came into the room carrying Natalie and announced, “Someone is dying to see the new arrivals.”

When Drakon lowered Natalie to her feet, she hurried over to Angel and reached up with her arms. “Ba-bee! Ba-bee!”

Tim picked Natalie up so she could see the baby Angel was holding. “Looks like you’re going to have playmates,” he told her. 

Drakon chuckled. “When they start walking, she’ll keep those two on their toes.”

There was a brief admiration in Angel’s eyes as she glanced Jem’s way. But it quickly wiped away by a look of concern as she thought of his twin brother, Jace.

“Has anyone told Jace about you two keeping the babies here?” Angel asked, arching her brows, waiting for Jem’s reaction.

Jem shook his head and sighed. “Not yet. But I’ll talk to him. He’s not going to like the idea of Eve and Sebastian’s children raised here.” 

“I’ll help try to convince him,” Tessa said. “He’ll need time to adjust, but I believe he’ll come around.” 

Jem swallowed the knot in his throat. “Am I the only one...“ He paused, trying to think of the right words to say, “...concerned about Arius and Tidus inheriting the demon’s genetics?”

“The thought has crossed my mind,” Tim confessed. “All of us will have to take on the responsibility of monitoring their behavior as they grow up. If we’re lucky, they’ll turn out to be like you and Jace.”
 
An hour later, Cassie appeared from the exam room. “Eve’s going to be all right,” she said in an exhausted tone.

“When can I see her?” Mia asked, worry simmering in her voice.

Helen stepped out and stood next to Cassie. “She’s resting right now, but you can visit her for a few minutes.”

“Thank you, Helen. And thanks, Cassie,” Mia said graciously. “Without the both of you, Eve and the babies…”

Helen smiled. “You’re welcome.”

When Mia went into the room to check on Eve, Helen walked over to Tessa. “Can I speak to you in private?”

Tessa nodded. “Of course.”
 
As they moved across the room to a small table, Tessa sat down with Tidus cradled in her arms. When she looked down at him, she said, “Look at him, Helen. He’s sucking his thumb.”

“Just think,” Helen shifted her focus from Tidus to Tessa, “you’ll be having two little one’s yourself soon.”

“I know.” Tessa’s eyes lit up with excitement. “It all seems to be flying by so fast. I can’t wait to hold them in my arms.”

“Can I ask you something personal?” Helen asked, not mincing her words.

“Sure,” Tessa said, her brows furrowing. “What is it?” 

“What would you think if I said I might have found your biological father?”

Tessa froze and swallowed back the knot in her throat. “Wait a minute. Backup.”

She stood, suddenly no longer able to sit. “What did you say?”
  
After Helen had explained to her what Dr. Kenneth Craven had told her, Tessa agreed to meet with him. As Tessa thought back to all the years of feeling abandoned by her parents, she never had the slightest clue that her aunt and uncle, who had raised her, kept such a secret. 

“How can you be sure he’s my father?”

Reaching into the pocket of her white coat, Helen pulled out a small box. “If you agree, I can get a sample for a DNA test with just a cheek swab,” she explained as she opened the kit and held up a long cotton swab. “All I need to do is rub this inside your inner cheek lining. I’ve already done one on Kenneth.”

“Okay,” Tessa said, tears burning the edge of her eyes. “Let’s do it.” 

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 13
Forgiveness

By scongrove

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of sexual content.

Previously...

When Eve went into labor, she was rushed to the Breedline exam room where Dr. Helen Carrington and Cassie Chamberlain delivered her twin boys. While Eve awaits her trial for the past crimes against the Breedline, Mia and Jem agreed to take them in. Although almost everyone in the Covenant accepted Eve’s twins living amongst them, they still had to convince Jace. His hatred for Eve and Sebastian raged deep into his very soul for what they’d done in the past to his beloved Tessa.    

When Dr. Kenneth Craven confessed to Helen that it was a possibiltiy Tessa Fairchild could be his long lost daughter, she agreed to do a DNA test.  


Meanwhile, after helping Helen deliver Eve’s twins, Cassie retires to her and Drakon’s bedroom.  
 

Continued...

An hour later, Cassie climbed the stairs to her and Drakon’s bedroom. Opening the door, she heard the sound of the water running. When she looked inside the bathroom, her heart went triple-time. Drakon stood under the shower’s spray, naked with his head hung low.

He lifted his head and turned in her direction when he heard the door squeak. Smiling broadly, Cassie slipped out of her clothes with her mind focused on him. As the spray flowed over his body, she swallowed hard—and found herself weak in the knees when she saw his erection through the tinted glass. 

Cassie moved closer, her gaze locked on his as if waiting for his approval to join him.

As Drakon opened the shower door, his voice purred, “Join me, sweetheart.”

When Cassie moved forward, he watched the pink tips of her breasts tighten. Without conscious thought, his wet arm reached out and grasped hold of her hand. Gently pulling her inside, he put his lips against hers and kissed her hard. When their embrace parted, he lowered his head and swirled his tongue around her nipple. Cassie instantly wrapped her arms around him and held him against her. 

Rising, he found her mouth again and kissed her deep. As her tongue met his, he could feel the hard peaks of her breasts brushing against his chest, and her soft lips pressed against his. Her core grew slick and hot as his palms went all over her, from the small of her back to the tops of her hips.

Water was all around them, falling between their skin, and the sound of it hitting the tile was drowned out by Cassie’s moans. Kissing her neck, Drakon spread her knees apart, pushing himself between them.

“I want you, Drakon,” she whispered, her eyes blinking in desperation. “Please… make love to me.”

Drakon closed his eyes and shuddered. Opening his lids, he stared into hers, trying to get enough control to speak. “Are you sure this is what you want?”

“Yes…”

“You know what this will mean,” he paused, trying to catch his breath as his heart raced, “if we go all the way?” He kept his stare, waiting for her response.

She took a deep breath. “I’m ready.”

“Are you sure you want—“

That was as far as he got before her tongue robbed him of speech.

It wasn’t two seconds later when Cassie grasped his hand, and they were out of the shower and in the bedroom. Sitting on the edge of the bed soaking wet, she eased down onto her back. The mattress dipped as he crawled on top to position his body over hers. When he leaned down to kiss her, his massive body dwarfed hers, his shoulders three times her size. She shivered when she felt his warm arousal brush against her inner thigh.

“I love you, Cassie,” he whispered with his dark, blue eyes full of passion. Making love to her was not only making her his, he thought. He was also bringing forth her Breedline wolf.

“I love you, too,” she murmured. “I’ve been waiting for what only you can give me.”

Staring into her eyes, he smoothed her wet curls away from her face.

A smile emerged from her lips. “Why are you staring?”

“I just wanted to savor this moment,” he said. “This means so much to me, Cassie. You mean everything to me. I want this to be just right. I don’t want to rush through it. I want to remember this always. When we’re old and gray, I’ll always remember this time. How beautiful you are, and how much I love you.”

Tears glistened in her eyes as she stared at him in awe. “I’ll remember the beautiful things you said to me, and I’ll cherish them always.” 
  
He grinned. “I guess we’ll both always remember this.”

“Please, make love to me, Drakon.”

He kissed her again and murmured against her mouth, “I’ll go slow and easy.”

“Shhh,” she whispered. “Just take me.”

Lowering his head, he placed his mouth on her neck, kissing a path down her body to her breasts. Moving his hand to her flat belly, he went lower as she parted her thighs, widening them so he could touch her more intimately. When his fingers made contact, she arched upward, her hands wound tightly into the sheets. He was all over her, driving her closer to the edge as he massaged her softly in all the right places.

“Please, Drakon,” she begged, her voice was almost a sob. “I need you now.”

He felt her body stiffen, growing wetter as he lavished attention on her most delicate part.

She cried out when her fast, intense release finally came.

He wanted to give her more, and his body wasn’t going to wait. She was ready for him, given the way her legs opened for him further.

Reaching down, he positioned himself, and gently curled his hips into her core, pushing and retreating, and carefully repeating the movement. Cassie’s hands grasped his hips and thrust upward. At the same time she pulled him down, he was all the way inside of her.

She was exquisitely tight around him. Feeling her warmth, he let out a hiss. When she cried out, he fell still until she recovered from the invasion.

“Are you okay?” Drakon asked as he stared down at her, taking in her sensual expression.

“Yes,” Cassie moaned, lifting her hips to him. “Take me.”

Staring down at her, he had a glowing need that had nothing to do with their bodies. Without another word, she moved so fast, he couldn’t have stopped her if he’d wanted to. She moved against him in a rhythm that swept him away. Breath shot out of his mouth and brushed over her shoulder. His face lifted up, and his eyes squeezed shut as if he were in exquisite agony.

With the tips of her fingers, she smoothed across his bunched shoulders, and then down his surging spine. She knew it was getting close for him when his rhythm picked up, the distance of the thrusts getting tighter, the speed increasing. Lowering his face with half-lidded eyes, he felt an urgent pressure built up and then snap free in a blazing current. Deep inside, she felt a warm sensation that shook his whole body. With loving attention, she helped him ride out his intense release. The whole time he was above her, he kept his eyes on hers.

He watched Cassie’s transformation as if there were no one else in the universe he cared about, but her. He saw dark, brown hair emerge from her neck to her shoulders. Sleek shining fur sheathed her cheeks and her upper lip. Her mouth changed, becoming a black and silken band of flesh with gleaming white canines partially hidden underneath. Thick fur moved over her chest, swallowing her breasts and nipples.

Moving into a sitting position, Drakon was amazed. He watched her change from her human form to a massive, powerful wolf, still as beautiful as before.

Cassie, he spoke telepathically. Can you hear me?

Yes, she replied, saying the words in her mind. Did I change?

Yes. You’re beautiful, Cassie.

I want to see myself.

In her new form, she lifted her massive body from the bed, swaying on all fours. She shook, her ears flapping with the movement. Slowly, she moved to the edge of the bed and leaped onto the floor. Moving toward Drakon on teeter-tottering limbs, she lowered her head in his lap and let out a light whimper.

Using his fingers, he ran them through her soft-coated fur. When he stood, he motioned her to follow. Look for yourself. He pointed to the full-length mirror that hung on the wall.

Following behind him, she stopped when she saw the image in the mirror. Her eyes widened, and her tail lifted high in the air. Wagging it back and forth, she said, I am beautiful. Oh, Drakon, please change into your wolf, she pleaded. Let’s go outside and run together!

With a chuckle, he ran his fingers through her fluffy tail. We’ll have to wait until tonight, sweetheart. It’s safer then. Besides, you’ll love it under the moon.

Willing her body to transform, Cassie shifted back into her human form. When she moved to her feet, she wrapped her arms around him.

“Thank you, Drakon,” she said, her voice simmering with joy.

Pressing her bare skin against his chest, she lifted her head. His dark blue eyes were dead serious, and she had the feeling he was thinking the same thing she was. Why hadn’t they done this sooner?

He kissed her softly. “I can’t wait for you to be my wife.”

Lifting up on her tip-toes, she whispered, “Me, too.”

****   
After finding out Eve had given birth, Jace decided to go down to the training room and blow off some steam. He changed into his running gear and marched out of his room. While heading downstairs, Jace heard his cell phone go off. Reaching into his front pocket, he grabbed his phone and glanced at the caller ID. It was Jem calling.

He stood there for a moment before he answered. “Yeah?”

“We need to talk.”

“Oh?” he replied, his voice sounding pent-up, “what about?” 

Jem sighed. “It’s about Eve.”

“Well, I heard she had that bastard’s twins,” Jace said bitterly. “I hope wherever those kids are shipped off to, the person taking them knows they were spawned by the devil himself.”

“Yeah, about that,” Jem paused briefly, feeling an awkward silence, “I need to talk to you about something.”

“I’m headed to the gym. Wanna meet me there?”

Strangely panicked with the thought of heavy objects, Jem quickly decided telling Jace in the weight room about him and Mia taking in Eve’s twins wasn’t the best place. “Nah, it can wait. Call me after you’re done working out.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah,” Jem said, nodding against the phone. “I’m sure.”

As Jace entered the gym, he waved at Kyle and Casey who were pumping iron and hopped on the treadmill. Then it dawned on him. He’d forgotten his damn ear buds, but his mind was churning, so it wasn’t like there was silence between his ears. As Jace moved at a fast pace, he thought about Sebastian and all the trouble he’d caused him and his family.

Through the course of the workout, his mind drifted to Tessa and her pregnancy. Every once in awhile, her death came back to him in a dream. In rare moments, he heard her voice calling out to him, begging for him to save her. But in all his dreams, when he looked down at his hands, they were covered in blood... in her blood. But he’d always wake up with her safe in their bed asleep. What did all this mean? He wondered.

A voice calling out his name instantly brought him back to reality. Catching the delicate scent of sweet, wildflowers, he knew Tessa had come in.

“Hi, honey,” Tessa said, standing on the treadmill next to him. “I thought I’d find you here.”

As he met her stare, her emerald green eyes mesmerized him. “Hey, baby.”

Her hair was pulled up into a ponytail, and she was wearing a sweatshirt covering her rounded belly. Slowing down to a walking pace, Jace stepped on the side rails and straddled the moving treadmill. Leaning toward her, he puckered his lips indicating he wanted a kiss. When she kissed him, she said, “Can we talk?”

Getting back on the belt, he frowned. “Is everything okay with the babies?”

“Of course,” she reassured him. “It’s about Eve’s children.”

Rolling his eyes, he groaned. “They’re not still in the Covenant, are they?”

“Yeah,” she replied, flashing him a half-smile. “That’s what I wanted to talk about.”

The expression on her face seemed nervous to him. Her eyebrows bunched, and her lips formed into a tight line. Whatever she was about to say, he figured it wasn’t good news.

Hitting the stop button, he stepped off the treadmill and grabbed a towel. As he wiped the sweat off his face, he had a moment’s pause as he realized Kyle and Casey were staring. They’d stopped whatever they were doing and was listening to their conversation with a concerned expression on their faces.

Jace shrugged. “What’s going on, Tessa?”

“Come on.” She held out her hand to him. “Let’s go sit down and talk in private.”

When he took her hand, she led him over to a padded bench across the weight room. After he had sat down, he listened to her calmly until she got to the part where Jem and Mia were taking in Eve’s twins. Before she could finish, he held up his hand.

After his mouth had let out a few f-bombs, he shot to his feet and said firmly, “No, Tessa! There’s no way in hell we’re raising our children under the same roof as Sebastian’s.”

“Please, Jace—“

“No.” He shook his head back and forth slowly. “And that’s final! I don’t want to talk about this again.”

She stood with her hands on her hips. “No, Jace,” she said, her tone firm as a fist. “I’m sorry, but I’m the queen, and I say what’s final.”

Staring at her with an angry and frustrated glare, he turned and left the gym without saying another word. 
 
When the door slammed, Kyle and Casey walked over to Tessa. “Is everything all right?” Kyle asked.

Shaking her head, Tessa kept her stare at the door. “No,” she said, blowing out an aggravated sigh. “Jace is upset about Jem and Mia taking in Eve’s twins.”

“Is there anything we can do to help?” Casey offered.

Tessa turned toward him with a partial smile. “Thanks, Casey. I would stay clear of him for a while if I were you,” she said with urgency in her voice. “He needs time to cool off.”

“You don’t think he’ll do anything crazy, do you?” Kyle queried. “I mean... Eve is staying in the guest house, and she has guards and all. But you don’t think he would—“

“I’m not sure, Kyle,” Tessa said. “I hope not, but I better let Tim know what’s going on.”

Casey nodded. “I think that’s a good idea. Want us to give Jem a heads up?”

“Yeah, thanks, guys.”

Outside the weight room, Jace paced up and down the hallway, back and forth like a rat looking for a way out of its cage. Of all the decision’s Tessa was in charge of, she had just made the worst one, he thought.

As he made yet another trip down the hall and back, thoughts of his own brother’s betrayal hit hard, and it pissed him off even more. Pushing a hand through his long hair, he felt pressure at the center of his chest. Trying to inhale, he literally couldn’t take a breath.

He cursed. And cursed again. If he had half the sense—and given the way he handled things sometimes, which had been seriously debatable, if not downright wrong—he would march to the guest house and strangle that bitch, Eve.

Instead, here he was, trying to control his anger while he wore a path into the floor. On that note, calming down was his primary focus before his Beast was set free. And that’s when he found himself in front of the weight room again. He had an inkling why he kept stopping there. He tried to stop his palm from turning the door handle, but it didn’t work. When he opened it, Tessa faced him.

Inhaling a deep breath, he stared at her for a long time. He’d overreacted; he knew that much. And he felt guilt in the pit of his stomach. “I’m sorry, Tessa,” he said, reaching for her hand.

She looked at him with a baffled expression. “Seriously?”    

Part of him wanted to bust out and say, No, I’m going to kill that bitch! But instead, he nodded and said, “Yes. I know it’s not their fault. They’re just like Jem and me. We didn’t get to choose who our father was either,” he confessed. “I guess they deserve a chance, too.”

Tessa lifted on her tip-toes, and reached for him, framing his face in her small hands.  “Oh, Jace,” she said softly, tenderly kissing him, absorbing the moment, the knowledge that he was accepting forgiveness. “I love you so much.”   
 
Wrapping his arms around her, he thought of his mother Katlyn, and the advice she’d given him. Man, it never seemed to end. Even though he’d destroyed the demon, it always found a way back.

Pulling from their embrace, Tessa said, “There’s something else I wanted to tell you.”

Jace frowned, wrinkling his forehead. “Please don’t say we’re taking one of Eve’s kids?”

“Nooo…” She laughed. “This is good news.”

“Thank God,” he said relieved, rolling his eyes. “What is it?”

Tessa sucked in her breath, not even realizing she was holding it. Letting it out slowly, she said, “Helen found my biological father.”

To be continued...
                
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray - older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 14
Miracles

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Tessa destroyed the Kataka—a creature with human-like-dragon features created by Taliah Baldolf and the Chiang-shih demon—it severely injured Celina’s spinal cord when he abducted her. Now back safe in the Breedline Covenant, Celina refuses medical attention in hopes her healing powers will soon kick in. 

Chester Ewan— a Guardian, created during the Middle Ages by the Angel of Mercy, with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca—realized Jem Chamberlain, also known as the Chosen Son, had the power to heal Celina. After Chester revealed to Jem of his ability, he agrees to help. When they share the news with Tim Ross—the head of the Breedline council—he is hesitant at first due to the fact if Jem’s powers got out of control, his gift could also be deadly. And then he decides to inform Tessa—their Queen—before they discuss this with Celina. 
  

After discussing all Celina’s options, her Aunt Helen persuades her to have surgery instead of taking the risk of Jem’s powers. Now that Celina is recovering from surgery, her physician—Dr. Kenneth Craven—gives her the results that there could be a possibility she would heal after time and therapy. When he told her she would not be released from the hospital in two weeks, Celina was heartbroken because she would miss Jem and Mia’s wedding. 

Meanwhile, Tessa Fairchild—the Breedline Queen and her fiancé, Jace Chamberlain stops by the hospital to visit Celina. When Tessa introduces herself to Dr. Kenneth Craven, he has an instantaneous reaction, nearly knocking him to his knees with pain. After gathering his composure, he felt like he’d seen a ghost from the past. Tessa oddly resembled his bonded mate who suddenly vanished from his life years ago. Discussing this privately with Helen, Kenneth has no other explanation and believes Tessa is his daughter.

When Helen delivers the news to Tessa that Kenneth is her biological father, she is shocked at first, but then overjoyed and excited to meet him.


Continued...    

Upstairs in her room, Celina lay in her bed, waiting. She was not good at patience at the best of times, and she felt as though too many days passed since Dr. Craven had evaluated her condition. When she looked down at the foot of the bed, she noticed Jace’s cat cuddled by her feet. The sound of his purring seemed oddly comforting to her. 
  
A light tap on the door caught her attention. “Come in,” she called out.

Dr. Kenneth Craven finally came to do another assessment of Celina’s healing process. When he walked in, he brought with him a laptop.

“Sorry, I’m running late. How are you feeling today, Celina?” he asked with tension in his strong, handsome face, and sat down in a chair beside her bed. “Helen and I were firing up this laptop.”

“Just tell me I’m going to walk again.”

Kenneth opened up the computer with quick, nimble hands and said, “Celina, you need to see this for yourself.”

With a sudden urge to curse out loud, Celina dragged her eyes to the screen. Immediately, she recognized the image of her room. The frame was frozen until he moved the little white arrow, and then the picture became animated.

Her brows furrowed as she focused on the image of herself, lying in bed. She was glowing. And then the video showed her sitting up.

“I sat up!” Celina said, excitement ringing in her tone. “I actually sat up!”

Indeed, Celina’s luminescent form had raised itself up without an effort.

“Yes, you did,” he replied with a smile.

“I’m glowing, but how is that possible?”

Just then, Helen appeared in the doorway. “We were hoping you could tell us,” she said, walking into the room. “Celina, have you ever done this before?”

She shrugged, and her brows bunched. “N-no,” she stammered, “never.”    

Strange, Celina thought dimly. Was it possible she had the power to do this? Or maybe, she wasn’t the one… doing all this.

While Kenneth replayed the video of Celina, she shifted her focus to the miracle before her eyes and found herself shaking her head at what she saw. “I have no recollection of this happening. I don’t understand?”

Kenneth cleared his throat. “We’ve talked it over...” he paused briefly, “...and Helen—well, we—have a theory.” He stood and set the laptop on the nightstand. “We think you healed yourself unconsciously.”

Celina’s eyes widened, and her jaw dropped. “What—“

Without hesitation, Helen spoke out. “Celina, we think somehow your powers of a Wicca have become stronger. I believe you can stand on your own.”

Celina’s eyes rounded as she glanced up at Kenneth.  

“Try it,” he encouraged. “I know you can do it, Celina.” 
 
With a determined glint in her eyes, Celina looked down at her legs and concentrated on her toes. Without much effort, they began to wiggle. “Did you see that?”

“That’s wonderful, honey,” Helen said as she placed her hand on Celina’s arm and squeezed lightly. “You can do it.”

As Celina easily swung her feet off the side of the bed, she flexed one and then the other over and over again, amazed at the miracle before her.

“I won’t let you fall,” Kenneth said as he stood close. He put his palm on her shoulder in a gesture of comfort. “Come on, let’s see you stand.”

With that, she placed her feet on the wood floor and felt the coolness on her soles. Taking a deep breath and squaring her shoulders, she pushed herself off the bed. Celina’s muscles twitched and her legs wobbled, trying to balance the load. Before she lost it, Kenneth scooped his arm around her waist and supported her.

Celina broke into tears. “I can stand!”

Emotion knotted Helen’s voice. “You sure can.”

Celina’s lower body was nothing as it had been. Her thighs and calves trembled so badly her knees knocked together, but she stood. 

“I want to try and walk,” she said, ready to take a step.

“Maybe you should take it slow,” Kenneth suggested.

“I want to go to the bathroom on my own.”

 The independence was vital to her. Except as she tried to step forward, she couldn’t pick her foot up.

“Shift your weight,” Kenneth said as he pivoted her and moved in behind her, “and I’ll help you.”

When he clasped Celina’s waist, she did as he’d told her and felt one of his hands grasp the back of her thigh and lift her leg. With instincts, she knew to lean forward and place her weight gently as he put her knee in the correct position, regulating the bend in the joint as she straightened her leg. 

With his help, she walked to the bathroom. Giving her privacy, he closed the door.

“Let me know if you need help,” Helen said, standing outside the bathroom door.

“Okay, thanks,” Celina called out from inside. Using the handlebars bolted into the wall on each side of the toilet, she slowly sat down, smiling the whole time.

After Celina had finished, she stood using the bar and opened the door. When she looked up, Kyle was standing outside grinning. As she reached out to him, he put his arms out for her at the same time.

“I can’t believe it, baby,” he murmured, pulling her against his body. “You can walk!”

“Back to bed,” Kenneth urged. “I’m going to examine you and get you some crutches. You’ll need to use them until you get your bearings back.”

Celina nodded, and Kyle helped her across to the mattress. She was out of breath by the time she laid down. Shifting her focus at the foot of the bed, she noticed the cat was gone. Celina patiently swallowed through deep breaths as Kenneth caught her attention and checked her vitals.

“Your blood pressure’s up,” he stated, pulling the Velcro cuff off. “But that could be because you haven’t walked in weeks. Let’s check your legs. I want you to relax and close your eyes.”
 
Complying with Kenneth’s request, he asked, “Celina, can you feel this?”

With a frown, she sorted through the different sensations in her body, from the softness of her bed to the coolness of the sheets her hands were resting above. Down below her knee, she felt a warm touch.

“Your hand,” she said, “it’s on my leg.” She cracked one of her eyelids and saw that she was right.

He gently touched the other knee, traveling his hand up to her thigh and back down to the bottom of her foot. “And now?” he asked one last time.

With her eyes closed, she said in an elated tone, “I felt all of it.”

Kenneth reached over and squeezed Celina’s hand. “We’re finished. I’ll be back with those crutches.”

As Kenneth went to release her hand, Celina tightened her grip. “Thank you, Dr. Craven.”

He smiled at her. “You did all the work, kiddo. You healed yourself. It’s the only explanation I can come up with, Celina. The surgery couldn’t have worked this fast,” he said honestly. “You need to rest for now. You don’t want to overdo it.”

“Get some rest, honey,” Helen said, kissing Celina’s temple after giving her a quick hug.

When Kenneth and Helen left the room, Celina directed her focus on Kyle. “You’re not leaving, are you?”

“Heck no,” Kyle blurted, gently grasping her hand. “I’ll be right here until you fall asleep.”

Celina nodded, heartened by Kyle’s impassioned words. Their relationship was new, growing and deepening each day. But they still had a long way to go, she thought. There was a lot more to discover about one another, and now things were hopeful after the miraculous miracle she’d just had.

“This bed is big enough for both of us,” she said with a flirtatious wink.

When he hesitated, she got the impression he felt uneasy with her suggestion.

“Please?” she patted the bed, inviting him over.

Without hesitating further, he sat down on the bed beside her and stroked her arm slowly, rhythmically until she closed her eyes. Pulling her close, he softly brushed a kiss over her brow. He watched her sleep, savoring the incredible sensation that his future was right here in his arms.

****

Outside Celina’s room, Kenneth leaned against the wall and exchanged glances with Helen. Almost as though they were deciding who was going to speak up first.

“Are you ready to see your daughter?” she asked, breaking the silence.

He felt like he was dreaming. He’d never imagined he’d get the chance to finally find his child. After all the years of searching, she was right here in the same city.

He let out a deep breath. “I’ve been waiting all my life for this.”

“Come with me,” Helen said, gesturing him to follow. “She awaits you, Kenneth.”

Pushing himself free of the wall, he followed Helen downstairs. She led him through a set of double doors and into the Covenant’s library. As he walked in, his heart softened when he saw Tessa sitting across the room on a leather sofa with her hands rested on top of her thighs. She looked nervous, but when she acknowledged his presence, she quickly moved to her feet. Her eyes lit up, and her lips formed into a smile.  
 
Helen’s eyes drifted toward Kenneth’s, and he was grinning ear to ear. He turned his attention to Helen and said, “That’s her. That’s my daughter.”

“Go,” she whispered, “go meet her.”

He shifted his eyes toward Tessa and wiped his sweaty palms down his pants in a gesture that told Helen he was nervous about meeting his daughter. As he took a step forward, his legs felt like they weighed a ton. When he moved closer to Tessa, Helen left the room to give them privacy. Standing in front of her, Kenneth said, “I don’t know if I should hug you, or bow.”

With a giggle, Tessa held out her arms. “I’ll take the hug.”

Wrapping his arms around her, he held his precious daughter for the first time. As tears slid down his face, he whispered close to her ear, “I’ve been searching all my life for you, sweetheart.”

Tessa tried to respond, but the only noise that came out of her mouth was sobs.

“It’s okay, Tessa. I’m here for you now.”

When they pulled from their embrace, they sat down on the sofa. “You’re going to be a grandfather,” she said, looking earnestly into his eyes, matching the same emerald green as hers.

He smiled tenderly at her. “Helen told me you were going to have twins. How are you feeling?” he asked with a note of fatherly concern in his tone that formed a knot in Tessa’s throat.

“I’m doing fantastic,” she said, placing her hand over her belly. “I can’t wait to be a mother.”

As their conversation flowed smoothly, she told him all about her life while he listened to everyone word she said.

“I want to introduce you to Jace,” she said with enthusiasm. “He’s my fiancé.”

“Of course,” he replied. “I vaguely remember him. He was the one with you at the hospital... tall guy with long blond hair?”

She laughed. “Yep, that’s Jace.”

He grinned and patted her hand. “I’m looking forward to it, honey.” 

“I can’t believe after all these years,” Tessa paused, and wiped her wet eyes, “I thought you didn’t want me.”

He shook his head. “Of course I wanted you. I just wish I could have located you sooner. But your mother,” he hesitated, “she never gave me a chance to be a father. I don’t know why she ran away. It doesn’t make any sense. Yes, we were young, but she knew I loved her with all my heart. I wanted to marry her. She was my beloved.”

“Do you think she’s still alive?” Tessa queried.

“I don’t know. I gave up after years of searching. But now that I’ve found you...” He bit back tears, trying to keep from breaking down, “I want to try again, and I want to search for your twin, too.”

“I want to help,” Tessa said solemnly.

Kenneth’s expression softened, emotion knotting his throat. “That would mean a lot to me, Tessa. I feel so fortunate to have finally found you. It means the world to me that you’re accepting me in your life. Thank you.”

Tessa nodded, heartened by his heartfelt words.

When Kenneth reached inside of his jacket, he said, “Tessa, I would like to give you something.”

In anticipation, she watched as he brought his hand back and held a small gold box in his palm. When he opened it, inside was a necklace with a beautiful, gold cross attached. “I wanted to give this to your mother,” he paused and cleared his throat, “but I never got the chance to give it to her. I want you to have it if that’s okay.”

Tessa sat staring at the necklace in silence, lost for words. “It would be an honor,” she finally managed to get out. “Thank you.” Tears choked her words, and Tessa realized they were sliding endlessly down her cheeks.

Kenneth touched her face, trying to wipe the tears that ran in a never-ending river. And then he took the delicate necklace from the box and placed it around her neck. “Tessa, you look so much like your mother.”

She nodded silently as more tears fell from her eyes.

“Everything is okay now,” he said, pulling her into a hug. “We can be a family now. A real family,” he said tearfully. “I love you so very much.”

When they pulled from their embrace, Tessa smiled at her father, joy lighting her eyes. “I love you, too.”  
              
****
When Helen headed back upstairs, Tim was coming down.

As they met in the middle, he asked, “How’s Celina doing?”

“She walked.”

His eyes widened. “Are you saying Celina walked all by herself?”

“Yes, and with only a little assistance,” Helen said. “Dr. Craven and I think Celina’s powers are stronger. We’ve got her on video sitting up, and her body was glowing as if she was healing herself.”

“That’s remarkable, Helen! Does Kyle know?”

“Yes. He’s upstairs with her now.”

“So?” Tim pondered. “Has Kenneth met Tessa yet?”

“I just left them in the library to talk.”

Tim’s eyes gleamed in satisfaction. “Ah, it’s going well, I hope?”

“Oh, I think they’re both overjoyed with happiness,” she said, elation twinkling in her dark, amber eyes. 

Tim brightened at that. “You’ve made a tremendous change within this Covenant, Helen,” he said with a grin. “We all appreciate everything you’ve done for us.”

She smiled, allowing her gratitude to spill onto her features. “It’s been my pleasure. You’ve all treated me like a family member. I’m glad to help out in any way I can.” 
 
****
Crossing his legs, trying to get comfortable, Kyle knew there was no way he was going to sleep. He just wanted to watch Celina.

“Hold me,” Celina whispered.

Kyle turned his attention to Celina and slipped his arm around her cuddling her closer to his side. When he noticed her eyes shut, he had a feeling she was talking in her sleep.

So far, Celina had made a difference in his life. He’d fell in love, and slowly started to settle down, changing his wild lifestyle. Not only had Kyle cut a few inches of his spiked hair-do, he had also taken his eyebrow piercing out and the one’s on his ears. Gone too were his nipple rings, but he still had his tongue stud and all his tats.

“I love you, Celina,” he whispered as he stroked her hair.

To be continued...
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 15
Beloved

By scongrove

Previously...

When Eve went into labor, she was rushed to the Breedline exam room where Dr. Helen Carrington and Cassie Chamberlain delivered her twin boys. While Eve awaits her trial for the past crimes against the Breedline, Mia and Jem agreed to take them in. Although almost everyone in the Covenant accepted Eve’s twins living amongst them, they still had to convince Jace. His hatred for Eve and Sebastian raged deep into his very soul for what they’d done in the past to his beloved Tessa. 
Now that Jace finally comes to terms with Eve and Sebastian's twins living in the Breedline Covenant, Tessa tells him the exciting news of Dr. Helen Carrington locating her biological father.   


Meanwhile, after Sebastian Crow meets his twin brother, Thomas—who he thought died at childbirth—he gives Sebastian an offer he can’t refuse. If Sebastian agrees to join forces with Lilith, Thomas promises to help him locate where the Breedline is keeping Eve—who is pregnant with Sebastian’s twins.


Continued... 

Staring at the ceiling above the bed, Eve’s feeling of exuberance after the birth of her two beautiful boys was turning into dread. Now, she would have to face her punishment for her past crimes, and this meant she would become separated from her twins.

Sitting up, she hung her legs over the side of the bed and got to her feet. Without moving, she blinked and just existed in the position she stood. Time seeped through reality’s filter as she saw her future pass before her.

Abruptly, a familiar scent coming from downstairs broke through her dark thoughts. Her brain soon came alive when she recognized the distinctive intoxicating fragrance. With a tingle of instinct, she turned toward the bedroom door and stiffened. Eve sucked in a deep breath, overcome with anticipation. But how can it possibly be?

Still healing from surgery, she slowly moved to the door and reached out. With a trembling hand, she turned the knob and opened—

“Hello, my darling.”

Eve gasped and stumbled back. With a quick reflex, Sebastian grabbed her arm and steadied her before she fell. Her eyes widened just as he pulled her close and pressed his lips against hers. For several long seconds, Sebastian plundered her mouth, tasting, savoring the moment. When he pulled away, her eyes were glistened with tears, making the crimson specks vibrant and electric in the light.

“Sebastian, is it really you?”

Reaching out, he stroked her hair, smoothing the long tendrils from her face. Cupping her chin, he tilted it until their eyes met. “Yes, my beloved.”  

Eve could no longer hold back tears. They sloshed over the rims of her eyes and slid soundlessly down her cheeks, colliding with Sebastian’s fingers as he stroked her face.

“I want to believe you,” her voice trembled. “But I’m afraid. I fear that it will all disappear. I am so scared to be happy because I couldn’t bear it if it was all taken away. I don’t want to lose you again.”

Sebastian leaned down and kissed her tears away, gently removing all traces of the dampness on her cheeks. “It’s all real, my darling,” he said in a soothing voice. “I’ll always be at your side. I’m here to take you back with me.”

As he pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her, Eve snuggled into Sebastian’s embrace and released a contented sigh. The contact made her heart ache for all that it could be. For all she wanted. Never would she have imagined Sebastian coming back for her, and now she had everything her heart desired… a family.  
 
Fear had loomed over Eve for so long she forgot what it felt like to be free again. Now that the demon was gone, no longer possessing Sebastian, it all seemed too good to be true, and she found herself anticipating the other shoe to drop. As Sebastian held her in his arms, Eve was just waiting for the bottom to fall out and for it all to be taken away in the blink of an eye.

Sebastian’s arms tightened around her, and he kissed the top of her head. “Come back with me, Eve.”

Warmth seeped into her heart, assuaging the ache that had settled in at the thought of losing her beloved again. That is was all too good to be true. But in spite of the way her heart was pounding, ready to disappear with Sebastian, her babies came to mind. Eve tipped her head up to him, finding his gaze and said, “What about—“

“Our children?” he interjected.

She shook her head. “How did you know?” 

Sebastian smiled tenderly at her and then captured her lips in a soft kiss. “I’ll explain later. We need to hurry. I promise… I’ll come back for them.”

Her eyes lit up with joy. Just a few minutes ago, her life was turning into a tragedy, and now she felt alive again.

Lacing his hand in hers, he squeezed gently. Using his powers, Sebastian quickly conjured a portal. As he stepped through with Eve, they disappeared without a trace.

****
Jace had always thought that the game room at the Covenant’s estate had it all. Giant-screen TV’s with surround sound, leather couches soft enough to qualify as beds, a bar with every conceivable drink, pool tables, and an area for his band to practice before each gig.

A snack bar with a soda fountain and a popcorn machine was a recent addition. Tessa loved to snuggle up on the couch watching her favorite chick flicks with hot, buttered popcorn. Being pregnant with twins had its benefits.

After Tessa had introduced her father to Jace, he invited him to a game of pool. Graciously excepting, Kenneth loved the game but hadn’t played in years.

“Be easy on me, Jace,” Kenneth said. “It’s been awhile since I laid eyes on a billiards table.”
    
Jace grinned. “Ah, don’t sweat it. It’s like riding a bike. Once you get started, it’ll come back to you.”

“Yah, well,” Kenneth chuckled, “I haven’t ridden a bike in ages either.”

As Tessa watched her father and fiancé pick out their pool sticks, she suddenly gasped when she felt her belly move. It was if the babies inside were having a wrestling match.

Noticing Tessa’s sudden expression, Jace said, “Is something wrong, Tessa?”

“It’s just the twins,” she said with her hand over her belly. “I think they’re fighting for room.”

Jace walked over and sat down next to her. His eyes widened when he placed his hand on her stomach. “Man, they are active in there.” He glanced over at Kenneth and motioned him over. “Come feel this.”

With hesitation, Kenneth looked over at Tessa, waiting for her approval.

She nodded. “It’s okay.”
   
Grinning ear to ear, Kenneth moved closer and sat on the other side of Tessa. Placing his palm on her rounded belly, he said, “Oh, wow. They’re really active.” He turned to Tessa. “That means they’re healthy and happy.”

Placing her hand over his, she smiled. “So is their mommy.”

“All right,” Jace said. “That’s enough baby talk. Let’s play some pool.”

As Kenneth waited to take his next shot, he took a square of blue chalk and polished the tip of his cue. Across the green felt, Jace bent over and lined up his angles. “Nine in the corner,” he called out.   
  
“You’re going to make that shot, aren’t you?” Kenneth smirked, placing the chalk on the side of the pool table.

Jace glanced up for a moment and grinned. Next, there was a smack, a roll, and a clunk. “Yep, I guess I am.”

Kenneth raised a brow, forming a partial smile. Positioning himself on the other side of the table, he sized up the balls.

After Kenneth accidently shot the eight ball in, Jace clapped his hands together. “And that’s the game.”

“Damn,” Kenneth cursed. “You beat me.”

“Yup,” Jace chuckled and raised his beer. “How about another round?”

Just as Kenneth was about to answer, Bruce Carmichael shot through the door like a lit firecracker and shouted, “Eve’s gone!”

****
Seconds later, Sebastian brought Eve through the portal, back to their old room they shared at the club NightShade.

When she drew breaths in, pulling at the threads of her memory, she brought forth images from the times they’d spent here. She remembered the way he touched her, cared for her and made love to her. And other memories came crashing in. The one’s she tried to forget. That part of her was gone now. After being tormented by the demon, she came to realize the horrible things she’d done to others. All her life she’d punished others in resentment from her tortured childhood. Now, she’d changed.

Lifting her head, she stared into Sebastian’s eyes. Then her expression grew serious. “I missed you.”  

“I’ve missed you too, my darling,” he said, grasping her hand. “Come lie down, and rest. You need to heal.”

Leading her to the bed, he pulled back the comforter and helped her in. As she eased back against the pillow, she said, “I didn’t think you would want me back.”

Sebastian’s eyes softened as he crawled in the bed next to her. When her words registered, the confusion on his face was the very definition of pain, and his hand shook as he lifted it up to her face. Gently, he stroked the side of her cheek. “Why would you ever think that?”

At this point, Eve lost all control and broke down in tears. The sadness that she’d carried all throughout her life finally broke.

“Shhh,” he soothed, kissing her temple. “I could never stop loving you.”

When she finally relaxed, she said, “I thought you wouldn’t want me when you found out about the twins.”  

Between one heartbeat and the next, he just stared at her for the longest time. “You are my beloved, and they are my blood,” he proclaimed.
“How could I not want you?”

As she searched his face, she sensed the compassion and honesty in his expression. And the strangest thing happened. She believed him. Blinking slowly, she fought back more tears. “I love you, Sebastian.”

“I look into the future and see… you,” he murmured. “I promise I’m not going anywhere and neither are you. We’ll always be together.”

No matter Sebastian’s assurances that he would take care of her and their children, she still had committed a crime against the Breedline, and crime didn’t go unpunished. Even though she saved Jace and Jem’s adopted mother from the demon, she had done horrible things in her past that would not be forgotten. And if the Breedline found her, she would face punishment. A cold chill overtook her just thinking about being taken away.

“Eve?”

Sebastian’s concerned voice broke through her troubled thoughts, and she turned to see him looking at her intently, worry reflected in his gold eyes.

“Is something wrong, darling?”

She shook her head. “I was just thinking… of what I’ve done. I’m a criminal in the eyes of the Breedline. I could go to jail.”

“Come here,” Sebastian said in a tender voice, pulling her closer, so she felt comforted by his touch. “I won’t let that happen. The only thing I want you thinking about is us and our life together. Leave everything else up to me.” 

“I want you to promise,” she said, looking earnestly up at him, “if something happens to me—“

Sebastian immediately began to protest as he brought his finger up to place over her lips, instilling firmness in his gaze. “Shhh… I’m not going to let that happen.” 
  
She briefly closed her eyes and laid her head on his shoulder. God, she wanted to believe him. Wanted it with everything she had.

“Drink, and heal my darling,” he said, offering her his wrist.

****
Tessa panicked, her heart nearly stopping after the news of Eve’s disappearance.  “Oh my God,” she cried out. “How could she have escaped? Has anyone seen the twins?”

Jace knelt in front of her and said, “Don’t worry, honey. I’m sure they’re all right.”

Abruptly, the door burst open and Tim came in with Drakon and Jem following behind.

“Sebastian came through the portal and took Eve,” Drakon said. “We got it all on the surveillance cameras.”  
 
Jace’s eyes widened. “No damn way!”

Kenneth cocked a brow. “Who’s Sebastian?”

Jace rubbed his forehead wearily. “Long story,” he grumbled. “Short version… he’s the father of Eve’s twins. And I swear the bastard has nine lives.”

Jem glanced in his brother’s direction, and then shifted his eyes toward Tessa. “The twins are fine, Tessa,” he said in a reassuring tone. “They’re with Mia.” 

“Thank God,” Tessa said relieved and blew out a deep breath, some of the anxiety easing. 

Impatient with the chitchat, Jace said, “How long has it been?” 

“An hour ago,” Tim replied.

“Christ, we’re already an hour behind. We’re wasting valuable time just sitting around with our thumbs up our asses,” Jace blurted. “Why aren’t we searching for the bastard now?”
    
Tim shot him a look. “I want everyone here to keep a clear, level head. We need a plan before we go off half-cocked, and get someone killed.”
 
Grinding his teeth, Jace nodded in silence. Then he wrapped his arm around Tessa, wishing he could take away her pain from the past. He gathered her close in his arms and pressed his lips to her forehead. When Jace looked up at Jem, a shadow passed through his eyes, and Jem knew Jace was remembering how close they came to losing Tessa at the hands of Sebastian. 

Love had many twists and turns. It was painful, joyful, fulfilling and frightening as hell, Jem thought. It made a man vulnerable. It opened him up to unimaginable hurts and agony. But it also gifted him with something stronger than anything else in the world. The love of your bonded mate was the most precious gift a man would ever receive.
  
 Jem flinched when he heard Tim’s stern voice, snapping him back to reality.

“We need to notify everyone in the Covenant,” Tim said firmly, running a hand over his short-trimmed hair. “I’ll see if Celina can put a spell on the estate to block Sebastian or anyone else from using the portal to get in. And no one leaves, am I clear?”

Every single person was instantly on alert. They recognized this important step in their progression to locate Sebastian. And Tim trusted them to keep it together. He could see their determination as he looked around the room.

When everyone agreed, Tim shifted his focus on Bruce. “I want the guest house guarded even though Eve’s gone. Every hour I want you to do a walk through. I want eyes on this place twenty-four-seven.”

Brue nodded in agreement. “Aye, sairr.”

To be continued...
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild's biological father.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray 's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah -a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 16
Bonded Mates

By scongrove

Previously...

When Eve went into labor, she was rushed to the Breedline exam room where Dr. Helen Carrington and Cassie Chamberlain delivered her twin boys. While Eve awaits her trial for the past crimes against the Breedline, Mia and Jem agreed to take them in. Although almost everyone in the Covenant accepted Eve’s twins living amongst them, they still had to convince Jace. His hatred for Eve and Sebastian raged deep into his very soul for what they’d done in the past to his beloved Tessa.   

After Sebastian Crow meets his twin brother, Thomas—who he thought died at childbirth—he gives Sebastian an offer he can’t refuse. If Sebastian agrees to join forces with Lilith, Thomas promises to help him locate where the Breedline is keeping Eve—who is pregnant with Sebastian’s twins.
Meanwhile, when Sebastian promises Eve he will come back for their twins, she disappears through the portal with him, escaping her punishment with the Breedline.

Now that the Breedline Covenant is aware of Eve’s disappearance, they realize Sebastian is still alive, and their next priority is to strategize their next move.   
   

Continued...

Eve woke when she heard voices coming from the other room. When she drew breaths in, she smelled Sebastian’s scent and another similar fragrance. It was almost identical, but not as strong.

Listening carefully, she heard her beloved talking to another male. The voice sounded just like Sebastian’s, but with a light, English accent. They said her name a couple of times and talked about her twins. The man with the accent said something about one of the twins being born with a mark. He was talking about Arius. The first time she held him in her arms, she noticed he had a small shape that resembled the letter S on the bottom of his left foot.

Quietly, she pulled back the blanket and swung her legs off the side of the bed. When she stood, her body felt renewed and fresh. Opening her robe, she looked down at her stomach. Pulling off the gauze, the incisions from the cesarean delivery was no longer there. It was if her skin had never seen a scalpel. Sebastian’s blood had healed her. 

Tip-toeing out of the room, she leaned against the wall so she could eavesdrop in on their conversation. She heard Sebastian confirm the other man’s name. He called him Thomas. And then she heard Thomas refer to Sebastian as his brother. What?  

Moving closer, she peeked around the corner. Letting out a gasp, she instantly placed her hand over her mouth, trying to muffle her voice. But it was too late. Sebastian and Thomas turned toward her when they heard the noise.

“Come, darling,” Sebastian murmured, holding out his hand. “I want to introduce you to my brother.”

Lowering her hand, she took small steps forward staring at Thomas in shock. He was the exact image of Sebastian. He had the same height, hair, and the same face as her beloved.

“B-but,” she stammered. “You told me your brother died at birth.”

Clasping her hand, he pulled her close and wrapped his arm around her. “My mother lied to us both,” he explained. “This is my twin brother, Thomas. Our Aunt in England raised him.”

As Thomas bowed his head at Eve, his voice was charming and mesmerizing. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Eve.”

She nodded with a smile. “How did you find out about each other?”

Thomas’s eyes beamed a golden yellow when he lifted his head. “The Goddess Lilith,” he replied, emphasizing the word goddess.

“Who?” she asked.

“She is a powerful goddess representing fertility, the moon, the night, and the underworld,” Thomas told her. “She has evolved as the patroness, and the mother of magic and all Wicca’s. All the secret powers of nature are at her command.” 
 
Eve shrugged and looked at Thomas with a confused expression. “What does she want with us?”

Thomas’s lips curled up like a bow. Shifting his eyes to Sebastian, he said, “Tell her brother.”

Looking down into Eve’s eyes, Sebastian said, “Our son Arius has the mark.”

Eve cocked her head, uncertain of what he’d said. “What are you talking about, Sebastian?”

“Arius has the birth mark that symbolizes eternal life,” he explained. “He is the true Antichrist.”

Pulling away, she placed her hand over her face and shook her head. With tears in her eyes, she remained silent, almost as if she were afraid to voice an opinion. Finally removing her hand, she muttered, “No… it’s not true.”

“You should be grateful,” Thomas said, placing his hand on her shoulder. “It’s a privilege to be his mother.”

Eve searched into herself and saw something she despised, but could not ignore: She had no memory of the woman that had given birth to her, but she knew too well the story of how she had cast her out from the hospital room because she was a half-breed. Eve desperately wanted to be claimed all her life… to belong to a loving family. Instead, she was tossed in and out of foster homes, tortured and degraded. There was no way she was going to be a bad mother. She would raise her sons to be good, not evil.   

Shrugging away from his touch, she raised her voice. “I won’t let her brainwash my son! I swear to you, to both of you. I will not allow Arius brought up with evil in his heart.”

Sebastian stared at her, utterly perplexed. “What’s happened to you?” he asked hesitantly. “You’ve changed.”

Eve’s eyes widened as she stared back at Sebastian. “I don’t want my sons to become what we have,” her voice trembled, emotion knotting her throat. “I want them to grow up with a healthy childhood. Not like ours.”

Grabbing her shoulders, Sebastian held her in place. “Arius and Tidus won’t be brought up like us. I will raise them like kings.”

****
Working together, Jace and Jem took off, rushing up the stairwell to inform everyone in the Covenant about Eve’s disappearance. Afterward, they headed to the security room with Drakon to view the cameras for themselves.

As Drakon rolled back the video within that time frame, the footage showed a bright light coming from downstairs in the guest house. Next, they saw Sebastian step through, and walk up the stairs to Eve’s bedroom. The last thing on the recorded video was Sebastian and Eve disappearing through the portal.

Jace went white when he saw Sebastian on the recorded footage. And Sebastian had his smug, superior smile and Jace could swear the bastard was laughing at them all. For a moment Jem worried Jace might do something crazy like turn into his Beast.

Then Jace closed his eyes, and when he reopened them, his gaze was haunted and filled with dread. He blew out his breath and shook his head. “Well, I guess that answers our question.” His gaze narrowed. “Now we know for sure the bastard is still alive.”

“He’ll be back,” Jem said grimly, turning to Drakon and Jace, seeking their response. And they didn’t look any happier than he was.

“We’ll eventually get him,” Drakon said. “He’ll screw up, and we’ll nail his ass to the wall. And until then, we’ll have to keep a careful watch on Eve’s twins because I don’t trust the bastard not to make a grab for them. He’s too arrogant and far too self-assured not to try.”

“We could take shifts,” Jem suggested.

Jace scowled. “The entire situation sucks.”

Ignoring Jace, Drakon brought the topic back to what was most important. “So how are we going to keep Sebastian from using the portal?”

“Tim’s with Celina right now,” Jem said. “He’s going to see if she can put a spell on the Covenant.”

Drakon’s brow wrinkled in confusion. “What kind of spell?”

“One that will hopefully stop Sebastian from using the portal to get inside the Covenant again,” Jem said.

Drakon crossed his arms in front of his chest. “Can she do that?”

Jace snorted. “Let’s hope the hell she can.”

It sickened Jace that he was Sebastian’s half-brother. How could he share the same blood from such a monster, and what did that make himself? No, he’d never be like him. He’d die first. Never would he possess the cruel natured soul Sebastian had.

****
Over the next half hour, Celina worked on a spell that shielded the Covenant. No one could break through, and enter using a portal. Hopefully, Sebastian didn’t befriend another Wicca, she thought, or this would have been all for nothing. Any experienced Wicca had the power to break the spell.

“Okay,” Celina said, easing back against the headboard of her bed. “The spell is complete. No one can use a portal to transport into the Covenant.”

Tim nodded. “Thank you, Celina.”

“I just hope nothing can break through it,” she said grimly. 

Kyle swallowed hard, dread hitting him squarely in the gut. “Is that possible?”

“Yes. Another Wicca can break the spell.”

Tim’s eyes were dead on hers, telling Celina without words the turmoil of his thoughts. He was sick to his soul, and he damned Sebastian Crow with every breath in his body. “If Sebastian finds a way in, we’ll be ready this time,” Tim said. “Drakon is taking care of security. I expect everyone to do their part of pitching in and helping.”

“I’ll volunteer a shift,” Kyle blurted.

Sitting up straight, Celina said, “I want to help, too.”

“Thanks, guys. We need all the help we can get,” Tim said. “I’ll make sure the Guardians know what’s going on. Maybe they can keep an eye outside the estate.”

Just as Tim made it halfway down the staircase, the doorbell rang. Moving to the door, he looked at a security screen. Helen and a young girl he recognized from the hospital were standing in front of the camera outside the estate. 
  
When Tim’s face came into view on the camera, Helen said, “I’ve brought an assistant, Lila Demont to help me work on my research. She’s Victor Demont’s daughter.”

A double set of doors was cracked immediately, and Lila had to blink a couple of times as the way in opened. The brilliant foyer on the far side was nothing she’d expected: Every conceivable type of decorative marble and stone appeared inside.

When they stepped in, Lila was amazed by the staircase that looked like the one in the Titanic. A French designer apparently inspired the iron banister grillwork. As Lila looked up, an enormous crystal chandelier came into her view. It brought out the beauty in the stained glass window at the top of the stairs. 

As the door closed, Tim strode forward and greeted them. “Yes, I remember Lila,” he said, extending his hand out to her. “It’s good to see you again.”

Shaking his hand, Lila glanced all around the room. “Thank you. This place is spectacular.”

Smiling, he glanced over at Helen, and then back to Lila. “Would you mind if I speak with Helen in private?”

“Of course not,” Lila said.

“Please, help yourself.” Tim pointed down the hall. “The kitchen’s on the first door to the left.”  

Lila nodded. “Okay, thanks.”

“I’ll be right with you, Lila,” Helen said.

When the kitchen door shut behind her, Lila was surprised when she looked across the room. Sitting at a table with a fork in his hand, was Casey Barton. When he looked up at Lila, he froze with his mouth wide open. In silence, their eyes locked onto each other until Casey finally managed to speak.

“H-hi,” he stammered, dropping the fork into his plate.

Startled, Lila jumped when she heard the clanging noise.

“Sorry,” Casey whispered, lifting his brows.

“N-no, you’re fine,” she said bashfully. “I didn’t mean to intrude. I’m Dr. Carrington’s assistant, Lila Demont.” Moving closer to Casey, she placed her leather satchel on the table and offered to shake his hand.

Rising from his chair, he reached out to her. His hands were shaking so badly; he barely kept them steady enough to shake hers.

“It’s nice to meet you, Lila,” his voice sounded nervous, which was odd. He’d never been this way with a female in his life. He was always confident, poised, and felt self-assured when it came to meeting the opposite sex. Women always flocked to him without as much as batting an eye toward them. “I’m Casey,” he muttered. “Casey Barton.”

When their hands made contact, his expression went from nervous to full blown shock. An electric current rushed through his entire body, not to mention the awkward and uncomfortable, instant reaction at the fly of his jeans.

“Whoa,” he blurted, jerking his hand from hers. “Did you feel that?”

Opening her mouth, all she could do was gasp. Her hands started to tingle as well as the rest of her body. Rubbing her palms together, she tried to decipher what she’d just experienced.

“Are you okay?” he queried, looking at her with wide eyes.

Without the ability to move, she didn’t register his question. Trying to get past his gorgeous face was a task in itself. His bone structure was like a piece of artwork, resembling a Roman sculpture. His long, brown hair hung in soft waves that most women would kill to have. The rest of his body was just as handsome.

Plopping down in a chair, she looked up at him with a confused expression. “What?” she mumbled with her head cocked to one side.

Sitting back down, he sought an explanation, recalling what he’d learned from the other bonded males in the Covenant. No matter how much he wanted, he couldn’t deny it. They’d just experienced the Breedline bonding. At this moment, he would have appreciated some warning that his life was about to change completely. Then again, shit just happened.  

Enchanted by her, he looked into her eyes. They were dark brown surrounded by beautiful long, black eyelashes. But the shape of them… god, they were perfect, he thought. Her honey blond hair was pulled back into a thick braid. The color of her skin had a sun-kissed tone and her cheeks a hint of pale pink.  
 
“Lila, are you okay?” he asked again, concern simmering in his voice. When Casey stood in front of her, he gave her a look that sent a quiver through her belly and up to her breasts, her nipples forming taut peaks.

Standing up, she nodded and forced her voice. “Yes.” Before she could say another word, he cut her off as he pressed his lips to hers. As she moaned, he wrapped his arms around her. Lila felt within her heart a great welling of warmth and bonding, and she let the emotions carry her against him. While they embraced, Casey caught a glimpse of Helen and Tim in the corner of his eye, standing in the kitchen doorway.

To be continued...
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 17
In the Shadows

By scongrove

Previously...

Now that the Breedline Covenant is aware of Eve’s disappearance, they realize Sebastian is still alive and strategize their next move.

As Dr. Helen Carrington searches for the cure to the Breedline aging process, she introduces her assistant Lila Demont to the Covenant’s head council, Tim Ross. While Helen and Tim have a private conversation, Lila accidently bumps into her future Breedline mate, Casey Barton.     
     

Meanwhile, when Sebastian promises Eve he will come back for their twins, she disappears through the portal with him, escaping her punishment with the Breedline.

When Eve meets Sebastian’s twin brother Thomas, he tells her about Lilith and that her son Arius is born with the mark of the Chiang-shih demon, and what he will become. Refusing to let Sebastian raise Arius for power and greed, Eve is desperate to find a way to keep her son safe. 


Continued...

Thoughts of her twin sons had soon commanded the majority of Eve’s mind. She played and replayed scenes from their too-short time together until her heart ached from the agony. Before she drifted off to sleep, Sebastian came back to the room she was in and slipped into bed. Curling up behind her, he gently stroked her arm using the tips of his fingers.

She shivered at his touch with goosebumps trailing down her skin. Inhaling deep, she let out a long sigh and shifted away.

“Please don’t be angry at me,” he whispered, scooting closer. “Don’t you understand? I only want what’s best for our son’s.” 

It was hard to know exactly how long Eve remained silent. Twenty minutes? Maybe longer, she thought.

“Eve,” Sebastian pleaded. “Talk to me.”

After a moment, she rolled over and looked at him with pain in her eyes. Her chest ached, and she became breathless as tears spilled down her cheeks. Leaving the Covenant’s confinement, and escaping punishment, she was grateful to be back in the arms of her beloved. But now, his plans for their sons had hollowed out any joy she should have felt.

“I don’t want—“

Sebastian had Eve in his arms before she could finish her sentence. In his embrace, she took a deep breath. He smelled the same, that dark spice that was unique to him and him alone. His shoulders were just as wide as she remembered, and his waist just as lean. Sebastian’s firm body shook as he held her tightly for a moment, and then he pulled back. It was as if he feared of hurting her.

His eyes were frantic. “I love you, Eve.”

As romantic reunions went, perhaps those were the most flowery words other females would want to hear, but to her, they meant nothing if he sought out the wrong uprising for their children. In so many ways, he’d explained how Lilith could give them a powerful future, and told her everything she didn’t want to hear.

Looking into her eyes, he read all of the questions and fears in her stare.

“Just give me a chance,” Sebastian begged. “After you meet Lilith, you’ll understand why I’ve chosen this.”

Before she opened her mouth to speak, she stopped herself, realizing nothing she said would change his mind. She closed her eyes briefly, and let out a deep breath. “All right,” she finally said in a weary voice. “I will meet with this… Lilith, and listen to what she has to say.”

Placing his palm on her face, he smoothed his thumb gently over her cheek. The shudder that went through his body appeared as an expression of relief. “I promise you won’t be disappointed.”   
 
****
When Helen saw Casey and Lila embracing, she realized she was witnessing a future unfold right before her very eyes. The pair of them had to have bonded, and this meant they were going to be a part of each other’s life forevermore.

Abruptly, Tim cleared his throat and caught Lila’s attention. When she turned around, Helen had her hand over her heart with a blissful expression on her face. 

“Oh... ” Lila’s voice sounded startled. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were standing there.”

“You’re fine, Lila,” Helen muttered with an arched brow. “I see you’ve met Casey.”

“Y-yes, I have.”

Instantly removing his hands away from Lila, Casey dropped them to his sides and said, “Hello, Helen.” Turning in Tim’s direction, he nodded and waited for his reaction. At this moment, he felt like a kid who just got caught with his hand in the cookie jar. As he waited, Tim nodded back with a cocked brow.

With a big smile, Helen replied, “Hello, Casey.”

After the awkward silence, Lila finally turned to Casey and blushed, her cheeks going warm beneath the heat of his gaze. “It was nice to meet you, Casey.” Lila’s cheeks flamed with heat even more, and she ducked her head, lowering her voice. “I guess I should get to the exam room with Helen. I’m assisting her with some research.”

“Yeah, it was great to meet you, too,” he said with enthusiasm. “Maybe we could go out for lunch or something. Can I have your number?”

“Yes, that sounds nice,” Lila replied, reaching into her satchel. Pulling out a pen and notepad, she wrote down her number. Handing it to Casey, she said, “I’ll look forward to hearing from you soon.”

“Great. I’ll give you a call later. Would you like my number, too?”

Lila nodded with a bashful smile as she nervously handed him the notepad and pen. 

As they left, Casey had a sudden image of Lila’s beautiful brown eyes. Her voice, that clear, lovely voice, replayed in his mind.

Tim focused on Casey, who hadn’t moved from his position. The silence stretched out, and Casey stared down at the tiled floor, his boot heel making a circle.

“Ahem,” Tim cleared his throat again.

When Casey didn’t look up at him, he sensed him struggling to collect himself. He looked worried. And that bothered Tim. “Casey, would you like to talk?” 

Casey’s eyes flipped up to his. “I think Lila and I just bonded,” he confessed.

“I figured as much by the way you two acted.” Tim chuckled lightly. “It’s not going to be easy courting Lila. You do realize she’s Victor Demont’s daughter?”

Wasn’t that the truth, Casey thought. Victor Demont was the head council for the Covenant in Pennsylvania. Although he didn’t know him or his family, Victor was well known as a distinguished nobleman. When he got wind of his daughter bonding with a male who made a career in modeling, shit would hit the fan.  
 
“Yeah, I’m aware of that,” Casey muttered. “I’m sure he’ll be thrilled when he finds out.”

Tim crossed his arms over his chest. “Listen, we don’t get to pick our mates. Our Breedline natural instincts chose them for us. I can talk with Victor if you want.”

Casey let out a long sigh. “I may take you up on that offer.”

Tim could see the very real concern in Casey’s eyes. He reached out and placed his palm on his shoulder. “Once Victor gets to know you, I’m sure he’ll give you his blessing and welcome you into his family.” 

“Thanks. I hope you’re right.”

Patting his shoulder, Tim smiled. “Don’t worry too much. Everything will work out.” Before he walked out of the kitchen, he turned around. “Congratulations, by the way. It would be a relief to see you finally settle down.”

Left in the room alone, Casey collapsed back down in his chair. Leaning forward, he put his face into his hands and groaned. Casey thought about Lila, savoring the magical sensation that hope for a real relationship could be a possibility no matter how unlikely it probably was. And he briefly considered that he could be setting himself up for far worse hurt because no one knew what he truly was. It would kill Lila if she found out his secret. And she wouldn’t be the only casualty. If the Breedline Covenant found out, the whole house of cards would fall.

****
 
Located in downtown San Francisco…

As Steven Pasquale sat in the back of a bus packed with passengers, he noticed a man across the aisle that appeared suspicious. He was pale and thin-boned, wearing black slacks and a long dark trench coat. His gothic attire sent cold shivers down Steven’s spine. The creepy stranger would look at Steven from out of the corner of his eye as if he was watching his every move. Steven sat without revealing his anxiety, wondering if the man was one of Dr. Autenburg’s hired henchmen. With his nerves on pins and needles, he quickly decided to get off at the next stop.

When Steven climbed out, the streets looked deserted, and he realized he’d gotten off in a bad part of town. After a half-hour of looking, he finally found a hotel. He’d almost walked past it, thinking it was just an abandoned apartment building before he saw the glow of the neon sign.  The vacancy light flickered on and off, buzzing endlessly as if it was on the verge of burning out. Above the run-down entrance, written in bold letters and most of the paint worn completely off read, THE CROWN HOTEL.

Steven had gone on full alert, scanning his surroundings before making a decision to go inside. As he looked up, he saw boarded windows, and the stone building had eroded from obvious years of neglect and exposure to the cities pollution. The humid air stirred, sending the trash on the sidewalk skittering across the street. The air smelled of garbage and something else, something thick and sour that filled his throat and made him want to gag. Shifting his focus, he noticed several streetlights were out, though the one closest to the hotel’s front window cast a dim yellow glow shimmering over cracked glass.

The area seemed oddly deserted, Steven thought. Usually, in San Francisco, there was always someone else on the street, even at this hour of two in the morning. Swallowing the knot in his throat, he reached for the door. As he stepped inside, his head swiveled side to side, searching the front desk for an attendant. With no one in sight, he slowly walked up to the counter, his pulse quickening with each step and the beat of his heart pounding in his ears. The place looked haunted, cursed. Just as he was about to ring the bell, his hand froze, hovering in mid-air when he heard a deep, seething growl from behind. For a panicked moment, he wondered if he’d imagined it.

The corner of his mouth twitched as he lowered his hand and slowly turned around. “Hello,” he called out. “Is anyone there?”

In the near distant, Dr. Markus Ludwig—a twisted colleague of Dr. Hans Autenburg—stepped out of the shadows. He reached the height of nearly seven feet, wearing a black trench coat and a matching flat-brimmed Stetson hat. Following close by the mad physician, a deranged-looking man stood beside him. The shape of him evolved slowly; his bald head covered in tattoos, white-faced and the tips of two fangs surfaced when he raised his lip into a snarl. When he looked at Steven, his eyes were full of a glittering hate. He turned his face to the side and spat on the floor. Moving his jacket open slightly, he flashed the weapon he had attached to his belt as a sign of warning.

Another dark figure pushed their way through the shadows with the swiftness of a serpent and stood on the opposite side of Dr. Ludwig. Steven recognized him as the same creepy man that sat across from him on the bus. His eyes were blood-red that sparkled as he moved closer to the light. Focused on Steven, his lips curled up into a smug grin. 

Steven said nothing. Though he hadn’t moved, he was breathing in short quick pants with the desire to shove his fist through the creep’s chest and wipe that grin off his face forever.

“Hello Steffen,” Dr. Ludwig spoke out, speaking in a heavily German accent. “Your time has run out,” he said, raising a warning hand. “Come vith us peacefully, and no harm vill be brought ubon you.”

Steven took a few steps back and shook his head vigorously. “You’re not taking me back. I’d rather die than go back to that hell hole,” he said through gritted teeth. “I’m through living like an animal trapped in a cage serving as your twisted science project.”

Dr. Ludwig saw the whitening of Steven’s knuckles as he clenched his fists and fought back his anger. In response, the mad doctor lifted his chin and let out a seedy, bone-chilling chuckle. When he lowered his head, his mouth closed, forming a thin line. With a murderous glare, Dr. Ludwig raised his giant hand and snapped his fingers.

