Sky held onto Jordy’s shoulders as she picked up her pace. He tried to sit up and take control, but she wouldn’t let him. She pinned his hands back against the bed then leaned in to kiss him. It was her turn to dominate… he had his way earlier. Every time his Essence Stone tattoo touched her skin, it gave her a slight sting. A burning sensation she noticed only she felt. Sky realized the special blue metallic tattoos were to warn them and counter the Star Children’s power. The Vix Glass tattoo, on her arm, only countered the warning effects of the Stones. The more she touched Jordy and his tattoos, the less the stinging effect had on her body.

  He had four in total, two on one arm, one on the other, and one large family crest symbol on the left side of his chest. When Sky’s pace began to slow down, Jordy sat upright and took control. He whispered in her ear, “Don’t finish without me…” Flipping Sky onto her stomach, Jordy grabbed her hips pulling her back towards him for the final position. A few thrusts later and both climaxed finishing together. Collapsing on their backs and breathing heavily both laid side by side still entangled.

  The sun was just coming up piercing through the clouds. The next day had arrived, and the two realized they spent the whole night getting to know one another on a deeper personal level. Sky draped her towel over the chair in the bathroom then stepped inside the large beige marble tub. Jordy sat back making room as Sky sat between his legs with her back turned. Gently rubbing her back with a sponge, Jordy thought it was a good opportunity to ask about the mystery necklace. He already noticed the new tattoo on Sky’s arm as well as the fact she was no longer wearing the gold chain with the black glass pendant. Deep down, he felt stupid for even asking. However, it would be one less thing he’d have to investigate. “Can I ask you a question?”

  Sky slightly turned her back over her shoulder, “Of course.” She replied.

  “Is that Oki’s work? On your arm, I mean. I recognize her artwork from anywhere.” Jordy said in a gentle tone.

  Here we go... Sky felt the pin drop of her fairy tale fantasy just then. She knew the personal questions were coming, and she’d had plenty of time to come up with a perfectly good answer. “You know Oki? Yes, this is her work. Why do you ask?”

  “It's just when I first met you, I remember seeing a gold chained necklace hanging around your neck. Either you or Kahree, honestly, I cannot remember. Well, I told my obsessive uncle I’d ask.” Jordy huffed towards the end of the question.

  Sky took a few seconds before answering. “Yes. I did have a gold chained necklace when I first arrived. It belonged to my mother... Unfortunately, I lost it while cleaning tables at the tavern. I’m not following... did you find it or something?”

  Jordy stopped washing Sky’s back and turned her around. “Listen to me very carefully. You’re sure you lost that necklace?”

  Giving him a fake, confused look, “I’m sure, Jordy. I lost it like a week after I got to Freeland. I was so bummed that I asked around who did decent tattoo artwork. Oki helped me to design a popular flower that only grew in the Saijerian Colonies. Why? What’s going on?” Sky gave Jordy the best version of her cover story. Now she was intrigued to know how much he and his people knew.

  He didn’t answer the question right away. Instead, he grazed his fingers gently over Sky’s unique tattoo. Staring at the artwork on her arm, Jordy finally said something, “The Concord Flower of Saijerian.” He shifted his gaze back to Sky. “It’s beautiful...”

  “Yea, that’s right. How did you know that? About the flower, I mean.” Asked Sky.

  Without breaking their eye contact, Jordy extended his left arm to show his body artwork. He smiled before starting his story, “We LaGons know everything about the Saijerian Colonies on the moon Blackius. The largest moon of the infamous planet Sage.” The letters on his arm popped out like a hologram in Sky’s mind. Jordy’s tattoos weren’t just made up of the Essence Stone; it was written in one of oldest Saijerian languages. “My ancestors were a part of the first rebellion against Star Counsel. You know the one, the famous story of Princess Iya killing the corrupt evil Star Lord Cashius. Well, my family is originally from those colonies. We’ve kept a lot of traditions alive. LaGonius turned into LaGon when my great-great grandfather moved here to Temrack some years ago. Then, when the Child of Fire came and destroyed my grandfather’s town, the whole fight started all over again...”

  Sky was astonished by what Jordy was saying. “You’re tattoos, they mean something in the Saijerian language. ‘First son of the fifth generation’ and the bottom one says ‘Weapons Specialist’...” Sky’s gaze shot back up to Jordy, who never broke his stare. “Is that what you are? A Weapon Specialist?”

  Jordy looked down at the water, breaking the gaze. He pointed to the other tattoo that was by itself on his right forearm delaying answering the question. “I got this one when I was ten years old. All LaGon sons are expected to get one for protection. I got this the same year I was betrothed to Molly. She went from my childhood friend to my bride-to-be in the same year. They’re all traditions, Sky. Something us LaGons and other families have believed in for centuries. So, to answer your question, yes, I am a Weapon Specialist. As for the necklace, an investigator found it in the rumble at Windermere’s the night the house blew up. You heard about that right?”

  Sky turned around facing Jordy and got close. She studied his demeanor and saw the pain in his eyes as he explained his story. “Of course, I did. I heard no one survived.”

