Of Cheetah's Blood

by V{xxàt{Ëá UÄÉÉw Book Two of the Vampire Domination Series Copyright © November 2011, Charisma Knight Cover art by For the Muse Designs © November 2011 Amira Press Charlotte, NC 28227 www.amirapress.com ISBN: 978-1-937394-15-8 No part of this e-book may be reproduced or shared by any electronic or mechanical means, including but not limited to printing, file sharing, and email, without prior written permission from Amira Press.

Wxw|vtà|ÉÇ To anyone who has ever discovered a dark secret lurking within the chambers of what was once a safe haven in our lives.

Terminology and Bloodlines Corselene: Mate of Dhampir Belladio: Chetiera’s sword, which is imbued with her mother’s magick Dulhari: Ancient cheetah shifters Hanemeaga: Powerful race of sorcerers Zluarad: Noblemen cursed to be Zombies by a Hanemeaga priestess

Realms Akraxxus: Realm of Despair Dalhuak: Dhampir Realm

Beast

Mulruak: Two-headed beast existing within Akraxxus

Characters and Bloodlines Zyrus: Chetiera’s father Sarnak: Krulnar’s father Ulhulria: Chetiera’s mother Micah: Dhampir Krulnar Ulnik Chetiera Miahelia Silhura: Dulhari Elder Drunin: Zluarad traitor Drogue: Zluarad King

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Chapter One The Dhampir, Krulnar, snarled as he cloaked himself within darkness, trailing his old adversary, Chetiera. He watched as the cheetah shifter assassin froze in her tracks and looked around. They’d clashed earlier and had engaged in a knockdown, drag-out fight in realms harboring dangerous beasts. Sometimes the chase thrilled and excited him, but his anger slowly reared its head, especially since the pull to her blood and body had grown stronger. She possessed ancient magick from her ancestors, the Dulhari, who were once plentiful cheetah shifters, but were now extinct, with the exception of Chetiera and Silhura, an Elder shifter. He knew of other cheetah shifters existing on another plane, but they were not as powerful as the Dulhari. He tightened his jaw in irritation when his cock stirred. He almost loathed her for the effect she bestowed upon him. As deadly as she was beautiful, Chetiera had strength and poise, which he admired whenever they engaged in battle. The formfitting black leather coat accentuated every curve of her lithe body. Her dark hair came just above her shoulders and was cut in a thick razor-cut style, giving her hair a spiky appearance. The spiky tips were adorned with gold. One would think she frosted her hair, but that was simply the cheetah within her. It more than accentuated her beautiful light brown skin. Her bangs fell seductively over her left eye. He stiffened and groaned while imagining pouty, glossy lips caressing his cock. Krulnar, under his leader Ulnik’s command, was sent to make her their Corselene, their life-mate. Both Dhampirs would share her powers with his clan while aiding them in battle against enemies of their enemies. Chetiera was the last of her kind. It was in her blood to hunt and destroy Dhampirs and vampires until they were wiped from Earth’s existence. Not to mention she’d been done a great wrong by both races. Learning of her family’s demise caused his heart to ache. This was an emotion he simply couldn’t afford. His leader reminded him of that constantly.

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He sniffed the air, inhaling her scent. His lips curved into a smile as the cheetah warrior shifter turned in his direction. Fighting caused his fangs to descend as the look of determination formed on her beautiful features. Krulnar regretted the bruise on her delicate cheekbone. He snorted. Delicate, his ass. The little wench would have ended his existence had her blade pierced his heart. They were both equally skilled in the ways of the warrior through hand-to-hand combat and sword fighting. “Come out, Krulnar!” she demanded with a sneer. “I can smell you in the wind.” A growl developed in his throat as he floated out from behind the tree to claim her mind, body, and soul. Soon after, both Dhampirs would merge her power with theirs, linking them together forever. He realized this wouldn’t be easy, but he was just as determined as she. His energy peaked, as did his libido. “Chetiera,” he snarled. The crisp breeze of Akraxxus blew through his shoulder-length brown hair. As he approached, she quickly withdrew the infamous gold wand: her sword, Belladio. “Krulnar.” Her face was emotionless. The wand shimmered in a hue of golden light and lengthened into a full sword beneath her touch. He growled at the flash of light. “Surrender yourself to us,” he demanded. “Submit, and you shall live under our protection. We will fight against the Zluarads and other covens seeking to destroy you and Silhura. Fight me again, and your days will be numbered.” His own words weren’t convincing to his ear. How could they be convincing to her? Deep down inside, he wanted to spend the rest of their existence proving his love to her. “Save it, beast!” In a flash, she charged him, then delivered a blow to his abdomen with her left fist, and, gripping Belladio in her right, damn near pierced his heart. He stumbled backward, but came forth with a blow to her jaw, sending her reeling onto the ground. She was fast, thanks to her blood origins, but not as fast as he. In the blink of an eye, Krulnar held her fast by the throat, forcing her to gasp for air.

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“Struggle all you can, little one,” he sneered. He shook her once. “I’ve given you fair opportunity, but you force my hand.” Her blood called to him with such ferocity, forcing him to exert extra willpower. He wanted to take her, but not in this realm. He sought to bed her properly in front of a roaring fire, with plush pillows and layers of silk beneath them. “Never will I surrender to you!” she snarled. For a fleeting moment, his heart sank, but soon, she’d see things his way. “So be it.” He aimed for her jugular, and in an instant, she’d forced her sword between itchy fangs, while delivering another blow to his family jewels with her pointy-toed black boots. His screams of rage pierced the night, and instantly, she released herself from his grasp. She rose and stumbled, owing to the injuries he’d inflicted upon her. In a fit of rage, she raised Belladio, pointing it in his direction. “By the gods, I promise to have your head on a stake next we battle, Dhampir!” She paused briefly. “Tell Ulnik I’ll be coming for him too!” Hatred stirring in her chocolate depths crushed his soul. He wished he’d never developed an attraction to this cheetah shifter assassin, even if she was of a different clan than he was. With a snarl, he wrinkled his nose and bared his fangs. “You cannot fight us both! We will make you our Corselene.” He stormed toward her, and instantly, she shimmered away. Throwing his head back, he released an angry roar to the heavens. With clenched teeth, he stared at the spot where she once stood. If only he could make her see it was the Cainen Coven, in their lust for power and domination, that took pleasure in destroying the human race and some of the Dulhari. That despicable coven was also responsible for the destruction of his father. He sighed. She was too damned stubborn to listen, for in her eyes, Dhampirs were on the same level as the Cainen Coven. After vowing to capture her next time, Krulnar turned on his heel and slipped into Dalhuak, the Realm of the Dhampir.

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Chapter Two Chetiera shimmered into the lair, immediately falling to her knees. Shame engulfed her as she fought to dismiss her overwhelming feelings for Krulnar. His kind destroyed her family, so why did her heart flutter so whenever they encountered one another? That wasn’t the worst of it. Ulnik possessed the power to make her swoon as well. Angry, she tried recalling how she’d become so attracted to the Dhampirs. A small part of her wished to submit to both men. If only it were that easy to surrender her heart to him. As a female cheetah shifter, once mated she’d share her magick with her mate. In her case, she’d share her magick with both men. An overbearing force seemed to pull her in their direction, and neither had bitten her. Sometimes she wished she could go to the far ends of the world with Silhura while abandoning this life and Dhampirs forever. Right now, she seemed so lost. Was Krulnar telling the truth about her family? There were so many lies and deceit woven over the years, she didn’t know who to trust. Chetiera winced in pain at the bite she’d suffered from a Mulruak, an ugly, two-headed, doglike creature existing in the lonely depths of Akraxxus. Silhura, the Elder cheetah shifter, appeared. “I take it you didn’t slay him tonight,” she said with a sigh. The young cheetah frowned as she wondered why the Elder looked so concerned about the destruction of a bloodthirsty Dhampir. “My Grand Silhura, he’s insistent upon stealing my magick for the sake of his clan. They both are. You know Father taught me never to surrender my magick to the likes of a Dhampir.” The Elder patted her on the shoulder as she tended Chetiera’s wounds. “Perhaps it is not so bad,” she confessed. “What are you saying?” Suspicion rose once more within Chetiera. Silhura was holding something back; she could sense it. But what? She did not know. “I’m saying, young one, we are the last of our kind. Ulnik knows this and is looking to strengthen the Dhampirs for the coming centuries. Unfortunately, as you know, we are outnumbered by the Cainen Coven and 4

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the Zluarads. Drogue, their leader, has ordered them to pursue us no longer, but I know the difference. Those damned Zombies will stop at nothing to obtain our power—you know that—leaving us empty vessels, shells of our former selves. Perhaps, joining forces would—” “There has to be another way,” Chetiera shot back. “Forgive me, but I cannot allow him to possess me or my magick. Please, tell me what our future holds again,” she urged the Elder. “Blackness,” Silhura spat, with bitterness. “Why are you so stubborn? We need to carry on our bloodline, even if it means mixing with Dhampirs.” Chetiera growled in disappointment. “They can’t be trusted!” “Only certain clans.” Silhura allowed silence to linger for a few passing moments. “You must trust your heart. Hatred blinds you from true love,” Silhura murmured while sending healing sensations throughout the warrior’s body. “The hatred you harbor will be your undoing.” “But they slaughtered my parents; you know that, Silhura!” Chetiera lowered her bruised body on the soft bed of pillows in front of a roaring fire while the Elder continued her argument. Silhura kept tending to her wounds, but the healing process took longer than normal with every fight. “How shall I merge with two Dhampirs?” “The Dhampir have been wronged by the Zluarads. If Krulnar truly wanted to kill you, he would have done so by now.” A soft glow of the magickal light in the lair flickered on Silhura’s mature features. Her mocha skin was hued with tints of gold, and gray and black mated artistically with the golden color of the cheetah clan in her hair. “Eventually, we shall die out. It is inevitable,” she continued. “There is more to the Dhampir race than meets the eye. I do think you should give them a chance.” “So, you wish us to mix and dilute our bloodline with the undead?” “Dhampirs aren’t of the undead.” “Forgive me, half undead,” Chetiera muttered as she curled in a fetal position, preparing for sleep. Anger nipped her insides as she tried peeking into the Elder’s mind. A strong wall blocked the young cheetah from entering. There was no doubt in her mind that Silhura was protecting something. 5

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“Know this. The fates are in control. There is so much information you will obtain, later in life, when you least expect it.” The older shifter closed her eyes and sighed. “You will need Krulnar, and our bloodlines will merge. If you choose not to, then we will be destroyed, but not by the hands of the Dhampirs.” “Then, I welcome death,” Chetiera said with a growl. “My heart goes out to you, my child.” Silhura shook her head. “If you won’t realize until it’s too late, then where shall that leave us? I can only tell you this. The betrayal came from within our own clan, long ago.” She paused, awaiting an answer. When she received none, she retired to her resting place. **** Regret nipped at her insides as Silhura returned to her place of rest. Chetiera grew more suspicious whenever they spoke of their clan. The young woman’s mother made Silhura swear she’d not reveal the truth of the Dulhari until the proper time came. She sighed as she knelt down for a few hours of meditation. She needed an outlet and sought to clear her mind of the disagreement with Chetiera. She had not told her about what she’d truly seen for their future. She knew if Chetiera discovered the truth before her time, she’d never be able to accept it properly, and might succumb to darkness, like a certain Dulhari of the past. Silhura sighed. “In due time, my sweet Chetiera. You will see and accept the truth for what it is. At least I hope you will.” With that, Silhura closed her eyes before slipping into deep meditation.

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Chapter Three Krulnar’s long black leather flailed behind him as he strolled into the large hall where his leader patiently awaited. Ulnik sat at the head of the long black lacquer table, his jaw resting upon clasped hands while staring out of the window at the full moons. He turned to face Krulnar. “No cheetah?” the blond vampire asked in a huff. Krulnar noticed his leader’s green eyes glowing a pale gold and the irises turning red, signaling his dissatisfaction. “My patience wears thin.” His leader said with a growl before leaning back in the cushiony, bloodred chair. “Do your duty, or I’ll assign this task to another.” “There’s so much more at stake—” “The dilemma is already known to me. You’ve become quite smitten with her and cannot destroy her.” Ulnik sat straight up. “You have one more chance to complete this task. Shall I pursue her on my own?” “No. I can sense she wants to trust me. It will take more time.” Krulnar narrowed his eyes. “She despises me as it is.” “You’ve become soft over the years,” Ulnik spat. “We can take her! Make her submit her body and magick to us both.” Realizing how close they were to battle, Krulnar held his tongue. Death was the sentence for physically assaulting the leader of the clan. “Where’s your compassion?” Ulnik stood and roared. “Where’s your balls! You’ve fallen in love with the cheetah!” “What of your feelings for her? You cannot tell me she hasn’t affected you in the same way.” Anger shook Krulnar’s frame as he fought the rage pricking his insides. His heart was not hardened like his leaders. Ulnik’s only concern was preserving the Dhampir race for future generations. However, the leader’s cold heart prevented him from taking a Corselene of his own. Deep down, Krulnar knew Ulnik harbored many secrets. Ulnik snarled. “Do not tell me my feelings. I refuse to let a woman make me a mindless pile of quivering jelly. It is not within my nature to share or allow my true feelings to show through. How long have you known me?” 7

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“For many centuries,” Krulnar answered. “We’ve fought side by side for so long. It just puzzles me how the war has affected us differently.” “Chetiera is your weakness. That shall be your undoing.” Ulnik sighed. “She needs to be dominated, to be taken, with force,” the leader breathed. “Are you saying you’d force yourself upon her without taking her feelings into consideration?” Krulnar’s jaw tightened. “You’d go as far as to rape her?” “Oh no,” Ulnik said with a sigh. “I have every intention of pleasing the cheetah well. I will drive her insane with pleasure. Together, we both shall. She’ll be ours. I would never harm her.” Something flickered in the leader’s eyes. “I just refuse to allow her to turn me into a puppet.” “I see,” Krulnar said softly. Perhaps under Ulnik’s tough exterior lay the heart of a lamb. It wasn’t uncommon for Dhampir leaders to hide their true nature. Krulnar just wanted to ensure no harm would come to the cheetah. “Bring her here. I want her now,” Ulnik growled huskily. “It has been too long since I’ve known the pleasures of a woman.” “Perhaps changing your frame of mind would do you well.” “Get out! How dare you dishonor me! Leave me now, lest we battle!” Ulnik brought his fist down hard on the table. Krulnar rose and bowed. “I will dishonor you no longer.” There seemed to be no hope. He rose and glided out of the room, leaving Ulnik to his thoughts. His clan leader had been fair for the longest time. Now his patience was wearing thin. As he entered his bedchambers, he tried thinking of a way for Chetiera to willingly accept their offer. He prayed to the gods to make a way. Thoughts of using Dhampir magick entered his mind. But what would the cost be? He wanted her to want him without the use of magick. His bitter lonely life, he could barely endure. Death, destruction, and hatred were regularities of his existence. But the sweet cheetah brought light to his otherwise darkened world. He caught himself smiling at the thought of embracing her lithe body. Perhaps Ulnik was right. He’d become weak. Maybe if they banded together, they could overpower her, making her see things their way. 8

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He bit his bottom lip out of anger tasting the salty, coppery taste of his own blood. He’d been lenient for far too long. His cock grew, straining against his black leather pants, as he sat down on the large maroon and gold comforter. His body weight sunk into the soft mattress within the fourposter bed. In darkness, he lay, staring into the ceiling of his bedchambers. He concentrated and focused his thoughts on the shifter. Perhaps he’d pay her a visit and drink of her blood. Ulnik would be displeased, but perhaps taking Chetiera’s blood would be worth a try. Krulnar stilled his breathing and focused on her form. As he released a breath, he witnessed her tossing and turning in her bed. Her beauty took his breath away as he entered the cheetah’s lair. His heart went out to her because he knew she found no peace, even while in deep slumber. He wanted to end her dilemma, her mental torment. With a sigh, he lightly stroked her soft skin. Chetiera growled in her sleep while continuing to turn restlessly. It was now or never. There was no doubt in his mind about establishing a blood bond with her. He swore he’d make her his mate. “Hear my voice; I command you to awaken.”