Steven glanced behind Ludwig, dread curdling in the pit of his stomach as two enormous shadowy figures emerged. Through the darkness came two horrid, unnatural specimens of Dr. Ludwig. Against the laws of nature, he’d created hybrids out of Breedline wolves. On all fours, their eyes were glowing like fire, and from their throats came menacing growls that made the hair on the back of his neck rise.
        
As they stalked forward, low and snarling, Steven held his ground. “What are you waiting for?” he shouted in a distorted voice, crouching into a fight stance.

Every face turned toward Steven and froze. The three men standing looked astonished at his instant transformation. Steven’s emerald green eyes shifted into a shimmering white glow. His body transformed into a human-wolf-like hybrid. Without fur, his white skin changed to a dark gray and expanded until his frame grew twice the size.

Charging head-on, Steven pummeled into one of the hybrids in a snarling tangle. After he easily snapped its neck, the second hybrid raced toward him, ears flattened to its narrowed head. It was massive, dark brown with canines the size of a great white shark. When it struck Steven square in the chest, the noise was like nothing Dr. Ludwig had ever heard. The howls of rage changed to a whimpering defeat and ended in dead silence. As Steven effortlessly severed the hybrid’s spinal cord, he tossed it several feet away.

Dr. Ludwig managed to look furious and astounded at once. As he shrank back behind the tatted, bald henchman, he hollered, “Shoot him!”

With a sharp inhale, Steven lunged toward Dr. Ludwig as a shot rang out barely missing him. A crack sounded as Steven twisted the physician’s neck and dropped him to the floor in one swift motion.

Before the red-eyed henchman reacted, Steven shoved his fist through his chest. When he brought his hand back with a beating heart in his palm, the guy looked at Steven with wide, glassy dead eyes. Turning toward henchman number two, Steven looked down the end of a barrel and heard a loud pop, the echo ringing in his ears. Before his knees buckled, Steven lashed out with his dagger-size claws and clutched his chest with the other. As he sliced the man’s throat, warm blood spattered across his face. Steven’s vision blurred and he toppled forward as darkness completely overtook his sight.   

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle, Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 18
His Secret

By scongrove

Previously...

As Dr. Helen Carrington searches for the cure to the Breedline aging process, she introduces her assistant Lila Demont to the Covenant’s head council, Tim Ross. While Helen and Tim have a private conversation, Lila accidently bumps into her future Breedline mate, Casey Barton. 
         

Continued...

Looking up from the microscope, Helen called out, “Lila, I think I found it!”   

Lila faced her with wide eyes. “Are you serious?”

Pulling her glasses from her face, Helen smiled ear to ear. “Yes,” she replied, nodding her head. “The cells stayed attached this time. I think we finally did it. We found the answer to the Breedline aging process. All we need to do now is test it.”

Lila’s lips cracked a smile. “That’s wonderful, Helen!” She reached out and wrapped her arms around Helen in a brief hug.

Helen’s eyes were wide with excitement. “Do you know what this means for our species?”

Before Lila opened her mouth to speak, Helen’s cell phone buzzed. When she retrieved it from the pocket of her white coat, it was a call coming from the hospital.

“This is Dr. Carrington,” she answered.

“We’ve got a trauma case, Dr. Carrington,” a nurse’s voice stated on the other end. “Male in his thirties with a gunshot wound to the chest. Dr. Allman has him stabilized, but he insisted you come in, or do you want me to call Dr. Eaves?”

“No, I’ll be there. Tell Dr. Allman I’m on my way.”

“Yes, Dr. Carrington.”

When the call ended, she looked at Lila. “I’ve got to head to the hospital. You okay to stay here?”

“Sure.” Lila nodded. “I’ll be fine.”

When Helen left the room, she hurried down the hall and into the foyer. Before reached the for door that exited the Covenant, she stopped and looked into a mirror hanging on the wall. Helen’s reflection was crystal-clear in the glass, from her white doctor’s coat to her Mahogany hair that was pulled up into a tight bun. Briefly staring at her face, thoughts came to mind of what she’d just discovered minutes ago. If her breakthrough were successful, she wouldn’t have to worry about any more wrinkles or gray hairs. Her age would permanently freeze in time.

****

Reaching into her satchel, Lila pulled out her phone and the notepad with Casey’s number on it. After she punched in the numbers and waited for an answer, all she could think about was him.

“Hello?”

The sound of his voice in her ear spread warmth throughout her body. “Casey?” she said after a moment.

“Hi, Lila,” he murmured, easing back against the headboard of his bed.

As Casey’s voice came through the phone, Lila sat up straight in her chair. His voice was sexy. Deep with a little sultry added, like a male’s should be. “H-hi,” she said bashfully.

In the silence that followed, she thought, and she had called him why? Oh, right. “I’m calling to see if you would like to talk?” she nervously asked. “I’m still in the Covenant’s exam room. Helen had an emergency at the hospital, and I rode with her... so?”

“Hmmm,” he said in amusement, smiling on the other end, and she felt the purr in his voice. “Sure, why not,” he said eagerly. “I’m upstairs in my room. I’ll meet you downstairs in the foyer.”

While he waited for her response, he had to shift the fly of his jeans due to the instant arousal he’d got just hearing her voice.

“Okay, meet you there,” she said smiling into the phone, excited by his enthusiasm.

****

The California Bates Hospital was state-of-the-art, thanks to the previously added emergency unit. The eleven story complex services included twenty-four-hour emergency care, women and infant services, cardiovascular care, behavioral health, orthopedics, and cancer diagnosis along with treatment.

When Helen arrived in the emergency unit, she reviewed the chart of the male patient with the gunshot wound. Five minutes later, the double doors swung open, and a nurse rushed in. “Dr. Carrington, we need you in surgery. The gunshot victim went into cardiac arrest. We got a rhythm back, but his blood pressure is sixty over forty and falling.”

Helen cursed under her breath. “Let’s get a blood type run, and I want his chest x-rays right away. Get an ultrasound of his heart—“

A scream ripped through the OR, catching Helen’s attention. Running down the hall with the nurse and other staff close behind, they entered the room. A nurse who’d been assisting the patient was flat up against the wall with a look of panic on her face, and Dr. Allman was lying on the floor unconscious. For a split second, everyone froze. The patient lying on the operating table was glowing.  

Helen snapped into action and called out commands. Everyone refocused as the nurse in shock stuttered, “Dr. Allman just touched the patient… and collapsed.”

Kneeling down, Helen checked the physician lying on the floor. “He’s breathing,” she reassured, her voice sounding relieved. “I need him off the floor and out of here.”

Within seconds, paramedics were in the room with a gurney. After the doctor had been taken out, Helen looked over the patient’s x-rays. She frowned, leaning closer to the screen. It revealed exactly what she suspected:  His tissue was healing, and no major internal organs appeared to be affected.

Helen approached the bed where the patient was hooked up to the anesthesia machines. With his chest prepped for surgery, the regions around it draped in surgical cloth. The Betadine solution made him look like he had an orange tan underneath all the glimmering light that surrounded his entire body. Looking closer, she saw the wound on his chest had already closed. What?

One of the medics that assisted with Dr. Allman stuck his head in the room. “Dr. Carrington?”

Looking away from the patient, Helen said, “How’s Dr. Allman doing?”

“He’s coming around,” the medic confirmed. “It appears he just passed out.”
  
“Well, I don’t blame him,” Helen muttered, shaking her head. “It’s not every day your patient starts glowing. But according to the x-rays, there’s no internal damage. He appears to be stable, other than...” Helen shrugged as she looked at the patient speechless.

****
When Lila made it to the foyer, Casey had just stepped down from the staircase and stopped when he saw her. When he lifted his hand to wave at her, she blushed and waved back.

As Casey approached, Lila watched as he moved with a smooth stride. He wore a black turtleneck that was clearly cashmere and a pair of designer jeans. In his expensive clothes, Casey was like something off the cover of a magazine. He looked glamorous, seductive, and out of her league.

Lila felt nervous. Seeing him again created an instant reaction. Her hands shook, and her heart felt like it was going to beat out of her chest. It wasn’t she thought she was beneath him, Lila had just never had this kind of reaction from any other guy she’d met.

“Would you like something to eat?” he asked.

Staring into his eyes, they were the colors of light gray, mixed with sparkling, lavender specks. What an odd color, Lila said to herself, lost in thought.

When she didn’t answer, he said, “Lila?”

She flinched. “Oh, sorry,” she said breathlessly, focused on Casey’s mesmerizing eyes. “What did you say?”  

He smiled. “Are you hungry?”

“Uh, sure... I could eat.” Geez, she thought. I’ve got to stop this endless blushing every time he speaks. But he seemed delighted with her shyness, his smile as gentle as his words. 

“We have leftovers from last night. Do you like roast beef? I can make us a roast beef sandwich?”

“That sounds delicious.”

As Casey took her hand and led her to the kitchen, it reminded him of the type of family Lila had. She was born into an ordinary Breedline household, with a prestigious bloodline. He, on the other hand, was not born a full-blooded Breedline. Before his eighteenth birthday, and his first change into the Breedline wolf, his parents told him the truth. He was adopted. Instead of being born a full-blooded Breedline, he was a Theriomorph—a species with the ability to shape-shift into a panther. Not to mention, he’d also been born with other odd gifts. He had visions of the future and the power of manipulation. Having the skills to control the minds of others was a threat to the Breedline species. Using the drug dopamine was the only way to suppress that side of him he desperately hated. His parents swore to keep his secret from the Covenant in fear of discrimination and rejection.

Lately, he’d been having some terrible visions of Tessa, their Breedline Queen. The situation put him in a predicament. Casey had to decide if he was going to act on his premonitions, which would give away his secret identity, or just let destiny take hold. Why bother upsetting everyone?  he thought. No matter what he said, he couldn’t change the future.

Nonetheless, he had no business dating Lila... none at all. If her family found out, they wouldn’t accept what he was. They would see him as an outcast. Not a pure Breedline worthy of their daughter.

He’d never revealed his secret to anyone else in the Covenant. Now that his mother was gone, his father was the only one that knew what he truly was. Casey felt the ache in his chest and knew it for what it was:  Regret.

Outside the kitchen door, Casey stepped ahead and held it open for Lila. Before she sat down, he pulled out a chair for her and asked, “What would you like on your sandwich?”

She shrugged. “Oh, I’m not picky. I’ll have whatever you’re having.”

He clapped his hands together and said, “Two roast beef sandwiches with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo coming up.”

Sitting in silence, surrounded by the sounds of Casey digging around in the refrigerator, Lila stroked a napkin with her forefinger, feeling a hunger of desire inside her heart. Deep down she knew what they’d experienced earlier. It was the Breedline bonding. 

After Casey had prepared their sandwiches, he glanced back at the table. When he looked at Lila, she seemed lost in thought as she fiddled with her napkin.

As he came over with their plates, she turned in his direction, and all she could do was gawk at him with a girlish smile.

“You know,” he said as he set the plates on the table and sat down across from her, “I like the way you look at me.”

She put her hands over her face. “I’m sorry.” She giggled. “Is it that noticeable?”

He held his hand up. “Don’t apologize.” He winked. “I’m not complaining.”

She tried to get a grip, but there was no way to control her emotions as her cheeks flushed again.

“Shall we?” Casey said, picking up his sandwich. He waited until she took her first bite and then said, “How is it?” 

He patiently waited for her to swallow, knowing she was raised with manners and would probably never talk with her mouth full.

She wiped her mouth. “It tastes fantastic. Thank you, Casey.”

Casey grinned at her response, but beneath the surface of him, she sensed he was stressed, and the anxiety came out in the shadows under his eyes and the tense set of his jaw. Apparently, Casey was making an effort to be normal for her benefit, and though she appreciated it, she wondered what was bothering him. She wanted to find out everything about him but didn’t know how to ask without putting pressure on him.

They were still strangers to one another even though they’d obviously bonded. Did she have the right to ask him anything personal? She wondered about his family and his bloodline. In spite of the fact that they’d just met, Lila felt as though she knew all she needed to, but realistically speaking, what did they share in common?

As she stroked the napkin, Lila’s mind was miles away, and though she wasn’t much of a talker, she found herself speaking because she simply couldn’t keep it all in anymore. Her eyes narrowed, and she glanced up at him in question. “Earlier… we bonded, didn’t we?”

His lavender eyes shifted over, staring at her with dead seriousness. “Yes, Lila,” he murmured, placing his hand on hers. “We did.”

She smiled, and he gave her hand a light squeeze. A delicate shiver danced over her skin when she felt his soothing gesture. Something as simple as the slight touch of his hand and Lila was shaking with need.

“So, what do we do now?” she asked.

“We could... kiss.

Lila’s jaw dropped, flushing from head to toe. Given the way those captivating eyes of his were looking at her, she was willing to let him do anything right at this moment. “O-okay,” she breathed.

Casey slid out of his chair and moved to the one next to her. Cupping her face in his hands, he kissed her quick and soft. When Casey pulled from their embrace, he had a slight smile on his lips. “You’re beautiful, Lila,“ he whispered.

As she stared into his spectacular eyes, Lila knew she was falling in love with him, and there was nothing she could do to stop it. The Breedline bond was real.

Casey bowed his head. “Thank you... for the kiss.”

Lila sighed, her body feeling limp and useless in his presence. He seemed fragile as he spoke to her, his words so honest and humble.

“Casey...?”

He took her hand and lightly squeezed. “Yes?”

She sighed and said, “I want to know everything about you.”

“You do?”

She nodded. “Tell me about your family. Do they live close by?”

Darkness shadowed Casey’s face, tightening his mouth and drawing his brows together. “My mother died recently...” he said painfully, “and my father lives close by.”

Hearing the sadness in his voice, she frowned and shook her head. “I’m sorry. I—“   

“No, it’s okay. You didn’t know.”

“Does your twin live here?” she asked.

His expression was of sorrow, even though he tried to mask it with a smile. It was evident he didn’t want to talk about his family, and she knew better than to press further.

“I’m sorry, Casey. I don’t mean to press if you don’t feel like talking about your family.”

“It’s fine,” he quickly replied. “It’s not as if... you can’t ask...”

As his words stumbled into each other, Casey felt panicked. Sure, Lila could ask... he just couldn’t tell her everything. Or maybe he should.

“I don’t know. I was adopted,” Casey said, sticking with as much truth as he could reveal. “Tim is my uncle... my Dad’s twin brother.”

Her eyes widened. “Oh... I didn’t know. Are you close to your uncle?”

Casey reached up and swept his long hair back. “Yeah,” he said smiling. “I guess you could say we are. He’s treated my father and me great since—“

Lila’s face softened, realizing what he was about to say. “I would like to introduce you to my parents,” she said, quickly changing the subject. “Are you free this weekend?” 
    
He was speechless, staring at her face for a long time. He couldn’t say no. Just didn’t have the strength to turn her invitation down. It was wrong to get involved with Lila, but she was everything he wanted. He was very wrong for her, and he knew it. Then his mouth opened, and all he managed out was, “Okay.”

To be continued...
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle, Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 19
John Doe

By scongrove

Previously...

Even though Steven was shot in the chest, he managed to defend himself against Dr. Ludwig, two Breedline hybrids, and the evil physician’s thuggish bodyguards.

As Dr. Helen Carrington finally discovers the cure for the Breedline aging process, she is called to the hospital to assist with a patient that is brought to the hospital with a gunshot wound. When she arrives, the emergency room erupts in chaos. Dr. Allman, who is prepping for surgery, mysteriously passes out and the patient on the examination table is glowing.

When Helen takes control of the situation, and Dr. Allman comes around, she realizes the patient has miraculously healed, leaving no trace of a bullet wound.

Meanwhile, now that Eve has come to terms that her son Arius has the mark of the Chiang-shih demon, she agrees to go with Sebastian to his twin brother’s estate and meet Lilith to find out what she wants with her son.


Continued...   

About two hours later, John Doe—the patient with a gunshot wound, and a body that sparkled like a disco ball—miraculously healed, and finally stopped glowing. When Helen pushed open the door to the intensive care unit, with her leather bag on her shoulder, and her car keys in her hand, she was ready to head back to the Breedline Covenant. But she wasn’t leaving without seeing John Doe first.

If her intuition was correct, this could be a link to the missing patient dated back in the seventies she’d been researching. Years ago, she’d found a file in the hospital that was put away marked as confidential. She had no clue how it got here in this hospital, but no one seemed to miss the documented research. The file was a study done by a German physician named Dr. Hans Autenburg. In the reported research, it revealed a patient that had supernatural rapid tissue regeneration he called SPECIMEN ONE—the same ability she found in Jace and Jem’s blood months ago. Using their blood samples, she all but exhausted herself trying to come up with a cure for the Breedline’s aging process. Now, just hours ago, she finally was successful. All she had to do was test it.     
    
Most of the nurses on staff were Breedline and kept the patient’s medical information confidential. Helen didn’t want it leaking out to the public, especially to humans. If they got a hold of what had just happened earlier, it would be spread all over news media, and that wouldn’t be safe for their species.   

As she walked over to the nursing station, the young nurse across the counter looked up. “Hey, Dr. Carrington, are you here to check on the patient in room eleven?”

“Yeah,” Helen said with an exhausted sigh. “Has he woken up yet?”

“No,” the nurse replied. “I just checked on him thirty minutes ago. All his vital signs are stable, but he’s still unconscious. Nurse Jacky is with him now.”

Clanging her keys around, Helen nodded and put them back in her pocket. “By the way, did we find a next of kin?”

“We searched through his belongings but came up empty. There was no wallet, no phone… nothing.”  

Helen shook her head. “I’m not surprised. He was probably mugged right after the attack.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right.”

“What about the police,” Helen queried. “Have they asked any questions about our patient?”

“After John Doe’s admittance, two detectives came in asking about him.” She handed Helen a card. “They left this in case the patient becomes conscious. I guess they want to question him.”

“Thank you,” Helen said, placing the card in her bag. “I’ll take care of it.”

The nurse nodded as Helen waved and headed down the corridor. Room eleven was all the way back, on the left. When she got there, Nurse Jacky looked up from checking the patient’s IV and said, “Hello, Dr. Carrington.”

Helen put her bag down and reached for the medical record that was in a file holder on the wall. “Hi Jacky,” she replied, glancing over the chart. “How’s our patient?”

“He’s still stable, which is amazing.”

As Helen flipped through the recent stats, she said, “Yep, he’s a bit of a mystery.”

She was about to close up the medical file when she noticed the patient’s blood pressure recording. It was back to normal. Everything seemed to be stable as she glanced over the chart.

The nurse paused at the door. “Let me know if you need anything.”

Helen smiled. “Thanks, Jacky.”

After the nurse had left, Helen pulled the privacy curtain into place and went over to the bedside. Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out an ophthalmoscope. As she leaned over him, Helen used her fingers to open one of his lids. She shined the lighted medical device into his retina, holding it steady. Her intuition was right, she thought. John Doe had to be one of Dr. Hans Autenburg’s patients. The German physician’s study also reported abnormal lights that reflected in his patient’s irises—exactly as the person lying in this bed.

Staring at his face, she put her hand on his forearm. “I’ve got a lot of questions for you when you wake up,” she muttered in a quiet voice.

“Helen.”

She flinched at the voice and quickly wheeled around. “Jesus, Carl,” she gasped, placing her hand over her heart, “you scared me.”

Dr. Carl Eaves shrugged his shoulders. “Sorry, Helen.”

As he went around to the other side of the bed, Carl looked at the patient and said, “I just wanted to check in on him. I still can’t believe his wounds healed as fast as they did. Even our species don’t have the ability to heal that quickly. God, I would love to study him, or at least participate in it.”

As Helen watched John Doe’s breathing, she listened to the faint beeping of the monitoring equipment. It seemed to swell in the silence between them until her awareness kicked in. She glanced up at Carl and said, “I think we should.”
  
He cocked his head to one side and furrowed his brows. “What do you mean?”

Helen blinked nervously. On pure gut instinct, she felt like she could trust Carl. Hell, she’d known him practically her whole life. Helen had been best friends with his wife, Shawna since college, and co-workers for over ten years. Preparing herself, she just opened her mouth and told him everything, beginning with the files she found on Dr. Hans Autenburg’s patient, her years of tireless research, and rapping it up with her recent discovery—the cure for the Breedline aging process. All she needed to do was test it.

She stared across the patient at Carl, waiting for him to process everything she’d just told him. After several moments of silence, his mouth dropped as he tried to form words. But he was so shocked he didn’t know what to say. “This is a miracle,” he replied, excitement simmering in his voice. “I would be honored to help you, Helen.”

Letting out a sigh of relief, it occurred to her that she needed his help. On some level, she’d known this conversation was coming, and she couldn’t think of anyone else she could trust more than Carl.

Helen smiled. “Thank you, Carl. I was hoping I could count on you.”

****
Eve held onto Sebastian’s hand as they traveled through the portal to a charming English manor south of London. The estate belonged to his twin brother, Thomas. After his aunt—his mother’s sister that raised him passed away; he inherited her wealth. Glancing around the spacious reception hall, Eve stood astonished when she saw the Renaissance-style carved-wood staircase.

Standing inside the foyer, Sebastian checked his watch. The Cartier had diamonds all over it, and under the light from the overhead chandelier, the tiny gems glistened. 

“Greetings,” a familiar voice with a French accent came from behind them.

As they turned around, Sebastian rolled his eyes when Samuel Mercier came into view. It was a miracle he was still around. Sebastian assumed the bastard would eventually be caught and persecuted by the Breedline. After Jace’s Beast sent the Chiang-shih demon back to hell, all his council members—the ones who were still alive—came out of hiding and begged for his help. Wearing out their usefulness, Sebastian turned them down.

Narrowing his eyes, he glared at Samuel. “What the hell are you doing here?”

Samuel cleared his throat. “Mr. Carlyle asked me, and the rest of the council to join him.”

“Well, don’t just stand there like an idiot, where is he?”

Samuel nodded and motioned them into the dining area. “Please, right this way.”

Sebastian and Eve followed him into a minimalist dining room that occupied a former ballroom. As Sebastian watched Samuel, he hated to admit it, but he had the feeling Samuel was a little light in the loafers. No real man would move the way Samuel did. He walked with a feminine stride.   

“Would you like some coffee?” Samuel offered.

Sebastian waved at him in dismissal.  “Yeah, whatever.”

“Please, have a seat,” Samuel said graciously.

When Sebastian sat down at the formal dining table, he watched Samuel as he brought over two china cups with saucers, and poured their hot beverage nice and slow. Sugar was next, and the spoon he used to stir made a soft clinking sound. Samuel would have cheerfully wiped his ass if asked, Sebastian thought. At least the coffee was good, although he kept that to himself.

“Where is Thomas?” Sebastian demanded, lifting his cup with a frown. “I don’t like waiting.”

Just as Samuel opened his mouth to speak, the sound of several footsteps tapped across the marble floor.

“Welcome, brother,” Thomas announced, walking into the room with Fredrick Mercier and a tall, muscular male with a tattoo of a dragon on his arm. Recognizing the man standing by Fredrick, Sebastian crossed his arms and glared at them. “Well, I’m not surprised you managed to rustle up the rest of my father’s dumbass council.”

“I take it you’ve met Samuel's twin, Fredrick Mercier?” Thomas queried, and glanced at the tall male. “And I’m sure you remember Corbin Azzo?”

Easing back in his chair, Sebastian curled his lip in disgust. “Yeah, I remember them all too well.”

Turning in Eve’s direction, Thomas lowered his head. “You’re looking rather beautiful, Eve. I’m glad you agreed to come.”

Without saying a word, Eve stared at him and nodded.

Sebastian impatiently tapped the bottom of his ring on the table. “I’m surprised you have accepted the rest of my father’s council members,” he said in brooding sarcasm. “They’ve proven on countless occasions to be useless and incompetent.”   

Corbin scowled at Sebastian, his cheeks flushing. “We were always loyal to your father.”

Sebastian smiled a little and placed his palms on his lap. As Corbin kept his eyes on him, there was a temptation to pull the forty he had tucked inside his jacket and aim for Corbin’s family jewels.

Sebastian laughed. “Yes, you might be stupid, but you’re honest. You were loyal to your master. But now, my father is dead. So where does your loyalty lie now?”

Thomas interrupted. “His loyalty is with us. All of my men’s allegiance is with Lilith and us.”

Sebastian stood up and moved next to Corbin. As he stuck his face in Corbin’s, he said mockingly, “Glad to hear you’re still obedient. Instead of referring to me as master… you can call me God.

Thomas abruptly asked everyone to leave the room except Sebastian and Eve. He knew bringing in Sebastian’s fathers’ old council members would be like poking a hornet’s nest with a stick. Yes, there was potential for a loyal council, and where their destiny led, it was critical for success.

When they left them alone, Thomas sat down beside Sebastian and grinned.

Eve turned toward Thomas and said, “When do we meet Lilith?”

Within the short silence, someone or something glowing appeared at the far end of the room. As the unnatural ghostly form entered the doorway, its voice cast in an echo, “I am Lilith.”   

Sebastian’s eyes widened. A woman appeared before him as a glowing ghost with sparkling diamond-shaped eyes. He couldn’t quite pinpoint why she looked so familiar, but he swore he’d seen her before. The planes of her cheeks and chin cast in elegant, soft angles. Long brown hair flowed past her shoulders and covered her breasts. She wore a robe made of unique, shimmering white fabric, and a thick silk, gold belt captured the weight of it all.

“Greetings,” came a low, seductive voice. “I am the one whom you seek.”

The S’s strung out until it sounded like the warning of a rattler’s tail.

A thrill rushed through Sebastian, tingling down to the fly of his pants. Her presence sent off power, and after all, that was the biggest turn-on in his eyes. The thing that was standing before them was all about authority.

A long, elegant hand reached out to Eve. Lilith’s smile was stone-cold as her eyes flashed brightly to the point of malevolence.

“Where is the child?” Lilith’s voice blended the words into one another, and Sebastian found himself addicted to the sound.

When Lilith stood face-to-face with Eve, she cringed in fear.

“Fear not,” Lilith murmured. “I will not harm you.”

Thomas cleared his throat like he was trying to get her attention. “The child is within the protection of the Breedline Covenant,” he stated. “When it’s time, we’ll retrieve him without haste and bring him to you.”

Lilith smiled. Her smooth face shifted into a self-satisfied expression. “There will be a death involved. It is merely what is required to begin the child’s transition.”

“Death?” Sebastian questioned. “Who’s the target?”

Turning in his direction, Lilith asked, “Are you committing yourself to the act?”

It wasn’t clear to him exactly how far he was willing to go. Getting his hands dirty inside the Breedline Covenant had not been part of his original plan. Sebastian rose to his feet. “It depends on who you want dead.”

When Lilith touched his hand, Sebastian felt electricity lick up his arm. And then he watched as her lips formed into a wicked grin. “The Queen,” she said icily.

To be continued...
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle, Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 20
Your Arms Feel Like Home

By scongrove

Previously...

After Eve gave birth to her and Sebastian’s twin boys, everyone in the Breedline Covenant welcomed the new arrivals, but fear lurked in the back of their mind, wondering if the twins inherited the genes of the Chiang-shih demon.
While Eve awaits her trial for her crimes against the Breedline, Sebastian—the father of her children—uses a portal and takes Eve before she faces her punishment, promising to come back for the twins.


Now that Eve is gone, her sister Mia and her bonded mate Jem decide to take on the responsibility of raising Eve’s twins.

Meanwhile, Tessa and Jace are planning their future as they prepare to be parents soon themselves. 
 

Continued...

Lying in bed, Jem spooned Mia with his arm wrapped around her waist. Kissing her neck and tilting his pelvis into her hips, she instantly felt his arousal deflate when sounds of a baby crying came from the monitor on top of the nightstand. The crying started out little and quickly escalated into full-blown wailing. 

“I’m sorry,” Mia said, rolling over, facing him.

Jem took her face in his palms. “It’s okay. You need help?”

There was absolutely no expression of disapproval in his eyes, or in the tone of his voice. He’d never been resentful of Eve’s twins since they took them in. If anything he’d been helpful.

Mia got off the bed and went to the door. “No, you stay in bed. I’ll be back, honey.”

“Let me know if you need my help.”

Going into the room next door, she walked over to the crib. Looking down, baby Arius was lying quietly next to his upset twin brother. Both boys had grown miraculously since they’d been born just three weeks ago. Since they were half succubus, their growth rate was much faster than a full-blood Breedline. Shifting her focus on Tidus, his face was red and soaked with tears as his hands formed into little fists, screaming at the top of his lungs. 

Reaching down, she scooped Tidus into her arms. “Shhh, auntie Mia has you.” She checked his diaper and noticed he was dry. It wasn’t time for his feeding since she’d given them both a bottle not even an hour ago. She kissed his forehead and sat down in a rocking chair nearby. His cries lightened and turned into hiccups as Mia rocked him. Smoothing her hand gently through Tidus’s dark curls, she realized how everything had changed since they started taking care of the twins.

When Tidus finally settled, Mia let her head fall back against the rocker and heard soft coos coming from the crib. With the baby in her arms, she carefully stood and walked slowly over. Easing Tidus back inside, she reached over and picked up Arius.

Cuddling him against her chest, he reached up and touched her face.

“You’re such a good little boy, aren’t you?”she said in a soft voice.  

Opening his mouth, he moved his lips like he was trying to talk. With concentration, he formed soft babbles and little coos. Holding him in her arms made Mia understand why being a mother was such an amazing experience. It was if she’d given birth herself to these two precious darlings.

She glanced inside the crib to check on Tidus before she put Arius back down. He was sound asleep. After she had placed Arius next to his brother, she looked at his wide eyes and gasped. They had turned completely black. 

She blinked in confusion and looked closer.

With his brows furrowed, Arius’s eyes changed back to a golden hue. Letting out a soft coo, he reached out to her.

Mia quickly covered her mouth to keep from screaming. “Oh, God,” she mumbled against her palm.

Right after the twin’s birth, Jem had mentioned that he saw Arius’s eyes change from gold to black. Even Cassie had said she thought she saw his eyes change in the delivery room.

When she heard the door creak, she flinched and quickly turned around. She let out a relieved sigh when Jem came into view.

“Mia, is something wrong?”

With fear in her eyes, she stared at him in silence.

Holding out his hand, he motioned for her to take it. Quietly moving toward him, she took his hand in hers. He tucked her against his chest and kissed her forehead. “Talk to me, honey.”

He felt her tense up. “Arius…” she said, trying to catch her breath. “Arius’s eyes…”     

“What about his eyes?”

Her voice became soft and careful like she didn’t want to spook him. “You were right before. I saw it. His eyes changed.”

Jem wrapped his arm around Mia and held her tight. He was afraid he’d been right when Arius’s eyes changed right after he was born, but he didn’t want to press the issue.

“I’m sorry,” she choked out.

Pulling from their embrace, he said, “For what, sweetheart?”

Mia looked into Jem’s eyes, blazing with intensity. “For not believing you in the first place.”

“You don’t have to apologize, Mia. I understand.” He pressed his lips to hers, so gentle and reverent. “They’re your blood. I can understand why you wanted to believe otherwise.”

As Jem pulled away from Mia, he walked over to the crib. Looking down, Arius was curled up against Tidus, his arms and legs snuggled in tight.

The instant Jem moved away, Arius stirred and made a little noise. 

“He just wants a little comforting pat,” Mia whispered.    

Jem reached forward, and Arius took his thumb, pulling it to his mouth.

“He’s sucking my thumb,” Jem lightly chuckled, looking over his shoulder at Mia.

Mia reached down and picked up a pacifier that was on a nearby dresser. “Give him this,” she whispered, handing it to Jem. “Arius wants his binky.”

Taking it from Mia, he slowly replaced his thumb with the pacifier. Turning around, he saw tears streaming down Mia’s face.

“Come here, sweetheart,” he murmured, reaching out to her. When she took his hand, he pulled her close. “It’s going to be okay,” he said, pressing a kiss on top of her head. “We’ll figure this out.”

With her cheek pressed against his chest, she let out a long sigh. “We’re going to have to tell Tim and the others. They all have the right to know.”

He nodded and took a deep breath. “Don’t worry, Mia.” He smoothed his hand down her long hair. “They’ll understand.”     
             
****
Tessa sank deeper into the tub, and closed her eyes. As the water level rose, it covered everything but her head and her rounded belly.

Staring at her stomach in the dim light, she felt at peace. The warmth soothed her changing body, now at the beginning of her seventh month. Closing her eyes, she smiled when she remembered what her father had told her. He’d never given up on searching for her when her mother disappeared years ago. After all this time, Tessa thought both of her parents abandoned her. Now she knew it wasn’t true. Not by her father anyway.

Lifting a hand out of the water, Tessa pushed her hair back. The wetness warmed the back of her neck, causing her to break out in a sweat. She thought back to the first night she’d been brought to the Breedline Covenant and what she’d later discovered. Not only was she born an entirely different species, but she was also their queen.

With her eyes barely open, she turned on the jets and floated. The water moved against the tub as she shifted her legs around. Abruptly, she jerked upright, causing the water to splash out onto the floor when the babies moved inside of her. “Oh,” she gasped.

Almost an hour later, she stood up and reached for a fluffy towel off a nearby shelf. She relaxed when it came in contact with her skin, feeling like a soft cloud caressing her as she wrapped it around her body.

“You’re beautiful,” a raspy voice came from the open door. 

Tessa’s wet heel squeaked as she wrenched around to the doorway. Jace was standing in the shadows staring at her without a stitch of clothes on. There was a magnetic moment as their eyes met.

“I want you,” he purred.

When she dropped her towel, she felt a sizzle in the air between them and knew it was not one-sided.

Now,” he whispered.

A slight smile curved her lips. “How can I say no,” she said with a wink.

He came to her with desire in his eyes and took her face in his warm hands. Leaning down, he brushed his lips against hers in a passionate kiss, and then she was off the floor and in his arms. Carrying her into the bedroom, he gently laid her on top of a thick, plush comforter as if she was a delicate piece of glass, in danger of shattering. She pulled his shoulders down to her as he settled beside her on the bed—like he was worried he would hurt her if he put any weight on her belly. Except she wanted his weight on top of her; she wanted to feel him pressing her down into the mattress with his warm body against hers. 

Pulling him down, she opened her legs to make room for his arousal that went right to her core, making her moan softly.

When he placed his lips on hers, his tongue slipped into her mouth, and his palm moved to her breast. He was better than the warm water in the tub, especially when he rolled his hips against hers, stroking with the promise of pleasure.

As her nipples tightened to the point of pain, Jace broke the seal of their kiss and moved lower. His tongue was lazy as he licked around one breast and then the other.

Arching in pleasure, she pushed his hair back, the thick, long waves that fell around her face. She glanced down at his hips, watching them flex and thrust as he made love to her.  

“Tessa,” he whispered her name. He lifted his head and looked down her body. “You’re so beautiful.”

Jace lowered his head, and his fingers drifted over to her hip and onto her outer thigh. He caressed her leg as he carefully moved in and out of her. Recapturing her mouth, he slipped his hand between her legs. Using his fingers, he rubbed in a slow, tentative rhythm.

For a split second, she stiffened and cried out, her body trembling from her head down to her toes, riding out the glorious release. She opened her eyes and watched those handsome features of his strain. His head tilted back and his eyes squeezed tight as his own release came. She reached out and smoothed down the side of his face.

“You’re the beautiful one,” she whispered. 

Jace let out a deep breath and nuzzled her throat. “I love you, baby.”

“I love you, too,” she murmured against his warm skin.

God, he thought, that was what he needed to hear. Her being safe in his arms gave him a rush so great he had to blink his way through it. As much as he wanted more of this—he wouldn’t press her, worrying too much would hurt in her condition. “You’re everything to me, Tessa,” he whispered next to her ear. “Please… don’t ever leave me.”

She kissed his temple and smiled. “I’m forever yours.”

Rising out of bed, he walked over to the corner of the room.

As she watched his hips flex with each step, she said, “Where are you going?”

“Hang on, baby. I’ll be right back.”

When he came back, he was carrying an acoustic guitar. It was incredible, and obviously vintage.

“Where did you get that?”

Smiling ear to ear, he said, “My uncle Jacks got this for me when I first started to play.”

“It’s beautiful,” she boasted. “Are you going to play for me?”

Sitting on the bed beside her, completely naked with only the guitar covering him, he nodded. “I’m going to sing for you,” he paused and smoothed his hand over her belly, “and the babies.”

She grinned. “Are you going to sing a lullaby?”

Jace’s face split into a goofy, idiotic grin. His entire face lit up and joy reflected in his blue eyes. “Hmmm,” he muttered in amusement. “I guess it’s my version of a lullaby.”

“I’m sure we’ll love it,” Tessa said, giggling.

When his fingers magically strummed across the strings, her eyes filled with tears hearing his soulful voice. He sang her favorite song, Your Arms Feel Like Home, by 3 Doors Down.

After the heartfelt ballad, she held out her arms to him. “That was breathtaking. Thank you, sweetheart.” 

Lying in each other’s arms, they finally fell asleep as Jace drifted into another dark dream.

In the dream, he was kneeling on the floor, watching Tessa lying in bed straining to breathe. When she turned her pale face to him and stared out from under heavy lids, she whispered, “Please, Jace… save our sons.”

Tears came to his eyes, and Jace’s heart pounded, wishing this to be only a dream. Except no—Tessa was reaching out to his face, touching him gently.

He pressed his lips to hers and then brushed her tears from her cold cheeks. Tessa had struggled for only a moment before she swallowed. “I’ll always be with you,” her weak voice drifted into silence as she closed her eyes.

Grasping onto her shoulders, Jace shook her lifeless body. “No, Tessa… please don’t leave me,” he begged. Desperately waiting for her response, he stared at her closed lids. Reaching up, he stroked her hair back and prayed she would soon open them again.

Suddenly, there was a limitless reservoir of heat inside of him, and now it broke out on the surface of his skin as if every hair follicle in his body was expanding.

His fingernails tingled as they began to stretch. Looking at his hands, he watched claws, the size of daggers, extend from his fingertips. Pain ripped through his flesh as the skin of his face began to pull and twist out of its natural shape. Thick, white fur rapidly grew out of his skin. It spread up his arms and onto his shoulders, growing out of every pore, covering his entire body. Smoothing his tongue over his lips, he could feel his mouth lengthening and his teeth stretching into sharp canines. His throat opened with a cry until his voice distorted and turned into a howl.    
     

“Jace?”

At the sound of a soft voice, Jace struggled from the thick fog that enveloped him like a blanket. When his eyes popped open, he grappled with his memory, trying to piece together what his dream had meant. Bits and pieces came back to him like random photos flashing on a video screen. Jace remembered Tessa struggling to breath. And then he remembered death... her death. Jace blinked several times, puzzled by the horrible nightmare. When he saw Tessa’s face, it took him a moment to realize he was awake.

“Tessa,” he said hoarsely, staring at her incredible green eyes, the color something that rivaled of the most beautiful, pale emerald gems.

Leaning closer, she pushed a strand of sweat-soaked hair from his face. “Jace, you had a bad dream. Don’t worry, honey,” she reassured him. “I’m never going to leave you.”
  
Panic was starting to seize him, and he shook uncontrollably. He wanted to weep like a baby, but he had to hold it together for Tessa. In her condition, she didn’t need him to be a wreck. She needed him to be strong. With his forehead wrinkling in confusion, he shook his head.

“You were talking in your sleep,” Tessa whispered, her eyes filled with worry as she stared at Jace. “Why would you think I would leave you?” she asked, reaching for his hand.

Closing his eyes, he shook his head again. Reopening them, he calmed under her touch as she reassured him.

“I’m sorry,” he said helplessly, his eyes shiny with tears. “I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“Don’t worry, honey. It’s okay.”

As Jace took her hand, she settled against his body with her head rested on his chest.

She flinched. “Did you feel that?”

Gently placing his palm over her belly, he smiled. “I think they’re trying to kick a field goal.”

“I can’t wait to hold them in my arms,” she murmured.

He gathered Tessa close in his arms, closing his eyes as he pressed his lips to her forehead. “Just a few more months, honey.”    
 
As silence drifted between them, Jace watched as Tessa closed her eyes, appearing peaceful. But he knew that underneath it all, his nightmares still lurked. And staying awake was the only thing keeping the nightmares at bay.     
     
To be continued...
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 21
John Doe/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest.

Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE.

After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe.   


Meanwhile, after Thomas introduces Sebastian and Eve to Lilith, they find out that one of their twin sons was born with the mark of the Chiang-shih demon, bringing great power with it. Hunger for power, Sebastian agrees to kill Tessa Fairchild—the Breedline Queen—to bring forth his son’s abilities while Eve is desperate for a normal life for her family.    
    

Continued...

Before Helen left the hospital, she sat in her car in silence. She looked down and realized she was staring at her keys she held in her hand. Her thoughts drifted to all the possibilities for the Breedline if the serum she’d discovered worked. Helen tried to imagine what it would feel like to never age again. Suddenly, snapping back her train of thought, it occurred to her that she needed to call Tim.

Reaching into her bag, she pulled out her phone. After Helen had called Tim, she told him everything.

First, there was a long silence, followed by stumbled words she barely understood, and then he managed to say, “This is great news, Helen.”

Before she could respond, a Channel Fourteen News van tore into the parking lot at a dead run. When it hung a left into the visitor parking, its brake lights flared when it came to a screeching stop.

News vans didn’t show up in a rush like that because of something ordinary. Helen had a crushing prescience that something got leaked out about the patient in room eleven.

Glancing up, she saw Carl walking toward her car. He stood outside Helen’s window, and no words were spoken, which meant he probably thought the same thing she did.   

Stepping out of her car, Helen spoke quietly into the phone, “Hang on Tim. I believe we might have a problem.”

With the phone in her hand, she looked at Carl and said, “What’s going on?”

“Somebody leaked information to the news media about an alien kept in the hospital,” Carl said in a low voice.

“They’re talking about John Doe, aren’t they?”

Carl nodded. “I’ve got him moved to a different location in the lower wing for now. But it won’t take long for them to discover he’s missing.”

She looked at him searching for a solution. “What are we going to do?”

“We need to get him out of here.”

“I think I know someone that can help us.” Helen placed the phone back to her ear.  “I need your help, Tim.”   
 
Not long after Helen ended the call, Tim and Drakon arrived at the hospital. As they came to the area where the TV van was parked, there were Berkeley Police Department cruisers and a crowd of people nearby. As a reporter stood to address a camera, men in uniform blocked the front entrance of the hospital. 

Drakon walked up to a random human standing next to the news van and asked, “What happened?”

The guy shrugged. “They’re saying the hospital is keeping an alien inside.”

Tim came up behind them. “What’s going on?”

“I guess they think there’s an alien inside,” Drakon relayed the news.

Tim ran his hand raggedly through his short hair. “Is that so?”

“So, what’s the plan?”
  
“There’s no way we’re getting anyone out of here without being seen,” Tim said. “We’ll need Jem.”

Drakon reached for his phone. “I’ll make the call.”

Tim sent him a grateful look for taking over. “Thanks, Drakon. I’ll let Helen know what’s going on.”

As Tim glanced across the parking lot at Helen’s car, his thoughts drifted to her patient. What was his story? Where did he come from? As his mind continued to ponder, he wanted answers. Moving a stranger under the same roof as his family made him feel helpless and he hated it. Ensuring the Covenant’s safety was on the top of his list of priorities. No matter what, he’d take desperate measures to protect his family.

Bracing his shoulders, Tim walked over to Helen’s car and explained to her he was going to have Jem use the portal to get her patient out of the hospital without being seen.

Feeling relieved, some of the worries dimmed from Helen’s eyes. “Thank goodness.”

After Helen had introduced Carl to Tim, she told him more information on her patient. She was sure John Doe had to be linked to the patient in the file she’d found years ago.

Tim’s expression immediately blackened. “This sounds risky, Helen,” he said, his eyes narrowing in concern. “I don’t think he’s safe to bring into the Covenant.”

“I don’t know what else to do,” she said. “We can’t just leave him here. If human physicians get their hands on him, there’s no telling what they’ll do to him.”

“Helen’s right,” Carl said, looking pointedly in Tim’s direction. “We can’t let that happen.”

Tim’s lips thinned, but he didn’t argue the point. “I’m going to trust you on this, Helen. And I’m keeping him guarded twenty-four-seven.”

Helen nodded. “Thank you, Tim.”  
           
****
Later that night, after meeting Lilith, Thomas escorted Sebastian and Eve to their bedroom. “If there’s anything you need, please don’t hesitate to ask,” Thomas said, bowing to Eve. “You may stay as long as you like.” 

“Thanks,” Sebastian said, narrowing his eyes. Watching how his brother looked at Eve made him feel uncomfortable.

Sebastian opened the door for Eve, and motioned her inside. As he followed behind her, he noticed she looked unhappy. And that bothered him. “Eve, is something wrong?”

She recoiled in silence, staring at him—and as much as it pained her, leaving Sebastian was the right thing on so many levels. He’d ruined what had been happening between them. All she wanted was a normal life with a normal family, and she missed her sister.

He pulled her against his chest, and whispered into her ear, “Please talk to me.”

When she flinched, he pulled back and said, “I’m doing this for you. I want you and our sons to be happy. Nothing else matters.”

There was a long silence, her heart breaking with every breath. Pain drifted into her eyes. “I won’t be a part of any more deaths,” she demanded, anger surging, her words biting in the silence. 

Her eyes were totally clear as she looked up and stared into his. “I do not fear Lilith or anyone else for that matter. Assuming that you have intentions of using my children to control the Breedline,” she paused with her hands fisted at her sides, “I won’t stick around and watch it happen.”
 
Sebastian stared back at Eve with his mouth gaped open. If he’d thought she was seductive before, now she was in goddess territory. Physical beauty was one thing; having a spine was even more enticing. And she had a point, but he wouldn’t give up on the control part. He would promise only to give her the family she always dreamed of having. He would tell her what she wanted to hear—the half-truth.

“All right,” he said, promising her a fabricated lie. “I will do my best to make you happy.”

His response seemed to surprise Eve. But she didn’t recoil; she didn’t run. She waited, apparently expecting him to continue. “And you have promised me nothing of taking Tessa’s life.”

Staring into her eyes, he felt such love for her. “Do you know how much I love you?”

She frowned. “You still haven’t answered my question.”

Sebastian shook his head, knowing she deserved so much better than he could offer her. “I promise.”

****
John Doe came awake in an out-of-body, becoming fully conscious, though he felt trapped in a state of deep unconsciousness. Without the ability to move his arms and legs, and with his lids shut so tight they seemed glued together, it appeared that his hearing was the only thing functioning. He heard a conversation going on above him. There were two voices. A female’s and a male’s, neither of which he recognized.

As the woman kept talking, her voice became familiar. Her tone was like a male’s. She sounded direct and authoritative. But who was she?

“Thank God we got him out,” Helen said. “If it weren’t for Jem being able to use a portal, we would have never got him past all those people.”

Suddenly, her identity hit him like a slap in the face. Christ, it was the physician at the hospital he was taken to, John Doe thought. A human hospital he’d fallen into after… Shit, he couldn’t remember.

Panic shot through him, getting him precisely nowhere. Clearly, they’d sedated him heavily due to his immobility. Oh, God. Are they going to experiment on me? He needed to get the hell away before they discovered his secret. Turning his head, he finally managed to open his eyes and saw a tall woman with thick mahogany hair that was pulled up into a tight bun. She wore thin glasses, no makeup or jewelry. Her white coat read, HELEN CARRINGTON, MD, embroidered in bold black letters.

Carl nodded. “That was a close call, Helen. What are we going to tell him when he wakes up?”

She glanced down at the patient and seemed surprised. “He’s awake.”

John Doe shifted his stare to the male wearing a physician’s coat, and a short military haircut. His white coat read, CARL EAVES, MD. CHIEF OF TRAUMA DIVISION, at the right of the lapel.

Looking down at the patient, Helen saw a frightened expression on his face. His eyes were emerald green, and his dark brown hair was shoulder length. In a soft voice, she said, “Sir, can you hear me?”

The patient’s upper lip quivered as he tried to speak, but only groaning came out. 

Helen placed her palm gently on his shoulder. “It’s all right.” Her tone was comforting. “You’re in a safe place now. We’re physicians, and we’re here to help you.”

Feeling relieved, he let out a deep breath.

Helen smiled. “Nod your head if you can hear me?”

He blinked a couple of times, followed by a slight nod.

“That’s good.” She patted his arm. “You don’t have to worry; no human knows where you are,” she explained. “I promise… we’ll keep you safe.”

There was a moment of silence, and then a knock came from the outside of the exam room. John Doe’s eyes strained as if he were trying to communicate. Then he just shook his head from side to side.

Suddenly, the door came open, and a man popped his head inside. “Helen, I need to speak with you,” Tim said, his tone urgent.
  
John Doe’s eyes went utterly wide in terror as his body started to shake on the thinly padded table. There was such a desperate edge to his expression, like the way a small animal looked trapped in a cage.

Helen leaned closer and tried to reassure him. “It’s all right. No one is going to hurt you.”

The patient took a deep breath, and then another. Then his eyes began to glow, shifting over at Tim, and he stilled as if the patient had willed him to do so. He locked his stare on the patient’s eyes as a wave of Tim’s memories flashed before him. It was if he was watching his past life rush forward at warp speed.

When the patient finished sifting through Tim’s memories, he broke the connection sending Tim into a dizzy spell as he fell forward with one arm outstretched, catching himself before he hit the floor. Propped up against the wall, Tim lowered his head and strained for air.

“What just happened?” Tim choked out. 

Helen took the patient’s chin in her hand and forced his head up. “Relax,” she said in a soothing voice. “Please, calm down.”

Rushing over, Carl wrapped his arm around Tim’s waist and held him steady. “Are you all right?”

Trying to balance himself, Tim reached up and rubbed his eyes. “I just saw my past flash before my own eyes.”

Behind her glasses and dark brown eyes, Helen had a determined mind, so with a curse, she brought out her authoritative side. Removing her glasses, she folded them up and put them in the breast pocket of her coat. “Tim, are you injured?”

Looking up, he shook his head. “No. I’m just a little dizzy.” He straightened himself without Carl’s assistance. “I think your patient got into my head and read my memories.”

Helen looked down at John Doe. “Did you do that?”

When the patient looked up at her, his neural pathways were like strands of old Christmas lights, flickering and shorting out. Taking deep breaths, he realized what he’d done. In a panic, he read the guy’s memories that had walked through the door. Swallowing hard, he nodded with an apologetic look on his face.

She squinted and tried to focus. Helen’s vision was blurry, probably because she wasn’t wearing her glasses, but she could see enough to know the emotion he expressed was regret.  

The patient watched as Tim took a couple of steps forward. “I’m all right,” Tim said in a reedy, hoarse voice. “Helen, I need to speak with you in private.”

When the door opened, John Doe saw a light spilling in from what looked like a hallway, and a huge man with a black Mohawk. His stern face suggested he might like torturing people, and the glare in his eyes made him wonder if he was his next victim. Hoping to avoid his notice, he closed his eyes and tried not to breathe loud.

Drakon’s voice was as hard as the rest of him. “Is everything okay?”

Tim nodded in his direction.

Before Helen stepped out, she glanced over her shoulder at Carl. “I’ll be right back.”

He complied with a nod and the door shut.

“I want everyone in the library for a meeting in an hour,” Tim said. “We need to decide what the hell to do with your patient. After what he just did, this puts everyone in the Covenant in jeopardy. We don’t know what other things he can do that will put us at risk.”

“I understand,” Helen agreed. “But please, let me get my patient well enough to speak. I promise I’ll find out everything we need to know. If he gets out of hand, I can sedate him if I have no other choice.”

“If I agree to this, I want everyone in the Covenant to be isolated from him. Am I clear?”

She held out her hand to Tim. “Yes, of course.”

Forming a half smile, Tim reached out and shook Helen’s hand. “I have a feeling I’m going to regret this.”

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 22
Little Arius

By scongrove

Previously...

Before Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest. Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE. After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe.  
 

Later, someone at the hospital who’d witnessed John Doe’s mysterious healing abilities notified the news media. As word spread like wildfire, human reporters, police and crowds gathered outside the hospital as gossip spread about the hospital keeping an alien inside.

When Helen and Dr. Carl Eaves discover what's going on, they immediately notify the Breedline Covenant. With Jem’s ability to use a portal, he transports John Doe to the Covenant without being seen.

As John Doe becomes conscious, he panics, and uses his abilities on Tim Ross—the Breedline head council—and shifts through his mind and all his past memories. Afterwards, Tim is threatened by Helen’s mysterious patient and calls a meeting with everyone in the Covenant. When Helen pleads with Tim to let her find out more about John Doe, he decides to agree as long as he’s guarded at all times.


Meanwhile, now that Casey Barton and Lila Demont bonded, she has invited him over to meet her parents. Casey is eager to get to know Lila, but worried if his secret of being a Theriomorph is revealed, it will scare her away.         
 

 Continued...     
          

After Jem had stepped out of the meeting with Mia by his side, his mind was a whirlwind. He couldn’t believe what Helen had just told them. Not only had she found the cure to the Breedline aging process, but she’d also had an unknown patient downstairs with the same genetics of cell regeneration as he, and his twin brother Jace.

As Tim explained to everyone in the meeting about John Doe’s ability to read someone’s past—which he’d personally experienced firsthand—he made it clear that no one was allowed to visit Helen’s patient in the exam room until they knew he wasn’t a threat.

With his arm wrapped around her waist, Jem walked along side of Mia to their room. “It’s been almost an hour since I checked on the twins.” Mia lifted up on her tip-toes and kissed Jem outside their door. “I’ll be right back, honey.” She smiled with the portable baby monitor in her hand.   

“Why don’t you let me check on them,” he suggested. “I think you’re due for a break.”

“Are you sure?”

He clasped onto her hand and brought it to his lips. “Yes, I’m sure,” he murmured, pressing a gentle kiss on her soft skin. 

Mia took a deep breath and nodded. “Thank you, sweetheart.”

As Jem breached the doorway of the twin’s nursery, he put his ear to the door and listened. Hearing nothing but silence, he slowly opened it. Jem inhaled through his nostrils, and the room smelled of Mia’s perfume and baby powder. Moving closer, he leaned over the lip of the crib. Jem blinked a couple of times trying to focus when he saw baby Tidus curled up in a ball sucking his thumb. Not only was the baby twice the size since this morning, but Arius was also nowhere in sight.

Frantic, he quietly searched the room. He looked underneath the bed, in the closet, and behind a dresser. Shaking his head, he felt like he was losing his mind. For Christ’s sake, he’s just a baby. Where could he have gone? Jem thought. There was no way he could have got out of his crib and opened the door. Someone had to have taken him.

Scooping Tidus in his arms, he hurried out the door and down the hall. Opening his bedroom door, he looked at Mia with wide eyes. “Arius is gone,” he said in a low voice, trying not to wake Tidus.

Mia stood in shock and muttered, “What—“

****
Exhausted, Tim stayed behind after the meeting along with Helen, to answer Jace and Tessa’s questions. Since Helen had finally found the cure to stop the aging process, Tessa was anxious to know when she could take it. Already ten years older than Jace, and the fact that he carried the genes to stop aging at thirty—which was only a few years away—she wanted to stop her natural aging process as soon as possible.

Pushing her glasses higher over her nose, Helen shook her head. “I haven’t had time to test it yet, Tessa,” she explained. “I’ll need to make sure it’s safe before I give it to anyone.”

Jace crossed his arms over his chest and shrugged. “Who’s going to be your guinea pig?”

With a puzzled look, Helen stood in silence. “That’s an interesting question. I guess after all my years of research; I planned to test it on myself,” she said grimly.

“Test it on me.” A deep voice came from behind.
 
Everyone turned to Alexander as he stood in the doorway. He walked in with a stern expression and clasped his hands behind his back. “I want to offer myself as a volunteer.” 

Helen’s jaw dropped, and she turned a disapproving frown on Alexander, not even trying to hide her displeasure over his offer. The last thing she wanted was to take a risk on someone else. But Alexander returned Helen’s gaze evenly... almost challengingly.

He gently placed his palm on Helen’s shoulder. “Please, Helen. Let me do this for the Covenant.”

Searching for an answer, she looked over at Tim. When he nodded, she turned back to Alexander. “Okay,” she agreed with a sigh and placed her hand over his. “Thank you, Alexander.”

He smiled. “I’m honored. So when do we start?”

“Can you meet me first thing tomorrow morning around nine?”

“I’ll be there,” he said, sincerity blazing in his eyes.

After Helen had answered everyone’s questions, Tim’s cell phone started to ring. Stepping out of the room, he reached inside his jacket and pulled it out. When he looked at the caller ID, it was Angel calling.

“Hello, sweetheart,” Tim said.

“Hi, honey. How’d the meeting go?”

“It went well,” he replied. “I’ll tell you all about it when I see you. Are you upstairs?”

“I’m downstairs in the kitchen making Natalie’s lunch. Would you mind popping in her room to check on her?”

“Is she by herself?” he asked pointedly.

“Yes, but don’t worry,” she reassured him. “She’s taking a nap. I’ll just be a few minutes.”

“Sure,” he said, the tension easing from his voice. “I’ll go check on Natalie right now.”

As he ended the call, he stuck his head back into the library and waved. “Helen, I’ll talk to you later. I’ve got to go check on Natalie.”

After Tim had got to the top of the stairs, he stopped outside Natalie’s bedroom. The room used to be her nursery, but since she’d made a phenomenal growth spurt—skipping the crawling stage and straight into walking—they replaced her crib with a twin bed. As he reached for the door, he could have sworn he heard Natalie giggling, and another toddler’s laugh.    

His eyes widened in shock when he stood in the doorway. Natalie was sitting on the floor playing with a doll next to a little boy. He looked just like one of Eve’s twins except he was almost the same size as Natalie.

“Natalie?” Tim called out.
 
Both toddlers turned in his direction and stopped laughing. Natalie reached out her little hand and pointed to the boy. “Baa-bee.”

When Tim walked inside, he moved closer to Natalie and looked at the little boy. “Is that you, Arius?”

The little boy suddenly began to clap his hands as he mumbled in baby gibberish. Reaching out to Natalie, Tim said, “Come to daddy, sweetheart.”

When she crawled over to him, he pulled her into his lap. Tim patted his leg and held out his free hand to the little boy. “Come here, Arius,” he said in a gentle voice.

Arius giggled and crawled over to him. With both toddlers in his arms, he stood up and carried them to Jem and Mia’s room. When Tim got there, the door was open. Before he walked in, he saw Jem holding Tidus with a panicked expression on his face. Mia was on the other side of Jem with the same look of shock and disbelief.

Jem rolled his eyes and groaned in frustration. “Thank god! Where did you find him?” 
  
Before Mia could collect her scattered thoughts, she rushed over toward Tim and reached out to Arius.

“He was in Natalie’s room,” Tim said as Mia took Arius, and cuddled him in her arms.

“Is Natalie okay?” Jem asked, his eyes simmering with worry.

“Yeah, she’s fine. Angel just left her alone for a minute and sent me to check on her. When I went into the room, they were sitting on the floor playing.”

“But—“ Mia stammered, her body trembling. “How did he get in there?”

Shaking his head, Tim said, “I haven’t the slightest idea. There’s no way he could have opened the door by himself.”

Glancing at Natalie, Tim asked, “How did the baby get in your room, Natalie?”

Natalie pointed toward the ceiling and wiggled her finger.  

Tim turned his gaze on Jem and shrugged. “I don’t know what she’s trying to say.”

“I think she’s trying to tell us he came from the ceiling,” Mia said. “Could he have the ability to use a portal?”

“There’s one way to find out,” Tim declared, “and we’ll need Drakon for this.”

“Ah, good idea,” Jem said. “We can check the security cameras.”

 **** 
Later that evening—after Helen satisfied everyone’s questions in the meeting, and agreed to let Alexander be the first to test the cure—she went downstairs to check on her patient. Tim had explained earlier that he would have John Doe moved to the guest house they’d kept Eve in, along with guards outside his door at all times.

As Helen opened the door and looked in, Carl was sitting by the patient.

“Is everything okay?”

Carl turned to her, and the patient shifted his eyes in the same direction.

“Yes, come on in,” Carl’s voice sounded eager. “Guess who’s talking?”

The patient placed his palms on the exam table and pushed himself upright, even though it made his arms shake. “Hello,” his voice was raspy and sounded a bit weak. “My name is Steven.” He held his hand out to Helen. “Steven Pasquale.”

From out of nowhere, Helen’s adrenaline kicked in. She couldn’t believe it. John Doe was talking and had a name. Stepping through the door, she cleared her throat and moved closer. Extending her hand, she took his. “Hello, Steven,” her voice was breathy from the excitement. “It’s good to hear your voice finally.”

“Are you going to experiment on me?”

Helen shook her head. “No. We’re not going to do anything you don’t want. You have my word.” 

For a split second, Steven believed her, which was nuts. He didn’t know where he was, and who they were. 

With a slight nod, he eased gingerly back onto the exam table, suddenly feeling drained. Steven glanced at Carl, and then rubbed his eyes.

“Are you okay, Steven?” Carl said, before turning to Helen.

Steven blinked several times and yawned. “I feel exhausted.”

Helen smoothed her hand over his forearm. “Get some rest. We’ll move you into a more comfortable room this evening. Don’t worry. You’re safe here, Steven.”

****
Later that night, the grandfather clock tolled ten times, echoing throughout the Covenant. It was yet another familiar sound Casey heard on a regular basis, but now, as he sat alone in his bed, the chimes rang out as if they were inside his head.

Rubbing his tired eyes, his phone buzzed. Reaching over to the nightstand, he answered. As Lila’s voice came through the phone, he sat up from the stack of pillows he’d been lying against and swallowed hard.

“Hi, Lila.”

In the silence that followed, Lila forgot what she was going to say. For some reason, his voice caused her to be absentminded. Oh, yeah, she thought. “I just wanted to tell you I’m looking forward to seeing you tomorrow. My family is anxious to meet you.”

“Uh,” he stammered.

The pause that followed was one Lila couldn’t shed light on. Maybe Casey wasn’t all that interested in her. “If you don’t want to come, you won’t hurt my feelings.”

While she waited for a response, her body tensed. The silence made her worry he was going to pull out of the invitation. “Are you there, Casey?”

“Sorry,” he muttered, trying to decide what to say. “Of course I want to come.”

She smiled against the phone and ran her hand up and down her silk comforter. “I’m glad to hear that.” Her voice caught as she glanced at the clock and seen what time it was. “Wait, are you… in bed?”

“Yeah.” He yawned. “I turned in early tonight.”

“I didn’t wake you, did I?”

“No. I just laid down when you called.” He hesitated, thinking of something to lighten the conversation. “And before you ask me, you might not want to know.”

Confused, she asked, “I don’t want to know what?”
   
“If I’m wearing anything,” he said lightly.

“Oh,” her voice got a little lower as if she had imagined him naked. “Okay, I won’t ask.”

He chuckled. “Are you blushing?”

Lila laughed, and he loved everything about the sound, especially about the way his body reacted to her response. Her bashful giggle was comforting to hear.

“Yeah, how did you know?”

“Just a thought,” he murmured.

She laughed again.

“Lila…” He stopped himself when his Theriomorph urges tried to take over. From out of nowhere, there was another voice calling out in his head, one that was utterly compelling. Yes, he liked her, but he was worried. He didn’t want to manipulate her mind. Casey wanted Lila to make her own decisions.

“What?” she said.

“What time?” Thinking fast, he pushed aside the voice in his head and changed the subject. “What time should I come over?”

“Oh, I’m sorry.” She laughed awkwardly. “I forgot to tell you. Dinner starts at six o’clock, but you can come over a half hour early.”

The quiet voice in his head morphed into an odd ache in the center of his chest. Casey squeezed his lids tight. He wasn’t used to talking like this… or feeling as he did. When he reopened his eyes, he said, “Five-thirty it is.”

“I’ll see you then.”

“And, Lila?”

“Yes?”

“I’m glad you called.”

“Me, too.”

There was a pause. “Have a good night.”

“I will,” she replied. “You, too.”

Casey ended the call and put the phone down on the bed. Closing his eyes, he thought of Lila and didn’t sleep at all.

To be continued...
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'?Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 23
John Doe/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...

Now that Celina’s spinal injury is completely healed, she looks forward to a future with Kyle, her bonded mate.

Meanwhile, Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest. Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE. After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe.   

Later, someone at the hospital who’d witnessed John Doe’s mysterious healing abilities notified the news media. As word spread like wildfire, human reporters, police and crowds gathered outside the hospital as gossip spread about the hospital keeping an alien inside.

When Helen and her colleague, Dr. Carl Eaves found out, they immediately notified the Breedline Covenant. With Jem’s ability to use a portal, he transported John Doe from the hospital to the Covenant without being seen.

As John Doe came around, he became panicked, and used his abilities on Tim Ross—the Breedline head council—and shifted through his mind and all his past memories. Afterwards, Tim is threatened by Helen’s patient and calls a meeting with everyone in the Covenant. When Helen pleads with Tim to let her work with John Doe, he decides to agree as long as he’s guarded at all times.


Continued...

The following morning, Celina paced around the front of the Covenant’s estate, testing her legs out, now that they finally worked again. She went from the dining room through the foyer and into the recreation room and back again.

Kyle had got up early to make them breakfast. Before he went into the kitchen, Celina had enjoyed the soft kiss he gave her and the flirty grin on his face.

Pausing in front of the grand piano, Celina thought about Jem and Mia’s wedding she’d missed. When she watched the video Kyle had made of the whole ceremony; it was evident Jem and Mia loved each other unconditionally. As the video displayed her favorite part—Mia standing at the top of the staircase in her gorgeous gown with Alexander right by her side ready to give her away, and Drakon’s beautiful voice at the piano—Celina’s arms broke out in goosebumps.

In the past, she never expected a happy future, or even be lucky enough to find true love. Considering what all she’d been through and overcome, there was no reason to have doubts now. She’d found Kyle, knowing he was her bonded mate, and that was a future Celina would cherish.

Glancing out a window, she looked up into the blue sky and thought of her parents. It would have been wonderful to share her love with those who had brought her into this world. But they were dead—their death brought forth by her evil twin sister, Taliah.

“Breakfast is ready,” Kyle called out from behind her.

Lost in thought, Celina kept her eyes trained in the distance, staring out the window.”

He moved next to her and grasped her waist. “Whatcha thinkin’ about?” 

She flinched and turned to him. “I was just thinking... of my parents.”

He wrapped his arms around her and stood embraced in silence. He didn’t know what to say. The reality of her mother and father’s death, and his, killed in a house fire when he was a just a child stung like a bitch.

Kyle struggled to keep his emotions in as his heart beat faster, and his chest rose higher. All he could do was hold on tight. Kyle lowered his head and buried his face in Celina’s soft hair. “You’ll always have me,” he whispered in her ear.

Celina’s haunted eyes looked into his as she lifted her head to meet his gaze. A single tear had formed at the corners. “We have each other.”

“That’s right,” he said, placing a kiss on her forehead. “Come on. Let’s go eat.” 

****

When Steven Pasquale—formally known as John Doe—came to again, it was out of a terrifying dream, one in which he remembered back to the horrific experiments he’d endured in the past. He wasn’t sure what was real and what wasn’t because his memory had so many holes in it. The blurry images lingered in his head creating a panic in him he tried to bury deep in his mind years ago.

