Louisiana Bayou (Sunday)

  The chamber was silent, save for the distant croak of toads and the occasional drip of water from the stone ceiling. The flickering candlelight cast shifting shadows across the damp walls,their glow barely reaching the depths of thecavernous room.

  Agatha stood watch, as she had for the past three days, her sharp, aged eyes never strayingfrom the solitary figure of her Mistress, seatedat the chamber’s center. Lady Allara had notmoved in all that time, her form as still as a statue, her presence filling the room.

  To the world, Lady Allara was a heartless force of nature, a Dark Mistress of unfathomable power. Stories of her ruthlessness had spreadfar and wide, whispered in fear and awe. But Agatha, her most loyal Crone, knew the truth.Yes, her Mistress was powerful, more than any other magic user—undeniably so. But heartless? No. If anything, she cared too much.

  Agatha had served her for centuries, long enough to see beyond the reputation, the cold mask of indifference she wore like armor. Beneath it lay the kind and wounded soul, of awoman who had once burned so brightly—until the world had nearly snuffed her light out. In the end, she had chosen solitude over the rest of the world, withdrawing into her lonely misery, letting time pass her by. Only Agatha was allowed to stay.

  She had vowed to care for her Mistress, the last tether that kept her from vanishing entirely. She had waited, hoping that one day her Lady would return to her rightful place. Ready to shine once again in her brilliance .

  Now….That day had finally come.

  It all started with the brief, momentous visit of an unknown Fae. A woman unlike any other. She had been unassuming at first glance, but power—raw and untamed—had pulsed beneath her skin like a caged storm. A power, not dissimilar to that of another. One she had met centuries ago. The only person other than herself, who her Mistress had let see beyond her walls.

  Now, after centuries of silence and absence, her Lady the Dark Mistress of legend, wasabout about to grace the world with her presence once more.

  A slow breath escaped Allara’s lips as her eyesfluttered open. Their eerie, luminous depths held a new clarity, a purpose long lost but now found again.

  She was ready.

  Now all she needed was a full night’s restbefore she and her trusted Crone departed for the Conclave.

  Her heart quickened in anticipation. Would She be there? Would fate finally bring her face toface with the one she had waited for? Her fingers curled slightly in her lap as a name—so strange and unique—lingered on her tongue."Kai Ki."

  A slow, knowing smile ghosted across her lips. The Conclave was bringing them all backfull circle. And when she found her—when she stood before that powerful, untamed force once more—she would finally reveal the truth.

  Harriman State Park

  Kai guided the jeep smoothly through the shimmering portal, emerging into the dense woodland of Harriman State Park. The vehicle rumbled onto the cracked pavement of CampMa-He-Tu’s parking lot, a few minutes' drive from the Conclave’s hidden location. Behind her, an all-too-familiar SUV followed, itspresence setting her teeth on edge.

  Lawrence.

  The insufferable vampire and his remainingguards had managed to keep up. Kai too a deep calming breath, forcing herself to ignore the irritation clawing at her. With a slow roll, she brought the jeep to a stop. Doors swung open, and the group disembarked, boots crunching against the pavement. Lawrence and his vampires did the same.

  Rina leaned against Selene, amusement dancing in her eyes as she watched Kaistubbornly pretend the vampire wasn’t there. Selene, for her part, remained close to her Mate, quietly observing the various Fae emerging from the shadows of the lot. Thegathered figures avoided the harsh glow of the street lamps, blending seamlessly into the darkness as they waited.

  Kai glanced at her watch. So did Orlan. Then, with a familiar whooshing sound, the portal behind them reopened. This time, two large black jeeps rumbled through, their tires kicking up dust as they slowed to a stop beside the first. The engines cut off, and doors opened. Out stepped a variety of Fae—Cobalts, Werewolves, two additional Trolls, and even an Orc. From the second jeep emerged a Dwarf, a Golem, two tall male Dryads and what appeared to be a Fire Fae, their presence casting a flickering light over the pavement. Kai strode forward, Rina at her side, Selene moving with them.