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Chapter Four Chetiera wrinkled her face as her instincts warned her an intruder had invaded her room. Panic claimed her when she woke and discovered the large Dhampir standing over her. Quickly, she reached for Belladio, but he stunned her, rendering her helpless and vulnerable. He compelled her to drop the sword. She panted as Krulnar’s gaze swept over her nude body. Pulling the covers close, she released a throaty growl. Her teeth began to chatter, and she shuddered from the feelings he’d invoked within her. In turn, she took in his tall, muscular physique. Her body ached with need for the Dhampir. His alabaster skin captured the scintillating light of the moon filtering through the windows of her lair. Moonlight danced off his incisors as they lengthened due to his arousal. She licked her lips and growled as his blue-eyed gaze captured hers. “I must claim you now.” His words were like a silken whisper, skating over her heated flesh. She could have sworn a hand caressed her cheek. As her body betrayed her, she parted her lips, eager to feel his brush against hers. However, her warrior spirit would not be so submissive. The walls of distrust that had been slowly built over centuries would never allow Krulnar to enter them, not without a certain element. She bared her teeth as hatred swirled inside like a black plague. “I’m going to rip your head off!” In vain, she tried shifting into cheetah form. Enraged at her failure, she glared at him. “What have you done to me?” Her voice was gruff, like a death roar to her own ears. “We must merge,” he breathed. “Don’t you tire of our endless fighting? Let me in.” His voice was soft, like a whisper. “Allow us to bond. There is so much more to us than meets the eye. We were all made for one another.” Chetiera roared in disgust when she witnessed his cock springing to life against his black leather pants. Against her will, her nipples hardened into pebbles and strained against her bedcovers. She scuttled off to the side as he crawled onto the large bed, like a large, majestic cat stalking its prey. She shuddered as his cobalt eyes stabbed into her. They illuminated the darkness. 10

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“Why do you wish to persist in this sadistic venture? How dare you invade my lair!” Chetiera roared her frustration. “I should have destroyed you both long ago!” “Destroy me, and you’ll destroy us all!” he hissed. “I must make you mine, at all costs! It is the only way to protect you!” “Then, I shall become Dhampir?” Worry rushed through her. They were now face-to-face, and the feelings he invoked within her were impossible to fight. A vision of them entangled in a web of heated passion flitted through her mind. Sweat-soaked bodies, twisting and turning, one sating the other. An unyielding, infinite wheel of passion and emotions. She could not tell where one started and the other ended. “What of Ulnik? He wishes to have full control over me and my magick. He’s such a cruel man.” It was true. Ulnik’s gaze incinerated her from the inside out. Delicious, wicked pleasures danced in the leader’s eyes. He wished to have her as a submissive, she could tell. He reached out to stroke her cheek, but she turned away. With a growl, he swiped a long finger beneath her chin, forcing her to look him in the eye. “You are no longer an assassin of Dhampirs.” Angrily, Chetiera tried pushing Krulnar away, but his strength was more than she could handle. Before she could react, he had laid her flat on her back, with her arms high above her head. “Stop hunting our kind!” “Go to hell!” Chetiera snarled. “Submit and you shall preserve your magick and what’s left of your clan,” he demanded, as she continued her fruitless struggle. “I assure you, it is most pleasurable to be held in the arms of a Dhampir.” His eyes glazed over with desire. “No, let me go, you murdering bastard!” Visions of the Dulhari being laid to waste invaded her mind, which increased the distrust and anger she held within. “You know we did not kill your family. You’ll need my protection whether you want it or not, against those who truly committed these heinous crimes,” he breathed. “I’m sorry, but I must do this. I promise, this won’t hurt long.” His fangs lengthened. 11

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“Nooo, Krulnar!” Her stomach churned when he bent down and bit deep into her neck. She howled in pained pleasure as the Dhampir fed from her. “I’ll never forgive you for this,” she moaned before everything faded to black. Visions of both Dhampirs flitted through her mind. While Krulnar was on top, Ulnik lay beneath her, taming her body, making her surrender to the sweet passions they inflicted upon her. In truth, she wished she could experience the bite of both Dhampirs. In her vision, they both latched onto her neck, drinking her blood as they simultaneously thrust inside her. Then, something shifted and a strong force made itself known. “I’ve just linked us together, but we must all join for us to become one. You are my mate, and you cannot continue to fight alone. . . You need our protection. Soon, Ulnik will drink from you too.” His voice trailed off as he disappeared from the cheetah’s lair. Chetiera shot straight up in bed, gasping for breath. She knew her nightmare would come true, and she also knew in her heart that the only way for survival would be to become Corselene to two Dhampirs. She clutched her thighs together as she remembered the vision of both men claiming her. She growled. “Damn you to hell, Krulnar!” She roared into the night as she touched the puncture wounds in her throat. He had drunk from her. Now, he possessed the ability to know her whereabouts at all times. There was no doubt Ulnik would appear to her soon. A large crash outside her bedroom door made her again reach for Belladio. The sword shimmered and lengthened with her touch as she stormed into the main room of the lair. Instantly, she summoned clothing to cover her naked body. “Silhura!” she cried out, trying to stave off the nagging, sinking feeling in her gut. She gasped at the disheveled room. Her heart sunk as she saw, in her mind’s eye, Silhura being whisked away. Swearing, she exited the lair only to see two Zluarads clutching Silhura in cheetah form. The Elder had shifted, but the Zombie fucks had snared her in a large black net. One Zluarad stayed behind, beckoning her to fight. His long, black, stringy hair whipped around his pale blue features. Without thinking, she charged Drunin, Drogue’s first in command. 12

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“Do you honestly think you can best me, Chetiera?” Drunin snarled, showing his fierce jagged teeth while blocking Belladio’s blow. “Think?” she spat. “I don’t think; I know!” she rang out as Belladio nicked the Zombie’s arm. She gathered her powers from within and shot a ball of energy toward the Zombie, but he was too quick for her. “Arrgggh! Bitch!” Drunin screeched loudly as he moved in on her. Chetiera fought as hard as she could against Drunin’s fierce sword. He wasn’t Drogue’s first in command for nothing. Trepidation set in as her instincts warned her of the dangerous threat hovering over Silhura. “It has been nice meeting you, but I must depart.” Drunin smiled slyly before blowing black dust into her face, blinding her temporarily. Chetiera screeched as the dust irritated her eyes. Anger erupted within her as she felt Drunin disappear. His laughter made her swear he’d suffer unto her the next time they fought. Dropping to her knees, she blinked her eyes a few times until the dust no longer affected her sight. The odds were against her, and there was no one she could call upon, except the Dhampirs. She cursed out loud. What would they make her do? Her mind raced at her dilemma. Surely they’d take advantage, demanding her body and magick in return for their assistance. With a heavy heart and tears misting in her eyes, she quickly made her way to Dalhuak. A slither of fear snaked up her spine at the realization of what she was about to do. What would it be like to become a whore to Dhampirs? She cursed aloud again. She wasn’t a whore. Never had she bargained her body for anything she needed. The weakness she was facing tore at her soul. Suddenly shame engulfed her. Silhura was her Elder. The one who raised her after her parents were murdered. Where was her loyalty? She shouldn’t be wrestling with this idea. Suddenly, Krulnar’s gaze often made her swoon. It was like magick that he appeared to her. More and more, her mind accepted the fact that she did indeed need the Dhampirs. Over the years, her energies became depleted while fending off the Zluarads and covens who wished to destroy her and Silhura. 13

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Although she didn’t want to admit it, the fact that she needed him and Ulnik was crystal clear. Now she knew what she must do to save the woman who had been like a mother to her over the years.

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Chapter Five Chetiera appeared at the front entrance to the Dhampir palace. Instantly two guards approached her, withdrawing their swords. “What business do you have here, cheetah?” A guard growled angrily at her. His gaze dropped to her hand resting on Belladio’s hilt. “Don’t try anything,” he demanded. “I’ve come to see Krulnar.” Chetiera was ready. Her heart thumped against her chest, and adrenaline rushed through her veins. If it was a fight they wanted, it was fight she’d give them. The other Dhampir guard smiled. “Ah, at this late hour? What could you possibly want?” Suddenly, Krulnar appeared. “Let her in.” He cast his cold stare in her direction, making the hair along her neck stand on end. Her breath hitched as she recalled the vision she’d experienced when he drank from her. The guards nodded, motioning for the cheetah warrior to come through the gates. As she crossed over into the palace, she could feel their sinful gaze upon her body. Thoughts of what they’d do to her flashed in her mind, and, apparently, Krulnar’s too. She felt his blood pressure rise before he growled with deadly venom at the guards. “Think of her in that manner again, and I’ll have both your heads on a platter,” the Dhampir growled. “She is a lady, not some gutter trash! Show her respect!” “As Ulnik’s first in command wishes.” The Dhampir guards lowered their heads. Chetiera was at a loss for words. Had Krulnar actually just come to her defense? Their eyes meshed, drawing her nipples into tightened peaks. Suddenly, she found it hard to breathe. “Come,” Krulnar insisted. They continued walking through the courtyard and then through the large wooden double doors. As they entered the castle, guards stared at her in dismay. Some whispered, with smiles upon their faces. Although a slight

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feeling of discomfort washed over her, she continued to hold her composure nonetheless. Head held high, she caught the gaze of every Dhampir they passed. It was not in Chetiera’s nature to lower her eyes to the ground in the presence of a man. If one of them tried to harm her, she swore Belladio would pierce their hearts. Krulnar glanced at her as they strolled down the large, elaborate corridor. Torches lit the way of the ancient palace. “Is there anything I can get you? Are you thirsty?” Chetiera’s face flushed. He was actually being civil. “No, I’m fine, thank you.” Actually, she was dying of thirst, but she preferred not to show her weakness. “Suit yourself,” the warrior muttered, showing her into a small room. “Let’s speak in here.” Quickly, he shut the door and they sat at a large table. “What seems to be the problem?” Chetiera swallowed hard. She wasn’t used to asking for help from anyone, let alone a Dhampir. “Silhura, my Elder, has been kidnapped.” She sat up straight, staring into his eyes that made her blood pressure skyrocket. “Why should this be of any concern to me?” Krulnar huffed while strumming his fingers against the polished walnut table. “You’re a warrior; she’s your Elder. I see no dilemma on your part.” Chetiera’s heart sank as she stared into Krulnar’s hardened gaze. Perhaps she’d made a mistake in coming here. Apparently the bastard was going to make her crawl and beg for his assistance. “I’ll need your assistance because she’s been taken by Drunin. The Zluarads outnumber us by far, and I’ll need an army to back me up while I rescue her.” Krulnar smiled slyly. “Oh? You need my army? Can’t you slip into their realm, free her, and slip out?” He crossed his arms. “I thought you were an all-powerful Dulhari?” Chetiera growled. Now he was pissing her off. Why was her predicament so damned amusing to him?

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**** Krulnar felt like a royal bastard, but perhaps his leader was correct in what he said. Chetiera weakened him. On the other hand, his heart ached for her. He could feel her emotions swelling inside her. “Will you help me or not?” she demanded. “Besides, you owe me.” Krulnar lifted a brow. “Owe you? How do you figure?” “You bit me.” “Umm,” the Dhampir purred while stroking his chin. “So I did.” He smiled, and his cock jerked in his leather pants as he imagined nestling himself deep within the cheetah’s heat. Her blood was the best he’d tasted in a long time. It was like fire coursing through his veins. As it filled him, a velvet feeling encased his aura. “So, you’ve had the pleasure of tasting this beauty before me?” Ulnik appeared in the room. “Become our Corselene, and we shall see.” The leader strode to the chair in which Chetiera sat. She shivered slightly as he stood behind her. Apparently he knew the effect he had on her. “I’ve tasted her, and she’s sweet.” “I envy you.” Ulnik smiled. “No doubt, she’s here to seal a deal?” “A deal?” Chetiera narrowed her eyes. “No, I’m here to—” Suddenly she felt foolish. She gasped when the clan leader’s hands rested on her shoulders. His large hands drifted from her shoulders to her slender arms. His grip tightened before his hands returned to her shoulders. Slowly, he massaged the cheetah, causing her to gasp as he sent healing vibrations through her body. Ulnik purred along with the cheetah. “Ah, she loves this,” he moaned as his fingers gently kneaded the back of her neck. “So strong, yet so delicate.” Krulnar’s cock grew hard as Chetiera’s features softened and her lips ovaled from his leader’s actions. There was no doubt in his mind, the coupling was meant to be. Together, he and Ulnik would pleasure the cheetah beyond her imagination.

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Just as her features softened, they hardened once more. Chetiera tore herself away from Ulnik’s grip. “What do you think you’re doing? I did not agree to this!” “The cheetah is very stubborn,” Ulnik continued before leaning down to whisper in her ear. “What brings you to Dalhuak?” He reached out to stroke her face with the back of his hand. “You cannot lie and say you didn’t enjoy the small amount of pleasure I’ve just given you. Why are you in such denial?” **** “As I was telling Krulnar, my Elder, Silhura, has been taken away.” She tried to focus, but Ulnik’s touch stayed with her. Shock embraced her. How could Ulnik’s touch be so gentle? Something deep inside her craved more of the same, not from one, but both Dhampirs. She glanced over at Krulnar, who appeared to be reading her mind. She felt her face flush when he smiled. “My dear, what will you do for us once we’ve aided you in rescuing Silhura?” Once more, Ulnik’s hands roamed along the shifter’s slender arms. His hot breath against her neck made her damp between the thighs. As if she weren’t wet enough. “I will aid you in any battle you may face.” She swallowed hard, hoping he’d accept. Her instincts warned her he wouldn’t. “You think me a fool?” Ulnik pulled out the chair next to her and sat down. “You know what we want. Give us one night of pleasure if we help you free Silhura.” “No, I cannot do that.” Her voice quivered. “Anything but that.” “Very well then,” Ulnik sneered. “Looks as though you’re on your own. Be sure to say hello to the Zluarads for me.” “I hate you both!” Chetiera rose with a huff. “If something happens to Silhura, by the gods, I swear I’ll collect both your heads! Never mind, I don’t need help from any of you!” With that, she disappeared into thin air. “Fuck!” Krulnar overturned the large table with a roar. Where had that gotten him? “What were you thinking?” 18

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“She needs to see who’s in charge. How dare she come here, thinking she can get whatever she wants from us!” Krulnar stiffened. She needed them. Against his better judgment, listening to his leader had gotten him nowhere. A feeling of despair twisted his gut, and his senses heightened. Danger loomed over the beautiful cheetah. Sensing his actions, his leader spoke. “Only fools rush in,” Ulnik stated. “You haven’t even bedded her, and she’s leading you around by the dick.” “She doesn’t have to know we’ve followed her,” Krulnar stated. “Just come with me; I need to make sure she’s all right. Deep down inside, you know she’ll meet with danger tonight!” Ulnik growled his answer. One that Krulnar could barely understand. “Very well, then,” he snapped quickly.