Sitting up in bed, he glanced around and realized he was in a different room. He hadn’t been afraid in a long time, but he was scared of the unknown and what was to become of him here. 

Taking a deep breath, he smelled food and saw there was a tray set up next to the bed. Leaning over, he lifted the silver lid off, and his stomach growled when he saw the plate. Surprised, he noticed the breakfast included a variety of choices: Eggs, bacon, hash browns, biscuits, and a small bowl of mixed fruit. A glass of milk and a cup of fresh, hot coffee were off to the side. Glancing at the silverware and condiments, he noticed a note and a cell phone sitting nearby.   

Steven stood stiffly, stretched his arms over his head, and arched to crack his spine back into place. He glanced at the digital clock on the bedside table and saw the time. Christ, it was eight o’clock in the morning. He hadn’t slept in this late in what it seemed like a decade ago. Always in a hurry, trying to move from place to place—worrying his former captives would find him—Steven never had time to rest and relax.

Maybe this was all a dream, Steven thought to himself. Maybe he’d just fallen asleep on a bus he’d always traveled on and would wake up as it stopped at the next destination. He’d have an awkward laugh, get a cup of coffee, and plan out his day, blaming it all on the lack of sleep. Steven waited, hoping a bump in the road would lurch him into waking up. Instead, the digital clock just kept clicking through the minutes, and the food drifted into his nostrils causing his stomach to growl. 
   
Back to reality, feeling utterly alone and terrified, he walked over to the tray and picked up the note. When he opened the folded piece of paper, it read:

Steven,
When you wake up, please remember you are safe here. We have moved you to a guest house that is attached to the main living quarters. We hope you find it more comfortable and suitable for your needs. I have prepared a variety of choices not knowing what you usually eat for breakfast. Please help yourself to anything you need. There are clothes in the closet for you, and a kitchen downstairs fully stocked. After breakfast, call me. I listed my number in the phone provided. I have also listed two other contacts if you cannot reach me. They are my trusted friends here in the estate.
Dr. Helen Carrington     
  
After he had read the note, he sat down on the edge of the bed and let out a deep breath. He was tempted to scarf down the breakfast, change clothes, and make a run for it. But why bother? There were probably guards outside the door and most likely hidden security cameras everywhere.

While he ate, he noticed a barrier on the outside of the windows, the panel so thick there wasn’t even a tiny bit of light. Obviously put there to keep anyone from getting in, or getting out.

Finishing breakfast, he sucked down the last drop of his coffee and went into the bathroom that joined next to the bedroom. When he saw the shower, he stripped out of his hospital scrubs he’d still had on and turned the faucet to warm. As steam built, he stepped in and stood under the soothing spray. Feeling relieved, he sighed when the water poured over his weary body.

When he felt completely clean and refreshed, he stepped out and dried off. Moving back into the room, he checked the closet. Picking random items, he quickly dressed with his adrenal glands kicking in as he prepared to call Dr. Carrington. Slipping a straight-edged razor in his pants pocket—the old-fashioned kind that made him think of a guys barber shop, and the only weapon he could find—made him feel protected just in case the friendly physician were a mere illusion, and things ended up getting dicey.

Trying to get a grip, Steven closed his eyes and breathed in deep. With nervous fingers, he searched through the phone and found Helen’s number listed.

His hand trembled as he waited for her to answer. After a few rings, her kind voice finally came from the other end.

When Helen reassured Steven he was in a safe place and told him she was on her way; it wasn’t long before she arrived at the front of the guest house.

Standing outside the door was Bruce Carmichael, one of the same guards they had to watch over Eve. He nodded at Helen. “Guid morn doctur,” he said, his voice laced with a thick Scottish accent.   

She smiled. “Good morning, Bruce. I’m here to see my patient.”

“Ay,” he said, cocking a brow. Reaching inside his jacket, he pulled out a set of keys and unlocked the door.

As he held it open for Helen, he asked, “Dae ye need me tae escort ye?”

She shook her head. “I don’t think that will be necessary. Just wait outside for me. I won’t be long.”

“Aye, Ma’am.”  

Standing in the foyer, she reached into her white coat and pulled out her glasses just as she heard a door upstairs close.

Leaving the bedroom, Steven kept his hand close to his front pocket and his eyes sharp. As he moved down the stairs, Helen was standing by the door, watching him.

When he got to the last step, he straightened carefully, feeling a little lightheaded.

“How are you feeling this morning?” 

“I’m still a little weak, but much better than before,” Steven said to Helen. “Thanks for breakfast… and the clothes.”

“You’re welcome. Can I have permission to check your vitals this morning?” Helen said in a friendly tone, holding up her medical bag.

“Yeah,” his voice was hoarse. Wearing a baseball cap, not much of his face showed, but his expression seemed exhausted. As Helen ran a clinical eye over him, she noticed Steven’s skin was pale, and his hands shook. He looked like he had a hangover, weaving on his feet, and his breathing was off.

“Please.” She motioned to the bar in the kitchen. “Have a seat and make yourself more comfortable.”

Feeling the razor in his pocket, Steven measured the distance between them and decided to be patient and hang tight. He’d defend himself if she attacked even though he was weak. His best bet was to wait and stick around. If he did manage to get free, where would he go once he got out of here? He was tired of being on the run, moving from one place to the next. Maybe after it was said and done, they could be trusted.

“Thanks,” he said, pulling out a barstool. Helen followed behind Steven and waited for him to sit down.

He exhaled like he was exhausted, and took a seat. Blinking nervously, the corner of his mouth twitched. “What do you plan to do with me?”

Helen reached out and placed her palm on Steven’s forearm. “We want to help you.” And then she said, “I know about Dr. Hans Autenburg. I found his files a few years ago. Are you linked to the patient he called specimen one? You have the same gift of cellular regeneration.”

That name came back to him, haunting him from the past. For some ridiculous reason, he blurted without thinking, “I killed his colleague.”

She seemed surprised that he’d offered her that kind of information, which made two of them. Helen couldn’t take her eyes off him. Steven suddenly started to glow, a soft light emanating from his body, and something was happening between them, some kind of exchange. He was showing her his past as if she was watching it inside her head. She saw all the horrific experiments done to him by the German physician. She could hear Steven’s pleading screams in her mind as tears slid down her face.

When he finally broke the connection that linked their minds together, Helen instantly covered her mouth. “Dear God,” she gasped into her hand. What they did to you was horrible.” Lowering her hand, she shook her head. “How did you... do that?”

Steven lowered his eyes. “It’s hard to explain,” he said, lifting his eyes as if to seek Helen’s approval. “I just always… have. And I can also heal others.”

Her brows went up. “That’s remarkable. When did you find out you could do that?”

“The first memory I have of healing is when I was very young, and Dr. Autenburg brought in one of his guards with a broken arm. I remember closing my eyes and wishing with all my heart that I could make his arm better.”

Helen leaned in and said,” Did you heal him?”

He nodded. “The break in his arm completely healed. But the next thing I knew, I felt this awful pain in my arm. I could literally feel my bone breaking. It took hours for my pain to fade and heal myself.” His shoulders slumped. “I used to wish that I was born normal, and not like this.

“Is Steven Pasquale your real name?”

“It’s the only name I’ve ever known. But I don’t have a birth certificate to prove it.”

“What happened to Dr. Autenburg’s patient?” Helen queried. “The one he called specimen one.”

Steven lowered his head and sighed. “His name was Jonah,” he said, lifting his chin, meeting Helen’s gaze. “Jonah Winthrop. Dr. Autenburg found him and his wife Mary in Budapest and took them against their will. Jonah was like me. We were both born an Adalwolf... a human-wolf-like hybrid with the gift to heal.”

Helen’s eyes widened, shocked by what Steven had just revealed. “Did his wife,” Helen paused and removed her glasses, “have any special abilities?”

Steven nodded. “She was a Lupa.”

Helen tilted her head to the side, appearing confused. “A Lupa?” Her brows furrowed. “I don’t understand what that means.”

“It means she-wolf,” Steven explained. “Mary was different from the Breedline species. Her ancestors had descended from the old legend of the lycanthrope, except it couldn’t be passed on to others like a virus. It was passed on through genetics. She had the ability to shape shift into a therianthropic hybrid wolf-like creature. Her species is considered cursed and very dangerous. That was one of the reasons why Jonah and Mary lived in Budapest, Hungary. They kept themselves deep in the rainforest, far away from humans. When Dr. Autenburg kidnapped them, Mary was pregnant.” 
 
Helen shook her head. “What happened to the baby?”

Steven’s eyes softened. “Mary died giving birth to... Abbey,” he said in a low voice. “Jonah named her Mary Abigail Winthrop.”

“Is she still alive?”

Steven let out a deep breath. “I’m not sure. During the explosion at the lab, we were split up.”

“Did Abbey have the same abilities as her parents?”

“After years of suffering through Dr. Autenburg’s painful lab experiments, Abbey became uncontrollable. She inherited her mother’s genetics, and Autenburg wanted to create an offspring. Abbey was close to my age when he introduced her to me. Besides her father, I was the only one she trusted. We later became... bonded mates.” 

“I’m so sorry, Steven,” Helen said. “Did Abbey’s father escape?”

Steven looked at Helen, his eyes weary. “No,” he said, shaking his head. “Jonah died during one of Dr. Autenburg and his colleague’s heinous experiments.”

“Do you know who killed Dr. Autenburg?”

Steven hesitated and then said, “Abbey.”

Helen was speechless. “Oh,” she finally managed out. She didn’t know what to say. She felt completely humbled and saddened by Steven’s story.

“What about your parents?” Helen asked, trying to change the subject. “Were they like you?”

“I don’t remember them. The only memories I have are what I showed you. I’m just a freak of nature.”

Steven’s words sank in, and she went still. There was a lot she could say, but in the end, it wouldn’t make any difference. Some pain just had to be healed over time, Helen thought. And some wounds took much longer than others to mend. But she would make sure he knew he was safe here and not alone.

“You’re not a freak of nature, Steven. You have a gift, and you’re not alone,” she said evenly. “I’ve seen this before.”

Steven’s brows lifted. “You have?”

“Yes.” She placed her hand gently on his. “Two of my friends that live in this Covenant have similar abilities.” 
 
Steven jaw dropped. “C-can I meet them?”

She studied his face, from the scar on his left cheek to excitement in his eyes. On instinct, she said, “I’m sure that would be okay, but I’ll have to get permission from Tim first. Since you’re a stranger and the thing that happened with him,” her lips formed a half-smile, “he’ll want to make sure you’re not a danger to this Covenant.”

Steven didn’t hesitate. Not even to take a breath. “I swear on my honor; I mean no harm to anyone.”

Glancing at her watch, she noticed it was getting close to nine o’clock. “I’ve got an appointment in a few minutes,” she said. “After that, I promise to arrange a meeting with Tim.”

“Thank you, Dr. Carrington.”

“Oh, please. Call me Helen,” she insisted. “May I get a few blood samples before I leave?”

“Yes, of course.”

Reaching into her medical bag, she fished around and found a pair of latex gloves, an alcohol packet, some gauze, a syringe and a small cylindrical, glass container. She put everything on the table, snapped on the gloves, and tore open the foiled square.

After Helen had filled the small vial with his blood, she said, “Thank you, Steven.”

“You’re welcome, Helen.”

“If you need anything, just let Bruce know. He’s the guard outside your door. If you need me, you have my number. I’ll be back later this afternoon,” she said, patting his hand.

When she took her palm from his hand to reach for her bag, he caught her wrist. “Please, Helen,” he said with pleading eyes. “Promise me you’ll be back.”

She looked down at where he held onto her, and then looked into his panicked eyes.

The rational side of Helen rejected the thought of him being dangerous, but at her core, she was logic driven. She looked at him, getting lost in the implications. Her mind reeled at the evolutionary possibilities, but she also considered more practical matters. Could he be a danger to the others? With a shake of her head, she smiled. “I promise, Steven.”

He let her hand go, and sighed in relief. “Thank you.”

Before she left, she said, “Call if you need me.” 
       
To be continued...

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 24
The Cure

By scongrove

Previously...

As Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest. Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE. After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. And Alexander Crest agrees to be the guinea pig. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe. 
  

Later, someone at the hospital who’d witnessed John Doe’s mysterious healing abilities notified the news media. As word spread like wildfire, human reporters, police and crowds gathered outside the hospital as gossip spread about the hospital keeping an alien inside.

When Helen and her colleague, Dr. Carl Eaves found out, they immediately notified the Breedline Covenant. With Jem’s ability to use a portal, he transported John Doe from the hospital to the Covenant without being seen.

Meanwhile, when Jem goes to the nursery to check on Eve’s twins, he is shocked when he looks into the crib. Tidus had made a surprising growth spurt, now twice the size, and Arius is nowhere to be found.

Before Jem alerts the Covenant of Arius’s disappearance, Tim goes to check in on his daughter Natalie, and is stunned to find a little boy in her room that oddly resembles Arius, except the child is no longer an infant, but instead a toddler close to the size of Natalie.


When Tim takes Arius to Jem and Mia, they are relieved to see the child and overwhelmed by his miraculous growth spurt. Still unable to explain how Arius managed to get into Natalie’s room, they suspect he has inherited the ability to use a portal.   
  
    

Continued...

Tim tossed and turned most of the night with images popping in and out of his head. He couldn’t believe what he’d seen earlier when Drakon revealed the footage on the security cameras in the twin’s nursery. The video showed Arius sitting up in his crib, and then disappearing. The film footage of Natalie’s room caught him on tape reappearing in her room—an hour before he walked in, and found Arius and Natalie playing on the floor together.
 
As Tim stretched out in bed, he breathed in through his nose and exhaled out his mouth. He glanced at the bedside alarm, and noticed it was almost eight o’clock. Since it was Saturday, there was no rush to get out of bed, but Helen was supposed to be here by nine to meet with Alexander, which was another burden weighing on his mind. After Alexander had volunteered to be the first to take the cure, he was worried about the outcome. Hopefully, Helen’s breakthrough for finding a cure for the Breedline aging process would be a success. And then there was the stranger, Steven Pasquale. Helen and Dr. Eaves asked to bring him here before the human news media found him. Apparently, someone in the hospital leaked out information, thinking he was an alien. Tim wasn’t sure what Steven was. Especially after he got into his head and read his past. Having Steven stay in the Covenant was a major concern since they didn’t know anything about him, or what other abilities he had. His responsibility was to protect his family, including everyone in the Covenant. 
    
“Have you slept any at all?” Angel whispered next to him.

He turned his head, and scooted closer, wrapping his arms around her waist. As he held onto her, he found himself connecting with her more and more, especially after the birth of their daughter.

“Not much,” he confessed, looking into her eyes. “I’m worried about Arius.” 
  
“He’s such a good little boy,” she murmured. “I don’t even think I’ve ever heard him cry. Arius seems happy all the time, and he appears to love his brother and Natalie.”   
 
“Yeah,” he agreed with a sigh. “But he’s just a baby. What will he be like as he grows up? I don’t want my family’s safety put in jeopardy.”

“Honey, Arius is part of our family now. He deserves a chance.” She relinquished her arms from him and eased over on her back. “We can’t just toss him out.”

He sat up, and looked at her smiling. Leaning closer, he softly kissed her lips. “We’re not going to toss Arius out. We’ll need to keep a close eye on him, especially since he’s made a big growth spurt. Before long, Arius and his brother will be walking.” He kissed her again. “Come on, let’s get up and eat breakfast.” His stomach rumbled. “I’m hungry.”  
  
Angel eyed a robe draped over a chair and said, “After I get dressed, I’ll start breakfast.”

“Take your time honey,” he said, sliding out of bed. “I’ll get Natalie.”
     
“I’ll meet you downstairs later,” she said.

Before Tim went into Natalie’s room, he walked down the hall to the twin’s nursery. When he looked in, they were both gone. Just to relieve his conscious, Tim knocked on Jem and Mia’s bedroom door. Since no one answered, he figured they were already downstairs with the twins.

As he moved down the hall to Natalie’s room, he peeped around the door jamb and saw her sitting up in bed petting the cat. For some reason the black, furry feline mostly stayed with Natalie, following her everywhere she went.

“Want some pancakes?” he called out from the open doorway.

Natalie snapped her head in his direction in surprise. She pointed at Buddy and mumbled, “Kiddy-tat.” 

“Does kitty-cat want pancakes, too?”

She quickly bobbed her head up and down.

Tim stepped inside, and walked over to the bed. He scooped Natalie into his arms and said, “Okay, let’s go fix kitty some pancakes.”

As he started to leave, she stiffened in his arms and squealed, “Kiddy!”

“Sweetheart, I’m not carrying the kitty,” he said firmly, remembering the last time he’d picked up the cat. It had sunk its claws into his shirt, hanging off like a tie. He was not going to repeat that again. The cat had ruined his favorite shirt. “He’ll follow us,” he told her.

Just then, the cat meowed and darted for the open door.

Natalie giggled and kicked her feet.

Tim kissed her on the cheek as he headed downstairs with the cat moving ahead.  

As they walked through the kitchen door, Tim was shocked to see almost everyone in the kitchen at the same time. Angel and Tessa were behind the stove cooking. Mia was getting something out of the refrigerator. Jem was putting Tidus in a highchair, and Jace was standing beside him holding Arius. Drakon and Cassie were placing the dishes and silverware on the table, and Kyle and Celina were making coffee. The sweet smell of pancakes entered his nostrils. “Mmmm…” Tim sniffed, placing Natalie in the highchair next to Tidus. “It smells delicious.”

“I hope you’re hungry,” Mia said. “We’re making blueberry pancakes and sausage.”

Tim rubbed his stomach. “I could eat a—“

“Ow!” Jace yelped. “That hurt!”

When everyone turned in his direction, Arius had just opened his mouth releasing the skin on Jace’s arm, leaving imprints of little teeth.

“He bit me!”

Natalie kicked her feet, and started to giggle.

Jace frowned. “Hey little girl, it’s not funny.”

Mia quickly came to Jace’s rescue and took Arius. “I’m sorry, Jace,” her voice was apologetic. “He’s cutting teeth.”

“Yeah, I can see that,” he said, rubbing his arm.

Just then, Kyle burst out laughing, and Jem let out a chuckle. 

“Go ahead, laugh it up,” Jace smirked with his hands on his hips. “Just wait until my boys are born. I’ll teach ‘em to bite every one of you assholes when they cut teeth.”

Tessa glared at him. “Jace, don’t curse in front of the babies.”

“Asss...  hooo...,” Natalie blurted and giggled.

Tim frowned with his arms crossed over his chest. “Good job, Jace.”

Jace covered his mouth. “Oops,” he mumbled into his hand. “Sorry.”

“All right everyone,” Angel interrupted. “Breakfast is ready. Let’s eat!”

****
When Helen walked back to the exam room, she glanced down at her watch, expecting Alexander any minute. As she waited, her stomach growled. Before she arrived at the Covenant to check on Steven, she’d stopped at a drive through and picked up a variety of things for his breakfast, forgetting to eat herself.  

Startled, Helen flinched when a knock came from the open door. When she turned around, Alexander was standing on the other side.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you, Helen.”

She smiled. “You’re fine. Please, come in.”

His familiar blue eyes grew serious. “Thank you.” In the awkward moment, words hovered in the air between them, things about their relationship they wanted to talk about, but didn’t. Alexander wanted Helen to look at him as her mate. He wanted those eyes of hers going over his skin not in a clinical way, but romantically.

“Have you had breakfast yet?” she asked in a calm, authoritative tone.

“Uh, actually no,” he said. “I wasn’t sure if I should eat before this.”

“Neither have I, and you should eat before we get started,” she suggested. “I’m sure there’s something in the kitchen we could fix.”

“Good idea,” he said, holding out his hand. “Shall we?”

As she came over to him, she was all professional. He watched her carefully as she reached out to take his hand. His arousal suddenly kicked in. Inhaling, she caught the bonding scent coming off his skin and the change in his expression. Alexander sprang into action and took her by the hand. Pulling Helen against his body, the element of surprise shocked her into complete surrender. Moving fast, he stripped the white coat off her, handling her as gently as he could while her body eagerly accepted.

Suddenly, he took both her wrists in one hand, stretched her arms over her head and trapped her against the wall with his hips between hers. Only the sounds of moans escaped her lips as he pressed against her and sucked in a breath. Her scent carried the sultry sweetness of a Breedline female who wanted to be touched. Being in this position of passion once before, he’d stopped before things went any further. Alexander wanted to treat Helen with the utmost respect and court her the old fashioned way. But now, as they got to know one another, he wasn’t waiting any longer. Alexander wanted her, and she wanted him. Reaching over, he closed the door and turned the lock.

She released her hands, and reached up to unbutton his shirt, pulling it completely from his shoulders. Easing it away, she bared his chest and saw a scar that appeared to have been there a long time. The residual marks seemed reduced to a slight discoloration. “What happened?” She ran a steady hand over it.

“It’s nothing.” He pulled her hair out of the tight bun and watched it fall to her shoulders.

Helen opened her mouth to speak, and Alexander cut her off with his lips pressed to hers. “I want you, Helen,” he murmured. “I want you now.

She eagerly nodded in silence. Reaching down with shaky hands, Helen unbuckled Alexander’s belt, and then worked on his zipper. With his assistance, he was standing before her naked. All six feet, and six inches tall and built like a brick house. As she looked at him, he was amazing, the muscles massive yet elegant as they spanned through his shoulders and feathered out from his spine. Glancing further, his hips were…

“Can I undress you?” he asked with pleading eyes.

Her breath stopped, and when Helen was silent for a short time, Alexander expected he was going to be turned down. But then she whispered, “Yes, please.”

Alexander smiled a little. As he reached up to unbutton Helen’s blouse, his hands trembled. When she was fully undressed, he let out a deep breath. “You’re beautiful, Helen.”

She had to catch her breath. There was such respect shining in Alexander’s eyes. There was nothing more attractive to her than when a man was into intelligent women.

“Can I touch you?” Alexander asked in a deep, yet tender voice.

Helen cleared her throat. “Yes.” Then she tacked on again, “Please.”

He hesitated at first. Reaching for Helen’s neck, he smoothed his hand gently down her shoulders, and stopped, hovering close to her heart. Leaning closer, he kissed the soft skin between her breasts and moved his hand under the swell.

Feeling the warmth of his lips on her skin, Helen closed her eyes with a faint moan. Bending down, Alexander wrapped his hands under her thighs and scooped her into his arms. Carrying her to the exam table, he sat down with her cradled in his lap.

“Are you sure this is what you want?” he questioned with his brows furrowed. “Helen, if we make love, you know what will happen. You’ll… change.

With a smile, she nodded. “Yes, I want this. I want you, Alexander.” Caressing over his impressive bicep, she noticed his skin revealed the definition of each muscle. Power and strength radiated through his huge shoulders, and the slope leading down to his pectorals. He was in superb physical condition, not an ounce of fat on him, lean as a thoroughbred stallion, muscular as a lion. She felt tiny in his arms.

Under different circumstances, he would rather make love to her in a more romantic setting. This would be her first experience with the change. When they consummated their bond, she would change into her Breedline wolf.   

“I’m in love with you, Helen,” he whispered in her ear.

There was a beat of silence; then she reached up and held his face in her hand. “I love you, too.” Her breathing started to quicken. “Please, Alexander. Make love to me.”

After an hour of passionate lovemaking, Alexander thought about what was coming next. He sat up on the exam table and watched Helen begin the change. She glanced at him briefly, a quick reassurance that he would see her through this. As the transformation began, Helen drew her legs up and wrapped her arms around her knees. She seemed so fragile that way. Leaning closer, he placed his palm on her back and stroked over her skin. With each stroke, he felt her skin replaced by thick, sleek fur.

Lying on her side, she inhaled deeply. Her eyes were closed, and her brows tightly drawn together. Swirling her tongue around the inside of her mouth, she felt sharp points at the tips of her teeth.
 
“Open your eyes, Helen.” His voice was soothing. “You’re beautiful, sweetheart.”

Hearing the comfort in his voice, she slowly opened her eyes. Scanning over her body, she saw glossy, red fur. Using her front paws, she dug her claws into the thin exam table and pulled herself upright. Helen’s legs shook trying to balance her new form as she stood on all four.

“Steady, honey,” he encouraged her. “You’re just not used to your new body.” 

With a whimper, she spoke to him telepathically. I want to see myself.

Leaping off the table, she landed on the slick tile and skidded to a halt. Helen glanced back at her tail and lifted it high, shaking it side to side.

Look, Alexander… I have a tail! 

Alexander barked out a laugh. “Yes, I see that.”

Trotting over to the full-length mirror on the wall, she stopped and stared at her new transformation. I am beautiful.   
          
Moving next to her, he appeared in the mirror behind her. “Yes, you are beautiful, my beloved.”

Changing back into her human form, Helen hid the smile that popped up on her face. As they got dressed, giggles rippled through her chest, making her feel like a teenager again.

Alexander smiled. “You’re absolutely breathtaking when you do that.” He reached for her hand and said, “Let’s go eat.”

To be continued...
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 25
His Curse

By scongrove

Previously...

As Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest. Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE. After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. And Alexander Crest agrees to be the guinea pig. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe.  
 

Later, someone at the hospital who’d witnessed John Doe’s mysterious healing abilities notified the news media. As word spread like wildfire, human reporters, police and crowds gathered outside the hospital as gossip spread about the hospital keeping an alien inside.

When Helen and her colleague, Dr. Carl Eaves found out, they immediately notified the Breedline Covenant. With Jem’s ability to use a portal, he transported John Doe from the hospital to the Covenant without being seen.

As John Doe came around, he became panicked, and used his abilities on Tim Ross—the Breedline head council—and shifted through his mind and all his past memories. Afterwards, Tim is threatened by Helen’s patient and calls a meeting with everyone in the Covenant. When Helen pleads with Tim to let her work with John Doe, he decides to agree as long as he’s guarded at all times.

When Alexander meets with Helen to take the cure, the passion between them heats up and the focus instantly shifts into a romantic interlude. After they consummate their bond, Helen changes into her Breedline wolf for the first time.

Meanwhile, Casey Barton prepares himself to meet Lila Demont's parents, worried his secret will be revealed.


Continued...

When Helen and Alexander walked into the kitchen, everyone at the table was finishing breakfast. Tim looked up and stared at Helen funny.

She did a quick check of her clothes, wondering if anything was inside out. “Good morning,” she said, glancing down at her feet. Helen noticed the hem of her pant leg was rolled up. Shaking her foot, it slid back down.

The silence stretched, and Helen blushed when the sounds of silverware softly dropped onto everyone’s plate with all eyes on her. And then they shifted their eyes to Alexander. His hair seemed a little out of place, almost tousled as if someone had been running their hands through the long waves.

“If you’re hungry, we have plenty left over,” Angel spoke out.

Jace chuckled and winked. “Yeah, I bet they’re hungry.”

“Hush Jace,” Tessa whispered, elbowing him in the ribs. 

He jerked in response. “Ouch.”

Tessa motioned them over to the table. “Please, join us.”

As Alexander and Helen took a seat at the table, Angel handed them a plate and some silverware. Tim passed down the plate of pancakes, and Drakon gave them the dish of sausages.

Alexander inhaled, taking in the heavenly aroma. “Everything smells delicious.” He picked up the plate of pancakes and held it out to Helen.

“Thank you,” Helen said as she took one while Alexander forked three.

As they ate, Tessa occasionally glanced at them, trying to be patient. She pushed her plate to the side and let out a sigh. Not being able to hold back any longer, she blurted, “Alexander, did you take the cure?”

Alexander lowered his fork and swallowed. He pushed a strand of his hair behind his ear like he was trying to decide what to say. “Uh,” he muttered. “Not yet.”

When he said nothing further, Tessa looked at Helen confused. After an awkward moment, Helen cleared her throat. “I thought it would be best if he didn’t take it on an empty stomach.”

There was a short pause, and then Tessa’s mouth lifted at the corners. “Oh, I see.” The little smile on her face was a hint that she understood why they came to eat breakfast an hour after they’d planned for Alexander to take the cure. By the sparkle in Helen’s eyes and all the blushing, it was obvious they’d been making love all this time.  

Alexander’s brows lifted. “Don’t worry,” he said reassuring. “I’m going to take the cure right after breakfast.”

Tim’s chair squeaked across the tile floor, getting everyone’s attention as he scooted closer to the table. He glanced at Helen and said, “How’s your patient doing?”

“I checked on him this morning, and he’s still weak but seems to be healing.”

“Would it be okay if I gave him a visit this afternoon?”
 
“Yes, of course,” Helen said. “Steven is eager to speak with you, too.”

As Tim engaged in conversation about Steven, Alexander watched Helen. Her head eased to one side, her hair falling farther down her shoulder. God, it was lovely, he thought. It reminded Alexander of fine mahogany that had been carefully varnished, glowing with reds and dark browns. He reached under the table and grasped her hand.

For a moment, she pretended it didn’t affect her, and then she turned in his direction and smiled. Gently squeezing her hand, he winked at her. He thought about what had happened earlier between them, recalling the soft sounds that escaped her lips when he’d touched her. He couldn’t wait to be with her again. Inhaling deeply, he hardened in a rush.

God, Helen thought. What was that scent? She breathed in deep and recognized the mix of intoxicating spices.

As Alexander glanced at her lips, her mouth was slightly open, and she appeared aroused. She might not have felt entirely comfortable with everyone at the table, but she definitely looked stimulated. 
  
Leaning closer, he whispered something in her ear. She blushed again and nodded in response.  

Helen graciously thanked everyone as she scooted her chair back. Glancing over at Alexander, she said, “Are you ready?”

“Yes,” he said, grinning ear to ear. “Everything was delicious. Thank you.” He stood and reached for his plate.

Tessa put her hand out and said, “Don’t worry about that. Jace and I will take care of the dishes.”

Jace frowned. “We will?”

“Yes,” Tessa said, arching a brow. “We will.”

“I’ll help too,” Celina offered.

When Alexander and Helen left the kitchen, everyone sat in silence.

Breaking the stillness in the room, Kyle burst out, “They hooked up, didn’t they?”

“I think it’s cute,” Cassie said with a giggle.

Jace furrowed his brows. “Gross.” 

“It’s not gross,” Tessa said. “It’s great to see them in love.”

“We need to invite Helen out for drinks,” Mia said. “I want to know details!”

“Good idea,” Angel agreed.

Shaking his head, Drakon chuckled. “If you’re having a girl’s night out, we need to invite Alexander out with the guys.”

“Yeah, that’s an excellent idea,” Jem implied, turning toward Jace. “You can plan it.”

“What?” Jace shrugged his shoulders. “Why me?”

“Please, honey,” Tessa pleaded. “Alexander would like that.”

“I’ll help,” Tim volunteered. “It would be nice to go out and relax for a change.”
 
Tessa glared at Jace. “No strip bars.”

“Honey, don’t worry.” Jace grinned, cocking a brow. “That would be the last thing on our mind.”

She rolled her eyes. “Yeah, whatever.”

Tim broke up the conversation and said, “Okay guys, let’s help clean the kitchen.”
 
****
Later that evening, close to five o’clock, Casey stepped out of the shower and toweled off. Before he got dressed to go to Lila’s parents for dinner, he’d need at least half an hour to rest after he took his dopamine. Sitting on the edge of his bed, Casey reached toward the nightstand and opened a drawer. Taking out a small syringe, he wrapped a tourniquet around the middle of his biceps. After Casey had filled the syringe, it took him a while to find a vein that was viable. Finally hitting the right spot, he drew back on the plunger and watched as the drug’s clear solution entered his body.

As he freed the tourniquet, he stared at his arm and thought of Lila. Halfway through the injection, his cell phone went off. A quick glance at the screen showed his father’s number. Pulling the needle out, he cursed as a beep indicated he’d missed the call.

Closing his eyes, he eased back onto the bed and let the drug take effect. He took an extra dose just in case. Up until now, he’d never cared about a relationship until Lila.

After enough time had passed, he stood with a groan and walked to his closet. The numbness spread through his body and shut out the voice in his head. The less his Theriomorph urges were triggered, the better he could function while socializing with others. If her family got wind of his secret, they would notify the Breedline Covenant. The hard reality was life had put him in a predicament he didn’t want.

Picking out an expensive outfit, he got dressed and checked his missed call. As he listened to his father’s message, his voice sounded troubled.

“Hello, Casey. Please give me a call as soon as you can. There’s something important I need to speak to you about.”

Casey frowned. He called him back, and when his father picked up, Casey said, “Dad, what’s going on?”

When there was a long pause, Casey got worried. “Dad, are you still there?”

“Please, son …” His voice grew rough. “Please don’t go to the Demont’s for dinner.” And then the line went dead.

“Dad?”

In the back of his mind, he had a sense as to why his father had told him not to go to Lila’s, but he ignored his warning. He couldn’t stay away from her. He absolutely couldn’t. Besides, maybe it was nothing. His father was always paranoid someone would find out his secret and leak it out. Ready to leave, he put his phone on vibrate and headed to Lila’s.   

 ****       
Lila couldn’t wait to see Casey as the evening drew near. With the clock ticking, it was getting close to six o’clock. Upstairs watching out from her bedroom window, she waited for Casey to show up for dinner and introduce him to her family.

“Miss Lila?” the butler called from downstairs. “Dinner will be served in fifteen minutes, ma’am.”

“Thank you, Mr. Sims. I’ll be down in a minute.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

While she listened for sounds of movement downstairs, she thought of the bizarre dream she’d had last night. In the dream, she saw Casey without a stitch of clothes in the dark distance with his arms held out to her. His perfectly, naked body suddenly changed into a magnificent black panther, right before her eyes.

Summoned by his beauty, she walked across a foggy field to him, calling out his name over and over.

Noticing her presence, he raised his head and let out a screeching roar.

A sudden feeling of terror had shot through her veins and kick-started her heart as she dropped to her knees.

She had awoken with tears in her eyes and her body trembling in fear. Lila couldn’t understand the meaning of the dream, but her subconscious shouted danger.

When she heard the doorbell chime, she snapped back to reality. As Lila glanced out the window again, she saw Casey’s sleek, silver Maserati parked in the drive.

After a quick look in the mirror, Lila rushed downstairs as the butler was welcoming Casey inside. He was breathtaking. His long, wavy brown hair was groomed neatly and pulled back. Being a full-time model, Casey looked like he’d just finished a show and still had on the designer clothes.

Standing at the bottom of the staircase, she noticed the unusual lavender in his irises sparkle when she caught his eye.

“I’m so glad you’re here,” she said.

As Lila reached for Casey’s hand, his blood warmed the instant he felt her touch.

“Thanks for inviting me.”

“Come.” She tugged his hand. “I want to introduce you to my parents.”

Before they entered the dining room, he took a deep breath and straightened his shoulders. Stepping inside with Lila’s hand in his, he smelled a pleasant aroma of roasted duck. Across the room, Lila’s mother was placing a floral arrangement on the table, and her father was at the bar pouring himself a cocktail. Mr. Demont had a distinguished air about him. A year ago, he’d decided to retire from the head council of the Pennsylvania’s Covenant and move to California to be closer to the Breedline Queen.

Lila cleared her throat. “Mom… Dad,” she announced. “I’d like to introduce my friend, Casey Barton.”

“Oh, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Casey,” her mother boasted as she came over to greet him properly.

Casey bowed his head. “Thank you for having me, Mrs. Demont.” He reached for her hand. “It smells delicious.”

“Thank you, dear. We’re glad you could join us, and please call me Carol.”

Standing beside Lila, her father extended his hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Casey.”

Looking up, he nervously greeted him with a firm handshake. “Thank you, sir.” 
 
“Please.” He smiled. “You can call me Victor.”

When the butler finished setting up the table, Victor smoothed over his goatee with one hand and then motioned for everyone to sit down. “Please, let’s eat.”

As Casey slowly polished off everything on his plate, he had a sinking feeling in his gut. He wondered to himself if her parents approved of him so far.

An hour later, Mr. Sims cleared the table and took their plates to the kitchen. Casey’s stomach was in full revolt, and it wasn’t from the meal. His nerves were on pins and needles creating somersaults in his digestive tract. Before he came to Lila’s to meet her parents, he’d worried about his Theriomorph side creeping out. After taking a double dose of dopamine to keep it at bay, he had a headache along with nausea. 

“Would anyone care for desert?” Carol offered. “Mr. Sims made a homemade peach cobbler.”

“No thank you,” Casey said, patting his stomach. “Everything was delicious, but I’m full.”

Victor cleared his throat. “I’ll have a small piece, honey.”

Sitting beside her daughter, Carol placed her hand on Lila’s. “Would you like some pie, dear?”

“No thanks, Mom. I couldn’t eat another bite.”

As the butler served Victor and Carol, he poured Lila and Casey a fresh cup of coffee.

When Victor finished his desert, he wiped his mouth and cleared his throat. “Casey, I met your father this afternoon.” He looked at Casey with narrowed eyes. “We had an interesting conversation over lunch.” 

To be continued...
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) -He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 26
To Kill the Queen

By scongrove

Previously...

While Eve awaits her trial for her crimes against the Breedline, Sebastian—the father of her children—uses a portal and takes Eve before she faces her punishment, promising to come back for the twins.

When Thomas introduces Sebastian and Eve to Lilith, they find out that one of their twin sons was born with the mark of the Chiang-shih demon, bringing great power with it. Hunger for power, Sebastian agrees to kill Tessa Fairchild—the Breedline Queen—to bring forth his son’s abilities while Eve is desperate for a normal life for her sons.    
    

As Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest. Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE. After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. And Alexander Crest agrees to be the guinea pig. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe.   
Later, someone at the hospital who’d witnessed John Doe’s mysterious healing abilities notified the news media. As word spread like wildfire, human reporters, police and crowds gathered outside the hospital as gossip spread about the hospital keeping an alien inside.

When Helen and her colleague, Dr. Carl Eaves discover what’s going on, they immediately notified the Breedline Covenant. With Jem’s ability to use a portal, he transported John Doe from the hospital to the Covenant without being seen.

As John Doe came around, he became panicked, and used his abilities on Tim Ross—the Breedline head council—and shifted through his mind and all his past memories. Afterwards, Tim is threatened by Helen’s patient and calls a meeting with everyone in the Covenant. When Helen pleads with Tim to let her work with John Doe, he decides to agree as long as he’s guarded at all times.

Meanwhile, when Alexander meets with Helen to take the cure, the passion between them heats up and the focus instantly shifts into a romantic interlude. After they consummate their bond, Helen changes into her Breedline wolf for the first time.


Continued...

In South of London, at Thomas Carlyle’s estate, Sebastian sat in a wingback chair—covered in plush, dark velvet—in the formal dining room. Surrounded by stylish, wealthy furnishings and artwork, Sebastian admired the painting of Vincent van Gogh’s Arles at night time, hanging above the fireplace mantel. Swaths of beautiful damask drapery ran from the floor to the ceiling that was beige and black, fringed with gold satin. In their lush splendor, they reminded him of the way he’d lived growing up, and later moving to the magnificent castle with his father in Paris.

After the Breedline cast the Chiang-shih demon back to hell and took over his castle, Sebastian missed the elegance of that life. Now living in his brother’s mansion, he enjoyed the lavish lifestyle again. Reaching out, he stroked one of the drapes. It felt thick and substantial with nothing cheap about it. It made him realize he needed a good house of his own since he was a father now. Soon he would bring back his sons, and that was all the motivation he needed.

Sebastian glanced down at the piece of paper Thomas had given him. It had the exact location of the Breedline Covenant where they kept his boys. 

“Okay, I’ll see you later,” Samuel Mercier muttered into his phone as he walked into the room where Sebastian was. As he ended the call, he looked up, appearing startled. “Oh, sorry,” he said staring at Sebastian. “I didn’t know you were in here.”

Sebastian shifted in his chair with a fake smile. “I need you to do something for me.”

“Of course.” Samuel bowed his head. “I’m at your service.”

“I need you to find out how many Breedline reside in the California Covenant.”

“That’s going to be a problem.” Panic resonated from Samuel’s voice. “I cannot go back there. The Breedline know I’m a traitor.”

“Figure something out,” Sebastian demanded with a glare. “Work around it.”

Samuel didn’t argue, just bowed his head lower with a paranoid look in his eyes. It was evident he equally feared Sebastian as much as he hated him.

“I’ll get on it right away, sir,” Samuel agreed, glancing at the door with desperation, like a dog that needed to pee.

Sebastian despised weakness, and Samuel reeked of it. “Well, don’t just stand there,” he said, motioning Samuel away. “Go!”

He nodded without a word and scurried out of the room, leaving Sebastian alone.

Sebastian rose from his chair and drew on his leather Versace jacket. Walking over to the French doors, he looked out the glass window and viewed the grounds. The gardens were vibrant with a green landscape that included an assortment of colorful flower beds, blooming fruit trees and beautiful maples and oaks.

“Lilith would like to speak with you.”

Startled, Sebastian quickly wheeled around at the sound of his brother’s voice.

Sebastian frowned. “Now?”

“Yes, this is important.”

Sebastian’s golden eyes flashed wide as he crossed his arms over his chest. “Fine,” he said firmly. “Where is she?”

“She’s in the study. I’ll escort you there.”

As they headed to the study together, Sebastian saw Eve from the corner of his eye. He could sense the tension from the look on her face.
Looking in his direction, she used her succubus side and sent him a mental scene, drilling the image right into his head: It was the memory of the last time she held their sons. She was desperate to have them back in her arms. While he stared across the room at her, he silently mouthed, I’ll be right back.

With a slight nod, she turned and walked away.

Snapping back to reality, Sebastian said, “Do you know what Lilith wants?”

“It’s about your sons,” Thomas said, leading the way to a set of double doors.

As Thomas knocked and then opened both doors, Sebastian walked in first and looked at all the fancy decorations. The study had stunning Oriental vases and platters, and antique clocks were ticking away, from grandfathers to brass windups.

Across the room, Lilith was sitting in a chair that resembled a King’s throne. She was pale as a corpse underneath her glowing translucent form. As she watched them move closer, Lilith’s diamond eyes narrowed.

With a half smile, she motioned them to the chairs across from hers.

Sebastian’s eyes scanned over her unnatural body as he sat down. Oddly, she reminded him of someone, but he just couldn’t put his finger on it.  

“So I have some information for you, Sebastian.” Her voice was smooth and calculating at the same time.

“Is it about my sons?”

She nodded and tossed a velvet bag in his direction. As it came to him, he reached out and grabbed it. Opening it, he pulled out a gold pendant with a blue stone in the shape of an eye. “What’s this?”

“It’s a relic medallion.”

With the gold chain in his hand, he shook his head. “What’s it for?”

“The Breedline has a powerful Wicca who has placed a binding spell to protect their Covenant. It keeps anyone from using a portal to get in, or get out,” she explained. “This pendant will block her spell and give you access inside. The Covenant also has Guardians who reside there. Wear it around your neck, and it will also keep them from detecting you.” 

Sebastian placed the pendant around his neck. “I’m going to bring my sons home as soon as I find out how many Breedline are in the Covenant.” He turned to his brother and said, “And I’m going to need help.”

“Speaking of help,” Lilith said before Thomas could respond. “Remember your oath to me. You must kill the Queen.”

Sebastian smiled darkly, the succubus in him unmistakable. “As you wish,” he said, bowing his head.

Leaning forward, Lilith narrowed her stare. “I’ve got one more task for you to complete. The Breedline has someone there I want,” she said.

“He is being guarded in the same place as your Eve was. Bring him back here.”

Sebastian was silent for a bit, and then he said, “Who is he?”

“That is not your concern,” she said firmly.

Sebastian shot to his feet. “It is if he’s considered dangerous and puts up a fight. Does he even have a name?”

Thomas quickly stood and placed his palm on Sebastian’s shoulder to calm him. “Don’t worry, brother. It won’t be a problem. I’m going with you.” 
  
****
After breakfast and a quick stop in the exam room, Helen gave Alexander the injection for the cure to the Breedline aging process. Taking a small vial of blood to test, she kept her fingers crossed and hoped it was a success. Without words and only a seductive smile, Alexander led Helen upstairs to his room.

When he opened the door for her, all his Breedline instincts kicked in. Pulling her close, he reached up and pushed her hair back from her face.

“I want to kiss you,” he murmured. “May I?”

“Please,” she whispered.

He was nervous as he looked at her lips. He’d never expected to feel this way with anyone. It was like he was a weak-kneed virgin all over again when it came to Helen.

“So are you going to kiss me?” she asked as he stalled.

Smiling like a bashful teenager, she put her hands on his face and whispered, “Come here.”

Alexander’s body shuddered, feeling powerless as she cradled his face in her palms.

Overcome by desire, he gathered her close and pressed his lips to hers. In her sweet embrace, he felt a momentary blind panic. Did he deserve love?

Later, after an hour of passion, Alexander rolled off Helen’s body and positioned her, tucking her against his chest. As he cuddled Helen, he’d never felt more satisfied, and never had his life’s purpose seem so clear. Alexander’s one and only priority were to keep Helen happy and safe, and the strength with which he held that directive made him feel whole again.

Helen had healed his broken heart in the short time they’d known each other. And it felt right. They fit perfect together.

She made a little murmuring noise and snuggled even closer to him. As he stroked her back, he found himself thinking, for no good reason, about a lifetime commitment with her.

He looked at her curled up next to him and decided that, as far as he was concerned, she was already his life mate. She had given something to him, and he had turned over a piece of himself in return.

As Helen put all her trust in him, he wanted to give in return. She was an intelligent woman, and yet she put herself in his care—even with the knowledge of him once possessed by evil. Helen’s trust brought him to his knees, and that was the most precious gift he could ever receive.

Her eyes blinked open to meet his stare as they both spoke at the same time and said, “I love you.”   
  
Alexander clasped her hand and gave it a light squeeze. “Have you ever thought about getting married?” he asked.

Her brows softened as she nervously opened her mouth to speak. “Yes.” Her heart pounded as tears speared into her eyes. “I just never thought marriage was for someone like me.” She blinked the tears away and stared down at their entwined hands.

His eyes shifted to her, and for a split second, he was lost for words, thinking the very same thing about himself.

“Helen, why would you think that?”   

She closed her eyes briefly. “I’ve always dedicated my life to medicine… and I’m not exactly the type that stands out in a crowd amongst other women.”

Alexander reached out and tenderly lifted her chin. In the silence that followed, she could only guess what was going through his mind, and the idea that he pitied her made her want to do something to prove she was okay with the person she was.

He took a deep breath and shifted his feet off the bed. Without saying a word, he stood and padded across the floor toward the bathroom. When he came back, his muscles moved with elegance and masculinity. As he sat on the edge of the bed, Helen saw something in his hand.

“Helen… you’re beautiful,” he murmured, holding a mirror in front of her face. “You’re beautiful and intelligent.”

She smiled, and her cheeks turned pink as she stared at her image.

As he swallowed, she watched his Adam’s apple roll along the column of his thick throat.

“Don’t you see what I see?”
 
She looked at him and shook her head.

“You’re perfect in my eyes, Helen.”

She froze as if his reaction surprised her. “Do you really think that?”

He nodded and lowered the mirror. “Yes, I do.”

“Make love to me again,” she whispered, running one of her hands up to his neck. When her fingers coasted down his chest, Alexander’s skin twitched with a moan escaping his lips.

Helen had never felt more desirable in her life.  She loved that he adored her for what she was, and that was why it felt so right.  

****
Later that evening, when Helen finally emerged from Alexander’s bedroom, she went downstairs to escort Tim to the guesthouse. She needed to check on Steven, and Tim had questions concerning the safety of the Covenant.

Helen and Tim followed behind Bruce as he ushered them inside the guesthouse where Steven was.

When they stepped inside, Steven was sitting quietly at the kitchen table.

“How are you feeling, Steven?”  

Helen’s warm voice caught Steven’s attention. He smiled a little and said, “I’m better, thanks.”

“What about your chest?” Helen asked, moving closer. “Have you been experiencing any pain?”
 
Steven shrugged his shoulders. “Just a slight aching.”

She ran a clinical eye behind black-rimmed glasses, examining Steven. “Your coloring seems better.”

He didn’t know what to say to that, afraid if he healed completely, he would no longer have a place to stay. Then he stood and glanced at Tim, his stomach in knots.

With a sigh, Tim walked over and stood next to Helen. “Look, it’s apparent we got off on the wrong foot. We want you to feel safe here, Steven,” Tim said. “But it’s also important everyone in this Covenant is safe as well.”

Slowly Steven nodded and said, “I completely understand, and thank you,” he paused and turned to Helen, “for helping me out.”

Helen smiled at the sincerity in Steven’s voice. His emerald green eyes, oddly resembling Tessa’s, were fastened intently on her.

Shifting his eyes back on Tim, he said, “I’m glad you’re not upset with me. Not everyone takes it well having a stranger get into their head.”  

Helen glanced at Tim to get his reaction and was relieved to see him slightly smiling.

Tim cleared his throat. “Do you mind if I ask you some questions?”

Steven looked at Tim, suddenly nervous and unsure. “Of course,” he said, trying to control the anxiety in his voice.

“Do you remember anything about your accident?”

“No,” Steven said, letting out a deep breath, “nothing.” All he had were flashes of images and partial glimpses of faces. He remembered being in a run-down hotel, and a gun going off. After that, he woke up on Helen’s exam table.

“Why did someone want to shoot you?” Tim pursued.

“I’m sorry, but—“

Tim cut him off and questioned further. “Are you in any trouble?”

Steven rubbed his face. “Why would you think I’m in trouble?”

“You got shot in an alley in a bad part of town. The paramedics said you were repeating the same name over and over when they found you,” Tim explained. “What does the name Ludwig mean to you?”

Steven narrowed his eyes. Man, he didn’t have the energy to go through a series of questions with anyone, he thought. Especially someone he didn’t even know.

Tim stood with his hands crossed over his chest. He had a feeling Steven was going to say something along the lines of, go to hell. Instead, he just shook his head.

“He’s been through a lot Tim,” Helen interjected. “I’ve seen all the horrible things he’s endured in his past.”

Tim frowned. “What do you mean you’ve seen his past?”

“Not only does he have the ability to see your past, but he can also show us his,” she explained.

Tim sent Steven a puzzled look. “Can you show me?”  

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline Queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father- who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 27
His Curse/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...

As Steven Pasquale—an Adalwolf with the ability to heal—manages to escape Dr. Markus Ludwig and his thuggish hired henchmen and two Breedline hybrids, he was shot in the chest. Now, unconscious in the hospital without an identity, Dr. Helen Carrington discovers Steven—whom they call John Doe—have the same healing abilities as the files she found years ago on a patient called SPECIMEN ONE. After years of studying the secret documented files, Helen finally discovers a cure to the aging process in the Breedline species. All she has to do is test the serum. And Alexander Crest agrees to be the guinea pig. When she shares the news with a colleague she trusts and has known for years—Dr. Carl Eaves—he agrees to help her and John Doe.  
 

Later, someone at the hospital who’d witnessed John Doe’s mysterious healing abilities notified the news media. As word spread like wildfire, human reporters, police and crowds gathered outside the hospital as gossip spread about the hospital keeping an alien inside.

When Helen and her colleague, Dr. Carl Eaves discover what’s going on, they immediately notified the Breedline Covenant. With Jem’s ability to use a portal, he transported John Doe from the hospital to the Covenant without being seen.

As John Doe came around, he became panicked, and used his abilities on Tim Ross—the Breedline head council—and shifted through his mind and all his past memories. Afterwards, Tim is threatened by Helen’s patient and calls a meeting with everyone in the Covenant. When Helen pleads with Tim to let her work with John Doe, he decides to agree as long as he’s guarded at all times.

Meanwhile, as Casey Barton keeps his Therimorph side hidden, he’s worried Lila Demont’s parents will discover his secret. During dinner with the Demonts, Lila’s father reveals that he spoke with Casey’s father earlier.


Continued...
     

While Casey stared across the table, it seemed like forever in silence after Victor had announced he’d had lunch with his father. Casey’s mouth parted, and the flush on his cheeks had nothing to do with embarrassment, and everything to do with his nerves. Anxiously waiting, he worried what his father had said to Victor Demont. Surely he wouldn’t have divulged his secret.

There was something about the look on Victor’s eyes that struck a chord within Casey as he nervously fiddled with his napkin feeling caged and tense.

With a roar, his Theriomorph urges plastered through the dopamine and thundered down upon Casey instantly. For a moment it was as if Victor’s mind had opened up, giving Casey a glimpse inside his thoughts. He saw the guilt and sorrow radiating from Victor’s subconscious.

All at once, the emotional grids of every single person sitting at the table popped into Casey’s head. Mrs. Demont was thinking of horses. Evidently, she’d made plans to visit the country next week to go horseback riding. Lila, on the other hand, was thinking of something entirely different. She was thinking of a strange dream she’d had about him. In the dream, she saw him turning into a panther, waking up terrified and perceiving danger. Shit.

Suddenly, all the surroundings around Casey disappeared, replaced by the thoughts coming from Victor. Scanning his brain, Casey found nothing of his secret he desperately kept hidden. Victor was thinking of a woman, and it wasn’t his wife. When images of Casey’s recently deceased mother crowded his feelings, Victor was swept up with emotions of heartache and grief.

Casey was confused after what he’d seen in Victor’s subconscious. Why was Victor thinking of my mother? He thought. Finally, the pinprick tingles over Casey’s skin started to fade, and his nerves slowly calmed. Juicing up his Theriomorph abilities was an engine that, once he turned it on, was hard to slow. When he took himself back down, it depleted him of all his energy. 

“You’re father speaks highly of you, Casey,” Victor declared, breaking the awkward silence. “He seems quite proud of you.”

Casey smiled and let out a relieved breath. “My father is too kind.” His purple irises stayed level as he remembered what he’d seen in Victor’s head. Although he didn’t know what it meant, he was still concerned. As he pondered on the issue, questions came to mind. Why did Victor feel such a deep level of sadness toward my mother?

Lila put a hand on Casey’s arm, and when he looked over at her, he sensed she was ready to go, desperate to be alone with him.

“Would you care to join me on the patio, Casey?” Lila asked.

When he nodded, she said, “Mom… Dad, would you please excuse us? I think we’re going to retire to the patio if that’s okay.”

“Of course, darling,” Victor said, arching his brow in Casey’s direction.

“It was nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Demont,” Casey said, trying to ignore Victor’s tense stare. “Thank you for dinner. Everything was delicious.”

“We’re delighted to have you, honey,” Mrs. Demont praised. “You must visit us again.”
    
As Victor shook Casey’s hand, he leaned in close and whispered, “Meet me for lunch tomorrow afternoon.” Victor’s tone was persistent. “I need to speak to you about something private.”

Casey nodded in agreement. As he left with Lila, he wondered what her father wanted to talk about that was so insistent.  Did it have something to do with his mother?
  

****
For a moment Steven simply stared off into the distance. He knew there was no getting out of Tim’s questions. He was going to have to show him his past which meant reliving the pain he’d sustained all over again.

Steven’s gaze snapped up, and he took a wary step back. He closed his lids, knowing they were glowing. As Helen watched him retreat, she realized that Steven was enduring the pain from his past.

When Tim noticed Steven’s reaction, he began to wonder just how much he’d suffered from his past. He knew it was bad, but he was starting to think he had no grasp at all of the horrors he’d encountered. Tim wasn’t sure what all Steven’s abilities were, but from what he’d experienced himself, Steven could get into your mind and see your entire past. Tim had a thousand questions, but he knew the only thing that mattered was the Covenant was safe, and Steven wasn’t a threat.

“How can you…,” Tim paused briefly, shaking his head, “get into someone’s head and see their past life?”

When Steven reopened his eyes, they were normal again. His hands twisted nervously in front of him, and Tim could tell his unease had just shot through the roof. It didn’t take a rocket scientist or the power to read minds to figure out Steven was terrified.

“I’ve always had this ability,” Steven finally said. “I guess I was born this way.”

“You said people were looking for you,” Tim said in a steady voice. “Do you know who they are and why they’re after you?”

Steven sighed and looked down at his hands. Lifting his chin, he said, “Dr. Autenburg’s people. The day I escaped the facility I was being held captive, was destroyed. I remember hearing screams. It was a war zone. The cell I was in collapsed and I was able to get out, but many of the scientists perished, and I don’t think it was from the explosions I heard. There was blood everywhere as if someone or something slaughtered them.”

He broke off and put a hand to his head, closing his eyes as he dropped his shoulders. When he lowered his hand, he blew out his breath. “I killed Dr. Autenburg’s colleague,” Steven confessed. “His name was Dr. Markus Ludwig.”

Tim’s brows wrinkled in confusion. “Why?”

Steven swallowed the knot in his throat. “I was... defending myself. The rest is a blur.”

“I don’t blame you,” Helen said sympathetically. “Any man who treats others like a lab rat deserves to have their balls cut off.”

Shocked by Helen’s response, Tim looked at her with a cocked brow. “Remind me never to piss you off,” he said dryly. Turning back to Steven, he said, “If I had to guess, the people after you are backed up by an underground organization.”

Helen’s face twisted in sympathy. “How did they find you?”

Steven stared at Helen open-mouthed. The pain he suffered still lived inside him. All at once the night of his shooting funneled into Steven’s brain with complete clarity. He remembered his captors surrounding him like he was an animal they’d trapped in a cage. Shifting back to reality, he snapped his lips closed and said, “I didn’t cover my trail as well as I should have. Dr. Ludwig’s men captured me a few weeks after the lab got destroyed. I don’t remember where they took me. They kept me drugged most of the time until they started experimenting on me again. They wanted me awake when they ran tests on me.” 
 
For a moment, Tim was completely still, as if he couldn’t process what Steven had said. Placing his palm on Steven’s shoulder, Tim’s eyes softened. “You must be on overload by now. I’m sorry you had to go through all that. You’re welcome to stay with us as long as you want.”

For a moment Steven didn’t know what to say. He blinked in surprise and then turned his gaze to Helen in bewilderment. She merely smiled at him and nodded.

Steven looked back at Tim, his brows clenched together. “Why would you offer me a place to stay after I told you I took the physician’s life?”

“You did what anyone would do,” Tim said slowly, drawing out the words. “You were put through hell. No one deserves that.”

Steven tried to wrap his head around Tim’s offer. No one had ever shown him such kindness. His life had been nothing but torture. A safe place to stay sounded next to heaven. “Yes, I will stay,” he said. “Thank you.”

Tim nodded. “You’re welcome.”

“If there’s anything you need, you can come to Tim or me,” Helen said. “I’ve listed Jem Chamberlain’s number in your phone if you can’t reach us. He’s a trusted friend here in the Covenant.”

When Tim and Helen left, Steven thought about what was waiting for him outside the Breedline Covenant. No matter where he hid, they always found him. Even though he didn’t want to go into the past, Steven couldn’t stop himself. He went back to what had been done to him, recalling all the painful experiments he went through. If he were faced with that life again, he would do the same thing he’d done before... kill again.  
                 
****
As Jace drifted into a peaceful sleep, he was blissfully happy and felt complete. His arms were around his beloved, his body pressed up close to hers, and the scent of his bonding mate was heaven to his senses. Though it was nighttime, it was as if the sun were shining upon him, and the warmth radiated throughout his body.

Darkness enveloped him like a black cloak, blinding his vision as he slowly shifted into a dream.

When the darkness faded, his sight returned. “No,” Jace cried out, pain tearing through his heart. He fell for what seemed like an eternity until he dropped to his knees. The horror of his nightmare unfolded as it always did, and yet it was fresh as the first time it had come to him. As he reached for Tessa’s lifeless body, he saw blood on his hands. Screaming her name over and over, he wanted to die.

Jace shot upright in bed, and shouted, “Tessa!”

Tessa instantly awoke and quickly reached for the lamp. After she had switched the light on, she faced him. “Jace … what’s wrong?”

He fumbled with the sheets, tearing them off so he could see his hands. “There was... so much,” he stumbled over his words, “blood.”

“You just had a bad dream, honey,” her voice soothed as she reached for him.

Frantically searching her face, he pulled her close. “I’m sorry,” he caught his breath, “I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“God, don’t apologize.” Tessa smoothed her hand up and down his back. “You okay?”

He nodded and wound his arms around her tight. He held her like she was the most precious thing in this world.

As she pulled from their embrace, she reached for the sheet he’d kicked off and pulled it over them. “That must have been some nightmare,” she said, easing down beside him. “You sounded terrified. Do you want to talk about it?”

Jace shook his head. “Not now. Let’s just go back to sleep.”

There was a long pause, and then she kissed his cheek. “Okay,” she whispered, switching off the light.

Lying beside her with his eyes wide open, Jace tried to picture himself telling Tessa about the dreams he was having again. No, he thought. No way would he want her stressed over the nightmares he’d been having, especially in her condition. Turning his head, he stared at her profile and loved the changes in her body. Now close to the end of her seventh month, Tessa’s pregnancy was now undeniable, even under the covers. Moving his hand closer, he gently placed it on her belly and rubbed circles over the taut skin as he’d done so many times before. Images of two blond haired, blue eyed boys entered his mind.

“Tessa, are you asleep?”

Rolling on her side, she faced him. “Not yet.”

He stared at her in the darkness. “Can I ask you something?"

“Of course,” she said.

“Do you think I’ll be a good father?”

“You’re going to be an excellent father,” she said without hesitating. “Why would you ask that question?”

“I don’t know?” He thought for a minute. “I guess I’m just worried.”

“Jace, stop worrying,” she said, trying to inject strength into her voice. “You’re going to be just fine. I promise.”

Jace ran a hand through his hair, pushing the long strands from his face. He felt like the biggest dumbass in the world. “I’m sorry,” he said.
Tears burned the edges of his eyes. Jace blinked, and it was like rubbing sand on them. His emotions were raw. He couldn’t understand why he kept having the same dreams of Tessa, and what did they mean?

Reaching out, she caressed his face and felt something wet. “I love you, Jace,” Tessa whispered, wiping his tears with her hand. “Everything is okay now. We’re okay… all of us. The demon is dead. He can’t hurt us anymore. He can’t hurt you anymore.”

He entwined his fingers with hers and said, “I love you so much, Tessa.”

”I want you to have this,” she whispered, pressing something into his hand.

When he brought his palm close to his face, he saw the cross necklace her father had given her. He was going to protest, but Tessa put her hand on his arm.

“Please, Jace. I want you to keep this on you always. It’s for good luck.”

Tessa let her hand slide off Jace’s arm as he nodded and said, “Always.” 
 
Embraced in each other’s arms, Jace fingered the delicate necklace for a while, and then placed it around his neck. The soft sounds of Tessa’s breathing told him she was asleep. For some reason, the quiet silence bore down on him like a tangible weight as he closed his eyes. Collecting his thoughts, he remembered the rough period in their lives. After Tessa had been abducted by Sebastian and brought back safe, she’d shown a lot of courage getting over what had been done to her enough to trust him.

Jace opened his eyes and glanced down at Tessa’s belly. God, that damn reoccurring dream was driving him to insanity. He needed professional help before the twins were born and not just loving support from his mate. Maybe he could talk to Helen. She had a counseling background and knew all about his past. There was no way he would discuss this with a stranger. His dreams were too horrific, and the pain went too deep. As desperation dug in, he decided to visit Helen tomorrow and get her opinion.

****
The next morning, Jace opened his eyes, startled by the sounds of screams coming from outside the bedroom. He listened a moment and then glanced quickly in Tessa’s direction.

He nudged her arm. “Tessa, did you hear that?”

And then another scream sounded out, followed by the low murmur of voices.

“That sounds like Angel,” Tessa said, reaching for her robe.

As Jace shot out of bed, he nearly went down and face-planted on the floor. Managing his bearings, he quickly slipped into a pair of jeans and rushed out the door in bare feet, Tessa right on his heels.

Tim, Angel, and Mia were standing in the hallway. Angel was crying as Tim held her close, trying to comfort her.

“What’s wrong?” Jace asked, catching his breath.

“It’s Natalie and Arius,” Tim said, his expression fierce. “They’re missing.”

“Oh my God,” Tessa gasped and placed her palm on Angel’s shoulder.  

Angel looked at Tessa with tears rolling down her cheeks. “Natalie wasn’t in her room this morning,” she sobbed, so overcome that she could barely form a coherent sentence.

“Arius wasn’t in his room either,” Mia said, holding Tidus in her arms. “We’ve looked all over the estate.”

Tim caressed Angel’s hair, ran his hand down her back and simply held her in silence while he waited for her to collect herself.

Angel turned her face into his chest and burrowed into his warmth. She loved that Tim didn’t seem to fall apart when she needed his strength the most.

When Angel’s sobs diminished to soft puffs of air, and the shaking ceased, Tim pulled her carefully away from his body and stared down into her eyes. “It’s going to be okay, honey,” he soothed. “We’ll find them.”

Jace shrugged. “Where’s Jem?”

“He’s outside searching the grounds,” Tim said. “We think Arius used the portal and took Natalie with him.”

“What the hell?” There was genuine bafflement in Jace’s outburst. What the holy hell was going on here? Jace felt as though he’d stepped into an alternate universe. Had the entire world gone mad on him? “Did you just say Arius can use a portal?”

Before anyone could answer, their attention was drawn to Jem’s voice calling out from downstairs.

To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. Terms and characters reference, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant.


Chapter 28
Little Arius/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...

After Arius—Sebastian and Eve’s son, who is now residing in the Breedline Covenant with his twin brother Tidus in the care of Eve’s sister Mia, and her mate Jem Chamberlain—uses his gift he inherited and vanishes through a portal. When Tim and Angel realize their daughter Natalie is also missing, Jem searches the estate’s grounds in hopes he will find them outside.

Meanwhile, Jace decides to reach out to Dr. Helen Carrington for counseling in hopes to make sense of why his haunting dreams of Tessa’s death have returned.


Continued...      

When they all looked over the stair railing, Jem was standing by the door with Arius tucked under one arm and holding Natalie’s hand with the other. Both toddlers were covered head to toe in mud.

Angel covered her face and tried to control the sobs that bubbled from her chest. “Thank God,” her voice trembled against her hand. 

Strong arms came around her. “It’s okay, baby,” Tim murmured softly into her ear. “Natalie’s safe.”

Panic blew over Mia like a tornado. And then it was gone just as quickly, leaving her relieved as she caught sight of Arius and Natalie. “Oh, Arius,” she gasped as tears rolled down her cheeks and her knees threatened to give out.

Tessa and Jace looked at each other and smiled at the same time.

“Mia, let me take Tidus while you go after Arius,” Tessa said reaching for the toddler. 

“Thank you, Tessa,” Mia said, wiping her eyes. 

When they made it downstairs, Angel was the first one to rush over. Natalie’s eyes were huge in her small face as she recognized her mother’s worried expression. It was a look that expressed she’d done something to be in trouble. In reaction, her thumb immediately went to her mouth, a habit she’d only recently adopted.

Angel picked Natalie up and enfolded her in her arms. “How did you get covered in mud,” Angel groaned, and then looked over at Jem. “Where were they?”

Jem frowned as he looked at Arius. “I found them outside playing in a mud puddle.”

Natalie held out her hands. “Yucky,” she mumbled with her nose crinkled.

“Young lady, you had us worried to death,” Tim said, kissing Natalie’s forehead.

Mia automatically reached out as Jem placed Arius in her arms. “Arius, you’re filthy,” she grumbled.

Tidus pointed his little finger at his brother and said, “No-no!”

Arius glanced up at Mia and giggled.

Mia shook her head. “What am I going to do with you, little man?”   
 