  “How did everyone fare?” Kai asked, scanning the faces for any signs of injury. Two more vehicles were still missing. She didn’t like it.The Dwarf gave a thumbs up. “Had ta ditch the package, but we made it through. No worries!” His voice was gruff, but his smile was easy. Kai nodded and turned to the other group. A Werewolf stepped forward, nodding his head in greeting. “Same for us, Boss! Had to ditch it, but we’re all here.”Kai exhaled, relief loosening her shoulders slightly. Her eyes flicked to her team—Shae and Marta leaning against a jeep, Orlan quietly discussing something with the other Trolls. They were all here.The portal suddenly flared open again and a wreck of an SUV lurched through, barely holding together. Its windshield was shattered, the left-sidepassenger window gone, and the driver’s door completely missing. The battered vehicle rattled to a stop next to the jeeps just as the engine sputtered before dying and the front bumper toppled off.

  Kai was there in an instant.“What the hell happened?” she demanded as Fae tumbled out of the ruined car, some scratched, some bruised, but all grinning like fools as if they’d just won a prize.

  Rina helped a Forest Elf out of the back, while Selene noticed they seemed to be the only one struggling to stand. A Cobalt stepped forward, practically vibrating with excitement. “We got caught halfway to the checkpoint!” he announced, eyes gleaming.

  Kai arched an eyebrow. Their grins wereinfuriating.“It was glorious!” he continued. “They must’ve thought we had the real deal—rammed us right off the freeway and chased us through traffic! Then they decided to T-bone the jeep.” He gestured toward a Satyr. “Guess they thought Rick here couldn’t handle that!” The Satyr scoffed, rolling his eyes. The Forest Elf Rina added, “They busted the axle, so we had to double up in that.” She gestured to the SUV. “But they sure must have thought we had it, because they just kept coming.” The Cobalt took over again. “Almost wrecked a couple times on the bridge, but we had a couple elementals on our side. They just had vamps.” He smirked. “So, of course, we got away. Last we saw, they were fishing themselves outta the Hudson.”Kai looked over the group, scanning each. “But you’re all okay? You all made it?”

  That was when Selene realised—the tension, the quiet anxiety she had been feeling , wasn’t her own. It was Kai’s. She could sense it rolling off of her in waves. Hesitantly, Selene reached out, brushing her mind against the barrier she felt. There was a flicker of awareness as Kai’s shoulders relaxed ever so slightly, her head tilting subtly in Selene’s direction.

  The Cobalt nodded emphatically. “Yes! Absolutely!” Kai exhaled, the tension in her posture finally easing. “Then it was a success. Well done, everyone.” She offered them a rare, relieved smile.

  Lawrence stood at the back of the gathered Fae, watching the chaotic reunion with something bordering on disbelief.

  How? How did this woman command such effortless loyalty? Cobalts and Werewolves stood together, laughing. A Dwarf helped a support an injured Wood Elf without complaint. Trolls and Orcs spoke without hostility. And—was that a Gorgon?! A bloody Gorgon, standing amongst them!

  Kai—this mild mannered, warrior woman—seemed entirely at ease among them. No wonder she had remained so unfazed by Lady Selene.

  Who in the world was she?

  Without warning there was a disturbance in the air. The hairs on the back of Kai’s neck stood on end, alerting her to a subtle shift in the atmosphere, her body tensing as a wave of raw power rolled through the lot. The chatter died instantly and the gathered Fae instinctively went on guard, their eyes scanning the darkness. The very air crackled, thick with electricity. The scent of ozone filled the immediate area.

  Then…. a portal opened.

  Not a Fae portal either. No… this one was different. Of Older magic that did not involve runic pillars nor Fairy rings. A swirling vortex of deep, Primal Magic appeared.

  Weapons were drawn.

  Rina pulled Selene behind her, guiding her towards Shae and Marta, who were already positioning themselves with the others. Lawrence and his guards fell into defensive stances, their gazes locked on the new portal.

  But Kai—Kai remained still.She had reacted at first, startled by the sheer force of the magic. But now, standing in its presence, she frowned. She knew this power. She had felt it once before and recognition clicked into place.

