Authors: Zerlina Valinski
“
Yes, I know your tale. You married a giant from a faery realm who then transformed you into what you are now.”
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Yes.” She smiled. “And as I said, I have not forgotten you introduced me to my beloved.”
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The stories of our Gods used to be told often. Until they faded away into oblivion.”
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Yes, as we did. At least, until now.” She smoothed her silky dress over her legs. “It seems we are back and vibrant in this world. Things are about to drastically change.”
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Aeval and Aidin have done much with the support of the Sensual Witches to regain power in this realm. Sex magic is far reaching. I’ve even seen some of my powers strengthen or restore too. I can travel through space again with a mere thought. I’d forgotten how useful those powers were.” He smiled.
“
Is it not nice to have your full armory of abilities back?”
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Definitely. But please, tell me what you wish me to do. I know this visit was not just about me.”
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What I want from you is…to find a relative of mine.” A tall glass with light amber liquid appeared in her hand and another materialized next to him on the desk. “It is so nice to have my full powers restored here in this realm.” She took a sip from the glass. “This drink,” she held her glass up, “will knock your socks off. Have some.”
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Thank you.” He lifted the glass from the table. “A relative? Anyone in particular?”
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Yes. My mirror.”
He sipped the sweet amber liquid. “It’s got a kick.” He grinned. “Your mirror, you say?”
“Yes, approximately every two hundred years a female from my lineage is born. She has many of my characteristics. Some are visible, some are hidden. She will have the powers of an Earth Witch. She can be as powerful as I was or even more so. And so carries on my legacy in so many ways. When the doors to this realm were blocked to me, I was unable to locate these daughters of mine. I wish to find the one from this time. I need her for a very special task.”
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I see. May I ask what you want her for?” He rested his chin on his hand. “How will I be able to find this needle in a hay stack?”
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Simple.” Achtland crossed her legs again giving him a nice glimpse of her thighs. “I have a ring which will reveal her to me. It will glow bright red when it is in her presence.” She held out her hand showing him the ring on her finger. “It is a mystical diamond as clear and as uncolored as ice.”
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I can feel its power. It is strong.” A vibration of energy passed through him as he gazed at the gem.
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When she is near it will turn red and it will sing a sweet tune that only you will hear. Once you recognize its message it will cease singing.” She turned her hand. “Isn’t is gorgeous?” She gazed at it, then examined her perfectly manicured nails. They were long, shimmering ivory to match her dress. When she looked back up at him, she appeared almost angelic.
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Yes, my Goddess, the ring is almost as lovely as you.”
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Here.” She waved her hand, and the ring appeared on his desk attached to a golden chain. “Wear it around your neck and be alert for this precious female.”
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Okay.” He reached for it. His experience with the Gods gave him reason to be aware of their temperamental natures. So he dared not challenge her assignment.
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I have things to bequeath to her. Now that my powers grow daily in this realm, I wish to bestow my gifts upon her soon. To make her even more powerful, to protect her, to give her a piece of her heart she does not realize is missing. I want you to protect her too. This is my request of you.”
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Of course.” He grinned. “I can do my best. Is there something she needs protection from?”
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You know there all sorts of dangers which lurk.” She twisted her lips.
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I see.” He frowned.
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Liam, you know I hate to be questioned…but I will tell you this. Finding her will enhance my powers similarly to how Aeval and Aidin have been enhanced. It will be beneficial to all those who choose to worship me. You do this, my handsome warrior, and you will be given the perfect one, your mate to enjoy your days and nights with. She will make your cock throb, and your passions will grow hot once more. Colleen will be but a faded memory replaced by your true love. Perhaps the one who was always intended for you.”
She smiled, her eyes as blue diamonds, then in a puff of snowy white smoke she vanished.
“Promises, promises,” Liam said to a now empty room.
CHAPTER TWO
“Oh, Dr. Kerrigan, can you fix my kitty?” The little girl had tears in her eyes, and they tugged on Ragen’s heart.