He cuddled his head against Mia’s chest and murmured, “Ma-ma.”

Mia’s eyes softened. “Oh, sweetheart,” she said, kissing the top of his head; the only part of him that wasn’t covered in mud. Overcome with joy; she looked at Jem with teary eyes. “Did you hear that?” 

Grinning ear to ear, Jem leaned close and kissed Mia on the temple. “Yes, I did.”

“Now that Arius can take another person with him through a portal,” Tim paused, shaking his head, “we’ll have to figure out a way to keep him from doing this again. Next time, it might be further from the estate.”

Jace stared at Tim with his brows drawn together. “How in the world are we going to do that?”

Just then, Drakon and Cassie came downstairs with wet hair, obviously fresh from a shower. 

Jace whirled around to see Drakon with a distraught look on his face. “Did we miss something?” 

“Yeah, where were you two?” Jace asked with an arched brow. “Didn’t you hear Angel screaming this morning?”

Cassie’s eyes widened. “Oh, my gosh. What happened?”

“Arius and Natalie went missing,” Jace told them. “Jem found them outside playing in the mud.”

“Are you serious?” Drakon blurted.

“Just look at them,” Jace said, pointing at the two mischievous toddlers.

“We didn’t hear anything. We were,” Cassie hesitated, clearing her throat, “in the shower.”

“So did Arius take Natalie through the portal with him?” Drakon asked pointedly.

Tim nodded and let out a deep breath. “We need to figure out a way to control him. Next time he could go beyond the Covenant.”

Rubbing his chin, Drakon said, “Yeah, that wouldn’t be good.”

“What do you say we take these two varmints upstairs for a bath?” Angel asked Mia.
         
“Yes, I think that’s a good idea.”

****
Later that afternoon, Jace jogged downstairs to the exam room. When he approached the facility, the door was open. Helen was sitting in front of Alexander taking a blood sample when she noticed him looking in. 

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I can come back if you’re busy.”

“I’ve got to get one more sample,” Helen called out, “and then I’ll be done.”

“I just wanted to talk to you about something,” Jace said, feeling awkward. “I’ll wait in the hall.”

Before Jace turned to leave, Alexander spoke out, “You can stay. I don’t mind.”

Jace stared at him in bewilderment. “Are you sure?”

“Please, come in and have a seat,” Alexander said, motioning him inside.

After a moment’s hesitation, Jace stepped in and sat down. Feeling nervous, he fidgeted in his chair and glanced around the large room. It seemed worthy of a fully functioning medical facility after all the recent modifications, he thought to himself. The Breedline’s goal was to avoid the use of a human hospital if at all possible.

“How’s Tessa?” Helen asked Jace, breaking the awkward silence.

“Oh, she’s fine. I’m making sure she’s getting plenty of rest.”

“That’s good. She needs to take it easy for the next few months.”

“Tessa’s going to be a wonderful mother,” Alexander chimed in, his voice sincere. “And you’re going to be a great father, Jace.”

Jace smiled. “Thanks.”

“All done,” Helen said, smiling at Alexander. “I’ll take another sample at the end of the month.”

Rolling down his sleeve, Alexander sent her a grateful look.

“I’ll see you later, Jace,” Alexander said as he walked to the door. As he reached for the knob, he glanced over his shoulder and winked at Helen.    

When the door clicked shut, Helen walked over as her loafers made a little clipping noise on the tile floor. When she sat down across from Jace, her smile was gentle. “What did you want to talk to me about?”

Jace brushed his hand through his long hair. On some level, he couldn’t believe he was going to tell Helen about his dreams, and the urge to bolt was ripping him up. As the silence drifted, he felt like a fool for not saying anything. “I’ve been having strange dreams.”

“What kind of dreams?”

“About Tessa,” he confessed. “In the dreams, she’s dying.”

Helen paused with her eyebrows clenched, collecting her thoughts not only from a medical standpoint but a personal one, too.

“How long have you been having the dreams?”

He took a deep breath and swallowed the lump in his throat. “They started when I found out Tessa was pregnant,” he explained, his eyes closing briefly to mask his emotions. “They stopped for a short period, and now they’re back.”

“Have you told Tessa?”

Jace tensed. “No,” he said, barely above a whisper. “I’m afraid it will upset her. I don’t want—“

“You’ve got to be honest with her, Jace,” Helen interjected. “Keeping secrets from your mate isn’t a good idea.”

He frowned and shrugged his shoulders. “But what if—“

“She’ll be just fine.” Helen placed her palm on his shoulder in a reassuring gesture. “Tell her, Jace.”

He reached up to his neck and smoothed his fingers over the cross necklace Tessa had given him. “I think,” he struggled, trying to decide what to say, “you’re right, Helen. I’ll tell her.”

Helen lightly squeezed his shoulder and smiled.

“Thank you, Helen.”

“You’re welcome, and anytime you need to talk, my door is open.”  

Before he got up to leave, he said, “Can I ask you something?”

“Sure. You can ask me anything.”

“How are you and,” he paused and cleared his throat, “Alexander getting along?”

Helen grinned. “Everything’s great. He’s a good man, Jace,” she said honestly. “I don’t mean to pry into your business, or tell you what to do, but you should try to spend more time with him. He’s your biological father. Once you get to know him, you’ll see.”
 
“Yeah,” he said. “Maybe I’ll do that.”

“I know Alexander would be thrilled to get to know you.”

He stared into her eyes, hope stirring in his depths. “You think so?”

“Yes, I know he will.” Her tone was unwavering as she spoke. “Give him a chance.”

Jace inhaled sharply and then held his breath as he stared at Helen. She could see the wheels turning furiously in his mind. His indecision was written all over his face, but she also saw the moment he surrendered and acceptance registered. Letting out a deep breath, he gave Helen a slight nod and smiled.  

To be continued... 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. Terms and character reference, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon, and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by German physicians, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship.




Chapter 29
His Curse/Part Three

By scongrove

 Previsously...

As Casey Barton keeps his Therimorph side hidden, he’s worried Lila Demont’s parents will discover his secret. During dinner with the Demonts, Lila’s father reveals that he spoke with Casey’s father earlier. Before dinner ended, Casey used his Therimorph powers to get into Victor Demont’s head to find out what his father had told him, worried he may have divulged his secret. But to his surprise, Casey sensed something odd when he read Victor’s mind. He was thinking of Casey’s deceased mother. When dinner was over, Victor took Casey to the side and insisted he meets him for lunch the following day. He wants to speak to Casey about something private.

Meanwhile, after Jace confides in Helen about his recurring nightmares of Tessa’s death, she strongly advises he should tell her. During their conversation, Helen also suggests he should get to know his real father—Alexander Crest—and give him a chance.    

Now that Lilith has revealed to Sebastian the powers his son Arius was born with, he must kill the Breedline queen to bring forth the child’s gifts. Not only does Sebastian have the task of murdering Tessa, he must also bring back Steven Pasquale to Lilith and retrieve his sons—Arius and Tidus—at the same time.      

Continued...

The following afternoon, Casey walked down the curving staircase of the Breedline’s estate, preparing to meet Lila’s father for lunch.

As he took step after step, all he could think of was his mother’s death. His memories brought back the day of her funeral.

When he’d entered the funeral home, the scent of her favorite flowers and vanilla candles lingered deep in his nostrils. He wondered how long it would be before he got that smell out of his sinuses every time he inhaled. Feeling like he was going to throw up, Casey was desperate to bolt outside for fresh air. After composing himself, he managed to walk right up to his mother’s closed coffin. Murdered by the Chiang-Shih demon’s death army in cold blood, her body wasn’t presentable in its condition. Instead, they cremated her and viewed her photo for everyone to remember the way she used to be. Being born in Colorado, his mother had loved the snow. Remembering from his childhood, whenever the snow fell during the night, she would turn off all the inside lights, and stare out the window. She would stare for as long as it fell... for hours.

The day of her death, and months after, seemed like a blur to him. Christ, why did things have to end? Now, he was curious what Victor was going to say to him today. And why was he thinking of his mother the other day at dinner? Casey also wondered why Victor had met with his father the other day for lunch. He’d never heard his father speak of the Demonts, or even socialize with them. Casey frowned as he glanced at his watch. In less than an hour, he’d be sitting across a table with Lila’s father. Not bothering to take his dopamine, he wanted to be able to get into Victor’s head and read his thoughts. Casey had to know why his mother was so important to Victor Demont.     

As Casey came through the entrance of the restaurant, at first he wasn’t sure what the hell he was seeing. It looked like Victor was going to the back with a woman, and it wasn’t his wife. Unless, of course, there happened to be another guy just like him, one who wore the finest, tailored suites money could buy.

No, it was definitely Victor in his Brioni pin-striped suit and silk tie. While waiting to be seated, Casey kept his eyes on him. After being escorted to the table, he ordered a glass of wine and waited. Almost fifteen minutes later, Victor strode back to the table.

“I’m sorry I kept you waiting,” Victor muttered in an apologetic tone. “I had an important phone call I had to take.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Casey waved it off like it was nothing. “It’s fine.”

Victor took a seat and shot Casey a fake grin. “Thank you for being so understanding.”

“What did you want to talk to me about?” Casey asked as he reached for his Chardonnay.

Victor leaned back in his chair and crossed his legs. “Can I ask you something personal?”

Casey ignored his question and narrowed his stare into Victor’s, bringing forth his Theriomorph side. When Casey burrowed into his thoughts, it was like looking at a projected screen as it played in his head. He saw Victor on his knees next to his mother’s coffin, sobbing. The words Victor babbled didn’t make any sense. All he said over and over was, “My beloved… my beloved… my beloved.”

“Casey, did you hear me?”

Victor’s voice snapped him back to reality. “I’m sorry,” Casey said, trying to focus. “Excuse me?”

“I would like to ask you a personal question,” Victor said, his voice sounding annoyed, “if you don’t mind.”

“Uh, yes,” Casey muttered with a slight hesitation.

“Have you bonded with my daughter?”

“Yes, I have.”

“I don’t think it would be a good idea for you to court her.”

“Why?” Casey’s brows furrowed. “Am I not good enough?”

“No, no,” Victor quickly replied. “That’s not it… it’s just I—“

Changing the subject, Casey said, “How well did you know my mother?”

“What?” Victor’s eyes widened. “Why would you ask me that?”

“I saw you,” Casey paused and narrowed his stare, “at the funeral. You were crying.”

“B-but…” Victor stammered. “I don’t understand?”

“I walked in, and saw you,” Casey said, anger surging, his words biting in the silence.  “And I heard what you said.”

Victor shook his head, certain that this was some bizarre dream. “I thought I was alone,” he said nervously, trying to figure out what Casey had heard him say at his mother’s funeral.

Casey’s eyes were cold, his expression inscrutable. “Why did you call my mother... beloved?”     

****

Jace glanced away from the computer screen and looked at the clock above his desk. Noticing it was five-thirty in the evening, it was time to head home. Tessa’s father had invited them out for dinner, and Jace decided to take Helen’s advice. He invited Alexander, too. Logging out, he left his office and took the elevator to Jem’s department. Looking through the glass window, Jace lightly tapped on it with his knuckles.

When Jem motioned him in, Jace peeked around the door. “I’m heading out.”

Jem leaned back in his chair and waved. “I’ll see you later.”

Jace waved back. “Later, bro!”

“Hey, wait,” Jem called out.

“Yeah?” Jace said, popping his head back in.

“I just wanted to say, have a good time. I’m glad you’re giving Alexander a chance.”

Jace could hear the very real gleam reflected in Jem’s tone. The corner of Jace’s mouth lifted in a semblance of a smile. “Well, what can I say,” Jace said, shrugging one shoulder, “I’m a nice guy.”

Jem shook his head and chuckled. “Later!”

Two hours later, Jace and Tessa arrived at Jupiter, her favorite place to eat. As the waiter escorted them to the outside patio, her father sat at a table with Alexander. When Kenneth saw them, he smiled and waved them over. 

They stood when Jace and Tessa came over to their table.

Kenneth kissed Tessa on the cheek and shook Jace’s hand. “I’m glad you could make it.”

Alexander reached his hand to Tessa. “You look beautiful, Tessa,” he said, glancing at her rounded belly. “Motherhood agrees with you.”

Tessa blushed and took his hand. “Thank you.”

Alexander turned to Jace and extended his hand. “Thank you for inviting me, Jace.”

Jace shook his hand. “You’re welcome.”

“Let’s all have a seat and order,” Kenneth said. “I hear this is your favorite place to eat, Tessa.”

“Yes, it is. I love their cheese fondue appetizer, and the brick oven pizzas are out of this world.”

“Well then,” Kenneth said smiling, “I’ll take your word and order both.”

During dinner, Jace leaned close to Tessa. He had paused before he whispered in her ear. “There’s something I want to talk to you about when we get home.”

With a concerned expression, she nodded and smiled. “Okay, honey.”  

After dinner, everyone said their good-bye’s and left the restaurant. On the way home, Jace dreaded revealing to Tessa about his recurring nightmares. On second thought, maybe he’d wait another time to tell her. Tonight just didn’t feel like the right time. They’d had a great time during dinner, and why spoil a good evening. Hopefully, she’d forget, he thought. 

“What was it you wanted to talk about?” Tessa asked.

****

Sebastian parked his Mercedes under one of Berkeley’s bridges, the black sedan hidden by the shadows thrown by the massive concrete supports. The digital clock on the dash told him that show time was getting close.

After traveling through the portal from England with his brother, they managed to retrieve his vehicle from the parking garage at the club NightShade. As they waited, Sebastian thought about the meeting with Lilith. In retrospect, he didn’t like the demands she’d given him. Getting his sons out of the Breedline Covenant wasn’t too difficult, but killing their Queen was going to be risky. Not to mention the unknown stranger Lilith wanted him to bring back. This kind of shit might get them killed. Timing was going to be everything.

In the beginning, right after Jace had shot him with a silver bullet, his soul had been sent straight to purgatory. Soon after, his father, the Chiang-Shih demon possessed his body pretending to live his life and attempted to dominate the world. But without Sebastian’s soul, his body grew weaker and close to death. With no other choice, his father had to bring back his soul to his body using a dark Wicca to summon him out of purgatory. Trapped and helpless inside his own body, Sebastian watched his father fail over and over until Jace’s Beast sent him back to hell. Now, he was back in control of his body, and he swore he’d never take orders from another person… especially a female.

He was still figuring out this new life of his. Coming back from purgatory, he’d discovered several things:  The twin brother he thought died at birth was alive. His bonded mate Eve had given birth to his twin sons, and she’d been kept prisoner by the Breedline, waiting for punishment due to her past crimes.

Switching tracks in his head, Sebastian smiled in the darkness, thinking he couldn’t wait to reintroduce himself to Tessa. The memories flashed back into his mind of the night he’d kidnapped her like it was yesterday. Her pure Breedline blood tasted like the finest wine. The warmth and richness that flowed down his throat were a memory he’d never forget.

Now that she was the Breedline Queen, he’d prepared himself if she changed into her wolf. Reaching into the inside of his Armani leather jacket, he smoothed his fingers over the cold steel. The revolver, loaded with silver, was all he needed to get the job done. One bullet to the head would be all it took to end her life.

He turned to Thomas and said, “Where’s our backup?”

“They’ll be here.”

As if on cue, two cars pulled up between some pylons. The Denali SUV was Corbin and Fredrick, and the silver Chrysler was Samuel’s car.  

Corbin and Fredrick were the first to get out, and when Samuel followed, it was like watching the three stooges live.  

As they approached the Mercedes, they were all dressed in black, and all Sebastian could think of was, if they screwed up, he would cut their throats without hesitating.

Samuel looked at Sebastian with out-of-his-league panic, and the bastard took the reins, stepping forward with a leather bag. After he had put it on top of the trunk of the Chrysler, Sebastian watched in the rear-view mirror as he popped it open to reveal what appeared to be more weapons.

Abruptly, a loud pop blasted.

Inside the sedan, Sebastian and Thomas quickly ducked down, and Corbin and Fredrick hit the ground.

Samuel jumped back with his mouth wide. And then he looked in their direction and waved his hands in the air. “I’m sorry! One of the guns accidentally went off!”

Before he could get another word out, Sebastian flew out of the vehicle and bitch-slapped his lid shut.

With a snarl on his face, Sebastian placed a knife to Samuel’s throat. “If you pull another stupid-ass stunt like that, I’ll personally remove your testicles. Do you hear me?”

“Y-yes, sir,” Samuel stuttered.

Sebastian removed the blade, grabbed the bag and got back into the car, slamming the door. Glancing at his brother, he shook his head. “He’s still the same idiot he always was.”

Thomas nodded. “Yes, but he’s loyal.”

Sebastian cursed under his breath. “Let’s just do this.” 

Corbin and Fredrick came up to the passenger window as Thomas explained the plan. After they had understood what their responsibilities were, they got back into their SUV. While they drove off, Samuel watched them with a pale face as if waiting for his execution. In a panic, he rushed over to Thomas in a sloppy jog like someone who had never moved fast in their life. When he poked his fat face in the window, Thomas pulled out his gun and leveled the muzzle at Samuel’s forehead.

Samuel squeezed his eyes tight without moving an inch. Drops of sweat rolled down his face, and Samuel’s heart raced. “Please, Mr. Carlyle,” he pleaded. “Give me another chance. I promise I won’t disappoint you again.” 

Lowering the gun, Thomas leaned into Samuel’s face. “This is your last warning,” he said fiercely. “One more time, and I’ll kill you myself. Understood?”

“Yes, Mr. Carlyle,” he quickly replied. “I understand.”

When he walked back to his car, Sebastian hit the Mercedes’ lights, and Samuel spun around, arms going up to shield his eyes. There was the temptation to mow him down, but for the moment, Sebastian would let him prove his worth.

Driving off, Thomas’s phone rang, and he answered as Sebastian accelerated up a ramp and onto the highway.

“Yes,” Thomas said, nodding against the phone. “Are you sure?”

There was silence as if Thomas was patiently listening, and he then said, “Okay, I’ll let you know.”

When he ended the call, he turned to Sebastian and said, “There’s been a change in plans.”

Sebastian rolled his eyes. “What now?”

“We’re to bring the Queen back to Lilith… alive.”  

To be continued...

   

 

   

 

  

 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference of terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins is so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-Shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-Shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-Shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-Shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon-possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares -realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-Shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild -the Breedline queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shapeshift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another at supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-Shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle. Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-Shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-Shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-Shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-Shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild's biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship.




Chapter 30
Revealed Secrets

By scongrove

Previously...

As Casey Barton keeps his Therimorph side hidden, he’s worried Lila Demont’s parents will discover his secret. During dinner with the Demonts, Lila’s father reveals that he spoke with Casey’s father earlier. Before dinner ended, Casey used his Therimorph powers to get into Victor Demont’s head to find out what his father had told him, worried he may have divulged his secret. But to his surprise, Casey sensed something odd when he read Victor’s mind. He was thinking of Casey’s deceased mother. When dinner was over, Victor took Casey to the side and insisted he meets him for lunch the following day. He wanted to speak to Casey about something private.

Meanwhile, after Jace confides in Helen about his reoccurring nightmares of Tessa’s death, she strongly advises he should tell her. During their conversation, Helen also suggests he should get to know his real father—Alexander Crest—and give him a chance. Taking Helen’s advice, Jace invites Tessa’s father to join them for dinner and includes Alexander. Before they leave the restaurant, Jace confesses to Tessa he has something important to tell her.    
   

Now that Lilith has revealed to Sebastian the powers his son Arius was born with, he must kill the Breedline Queen to bring forth the child’s gifts. Not only does Sebastian have the task of murdering Tessa, he must also bring back Steven Pasquale to Lilith and retrieve his sons—Arius and Tidus—at the same time.     
 

Continued...

After Casey had asked Victor why he’d called his mother "beloved" at her funeral, his jaw dropped. “I-I don’t know what to say,” Victor stuttered, trying to stall.

If he sounded nervous, it was because he was. Victor was bloody well terrified. And he didn’t scare easily. But if his affair with Casey’s mother got out, it would ruin him. 

“Did you have an affair with my mother?” Casey asked.

Victor lowered his head and stared at his cocktail. Reaching out, he grasped the cold glass and held it to his lips. With one gulp, Victor downed the Gin and Tonic. He used a napkin to wipe his mouth and nervously cleared his throat. “I promised her I would never tell anyone,” his voice trembled, “especially... you.”

“Does my father know?”

He inhaled through his nostrils, and blew out a deep breath. “Your father suspected she was seeing someone else after we met, but he ignored all the signs,” Victor said calmly. “I thought he deserved to know the truth. I confirmed his suspicions the other day when I met him for lunch. Your father...“ he paused and swallowed hard, “has forgiven me… and your mother.”

“Why didn’t my father tell me?”

“He didn’t want you to think badly of your mother,” Victor said, his voice suddenly cracking with emotion.

Pain drifted into Casey’s eyes. “Is this the reason why my father tried to talk me out of dating Lila?”

With his lips formed into a tight line, Victor kept silent and nodded.

Casey rose from his chair and straightened his suede jacket. “For your information, I would never have anything but respect for my mother. Her personal affairs were none of my business, just like mine and Lila’s,” he stated firmly. “Our relationship is none of yours or anyone else’s concern. So if you’ll excuse me, I’m done with this conversation.”

After Casey turned around and left the table, Victor placed his face into his hands. Completely devastated, he’d felt like a complete jerk. Glancing up, he watched as Casey stormed out of the restaurant with dignity. Even though Casey was adopted, his personality was very similar to his mother’s. She’d never taken any crap from anyone, no matter who they were. Somehow he was going to find a way to earn Casey’s forgiveness, even if it took him the rest of his life.
   
Full of anger, Casey drove back to the Covenant and went straight to the bar. Pouring himself a glass of Bourbon, he downed it in one gulp. And then after the second, his mood changed and his mind drifted to Lila.

After his third drink, Casey had a sudden urge to give her a call.

Deciding to go upstairs to his room, he flopped down on the bed and pushed his body back until he was lying against a mountain of pillows. When he punched in Lila’s number, he waited for her to answer.

“Hello?”

“Hey, Lila.”

Lila’s eyes lit up when she heard his voice.

“Is this a bad time?” Casey asked, purposely making his tone soft and soothing.

“Oh, no,” she quickly replied. “Is anything wrong?”

“I just…” he paused and sighed, “needed to hear your voice. I miss you.”

Lila took a deep breath, her eyes softening to his voice. “Funny,” she said, “I feel the same way.”

“You do?” He said surprised.

“Yes, I do.”   
 
****
In the silence, Tessa waited for Jace’s response. Lost in thought, he didn’t know how to begin to tell her as he drove through the Covenant’s entrance. And then, he finally built the courage and said, “I’ve been having the same nightmares again.”

It took her a moment to realize what he’d said. When her gaze swept in his direction, Tessa felt a jolt all the way to her toes. Her mind suddenly crowded with a surge of emotions. “What?” she asked, her expression puzzled. 

Parking the jeep, he turned off the ignition and stared forward, silent and tense. His mind was a chaotic whirl of worry. Facing her, he said, “The dreams I had of you before… they’re back.”

She slipped her hand into his and squeezed. Something as simple as her touch calmed some of the rising panic and hysteria rampaging through his mind.

“Don’t worry, honey,” she reassured him. “You’re just nervous about being a father.”

Jace studied her in silence for a long moment. “You think that’s what it is?”

Tessa slowly nodded as her lips formed a smile. “Yes, honey.”

“Listen to me,” she said in a low voice. “I don’t want you to worry, Jace. Trust me.” Her expression softened, and she trailed one finger down the side of his cheek. “Everything is going to be fine.”

He instantly reached out and pulled her close to his body. Not resisting, she turned just enough that she could curl into his side and rest her cheek on his shoulder.

Jace slid his hands up Tessa’s neck to delve into her hair even as he pulled her closer until their mouths sealed, and her nostrils flared with the effort to take in air. As he broke their embrace, he nudged her chin upward and whispered, “I love you so much. It scares the hell out of me. I can’t lose you, Tessa.”

Tears filled her eyes and then Tessa threw her arms around his neck. “I love you too, Jace.”

Tessa felt his relief so clear, so powerful that it flooded her on all levels, overwhelming her with the sheer intensity of his emotions.

Jace pulled back and kissed Tessa tenderly on the cheek where it was damp with her tears. He stroked through her long hair, all the while staring at her with so much passion. 

After a moment of embracing, Jace reached into the glove compartment. When he brought his hand back, he placed a small pistol into her palm. “It would give me some comfort if you would carry this with you at all times.” 

“I can do that,” she said, placing the gun into her purse. “For you, I can absolutely do that.”

He sighed and reached for the door handle. “Let’s go inside.” He winked at her. “I want to make love to my fiancé.”

When he got out, he walked over to the passenger side and opened her door. With his arm around her waist, he tucked her against him, and together they walked to the Covenant.

Before they went inside, she raised her head and looked into his eyes. “Your queen doesn’t scare easily,” she said. “You do know that, right?

Jace looked a little befuddled at first. And then he smiled down at her. “I know,” he said cocking a brow. “I totally know.” 

****
At nightfall, evil surrounded the Breedline Covenant in the darkness. Fredrick and Samuel were waiting on the edge of the property as a backup. Sebastian and Thomas were taking the front. Corbin and Thomas’s hired team of Breedline traitors were in position around the back.

Sebastian was on edge, his unease growing with every minute as he patiently waited in the dark, seething, readying himself to take action. It took all of his restraint to sit back and wait. Everything inside screamed at him to go in and take down every Breedline in his path until he had his sons back. Sebastian’s nostrils flared, and his grip tightened on his weapon, locked and loaded with silver.

***
Tessa finished her shower, and slipped under the covers and waited for Jace. When she heard the water running in the bathroom, she closed her eyes.

Moments later, Jace stepped back into the bedroom fresh from a shower and quietly moved next to the bed. Tessa was curled up under the covers, her eyes shut, and her breathing suggested she’d fallen asleep.

She looked incredibly small with her legs drawn up to her body. Her arms were wrapped around her belly as if she was cradling their unborn twins while she slept.

As he eased under the covers next to her, he reached out and pulled her close. Tessa’s eyelids fluttered and then opened, revealing sleepy emerald green eyes.

“Sorry.” She yawned. “I didn’t mean to fall asleep.”

He smiled and kissed her forehead. “I love you, baby.”

Tessa leaned forward, framing his face with her hands, and kissed him. Warmth traveled through his body and to his heart. And then he kissed her back passionately, taking his time. 

“Make love to me, Jace,” she whispered softly against his lips.

His expression softened. “You sure you’re not too tired?”

“Never,” she said, cuddling against him, going soft in his arms.

He kissed just below her ear, inhaling her smell and taste as he moved his way down to the curve of her neck and her shoulder. Every time they made love, it always felt like the first time even though it evidently wasn’t.

Moving his hand to her stomach, he smoothed his palm gently over the precious place that held their sons. “You’re beautiful, Tessa,” he whispered. “I’m so in awe of you, baby.”  
    
Tessa’s heart tugged at the sincerity in Jace’s voice, the raspy edge that told her how much she meant to him. She moved in closer until their bodies pressed against each other, and his arousal was cupped against her, bringing her to instant awareness.

“Please, Jace.”

As he shifted his body, he used his arms to brace himself over her. When her thighs opened, he carefully lowered his hips and moved inside her in one breath.

Tessa’s back arched to meet Jace’s thrust, and her hands flew to his shoulders. Her fingernails dug deep as pleasure exploded through her body.

His eyes bore into hers, burning with desire as he moved in a steady rhythm. His brows clenched and his jaw tightened with each thrust, watching her closely even as he drove deeper into her body.

As she kept her gaze on him, she saw the love and also the edgy need blazing so bright in those icy blue eyes. He made her feel protected, cherished and loved unconditionally.

Jace ravaged her lips with possessive kisses, and their tongues clashed and rolled over each other. He seemed determined to give her everything she’d asked for and so much more. She moaned softly and then louder as her release came roaring over her like it had no end.

The sounds of her soft moans brought him to his own as he closed his eyes and shuddered.

She wrapped her arms around him and hugged him close, loving the warm feeling that radiated from his flesh to hers.  
        
He kissed her tenderly. I love you, Tessa.”

“I love you, too.”

Jace sighed and snuggled against her, drifting into a sound sleep.

Lying restless on her back, Tessa stared at the ceiling unable to fall asleep for replaying Jace’s previous confession in her head. Something was wrong, but she didn’t want to seem bothered by his recurring dreams, worried she’d stress him further. Tessa couldn’t wrap her mind around why he was having the dreams again. Maybe she was right, and it was just his nerves, stressing over fatherhood. Or they were visions... of her death.

She let out a deep breath, and closed her eyes and concentrated on sleep. But it was hard when her mind wouldn’t stop and rest. She forced the blackness away and brought to mind all the things that made her happy. She took several deep breaths to clear her mind.

Slowly, the blackness drifted away, and she finally relaxed. When her stomach grumbled, her lids popped open again, and she let out a soft sigh. As she slipped out from underneath the blanket, she sat upright and quietly eased her feet off the bed. Tip-toeing to the bathroom, she grabbed her robe and crept out of the room with her mind focused on the kitchen. 

****
Sebastian’s lip curled in distaste, impatient with all the waiting. Around them, the others kept silent, ready for his command. There was intense expression but also determination on everyone’s faces. Quiet descended until the only sound he heard was his breathing. 

When his patience was all but exhausted, Sebastian extended his hand and created a portal. With a smug grin, he turned to Thomas and looked him in the eye. “It’s time,” he said, his voice cold and calculating.    

He sucked in his breath and then exhaled long and slow. Sebastian purposely blanked his mind in preparation. He didn’t want any distractions as he concentrated on his destination. He closed his eyes, and the rest of the world drifted away. His awareness of everything around him became dim as he focused solely on the pathway to his sons. When Sebastian was completely relaxed and sensed their presence, he stepped through the portal with Thomas close behind.
   
To be continued...             
      
 
       

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-Shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-Shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-Shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-Shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon-possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-Shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shapeshift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another at supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-Shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-Shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-Shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-Shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-Shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) -She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he loses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship. But when Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of an affair with his adopted mother, Casey confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.





Chapter 31
Revealed Secrets/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...

Now that Lilith has revealed to Sebastian the powers his son Arius was born with, he must kill the queen to bring forth the child’s gifts. Not only does Sebastian have the task of murdering Tessa, he must also bring back Steven Pasquale to Lilith and retrieve his sons—Arius and Tidus—at the same time. 

As Casey Barton keeps his
Therimorph side hidden, he's worried Lila Demont's parents will discover his secret. During dinner with the Demonts, Lila’s father reveals that he spoke with Casey’s father earlier. Before dinner ended, Casey used his Therimorph powers to get into Victor Demont’s head to find out what his father had told him, worried he may have divulged his secret. But to his surprise, Casey sensed something odd when he read Victor’s mind. He was thinking of Casey’s deceased mother. When dinner was over, Victor took Casey to the side and insisted he meets him for lunch the following day. He wanted to speak to Casey about something private. 

After Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of the affair with his mother, he confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.     

 

Continued...

Eve stared out the window and looked at the night sky with her mind on Sebastian. He was the kind of man who was determined to protect what was his at all costs. Ever since they’d met, she was fascinated by him and drawn by an inexplicable force. But their relationship had been forged in the fires of hell. Growing up, both had endured more than most people would ever experience in a lifetime. They’d been treated less than human, like animals, and yet here they were, clinging to one another, each the salvation of the other.

Yes, she loved him for all he’d done for her. She didn’t refute it. But now that she was a mother, she’d changed. Sebastian remained ruthless and cruel, greed overriding everything else. Eve wanted to right her wrongs, walk a different path in life; one that didn’t include hurting others. She longed to have a healthy relationship, dreams of a life filled with love and children and family.

It sounded so simple, Eve thought. And yet their path remained complicated, heading down a road of disaster. How could she ever hope to achieve such a thing when she felt doomed from her past? She had to do whatever it took to protect her sons from the clutches of Sebastian’s evil intentions.

And while she desperately wanted her children back, she didn’t want them to live a life in the evil depths of darkness. She needed her sisters help now—she had no choice but to ask it of her—if she hoped to provide any future for her children with Sebastian.

Yes, the idea of betraying him saddened her. Eve mourned for what might have been, but she wasn’t going to allow herself to dwell on it because she had to do what was right.

Sebastian would always be a part of her—always her bonded mate no matter if they were apart. But some things just weren’t meant to be forever. For her, a happy life for Arius and Tidus was one she would make damn sure of.

A year ago, she would have never imagined she’d feel this way. Eve never felt programmed like other women. Living a tortured childhood damaged and ruined her thinking process. She’d spent her adulthood punishing others for her pain, never once desiring to change.

Maybe it was wishful thinking she could have a normal life, especially since she would be facing the consequences for her past crimes. She would easily trade her freedom for a haven for Arius and Tidus. They were innocent in all this. She refused to spend the rest of her life running and hiding, just trying to survive and keep her sons away from destruction. She had to beg the 
Breedline for help and face her punishment. What other choice did she have? 
              
Eve closed her eyes, and her brow tightened in concentration. As she focused her thoughts on Sebastian, the succubus side in her 
tingled. She could feel his location radiating from him in waves. Then her eyes flew open, her lips parting in a gasp. Sebastian was inside the Breedline Covenant.

****

When Tessa descended the stairs, she smiled as the images of Jace came to mind. Earlier during their lovemaking, their gazes locked, never once breaking away, keeping the connection between them all the while.

Seconds later, she was standing outside the kitchen. As she pushed through the flap door, the aroma of chicken soup caught her attention. As she looked straight ahead, Casey was standing in front of the stove, stirring a pot.

He turned and immediately smiled at her. “Hungry?” he said, banging the wooden spoon on the steel container. “I made some chicken noodle soup.”

“Oh yes, that sounds delicious.” Tessa put her hands on her stomach and moved to the table.

As Casey sat down next to her, he placed a steaming bowl of soup in front of her with a spoon inside. “Couldn’t sleep either, eh?”

Picking up the spoon, she looked down at her stomach. “Nope. I guess the twins are hungry.”

Casey chuckled. “Ah.”

“Mmmm,” she said after taking a bite. “The soup is perfect, Casey. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Before Casey dipped his spoon into his bowl, he glanced back at Tessa. “Would you like something to drink?”  

“No thank you, Casey.” Tessa smiled at the sincerity in his voice. “The soup will be just fine.”

When Tessa finished, she leaned back in her chair and let out a contented sigh.

“Would you like some more?”

Tessa glanced up at Casey and rubbed her belly. “No thanks, I’m stuffed.” Noticing the clock on the wall, it was already past midnight. “I think I’ll go upstairs and try to get some sleep.”

He nodded. “Yeah, I think I’ll head that way myself.”

Casey went quiet, staring across the room for no particular reason as if something weighed heavily on his mind. It hadn’t been long since his mother had passed. Tessa debated with herself over whether to press the issue. She was curious about him but didn’t want to make him uncomfortable either. Casey was reserved and mostly kept to himself. There was a lot she didn’t know about his personal life, other than him modeling for one of the most prestigious modeling agencies and his impressive skills as a keyboardist in Jace’s band.

Then she turned to him, trying to decide if she should pry. “How’s your father doing, Casey?”

When he heard her question, he instantly turned her way. Just as suddenly, a shadow crossed over his face. He stared at her with an open mouth. He closed it and reopened it, but nothing seemed to come out. Then he finally found his voice. “He’s doing okay.” He paused a moment, and then the corners of his mouth lifted slightly. “Thanks for asking.”

He didn’t offer more. It was frustrating because Tessa worried how he was managing the death of his mother, but she ended the conversation.

Tessa scooted her chair back and stood. “Thanks for the soup.”

When he started to get up to collect their bowls, Tessa put her hand on his shoulder. “I’ll get those. It’s the least I can do since you made the soup.”  
 
After she had washed the dishes, she glanced back at Casey and waved. “Good night.”

He nodded in her direction. “Good night, Tessa.”  

When she left, Casey’s expression tightened. His face darkened, and his eyes took on a grim cast. The moment Tessa mentioned his father, he felt uneasy. He wasn’t entirely certain how he was going to handle the awkward situation about his mother’s past infidelity with Victor Demont the next time he was around his father.

And then his thoughts quickly drifted to Lila. During dinner with her parents, he’d used his Theriomorph side and briefly got into her mind, more to reassure himself she didn’t suspect his secret. He caught a vague image of a dream she’d had. It was of him… 
shapeshifting into a black panther, and he wondered why Lila had dreamed this.

It was against his nature to lie to the people he respected and loved. He hated lying. But neither was he going to risk being cast out for something he had no control over. It wasn’t like he wanted to be different. He’d give anything not to live the rest of his life taking drugs to control his Theriomorph side. As much as he feared being found out, he couldn’t live the rest of his life pretending to be normal. How could he expect everyone in his life to accept what he was when he hadn’t accepted it himself?
  
****

Tessa sighed as she got to the top of the staircase, her mind drifting back to Jace’s dreams. It did no good to dwell on the future when you had no control over your destiny. She could only take one day at a time. What mattered now was taking care of herself and her unborn children. She only had a few more months until they were born.

As she moved down the hall, a bright light came from underneath the door of Arius and Tidus’s nursery. Tessa instantly became knocked off balance when she turned to their room. A strong arm snaked around her, preventing her fall, while a hand was clamped tight over her mouth.

With wide eyes, fear and panic exploded through Tessa. She kicked, struggled and tried to scream, but the grip only tightened.

“Don’t hurt her,” Thomas barked from behind Sebastian as he kept a tight hold on Tessa. “Lilith’s orders were that under no circumstances should we harm the queen.”
   
Oh god, Tessa screamed silently inside her head. Tessa tried to clear her mind, to make a connection to Jace telepathically when a sharp stick in her arm had her making a muffled sound of pain from behind her captor’s hand.

“Remember me?” Sebastian whispered in her ear. The familiar, seething voice immediately sent cold chills all through her body. And then she felt dizzy, her vision floating in and out.

Sebastian’s grip eased around Tessa’s 
body and lifted her off her feet.

“Take her,” Sebastian demanded. “I’m going to get my sons.”

Tessa felt her body placed into another set of arms, and she was too drugged to move when she heard the nursery door open. Oh god, no, she thought. Sebastian was going to take Arius and Tidus.

Thomas stared down at Tessa, his eyes clouded with worry. Her eyes widened in horror as she looked at his face. He was identical to Sebastian. Tessa wanted to scream for help, but she couldn’t get her lips to move. It was all she could do even to keep her eyes open. Her tongue was dry and stuck to the roof of her mouth. She was so terrified; she didn’t know what to do.

“Let’s get out of here,” Sebastian said as he stepped out of the nursery with Arius and Tidus in his arms. “We’ll have to come back for Lilith’s friend.”

Tessa’s eyes rolled back into her head, and still, she fought to remain conscious.

Jace… help.

Her telepathic voice was weak, a mere whisper. She pleaded for Jace to hear her. But all that awaited her was suffocating darkness that closed in from every direction.    

To be continued...      
 

 
  
 
 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins is so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-Shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-Shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-Shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-Shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-Shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood.
Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shapeshift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-Shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-Shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-Shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-Shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-Shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah- a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-Shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-Shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild's biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship. But when Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of an affair with his adopted mother, Casey confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.





Chapter 32
Revealed Secrets/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...

When Jace revealed to Tessa about his recurring dreams of her death, she reassured him it was just nerves about becoming a father. With Jace’s confession weighing heavily on her mind, Tessa couldn’t sleep. Instead of tossing and turning all night, afraid to wake Jace, she quietly slipped out of bed and went downstairs for something to eat. To her surprise, Casey Barton was standing at the stove making a pot of soup.

Meanwhile, as the Breedline Covenant sleeps, Sebastian and his twin brother Thomas sneaks inside through a portal. Not only do they have the task of retrieving his sons Arius and Tidus, but they are also ordered by Lilith to kidnap Tessa.


After a hot bowl of soup, Tessa decides to go back to bed. Before she makes it back to her room, she is caught off guard when someone grabs her from behind. Before she can scream out, a hand covers her mouth, and something sharp jabs into her arm. Feeling dizzy as if she'd been drugged, Tessa uses her telepathic ability and calls out to Jace.     
              

Continued...

After Casey had got to the top of the staircase, he headed through the hallway and suddenly saw a bright light outside Arius and Tidus’s nursery. Just as he rushed forward, two men that were identical stepped through what appeared to be a portal and vanished. To his utter disbelief, one of them had the twins, and the other carried Tessa in his arms. She looked as if she was unconscious. And then out of nowhere, Jace’s cat appeared, staring in Casey’s direction with glowing green eyes.

****

Jace came awake when he heard the faintest whisper in his mind. It was Tessa’s voice. Fear and panic blew over him as he searched the bed for her. And when he found her side empty, it left him unsettled and panicked. In the dark room, he scrambled out of bed and flipped on the light.

Jace slipped into a pair of jeans hurriedly and called out to Tessa in desperation.

When there was no answer, he rushed into the bathroom, but she wasn’t there. He turned in a rapid circle, calling out her name over and over, but she wasn’t anywhere in the room.

The sound of someone pounding on his door sent him sprinting to the noise. When he sprung the door wide open, Casey stood outside, his face positively gray.

“What’s wrong?” Jace asked, looking at Casey with wide eyes. “Where’s Tessa?” 
  
When Casey told him what he’d seen, there was a helpless tone to his voice, one totally at odds as he looked at Jace’s expression.

As Jace struggled to breathe, he brought one hand to his heart.

Casey took a few steps back. “Jace, are you all right?”

With his hand gripped around the doorknob, Jace squeezed until it crumbled into pieces and fell to the floor. Fury clouded his vision, and all he saw were images of Tessa the last time Sebastian had kidnapped her. She’d been unconscious and bound to a bed... naked.

Every marking instinct in Jace’s body fired off at once, and there was no holding back the rumbling growl that roared out of his lungs.

As the noise blasted through the Covenant, everyone was awake and out into the hall. Tim and Drakon were the first to see the commotion coming from Jace’s room. They saw Casey with his body flattened against the wall, his eyes full of terror.

All the blood left Tim’s face. Fear knotted his gut and panic rolled over him like a tidal wave. No. Oh dear God, no. Not again, he thought.

Casey sucked in his breath and looked at Drakon and Tim fearfully.

When Drakon drew near, Jace whipped his head around and bared his teeth in a snarl. 

Drakon stopped in his tracks and held up his hand. “It’s me, Jace,” he said in a soothing voice. “Listen to me. You’ve got to calm down.”

As Drakon tried to persuade him to relax, the words did not register far enough for Jace to decipher through his agonizing pain. With his eyes locked on Drakon, they were glowing like two shimmering diamonds.

“You’re pissing him off,” Casey muttered in a low voice.

Jace jerked his head in Casey’s direction, his fingers balled, seething with rage.

“Crap,” Casey muttered under his breath. 

Jem stepped in and silently motioned Drakon back. And then he slowly moved closer, so he stood face-to-face with his brother. Jace was pale and shaking. He looked pissed... angrier than Jem had seen him in a long time. But he also seemed emotionally raw and pain stricken. 

The others gathered back silently, all waiting for Jem to calm Jace before the Beast within him became unleashed.

Sensing Jace’s pain, Jem tried to soothe him, sending him waves of comfort telepathically. S’okay, brother, Jem said, desperately trying to connect with Jace. Gather your strength, Jace. Breathe and calm yourself. Whatever happened, we can deal with it together. I’ll help you get through this.

With rage still reflecting in his stare, Jace looked away from Jem and refocused on Casey, his wide stance suggesting he might lunge forward at any moment.

Jem put his hand out, halting Jace’s movement as he stepped forward. Whatever it took, he had to reason with Jace. He knew Jace was in there... somewhere. Having to fight his own brother would be his worst nightmare.

Listen to me, Jace, Jem pleaded. You can do this. Do you hear me? Please... don’t let the Beast take control. 

Jace cocked his head, glowing eyes blinking. And then he glanced back and forth at Jem and Casey as indecision rolled through him. The last thing he wanted to do was hurt the ones he loved, but he was hanging by a thread, the Beast within him clawing at his insides.

Everyone fell silent as minutes passed, or maybe it was just a couple of heartbeats. Their expressions were tense as they kept their eyes locked on Jace.   

He took several deep breaths in an effort to clear his mind. He felt so damn helpless. And then he heard Tessa’s voice again.

Jace... help me.

Oh God, the thought of Tessa’s pain, and the dreadful fear she was in was more than he could bear. A sick knot formed in Jace’s stomach. He had to get to her.

Rage exploded in his mind until he shook and his eyes narrowed into slits. A cold gust blew around Jem as if Jace had pushed the air at him.

At this point, Jem didn’t care if his brother lashed out at him. Then again, he was running on nervous energy, so he probably wasn’t thinking wise when he put his hand out to Jace in another effort to calm him.

Without warning, a voice yelled, “Stop!”

The two brothers stopped and turned toward the voice at the same time.

“Please, Jace,” Cassie pleaded, her voice laced with tears. “Someone’s going to get hurt if you don’t calm down.” 

Jace growled low in his throat.

“Cassie... no,” Jem warned.

“He won’t hurt me,” she said moving closer. “He’s still my brother.”

Jace’s white eyes flickered at her as she approached him. “Jace,” she murmured, keeping her voice low, focusing on how close their sibling relationship had always been. “It’s me. Cassie.”

Jace heaved a deep breath.

When Drakon lunged forward, Tim grabbed his arm and said, “Drakon, hang on. She’s talking him down.”

Jace’s lip curled up into a snarl as Drakon’s movement caught his attention.

“Look at me, Jace,” Cassie said without varying her tone or turning away. She kept her eyes locked on her brother. “It’s okay. No one is going to hurt you.” She slowly reached out to him. “I love you, big brother.”

When her hand came into contact with his arm, silence fell as if time had stopped. Jem felt the shift in the air first. And then everything surrounding them changed as if the wind was blowing inside and the sun fell from the sky.

It was too late, Jem thought. He knew Jace was already gone. He’d surrendered his body over to the Beast.

As Jace opened his mouth, a raw scream erupted into the air.

Cassie covered her ears and closed her eyes, cutting off the sound of her brother’s agonizing screams.

The burst of energy that followed was so intense it shattered all the stain glass windows above the staircase. Shards splintered and scattered while everyone ducked for cover. The floor underneath shook with such force; the magnitude resembled a high-level earthquake. 

Pieces of furniture in the room whipped around Jace, and a bright light blasted from his body. There was another screeching howl, and then the light disappeared taking Jace with it. The unforeseen wind came to a halt, the furniture came crashing down, and the trembling floor stopped.   
   
Jem pushed his way into Jace’s room. As he looked inside, he tried to remove the haze of confusion that was clouding his mind. Jace was gone... vanished. And then he heard a soft meow. Focusing on the sound, Jem was baffled when he saw Jace’s cat at his feet. Unable to comprehend the unexplained occurrence that had just happened, he slowly turned around, his eyes meeting the stares of everyone in the hallway.

They stood in silence, gathered around in utter disbelief. Mia wrung her hands repeatedly despite Angel trying her best to calm her.

Kyle wrapped his arm around Celina while Drakon moved next to Cassie and tangled his fingers with hers. Alexander and Tim were standing next to one another completely shocked, and Casey stood alone, bewilderment and worry etched into his tired features.

Jem wasn’t prepared for this as everyone looked to him for information. He turned to Casey and said, “What the hell happened?”

“It was Sebastian,” Casey said wearily, “and someone that looked identical to him. They took Tessa and the twins... and left through a portal.”

Jem whirled around, his gaze finding Celina. “I thought you put a spell on this Covenant to keep anyone from using a portal?”

“Another Wicca can break the spell,” she said in a serious tone, “one with a lot of power.”

Everyone’s mouth fell open. Cassie stepped forward and stared at Jem in frustration. “What about Jace? What happened to my brother?”

Jem lowered his head and grasped the back of his neck. He looked indecisive as if he wasn’t sure how to answer his sister’s question. He had no clue to what happened to Jace. Lifting his chin, he let out a weary sigh. “I don’t know, Cassie.”

“Shit,” Kyle cursed. “How did he just disappear?”

“Where could he have gone?” Cassie asked impatiently.

Jem ran a hand through his hair and stepped forward, his focus solely on his sister. As he reached out to her, his gut clenched. When he wrapped his arms around her, Cassie let out a soft cry and turned her face into his chest. Tears glimmered in Jem’s eyes as he thought of all the demon’s that still tormented Jace. Jem knew his twin was suffering. Maybe he’d never know the extent of agony that had chipped away at Jace over the years. But Jem knew his brother suffered because he saw the pain he tried to mask every single day.

Alexander looked agonized. His jaw tightened as he looked at Jem and Cassie. He saw the worry in their eyes, the helplessness they felt.

To Alexander’s surprise, Mia walked away from Angel, her eyes were troubled, and her hands shook as she moved next to him. “It’s going to be okay, Alexander,” she whispered, wiping her eyes. “We’ll find them.”

Relief swamped over Alexander’s face. He all but sagged. There was hope in her voice. He reached for her hand and said, “Thank you, Mia.”
 
When Jem pulled from Cassie’s embrace, he looked over his shoulder at Mia. As her gaze met him, she expressed hope and determination.  
  
Tim finally spoke out, his tone direct. “Let’s go find out what happened on the video surveillance. We’ll need more details on where to begin our search for Tessa and the twins.”

****

Drakon stared at the video screen and rewound the footage to start just after a bright light emerged from outside Tidus and Arius’s nursery.

As Jem came in, Drakon held up a hand in absent greeting before returning his attention back to the screen. Tim stood beside Drakon and stared up at the monitor. When Sebastian and Thomas came into view, Drakon frowned and then hit the keyboard to pause the video.

“Son of a—“ Jem said through gritted teeth. “Am I seeing what I think that is?”

“Can you zoom in on their faces?” Tim asked.

Drakon typed a rapid succession of commands, and the screen capture zoomed in as the picture sharpened.

“Holy shit,” Jem bit out. His gut knotted and his pulse started pounding until his head throbbed. “I don’t believe it. Casey was right. Sebastian has a twin.” 
 
Alexander walked over with Kyle following close behind. “What did you find out?” Kyle asked as he looked at Drakon.

Drakon gestured toward the image on the monitor. “Take a look for yourself.”

Kyle and Alexander stared at the screen in disbelief. Then Alexander’s eyes narrowed in confusion. “Sebastian is a twin?”

Jem glanced at Alexander and said, “Did you know anything about this?”

Alexander’s lips thinned in a tight line. “No, but I do know one thing for sure,” he paused and let out a deep breath, “I’m going to do everything in my power to put an end to this.”

Tim and Drakon looked at each other at the same time. And then Tim shifted in Jem’s direction. “You’ll need to notify your parents, Jem,” he said. “I’ll contact Kenneth. He needs to know about Tessa.”

To be continued...
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship. But when Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of an affair with his adopted mother, Casey confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.





Chapter 33
Hidden Away

By scongrove

Previously...

As the Breedline Covenant sleeps peacefully, they are unaware of evil that lurks inside. With Lilith’s powerful relic medallion, Sebastian and Thomas are able to break through the spell placed on the Covenant, giving them the ability to use a portal.    
 

After Casey Barton witnesses Sebastian and Thomas kidnapping Tessa, Arius, and Tidus, he alerts Jace. As anger consumes every neuron in Jace’s body, he fights the Beast within him before it becomes unleashed and attacks everyone in the Covenant. When Jace’s family does everything in their power to calm him, something strange happens. A bright light surrounds him like a cocoon, shielding Jace from his Beast. And then the light suddenly disappears taking Jace with it.    
     

Continued...

Tessa allowed one slit in her left eye, and when she didn’t see anyone else in the room, she opened both lids and quickly scanned over her surroundings. She was in an unfamiliar room, lying on a bed, her heart pounding like a jackhammer in her chest.

When she didn't see anyone, she slowly sat upright and shifted her legs off the bed.  Planting her feet on the floor, she stood and nearly went down face-first. As she sank back down on the edge of the bed, she shook her head, trying to clear the dizziness that surrounded her like a fog. Whatever Sebastian had given her, it must have been strong enough to take down an elephant.

With her hand covering her belly, she smoothed over the roundness as if she was trying to soothe her babies. When she felt movement, her mind eased. Keeping her palm on her stomach, she focused her mind on Jace and tried to reach out to him.

Oh God, Jace. Can you hear me?   
       

Abruptly, pain speared through her skull and down her spine. Overwhelmed, she leaned forward and vomited. Something was wrong. Instinctively, she knew something had happened to Jace.

The pain was too much. Tessa grabbed her head as tears streamed down her cheeks. It took her several moments to regain her composure and for the pounding in her head to dissipate. She was worried for her unborn babies. Even if she managed to escape this situation with her life, would the stress cause her to lose them?

When she felt a warm hand on her shoulder, she reacted on instinct. Tessa turned and lashed out, landing the heel of her palm on the bridge of Thomas’s nose.

Stumbling back with his hand covering his face, Thomas looked at her with murderous intent. Instantly, he realized she was going to put up a fight. On impulse, he grabbed her by her hair and yanked her head up.

Tessa saw his fist coming and tried to dodge it, but he was too fast. When his knuckles made contact with her face, darkness replaced her vision.    

****  

When Jem opened the door to the bedroom, he saw Mia staring across the room with a blank stare. And then she dropped her head in her hands as tears spilled down her face.

He moved closer with his arms extended and pulled her into an embrace. Mia started to murmur, her words mixed with incomprehensible sobs until they finally coalesced into some meaning. “What are we going to do? How are we going to get them back? Oh, God, Tessa’s pregnant … she’s due in a few months. And where’s Jace?”

Jem was still holding tightly onto Mia, knowing if he let her go, she would crumble to the floor.

“Shhh...  I promise I’ll do everything I can to get them back.”

Mia rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes, so many emotions bombarding her until she was utterly exhausted. She clung to his words knowing he would do everything in his power to bring their family back.

He slipped his fingers under her chin and gently nudged it upward until she met his gaze.

“Trust me, honey,” Jem murmured. “I’m going to find them.”

She leaned her forehead against his chest. “I know you will. I love you, Jem.”

He put his lips to the top of her head, and she could feel the warmth of his breath. “I love you, too,” he said fiercely. He stroked her hair, sprinkling little kisses over her brow.

Moments after a long embrace, she raised her head so she could look him in the eyes, so she could see the light of good shining through them. “Please find them,” she said, her voice pleading. 

****

In the bay area of California, deep in an underground bunker, was Jace who had completely disappeared seven days ago. After days of total darkness, he couldn’t understand why the sun was suddenly shining on him, unless he’d died, and was crossing over to the other side.

With his hand shielding his face, his eyes squinted, trying to focus on the bright image moving closer. As he slowly sat upright, the agony in his body and the screaming in his head were too painful for him to be dead. No, he thought. He was definitely still alive.

“Here,” the bright image said, holding something close to Jace’s mouth, “drink this.”

Jace lifted his head and parted his lips. When the cold water poured down his throat, his instincts went on autopilot, drinking it down fast.
“Slow down, Jace,” the bright image urged.

Jace drank it all and was desperate for more.

“Hold on,” the friendly voice whispered. “I’ve got another bottle.”

As Jace drank down the last sip, he realized he wasn’t in the same place as before. Inhaling through his nose, it smelled like fresh air. When he surveyed his surroundings, he realized he was lying on his back in a field outside.

“I’m taking you back home,” the voice said. “Your family needs you.”

Jace frowned, dragged in a breath, and mumbled, “Tessa... she’s gone. I couldn’t save her.”

“You can get her back, Jace.” The voice seemed to be nodding his head, because the blurry image was coming clear, shifting into an unfamiliar face.

When Jace found the strength to sit up, he rubbed his eyes, and he could have sworn it was an Angel standing above him. He had long, dark hair and neon green eyes, slit-pupiled like a cat’s. “Who are you?”

As the image smiled, his canines were sharp, pointed like feline teeth. “I am the Archangel, Raphael,” he said as black wings unsheathed from his back.

“I don’t understand,” Jace gasped, and put a hand through his long tangled hair, pushing it away from his face. “Why are you here?”

“Come with me,” Raphael said, extending his hand. “Let’s get you back to the Covenant.”

“Wait,” Jace pleaded. “Please, tell me she’s alive.”

As everything went black, Jace felt his body lifted with an unknown force. It was if he was drifting into space, floating peacefully under the stars.

****

Some days lasted forever, Jem thought as he headed to the library to meet with the others. It had been seven days since Jace had vanished into thin air, and the Covenant seemed empty now. Even the cat Buddy suddenly went missing. Not only was everyone devastated over Jace, Tessa, and the twin’s absence, Natalie was also heart-broken over the cat’s mysterious disappearance.

Time was of the essence. After Jace went incognito, their Breedline telepathic connection went completely blank, and he was clueless where to search for him.

As Jem walked into the room, he took a seat next to Drakon. Everyone sitting at the table was just as speechless as he was.

Sweat beaded Jem’s forehead, and his heart pounded in his chest as they waited for John and Sarah to arrive. It had taken every bit of courage Jem possessed to explain to his adopted parents what had happened to Tessa… and Jace. He’d hoped he made the right decision telling them. Perhaps it had been better if he’d just kept them out of this, but they deserved the truth.

Jem looked up at the sound of the door opening. John and Sarah walked in, and pain sliced through Jem’s chest when he saw the expression on their face. They looked utterly devastated. 

He stood and motioned them over. As Jem pulled a chair out for Sarah, she took a seat before her legs gave away by shaking uncontrollably. John sat in the chair beside her, wrapped his arm around her and mustered a rueful smile. Jem sat back down beside Sarah and gripped her hand, squeezing lightly.

“I know you're worried, Mom, but please have faith,” Jem said softly. “Everything will be all right. Trust me. This family has faced the worst situations, and we always come out on top.”

Sarah’s lips quivered as tears slid down her cheeks. John reached into his pocket and pulled out a handkerchief, wiping them away. “Jem’s right, sweetheart,” he whispered. “We’ll get through this.”
   
From across the table, Alexander looked at them with concern. He nodded at John and Sarah, his eyes full of despair.

The others nodded, and it was all Sarah could do not to break down completely. Her family was everything to her, and now it extended to the fullest with everyone at this table she’d come to adore. Sarah was silent and directed a forced smile in their direction. 

John looked at Jem. “Where’s your sister?”

“She called an hour ago. She had an emergency at the hospital. I told her I would fill her in when she gets back.”

“Okay,” John replied, his heart breaking with every breath.

With that, Tim stood. “I’ve contacted Tessa’s father. I promised Kenneth I would keep him updated.” Tim’s eyes locked on Celina as he looked at the far end of the table. When he nodded in her direction, he sat back down, and Celina began to tell them the only explanation she had.

When she told them only a powerful Wicca could have broken the spell she had placed on the Covenant, which kept anyone from using a portal, Jem shook his head in frustration. First, there had been Tessa, Arius, and Tidus, and now his brother was missing. They also had other problems. Not only did they have to deal with another dark Wicca, but Sebastian had a twin.

“Jesus…” Jem muttered, rubbing his temples. “Does it ever end?”

“We’ll get through this,” Drakon spoke out, his gaze focused on Jem. “We’ve all got to remain strong.”

Celina braced herself for Tim’s reaction, as did the others in the room. They were all exhausted, but they did their best to stay focused and ready to do whatever it took to bring Tessa, Arius, and Tidus back. And Jace’s disappearance was like death, too. He’d disappeared, leaving no clues behind to his whereabouts. 
    
“What about the Guardians?” Kyle queried. “Maybe there’s something they can do to help.”

Tim rubbed his jaw. He felt like he’d aged in the last few days, he really did, but he was also wired and twitchy… ready to finally put an end to Sebastian Crow. He leaned back in his chair, his weight making a creak in protest. Everyone in the room looked at him, anxiously waiting for a response.

Just as Tim was about to open his mouth to speak, the doors to the library sprang open, and Mia came bursting in. “It’s Jace! Chester found Jace!”  

In reaction, Sarah placed her hand over her mouth and gasped, “Oh my God!”

Jem’s eyes popped wide, and the expression on his face was shell-shocked. When he shot to his feet, the chair he was sitting in flew backward and crashed to the floor. “Where is he?”

“Outside!” she said, motioning them to follow. 
     
As Mia rushed out of the room, Jem was right on her heels. Everyone else in the room fell in close behind, and together, they followed Mia outside.

Someone tall was coming from the distance, moving through a mass of pine trees. At first, they weren’t sure who it was, and then they recognized Chester as he moved closer.

Standing next to Mia, Jem put his arm up to shield his eyes from the sun and looked over at Mia. “How did you find out?”

When Mia turned to him, her eyes softened. “Amelia came to me. She told me Chester found him outside, lying on the ground, inside the gate.”

Shifting their focus forward, Jem’s whole body began to shake when he saw Jace draped over Chester’s shoulder.

As Jem took off, he ran as fast as his legs would carry him. “Jace!” he yelled. “Jace!”

He came to a halt with his jaw gapped. It was Jace, but it was a weakened version of his brother as if brought back from the dead. His face was gaunt, the skin gray and pasty. His eyes sunk deep into the sockets, surrounded by dark circles, and his hair was nothing but a long, tangled mess. He was wearing the same jeans he had on the night he’d vanished, except they were all torn and filthy.

With all the big bodies crowded in a tight circle, it was hard for Sarah to see. Afraid to look, needing to know, she moved past them, and a blond head of hair caught the light. “Dear God.” She swayed, and Jem grabbed her. She looked at him, choked back her sobs, and said, “Is he alive?”

At the sound of her voice, Jace jerked and threw a limp hand out to her. She reached out and took his slack hand. “Thank the lord,” she said, squeezing lightly, “you’re alive.”

Jace took a deep breath, his dull eyes focusing on her. “I love you... Ma,” he said hoarsely, his throat raw. Another breath was followed by a groan as his stare fuzzed out completely, his hand falling from hers.

“Jace…,” her voice cracked. Sarah felt the years peel away as she watched her son close his eyes. Jace wasn’t the only one suffering. His family and friends had been suffering since he’d disappeared, having no idea if he was alive or dead.

“Have faith, Mom,” Jem said, placing his hand on her shoulder. “Jace is a fighter.”

Sarah flinched at the light contact and looked up at Jem. Tears clouded her eyes, but she didn’t allow them to fall, trying to keep from falling apart. She had to be strong for him and Jace.

Alexander moved beside Jem and cleared his throat. “Let’s get him inside,” he said, reaching out to take Jace from Chester.

Jem wanted to be the person to take his brother back into the Covenant, but his legs were shaking so badly he probably needed to be carried too.

As Chester handed Jace’s body over to Alexander, he said, “Apparently, he hasn’t had anything to eat or drink in days. With rest, he’ll heal on the outside. Healing on the inside is up to him.”  

Jem could barely comprehend what Chester had told them; he was too busy staring into his twin’s face. There were dark shadows under his eyes. As Chester spoke, Jem concentrated on communicating with Jace telepathically. We’ll get Tessa back, brother. I swear it.  
   
Jace’s lids barely cracked, and tears trickled from the corners. He could feel the lingering pain coming from the base of his skull. He’d already endured so much suffering, and not knowing what was happening to Tessa was sending him right over the edge. She tried to contact him telepathically, but something was keeping them from communicating. Yeah, he was starting to lose his mind. Jace was clinging by a thread, and right now it seemed a lot easier to just let go and check out.

With all his strength, Jace’s mouth opened. “Tessa,” he said, his voice was garbled.  
 
“He’ll be all right, honey,” John said in a soothing voice. With his arm wrapped around Sarah, they followed behind everyone as Alexander carried Jace inside the Covenant.   
 
To be continued...  
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed- has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship. But when Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of an affair with his adopted mother, Casey confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.





Chapter 34
Hidden Away/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
As the Breedline Covenant sleeps peacefully, they are unaware of evil that lurks inside. With Lilith’s powerful relic medallion, Sebastian and Thomas are able to break through the spell placed on the Covenant, giving them the ability to use a portal.   

After Casey Barton witnesses Sebastian and Thomas kidnapping Tessa, Arius, and Tidus, he alerts Jace. As anger consumes every neuron in Jace’s body, he fights the Beast within him before it becomes unleashed and attacks everyone in the Covenant. When Jace’s family does everything in their power to calm him, something strange happens. A bright light surrounds him like a cocoon, shielding Jace from his Beast. And then the light suddenly disappears taking Jace with it.   
 
As weeks go by, the Covenant is distraught over the unexplainable disappearance of Jace. Without his ability to connect with Tessa, they are unable to locate where Sebastian and Thomas have taken her and the twins.

When Tessa awoke in a strange place, she used her telepathic powers to try and connect with Jace, but the pain it caused almost sent her over the edge. She sensed something was wrong with him when she heard his faint voice inside her head.

Finally, just as the Breedline were about to lose all hope, they mysteriously find Jace outside the gates of the Covenant. He was in a weakened state, but still alive.

With his Theriomorph urges taking over, and feeling guilty of the visions about Tessa's death, Casey Barton is desperate to stop all the voices inside his head. And the drug DOPA was the only way to curb his Theriomorph side.    
 

Continued...   
 
When Tessa came to her senses, her head hurt. Not just a regular headache, it felt like someone had hit her over the head with a baseball bat. Tessa was so overwhelmed with nausea that even breathing was difficult. She was angry and tired of dealing with Sebastian Crow. And now there were two of him.
            As she managed to sit up, the room started to spin, and if it didn’t stop soon, she was going to be sick again. She thought about trying to reach out to Jace again, but she was afraid. The agony was already so overwhelming that anything else Tessa did to intensify it would send her straight over the edge. Still, she had to try. What other options did she have? If she couldn’t get through to Jace telepathically, there was no way anyone would find her.        
            For several moments, she rubbed her temples and tried to clear her mind to shake off the aftereffects of the drugs. It was the only explanation for why she couldn’t telepathically communicate with Jace.
            She took a deep, soothing breath and then whispered Jace’s name in her mind. The crippling pain nearly sent her to the floor. She leaned forward, gasping in an effort not to scream. The pressure in her head felt like an explosion was going to go off at any moment. Tucking her knees against her belly, she curled into a ball with her hands over her head.
            But then she heard him. A faint whisper, so light she wondered if she imagined Jace’s voice.
            Tessa…
            Oh God, his voice sounded weak. Something was wrong. She could feel the tears on his face. As a helpless wave of despair hit her, Tessa’s entire body trembled. She forced herself to see through his eyes and then gasped in horror. And then the pain intensified again. Keeping her lids closed tight, she rocked back and forth, trying desperately to ease the agony. It was like having a migraine on steroids. The glimpse of light coming from the lamp next to the bed was unbearable, and she had a hard time processing her thoughts. And then she looked up, and her stomach bottomed out.
            It was the face she’d seen many times in her nightmares. Before she could react, Thomas grabbed her wrist, his grip tightening until she let out a cry of pain.
            “If you try anything, I’ll break your arm,” he hissed. “And I will make your unborn children suffer unimaginably. If you cooperate, you’ll get to see them born.”
            Her eyes widened in fear and her stomach clenched as she looked into the eyes of pure evil. “Where am I?” she demanded, ignoring the dizzy feeling in her head.
            Tessa’s question seemed to infuriate him further. “Far away from the safety of the Covenant,” he said in a smug tone. “If you try to communicate with your beloved, or shift into your wolf… the pain you feel now will persist until it kills you.”  
            “Tell me…what it is you want with me?” she asked in a calm tone, almost as if she were exchanging ordinary conversation.
            He looked befuddled and answered automatically. “Lilith wants you here.”
            Tessa let out a pained gasp. “What—“ She swallowed hard, refusing to give in to the rising panic. She’d withstood the very worst and survived, and she would live through this. Her unborn babies were counting on her. Jace was counting on her. She wouldn’t put him through the hell of her dying over this. “Who’s Lilith?” she asked in a pleading voice. “Please… what do you want with me?”   
            Thomas’s brows furrowed and his expression hardened as if he wasn’t exactly sure what to tell her. He was already growing impatient with her questions. Ignoring her, he reached inside his jacket. When he brought his hand out, he had something small in his grasp. Without warning, he stuck a syringe into her arm.  
            She flinched when she felt the sharp stab. As she stared into Sebastian doppelganger’s cold eyes, her vision started to blur. Blinking several times, the room around her suddenly darkened until her mind was nothing but an empty void.
 