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Chapter Six Instinct pulled Chetiera to the castle of Charig, leader of the Cainen Coven. She should have done this in the first place, she thought to herself. She’d show Krulnar. His help wasn’t needed. Before she had time to sniff out the Elder, Drunin appeared. “Charig was right. You have more balls than most men, showing up here all alone.” He smiled and withdrew his sword. “Smart too.” A quizzical look formed on his face. “Hmm, Interesting. Apparently Dulharis can sense . . .” He cocked his head to the side. “Drogue hasn’t pursued us in centuries. He has no reason to kidnap Silhura,” she said while withdrawing Belladio. “Tell me, what would your leader think about you dishonoring his wishes?” Two more Zluarads appeared. “You’ll never make it out of this realm alive,” one said. “I’ve never liked the Dulhari. I’ll take great pleasure in slicing you up the middle.” “I have my reasons,” Drunin sneered before his face twisted into a grotesque smile as he charged the shifter. She’d swore she’d have his head for his actions when they crossed paths again. “I owe you from the last time we battled! You’ll pay dearly for everything, Zombie!” She blocked his blow as he brought his sword down on her head. Under a star-filled sky, beneath the full moons, the sound of swords clanking carried throughout the night. Without thinking, she released a quick blow to his gut, making him double over. A right hook laid the Zluarad flat on his ass. He never saw it coming. She turned quickly as the other Zluarads charged her. Quickly, she sent a ball of energy at one before slicing into the other. His howls of pain echoed into the night. She stood over Drunin while the other Zluarads stumbled to their feet. “Tell me what you have done with Silhura!” Quickly grabbing the sword, Drunin sliced at Chetiera’s leg, making her fall to her knees. She cried out in pain while Drunin rose to his feet. She received a blow from the butt of a sword held by one of the other Zombies. 20

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As she fell to the ground, Drunin delivered a swift kick to the ribs, pushing the air from her lungs. Pain riddled her chest as a boot-clad foot rested on her chest. The weight increased, and she struggled. “Aww, what’s the matter, Chetiera?” He circled her a few times before kicking her in the ribs. The cheetah gritted her teeth and moaned as she began to lose focus. “I swear I’ll get you for this!” Chetiera’s heart jumped when she heard the familiar voices and the other Zluarads howling in fear. Ignoring the pain, she hoisted herself up on one elbow just in time to see Ulnik’s sword lopping off the head of one Zluarad. Krulnar released a war cry as he charged the other Zombie, and Chetiera fell back, fighting to hang onto consciousness. She’d seen the Dhampirs’ rage as they centered on Drunin. Drunin had purposely sliced through her femoral artery and now she was losing blood at the speed of lightning. Quick thinking on her part had her tearing a piece of black fabric from her suit. Quickly she tied it as tightly as she could, forcing the blood to slow down. She needed to be healed quickly, and she used the power of her mind to do so, but it was no good. She fell to the ground in a blinded haze while witnessing the Dhampirs and the Zluarad battling one another. She stiffened when Krulnar cast a concerned glance in her direction. Was that panic that reflected in his eyes? She shook her head. She’d obviously lost too much blood. She was going mad. She needed to get away quickly, to place as much distance between herself and the bastards as possible. Soon after, Ulnik looked her way. At first she thought she witnessed concern, then a flash of anger lit his eyes to an overwhelming glow. His fangs were lengthened, and he looked like a madman come undone. She had to focus. Her ability to slip between veils of the worlds was unattainable at this point in time. Chetiera growled a curse as Drunin scuttled away from the fierce Dhampir warriors like the coward he was. Panic set in as they sent their heated gazes in her direction. They quickly approached, and she tried to crawl away, but the agonizing pain was too much for even her to endure. 21

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Krulnar’s hands sent tingling flames of desire throughout her body as he hoisted her body into his powerful arms. “You’re safe now,” he assured as she felt them enter the Dhampir realm. “No, you must let me go.” She winced in pain. “I’m sorry; I cannot do that. You need healing.” “He’s right. You’ve been badly injured,” Ulnik said in a husky voice. “Like it or not, you need us.” She fought the urge to nestle in the warmth of Krulnar’s chest and was surprised at the slow beat of a heart thumping against her ear. True, Dhampirs were half human, but she’d never been this close to one. “Let me go, please,” she said wearily, fighting the urge to pass out. Silhura’s face popped into her mind, letting her know all would be well. Then she inhaled the Dhampir’s male fragrance. “Oh, Krulnar,” she muttered before nestling in his chest. For some reason, she found safety in his arms and a tingling sensation erupted between her thighs. “Take care of her,” Ulnik demanded. “I’ll try to find out exactly where Silhura is being held.” With that, the leader disappeared. **** Krulnar returned to his chambers, placing Chetiera in his bed. Yes, that’s where she should be, he thought to himself. Safe in his chambers, away from any battle. The overwhelming need to protect her was tearing him apart. Immediately he crushed herbs and some healing paste into a bowl, crushing them together. He’d bitten her already; if he did so again, he’d turn her into a Dhampir, and he couldn’t bear the thought of her hating him more than she did now. Without thought, he tore the leather pants from her thigh and smoothed the salve over the wound inflicted by Drunin. He growled at the thought of the Zombie bastard. If Chetiera didn’t destroy him first, he’d be sure to do so on her behalf.

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The bleeding ceased immediately, but still, she’d lost so much blood. He peeled her leather from her body and sucked in a breath. Immediately his cock sprang to life as the cat-warrior slept in his bed. Sighing, he filled fresh water in a basin and cleansed her thoroughly. She was so beautiful. As he cleansed her, his eyes graced her lithe body. Brown nipples topped two ample breasts. They heaved as her chest rose and fell from her ragged breathing. She could stand to put on a few more pounds, he thought to himself as he counted her ribs. His eyes dropped to the treasure between her thighs. The brownish yellowish hair dusked her mound, and the urge to kiss her there made him swallow hard. He took more time to soak her in. Battle scars covered some areas of her arms and legs, making anger and sorrow pierce his tough facade. Had he inflicted some of those scars on her? There were times when they engaged in swordfighting. She was a force to be reckoned with. If he wasn’t on his game, she’d have killed him a thousand times over. Protectively, he covered her with the bloodred satin sheets of his bed. “I wish you’d open your eyes, little cheetah,” Krulnar breathed one last prayer to the gods. I am afraid for what the future holds for us both. His thoughts reverted to his leader. He should summon him. Then again, it was of great concern that Chetiera needed time to heal while gathering her energies. Then, a thought occurred to him. In the morning, he’d have hell to pay and would have a tough time explaining why she was naked in his bed. He groaned at the thought of restraining her, but what other choice did he have? Reluctantly, he rolled her over to her side, then bound her hands in silk. Feeling like the bastard she accused him of being, Krulnar then covered her with the silk sheets. After pulling a chair to the bed, he sat and watched her until sunrise. Along with the sun rose the feeling of remorse.

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Chapter Seven Chetiera’s eyes fluttered open as the sun infiltrated her lair. At least, she’d thought she’d woken in her lair. Still feeling woozy from the fight with Drunin, she sat up, realizing she was someplace else. Panic set in once she realized she was naked and bound in someone else’s bed. She roared in anger as she tried freeing herself from the ties. When no one came, she carefully studied her surroundings. The brown walls were constructed of granite and harbored intricate symbols on the archway, in front of her. The bedchambers resembled medieval times. Times long since passed, well before she was thought of. This castle was fit for a king, but whom? “Good morning,” Krulnar said as he strode in with a tray of food. Her enemy was king of this castle? “You!” She fought against the ties as he came close to the bed to sit the tray down. “What did you do to me last night?” Krulnar smiled. “Drunin injured you, and I healed you.” She desperately wished she could reach up and smack the smile off his face. “Oh, is that why I’m naked and bound in your bed?” “His sword pierced your femoral vein. If I hadn’t healed you, you would have bled to death.” “You beast! What else did you do to me?” “If you’re asking whether or not I took advantage of you, the answer’s no.” Chetiera ceased her struggling. “Then why am I naked?” “You needed time to heal. I did not think to dress you. I assure you, I sat in this chair until dawn.” She watched him closely, and from what she could tell, he spoke the truth. “Untie me.” “I’m afraid I cannot do that.” “Why not?”

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“Ulnik wants your head, that’s why. You can’t go walking around the castle without me. If anyone sets sight on you, they’ll capture you and take you to Ulnik. You’re hungry. Eat.” It was true, her stomach growled, but the tantalizing thought of Krulnar having seen her naked body titillated her to no end. She wished she’d been conscious while he touched her naked body. Over the centuries she’d had more than her fair share of sexual fantasies of the Dhampir warrior. “Um, I think I’ll be needing my hands for that task.” “Then I’ll feed you.” Chetiera frowned and growled. “Like hell you will! I’m no baby.” She watched the Dhampir as he carefully weighed his options. Then he spoke. “If I untie you, I’ll need your word you’ll not try to run.” Okay, this was where she needed to entice him with her feminine wiles. She’d gain her freedom by the element of surprise. She smiled as innocently as she could. “Of course not. If my life is at stake, then I shall remain with you.” Her heart beat against her chest as she envisioned herself shifting into full cheetah and running gods only knew where from the Dalhuak realm. She watched him carefully as he untied the silken sash. “Are you sure you didn’t take advantage of me?” Krulnar sighed. “I swear it. Not that I didn’t want to. It wouldn’t be too sporting of me to do so, wouldn’t you agree?” he asked, while uncovering her. She purred softly as her body responded to his closeness. She wanted him now. Hell, what was she thinking? Had he put some kind of spell on her? Oh yeah, he’d bitten her. Perhaps that intensified what she’d already felt? Obviously she had feelings for him long before he’d bitten her. Her purring grew louder as moisture crept along her inner thighs. Krulnar halted and sniffed the air. Her nipples tightened as his hand brushed against her tummy. He inhaled once more. “I smell your arousal, cheetah.” His voice became gruff with need as he freed her wrists. She tensed as he reached out to cup her chin. “Let me love you,” he moaned. “Let me touch and taste you. Do not deny us this any longer.” 25

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The pull to him was overwhelming, as was the growing throbbing sensation between her legs. Her arousal saturated the bedcovers as she rolled over onto her back, submitting to her adversary. She lost a breath when his fangs descended. His masculine smell mingled with the leather he wore, intoxicating her further. Her gaze dropped to the noticeable bulge in his leather pants. He released a throaty growl as his hand slipped between her thighs. Before she could react, he moved in on her, his mouth claiming hers. Briefly, he grazed his fangs against her neck. “Oh, by the gods!” Chetiera murmured as she arched into his touch. His other hand cupped and kneaded her breast as he continued kissing her. Krulnar’s tongue traced her lower lip until she accepted it. Briefly, she witnessed the savage hunger in his blazing cobalt eyes. She returned his kisses with ferocity, reveling in the feel of callused fingers over her sensitive flesh. As the passion for him escalated, her mind screamed that he was the enemy, but her heart and body told it to shut the hell up. His index finger pushed at the opening of her pussy, making her buck her hips. What she wanted—needed—was his fingers moving wildly inside her. She growled impatiently, knowing he was toying with her. She panted and lifted her hips against his finger as she fisted his hair. His head dipped to taste the sweetness of her breasts. Chetiera purred as his mouth sucked in delicious tugs at the diamond-hard peaks. His teeth raked against the sensitive tip, almost hard enough to make it hurt. “We must bond.” Krulnar’s voice became a dark, demanding growl. She looked into his eyes. He looked like a man not in his own mind. Did she really have this effect on him? Chetiera felt herself being pulled within his gaze, and she loved it. Then there was something else. She felt Krulnar’s mind brushing against hers. Krulnar broke eye contact. His tongue returned to lavishing a hot trail of fire along her throat. His hot breath caused goose bumps to erupt over her entire body. She moaned out loud as his fangs grazed her neck, gently nipping her. 26

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“Would you like for me to drink from here.” He pointed toward her neck. “Or here” His finger gently tapped wet, swollen flesh. “I can do both if you’d like.” He looked down. “All this delicious cream is going to waste.” It was at that moment she’d regained her senses. His fangs along her neck reminded her of the night he drank from her! “Fucking bastard!” Without warning, she elbowed Krulnar in the throat, sending him reeling into the wall next to the bed. Gathering her wits, she rose from the bed, but he pushed her onto her back. “Deceiving little—” Before he could finish his sentence, Chetiera head-butted and tossed him to the side. Quickly she wrapped the silk sheets around her body and dashed out of the bedchambers with svelte speed. **** Krulnar roared in anger as he shook his head. His hands curled into fists as he tried standing up. Right now, he was seeing double and his strength was nil. He’d exerted all his energies into healing the little hussy, and this was her way of thanking him! Even more, she’d deceived him. His erection ebbed away as he charged out of the room after her. He would not make the same mistake again. He bellowed as his lips still tingled from the touch of hers. His heart ached at her betrayal. He trusted her. Hadn’t he proved to her that he wouldn’t harm her? For the gods’ sakes, she’d slept in his bed the entire night, naked, and he had never laid a hand on her. Immediately he picked up on her feminine scent. Nostrils flaring, Krulnar make a right into the large, elegant hallway of the castle. She wasn’t all that far away, and he doubted she could shift after recovering from last night’s fight with Drunin. At least, he’d hoped she couldn’t shift. She’d be killed on the spot in cheetah form. “Damn you, Chetiera,” he muttered to himself. His loins ached for her, and he was still a little off balance from that hard-ass head of hers connecting with his. A part of him wanted to strangle her for the pain she’d inflicted. 27

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The other part wanted to toss her over his shoulder and run as far as they could, away from the clan and all that threatened them. “Not in this existence.” There would never be any peace, he thought angrily to himself as he stormed into the main courtyard. Luckily, on this morning, most of the warriors were away in battle camp. Gods help him if another warrior picked up on her scent. Although he’d bitten her, he had not yet claimed her as his Corselene. This could pose a problem. As he searched for her, the memory of his father, Sarnak, entered his mind. Hungary: 1062 A.D. Krulnar clutched the sword in his hand as the vampire charged him. Red eyes ablaze, his adversary bared its fangs. With one swipe, Krulnar decapitated him. “Hurry, son, there isn’t much time!” “Where’s mother?” Sarnak ignored his question. Smoke clouded their vision as they collected some clothing, then eventually made their way out into the courtyard. “Answer my question, father. Where’s Mother? Why are we leaving her behind?” Krulnar inquired once more as they mounted their horses and rode off. “I think you know the answer to that question.” Sarnak’s voice was gruff and filled with anger as they galloped off into the night. Trepidation and anger rose within Krulnar at the thought of never laying eyes upon his mother again. There were questions his father avoided, and once they reached their destination, he swore he’d pry them out of him. Once they reached the mountains, they dismounted their horses. Sarnak turned his gaze to his son. “I do not wish to abandon our home. We could have easily retreated to another realm, but now is not the time.” “You owe me an explanation.” Sarnak nodded. “That, I do.” “She died trying to defend me.” 28

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“Yes, son.” Sarnak bowed his head. “I loved your mother, but she was no match for a vampire. Human women are vulnerable in our world.” His gaze met Krulnar’s. “The vampire we fought is from the Cainen Coven. They are dangerous and care little of the existence of others.” Sarnak sighed. “We’ve spent centuries annihilating their kind, but they infect humans so quickly. Before long, I fear they’ll overrun the human population.” “I will fight to the death, Father,” Krulnar swore. “If only to avenge Mother’s death.” “As will I.” Sarnak frowned. “What is it, Father?” “There is a secret your mother never shared, I’m afraid.” “What?” “Long ago, we took in a vampire from the Tarquinian Coven. When we found him in the woods not far from our home, he was weakened from battle. We grew to love him as our own.” “What happened?” “Hatred between the Dhampir clans knew no boundaries, and we had to give him up. He was no longer safe since he was full vampire.” Sarnak wept for the first time in Krulnar’s life. “Luckily, Lazius of Steeleheart Coven accepted him.” “Where is he now?” Sarnak shook his head. “This, I do not know.” He paused for a few seconds and frowned. “He’d make a formidable ally of the Dhampirs, that’s if he hasn’t been tainted by the customs of Steeleheart Coven.” “Oh.” Krulnar hung his head in disappointment. Sarnak continued, “Vampires slaughtered humans mercilessly, often pinning the blame on Dhampirs. A handful of humans banded together to help annihilate Dhampirs altogether. Many covens had been wiped from the face of the Earth. That was when many covens retreated to otherworldly realms. Some vampires have made it difficult for vampires and Dhampirs to coexist with humans.” Sarnak bared his fangs. “I will continue to fight in this world. I’m not retreating.” “Do you foresee any changes?” 29

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Sarnak shook his head. “Not a chance, my son. It would take so much to bring the covens together and to cease bearing arms against one another.” He exhaled. “In addition to rogue vampires, we must contend with the Dulhari. They fight us with a mighty vengeance. One of their own has poisoned innocent minds of many in his clan.” “Who?” Krulnar asked. “I am unsure. The Dulhari who don’t side with this madman will be slaughtered. As it is, he’s managed to have some Dulhari side with him. Nonetheless, this cheetah shifter has managed to cause an uproar within the realms.” **** Krulnar growled in fury at the distant memory. His father existed for many centuries after that incident. Unfortunately, he and his coven members were destroyed during the day by a pack of Dulhari. At least that was what he was told. Later on in his years, he discovered another Dhampir coven was responsible. The identity of the rogue cheetah shifter was never revealed, although Krulnar sought answers. Centuries of lies and hatred plagued their home until Krulnar banded with Ulnik and his brother, Nicklios, retreating into a realm of their own. For years they built their army, joining the humans in their fight against vampire and Dhampir covens seeking total domination within the human realm. Some battles were lost, while others were won. Nonetheless, the war still raged. Unfortunately, Nicklios lost his life in battle and Ulnik never was the same. The details were never revealed, since Krulnar had not known of this particular battle and was fighting in the human realm with his warriors. A few years later, before returning to his home, Krulnar watched in terror as a vampire was burned to ash on national television. The reporter contact had betrayed the creature. This final act was what finally thrust the human realm into darkness. The thought motivated him to find Chetiera. He had to end this madness, 30

