The Mystic Wolves (#1, The Mystic Wolves)

The power in the room had me thrumming the very second I entered, sliding over my skin causing a shiver to course through me. It was the same reaction I had each time I was surrounded by some of the most dominant males in the pack. Separately, each of them was a pussycat. Together, they were lethal.

  I looked around and my chest tightened—Daniel, Eric, Jonas, and Wade. I loved each of my brothers and the look of concern covering their faces shared just how much the events of last night had shaken them. It was one thing to go up against a pack male, another completely when threatening one of the females.

  I walked past each one of them, letting my hand touch them briefly, giving them a chance to see I was in fact safe and in one piece. I couldn’t give them Jasmine, and it hurt, but now wasn’t the time for that.

  As I took my seat next to Mason, who was all Alpha authority now, I looked around and took note of the other faces in the meeting. Devlin was sitting a few seats down, and I was pretty confident he hadn’t taken his gaze off me the entire time I’d been in the room. His stare was intense, as though he was trying to penetrate the wall of protection I’d erected and see into the heart of the matter.

  For a vampire enforcer, someone who lived a life of justice and violence, I had a special kind of relationship with him. I smiled as my eyes met his. He nodded in return and I knew I hadn’t fooled him. It always impressed me how much he could communicate without ever saying a word. Sometime in the next few days Devlin would want to talk with me, and I bowed my head in return, letting him know to come find me.

  There was someone new sitting by him, and judging by the way he drummed his fingers against the table, he wasn’t used to being in a room with this many werewolves. I leaned forward, trying to discern what kind of supernatural being he was because surely a vampire wouldn’t give away such an obvious tell of nervousness. Smelling the air, I reclined back shocked.

  Vampire. Taking in his appearance and the way he held himself, I would say newly turned because there was no way an older one would throw off such a strong scent of uncertainty. I caught Devlin’s eyes, gesturing towards his companion, and I was rewarded with a slight fanged grin. He rolled his eyes and shook his head.

  Reaching out, he placed his hand over the nervous vampire’s and brought the agitation to a standstill. I’m not sure what was whispered between the two, but the look on the young man’s face was priceless as he blanched and visibly straightened in his chair. I tried not to giggle when Devlin turned to me and winked. There was a story there, one I couldn’t wait to uncover.

  “Is everyone here?”

  All eyes focused on Mason as he stood by his chair, waiting to bring the meeting to a start. If I thought the intensity of power in the room was overwhelming before, now it was stifling. Yes, these were men, but I was also surrounded by predators—hunters desperate for retribution and answers.

  The air crackled and each body instantly tensed. Placing my hand gently on Mason’s leg, he looked down at me and smiled.

  “By now, you would’ve all heard about the attack last night,” he paused, his voice cracking slightly. “Jasmine was taken from us, but thankfully, Darcy was able to take care of the situation and return to us safely.”

  All heads turned my way and I struggled not to flinch or sink deep into my chair. Stiffening my spine, I met everyone’s gaze before returning to Mason.

  “Not all of us are familiar with the events.” The voice belonged to the vampire newbie, and he wasn’t able to hide his cringe when the full focus swung to him. I think he even squeaked the next part of his sentence before remembering where, and what, he was. “I’d appreciate hearing the account from Darcy herself.”

  “Who the hell are you to ask anything?” The question came from Wade, one of the younger pack members, and a gentle hand on the shoulder from Eric reminded him that outbursts wouldn’t go down well.

  “I’m Vlad, and I come on behalf of my king to see how we may assist.” There was a hint of indignation in his voice as he sat up taller, seemingly developing his courage. “I accompany Devlin today to determine whether last night was an isolated event or something more.” Having finished his speech he leaned back, looking proud he’d been able to spit out the mouthful.

  There was a brief second of confusion as each pack member glanced up toward Mason for direction, but before he could respond Wade burst into laughter, his throaty chuckle mocking.

  “Vlad? Are you kidding me? Who the hell names you damn vampires? Don’t tell me, your last name is “the Impaler?” He shook his head, and seemed confused when Eric’s hand returned to his shoulder, this time with a more visible squeeze. The message was clear—shut up or he would do it for him.

  “What? Seriously, you don’t think this is even remotely funny? We’re here to discuss what happened, and Mr. Dracula wannabe over there is speaking like he has a say in anything that goes on here. It’s a joke.” Wade slammed his body back against his chair, blowing out a breath of disgust. “Why are they even here?” He glared hard towards Devlin and Vlad.