****
 
            Eve flinched when she heard a soft knock. And then she heard Sebastian’s voice coming from outside the bedroom. “Eve…”
            When she opened the door, she instantly placed her hand over her mouth in reaction. Sebastian was leaning against the wall with Arius and Tidus in his arms.
            “Oh, Sebastian,” she sobbed against her palm.
            “I kept my promise,” he said.
            Arius’s wide citrine eyes stared up out of his angelic little face, and recognition was in his stare. He knew exactly who Eve was.  
            Eve’s tears made her vision blurry. After she had wiped her eyes, she held her arms out to Arius. As he easily went to her, he made a little cooing sound.
            “Look at them,” Eve beamed, cuddling her arms around Arius. “They’ve grown so much.”  
            As Sebastian moved inside the room, she lifted her eyes to the brilliant gold stare of her beloved. God, that captivating color was what shone out of her twin’s faces as well, so there was no looking at Arius and Tidus without thinking of their father. And yet… she was worried about their future. All she wanted was to raise her children in a happy household, while Sebastian had other plans.  But maybe… he’d changed his mind.
            Tidus’s nose crinkled as he let out a soft whimper. Looking in Eve’s direction, his eyes pleaded, and his tiny arms strained for her.
            “Come here, sweetheart,” Eve murmured as she handed Arius back to Sebastian and reached for Tidus. “Mommy missed you so much,” she said, holding Tidus snugly in her arms.
            “I’m sorry to interrupt.”
            Eve’s eyes shot to the open doorway. Thomas was standing in it, with a grave expression on his face.
            “I need to speak with Sebastian in private,” Thomas said, his tone firm.   
            Sebastian hugged Arius closer to his chest, and his eyes met Eve’s for a moment. “I’ll be back,” he said. As he handed Arius to Eve, he stepped out of the room.    
 
 ****     
 
            In the Covenant’s exam room, Jem sat in a chair next to the bed where Jace lay after Helen hooked him up to an IV. He hadn’t moved since Chester brought him back hours ago, which seemed to be spreading widely throughout the Covenant. It was like everyone in the estate was asleep as exhaustion had overwhelmed them all except Jem, and Chester—who was pacing in the hallway outside the room. Jace was on both their minds. He was their only hope of reaching out telepathically and locating where Sebastian had taken Tessa and the twins.   
            When Jem first set eyes on Jace after a week had passed, he looked like he was on death’s door. It was strange, Jem thought. At first, he’d wanted Jace to wake up right away, but now he was terrified to see his eyes open. He didn’t know how he’d react, given all that had happened. Sure, Jace was alive and breathing, but without his beloved, he might as well be dead.  
            In spite of Tessa getting taken, and not knowing if she were still alive, she would always be with Jace. Maybe not in physical form, but always locked in his memory. There was no looking at Jace without seeing Tessa. The two had been inseparable in life, and that would continue even after death. That was just how it was with bonded mates.
            As Jace’s eyes popped open, his heart went into overdrive. There was an ache inside him, under his ribs, which had nothing to do with an injury. Most likely it was his heart breaking. He kept seeing Tessa’s death in his dreams. He had never been one to believe in the prophetic meaning of dreams, and yet it was a possibility it had come true.
            The sheets covering him were cold, but he was sweating. Through blurred vision, he could see someone sitting in a chair not far away.  Rubbing his eyes, trying to focus, he mumbled, “Jem… is that you?”
            Jem’s head swiveled around when he heard his brother’s voice. It was exactly as he remembered it, intense and raspy. But there was a difference, though. There was a new emptiness in his tone. Or maybe it was coming from the haunted stare behind those blue eyes.
 
****
 
            After Chester found Jace and brought him back, everyone in the Covenant finally retired to their rooms in exhaustion except for Casey. He went to PulseZero instead.
            Parked downtown in the club and drug district, Casey’s lavender eyes stared into the rearview mirror, but there was no recognition of his reflection on his handsome face. It was as if a stranger was looking back. He closed his eyes and let his head fall back against the seat. As his inner voice continued to pound at him, he felt his Theriomorph side overtaking him once again. He saw all the visions of Tessa’s death, all the pain in Jace’s eyes, and all the differences he could have made, but had failed… and now others had paid the price for his dark secret.
            Casey covered his ears with his hands even though it did nothing to help. The voices wouldn’t stop. With a moan, he pressed his palms into either side of his head so hard his arms shook. With everything that had happened at the Covenant, he was desperate to get his next fix and terrified he’d have to go home without what he needed. His chemical savior kept the worst of his Theriomorph urges at bay, taking away the images blaring inside his head.  
            With only an hour left until closing time, there was no wait line outside the club, so he just walked right in the front door, maneuvered through the crowd and headed toward the bar. PulseZero was known for dumb-asses with addictions, which was the only reason he’d step foot in a place like this. Sitting down on a padded bar stool, he looked over his shoulder and saw the lights bouncing off shadowy faces and bodies that melded together. Shifting back around, he rubbed his eyes trying to filter out the hard-core metal blaring in his ears.   
            As the bartender approached, she said, “Rough night?”
            Casey shifted his focus forward and locked eyes on her, his Theriomorph impulses screaming to get out. He was all instinct as he crept into her thoughts and read her mind. Burrowed deep into her brain, he felt a rush as if he were free-falling off a building into a downward spiral. She was thinking of him… in a bed of tangled sheets, her mind picturing his warm, bare skin pressed against hers.
            “Would you like a drink?”
            His attention snapped back when he heard the bartender’s question. Taking a deep breath, Casey forced himself to gather his strength and get out of her head. He would be finished for the night if he didn’t get the drugs soon.
            “Uh…” Casey hesitated, and then blurted, “Shot of Patron.”    
            After she poured him a shot, Casey quickly brought it to his lips and downed the liquor in two swallows. When he set the glass down, he gestured for another.
            The bartender swiveled her head around when a booming male voice yelled, “I want my drink now!”  
            Two barstools away, sat a guy with massive biceps and a good dozen prison tats aggressing on a waitress, clearly drunk off his ass. As the loudmouth reached out his hand and grabbed the waitress’s arm, she lost control of her tray of drinks sending them crashing to the floor. “I said, give me my drink, bitch!”
Casey rose from his chair and moved next to the waitress who was bent down, picking up the spilled drinks.
            “Hey, asshole,” Casey said to the bigmouth that put his paws on the waitress. “I think you’ve had enough.”
            The guy’s eyes narrowed and lumbered up out of his seat to a full height of about six-five. “What’d you say to me?”  
            As his hands clenched into fists, Casey took a deep breath trying to fight off his Theriomorph nature. This pathetic excuse for a human had no idea he was not just a Breedline, but something far dangerous. The asshole towering above him would shit himself if only he’d known.
            “You need to leave,” Casey said firmly, “or I’ll drag you out of here myself.”
            The guy was so shell-shocked, his pie-hole popped open, and his breath exhaled in one deep thrust revealing a nasty odor of a dirty ashtray. “You gotta be out of your damn mind, pretty boy,” he said in a smug tone, looking Casey up and down as if he was judging him by his designer outfit. “I’m gonna break you in half.”
            Before the guy lifted his hand toward Casey, he grabbed the man’s wrist and cranked his arm up to the middle of his back like the beefy human weighed nothing. Then Casey shoved him off balance, and he fell to the floor, his body hit the concrete knocking the wind out of him.        
            To keep the peace, sometimes you had to get your hands dirty every once in a while, Casey thought as he bent down and grabbed the guy’s collar of his jacket. As he dragged him face-first to the bar’s exit, the man sputtered like a whiny school girl, and the waitress followed close behind. When Casey got to the door, she swung the thing wide and held it open.
            “Thanks,” Casey said, winking at her.     
            Outside the bar, he flipped the guy over on his back and got down in his face. “I don’t wanna see your ugly face here again. Hear me?”
            When they guy didn’t respond quickly enough, Casey clamped a hand on his ear, twisting it and ground out, “I’m sorry… I didn’t hear you.”
            “All right,” the guy groaned in agony. “I get it.”
            As the man got to his feet, he stumbled off with his hand covering his ear and Casey went back inside the club. When he looked up at the waitress, her breath stopped in her throat. Casey’s eyes were glowing in the darkness.
            Without being aware he was doing it, Casey reached into her mind with a lick of his Theriomorph skills and wiped her memory.
            Casey disappeared into the back of the club with a single-minded focus… to get to his drug dealer and get the hell out.    
 
****
 
            Jem quickly got to his feet. “Welcome back, brother.” He smiled a little and then asked, “What happened to you, Jace? How did you just vanish like that?”
            Jace didn’t say anything, just glanced over at the bathroom and then shifted his eyes back on Jem, helplessness gleaming in the shadowed depths. As he met Jace’s weary blue stare, he felt his knees weaken, and his heart plummet.
            Jace closed his eyes and reached for Jem.  
            He leaned over and hugged his brother for everything he was worth. Jem buried his face in what was once a broad chest and listened to the heart that still beat inside of it. Of the two of them, Jem held on harder, not because Jace didn’t care, but because he hadn’t the strength.
            “We’ll get her back, Jace.”
            When he pulled from their embrace, Jace looked up at him and nodded. He stretched out with a groan and settled back into the pillow.
            With concern in his tone, Jem said, “Is there anything I can get you?”
            Jace looked away and muttered, “Yeah, bathroom.”
            Jem reached for Jace. “Let me help you.”
            “Nah,” Jace said in a hoarse voice, waving him away. “I’m good.”
            Jace put a shaking hand on the edge of the sheets and dragged them off his naked body inch by inch. Taking a deep breath, he slid his legs out, so they dangled close to the floor. He had taken another deep breath before he heaved himself off.
            It was painful to watch – Jace shuffled like an old man did, head down, and his back hunched over as he slowly moved to the bathroom. When the door shut, Jem heard the toilet flush, and minutes later, the shower came on.
            Jem went back to the chair he’d been in, his gut wrenched, and not just because of Jace’s condition. He was worried about Tessa and her unborn twins. If anything happened to them, Jace would never be the same. No one in the Covenant would be the same. Jem rubbed his palms on his thighs with anxiety at the very beat of his heart. Strange, everything else that happened, even the stuff with the Chiang-shih demon, seemed unreal and unimportant. There was only one primary focus… getting Tessa back safe.
            Jem was in denial of the ‘gifts’ he and his twin inherited from the demon. Never once had he imagined that it could interfere with having a normal existence. It was naïve of him. Jem could admit that. But who ever considered that violence would come into the life of the ones they loved, forever changing the future?
            Maybe it was irresponsible of him, never taking into account the repercussions of having these abilities. But in his scope, his gift wasn’t life changing. Jem didn’t even know how his powers worked yet. Sure, he could send a lightning bolt straight out of his hand, and he could travel through a portal which neither skill would bring Tessa back. Yeah, according to Chester, he could even heal others. But without the knowledge of how to harness those powers, it could be deadly.
            When the door opened nearly an hour later, Jem turned around. Jace was wearing a robe, and his hair mostly detangled, though he still looked like hell.
In a slow shuffle, Jace went back to the exam table and sat down. The silence stretched, and in his mind, Jem wanted to find a way to ease Jace’s suffering.
            Instead, he rose to his feet and said, “I’m going to get Helen. I think she needs to know you’re awake.”
            “Yeah,” Jace’s voice strained. “Okay…”
            Jem turned away and walked to the door. Before he stepped out, he looked over his shoulder and said, “I love you, brother.”
            In the silence that followed, Jem thought about the past. They’d always looked out for each other. It was as it should be. Jace hadn’t been the best at making the right decisions growing up, but he’d always had his back.
            Jace turned in his direction. “Yeah… me too, bro.”    
 
To be continued...
    
 
   
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Their lifespan is the same as a normal human, but they are immune to illness and disease. Only a silver bullet to the brain will kill them. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong, if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female; but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another queen is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: By its firstborn son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.




Chapter 35
Hidden Away/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...
 
As the Breedline Covenant sleeps peacefully, they are unaware of evil that lurks inside. With Lilith’s powerful relic medallion, Sebastian and Thomas are able to break through the spell placed on the Covenant, giving them the ability to use a portal.  
 

After Casey Barton witnesses Sebastian and Thomas kidnapping Tessa, Arius, and Tidus, he alerts Jace. As anger consumes every neuron in Jace’s body, he fights the Beast within him before it becomes unleashed and attacks everyone in the Covenant. When Jace’s family does everything in their power to calm him, something strange happens. A bright light surrounds him like a cocoon, shielding Jace from his Beast. And then the light suddenly disappears taking Jace with it.  
  

As weeks go by, the Covenant is distraught over the unexplainable disappearance of Jace. Without his ability to connect with Tessa, they are unable to locate where Sebastian and his brother Thomas has taken her and the twins.

When Tessa awoke in a strange place, she used her telepathic powers to try and connect with Jace, but the pain it caused almost sent her over the edge. She sensed something was wrong with him when she heard his faint voice insider her head.

Finally, just as the Breedline were about to lose all hope, Jace was mysteriously found outside the gates of the Covenant. He was in a weakened state, but still alive.

Now that Sebastian has kept his promise to Eve and brought back their twin sons, Arius and Tidus, she’s worried about their future and what Lilith wants with them.  

With his Theriomorph urges taking over, Casey Barton heads downtown to a seedy bar in search of the drug he needs before the voices in his head completely take over.    
    

Continued...     
 
When Sebastian stepped out into the hallway, Thomas’s head dropped, and he let out a weary sigh. “Look, Sebastian, we need to go back to the Breedline Covenant soon.”
            “Hell, no,” Sebastian snapped back. “You don’t get shit from me until you tell me what the hell is going on,” he said through gritted teeth, pointing his finger in Thomas’s face. “I don’t give a rat’s ass what Lilith says. I want to know why she wants us to bring this stranger back... and why she’s keeping Tessa alive.”
            Sebastian’s curiosity only served to piss Thomas off more. And Sebastian knew it.
            Something dark flickered in Thomas’s eyes, giving him a haunted look. “You have no idea what you’re dealing with,” Thomas seethed. “There are people after Lilith. They don’t give a damn who lives or dies as long as they get their hands on her.”
            “So explain it to me,” Sebastian said impatiently. “What people are you talking about?”  
            Thomas’s lip curled back into a snarl, and he glared at Sebastian.
            “We’re wasting time here, Thomas.” Sebastian eased back against the wall and crossed his arms. He didn’t look happy, but then Sebastian never was happy about anything kept from him. “Spill it, or I’m not helping.”
            Thomas leaned forward and got into Sebastian’s face until they were nose to nose. “The person Lilith wants is her son Steven, and I don’t know how he got into the Breedline Covenant,” he said, taking a step back. “But there’s a damn possibility he is the key to world destruction. If the wrong people get their hands on him, they could use him as a weapon. Steven has powers, even he doesn’t have knowledge of, nor does he know how to control it.”
            “Explain the situation with Tessa,” Sebastian demanded, staring at Thomas like he’d lost his damn mind, “what does Lilith want with her unborn children?”
            Thomas cleared his throat. “They carry the same genetics.”
            “I’m having a hard time wrapping my mind around this,” Sebastian said, his expression displaying aggravation. “It doesn’t make any damn sense. How could her children carry the same genetics as Lilith’s son?”
            Thomas narrowed his eyes. “Because... Tessa and Steven are twins,” he said, letting out a deep breath. “Lilith is their biological mother.”  
            “What the hell?” Sebastian blurted, thinking this was getting more twisted by the minute. “You’re full of shit, Thomas.”
            Thomas’s eyes grew shadowed, and suddenly he looked angry. “I’m not full of shit,” he barked at Sebastian. “Tessa and Steven are fraternal twins. What reason would I have to make something like this up?”
            Sebastian shook his head. “Christ. This is some messed up shit. At least give me a damn smoke. I’m going to need something to calm my nerves after hearing all this.”
            Thomas reached inside his blazer and pulled out a cigar. When he handed it to Sebastian, he dug out a lighter and tossed it to him.
            Sebastian shoved the end of the cigar into his mouth and then raised his hand to light it. A moment later, he inhaled deeply and then exhaled a long plume of smoke.
            “So…” Sebastian smirked. There was intense interest in his usually inscrutable gaze. “Does Tessa know anything about all this?”
            Thomas glared at Sebastian in silence, and then he said, “No.”
            “Really?” Sebastian asked coolly. “Why weren’t you straight with me in the first place? You knew about all this the whole time, but never thought about mentioning it to me?” He stared at Thomas like he’d just committed a crime. Maybe that wasn’t far off the mark. “That’s bullshit, and you know it.”
            Thomas looked at his brother’s reaction. He didn’t have time for this shit. “We don’t have time to argue about this right now, but I promise to keep you in the loop from here on,” he said warily. “But you have to help me go after Steven and bring him back.”
            Sebastian stared at his twin, his eyes so cold they’d freeze Jack Frost. And then he took another drag on his cigar and exhaled the smoke in Thomas’s face. “Before I do anything, I want to speak with Lilith, and if you keep anything from me again… I won’t hesitate to cut your throat, just like I did our mother’s.”
 
****   
 
            As soon as Jem walked out the door where Chester was waiting, a wave of agony hit Jace so hard that he rolled off the exam table and dropped to the floor.
            Hearing the noise from outside the room, Jem came rushing back inside with Chester close behind. When he saw Jace on the floor curled into a ball with his hands covering his head, he dropped down next to his brother and grasped his arm.
            “What’s wrong, Jace?” Jem asked sharply. “Talk to me, brother. You’re scaring the shit out of me.”
            “It’s Tessa,” Chester said as he knelt down beside Jace. “Something’s wrong with Tessa.”
            But Jace wasn’t focused on them. He was caught in an infinite amount of pain, like his head was wedged in a vise, squeezing tighter and tighter. The inside of his skull felt as though it was going to split in half. And then he heard Tessa. Her voice was desperate and cracking under the invasion of agony.
            Oh God, Jace… help me.   
            And then Jace became aware of her huddled, wrapping her arms around her body, her gasps of pain sliding through his mind.
In frustration, Jace tried to get to his feet, but the lingering waves of pain—her pain—had crippled him. Dear God, the magnitude of pain she was enduring, and he was helpless. He was damn helpless while Sebastian had his hands on her again.
            “Jace, talk to me!” Jem shouted.
            Jace cracked his lids and stared up at Jem. “Just give me a minute,” he gasped.
            Chester backed off, but Jem remained down, his hand locked around Jace’s arm. “Let me help you up.”
            When the lingering pain finally eased, already Tessa’s voice had faded away, gone from Jace’s mind. He wished the agony over this blanket of silence because at least then he’d had a connection with her. He’d heard Tessa. And now there was nothing but silence.
            He grasped Jem’s hand and hauled himself upward. For a moment he staggered and leaned into his brother. Jem wrapped his arm around Jace’s shoulders and simply held him.
            As soon as he got his bearings, he turned and plopped down on the edge of the exam table. Jace went white, and he looked like he was going to be ill. “I heard her voice,” he said, shaking his head. “I felt what she’s feeling,” he added, his face going paler by the second.     
            Jem’s hand shook as he dragged it through his hair. “Did she tell you where she was?”
            Jace slumped and covered his face. “No,” he mumbled into his palms. Dropping his hands, he lifted his chin. “She was begging for help.”  
            Jem slid his hand over Jace’s shoulder. “Tessa’s strong-willed, Jace. She’ll make it through this.”
            Just hearing the conviction in his brother’s voice settled Jace. As he shifted his stare, he saw the same look on Chester’s face.
            “Can you find Tessa?” Jace asked as he kept his eyes on Chester.
            Chester shook his head. His eyes softened, and his lips flattened into a thin line. “I’m sorry, Jace. I’ve tried, but… something or someone is blocking me.”  
 
****
 
            As Casey headed to the back of the club for the owner/drug dealer’s office, voices whispered in his skull. You need help… a double-barreled help. His Theriomorph side was digging in deeper and overtaking his thoughts.
            When he walked to the end of a narrow hallway, he rounded a corner leading to a door. Two huge bouncers standing in front nodded to him as one spoke into his phone. A second later they let him through.
            Casey walked into the office and focused on the goateed guy known as Hugo sitting behind a desk. He wore a pristine black suit, more businessman than a dealer.
            Hugo smirked a little. “Already out?”
            Casey glanced behind himself, making sure they were alone. Then he took out his wallet and said, “I want twice the amount this time.”
            Hugo’s eyes narrowed. “What did you say?”
            “I want a double order.”
            “You sure about that?” Hugo queried with an arched brow.
            No, Casey thought. “Yes,” he said.
            Hugo tilted his head back and smoothed a hand over the thick strip of hair covering his chin.  Then he leaned forward and reached for his phone. After he had initiated the call, he said, “I want four hundred worth of DOPA up here.” Hugo ended the call and eased back into his chair. “My men outside will assist you with the merchandise.”  
            Casey’s chin dipped down, and his eyes flashed a glowing purple for a split second. Then he nodded and pulled out several bills from his wallet, dropping them on the desk.
            As he was leaving the dealer said, “That stuff is high quality. Dead pure. A word of advice… use sparingly. If you go overboard and use too much, that shit can kill you.”
            “I know what I’m doing,” Casey muttered as he walked out.
            Before he got back to his car, the voices in his head whispered. You’re nothing but a junkie.
            The reality of what he was doing sent chills across Casey’s skin. Except he didn’t have enough left in him to care. Sadness was everywhere around him, the stench of sorrow and failure filling the air as he breathed. But by the time he got back to the Breedline Covenant, he couldn’t wait to numb out completely and ease the agony of his pain. And he knew he’d bought enough of the drug to take it away, wiping out the voices in his head.       
            When he got to his room, he shut the door and dropped the bag of drugs on the bed. He took a small box out and opened it. Retrieving the vial, he held it in front of his face and stared at the liquid drug.
            The knock on the door startled him, almost causing him to drop it. Casey cursed and looked over his shoulder. Quickly shoving the glass vial into his front pocket, he called out, “Who is it?”
            When there was no answer, he went to the door and threw it open.
Standing in the doorway, Kyle stumbled back. “Sorry, man,” he said, shrugging his shoulders. “I know it’s late, but I just wanted to let you know Jace is awake.”
            As Casey put his hand into his pocket and felt for what he’d purchased earlier, he thought of Tessa… of himself and his dirty secret. And of his shitty future filled with lies.
            He took a deep breath and muttered, “Thanks for letting me know. How’s he doing?”
            As Kyle looked at him, he noticed Casey’s eyes seemed eerily different. “Hey…” Kyle paused and furrowed his brows, “you okay?”
            Casey rubbed his neck, trying to focus on the conversation. “I’m fine. Just tired, that’s all.”
            Kyle could only stare. Casey appeared lost in thought, his mind miles away. After a pause, he said, “Physically… Jace will heal, but emotionally… he’s a wreck. I understand what he’s going through,” he said, letting out a deep breath. “When Celina’s sister kidnapped her, I thought I was going to go out of my mind not knowing if she was hurt, or even alive.”
            In the silence that followed, Casey thought of Lila. She was beautiful and sophisticated. And with her soft voice and her polite manners, she made him feel like a nerdy teenager, all clumsy and awkward in spite of his expensive clothes. He couldn’t imagine what he would do if something happened to her. Man, it would be like getting stabbed in the chest, he thought.
            Casey cleared his throat and said, “Yeah, I can’t even imagine what that’s like.”
            Kyle shook his head. “Yeah, it sucks.” And then he added, “I guess I’ll see you downstairs in the morning for breakfast.” Then Kyle waved goodbye and turned away.  
            Casey shut the door, locked it, and went right back to the bed. Reaching into the nightstand, he dug inside, and when he brought his hand back, he held a small box with a combination lock on the outside. Just as he took the lock off and opened it, he froze.
            He couldn’t breathe… and started gasping. As his palms grew wet, sweat broke out on his forehead and under his armpits. Shaking from head to toe, he reached inside the box and took out a syringe.
            Before he plopped down on the edge of the bed, he reached into his pocket and pulled out the tiny vial of dopamine. Placing the needle and the drug on the nightstand, he rolled up his sleeve, and his mind repeated the same words over and over. What the hell am I doing? What the hell am I doing?
 
****
 
            A half hour later Helen came into the exam room as Jem watched her go over Jace’s vitals, her hands steady and sure as she took a few vials of blood. Jace was clearly not happy about being poked and prodded. Afterward, she gave him a thumbs-up to rest in his bedroom.
            “You need to take it easy for a few days,” Helen insisted. “Don’t do anything strenuous for at least a week.”
            As Jace slid off the exam table, Jem was right there by his side with his hand held out.
            Jace shook his head and waved him away. “Thanks, but I’ve got it.”
            “Yeah, right,” Jem muttered. “You heard the Doc.”
            Jace eased over to the door with Jem close behind and slowly walked out.
            Outside Jace’s bedroom, he reached for the knob and looked over his shoulder when he heard Jem clear his throat. “Hey, Jace… can you do me a favor?”
            “What?” Jace replied automatically. Tessa was all that was on his mind. The absence of her was a tangible weight hanging from his body. He felt like he was going to die without her. He wanted to hunt Sebastian down and kill the bastard, but without knowing where she was and not being able to communicate with her telepathically, he was helpless.     
            “Promise me—“
            Jem was interrupted when his cell phone went off. Retrieving it out of his back pocket, he looked at the caller ID. When he didn’t recognize the number, he let it go to his voicemail. Tucking it back into his pocket, he looked back up at his brother. “Promise me you’ll talk to me about what’s going on in your head. It’s frustrating as hell to watch you slip further and further away. Don’t shut me out this time, brother.”
            Jace dropped his head and let out a deep breath. When he lifted his chin, Jem was staring at him. The look in his eyes was crushing. Jem knew, he thought. Jem was aware of all his rollercoaster of emotions.
            Jace rubbed his forehead tiredly and nodded. He’d never been so damn scared and helpless in his life. Jace couldn’t lose Tessa or their babies. He’d fought so damn hard to get his life back in order. He wasn’t going to let it all slip away now.
            “Okay… I promise.”
            Jem put his hand on Jace’s shoulder and lightly squeezed. “Get some rest, brother.”
            Rescuing his twin’s emotional grid after their mother had passed on hadn’t gone far enough; it had taken the miracle of Tessa to resurrect Jace’s soul, and now she was in danger.
            As Jace stepped inside his room, he kept his head down hiding the tears in his eyes. When he looked at his and Tessa’s bed, the lyrics to “Make it Rain,” by Ed Sheeran popped into his head. Wiping his eyes, he took a deep breath and looked away. His vision latched onto Tessa’s clothes as he moved toward the closet to get a T-shirt. Jace leaned forward and touched one of the robes she had always worn before bed. When he took it off the hanger, he draped it over his arm and smoothed his trembling hand over the satin material. Jace brought it to his nose, and inhaled deep, catching her scent as more tears slid down his cheeks.
            After he had put it back on the hanger, he stepped into the bathroom and flipped on the light. When his eyes caught sight of something sparkling on the sink, he recognized the cross necklace Tessa’s father had given her.
He picked it up and fingered the delicate chain for a while, just watching the gold sparkle. Then he placed it around his neck and whispered, “Come back to me, Tessa.”
 
To be continued...
 
             
   
 
 
     
 
 
   
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen�?�¢??s trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca- murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship. But when Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of an affair with his adopted mother, Casey confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.





Chapter 36
Whispers in the Night

By scongrove

Previously...
 
As the Breedline Covenant sleeps peacefully, they are unaware of evil that lurks inside. With Lilith’s powerful relic medallion, Sebastian and Thomas are able to break through the spell placed on the Covenant, giving them the ability to use a portal.  
 

After Casey Barton witnesses Sebastian and Thomas kidnapping Tessa, Arius, and Tidus, he alerts Jace. As anger consumes every neuron in Jace’s body, he fights the Beast within him before it becomes unleashed and attacks everyone in the Covenant. When Jace’s family does everything in their power to calm him, something strange happens. A bright light surrounds him like a cocoon, shielding Jace from his Beast. And then the light suddenly disappears taking Jace with it.  
  

As weeks go by, the Covenant is distraught over the unexplainable disappearance of Jace. Without his ability to connect with Tessa, they are unable to locate where Sebastian and his brother Thomas has taken her and the twins.

When Tessa awoke in a strange place, she used her telepathic powers to try and connect with Jace, but the pain it caused almost sent her over the edge. She sensed something was wrong with him when she heard his faint voice insider her head.

Finally, just as the Breedline were about to lose all hope, Jace was mysteriously found outside the gates of the Covenant. He was in a weakened state, but still alive.

Meanwhile, after Casey Barton confronts Lila’s father, Victor Demont about his knowledge of the affair Victor had with his mother—who is recently deceased—he admits to the infidelity and apologizes to Casey, promising to stay out of his and Lila's relationship. 
  

Continued...
 
Steven leaned back against the headboard of his bed and stared sightlessly in the dark. After Dr. Helen Carrington told him about what had happened in the Covenant, he couldn’t fathom the reason why someone would kidnap the Breedline queen. When he’d asked Helen questions, she was reluctant to give him all the details.
            As he turned to the nightstand, he noticed the red glow on the clock and the time. Damn, he thought. It was two in the morning. His body was exhausted, but for some reason, he felt restless. When he was finally able to shut his eyes, he drifted off into a deep slumber.   
            An hour later, Steven’s lids flew open as he became instantly wide awake. Weariness and sadness quickly crept over him. Inside his head, he heard cries of a woman in pain. The sounds were crisp and clear as if someone was in the room with him, but he put it off as evidence of a losing battle for his sanity. And then he heard her again.
            He went still, his head coming up staring through the dark room. Despite his exhaustion, he immediately came to life. As he reached for the lamp, his skin prickled with goose bumps, traveling over his entire body.
            When the light flooded the room, he said, “Who’s there?”
            A voice floated through Steven’s mind as if someone was right there beside him before gradually fading away. Please… help me.    
            “Christ,” he whispered. “It’s finally happened. I’ve finally lost my damn mind.”
            A sudden chill stole over his body, and he hunched over, wrapping his arms around his stomach. Steven felt her despair in black, suffocating waves. He closed his eyes as her pain mingled with his. Steven didn’t know this woman, but he could no more deny her comfort than he could deny anyone who suffered so much. Concentrating on his thoughts, he merged more fully with her, sending himself inside her very soul. The stranger’s pain became his own.
            Tears ran freely down his cheeks as the full extent of her suffering blew over him like a blazing inferno. It took all his strength and energy to maintain the link between them.
            Who… are you? The weary voice drifted into his mind, and a knot formed in his throat at the resignation so heavy in her consciousness.
How did you do that? She pushed another thought at him again. You took away my pain.
            Her quiet question was full of bewilderment. Steven could sense her disbelief, even as her body relaxed from the discomfort she had felt. He thought this was a dream manifesting from his tortured past.
            It took all his strength to maintain the bond between them, but he could feel it fading. I have the ability to take away… pain, he said with hesitation.
            I-I don’t understand? Her voice was fainter in his mind now. What’s your name?  
            Steven, he uttered, his inner voice was hoarse. Steven Pasquale. Who are you?
            It took her a long moment before she was able to respond. She could sense Steven’s battle between reality and hallucination.
            My name is Tessa Fairchild. Her thought was a mere whisper in his head, and she sensed his frustration just before she lost the connection and slipped free from his mind.
            Tessa? He called out in desperation. Are you there?
            For a long while, he listened and waited for her voice to return. When she didn’t respond, he staggered to his feet and walked slowly toward the bathroom, where he splashed cold water on his face.
            As he lifted his chin, he looked at his reflection in the mirror. He shook his head in denial. And yet he knew the voices were real. Somehow the Breedline queen had telepathically communicated with him. But how was that possible? He thought. Only Breedline bonded mates and twins had the power to do that. And he was confident Tessa wasn’t his beloved, which only left one other possibility. “No, it can’t be possible,” he muttered out loud, shaking his head. But then his past had been a total blur. After years of being held captive by mad scientists and put under numerous painful tests, treated as if he was nothing but a lab rat, his sanity had slowly been eaten away along with his memories. To them, he was only a nameless, faceless research project. He was a human being regardless of the powers he inherited at birth. And now he was running from his past.      
            Sometimes things just weren’t simple, and this was just such a case. Maybe Tessa was his fraternal twin. What mattered now was that he’d made contact with her which could be helpful to the Covenant. If only he’d been able to keep the connection long enough to find out her location. With a long sigh, Steven decided to call Helen.
 
****
 
            Jace lay in the dark, willing himself to close his eyes, but every neuron in his brain was restless. When his lids flipped back open, his thoughts were on Tessa, but he’d remained silent, not wanting to say her name. Trying to keep from thinking of her was almost near impossible.
            It was torture because he wanted her there in his mind. He wanted the reassurance she wasn’t suffering. He’d already gotten luckier than any one person could ever hope for by having her restored to him after Sebastian had kidnapped her before. Was he doomed to lose her to fate after all? And so Jace lay there and endured both physical and mental anguish.
            Jace blew out his breath. His helplessness was agonizing. It was evident that Tessa and his unborn sons were in danger, and it infuriated him that there was nothing he could do. His thoughts consumed him of three heavy emotions: Revenge, hatred, and hopelessness, but mostly revenge.
            Taking a deep breath, he tried to calm down before anger overtook him. He imagined himself when he was younger back home with his human adoptive parents. As he recalled the good memories, he saw his sister Cassie, and his twin brother Jem sitting at the kitchen table as their mother Sarah served them her famous, chocolate chip pancakes. He remembered his dad’s laughter, Cassie’s sweet, innocent smile, their cat Jiggles and their dog Pongo, and even him and his brother’s constant banter back and forth.
            Something clicked in his mind, and he closed his eyes for a moment as he brought back the image of him wrapping his arms around Tessa’s body because holding her was like embracing a ray of sunshine. He imagined her head resting against his chest, her soft moans sliding through his mind. He inhaled sharply, taking in the fragrance of wild flowers as it flowed through his nostrils, reminding him of the scent of her hair.   
            Before he drifted off, shame slid through his chest. Jace felt guilty for his weakness and losing hope after Sebastian took Tessa. It ate at him knowing he’d checked out instead of having the strength for her. Tessa’s constant faith in him made him want to be the man she saw, the one she believed in. He made a promise to her and himself. Giving up was not an option. He would search for Tessa until he took his last breath.   
 
****
 
            After Tessa had lost communication with Steven, she tried to concentrate hard to bring him back into her mind. Realizing his presence was gone, she collapsed against a pillow, weeping softly.  
            Despair was a never-ending cloak of darkness that furled over her until it consumed her. The only hope she had left was getting connected with Steven’s mind again.
            She yawned and placed her hand over her belly, feeling the little movements inside. For the space of a few moments, she could forget that she was apart from Jace, and instead imprisoned in hell where he couldn’t protect her. Just for now, she pretended they were together, her much smaller body curled up against his. When nothing else had been able to perforate the dim world Tessa sunk into, Jace gave her hope.
  
****
 
            When Casey awoke the next morning to the sound of his phone going off, he quickly sat up and slid his feet off the bed. When Casey stood, his center of gravity shifted from his hips to his shoulders, and he fell forward, throwing out his hands to keep from face-planting it into the floor. As he landed on all fours, he groaned and cursed, managing to pick himself back up slowly.
            For a split second the room spun as his body swayed side to side. Casey closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Opening his lids, he finally regained his focus and reached toward the dresser, grabbing his phone.
            As a bead of sweat dripped off his forehead and landed on his phone, he saw it was Lila calling. Inhaling a deep breath, he exhaled and answered, “Hello, Lila.”
            “Hi, Casey,” her voice was soft, the sound causing an instant reaction in him. His heart raced, and his hands shook. “Do you want to meet for breakfast?”
            Before he replied, he thought of the conversation he’d had with her father. In his subtle way, Victor Demont had asked him not to pursue courting Lila. Using his Theriomorph side, Casey had dug deep into Victor’s mind and found out about the affair he’d had with his mother. And that drove him to the edge. As a result, Casey confronted Victor. When he didn’t deny the affair, he admitted the dark secret, begging for Casey’s forgiveness.
            “I would love to meet you for breakfast,” Casey said, his voice masking his tense expression. “Do you have a place in mind?”  
            Waiting for her reply, he went back to the bed and eased down. After taking a heavy dose of dopamine the previous night, he had to deal with the side effects. Although his body moved, he barely felt the ground beneath his feet. Anything was better than dealing with his Theriomorph side and all the urges that came with it. Even if he had to lie to the ones he loved. Keeping his secret was the only choice he had, and lies always required upkeep.  
            After he agreed to meet Lila at Babette’s, a quiet café downtown, Casey carefully shifted off the bed and back to his feet. With his numbness, balancing was tough, and gravity wasn’t his best friend, so the trip to the bathroom took longer than it should have. When he got over to it, he stripped off his boxers and flipped on the shower. While Casey waited for the water to heat up, he looked in the mirror at his reflection. The person staring back at him was the same as always—long, wavy brown hair, gray eyes with a hint of lavender around his irises, broad shoulders, and a lean muscular build.
            He thought about the close call he’d had last night. Going without the drugs for too long was risky. Something he wouldn’t let happen again.    
            He rubbed his eyes and stepped under the warm spray. As he washed, his thoughts drifted to Lila, and his vision miraculously became apparent. She was like an angel sent to him unexpectedly. Sometimes that was all a person needed to survive. She was worth the fight in spite of all the odds that weighed against him.      
            After getting dressed, Casey left his room. As he descended the stairs, he met Kyle halfway down.
            “Hey, I was just coming up to see if you were coming down for breakfast,” Kyle said. “Celina and I made blueberry waffles.”   
            “Um… thanks,” Casey muttered. “But I’m heading out to meet Lila for breakfast.”
            “Oh,” Kyle said, cocking a brow, “you two getting serious?”
            “I don’t know,” Casey shrugged as a little smile emerged, “maybe.”       
            Kyle smirked. “You got that look, bro.”
            Casey furrowed his brows. “What look?”
            “Remember?” Kyle chuckled. “The look a dude gets when his head’s stuck in the clouds over a female?”
            Casey smiled again. “Yeah, I remember… smart-ass.”
            Kyle nudged Casey’s arm and said, “I want details on this one.”
            Casey laughed. “I’ll catch up with you later.”
            When Casey arrived at the café, he reached over to the passenger seat and clasped a hold of a silver-purple rose that was the size of a grapefruit. He’d picked it from the Covenant’s garden before leaving to meet Lila. As he went inside, he saw her sitting at a booth in the back. At first, she didn’t notice him as he walked in. The site of her took his breath away. Her long blond hair flowed over her shoulders in thick waves. He could so picture her on the beach lying on a blanket, wearing a little bikini as sweat beaded over her tan skin.    
            As Casey approached her, Lila looked away from the menu and stared at him with a smile. He put his hand over his heart, bowed to her and extended his other hand, offering her the rose. “Hello, Lila,” he said. “I hope you like roses. They remind me of you… delicate and breathtaking.”
            She nodded, and her smile broadened. “It’s beautiful,” Lila said blushing. “Thank you, Casey.”
            “Be careful of the thorns,” he warned at the same time she reached forward, yelped, and yanked back her hand. A drop of blood formed on the tip of her finger.
            Without thinking, Casey leaned down and put his mouth on her finger, sucking her soft skin. In the back of his mind, he realized what he’d just done. As he released her finger and straightened, she stared at him wide-eyed. She was silent, feeling a soothing rush blooming out all over her skin.  
            He froze, worrying he’d totally freaked her out. “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice expressing regret. “I, ah—“
            “It’s okay,” she interjected, warding off the awkward silence he’d created. “Would you like to sit down?”
            Her quick response was a relief, considering what he’d just done. “Yes, thank you,” Casey replied as he placed the rose on the table and took a seat across from her.
            Ten minutes later, a waitress came over and slowly put down two glasses of water in front of them. As she took Lila’s order, Casey closed his eyes briefly and tuned out the background noise so he could absorb the sound of Lila’s voice. God, that voice, he thought. Casey took a deep breath, trying to catch some of her natural, flowery scent. When he managed to focus, he looked into her eyes. They were dark brown, surrounded by long, thick lashes. They were overwhelmingly beautiful.       
            The waitress cleared her throat. “Sir, what can I get for you?” When there was no answer, she cleared her throat again and said, “Sir?”
            Lila nudged his arm as the silence cropped.
            “Oh,” he flinched, coming back to reality. “I’m sorry.” He quickly lowered his head and glanced at the menu. Lifting his chin, he said, “I’ll have the special.”   
            When the waitress picked up the menus and left, Casey shifted his eyes back on Lila. “What kind of perfume are you wearing?”
            Her eyes flipped to his. “I usually wear Chanel No. 5, but today I’m not wearing any.” She looked at him with a curious expression. “Why?”
            His eyes softened. “You smell fantastic.”
She blushed. “Oh… thank you.”
            “May I?” He nodded to one of her hands.
            She looked at him confused and shrugged, not sure what he was asking.
            He couldn’t very well blurt out that he wanted to feel her soft skin against his, so instead, he said, “May I hold your hand?”  
            She blushed again and nodded as he reached across the table, clasping a hold of her hand. Building up the courage, he pulled her arm forward, bent down, and pressed his lips to her knuckles.
            As excitement flared deep inside her core, Lila let out her breath as Casey released her hand. When she looked into his eyes, they were mesmerizing. The color unlike any other she’d ever seen. A light gray that was so bright, they looked silver with a hint of lavender.
            Unfortunately, the waitress arrived with the food and broke the moment. She turned away from him, placed her napkin in her lap and picked up her fork.
“Lila…” He stopped himself, the dopamine giving him the self-control to slow his Theriomorph urges. Yes, he wanted to make her his, but even more than that, he wanted her to feel the same.
            The sound of his seductive voice made her mind wander. She imagined his body as a cage locked around her, warming her from the inside. She heard him take a deep breath as if he was inhaling her scent, and then her ears were flooded by the sound of his voice.
            “Yes?” she said, her cheeks blushing.
            “There’s something I would like to ask you.”
            Lila’s throat went dry and she made a grab for her glass. After taking a couple of sips of water, she shifted her focus back to him as anticipation clouded her mind, wondering what he was going to say.
            Swallowing the lump in his throat, Casey asked, “May I court you?”
            Her mouth dropped. When Lila finally managed to form words, she said excitedly, “Yes, yes… I would like that.”   
 
To be continued...
 
      
  
                   
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adopted human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline Queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild's biological father.

Lila Demont - She is a Breedline, born into a wealthy, prestigious family. She is a lab technician and assists Dr. Helen Carrington with the cure to the Breedline aging process. She later bonds with Casey Barton.

Victor Demont - He is a Breedline, and Lila's father. He is a retired council member of the Pennsylvania Breedline Covenant. After he discovers his daughter has bonded with Casey Barton, he disapproves of their relationship. But when Casey discovers Victor's dark secret of an affair with his adopted mother, Casey confronts him. Now that Victor's secret is revealed, he promises to accept Casey and Lila's relationship in return for his silence.





Chapter 37
Whispers in the Night/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
As the Breedline Covenant sleeps peacefully, they are unaware of evil that lurks inside. With Lilith’s powerful relic medallion, Sebastian and Thomas are able to break through the spell placed on the Covenant, giving them the ability to use a portal.
   

After Casey Barton witnesses Sebastian and Thomas kidnapping Tessa, Arius, and Tidus, he alerts Jace. As anger consumes every neuron in Jace’s body, he fights the Beast within him before it becomes unleashed and attacks everyone in the Covenant. When Jace’s family does everything in their power to calm him, something strange happens. A bright light surrounds him like a cocoon, shielding Jace from his Beast. And then the light suddenly disappears taking Jace with it.   
 

As weeks go by, the Covenant is distraught over the unexplainable disappearance of Jace. Without his ability to connect with Tessa, they are unable to locate where Sebastian and his brother Thomas has taken her and the twins.

When Tessa awoke in a strange place, she used her telepathic powers to try and connect with Jace, but the pain it caused almost sent her over the edge. She sensed something was wrong with him when she heard his faint voice insider her head.

Finally, just as the Breedline were about to lose all hope, Jace was mysteriously found outside the gates of the Covenant. He was in a weakened state, but still alive.

Now that Tessa is held captive, a strange voice inside her head comes from out of nowhere as she desperately pleads for help. As Tessa telepathically connects with the stranger, she discovers his name is Steven and he has the power to mysteriously take away her pain.

When their telepathic connection fades, Steven uses the phone Helen gave him to inform the Breedline. After he makes several attempts to reach Dr. Helen Carrington and Tim Ross, he gives up and calls the only other person Helen has listed in his phone. But when there is no answer, he leaves a message for Jem Chamberlain.   
   

Continued...
 
The following morning Jem reached for his phone to check the missed call he received last night and noticed a voice message. After he had put in his password, he listened carefully as a prickle of unease snaked down his spine. It had been a strange message from Helen’s patient stating he’d desperately tried to call Helen but after he couldn’t reach her or Tim by phone, his only other option was to contact him.
            Mia crowded in close to Jem, straining to hear the message. She only got bits and pieces because Jem didn’t have it on speaker, but what she heard chilled her to the bone.
            Steven’s voice sounded distraught as he explained of his telepathic connection he’d had with Tessa.   
            Jem stared at Mia, mouth agape. For a brief moment, he was silent and motionless as if grappling with whether or not to believe what he’d just heard.
            “Oh my god,” Jem finally said.
            “What are you going to do?” Mia asked.
            “I’ve got to let Tim know. If Steven actually connected with Tessa, it could be our only shot at finding her.”  
            Jem scrambled out of bed, slipped into a pair of jeans and headed for the door. Mia grabbed her robe and fell in behind Jem as he rushed down the hall toward Tim and Angel’s room.   
            When Angel opened the door, she knew something was wrong by the look on Jem and Mia’s face. “Is there something wrong?” she asked.
            Jem nodded, not knowing what to say.
            As Angel stepped aside and let them in, Tim was sitting on the end of the bed, bouncing Natalie on his knee. When he saw Jem and Mia, he stood and handed Natalie to Angel.
            “By the look on your face,” Tim said, cocking a brow, “something tells me this isn’t good news.”
            “You need to hear this,” Jem said, holding up his phone. Though Jem sounded frustrated, his words tinged with worry. A worry that Tim saw reflected in his eyes every time something bad happened.
            When Jem played Steven’s message over the speaker, Tim’s shoulders sagged, and he let out a deep breath. “Does Jace know about this?”
Jem shook his head. “No. I came here as soon I got Steven’s message.”
            Tim went silent as if lost for words. He turned toward the window that overlooked the grounds below. In the near distance, he stared at the guarded guest house where Steven was. Tessa’s disappearance had taken a toll on them all, and yet no one was going to give up until she was brought back home. His jaw ticked, and he turned to stare at Jem.
            “Go tell Jace,” he said. “I’ll call Helen. As soon as she gets here, we’ll talk to Steven. If he can indeed communicate with Tessa, maybe he’ll be able to locate where Sebastian has taken her.”    
            Jem’s brows went up. “You know he’s not going to wait for Helen.” Code word for I may need help. Jace, who gave new meaning to the term bull in a china closet, never listened to reason when he had his mind made up.
Tim sighed. “Yeah, you’re probably right. I’ll head that way and meet you there as soon as I contact Helen.”
            After just a couple of knocks, Jace opened the door to face his brother. With his cell phone in his hand, Jem said, “You need to hear this.”
            Mia stood beside Jem and looked at his brother. Jace was identical to Jem and had a similar build... lean and muscular. Jem was a bit heavier, but Mia guessed that under normal circumstances Jace would have been bulkier. His body appeared carved by the time he’d spent days in isolation after Sebastian kidnapped Tessa.  
            Her gaze drifted to Jem, her thoughts momentarily interrupted by her analysis of the two brothers that experienced a lifetime of hell. As she watched Jace’s reaction to the message, she nearly reached for his hand but curled her fingers into a fist instead. Jace wouldn’t appreciate her pity, and how did you pity a man who’d survived a long history of suffering? You had to admire him.
            With his eyes wide, Jace blurted, “What—”  
            Mia flinched at Jace’s outburst, embarrassed at how she’d drifted. She tried to focus her thoughts again as she glanced in Jem’s direction, waiting for his response. She noticed Jem looked at Jace as if they were connecting with one another telepathically, but she had no clue of what had transpired between the two.
            Again she refocused on Jace. It seemed odd because his expression appeared relieved. He looked as if all the stress had been drained from his face, like a balloon slowly deflating.    
            Jace ran a hand through his long hair. “I don’t understand. How is it possible for Steven to telepathically communicate with Tessa?”  
            Jem shook his head, his brow creasing in frustration. “That part I don’t know. Maybe Steven has the answer.”
            Blunt as ever, Jace said, “I’m going to talk to Steven now.
            Despite the eagerness in Jace’s voice, there was also a deep thread of anger. With guilt weighing heavily on his mind, Jem held up his hand and said, “Hold on. We’re supposed to wait for Tim and Helen before we talk with Steven.”
            Jace’s brow wrinkled. “What the hell are you talking about?” he bit out. “I’m not waiting around a minute longer.”
            “Look, I know you want answers, but it’s best to wait for Helen considering we don’t know much about Steven’s past,” Jem said, trying to reason with Jace. “She’s spent a lot of time with him, and he’s her patient.”
            “I don’t give a shit about his past,” Jace said sharply, shoving past Jem. “I’m not wasting time waiting around.”
            Shit, Jem thought. As Jace stormed down the hall, Jem turned toward Mia and shook his head. “Sweetheart, please go warn Tim what’s going on. I’m not letting Jace go by himself.”
 
****
 
            With her hand on her stomach, Tessa desperately waited to feel movement inside. As she felt one of the babies shift, a tear slid down her temple and disappeared into her hair. It worried her that all the drugs she’d endured would hurt her twins.
            In her mind, an endless loop played, and she saw the familiar evil glare in the eyes of her captor. He’d been the spitting image of Sebastian, obviously his twin brother. Hearing his haunting words stung like a million bees, making it difficult to squeeze air into and out of her lungs. Tessa shut her eyes and viciously shoved the images from her head. She was more afraid than ever... terrified someone was going to take her babies away. But why? And who was Lilith?
            Fear gripped Tessa by the throat and threatened to choke her. Opening her eyes, she scanned over the room, searching for anything that would give her clues to where she was. But what was she looking for? There wasn’t much in the tiny room. Taking a deep breath, she turned and focused on the small closet. The door was open, and she noticed clothes hung inside. The bathroom only had a sink, shower, and a toilet. Next to the bed was an antique bureau and across the room, tucked in the corner, was a tall shelf, stacked with books.
            After she had collected herself, she swung her feet off the bed. Using all her strength, she pushed onto her feet and moved to the bookshelf. As she spotted a leather-bound on the very bottom, she slowly leaned forward, stretching her arm as she reached for the book.
            Her pulse quickened when she realized it was a journal. Unease prickled up her spine when she read the name and the date on the outside: Lisa Wellington, 1981.  The same year she was born.
            Anticipation weighed heavily on her mind as she moved back to the bed with the book in her grasp. She wondered what was written inside as she sat down on the edge of the mattress.
            Tessa’s fingers gripped the edges of the book as she opened it, sensing dread, almost like she was afraid of what she’d find. As she read along, her eyes widened, and her breath hiccupped out of her mouth in utter disbelief. Apparently, this was her mother’s journal. But how did it get here?
            Tessa shifted herself up higher and settled back against the pillows. Tears burned the edges of her eyes as she continued to read her mother’s documented life, discovering she had a twin brother named Steven. Wiping the tears from her cheeks, she thought, Could this be the same Steven she telepathically connected with earlier?
            Her hand trembled as she turned page after page, finding out everything she’d thought she’d ever know about herself—her life—was all a lie. She shook her head and swallowed back the knot in her throat as she continued to read her mother’s beautiful handwriting.
            In the journal, her mother had stated she was kidnapped at the age of seventeen, pregnant with twins. She was kept prisoner by top-secret scientists funded by government military officials. They chose people who were gifted and possessed unusual talents, though only her mother’s abilities were known to her. Born a Breedline, her mother apparently had the capacity to heal others. Further, into the journal, her mother outlined the horrific experiments she’d suffered by a physician named Dr. Hans Autenburg. While she’d been forced to use her healing abilities on others, her mother had taken on the patient’s injuries, both physically and mentally. After her twins had been born, she grew increasingly concerned about their future, worried they would get treated the same—locked up in a cage and tortured with endless tests.
            As Tessa turned the next page, her face softened, and her lips quivered as she read her mother’s words:  
            To my dearest baby girl, Tessa,
            Please forgive me for making the hardest choice of my life. Despite what I was forced to do, I always wanted you and your brother Steven. I will always forever keep you in my heart.
            Mommy loves you!    
            Her heart wrenched as tears streamed down her face. Tessa wiped them away, and sucked in a deep breath, determined to make it through the rest of the journal without breaking down completely. Knowing the truth gave her strength. The aching awareness that her mother loved her after all these years was the revelation she needed to survive no matter the circumstances she would face.  
 
To be continued...
 
 

 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.


Chapter 38
Whispers in the Night/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...

When Steven--Dr. Helen Carrington's patient that is kept guarded in the guest house--telepathically links with Tessa, he calls Jem Chamberlain after he was unable to reach Helen or Tim Ross.
He'd been told Tessa had been abducted, but didn't know all the details and he was puzzled about their telepathic communication. Only Breedline identical twins and bonded mates had the ability to communicate to one another using their minds. He knew there was no way he and Tessa were bonded mates which left only one other answer. But that was crazy. They weren't identical twins.

Before Jem told his twin brother Jace about the message from Steven, he decided to inform Tim Ross--the Breedline head council. Tim decided since they didn't know much about Steven, or if he was a danger to the Breedline Covenant, he would call Helen while Jem relayed the news to Jace.

Desperate to find Tessa, Jace loses his patients after Jem begs him to wait for Helen, and rushes to the guest house to confront Steven in hopes of finding Tessa's whereabouts.   


Continued...

After Mia warned Tim of the situation, he quickly headed to the guest house. Standing outside the guarded door, Jace was arguing with Jem, getting face-to-face.
            “We have to find Tessa before it’s too late,” Jace said, his hands at his side, wound in fists. He’d failed to do the one thing he’d promised. Keep Tessa safe. It was an easy thing to promise, but they were just words, and he hadn’t been able to make that happen.
            Jem stared at his brother, knowing he was right. In frustration, he gripped the back of his neck and glanced at Bruce Carmichael, the guard standing outside the door, who was attempting not to appear concerned over their argument.
            “If Steven knows where she is, we’re wasting time waiting around,” Jace argued. “We have no idea what those bastards are doing to Tessa!”  
            Uncertainty rolled through Jem. The last thing he wanted to do was watch his brother’s torture, wondering what was happening to Tessa. But he also needed to wait for Helen before they barged in on her patient. They still didn’t know enough about Steven’s past, and with his abilities, things could end up getting dicey.
            Jem took a deep breath, knowing Jace was right about one thing. Whatever pain Tessa was enduring wasn’t looking good, especially in her condition. But allowing Jace to confront Steven in his frame of mind wasn’t a good idea.  
            He put his hand on Jace’s shoulder and looked him in the eye. “I understand what you’re saying, I do. But please Jace, let’s just wait for Helen.” Before the heated conversation got out of control, Tim moved in close where Jace and Jem stood. “I’ll go with you,” he said, shifting his focus toward the guard. “Unlock the door, Bruce.”  
            Bruce nodded. “Yes, sairrr,” he said in a Scottish accent.
            There was intense expression but also determination on their faces. Quiet descended until the only sound they heard was a set of keys clanging while Bruce unlocked the door.     
            Jace sucked in his breath and then exhaled long and slow. He purposely blanked his mind in preparation for confronting Steven. This was important. Tessa was suffering. If Steven could somehow get through to her, they had a shot at finding where she was.
 
****
 
            After Thomas had escorted Sebastian to the study, he paced back and forth waiting for Lilith. Before he agreed to go back into the Breedline Covenant to get her son, Sebastian wanted answers.
            While Arius and Tidus were down for their nap, Eve quietly descended the stairs and headed toward the kitchen. Before she rounded the corner, she heard the murmur of a conversation in the distance coming from the study. Eve paused a moment and recognized the voices. She set off to the study, and as she neared, Sebastian and Thomas’s voices grew louder. But what Eve heard next stopped her cold in her tracks.  
            Sebastian stopped his pacing and turned to Thomas. Staring at his brother in confusion, he narrowed his eyes. “If Tessa and Steven are indeed fraternal twins, how in the hell is it possible for her to change into a Breedline wolf?” he asked in an aggravated tone. “I thought Breedline had to be identical twins to turn?”
            Eve’s mouth dropped open, and she shook her head, sure she hadn’t heard correctly. No, she thought. It can’t be true. Did they have Tessa somewhere held hostage? And what were they going to do to her? A knot welled in her throat as she slowly backed away, wanting only to escape from all of Sebastian’s secrets and lies.
            Thomas shrugged. “Who knows why? Lilith never told me.”
            Sebastian slowly shook his head. “It doesn’t make any sense.”
            “Maybe you should ask her.”
            Sebastian’s lip curled up into a snarl, and then just before he spat out an obnoxious reply, a voice came from behind them, casting into an echo. “To what do I owe this pleasure?”
            Thomas sharply turned and bowed his head.
When Sebastian wheeled around, his jaw dropped.
            “Such silence,” Lilith murmured with the S’s lingering. “Unusual for you,” she said, her eyes focused on Sebastian.
            “I choose my words carefully,” he said, expressing a hint of egotism.
            “Very wise,” she said as she took a step closer to Sebastian, “given what you have come here for.”
            Sebastian’s eyes narrowed. “How do you know?”
            “Let me show you,” Lilith murmured as she reached out with a glowing hand.
            A mild electrical shock went through him, and Sebastian realized she had touched him on the shoulder. And then he saw images playing inside his head. All the images revealed the answers to his questions. It was unbelievable, he thought.
            When she pulled her hand away, he dropped to his knees. As Sebastian fell forward, he caught himself with his hands before he planted his face into the hard floor. It was a long time before he could form any words from his throat.
            His head dropped with his eyes squeezed shut. After finally composing himself, Sebastian lifted his chin, his eyes meeting hers. “H-how did you do that?”
            Lilith smiled at his bewildered expression and knelt in front of him, her robe spilling out all around her, a pool of white silk on the dark floor.
            “I have powers you could never fathom to comprehend.”
            The room stretched out in silence as Lilith floated across the floor and stopped in front of Thomas. Staring at her, he didn’t say a word, didn’t move an inch, and didn’t make a sound. Thomas just stared at her with wide eyes, wondering what she was thinking. For all he knew, she might get into his head.
            “Bring my daughter to me,” she said sharply.
            Thomas got on his knees and sat back on his heels. Placing his hands on his thighs in a gesture of submission, he quickly bowed his head. “Yes, Lilith.”     
****
 
            Everyone was tense as Bruce led Tim, Jace, and Jem inside the guest house. Waiting in the foyer while Bruce went upstairs to retrieve Steven, Jem turned to Jace and noticed frustration still reflected in his eyes.
            Apprehension wavered in Jace’s mind until he shifted nervously from one foot to the other. Jem put his hand on his brother’s shoulder to calm him.
            Jace looked up to see Jem’s gaze. There was compassion in his stare, almost as if he knew what he was thinking. He was overwhelmed by the unwavering support of his twin brother. Even when he’d done his best to push him away, Jem was always there for him. No conditions… and no questions asked.  
            When he nodded at Jem, his attention shifted to Bruce and Steven as they came down the stairs. Jace’s mouth opened, and he was about to explode with questions, but Tim flung his hand out to silence him. “Let me talk to him first,” he said firmly.
            Jace’s lips tightened, but he settled back and didn’t interrupt.
            “So explain it to us,” Tim said, his eyes focused on Steven. “How is it possible for you to telepathically communicate with Tessa?”  
            Steven let out a weary sigh. “I’m not sure.” He shrugged. “It just happened.”
            With fury boiling in his veins, Jace shot forward and got into Steven’s face until they were nose to nose. “We’re wasting time, here Steven,” he said impatiently. “Where the hell is she?”
            “Calm down, Jace,” Tim interjected, stepping in between them and shot Jace a meaningful glance. “Let him speak.”
            To Tim’s surprise, Jace backed off, his expression tight with pain. It took all of his restraint to step back and wait for Steven to explain. Everything inside screamed at him to take down everyone in his path until he had Tessa back. “I’m sorry,” he said around the knot in his throat. “I just want to find her.”  
            Tim put a hand on his shoulder in a silent gesture of support.
            “Steven, please tell us—do you know where she is?” Jem cut in.
            Steven’s eyes grew shadowed as he looked at Jem. “No, she didn’t tell me. Her voice faded before I could find out,” he said, his tone disheartening. “I thought at first that I imagined it, but then I felt…” he hesitated and took a deep breath, “…her pain. And I took it away.”
            Jace all but sagged as relief swamped over his face. “How did you do that?”
            Steven lowered his head and grasped the back of his neck. He looked indecisive as if he wasn’t sure how to explain it. When Steven lifted his chin, his eyes focused on Jace. “I’ve always had the ability to heal others.”
            Jace’s brows went up, and he turned to Jem in surprise. But before he could open his mouth, Jem blurted, “Where did you come from?”
            “I can’t remember much from my past,” Steven let out a wavering sigh, “except for the laboratory I was kept... against my will.”
            Jace shook his head, trying to process everything. “I’m having a hard time wrapping my mind around this. It doesn’t make any sense. How are you able to communicate with Tessa?”  
            “I don’t know the answer to your question, Jace,” Steven said wearily.      “But I’ll do whatever it takes to help you find her.”
            “Why would you care?”
            “Because it’s a possibility that Tessa is my twin sister.”
            Jace stared at Steven in confusion. “What?”
            Tim held a hand up. “Hold on. That’s impossible,” he said, shaking his head in disagreement. “Only identical twins of the same sex can shift into their Breedline wolf. If you’re Tessa’s twin, how is it possible for you two to change?”
            “I don’t know.”
            “Do you think you could communicate with her again?” Tim asked.
            Steven nodded. “I could try. It’s worth a shot, right?”   
            Jace briefly closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He knew it caused Tessa pain every time she tried to communicate telepathically. The last thing Jace wanted to do was make her suffer more. He would never forgive himself if it caused her to lose the babies, but he also knew this was the only way to find out where the hell Sebastian had taken her.
            “I don’t know,” Jace said shortly. “What if this causes her more pain? I’m worried about the twins.”      
            “Let him try,” Helen’s voice came from behind.
            When everyone turned around, Helen stood inside the doorway. As she moved next to Jace, she put her hand on his shoulder. “It’s the only way, Jace. We have no idea where Tessa is and why Sebastian has taken her.” She shifted her focus on Steven. “If she’s in pain, Steven can heal her.”
            “She’s right,” Steven agreed. “If Tessa experiences any pain, I’ll help her.”
            Instead of waiting for Jace to make up his mind, Jem broke in. “We’ve got to let him try, Jace.”
            Jace sighed, knowing Jem was right. They had to try at least. Whatever pain Tessa endured, Steven would take away. It was worth the chance if it meant getting her back home.
            “Okay,” Jace said hurriedly. “Do it.”
            As Steven sat down, he inhaled through his nostrils and blew out a long breath. Around him, everyone leaned forward and watched. There was intense anticipation but also fear of the unknown. Silence descended until the only sound they heard was Steven’s deep breathing.
            He focused on clearing his thoughts in preparation to somehow connect with Tessa. As he closed his eyes, and completely relaxed, he called out to her using his mind.
            Tessa, can you hear me?
 
****
 
            While Tessa studied her mother’s journal, she chewed absently at her bottom lip trying to comprehend everything she was reading, not to mention she had a twin brother. She looked away from the journal for a moment to collect her thoughts. Shaking her head in confusion, she wondered how it was possible she possessed the ability to shift into her Breedline wolf. That was the million-dollar question since the Breedline gene was only passed down to identical twins.
            If she could find the answers in her mother’s journal, maybe it had information on the reason why this person named Lilith wanted her children. What she did know was that she damn sure wasn’t going to let anyone harm her babies.
            When Tessa focused back on the journal, she rubbed her forehead in an attempt to ease the strain that pounded at her temples. If only I knew where I’d been taken to, she thought. As Tessa continued to read, according to her mother’s words, one of the guards she’d befriended promised to help her escape. The plan was to get out with both twins, but unfortunately she’d only managed to find Tessa. Dr. Hans Autenburg’s men got to Steven before…
            Tessa quickly lifted her eyes away from the page and went completely still when she heard a faint voice in her head. She closed her eyes, drew in a deep breath and focused solely on her thoughts, fading out everything else.
            She reached out to the voice, sliding into Steven’s mind. Is that you, Steven?
            Yes… I’m here to help you, Tessa. His emotions bombarded her, a mixture of desperation and determination. Can you tell me where you are?
Before she managed to answer his question, a wave of agony hit her hard. She gasped and wrapped her arms around her head, curling her fingers over the top of her skull.
            Steven could feel the tears on Tessa’s face and the agonizing wave of pain that hit her so strongly. Suddenly, guilt flooded him and splintered his heart. The pain she endured was due to their connection.  
            Stay with me, Tessa. Steven’s calm voice was soothing to her. I’m going to help you through this.
            His breathing went shallow as he concentrated on all his energy, lifting her pain from her body and willing it into himself.  A warm sensation flooded Tessa’s body as she felt the effects of Steven’s healing.  
            When he took on her pain, she wanted to tell him to stop, that she didn’t want him to hurt in her place, but she was grateful for the instant relief.
            Steven sucked in a fortifying breath and focused all his attention back on Tessa.
            Are you still there? Tessa, talk to me. His voice was weak and laced with worry. Are you okay?                
            Yes. Tessa smiled in relief. Thank you, Steven.
            Do you know where you are? He asked again, this time with urgency.
            No. Tessa shook her head. I don’t know where they’re keeping me. But I found a journal. I was hoping it would give me a clue to where I’m at, and— she paused and took a deep breath. It was on the tip of her tongue to deny what her mother stated in her journal, but then she realized it had to be true. There was no other explanation for their ability to telepathically communicate. It’s our mother’s journal. You’re my twin brother, Steven.  
            He was quiet for a moment as he grappled with what she’d just told him.
            Steven, are you still there?
            Yes, I’m here, Tessa. I figured you had to be my twin sister, and I promise I’m going to do everything I can to help you escape. We can do this together. I just need you to find something that will help us locate you. Hold on to that, and you’ll be home soon.    
            Maybe it was the way he said it with such conviction because his words filled her with hope and his dedication humbled her. Steven was her brother... and her own personal angel.  
            As tears ran freely down her cheeks, she felt as if a hand softly touched her face. It was Steven’s warm emotion of comfort.
            Thank you. Tessa’s voice was shaky, but there was a thread of courage infused into her words. Please tell me, is Jace—
            Her words broke off when the door to her room flew open. Steven felt her flinch, and it took him only a moment to sense her fear. It was obvious someone else was in the room with her, and he could feel her battle to remain calm. Slowly, everything went black, and he lost their connection.
            Tessa?
            He focused on her once again and screamed Tessa’s name in his head. He waited for a response, but Tessa went silent. Dread gripped him until he finally gave up and opened his eyes.
            “Damn it,” Steven cursed out loud.  
            Jace could tell whatever transpired between Steven and Tessa wasn’t good. “Tell me, damn it,” Jace bit out. He wanted answers, and he wanted them now. “What’s going on?”    
            Dread mounted inside Steven’s chest until he could barely draw a breath. He lowered his head and tried to calm himself.  
            Helen took a chair next to Steven and pushed it, so she sat in front of him. “Talk to us, Steven.”
            Steven liked Dr. Helen Carrington. There was a kindness to her that put him at ease. At first, Steven worried Helen would be like all the others. There to study him. Hurt him. Treat him like a lab specimen. But Helen was kind to him. She talked to him in soft tones as if she cared about his safety.   
            Everyone else quickly gathered, all waiting for Steven to relate what was going on. When he finally raised his head, his gaze met Jace’s, and he looked worried. “She doesn’t know where she’s at, but she did find something that might help us find her.”
            “And?” Jace asked, his voice seething with impatience.
            “She found our mother’s journal,” he said as tears burned his eyelids. “Tessa is my fraternal twin, and she thinks there could be something in the journal to help us find her.”
 