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or go insane trying. He wasn’t sure how long he could exist in a world where he fought continuously. Times were simpler back in the world into which Sarnak and his mother brought him. It was easier to blend within the woods and mountains, where unsuspecting humans overlooked them. In modern times, living amongst humans became costly, hence the very reason why he, Ulnik, and Nicklios agreed to exist within another realm. Centuries of fighting should have hardened him, but alas, he grew weaker every century. His biggest fear was of becoming emotionless like Ulnik. Sniffing the air, he continued following her scent, which led him to the past the courtyard and out into the wilderness. There, he found her crouched beneath a large tree and foliage. “What are you doing?” He so wanted to snatch her up and shake her a few times after the little stunt she performed earlier, but her energies hadn’t returned. In her efforts to escape, she only tired herself out. Apparently, she needed the Elder to heal her further. He decided he’d at least give her a chance. Something she’d never granted him. “Why did you run?” “Go away,” she insisted. He watched as she struggled to regain her breath. “Can you shift?” “I did, but I returned to my human form.” She continued panting and turned her head to face him. “Go on. Get it over with.” “Get what over with?” “Kill me.” She winced in pain as she moved her leg. “I feel as though I have nothing left inside me anymore.” He reached out to touch her, but she pulled away, as though he’d harm her. “Don’t say that.” She shook her head slowly while looking ahead. “This endless pain and suffering will never cease, will it?” “Heartache?” He knew she wasn’t speaking of physical pain. She nodded while continuing to stare straight ahead. “I’ve never felt so lost in all my existence,” she went on to say. “I’ve been fighting with every bit of energy I have, and where has it gotten me?” Krulnar exhaled. “It is what we’ve become so used to.” 31

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She looked at him and frowned. “You . . .feel the same too?” He broke off a piece of grass and stuck it in his mouth. “Of course. Been feeling this way for the better half of ten centuries.” He paused momentarily at the look in her eyes. “Why do you look so shocked?” “Well, I never thought Dhampirs possessed the ability to feel.” “Of course we do. We’re half human.” Krulnar tried stifling the hurt bubbling over in his chest. Funny how centuries of war made Ulnik a hardened shell of a man. For Krulnar, things were just the opposite. He shifted as he turned to face her. “Do you really think you’re the only one dealing with pain and loss?” He watched as she said nothing. “Well, do you?” His voice was demanding. He watched as her jaw tightened and her eyes squinted. “You killed my family.” “You’ve listened to nothing I’ve said,” Krulnar muttered. “Vampires killed off the Dulharis, not Dhampirs.” She started to speak, but he cut her off. “If you took the time to investigate, you’d know that what I speak is the truth!” Krulnar didn’t dare tell her of the rogue Dulhari who slaughtered many innocents of her clan. She’d never believe it. “Then why do you seek to procure my magick?” “We know that when a cheetah shifter chooses a mate, her magick is shared between that man and his entire clan. It would be the same for a female Dhampir and a male shifter.” He looked her deep in the eyes. “It would be the same for us.” “Why me?” Her gaze cut him to the quick. “Why do you want me? Don’t you have Dhampir females in your coven?” He sighed. “Most of the female Dhampirs were destroyed by vampires. We fought to defend them, but when we fought in the wars, the vampires cast a spell, destroying many of them.” Krulnar watched as Chetiera lowered her head. “It doesn’t matter. No female Dhampir will do. You are my true mate.” Chetiera shook her head in disbelief. “You lie! I’m cheetah; you are Dhampir. What makes you think we can be together, we are two entirely different—” 32

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Krulnar cut her off coldly. “Blood courses through our veins just the same, in spite of our cultural differences!” He pounded his fist against his hardened chest. “We both feel! That has to count for something!” “I will never feel anything for you!” Chetiera spat. She shot him a scrutinizing gaze. “Why can’t you see how much I detest you and your kind?” “You certainly say what’s on your mind, don’t you?” Krulnar reached down and uprooted a handful of grass, trying to hide the pain she’d ignited within him with her cruel words. He grinned before sticking a few blades in his mouth to change the subject. “You know, I’m rather enjoying this conversation.” He gazed deep into her eyes as he sucked on the blades and spat them out. Whether she knew it or not, she was letting her guard down. “Don’t get any ideas.” She turned her head and crossed her arms over her breasts while pulling the satin cover around her body. Her distrust of him was like a dagger through the heart. One part of his mind suggested he not care, while the other half screamed for her to wake up. He did care, and he’d never be able to deny that. “Why is it so hard for you to let anyone in?” He tried waiting patiently for her to answer. “I swear, no harm will come to you.” “You’re my enemy.” “Am not.” “Yes, you are. What could you possibly want from me?” “I want—” Quickly he ended his words. There was no use in setting himself up for disappointment. Krulnar shook his head in frustration. “We could argue this for centuries.” When she didn’t speak, he decided to give her some room. Apparently her existence must have been just as bad as his, if not worse. “Okay, well . . .” He rose and extended his hand. “Come back with me.” She leaned away from front him, as though his hand was poison. “Why should I?” “Have you found Silhura?” He watched as tears welled in her eyes. Quickly anger replaced the growing sadness within them, and she swiped away a lone teardrop. “No, not yet.” 33

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Krulnar felt his heart lurch at the mixture of pain in her voice and the way she gnashed her teeth together. As if that would stop her emotions. She was putting up a good fight at stifling her feelings. This was the first time he’d seen her so vulnerable. His heart went out to her. A battle was obviously raging within. “Come. Let’s get something to eat.” He waited while she sat on her haunches staring at him. “Um, at this rate my hand will fall off.” He felt like an idiot at his half-assed attempt to joke. She frowned, then gave him a quick half grin. His world lit up because she’d never been one to smile. Quite often her face was contorted with anger or a smirk when she thought she’d had half a chance at killing him. Finally, she reached out, accepting his hand. His heart beat faster than it had in years. For a moment, he thought he’d seen sparks flying between them—or was it just his imagination? “I am hungry,” she admitted reluctantly. “Good, there’s plenty of food to eat.” He smiled inwardly as they walked back to the castle through the grass. Little baby steps, he thought to himself. He didn’t know how long it would take for her to accept her feelings for him, or for her to accept his feelings for her. He didn’t care. He’d wait forever for her.

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Chapter Eight The collar seemed to tighten around her neck as Silhura witnessed Drunin rubbing his hands together greedily while accepting the gold coins from the vampire, Charig. The uncomfortable muzzle irritated the hell out of her, and the feeling of confinement weighed heavily upon her being, like a ton of bricks. “I assure you, Drogue knows nothing of this.” He smiled eagerly as Charig folded his arms across his chest. “You better not be lying to me, Zombie scum!” The vampire huffed as his eyes glowed a feral red. “I don’t need a Zombie king on my coven’s ass!” He stroked his chin. “What of Chetiera?” Silhura’s heart dropped at Chetiera’s name. Drunin chuckled. “I severed the bitch’s femoral artery. You won’t have any problems from her, I swear it.” Anger swelled inside Silhura at the thought of Drunin injuring the young woman. The child she’d cared for over the centuries, when her young, vulnerable mind was able to shield itself from harm. Mentally she tried casting a spell to free herself but failed. Her magick had been removed, and placed within a small object. To make matters worse, a small energy-draining crystal had been left in the cage. She was aware of how fast her energy was being drained from her. The bastard Charig knew the weaknesses of the Dulhari, and she knew exactly how they’d obtained that information. She watched as Drunin stared into the demonic eyes of the leader of Cainen Coven. These vampires were merciless in their victories and thought nothing of dismembering their adversaries without a single thought. Many humans met their tragic demise whenever crossing paths with this coven. “I . . . I’m sure Krulnar finished her off in her weakened condition. At his leader’s request, he must have her head.” Silhura’s chest tightened. That was a lie. Neither Dhampir would harm a hair on Chetiera’s head. “Good, good,” Charig muttered while deep in thought. “Okay, away with 35

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you. We have all that we need.” He smiled while jerking the leash attached to Silhura. He’d shocked her with a prod for his own dark amusement. “Sooo, whatcha going to do with her?” Charig bared fangs and bellowed. “Leave now, or I’ll have my warriors dismember you! It is none of your business. You’ve done your part and have been paid well.” The coward within quickly resurfaced, and Drunin scurried away as the other vampires howled with laughter. The leader leaned against the cage and smiled smugly. “Such power you hold, Grand Cheetah.” He shook his head and smiled. “Our clan shall reap the rewards of possessing such ancient strength.” Silhura whimpered as she lowered herself to the floor of her prison. Her strength was slowly ebbing away, and she could not make a strong-enough psychic connection with Chetiera to warn her of Charig’s plan. **** Cloaking himself with invisibility, Ulnik strode through Charig’s domain to learn more of their enemies’ plan. Scanning the area, he tried to learn of Silhura’s location, but apparently the bastards had shielded her. Wrinkling his nose in disgust, Ulnik took in the wretched surroundings. The land was gray and barren. Withered, crooked trees surrounded an old, broken castle. The stench of rotting corpses wafted through the air, making even Ulnik sick to his stomach. Up ahead, in the distance he caught a glimpse of the leader. As he strode into the camp undetected, Ulnik picked up on their plan thanks to his keen hearing. “So, now what do we do with the Elder cheetah?” one vampire inquired. “At Charig’s command, we shall drain all of her magick and her blood,” another quipped. “The Dulhari will be erased from existence. For that, I am glad. I tire of that damned Chetiera hunting our kind.” “The other vampire wrinkled his hideous face in confusion. “The Dulhari have already been erased. Only Silhura and Chetiera remain.” 36

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“Oh, you haven’t heard?” The other vampire snickered. “Another clan of Dulharis exist in a realm that is undetected to our leader.” Ulnik gasped his surprise. Until now, he’d believed the Dulhari to be extinct. He continued listening to the vampires. “How can that be?” The other vampire growled. “Don’t you know anything of Dulhari history? Betrayed by his wife, a traitor within the clan long ago set a plan in motion to wipe out the Dulharis. It was then that he placed a bounty on Silhura’s head. Take out the Elder cheetah, and the existing clan will cease to exist, for she is the heart of the clan.” “We’ve banded with some of the Zluarads to make Ulnik’s coven appear guilty in Chetiera’s eyes.” The vampire grinned grotesquely. “It has been working! If I didn’t know any better, I’d swear the cheetah despises them more than us.” Laughter erupted from the vampires, making Ulnik angrier with each passing moment. At last, he could sympathize with Chetiera and her plight to destroy the vampires and Dhampirs alike. He’d known of the traitorous shifter, but never of the Cainen Coven pinning the blame on some of the Dhampirs. He needed to regroup with Krulnar to come up with a plan to save the Elder cheetah. Although a hardened man, he found no pleasure in the annihilation of another race. True, Chetiera had caused them much grief over the years in her plight to destroy their coven, but he now understood the woman behind the story. A glimmer of hope passed through his body at the thought of possibly sharing the shifter’s magick with Krulnar. The Dhampir race was close to extinction themselves, and as their leader, it was up to him to preserve them for the coming centuries. Just as fast as hope ignited within him, despair uprooted in its place. Chetiera was stubborn and despised Dhampirs. He couldn’t forget the look of hatred that had appeared in her eyes. The very thought of becoming Corselene to them enticed and repulsed her all in one sitting. I hope Krulnar is making her see the difference, he thought to himself before stepping into the shadows and disappearing. 37

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Chapter Nine Krulnar watched as the cheetah chewed her food slowly, glancing over at him momentarily. The silence was deafening. She only spoke to him when he initiated conversation. He learned that Ulnik was away on business. This assisted in giving him a way of hiding the shifter within his chambers. No one ever entered his domain without knocking. Now he had time to focus all his energies on his cheetah shifter. He smiled to himself. “My cheetah shifter.” He glanced over and was taken aback by the fierce look she’d cast upon him. “What are you up to?” My cheetah shifter! If she had any inkling of what he was thinking, she’d surely slap his tongue out of his mouth. “Nothing,” he said with a grin. Clearing his throat, he sought to change the subject. “Were you plotting against me?” His heart lurched. There was much hard work involved in gaining the shifter’s trust. “No, Chetiera. I assure you, there is no plot against you.” “Then why were you smiling? What are you thinking?” Krulnar sighed and planted his elbows on the table. “Are you sure you want to know?” Chetiera frowned, but nodded. “Tell me.” “Very well then. I was thinking what it would be like if you were my mate.” He waited. She reacted the way he thought she would. A low warning growl erupted from Chetiera’s throat. “Why do you insist upon pushing the issue?” “Please, don’t be angry with me. There is a connection between us.” “Only because you bit me!” “No, long before that. I feel it; why can’t you?” He watched as her shoulders slumped and she lowered her head. “We share a link. We can connect once we perform The Bonding.” “I’m tired. I need to sleep.” 38

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Krulnar blinked several times. “Alone.” “You still don’t trust me, do you?” Krulnar leaned forward. “Why did you allow me to kiss you?” He leaned in closer, his lips brushing her cheek. “Amongst other things?” “Please—don’t.” Chetiera tried moving in the opposite direction, but he held her fast. He nuzzled against the crook of her neck, then whispered in her ear. “I’m not giving up on you.” **** Chetiera bit her lip as she wondered how Krulnar’s thick cock would feel sliding inside her slick channel. She closed her eyes as her body succumbed to the Dhampir. She knew in her heart he was right. For centuries, her body had betrayed her whenever they’d battled. For that, she hated him. And herself. She shouldn’t allow herself to harbor strong feelings for this creature. After all, he was the enemy. It would be an insult and a betrayal to fall for a warrior Dhampir who participated in the slaying of her family. No. Her instincts were right. Krulnar couldn’t have destroyed her family. Joining with the Dhampir couldn’t be so bad. Surely she wouldn’t lose herself. He was destined to be her mate. Then, there was the matter of finding those who actually did have a hand in the destruction of her clan. She closed her eyes. It was too much. She didn’t want to think of war. She wanted only to think of the large Dhampir warrior who was setting her insides ablaze with a passion she’d never known. She gasped as Krulnar lifted her in his powerful arms. “Where are we going?” His gaze seemed to hypnotize her. She swore she could stare into those cobalt blues for the rest of her existence. Krulnar kissed her on the forehead. “I’m going to make love to you.” She melted right there in his arms. Pressing her body close to his, she inhaled his masculine scent. He smelled of sandalwood and musk. A soft 39

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purr tumbled from her lips as the Dhampir made his way from the eating area to the large sitting room and then into his elaborate bedchambers. Before she knew it, she found herself lying on the massive bed. She thought back to the hours before, when she’d woken to find herself naked and bound in this very bed. She smiled inwardly as passion blossomed in the pit of her soul. In awe, she watched as the Dhampir shed his leather garments. “By the gods, he’s beautiful,” Chetiera observed as Krulnar moved fluidly toward the bed, with muscular grace. Arousal pulsed in her lower belly as she observed how his muscles flexed with every move he made. Her nipples tightened in tiny peaks, and her breath hitched. She purred with an intense need as the lips of her sex swelled and cream pooled between her legs. It had been quite some time since she’d been with a man. So long she’d entirely forgotten how it felt for someone to hold her. That was, until Krulnar had lifted her in his strong arms after Drunin wounded her. As Krulnar captured her with his hungry, savage gaze, Chetiera’s nipples began to sting. She panted uncontrollably as she impatiently waited for him to bed her. They knelt, staring into one another’s eyes. He dragged her close. Bending her backward, he snaked an arm around her waist as he kissed his way down the curve of her throat. His breath warm, he hesitated over the intensity of her pulse. For a few blessed moments, the tips of his fangs pressed against her skin. Chetiera groaned, sensing his need to bite. He dragged himself away with a low growl and kissed a burning trail down to her breasts. She moaned, and her insides melted as Krulnar licked the eager brown tips. The left, then the right. Cupping a breast with one hand, his fingers squeezed and pinched the other. She cried out as the tips of his fangs grazed her delicate nipples. He sucked hard, which made her gasp for air and dig her nails into his back with her right and thread the fingers of her left through the rough, silken strands of his hair. Eventually, his mouth deserted her nipples, instead licking a hot, wet path down Chetiera’s torso. After releasing her, he captured her knees, spread her wide, and positioned himself between them. She watched as his gaze intensified with 40