  “Wade, you’ll learn to curb your tongue, or find your ass tossed out of this meeting. I saw potential in you, an opportunity to bring you into pack business, but if you can’t control yourself, there’s the door.” Even I was surprised by the edge in Mason’s voice. He didn’t show his temper, but everyone knew he wouldn’t be pushed.

  “Sorry.” The apology came out as a quiet murmur. Slouching down in his seat, Wade looked embarrassed to be called out in front of everyone. After a few moments, attention shifted from the chastised wolf back to the Alpha.

  The room was silent, waiting to see what happened next, and a quick cough interrupted the pause.

  “Maybe I should step in now?” Devlin said, and you never would’ve thought anything was wrong judging from the relaxed way he held himself. We could’ve been discussing the weather for all he revealed. Only those who knew him, who knew what to look for, could sense any kind of agitation from him. He was the master of concealment.

  I watched him stand, pushing back the chair, and give a slight bow to those around the table. Always one to offer small tokens of respect, Devlin showed his age as he placed his hand over his heart and extended his condolences.

  “First, may I speak on behalf of Zane, my King and share how deeply disturbed we were to hear about last night and the profound affect it’s had on your pack. It pained him to learn vampire blood was involved and he has sent me to provide whatever assistance you may need to uncover the truth. I’m therefore at your disposal and carry the authority of my liege.”

  Devlin turned his focus to me and I couldn’t help but flush at what I found in his eyes. To everyone else, they were bottomless pools of black, but I saw fury, compassion and concern.

  “Darcy, please accept the relief felt by our people to know you are safe and unharmed. We too hold our females in high esteem, and the way you dealt with the threat shows the incredible woman you are. You bring great honor to your pack as a warrior of worth.”

  I was stunned by his declaration and almost missed the slight wink he offered.

  Lastly, facing Mason, Devlin bowed again, and his voice took on a hint of sorrow. “Mason, Alpha of the Mystic Wolves, please accept the deepest of regrets for the loss of your sister, Jasmine. She truly was a beautiful creature, and the world is a darker place for having lost her. My liege understands there’s nothing that can replace her, but asks for you to notify him should he be able to help in any way. He has two beloved sisters himself, and the news has stirred him greatly.”

  Mason’s hand squeezed mine as we listened to the Enforcer relay his messages. We had a strong alliance with the Vampire King, so his condolences were heartfelt and greatly appreciated. Nodding his approval and acceptance, Mason peered over to Vlad and raised his eyebrow.

  Devlin, missing nothing, chuckled. “With protocol complete, may I introduce my outspoken companion?” Turning to the side with lightning fast reflexes, he reached out and slapped the back of the other vampire’s he
ad, causing him to grumble loudly.

  “This fool is indeed called Vlad, but please don’t hold that against him.” Shaking his head, he laughed out loud, flashing a hint of fangs. “At our rebirth, we are given an opportunity to truly take on a new beginning by reinventing ourselves. Apparently, he believed the name Vlad gives him a touch of notoriety.” Looking down, Devlin continued, “Me, I think it makes him sound foolish, but he is here solely in the role of an observer. He’s still trying to find his place within our ranks, and I am his guardian. I apologize for his interruption, but the young one does have a point. If it wouldn’t be too much of a hardship, Darcy, could you share your experience from last night?”

  I knew this moment was coming and had prepared for it.

  Mason leaned in and whispered, “You can do this, baby. Just share the facts and remember … no guilt.”

  I nodded at his words and pushed myself back from my chair. On my feet, I looked around, meeting everyone’s gaze.

  Drawing in a deep steadying breath, I began going over everything—the trip to town, running into Gary, the gunshot, the change and hunting him down, then returning to find Mason and everyone by Jasmine’s body. It seemed to pour out of me, and the more I spoke the easier it became.

  I didn’t need to see Mason to know he was beaming at me with pride. I paced as I shared the burden I’d been carrying and a tangle of emotions filled the air. There was so much of it, and when I was finished, I realized tears were not only steaming down my cheeks, but down several others as well. It was gut wrenching to share the horror and uncertainty, but I also felt stronger. I had been so worried of being judged and found unworthy, but all I could see was love and compassion.

  Walking back to my seat, I entered into the embrace of Mason and stood there, soaking up his strength as he stroked my back tenderly. Tears flowed, but they were different this time. In voicing the events again, I realized I’d done my best, and although it didn’t lessen my grief, it did calm me.