To be continued...
        
 
 
 
 
 
   
 

 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.


Chapter 39
Secrets and Betrayal

By scongrove

Previously...
 
Even though Sebastian has kept his promise to Eve, and brought back their twin sons, she finds out he hasn’t been completely honest with her. Not only did Sebastian sneak into the Breedline Covenant to retrieve Arius and Tidus, he kidnapped Tessa. But why?
 
Now that Tessa is help captive, a strange voice inside her head comes from out of nowhere as she desperately pleads for help. As Tessa telepathically connects with the stranger, she discovers his name is Steven and he is her fraternal twin brother, born with the power to heal. With the only connection to the Breedline Covenant, Tessa is desperate to find out where Sebastian and his brother Thomas are keeping her captive.

 
 Continued...      
 
As Eve stood outside the nursery, she placed her hands over her face. Oh God, she thought. Eve felt like a fool for trusting Sebastian when her gut screamed at her to get her sons away from this place. And yet she’d gone against everything she felt was the right choice. Eve hadn’t trusted her instincts, and instead, she’d trusted him. She knew Sebastian would eventually lead her down the road to disaster.    
            Tears burned where before she’d been too numb to cry, to acknowledge the shock of disappointment which broke her heart. How easily she’d fell for Sebastian’s lies when he’d brought her sons back to her. All the while, he’d plotted with Lilith. But if Lilith were Tessa’s mother, surely she wouldn’t hurt her? And what did she want with Tessa?
            Eve lowered her hands and reached for the door. As she opened it, she thought back over what Sebastian had promised her. His concern wasn’t for giving their sons a chance at a normal life. It was about power and greed.
            What was she supposed to do? Her first thought was to take Arius and Tidus and run. Escape with them to the Breedline Covenant and beg for help. But how would she get away?
            She lowered her head, trying to get control of her emotions before she walked into the room. She didn’t want her sons to see her like this. They’d sense her fear of their father. And she didn’t want them to find out what kind of monster he was.
            As she moved next to the crib, she let out a deep breath and stared down at her twins. Arius snuggled against Tidus with his thumb tucked between his parted lips. Whatever she had to do to secure their future, she’d be willing to do, even if it meant giving up her freedom.
            Grief filled her heart, nearly choking her as a knot grew in the throat. She had to find a way to get her sons to a safer place. But how would she accomplish it? How much time did she have to come up with a plan? And now she had to pretend to Sebastian—the bonded mate she’d foolishly believed—that her heart wasn’t breaking into a million pieces.
            “Eve, what’s wrong?” Sebastian’s voice whispered from the open doorway.
            Startled by his voice, Eve flinched. It had taken every bit of strength she possessed to compose herself enough to turn around. As she shifted in his direction, she wondered if he planned on telling her about Tessa. Or would he continue to lie? The naïve part of her wanted to believe it had all been a misunderstanding and he’d explain everything to her. Don’t be stupid, she thought.
            “Nothing,” she lied. “I’m just so overwhelmed with emotion having my sons back.”  
            Sebastian slightly tilted his head to one side and narrowed his eyes, staring at her as if he knew she was lying. And then a smile emerged from his tight lips. “Let’s take advantage of the moment,” he said in a low sultry voice, reaching out to her. “Come join me in our bedroom.”
            “I’m not feeling well,” she said, avoiding his hand he offered. “Maybe I just need to rest. I’ve been up most of the night with the twins.”
            She had to make up an excuse to not share a bed with him. She couldn’t do it. She could not make love to him knowing he’d been lying to her. Anyway, it wasn’t a complete lie. She felt sick to her stomach, but not from lack of sleep.
            “Oh?” he said, his brows furrowing. “Is there anything I can do?”
            “No, I’ll be okay after a few hours of rest.”
            Sebastian reached out to her again and clasped onto her hand. “I’ll rest with you,” he murmured, squeezing her hand.          
Sweat beaded her forehead, and her stomach churned. “Okay,” she muttered, knowing she’d regret her decision.
            He looked at her with concern. Was his expression fake, or was it real? She didn’t know what was real anymore.   
 
****
             When the door swung open to the room Tessa was locked in, Steven slipped from her mind, and their connection silenced. She quickly closed the journal and tucked it behind a pillow.
            Before Tessa could look to see who had come into the room, a hand suddenly clasped onto her arm and hauled her to her feet. And then something flashed in front of her eyes. Sebastian’s doppelganger waved a gun in her face staring down at her with a hateful glare.
            Tessa stared up at him, shivering at the calculated way he looked at her.
            “Lilith wants to see you,” Thomas growled, digging his fingernails into her skin.
            When she tried to pull from his grasp, he placed the cold steel to her forehead. “I should just get you out of your misery now.”
            “You’re just as evil as your brother,” she bit out.
            He let go of her arm and backhanded her, sending her backward as she fell onto the bed. Her head whipped back as pain washed over her. Agony splintered through her body as he bent to haul her roughly to her feet again.
            The thought of her unborn twins came to mind, and calm acceptance quickly settled over her. As much as she wanted to fight back, she willed herself to quell the hatred and fury that burned so deeply within her.    
            “You’ve got a smart mouth,” he said mockingly. “If you do anything stupid, I won’t hesitate to put a bullet between your eyes. Do you hear me?”
            Tessa nodded and closed her eyes as tears slipped through.  
            She opened them when she felt his finger trail down the curve of her cheek. Tessa turned away, not wanting him to touch her, and his eyebrows went up. When he released his hand from her arm, he slapped her across the face.
            Tessa stumbled back but managed to regain her footing before she hit the floor. Nausea curled low in her belly as she lowered her head and placed her hand over her face.
            “You don’t learn,” he said in a dark, seething tone. “But you will.”
            She lifted her head, staring at him with fire in her eyes.
            A smile formed over his tight lips, and it chilled her blood. Quiet fell between them until he lifted his hand, motioning someone inside.
            Fear and panic exploded through her body as another man came from behind her holding a syringe in his hand. Tessa searched her surroundings, looking for an escape. But there was no place to go, no place to run as she felt the sting in her arm.
            As her knees wobbled, her vision went fuzzy. Losing her footing, she teetered side to side until a set of hands firmly lifted her off the floor before she lost her balance.
            “Take her to Lilith,” Thomas said, the words drifting in and out of Tessa’s head.     
 
 ****
             A chill went up Jace’s spine, and fury gripped him all over again. There was no way Tessa was going to spend her life being tortured by Sebastian. The mere thought made him sick to his stomach.
            A sudden thought occurred to Jace, and he met Steven’s gaze. “When Helen brought you to the Covenant, you said people were after you, right?”
            Steven gave a resigned sigh. “Yes.”
            “The same physician you killed?” Jace said darkly.
            Steven’s lip tightened in reaction to Jace’s statement. “I’m not a cold-blooded killer.” He stopped for a moment and then he tiredly ran a hand over his jaw. “I acted in self-defense. And it was one of Dr. Autenburg’s colleagues I... killed.”
            “If you got rid of the physician,” Jem chimed in. “Then tell us who is after you now?”
            “Since I was born in a lab, I never knew who my real parents were. I didn’t even have a real name, though Dr. Autenburg called me Steven Pasquale. I had no official identification and no birth certificate. To the world I don’t exist,” he explained, his voice sounding raw. “After I got away, it was pretty easy for me to disappear, always looking over my shoulder, and never staying in one place for long. I know Dr. Autenburg had another colleague,” he said lowering his head. “I just can’t remember his name.”
            When Steven looked up, he saw Jace’s gaze boring a hole through him. There was reprimand in his stare, almost as if he wanted to take a swing at him.
            “So what, you just hung around the lab?” Jace asked, his voice sounding irritated. He could feel the spasms of his change itching from inside—the twitching on his temples, and then a prickly feeling traveling all over his skin. “It doesn’t add up and it damn sure doesn’t make sense,” he continued to rant. “We’re wasting time here, Steven. I’m not interested in your life story.”
            “I know it sounds far-fetched, but all I knew was that lab. All my life I suffered endless and painful experiments,” Steven said. “They took other people against their will and studied their special abilities. Each one varied, but there were some who clearly displayed unique gifts. Dr. Autenburg spent years searching out men and women with rarities and tested them extensively. And most of them…” he paused and shook his head, “were Breedline. Suffering through years of research, Dr. Hans Autenburg and his colleagues manipulated them into a hybrid species.”
            “Do you know if anyone survived?” Tim queried.
            Steven’s eyes watered. “I don’t know.”
            “It all sounds unreal,” Jace muttered.   
            Tim shot Jace a glance. His expression suggested he was on the verge of crossing the line. “Take it down a notch, Jace. Don’t let yourself get out of control.”
            “It’s okay, Steven,” Helen’s voice was soothing as she reached out to him. “You’re not to blame for all this. It’s not your fault.”
            Steven looked beaten and sorrow radiated inside his heart in painful waves. “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry, Jace. I will do whatever it takes to help you get Tessa back.”
            After a few deep breaths, Jace mentally defused his anger, caging his inner beast. “Then let’s find out where she is,” he said. “Will you try to connect with her again?”
            Steven quickly nodded. “Yes, of course.”
            “I’ll do some digging into Dr. Autenburg’s past,” Tim interceded. “Maybe I’ll find a lead to his colleague, and his location. He may have something to do with Tessa’s kidnapping since you two are siblings.”
            With a lack of patience, Jace asked, “So what now? What are we supposed to do in the meantime? I can’t just sit around here waiting, doing nothing.”
            “With luck, I’ll find something that will lead us to Tessa,” Tim’s tone was adamant. “After that, we’ll get her back and put an end to Sebastian Crow and everyone involved.”
            Jace grinned. “Now we’re talking!”
            Helen cleared her throat. “There’s something you should know, Steven,” he said warily. “Since Tessa is your biological twin, we found your father.”
Steven’s mouth dropped. “You did? Who is he?”
            As she placed a hand on Steven’s shoulder, she said, “His name is Kenneth Craven. He’s an orthopedic surgeon here in Berkeley. He’s a good man, Steven. Kenneth searched for your mother for years after she mysteriously vanished when she was just seventeen. He never knew you or Tessa even existed.”
            Steven lowered his head and placed his face in his hands. Hearing his father’s name made his heart ache as if it had splintered into a million pieces. Craven, he thought. His birth name was Craven. Not Pasquale. After a brief moment of silence, he lifted his chin and looked at Helen, his face wet with tears, completely unraveled. “I want to meet him.”
            “Of course,” Helen said. “I’ll arrange it.”
            “What about my mother,” Steven asked her. “Did my father find her?”
            She shook her head. “I’m sorry, Steven. Kenneth never found her. Your mother left Tessa in her sister’s care when she was just a baby. She disappeared after that.”
            “I have a family?” Steven’s voice trembled.
            Helen leaned forward and reached for Steven’s hand, lightly squeezing. “Yes, Steven,” she said in a low voice as tears welled in her eyes. “You have a family.”

****
             When Eve finally fell asleep, her dreams tormented her with immeasurable flashes from the past and the present. They swirled together in one never-ending stream of terror.
            Her foster father had her in his grip again, but instead of Sebastian saving her, the demon had been standing there, his dark gaze piercing right through her.
            The demon’s voice whispered in Eve’s subconscious. “You will always belong to me, Eve. And this time you’ll learn to obey me.”      
            The nightmare slowly began to shift. It drifted into something much more terrifying, something Eve never dreamt before, but far beyond her reality… at least she’d hoped.
            Standing amongst a dark wooded field, Eve sniffed the night air and tried to concentrate on her unfamiliar surroundings. The scent of blood was sharp against a subtle breeze. It hung in the back of her throat like the taste of rusty metal. After choking it down, she narrowed her eyes and stared off through the vast of trees.
            As Eve’s senses cautiously probed the night, she knew the demon was nowhere near. But something else was.
            When a low growl sounded behind her, she froze, her breath coming in short, sharp gasps. She clenched her hands until her knuckles went white and her fingers ached from the strain. Don’t turn around, she told herself. Unable to resist, she whirled around to face it, and immediately wished she hadn’t.   
            The thing suddenly crouched beside a big oak. Its head lowered, and its lips drew back into a snarl. It was a wolf, yet not a wolf... some unknown and ungodly hideous mutation of a Breedline. Its long, sleek body was low to the ground, and blood covered its thick, black fur. While Eve watched in horror, it began moving in a tense circle, pacing back and forth within a few feet away. And then without warning, it stopped and raised its head toward the sky.
            The howl it gave was unearthly. It let out a shrieking bellow of unbearable agony like an animal… and a human. Their eyes met and held as the creature lowered its head and turned to confront her.
            “No,” Eve pleaded. “Please, no…”
            Right in front of her it simply vanished, leaving nothing but empty shadows.   
            Eve awoke startled, sweat beading her forehead and chills prickling her skin. She sat up straight in bed, her body trembling in fear.
            She glanced over at Sebastian, who was still sleeping. With a sigh of relief, she eased out of bed and went to the bathroom. After wetting a washcloth, she wiped her face and neck before returning to the bedroom.
            After a moment’s hesitation, Eve went to the closet and pulled a robe off the hanger. Placing it over her nightgown, she crept out of the room and slipped into the hallway, making sure she was quiet on her way to the nursery. When Eve peeked inside, she glanced over at the crib to see the twins still sleeping soundly.
            As Eve closed the door, she headed to the stairway not sure where she was going, but she knew she had to search for Tessa. She had to be somewhere in this estate.  
            When she made it downstairs, she heard voices nearby, moving in her direction. Eve ducked around the corner and flattened against the wall before they discovered her. As the voices grew near, she recognized it was Thomas. The other voice was unrecognizable. It was a male with a deep baritone pitch. Pressing her ear to the wall, she heard their footsteps echoing further from her position as if their destination was toward the study.  
            She quietly tip-toed out and froze. Covering her mouth, Eve silently gasped into her hand. Following behind Thomas, she saw a man twice the size, and he had Tessa who appeared unconscious, in his arms. Eve couldn’t get the image out of her head. Her body trembled as she watched them enter the study, leaving the door slightly open.  
            Warm hands suddenly slid up her arms to her shoulders, startling her. Eve whirled around to see Sebastian standing there, his eyes unwavering and his face rigid.
            “What are you doing?” he said, narrowing his eyes.
            Eve withdrew from his grasp, watching his face for any sign of hostility.
            “I-I was just going to the kitchen… to make the twins a bottle,” she stammered. She knew he didn’t believe her, and she wasn’t that good an actress. He looked reluctant but also grim and determined. It was the determination that frightened her. As though despite any promises he’d made to her, he seemed bent on following Lilith’s thirst for power.
            His expression went from suspicious to a state of ease. “Do you need any help?” he asked, his voice sounding sincere.
            Did she see a gleam of conscience in his gaze as she stared into his eyes? Apparently not enough to keep him from all the lies, she thought.  
            “No,” she quickly replied. “I’ll be fine. The boys are good. They’re no trouble at all.”    
            “I have to go out for a while,” Sebastian said. “But I’ll be back soon. If you need anything, just let Thomas know. He’ll take care of you until I get back.”
            She faked a smile and didn’t ask where he was going. “All right,” she said quietly, her heart pounding in her chest.
            He leaned down and kissed her forehead, leaving his lips there for a long moment.
            “I won’t be long,” he said as he drew away, walking to the door.
            Eve waited until she heard the sound of the door closing before looking out the window as Sebastian backed out of the drive. Then she turned quickly away and moved to the study, knowing Tessa was inside.
            As she stood outside the cracked door, she leaned closer and eavesdropped on the conversation coming from inside the room.
 
To be continued...
 
 
 
    
 

 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle -Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed -has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.


Chapter 40
Secrets and Betrayal/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 

Even though Sebastian kept his promise to Eve, and brought back their twin sons, she discovered he was keeping a secret. Not only did Sebastian sneak into the Breedline Covenant to retrieve Arius and Tidus, he also kidnapped Tessa. As Eve’s curiosity stirred, she eavesdropped on a conversation between Sebastian’s twin brother Thomas and Lilith in hopes of finding out what they planned on doing with Tessa. She was shocked and confused after hearing Lilith was Tessa’s biological mother.     
 
Continued...
 
As Eve listened to the exchange between Thomas and Lilith, she wanted to burst into the room and demand answers. But she was afraid. Eve was scared out of her mind Lilith would become angry and keep her from her sons.
            “She’s beautiful,” Lilith praised, running a hand through Tessa’s long hair. As Tessa’s lids slightly cracked, her eyes were glassy and fixed on the ceiling. Lilith leaned over her, and murmured, “Her eyes remind me of someone from the past.”
            During the significant experimental transformation Dr. Hubert Crane had done on Lilith, she had very little recollection of Tessa or Steven. Only now bits and pieces of her past randomly flashed through her mind. Mere images and voices as if she was looking through a stranger’s photo album. The pictures included her but not the memory. After she had found her journal, she’d discovered her true identity and the documented words of her forgotten life. Tessa and Steven were her children.     
            Tessa didn’t move... didn’t acknowledge Lilith in any way. Her body was motionless, staring out of empty eyes.
            As she reached out to touch Tessa’s cheek, she halted her movement when she noticed a pink mark that closely resembled a hand print. “What is this?” Lilith hissed, looking up at Thomas.
            “It was an accident,” Thomas replied, glancing at Tessa’s face and then back up at Lilith. “She was proving difficult.”
            “You are forbidden to bring harm upon her,” she bit out. “Do you understand?”
            Thomas’s lips tightened into a thin line as he lowered his head. “Yes, Lilith.”    
            She looked away from Thomas and shifted her eyes back on Tessa, trying to get inside her mind. But Lilith felt nothing through their pathway… just silence and nothingness. Gently, she reached for Tessa and lifted her up like a flower plucked from the ground by a tender hand. As she cradled Tessa’s body in her arms, she was limp, her head sagging against her shoulder.
            Lilith lifted her chin and turned to Thomas’s henchman like the boneless swivel of an owl’s head. “You gave her too much, Garrett,” she seethed, narrowing her eyes.
            “I-I’m sorry, Lilith,” he said, stumbling over his words. “I don’t understand.” He shook his head, his eyes wide with fear and swallowed compulsively. “I gave her a small dose, just enough to calm her down.”
            Garrett slowly took a couple of steps back, squeezing his eyes shut, anticipating the pain of Lilith’s wrath. When he reopened them, the face staring into his was hypnotic and paralyzing. As Lilith’s voice filtered into his thoughts, he turned and quietly left the room.
            Startled, Eve froze when Garrett walked through the door. As he moved past her, she stiffened, expecting him to turn around and give her away. But Garrett kept his focus forward, ignoring her presence and continued as though he was in a trance. When he stopped at the end of the hallway, he reached inside his jacket and took out his weapon. Eve placed her hand over her mouth, and soundlessly screamed as she watched him put the butt of the gun to his forehead.
             Seconds later, a loud pop echoed, and Garrett dropped to the floor. Shocked at what she just witnessed, Eve scurried past Garrett’s lifeless body and bolted up the stairs.      
            Gently lowering Tessa back down, Lilith placed her palm over Tessa’s rounded belly and kept it there, awaiting movement. When she felt the twins shifting inside Tessa’s stomach, she smiled. And then her brilliant light suddenly illuminated from her body, surrounding Tessa with the warmth of healing.
            Tessa saw a light from overhead, sheltering her, and warming her. She blinked several times. The vision that came to her crept up so quietly, at first she didn’t know what her eyes were registering.
            “You and your babies are going to be fine,” Lilith spoke to her in a voice that cast in an echo.
            Tessa didn’t hear a word she said because she couldn’t comprehend what she was looking at. It was a ghostlike image of a woman with glowing eyes, shimmering like crystals. And then fear set in. The woman resembled her, except she looked younger.
            “I’m not going to harm you,” Lilith muttered, her voice soft and soothing. “Your blood is of mine. I am… your mother.
            In the silence that followed, Tessa went completely numb, her brows clenching in confusion. Was this all just a hallucination from the drugs she’d been given, or was this actually happening? Could this transparent apparition really be her mother? Okay, as family reunions went, this one was bizarre and unbelievable, she thought.
            “What?” Tessa mumbled, shaking her head. “But you look so... young. You can’t be my mother.”
            “Yes, it is true,” Lilith said, releasing a sigh of despair. “Words alone cannot explain what I am. Let me show you.”
            Tessa flinched as Lilith placed her glowing hand to her face. On a sigh, Tessa leaned into the imprint of her palm and the warmth of her nonexistent flesh. As Lilith connected into Tessa’s mind, images were shown to her like photos of a picture book, flipping pages through Lilith’s past.
            When she withdrew her hand, Tessa let out a deep breath. She shook her head and seemed like she was going to speak, but couldn’t form the words. All the blood left her face. Sadness knotted her gut and sympathy rolled over her like a tidal wave. As Tessa finally found her voice, she said, “What they did to you—”  
            Tessa had seen the agony of her mother’s past, and all the painful experiments she’d endured for years. Now her mother was an entirely different species—something that went against the very laws of nature. And then she brought her hand forward and placed it on her mother’s face as tears dropped from the corners of her eyes. Tessa frowned and lowered her hand. “I don’t understand. Why have you brought me here, and what do you want with my babies?”  
            Lilith shifted her focus on Thomas again and shot him a murderous glare. Without saying a single word, Thomas knew she was furious with him.       
            “Please, Lilith,” he muttered, his voice laced with fear. “I—”
            “Leave us,” she interjected. “And clean up the mess outside.”
            Thomas bowed as the sound of air escaped his parted lips. “Yes, Lilith,” he obediently complied.
 

****
 
            As Thomas exited the room, leaving Lilith and Tessa alone, he shut the door behind him. Moving to the end of the hallway, he stopped by Garrett’s body and leaned over him. He was lying on the floor, his eyes glassy with death.
            After Thomas picked up Garrett’s pistol and tucked it inside his jacket, he took out his cell phone. Searching through his contacts, he initiated a call.
            “It’s Thomas Carlyle,” he said in a low voice. “Be ready. We’re running out of time,” he said nervously, his hand shaking as he dragged it through his long hair. “Lilith is regaining her memories. I’ll contact you as soon as we have her son.”
            The party on the other end let out an aggravated sigh. “Enough vaiding!” the sharp voice was in a thick German accent. “Ve go now! Rentezffous vith my men at the locazion in ein hour.”
            In the silence that followed, a chill went up Thomas’s spine, and anxiety gripped him all over again. “But Doctor Crane… I need more time.”
            “You’fe had more zan enough time!” He barked. “If you and your brother are not at the Breedline Coffenant vithin the hour… you’ll be lying on a cold slab instead. I’ll haffe my men come for Lilith’s daughder,” he directed, his voice laced with rage. “Be ready!”
            Thomas shook his head against the phone. His nostrils flared, and his lips flattened into a thin line. “You’ll still keep your end of the bargain?” Thomas asked. “No harm will come to Lilith, right?”   
            As Thomas anxiously awaited Dr. Crane’s reply, there was only silence on the other end.   
            Wordlessly he ended the call, not wanting to risk angering Dr. Crane by saying anything further. After tucking his phone back inside his jacket, Thomas looked to the front door when he heard it open and close.
            “What the hell happened?” Sebastian said as he stood across the room, staring at Garrett’s dead body.     
 
****
   
            When the door clicked shut, Tessa slowly sat up and scooted back against a small pillow, keeping her eyes locked on Lilith. The two of them were utterly silent until Tessa finally spoke out. “Are you going to hurt my babies?”
            “No,” Lilith’s reply was instantaneous. “I want to keep them safe.”
            Tessa’s brows clenched, her expression appearing confused. “Who are you keeping them safe from?”
            “From the ones,” Lilith paused and closed her eyes briefly, “that did this to me.”  
            “Why did you take me away from my Covenant?” Tessa asked in a persistent tone. “I’m protected there. You’ve caused my fiancé a great deal of pain. He doesn’t even know if I’m dead or alive. And my father… he must be worried sick,” Tessa said, and then added, “You do remember him, don’t you?”
            Lilith’s eyes widened and suddenly filled with tears. As the droplets slid down her cheeks, she reached up and wiped her finger across her translucent skin. Looking down at the wetness on her fingertip, Lilith had a crushing sensation enter her body. Throughout her memories, she didn’t recall ever expressing this emotion. After all the torture she’d been through, it had gotten to the point that she believed she’d been born without tear ducts. But feelings of sorrow crept into her empty chest, and squeezed her dead heart, replacing it with a beating rhythm. For the first time in years, she could feel the thump of her heart, beating with a fast tempo.
            As she placed her hand over her chest, her gaze met Tessa’s.  A portion of Lilith’s blank memories came back, her curse of the past returned once again. “I remember… his name is Kenneth.”
            In the silence that followed, Lilith was making a personal mission to eradicate Dr. Hubert Crane and anyone that worked for him. Even if it took the rest of her life, she would protect her family until she took her last breath.
            Lilith looked strained. “I’m sorry, Tessa—”
            Abruptly, Lilith stopped in mid-sentence and looked at the door as the sounds of knocking caught her attention. After a moment she wiped her cheeks and called out, “Who’s there?”
            “It’s Sebastian. I need to speak with you,” his voice echoed from behind the closed door. “It’s urgent.”
 
To be continued...
   
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He�¢??s an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Malachi O'Conner - He was born a Breedline species, and shunned by the Breedline Covenant after breaking their True Law. Alexander Crest's demon later forced him into joining his army of rogue wolves. After he had tried to escape, he endured cruel torture from the Alexander's Chiang-shih demon. He was later rescued by the Breedline and pardoned for his past crimes.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Taliah Baldolf - She is a Breedline species and the mother of the Katako. Using her powers as a dark Wiccan, she joins forces with the Chiang-shih demon to create his death army. After she threatens to kill the Breedline queen, the Beast overpowers her and sends her to her death.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.


Chapter 41
Secrets and Betrayal/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...
 
Even though Sebastian had kept his promise to Eve and brought back their twin sons, she discovered he was keeping a secret. Not only did Sebastian sneak into the Breedline Covenant to retrieve Arius and Tidus, he also kidnapped Tessa. As Eve’s curiosity stirred, she eavesdropped on a conversation between Sebastian’s twin brother Thomas and Lilith in hopes of finding out what they planned on doing with Tessa. She was shocked and confused after hearing Lilith was Tessa’s biological mother.     
Distraught over witnessing Garrett's death—a guard who walked out of the room where Thomas and Lilith had Tessa, and shot himself—Eve panicked and ran upstairs to her twins nursery. 

 
Continued...
 
When Eve got to the top of the stairs, she rushed to the end of the hall in a wave of panic. As she quietly stepped inside the nursery, she heard one of the twins stirring. Inhaling through her nose, Eve parted her lips, calmly releasing a light breath. Shifting her focus to the crib, she caught a glimpse of the top of Tidus’s head peering over the rim. His small face was scrunched up with unhappiness.
            As Eve came into view, Tidus stretched up his tiny hands and whined. He instantly quieted and nestled his head against the crevice of her neck when she lifted him from the crib.
            She knew he sensed her anxiety. He was just a baby, but he still knew something bad had happened. The succubus side in him was strong.
            The sounds of giggling startled Eve, bringing her back to focus. When she lowered her eyes, Arius was sitting up, his eyes cheerful, and he was clapping his hands. Watching him, she felt as if she ought to be thrilled he was such a happy baby, but there was a tearing feeling inside her—a terrible dread. She wondered what kind of future was waiting for Arius. He had the mark… the mark of the demon.
            “It’s not fair,” she whispered to Arius. “You’re such a good little boy.” She kept her eyes on him and forced a smile. Reaching down, she smoothed her hand over his dark curls. “I love you so much.”
            Arius stopped clapping and held up one hand, opening and closing like he was waving good-bye. And then a bright light completely engulfed his entire body.
            Eve quickly turned away, shielding her eyes from the brilliant glow casting off of Arius. When the light dissipated, she swung her head back around and caught a blurry image of Arius as he vanished into thin air.
            “No!” Eve screamed, frantically reaching into the empty crib. “Arius!”     
            Sebastian gasped and felt the hair on the back of his neck rise when he heard screams coming from upstairs. Forgetting all about Lilith and what she’d done to Garrett, he stepped away from the door. Wheeling around, he quickly rushed past Thomas, giving him an irritated look as he passed by and bolted up the stairs.
            When he got closer to the nursery, he could hear Eve’s screams getting louder and one of the twins crying.
            As he came into the room, eyes wide with worry, he saw Eve tense. He almost felt it, as if her nerves were his nerves, her panic his panic. Her face—wet with tears—appeared pale, almost as if she was going to pass out when he came into the room. His brows furrowed and he looked at her questioningly.   “Eve, what’s wrong?”   
            “Arius,” her voice cracked, emotion knotting her throat. “He’s gone.”
            “What do you mean he’s gone?”
            Eve fell to her knees, though she kept a solid, gentle grasp on Tidus. “He—” She paused and stroked her hand over Tidus’s curls soothing him. His thumb automatically went to his mouth as he leaned his head on Eve’s shoulder. “He just disappeared,” she finally said to Sebastian, who looked more stunned than anything else.
            He knelt down beside her. “Tell me what happened.”
            “There was a bright light, and when it vanished,” she shook her head, her heart twisting in agony, “it took Arius with it.”   
            “It’s going to be all right,” he reassured her, reaching for Tidus. “I know you’re worried, but he’s got the mark. He’s untouchable. Even Lilith can’t harm him. No one can, Eve. Arius must have the ability to use a portal,” Sebastian explained as Eve handed Tidus to him.
            “But where would he go?” she asked, her voice laced with tears. “He’s just a baby.”
            “It’s possible he went back to the Covenant to your sister.” Sebastian broke off and looked down at Tidus when he saw him rubbing tiredly at his eyes. “That’s the only place he could remember to go.”
            In the silence that followed, Eve’s lips quivered as tears spilled down her cheeks.
            Sebastian reached for Eve’s hand and squeezed gently. “I swear to you... I’ll bring him back.”     
            A noise so soft it was almost inaudible teased at the edge of Eve’s hearing. Her head jerked up, and she felt the breath puff out of her in a gasp.
            Sebastian dragged himself from his concentration on Eve and turned around. Lilith and Tessa stood in the open doorway. Sebastian’s golden depths wandered down Tessa’s body, staring at her with a sick satisfying gaze.
            Tessa narrowed her eyes, glaring at him with hatred as he slowly rose to his feet, his stature tall and lean. It took all her effort not to allow him to see the paralyzing fear and revulsion that exploded through her body. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. She wouldn’t go back to being that scared, helpless woman she’d been when Sebastian had raped her. Tessa wouldn’t let that woman come in and take control. Now she was a Breedline queen, and this time she was in control.
            Eve scrambled to her feet and reached for Tidus, taking him from Sebastian. “Tessa,” Eve said, her eyes widening with apprehension as she stared at Tessa. “Are you okay?”
            Tessa nodded in silence. Her eyes were clear and blank as if she were looking through a window into an empty room.
            “We heard screams,” Lilith said. “What happened?”
            “Arius disappeared,” Eve struggled with her words, “through a portal.”  
Tessa wanted to scream, but she kept her voice low and calm. “He could be back at the Covenant with Mia… where he’s safe.”
            Sebastian clenched his brows, and Tessa saw a flash of anguish in his eyes resembling the look of an animal in a trap. In another instant, it had turned to hardness. “I’ll get him back,” he said sharply.
            Tessa shivered. The look on his face was murderous. At her shudder, his expression shifted from anger to self-gratification. She kept her eyes fixed on his face. Stay calm, she thought.
            “I can help you get him back,” Tessa said.
            Sebastian took a step closer, narrowing his eyes. “And how do you plan to do that?”
            Lilith rushed on before Tessa could respond. She waved her fleshless hand dismissively. “You need to stay here… where I can protect you.”
            When Sebastian started to protest, Lilith sent him a dark look, nodding her head in a silent gesture that said we need to talk now.
            Sebastian’s jaw dropped, but he remained silent, almost as if he was afraid to voice an opinion.
            Tessa kept quiet, watching Sebastian as he brushed a kiss over Eve’s brow. Eve bit back tears, determined not to show weakness as Sebastian stepped out of the room with Lilith.
 
****
 
            Standing outside the bedroom door, Angel watched Tim stride in her direction. A contented look fixed on his features as though he’d found pleasure in the simple task of putting their daughter Natalie to bed for the night.
            When he approached Angel, he extended his hand, inviting her to take hold. Grasping his palm, she met his gaze. He gave her a look warm with affection, sending a delicate shiver over her skin as he pulled her close. Angel slid against his body, nestling herself under his arm.
            “Ready for bed?” Tim asked with a raised brow.
            Angel looked up at him. “I’m not tired.”
            “I didn’t say anything about being tired, but I’m ready to go to bed… with you,” he murmured in a playful tone. “Sleep, however, is not on my mind at the moment.”      
            When they entered the bedroom, he closed the door silently behind them and led her to their bed.
            “I love you, Angel,” he said, trailing a finger down her cheek, caressing, sending more shivers all over her body.
            “I love you, too,” she whispered, staring intently into his dark blue eyes.    “I want you, now,” he said hastily, unfastening his jeans.
            Angel hadn’t realized how much she wanted him to touch her until he’d said those words. She wanted to feel his strong hands on her skin. Her core ached and throbbed for him. She wanted his feather-light caresses on every inch of her body. She trembled, and her eyes took on a slightly glazed, hungry look that brought his body to immediate attention.
            “I want you in our bed... naked with me.” He nodded toward the king-sized bed. “I want your legs wrapped around me… with me inside you.”
            She sucked in her breath and licked her lips nervously, staring into his dominant gaze for a moment before quickly lifting her blouse over her head. While Angel fumbled with her bra, she hadn’t even managed to remove it before he was standing in front of her completely naked, his eyes impatiently waiting for her.
            She let out a frustrated sigh. “I guess you’ll have to help me finish getting undressed.”
            With a lazy smile, he batted his brows. “I guess I can make the sacrifice.”
            She laughed as he turned her to unhook her bra. His fingers worked quickly, pulling it forward, guiding the straps the rest of the way down her arms. Then he knelt down on one knee and slid her lace panties down, letting the tiny scrap fall to the floor.
            “That’s definitely much better.” His gaze roamed over her body as he rose to his feet.  
            When he started to ease down onto the bed, she lightly pushed him, surprising him with her eagerness. They tumbled down onto the mattress and landed with a soft bounce, his warmth pressed against her bare skin. Her body molded to him perfectly, almost like they were destined for one another.  
            She pressed her lips to his and fire raced through his veins when the tip of her tongue rubbed lightly over his mouth.
            “Angel,” he murmured against her soft lips.
            At the sound of his voice, she pulled away to see him watching her through half-lidded eyes. When he opened them wider, arousal glazed over them, and the pupils were full, making the color more black than blue.
            “Lie on your back,” he directed.
            She complied and shifted beside him, lying on her back, anticipating his touch. When she felt his warm fingertips lazily trail up and down her body, she closed her eyes and arched toward him. Angel’s body quivered—wanting and needing him to touch her more intimately.
            He was patient, drawing lazy circles, his fingers drifting closer between her legs. She sighed and parted her legs as if begging for him to go lower. She gasped and tensed when she felt his hand between her soft folds. Pleasure shot through her body, tingling its way to all the right spots. His touch was magic, taking her up so close to her peak until her breaths were coming fast and shallow.
            He pressed a light kiss right below her earlobe, releasing a slight breath against her neck and then nipped lightly, his teeth grazing as goose bumps raced over her flesh. “Come for me, Angel,” he whispered close to her ear.
            She twisted against him, arching into his hand when his fingers grew more insistent. He knew how to touch her and just the right amount of pressure, caressing the exact spot that created wave after wave of intense pleasure. After she had come down from her quick and hard climax, she was limp in his arms, content in the aftermath of his touch. Slowly she came back to awareness when he rained a trail of soft kisses over the curve of her shoulder and moved back to her lips.     
            “I love you, honey,” she murmured, enjoying his gentle hands.
            “I love—” He stopped in mid-sentence and turned to the nightstand when he heard sounds coming from the baby monitor.
            “What is it?” she queried.
            “Someone’s in Natalie’s room.”
            Angel’s face went pale, and her lips formed a paper-thin line. Listening carefully, she heard Natalie giggling and another voice. “Oh my god,” she said, her voice edged with worry.
            “Hurry, get dressed.” Tim scrambled off the bed and frantically searched the floor for his clothes.
            Angel hurried out of bed and grabbed a robe from the closet. She quickly slipped into it and tied the belt. As she wheeled around, Tim was waiting by the open door wearing nothing but a pair of jeans. There was a tense and apprehensive look in his eyes almost like he was looking to her for strength. Drawn to the vulnerable picture Tim posed, she reached for his hand at the same time he grasped hers.   
            Standing outside Natalie’s bedroom, they heard sounds of laughter. With one swift motion, Tim reached for the door and sprung it open.
            The noise startled the cat, which apparently came back after he’d mysteriously disappeared. When the cat leaped off Natalie’s bed, he moved next to her and meowed.
            Angel instantly covered her mouth and gasped into her hand. “Oh my god… Arius.
            Her reaction caught Natalie and Arius’s attention. They turned away from the cat and looked at Tim and Angel.
            “Baa-bee,” Natalie mumbled, pointing her little finger at Arius. And then she looked at the cat, her eyes wide. “Kiddy!”
            With his eyes locked on Arius, Tim said, “Make sure he doesn’t go anywhere, honey. I’ll go get Jem and Mia.”
            When Tim left the room, Angel moved next to Arius and reached for him. “We’ve missed you, sweetheart,” she said, brushing her hand over his dark curls. “Where in the world have you been?”  
            Arius looked at Angel, his eyes bright with excitement, sucking his thumb.
            Natalie stood on the other side of Angel, whining and reaching for Arius. Hearing Natalie’s persistent effort to get Angel’s attention, Arius looked down at her with a smile, his thumb angled further into his mouth.
            Angel knelt down with Arius in her arms. “What is it, sweetheart?”
            Natalie reached for Arius, openly pleading with Angel to put him back down.
            “He’s not going anywhere, honey,” Angel said, placing Arius on the floor next to Natalie.
            It was such an endearing sight as Angel sat down next to them and watched them play. She was struck by the rightness of it all. But she knew this put her family and the Covenant in danger. Somewhere out there, a monster lurked, waiting for an opportunity to come back for Arius.    
 
To be continued...         
 
 

 

Author Notes Note: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. The Breedline queen's bite is the only way to destroy it.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donate their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.


Chapter 42
Sibling Bond

By scongrove

Previously...
 
Even though Sebastian had kept his promise to Eve and brought back their twin sons, she discovered he was keeping a secret. Not only did Sebastian sneak into the Breedline Covenant to retrieve Arius and Tidus, he also kidnapped Tessa. As Eve’s curiosity stirred, she eavesdropped on a conversation between Sebastian’s twin brother Thomas and Lilith in hopes of finding out what they planned on doing with Tessa. She was shocked and confused after hearing Lilith was Tessa’s biological mother.    
 

Distraught over witnessing Garrett, Thomas’s guard—who walked out of them room where Thomas and Lilith had Tessa and shot himself—Eve panicked and ran upstairs to her twins nursery.

When screams came from the nursery, Sebastian immediately recognized it was Eve and ran upstairs with Lilith and Tessa following behind. After Eve finally managed to compose herself, she explained to them what had happened to Arius—he’d suddenly vanished into thin air. With no other explanation, Sebastian realized his son had the ability to travel through a portal and most likely went back to the Breedline Covenant to be with Eve’s twin sister Mia.       
 
Now, not only did Sebastian have to go back to the Breedline Covenant to retrieve his son, he had to figure out a way to bring back Lilith’s son, Steven.
 

Continued...
 
As Tessa watched Lilith step out of the room with Sebastian, leaving her alone with Eve, she felt like doing a double fist pump. If she was lucky, this could be her chance to find out where this place was. But Tessa wasn’t sure if Eve would be willing to give her that information. Still, she had to try. What other options did she have?
            Footsteps passed in the hallway and Tessa knew she only had moments before Sebastian or Lilith came back. Tessa turned to Eve and whispered, “Will you help me?”     
            When Eve nodded in silence, Tessa sagged in relief. “Where am I?”
            Eve quickly moved next to Tessa and placed Tidus in her arms. “Seventeen Curzon Street in London,” she said close to her ear.  
            Thank you, she mouthed soundlessly. With Tidus gathered snuggly in her arms, Tessa pressed a kiss to his forehead. Tears burned her eyelids, and she bit her lip to hold them at bay. And then she heard the faintest whisper in her mind.
Tessa?
            Tessa took a deep shuddering breath, her features creased with pain. It took everything she had not to react to Steven’s voice calling out to her telepathically.
            Tessa… can you hear me? It’s Steven. Please tell me you’re okay.
Some of the tension that had knitted her brow eased and relief was stark in her eyes. She could feel Steven’s healing powers shielding her, absorbing her suffering just as he had done before.
            Yes, I’m okay, Steven, she responded silently, keeping her eyes on Eve.  
Steven could feel Tessa’s exhaustion and her fear beating at her in relentless waves. Did you find out your location? Steven asked as the agonizing discomfort mounted in his head.
            Tidus, completely unaware of Tessa’s telepathic connection with Steven, chortled in glee and grasped a handful of Tessa’s hair, pulling as he tried to maneuver it to his mouth.
            Eve’s brows clenched and she looked questioningly at Tessa as if she could sense something was off.  
            Tessa shifted Tidus to her other hip then exchanged looks with Eve before glancing back at the door.  I’m in London, she quickly responded, her inner voice trembling, at Seventeen Curzon Street.    
            Thank God, Steven sighed. As soon as I tell the others, we’ll come for you, Tessa.
            Wait, Steven, Tessa said as she felt the connection with him begin to dissipate, our mother—
            She was interrupted by Sebastian walking back in, and the connection with Steven was gone. Sebastian didn’t act particularly friendly, and Tessa made a hasty retreat after she handed Tidus back to Eve.
            Sebastian made a grab for her arm. “Not so fast,” he said, holding her with a tight grip.
            Panic jolted through her, momentarily robbing her of breath. She stopped to steady herself and breathed away the rising nauseous feeling, churning inside her stomach.
            “Sebastian,” Eve said, her tone firm, “please…”
            He turned to face Eve, his brows furrowed and his lips tightened. “What did you say?”
            Eve shook her head. “Please, don’t hurt her.”
            Sebastian smirked. “Why the hell do you care? Is there something going on between you two I’m not aware of?”
            Eve stared back at him, her crimson eyes steely with resolve. “I don’t want Tidus to witness anything that has to do with violence. Is that so much to ask?”
            Sebastian’s expression briefly softened. He nodded and shifted his focus back on Tessa. “You’re allowed to move around the estate freely,” he said, glaring at her with superiority. “But don’t try anything stupid.”
            When she nodded in response, he released her and added, “If you’re thinking of telepathically connecting with your beloved… don’t bother wasting your time. I’m sure you’ve already experienced the pain it causes if you do. Only death will be the outcome if you continue to try.”
            Before Tessa walked out of the room, she turned to stare into Eve’s eyes and saw compassion resonating out of them. It was as if she was trying to relay a message without words.
            As Tessa stepped out of the room and descended the stairs, someone yanked her backward. The hand on her arm was crushing, and she winced as she tried to pull away. Before she could scream, a large hand was clamped tight over her mouth.
            Her eyes widened in fear, and her stomach clenched while being forced outside. Tessa struggled to get free, but the grip on her arms tightened.
            “Easy with her,” Thomas barked from behind the man that had Tessa. “Dr. Crane’s orders were that under no circumstances are you to harm her.”
            Tessa tried to focus her mind, to make a connection with Steven, when a sharp stick in her arm had her making a muffled sound of pain from behind her captor’s hand.   
            “Hurry up,” Thomas directed as a dark sedan pulled up to the drive and stopped, “get her inside.”
            After being placed into the open back seat, the man that put her there climbed in beside her and Thomas shut the door. He watched as the car backed out of the drive and drove away.    
 
****
 
            An overwhelming relief burned brightly in Mia’s eyes, and her shoulders seemed to sag when she walked into Natalie’s room and saw Arius. He and Natalie were chattering gibberish like two magpies and acting like they were long-lost playmates. It sent warmth through her heart. She turned to Jem, who was standing in the doorway and smiled.
            Jem smiled back. “I think someone missed us.”
            Mia moved next to where Natalie and Arius were playing and sat on the floor next to them. She reached out and touched Arius’s dark curls, gently stroking the soft strands.
            Arius blinked sleepily and stared up at Mia. “Ma-ma,” he mumbled, sliding his thumb inside his mouth.
            Mia scooped him into her arms and held him tight. “I missed you so much, sweetheart.”
            With his head rested on Mia’s shoulder, Arius pointed at Jem and muttered, “Da-da.”   
            Mia’s eyes widened in shock, and she glanced hurriedly at Jem to gauge his reaction. Would he be put off by Arius calling him daddy? It had come out of the blue. Never would Mia have imagined those words coming from Arius’s lips. Even though he was an affectionate child and called her mama, he’d never expressed too much affection for Jem.
            But he didn’t seem to mind in the least. Jem’s entire face softened and a gentle smile emerged. When he sat down next to Mia, he extended his arms out to Arius. “Come here, little buddy.”
            Arius’s eyes flickered, and he reached for Jem, latching onto him as Mia placed him into his arms.
            Mia’s heart lurched, and a knot formed in her throat. Tears clogged her eyes, and she blinked as the drops flowed over her cheeks.
            Jem leaned over, and to Mia’s surprise, he kissed her softly on the lips. Nothing prolonged, just a quick brush. But it was intimate all the same.  
            “Who wants pancakes?” he said, ruffling Arius’s hair affectionately.
            Natalie clapped her hands excitedly and squealed in a sharp voice.
            Tim wrapped his arms around Angel and whispered close to her ear, “How about you and Mia take them downstairs to the kitchen while I gather everyone for a meeting, honey? I’ve got to put everyone in the Covenant on alert. I’m sure it won’t be long before Sebastian comes for Arius.”
            Angel nodded. “Of course, honey.”
            “I know it’s late,” Tim said, his focus solely on Jem, “but we need to gather everyone and let them know what’s going on. It’s likely Sebastian is coming our way.”
            Jem nodded as he moved to his feet with Arius still in his arms. “Go ahead and fix them some pancakes sweetheart, while I help Tim,” Jem said, handing Arius back to Mia after she got to her feet. “I’ll have one of the guards stay with you at all times until I get back.”
            With Arius snuggled in her arms, Mia lifted her gaze to Jem, sincerity blazing in her eyes. “I love you, Jem.”
            He put his hand on her shoulder and lightly squeezed. “I love you, too, Mia.” Jem leaned down and kissed the top of Arius’s head and whispered, “Love you too, little buddy.”
            Before Tim left the room, his cell phone rang.
            “This is Tim,” he answered.
            After a few minutes of silence, he said, “Okay, we’ll gather the others and be ready. Bring Steven and meet us in the library. ”
            Angel picked Natalie up, looking at Tim in silent question.
            “Steven’s got Tessa’s location,” Tim said. “She’s in London.”
            Jem stood in shock, unable to form a coherent sentence. He simply couldn’t believe it. And then he finally said, “Thank God. Do you have the exact location?”
            “Seventeen Curzon Street,” Tim quickly replied. “We need to move fast. I’ll inform Drakon while you tell Jace. We’ll meet up in the library so we can put our heads together and figure out our next move.”
            As Mia watched Jem turn away and leave with Tim, her gaze shifted across the room at Angel. When she saw Mia’s helpless expression, she nodded her understanding. “Don’t worry, Mia. Everything will work out. We’ll get Tessa and Tidus back.”
            Mia smiled. There was something about this entire Covenant that inspired one to believe in them and their devotion to family. She quietly thanked her and then headed for the door with Angel and Natalie following close behind.
            Having faith in Angel’s words, Mia stepped out into the hallway and halted her movement, focusing on Jem as he hurried toward Jace’s room.
            After Jem had knocked on the door, Jace came into view. Moments later, Jem extended his hand and grasped a hold of Jace to keep him from dropping to his knees when he delivered the news about Tessa.       
 
To be continued... 
       
  
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

KATAKO (a.k.a Lucas, or Dark Shadow) - He is the Chiang-shih demon's offspring that is born both Breedline and Wiccan. After one year, the Katako develops into an adult with the mind of a child, without reaching full maturity. It has the power to appear translucent, or become completely invisible. Being born half Breedline, it can shift into a wolf and transform, or mimic another creature with the power to instantly travel from one place to another. Their true purpose of creation is to bring forth the souls stuck in purgatory by using one drop of its blood. Tessa Fairchild - the Breedline Queen - destroyed the Katako in battle using the deadly venom of her Breedline wolf.

GOLEMS (a.k.a The Death Army) - Evil creatures created by dark Wiccans with the power of necromancy. By releasing the souls of demons stuck in purgatory, the Wicca can give them the ability to shape into a creature that is made from earth. These creatures have various qualities, such as mass strength, enormous stature, and the power to consume their victims by saturating them with mud.

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild and Steven Pasquale's biological father.



Chapter 43
Sibling Bond/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
Even though Sebastian had kept his promise to Eve and brought back their twin sons, she discovered he was keeping a secret. Not only did Sebastian sneak into the Breedline Covenant to retrieve Arius and Tidus, he also kidnapped Tessa. As Eve’s curiosity stirred, she eavesdropped on a conversation between Sebastian’s twin brother Thomas and Lilith in hopes of finding out what they planned on doing with Tessa. She was shocked and confused after hearing Lilith was Tessa’s biological mother.
    
Distraught over witnessing Garrett, Thomas’s guard—who walked out of them room where Thomas and Lilith had Tessa and shot himself—Eve panicked and ran upstairs to her twins nursery.
 
When screams came from the nursery, Sebastian immediately recognized it was Eve and ran upstairs with Lilith and Tessa following behind. After Eve finally managed to compose herself, she explained to them what had happened to Arius—he’d suddenly vanished into thin air. With no other explanation, Sebastian realized his son had the ability to travel through a portal and most likely went back to the Breedline Covenant to be with Eve’s twin sister Mia.    
 
Meanwhile, using a portal, Arius takes his twin brother Tidus, Eve, and Mia back to the Breedline Covenant. As the Covenant prepares to rescue Tessa and take down Sebastian, something interferes with their plans. 

 
Continued...
 
The mood was grim and strained at the Breedline Covenant. Seated inside the library, waiting for everyone to attend, was Tim, Drakon, Alexander, Helen, Jackson, Kyle, Celina, and Casey. The moment Jem and Jace arrived with their adoptive parents, Sarah was ushered away by their daughter Cassie, who promptly took her to the kitchen where Mia and Angel fed Natalie and Arius pancakes.  
            As Bruce Carmichael strode in with Steven, Tim knew something was wrong by the look on their faces.
            Bruce kept his eyes focused on Tim. “We’ve got bigger problems. Someone’s breached in th’ Covenant’s grounds,” he said, his voice laced with a thick Scottish accent. “The outside alarm has been tripped.”
            Tim’s gut tightened and his dread increased.
            Jace shot out of his chair, anger gripping his insides and twisting viciously. “It has to be Sebastian! He’s come back for Arius!”
            Near to his exploding point, Tim reacted to Jace’s outburst. “Calm down, Jace,” he said firmly. “Now is not the time to lose it. We’ve got to stay focused. I need you to pull it together and keep a clear, level head.”
            “This is bullshit,” Jace seethed, balling his fists tightly at his sides. “It’s time to dispense with the analysis and go take that son of a bitch down now.”  
            A course of agreement circled the room.
            Jace raised his gaze at Jem with determination etched in every facet of his face. He wouldn’t entertain any other option. No matter what, Jace had to end this with Sebastian and get Tessa back. Without her, he had nothing. She was the heart and soul of this Covenant. Without Tessa, none of them would ever be whole.
            Tim rubbed his forehead wearily. “Yes, I agree,” he said surprising Jace and the others. “But we’ve got to stay strong and stand together. We’ll protect this Covenant even if it means having to take down anyone that stands in our way.”
            “Tim, my God, Tim!”
            Everyone turned to see Angel standing in the open doorway nervously wringing her hands. In the distance, Natalie was crying, and Cassie and Sarah’s concerned voices were rising as they tried to comfort her.
            “What happened, Angel?” Tim asked sharply.
            “Mia and Arius... they’re gone,” Angel said painfully. “She took Arius in the other room to change him. I wasn’t worried since one of the guards went with her. When I realized how much time had passed, I became concerned so I went to check on them and found the guard with his throat cut and Mia and Arius were gone.”
            “Shit!” Jace spat.
            It was a testament to the severity of the situation that Jace didn’t instantly earn a reprimand from his adoptive father for the cursing.
            Jem leaned forward with his elbows on the table, burying his face in his hands. God, now Sebastian had Mia. He couldn’t bear the thought of losing her. Grief knotted Jem’s throat, choking him when he lowered his hands and tried to speak. So he sat there, hands shaking as rage and sorrow battled for equal control of his emotions.
            “It’s time to end this,” Jem finally managed to get out. “No matter what our laws proclaim, we have to kill them all.”    
            Tim briefly closed his eyes, the nightmare only growing more horrific with every passing second. His family was getting ripped apart in front of his eyes, and he wasn’t going to be helpless and watch it all happen. He was forced to do the unthinkable, which meant they would have to take lives. It was a reality of what they had to do to survive. The decisions they were faced with right now was some place between right and wrong. But at the end of the day, they lived with the choices to keep their family and Covenant safe. When it came down to saving his precious family from the monster like Sebastian Crow, he’d play dirty. He’d fight dirty. And he’d take down anyone by any means necessary.
            “Bruce, stay here with the girls,” Tim commanded, taking control of the situation. Shifting his focus toward Alexander and Jackson, he said, “I want you two to stay here with everyone and keep them safe. The Guardians cannot help us fight, but they will bar whatever’s on our doorstep from getting inside this Covenant.”  
            Jackson nodded and opened his jacket, revealing a leather holster that supported a weapon. “We’ll keep them safe.”
            Alexander frowned as he rose from his chair and Tim held his hand up. “I know what you’re thinking Alexander. Please—I need you to stay here—to protect our family.”
            It comforted Alexander that Tim included him as a part of his family. Exhaling a deep breath, Alexander nodded in agreement. “I promise—I’ll do whatever it takes to keep them safe.”
            Tim nodded. “Thank you, Alexander.”      
            “What now?” Drakon asked.
            “Sebastian may not be the only one we’re dealing with,” Tim pointed out. “I’ll need you to bring up the surveillance cameras. It may be our only shot at what we’re up against.”      
            They were in down and ready mode, plotting their plan of action, and it frustrated the hell out of Drakon that they were so damn unprepared. Even his computer geek skills weren’t helping at the moment as he scanned over the camera’s monitor. His hands shook as he punched in codes and brought up the surveillance footage from outside the Covenant.
            “Son of a bitch!” Drakon exploded.   
            “Christ,” Jace blurted after he saw what displayed on the screen. “What the hell is that?”
            “They’re hybrids,” Steven spoke out in disgust. “Created by the same bastards that kept me locked up for years.”
            “Can they be killed?” Tim asked with worry etched into his voice.
Steven nodded. “They’re stronger than any Breedline, but they’re not indestructible.”
            “What will kill them?” Jem queried. “Silver bullets?”
            “No,” Steven said in a low voice with his eyes focused on the camera’s monitor. “Silver cannot destroy them.”
Jace shot him a look that suggested his patience was wearing thin. “What the hell will kill them, Steven?”
            Steven wheeled around, shifting his focus on Jace and said, “Me.”      
 
****
 
            Terror tugged mercilessly at Mia as she stared up at Sebastian, shivering at the calculated way he looked at her. There was no mistaking the expression of triumph in his eyes. He knew he’d won and he was relishing every moment of her helplessness as she kept a firm hold onto Arius.
            “Well, well, well,” Sebastian said in a dragged-out fashion. “You look so surprised to see me.”
            “What did you do with Tessa?” Mia demanded. “Where is she?”
He shook his head. “That’s none of your concern.”
            Mia lowered her head as grief welled in her heart, spreading until her entire chest ached. When the silence fell between them, she lifted her chin, staring at him with pure hatred.
            “Ready to admit defeat, Mia?” he asked mockingly, walking around her in a tight circle, pacing the room he’d taken her to. “Where’s your precious beloved now?”
            Her knees wobbled, but by sheer grit alone she managed to remain standing tall and defiant. “Go to hell, Sebastian.”
            His lips formed a wicked grin, and it chilled Mia’s blood. “As I recall, not so long ago, you loathed the Breedline,” he said, his voice settling over her like a suffocating fog. “What changed that dark heart of yours?”
            “If Jem doesn’t find you first, I swear I’ll kill you myself,” she hissed.
            Sebastian’s eyebrows went up, and then he laughed. “I like a good fight,” he murmured. “Tessa never fought. She was too weak, too helpless. But you, Mia? Ah, I will look forward to having you naked in my bed. I have a feeling it will always be a fight with you.”
            Frozen by his admission, a spark of rage flashed in Mia’s eyes. Her jaw tightened as she stared in horror at the man who had hurt Tessa. “What about my sister? You would do that to Eve?”
            He smirked. “What Eve doesn’t know won’t hurt her. Besides, she’s too busy taking care of my sons.”
            “You sick bastard,” Mia said through gritted teeth. “You don’t give a damn about Eve or your sons. It’s all about control. You don’t care about anything but yourself and what you can dominate. You’re God in your own mind, and you think everyone is a pawn to do what you want when you want.”
            Sebastian shrugged. “Think what you want. It doesn’t change the fact that I’m holding all the cards. You belong to me now,” he said icily. “Forget about the beloved you once loved. You’re mine to do with as I please.”  
            Mia’s mouth gaped open. She was so furious that she couldn’t even see straight. Sebastian’s features blurred in front of her, and her knees nearly buckled. “I hope you burn in hell,” she said under her breath.
            “You’ll learn to do exactly as I want or suffer the consequences,” Sebastian snapped. And then he shifted his focus behind Mia. “Corbin,” he called out. “Take Arius back to Eve.”
            She froze when she heard the sound of a door opening. And then she felt Arius being taken out of her arms as she tightened her hold on him, refusing to let him go.
            “If you try to put up a fight, I’ll shoot you right in front of the baby,” a deep, cold voice demanded Mia didn’t recognize.   
            “Okay,” she said in defeat, witnessing Arius’s eyes widen with panic as he was lifted from her grasp and taken out of the room. When the door locked from the outside, she could hear Arius crying for her.
            When Mia looked up at Sebastian, there was no triumph in his gaze. No sense of victory. He just looked… broken.  
            “He’s just confused,” Sebastian said with bitterness. “Arius doesn’t know the difference between you and Eve, but he’ll learn.”
            In the awkward silence that followed, a bright light completely engulfed Sebastian’s entire body, spreading like a band of fire.
            Mia held her hand up, shielding her eyes from the brilliant glow casting off of him. When the light dissipated, she lowered her hand and caught the shadowy image of Sebastian just as he vanished into nothingness.   
 
To be continued...
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
       
   
 
 
 

 
 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. Terms and characters reference, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild and Steven Pasquale's biological father.




Chapter 44
Attack of the Hybrids

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 

Continued... 
      
Tessa’s sanity was slowly being taken away when she awoke on a thinly padded table with her arms strapped so she couldn’t move. Bands were attached to her ankles, her wrists, and even her neck. The worst of it all was having no idea where she was.
            She strained at her bonds, but there was no budging them. At the corner of her eye, she glanced fearfully over toward her left and caught sight of a bright image. It was her mother lying motionless in a clear plastic tube. Panic set in and she felt like she couldn’t breathe. What did they want with her?  
            “Where am I?” Tessa pleaded as men in white lab coats took blood samples and moved around her without speaking a word, treating her like she was a lab experiment or just another research project.
            Her mouth opened and she yelled hoarsely as an electrical current bolted through her body. After the pain had eased, she closed her eyes and kept quiet. None of this was right. Was this what it had been like for her mother years ago?
Tessa hadn’t heard from Steven for hours now, and the empty void in her mind was hell. She had to calm her thoughts and try to communicate with him telepathically. Her brother was the only hope of finding a way out of this.     
 
****
 
            Jace stared at Steven in confusion. “What are you talking about?”
            “I’ve killed Dr. Autenburg’s hybrids before,” Steven said. “The last time they found me, his colleague, Dr. Ludwig, sent them to attack.”
            “Is that when you got shot?” Tim asked.
            Steven’s eyes narrowed, and his lips tightened. “I was outnumbered.”
            Drakon pointed at the camera’s monitor, pinpointing to the security gate that led into the entrance of the Covenant. “We’ve got more company,” he said, shifting his focus to Steven. “It looks like we’re all outnumbered.”   
            “Christ,” Casey muttered, feeling the hairs on the back of his neck rise as he watched two dark sedans burst through the front gate and at least a dozen hybrids, if not more, scurry over the gate and across the lawn. They were as big as horses, thick with muscle and dark fur—and glowing eyes, not easy to miss.
Tim stepped forward, staring at the monitor’s screen, and Jace and Jem went silent.
            “Here’s what we’re going to do,” Tim directed. “We’re going to have to change since silver bullets won’t kill those things, except for Steven and Jem. I’m going to need you two positioned at the front entrance while the rest of us slip out from the back, and attack them from behind. Use everything you got to keep those bastards from getting inside the Covenant.”
            Steven gave a quick nod and then turned to Jem. “You ready?”
            “Yeah, let’s do this,” Jem replied and then shifted his focus solely on Jace. “Brother, we’re going to need your Beast.”
            Before Jace could open his mouth to reply, he reached back for the wall to steady himself when a distant explosion rocked the Covenant.
            Everyone else slammed back against the wall as bullets zinged from the front doorway and into the wall a short distance away.
            “Shit!” Jace shouted.
            Tim shot Steven and Jem a look and said, “On my count, you two go to the front, and the rest of us will hit them from behind. One, two… three!”
            “Let’s go,” Steven said as he broke off into a run, and Jem followed close behind. In the blink of an eye, Steven started transforming as his skin took on a luminous sheen. His eyes glimmered like diamonds, and his toes and fingers turned into claws. Steven’s half-human and half-Breedline hybrid took out the two armed guys on the right while Jem extended his palm and blasted a lightning bolt, downing the remaining two on the left.   
            When they stepped out through the busted doorway, a shot sounded, and Jem went down. Steven turned, instantly disappearing as if he’d vanished into thin air. A thick spray of bullets rang out followed by screams and then silence.
            Jem looked up when he heard the sound of a crack. A man who Steven had in a choke hold fell to the ground, his head hanging from his neck at a twisted angle. Grim, deadly, Steven seemed at ease in the violence. As if he’d reappeared from out of nowhere, Steven stood in front of Jem. “Talk to me, Jem,” he said. Steven’s voice sounded deeper and distorted. “Are you hit?”
            “Yeah, bastard just winged me,” Jem grunted, moving to his feet.
            When Steven glanced down, he saw blood smeared down Jem’s shirt. “You’re bleeding. Where did you get hit?”
            Jem put a hand over his shoulder. “It’s just a graze,” he said staring at Steven’s unnatural transformation. “Come on. We don’t have time to waste. Let’s clear the rest of them so we can go find Tessa and Mia.”        
            Steven nodded. He could hear the frustration in Jem’s voice and the ache. He was afraid for Mia. He was afraid they wouldn’t find her but also afraid of what Sebastian had done to her.
            “Let’s finish this,” Steven said, his expression unwavering.   
 
