Revelations

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE : REVELATIONS

…Chocolate brown eyes met hers. “Hey, beautiful.” His hand came up and cupped her other breast. She shivered at the feel of his rough fingers. “Mmm…what is this?” “A dream, nothing more than a dream.” “I like this dream. Need to have them more often.” His laughter hummed across her erect nipple. Streaks of fire flashed down to her clitoris. Rough fingers traced the fiery path. “Bolt…” “Almost there, baby.” He moved up, his chest hair scraping against her breasts. Her breath shuddered out and she licked her lips. She dragged her nails down his side and around to his front. Hot, erect male flesh filled her palm. Desire roughened her voice. “You know, some things need a gentle hand.” She squeezed. He groaned and closed his eyes. When he opened them again, they were filled with a heat that seared. “When I put my mind to it, Ming vases are safe in my hands. And you’re constantly on my mind.” Lowering his head, his lips took control of hers. Fingers brushed where she needed them most. “More. Give me more.” “I thought you wanted it gentle and easy.” “I want you.” His tongue speared into her mouth in concert with the fingers that entered her soaked vagina. Their tongues dueled for supremacy. Both lost. And won…

ALSO BY KELLY MAHER Family Jewels

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE :

REVELATIONS BY KELLY MAHER

AMBER Q UILL PRESS, LLC http://www.amberquill.com

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: R EVELATIONS AN AMBER HEAT BOOK This book is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or have been used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, locales, or events is entirely coincidental. Amber Quill Press, LLC http://www.amberquill.com All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher, with the exception of brief excerpts used for the purposes of review. Copyright © 2006 by Kelly Maher ISBN-10 1-59279-624-9 ISBN-13 978-1-59279-624-3 Cover Art © 2006 Trace Edward Zaber

Layout and Formatting provided by: ElementalAlchemy.com

PUBLISHED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

To Mom and Dad for encouraging my imagination to grow. Thanks for reading all those comics with me, Dad!

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

CHAPTER 1 Quiet desperation gripped her throat, cutting off oxygen. Rage beat in time with her heart. In the cool garden at the center of her mind, Vie built a wall of crystal brick, allowing her to focus on the rainy road ahead of her. “Have you connected?” The chocolate-velvet voice drifted into her ear. “Yes.” “Can you hone in to her location?” “You know I’m not clairvoyant, Night.” “Impressions, Vie. Remember your training.” Vie blew out her breath, taking one brick down at a time. Sensations washed over her. Her cycle wavered only a moment as she absorbed the impact. Forcing air in and out of her lungs, she channeled the sensations into her mental garden pool. Separating out the fear and the rage, she focused in on the woman’s 1

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

memories, trying to pick out what brought her to this place. Fetid. Decrepit. Revulsion. Sickness. Determination. “Who is this woman?” Vie weaved in and out of traffic. “A social worker. Supposedly going after a kid the courts had deemed in harm’s way by staying with his parents.” “Goddamned hero. Who’s got her?” “Unknown. She’d been accompanied by a pair of street officers. Their story is that they were knocking on the door of the hovel the kid lived in and next thing they know, they’re riding uptown in the back of a garbage truck.” “Injuries?” “To the backs of their heads.” “Of course.” Vie took down a few more bricks. Violet-tinged crimson rushed in. Pain. So much of it. Not going to give in. She ground her teeth, letting the wind whipping around her carry the shared hurt off. The inner garden had to remain light if she were to succeed. “She’s hurt.” “I know. Focus, Vie. The sonar visualization.” Glancing around, Vie spotted an alley. She slowed the cycle and turned in. This part of town was unlikely to have any baddies hovering in the dark corners, but it never paid to be unprepared. As she lowered her foot to pop the kickstand, she pulled her dagger from the sheath in her boot. Letting the cycle settle into a stand, she pulled off her helmet. Dark bangs settled into her eyes. “Vie?” She readjusted the earpiece. “I’m here. I haven’t practiced sonar while driving and I’m not about to start now.” “Do you want me to walk you in?” “No. I’m not helpless.” Never helpless. Splitting her consciousness, she set her outer self to guard. Taking a 2

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

deep breath, she let her inner self fly. Fear scratched at the edges of her consciousness. Opening her inner vision, she could see tendrils of threads, the same color as the wave of pain that had flowed into the garden. They battered against the crystal bricks, looking for cracks. Vie understood that they would at once be her link to the woman and be her undoing. Taking one last moment, she dipped her hand into the cool water of the pool at the center of the garden. Peace. Purity. Protection. They flowed through her at the contact. She stood and reached over the brick wall, grasping the closest thread. Pain flowed through her nerve endings, but muted. As if she had been given a dose of Novocain. The tendril curled around her wrist, trapping her within its grip. Vie forced herself not to fight it and let its flow take her. To the woman. Space and time rushed by her, blurring the edges of reality. Opening her eyes, she saw a dark cave. No. Not a cave, an empty building. She blinked, not sure if it was just the manifestation of the woman’s feelings or if it was truly where she was being held. Unusual formations looked like the stalactites and stalagmites of an underground world. Probably underground to society if not the earth. The crimson flow now surrounded her. Consuming. She held up her hand, trying to ward it off long enough to sense if there were others with the woman. In the distance, she detected another. This one emanated fear. Not as sharp as the woman’s, but just as deep. Vie couldn’t tell if it was a man or woman, but she would guess a man. The underlying taste of sheer bravado to the fear was rarely present in a woman’s psyche. Vie focused on the other, trying to pick out something more substantial. All she could find beyond that fear and bravado was blankness. A sociopath. She was surprised she was able to feel anything from him. Which scared her even more. 3

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

The crimson tide washed over her, trying to drown her. She looked down and saw tendrils similar to the one that held her arm within its grasp now wound their way up her legs. She tried to reach for them to rip away. But while they shrank away from her hand, they didn’t release, and she couldn’t reach down far enough to actually touch them. Thrashing about wouldn’t help. She needed to think. Plan. Slowly, she tried to slip free of the emotional shackle around her arm, but it only tightened further. Fuck. She needed help. Night was going to laugh himself silly over this. A silver ribbon lashed itself around her free arm. Strength infused her and she automatically refracted and reflected. The crimson sea receded. Clasping the lifeline, she closed her eyes as reality bent once more and she was pulled back into herself. The garden welcomed her back into its guarded shelter. Opening her eyes, she saw chiseled granite features with hard, dark eyes before she collapsed. *

*

*

Bolt caught her before she slipped unconscious to the ground. Damn stupid woman. Night had relayed her coordinates to him, and she was fucking lucky he got here when he did. He’d known she was in that area only she could go when she didn’t flick an eyelash when he stopped his bike millimeters from where she stood, dagger drawn. Night had relayed that it had been over five minutes since her last contact. Not even in the lab had she been in a state of stasis for so long without an anchor. He slapped her cheeks. “Vie. Wake up. Tell me what you saw. VIE!” Her eyelids fluttered, but she remained a limp mess. Scanning the area, he spotted a likely entrance. He hoisted her body over his shoulder. 4