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passion. He smiled at her, curling his upper lip enough to show his fangs. She swooned at the sight of his cock jutting toward the ceiling. It was hard and thick, exuding a thick tear of precome at the tip of its thick head. She watched as full, fur-clad balls drew tight with arousal. Krulnar lowered himself between her thighs, gazing at her pussy. She followed his gaze to the yellowish-brown of the hair covering her mound. “You look so delicious,” he groaned in a baritone voice. “Let me see if you taste as sweet as you look, sweetling.” Chetiera swallowed hard and bent her head back. The first swipe of his tongue created a jolt of pleasure down her spine. Large hands slid along her torso to find her breasts as he lapped her like a cat lapping cream. Blue eyes burning, he glanced up to watch her face as she twisted her body in sweet agony. She gasped and writhed in exquisite torture as she begged him. “Please Krulnar, ohhh, please!” She panted as the Dhampir ignored her request and continued licking, circling her clit. Hungrily, he dipped his tongue between her creamy folds. She looked down to witness his hands manipulating her breasts as his mouth savored her pussy. Raw eroticism at its best. She didn’t want this to ever end. Never in her existence had she experienced such pleasure. Krulnar was driving her into a heated sexual frenzy. Suddenly, unease swept through her body, disrupting her pleasure. Her senses tingled. What if she were to lose herself in him? How high of a price would she pay for surrendering to him? She struggled again. Sadness crushed Chetiera, and she whimpered. Happiness seemed to be far-fetched. **** Krulnar watched the beautiful cheetah writhe in pleasure beneath his touch. He’d waited too long. He would wait no longer. He witnessed her emotion, the pure pleasure he invoked in her. Also, he witnessed the distress rearing its head, threatening to tear down any happiness they could possess in the future. He had to make things right and prove his love to her. 41

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Krulnar positioned himself up on his heels, taking his hard, aching cock in his hand. Slowly, he touched the head to her glistening wet pussy and began pushing his way inside. She was so tight. Releasing a breath, he leaned forward as he entered her inch by delicious inch. His breath caught as her eyes stared up at him. Wide with wonder, almost trusting. The brown depths danced with passion in the candlelight of his bedchambers. He smiled as her full lips parted and she inhaled. “By the gods, Krulnar, please . . .” Bracing himself on strong forearms, he leaned forward and slid in, deeper and deeper. Yet, even deeper into her slick heat he found himself buried inside wet heat, their lips mere inches away. He wanted so much to thrust inside her rapidly, but her luscious lips demanded his attention. Desperation to kiss her again swelled inside him. And he did just that. He closed his eyes as full, silken lips yielded beneath his. He growled with pleasure as she breathed a moan into his mouth. Slender legs slipped around his ass. Her calves were smooth, and her nails found his back, digging into his flesh like little claws. He savored the feeling. “Deeper!” he commanded in a dark growl. He roared his pleasure as she carried out his demand. Her breasts rose and fell against his muscular chest as she panted her desire. Warm, hard nipples brushed against his skin as her cunt swathed him in wet, swollen, velvety delight. Krulnar thrust deep inside her, clenching his teeth as he fought for control. He didn’t want this to end suddenly. Many centuries they had waited, inflicting injury on one another in heated battle. Tonight, he meant to span out their pleasure as long as he could. Ignoring the raw bite of lust, he entered and eased himself out, entered her once again, and slowed his pace. He discovered her need was just as intense as his. He growled when she dug her nails deep in his back again and loved how her knees hugged his hips. They moved together in perfect unison. The fit was perfect, like a sword in a sheath. Her pouty mouth moved in hot kisses over his mouth. Gently she bit his 42

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lips, sucking his tongue as her pussy milked his cock. His breathing became haggard as he asked himself one simple question. “How the fuck will I hold on?” **** Chetiera writhed beneath the Dhampir, becoming lost in him. Her senses were drugged with the feeling and scent of Krulnar. She had heard that no human or shifter could match a skilled Dhampir lover. Her pussy pulsated, and her hips rose to meet his demanding thrusts. Chetiera growled a plea. “Please, more, Krulnar, harder, faster!” She witnessed his eyes as they blazed with heated passion as he drew his lips back from his teeth. It was more of a snarl. “As my little cheetah demands.” He ground out long thrusts, his hips rocking, which drove his cock so deep Chetiera was thrust on the edge of pain. Arousal claimed her, as did the white-hot sensation of the Dhampir’s thrusts. She watched as he gritted his teeth, tossed his head back as his eyes closed. His lips parted, revealing his sharp fangs. Open yourself to me. She gasped as she heard his voice. Not with her ears, but her mind. Liquid fire lit her insides. Krulnar brushed his mind with hers. This was The Bonding that he’d spoken of earlier. Her heart leaped as something attempted to meld their senses, thoughts, and hearts together. Right now, there was something she needed to do. Perhaps the hardest thing she had to do in her entire existence. Release the mental shields she’d worked so hard to construct over the years. Gasping, she concentrated. Closing her eyes, Chetiera tried surrendering her mind to Krulnar’s. He continued driving his cock inside her, thrusting deep and as hard as he could just as the hot-liquid fury of her orgasm possessed her insides. Convulsing, she felt the rush of his mind. Unfortunately, it was distant. The bond hadn’t been fully accessed. She’d tried releasing the concrete walls she’d constructed over the years. 43

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Frustration set in as she felt him gently seeking entrance to her mind as easily as he’d accessed her body. Hot lips discovered the pulse within her throat. She cried out as Krulnar’s fangs pierced the cheetah’s delicate flesh and he began to feed. He drank of her blood in slow, seductive swallows, his mouth working magick over her skin. He continued thrusting, balls deep inside his precious cheetah. “Open your mind to me, little cheetah.” She cleared her mind as she stubbornly set forth to destroy the barriers blocking her happiness. Then, trepidation set in. Was it too late for her, for them? No, it couldn’t be! She was a warrior. She could do anything! This was truly what she wanted. Straining, she pushed the barrier aside and smiled inwardly as she sensed him move deeper within her mind. Soon after, she dispersed another wall, allowing him further inside. She tried ridding herself of the last wall, but couldn’t. The solid weight became heavier as she tried willing it away. He was outside, begging her to let him in. However, try as they may, she couldn’t remove it, and he couldn’t break through it. The urge to cry set in, even as she basked in the pleasure her Dhampir selflessly gave her. They collapsed in a sweat-soaked heap. With a growl, Krulnar nuzzled her cheek lovingly. She shivered with disappointment and chastised herself for not possessing the strength to rid herself of that final barrier. “Don’t do that,” Krulnar warned with a growl. “Don’t beat yourself up.” He pulled her close in reassurance. “I’ve failed. There is no chance for happiness, is there?” “We’ll try again. I am not one to give up, Chetiera. I will do everything in my power for us to complete The Bonding.” She studied his stone-cold features. He didn’t appear to look disappointed or mad. She thought she was dreaming. She looked deep into his eyes. All she found there was a strong look of concern and compassion. If she didn’t know any better, pain had taken up residence as well. “You are upset. I can tell.” He lifted her chin. “You could never disappoint me.” She pulled away, 44

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but he quickly forced her to look at him. “I’m disappointed in the fact that I have no control over making you completely happy. I’m pissed at myself because I’ve allowed myself to engage in battle with you for so long. I’ve wasted so much time, hiding my feelings from you. You do not bear this burden of regret alone.” She shook her head in sorrow. “You know I wouldn’t have listened.” “That may be true, but,” Krulnar growled, “let’s not waste any more time on pondering what could have been. Let us focus on what we have now.” Chetiera smiled before laying her head on his chest. She purred as he stroked her back. “Sleep now, cheetah,” he commanded. “Sleep, you need your rest.” She yawned. “What about Ulnik?” “Ulnik means no harm, I assure you.” An uneasy feeling invaded her as Krulnar forced her into a deep sleep. “At all costs.” He’d protect her with his life, she knew. The sound of his voice echoed in her head as she entered a dreamlike state. **** A tall figure shrouded in a veil approached her. Its slender, lithe physique produced a familiar fragrance, like the one she associated with her early days of childhood. “Father.” Chetiera rushed toward the leader of the Dulhari, her father. A foggy haze surrounded them both, and she sped up to close the gap between them. Squinting, she could just make out the dark skin and hazel eyes of her father. “It is you!” She ran to the figure and was captured in a strong embrace. “Chetiera.” Her father hugged her with such strength, it was almost difficult for her to breathe. “My child.” He looked down at her with loving eyes. However, something shifted within his gaze. Something was painfully unfamiliar to her. Chetiera lifted a brow. “Father?” “I’ve wronged you,” he whispered while shaking his head. “It wasn’t 45

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supposed to have gone this far.” He gently pushed her away, placing distance between them. “What? What is it, Father?” Warning twisted like a knife in her gut. “What wasn’t supposed to have gone this far?” Throat dry, she forced herself to swallow. “What are you apologizing for?” She shouldn’t ask, her mind screamed at her. But in the pit of her stomach, a strong force urged her to search for the truth. “Chetiera.” Krulnar appeared before them, capturing their attention. “Open your mind,” he murmured. “You need to see things for what they are.” Her father continued backing away. “I must go.” “No; don’t!” Chetiera lunged for him, but before she could reach her father, his form faltered, and he shifted into a cheetah. “Come back!” Before she could blink, the large cheetah dashed away, disappearing into the thickness of the fog. Krulnar stood, his form black against the fog. He shook his head sadly, as strong emotion etched itself across his masculine features. “I’m sorry, Chetiera. I’m so sorry.” Before she could speak, he disappeared into thin air. Darkness settled as the fog shifted and increased. It became so thick she couldn’t see her own hand in front of her face. Anger curled her insides. “No, Father; you’re not doing this to me!” Instincts sharp, Chetiera growled and ran in the direction of her father. Swiftly, her form changed, and soon she was running on all fours. Thick, harsh jungle appeared, and a harsh wailing sound accosted her ears. Faster and faster she ran, until the jungle floor gave out beneath her. A roar escaped her throat as the cheetah fell helplessly into a black pit. Just briefly. Then there was light. She glanced around at her surroundings. She’d been here before, long ago. This was the day on the sixteenth year when her father taught her how to wield a sword. Suddenly, she saw herself and her father on a grassy plain. The sun upon her skin was invigorating. Crouching in the grass, she watched as her father spoke to her. 46

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“You are becoming one with Belladio!” Her father beamed with pride as his young daughter charged him, a bloodcurdling war cry releasing from her parted lips. Her father rushed forward, and their swords clashed. The heavens rolled with thunder as father and daughter cheetah continued their training. “Are you proud of me, Father?” the young cheetah warrior asked. Chetiera observed her former self. Black hair cascaded down her slender back. Both arms were adorned with gold cuffs, with an emerald placed directly in the middle. Her loincloth tunic and pants were soiled from the days’ training. She remembered this morning well. Father had awakened her a few hours before the rise of the sun. Keen ears tuned into their conversation. “Why are you teaching me to fight?” her former self asked with innocence. “You’ve been training me in the ways of the warrior since I was fourteen.” “Because you must be strong against the Dhampirs and the vampires.” Her father exhaled as they continued walking back to their village. “But Dhampirs are no threat to us. They are harmless.” Before she could blink, the man let out a harsh growl before grasping his daughter’s shoulders. “The Dhampirs are bringers of pain! The murderous, fiendish bastards have no regard for others. They rape, pillage, and steal that which is not theirs!” Chetiera’s heart fell as she watched the young girl shudder. Tears began to swell in her eyes, and he shook her once more. “Are you crying?” His voice boomed over the plains. “A cheetah warrior never cries! It is a sign of weakness!” Her father paused while the young girl stifled her tears. “You are a warrior of the undead, like myself and a few other Dulhari! It is your duty to preserve the purity of our clan!” The girl sniffled and sighed. “Why are you so furious with the Dhampirs? They don’t kill, not like some of the vampire clans. Mom says—” He snarled. “Your mother is blind! Pay no attention to her!” “Mother has been teaching me how to use my magick. How can she be blind when she has imbued her magick into Belladio?” 47

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Her father huffed and growled. “The lesson for the day is over!” The young child stepped forward. “Why are you so angry with mother?” “It is no business of yours. Now go. Return to the village; I will be there soon.” Confused, the child reached down, retrieving Belladio. Tight-lipped and with shoulders slumped, she walked in the direction of the Dulhari village, intermittently stopping to glare at her father. “Chetiera.” The child stopped and turned. “Yes, Father?” “Do not disappoint me. I want you to remain safe throughout your existence.” Chetiera watched as her father’s eyes narrowed. The look within them blasted a chill throughout her being. “Never, ever trust a Dhampir or vampire,” her father growled. “They will only bring pain and death to your life.” He looked her dead in the eye. “Do you understand? You must destroy them, at all costs!” The child nodded. “Yes, Father. I will remember that. Never trust a Dhampir.” The child turned and continued her journey toward the village. Chetiera’s body shook with rage as she continued watching her father. That day was crystal clear to her. That night was the night of her mother’s death. Pain stabbed at her heart. He and her mother, Ulhulria, argued. She lay in bed as her mother dashed from their house, and her father went charging after her. It was raining. That was the last thing she remembered. Something blocked her from remembering anything else. Chetiera watched as her father roared and shifted into his cheetah form. “Secrets,” she murmured to herself. She bit her lip so hard it bled. Angrily, she swept the blood away, and before she could blink, she felt herself falling. **** “Chetiera!” Krulnar’s masculine voice penetrated her psyche, but she couldn’t wake, not yet. Questions to which she had no answers presented themselves to her as she tossed and turned, flailing her arms. She growled. 48

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The world around her meant to consume her, wanted to harm her. Death and destruction had been the only things she knew. Strong arms embraced her, yet she continued to fight. “Leave me be!” she screamed in her sleep. Her nails caught, ripping into the flesh of the one who’d captured her. Suddenly, her eyes fluttered open. “Let me go!” Chetiera growled. She looked up into the eyes of her lover. His face was bloodied. She froze. “Krulnar?” “Yes.” He gave a forced smile, and his eyes were sharp with worry. “It’s okay. You’re safe.” Chetiera sat up quickly and gasped. “Oh, Krulnar!” She began wiping the blood away. “I’m so sorry.” “Shh, little cheetah,” he said with a smile. “I’m Dhampir; I’ll heal.” When he smiled, her heart fluttered. She’d never felt this feeling in her entire existence. “We bonded, didn’t we?” “Almost.” He cast his gaze to the bed. “There is something I can’t break through. Something is blocking me, still. You’ve shielded yourself.” “You were in my dream.” “Your father.” Krulnar gulped. “I saw him.” Chetiera sat back on her haunches. “All these years, I’ve been a fool.” Regret pinched away at her insides as she struggled to recall what happened the night her mother died. She frowned as Krulnar pulled her to him. “I don’t think he was such a nice man. He—” The Dhampir froze. “Ulnik summons me. He wants to join us.” He turned to face her. I know you desire us both.” Chetiera turned her head from her lover in embarrassment. Forcing her to look at him, he claimed her lips with erotic passion that sent her into a frenzy. “It’s okay to want us both. We want you. Ulnik and I have waited for this moment for such a long time.” He stroked her cheek with the pad of his thumb. “May I let him in? Little cheetah, do you think you can handle us both?” Body on fire, Chetiera nodded. Suddenly, she felt another presence. Ulnik entered the bedchambers. “Couldn’t wait for me?” Ulnik plowed toward them and sniffed the air 49

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before releasing a growl. He looked at Chetiera. “What will it take to make you mine? Must I invoke a fight with you? Or shall we remain civil and complete The Bonding?” He walked around to the side of the bed, and ran his fingers through the shifter’s hair. His hand rested against the back of her head. “Fighting arouses you, as it does me.” Chetiera released the bedcovers, revealing her naked body. Her chest heaved uncontrollably as the leader began to undress, revealing an equally muscled physique. He growled as he slipped next to her, his hot body pressing against hers. She panted uncontrollably at the nearness of them both. Soon, each man was by her side, their hands exploring her flesh while invoking a state of arousal she’d never known. Ulnik’s fangs descended as he inhaled the air, and the desire to offer her neck to him overwhelmed her. “By the gods, she’s exquisite,” Ulnik purred before slipping his hand between her thighs. “Ah, and so ready to be taken.” He smiled when the shifter arched into his touch. “Yesss, that’s right, beautiful. Give yourself to us.” He tweaked her nipples as Krulnar delivered soft kisses along the crook of her neck. Surrendering to them both, she lay back as they spread her thighs. Ulnik’s mouth claimed her in a rough kiss as both men gently pulled the soft folds of her cunt apart. Making her gasp, Ulnik’s fingers penetrated her pussy, and she called out before jerking her hips upward. Her hands journeyed to both men’s cocks. Slowly, she jerked them both, her grip tightening around them. The thick shafts twitched beneath her touch, and she smiled inwardly at the control she had over them. Precome saturating her hands, she took the time to taste the essence of both men. “Do not think you have so much control over us,” Krulnar murmured in her ear before nipping her neck. “Ulnik has yet to taste of your blood.” Chetiera moaned as the leader forcefully revealed the large vein in her neck. His growls of hunger filled her ears as the men simultaneously worked her into a frenzied orgasm. Roughly, Ulnik eased two fingers deep inside her, making her growl. She met every thrust of his fingers as the leader sank his fangs deep into 50