“Let me see.” Ragen listened to the calico cat’s lethargic heartbeat. “Poor little cat, you’re getting old.” The frail feline purred as if pained.
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Ms. Fluff-Face isn’t old,” the little girl protested.
“Jenny, cats age differently than we do.” Ragen patted the child on the head. “Why don’t you go outside to wait in the lobby with your mother, then I’ll see what I can do.”
“Okay.” The child reluctantly left with her mother, exiting into the waiting room.
When the exam room door was firmly shut, Ragen laid the cat out on the exam table. It could barely lift its small head. “So, Ms. Fluff-Face, I’m going to help you. But this will be our little secret, okay?”
Ragen caressed the cat’s fur. A warmth passed through her hands into the limp body. The cat began to move her little legs. Encouraged, she picked it up and held it close to her chest. Another much stronger surge of energy passed through her into the small creature. The cat meowed loudly as if it had received a shock. She placed the furry orange bundle back on the examination table. Ms. Fluff-Face was noticeably perkier and moving around with much more energy. “You’re cured for the moment. I’m as clueless as you are, but, lately I’ve had this gift of a healing warm touch.” Ragen picked up the cat and looked her eyes. “I know it’s crazy, but I’m not complaining if you’re not. It’s a miracle.” The cat purred as if answering her. Then she carried the now lively pet out to the waiting family. When Ragen opened the door, Jenny’s expectant eyes brightened.
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Is she better?” The child rushed to her.
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Yes, she is.” Ragen nodded. “All that was needed, this time, was a little shot. Now, if she starts to act sluggish again, bring her back.”
“Okay, Dr. Kerrigan.” Jenny took her pet from Ragen’s arms.
“You’re amazing.” Her mother smiled. “Thank you.”
“No problem. It’s what I’m here for.”
“I’ll pay your receptionist on our way out. Thanks again.”
Ragen walked down the hall and entered the bathroom, shutting the door behind her. Bright green eyes gazed back at her from the mirror above the sink. They seemed to glimmer more than usual. Her fingertips still tingled. She was warmer all over. “What’s happening to me? I don’t understand.” She examined her hands closely. Nothing looked out of the ordinary, at least in their appearance. A dying plant on the windowsill caught her eye. The plant was withering away from dehydration. She reached up and touched the leaves. In an instant the plant became vibrant, a bloom appearing amidst the leaves. “This can’t be. Whatever this is, it's getting stronger.” She moved back to the mirror, her expression apprehensive.
My abilities are changing. I touch something and it seems to come alive. A green thumb and a way with the sic, is one thing. But this is much more than that, so much more.
She examined herself for several moments more, then turned and left the room. She walked down the hallway, her mind in a fog. She had so many questions and nowhere to get answers.
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Dr. Kerrigan, you have a call on line one waiting in your office,” a vet tech called out from the center work station as she passed by.
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Thanks.” She hustled to her office and picked up the receiver on her desk.
“Hey girl, it’s Patty. Just a reminder call. Don’t be late getting home. I’ll be at your house at 4:30 and we have to be in Chattanooga by 6:00. They’re serving cocktails. I so want a drink.” Patty giggled.
“I’ll be ready. My clothes are all laid out. I’m wearing my black cocktail dress. I’m excited too.”
“I’m nervous. I hate speaking to groups,” Patty said.
“You’ll do fine. Everyone wants to help animals. So they’ll listen, they’ll have a few drinks, then make big donations. No worries. The animal hospital will be finished before we know it.”
“I hope so, see you soon.”
***
“Look, there’s a place to park. “ Patty pointed to a spot between two large vehicles. “We’re going to be late. Hurry, hurry, park there.”
“Okay, hang on! You’re making me nervous.” Ragen angled the car to pull into the parking space. “And we’re not late. We’re right on time.”