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

He pressed the communication unit in his ear. “Night?” “Yes? Have you got her?” “Yeah. She’s passed out though. I’ll take care of it and find out what she knows. When I’ve got answers, I’ll contact you.” “Do that.” “Bolt out.” He ripped the unit off and stuffed it into his gear belt. Crossing the street, he descended stairs to the basement entrance. His fist nearly went through the flimsy door as he pounded on it. It opened to a wizened old lady. She narrowed her eyes at him. They flicked once to his burden. “What do you want? I don’t run a medi-center.” “You got a room?” “One hundred fifty credits for one hour. Two hundred if you want a shower after. Five hundred if you want a playmate.” Bolt glared at the woman. “Just the room.” She held out her hand. He nearly took her head off. He didn’t have time for this shit, but he needed Vie responding. Digging into his gear belt, he shoved what credits he had into the woman’s hand. “That’s what I got. If it ain’t enough, I’ll square up with you later. The room. Now.” The woman blinked, but handed over a key. “Thirteen. Top of the stairs, third door on your left.” Bolt grunted and shifted Vie’s body. She was going to wake up pissed, but she was going to wake up. As he passed rooms, he could hear the moans, groans, and in some cases screams, of the hos and johns behind the doors. One asshole stumbled out of the room as he was stuffing his limp dick back into his pants. He tripped over his feet into Bolt. “Watch it, dickhead.” Bolt kept his hands on Vie so not to crush the dumb fuck’s skull. The man smiled the goofiest grin at him and 5

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

continued on down the hall, hitting the wall every few feet. Probably fucking high. He slipped the key into the slot and waited for the passlight to turn green. By the time it finally did, he was half a heartbeat away from kicking it in. Opening the door, he slipped in and locked it behind him. The room was dingy, but clean. For the most part. He laid Vie down onto the pallet and stripped her. He forced himself to look at her objectively, clinically. Steady pulse. Good color. Creamy skin the color of pale caramel. No bruising. Visible anyway. Her dark hair was still in the complex knot that she wore when on a mission. Hair a shade and a half lighter covered her pussy. Her nipples were bronze and capped breasts that would comfortably fit into his hands and his mouth. He gritted his teeth. Yeah, she was going to wake up spitting nails. Too bad for him. Testing had found sexual stimulation to be the most effective way of freeing her from this psychic chrysalis. He was only doing what he had to do. Pulling off his gloves he set them to the side. Lying down next to her, he brushed her hair away from her face. “Vie, can you hear me? You better wake up now if you don’t want me waking you up.” No response. He sighed. No going back now. He cupped her face and kissed her. Her lips were petal soft, but unresponsive. Moving on to her face, he kissed her closed eyelids as he traced his fingers down to her breasts. Her skin was even softer there. He bit the inside of his cheek and rested his forehead against hers before continuing. Thumbing a nipple, he felt the tightening of her skin. His dick twitched in concert. Nuzzling her neck, he inhaled her scent. Something sweet, flowery, and completely woman. He nipped her skin. Marking her. She may not remember this, but she was his. He’d waited long enough. Moving down to her breast, he mouthed her nipple. It came erect in 6

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

his mouth. Curling his tongue around it, he sucked. A faint moan echoed in the room. He raised his head. Other than a faint redness now coloring her skin, there was no change in her that he could detect. He bent and took her other nipple into his mouth, repeating his attentions. The moan was stronger this time, but still faint. Stroking his hand down her body, he searched for her center. She was damp. He hissed. He cupped her curls, fingers searching for her clit. “Come on, Vie. Wake up. I know you’re in there. Come out and play.” He scraped his teeth down her tight abs. He felt the drag of her skin against his cock through his pants. God, he’d waited so long for this, and she was fucking unconscious. The red tinge to her skin was darker now. He pushed her legs apart and settled in. Draping one of her legs over his shoulder, he parted her lips. Moisture gleamed on them. She wasn’t near wet enough for what he wanted to do to her. He’d have to wait for that, but he was going to feast on her. He licked the length of her. Flavor, her flavor, exploded in his brain. Like her scent, sweet, almost flowery and all woman. He groaned. Not since he’d been a whelp had he been this close to coming in his shorts. One taste of her and he was ready to come. He massaged her hip and speared his tongue into her. Her body closed in on him, drawing him in farther. He stroked, reaching as far as he could. Short gasps teased his ears. Dragging his head up, he settled his mouth on her erect clit. Like her nipples, he coaxed it into his mouth with his tongue and sucked. The gasps turned into moans. One finger, two, entered her. Her inner muscles clamped down on him and he groaned. God, she was so fucking tight. And strong. He flattened his tongue 7

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

and flicked at her clit. Looking up her body, he saw the muscles of her abdomen fluttering and could feel the corresponding inner movement on his fingers. His cock was as hard as steel. Pushing away the urgency pounding at him, he returned to her clit. He sucked, flicked, teased, worshipped. Groans and gasps now filled the room. He crooked his fingers and dragged them against her inner muscles, searching for that patch of spongy skin he knew would throw her into orgasm. She cried out now. Looking up, he saw her chest up, head thrown back. He moaned against her. Screaming, she convulsed. *

*

*

Vie wept. Sensations flooded through her. Not wholly her own. Dark lust. Satiation. Ownership. Tenderness. She fought to open her eyes. Her muscles protested. Heaviness weighed down each fiber of her body. “Come on, Vie, baby. Almost there.” Her fingers twitched. “What?” Rough hands rubbed her body down. Her naked body. That realization gave her the needed push into near full consciousness. The bastard. “What the hell just happened?” Was that low rasp her voice? “I woke you up. End of story. Where is she?” Mangled images of towers of cartons, a shadow hidden deep in shadows, and pain, bright hot pain, coursed through her head. “I don’t know. I could barely connect to her through the pain.” Bolt’s face firmed into granite. “What the hell were you thinking going in without an anchor?” “Move the hell away and let me get dressed.” She glared at him. “I was following orders, you simian idiot.” 8

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“Honey, a rhesus monkey has more sense than you do.” He stood and backed away. She scrambled to her feet as fast as her weakened body would allow. Scanning the room, she saw her clothes scattered on the floor. She shoved her feet into her pant legs and pulled them up, fastening the closure. The stupid ape was just standing there, a smirk in his eyes. A sound beating in the gym would take care of that. “Have you heard from Night?” He crossed his muscled arms across his equally muscled chest. “No. I was waiting to contact him again after I’d woken you.” He pointed to the floor. Next to her boots sat two comm units. “You haven’t been in touch with the others?” “I didn’t think you’d want them hearing you come.” She inhaled and hissed. “You ultimate fucking bastard.” Giving him credit, he didn’t attempt to come near her. “I needed you awake. You weren’t responding to any other stimuli and, as we both know, sexual release is one of the ultimate forms. I had nothing to lose.” “I will kill you the first chance I get.” He actually had the gall, the utter gall, to laugh. “Sweetheart, you can certainly try.” She slipped into her top and pulled her boots on. Tossing his unit to him, she plugged hers into her ear. “Night?” “Vie. Are things well with you?” “Yes.” She glared at Bolt once more. “I was not able to fix her location, but I believe she’s in a warehouse. I don’t think she’s met the person behind her kidnapping, but the guard I sensed was a sociopath who feared.” Silence echoed from the other end of her link. She met Bolt’s gaze. His face was a study in concentrated resolve. 9

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“That is not good.” “No.” “I’m going to have Mercury run likely bolt holes. I would have sworn that we had routed out all of them, but cockroaches never completely die.” Vie met Bolt’s gaze. They both nodded. “Sir?” “Yes?” “If it is him, we both know that I’ll know. Bolt can drive me around until we locate his general area.” “No. If you can sense him, he can sense you, too. I cannot risk that at this stage. We need to confirm that it’s him first. Once we do that, we can prepare. Vie, do not disobey me in this.” Her inner pool threatened to erupt into a geyser, but she throttled back her natural response. “Yes sir.” She flipped back her communication link and pulled on her gloves. “Where did you leave the bikes?” “Across the street in the alley. Couldn’t quite figure out how to move them and you at the same time.” “Funny.” She turned on her heel and stalked out the door, ignoring the dregs of humanity that littered the hallway. Their pain and despair licked at the edges of her mental wall. She couldn’t save them. She never could. “Got her up, didja?” Vie saw a woman with many years of hard living behind her at the bottom of the stairs. Crimped curls poufed out at odd angles. “I did.” The guttural voice sank deep into her psyche, wrapping her in warmth. She hissed out her breath, fighting the sensation. Complications she did not need came with the warmth. She brushed past the woman, and brushed away the resignation that washed over her at the contact. 10