****
         
            A blood-chilling howl shattered through the sounds of gunfire sending an adrenaline rush through Jace’s veins. He threw back his head, straining his ears to make out where the disturbing sound was coming from and sniffed the air.
            His eyes widened. “Bastards… I’ll kill every one of them,” Jace said, his voice was so deep that his words distorted.
            Tim looked at him, and two gleaming white orbs took the place of Jace’s light blue eyes. As he broke away from the others and bounded toward the back door, a brilliant flash of light surrounded Jace’s entire body. Then they all heard the sound of a mighty roar as the Beast took over Jace’s form. Tim saw the change in Drakon and Kyle, as he felt the change of his own body with the seeming hardening and expansion of his chest.
            Casey was the only one that didn’t turn as he began to run, frantically trying to keep up with them. He suddenly felt goose bumps cover his skin and his hair stand on end when the Theriomorph urges seemed to flood into him from all sides—as well as from inside. A lavender mist descended over his eyes, and he sensed something within him taking over, at first small but powerful, then massive and overwhelming. As Casey’s speed began to decelerate into a slow-moving pace, his feet felt weighted with cement, and his skin could no longer contain the transformation.
            Although he tried to hang on to his human form, he felt himself shift, his muscles throbbing with power and lust for the change. As Casey’s new transformation took place, the shrill sound of his black panther vibrated off the walls while he ran silently on four-padded feet.
            A grandfather clock from the near distance chimed as the Beast tore through the back doors, muffling the sound as wood splintered into pieces.
            From everywhere came masses of Dr. Crane’s hybrid wolves, rushing at Jace’s Beast, their powerful jaws closing on him as swiftly as any animal of the wild moves to slay. More hybrids dropped from the trees, charging toward the Beast with incredible speed. Their great impact knocked him down forcefully, pinning him to the ground.
            The Beast was not alone. Drakon’s enormous rogue-wolf charged forward, snatching a hybrid with his dagger-size canines as easily as it might lift a child’s doll. Before Tim and Kyle could come to his aid, Drakon hurled the hybrid to the ground, where its skull shattered like an eggshell, spilling his brains onto the grassy lawn.  
            As Tim and Kyle surged in action, they got attacked from both sides. There were so many hybrids that they couldn’t even fathom the amount, only hear the growls of the monsters. Roaring, Kyle slashed at them with his sharp claws as blood spurted from their torn flesh.
            The battle had only begun, Tim realized, and he knew they were all outnumbered. Hot hybrid blood sprayed across his wolf-face when he slashed his claws at the nearest creature.
            A hissing noise came from beyond catching Tim’s attention. He couldn’t look away from the dark creature’s glowing eyes and gleaming white fangs as it charged forward. The body of an enormous black panther leaped in mid-air. When it landed, a deafening scream came from its jaws. With one quick swipe of its massive paw, a headless body of a hybrid dropped to the ground.         
            In anger, Jace’s Beast had not only the instincts of the Breedline wolf but his animal cunning … and something else left from the man he used to be. He remembered his beloved and his unborn sons. It was his job to protect them. Using his razor-sharp claws, the Beast slashed into the flesh of his enemies. As his claws struck them, slicing through their hide, the hybrids howled in pain—pain that brought the Beast into focus, fueling his rage.  
            Tim had never heard such anguish from animal or human like the wails coming from the hybrids.
            As if on cue, Tim saw the giant figure of Casey’s panther bounding after a black sedan and easily overtaking it. The majestic animal sprang first on the roof, and then dropped down in front of the windshield as the vehicle swerved, screeched into a circle, and came to a halt as glass exploded.
            The battle was still raging when Steven and Jem stepped out of the fog and into the heat of the conflict. The air reeked of blood and war. A scene of utter chaos and carnage greeted their eyes, which swiftly took in the sight of a wrecked vehicle inside the lawn with a man screaming. An enormous black panther was dragging him through the shattered windshield.
            When Jem and Steven turned to the back doors, Jace’s Beast was covered in blood, fighting with a vengeance while Drakon, Kyle, and Tim backed him up. They saw at once that they were still severely outnumbered. Jem counted at least a dozen hybrids, and who knew how much more were lurking in the near distance. Despite this nightmarish situation, he refused to panic. Shrewd blue eyes rapidly assessed the gruesome massacre waged around him. He would die fighting if it came to that while looking his enemies bravely in the face.
            Steven’s brilliant white eyes shimmered under the moonlight. And then a fierce growl filled Jem’s ears. It took him a second to realize that the noise wasn’t coming from Steven, but from his own throat.
            Jem hesitated for only an instant. His family needed every ally they could spare if any of them hoped to survive this bloodbath. After he had extended his arm, Jem aimed at his target and blasted a blazing fireball, hitting hybrids as they toppled over the security gate. Wrenching howls filled the darkness. Before his eyes, Steven took off in a flash and tackled a monstrous black hybrid the size of two Breedline wolves without it even registering his movement. Steven had one arm locked around the creature’s throat and was struggling to keep out of the way of its deadly fangs and claws while tightening his grip on its neck. Putting an end to his enemies was his destiny, Steven thought. It was time to choose freedom or death.
            Gritting his teeth, Steven squeezed with all his strength and the creature let out a pained yelp. He barely recognized the feral rage fueling his attack. He yanked at the hybrid’s neck with a forceful twist until he heard the sound of a loud snap. The unholy creature twitched as it collapsed to the ground dead.
 
To be continued...    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. Reference for terms and characters, especially new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild and Steven's biological father.





Chapter 45
Attack of the Hybrids/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant.
 
Continued...
 
All at once, the remaining hybrid wolves suddenly turned and retreated. Jem looked beyond Steven to where Jace’s Beast was crouched into a fighting stance, waiting for another attack. The longer they stood around in the silence, Jem grew uneasy. His gut was screaming, and the hair prickled and stood up on his nape.
            There was something odd and decidedly wrong with this picture. Jem was about to shout a warning when a shiny metal object came flying through the air from the rear of the gate. The round-shaped projectile caught a glint of moonlight before plummeting to the ground.
            “Get down!” Jem shouted.
            It exploded on impact, unleashing a sudden blast of heat and noise.
            Jem’s ears rang from the explosion, and the smell of gunpowder filled his nostrils as he dove behind a concrete statue. It was a grenade, he realized instantly. Lifting his head, he peered over the top of the statue at the aftermath of the explosion. Trying to focus through the smoke and the dust that clouded the air, he couldn’t see anything, but only heard groans of pain.
            Moving to his feet, he turned his eyes toward the back of the estate, searching for his brother and the others. A flicker of movement caused Jem to zero in on someone in the near distance. He ducked back down, reluctant to expose himself before determining the stranger’s identity.
            Before Jem’s startled eyes, Steven staggered in front of him holding his hand over his side, gasping for air. He looked down at Jem with an uncharacteristic fear on his face.
            Shit, Jem thought. He saw blood spread through Steven’s fingers and over his hand. Steven tried to move closer but started to tilt instead.
            Jem got to his feet and caught him before he could pitch forward. “Hang on, Steven,” he urged, lowering Steven to the ground. When he leaned his head back against the statue, Jem got face-to-face and said, “What the hell happened?”
            Steven removed his hand from his side and stared down at the dark red that coated his entire palm. A stabbing pain caused him to hiss in agony. Embedded in his side was a razor-sharp piece of shrapnel. “Dammit,” he gasped at the sight of the injury. “I got hit,” he said, gritting his teeth as he reached down and pulled the object out. Releasing a grunt, he muttered, “It’ll heal.”  
            As Jem quickly shrugged off his shirt and pressed it over Steven’s wound, a second grenade went off right behind them, the shock wave sending them flat on the ground for cover. Broken chunks of earth went flying into the air, along with other scattered debris that came in their direction. Jem’s face stung from the numerous small cuts. A metallic tang made his mouth water, and he realized it was blood.      
            He signaled Steven to stay down, only to see a masked stranger across the lawn with another grenade in his hand. At first, he thought the assailant intended to throw it the opposite direction, but, to his horror, the strange figure hurled it directly in their position.
            There weren’t a lot of things in the world that could kill Jem, but being blown up was one of them. Lying face down on the ground with his brows clenched, Jem could only watch in dismay as the grenade soared high in the air like he was looking at it in slow motion, dreading the outcome when it made contact.
            It happened in a heartbeat, as though his arm had a mind of its own. With his hand extended, he aimed at the flying target and sent a bolt of electricity right out of his palm. Squeezing his eyes tight, Jem gritted his teeth as the grenade exploded in mid-air with a loud crack, the sound leaving him stunned and breathless.   
            Opening his eyes, he blinked trying to focus through all the smoke and saw a familiar face. Jem’s wide eyes stared in shock as he watched Sebastian, and what looked like his doppelganger, dragging Jace’s unconscious body—now in his human form—across the lawn, covered in blood. Oh, God. Was Jace still alive?
“Jace!” Jem shouted.
           
            Scrambling to his feet, in Jem’s peripheral vision, he caught sight of Drakon, Tim, and Kyle all in their human forms, lying on the ground motionless. Without haste, he extended his hand and aimed toward Sebastian. Before he threw another blazing lightning rod, he was distracted by a blurred dark image. When a black panther came into Jem’s field of vision, it lunged toward the masked man, knocking him off his feet. Jem stepped back and watched as the huge animal attacked, his large canine’s sunk into his arm tearing the flesh… tasting blood as the man’s screams echoed out in agony. As he slashed his razor-sharp claws at his enemy, Casey’s panther took great pleasure in his shrieks.  
            The masked assailant tried to fight back, but some laws were greater than even his Breedline power could challenge. He was facing perhaps the most powerful supernatural being he’d ever encountered.   
            Jem couldn’t believe his eyes. He instantly sensed the identity of the panther. Casey was a Theriomorph. But why did he keep such a secret from everyone?
            When a flash of light surrounded Sebastian’s body, it captured Jem’s attention as he turned away from the carnage and refocused his eyes on Jace. No! Jem’s mind screamed. He stood completely helpless as Sebastian and his doppelganger vanished through the portal taking Jace with them.
            The shimmering glow of Sebastian’s portal sparked the panther’s interest as it turned toward the light and roared a sharp growl.
            “Please,” the masked man pleaded. “Please… someone help me!”
            The panther shifted his focus back to him and paused for a moment, resisting the urge to kill. The Theriomorph raging in Casey wanted only one thing now: To kill its enemy. That thought pushed all others aside.
            The man was struggling desperately, pulling away from him. “Don’t you understand… if you kill me, you’ll never find the others,” he said frantically. “I know where they all are.”
            Casey’s panther felt the hunger for the blood of his enemy as he opened his jaws, moving closer to his jugular.
            “Wait!” Steven called out. “Don’t kill him!”
            Jem turned to see Steven standing, one hand clinging to the statue and the other placed over his wound.
            As the panther hissed and shifted its head, an angry glint filled its lavender eyes as he stared in the direction of Steven and Jem.
            “He’s right,” Jem said, keeping his eyes trained on the panther. “Casey, you’ve got to listen. He’ll get punished for his crimes,” he tried to reason with the panther, hoping he could get through to Casey. “Don’t kill him.”     
            Jem could see that there were pain and confusion in the panther’s eyes. A gentle peace descended on the majestic animal as it backed away from the man and then his strength began to fade. The panther was no more, and he was Casey again.   
            Slowly picking himself upright, the man scrambled to his feet. As he stood on shaky legs, his left arm was torn and limp at his side. Finally, his identity became revealed. It was Samuel Mercer—a Breedline traitor.
            Thomas will come for me, and destroy all of you, Samuel thought. He gasped, placing his hand over his injury and faked an appreciative voice, “Thank you.”
            “Don’t be so grateful just yet,” Drakon said, his baritone voice echoing from the far end of the estate’s exit.
            “What the hell happened,” Tim said, his voice sounding hoarse and muffled.
            Everyone turned and looked in the direction of the voice. Tim was sitting upright with his hands on his face.
            “We got hit with a couple of grenades,” Jem explained. “And Sebastian escaped through the portal with his brother, taking Jace with them.”
            “Christ,” Tim muttered, lowering his hands.
            A groan came from the opposite side of Tim. “Damn,” Kyle cursed. “I feel like someone hit me over the head with a baseball bat… and caved in my skull.”      
            “We’ve got to find out where the hell Sebastian and his twin have taken Jace,” Drakon demanded. He stalked toward Samuel and shot him a murderous glare. “I think it’s time you start talking.”
            He looked up at Drakon, cringing in fear. “I’ll tell you everything you want to know,” Samuel stammered. “Just don’t kill me.”      
            Standing naked, covered in blood, Casey drooped his shoulders and lowered his head. At first, he was afraid they’d look upon him as an outcast from the secret he’d kept from everyone. Over centuries, the Breedline would never tolerate a Theriomorph living amongst them, fearing his kind were a danger to the species.
            “Casey,” Jem said with hesitation.  “Are you okay?”
            Hearing the sincerity and concern in Jem’s voice caught Casey’s attention. Lifting his chin, he turned toward Jem and said, “Yes… I’m all right.” Then he let out a heavy sigh and said, “Should I leave the Covenant?”
            Jem’s brows clenched, his expression puzzled. “Why would you leave?”
Casey shook his head. “Because,” he paused, looking down at the blood on his hands, “I lied to everyone about being… this thing.”
            “Absolutely not,” Tim interjected as he got to his feet. “You’re one of us, and we don’t turn our backs on family.”    
            “He’s right, bro,” Kyle chimed in. As he slowly rose to his feet, groaning in pain, he said, “You should have told us. Did you really think we’d toss your ass out just because you’re different?”
            Casey shrugged. “I’m sorry. I should have had more faith in everyone. Please forgive me.”
            “There’s nothing to forgive,” Tim muttered. “Come on. We need to check on everyone inside and then get answers from this bastard,” he said firmly, shifting his focus on Samuel. And then he added, “But first, let’s put some damn clothes on.”     
 
To be continued... 
 
  
         
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptive parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Steven Pasquale - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild and Steven Pasqual's biological father.


Chapter 46
Attack of the Hybrids/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 

Continued...
 
As soon as Sebastian stepped through the portal and got his bearings, he looked down at Jace’s unconscious body in disgust. When he lifted his chin, he stared at Thomas with murderous intent.
            “You son of a bitch!” Sebastian roared.
            He knocked Thomas off his feet with one punch, sending him sprawling to the floor as Sebastian went down after him. Thomas’s formal dining room erupted in chaos as his men attempted to intervene.
            Two men pulled their guns while Corbin Azzo and Fredrick Mercer attempted to pry Sebastian from Thomas.
            It took the combined efforts of Corbin, Fredrick, and the other two men to finally get Sebastian off Thomas. No one made a move to help Thomas off the floor as he slowly picked himself up, wincing in pain. He wiped the blood that streamed from his nose and mouth, backing up until he leaned against the wall.
            “What the hell is wrong with you?” Thomas demanded.
Sebastian lunged for him again, and Corbin placed his massive body between them, his gaze boring into Sebastian.
            Eve stood in the shadows, peering around the corner as she watched the events unfold.
            “Explain to me what the hell just happened back there,” Sebastian seethed, pointing his finger toward Thomas. “What were those things attacking the Breedline, and why the hell did you have me bring Jace back here?”
            Thomas’s hand shook as he dragged it through his hair. “You have to know I didn’t intend for this to happen.”
            “What are you talking about?” Sebastian barked.
            Before Thomas could explain, Fredrick interrupted, clearing his throat. As much as it frustrated him not to demand information, to know what happened to his brother, he couldn’t hold back any longer. “Where’s Samuel?” he said in a panicked voice. “Where’s my brother?”
            Thomas looked at him wearily. “I’m sorry Fredrick,” he muttered, shaking his head. “He didn’t make it.”
            Fredrick went white. For a moment Thomas worried he might do something crazy like fall to the floor. His knees started to buckle, and Corbin reached out to steady him. Then Fredrick closed his eyes, and when he reopened them, his gaze was haunted and filled with regret.
            Sucking in a breath to steady himself, Fredrick stammered, “I-It just can’t be true. I don’t sense his death.”
            Sebastian blew out his breath. “If that fat ass isn’t dead… he’ll spill his guts to our whereabouts.”
            “We need to prepare for the worst,” Thomas said calmly. “If indeed Samuel is still alive, it could be possible the Breedline have questioned him.”
Fredrick’s eyes darkened with fury. “We need to go back for him now.
            Thomas moved next to Fredrick and grasped his shoulders, forcing him to look squarely at him. “You need to calm down Fredrick,” he said shifting his focus toward Corbin. “Take him to his room. I need to speak with Sebastian alone.”
            Corbin was a mountain of a man, muscled, tattooed, quiet, but when he spoke, others paid attention. “Come on, Fredrick,” Corbin said, squeezing his shoulder lightly. “Let’s go.”         
          When Corbin escorted Fredrick out of the room, Sebastian stared at Thomas and broke off with a shake of his head. He was impatiently waiting for Thomas to finish explaining what the hell was going on.
            Thomas stared back at him. “I screwed up,” he admitted, exhaling a heavy sigh. “I had no idea that you would be this involved. Someone is threatening me.”
            Sebastian looked at Thomas, his eyes narrowed. “It’s time for you to start talking. Tell me what is going on here.”
            Thomas nodded. His nostrils flared, and his lips flattened into a thin line. “They said they would kill us if I didn’t agree to help them find Lilith and her twins.”
            “Who are they?” Sebastian asked impatiently.
            “A team of scientists backed up by top military officials and wealthy prospects. They started a project over thirty-six years ago,” Thomas explained. “At first they were interested in psychic and telepathic power. They wanted a way into the heads of foreign government. They wanted their top secret weapons. It sounds crazy, yes, but then a whole lot of in-depth research was discovered after they found out about the Breedline species, Lilith’s abilities, and others similar to her.”
            In the brief silence that followed, Sebastian pursed his lips and said, “Well… go on. I’m sure that’s not all.”   
            “When they found out about Lilith’s abilities to heal and others with special powers, it marked a complete turn for other possibilities. They studied each and every case of unexplainable abilities. Some proved to be useless, but there were others who clearly displayed resourceful talents. Years went into searching out people with exceptional gifts. They tested extensively until some of their experiments turned into a monstrosity—an abomination—such as the hybrids you witnessed earlier.”      
            A sudden thought occurred to Sebastian, and he shook his head. “You were the one who helped them find Tessa and Steven, weren’t you? And you’re getting paid?”
            Thomas’s lip curled at Sebastian’s accusation. “Yes. I did help them locate Lilith after she escaped years ago with Tessa. After most of his life being held captive, Steven managed to escape and kept himself hidden from them until now. I didn’t want any harm toward Lilith,” he swallowed the knot in his throat, and added, “I’ve... fallen in love with her.”
            Sebastian rolled his eyes and avoided Thomas’s awkward confession. “What do they want with Jace?” he queried, changing the subject.
            Thomas gave a resigned sigh. “Isn’t it obvious? They want to experiment on him with the intentions of creating more. That’s why they want Tessa’s unborn children.”
            Sebastian’s brows clenched. “Are they aware… of my son Arius?”
            “No,” Thomas said bluntly. “For what it’s worth, I kept his abilities a secret from them. They have no idea what he is and what he will become.”
            The tension in Sebastian’s brows eased. “What was Lilith actually planning to do with Arius?”
            “She wanted…” Thomas paused for a moment, “…to use him to destroy Dr. Hubert Crane and all the others working with him. She never meant any harm toward him.”
            “It doesn’t make any sense,” Sebastian ground out. “If Tessa is her daughter, why did Lilith want me to kill her before?”
            “She had no memories of Tessa or Steven after all the experiments she went through,” Thomas said calmly. “She only had intentions of bringing forth Arius’s powers. By killing the Breedline queen, it would begin Arius’s transformation. Killing Tessa would be a great sacrifice. It would bring forth the son of the Chiang-shih demon. But then she slowly started regaining some of her memories. That’s when she ordered us to bring back Tessa unharmed.”       
            Eve quickly backed away and clamped a hand over her mouth. As she gasped in horror, the sounds were muffled by her palm.
            “Those bastards have Tessa and Lilith, don’t they?” Sebastian questioned Thomas.
            Thomas nodded, his eyes expressing defeat. “Yes.”
            A moaning noise coming from below caught Sebastian’s attention. As he looked down, his eyes focused on Jace. When Sebastian lifted his chin, he glared at Thomas and said, “And soon they’ll come for him. Am I right?”
            Without saying a word, Thomas stared back at Sebastian and nodded.
            “So what now?” Sebastian demanded with his trademark arrogance, pointing in Jace’s direction. “You better think fast. He’s coming around.”
            Thomas glanced down realizing time was of the essence as Jace was slowly becoming conscious. As he bent down, he reached into his jacket to retrieve a syringe, the same tranquilizer used to sedate Tessa. With one quick motion, he uncapped the needle and pushed it into Jace’s flesh.
            Jace tensed a moment and then stiffened further when he felt the sting of a sharp object stab into his arm. His eyes shot wide catching a glimpse of the face that had tormented him endlessly. As he tried to reach out, his vision was already blurred with the effects of the drugs, distorting Thomas’s image until darkness replaced his sight.
 
****
 
            Eve waited only a few moments before rushing back upstairs. When she got to the top, she moved quickly to her bedroom to pack, just enough to carry in a backpack. A few changes of clothing for her, a little cash she had, and only the essentials for Tidus and Arius.
            She then went to the bedside nightstand, knowing Sebastian would show up soon. She dug out paper and a pen and hastily wrote a note for him. When Eve had finished writing, her eyes burned with tears. She then folded it and placed it on Sebastian’s pillow where he would find it. Having to say good-bye in a note ripped her heart right out of her chest, but she couldn’t stay in this estate any longer. Eve had to take her sons to the only safe place she knew—to her sister Mia and the Breedline Covenant.
            With the backpack strapped around her shoulders, she picked up Tidus and put him on the bed. After she had scooped up Arius in her arms, she sat down on the bed next to Tidus and wrapped her arm around him, pulling him into her lap close to his brother. As she looked into Arius’s angelic face, she said in a soft voice, “Take us bye-bye, Arius.”  
            Arius’s features immediately brightened. “Mama,” he giggled, clapping his hands. And then a bright light engulfed his body, rising and surrounding Eve and Tidus as they all vanished through a portal.
            From one heartbeat to the next, they reappeared in the same position; sitting on a bed but in a different room.
            “Mama,” Arius mumbled again, pointing his finger.
            Eve looked at the head of the bed and froze. Her twin sister Mia was lying motionless, appearing drugged. Eve quickly got to her feet and placed the boys on the floor, not wanting them to see the pain she was sure was evident in her eyes. She knew Sebastian had something to do with this.
            As she moved close to the bed and leaned over her sister, she reached for her hand, lacing her fingers firmly in Mia’s.
            “Mia,” she said in a quiet tone. “It’s me, Eve. Can you hear me?”
            When Mia didn’t respond, guilt flashed in Eve’s eyes, and she knew she was dead-on with her assessment. Sebastian had taken Mia against her will and locked her up in this room, sedated. Eve wanted to yell at her and shake her until she snapped out of it, but she remained silent. She couldn’t take the risk of someone discovering where she was.
            Releasing Mia’s hand, she shifted her focus toward the twins. Arius, who was sitting on the floor beside his brother, crawled over to Eve. She immediately scooped him up, hugging him fiercely, but Arius’s gaze remained fixed on Mia, his eyes rounded in fear.
            “Mama?” Arius called out and glanced at Eve, tears filling his big eyes.
            “She’s okay, sweetheart,” Eve said, praying to God she was right. “She’s just sleeping.”     
            Tidus whimpered and crawled over, his forehead creasing in concern as he latched onto Eve’s leg.
            “Shhh…” Eve whispered. She gently placed Arius next to Mia and reached for Tidus. “It’s okay, baby.” Lifting him up, she held him in her arms tightly, just holding on, as grief washed through her. She closed her eyes and said a silent prayer. Tears coursed down her cheeks, colliding with Tidus’s soft curls.
            Mia let out a moan of anguish, and she licked her lips, trying to speak, puzzled over the warmth radiating all through her body. “Arius…” Tears choked her words as she realized he was creating the warm sensation she felt. Was Arius healing her?      
            And then to her utter shock, Eve appeared, her face just over hers, and even more bewildering were the tears sliding down Eve’s cheeks, grief and sorrow swamping her eyes.
            “Mia,” Eve choked out. “Oh my God. Are you okay?”
Mia nodded eagerly, her ability to speak around the flood of her tears knotting her throat.
            Tidus crawled cautiously over to Mia, and then Arius moved over to allow him access to her. “Mama,” Tidus murmured.
            As Mia smiled at him, he hugged her on one side, and Arius hugged her on the other. Her arms felt encased in cement, but she managed to lift them and wrap them solidly around the boys, reveling in the feel of them so warm in their embrace. She clung desperately to them, not wanting to let go.
When the boys eased back, Mia slowly pulled herself upright and met Eve’s gaze. “I don’t understand. How did you find me?” she said, her voice raspy and weak.
            Eve eased onto the bed, enfolding her hand in Mia’s. She was shaking, Mia realized. Eve looked utterly undone. “Arius…” Eve said. “He brought me here using a portal. I asked him to take us out of here, and he brought us to you.”
            Mia smiled back at her and then shifted her focus on Arius. “Do you think he can take us all back to the Covenant?”
            “We can try,” Eve replied. “But how will we get him to understand where to take us?”
            “I have an idea,” Mia said reaching out to Arius’s tiny hand.
            “Arius,” Mia whispered. “Let’s go bye-bye and see Natalie.”  
            His thumb automatically slid into his mouth as he gazed brightly between Mia and Eve. His eyes lit up with excitement, and a big smile emerged from his lips hearing Natalie’s name. Within seconds, Arius glistened with a brilliant light.
            Eve quickly grabbed Tidus and reached for Mia’s free hand. With their hands joined, the glow radiating from Arius surrounded everyone in the room as they disappeared through the portal.     
 
To be continued...
 
 
     
     
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the others emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queens trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST â?? He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon -murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and heâ??s an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewân -They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle -Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate, who is a half-breed, has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, heâ??s promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain -Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adoptice parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild and Steven Pasquale's biological father.


Chapter 47
Saying Good-Bye...

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
Using his powers, Arius took Eve and his twin brother Tidus to the room Sebastian had Mia sedated. After Arius surrounded Mia with his healing powers, he took them to the safety of the Breedline Covenant.
 
Continued...
 
Sebastian read the note Eve had left on his pillow in utter disbelief. His hands shook violently as the piece of paper slipped from his fingers, falling to the floor. Eve had left him. He couldn’t believe that she’d callously deserted him, taking their sons with her. Nor did he believe the words she’d written, that the twins were better off without him, and she didn’t want him coming after her.
            It was a good-bye. The thought sent a chill deep through Sebastian’s body as he placed his hand over his heart. The words on the note instilled an aching grief inside his chest. It didn’t make any sense. What had driven her to this act of desperation? What did she know? Was it possible she overheard what transpired downstairs?
            With him, she was taken care of and protected. Where would she go? How would she take care of the twins by herself?
            Thomas burst through his door just then, catching Sebastian’s attention as he wheeled around, clenching his brows in aggravation.
            “My guards just notified me that Mia is not in her room,” Thomas announced. “Do you know where she is?”
            Sebastian stood silent, staring at Thomas. His face expressed he had bigger problems without saying a word.
            “Eve’s gone too, isn’t she?” Thomas queried.
            “I don’t understand,” Sebastian said, allowing his frustration to leak into his tone. He was barely managing to keep it under control. “Why would she leave me?”
            Thomas sighed and moved closer. “I’m sorry, I don’t know,” he said, putting his hand out to Sebastian as if sensing the turmoil of his thoughts.        “Sebastian, are you okay?”
            Sebastian hadn’t even realized he’d bobbled. His knees went to jelly, and he had to grasp Thomas’s extended hand to keep from dropping in his tracks. “I have to find her… get her back,” Sebastian muttered in a desperate tone.
            “We’ll have to worry about this later,” Thomas said, bringing the topic back to what was most important. “We’ve got to get out of here. Dr. Crane’s men are here for Jace. We need to go with them to their secure location.”
            Sebastian glowered at his twin brother as if it were a betrayal for him to run and hide instead of helping him find Eve and his sons.
            “We don’t have a choice, Sebastian,” Thomas said, cringing in advance for the explosion that might surely follow. “The Breedline could be headed our way if Samuel survived and talked.”     
            He sent Thomas a sharp glance that suggested he’d pissed him off.
            Thomas stared back, his golden eyes steely with resolve. “I promise, as soon as this blows over, we’ll find Eve and bring her back,” he said, trying to control the rise of anger in Sebastian. “We have to face the possibility that the Breedline has knowledge of this estate.”
            Sebastian eyed his brother with a suspicious glare. “If I agree to this and you double-cross me,” he paused and pursed his lips. “I’ll slit your throat.”
            Thomas slowly nodded in agreement. “You have my word.”
 
****
 
            After Arius had brought his twin brother, Mia, and Eve back to the Breedline Covenant through the portal, Jem found it hard to believe, nearly dropping to his knees. He knew God truly existed because his prayers became answered. Even though love was painful and frightening as hell, it was definitely worth it. Jem had grown to love Mia so fiercely than he’d ever imagined being able to love a woman. And he would never take it for granted.
            “Mia,” Jem choked out, wrapping his arms around her. “My God, Mia. Sweetheart, you’re here,” he said desperately, not wanting to let go in case this was just all a dream. “I thought… I thought Sebastian had you and the twins,” he said, his voice cracking.
            “Oh, honey,” Mia whispered. “We’re okay,” she said, pulling from his embrace. Lifting her chin, she took a better look at him and winced at what she saw. Jem looked haggard like he hadn’t slept in days. He had small cuts over his face.  
            “Your face?” she said wearily. “Jem, what happened?”
            He stroked her cheek, almost as if reassuring himself that nothing bad had happened. “It’s a long story, but don’t worry. I’m all right.”
Her brows furrowed, struggling to make sense of his soothing words. “Is everyone okay?”
            Jem could barely get the words out as pain, fresh and vivid, flashed in his mind. Forced to face reality, he said, “Sebastian has Jace.”  
Mia clamped her hand over her mouth, shocked by what Jem had declared. As she lowered her hand, she turned around and looked at Eve. “Did you know about this?”
            “Yes,” Eve said, releasing a heavy sigh. “That’s why I had Arius bring us here. Sebastian and his twin brother, Thomas, have gone too far. I couldn’t stay there any longer, fearing for Arius and Tidus’s safety.”
            Eve went silent, and Mia realized she was valiantly trying to regain her composure. “I overheard Thomas telling Sebastian about an underground top secret group of scientists doing unimaginable research and experimentations,” Eve explained. “Thomas said they were threatening him, and they’re the same group that has Tessa and her mother. They want Jace... to experiment on and create more like him.”    
            Eve’s words had been torn from her, choked, shaky, and so filled with emotion that Mia couldn’t possibly deny her sincerity.
            “Do you know the location of this underground group?” Tim asked.
Eve shook her head, her eyes expressing regret. “I’m sorry, no. Thomas never mentioned where they were.”
            “How will we know who the hell is really behind all this?” Drakon blurted. “Don’t tell me a bunch of damn science nerds is the masterminds of this. They’re following orders. Someone has to be fronting the money and the workforce. The question is who, and why?”
            “Most likely the government,” Steven replied. “I know they helped fund the research in the lab where I was born.”     
            “There’s a possibility that we’ll never find out who all is involved,” Tim said, and then added, “Steven, can you try to communicate with Tessa again?”
            “I can try,” Steven said in a low voice, glancing at everyone in the room. Everyone was tense, ready to move at a moment’s notice. They were just waiting. Waiting for the location, so they could go in and kick ass.
            In the brief silence that followed, Eve stepped forward. “I’ll never forgive myself for what I’ve done to the Breedline,” she confessed, barely able to form a coherent sentence as tears knotted her throat. “I’m so sorry, but I know that doesn’t make up for my past. I will face my punishment willingly in exchange for a safe haven for my sons.”        
            “Arius and Tidus will always have a home here, with us,” Jem told her, shifting his gaze on Mia and then back at Eve. “Right now, we’ve got bigger problems to worry about than deciding your fate. For what it’s worth, I am grateful you helped Mia. That itself speaks volumes.”
            Eve nodded, her eyes filled with tears. “Thank you.”
Drakon was partially right, Tim thought. They had no idea what they were dealing with, and everyone was just beginning to understand, especially after they were raided by Breedline hybrids. They still didn’t have the entire picture. Even Samuel Mercer, a Breedline traitor—who would get punished for his crimes against his own species—didn’t know the location of these so-called scientists. He only knew the whereabouts to Thomas’s estate, in which Steven had already previously gathered the information from Tessa.
            Tim put his hand on Steven’s shoulder and looked him in the eye. “Just focus on Tessa. We’ve got to find out where she is now.”
            Steven took a deep breath and moved to a chair. “Okay,” he said, sitting down. “I’m going to do it.”
            Around him, the others watched and waited in silence. There was an intense curiosity but also perseverance in everyone’s expression. Steven closed his eyes and cleared his mind as his surroundings fell away. His awareness of the others dissipated from his conscious, focusing solely on a pathway to his sister.
            Tessa? It’s Steven. Can you hear me?      
            He suddenly felt a slight stirring in his mind. It felt like a burst of warmth, but with it, came a flood of terror, and agonizing pain.
            Steven squeezed his lids tight and gritted his teeth, trying to hold onto the connection with Tessa. Immediately he could see her surroundings and felt what she felt. She was bound to an examination table with steel bands clamped around her wrists, ankles, and neck. There was something attached to her forehead with wires coming out of them.
            Oh God, he didn’t even know what to do to try to take away the fear that ate at her sanity. He was so furious when he sensed Tessa being treated like an animal. He wanted to kill everyone involved.
            He focused on sending her waves of comfort, but it was hard to do when his mind screamed in anger.   
            As he washed away Tessa’s pain, she relaxed and focused on their telepathic connection.
            Steven... I’m here. Please, you’ve got to help me.
            Please, Tessa. Try to remain calm. I need you to focus. Do you know your location?
            No... I don’t recognize my surroundings. I think I’m in a lab, and there are men in white coats, and they have our mother here, too.  
            Steven could sense her fingers jump spasmodically and her nerve endings twitch. Those bastards were hurting her. He’d take great pleasure when he found them and made them all suffer for what they had done to her.
            Gather all your strength. I promise... we’ll find you, Tessa. I’m coming for you.
            Then the connection with Tessa drifted away. Steven opened his eyes and took several deep breaths, trying to clear his mind.
            Jem sat down in a chair next to him and pushed it, so he was face-to-face with Steven. “Did you get her location?”
            The others gathered silently, all waiting for Steven to relate to what he’d discovered.
            “No,” he said, his voice sounding defeated. “Tessa doesn’t know. But she did say the place looked like a lab, and they have our mother.”
            Jem put his hand on Steven’s shoulder in a comforting gesture.
            “There’s more,” Steven added. “They have her bound and electrodes attached to her. She gets an electrical shock every time she tries to move or speak.”
            Jem upended his chair and shot upward. “Bastards!” He was unraveling at the seams as anger choked the breath out of him.
            “We’re going to Sebastian and Thomas’s location,” Tim spoke out. “If we’re lucky, they’ll still be there.”
            “Okay, so where the hell is this place?” Kyle asked, for the first time pushing into the conversation.
            “Seventeen Curzon Street in London,” Steven muttered.
            A voice came from the back of the room. “So what are we waiting for?”
            When everyone turned around, their eyes met Casey’s intense gaze, his fingers balled, seething with anxiety.
            “How do we know we’re not walking into a trap?” Casey asked. “Since its obvious Samuel Mercer never made it back, surely they’ll realize the bastard will sing like a canary.”
            “Let’s put nerd boy on it,” Kyle said, looking in Drakon’s direction. “There isn’t anything Drakon can’t find.”
            Casey smirked. “Watch it, Kyle. He’ll kick your ass. He’s got moves that I don’t even think there are names for.”
            Drakon shook his head and rolled his eyes.   
            Tim shifted his focus from Casey and looked in Jem’s direction. “As soon as Drakon gets all the details on Thomas’s estate, I need you to take us there through the portal,” he said firmly, moving his gaze around the room. “I want everyone to keep a level head. I plan on getting this done and all of us coming back alive. Do I make myself clear?”
            When everyone nodded in agreement, Drakon headed to the security room with everyone following behind except Mia, Eve and the twins. After a quick embrace with Jem, Mia took Eve and the twins upstairs.
            Within minutes, after rapidly typing in the address, Drakon brought up a picture of Thomas’s estate. “There it is,” he said, pointing at the computer monitor. And then using his superior hacker skills, he pulled up the estate’s surveillance, and sure enough, hours before, they watched as Thomas and another man loaded Jace into the back of an SUV. Drakon even got a license plate number, which turned out to be bogus.
            After looking at each entry and exit of Thomas’s estate, Tim clutched the back of his neck trying to ease the tension. “All right,” he said. “Let’s go.”    
 
To be continued...
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference to terms and cast of characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offsprings that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst human, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their Kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species.
All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female, but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true Queen. If there is no Queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another Queen is born. A Breedline Queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the Queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The Queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline Queens for generations. When the new Queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life, and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create an offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.
There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its first-born son, and the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgives. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

ADALWOLF - A species that has the power to shift from their human form into a beautiful creature, three times the size, resembling half man and half wolf. Born with super-strength, they can move from one place to another in supernatural speed. Their eyes take on the appearance of two-shimmering diamonds. With the power to regenerate their own cells, an Adalwolf will stop aging at thirty. The moon has no power over them. And an Adalwolf is immune to silver. They can bond with any species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species which later discovers his birth father - who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon - murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline Queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Dr. John and Sarah Chamberlain - They are Jace, Jem and Cassie's adoptive human parents. They are physicians in a children's unit, and also donates their time to the emergency center.

Chester and Amelia Ewan - They are called Guardians - a species originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wiccan.

Jackson Gray - He is Jace and Jem's biological uncle - Katlyn Gray's older brother. Although he carries the gene of the Breedline, he does not shift into a wolf. Only Breedlines born with an identical twin have the ability to change into their wolf. He's a medical supply pilot.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Cassie Chamberlain - Adopted at age two by Jace and Jem's adopted parents after her mother abandons her. Later, she discovers she is a Breedline species and bonds with the handsome Drakon Hexus. She is a nurse practitioner, specializing in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Celina Baldolf - She is a Breedline species with the power of a Wiccan, but only practices white witchcraft. Her twin sister Taliah - a dark Wicca - murdered their parents when they were twelve years old. Dr. Helen Carrington is their aunt, and Kyle Jones is Celina's Breedline bonded mate. She is an editor for a local publishing company.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.

Dr. Kenneth Craven - He is a Breedline and an orthopedic surgeon at the San Franciso General Hospital. He's also Tessa Fairchild and Steven Pasquale's biological father.


Chapter 48
The Battle Begins

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
Using his powers, Arius took Eve and his twin brother Tidus to the room Sebastian had Mia sedated. After Arius surrounded Mia with his healing powers, he took them to the safety of the Breedline Covenant.
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.


Continued...
 
“I don’t like it,” Jem said grimly as he watched from a distance near the estate, hiding amongst a vast of trees. As Sebastian climbed inside the back of a black sedan, his twin brother came into view, exiting the large front entry doors. When Thomas got in, they drove away. Jem turned to his comrades, seeking their assessment. They didn’t look any happier than he was.
            This had been way too easy, Jem thought. And Sebastian had that smug, egotistic smile as if he knew they were watching, laughing at them all. Was he that arrogant or was this a setup?    
            “The entire situation sucks balls,” Kyle said with a scowl. “Why are we sitting on our asses, watching them drive away?”
            A glimmer of a smile curved Drakon’s lips. “I can track them,” he said, holding up a small device, waving it in Kyle’s face. “It’ll take us right to their location.”
            Kyle grinned. “I like the way you think Drakon when you don’t have your head stuck in a computer.”
            Drakon shot him a look and snorted. “I’m so kicking your ass when this is over.”
            Even though Kyle was a smart-ass, Drakon was proud of the long way he had come. After dealing with Celina’s abduction and her critical injuries, he’d managed to overcome all those obstacles with the maturity of a grown man instead of the cocky kid he used to be.    
            “Let’s get moving,” Tim said in his command voice.
 
****
 
            At last, an SUV pulled into view, parking only a few meters away from the vehicle Thomas and Sebastian were in. A tall, bearded, burly man emerged from the SUV driver’s seat, an automatic pistol in hand and cautiously inspected the area for any signs of intruders. Looking out of the sedan’s tinted window, Thomas watched as the man lifted his hand to signal the other driver and spotted a leather whip coiled underneath his jacket.
            As the garage door opened, both vehicles drove inside. Quickly determining that no deadly surprises were in store, the bearded man opened the back door of the sedan and motioned for Thomas and Sebastian to step out.
            Sebastian wore a stylishly tailored Armani suit with expensive rings glittered on his fingers, and a gold chain hung from his neck. “So?” Sebastian asked petulantly, his eyes glaring at the bearded man. “Where the hell is this Dr. Crane? When are we supposed to meet with him?”
            As ever, Sebastian’s arrogant bluster and demanding tone came out instantly. The man ignored him, knowing who truly held power here, even if Sebastian liked to pretend otherwise. He fixed an intimidating gaze on Sebastian. “Dr. Crane is busy at the moment,” he said in a deep baritone. “Your driver will show you to your quarters.”   
            And then he turned and walked away, leaving them in silence.    
 
****   
 
            Dr. Hurbert Crane’s laboratory was hidden away in a heavily secured, private facility by a British intelligence service. It provided a broad range of cutting-edge scientific equipment for Dr. Crane and his highly trained physicians.     
            His guards shoved Jace to his knees—heavily drugged and chained to a pair of iron rings embedded in the floor. Overwhelmed and weak from the tranquilizers, he was easily subdued by his captors.
            Need to focus, Jace thought. I’ve got to save Tessa.    
            Barely able to lift his head, Jace could not fight back as they shackled his wrists, binding his arms uncomfortably above his head. After the men quickly secured his bonds, they stepped away.
            Jace slowly lifted his chin when the sound of a door sprung open and closed. Several people came into view as Jace blinked, trying to see through blurred vision. Dressed in white lab coats, they spread out, forming a border around him so that they surrounded him from the front and the back. A pale, thin man oddly resembling Adolf Hitler stepped forward and faced Jace but did not address him. Instead, he nodded at a stocky guard.
            As the guard uncoiled a fearsome whip composed of leather and silver, he cracked the lash against Jace’s shoulders.
            Jace gasped in agony as the whip tore through his bare skin, burning his flesh, blood streaming down his back.
            The Hitler doppelganger raised his hand, signaling the guard to halt. As Dr. Crane stepped closer to Jace, his eyes narrowed, and his jaw clenched tight. “Pring forth your beast,” he demanded in a thick German accent.  
            “Go to hell,” Jace gasped.
            Dr. Crane pursed his lips and stepped back. Shifting his glare toward the guard, he gave a slight nod.
            Jace knew what was coming next as he braced himself for another blow. But not even his stubborn resistance could remove the searing agony as the whip viciously lashed his back, again and again, shredding flesh and muscle, until he collapsed forward, limp against the restraints.  
            Dr. Crane lifted his hand, at last, signaling an end to Jace’s torture. The guard lowered the whip and stepped away from Jace. Thick blood dripped from the long leather strap onto the cold cement floor.
            Taking care not to step in the pooling blood, the men in white coats filed out of the room one by one. Dr. Crane was the last to leave. Now that his brutal effort to bring forth Jace’s Beast had failed, he would be forced to use another method to persuade him to turn. At the last moment, the doctor hesitated at the doorway and glanced over his shoulder. His evil glare met Jace, and his thin lips parted as though to speak a final warning.  “Your precious mate vill pay the price for your defiance.”
            “No!” Jace screamed hoarsely, “Tessa!”
            Without another word, Dr. Crane stepped out of the room with only the sound of the heavy metal door slamming shut.       
            Panic flooded his face as he grasped at what fate was going to be brought upon his beloved Tessa. I’ll kill you! Jace thought, a growl forming at the back of his throat. And then unbridled fury reawakened inside him, pushing away the effects of the drugs.      
            Every inch of his body quivered in feral anger. Straining muscles rippled beneath his skin, while the veins in his neck thickened. The beat of his heart pounded in his chest, and his eyes flashed white. His face contorted into a hellish mask of pain as his bones shifted within him, growing larger and more imposing. A beam of light engulfed his body as his splayed fingers degenerated into claws. When the brilliant glow dissipated, bristling white fur erupted from beneath his hide, covering the ugly welt marks on his back. Wolf-like ears twitched atop his skull, and a canine snout stretched out his face, suddenly alive to immeasurable new smells.
            The guard’s eyes widened in apprehension as he belatedly realized what was happening. Rushing toward the door in a panic-fueled fear, he hit the alarm.   
            Without any effort, the iron shackles restraining the Beast snapped like twigs. With supernatural speed, the Beast charged at the guard from across the room. Broken chains dangled from the Beast’s wrists as he sent them slicing through the air, giving the guard a taste of his own medicine. They shattered his ribs as they smacked forcefully against the enemy’s midsection. An almost-human smile formed over the Beast’s snout as he watched the guard drop to the floor in agony. He threw his head back and howled with triumph that echoed across the facility and beyond.
 
****
 
            Tracking the location, Jem brought the others to the outside of the private facility’s grounds using a portal. As they heard the roar of Jace’s Beast and the sound of an alarm, they all came to attention, every single one of them tense and ready to explode into action.
            “Shit!” Kyle swore. “It sounds like Jace is pissed.”
            “You have such a knack for stating the obvious,” Drakon replied mockingly.   
            “It’s going to get interesting now. Keep your eyes peeled,” Tim said, his gaze shifting to all the others. “We’re going to blast our way inside and take down anyone that gets in our way. Once we get in, we’re going to split up into teams,” he directed, focusing on Jem. “I want you and Steven to go in first. Do whatever you got to do.”
            Fortunately, Tim had faith in Jem and Steven’s determination and abilities. Steven’s intent on avenging the constant torture he’d endured from the past would not rest until he liquidated the ones responsible. And then he would be relieved to be finally free from hiding in the shadows from his cruel captors after all these years.
            “Drakon and I will follow in behind,” Tim stated, moving his eyes off Jem and turning toward Kyle and Casey. “I want you two to find Tessa,” he ordered, handing Kyle a radio. “Once you find her location, contact me. I’ve got your radio linked to mine.”   
            “What about my mother?” Steven spoke out. “We can’t just leave her behind.”
            In theory, of course, Steven and Tessa’s mother had already “died” years ago. Dr. Crane and his colleague, Dr. Autenburg, had stopped her beating heart and transformed her into something dangerous that went against the laws of nature. She may be an abomination of God’s creatures, but still, she was their mother, and the Breedline never left family behind.
            “Of course,” Tim quickly agreed. “She won’t be left behind. We’ll get her to safety as well.”
            Steven nodded and seemed to relax a bit. “Thank you, Tim.”
            “All right, everyone ready?” Tim barked.
            When everyone nodded, with determination on their faces, Tim said, “Be ready.”   
 
To be continued...
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 49
The Battle Begins/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
Using his powers, Arius took Eve and his twin brother Tidus to the room Sebastian had Mia sedated. After Arius surrounded Mia with his healing powers, he took them to the safety of the Breedline Covenant.
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.

As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies.

 
Continued...
 
As the sound of the alarm blazed, more guards swarmed inside, quickly reaching for their weapons.  Jace’s Beast heard the distinctive sounds of guns firing as bullets whizzed past his head, blasting the back concrete wall. A second round fired, hitting the Beast in the chest as he growled in anger. The wolf in him wanted nothing more than to lunge for their throats.
            “Hold your fire!” Dr. Crane ordered as he came in behind the guards. Icy disdain and anger smoldered in his unearthly dark eyes. “I vant him alive!”
Dr. Crane lifted his hand and aimed a tranquilizer gun, but not quickly enough as the Beast rushed forward, knocking the weapon from his hand with one swipe of his enormous paw.
            As Dr. Crane staggered back, hatred blazed in the Beast’s red-hot glare as his blood surged volcanically in his veins. The Beast’s heart was as hard as steel, having been forged and tempered by the doctor’s threats against his beloved. The Beast lowered his head until he was face-to-face with the physician, curling back his upper lip as a growl formed at the back of his throat.  
 
****
 
            Tim and the others were in position while Jem and Steven took the lead. Jem’s nostrils flared, and his hand was steady as he held it up in silent readiness. As Tim gave him the signal, Jem launched a blazing ball of fire right out of his palm. When it made contact, it looked like a bomb had gone off throughout the front entry of the facility.
            As they burst inside and quickly scanned the interior, passing downed guards, Drakon stopped long enough to snatch a security card from one of them.
            “This will take less time,” Drakon said, holding up the ID, and added, “provided it works.”
            “We don’t have much time,” Tim said. “This is where we split up.” Shifting his focus on Kyle and then toward Casey, he said, “I’m counting on you two to find Tessa and her mother. Use your radio to stay in contact.”
            Drakon tossed the security card to Kyle. “You’ll need this to get to Tessa and her mother,” Drakon said as Kyle reached up and caught it. “The rest of us can just blast our way in.”
            Kyle nodded and took off with Casey following close behind, ignoring Drakon as he ordered them to be cautious.
 
****
 
            The Beast was ready to snap Dr. Crane’s throat with his dagger-sized canines when a tremendous impact rocked the facility, as though an asteroid had suddenly crashed to earth. A portion of the ceiling came crashing from above, nearly hitting the Beast, and electric lights shattered in an explosion of glass and sparks. Only the glow of a few synthetic fluorescent tubes lit the room, casting flickering shadows on the Beast and his captors.
            All the guards had hit the floor while Dr. Crane managed to get to his knees, crawling toward the open door. As he moved to his feet, his voice echoed over a radio, “Release the hybrids!”      
            As much as the Beast longed to test his claws against human flesh, remembering the scalding bite of their whip, something else drove him forward. It was some kind of driving force he could not comprehend when visions of Tessa came to mind. Moving past the guards, he dropped onto all fours and raced ahead. The very walls seemed to rumble angrily around him while he bolted into a long hallway, putting as much distance as possible between himself and his enemies.
            A bitter expression came over Dr. Crane’s face when he saw the Beast making his way across the wide-open area that was the heart of the facility. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught sight of dust falling from above. Without hesitation, he dropped to the floor, shielding his head as the ceiling collapsed all around him.
****
 
            Kyle and Casey moved slowly down a hallway, each facing a different direction. Coming to an open doorway, they stopped to clear the room but were frustrated to find it empty.
            “Damn it,” Kyle said into his radio. “We’re coming up with nothing. What about the rest of you?”
            As Kyle’s voice came over the radio, Tim and the others quickly ducked around a corner while bullets zinged by them and kicked up plaster from the walls. “We’re making our way to the opposite side of the facility as fast as we can,” Tim relayed. “Keep looking, Kyle. Tessa has to be somewhere in this place.”
            “Roger that.” There was a brief pause, and then Kyle said, “Don’t worry, Tim. We won’t stop looking until we find her.”  
            “I know you will,” Tim murmured.
            “Stay low,” Jem warned as he peered around the corner, aiming his palm and blasted another fire bomb taking down several targets ahead.
            “Let’s keep moving,” Tim directed.
            They continued their path down a corridor, finding evidence of Jem’s destruction along the way until they came to a locked door with a small window in the center. Drakon motioned everyone aside as he prepared to kick it in, but instead, he called out, “Get down!”
            Something immense and heavy thundered from inside like the sound of a stampede of onrushing bulls. Drakon flung himself out of the way, and the others hit the floor in the nick of time as the door burst inward, falling off its screeching hinges and slammed several feet away. Hybrids stormed through the open doorway in tremendous numbers, barely missing them.   
            A chorus of fierce howls rang out, and hybrids tore past them, their focus locked solely on the path ahead. The wolves were close enough to slay them in an instant before they could finish shifting into their Breedline forms.
            Steven shuddered at the sound, and the others listened carefully, realizing there was a faint noise, coming from the opposite direction. Tim exchanged glances with Drakon. Was it just their imagination or was there a familiar pitch to the roar echoing in the near distance? As Tim strained his ears to hear over the howling hybrids, the shrilling sound moved closer, and he recognized it as Jace’s Beast.  
 
****
 
            Kyle could sense the tension in Tim’s voice and the gunfire over the radio. Kyle was worried about his uncle, and he was frustrated he wouldn’t find Tessa but also afraid of what they’d find if they finally came across her.
            “We’ve got to find her,” Kyle said in an agitated voice.
Casey nodded and continued their path through the complex pathways and a maze of secure confinements.
            Casey turned in a circle, staring, remembering what he’d seen during his visions of Tessa’s death. Facing a door on the left, he said, “This is it, Kyle. This is the room where they have Tessa!”
            Kyle quickly moved past him and swiped the security ID. When the lock clicked, Kyle opened the door. Casey came up beside him and froze as he stared at the images before him. Tessa was lying bound to a thinly padded table, her eyes closed as though she was unconscious and her mother was lying beside her in a clear tube. And she was glowing.
            “Oh my God,” Casey gasped.
            Kyle bolted forward where Tessa lay and said, “Tessa.” Placing his hand on her shoulder, he gently shook her. “Tessa, can you hear me?”
            She didn’t move or even acknowledge him in any way.
            Reaching for his radio, Kyle said firmly, “We found Tessa and her mother. I repeat... we found Tessa and her mother. Tim, give us your status.”
            A static noise came from the radio, and then Tim’s voice came through. “Go out the front,” he barked. “We’ve got it cleared. Get them as far away from the building as you can. Once we’re all clear, we’re going to blow this place to pieces. I’ll see you then,” he said, his voice growing with sincerity. “Keep Tessa safe.”
            It chapped Kyle’s ass to even think about leaving his uncle and the others behind, but they couldn’t carry Tessa and her mother in the line of fire. They had no other choice but to get them out and to safety.
            “Roger that,” Kyle relayed. “See you soon.”    
            Kyle hissed as he ended the connection with his uncle and continued to stare down at Tessa. He only thanked God that it wasn’t Jace who’d found her. He would have gone insane, and there would have been no controlling his temper. “She doesn’t look good, Casey. We’ve got to get her out of here. But how are we going to get her mother out?”
            “Get Tessa out of those restraints, and I’ll go see if I can free her mother,” Casey directed.
            Casey hurried over to the cylinder tube that held Tessa’s mother where a computer was and began tapping furiously at the keys while Kyle removed Tessa’s restraints.
            Placing his ear close to Tessa’s face, Kyle carefully listened for breathing. Looking up at Casey, he said, “She’s breathing, but it’s very faint. We need to get her out of here now.”
            “I’m hurrying as fast as I can,” Casey said in frustration, trying to figure out how to free Lilith.
            Gently, Kyle reached down and lifted Tessa into his arms. She was limp against him, and her head rolled onto his shoulder.
            Suddenly the top of Lilith’s confinement lifted and started to open. Casey backed up and watched as the lid slowly rose, releasing sealed pressure.  
            A flurry of motion, moving almost faster than the eye could see, was the only warning Casey received before something cold and sharp pressed against his throat. Casey stiffened and felt the hot breath as it brushed against his skin.
            Kyle’s eyes widened and found himself besieged from all directions. He was dismayed to see Sebastian holding a knife to Casey’s throat, and his doppelganger close by with a semi-automatic pistol pointed in his direction.    
                        “Not so fast,” Sebastian said in a smug and calculating tone. “You’ve got something that belongs to us.”     
With the blade at his throat, not quite drawing blood, but one move, Casey realized, and Sebastian could slit his throat open. Despite the threat, Casey swiftly regained his composure. His face hardened into a stony mask as he felt his Theriomorph awakening, yearning to break free.
 
To be continued...

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.


Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 50
The Battle Begins/Part Three

By scongrove

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
Using his powers, Arius took Eve and his twin brother Tidus to the room Sebastian had Mia sedated. After Arius surrounded Mia with his healing powers, he took them to the safety of the Breedline Covenant.
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.
As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies. Managing to elude the Beast’s attack, Dr. Crane orders his hybrids to be released.  
 
Meanwhile, as Casey and Kyle finally find Tessa—who is unconscious and barely breathing—and her mother Lilith—who appears unconscious inside a plastic, cylinder tube—Sebastian and Thomas catch them off guard. With a gun held to Kyle’s head, and a knife to Casey’s throat, time is ticking as the rest of the Breedline fight in battle alongside the Beast against the hybrids.     
 

Continued...
 
Tim watched with dismay as the hybrid horde charged at the Beast, howling like ravenous wolves. The Beast leaped into the air as though he was fired from a catapult, landing in the middle of at least a dozen hybrids. Outnumbered, he relied on speed and savagery to try to even the odds. Blood spurted from their hides as the Beast slashed fiercely with his dagger-size claws, sending two wounded hybrids to their death.
            A hybrid from the rear attacked, sinking its jaws into the Beast’s shoulder with razor-sharp canines, producing a blinding explosion of pain. He stumbled forward onto all fours, scraping his claws on the rough concrete floor. Several hybrids lunged from above, their weight pinning him down and ripping savagely at his flesh with their claws and teeth.
            The Beast’s urgent roar commanded Tim’s attention. Looking away from the carnage, just for an instant, he pivoted in time to see the murderous look on Jem’s face.   
            “We’ve got to help him!” Jem shouted. He paused to let his words sink in. Everyone’s eager expressions were truly honorable, and Jem experienced a moment of triumph even though the battle had just begun.
            Drakon’s skin itched as though bristling fur was scratching at it from the inside. Thick, wiry black hairs sprouted from his skin, and his teeth tugged painfully at the roots. He felt his incisors longer and sharper than before as he raked his tongue over his top lip.
            “I’m going to have to change,” Tim said to Jem as he handed him the radio. “You’ll need this to keep in contact with Kyle.”
            Jem nodded. “Let’s do this,” he said, clipping the small radio to his belt.  
            Ready for war, Tim embraced the wolf within him. His frame swelled to massive proportions, shredding his constricted clothes until black fur covered his nakedness. As a canine snout protruded from his face, sharp teeth filled his gaping jaws.   
            They hesitated only for a heartbeat before the change came upon them instantly as they shifted into their Breedline wolves while Jem kept his powerful human form.
            Tim and Drakon belatedly rushed to the Beast’s defense, racing toward the hybrids with an appetite for vengeance—against Dr. Crane’s creation of monstrosity.  
            Drakon growled more deeply than any other Breedline as he shot into the air and lunged into battle like a bat freshly released from hell. Pinning a hybrid with his massive paws, it barely had time to squirm before Drakon’s jaws closed around its head, crushing its skull in an explosion of blood and brains.
            Exploding into action, Tim barreled past him and swiped his mammoth-size paw, knocking one of the hybrids from the Beast. The jarring impact sent the hybrid tumbling a distance away.
            Rising from underneath the pack, Jace’s great seven-foot Beast roared, baring his bloody canines. With hellfire burning in his eyes, his inner voice screamed, Kill them all!         
            In the fury of his rage, the Beast left dead, twitching hybrids in his wake. He could taste their throats and feel their flesh embedded under his claws.
At the same time, Steven felt the blood drain from his face and a wave of nausea. His eyes shifted from their emerald green to a brilliant white as if the irises had turned into two glowing bright lights. He embraced the change into his altered form—a powerful human hybrid—his lips pulled back in a teeth-baring grimace as he lurched forward, and vanished in a flash. Every cell in Steven’s body ached to put an end to Dr. Crane’s hybrids.
            Jem merely stared aghast as he witnessed an unforgettable scene of carnage right before his own eyes.
            Steven lunged out and grabbed one of the hybrids by the torso and flipped it to the ground. Before the monstrous hybrid could get up, he stomped on its head, nailing him down. Steven was in control of himself, at ease in the violence once again. And his cold, calm expression disturbed the hell out of Jem as he heard the crack of the hybrid’s skull. Steven was... death. Which, considering he was on their side and they needed his help, that was a good thing.  
            Jem’s jaw tightened, and he squared his shoulders, tensing to attack. As he extended his arm, he took aim, careful not to hit his comrades, and blasted a lightning rod straight from the palm of his hand. As it made contact, the glowing shock waves hit two hybrids, sending them to their death in a full strike. And ready to serve up another round, Jem palmed out another blast of rolling energy, taking out three more.
 
****
 
            The only sound in the room was the creak of the cylinder tube that held Lilith, and Casey’s blood pounding in his ears. With the knife close to his jugular, Casey carefully shifted his eyes, looking out of the corners and met Kyle’s stare. A look of unease passed over Kyle’s face, and his eyes were wide and full of apprehension. He was pale, so pale... as if he’d seen a ghost.
            “Put her back down,” Sebastian said to Kyle. “If you try anything stupid, your buddy here will pay the price.”      
            Kyle obeyed Sebastian’s orders. As soon as Tessa’s body was gently placed back on the padded table, Kyle straightened his spine, raising his chin and glared viciously at Sebastian. “She needs medical attention,” Kyle said, his voice laced with concern. “Something could be wrong with her babies.”
            Sebastian smirked. “So?”
            “For God’s sake!” Kyle barked. “At least let her brother try to heal her. Is that so much to ask, or is your heart that dark?”
            Thomas popped a brow and interjected, “Steven is here?”
            “Yes,” Kyle quickly replied. “I can use my radio to call for him now.”
            Thomas nodded thoughtfully, as though he were weighing Kyle’s words. “Call for him,” he said, and then added, “but only Steven. If he brings anyone else, Sebastian will cut your boyfriend’s throat.”
            Kyle slowly reached into his jacket, and when he brought his hand back, he produced a miniature walkie-talkie. “Tim, do you copy?” he said into the receiver and waited.
            Growing with impatience, Kyle repeated, “Tim, do you copy?”
            After a few more minutes had passed, waiting in the silence, Kyle seethed in frustration. “I don’t understand,” he said. “Something must be wrong.”
            “Looks like your friends might have finally met their end,” Sebastian said mockingly. “They were probably outnumbered.” His lips curved up into a bow. “I mean, how could they possibly take on all those hybrids?”
            “Go to hell,” Kyle spat.
            Sebastian pursed his lips and pressed the blade deeper into Casey’s flesh until it drew a few drops of blood. “Maybe I should get it over with and cut his throat now,” he threatened.
            Kyle’s eyes widened as he stared past Casey with a look of horror, and not just because he feared for his friend’s life—it was something far more terrifying. “What the—”
            Noticing the expression on Kyle’s face, Thomas turned to look, keeping the weapon aimed at Kyle. Immediately he lowered the pistol and shrank back. “Lilith,” he gasped.
            Sebastian loosened his grip on the blade and turned to see what was behind him. With a mix of fear and worship stamped on his face, he muttered, “What on earth—”   
            Surrounded by a blaze of fire, as if she had fallen into the heart of the sun, Lilith stood before them. It was if she simply had awakened by a magical force. Her hand went to her heart, feeling the thrum under her fingers. And then she lowered her head, her eyes clenching in sadness at the sight of Tessa. Soon after, the sad expression in Lilith’s gaze turned to rage.
            “Who has done this to my child?”
            Thomas was breathing in pants as he turned away from Lilith, his eyes fixed on the door, his face as white as chalk. He looked as if he wanted nothing more than to turn and run.
            Sebastian glanced at Kyle once, a look of surprise and disdain, before shifting his focus back to Thomas. “If you run, I’ll turn this blade on you,” he threatened through gritted teeth. “Do something, you coward!”
            Thomas was still, his eyes wide open but unfocused. His hand hung limply at his sides. He slowly moved forward until he was standing directly in front of Lilith. With a sigh, Thomas went to his knees and clasped his hands in front of him, almost as if he was praying.
            “It was only ever my desire,” Thomas said, his voice trembling, “to serve you, Lilith.”
            Sebastian made a rude noise. “What are you doing, Thomas?” his voice seethed as he looked to his brother, to Lilith, and back to his brother again. “Why are you kneeling to her?”
            Thomas’s eyes flashed, and he scrambled to his feet. “Lilith is a God,” he praised. “If you were wise, you would all kneel too.”  
            A sizzling bolt of hatred went through Sebastian. He wanted to remove the knife from Casey’s throat and stab Thomas instead. “I kneel to no one,” Sebastian ground out.
            Lilith’s eyes burned with a sulfuric glow. A bolt of red fire shot from them and hit the wall beside Sebastian, scorching the stone. “Release the Theriomorph,” she demanded.
            Lowering the blade, Sebastian released Casey and peered uncertainly at him, more intimidated than impressed by Casey’s real identity. “I don’t believe it,” Sebastian challenged him. “The Breedline would never let you into their Covenant knowing you’re a Theriomorph.”
            No longer afraid of hiding his secret, Casey embraced his Theriomorph within him. “There’s a lot you don’t know about the Breedline,” Casey said, his eyes casting a lavender glow. “Even though I’m different, they still accept me as their family. Something you could never comprehend.”
                        “Who is responsible for bringing us here?” Lilith demanded. “Tell me who has betrayed me.”
            Sebastian opened his mouth, but seeing Thomas’s warning look, closed it again.
            Lilith looked between Sebastian and Thomas, her confusion and fury mounting by the minute. “Answer me!” she shouted.
            Sebastian’s gaze met Thomas’s. He could tell Thomas wanted to keep Dr. Crane from Lilith, fearing she would find out he’d betrayed her. Thomas had been planning all this time to turn Tessa and Steven over to the ruthless physician.  
            “Dr. Hubert Crane,” Sebastian said, and his voice was firm. “But he is not the only one who is involved.”
            Thomas’s yellow eyes flashed, his mind whirling. Dear God, was his own twin brother about to snitch on him and reveal to Lilith the truth? With his narrowed eyes on Sebastian, Thomas pursed his lips and slightly shook his head, silently threatening him to keep his mouth shut.
            “Thomas and Dr. Crane are working together,” Sebastian finished. He felt, for a moment, something almost like satisfaction for ratting out his brother. He had disliked Thomas all this time, had hated the way he treated Eve, especially after she’d taken off as if searching for her was a waste of his time.
            For a moment Thomas stood perfectly still, staring at his brother. Then without a word, he turned gentle eyes on Lilith. “He’s lying!” he ground out. Fear made his voice crack. “Please Lilith,” he pleaded, lowering his head. “I swear I never meant to turn against you. Dr. Crane threatened me. I had no other choice.”     
            She turned to Sebastian for confirmation, but his cold stare said it all. As she shifted her gaze, Lilith’s nostrils flared, and she snarled in Thomas’s direction, the person who’d sworn to help her defeat Dr. Crane and his colleagues. But all the time he was using her to draw Tessa and Steven out. The very thing she’d feared the most had come to pass. She’d trusted Thomas as she’d never thought to trust another person, and he’d betrayed her.
            “How could I have been so foolish?” she muttered under her breath.
            The whispered words came out in a painful rush. Thomas flinched and raised his glittering gaze to her. “Please—”
            “You will pay for your betrayal—”
            Lilith was cut off by an eruption as the walls cracked, sending dust whirling in all directions. The distant sound of a gun firing echoed, and she stood there, stunned as she stared down at the disarray scattered before her.
            Casey and Kyle both lunged for Tessa at the same time, shielding her from the falling debris.
            Thomas’s body lurched forward, leaping in front of Lilith as another shot sounded and he grunted in pain.
            “Take cover!” Casey roared as he helped Kyle get Tessa off the examination table and onto the floor.
            Sebastian dropped to his knees, but he couldn’t see or hear what was going on. Gunfire sounded loud in his ears, deafening him to all else. He sucked in a breath as he glanced at the floor to see Thomas lying motionless, blood trickling from his mouth.
 
To be continued...

 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 51
Lilith's Revenge

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.
As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies. Managing to elude the Beast’s attack, Dr. Crane orders his hybrids to be released.  
 
Meanwhile, as Casey and Kyle finally find Tessa—who is unconscious and barely breathing—and her mother Lilith—who appears unconscious inside a plastic, cylinder tube—Sebastian and Thomas catch them off guard. With a gun held to Kyle’s head, and a knife to Casey’s throat, time is ticking as the rest of the Breedline fight in battle alongside the Beast against the hybrids.
 

When Lilith comes around, she is furious at the sight of her daughter Tessa, who is unconscious, and demands answers. Angered by Thomas’s weakness, Sebastian rats his own brother out and confirms his connection with Dr. Hubert Crane. As Thomas begs Lilith for forgiveness, gunfire blasts from outside the room, catching Thomas in the crossfire.              
 
Continued...
 