  The tension in the lot was thick enough to suffocate. Then finally, out of the magical doorway, a cloaked figure shuffled forward.

  Kai stared for a long moment. Then, much to the shock of the gathered vampires—and to the exasperation of her friends—she burst into laughter.

  Agatha had made her Mistress promise to wait for her signal before stepping through. The world outside had changed since Lady Allara had last walked it, and Agatha wanted to ensure everything was safe.

  Yet, as she stood, now mouth slightly agape, she was met not with hostility but with laughter.

  Laughter.

  Agatha scowled, peering at the woman standing before her, laughing as if she had just encountered an old friend.

  “Kai”

  The taller woman chortled, shaking her head. “That was quite the entrance.” Agatha smirked, and replied, her rough voice with its thick accent. “You seem to get around.”

  Kai’s chuckle was warm. “It’s good to see you again Agatha.” Then, tilting her head, she asked with a knowing glint in her eyes, “Does your being here mean what I think it does?”

  Agatha eyed the woman, lips twitching in amusement.“You tell me.” And with that, she cast her magic back through the portal.

  Louisiana Bayou

  Allara stood in her chambers, glaring at her reflection as she stood before the mirror. She made a frustrated huff. “What does one wear when returning to society anyway?” she muttered, shaking her head at the absurdity of the question.

  Lady Allara—the Greatest Sorceress on the continent—stood in nothing but a house robe, utterly at a loss. For the life of her she could not decide what to wear.

  “Pathetic,” she grumbled, running a hand through her long red hair before turning away from the mirror in exasperation.“Agatha!” she called.The chamber door creaked open, and her loyal attendant shuffled inside. Without waiting for instructions, Agatha went straight to the wardrobe and began rifling through its contents, muttering to herself as she rejected gown after gown.“Hm. No. No. Definitely not.”Allara perched on the edge of her bed, watching as the Crone dismissed garment after garment with increasing impatience. But, finally, Agatha made a triumphant sound and pulled out a stunning jade-green gown—the only one of its kind. Made from the skin of a Basilisk. It had been a gift from the King of all serpents over two centuries ago. With the gown, Agatha selected a pair of golden Grecian sandals, their straps meant to wind elegantly up the calf.

  Allara’s throat tightened at the sight of her friend’s thoughtful selection. The prickle of unshed tears burned at the corners of her eyes.“Ma Lady shud look like a queen,” Agatha declared, her accented voice thick with emotion. Allara swallowed, nodding, not trusting herself to speak. She wiped at her eyes discreetly, though Agatha noticed. The Crone shuffled forward, setting the gown gently beside her mistress before placing a gnarled hand over Allara’s.“Dere be no shame, Mistress,” she said kindly.

  Allara nodded again, the weight of the moment pressing into her. For a fleeting second, she felt like the young apprentice she had once been—the girl who had first met Agatha and stared in awe at the Crone’s strange, wizened form. Agatha had cared for her when no one else would. Through the years, their bond had grown unshakable—something closer than duty, deeper than servitude. It was familial.

  Agatha clapped her hands. “Now, yo best be dressin’, Mistress!”Taking a steadying breath, Allara rose, readying herself as if for battle. The gown hugged her body wonderfully, the silky material draped over her frame like liquid emerald.

  She sat as Agatha brushed out her vibrant red locks, choosing to leave them loose so they cascaded freely down her back. The final touch were the golden sandals, their straps secured tightly around her calves.

  Allara made a striking figure—fiery hair distinct against pale skin, her deep jade eyes echoing the color of her dress. Around her hips, a gold-corded belt rested, its twin tassels hanging down the front. The only jewelry she wore was her silver chain with the gold-threaded crystal and the silver-banded ring with her sigil on her left index finger.