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Some people just didn’t want to be saved. Bolt reached around her and opened the door before she could barge through. He took point as they emerged into the cool night air. Cleansing freshness beckoned to her. She took a deep breath. Flames licked through her system and rough fingers cupped her elbow. “Come on. We need to move.” She nodded. Tapping into his strength, she used it to bolster her own and scanned the street. Other than the bursts of ecstasy that emanated from the apartments behind them, there was little emotional activity on the street. Suspecting her foe, she searched for pockets of blankness. There were none. She was safe for now. Bolt hurried them across the street to where her bike sat hidden in the shadows next to his. She wheeled it out of the alley and into the street. Swinging her leg over the saddle, she took comfort in the solid presence of it between her legs. She pushed away the brief wish for a more male presence in its place. It would do no good. She looked over and saw the smirk on Bolt’s face. “What?” The smirk turned into a full out grin. “Nothing.” Vie revved her engine. “Let’s ride.” She made to turn right, but Bolt was there before her. “Ah-ah. You heard the boss man. We’re heading straight back to headquarters.” She gritted her teeth. There was no way she’d be able to outride and lose him. He somehow was always on her back when she least wanted him there. “Fine. Try to keep up.” Vie shook off the sensation of comforting arms circling her as they rode off. She wouldn’t be able to count on them if Chaos was really back.

11

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

CHAPTER 2 Bolt intertwined his fingers behind his head and leaned back in his chair. Boss man sat at the head of the table, the remote in his hand pointed at the holoscreen at the center of the table. The face filling the screen could be called angelic. Blond-nearlywhite hair cropped close, but with a hint of wave to it, crystal blue eyes, and a blindingly white smile combined for one hell of an example of angelic presence on earth. Few could see past the shell through to the rotted core. His gaze fell on his compatriot across the way. She could. A sneer crossed her face. Vie’d never been able to hide her reaction to Chaos. The man had once attempted to join them. Vie had been away on a mission, otherwise he wouldn’t have gotten as far as he did. Bolt knew that Chaos had vowed Vie’s destruction. They’d all thought his apparent death was her salvation. Night’s first law of survival: there is no such thing as a sure thing. 12

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Even when you witnessed your mortal enemy set off explosions in the middle of a warehouse of chemicals so flammable that only a fine dust was left when the fires died out. “I haven’t been able to find out if he’s resurrected his network. If he has, he’s using completely new personnel. All of his previous agents are either dead, some questionably in the recent past, or are employed in other organizations. Most likely out of his reach for the moment.” Bolt settled farther back in his chair. “But why swipe the sosh? What the hell does she have to do with anything?” “Me.” He saw her knuckles whiten and wished he could reach over and cover them. She’d just yank her hand away. “Huh?” She scowled at him. “You can be a little too dense at times, Bolt.” He let the side of his mouth curl up. “Why don’t you just explain it in terms that I can understand, Doctor Vie.” “One of these days, they’re going to let me at your records and explain how in the hell you got in with your limited intelligence.” He’d have to dust off that diploma of his. Which she’d probably send to an independent document examiner to verify. “You can examine me any time you want to, babe.” “I meant that he knew I would be sent in to attempt to connect with her. The woman was bait to him. Nothing more.” She sniffed and turned to the boss man, whose face was blank. “Are you two done?” Bolt sobered. “Yes, sir.” The holo-image rotated. Night stood and circled the table. “We’re not even sure if he still looks like this. What I do know is that we cannot let him connect with Vie in any way until we’re ready. Bolt, I’m counting on you to protect her.” “Night!” Vie sprang out of her seat. “If you feel the need to assign someone, assign anyone but him.” 13

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Bolt felt his temper prick, but as happened sometimes when he was near her, the sensation was distant. It still amazed him that she shielded him. He’d never told anyone about it, preferring to keep it his little secret. As far as he knew, her empath abilities just meant that she felt whatever her subject felt; she didn’t absorb the feelings. But, there was no other way he could describe the sensation. And it didn’t happen every time, only when whatever he was feeling threatened to fracture his focus. “I would appreciate it if you didn’t go off into LaLa Land every ten seconds.” Bolt blinked, narrowing his gaze. “Sorry, Doc. I thought my presence wasn’t needed in your opinion.” He had the sudden vision of him jumping out of the way of daggers. If there was ever a woman who could make a figure of speech reality, it was her. “Bolt, I’d like for you and Vie to stay here for the duration.” Night moved to the console that lined one wall of the war room. “What about my patrol?” “It’s been reassigned. Your only job right now is to care for her.” Bolt nodded. There was no other appropriate response. Night turned to Vie. “You, my dear, will keep your appointments that have been scheduled for this location. I’ll have Mercury make arrangements for the others.” He leaned back against the console, hands on either side of his hips. “If you at any point feel his presence, you are to tell Bolt immediately. We do not have the luxury of the two of you playing power games. Do you understand me?” Her pretty mouth tightened at the edges. “Yes sir.” She crossed her arms under her breasts, plumping them up. Bolt scooted his chair a little farther under the table and shifted his hips. “Why don’t you go on ahead, Doc, and I’ll run some things past Night and then catch up.” 14

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Her lips compressed even farther, but she nodded shortly. “Don’t feel the need to rush. Gentlemen.” She rose and exited the room, her hips swishing in a very lovely arc with each step. “If she were to ever catch you looking at her like that Bolt, she’d run you through.” He turned to the boss man. “Ah, but then I’d die a happy man, Night.” “What was it you wanted to talk about?” Night crossed his arms over his chest. “Vie. Are you sure she’s just going to sit still while the rest of you go after Chaos?” “I’m surprised you’re not itching to go after him.” “Oh, I am. But Vie is my priority. If she stays put, I stay put.” Night’s eyebrow rose. “And if she doesn’t?” “Then I don’t.” “And if I ordered you to make sure she stayed put?” “I’d do my best, boss, but with her, I can’t guarantee anything.” Bolt rubbed a hand over his stubble. “If she needs to be in on the kill, she’ll let me know.” “I’d prefer that he be captured, not killed.” “And we both know that your preference in this case can take a flying fuck. Chaos would rather die than be captured.” Night’s jaw hardened. “And I will follow him to hell and drag his sorry ass back so that I can have my time with him.” A chill chased up and down Bolt’s spine. He had no doubt Night would fight the devil and win over Chaos’s soul. Chaos would pray he was back in hell once Night got his hands on him. “Understood. I’m going to head back and see what Vie needs.” What looked to be a smile twitched at the edges of Night’s mouth. “She probably wants me to hand her your heart on a platter.” 15

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Bolt bit the inside of his cheek. Some days, he was ready to do that for her himself. He stood and stretched. Saluting, he strode out the door. “I’ll catch you later, boss man.” “Bolt.” He paused and looked back. “Yes sir?” “Watch her. Let me know the moment she leaves.” Understanding what Night meant, Bolt nodded. “I will.” He crossed the control room, waving at those who called his name, but continued on. Vie would go off in a heartbeat if she thought it was the right thing to do. Stopping at a cubicle, he smiled his friendliest smile at the woman lounging in the chair, feet up on the desk. His eyes traveled up and down the length of her fit and fuckable body. “Mercury, I don’t know how this building doesn’t burn down.” She smirked. “Punch line?” “You’re so fucking hot.” Her laser blue eyes rolled. “No wonder Vie brushes you off. You’re pathetic.” He clutched at his heart. “I’m wounded. How can you not think any man here wouldn’t give up a nut to spend a night with you?” Full and rich laughter filled the room as she flipped a key card to him. “Room 5A, East Wing. Your secret crush is waiting for you.” “One of these days, Mercury, you’ll regret brushing me off.” Lips curled into a sensual and scary curve. “The day I regret that is the day Night busts a move naked down the midway to latest club craze.” Bolt winced. “Thanks. I needed that mental picture.” “See ya.” She tapped her communication link. “Mercury here.” Waving at her, he backed out of the room. He shuddered. All the sani-gel in the world would not be enough to wipe that image from his mind. She was one sick woman. 16