  “I’m so proud of you, Darcy.” His hot breath brushed against my ear before Mason kissed my forehead and helped me sit down. Standing tall, before leaning forward to brace himself on the table, he looked every inch the Alpha.

  “Questions? Concerns?” he asked.

  It was hard to breathe, and I think others felt it too because the room went deathly still.

  It was Daniel who finally broke the silence. “I think I speak for everyone here, Darcy, by saying how proud we are, and just how much we love you. You’ll find no condemnation from us.” He looked around and each person nodded in agreement.

  Gasping, I choked back a sob. There it was—acceptance, and a tremendous weight lifted from my shoulders. I covered my mouth with my hands, trying to rein myself in before I became a blubbering mess in front of everyone. Tears filled my eyes again, and all I could do was smile in gratitude.

  Mason also relaxed, his muscular frame having tensed while waiting. As Alpha, his word was law, but he knew how much this meant to me. He clapped his hand on Daniel’s back, as a form of thanks, before taking his seat again.

  “What happened to what was left of Gary’s body?”

  Scanning the room, I noticed it was Jonas who spoke up.

  “I personally took care of it as soon as I heard,” Devlin responded, and was rewarded with another round of murmurs. “I know the Pack takes care of their own business, but I felt under the circumstances, it was the least I could do. I made sure no evidence was left behind at the scene, and have other Enforcers working on erasing Gary from any human system. Give it a few more hours and it will be as if he never existed.”

  “What arrangements have been made for Jasmine?” Daniel asked almost reverently.

  Mason spoke up this time and I was curious as well. I wasn’t sure whether any plans had been made, seeing he spent the last few hours with me. Guilt began to creep in again over taking so much of his time, but as his hand slid over to my thigh; the slight pressure was reminder enough. Being together had been important—needful. I placed mine over his and squeezed.

  “Some of her pack sisters are with her at the moment, preparing her for the farewell ritual. We’ll be holding it tonight after sunset. Vivien has agreed to officiate and does us a great honor by doing so.”

  A warm rush of emotion filled my body. This wasn’t something the witch did often, but it was fitting. As the Alpha’s sister, Jasmine would have the perfect send off, and I recognized the significance of the gesture. Vivien was also showing her support of the Mystic Wolves.

  Mason moved on to the next part of business. “I’m assuming Zane is interested in how vampire blood comes into play with last night.” Devlin nodded as the Alpha continued. “From what Darcy’s shared, it gave Gary extra strength and a crazed appearance—made him unreachable to logic and her attempts to talk him down.”

  I’m sure I wasn’t the only one curious about how he obtained the blood and for what purpose.

  Devlin interrupted my thoughts with his comments. “The blood would have heightened everything—brain and physical functions, emotions and rationality. Depending on how long he was using, he would’ve been highly unstable—his actions proving so.”

  There it was in all its ugliness. Blood addict ... user. But why? From what I knew of Gary, there was no need for such measures. He never showed any interest in Jasmine before now, and always appeared to be a happy, well-adjusted human who appreciated the friendship of the pack. It made the drama of the past twenty-four hours even more disturbing. It was completely out of character.

  “Has anyone else seen him use while he was here? Seen him act differently?” Jonas asked.

  No one had.

  “No offense, but why the hell do we care?” Eric spoke up. “The human was a traitor. He’s been around us all enough to know not to mess with things he didn’t understand. If he was in some kind of trouble, he could’ve come to any one of us and we would’ve stepped in. He was a coward, and I don’t see why we need to waste any more time talking about the why of the situation. All we need to know is where he got it from and let the Enforcers do their job.”

  I turned to Mason for his reaction, watching him reflect on what was being said. He took a moment or two before he spoke again, with a very clear, authoritative tone.

  “We care because I’ll be damned if this happens again. Not just to us, but anyone. I know it’s not pack business to be involved in the distribution of vampire blood, but I didn’t bring this to our doorstep. Gary did. We won’t stop until we find out and put an end to this. No one should have to bury family members and loved ones. Not like this.” Facing Devlin, Mason continued, “What do you need from me?”

  “Not much. I have a team going through Gary’s things at his home, trying to find clues before they remove everything. They’re checking past calls, asking neighbors before they scrub memories. I’m not sure how much we’ll learn, but whatever we do I’ll share with you. You might need to prepare yourself for the chance there’s nothing to discover.”