  Stepping back, Agatha eyed her work with pride. Her Mistress was a vision in green and gold—beautiful and deadly. A slow smile spread across Allara’s lips as she studied her reflection. It was funny how a simple dress could make her feel like herself again. “It’s perfect, Agatha. You always know what works best.” Agatha huffed, feigning indifference, though her mouth twitched with a hidden smile beneath her hood.“Right!” Allara clapped her hands. “Best be off. We’ve got a Conclave to crash!” With that, they left her rooms and made their way down to the ground level of the ancient manor, entering the stone chamber where Allara had spent the past few days reawakening her power and flexing long-unused magical muscles.

  The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

  Agatha moved first, pouring white sand onto the floor in a wide circle that spanned the entire room. Then she stepped back as Allara began to draw the magical energies in the air, pulling it into herself.

  Dark power crackled around her fingers, charged like a thunderstorm as she molded the currents with precise movements. Her hands rotated as she created a sphere of that power and let it build between her palms, then pushing it outward until it became a portal before them—large and crackling with dark energy. Allara anchored it to the chamber floor with a simple downward motion of her hands.

  Agatha watched in silent awe.

  Contrary to popular belief, sorcerers did not weaken with age. Like the Fae, they grew more powerful over time. Most, however, did not live long enough to reach such heights—after all magic came with a price, and those who dabbled too deeply in the black arts often paid it in full.

  People had assumed Allara was one such fool.

  They were wrong.

  It had been her Master who sought the blackest of magics—the Chaotic. The kind that even a Crone like Agatha would never dare meddle with, lest she throw the natural balance into disarray. No, Allara’s power was all her own.

  Many failed to understand that magic came in more than just two shades. There was White (Light), Green (Healing and Nature), Elemental, Grey (Dark), and finally, Black (Chaotic).Lady Allara was a Dark sorceress. Once, they had even called her the Grey Lady.To wield Dark magic did not mean one was evil—it meant they commanded the strongest forces. Electricity. Raging winds. The raw elements of nature’s fury. Lady Allara was perhaps the only sorceress on the continent who could harness such power.

  Agatha exhaled as the portal fully stabilised, its surface humming in the air. She stepped forward and placed a hand on her Mistress’s shoulder.“I will go on ahead, Mistress,” she said. “No tellin’ de rabble dat might be lurkin’.” Allara studied her for a moment, then nodded. “Signal me when all is clear. I will wait.”Gently, she squeezed Agatha’s hand. Agatha huffed, clearing her throat awkwardly before shuffling towards the portal. With a final glance back at her Mistress, she stepped through.

  Camp Ma-He-Tu Parking Lot (Harriman State Park)

  Kai watched as Agatha cast a crackling green energy ball back through the portal.Her heart pounded like a war drum, adrenaline surging through her veins. There was no denying it—she had thought of the fiery-haired sorceress more than she cared to admit. But the anxious, almost restless feeling churning in the pit of her stomach? That was something else entirely.

  She wasn’t the only one who noticed the Crone’s arrival. Her friends stepped in closer, their curiosity piqued. Marta, ever bold, sidled up beside her and murmured under her breath, “Is that the Crone from the swamps? The one with the sorceress?” Kai tore her eyes away from the portal long enough to nod. Marta didn’t miss the way her friend’s fingers twitched, her stance unusually tense. The Moon Sisters exchanged glances, and even the vampiress, Selene, noticed the barely restrained energy vibrating through Kai’s body.

  Rina, always perceptive, laid a gentle hand on her back and whispered, “Breathe, sweetie.”Kai sucked in a deep breath, steadying herself just as a figure emerged from the portal. And just like that, the breath whooshed right back out of her lungs like she’d been sucker-punched.

  Lady Allara, the Great Dark Sorceress, glided forward with the effortless grace of a queen. She was breathtaking—a vision in green, radiant and untouchable. Kai could only stare, heart hammering so hard she was sure the others could hear it.The reactions around her, however, were far from admiration.

  The vampires recoiled in horror, some stumbling back as if warding off a nightmare. Lawrence turned so pale he made the other vampires look positively sun-kissed.

  The Tennga Fae who were used to powerful beings by now, stiffened in alarm, some old enough to remember the legends—the stories whispered in warning.

  The Grey Lady. The Dark Sorceress.

  Lady Blood Kin slayer herself.

