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Chapter 77
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2021-10-22 09:03:00"What are you doing in my bed?" I gasped but began giggling when I felt rough fingertips tickle my bare thigh before freezing in place.
He opened his mouth, and I could hear the near-silent inhale he took. As much as I wanted to hear his husky sleep-ridden voice, I had changed my mind at the last moment.I didn't need him opening his mouth and ruining this dream---because that’s exactly what this was. There was no other alternative filling my euphoria clouded mind.He'd throw me some cocky, nonsensical taunt that would get my blood boiling, and would surely chase away this blissful drunkenness.I clasped my hands over his mouth before he could answer. The moonlight that trickled through the open windows illuminated my surroundings, but only in the slightest. I could make out a few messy strands of hair, an amused smirk...twinkling eyes that seemed to shine even brighter in the dark.My enhanced vision would have worked bet
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Iridian Chapter 78
A symphony of deafening drums pounded away in my head, accompanied by the occasional clash of cymbals and screech of an out of tune violin. My headache had taken on a life of its own, undoubtedly transformed by the magic I had gorged myself on last night.Only two times in my life have I ever had alcohol, and neither held the addicting rush of magic. Years ago, Aidan and I had ventured into his dad’s basement fridge, snagging a case of beer in the hopes of getting drunk. Neither of considered the fact that we had already shifted a year prior, and that a dozen foul tasting drinks weren’t going to affect us. I knew from television and books that hangovers were awful, but a magically induced hangover--it was even worse.The only consolation to the throbbing in my head and ears, was the delicious scent that surrounded me. It was embedded in the blankets and sheets that were wrapped around my torso, and even in my hair. It was dark and rich, but also carried hea
Last Updated : 2021-10-30Iridian Chapter 79
“Who needs a bathtub this big?” I snorted into the humid air, listening to my voice bounce off the steam coated tile. Every breath felt thick, and the water near scalding as it held my aching limbs in it’s grasp.I could feel the heat and see the redness of my skin, but there was no searing pain. Only the mouthwatering scent of ripe apples and cinnamon, which spewed from one of the faucets in the form of thick bath soap. It reminded me of the green apple soap mom would buy on her way home from work, and the pies her and Stella would competitively bake. I was fairly sure it was the same soap in my suite.I couldn’t resist the allure of an apple scented bubble bath, not when my limbs protested from the slightest movement. The water reached the top of my breasts, leaving rosy marks wherever it lapped at my skin. The bathtub sloped upwards, leading to an area to recline. The waterproof cushions were warm to the touch, and far more inviting than any
Last Updated : 2021-11-02Iridian Chapter 80
I wanted Apollo’s kind words to change how I felt about Dain. Really, I did. It was clear he cared about him, and there had been times where I thought the two acted like brothers. Only after swallowing bile and fermented guilt, was I able to see that they had an odd sort of friendship. It wasn’t his fault his king was so unbelievably annoying. Dain believed the way to my heart was to pester the living hell out of me. He seemed determined to push my boundaries, elated regardless of how I fought back. When he passed through the solid stone wall just an hour after Apollo managed to hang that gaudy painting, I let out another shriek. It was like he turned to mist and smoke, pouring through the wall as he reformed instantly. Even the painting of Apollo, which had moved several times within the confines of its frame, jolted at my outburst. My own scream pierced my ears, renewing the headache that had nearly faded into obscurity. Never in my
Last Updated : 2021-11-04Iridian Chapter 81
Four hours later, when my headache had vanished and boredom long ago seeped deep into my bones, I flopped over on my bed and called out Leslie’s name.She materialized in the middle of the room, taking a few seconds to realize where I was. I watched her bouncy, curly hair move as she spun on her heel.“My wolf is on edge; she needs to go for a run.” I called out, gazing at her upside-down form as the tendrils of my curly hair cascaded to the floor from where I hung off the bed.Leslie vanished without another word, abandoning not only myself but Rayna, who was now letting out the world’s most pitiful howl. She had given me time to adjust to this place and my surroundings, but the idea of never again shifting—it had her hackles rising.There was nothing safe about this place, but they had to have somewhere they could shift freely—just to run until the instinct to chase and hunt faded. Then again, I had yet to see Dain sh
Last Updated : 2021-11-09Iridian Chapter 82
‘It would be best if we remained in contact with one another and try not to stray from my side.’ Stygian let out a snort as Dain’s silky voice continued in my head. ‘We have a couple hours before the sun sinks too low.’‘Yeah, about that—what kind of creatures are in the forest?’Hundreds of images flashed through my head, nymphs and banshees, cunning and haunting. Ghouls that croaked and whispered dark promises. I had read about countless creatures in the books lining the walls of the training room and was surprised by how much I actually remembered.‘There are thousands of various creatures within my kingdom, living in the forests and mountains. Many of them migrate, so it’s near impossible to track all of them. This particular area is favorited by shape shifters.’Shifting after these last few weeks, it felt like a broken bone finally forced back in place. The pain was almost pleasant, a
Last Updated : 2021-11-12Iridian Chapter 83
I knew the words were a mistake the moment the stars in his eyes winked out, leaving only blackness.I couldn’t help myself, really. As soon as the domed platters glided into the dining room on invisible arms, coasting through the air as they set themselves neatly on the table, it reminded me of what Apollo had said. I suppose I truly was impulsive, because the words were out of mouth and into the air before I could blink.“I asked Apollo why all of your servants are invisible.”The fork stilled in his hand, the perfectly carved piece of chicken still steaming away. With his bulky form and that glint of madness in his eyes, it was almost amusing to watch the methodical way he would eat.“Really, and what did Apollo say?” He drawled lazily, and resumed his eating, which would have been effective if his eyes weren’t pits of never-ending darkness, honed on the blush that seared my face.“He told me to ask you.