  Mason bowed his head, stewing on the thought when a cell phone rang, bringing everyone’s attention to Vlad. Releasing a growl, he leaned forward, causing the young vampire to shrug apologetically while trying to turn off the annoying sounds of his ringtone, Kung Fu Fighting.

  “Did no one warn you what happens to cell phones in Pack meetings?”

  I tried not to giggle as Mason laid the intimidation on thick. Daniel didn’t even try to bother as he let out a loud bellow.

  “My Lord of Beasts, you’ll make him faint if you don’t stop with the growling!”

  Mason groaned at the title his second-in-command used. A quick glance told me Daniel wasn’t far off. Vlad was white as a sheet, and his hand holding the phone trembled.

  “Excuse yourself, young one, before the Alpha decides to eat you.” Devlin chuckled. This caused the vampire to blanch further before leaving the room at an almost dead run. The Enforcer shook his head, finding the situation entertaining. “Did you reall
y need to do that, Mason? Terrifying him is my responsibility.”

  “I know, but I couldn’t resist. I thought the moment needed a little humor. Wanted to make my Darcy smile.” Mason took hold of my hand and raised it to his mouth, kissing the back of it. Heat spread across my cheeks as I felt myself blush, and the room filled with soft laughter. Everyone was used to seeing their Alpha openly show his affections.

  “Is there anything else we need to discuss, or are we good?” someone asked.

  Without taking his eyes off me, Mason nodded, and the sound of chairs being pushed back echoed. He released my hand and added, “Make sure you stay available. If I need you, I’ll let you know. See you all tonight.”

  The door burst open and Vlad re-entered, screeching a panic filled, “Wait!”

  Devlin snorted. “Please. Must you be so dramatic? What is so important you need to rush in here like a hysterical woman?”

  Before I could add my indignation, he looked at me and winked. “Present company excluded,” he said as I stuck my tongue out at him. He rewarded me with a warm smile. As instantly as it flashed, Devlin shut everything back down and turned back to his companion. “Spit it out, Vlad. Don’t keep us waiting.”

  The young vampire’s mouth flapped open two or three times as his eyes darted around the room. It was obvious he was reluctant to share the news that confused me. Didn’t he just come in here and tell us to wait? Judging from the annoyed looks of my pack brothers, they were also wondering the same thing. Now wasn’t the time for games.

  “Oh for heaven’s sake, tell us whatever it is before I let the wolves tear into you.”

  Vlad looked around frightened and Daniel didn’t help matters by growling, flashing sharp fangs.

  Shaking my head, I interjected, “Please, Vlad. Don’t mind everyone. It looks like you have something to share.” I tried to lace my voice with soothing tones, and I noticed him relax somewhat.

  That peace was shattered, however, by Devlin grabbing the young man by the scruff of the neck and pushing him down into a chair. “Speak. Now.”

  Taking a hesitant breath, Vlad gestured to the empty seats and whispered. “You all might want to retake your places. I just received a message I think bears importance.”

  Heavy sighs and frustrated mutters covered the air. One comment sounded very close to a threat should the “fang-boy” be wasting time. A murmured assent followed with the loud sound of cracking knuckles.

  Now with the room’s attention solely on him, Vlad had very little to say and needed a reminding tap from Devlin to prompt him. Even my head hurt as I watched, and I lifted my hand to rub away the sympathy pain.

  “There was a message delivered in the last thirty minutes to the King.” He stopped, looking expectantly around the room as if it was meant to explain everything.

  “You’re trying my patience, youngling. Speak what you know, or I’ll rip it from your throat. Regardless of who you are.” The threat lay heavy in Devlin’s voice. “What was the message?”

  “A dead body—well at least what looks like one. According to those who were there, it more resembled a mass of raw, bloodied, meat. The sentries were making the hourly sweep, found it outside the gates to the estate, and raised the alarm. Reports say the blood amount was so incredible it took vast strength to resist partaking. On further inspection, it looks as though it was a human woman.”

  If Vlad didn’t already look agitated, he did now as he continued, “Inspecting the surroundings, they found two items they felt the Alpha needed to know, and if I’m permitted to suggest, may be connected to what happened last night.” The young vampire had our complete attention.

  Mason was the next to speak, his confusion breaking the silence. “What were the objects, and why would they think I would need to be informed. Is it connected to Gary?”

