It took a moment before Lucius could respond since the power in the room was overwhelming him. It wasn’t the first time he’d felt the dominance of the members of the Blackwood Pack, but his memories of Scotland had begun to fade and it came as a shock to be reminded of just how powerful they were. And along with that he realized he was no match for them, even if he still possessed—which he doubted—all the abilities Valerian had given him. Feeling the need to be closer to his mate, Lucius took a step sideways while keeping his eyes on the floor.
How many times was I standing before my master, expecting to be killed because he had the power to do so.His powerlessness against Valerian had kept him obedient even though the urge to fight was strong. Finding himself back in a similar situation now, his old behavior to assert itself was triggered, but it wasn’t until Lucius felt his mate’s arm wrap around his waist did his hostility recede. Glancing quickly at Kieran, Lucius muttered his thanks before falling silent again.
Brady shifted his eyes to Oracle. “According to the Shaman, you wanted to speak to us?”
“That is correct. Please…” Oracle waved them to the sofa before taking a chair for herself. After Brady and Lucius were seated, she continued. “Normally, I would speak to you alone but what I have to tell you affects every person in this room.”
Hearing the gravity in Oracle’s voice, fear again gripped Lucius, consuming him so much his body began to shake.This is it…this is when my life once again goes to hell…all because of a bad decision I made that night.Unsure what would happen to his mate when Oracle announced he’d have to pay with his life for the pain he inflicted, tears filled his eyes. Instinctually, Lucius knew his death would cause Brady suffering, but to what extent? The fact that he didn’t know was worst of all.
Concentrating on what Oracle was saying, Brady was oblivious to Lucius’ fears until he heard a soft cry of pain from him. Turning to his mate, he found tears rolling quietly down a face with sadness etched into it. Alarmed, he cried, “Leelan!Oh baby, come here!” Gathering Lucius into his arms, he hugged him tight to his chest, crooning quiet words of comfort to him.
Jumping up from his place next to Logan, Kieran rushed over to Lucius, kneeling in front of him. Placing his hand on the young vampire’s thigh, he proceeded to send love to him, offering him comfort in his time of distress.
Finally, Lucius gained control of his emotions. Wiping the last of his tears away, he looked at his mate. “I’m so sorry you’re going to suffer because of my mistakes. If there was some way I could go back in time and change my decision, I would…you have to believe me.”
Totally confused, Brady’s mouth opened but nothing came out. Snapping it closed, he studied his mate, trying to understand what he was talking about. But no matter how hard he tried, it didn’t make sense to him. Shifting his gaze first to Oracle, who seemed puzzled, then to the Shaman, his eyes begged for help.
Nodding in response to Brady’s unspoken request, Kieran turned back to Lucius. “Sweetie, I’m a little confused. What mistakes are you referring to?”
“Everything I did as a vampire,” Lucius replied. “When I die, it will hurt Brady and I don’t want that to happen to him.”
Frowning, Brady asked, “Who said you are going to die,leelan?”
Waving his hand towards Oracle, Lucius murmured, “No one yet, but she will…and while I deserve to die, you shouldn’t have to pay for my crimes. I may not know much about mates, but I do know my death is going to cause you pain.”
“Lucius,” Brady growled, “you arenotgoing to die! I don’t care who tells you that, I will not let it happen!” Turning to Oracle, his eyes narrowed. “You asked me what I wanted from the gods in exchange for my help…”
“I did,” Oracle said, “But you should know…”
“I’ve made up my mind,” Brady said, adamantly. “I want Lucius to live so whoever decided he should die, please inform them it will not happen.” Then, turning to his mate, he hugged him tightly.
“I think there has been a misunderstanding,” Oracle said softly. “As far as I know, no one has ordered Lucius’ death and I am so sorry he has gotten that impression. The reason I wanted to meet with you was to tell you both about the Blood Prophecy.”