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her neck. Crying out in pained pleasure, Chetiera grasped their cocks harder, as their spiraling pleasures heightened. The strong flow of energy rushed through them with force as Krulnar bit the other side of her neck. The Dhampirs greedily drank of her blood before Ulnik unlatched his fangs. With ease, he slipped between the young cheetah’s thighs and eased himself inside her slick channel. With a growl, he filled her balls-deep, thrusting his cock in and out of her. Chetiera growled while wrapping her long legs around the leader’s thick, muscular body. Krulnar’s hips jerked upward, into her touch, as her grip tightened around his thick cock. Out the corner of her eye, she could see the exquisite look of pleasure etched onto his hardened features. “Come for me,” she whispered against Ulnik’s neck. Those words were meant for both Dhampirs, who were releasing short, choppy breaths at their exertions. It turned her on so much. She needed to feel Ulnik’s come shooting deep inside her cunt. On the other hand, seeing Krulnar’s dick pumping out thick streams of come into the air would intensify the pleasure of her orgasm. “Such a nasty little shifter,” Ulnik grunted against her ear. “I’ll come for you, my sweet little warrior-cat. Once I’ve shot my pleasure deep inside you, I shall turn you over and take you from behind.” Krulnar growled. “Not before I.” “You’ve had your time with our woman,” Ulnik growled huskily. Chetiera shivered in delight at the thought. Ulnik’s pace quickened, and his muscles flexed beneath her hands. Their sweat-laden bodies smacking together echoed within the bedchambers. Krulnar’s climax struck him first. Chetiera saw bulging veins within his neck as he gnashed his teeth together at the intense orgasm. Her orgasm followed as his hand joined hers in pumping the come out of his thick cock. Long, thick streams of come spurted up in the air as the Dhampir howled his pleasure. Like a wave crashing against a sandy beach, Chetiera’s muscles tightened, milking Ulnik’s cock. “Arrghh, you’ll be the death of me; I can see this,” Ulnik sputtered. Together they came, collapsing into a sweaty heap within one another’s arms. 51

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Chetiera purred softly as the leader collapsed on top of her and rolled off onto the opposite side, facing Krulnar and herself. She shivered as the men’s hands explored her body. Before she could say a word, Ulnik gathered her hair in his left hand, guiding her face toward Krulnar’s come-splattered body. “Now, drink,” he commanded softly. “Lick the hot come off your lover’s body.” Excitement rushed through her as she gently lapped Krulnar’s excitement from his body. She loved Krulnar’s gentleness and Ulnik’s forcefulness. Perhaps becoming Corselene to both Dhampirs wasn’t so bad after all. After carrying out Ulnik’s demands, he made her rise on all fours. His large cock remaining hard, he thrust himself deep into the cheetah, which made her whimper. “Now, tell me sweet one. Why can I not access your thoughts? There is a wall blocking me. If you’re to be Corselene to me, I will need your complete trust.” Chetiera winced as the leader reached around, painfully twisting a nipple between roughened fingertips. “Um, uhhh,” was all she could muster as his other hand slipped between her legs. He roughly manipulated the sensitive flesh between his fingers, causing her to buck and grind herself against his hips. “It isn’t her fault,” Krulnar said coolly as he fondled her right breast while Ulnik manipulated the other. “We shall help her through it.” Ulnik grunted as his hips thrust into Chetiera’s slick channel. Before he could say anything, his climax captured him. She felt the hot wash of sperm shooting up inside her as he grabbed a handful of her hair. Roughly, he jerked her head back, exposing her neck. With a growl, he fed from the shifter until she came.

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Chapter Ten Sated, the trio rested while talking about Ulnik’s visit to the Cainen Coven. “Well, didn’t they say anything else?” Chetiera asked. She propped herself up on an elbow. “I’ve got to get there.” Ulnik pulled her close. “Oh no you don’t. You’re not going to go rushing in. Although I was cloaked, I didn’t want to run the risk of them discovering my presence. Remember, they possess a small part of Silhura’s magick.” A growl slipped pass Chetiera’s lips at the thought of the filthy coven possessing her Elder’s magick. “I swear by the gods, I will destroy them.” Krulnar sat up. “So, you’ll risk yourself? It is too dangerous.” Chetiera tried sensing her Elder, but she couldn’t get a lead on her whereabouts. She rose and jumped from in between her Dhampir lovers. “I’m going after her. I refuse to wait any longer.” Ulnik pursued her. “Silhura is in no immediate danger. They don’t possess all of her magick and are powerless to do anything. This will take time, at least three days.” “She can’t wait for three days,” Chetiera huffed while quickly dressing. “If you try and stop me, I’ll fight you to the death.” Ulnik growled. “You’d raise your sword against us once again?” “For my Elder, yes.” “She’s definitely a handful,” the leader muttered as Chetiera stormed toward the bedchamber doors. “And where do you think you’re going, little one?” Instantly, the Dhampir threw up a shield against the doors, blocking her way. “Bastard!” Chetiera bellowed as she withdrew Belladio. “Krulnar, do something!” “I’m going with her,” Krulnar assured his leader. “We must make our move tonight.” “There you go again, allowing her to lead you around by your dick. My gods, man, have you learned nothing?” Krulnar growled. “You can’t have control over everything. She’s our 53

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Corselene, so we must honor her wishes.” “She will learn to adhere by the rules of the Dhampir!” Ulnik blustered his agitation. “You will learn.” His gaze settled on the cheetah as she quickly charged him. Ulnik dodged her, then pushed her into the soft cushions of the bed. Chetiera rolled and landed on her feet next to the bed, giving the leader plenty of time to pick up his sword. Both warriors stood, facing one another, their bodies forming the warrior stance. “Let’s get something straight,” Chetiera insisted. “You don’t own me. I will no longer deny my feelings, but know this: I am not your property!” Angrily, Ulnik charged her. Their swords clashed. Chetiera held her own against the large Dhampir. Seeing an opening, she dealt him a kick to the shin. Roaring his frustrations, Ulnik caught the cheetah by the throat. Krulnar punched his leader in the ribs, knocking him to the ground, forcing him to release the cheetah. “Get out of here, now! Through the window.” There was no time to argue. Quickly her sword became a wand, and she tucked it in her left boot. In one swift movement, she leaped out of the window, landing on the slippery tower below. Never able to regain her grip, she shifted into cheetah form, falling until she hit the ground with a thud. It hurt, but she was in better physical condition than she was mental. In a heartbeat, her strong hind legs acted as springs, and with fierce speed, she dashed through the courtyard. “The cheetah! Get her!” Ulnik’s guards charged, but they were not as fast as the cheetah. Using every bit of energy and magick she could muster, she kicked into high speed, leaving the guards in her wake. She had to find Silhura, immediately. **** Ulnik delivered a blow to Krulnar’s midsection. In return, Krulnar’s sword pierced his leader’s flesh. “This is futile!” Krulnar growled. I refuse to let you harm Chetiera. I am prepared to fight you to the death!” 54

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“I should kill you right now, but, unfortunately, I can’t bring myself to do so!” Ulnik growled. Krulnar bared his fangs as his leader pulled up a chair and sat directly in front of him. “What is wrong with you, besides the fact that you’re in love with her?” Ulnik panted until he calmed himself. “You’ve become so cruel over the centuries, Ulnik, and you’re asking what’s wrong with me? I’d be a fool not to be in love with her. Aren’t you?” “I do have feelings for her, though they don’t run as deep as yours.” Ulnik sighed. “It is complicated. I cannot change my dominant nature.” “Perhaps you should try,” Krulnar spat. Ulnik laughed. “You wouldn’t be so taken with her if you knew the truth.” “I’m aware of her situation.” “So, you know her father was evil?” “Not evil, just confused.” Krulnar leaned against the wall, sheathing his sword. “I saw him in her dream.” He paused and narrowed his eyes. “I was there.” “So, tell me, what exactly did you see?” Ulnik folded his arms and sat back in the chair. “Give me a good laugh.” “He was apologizing for something.” “Yeah, something he did quite some time ago.” Ulnik leaned forward. “Did you know Chetiera’s precious father was responsible for everything that has happened?” Krulnar shook his head. “There’s a wall within Chetiera that stopped us from bonding. “I-I can’t break through.” “Maybe it’s good.” Ulnik rose and sheathed his sword. “Perhaps it is for the best that you don’t know everything.” Krulnar grabbed his leader’s arm. “What are you talking about?” Ulnik turned. “Chetiera’s father is the one who killed my brother.” “No, that’s impossible—Why would he do something like that? The man she knew as her father was a peace-loving man.”

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“He was a peace-loving man. Until he allowed darkness to blind him.” Ulnik shook his head. “If this is the case, why didn’t you ever tell me?” “I am the clan leader, so I keep many unpleasant memories to myself. Perhaps I’ll know peace once I’ve learned to adjust to having a Corselene.” Krulnar shifted his weight to his other foot. “What’s your plan? You know she’ll need our help tonight.” “We need to locate Silhura; they’ve veiled her presence,” Ulnik stated. “They plan to drain her of her blood. They only have part of her magick, not all.” Ulnik held his head down in disappointment. “Once they gain all of her magick, they will wipe out the rest of the Dulhari. At least, that is what I overheard the vampires speaking about.” “Did you know other Dulhari exist?” Krulnar’s eyes widened. “But how?” “Only Silhura knows that.” Krulnar nodded before trudging off. “Apparently there’s more to the story. Please remove the barrier.” Ulnik waved his hand, and the shield disappeared. “Where are you going?” “To find our mate. She’s in danger.” Ulnik cursed before catching up to Krulnar. “You’ll need my assistance.” “No, I don’t think so.” “Oh, but you will,” the clan leader insisted. “Trust me, there are some . . . things your mate needs to know.” He went silent for a few moments as they strode down the large corridor. “She’ll need your support in order to get over this hurdle.” “What are you talking about?” “Her father did kill my brother. This was a few months after you and I met, after the death of your father.” With that, Ulnik continued telling Krulnar everything he needed to know.

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Chapter Eleven “Chetiera, is that you?” Silhura sent a mental message to the young cheetah. She sniffed the air and narrowed her eyes. “Are you all right?” Chetiera asked telepathically. “Where are you?” “I do not know. I’m in a cage, but where, I am unsure.” She felt Silhura pause. “You are not alone?” Chetiera stiffened as she became angry at the mistreatment of her Elder. “I promise I will get you out of here! I’m so sorry this happened to you. Krulnar and Ulnik are with me. We’re going to get you out of here!” She felt Silhura’s joy. “You mean you’ve mated with the Dhampirs?” “Now isn’t the time.” Chetiera smiled inwardly. “I promise to tell you more once we’ve rescued you.” Suddenly, there was an uproar. A large crowd charged in their direction. “This is it,” Ulnik said just before a smile curled the edge of his lips. “Bring on the Cainen slaying.” “The Cainen Coven is just over this hill,” Chetiera told them both. Breathing deeply, she summoned all her power within to hurl a large energy ball at the fifty or so members of the Cainen Coven who charged them with venomous fury. Teeth bared and red eyes aglow, they burst into flames, sending arms, legs, and other body parts high in the sky. As she continued walking to the place where Silhura was kept, two vampires charged her from behind. Quickly, Krulnar turned, holding up a hand. “Desist and disperse!” he chanted. Immediately flames engulfed the shrieking vamps until they imploded. With that, the Dhampir turned on his heel, sword in hand, and floated farther into Cainen Village. Ulnik dodged a blow from an ogre-like vampire. With a growl, he delivered a chop to the neck, knocked his feet from beneath him, and staked him through the heart. He smiled as the hideous bastard turned into a pile of sinew, blood, and gel. Another charged, and he quickly bested the fiend by slicing him in half.

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Chetiera captured ten vampires with invisible bands of energy, bounding them together as one. Chanting, she raised the struggling vampires high into the air, allowing the energy bands to cut clean through their torsos. With Belladio shimmering in her hand, she took down three more vampires with several swings of her sword. She’d managed to half shift, caught between human and cheetah form, when two more vampires stopped her from reaching Charig. Anger briefly in her eyes, and she hurled a large ball of energy toward them, which consumed them and their ashes floated to the ground. Krulnar instantly appeared by her side as more vampires charged her. She smiled briefly, and without batting an eye, spun Belladio as fast as she could, scissoring through a few vampires. Shredded and blooded, their remains dropped to the ground with a splatter. The Dhampir’s sword caught the other two vampires. Bringing up the rear, Ulnik pounced on one of the vampires, knocking the sword from his hand. Dhampir and vampire tossed to the ground briefly in a tangled mass of fists, claws, and fangs. With an unholy howl, Ulnik lopped off the vampire’s head. He rose, spitting gristle, blood, and sinew from his mouth. Chetiera rushed to his side, but was sucker-punched in the jaw by none other than Charig himself. The cheetah shifter hit the ground, rolled, and was on her feet in a heartbeat. “Where is she, Charig?” The vampire laughed an evil laugh. Red eyes glowing, he smiled as his fangs lengthened below his bottom lip. “Ah, did we lose something, my dear?” “I swear, if you’ve harmed Silhura in any way, they’ll spend an eternity removing my foot from your ass!” Her face was contorted into a raging mass of fury just thinking of the harm that could have possibly come to her Elder. Teeth bared, she ripped through two more vampires when they bum-rushed her without a second thought. As she looked up the hill, Chetiera sensed Silhura was near. “Now you’re just being plain rude,” Charig huffed. The vampire taunted her and clucked his tongue. “Now, now. Your dear old father would not 58

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condone such behavior coming from his precious warrior-child, now would he?” Charig cocked his head to the side. “Don’t you ever mention my father again!” “Umm, did I hit a nerve? Oh, that’s right,” Charig said menacingly. “You don’t know that it was Zyrus who ordered Silhura’s capture.” “You lie!” Chetiera charged the vampire who so tainted the memory of her father. Her chest burned as bile formed in her throat. Choking back tears, she fought the vampire hard. Swords clashed, and he blocked her. Still taunting the cheetah, Charig jabbed and his hand connected with her chest. This action sent her reeling onto the ground, on her back. “Sacrificing Silhura will put an end to the Dulhari.” “The only existing Dulhari are myself and Silhura!” Chetiera spat. “I shall kill you where you stand, you bastard!” Just then, Krulnar and his leader appeared. “Don’t listen to him,” Ulnik suggested. “He’s distracting you, throwing you off guard!” Filled with emotion, Chetiera dodged Charig, only to be knocked on her back once more. Angrily, she hurtled an energy ball at him, barely missing. “Easy now, eager cheetah.” His eyes widened. “Destroy me, and you’ll never see Silhura again. “ “Where is she?” Chetiera pounced on him, gripping him tightly around the neck. Krulnar stepped in. “Calm yourself. He’s banking on you to completely lose any self-control you possess.” She leaned in. “Do not give this piece of shit the satisfaction!” he glanced over at Chetiera. “Silhura will die by your hand if you rush in.” Chetiera snarled as she yanked the vampire up off the ground. “Tell me what you know, scum!” “Oh, my dear, sweet cheetah. I don’t think you can handle the truth.” She growled, yanking him close to her canines. “Try me!” “Well, this has all been very amusing,” Charig chanted, sending Chetiera reeling backward. “But I’d just as soon rip your heads off.” Several other vampires followed him. 59

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“Chetiera’s Dhampir,” he taunted. “Well, this should be interesting.” Charig chanted a few words, pointing in Krulnar’s direction. Instantly, the Dhampir was held down by an invisible force. It was then that Krulnar realized the secret to the Cainen leader’s power. “Chetiera!” he tried summoning his mate, but something was still blocking his mind. “Damn it, Chetiera! Hear me!” Summoning every ounce of Dhampir magick, he propelled his feelings to the cheetah. “Chetiera, Charig’s power lies in the ring he wears! It is imbued with Dulhari magick! You must go after her!” Angered at what Charig did to Chetiera, Ulnik drew his sword and sliced off Charig’s hand. Sputtering venomous curses, Charig released a burst of power, propelling the leader high in the air and face-first into the dirt. **** Sensing Krulnar’s position, the cheetah took off in a run across the village while simultaneously sending a mental note to Silhura. She came just in time to witness a vampire’s sword coming down onto Ulnik’s neck. With a flash of fury, she blasted the Cainen leader across the field. Wielding her sword, she met him with demanding fury as Charig tried to bring his sword down upon the cheetah’s head. Quickly, she blocked it. “I believe you have something that belongs to the Dulhari!” Enraged at the magick he’d stolen from her Elder, she reached out, grabbed his remaining hand, and ruthlessly snatched it from the socket. Charig howled in pain and anguish as Chetiera delivered several blows to his midsection. She swung Belladio several times. The sword, sensing a kill was near, shimmered within her hand. The sword would have claimed the leader’s head, but Ulnik intervened. “No, Chetiera!” he called. He quickly walked up the hill, along with Drogue and Drunin who had suddenly appeared. “What are they doing here?” Chetiera spat. “Drunin is the one who captured Silhura at our lair!”