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

The trip to the suite he and Vie had been assigned took what seemed only moments. He closed his eyes and slipped the key card into the slot. She was at the windows, light silhouetting her body. The door swooshed closed behind him. She didn’t even turn. “You know, one of these days Mercury is going to geld the lot of you.” “How did you know I’d been to see her?” He leaned back against the wall and crossed his arms…and legs. Her hand rose and traced something on the window. “Who else would you have gotten the key card from?” “So? Why would you think I gave her cause to…ah, perform that operation?” He winced at the thought. Vie was probably right. He knew he was safe from Mercury, but that was only because she knew his secret. Vie turned, her face passive. “Remember, I know all, I see all.” “Not everything,” he muttered. “What was that?” He pushed off from the wall. “Nothing. What do you want to do first?” He waggled his brows. “Christen the bed?” She scowled. “You’re an ass.” “That may be, but for the foreseeable future, I’m your ass.” She stalked across the room and swung the comp screen into view. “Work. Put what few brains you have to use and find me Chaos. I’m going to bed, alone. I need sleep.” He captured her hand as she passed, stroking the soft skin of her inner wrist with his thumb. His cock hardened at the contact. He hissed out a breath. “Vie, don’t try to go after him. I’ll know.” Her eyes narrowed. “How the hell could you?’ He squeezed once before releasing her. “I will. Just don’t.” A flush stained her cheeks. She poked him in the chest. “You do not 17

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

command me. Get that?” Taking her intruding finger, he lowered her hand to her side and leaned in. He nipped at her earlobe. “You are mine. Period. You push me, and you won’t like it, Vie. I’m giving you time, but my patience is at its limit. Get that?” She broke away and raced for the bedroom, slamming the door shut behind her. Even to him, his laughter had a hollow ring to it. That went well. *

*

*

That…that…that Neanderthal. Rarely did Vie wish she had others’ powers, but she would happily give her soul for some of Flame’s so she could incinerate Bolt’s arrogant hide. She wasn’t his. She didn’t belong to anyone but herself. Glaring at the door didn’t help. She flopped back onto the bed, bouncing once. Blowing out a breath, she closed her eyes. Against all reason, she was burning for him. Moisture coated her vagina. She moaned. He turned her on with all that talk of ownership. Why him? Why now? She closed her eyes. Peace. Calm. That’s what she needed. Coolness. Not heat. She frowned. The heat was coming from her. Not him. She pushed up onto her elbows and looked at the door. She didn’t feel anything coming from him. The Great Wall of China couldn’t hide the erection he’d had when he leaned into her. But she couldn’t feel him. It wasn’t the blankness that she got from sociopaths. Blocked. He was blocking her out. But how? None of the rest could block her out. If they did, they lost their link to her and her ability to amplify. He distracted her. Every time they were within spitting distance, he was making quips and outright infuriating her. She’d never noticed it. Amplifying for him was like breathing. But she never felt his emotions. Good, bad or indifferent. Chaos could have walked through the door 18

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

and she couldn’t have been more stunned. She needed sleep. Exhaustion dragged her down into its murky depths. That’s all this was. A mirage brought on by a session’s aftermath. She’d wake up and realize that she was imagining things. He’d be an open book to her. Sleep. Recharge her batteries. She drifted off with the thought that he was the perfect height for her to rest her head on his shoulder. *

*

*

Bolt rubbed his neck. If he wasn’t careful, he’d get a crick there he couldn’t work out. He knew the moment she fell asleep. The adrenaline from an orgasm would only last so long before sleep reclaimed her. He’d watched enough tapes from her sessions to know that it would only be a matter of time before she crashed. Temptation to open the door and join her in bed pulled at him. Being patient was a bitch. He’d been patient long enough. But he had to give her a little more time. He turned on the communication unit. “Mercury.” “Yes, big boy?” “Does Night know you’re a tease?” “You’d be surprised what Night knows and doesn’t know.” Bolt doubted that. “I’m going to catch a few Zs. Give me a shout if I’m needed.” “Vie?” “Sleeping. In fact, ring me in about an hour. I want to be up before she is.” “Thank you for calling the front desk. Your wake up call has been recorded. Would you like room service?” “Smart ass.” “The smartest. Mercury out.” Bolt flipped the unit off. Keying in a few more sequences, he left the comp to do its job. Vie wasn’t the only one who needed to recharge. 19

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

He’d been up for almost thirty-six hours straight. Thankfully, acting as a member of Night’s personal security force left him do what he needed to do when he needed to do it. He and day jobs had never gotten along. Checking the time, he set the alarm on his wrist unit for an hour as back up. Vie would want a full report when she woke up, and he’d be damned if he had nothing for her. *

*

*

A soft breeze tickled her exposed skin. She wriggled her body, enjoying the soft bed of grass at her back. Warm lips touched her shoulder. She shifted, but the lips followed, moving down to her breast. Teeth nipped at the curve of it. She moaned. Reaching up, she dug her fingers into short, soft hair. She blinked her eyes open and looked down. Chocolate brown eyes met hers. “Hey, beautiful.” His hand came up and cupped her other breast. She shivered at the feel of his rough fingers. “Mmm…what is this?” “A dream, nothing more than a dream.” “I like this dream. Need to have them more often.” His laughter hummed across her erect nipple. Streaks of fire flashed down to her clitoris. Rough fingers traced the fiery path. “Bolt…” “Almost there, baby.” He moved up, his chest hair scraping against her breasts. Her breath shuddered out and she licked her lips. She dragged her nails down his side and around to his front. Hot, erect male flesh filled her palm. Desire roughened her voice. “You know, some things need a gentle hand.” She squeezed. He groaned and closed his eyes. When he opened them again, they 20

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

were filled with a heat that seared. “When I put my mind to it, Ming vases are safe in my hands. And you’re constantly on my mind.” Lowering his head, his lips took control of hers. Fingers brushed where she needed them most. “More. Give me more.” “I thought you wanted it gentle and easy.” “I want you.” His tongue speared into her mouth in concert with the fingers that entered her soaked vagina. Their tongues dueled for supremacy. Both lost. And won. He found the spongy patch of muscle on her front wall and stroked. Her eyes flew open. Looking into his, she soared over the last precipice. She laughed as she floated back to awareness. He paused in stroking her stomach. “What?” “I really need to have these dreams more often.” She felt the smile on his lips as he kissed her. “Yeah, you do. Go to sleep.” And she did. His hard penis cupped in her hand.