  Allara had stepped through the portal at Agatha’s signal, not expecting an audience. But what was simply her normal, fluid stride towards her friend was, to the onlookers, the powerful, self-assured walk of a Dark Sorceress. She had to force herself to maintain a neutral expression when she took in the crowd of Fae and vampires waiting for her.

  It was unexpected, to say the least. But then her gaze landed on Agatha and then… Kai…..The most welcome sight of all.

  Her eyes widened slightly, what a sight indeed. The last time Allara had seen her, Kai had been in a worn leather jacket, a loose black T-shirt, blue jeans, and sturdy boots.

  But now? Now, she was a warrior. The Amazonian kind, whose physique could not—would not—be hidden beneath that tight black shirt. The material clung to her body, tucked into cargo pants that sat low on her hips. The fabric stretched over sculpted abs, broad shoulders, and arms that looked like they could break stone.

  Had she always been that tall?Allara had to fight the urge to gawk—to drool—lest she shatter the composed image of a formidable sorceress.

  Kai was struggling just as much. Because Lady Allara was drop-dead gorgeous. That shimmering green gown hugged her curves just right, in a sensual embrace. The deep neckline showcasing enough of her luscious cleavage to make Kai’s mouth go dry. A golden corded belt accentuated the curve of her hips, and the twin slits up both sides revealed smooth, toned legs that seemed to go on forever. The golden Grecian sandals winding up her calves only added to the picture of lethal elegance.

  Kai was struck dumb. The formidable, unshakable courier—the one who could find anyone, anywhere—silent warrior—was completely undone by the woman standing before her.

  Allara finished her approach, coming to a smooth and elegant stop before Kai and the gathered Fae. The silence stretched a beat too long for her liking. So, with the confidence of a woman who had commanded storms and toppled kingdoms, she spoke first.“

  Well, this is quite the welcome party.” Her voice, dark and smooth as velvet, sent shivers through the assembled Fae.

  To Kai, however, it was something else entirely. That sultry, effortlessly seductive tone made her heart stutter like a failing engine. Allara’s gaze swept over the crowd, taking in each face until it landed on Lawrence.“

  Oh my,” she purred, eyes narrowing slightly. “And who do we have here?”

  Lawrence gulped audibly.Allara tilted her head, assessing him. “Hmm… based on your livery, I’d say… Crimson Thorn.” The vampire shuddered, the ominous lilt of her voice wrapping around him like a spell. “I—yes! Yes!” he squeaked. A delicate brow arched in response. Before Allara could say more, a distinct snort cut through the tension. She turned in time to see Kai rolling her eyes at the cowering man. Kai’s lips curled in disdain. “That one’s not too bright, Lady Allara.”

  The sorceress’ mouth twitched, fighting back a smirk. She rather enjoyed the obvious lack of respect Kai had for the unfortunate vampire. “Is that so?” she mused, merth twinkling in her eyes. Agatha let out a wheezing chuckle. “Probably got hold of cheeken’s blahd, dat one!”

  Rina, watching the exchange unfold, frowned in thought. The easy banter, the glances, the tension—it didn’t take a mind reader to recognize flirting when she saw it. Interesting. She decided to observe them both a little longer.

  Allara, oblivious to Rina’s thoughts, turned her attention to the gathered Tennga Fae. “I must say,” she remarked, her tone lighter now, “it does my heart good to see so many different Fae standing together in peace.” Then she turned to Kai, her smile softening, warm and genuine. “Dear friend, you make life much more interesting.”A flush crawled up Kai’s neck at the words, and she quickly looked away, rubbing the back of her neck. Those damn green eyes saw everything. Allara nearly cooed at the endearing sight.

  Kai cleared her throat and turned back to the group, eager to redirect attention. She started introductions, first with Rina, Shae, and Marta. Then she brought forward Lady Selene, who had, in fact, met Allara before—nearly four hundred years prior. Afterward, Kai introduced Orlan, Timothy, and the rest of the Tennga townsfolk who had come to help.

  She ignored Lawrence entirely.