Last Updated : 2021-11-17Iridian Chapter 84
“You—you’re one of the servants…you’re visible!” I lifted my jaw from the floor and snapped it shut, still struggling for words. There was something fluttering deep in my chest, pattering like a hummingbird’s wings. “I’m sorry, uh—do you know where I can find Dain?”“According to what some of the other servants are saying, the King is going to be busy for the remainder of the day.” He replied softly, his smile kind and polite. Something about the salt and pepper hair reminded me of my grandpa, instantly softening me. “Would you not like breakfast, your Majesty?”“Oh—not at the moment. If you could have something sent to the training room later, I would appreciate it.” I replied with a frown, a bit disappointed. I was still stunned, trying to process his strange change of heart. I wasn’t sure what I had expected last night, but it wasn’t this. I turne
Last Updated : 2021-11-20Iridian Chapter 85
Iridian‘You avoid me all day, and now you want access to my thoughts? I don’t think so, Dain.’‘I’m not asking for access, only a conversation, darling—and I wasn’t avoiding you.’ His voice was silky smooth, an alluring distraction since he hadn’t given me any actual answers.‘Really?’ I mused, feeling a rush of cold behind my closed eyelids. The only reason I hadn’t cast him out yet, was because he hadn’t tried to delve past the hastily constructed barriers that hid my darkest, most desperate thoughts. Even though he could, he remained rooted in place, hearing only what I wanted him to. ‘When I woke up this morning, I ran into one of your servants. A very visible servant. You removed the spell you placed on them, knowing I’d see them and have questions. Typically, Apollo or Leslie let me know when you’re busy, whatever that might mean. So, why were you avoiding me?&rs
Last Updated : 2021-11-24
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Iridian Epilogue Pt. 3
I stumbled over my words, forcing them into the space between us where they hovered like a noxious gas. “What—what do you mean? I killed Nadia…I don’t—” The Moon Goddess cut my rambling short by placing the palm of her hand against my cheek. It was something my mom had done whenever I was upset as a child, and somehow the Moon Goddess’s touch held that same level of comfort. She smiled sadly, but it was an expression of pure love and understanding. “Do not punish yourself, daughter. What was left of Nadia’s essence has returned home and rejoined that of her wolf, but her death does not mean Evil is gone from the world. Us celestial beings aren’t allowed to meet our creations, but this situation…it is unique. I’m afraid I cannot tell you much, but there is one who can.” Jumping at the chance to get some answers, to preserve the peace Dain and the warriors fought so hard for, I asked, “Who? Who can?” “It is time to awaken, daughter. It’s in the world of the living where you’ll find
Iridian Epilogue Pt. 2
All I could do was stand there and gape at him. Honesty shone in his eyes like newborn stars, but all it did was leave me confused. I replayed the last twenty-four hours in my head, searching for the moment where I’d won the game between us.When I came up empty handed, I stammered, “I did?”Dain nodded, staring down at me with hooded eyes. “You did.”“How? When?”“As for how, that’s the part where I cheated, I’m afraid. I didn’t admit out loud what I felt for you, but I felt it nonetheless.” He admitted, a sheepish tilt to his lips. “I realized I loved you the moment those doors opened, and you appeared at the top of the steps. I’m not sure I’ll ever forget the way you looked in that gown, which I’ll have to thank Adley for when she returns. You could’ve been an assassin here to put a dagger in my heart and I would’ve gladly let you.”There was an explosion of butterflies in my chest, their wings beating so frantically that the sound of my heartbeat was drowned out.Leaning into Dain
Iridian Epilogue Pt.1
Epilogue – Part OneIn every book, in every movie where a great battle is fought and won, they never show what happens after.I’m not talking about the following weeks or months, but hours and days. I’m talking about when the dust has yet to settle and the ghosts of the dead still linger in the walls, when every gust of wind or insignificant sound sends you freefalling through time. When every shadow bares the face of someone you know—or worse, someone you killed. When all that’s left is this numbing sense of disbelief that tries to trick you into thinking this new reality isn’t real—that it’s all some pitiful hope conjured up by a dying, fear-riddled mind.According to Dain, it’s a time to mourn what was lost while holding those we love near, a chance to silence the ghosts that haunt us by thinking of the future we’d create. When I asked this question, my mate wasn’t the only one with an opinion. In Apollo’s not so humble words, it’s a time to get absolutely plastered and to celebrat
Iridian Chapter 213
The elongated claws tipped with old blood were hers. I couldn’t forget the sight of her gnarled fingers, which had once been slender and elegant, even if I tried.With a loud smack, she flattened her palm against the stone floor. A second arm shot out of the water, followed by another wet smack.‘That puddle’s not nearly big enough for what she’s trying to do…’ Rayna pointed out, her voice just as sickly as I knew my own would be.Both of Nadia’s arms were bent at odd angles as they rose from the water, but that was the least disturbing thing I witnessed as this day began to quickly unfold. Next to appear were her eyes, the whites much too large to be considered normal, followed by the jagged slash that was her smile. In the memories I’d seen, her smile had been coy and playful, with the same softness as a flower’s petals. This one was of malice and envy, both deeply disturbing and in dire need of some chapstick.Her shoulders rose from the water at the same time but were bent awkward
