Black Flames, page 16
I blink, trying to process her words. “Am I immortal?”
“Yes, I guess you are. That doesn’t mean you can’t be killed, though. We can all very much be killed.”
“So why hasn’t anyone killed Greed yet?” I ask in astonishment. “If he’s caused so many issues, wouldn’t someone have just taken him out?”
“It’s a bit more complicated than that. He’s not easy to kill for one, and only one with Lucifer’s blood can kill any of the original fallen. So, it would have to be someone like you, but Ulric or I won’t let you risk that. It’s too dangerous.”
I frown and stare down at my cup. “If he were gone, who would take his place?”
I glance up as Zendaya frowns. “Right now, it would be Prospero.”
We sit in silence, and it gives me time to think over everything she just shared with me. Could I kill both of them for things to be righted here? Would it even fix anything?
The door swings open, and I paste on a smile, as does Zendaya as Prospero makes his way toward us. “You two are inseparable. What am I to do with you ladies? Are you truly making every morning a habit of eating together? Will I ever have you to myself for breakfast, my love?”
I laugh at his words, and he frowns in response. “Oh, silly, do you not enjoy the fact that I’m having fun with your sister? Is that jealousy?”
“I guess it is. Fine, if I must share you, at least it’s not with another male.” He smiles, and Zendaya chuckles mischievously.
“How are you this morning, brother?” she asks, finally getting her giggles under control.
“I’m doing well, I guess. It could be better, and you, sister?” He smiles warmly at her.
“I’m just peachy.” She offers him a smile in return.
I watch the two interact as I go back to sipping my coffee. This is one of those times I think Prospero could be a good person, but other times, I see the darkness within his heart shine through. It’s sad.
Are you and Zendaya alone? Ulric’s voice startles me as it flows through my mind.
I hide my surprise by taking a sip of coffee. No, why?
I wanted to check before I showed up. The vampires are arriving shortly. Maybe I should send in one of the servants to deliver the message. It may seem odd that I’m sharing.
Okay. So that’s a good thing, right?
Yes, but Prospero and my father will want to show dominance, making it known that they are better than the vampires. It’s always been something they do when guests arrive. I’ll send a servant in to announce it, and I’ll see you shortly.
Okay. I roll my eyes and set my cup down. I recline back in my chair as a knock on the door sounds, and both my companions go silent as a servant enters.
“Sorry to interrupt, I was sent to inform you that the vampires are arriving soon.” He bows slightly before backing out and closing the door.
“I guess this was to be expected. Ladies, I’ll see you in the grand hall shortly. Would you please wear something appropriate to greet them? You know the drill, Zendaya. Help my love find something.” Prospero stands from his chair and moves to place a kiss on my forehead.
“I’m sure I can dress myself, thank you,” I say snarkily as he pulls back from kissing me.
“I don’t doubt that, love, but I don’t want you wearing something too revealing. Zendaya will make sure you have dressed accordingly. I’ll see you soon.” He backs away with a smile and turns to leave.
Zendaya moves to my side as he exits and sits on the arm of my chair. “You wear whatever you want.”
I laugh. “You know I will. Why are we meeting in the grand hall?”
“Greed likes to put on a show of superiority. It’s nothing. You remember where that is?”
“How could I forget? You did make me memorize all the exits and rooms in this place.”
“I was checking to see if you need a refresher. Let’s get ready. This may be eventful.”
“Why do you say that?”
“If they brought your other mate, it will be.” She stands from her chair and moves to the wardrobe. “Now, get over here and get dressed.”
Chapter Nineteen
An hour later, I stand in the great hall next to Zendaya with Prospero in front of us and Ulric behind us. We are to the right of where Greed and Alora rest in oversized chairs resembling thrones. There is a long red carpet spanning to the door at the opposite end of the hall. I now get why Ulric said it was ridiculous.