  With pleasantries aside, they filled the sorceress in on the current situation. Allara was thoroughly shocked when Kai revealed two crucial pieces of information. First, not only did they have the potion needed, but Lady Selene was the rightful heiress of the Noctis Sang Coven. At that, Allara threw her head back and laughed, the sound rich and full. The unexpected twist, the irony—it was delicious. Second, when Kai casually admitted they also had a trussed-up blonde vampire as evidence of there being traitors, it sent her into another bout of laughter.

  Kai, ever practical, checked the time. “We have about an hour before midnight,” she said. “I plan to deliver both Lady Selene and the potion to the Conclave.” Allara’s humour faded as she turned to Agatha. The Crone met her gaze and gave a single nod before she melted into the shadows, vanishing completely.Kai blinked. “Woah.”

  Rina stepped forward. “I take it you have your own plans for the Conclave, my lady?” Allara smiled at the Moon Sister. “Yes. But I believe we all want the same thing. So, I propose an alliance of sorts.”Rina nodded without hesitation. “Agreed. We want this stupid war to end.” Her voice was laced with frustration. “I’ll admit it’s not out of compassion, my lady, but this war has dragged our own people into it. Two of my sisters nearly died as collateral.” Kai crossed her arms. “Not to mention one of the so-called ‘tributes’ of peace happens to be mated to a friend.” Her voice was low, a growl threading through it.Marta, standing beside her, bared her teeth. “And they pissed out all off!”

  Rina sighed dramatically. “Sister dear, your little mate is scaring people again.” Marta shot her a grin but didn’t deny it. Shae rolled her eyes, pulling her mate into her arms and whispering soothing words in her ear. The effect was instant—Marta melted like butter, looking like a purring cat. Or at least, as much as a Gorgon could look like a cat.

  Allara liked these people. They were refreshingly real—none of the suffocating, pretentious nonsense she had grown up with. Just then, Agatha reappeared—right beside Lawrence.The vampire squealed in fright and fainted.

  A beat of silence.

  Then—“Huh,” Marta mused, staring down at him. “I didn’t know vampires could faint.”Selene folded her arms. “We can’t.”Kai sighed, looking down at the unconscious vampire like one would a disappointing pet. “Probably defective from inbreeding,” she deadpanned. “Don’t get too close. Might be contagious.”

  Another pause.

  Then raucous laughter. Snickers, chuckles, and outright guffaws rippled through the group.

  Meanwhile, Agatha nudged Lawrence’s limp body with her foot before shaking her head. Then she turned to her Mistress. “Thems hoity-toity vamps is gathered,” she rasped. Then, to Kai, “Thems waitin’ on you, I’m tinken.”Allara straightened. “Right then, I need to get going.” The others nodded—they all had their own reasons for being there. Before she could step away, Allara hesitated. “Kai,” she said softly, “might I have a word?”Kai met her gaze and nodded.

  The rest of the group moved toward the waiting jeeps, preparing for the final leg of their mission. Shae and Marta took the opportunity to reveal their latest addition—car decals representing the City of Tennga and ADL (Aegis Delivery Logistics).

  No more hiding.It was time to let all know who they were. Kai led Allara to the far side of the lot, still within sight of the others but distant enough for privacy. Allara was nervous. She had promised herself that the next time they met, she would reveal the truth to Kai. But now, faced with the moment, there wasn’t enough time.

  Kai, ever perceptive, watched emotions flicker through those deep green eyes. Something weighed on the sorceress. She had her own words to say, but perhaps breaking the ice would help ease whatever burden Allara carried. She took a deep breath and spoke first.

  “Listen, Lady Allar—”

  “Allara.”

  Kai’s heart stuttered at the way the name rolled off the sorceress’ tongue, low and sultry, her voice dropping into a velvety register.“Allara,” Kai repeated, slower this time, almost tasting the syllables. A shiver ran up Allara’s spine at the way the taller woman said her name—like a promise, like something to be cherished.

  Kai exhaled slowly, crossing her arms over her chest. The movement made her muscles pull taut beneath the fabric, and Allara’s gaze flickered down, her mouth suddenly dry. Kai missed the way her eyes lingered and pressed on.