Iridian Chapter 212
It took everything within me not to flinch at the sound of her voice and how close it truly was to my ear. Only when I felt her icy talons meet my skin did I act.‘It’s showtime.’ Rayna murmured, lending me all of her strength as I willed the floor to crumble beneath my feet.Together, my wolf and I fell.Since I was prepared for the impact, it was easy to call on my magic to lessen the blow. Warm air rushed beneath my gown and outstretched arms, acting as a safety net that slowed my fall and kept me from toppling over. It wasn’t the graceful landing I’d been trying for since Nadia was doing something to block our magic, but it kept me from breaking both my ankles on the way down.I didn’t wait for the dust to settle. The moment I felt solid stone beneath my feet, I took off running.Nadia’s snarl was one of surprise and outrage, strong enough that it made the castle tremble. I didn’t repress my grin or the laughter I spewed into the air, knowing both would entice her to follow—to con
Iridian Chapter 211
Nadia launched herself at me, and as she did so, her hair and dress billowed out at her sides. The movement was slow and lazy, almost like she was submerged in water and not hovering a solid three feet in the air. Even though her form was translucent, and she seemed to be neither here nor there, I had a sickening feeling she could still do significant damage if I let her reach me.Instinct took over, and for once in my life, it wasn’t telling me to run.I launched the orb in my hand like it were a baseball, and watched as it spiraled through the air, a small halo of light surrounding it. When it hit its mark, square in the center of Nadia’s face, I silently thanked Aidan for teaching me all those years ago. I had hated every second of his baseball phase, but he’d been so passionate about becoming a professional athlete and whisking us away that I couldn’t resist helping him practice. After a dozen scraped knees, a handful of bruises, and one broken arm, we both called it quits.The in
Iridian Chapter 210
For the longest time all I could hear was the sound of stone grinding against stone.There was a painful burn in my lungs, but I didn’t dare exhale. Instead, I held my breath and watched as the corridors around me shifted. Walls slid left and right, forming new pathways that hadn’t existed before. Many changed angles, creating sharp turns that you couldn’t see coming until it was too late.Some of the windows began to close, melting away as though they’d never been there, while others grew larger. The ones that grew in size turned into arched doorways narrow enough for but one person to slip through.While the castle itself wasn’t a sentient being, every brick and inch of tiled floor was alive with Dain’s magic. I could feel it’s alluring touch within everything I altered and couldn’t help but smile at how eager it was to please me. Even the paintings responded to my call, changing forms until each one was exactly the same.The brash strokes of oil paint shimmered as they changed colo
Iridian Chapter 209
“My sisters, are they safe?” Aidan asked, his voice low.Even with a side view of his face, I could see the way it twisted into a concerned grimace. With eyebrows knitted tightly together and jaw clenched, he pivoted his head from left to right, peering down each corridor as we crept through another intersection. The sword he clutched in his hand, it’s metal an impenetrable black that shimmered with blood, was raised and ready for use.“Is anyone truly safe?” I asked, eyeing one of the windows warily. It would be all too easy for Nadia or one of her monsters to slip through now that the hallways were conjoined. “They’re hidden away. The fight won’t reach them.”His shoulders slumped as much as they could with the defensive stance he held, and a sigh of relief escaped his lips.“Thank the Goddess. Even though I’d see them when I got back, I’m not sure I’d be able to handle it if they were dead.”He didn’t have to explain why, not when the answer hovered in the space between us.There w
Iridian Chapter 208
Selfishly, I tried to call on Helios, to summon him to my side like I’d been told I could. It was what he would’ve wanted, it was why we completed the bond in the first place. The issue was that no one told me how to do it.There was a sense of awareness that settled over me, followed by a wave of understanding that told me Helios was very much alive. He was feeling it too, a subtle tug that let him know I was still here. I concentrated on my golden-haired warrior harder, imagining him as a sword sheathed at my side, ready to be used at moment’s notice.I felt that tug turn into a harsh pull, but there was no smile of victory on my face, because the milky-eyed creature at the end of the hall let out a blood-curdling wail and charged.I’d never been afraid of horror movies, not with their make-shift gore and fake blood. The knowledge that the creepy monster on the television screen wasn’t actually real was enough to smother any fear I might’ve felt. As I scrambled to get away from the