21

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

CHAPTER 3 Vie rubbed her face. It always felt as if her consciousness was floating half a foot above her body when she woke up after a session. She needed to move, but was unable to fully command her body. Bolt would come running in a heartbeat if she called out, but she didn’t want to rely on him. God. That dream. She never had dreams like that. And so clear she remembered each breath, each caress. She shuddered in remembered pleasure. Closing her eyes, she breathed out. In through her nose, out through her mouth. Mercury had once tried to teach her Vedic breathing, but she had never quite gotten the hang of it. Finally feeling that her legs wouldn’t collapse out from under her, she rolled off the bed. It was touch and go, but she managed to shower herself. She was surprised she hadn’t soaked the bed as she had her panties. Even after the shower, the mental disconnect was still there, 22

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

but not as severe as when she’d woken. She left the bedroom needing, craving, food. Pausing, she watched Bolt stretch. Heat radiated from her center. They hadn’t actually done it in her dream, but she could still feel his erect penis in her palm. Bolt was a powerful man. Heavy muscles roped his back. As he twisted and moved, watching their movement, she could feel the moisture gathering again. Fully aware of himself, he’d be focused on his partner in bed. Breathing in, she lowered her mental walls, searching out some sense of his presence. Nothing, just…nothing. Last night’s musings were true. Her vagina clenched. With him, she wouldn’t have to block, she could just enjoy. Be present. Not worry about feeling what he did as she tried to concentrate on herself. Like in the dream. The novelty of the idea almost overwhelmed her. “Done enjoying the show?” Vie blinked. He’d turned, a grin lighting his face. His chest was as muscular as his back. Deep grooves highlighted his pecs, his abs. A fine dusting of light hair trailed down into a line, disappearing into his pants. Just above some intriguing movement. She licked her lips. A groan filled the room. “Woman, stop looking like that or I’m going to take you straight back to that bed you just left and fuck your brains out.” Vie dragged her eyes up his chest, away from that very interesting bulge, and met his gaze. “I wouldn’t be opposed.” He closed his eyes, his features tightening. Why had she never looked at him before? Really looked at him? Golden stubble covered the solid line of his jaw. Cheekbones slashed his cheeks, pointing to the blade of his nose. Eyelashes that looked too long and soft for a man flew up, revealing deep chocolate brown eyes. Heat blazed deep within them. Searing. 23

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“You’re not ready.” Her body protested. She had never been more ready. “I am.” “No. You’re not. Come on, you need food and then I have some things to show you.” She pursed her lips. He’d learn that when she said she was ready for something, she was ready for it. Looking at the windows, she noted that the privacy screens had been drawn, blocking her view of the outside world. “What time is it?” “Ten in the morning.” Flipping through her mental calendar, she swore. “I’ve got appointments.” “Not until three. Night had Mercury take care of it.” She should have known. Night could be scary with his efficiency. “Did he also have my files sent down so that I can review them?” Bolt pointed to the table beside the entrance door. There was a stack of discs on it. Much smaller than the pile that sat on her office desk. “Over there.” Her stomach rumbled and she put a hand to it. “I guess I am hungry.” “What do you want?” He took her elbow, escorting her to the kitchen of the unit. “Protein. Lots of it.” “Good. I have a taste for eggs and bacon myself.” She held back for a moment, resisting the irresistible force. “Won’t you need a shirt if you’re going to be cooking bacon?” “Nah, I’ve spent the last few years watching what I couldn’t have, so turn about is fair play.” Vie’s only thought as he pulled her along was, YEARS? *

*

*

Pictures, figures, graphs scrolled across the screen. Vie sat back, absorbing the magnitude. Chaos had been busy during his stint in the 24

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

mortal afterlife. “How? How could we have missed this?” Bolt crossed his legs at his ankles and his hands behind his head. “We weren’t looking for it. We assumed he was dead.” “But all of this?” Vie waved her hand at the screen. “He’s got his empire back.” “Not all of it.” “Minor things. The analysts said they were minor.” “They aren’t to him. I know it and you know it, Vie.” She sighed. “You’re right. I hate it, but you’re right. They were destroyed in the fire. How could he get them back?” “Maybe he doesn’t need the exact items back. Maybe he needs what they represented.” “And that would be?” Vie massaged her temples. For such tiny little things, the figurines shouldn’t be giving her such a big headache. “I don’t know, Vie. You’re the psychologist.” “I’m not much of one right now.” He stood and moved behind her. His large hands cupped her shoulders, pressing in, moving over, easing the tension. “You’re too close to the situation. You linked with him, and he can link to you.” His hands stilled on her. “I don’t like that. I can’t help it, but I can help you.” “How, Bolt? How on earth can you help me with it?” She reached up and covered one of his hands with hers. He flipped his hand over and wove his fingers between hers. “Night said you had to stay here. I promised to protect you. Night only said that I had to be where you are.” Vie looked up, meeting his gaze. “Spell it out, Bolt, you’re being too cryptic.” “You’re not the only one with psychic powers, Ms. Smartypants.” She frowned. She knew she wasn’t, but she’d never seen anything 25

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

in his profile files that he was. “What are you talking about, Bolt?” His thumb traced the veins in her wrist. Shivers coursed through her at the contact. “It’s by far not one of my strong points, and it’s not like I can connect to everyone, but how do you think I pulled you back last night?” “You’re an empath? Is that how you block me?” He broke contact with her and moved to stand before the now open windows. “I’m not an empath, Vie. I don’t think they have an exact explanation of what I can do.” His shoulders were squared off. Defiant. “Details, Bolt.” He shrugged. “Like I said, I can’t do it with everyone. With very few people actually.” He paused and turned. Vulnerability shone from his eyes. “Actually, the only person I’ve really been able to do it with is you.” Vie wanted to break the contact. She didn’t want to hear this. Once she gave in, she wouldn’t be able to completely turn away from him. “What, Bolt? What can you do?” “I can enter someone else’s, your, psychic space.” Her breath caught in her chest. “Last night?” Redness tinged his cheeks. “Last night.” It hadn’t been a dream. She breathed in. Breathed out. Standing, she walked up to him, and slipped her arms onto his shoulders. “Vie?” She traced circles at the base of his hairline in the soft whorls of hair that grew there. His dark brown eyes turned almost black. He reached around her waist and settled his hands on the curves of her butt. “I’m thinking that we didn’t finish last night.” She reached up and licked his jaw. His fingers dug in, parting her cheeks. Vie felt moisture pool 26

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

between her legs. “Vie, once we start, I’m not sure if I’ll be able to stop. You need to be sure, absolutely sure, that this is what you want.” She bit the underside of his chin, enjoying the shudder that racked his body. “I’m sure, big boy.” He groaned and raised a hand, tipping back her head. His lips crushed hers. She hummed and opened her mouth, darting her tongue out to trace the seam of his lips. Heat shot through her system as he refused her access to his mouth and canted his head a little bit farther to the side. His mouth was masterful, molding her lips. The hand that still cupped her butt kneaded her firm muscles, setting fire to her blood. She raked her fingers lightly along the tendons of his neck. He could snap I-beams like toothpicks, but he treated her like a goddess. She nipped at his lips and he growled, breaking the kiss. “Not so fast, baby.” He lifted her into his arms. “I think I just may have to tie you down to keep you under control.” She shivered. Always before she’d been repulsed by the idea of helplessness with a lover. Not with him. But not right now. His body called to her. She wanted, needed, to explore it. She moved her hand down from his neck and palmed one of his pecs, feeling the nipple harden under her hand. “Maybe some other time.” His gaze met hers. “I’ll take a rain check and I intend to collect.” She licked her lips. “I promise to behave. Why don’t you show me what you’ve got?” He laughed. Rich and deep, the sound arrowed into her, setting off contractions. “Ready to fly?” She hit the bed with a soft thump. Her shirt rode up, and she rested her hand on her exposed stomach. She let her knee fall to the side. Her lower body was still encased in her leggings, but Bolt’s gaze raked over her as if she were naked. Goosebumps pricked up on her skin. 27