  Vlad lifted his cell phone and began touching the screen, searching for something before passing the device toward the Alpha.

  “They forwarded me three images and asked if you knew what they meant.” The phone made its way into Mason’s hand, and I shifted in my seat so I could look with him. When he pushed the screen, illuminating it, I couldn’t help my gasp of horror.

  There was so much blood. I prayed that it had been quick and whoever it was hadn’t suffered, because the violence it would’ve taken to accomplish the scene left me speechless.

  Mason was tightlipped, and I felt him buzz with energy beside me. His wolf was stirring. I was sure of it because the air suddenly crackled with electricity, eliciting a round of growls from the rest of the pack in response. The Alpha was unsettled and it didn’t bode well.

  With the scroll of his thumb, he moved on to the next image—a piece of paper with some words scribbled on it.

  I peered in closer, but I didn’t need to as Mason read it.

  “How many women must die before you lose everyone you love?” He flipped back to the previous photo, but it was just as indiscernible as before. He looked back at the note, and started to speak, but Vlad interrupted.

  “It was written in blood, and before you ask, look at the last image.”

  Now I was confused as a bloodied driver’s license filled the screen. The owner was a pretty young woman, but someone I wasn’t familiar with. I raised my head to ask Mason whether he knew her, and was rewarded with a not-so-subtle cuss. Seems he did, and judging by the fury that flashed in his eyes, she meant something to him.

  Dropping the phone, he pushed back the seat and began pacing, raking his fingers through his hair. One of the greatest things about Mason was he usually had a cool head under pressure, and he made a point not to become unhinged in front of others. I was stunned by how truly rattled he was, and I could almost taste his impending change on my tongue. He needed to settle before he forced a shift on everyone.

  My own wolf raised her head and howled, feeling the energy being generated, and I struggled to coax her back to sleep. I glanced around at the others, and they were also trying to rein themselves in. If something didn’t happen, Devlin and Vlad would soon find themselves in a room full of wolves.

  “What is it, Mason? Who is she?” I placed my hand on his arm as he brushed by, bringing him to a halt. Breathe. I sent the thought through our connection and was relieved when he took a deep lungful of air.

  Steadying himself, he finally realized what effect his reaction was having on everyone, and a wave of calmness flowed through the room.

  Retaking his chair, composed and back in charge of his emotions, Mason began to answer my questions. “Her name is,” he paused, “was Vanessa Madison. She was a childhood sweetheart of mine, and playmate to Jasmine. Her father was a work colleague of my father, so our families would spend some time together. I haven’t seen her in maybe … three or four years. Last time I checked, she was finishing up with grad school and getting ready to move across the country.”

  “Who have you pissed off, Mason?” Daniel responded. “I think fang boy over there is right. It’s too coincidental. Someone’s trying to get your attention and will go to any lengths.”

  “Well, whoever it is has a death wish coming after the Alpha. I say we hunt them down and . . .”

  Wade was interrupted by Mason. “Let’s settle down. Look over everything. Devlin, will you be able to stay longer?”

  A nod from the Enforcer was all that was needed.

  Facing the group, the Alpha continued, “Eric, put everyone on high alert. Send for members to come in and set up a team to begin perimeter surveillance. Nothing in, nothing out until we know more.” Finally, he turned his focus to me.

  “I know. No going anywhere. Stay at the house, and no traipsing in the woods.”

  “Just until we know what’s going on, okay? Promise me.” His gaze held mine.

  “Girl Scouts honor,” I replied, raising my hand to salute.

  “You weren’t even a girl scout, Darcy.” Mason chuckled, and his smile almost reached his eyes. He caressed the side of my face with his finge
rs. “Safety first. I can’t lose you too.”

  I nodded, as I briefly leaned into his touch. When he broke the contact, I refocused on the room and stood. “Well, I’ll leave everyone to figure this out.” I pushed my chair under the table, and Mason reached out to grab hold of my hand.

  “Where can I find you when this is finished?” He studied my face as if he was afraid this was the last time he’d see me.

  “I have a ritual to help prepare. And goodbyes to offer.” Letting my fingers trail out of his grasp, I nodded to those in the room, pausing a moment to touch Devlin’s shoulder. “Thanks for being here.” He squeezed my hand and I exited quickly, closing the door on the meeting turned war council.

  What a change of events. Shaking my head, I began my journey toward Jasmine’s room, my heart preparing itself for the next few hours.

  Chapter Twelve