  “I... I don’t know about you, but I haven’t felt this off-kilter in a long time.” Her voice was steady, but her fingers curled slightly against her biceps. Honesty was the best medicine, she figured.“Ever since I met you at the Manor, I’ve felt... different. Like a missing piece of me was found—only to be lost again.”

  She hesitated, trying to find the words, then admitted, “I’d never met you before that night. And yet…”She struggled. Her lips pressed together before she finally exhaled and said, “It was like coming home.”She shrugged, as if that explained everything.

  Allara released the breath she hadn’t realised she was holding. Kai watched her chest rise and fall with it, the fabric of her gown tightening against her form. She swallowed thickly and quickly looked away.

  Allara, grounding herself, spoke. “I have been struggling with something I need to tell you ever since you arrived on my shores. I just don’t know how to explain it to you.” A frustrated sigh left her lips as she rubbed her temple, then suddenly froze.

  Her hands dropped. “That’s it!” Kai cocked her head. “What’s it?”Allara looked up at her, eyes glinting with realisation. “I can just show you!” Then just as quickly, her excitement deflated.“But… in order to do that, we would have to mind meld,” she admitted, voice quieter now.Her shoulders tensed. No one would allow that. Not unless they were bound to someone in the deepest of ways. It was an intimate thing—sacred. Mates shared it. Lovers, sometimes. Not strangers.

  Kai hated the dejected look on Allara’s face. It didn’t belong there. So she reached forward and gently took Allara’s hand, her fingers warm and solid around the sorceress’ own.Allara’s breath hitched. She looked up, meeting Kai’s gaze. Those deep brown eyes were so open—so steady, so welcoming. She had never seen eyes like these before.“Tell me,” Kai said simply.Allara blinked. “Tell you…?” Kai nodded. “About the mind meld. What is it?” Allara hesitated. But faced with that earnest, expectant expression, she caved.“It is the joining of two minds,” she explained. “When two people connect their thoughts and memories, experiencing them together.” Kai remained unfazed. Still waiting. She doesn’t understand, Allara thought.So she went on.“When one does this, everything is laid bare. Every thought, every memory, every idea. Your secrets are revealed. Your deepest desires—uncovered. Anything and everything. Weaknesses, strengths. The things you would never say aloud, unmasked.” Her voice grew quieter. “It is total and utter surrender.”

  She looked at Kai again, expecting hesitation—doubt. Maybe even rejection. Kai only blinked once, then nodded. “I understand.”Allara’s lips parted slightly. “You understand?” she repeated, exasperated.Kai nodded again. “Yes.”Allara stared. “You’re not worried at all?”

  Kai seemed to be figuring something out in real time. Her eyebrows scrunched in thought, then suddenly widened as if a revelation had struck her.

  Allara tensed. Finally, she understands. But then Kai said—“I know I’m practically a stranger, and I completely understand your hesitation! I just meant that, for me, it’s fine. I actually think it’s kind of neat!” Allara blinked.“But I get that you must have your own secrets,” Kai continued, utterly sincere. “And I completely respect that! I just want you to know that if we do this, I would never reveal anything I learned from it.”

  Allara just stared. This woman—this ridiculous, gorgeous, powerful woman—had looks, strength, and even a kind heart. And somehow, despite everything, her straightforwardness was the most unbelievably adorable thing about her.

  Deep down, Allara already knew she could trust Kai. That wasn’t the problem. The problem was what Kai would see when she entered her mind.The darkness Allara kept caged. The rage she had never truly let go of. And yet—something told her to take the leap. So, with a steadying breath, she straightened and looked up into Kai’s eyes.

  “All right,” she whispered.

  Kai nodded. “What do you need from me?”Allara stepped closer, placing her hands on Kai’s broad shoulders. Kai’s rested naturally at her hips. “Nothing,” Allara breathed. “Just look into my eyes and breathe with me. I will guide us into the meld.” Kai nodded, focusing. She synchronized her breath with Allara’s, staring into those gorgeous green eyes.