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Bolt took her ankle and spread her legs farther, making room for him to kneel between them. He rested his hands on top of hers. Warmth flowed from them. Calluses roughened his skin, testament to the hard work he used them for. He dragged his hands down, slipping his fingers beneath her waistband. As he pulled down her leggings, she felt cool air waft over her heated core. Bolt slipped the cloth over one foot. He reached down and trailed his fingers through her wetness, along her inner thigh and down her calf as he raised her ankle to his shoulder. Holding her leg up a moment more, he yanked the cloth over her foot and tossed the leggings to the floor. His rough hands stroked her legs, ankles to knees. She giggled as he reached under to the backs of her knees. He grinned. “Ticklish are you?” She pursed her lips. “I’ll never tell.” Shrieking, she kicked at him as he continued his assault. Wherever she connected, her feet just slid off his skin. Gasping, she froze as he settled his hands on her inner thighs, millimeters away from where she needed them. His breath blew across her wet folds. She moaned and reached down, tangling her fingers in his short hair. “Bolt, please.” Tingles of sensation followed the path his finger made around her outer lips. “Please what, Vie?” “Touch me.” “How, Vie? Tell me how you want to be touched. I’m not going to do anything you don’t tell me to do.” Vie propped herself up on her elbows. Bolt settled his chin on her mound, his gaze meeting hers. Resolve shone in his eyes. He could easily overpower her, but this was for her. This was her show. She blew out a breath. “I want you to eat me. Then, I want you to 28

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

suck on my breasts.” “What else?” Vie could feel her cream oozing out, coating her, preparing her for his eventual invasion. “Then I want you to fuck me slowly until I can’t come any more.” “Mmmmm.” He nipped her curls, just at the top of her mound. “That sounds…delicious.” His tongue swiped her from bottom to tip, flicking at her clit. Just as in the dream. She flopped back onto the bed. His hands cradled her ass, angling her for better access. As he sucked her clit into his mouth, Vie clutched at the bed sheets. Waves of sensation flooded her body. No one had ever made her feel like this. Reaching out with her mind, she couldn’t even detect the people she knew populated the building. “Bolt.” She reached down and petted him. “Ummm?” “I can’t feel anyone.” His teeth scraped her folds and she keened. “Can’t feel me?” She bit her lip, swallowing a moan. “I can feel you just fine. I can’t feel anyone else in the building, though.” “Good. I want to be the only person you feel, now or ever.” “That might be a little hard with my job description.” His tongue swiped over her clit as two fingers entered her. “When we’re together, I’m the only one. Got it?” “What if they need me?” She could feel his smile against her core. “I’m sure Mercury will find a way to get in touch with us. Don’t worry about it. Okay?” His tongue darted in and out of her pussy and her head lolled back on the pillows. “Fine. Just get to it.” “Get to what?” 29

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“Fucking me.” Warm puffs of air coasted over her. “Remember, Vie, you have to spell it out.” Vie massaged her breasts. She wanted all of him. Now. Forever. “I want you to fuck my mouth until you’re about to come, and then I want you to flip me over and take me from behind.” He growled against her. “God, woman, you’re going to kill me.” She looked down her body and met his eyes. Lust burned bright and deep in them. “I want you now.” And licked her lips. He nipped her mound once more before climbing up her body. Precum coated the purpled head. Bracing one hand against the wall behind her head and settling his strong calves along her ribs, he reached down and guided his cock into her waiting mouth. Vie cupped his balls and stroked his shaft. He tasted of musk and man. She traced the veins that ran up and down his length with her tongue, then bobbed her head in time with his shallow thrusts. Squeezing the base of his cock, she licked at the semen dripping out of the little eye at his tip. A guttural groan sounded throughout the room. She felt his balls tightening as they readied to release his load. He pulled out. Vie pouted. “I’m not done.” His chest bellowed in and out as he breathed. “I almost am.” Bolt reached down and flipped her over, even as he remained straddled over her. Wetness glazed her spine as his cock trailed down. He pulled a pillow from under her head. Easily lifting her with one hand, he stuffed the pillow beneath her hips. She felt his breath a heartbeat before he nipped the tendon between her neck and shoulder. “Now, the question is, my dear, should I take you with your legs between mine? The fit will be tight because I’m so big.” His rough finger explored her crease, dipping into her weeping pussy. With their positions, it felt as big as a penis invading her. He groaned. “You’re so wet, though, I’d bet I’d glide in easily. Or, should 30

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

I spread your legs as far as I can and go in deep. And hard.” Vie moaned, seconds away from coming. Just from him talking. He leaned in close to her ear. “What’s it going to be, Vie? Tight?” His teeth scraped her earlobe. “Or deep?” Her contractions started. “Now, Bolt, now.” Laughter vibrated against her neck. “My choice I guess. You’re mine, Vie.” He spread her legs and speared deep. Vie shouted, her world dissolving around her as she felt him coming, claiming her.

31

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

CHAPTER 4 Vie felt as if she were floating naked on the ocean. Waves buffeted her about, but strong arms anchored her. Bolt. She curled up next to his hard body and snuggled into his shoulder. Even if she wanted him to leave, he wouldn’t. Just being here, now, he demanded a presence in her life. There was no going back. They’d have to talk about where to live. Her apartment barely had room for her. She had no clue what his living space was like. For as long as they had worked together, she’d made a conscious effort to avoid him. She hadn’t wanted to acknowledge how deeply he called to her. The gate to her inner garden loomed in front of her. She pushed through. And froze. Energy snakes the color of dried blood coated the ground. They poured over the far wall, their mass pulsing, reaching for her. She whirled around to run. Heavy arms imprisoned her from 32

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

behind. The cold touch of a tongue traced its way up the side of her neck. “Ah, my dear, dear Vie. How good of you to come.” “Chaos.” “Your one and only.” He squeezed her to the point of pain. “How is my favorite little empath doing? It’s been so long since we’ve had a nice chat.” “You psycho.” “Always one for the sweet talk, weren’t you?” He bit her and she screamed. She kicked back, making contact with his shin, but his grip only tightened. “How did you get in? No one can come here without me bringing them.” Long fingers traced her breast, pausing to twist her nipple. She wanted to cringe back at the pain, but that would have brought her closer in to him. “Tell me then, how did Bolt find his way in here earlier. You weren’t with him.” Vie closed her eyes. “I, uh, sent him ahead.” “Really? You have untapped powers if you did. But to answer your question as to how I got here, it was child’s play. When you touched my minion yesterday, you took a tracer with you.” “The social worker was a setup. For me.” “Of course.” “Where is she now?” Chaos’ laughter was tinged with madness. “I let my minion play with her as a reward. I honestly don’t know what happened to her.” Pain arrowed through Vie. The woman was most likely dead, all because this maniacal demon wanted revenge. “Night will see to it that you suffer for her and for all the others 33

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

you’ve harmed.” Chaos wrenched her chin around and up. Greasy blond hair hung in ropes along one half of a gaunt face. Scar tissue covered the other half of his scalp and the edges of his face. Madness burned black in his eyes. “Don’t count on it, little girl. I have plans for Night. Where is Bolt?” Fear skirted along her nerves. Before, Chaos had been a fair angel with a black soul. Now, with his beauty deformed, the whole world could look upon his true nature. “I-I don’t know.” “No matter. I’ll find him soon enough. Let’s go for a ride.” Vie clawed at the hands that held her fast. He had grown in power, and that was not a good thing. “Where are you taking me?” “To your new home.” Closing her eyes, she pushed back the fear that wanted to overwhelm her and drag her down into his madness. Her lungs constricted as he pushed off and they flew through the psychic miasma that surrounded her little haven. Space and time bent around them until they slammed to a stop. Her brains felt like tapioca. Blinking her eyes to clear them, she felt as if she had slammed into another wall when she saw what stood in front of them. Life-sized models of the figurines that had been in his lair when it was destroyed stood in rows, an army of them. “What are they?” He called forth more of the energy snakes and they wound around her ankles and wrists, trapping her in place. “Vessels, my dear. Vessels for my army. Witness the end of the Cimmerean League.” Shudders wracked her body. The figures, vessels, appeared enough like her and her compatriots to be recognizable, but there was something off about each and every one of them. Chaos strolled over to the one that looked like her. He cupped the breasts and crotch. 34