Greed and Alora are dressed extravagantly, and so is Prospero, while Zendaya, Ulric, and I wear something simple yet flattering. A servant announced earlier that the group would be arriving in five minutes, so we were all rushed into place. Prospero informed me to follow his lead, but we’ll see how that goes. I would say I only trust him as far as I can throw him, but it’s even less than that. I can lift heavier things now and toss them further than before my powers started showing themselves.
A loud bell sounds outside the door as the servants announce the arrival of the vampire royals. I expect finery similar to what Alora and Greed wear but fight the urge to laugh as the group enters the room. Instead, they are all wearing relaxed clothes that you would find on anyone walking the streets.
The group is large, and the outside vamps look like some type of guard for the royals. They keep stern expressions and a tight circle around whoever is in the middle. They’re tall and elegant and seem to glide across the floor as they stop before Greed and Alora.
A pressure pushes on my head as the group stops, and I can’t figure out why. I watch as the group opens, and one of them, who I assume to be the royals, steps forward and performs a light bow.
“Ah, Prince Zuko, it’s a pleasure to see you and have you in our home. I see you brought your entourage,” Greed says pompously.
Zuko stands from his bow. “Why yes, I have. My brother Ezekiel is here as well. We both look forward to the ball. Thank you for inviting us.”
He ushers his hand behind him, and the guards part. My mouth drops. I fight the urge to ignite into flames as none other than Zeke steps forward and bows.
Sensing my distress, Ulric asks, Are you okay? Your wings are shimmering, trying to break out of the concealing charm.
I’m fine, just slightly pissed. That is my friend, possibly my other mate. Never has he mentioned being a royal or that his full name is Ezekiel.
Well, calm down, please, before you blow everyone’s cover.
I let out a deep sigh and stare at Zeke, who refuses to look at me. It angers me even more, but I hold my tongue as I stand behind Prospero.
“Prince Ezekiel, it’s been a long time since you’ve graced us with your presence. I do hope you both enjoy your stay. I’ll bring the servants in to show you to your rooms and help you with any items you may have brought.” Greed snaps his fingers, and a line of servants streams through the door.
The room is silent as the vampires turn and leave. It confuses me that we weren’t introduced to them, or maybe they already know the names of everyone except me. I mean, I’m the youngest here by far.
“Now that that is done, you all are dismissed. I’ll see everyone at dinner tonight to dine with our guests.” Greed addresses us all, and we slightly bow our heads in return.
I follow Prospero as he leads us into the hall but once free of the great room, I part from the group and head for the garden. I need to get some fresh air and possibly exert some of my frustration.
“Where are you going, love?” Prospero stops me with a hand on my shoulder, and I growl. He pulls it back, staring at me in shock.
“I need some fresh air. I’ll see you later.” I don’t give him any time to respond as I stride away. I don’t even go to my room to change. Instead, I walk quickly through the decorative garden door and out into the middle of the garden, where I let everything drop.
Flames burst up my arms, and my wings break free as I stare at the strange sky. I feel as if everything between Zeke and me has been a lie. Did my mother know who he was?
I shake my head and take off at a sprint and begin to do laps around the track. I let my wings stream behind me as I run, enjoying the feel of the wind moving through them. I haven’t gotten them strong enough to lift me yet, but I hope to get there, eventually.
Once my legs begin to ache and my breath is labored, I move to the grass and collapse on my back. I close my eyes, letting everything settle around me. That’s when I register Ulric nearby.
How long have you been watching me?
Long enough. It distresses you that he didn’t acknowledge you? I’m sure there is a reason. I hear his steps near but keep my eyes closed. I feel him lay in the grass beside me and pull me into his arms.
It does bother me. I don’t understand, but then again, I guess if he were to acknowledge me, it would have put me in danger because then Prospero would suspect I have broken through the memory charms.
He places a kiss on my temple, and I open my eyes to look at him. It would have, but I get it, love. We need to talk to them soon to get our plan in motion. Can you handle that?