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“You lie, cheetah. I was simply trying to lend my assistance,” Drunin said with a sly smile. Krulnar released a growl of fury. “Deceiver! He wounded Chetiera in battle only nights before.” The Zombie king looked at everyone, eventually turning his blue gaze to his first in command. “Is this true?” Drogue’s voice was like black silk in that it seemed to hover within the atmosphere. He was indeed a king of kings. “If you lie to me, you will suffer a fate worse than death,” he promised. Chetiera was surprised at the suave, debonair way Drogue carried himself. The man was at least six feet tall, possessing a slender build. Long, black hair fell to his shoulders. He walked with an elegant gait, proof that he’d hailed from a long line of royalty. Most of his responsibilities centered around controlling his army and patrolling unknown realms in search of the Hanemeaga who had cursed the Zluarads to be Zombies centuries ago. “Well, you see, Master Drogue, I . . .” “The little pissant chunk of come-breath swine paid me well to capture the Elder! A cheetah shifter placed a bounty on her head many years ago!” Charig bit out with venom. “If you don’t believe me, check his pockets! I paid him one hundred fifty slitians!” Before Drunin could speak, Drogue claimed the small leather pouch, spilling the gold coins onto the earth. “So, you betray me, then lie to my face!” Drogue’s voice grew cold, making everyone around him shiver. His eyes flashed a deadly electric hue of blue. “But—but—please, understand my position!” Drunin sputtered. “Arrest him!” Drogue called out to the air. Instantly, three Zluarad appeared to place electrical cuffs on the ankles, wrists, and neck of his former first in command. “When we return, you will be tried and exiled into Akraxxus!” He turned to face the others. “Many apologies to you for the pain Drunin afflicted upon you and your friends,” he spoke politely to Chetiera. “What will happen to the scum?” Chetiera asked.

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“He’ll suffer the rest of his days within Akraxxus.” A smile curled the edge of Drogue’s blue lips. “He’ll suffer well; worry not.” Instantly, he disappeared, along with Drunin and his guards. “Yeah, he’ll suffer all right,” Ulnik spat. “When the three moons are full, no vampire or Dhampir will leave with their minds intact. I was once there.” “That explains it,” Chetiera said with a roll of her eyes. “Apparently, you never left with all your marbles intact.” Ulnik glared at the cheetah. “That, my dear, is going to cost you twenty lashes.” A shard of pleasure filtered throughout her body as the Dhampir’s hand connected with her ass cheeks. “We’ve all been there,” Krulnar bit out harshly. “We’ve lost many a good warrior within that realm. Those who did come back driven insane were laid to rest by my hand.” “Well, I still have some unfinished business with Charig,” Chetiera said in a huff.

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Chapter Twelve Chetiera bound Charig with an impenetrable force around his wrists and arms. Angrily, she grasped the vampire’s jaw with her hand. “When I save Silhura, I’ll take great pleasure in torturing you!” She lowered herself to eye level with him. “I’m going to remove your limbs, one at a time, until the life force drains from your body. Then I will decapitate you and stick your head on a stake.” “Come now, there’s no time for this,” Krulnar urged. “We’ll figure out what to do with him after we save Silhura.” He looked over at Ulnik. “Guard him with all that you have.” Krulnar nodded and accompanied Chetiera down the path, to the place where Silhura was kept prisoner. “She’s here!” Chetiera exclaimed. “I can sense her!” Ulnik grabbed the young woman before entering into the small hut. “You can’t just go barging in there. If I know Charig, he’s booby-trapped the place.” “Shit!” Chetiera cursed. Anger shook her to the depths of her soul as she mentally contacted her Elder. “Silhura, what’s around you?” “Chetiera!” Silhura exclaimed. “I’m bound and gagged. Strapped on a slab altar beneath a pendulum! Whatever you do, please, do not open the door! If you do, I’ll be sliced in half.” Chetiera growled, searching for a way in other than the front of the small hut. “There’s only one way in,” she said. “Just wait until I get my hands on that son of a bitch!” she growled. “Focus,” Ulnik snapped. “You cannot afford to come apart now!” “You’re right,” Chetiera said smugly. “I’ll just transport myself in there.” She tried, but bounced out as quickly as she’d disappeared, landing her flat on her ass. Cursing, she pounded a fist once into the earth. “That’s it!” “No,” Ulnik bit out. “Give me your hands. We’ll combine our magick and transport Silhura out here. All you need to do is concentrate one hundred percent. It will take much energy, but between the two of us, it can be done.”

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Sighing, Chetiera released her frustrations and cleared her mind. She saw the shifter restrained upon the stone slab. Mentally, she envisioned the ties around the cheetah’s body melting away. It took a few moments. Just when they thought they’d brought her out, she slipped away. Immediately, the pendulum began to swing. “Oh, no, Ulnik! It’s been activated!” Chetiera panicked, sending her mate the mental message. “Don’t panic! Concentrate!” The young cheetah did as Ulnik demanded, and in under ten minutes, Silhura appeared before them in her cheetah form. A strong surge of energy uprooted from the ground, shooting up between them both, straight into the air. The force was so strong, it knocked them both to the ground. The cheetah transformed into Silhura, who came to rest on her haunches. The Elder looked around, bewildered. “Oh, sweet grand! Are you all right?” Chetiera asked. Silhura smiled as the young cheetah and sorceress embraced her. “I am hungry, tired, thirsty, and in need of some rest. Other than that, I’m fine.” She glanced over at Ulnik. “You helped her?” She hugged him tightly. Ulnik was caught off guard. He patted Silhura. “It’s good to see you too,” he said with a smile before placing his hands over Silhura’s aura. “This should hold you,” the Dhampir confessed. “I’ve passed along some healing energy to you.” Chetiera closed her eyes and concentrated, sending what energy she could to her Elder. “The combination of Dhampir and cheetah magick will provide you with more strength.” “What will we do with this piece of shit?” Chetiera demanded. “Hand him over to me,” Ulnik sneered. “He’ll be tried and punished within Dhampir law. After all, he is the one who played a part in dragging our names through the mire.” Everyone agreed. “What happens then?” Silhura asked. “He’ll be destroyed.” He shook the sneering Cainen leader. “I’ll tie rope around his limbs, tie them to four different horses, and—” Ulnik smiled a dark, twisted smile. “You get the picture.” 64

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“You cannot do this!” Charig interjected. “My coven must be present!” “Fuck you and your coven, thieving, murderous bastard!” Ulnik protested. Krulnar looked around. “Not much of a coven. They have all seemed to abandon you.” He crossed his arms and held an unemotional look on his face. “At least, those who weren’t destroyed by us.” Charig howled in defeated anger. “I could end it all for you right here and now,” Ulrik stated. “Come with me or stay and everyone here can put you out of your miserable existence.” A smile curled his lips as his grip tightened around the fiend. “Krulnar, didn’t this bastard kill your father in Hungary?” The leader began to beg for his life. “Yes, I suppose I owe it to my father to avenge his death.” Krulnar drew near the struggling coven leader as Ulnik snapped his arms like twigs within the ties where Chetiera had entrapped him. Krulnar stood, staring down at Charig. The Cainen leader was at least two inches shorter than the Dhampir. “Charig, leader of the now-defunct Cainen Coven, I do hereby condemn you to a permanent death.” “Nooo!” Charig howled. “Yess,” Krulnar hissed before plunging his fist through Charig’s face. Blood, chunks of skull, and brains exploded as the Dhampir sighed in satisfaction. Chetiera winced at what she’d just witnessed. Krulnar’s look seemed to pierce her soul. Even when they fought, he never exuded such anger or a look of pure hatred like he did presently. He walked over to her and spoke softly. “I’m sorry you had to witness that,” he said in a calm tone. “The bastard deserved it. Had we turned him loose, he would have only created more chaos.” “I agree completely,” Chetiera said. “Come on, let’s get you washed. “There’s something you don’t see everyday,” Silhura said. “I am a healer, not a warrior. Can we please go back home? I’m not exactly liking this realm at all.”

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Silhura hugged Chetiera for her bravery. Cupping the young woman’s face between her hands, she spoke. “Child, there is so much you need to know.” She gripped the cheetah’s hand within hers. “Come, there is a place I need to show you.” Chetiera broke the connection. “Silhura, what is it that everyone else seems to know that I don’t? Why did Charig say my father tried to kill you? What about Ulnik? He swears my father killed his brother.” “I can only show you, my dear.” Silhura’s voice was quiet, like silk settling over Chetiera’s being. “It is not my place to tell you anything.” Chetiera folded her arms. “So, you’ve been keeping this secret from me for years.” She narrowed her eyes. “How do you expect me to deal with this?” Silhura closed her eyes and nodded. “Please, do not be angry with me. I was simply trying to honor your mother’s wishes.” Chetiera’s shoulders hunched, and she lowered her head. The neverending web of deceit was now unraveling. Life as she knew it would never be the same. A slight brush of relief filtered through her as Krulnar tightened his grip around her to pull her close. Gently, he swiped a finger beneath her chin, forcing her to look at him. “Whatever it is, we will face together,” he assured her. “I am here for you. I’ll always be here for you.” Ulnik’s hand rested on her shoulder. “I am here for you as well.” “Thank you both,” she whispered as the Dhampirs cradled her within strong arms. She buried her face into the center of Krulnar’s chest, and for the first time ever, she felt a feeling of dread shroud her like a dark cloud. This was the toughest of all battles she’d face. “It’s time,” Silhura breathed. “Come, I will show you.” The older woman smiled. “Everyone, give me your hands. Unfortunately, for you, this will be bittersweet. Now is the time for you to learn the whole truth.” In a flash, everyone was transported to a rich, green land. The place resembled the old village Chetiera used to live in as a child. Her breathing intensified as she looked around. A cheetah walked past them, immediately shifting into human form. 66

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“What’s this?” Chetiera asked, astounded. Cheetah shifters emerged from their homes, at the new energy that had suddenly appeared in their land. A woman captured her attention, someone who looked similar to her, but ages older. “Chetiera?” The woman smiled and gasped. “My child, is it really you?” The woman rushed over, embracing her. “My gods, I thought I’d never see you again!” Immediately, she knew the woman who cradled her was her mother. “Mother?” She looked at the older woman. “But . . . how?” “So much has happened.” She looked over at Ulnik. “And—how have you been?” She spoke softly. Chetiera did a double take. “You know Ulnik?” “I’ve been well,” Ulnik said calmly. He set his sights on Chetiera. “See. I told you I wasn’t the murderous bastard you believed me to be. Before you let that temper get the best of you, there is something your mother wants to tell you.” “Um, before I get into that, there’s something else she really needs to know first.” “Miahelia,” she called over her shoulder to a petite cheetah shifter who had been standing, watching them for a distance. Beside her stood a large blond Dhampir who gently kissed her on top of the head. They walked over together. Chetiera gasped. She could have sworn she was looking into a mirror, but for the exception of Miahelia’s glowing eyes and her incisors. The resemblance was uncanny. “Hello, Chetiera,” Miahelia spoke softly as she reached out and hugged her. She pulled back and looked at her. “I’ve been looking forward to this day for a very long time.” She motioned to the large Dhampir. “This is my husband, Micah. Micah, this is my half sister, Chetiera.” Micah smiled as he extended his hand. “It is an honor to meet you,” he said with a smile on his face. “We have been waiting for this day for the longest time,” he assured her. “You look just as Ulhulria described you.” “Oh, my gods,” Chetiera said with a gasp. “I can’t believe this.” Emotion bubbled inside her, and she felt faint. She couldn’t help but notice a slight

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resemblance between Ulnik and Miahelia. She fixed her gaze on Ulnik. “Oh, no, this is not happening.” “What is it?” Krulnar interjected. Ulnik crossed his arms. Showing no emotion, he spoke. “She now knows why her father did the things he did.” “This cannot be happening,” Chetiera murmured as she covered her mouth in shock. Ulhulria walked over and hugged Ulnik. “We’ve all suffered so.” She returned to Chetiera and Miahelia. “Chetiera, Ulnik is Miahelia’s—” “Uncle,” the cheetah shifter murmured as her gaze swept over the features of Ulnik and Miahelia. She squinted. Her mate, Ulnik, was her sister’s uncle. “Your father and I have made grave mistakes,” Ulhulria spoke drily. “He killed Nicklios.” She hung her head in a mixture of sadness and shame. “I was unfaithful. Nicklios was my lover.” “Mother! How could you?” Chetiera belted out, thinking back to the day when she saw how angry Zyrus had become on the plains. She wanted so much to yell and reprimand the woman who’d faked her death and, in the process, destroyed her happy family. Even more, she wished she could bring her father back to life to make him see the pain he’d inflicted. She blinked back tears several times. She could yell and scream until the Earth exploded. Where would that get her? “You and Ulnik’s brother were lovers?” Chetiera fought to remember the dreadful event that would forever change her life. “And . . . that night, when you and Father argued?” She squinted in an effort to remember the evening. “It was raining. You left. Father ran after you. He said you died, fell into the river and the current swept you away. Did he really try to—” A moment of dread drilled through her soul. “Kill me?” Ulhulria nodded. “Yes, he did. We battled. It was raining, and I lost my footing and slipped into the river. Your father thought me dead. He panicked. I could feel his anguish turn to relief. He sought to cover up his deceit to the clan, but I saw his intentions. He would stop at nothing to harm the unborn child inside me.” 68

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“Father must have been under a spell,” Chetiera growled. “This cannot be the leader of the Dulhari who taught me the ways of the warrior. Her mother continued. “Later, he’d proved me right. He learned I was alive and placed a bounty on my head. He felt so much pain and regret, but another side of him, the dark side, told him it was okay that I die, since I committed an unspeakable act of infidelity. If that wasn’t enough, he’d made arrangements long ago to murder the Dulhari who sided with Dhampirs. This is what brought upon the extinction of our clan.” “What of the vampires?” Chetiera asked. “Zyrus sided with the Cainen Coven. Your father betrayed our clan, Chetiera. He was once an honorable man, long ago.” Ulhulria stifled a sob. “This punishes me too. I turned him into a fiend.” Content to be silent no more, Silhura insisted, “You did no such thing!” “Are you saying Mother was right in being unfaithful?” Chetiera asked bitterly. “I am not here to judge your mother for her mistakes. That is her burden alone to carry. I’m saying your father could have handled things differently. He lost control, allowed the anger to consume him.” Chetiera’s bottom lip quivered. “So, how could you abandon me so easily?” Anger prickled her insides. “You left me to fight a battle of lies?” Ulhulria gasped. “At that point, I knew your father would never have harmed you. I asked that Silhura watch over and raise you. I was no longer safe within our clan. Back then, I saw images of your father ripping the unborn fetus out of me with his own hands.” Ulhulria reached for Chetiera, but the young cheetah pulled away. “I am so sorry. I knew of no other way.” “You could have come to me,” Chetiera lashed out angrily. “So I could place you and Miahelia in danger?” Ulhulria sighed. “Your father never let you out of his sights. He watched you, even when you didn’t know it.” Her mother’s voice quivered with emotion. “I could only watch you grow, from a child into a young woman, from afar. Had I summoned you, Zyrus would have destroyed you too.” “All lies! I will not accept this!” The cheetah shifter gritted her teeth and panted with anger. “Father would have never hurt me!” 69