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“You will be my consort. Of course, you will also be under my complete control, as will the others. Your Night is on his way here. Once the two of you have been transferred, the others will fall in line.” Vie growled. “We’ll never submit to you.” Amusement lit his tortured face. “Oh, but you don’t understand. Once your mortal body dies, you will have no other choice.” “My body is protected.” “And Night is invincible. Don’t put your faith in absolutes. You’ll be disappointed.” He looked over her shoulder. “In just a few minutes, you will be mine.” She bared her teeth. “Never.” He walked over and slapped her across the face. The force of the blow pushed her to the floor. “It will be a pleasure teaching you obedience.” Vie fought her way back to a standing position and spat in his face. “My soul is my own. No one controls me and no one ever will.” His fingers clawed into her cheeks as he gripped her jaw. “What did I just tell you about absolutes, Vie. Once you are inside the vessel, you…are…mine.” He shook her with every word. “The League thought me dead. I was reborn. Like the phoenix, I rose more powerful from the ashes of my previous life. I tried once to join with you, but thanks to you”—he sneered—“I was kicked out. The League has held to the shadows for too long. It is time for it to be brought into the light for the world to worship, and fear.” “We stick to the shadows because we can do more good unobserved.” “Mortals need to be taught their place.” Vie stared at him. Madness flared brighter in his eyes than ever before. “We are all mortals.” He leaned in, the tip of his nose touching hers. “There are no absolutes, Vie. Now be a good girl and say goodbye to your body.” 35

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Bolt, be safe. *

*

*

“Wake up, Vie. Come on, you promised you’d tell me when you wanted to go.” Bolt lightly shook her, but got no response. “Damn it. I’m coming in after you and I’m going to paddle your ass.” He leaned down until his forehead touched hers and centered himself. Entering the psychic space, he saw Vie’s garden. Something was off. He ran to the gate. Bursting through, he froze. The garden was choked with energy snakes. “Shit.” The snakes pulsed and started winding their way up his legs. Vie was no where to be seen. “Fuck.” He fought the snakes off and jumped back to his body. A bar slammed across his shoulders. He collapsed against Vie, trying to shield her body while he regained his wits. The swish of parting air warned him of the next attack. He rolled over, reaching for the weapon. A goon nearly his size wielded a titanium wand as if he were swinging for a game winning grand slam in Comiskey. Bolt got a grip on it before it connected with his skull. Levering the thug over the bed to the opposite wall, he held on and yanked the wand from the guy. He whipped the tip of the wand up, pinning the guy against the wall. “Who are you?” “You’re not supposed to be here.” Bolt pushed the wand. The goon grunted. “I asked who you are.” “No one.” “What are you doing here?” “The girl. Only the girl.” Bolt restrained himself from skewering the guy. “What about the 36

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

girl.” “Master wants her dead.” Bolt growled. “Why?” The fuckhead shook his head. “Don’t know. Just supposed to kill the body.” Frowning, Bolt reached up and took hold of the guy’s jaw. “Where is your master?” “D-Don’t know.” “Don’t know much, do you?” Bolt squeezed a bit and the guy squealed like a stuck pig. “Explain to me why I shouldn’t crush you.” “The old island brewery. I am to meet Master there after I have killed the body. Please, I must satisfy Master.” Bolt lifted him and slammed his head against the wall. He slid down, landing in a boneless heap. Gathering his clothes, Bolt dressed and went through the suite looking for his communication link. He spotted it on the table, next to Vie’s. He was putting it in his ear when the door to the suite opened. This time a woman slipped through the door. “You know, polite people knock.” The woman froze in place. She looked over her shoulder at him. In half a heartbeat he was ducking a number of lethal stars. One scraped his ribs. He reached down, poking a finger in the hole. “Lady, this was one of my favorite shirts. Why’d’ja have to go and ruin it?” She made no sound as she flew across the room, long nails, no, spikes, aimed at his face. Remembering his high school coach’s training, he aimed for her center of gravity as he went in for a low tackle. The woman raked her spikes down his back. He gritted his teeth and yanked her hands above her head, holding them down with one hand. “Who sent you?” She spit in his eye. “Bitch.” He tapped her jaw, knocking her out. 37

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Trussing up the two goons, he called Night. There was no answer. He’d have to talk to Night about the concept of voicemail. It was a couple of centuries old, but if you’re not going to answer your communicator… He tossed both of his captives into the closet and locked it. Vie was still passed out on the bed. “Not good, honey, not good at all. You missed one hell of a fight.” Grabbing her leggings from where he tossed them, he slipped them over her legs. “Damn shame to cover you up, but I don’t think that I’d be able to concentrate with you all naked and everything.” Once he had her limp body dressed, he lifted her into a fireman’s carry. “Sorry, babe, but I need at least one arm free.” He closed the door to the suite behind him and engaged the security code, locking it from the outside. The halls were near empty as he crossed through them. No one had an answer for him as to where Night was. Mercury’s office was uncharacteristically empty. He settled into her chair with Vie on his lap and rang her communicator. “Mercury here.” “Where are you? Where’s Night?” “Night is currently gracing Chaos with his presence.” “Voluntarily?” “Unfortunately, no. I’m on my way with a team to retrieve him.” Bolt stroked Vie’s hair. “What happened?” “I’m not sure. He had radioed in that he needed a team to meet him. I responded asking for who he needed, but by that point his signal had disappeared. Right now I’m at his last known location, but nothing and no one is here.” He frowned at the worry in Mercury’s voice. “I woke up from a nap to find Vie gone.” “Where the hell did she go, Bolt? You were supposed to watch over 38

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

her.” “I’ve got her body, Merc, but her mind’s gone somewhere and I can’t follow her. I’m blocked.” “Chaos?” “Who else? Also, when I pulled out of the psychic space, I had an idiot using my back as a piñata. He said he was supposed to meet his master at the old island brewery. That was after he said he didn’t know where his boss was, though.” “So Chaos may or may not be at the old brewery.” “Bingo.” “Were you able to get anything else out of him?” “Nope, and his girlfriend was mute.” “Girlfriend?” Bolt hitched his shoulder, wincing at the pull of his wounds. “She had a thing for sharp objects and I didn’t try to keep the conversation going. They’re awaiting security in the comfort of the suite’s closet. Once I call security, that is.” “You haven’t already?” “I wanted to talk to Night first, but you’re the next best thing.” “My heart glows. Call security to deal with them and then head down to the garage. Take the T-15 and meet us at the brewery. I’ll program the coordinates for the autopilot from here so that you can keep watch over Vie. Let me know immediately if she wakes.” “Will do.” “Mercury out.” Bolt looked down into Vie’s lax face. “I’m coming for you, baby. I’ll bring you home, I promise.” *

*

*

“You lied to me, my dear.” Chaos strolled back to her and clasped his hand around her throat. Vie shivered. “What are you talking about?” 39