I sigh and lean my head against his chest as we continue to lie in the grass. Yes. I guess I need to face him sooner rather than later to confront him about all this. Maybe he won’t be like that in private?
Don’t get your hopes up, love, just in case he is. This is a different world than where you are from, and they may not know if we can be trusted.
When do we have to meet them?
Zendaya is preparing a room for us, or she was starting to about an hour and a half ago. They may all be there by now.
Was I running that long?
Yes, love, you were. How soon will you be ready?
I guess now. I sit up, and he does the same. “Should I change before we go?”
“Well, you do smell sweaty, gorgeous, but that’s up to you. I may have brought you some clothes, though.” He shrugs, and I laugh as I playfully slap his arm.
“I guess that’s a gentle way of letting me know. I’m nervous about this, Ulric. Very nervous.”
“It’ll all be fine. Let’s get you cleaned up and take care of this. We need to focus on getting you and the girls out of here over anything else. If he chooses to be an ass about you and your ties to him, he can kick rocks. You will always have others who care about you.” We stand, and he pulls me into a reassuring hug.
“Thank you, Ulric. You’ve become my rock. I’m glad you’re my mate.” I kiss him softly.
He pulls away after a moment, “Me too. Now let’s go before you start something that will really make us late.”
I give him a mischievous smile, but instead of starting something, I let him lead me to the pile of clothes on the grass. I quickly change before we head back through the artistic masterpiece that is the door to the garden and head toward my hall.
“Zendaya has set up a small refreshment area for us down the hall from your room, closer to where the vampires are staying. Prospero is trying to have a guard posted outside your door, but I think I have him convinced that you’ll be fine. I thought it was hilarious how you snapped at him earlier, by the way. The look on his face was priceless.”
“I take it he’s not used to something like that?”
“Not exactly, at least not when it comes to females. Zendaya is the only other one who will put him in his place.”
“Will he be poking around while we talk with our guests?” Butterflies blossom in my stomach, imagining him catching us in our scheming.
“I doubt it. He said something about going to the barracks to make sure his new recruits stayed hidden. He does have a few male hellhounds he wishes to keep from prying eyes. They are unfortunately loyal to him for some reason. It makes no sense to me.” He shrugs, and I squeeze his hand.
He leads me to a door that is only two doors down from mine and pushes it open. I keep a straight face as we enter, and he leads me to a seat next to Zendaya. I fall into it. He takes the one on my other side, and I glance over at our guests. Zeke and his brother Zuko sit watching us. Two females stand behind them at the back of the room. I can’t help but glare at Zeke, who blinks at me before a smile spreads across his face.
Zuko clears his throat. “I’m sorry, but I don’t know you, female. I also don’t appreciate you glaring at my brother. It’s quite rude, you know.”
Ulric nudges me, and I drop the glare as I respond, “I don’t mean any offense, but if you ask your brother, I’m sure he will tell you why I’m glaring. Won’t you, Zeke?” I cross my arms across my chest as he bursts into laughter, and Zuko turns to stare at him in confusion.
“What the hell is going on, brother? How does she know you by that name?” Zuko finally gets his words out, and I feel Ulric stiffen next to me.
I blink, and then both Ulric and Zeke are in front of me. Ulric has a hand on Zeke’s chest, stopping him from approaching. They growl at each other, and this time it’s my turn to laugh.
Zendaya snickers beside me before she adds, “Zuko, Ember is your brother’s mate. My brother, Ulric’s, as well.”
I tilt my head and look at both of my mates standing and still growling at each other.
“What?” Zeke finally asks.
“Ulric, let him go, please,” I say and stand from my chair. “You and Ulric are both my mates, so you both need to get along. I’m not sure how this will work exactly, but Ulric has become my rock, especially since I was dragged down here unwillingly.” I turn and glance at Zendaya.
“Hey, don’t look at me. You said you would come if we left your friends alone. I told you my reasons for it.” She shrugs.
“So you’ve been okay then? No one has harmed you?” He looks back and forth between Ulric and me, confused.