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Same difference.” Patty checked her phone again for the time. “I’m late to be the guest speaker.”
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It’s a tight fit.” She attempted to pull into the spot. When she did, little room was left to open the doors. “This is not going to work.” Maneuvering again, she was still unsuccessful. “I don’t want to hit anything.” She backed out of the spot. “I can’t park here. It’s too snug.”
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Yeah, I agree, I couldn’t even open my door if we did park here.” Patty agreed.
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Let me drop you off at the door.” Ragen pulled her car in front of the office building. “I’ll find a spot down the block.”
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Okay.” Patty frowned. “I’m sorry to leave you. Are you sure?” She opened her door to get out. “I hate for you to walk by yourself.”
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Yes, go on.” Ragen waved her hand shooing Patty out. “I’ll be fine.”
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All right. When you come in, sit so I can see you. I’ll be worried otherwise.”
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No problem.” Ragen waved again as she got out. “See you soon.” She watched Patty walk into the building.
She drove several blocks until she finally found a space to park on a side street. All the businesses along the street appeared closed for the evening and there wasn't a soul to be found. Just as she opened the door, a loud clap of thunder sounded, making her jump. It was suddenly dark, the full moon disappearing behind the gathering clouds. “Damn, I don’t have an umbrella!” Ragen checked the back seat but couldn’t find anything to cover her head.
In a hurry, she grabbed her purse then got out of the car. Hopefully she could make it inside before the rain began. She closed and locked her door and started making her way back toward the office building.
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Hey pretty lady.” A tall bald man took up right next to her keeping up with her stride. Startled, Ragen flinched yet kept on walking. “You’re looking good, sexy baby.”
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My date’s waiting. He’s just up the street.” She picked up her pace.
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He let you park the car all by yourself? Nice date.” He chuckled. “Hey, I really dig your car. Why don’t you give me the keys and your purse, so you can keep your date tonight? Or you can come with me and we can party.”
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Sounds good.” Another man suddenly appeared from one of the alleyways they passed. “She looks real good to me. I’d like to fuck her. We can share the bitch.”
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People are waiting for me. Here’s my keys.” She tossed them to the first guy and he caught them. “Now, get away from me,” Ragen yelled. “Get away from me, or I’ll scream louder.”
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How generous of you.” He dangled her keys. “But I’m thinkin’ I like my buddy’s idea. You’re really fuckable. Your tight dress molds your ass nicely.” He smacked her behind. Ragen yelped then she started to walk faster.
Just before she was about to start to run, one of the men grabbed her arm. “Hey baby, don’t be thinkin’ about getting away from us.”
She glanced around to see if there was anyone or anyplace she could go for help. “Listen, take the freakin’ car,” she yelled. “I don’t care, just leave me alone!” Strangely, her entire body started to tingle. The palms of her hands ached, growing hot. Her insides warmed as her fear increased.
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You’ll have a hard time running away from us with those high heeled shoes.” The man squeezed her arm, but he still did not stop her. Ragen yanked her arm back and hit him with her purse.
The other man grabbed her around the waist. “Now, now bitch, don’t go hitting us,” he whispered in her ear. “Her skin is so hot.” He loosened his hold.
A sizzling sensation traveled up her spine. Just as it was about to emerge from her body, a male voice hollered from across the street. “Hey!”
The two men released her, seemingly stunned, and all three stood staring as a large silhouette emerged from between two buildings. “Drop her keys or I’ll run you two down like two fucking bitches in heat. And when I catch you, I’ll rip your bloody heads off. I have a thirst for blood tonight.” He growled the last few words.
Ragen couldn't make out the man's face, but the voice was deeply masculine, almost menacing. Its sound sent tremors through her, and for a moment Regan felt unsure which of the men around her she should be fearing more.
She made a quick decision. Wrestling free of her attackers, she darted as fast as she could toward the unknown man in the shadows. The other men turned, taking off in the other direction.