A fervent howl suddenly rang out across the many dead and wounded hybrids, proving that there was no chance up against the Beast and his deadly companions.
            To the astonishment of both Jem and Steven and his compatriots, the remaining hybrids swept through the facility without attacking further, retreating the battle. Steven blinked in surprise, frankly amazed to see them tucking tail and running. He watched the huge pack bound away—as though they had no other choice but to make a run for it.
            He shared a pointed look with Jem and the rest. Awareness dawned on their faces as well. A wolfish grin crossed Drakon’s face as he grasped the full implications of what was happening. He raised his snout high in the air and howled with a deep-throated roar. Casting all doubts aside, he sprinted eagerly after the pack, making sure they didn’t change their mind.    
            The Beast’s shaggy hide receded as he reverted to human form. Naked and bleeding, Jace dropped to his knees. Despite the pain and weakness, he refused to give up until he brought Tessa back home to safety.
            Moving to his aide, Steven and Jem helped Jace to his feet. He leaned heavily on Jem as they stood a moment to allow Jace to get his bearings.
            “I have to tell you,” Jem said to Jace, “you look like shit, brother.”
            Jace cracked a grin. “Thanks,” he said hoarsely, making light of the situation. “Did Kyle and Casey find—” He was interrupted by the sound of an explosion and heavy gunfire.
            Steven heard the noise and jerked his gaze in the direction of the blast. “Sounds like Kyle and Casey might need backup.”
            Despite the injuries inflicted by several hybrids, Jace straightened his spine and managed to stand on his own. Gasping for breath, he turned around and spotted several guards charging forward, with Dr. Crane following closely behind. A chorus of shots rang out, hitting the walls nearby.
            After missing his chance to sedate Jace and take him captive, Dr. Crane was not likely to make that mistake again. Grimacing, Jace tried to regain his strength, but he was too weak from the change and loss of blood. There was nothing to do now but put his faith in the rest of his comrade-in-arms to fight alone in the battle.  
            Jem contemplated his brother’s wounds, his gaze shifting from the bloody gashes in Jace’s back to the deep bite marks covering his entire body. “We’ll take care of this while you heal, brother,” Jem said, reaching toward a lifeless guard laying a few feet away. He retrieved the corpse’s pants—who would not be needing them any longer—and handed them over to Jace. “Here, put this on. It’s the best I could do under the circumstances,” Jem said lightly.  
            He hesitated, and Jem pressed. “You need time to heal, Jace. You’re in no condition to fight.”
            As Jace made an effort to slip into the pants, dizziness assailed him, and he slumped against the wall to keep from falling. He closed his eyes briefly while he struggled to keep his balance. Already he could feel his body healing as the wounds upon his back began to close, the Breedline healing restoring him once again.
            “You’ll need to check on Kyle and Casey,” Jem said as he handed Jace the radio. “Tell them we’re heading their way as soon as we take care of the physician.”   
            Jace stared down at the radio in his palm, his hand trembling as Tessa weighed heavily on his mind. Lifting his chin, he stared at his brother with dread edged over his face.    
            “Don’t worry,” Steven said, mustering a wicked smile, bringing forth his transformation once again. “This will be a piece of cake.” He nodded at the human guards coming toward them. “Let’s get this over with.”
            Not entirely happy about leaving Jace alone, Jem nonetheless rushed off into battle once more with Tim and Drakon following behind—who were still in wolf form—and charged ahead.
            Jace took a moment to catch his breath, but no longer. Now was the rise of the Breedline, he thought. It was time for Dr. Crane and his men to taste our wrath... and Sebastian most of all.   
            As a rule, the Breedline went out of their way to avoid harming humans, whom they regarded as defenseless up against their species. These particular humans, however, were not exactly innocent bystanders.
 
****
 
            Sebastian stood back watching as Lilith rushed over to Thomas and knelt down. He lay partially on his side as she rolled him onto his back and saw the profuse amount of blood covering his chest.
            “Thomas,” she said, her voice casting in an echo around the room.  
            Thomas’s eyelids flickered, and he trained an unfocused stare on her. “I’m sorry, Lilith,” he gasped.
            Tears slid soundlessly down Lilith’s cheeks as she shut out everything else around her. There was a loud crash, and a section of the wall collapsed. From outside the room more guns fired, and the sounds of voices drew near. She hunched over Thomas, pulling him into her arms, surrounding him with the brilliant glow resonating from her body.
            He raised a hand to wipe her tears. “You’re alive... that’s all that matters.” He smiled faintly, and his face whitened with the effort, lowering his hand. “Forgive me... I love you. I should... have... told... you... the truth,” he coughed, blood pouring from his mouth.    
            He raised a shaking hand to touch her cheek and then he closed his eyes, going still beneath her.
            “Thomas?”
            His name came out brokenly from a voice filled with so much agony she didn’t even recognize.
            Sebastian gently put a hand on Lilith’s shoulder, but she shrugged him away, unable to bear his touch. Overwhelmed by human emotions she hadn’t felt in years, she buried her face into the crevice of Thomas’s neck and wept. It came to her then. This nightmare was all Dr. Crane’s doing. He was like the devil himself, and the only way to kill him was to use the very weapon he’d created years ago. And that was her.     
            Pulling from Thomas, Lilith locked gazes with Sebastian. He was puzzled at first, but then understanding came into his eyes, and he smiled and nodded.
            Putting forward his hand, Sebastian summoned a portal out of thin air and spread it wide until it covered Lilith like a cloak. As they stepped into the light, Kyle and Casey watched as Sebastian and Lilith disappeared.  
            They shifted their focus in the direction of two guards as they entered the room, which was barely visible from all the dusty debris. Kyle drew his pistol and stalked stealthily through the dense particles of smut. As he crept up behind them undetected, he pressed the barrel of his gun to one of the guard’s head. “Drop your weapon, asshole!”
            The other guard, who oddly resembled Barney Fife, whirled around and tried to charge him. Rolling his eyes, Kyle stuck out his foot and quickly yanked his arm back as he went down.
            Before the other guard could react, Casey aimed a gun to his forehead. “Don’t even think about it,” he said with a growl, his lavender eyes shimmering through the cloudy dust.
            The man shrunk about three inches, his eyes so wide that he looked like a deer in headlights.
            Kyle shoved Barney Fife’s look-alike over and kicked away his weapon. He grabbed the scruff of his shirt and dug his pistol into the side of the man’s neck, getting face-to-face with him. “Talk, asshole. Where is Dr. Crane?”
            The guard spat at him, and Kyle punched him. “You’re starting to piss me off. Don’t make me shoot an important part of your anatomy,” he said lowering the pistol at the man’s fly. “You might want to keep those.”              
            “I’d listen to him. He gets crazy when he’s pissed off,” Casey drawled.
Kyle looked up to see Casey with a gun trained on the other guard’s head, amusement glittering in his glowing eyes.
            Kyle turned his gaze to the guard when the smell of urine assaulted his nose. “Well hell, he pissed himself, Casey.”
            “Okay, okay!” the guard shouted. “I’ll talk! Dr. Crane sent us in here to retrieve the women.”
            “Where is he now?” Kyle demanded.
            “Dr. Crane and the rest of the guards are after the man-beast,” he said. “They’re headed to the north side of the facility.”
            Kyle rose to his feet but was careful to keep his weapon aimed at the man’s head. “Get up, asshole.”       
 
****
 
            With retribution blazing through his veins, Steven rushed at the guards and engaged in brutal combat. With the sound of bones snapping and guns firing, Steven fought his way through the chaotic free-for-all toward Dr. Hubert Crane.
            A foolish human guard got in his way and paid for it with his life. Steven tore out his heart, producing a geyser of crimson blood. The guard fell backward screaming and was immediately trampled by Drakon’s massive rogue-wolf.
            Steven caught sight of Jem hurling a blazing inferno, instantly incinerating a man aiming his weapon at Tim as he tackled another guard, digging his claws into the man’s throat.
            As they fought side by side in battle, a host of howling hybrids burst from behind. Ready for another strike, Jem locked on his target and blasted in their direction. The impact cratered the concrete wall, sending debris flying amidst a cloud of powdered stone. A blood stain covered the floor as dead hybrids slid lifelessly on the slick surface.
            Dr. Crane whirled in surprise, caught off guard by Jem’s extraordinary power. His dark eyes bulged behind his silver-rimmed spectacles. He faltered and looked about in confusion, as though realizing for the first time that he might actually lose this fight.
            Just as the physician opened his mouth to spout out his commands, a flash of light suddenly came from nothingness, the golden glow momentarily blinding his vision. Quickly shielding his eyes, he blinked, trying to focus on the images before him.
            When the light dissipated, he shrank back in shock as Lilith and Sebastian appeared. Standing back, Sebastian watched as Lilith strode relentlessly toward Dr. Crane. Drowning out her surroundings, she locked onto her enemy. All she saw now was Dr. Crane—a monster from the past—caught in her sights. With hands balled into fists, Lilith’s unwavering eyes narrowed to vengeful glowing slits.
            As Steven watched Lilith in all her glory, he wondered if the evil physician finally tasted fear. If not, he was ready to introduce him to the sensation.     
 
To be continued...
 
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 52
Lilith's Revenge/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.
As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies. Managing to elude the Beast’s attack, Dr. Crane orders his hybrids to be released.  
 
Meanwhile, as Casey and Kyle finally find Tessa—who is unconscious and barely breathing—and her mother Lilith—who appears unconscious inside a plastic, cylinder tube—Sebastian and Thomas catch them off guard. With a gun held to Kyle’s head, and a knife to Casey’s throat, time is ticking as the rest of the Breedline fight in battle alongside the Beast against the hybrids.
 
When Lilith comes around, she is furious at the sight of her daughter Tessa, who is unconscious, and demands answers. Angered by Thomas’s weakness, Sebastian rats his own brother out and confirms his connection with Dr. Hubert Crane. As Thomas begs Lilith for forgiveness, gunfire blasts from outside the room, catching Thomas in the crossfire.   
 
With rage burning in her veins, Lilith is determined to put an end to Dr. Hubert Crane for all the evil he has brought upon the her and others. Now that Thomas is dead, Sebastian conjures a portal and takes Lilith to confront the evil physician.               
 

Continued...
 
“Kyle, give me your status,” Jace said into the radio. “What the hell is happening? I need to know if you found Tessa.”
            When Kyle heard Jace’s voice, fear grabbed him by the throat. Shit! “We’re near the south side of the facility,” said Kyle’s distressed reply, “and we have two of Dr. Crane’s guards.”
            As Kyle’s voice came over the radio, Jace nearly went to his knees. His stomach churned, and his hands began to shake. “Tell me, damn it,” Jace bit out. He wanted answers, and he wanted them now. “Did you find Tessa?”
            “We have Tessa,” Kyle said tersely. There was a brief pause, and then he said, “We need Steven. I repeat... we need Steven ASAP. Something is wrong with her. She’s unconscious.”  
            All the blood left Jace’s face. Fear knotted his gut and panic rolled over him like a tidal wave. No. Oh God, no. Please don’t let her die. Please, God. Jace squeezed his eyes tight and shook his head. I beg you, take me instead.   
            Jace sucked in a breath. His heart came near to bursting out of his chest. “Get her out of here,” he ordered. “I’ll bring Steven and meet you in the front, outside the facility.”
            “Roger that,” Kyle replied. “Don’t worry, Jace. We’ll take good care of your girl.”
            Jace had no time to waste. Seething with desperation, he strode across the center of the facility on a mission to find Steven, but, before he managed another step, a sharp piercing object came from out of nowhere and hit him in the thigh.
            He gasped out loud. Feeling an intense, painful burning in his leg, he glanced behind him to see a guard with a gun in his hand. The dart was laced with a tranquilizer and invaded his muscles, sapping his strength.
            No! Jace raged. I’ve got to save Tessa!
            As he ripped the dart from his flesh, he bolted forward, only to be shot in the back of his leg a second time. His body crashed against the concrete floor as he toppled face forward. He bit down hard on his tongue, and the salty taste of his blood filled his mouth. His leg felt like it was on fire. Have to find Steven. I’ve got to save Tessa...       
            Struggling to his knees, Jace refused to give up. Gritting his teeth, he got to his feet and dragged his injured leg behind him, focused solely on finding Steven. He felt his Beast awakening, yearning to break free. His skin itched as though bristling fur was scratching at it from inside. Closing his eyes, he fought back against the impending change for he was not ready to surrender his human form yet. I have to stay human, he thought. Just long enough to find Steven.
            Every movement caused the drug to travel faster through his blood, but he kept on until at last, he reached his destiny, amongst the center of all the carnage. When his twin brother caught his sights, Jace used his telepathic abilities to connect with Jem.
            Jem... I need Steven. Tessa’s hurt...
            Jem instantly turned toward Jace, worry and confusion written over his face. Deep furrows creased his brow when he saw a guard aiming a gun at Jace. “Get down!”
            When Jace ducked and hit the floor, Jem locked his eyes on the target. Extending his hand, Jem formed a bright sphere in the palm of his hand and threw it at the guard, striking him in the chest. The impact incinerated him instantly, turning his flesh into ash.   
            Jem rushed to Jace’s side and reached out to offer his hand. After a moment’s hesitation, Jace took it and allowed Jem to help him stand. Before they could decide on a course of action, however, a menacing voice came from ahead.
            “I am your creator,” Dr. Crane directed toward Lilith, his tone arctic-cold. “You vill obey my command!”
            Jem was so surprised by Dr. Crane’s words that he stood stock-still, watching Lilith’s reaction. Her eyes flashed with anger at being ordered by the physician, and Jem stepped back, preparing himself for her to strike.   
            “You’re nothing but a monster,” Lilith said, her voice cast out in an echo. “You will feel my wrath for all the pain you have inflicted on the innocent.”
            Dr. Crane scowled and looked at her for a long moment as if trying to come to a decision. “You vill not harm me. I gave you zis power.” Then he lifted his hand and pointed a gun at her. “And I can eazily take it from you.”
            Lilith’s eyes flamed a bright yellow, and without warning, Dr. Crane’s body burst into flame. As he screamed in agony, his fingers squeezed the trigger and fired the weapon.
            “No!” Steven yelled out as he surged at Dr. Crane in the blink of an eye and shoved him forward. The physician stumbled and fell onto the floor. He bellowed in pain as flames consumed him, burning like flesh soaked in gasoline. An instant later, he fell silent and remained that way.
            Turning away from Dr. Crane’s charred body, Steven shifted his gaze toward Lilith and froze.
            A black glow surrounded Lilith, and she felt her body explode with pain. She slumped to the floor like the strings cut from a marionette puppet and rolled onto her side. Her breathing was ragged, her pulse erratic, and it felt like every cell of her body was bursting with fire.     
            Sebastian knelt down beside her. “Lilith... what’s happening?”
            She was in so much pain that she could barely understand Sebastian’s words. “Leave,” she breathed, the word almost inaudible. “Get out of here,” she said coughing, eyes watering, and throat burning, “before it’s too late.”
            Sebastian reached for her. “I can take you with me.”  
            She shrugged his hand away. “Go now,” her voice came out as a raspy croak.
            Sebastian rose to his feet and turned as Jem charged toward him, but he didn’t even flinch. Sebastian didn’t even try to defend himself when Jem drove him to the ground.
            He grasped Sebastian’s shirt, yanked him upward until their faces were close. “Where’s Tessa?” Jem gritted furiously, his voice mixed with rage and overwhelming fear for Tessa.
            “She’s on the south side of the building,” Sebastian said, startled by Jem’s glowing eyes, “and she’s unconscious. It wasn’t me. I never touched her. Dr. Crane and his physicians must have done something to her.”   
            Jem grabbed Sebastian by the throat and squeezed. “It’s time for you to pay for what you’ve done,” Jem said, revenge seeping into his voice. “I’m going to end your rotten life.”  
            Sebastian felt his veins throb, his head dizzy and blurry images filling his vision. He tried to breathe but couldn’t. He ached for breath, but Jem’s clenched hand around his trachea made it impossible.
            Suddenly, Jem heard a soft voice whispering to him from the past. The demon within the man is the one responsible, not the soul. Hearing his mother’s voice, Jem stared off into the darkness, seeing her image inside his head. Katlyn’s face was beautiful and without expression. Forgiveness is the path to healing, her voice whispered.     
            Jem released his grip on Sebastian, dropping him to his knees as his mother’s voice began to fade into the darkness. Then she was gone.  
            With his hand clutched to his throat, Sebastian slumped over, gasping for breath. Shaking his head to clear it, he looked up at Jem and saw a wavering expression on his face. At that moment, Sebastian pondered the extent of God’s forgiveness. If he could forgive humans for their vanity, their cruelty, and their lust, surely he could forgive him. Sebastian had spent his entire life torturing others for his childhood pain. All he’d ever wanted was to be... loved. God, why have you forsaken me?
            And then a miracle happened. A light fell from overhead, sheltering Sebastian, warming him, saturating him with something unexplainable, something he’d never felt before: Unconditional love. Sebastian’s soul, blackened by its union to the Chiang-shih demon, suddenly lifted and became free. His eyes flashed wide, feeling the weight of the world ease from his shoulders.
            “I know what it’s like to hate—to want revenge,” Sebastian muttered, “and now all I want is to protect my sons.”    
            Jem narrowed his eyes. “Protect them from what?”
            “The sins of the father,” Sebastian struggled with the words, “are the sins of the son.”
            Glaring at Sebastian, there was a mixture of emotions going through Jem’s head... anger, revenge, but also indecision. As if he couldn’t make up his mind to be judge or jury over a man that had done so many things to hurt the ones he loved. But he couldn’t give him a pass. Sebastian had wronged them all. He wanted to kill him. But knowing he had to help Jace save Tessa, he turned away. Sebastian stood, unmoving as Jem left without a word or a glance.
Before Jem could ask for Steven’s help, however, Steven emerged from out of nowhere and stood in front of Lilith.
            A sudden thought occurred to Steven as he met her gaze. “You’re... my mother.”
            Lilith struggled through an endless sea of suffering that seemed to reach out and wrap around her like a burning vine. She knew she wasn’t dead, but she also knew that she was dying. With a desperate need to savor the moment of seeing her son after all these years, she fought with all her strength to ward off the encroaching darkness.
            She gave a resigned sigh and reached for Steven. “Yes,” she said, her voice laced with anguish. “I’m sorry, Steven. I’m so sorry I failed you,” she gasped, closing her eyes. “I’ve always loved you... and Tessa.”
            Steven dropped to his knees and took her hand. He could barely see her chest rise and fall. “It’s okay,” he soothed, cradling her lovingly in his arms, his heart breaking for the burden she’d carried for so long. “It’s not your fault.”
            Lilith pushed everything away except the desperate desire to open her eyes. What she wanted most in the world was to see her son. She genuinely tried to open her eyes, but it was as if someone had permanently glued them shut.
            Hearing Steven’s voice sent warmth coursing through her body, and her eyelids fluttered. It took every ounce of power she had to force her eyelids open. For a moment all she could see was a blurred image. But then her vision cleared and the first thing she saw was Steven leaning over her, his eyes filled with sadness. Moisture welled in his emerald green eyes, and his hand shook as he felt for a pulse. He felt it flutter ever so lightly, erratic and weak.     
            “Mother?”
            When she tried to speak, all that came out was a muffled choking sound. And then she heard a small whisper in her mind.
            Shhh, it’s okay. I can help you, mother.
            And then she felt warmth spread all throughout her body, replacing some of the pain. Steven was trying to heal her.
            Using a telepathic link, she connected with Steven’s mind. No, Steven. It’s too late for me. Please... help Tessa. She’s hurt.
            Steven tried to protest, but she used all the strength she had left and gripped his hand tightly.   
            Go to her. Save your sister.      
            Steven put his lips to her forehead. I love you, mother.     
            When Lilith felt Steven’s soft touch, it brightened her with joy and warmed her to her very soul. And suddenly her eyes closed, and she went limp in his arms, releasing her unnatural form back to her true body. The transformation was immediate. Lilith was gone, and now Lisa was restored.
            Open your eyes, mother.
            His words would forever linger in her mind. When she opened her eyes again, Lisa realized she was alive. She lifted her head, immediately searching for her son. Her gaze found Steven’s as she spoke. “I love you, son,” her voice soft as a whisper. “Go now... save your sister.”  
            Steven nodded solemnly. “I promise,” he said, releasing her gently to the floor. As he got to his feet, he strode past three remaining guards who stood to the side to let him pass and headed toward Jace and Jem.
            The back of Drakon’s fur bristled, and Tim growled as if daring Dr. Crane’s men to make a move. They looked uneasy and way too trigger-happy after their boss had bit the dust. Everything could all go to hell at a moment’s notice.      
            “You’ve got to hurry, Steven,” Jace said, his voice ragged and weak. “Kyle and Casey are taking Tessa to the front, outside the facility.”  
 
To be continued...
 
 
  
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. Heâ??s an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath amongst humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 53
Death Whispers

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.
As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies. Managing to elude the Beast’s attack, Dr. Crane orders his hybrids to be released.  
 
As Casey and Kyle finally find Tessa—who is unconscious and barely breathing—and her mother Lilith—who appears unconscious inside a plastic, cylinder tube—Sebastian and Thomas catch them off guard. With a gun held to Kyle’s head, and a knife to Casey’s throat, time is ticking as the rest of the Breedline fight in battle alongside the Beast against the hybrids.
 
When Lilith comes around, she is furious at the sight of her daughter Tessa—who is unconscious—and demands answers. Angered by Thomas’s weakness, Sebastian rats his own brother out and confirms his connection with Dr. Hubert Crane. As Thomas begs Lilith for forgiveness, gunfire blasts from outside the room, catching Thomas in the crossfire.   
 
With rage burning in her veins, Lilith is determined to put an end to Dr. Hubert Crane for all the evil he has brought upon the her and others. Now that Thomas is dead, Sebastian conjures a portal and takes Lilith to confront the evil physician.
 
Finally, Lilith puts an end to Dr. Crane, and Kyle and Casey gets Tessa—who is still unconscious—to safety outside the facility.                   
 

Continued...
 
Before Steven could get a word out, one of the guards pulled his gun, pointed it at Lisa, and fired. Sebastian did the unbelievable and dove in front of her, shielding her body with his own. Taking the bullet, he fell to the floor as blood poured from his chest.  
            Drakon leaped instinctively into the air, downing the man who’d taken the shot at Lisa and ripped out his throat.
            “Cease fire!” Jem shouted, aiming his hand at the guards, effectively preventing them from firing again. “Unless you all want to become ashes, drop your weapons now!”
            Fear and panic slammed into Lisa. She scrambled over to Sebastian. “No!”
            He looked up at Lisa with glassy eyes. “It’s too late,” Sebastian gasped, aggravated that he couldn’t seem to get air into his lungs. “Tell Eve and my sons... I love them.”
            She reached down and placed her hands over the wound just below his neck. Blood was everywhere, soaking Sebastian’s clothing, her hands, and seeping onto the floor.
            Steven rushed over and tried to pull Lisa away, but she shrugged him off. “Let me go. I can save him!”
            He stared hard into her eyes. “You can’t do this, mother. You’re too weak. It’s too late for him,” he said. “He’s not even worth saving.”
            “I have to try.”
            “Our powers cannot heal a fatal wound. I can’t let you do this,” Steven said, his voice persistent. “It will kill you.”
            “He saved my life, Steven. Do you think I want to live knowing he died for me? He has two sons to live for,” she pleaded. “Go help your sister, now!”
            Steven sighed and then slowly stepped back, watching as his mother leaned over Sebastian’s chest, hugging him tightly to her.
            Lisa reached deep, her focus solely on healing Sebastian’s mortal wound that would most certainly kill him if she couldn’t save him in time. There was a faint stirring as if he was barely hanging on.
            As his wound closed beneath her hands, she gasped, the pain cutting into her like a hot knife. And then she realized her flesh was opening, blood seeping down her chest. Lisa’s vision went dim, and she found it difficult to breathe as she gasped for each breath.
            With the last of her healing powers, she sealed the wound in Sebastian’s chest and dropped soundlessly to the floor beside him.
            Sebastian rolled, instantly coming in contact with Lisa’s limp body lying next to his. Placing his hand on his chest, he felt the wound had disappeared. As he shifted his gaze to her chest, the flesh lay open, and blood poured endlessly.
            “Lilith,” Sebastian’s voice came out as barely a whisper.
            Steven went to his knees, his hands covering her wound, trying desperately to stop the flow of blood. “No,” Steven said, his voice cracking. “Don’t leave me, mother.”
            Sebastian shoved in beside him, and Steven went for him, not wanting him to so much as touch his mother. He knocked Sebastian back and yelled, “Stay away from her!”
            Gathering Lisa in his arms, he rocked her back and forth as tears ran freely down his cheeks. He knew what this had cost her. She hadn’t been strong enough to heal herself. Steven buried his face in his mother’s hair and wept because he’d lost the one thing in this world he never thought existed      
            “I love you,” he said brokenly. “Please—”
            Jace stood stock-still and watched as precious time ticked away. Tessa and his unborn sons were at risk, and time was passing by before his very eyes. Tears burned his eyes and trailed down his cheeks. Wiping them away, he slipped into Jem’s mind, connecting telepathically.
            You’ve got to use your powers, Jem. You’re the only one that can help Tessa.
            Hearing Jace’s voice inside his head, Jem turned to face his twin brother. “I don’t know how to control my powers,” he said, apprehension edged into his voice. “I could hurt the twins. It could kill her, Jace.”
            “She could die regardless,” Jace said. “Please... I’m begging you.”
            “We’re outside the facility,” Kyle’s voice suddenly came over the radio, and Jace flinched. “I repeat... we’ve made it to the front entrance with Tessa. Jace... do you read me?”
            “Yes,” Jace replied back. “We’re heading your way.”  
            Kyle didn’t say a word about Tessa’s condition, but in truth, Jace feared the worst. It was evident she was still not responding.
            Jem nodded. “Okay. Give me the radio. I’ll give it to Tim and let him know where we’re going.”
            As Jem looked away from Jace, his eyes caught sight of Tim and Drakon as they shifted back to their human form. Completely naked, Drakon stood towering over two guards and pointed toward their pants. It was obvious he was ordering them to hand them over.
            Without haste, the two remaining guards removed their pants and extended them out to Drakon, their hands trembling in fear.
            Drakon tossed a pair to Tim and quickly slid into the other as Jem jogged over.
            “I’m going with Jace to meet Kyle and Casey outside the facility,” Jem explained. “They’ve got Tessa, and she’s hurt. I’m going to try to help her.”
            Tim could hear the uncertainty in Jem’s voice. “Are you sure you want to risk it?”
            “We don’t have a choice,” Jem said in a low voice as he handed Tim the radio.
            Tim nodded. “Get Tessa back to the Covenant as soon as you can. We’ll take care of things here.”  
            Jem nodded silently and strode ahead, leaving Jace limping from behind.
            Kyle and Casey were just about to the front entrance with Tessa when Jem caught up to them.   
            “What’s her condition?” Jem asked, looking down at Tessa, her face pale and her breaths shallow.
            “I don’t know,” Kyle said shortly, shifting his eyes on Jace as he drew near. “It’s not good, man.”
            “The important thing is she’s breathing,” Jem said.
            Kyle wasn’t all sure why Tessa was unconscious. The longer she was unresponsive and limp in his arms, the more dread gathered in his gut. He didn’t want to think of what this was going to do to Jace.  
            When Jace came forward, he froze when he saw Tessa in Kyle’s arms. “Is she breathing?” he asked fearfully.
            Kyle’s lips tightened. “Yes, but her pulse is weak.”
            Jace reached for Tessa as Kyle placed her into his arms. He pressed his lips to her forehead and silently begged her to come back to him.
            I’ve got you, baby. Please... fight your way back to me, Tessa. Do it for our unborn sons.
            As Tessa heard her name, she felt as though she were floating. Deep into unconsciousness, she could hear Jace’s voice calling out to her, and yet she could not respond to him. Her mind commanded her eyes to open, her voice to animate, her hand to reach out to him. Nothing moved, and nothing uttered. The only thing that stirred was a single tear that gathered at the corner of her eye and slipped down her cold cheek.
            Memories came flooding back to her of the first time she met Jace. Remembering the first time their hands touched, feeling the Breedline bond with him, the incredible sensation of their bodies intertwined, and their plans for a future together. All along, she recalled the words to the song “Hello, by Evanescence as the melody played inside her head.   
            Tessa drifted deeper into a place of darkness, realizing that unless she did something, she was going to die. Oh God, no. Letting go meant leaving her beloved all alone, and she could not imagine how it would be for her if he died. Please, God. I don’t want to let go of him, she begged.     
            “Jace, I need you to lay her down,” Jem directed.
            As Jace bent down to do just that, her body was like a rag doll, lifeless in his arms. He would give anything to trade places with her. He would do anything just to keep her with him. Gently placing her on the ground, Jace fell back onto his knees and reached up to stroke her hair away from her face. Looking down, he saw blood on his hand... her blood.  
            Overcome with grief, tears poured down his cheeks, the paths burning his face. In what seemed forever, Jace stared at the blood on his hands, fearing his recurring nightmares of Tessa’s death were becoming a bitter reality. If she passed, he was going to go with her one way or the other. Jace closed his eyes and felt his heart caving in. Please, God. Don’t take her, he pleaded. Please, don’t take away my family.
            “No!” he cried out as he crumpled over her body.   
            Jem’s sense of doom was triggered as he watched his twin brother fall apart. But he had to get in line because Kyle and Casey were experiencing the same feeling.     
            Jem knelt down next to Jace and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Jace?”
            He looked over at Jem and said, “Please, tell me you can save her.”
            Jem took a deep, shuddering breath. He looked down at Tessa and then to her rounded belly and lower to the blood that stained her inner thighs. “We’ve got to get her back to the Covenant, Jace,” he said, swallowing the lump in his throat. “We need Helen.” He shifted his focus back on Jace and rose to his feet. “She can save your sons.”
            Jace scooped Tessa back into his arms and stood. “Take us there, brother.”  
            As Jem conjured a portal, he looked toward Kyle and Casey. “You guys need to go back inside the facility. Tim and Drakon will need your help.”
 
To be continued...
   

 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 54
Death Whispers/Part Two

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.
As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies. Managing to elude the Beast’s attack, Dr. Crane orders his hybrids to be released.  
 
As Casey and Kyle finally find Tessa—who is unconscious and barely breathing—and her mother Lilith—who appears unconscious inside a plastic, cylinder tube—Sebastian and Thomas catch them off guard. With a gun held to Kyle’s head, and a knife to Casey’s throat, time is ticking as the rest of the Breedline fight in battle alongside the Beast against the hybrids.
 
When Lilith comes around, she is furious at the sight of her daughter Tessa—who is unconscious—and demands answers. Angered by Thomas’s weakness, Sebastian rats his own brother out and confirms his connection with Dr. Hubert Crane. As Thomas begs Lilith for forgiveness, gunfire blasts from outside the room, catching Thomas in the crossfire.   
 
With rage burning in her veins, Lilith is determined to put an end to Dr. Hubert Crane for all the evil he has brought upon the her and others. Now that Thomas is dead, Sebastian conjures a portal and takes Lilith to confront the evil physician.
 
Finally, Lilith puts an end to Dr. Crane, and Kyle and Casey gets Tessa—who is still unconscious—to safety outside the facility.  

 
Continued...
 
Avoiding potential dangers, Kyle and Casey cautiously went back inside the facility, transfixed by what they saw ahead. A brilliant flash of light exploded as Sebastian vanished into thin air.
            “Damn it!” Kyle barked in the aftermath. “That bastard got away again!”
The two of them took off and burst into the center of the facility only to stop in their tracks. On the far side of the room, Steven was kneeling on the floor next to Lisa’s lifeless body, sobbing into his hands. Kyle and Casey exchanged a despairing glance.  
            Drakon and Tim were utterly silent until Kyle and Casey came into their field of vision. As Tim motioned them over, a sense of doom was triggered within him, especially after Sebastian managed to elude his punishment once again by escaping, slipping away through a portal.   
            Tim looked over at Kyle. “Tell me... is Tessa alive?”
            “It’s not good,” Kyle told him, shaking his head. “Jem took Jace and Tessa back to the Covenant. They’re taking her to Helen,” he paused, releasing a sigh. “There might be something wrong with the babies. She was bleeding...”
“Christ,” Tim said, scrubbing a hand through his short trimmed hair.
            “Besides Sebastian escaping through a portal,” Casey said to Drakon, “what happened here?”
            “It’s a long story, but we managed to take out Dr. Crane, all his hybrids and most of his men,” Drakon explained. “Unfortunately, Steven and Tessa’s mother was fatally injured.”
            “Couldn’t Steven heal her?” Kyle queried.
            “Steven and his mother’s powers are not strong enough to heal a fatal wound,” Tim said.
            Drakon shook his head. “Believe it or not, Sebastian took a bullet for her.”
            Kyle’s eyes widened. “What?”
            Casey raised his brows. “No way! That bastard wouldn’t take a bullet for his own kids, much less anyone else.”
            “Yeah, I know,” Drakon said. “I wouldn’t believe it either if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes.”
            “It’s hard to explain,” Tim chimed in, “but something happened to him.” He let out a long sigh. “Maybe I’m losing my mind. Anyway, after Sebastian dove in front of Steven’s mother, he was hit in the chest. She healed Sebastian, and—”
            “Damn,” Kyle interjected. “That’s awful. I can’t believe she died saving that asshat.”
            “Let’s get him back to the Covenant,” Tim said, shifting his focus on Steven and his mother. “We’ll take them both back.”
            As Steven wept over his mother, her soul drifted from her body. As it rose, she looked down at her body that was lying motionless on the floor. And then it dawned on her. She was dead... transformed into a shadow walker. Which meant this was her existence from now on: She was to be nothing but a shadow of herself, a ghost that was left to roam the earth.
            Watching her son fall apart, Lisa was struck by a raw emotion as tears fell from her eyes. The only way to cross to the other side was to finish what she was put on earth to do. And that was to protect her children—finally reuniting them and setting them free from the evil lurking in the shadows. But to say good-bye to them was going to be painful and bittersweet.       
            I’ll always love you, son, Lisa said, connecting with Steven telepathically.
            Hearing her soft voice, Steven lifted his head. “Mother?”
            Tim moved next to Steven and knelt down beside him. “Steven, are you okay?”
            Steven didn’t hear a word Tim said because he couldn’t believe what stood before him. It was his mother... sort of. She was floating above him as a ghostly form of herself.
            “Steven,” her voice was as soft as a whisper. “Please don’t cry.”
Startled, Tim flinched and looked as if he were going to pass out when Lisa’s soul appeared.
            “Is that you?” Steven said hoarsely.
            She nodded and reached out to him. “Come to me, son.”
            He got up and took her glowing hand. Her flesh felt the same as it had before, warm and delicate.           
            “I never thought I would see you again,” he said in a voice that cracked.
            Lisa closed her eyes and squeezed his hand lightly. “I’ll always be here with you,” she said, placing her hand over his heart. “And I will always love you and your sister.”
            “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice laced with tears.
            “Sorry for what?”
            “I didn’t keep my promise. I didn’t save Tessa. I don’t know if—”
            Lisa smiled. “It’s not her time,” she spoke as she started to fade. “Worry not, my son, for her destiny has only yet begun. Just know that I will always be with you.” And then she was gone.
            When Tim got to his feet, he placed his palm on Steven’s shoulder for comfort. “Let’s go home—”   
            Tim was stopped in midsentence as a bright light appeared out of nowhere and interrupted his train of thought.
 
****
 
            Everything happened so fast. It was like being at the wheel of a race car, all your surroundings whirling by at the speed of lightening: Jem shouting for Dr. Helen Carrington, everyone in the Covenant hurrying downstairs at the sound of his distressed voice, Helen and his sister Cassie rushing into the foyer at a dead run.
            Jace stood in the middle of all the chaos with Tessa in his arms and felt helpless as if everything was moving in slow motion. The shock completely overwhelmed him, barely managing to stay on his own two feet. He didn’t remember how long it took to get Tessa down to the examination room. As he looked at everyone around him, their mouths were moving, but nothing was registering like the volume was turned way down.
            “Jace put her on the exam table, now,” Helen said frantically.  
            When he didn’t respond, Helen put her face in front of his. Her lips moved slowly. “Jace, did you hear me?”   
            His eyes snapped in her direction as if someone had cranked up the volume in his head and everything returned to its normal speed. Moving quickly, he placed Tessa on top of a thinly padded table and looked up at Helen. “Is she going to be okay?”  
            “She’s lost a lot of blood,” Helen said. “The babies are in distress. I have no choice but to do a C-section.”  
            “What’s wrong with her?” Jace asked in a shaky voice, barely understandable. “Why won’t she wake up?”
            Helen shook her head. “I don’t know Jace.”
            Jace squeezed his eyes shut, not wanting to relive the past. He refused to lose Tessa again. Flashbacks of Tessa’s abduction played over and over in his head. The heartache he felt now took him back to when she’d been abducted by Sebastian and raped. In this very room, after they found Tessa, she was lying on the same examination table she was now on. Discovering what Sebastian had done to her had unleashed his Beast for the very first time.
            Jace’s heart was in his throat. He couldn’t lose Tessa or their babies. He’d fought too damn hard to get his life back. He wasn’t going to let it all slip away without a fight.
            As Tessa’s vital signs suddenly began to crash, Helen barked, “Jace, I need you to stand out of the way.”
            Bringing Jace back to reality, he nodded and moved to the far wall, watching as his world fell apart before his own eyes. As he blinked hard, the images in the room came into clear focus. While Cassie started an IV, and Helen came forward with surgical tools and a large incubator, Jace flinched when he felt a hand on his shoulder. “Look at me, Jace,” Jem whispered.
Jace turned toward him, his eyes expressing dread.
            “I’ll do everything I can to help,” Jem paused and swallowed the lump in his throat, “if Helen cannot bring her back.”
            Jace silently nodded as tears slid down his face. His attention shifted back to Helen when he heard a snapping sound. She was putting on a fresh pair of latex gloves and said, “We’re going in to get the babies out.” She turned around, looking at Jem and then to Jace. “Are you two going to be able to stay in here while I do this? You’re no help if you pass out.”
            When they nodded at the same time, Jem’s grip tightened on Jace’s shoulder.
            As Cassie rubbed Betadine on Tessa’s rounded belly, Jace had gone utterly pale. He feared for the woman he loved with every breath, and their two unborn children he already cherished, wouldn’t make it through the delivery. Please come back to me, Tessa, he pleaded as Helen placed the scalpel to Tessa’s skin and made an incision.     
            Moments later, the sound of a baby crying almost brought Jace to his knees.
            “He’s got a set of lungs on him,” Helen muttered as she handed the baby to Cassie. “Now, let’s get baby number two.”
            Jace anxiously watched as his sister Cassie did a quick examination on his son, bundled the tiny infant in a blanket and carried him over. “Even though he’s a few weeks early, his vital signs are great. Would you like to hold your first born, Jace?”
            He offered Cassie a weak smile and reached for his son. “His name is Jem,” Jace whispered.   
            Before Cassie could open her mouth to reply, Helen called out, “Cassie... I need help with baby number two.”
            Cassie quickly took the baby from Helen as she stitched up Tessa.
            “Is he okay?” Jace asked, concerned that the baby wasn’t crying.
            Cassie worked fast with a suction syringe over the baby’s mouth and nose. Then a high-pitched cry immediately sounded, relieving Jace as he let out a deep breath. After she had wrapped a blanket around him, she handed him to Jem and said, “He’s just fine.”
            “Hey there, Jax,” Jem whispered. As he looked down at the miracle in his arms, tears filled his eyes. “You’re a tiny thing. I’m your Uncle, Jem.”
          “Cassie, I need your help, now,” Helen said, her voice firm. “Tessa’s hemorrhaging again. I can’t get the bleeding to stop.”
 
To be continued...
 

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


Chapter 55
Death Whispers/Part Three

By scongrove

Previously...
 
After Steven—Tessa’s fraternal twin brother—connects with Tessa telepathically and finds her location, the Breedline Covenant prepare to rescue her and take down Sebastian Crow. But before they come up with a plan, Sebastian uses his powers to create a portal and kidnaps his son Arius and Mia. When the Breedline find out they are missing, something triggers the outside alarms. While viewing the security cameras, they are shocked when dozens of Dr. Crane’s unearthly creations of Breedline hybrids topple over the gates and surround the Covenant.
 
Meanwhile, Thomas Carlyle—Sebastian’s twin brother—is threatened by Dr. Crane. With no other choice, Thomas lies to Sebastian and turns over Tessa and Lilith—Tessa’s biological mother—to the evil physician for research. And now, Thomas must continue to betray his own brother.
 
Left with no other choice, the Breedline go up against Dr. Crane’s hybrids in battle in order to defend their Covenant. During the battle, the Breedline are hit with grenades, knocking everyone unconscious except for Steven, Jem, and Casey. While Sebastian and Thomas escape through the portal, taking Jace with them, the rest of the Breedline regains consciousness and takes Samuel Mercier—a Breedline traitor who is helping Thomas—into custody. 
 
When Sebastian found Eve’s note she’d left behind telling him good-bye, he was desperate to get her back. But that had to be put on the back burner. Now that the Breedline had their location, Sebastian and his twin brother had no choice but to go with Dr. Crane’s men when they came for Jace and hide out at the research facility where they had taken Tessa and her mother Lilith.
As Dr. Crane forces Jace—who is drugged and chained—to his research facility, he demands him to bring forth his Beast. When Jace refuses to give in, the evil physician orders his men to punish Jace with a whip made of silver. Enduring the torture, Jace continues to resist. But when Dr. Crane threatens to harm Tessa, his anger fuels within him, unleashing the Beast. With a compelling desire to save his beloved, the Beast breaks free of his restraints and attacks his enemies. Managing to elude the Beast’s attack, Dr. Crane orders his hybrids to be released.  
 
As Casey and Kyle finally find Tessa—who is unconscious and barely breathing—and her mother Lilith—who appears unconscious inside a plastic, cylinder tube—Sebastian and Thomas catch them off guard. With a gun held to Kyle’s head, and a knife to Casey’s throat, time is ticking as the rest of the Breedline fight in battle alongside the Beast against the hybrids.
 
When Lilith comes around, she is furious at the sight of her daughter Tessa—who is unconscious—and demands answers. Angered by Thomas’s weakness, Sebastian rats his own brother out and confirms his connection with Dr. Hubert Crane. As Thomas begs Lilith for forgiveness, gunfire blasts from outside the room, catching Thomas in the crossfire.   
 
With rage burning in her veins, Lilith is determined to put an end to Dr. Hubert Crane for all the evil he has brought upon the her and others. Now that Thomas is dead, Sebastian conjures a portal and takes Lilith to confront the evil physician.
 
Finally, Lilith puts an end to Dr. Crane, and Kyle and Casey gets Tessa—who is still unconscious—to safety outside the facility.  
 
Using a portal, Jem took Jace and Tessa back to the Breedline Covenant praying that Dr. Helen Carrington could save Tessa and her unborn twins. With Cassie’s assistance, Helen delivered the babies, but couldn’t get Tessa to stop hemorrhaging.
 

Continued...

Jace rushed over with his son nestled against his chest and stood next to Tessa. He grasped a hold of her cold hand and begged, “Please, Tessa. Don’t leave me. Open your eyes, honey.”
            Tessa couldn’t hear him. She’d drifted too close to death.
            As Cassie and Helen worked on Tessa, it was as if she’d already given up the fight, her skin cold and her face so pale. Remembering he’d sworn to protect his family, Jace turned to Jem. “Please... you’ve got to save her.”
            Lisa, invisible to everyone in the room, reached out to Jem, hoping to find a connection within his mind. Listen to me Jem, Lisa said. You were born with the gift to heal. Use the bond you once had with Tessa. All you have to do is take her hand.   
            Lisa knew she was out of time as a light sheltered her from above, surrounding her with something she’d almost forgotten after all these years: Unbridled love. Trapped inside a body she wasn’t born with, but instead transformed by pure evil, she was finally set free and upward she flew.   
            Hearing the soft voice in his head, Jem immediately recognized it as Tessa’s mother. After he had placed the baby in the incubator, he moved next to Jace and said, “I can save her.”
            With a weary expression, Jace looked at Jem and stepped back, disentangling his fingers from Tessa’s.
            As Jem brought his hand forward, he imagined himself surrounded by comforting thoughts. With their hands joined, Jem’s connection to Tessa was warm and loving. Closing his eyes, he narrowed his focus to nothing but her. Jem blocked out everyone in the room—the voice’s of Helen and Cassie as they traded clinical terms, and his brother, who loomed over Tessa.
            There was only the faintest sign of life, and Jem knew that indeed, it was nearly too late to save Tessa. Concentrating on healing her, he drew on the strength of their Breedline bond they’d briefly once shared long ago.
            Jem’s body suddenly began to shimmer like a million diamonds, casting over Tessa, covering her with a fluorescent glow.      
            He released her hand and whispered into the innermost part of her mind. Open your eyes, Tessa.   
            The soft sound of Jem’s voice inside her head roused her to consciousness. Through narrow slits, Jem’s blue eyes had been the first thing that came into Tessa’s view.    
            Jace had been in agony as he quickly moved to her side, but slowly his pain lifted when he saw her face. Tessa no longer looked as if death was winning the battle.
            Panic leaped into Tessa’s throat, fearing the worst. Her breath caught as she opened her mouth to speak. “Are the babies okay?”  
            “Thank God,” Jace blurted, grasping her hand. “Yes, baby. They’re just fine. I thought I’d lost you.”  
            “Me, too,” she whispered.
            Jace lowered the baby next to her. “I’ve got someone here who wants to meet you. He’s our first born, honey.”
            Tessa looked at her baby for the first time and smoothed her hand over his blond hair. The instant her touch fell upon him, he turned his head and cooed.
            “Hello, sweetheart,” Tessa whispered to the baby. Shifting her eyes, she looked up at Jem and said, “Thank you.”
            Jem merely smiled. “Tessa,” he hesitated for a moment, “your mother’s spirit was here. She helped me save you.”
            Tessa reached out and put her hand on his. “She’s gone, isn’t she?”
            He nodded. “Your mother will always be with you, Tessa.” He squeezed her hand. “She’ll always be in your heart.”   
            “Sorry to interrupt,” Helen said. “I just want to do a quick check on your vitals, Tessa.” Linking her stethoscope around her neck, Helen looked at Jem moments later. “Whatever you did, you completely healed her. The bleeding has stopped.”
            Tessa raised her head, her face expressing concern. “Where’s baby Jax?”
            When Cassie rolled the incubator over, Tessa’s expression eased and her eyes watered as she looked into his big blue eyes. The same beautiful blue as his father. “Hello, my sweetheart,” Tessa murmured.
            Jace leaned over and placed his lips to Tessa’s. “I love you, Tessa.”
            “I love you, more.”          
            As Helen went over to the door, she paused and looked at Tessa. “Your father is probably riddled with worry, Tessa. I’m going to tell him and everyone else waiting outside that you and the twins are just fine.”
            Tessa nodded. “Thank you, Helen.”
            Before Helen stepped out, Tessa said, “Wait. Will you tell my father I would like to see him? He needs to know,” she paused and took a deep breath, “about my mother.”
            “Yes, of course.”
            A few moments later, Kenneth came in and shut the door behind him. As he looked at Tessa, his entire body sagged in relief. Struggling to keep his emotions in, he quickly lost the fight as tears spilled down his face.
            “Thank God.” Kenneth’s voice trembled.  
            As Kenneth came up to Tessa, he leaned down and gathered her into his arms, hugging her tenderly. “You scared the wits out of us all, honey.”
            “I’m okay, Dad,” she said, a smile in her voice. At that moment she decided to wait to tell her father the news about her mother. “Would you like to meet your grandchildren?”
            “Yes,” he said, swallowing back tears, “absolutely.”
            When Kenneth pulled from their embrace, he glanced up to see Jace with a tiny bundle cradled against his chest.
            “Meet our first born son... Jem,” Jace said as he gently placed his son in Kenneth’s arms.
            Kenneth looked into the eyes of his grandson and said, “Hello, Jem. I’m your grandpa, and I’m going to spoil you rotten.”
            Cassie moved next to Kenneth. “This is his little brother, Jax,” she said. “He was born four minutes after his big brother.”
            “He’s so tiny,” Kenneth said as he exchanged babies with Cassie. “Well, well... hello little Jax. I’m your grandpa, and I’m going to spoil you, too.”
            The baby blinked a couple of times trying to focus on Kenneth’s voice. When he finally managed to open his eyes, his mouth formed a little smile as if he knew he was in loving arms.
            “He smiled,” Kenneth murmured.
            Jace chuckled. “You know what they say when a baby smiles, don’t you?”
            “He’s happy?” Kenneth queried.
            Jace grinned with a cocked brow. “Rule number one... whoever’s holding the baby when he poops has to change him.”
            Tessa frowned. “Jace.”
            Jace shrugged his shoulders. “Well, I’m just saying.”     
            “Can we come in?”
            Tessa glanced up to see Angel peeking inside the doorway. Just behind her were Celina, Mia, Jackson, and Alexander. Tessa smiled and motioned them inside. Angel, who was holding onto Natalie’s hand, hurried in and quickly enfolded her in a gentle hug. Standing beside Angel, Celina held onto baby Arius. His eyes brightened when he saw Tessa. “Baa-bee,” he mumbled around his thumb.
            Celina whispered in his ear, “Now you have two more playmates.”
            “We were so worried about you,” Angel said as she pulled away from Tessa. “Thank God you’re all right.”
            “I’m just fine, Angel,” Tessa reassured. “Would you like to see the twins?”
            Angel’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Are you kidding me? I would love to.”
            As Angel and Celina moved closer to Cassie to get a look at the baby she was holding, Celina said, “Oh, he’s adorable. I can’t wait to have one of my own.”   
            With Tidus in her arms, Mia made her way over to Tessa. “Congratulations, Tessa. I’m so happy for you and Jace. I don’t think I’ve said it enough, but thank you. I can never repay you and Jace enough for your kindness. What you’ve done for Arius and Tidus... and Eve. I don’t know why—I can’t even comprehend it all—but I thank God you have such a loving and forgiving heart.”     
            “You’re more than welcome, Mia.” Tessa smiled. “But I may need a babysitter from time to time.”
            “All you have to do is ask. I’d be more than happy to help out.”
            Jackson stepped forward with Alexander following close behind and moved over to Jace. “Congratulations,” Jackson said as he put his hand on his shoulder. “I’m proud of you, Jace.”
            “Thanks, Uncle Jacks. You know we named our second born after you?”
            “That’s wonderful Jace,” he said gratefully. “Thank you.”
            “I think that name fits perfectly,” Alexander spoke out as he stood next to Jackson.        
            Jace looked delighted at that declaration. “Would you like to meet your grandsons?”
            Alexander grinned, simply absorbing the joy of becoming a grandfather. He was no longer held prisoner by the Chiang-shih demon, possessing his soul for all those years. He was moving into a future filled with happiness and a family. “I’d be honored... son.”
            As Tim, Drakon, Kyle, Casey, and Steven stepped quietly into the room, Jem looked dumbstruck. “How did you guys get here?”
            Jace was relieved to see them but was also surprised they’d arrived back at the Covenant so quickly. “Yeah,” Jace said confused. “How did you guys make it back so fast? It’s not like you traveled through a portal unless Jem has lightning speed I wasn’t aware of.”
            “It’s a long story.” Tim shrugged it off like it was nothing. “I’ll explain it to you later.”
            Now was not the time or the place to tell everyone that Sebastian had come back and surrendered himself over to them freely. Jace would flip out and lose control. They didn’t need the Beast revealing himself at this happy occasion. After everything settled down, he would explain the situation. Sebastian had brought them back to the Covenant using a portal and was now locked up in confinement, swearing he wouldn’t escape. Yeah, whatever, Tim thought. Sebastian’s word meant nothing, but at this point, he was willing to see where this went. Probably south, he thought, bringing a shit load of problems with it.  
            Jem looked at Tim suspiciously and shook his head but didn’t try to press the issue. His emotions were already all over the place.     
            “Whatever,” Jace muttered. “I’m just glad you made it back in one piece.”
            “Yeah, me too,” Drakon said, exhaling a deep breath. He shifted his gaze across the room toward his beloved Cassie who looked like a pro holding a baby. He couldn’t wait to have children with her someday. When she looked up at him, she smiled and silently mouthed, I love you.  
            I love you, too, Drakon mouthed soundlessly.
            Steven stared anxiously at Tessa, his eyes brimming with worry. She gave him a reassuring nod so he’d know that everything was all right.
            From across the room, Jace eyed Kyle and Casey, motioning them over.
            As they tip-toed past everyone, Jace stared at them, his blue eyes steely with resolve. “I don’t know if I ever thanked you two,” he said quietly. “Thank you for the risk you put yourself in for my family even though I was such a hard-ass on you guys.”
            A glimmer of a smile lit Casey’s face. “No problem. Congratulations, Jace.”
            Kyle slapped Jace on the back and muttered a low hooyah. “Yeah, congratulations, bro. I’m proud of you. But don’t think I’m gonna be changing poopy diapers anytime soon.”
            Jace rolled his eyes and held up his middle finger. “Don’t worry... your day is coming.”
            Tim patted Steven’s shoulder and whispered, “Tessa’s just fine, Steven.”
            When he hesitated, Drakon nudged him a little. “Go on,” he lightly chuckled. “Get your ass over there.”
            Steven moved toward the examination table Tessa was on as everyone hastily moved so he could have access to her. Without hesitation, he leaned down and hugged her. “I’m so glad your okay, Tessa.”
            She closed her eyes and clung to him fiercely. “Me, too.”
            “I’m sorry about our mother,” Steven’s voice was shaky. “I couldn’t... save her.”
            “Shhh,” she soothed. “It’s okay. She helped save me.”
            He pulled away. “But how?”
            “She helped Jem with his healing powers. He healed me.”
            The helplessness in his eyes made her feel empathy, and she hastened to ease his worry. “Would you like to meet our father?”
            Steven’s eyes flashed wide. “Y-yes,” he stammered. “Is he here in the Covenant?”
            She shifted her gaze and looked past Steven. “He’s standing right beside you.”
            Steven glanced over at a man standing next to him. He had salt-and-pepper hair and the brightest emerald green eyes. With his hand extended, he said, “Hello, son.”
            As Steven reached out to grasp his hand, Kenneth pulled him into a tight embrace, hugging him so tightly that Steven felt smothered. And it was the best feeling in the world.
            He pulled from Kenneth’s embrace and looked into his watery eyes. “Are you truly my father?”
            Kenneth nodded, tears slipping freely from his eyes. “Yes, son.”
            As Tessa watched father and son meet for the very first time, she looked up at Jace and said, “I love you.”
            Jace sat down next to Tessa and wrapped his arms around her. “I love you too, baby,” he said, his voice filled with so much love and devotion.
            Completely content, she snuggled more firmly into his embrace and let out a long sigh.
            As everyone took turns holding the twins, the room quieted when the sound of a knock came from outside the door. When it slowly opened, John and Sarah peeked in. “Is it all right if we come in?”
            Jace motioned them inside. “Come see your grandbabies.”
            John and Sarah’s smiles were instantaneous. She tugged at John’s arm, pulling him inside and whispered in a loud voice, “We have grandbabies!”
            Life had taught everyone in the Breedline Covenant that nothing worthwhile came easy, but everything was all the more rewarding for the sacrifices made.    

Coming soon... Sins of Chaos / A Novel of the Breedline series

 

Author Notes NOTE: This is not part of the chapter. A reference for terms and cast of characters, especially for new readers:

BREEDLINE - A species of humans that have the ability to change from human form into a wolf. They are not like the old legend of the Lycanthropy myth. Breedline species can shift into their wolf at will. The moon has no power over them. They do not pass their ability to other humans with a bite or scratch like the Lycanthropy myth.
The Breedline gene is passed down to offspring that are born identical twins. Although they live amongst humans, their species must be kept secret.
In wolf form, they have super strength, speed, and heightened senses. Compared to humans, Breedlines have tremendous advantages when it comes to health. Their bodies heal fast and are not subject to illnesses or diseases. The only thing that slows their healing process is silver. It is their kryptonite. Besides old age, a silver bullet to the brain is the only thing deadly to the species. All males change into their wolf at the age of eighteen. Females do not go through the change until they make love to their Breedline bonded mate.

BREEDLINE TWINS - Identical twins that are born from either one or both parents of the Breedline species. They have a strong, unbreakable bond from birth, are born with telepathic abilities, and have the power to sense the other's emotions or injuries. In some cases, the bond between twins are so strong that if one dies, the other twin may pass on, especially if they don't have a mate.

BREEDLINE BONDING - The male Breedline spends their life in search of their bonded mate. When the male comes in contact with her, he instantly feels a simultaneous, desirable attraction and she becomes the most important thing in his life. He is there to love, protect, and cherish her until death. Once they are mated, they bond for life. It is possible for them to have more than one mate in their lifespan.

BELOVED - A word used by a Breedline to express the bond to their mate.

DOUBLE BONDED - In some cases, male Breedline twins bond with the same female but one will carry a stronger bond. Usually one of them must sacrifice for the other twin.

BREEDLINE COVENANT - The Breedline species must live within the boundaries of a Covenant, which is only formed with their species. The Covenant is governed and ruled by a head council. The council keeps their laws in order and oversees the species population.

THE BREEDLINE QUEEN - Over centuries the Breedline Covenant is ruled by a true queen. If there is no queen living, the Covenants are governed by an appointed head council until another one is born. A Breedline queen is born once every one hundred years. Her massive stature, black fur, and red eyes are the queen's trademarks. Her alpha wolf has twice the strength, speed, and size of any Breedline. The queen is expected to rule over all the Breedline Covenants where she will be respected and obeyed by all Breedline. This is their absolute True Law.

THE QUEENS RING - This ring has been passed down to all Breedline queens for generations. When the new queen places the ring on, it instantly shifts in size to fit her finger.

TRUE LAW - All Breedline Covenants have an ancient book of laws. If either sex disobeys the Breedline laws, they can be shunned, or no longer protected by their Covenant. If a Breedline takes another life out of revenge, or evil - other than protecting their life and the life of another - they will never have the ability to shift back human and will be cast out as a rogue wolf.

ROGUE WOLF - A Breedline shunned by their Covenant for taking another life out of revenge or evil and forced to live as a wolf until death without the ability to change human again. Some rogue wolves form into packs, which can be dangerous for other Breedline species.

RED (BLOOD) MOON - When the full moon passes through the amber shadow of the earth, producing a midnight eclipse visible across North America. So begins a lunar eclipse tetrad, a series of four consecutive total eclipses occurring at approximately six-month intervals. This incredible light beams into the heart of earth's shadow, filling it with a coppery glow and transforming the moon into a great red orb. During this time, all Breedline species that are mated have a strong desire to create offspring. This is also a time when Breedline females are more fertile for the conception of twins.

CHIANG-SHIH DEMON (Kiang shi, a.k.a Ramael Arminius) - An ancient demon that inhabits the body of a Breedline fetus before it's born, or during a Breedline's death. It continues to take the soul over the natural lifespan of the child, or the deceased Breedline. When the demon possesses a fetus, it breaks the bonding and telepathic abilities of their twin when they are born. If the demon possesses a deceased Breedline's body, it must do so before the soul passes on. If the soul is not intact, the body will soon die.
In most cases, the Chiang-shih demon will take the life of the other twin, even before their birth. The twin that is born with the demon will bring only evil to whomever they encounter. Their sole purpose is to gain full control of another soul and seek world domination.

There are two ways the demon is cast from the soul it possesses: by its firstborn son, and by the Angel of Mercy, Zadkiel. The Beast is the only one who can kill a Chiang-shih demon.

THE BEAST - He is the second born son of the Chiang-shih demon. When provoked into a rage, he will shift into his Beast instead of his Breedline wolf. The Beast is an enormous, dangerous two-footed creature that has wolf-like features. One bite has enough venom to kill the Chiang-shih demon and leave the soul of the person the demon possessed unharmed.

SHADOW WALKER (a.k.a Shadow Figure, or Black Mass) - The perception of a patch of shadow as a living, humanoid figure, particularly interpreted by the Breedline as the presence of a malevolent entity. When a Breedline species dies and does not pass on to the other side, they are left to roam the earth as a shadow of themselves - a ghost. They will not pass on until they have settled unfinished business before their death.

ZADKIEL (Tzadqiel, a.k.a "Righteousness of God") - The Archangel of freedom, benevolence, and mercy, and the Patron Angel of all who forgive. Breedline species tradition considers him to be the Angel of Mercy.

SUCCUBUS (a.k.a CREEPERS) - Creatures that search for, and feeds off the blood of the Breedline species. Creepers are skilled at extreme sexual pleasure, and the ecstasy they create is exceedingly intense and highly addictive. They cast off a scent that hypnotizes Breedlines into overwhelming sexual urges. They use their human-like bodies and beautiful features to control and influence their thoughts.
They have the ability to reach into the Breedline's mind during sleep, casting a spell of dreams about sexual contact, or intercourse. And one much less obvious manifestation of Creepers is nightmares - realistic, graphic, terrifying nightmares that rob the Breedline of sleep. Over a period, it can lead to severe fatigue and depression, leaving them emotionally and spiritually drained. Death can occur if they completely take over the Breedline's body.

HALF-BREED - This species is born with the genes from both Breedline and succubus. They can bond with either a full-blood Breedline or another half-breed. They do not have the ability to change into the Breedline wolf, but they do need blood from them to survive. With the power to hypnotize, most Breedlines have minimal respect and credence toward the half-breed species.

WICCA (or Wise One) - According to the Breedline species, a Wicca is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy. A Wicca is also considered to be a demonic spirit. It is unclear to the Breedline if they act under the orders of the devil, or they are simply not understood and treated as outcasts. They have the ability to do white magic (good) or dark (evil).

GUARDIANS (a.k.a Spirits of the Forest) - They originated during the Middle Ages with the purpose of protecting all creatures, especially the Breedline, from the destruction of any creation made by a dark Wicca. They have the ability to stay invisible with the power to move through any barrier and over any distance instantly.

THERIOMORPH - This species is born with the genes of a Breedline, but do not have the ability to change into a Breedline wolf. They shape shift into an enormous black panther. They possess powers of mind manipulation and random visions of the future. They must use the drug dopamine to suppress their urges. Their eye color shifts into a glowing lavender when their Theriomorph nature takes over. The Breedline see them as a threat to their species.

Jace Chamberlain (a.k.a The Beast) - He is a Breedline species who later discovers that his birth father, who is possessed by the Chiang-shih demon, murdered his mother when he and his twin brother were four years old. Raised by their new foster family and their uncle Jacks, he later discovers he was born with a curse of the Beast. With the help of his twin brother Jem, and his bonded mate Tessa, they help him cope with his rage to keep the Beast at bay. He's an IT engineer and is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar in the band Chaos.

Jem Chamberlain (a.k.a The Chosen Son) - He is a Breedline species and Jace's twin brother. He carries the gene of the Chiang-shih demon that gives him the power to create a portal, and a force of electric energy used as a weapon and other powers he discovers later. His bonded mate is Mia Blackwood, and he's an IT engineer and the drummer in the band Chaos.

Tessa Fairchild - (a.k.a The Breedline Queen) - She was born into the human world and later discovers she's a Breedline. Abandoned by her parents, she was raised by her aunt and uncle without the knowledge of being born a twin. After she meets Jace, they become bonded mates. During her first change into her Breedline wolf, she is the new Breedline queen. She is an inspiring artist.

Mia Blackwood - She is a half-breed and Jem's bonded mate. Abandoned at birth and raised in human foster care, she later finds her twin sister, Eve.

EVE - She is a half-breed and Sebastian's bonded mate. Growing up in human foster care, she spent her entire childhood abused until Sebastian saves her. Scorned from her past, she lashes out in anger, living a life of crime later to discover her twin sister, Mia Blackwood. After realizing the Chiang-shih demon possesses Sebastian, Eve clings to the past in hopes of reuniting with her beloved. Now that Sebastian is finally free of the demon, she has trust issues, worried he has an alternative plan for their sons.

Sebastian Crow - He is a half-breed, and Eve's bonded mate. After he had been killed by Jace in self- defense, he was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon after the Angel of Mercy cast him out of Alexander's body. As he tried to portray Sebastian's life, Eve finally figured out his secret. Keeping her captive only to survive on her blood, he later develops feelings for her. The demon creates a death army, determined to dominate the world and unleash his wrath among humans and the Breedline. Now free from the demon, he is determined to reunite with his beloved Eve who is kept prisoner by the Breedline Covenant awaiting trial for her past crimes against them.

Alexander Crest - He is a Breedline who was possessed by the Chiang-shih demon before birth. Murdering his family, Alexander kidnapped his twin's bonded mate, Katlyn Gray. Keeping her prisoner against her will, she becomes pregnant with his twins. As she managed to escape before she gave birth, Alexander eventually kills her in a fit of rage. Returning for his chosen son twenty-two years later, he is determined to convince him to join his army. After the battle between the Breedline, the demon is finally cast out of Alexander setting his soul free. For the demon's past crimes, Alexander is pardoned and must reside in the Breedline Covenant. Praying for forgiveness, he reunites with his twin sons, Jace and Jem. As he fights to keep his new family safe, romance blossoms with Dr. Helen Carrington.

Tim Ross - He is a Breedline species and head council of the California Covenant. Angel, his bonded mate - who is a half-breed - has Tim's daughter they named Natalie, after her sister.

Angel - She is a half-breed and Tim's bonded mate.

Natalie - She is a half-breed and Tim and Angel's daughter.

Kyle Jones - He is a Breedline species that resides in the California Covenant. Having lost his family to a house fire at childhood, his uncle Tim Ross has raised him since. Celina Baldolf is his bonded mate. He's a mechanic and also Jace and Jem's close friend, and plays bass in the rock band Chaos.

Casey Barton - He was born of the Breedline species, and lives in the California Covenant. He was adopted by Tim Ross's brother and carries a deep dark secret, afraid to reveal to the Breedline. He is a clothing model and plays backup bass and keyboards in the band Chaos.

Dr. Helen Carrington - She is a Breedline species and a physician at the California Bates hospital for both Breedlines and humans. Later, she discovers Jace and Jem carry a gene, possibly used for a cure to stop the aging process in her species. After Alexander's demon is banished, he is pardoned for all past crimes and welcomed into the Breedline Covenant. When he meets Helen, they become bonded mates.

Drakon Hexus - He is a Breedline species. At a young age, his first bonded mate was killed by her father. In a rage, he hunts and kills her murderer, breaking the Breedline's True Law. Shunned by his Covenant and forced to live as a rogue wolf, he's promised his humanity back if he joins the Chiang-shih demon's army. After Drakon discovers the demon's plans to destroy all humans and half-breeds, he betrays him and joins forces with the Breedline. As time passes, he bonds with another mate, Cassie Chamberlain.

Samuel Mercier - He is a Breedline and a council member from France that has secretly turned against his own Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon. He and his other Breedline traitors go into hiding after the Breedline destroy the demon, desperate to seek revenge against the Covenant.

Fredrick Mercier - He is a Breedline and Samuel Mercier's identical twin. Also, he's a council member from France that has secretly turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Corbin Azzo - He is a Breedline and a council member that has turned against the Covenant to help the Chiang-shih demon.

Steven Pasquale (a.k.a Steven Craven) - He inherited the genes of a Breedline and an Adalwolf. He was taken from his mother and forced to endure a life of endless, painful experiments by a German physician's, Dr. Hans Autenburg and Dr. Hubert Crane. Without the knowledge of his real family, Steven finally manages to escape his captors, locating his biological parents and fraternal twin, Tessa Fairchild.

Lisa Wellington (a.k.a Lilith) - She is a Breedline with the gift to heal. After she becomes pregnant with twins, she mysteriously disappears. Taken against her will by Dr. Hans Autenburg, she is forced to endure a life of torture. After years of experiments, her human form is altered into a creature that goes against the laws of nature. With her memory completely erased, Lisa is transformed into Lilith. Her bonded mate, Kenneth Craven desperately searches for Lisa for years. But when their telepathic connection is severed he losses all hope of locating her and his unborn twins.


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