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“Apparently Bolt can enter your psychic space without your invitation. Or have you been talking to him?” “I don’t know what you mean.” “All of my energy snakes are tracers. Your Bolt just attempted to join you. Unfortunately he was a little too quick for my snakes to take care of. That will soon be remedied.” Chaos whirled around. “Ah, my package has arrived.” Vie heard a door slam open and footsteps. Along with what sounded like something heavy being dragged across the floor. When Chaos’ body stepped into view from the opposite direction of the oncoming footsteps, Vie realized he had somehow perfected consciously operating on two planes of existence. Two of his minions appeared and threw their burden at his feet. Night. Unconscious. Nothing, no thoughts, emotions, vibes emanated from him. Forget the paddle, she was up shit creek without even a canoe. “Excellent. You may both return to your sentry duties.” Chaos’ corporeal body circled Night’s and kicked him. “Doesn’t he look splendid? Truly a leader of leaders.” His psychic body curled itself around hers, his hands roaming her front. Vie felt sick. “You can’t win.” He licked her neck and she wrenched her head to the side trying to avoid the serpent’s tongue. “I already have, Vie.” He reached out and waved with his hand. Her “vessel” stepped forward, hips swaying as it walked toward them. “Once I have you confined, I’ll extract Night from his now useless body and my domination will be complete.” When the vessel stood less than a meter away from her, Chaos took its left hand and raised it up. He grasped her right hand and the energy snakes melted away. She fought him as he brought her palm up to meet the vessel’s, but his grip only tightened to the point where she feared 40

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

injury. As the vessel’s fingers touched hers, she felt the psychic space surrounding her turn into a swirling vortex with the point of contact as its center. Struggling against the riptide swallowing her, she was no match for it as palm met palm. “Nooooo!” She couldn’t tell from where the primeval cry came. From within or without? “Bolt.” Chaos hissed. It felt like an oddly tailored suit encasing her body. Vie blinked and saw that Bolt had broken through the doorway. Chaos’ powers flowed into her, forcing a reflection and refraction. He whipped around and flung out energy bonds, trapping Bolt within them as she’d been trapped by the psychic energy snakes. “That should hold you long enough.” Chaos strolled to where Night was still crumpled. “I think I’ll deal with you later.” He hefted Night’s body up to his chest, walked to a railing and threw the body over. She cried out. “Night!” Chaos turned and reached out, his fingers narrowing to a closed circle. Vie felt her throat constrict with the motion until her air was completely closed off. She didn’t bother clawing at the sensation, knowing that it would be of no use. “You will speak only when I command it.” Walking over to where Bolt was tied down, he sucker punched him. Bolt staggered, but kept his feet. “Finally got around to fucking her, did you?” Bolt’s mouth firmed. “No answer? I could smell the stink of sex still on her when I took her. Sloppy seconds are so passé, but when in Rome…” Vie whimpered as she saw Bolt’s eyes blaze. He remained silent, however. 41

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

Chaos circled Bolt, looking him over. “While your exceptional strength would be more than welcome in my new world order, I’m afraid I just could not tolerate my consort’s ex-lover.” Another surge of tainted power took control of her and she watched as Bolt’s face turned purple. Chaos was crushing him to death. Vie pleaded. “Please. I don’t want to do this.” “I know, baby. I love you. I believe in you.” Bolt forced the words out as he fought for air. He drew in a deep breath and hunched his shoulders before he exploded in a fury of strength and speed. Tears streamed down her face as she watched him break free of the bonds. Needles of pain stabbed her brain as Chaos called upon her powers to throw Bolt back into captivity. Underlying the pain, she felt soothing waves circle her, trying to carry her away. Recognizing Bolt’s psychic signature, she flailed about reaching for him, but he kept getting pushed just outside her grasp. Chaos’ eyes burned. “She is mine now. Mine to control. Mine to use how I see fit.” Bolt howled and sprang at their tormentor. Chaos kept slipping out of his grasp, but Bolt persevered until he locked Chaos in bear hug. “Don’t kill him, Bolt.” Vie gasped as she saw Night rise from where Chaos had thrown him. “If I don’t kill him, he’ll never leave us, leave Vie, alone.” Night landed on the floor and walked to where Chaos viciously fought to break Bolt’s hold. Night reached in and took Chaos by the scruff of his neck. “I give you my word, Bolt, that he will never attack your woman again.” Bolt released him and nodded. “Your word is your honor. I accept it.” Night acknowledged the acceptance and pushed off, punching 42

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

through the roof and flying off into the night, all the while controlling his burden with the tips of his fingers. Vie stood frozen, unable to run to Bolt. He tapped on his communicator. “Bring her in Mercury.” Vie looked to the door where Mercury carried her limp body to them. “I-I don’t know how to leave, Bolt.” Bolt crossed to her and cupped her face. “I promised that I would bring you home, Vie.” Vie hiccupped. “You really do love me.” “I do. You’re mine. Mine to love, mine to cherish. How did he do it?” “He placed her left hand up to my right hand, and, well, I got sucked in.” He nodded once and took her body from Mercury. Holding her back to his front, he supported her and raised her left hand. “Place your right hand up.” Vie commanded the limb to move, but it refused to respond. “I can’t. The body’s not responding to me.” “Mercury.” “Check.” Mercury’s soft hand cupped her right hand and placed it palm-topalm against her left. At first nothing happened, but then she felt the tug of Bolt, pulling her home. The vortex swirled around her and she woke to Bolt clutching her close. She reached up and cupped his cheek. “I love you. You will always be home to me.”

43

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

EPILOGUE Night threw his mewling burden at the woman’s feet. She sipped from the Meissen cup cradled in her hand. Looking down for a moment, she raised an eyebrow when she met his gaze. “And what do you expect me to do with this refuse?” “Banish him, confine him, I don’t care as long as he never walks near me or mine again.” A faint smile curled her lips and she took another sip. “The way you act, the entire world is yours.” “As you will. If I find him again, I will destroy him.” “Two halves of the same coin. Who knew that you would be so…noble?” “He’s caused enough trouble. And I can only do so much before Eleazer feels he must intervene.” The woman’s eyes flashed fire. “You are never to speak his name in my presence.” 44

CIMMEREAN LEAGUE: REVELATIONS

“Keep your plaything chained and you will never have to endure my company let alone hear me mention his name.” She stood, kicking Chaos’ subservient form out of her way. “Why do you care for these mortals, Night?” He stepped back as she reached up to stroke his face. “They are worth saving. You’ve never understood that.” Her throaty laugh had turned men into slaves of desire for millennia. “What I will never understand is how we lost our control over them.” Night closed his eyes. The argument was one that he would never win and he was through fighting it. He looked to where Chaos crawled on the floor toward her feet. “I will destroy him the next time I encounter him.” “If you destroy him, I will need another servant. Maybe that Mercury of yours.” Night refused to react. “You know my conditions.” He turned and stalked out of the room. “You’ll learn, Night. They aren’t worthy. You’ll be back one day. Your rightful place awaits you.” He paused in the doorway, but did not turn. “Goodbye, Mother.”

45

KELLY M AHER

Kelly Maher grew up in a nice Irish Catholic neighborhood and went to a nice Catholic all-girls high school. Of course she became fascinated by erotica and erotic romance! Her earlier AQP release, Family Jewels, was a 2006 Amber Heat Wave winner. You can learn more about Kelly by visiting her website: http://kellymaher.com

*

*

*

Don’t miss Family Jewels, by Kelly Maher, available at AmberHeat.com!

Sasha Feodrovich needs a woman. Amalia Winston is the one for the job. With the ability and resources to get into places others can’t, Amalia commands a high price. Money is no object for Sasha, however, but family on the other hand…

AMBER QUILL PRESS, LLC HOME OF AMBER HEAT! QUALITY EROTIC FICTION IN BOTH PRINT AND ELECTRONIC FORMATS

ACTION/ADVENTURE

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

SCIENCE FICTION

PARANORMAL

ALTERNATIVE

MYSTERY

ROMANCE

HORROR

DARK FANTASY

FANTASY

CONTEMPORARY

HISTORICAL AND MORE…

B UY D IRECT AND S AVE http://www.amberheat.com