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“Had you tried assisting me in any way, yes, he would have. His hatred for the Dhampirs would have blinded him, taking him to another level, even if it meant destroying the most precious thing in his life.” Ulhulria continued despite Chetiera’s painful protests. “That night, I was only one month pregnant with your sister.” She shrugged her shoulders. “I had to tell him. There was no way I could continue living a lie, constantly hiding the truth.” The woman searched Chetiera’s face. “Please, I beg your forgiveness.” Chetiera’s eyes searched the depths of her mother’s misty gaze. “I’m not making any promises. For years, I thought you dead.” She turned to Silhura. “Why?” “I promised your mother. As an Elder, I was sworn to secrecy. She did it to protect both you and your sister.” Chetiera growled her disbelief, lowering her gaze to the ground. Ulnik stepped forward. “Once Zyrus discovered Nicklios to be the father, he placed a bounty upon his head. My brother learned of Zyrus’s deceit and tried defending Ulhulria. With one magickal blow to the heart, my brother was stripped of his life. Zyrus never fought him with honor.” Ulnik’s gaze pierced her soul. “I was supposed to have accompanied my brother, but I was detained in another realm. Your father used magick to kill.” “No!” Chetiera bellowed. “How can you possibly know that?” Pain twisted on Ulnik’s face. “The gaping hole where his heart once existed told the tale of your father’s treachery!” “You lie!” “If that wasn’t enough, your father ordered the destruction of the Dulhari clan because many sided with the Dhampirs after witnessing the truth!” Chetiera withdrew Belladio. “Speak ill of my father again, and I’ll kill you!” “No, you won’t,” Ulnik said sympathetically. “You can never become what your father became. I refuse to fight you, Chetiera. This must stop.” “Shut up!” Enraged, Chetiera lunged forward, aiming for the Dhampir’s heart. Ulnik was ready, and he stepped back as Krulnar caught her in his grasp. Reassuring her, Krulnar slowly disarmed his beloved. “Let me kill this lying, murderous—” 70

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Silhura laid a hand on the young woman’s shoulder, sending calming vibrations over her. “Child, you mustn’t let your temper get the best of you. You cannot walk down the same dark path as your father.” “But . . . it isn’t fair,” Chetiera whimpered. “How could he . . . I refuse to . . . acknowledge . . .” “Let it out,” Silhura urged. “Cry, scream, for the gods’ sakes, ram your fist through a tree, but don’t let rage alter your mind. You must know everything,” Silhura continued. She motioned for Ulnik to continue speaking. The Dhampir moved forward as everyone looked on. “If it had been another cheetah shifter who impregnated your mother, he probably would have easily forgiven her. Once discovering Miahelia’s father was a Dhampir, that sent him over the edge.” Ulnik cast his gaze to Chetiera. “It was then that he swore his progeny would annihilate Dhampirs and vampires from the realms. You were his own personal assassin, even in death.” Ulnik paused. “It wasn’t just your father. My own anger and bitterness is what pushed me to acquire your magick. In my own mind, it was repayment for what Zyrus had taken away from me.” “You have no right to speak of my father,” Chetiera snapped bitterly. “Even after all the heartache he’s brought you, you still defend him?” Ulnik asked in disbelief. Krulnar interjected. “I cannot believe you.” He moved toward his clan leader. “You mean to tell me your demands were just a cover-up? Why were you so angry for my feelings toward Chetiera, and why did you keep these secrets to yourself?” “I was jealous of you,” Ulnik admitted. “You, the hardened warrior who lost his mother and his father in one sitting. Even in all that, you remained so calm, so reserved. Nothing seemed to bother you. Then you meet Chetiera. Whether you realize it or not, she invoked change within you.” “What do you mean?” Krulnar folded his arms. “After every battle with her, happiness brewed within your eyes.” Ulnik smiled. “Even in darkness, you’ve always managed to find the light.” He patted Krulnar on the shoulder. “Always the risk taker, while I was the coward.” 71

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“You’re anything but a coward,” Krulnar stated. He looked at Chetiera. “Hopefully you both can put your differences aside. You may not always agree with one another, but I do believe a peaceful coexistence will arise from this trying time.” Ulnik nodded. “Me too,” he breathed as he glanced at Chetiera. “What can I say to the man who lost his brother in a fit of senseless rage?” Chetiera hesitantly stepped forward. “This is not how I thought things would turn out. All my life, I dreamed of satisfying my bloodlust by destroying your clan.” She looked around at everyone. “If you can—” “Don’t say it,” Ulnik said quickly. “Forgiveness is not always easily attained. We both have lost much. But know that I bear no ill will against you. I can only ask that you do the same for me.” Chetiera inhaled. How could she change her way of thinking after all this time? Just then, she felt Krulnar’s mind touching hers. “I will help you,” she heard him say. Relaxing slightly, she thanked him as she squeezed his hand. “Now I know why that last wall exists within your mind.” “It will take some time, but I will try,” Chetiera said with a straight face. She looked Ulnik in the eye. “I will try.” The Dhampir smiled. “That is all I can ask.” “Well, where do we go from here?” Silhura asked. “I’d like to get to know my sister,” Miahelia stated as she placed her hand on her stomach. “She should know, her niece or nephew needs their strong aunt to teach them the honorable ways and coach them in using their magick.” Chetiera smiled and hugged her sister. “We have so much to catch up on.” “Are you going to be all right?” Miahelia asked with a twinkle in her eyes. “We’d love to have you for dinner. We can fix up the spare room, and perhaps you and Krulnar can stay the night?” Chetiera glanced at the Dhampir. “Oh, I’m not sure. I . . .” Krulnar cut her off quickly. “Of course we’d love to be guests in your home.” He winked at Chetiera and kissed her on the cheek. “You need to get

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to know your sister,” he urged. He looked over at Ulhulria. “We all need to heal.” “I second that,” Ulnik said with a grin. “But I must return to Dalhuak.” “Why don’t you come back and bring the warriors with you?” Ulhulria asked with concern. “I need some time alone,” Ulnik stated. “There’s so much I need to sort out.” “Don’t you think you’ve been alone long enough?” Krulnar asked his leader. Ulnik sighed. “It is for the best. However, I will return,” he claimed as Chetiera hugged him. He looked down at her. “Take care of yourself. We’ve unfinished business.” “I’m looking forward to it,” Chetiera whispered. “We must still complete The Bonding.” “I bid you all farewell—for now,” Ulnik said with a smile. Quickly the Dhampir stepped back and disappeared into thin air. Chetiera strolled up beside the Elder and hugged her. “Thank you for everything.” “Oh, my dear, think nothing of it,” Silhura responded. “I disagree with the vampires dominating the human race,” Chetiera confessed. “I understand so many changes have taken place, but just the same, something still doesn’t sit well with me about it.” “My sentiments, exactly,” Micah murmured. “I told you, that is why I’m happy to stay in my own realm. If I need to see what havoc wreaks in the human realm, I simply glare into my crystal ball.” Miahelia frowned. “Sarcasm doesn’t become you, Micah. You all are more than welcome to stay for dinner,” Miahelia continued before motioning to Krulnar and Chetiera. “How can I ever repay you?” Chetiera’s mother asked Silhura. “Thank you for taking care of my daughter over the years.” “Just try to make amends with her, that’s all. Just realize, it will take some time,” Silhura reassured her. Ulhulria nodded. “I know.” 73

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Silhura watched as the woman smiled before joining her family. She needed time for everything to sink in. Later on, or some time tomorrow, she’d talk with her mother when they had the privacy.

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Chapter Thirteen After eating heartily, Chetiera and Krulnar sat back in their chairs. “That was very good,” Krulnar said with a sigh. Micah smiled. “So glad you enjoyed the venison. “It was a gift, brought from a friend from the human realm. Miahelia prepared it.” “That was very delicious,” Chetiera confessed. “Ah, wait until you try her beef stew,” Micah added. Magickally induced music filled Miahelia and Micah’s home, relaxing them all as they sipped a dark red wine from the finest vineyards stretching beyond their home. “I’ll help you clean,” Chetiera insisted when her sister rose from the table. “I’d appreciate that,” Miahelia said with delight. “Krulnar and Micah can learn more of one another’s covens.” The cheetahs swiftly cleared the table and disappeared into the kitchen, leaving the men to talk. “How are you feeling?” Chetiera asked as she began cleaning the plates in Miahelia’s humble kitchen. The place was cozy, and similar to her lair, in a way. “I’m good, thanks. I should be asking that of you,” Miahelia replied as they cleaned together. “You know, in spite of everything, I’m in a good place right now.” “Why didn’t Mother join us?” Chetiera asked with concern. “I did not mean to chase her away.” “But you’re angry with her. She knows that.” “I’m hurt.” Chetiera quickly dried and put away the remaining dishes. “I’m not sure how I’ll be feeling when I wake in the morning. But I would like to talk to her.” Miahelia nodded. “She lives alone, you know. She refuses to live with Micah and myself. Says she doesn’t want to become a burden to anyone.” “Well, tonight Silhura is with her.” “Yes, for that I’m glad.” Miahelia yawned. “I’ll be retiring soon. You should too.” “What is it like here?” Chetiera inquired. 75

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“We all exist here peacefully. Many Dhampirs and other cheetahs live in bands of five or less. There is no war, and magick flows freely here.” “Oh.” Visions of Chetiera wielding her sword passed through her mind. No place like this had ever existed, not since her childhood. “Look, sis, sleep.” Miahelia hugged her. “We will talk tomorrow, and you’ll help me with breakfast.” “Looking forward to it.” “Come now. Let me show you where you and Krulnar will be sleeping.” She paused. “When Ulnik returns, he will join you both.” “Do you really think he’ll return?” Chetiera asked. “He seemed so distant.” “Of course he will. He cares a great deal for you.” Chetiera followed her sister out of the kitchen, through the dining area, and into the room where Micah and Krulnar seemed to be getting along perfectly. Their laughter roared through the entire home. She smiled. “So nice to see them getting along.” Miahelia frowned. “Why wouldn’t they?” “Oh, it’s just not what I’m used to, you know? Neither is Krulnar.” “Apparently, it’s long overdue, wouldn’t you agree?” Chetiera nodded as she followed her sister into a large, elegant room. “Oh, it’s beautiful,” she murmured. “So peaceful and serene.” She looked around, amazed at the large canopy bed with white netting. It looked romantic—and inviting. Thick blue satin curtains were neatly tied to the posts. Her mind strayed as she pondered whether or not to become intimate with her mate. As though reading her mind, Miahelia answered her question. “It is quite private in here. The walls are thick.” Chetiera laughed. “Is this our magick binding us as sisters?” “Yes,” her sister answered. “I could feel your reservations. Micah and I will be of no bother to you, I promise.” “So, you can read my mind?” Chetiera felt uncomfortable with that.

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“I’m not trying to,” Miahelia said quickly. “It isn’t mind reading. Your mind is completely locked to me. The magick imbues a certain feeling within me. No more, no less.” Chetiera blinked for a few moments. “Okay, it’s like I’m a tablet or a canvas, and you’re the paintbrush. Your feelings fall upon me, almost like artwork, if you will.” “Oh.” Chetiera smiled. “Almost like a bond.” “That’s right,” Miahelia smiled. Feeling a moment of relief, Chetiera plopped down on the bed and summoned a few changes of clothes for herself and her mate. “Haven’t done that in a while.” Miahelia smiled. “There is no need for battle leathers. Not here.” Chetiera looked down. “Um, I suppose not.” She held the loincloth dress to her face. “So soft,” she murmured. “Just like when I was a child.” She looked at Krulnar’s outfit. “I don’t recall Krulnar wearing anything but leather.” She frowned. “Leather and boots.” Miahelia laughed. “Change is always good,” she said as she reached out to hug her sister. “I’ll see you in the morning.” “Yes, you will.” Chetiera smiled as she watched the young woman exit the bedchambers. **** As the evening persisted, Krulnar and Chetiera sat out on the back porch of her sister’s home. She sighed when her mate placed his large arm around her delicate neck. “How are you feeling?” Krulnar asked. “Doing fine. For the first time in my life, I am happy. I feel . . . complete.” “Yes, I feel the same.” He nuzzled close to her. “We must complete The Bonding.” His voice grew husky. Suddenly, Ulnik appeared. “Yes, we must complete The Bonding.” He smiled at Chetiera.

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She looked up at them and smiled. “I agree.” She frowned. “There’s one more wall. I don’t think—” “Shh,” Krulnar purred, lifting her up into his strong arms. “There is no limit to what the three of us can do now.” An overwhelming desire washed over her. “Make love to me, please.” She whispered. “I need you both.” After all the occurrences, she could freely ask this of her lovers. Love bloomed from deep within, she realized. Early on, she knew of her feelings, but the word “love” never entered her mind. Her heart fluttered for them both. Beneath his tough exterior, Ulnik loved her, too, she knew. “Oh, and we shall, my little jewel,” Krulnar murmured as they crossed the threshold of the bedroom. With his mind, he quickly closed the door. Gently, he placed her on the plush cushions of the large bed and they both began to carefully disrobe her, as though they were unwrapping a present. “You could use magick.” Chetiera giggled. “No, I want to savor this,” Krulnar stated hoarsely. “As do I,” Ulnik assured her. “This is a very special moment, Chetiera.” Soon, they’d undressed each other. Chetiera lay naked beneath Krulnar as he planted velvety kisses along her neck and over her shoulders. She reveled in the feeling of warmth and strength the Dhampirs had to offer. As the three touched and kissed, they shared in every bit of pleasure sparking between them. It intensified, adding to their desire, turning it into a raging, ecstatic circle of pleasure. Chetiera felt their minds brushing against hers, without the barriers. She smiled. Nothing was there. No walls, no barriers, nothing. “Is this for real?” she asked them without speaking. The intensity of their bond was almost overwhelming. “Yes,” Krulnar said with a smile. Their telepathic communication was stronger than it had been in the past. Now, they were fully connected to one another. Chetiera sent her lovers a mental image of her riding each man. The Dhampirs chuckled at her persistence. Positioning himself so that she was on

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top, Krulnar slid his hands down her smooth, satiny skin as he dragged her along his body. Slowly, she impaled herself on his large cock, sliding down as Krulnar’s large hands grasped her waist. She began to rock back and forth as his hands held her firm in place. They both gasped as Chetiera quickened her pace, this time, sliding up and down her lover’s dick. Ulnik watched while stroking his engorged cock. Chetiera witnessed the small drop of precome forming at the tip of his dick. She licked her lips, wishing she could taste the salty goodness. Reading her mind, the Dhampir leader captured the liquid and eagerly slipped a digit between her lips. Chetiera groaned in delight as she continued bouncing up and down on Krulnar’s cock. Growling, she threw her head back in sheer ecstasy as Ulnik’s pre-come seemed to thrust her on the edge of orgasm. “By the gods!” Chetiera didn’t know who’d thought it. She didn’t care. Tears misted in her eyes as her heart fluttered at the loving look Krulnar held in his cobalt gaze. Sensations flowing from her lovers’ minds to hers were so overwhelming and delicious in nature. Never had she known of pleasures such as this. Their connection was strong, the physical and mental equally peaking. They both panted, like animals in heat, as a white light of desire, so intense, so pure shot through their mind, body, and soul. Chetiera placed her palms on Krulnar’s large chest as she groaned uncontrollably at the spiraling pleasure. She looked at Ulnik. “Oh, take me from behind!” she gasped. “Well, there is only one orifice available,” Ulnik purred while stroking his massive dick and licking his lips. “Are you inviting me to break your virgin ass in?” I don’t care, Chetiera thought. “Take that, or join with Krulnar in my cunt. Please, hurry!” she demanded. The thought of her lovers plunging in and out of her pussy at the same time made her entire body flush. Ulnik slipped behind her, rubbing his cock and stroking it with a firm grip. Soon, he brushed it against her ass before guiding the head into 79

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Chetiera’s already-filled cunt. She gasped as the leader entered her abruptly. Shuddering with the mounting pleasure, they all began to move in unison. “She’s so wet,” Krulnar growled. “Argghh, never have I felt so much emotion, or pleasure!” “Ah, Chetiera,” Ulnik gasped as he slipped a hand around her delicate neck. She purred as he tightened his grip. “Ah, yes, baby. Milk our cocks! Fuck them, harder!” Krulnar began cupping, grasping, and tweaking her nipples. Ulnik’s hands joined him in their sweet assault of her breasts. She held on as long as she could until she heard their growls of pleasure deepening. Like black silk across her being, she felt the Dhampirs’ fangs descend. Sensing their need, she offered her neck unto them. At the same time, their fangs pierced her flesh, biting deeply. Chetiera moaned at the stab of pain as her orgasm washed over her, making her scream as they groaned while sucking her blood in huge gulps. Together, they shared the intensity of this climax. Chetiera shivered as wave after wave of their orgasm drove them to swallow hard. Once it had ended, they lay together, their sweat-soaked bodies meshing with one another. Together they lay, bound in mind, body, and soul.

The End

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TuÉâà à{x Tâà{ÉÜ Charisma’s stories are highly erotic and laced with a wild edge that will leave you wriggling in your seat. Be warned. You will also discover she sometimes walks on the darker side of the paranormal and erotica, leaving you clinging between this realm and the next. Charisma loves to hear from readers and can be contacted at [email protected] or [email protected].