“Will someone please tell me what the hell is going on?”
Everyone turns to stare at Zuko, who stands with his hands on his hips, glaring at us all.
“Brother, Ember is my mate. She is Kyra’s daughter, my shifter friend who I have been visiting for the past several years. I’ve always felt drawn to Ember, but she was tied to the Alpha’s son via a contract. After she discovered her Hell-linked powers, I could no longer resist. Then she was taken here while I was still trying to meet her in Alaska. I agreed to help her pack train against vampires and other Hell creatures because they have been having issues with rogues and demons.” Zeke smiles at his brother. “Now that we have found her, I won’t let her out of my sight again.”
“Actually, you’re going to have to. I’m technically betrothed to Prospero, who still thinks my mind is wiped, and I have no idea who I am.”
“That asshole. I always knew he was up to no good. He must be hiding more than we thought,” Zuko says.
“He is, unfortunately, and that’s why we reached out to you. He is working hard to build an army of hellhounds to rival Lucifer’s. He kidnapped several young women from the different packs of shifters on the earth plane to create this army. We have to get them out of here. We need you all to help us move them during the ball.” Ulric grunts as he finishes, and I look at him curiously.
“We have a route planned to take them to the gate that leads to northeast Texas and then take them into Oklahoma where Ember’s pack resides. We have also reached out for some extra hands on that side,” Zendaya adds, looking at Ulric, who bristles.
“Who did you ask?” Zeke questions.
“We reached out to Kai.” Zendaya smiles.
“Okay, that should work. I’ve worked with him before, and so has Zuko. It’s been years, but he should see them safely to their destination. Will it be safe for Ember, though, to travel with him?” Zeke asks.
“Why do you worry about her traveling with Lucifer’s best general? I’m sure he’ll keep her safe, and then you can join them as well.
“You know?” Ulric asks, and Zeke nods.
“It’s Ember’s decision whether we share that now or not.” Zeke looks at me, and I swallow.
“It’s a concern. Zuko, because…” I pause and let my wings fan out, no longer hidden. All the vampires in the room go utterly still, and their eyes widen. “I’m Lucifer’s daughter, and he doesn’t know I exist.”
“Holy shit, you have wings now? Wow, they’re gorgeous,” Zeke reaches out, staring at me in awe.
“How does Lucifer not know you exist?” Zuko asks. “I’m sorry, but I don’t want to go into this blind.”
I sigh. “He and my mother had a one-night stand, and he never returned to see that she was pregnant with me. My parents, not my real dad but the man who has raised me as my dad, married shortly after they found out they were mates. The secret was hidden from me until the demon attacks picked up, and I had a run-in with hellfire. It turned my world upside down, basically.”
“Damn. That sounds like a hot mess. It makes perfect sense that Zeke would be mixed up in that. We only use his formal name in formal situations, by the way.” Zuko smirks at his brother, who rolls his eyes.
Zeke turns back to me and then looks at Ulric. “May I hold our mate?”
Ulric growls but steps aside, and Zeke rushes to me. He pushes me back until I hit the wall and kisses me hard. His kiss is filled with need and longing, and I give in, letting him reassure himself that I’m his.
After a minute, we come up for air, and I spy Zendaya fanning herself while Ulric stands with his arms crossed, glaring. Zuko and the guards all wear smiles, and I blush at all the attention.
“I’ve been dying to do that. God, when I found that you’d been taken, I wanted to rip every shifter’s head off. You don’t understand the joy I feel having you back.” He strokes my cheek, and I smile up at him.
“I missed you too, Zeke. Now can we move back to my chair, please? Also, you and Ulric are going to have to figure this shit out with me. I don’t want the other glaring when one of my mates kisses me.” I look pointedly at Ulric, who rolls his eyes.
Give me a break. It’s not like I’ve had another mate before. He visually shrugs.
Can I get in on this conversation now? Zeke’s words intrude, and both Ulric and I stare at him.