As she reached the alley, the heel of her right shoe caught in a sidewalk crack twisting her leg and sending her body flying forward. Strong arms caught her, stopping her from hitting the ground. “I’ve got you.” His voice was smooth, reassuring. “It’s okay. You’re safe.” He pulled her closer, and she allowed it, resting her face against his shirt, inhaling his clean masculine scent. She could feel his musculature beneath her fingers and felt safe in his arms, soothed.
They stood quietly for several moments. She held onto him as he rubbed her back, feeling snug in his embrace. “Better now?”
She moved back, and he helped regain her balance as she removed her other shoe. “It hurts a bit.” She grimaced rubbing her ankle. “But I heal fast. Thank you.” She readjusted her dress tugging it down her thighs.
“I’ll be right back.” He stepped away from her to examine the ground near where the men turned to run. “I think I heard him drop your keys.”
The street was deserted. Only a few lights cast shadows on the buildings around them. The area looked more eerie somehow than it had before, and a shiver ran up her spine as she remembered what had just happened.
He re-entered the alley and handed Ragen her car keys and the high-heel she’d lost when fleeing her attackers. He was enormous. Nearly two times the size of the men who had accosted her. “Thanks,” she said.
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Do you want to call the police?”
She looked toward the direction where her car was parked. “I don't know. I’m just so relieved you came along when you did. I’ve never been so afraid. I didn’t know what to do.” She giggled nervously, and the sound had an edge of hysteria to it.
“Where are you headed? I can walk you there.” They both stepped out of the alleyway onto the main street. She could finally see him more clearly. And for a moment, her mind was unable to form a thought. He had unusual amber eyes. She was a tall woman, but he made her feel small standing next to his bulk and height. He was gorgeous with dark hair that carelessly hung down over his forehead. In fact, he was easily the most handsome man she’d ever seen. Deep inside her a flame ignited in her womb making her feel warm all over. Her heart started racing, and this time it was not from fear. Her palms were damp. He was making her feel like a swooning teenager.
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I was on my way to the Tyler medical building. I’m here for a fund-raiser. I have a friend waiting for me there. You may have to help me, though. My shoes are a bit banged up.” Using him for balance, she readjusted both heels as well as she could. He took her hand and placed it on his arm, his touch making her heart quicken.
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So your friend let you park the car by yourself?” Her rescuer frowned.
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No.” Ragen shook her head. “My girlfriend’s the speaker. We were running late. I let her off at the door and told her I would find a place to park.” Ragen smiled up at him, her gaze drawn to his. His eyes were an amazing contrast against his tan skin and black hair. “You have amber eyes.” She cocked her head to the side as she studied him beneath the streetlamp. “Or, are they contacts?” she asked, her inquisitive nature taking over her tongue. “I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude. I just could not resist commenting. They are that…incredible.”
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No, I’m a member of a rare group of people who
actually
have amber eyes. I hope they don't spook you?” He grinned down at her. His smile was open and friendly putting her at ease.
She shook her head, strands of her hair falling loose around her face. “No. I’ve heard of that. They’re stunningly beautiful. You look like...a handsome wolf.” Ragen felt her face warming. Had she really said that?
He grinned. “You think so? You like wolves?”
She looked down, inhaling deeply to get herself together, then returned her eyes to his. They were enthralling, holding her attention like a magnet. She could not look away. “I do. I'm a vet. I did an internship at a local zoo working with the wolves. I still volunteer there at times. Wolves are beautiful animals. Majestic, intelligent, fierce. They are fascinating and have captivating eyes like yours.”
“I see.” He grinned. “And I remind you of them?” He cocked his head to the side as he regarded her.
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In a way, you do.” She gave him her brightest smile.
He looked down at her, an almost predatory gleam in his eyes. “And I'm sure the wolves like you too.” He reached out and dragged his fingers down a loose strand of her hair. “You and your deep red hair. It’s stunning.”