  He continued with the questions, “Did you know that the black pendant was made of a special glass?

  “Special glass?” Sky repeated. She did not like where this conversation was going. “All I know is it’s been passed down a few generations now. I’ve never heard of being special.”

  “Well after some digging, the black pendant is made of a rare form of magma from the planet Vix.” Jordy’s eyes widened almost like he was excited. He splashed some of the water around as he told his story. “So apparently, this Vix glass can only be retrieved by a special group of people who can withstand the extreme temperatures of the planet. But that’s not the most interesting part. Sky this Vix glass is a counter to our counter towards the Star Children.”

  Sky squinted. “Slow down… I’m not following.” Uh-oh... Sky screamed in her head while trying not to make the wrong facial expression.

  Jordy scooted closer, grabbing Sky by her shoulders. “This special glass counters the effects of the Essence Stones. Whoever was wearing this pendant knew our defense systems wouldn’t work. Somehow the Vix glass blocks our Essence Stones' ability to detect them. Meaning Star Children could be right under our noses and we wouldn’t even know about it.”

  Just before Sky could get a word out, the doorbell rang. “Room service, sir.” The young man said through the door.

  “Aww. Our outfits are here for the party tonight.” Jordy said while standing up to step out of the tub. “I’ll be right back.” He swung his robe over his shoulders then dashed towards the door. Sky could hear him mumbling something before shutting it. When Jordy returned, he untied his robe and let it drop to the floor.

  Watching Jordy walk back towards her put Sky under the ‘love spell’ again. The feelings hit her deep inside, overriding every safeguard in her mind. Jordy was a beautiful man, inside and out. His masculine features were truly something to admire. To Sky, he had a perfect physique… Perfect pec muscles, perfect biceps, and abs. Below his waist definitely was not bad either…His caramel complexion, piercing green eyes, and scars in random places; it was easy for Sky to get distracted. However, at that moment a distraction was what she needed. Their conversation was becoming dangerously close for comfort, and Sky gathered what she needed.

  Just as Jordy was near the tub, Sky quickly stood up. The water flowing down her naked body made him stop mid stride. Observing the water trickling down her made him go into a trance. Her sexy curves, small waist, light brown eyes, thick thighs made her all more desirable. Her locs were twisted into a bun and out of her face so he could see her full beauty. The water dripping from her breast and fingertips was the only sound they could hear until Sky asked, “How much time do we have?” She gave him that ‘look’ of wanting to go again. The deafening stare of desire that spoke volumes…

  Without looking at a clock, Jordy replied, “Enough…” He then lifted Sky out of the tub and carried her to the bedroom. Wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist, they plopped down on the bed together still embraced. She honestly enjoyed being with Jordy. Arkaminus’ words still rang strong in her mind. She chose to not hold back her feelings; however, he was a LaGon, a target, an enemy to her father. Sky knew she might have to make a difficult choice. Something decided to deal with when that time came. She also knew that Arkaminus wouldn’t have told her that for no reason.

  It wasn’t just about the amazing sex... For Sky, it was about the compassion, kindness and the love he showed her. It was genuine... He made her feel whole again. Something only one other man had achieved. Although there was technically a huge age difference, Sky’s longevity didn’t come from magic or experiments. It came from the energy that was flowing through her veins. An energy that would be put to the test later this evening…

  If you come across this story on Amazon, it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.

  *

  As the exclusive members' only annual Knights of Free Men party was under way, Luna and Yousif arrived in their elegant formal attire. It was a masquerade dress up requirement and this year it was being held at none other, Jose Fuego’s home. A beautiful wooden two-story mansion with at least an acre of wooded land. The house itself took up a quarter of the space. It was the mountains in the back that made that house a complete masterpiece.

  “So, this is it?” Luna asked as she adjusted her spaghetti strap over her shoulder. She wore an elegant black silk dress with a clear lace shawl draped over her.

  “Yea,” Replied Yousif as he tucked in his handkerchief into his black tuxedo. “I’ve only been here once and there were a lot of security guards then. Listen Luna,” He grabbed his date’s arm and turned her around to face him. “After we retrieve Arkaminus and return him to my mother, I want us to get far away from here. Luna, I’m sorry for how I’ve been acting lately. I do not want to lose you, and I want what you want, a family.”

  Luna’s eyes widened with surprise. “You really mean that?”

  “I do, my love. I should have listened to you on Takeaway. I thought I could fix this without working with these heathens. I want to be free, too.” Yousif said while stepping aside for a couple to walk by. The front lot was full of vehicles, flying and ground alike. All looked very expensive... He turned his attention to the front entrance where the butlers were checking guests in and handed them their masquerade masks. “They should be keeping Arkaminus underground somewhere in the basement. Once we get him, we’re out of here.”

  Luna also took the time to look around her surroundings. “How rich are these people? I’ve never heard of this Jose Fuego person. Honestly, Yousif I don’t get a good feeling about this.”

  Grabbing her hand, he kissed her hand then whispered, “In and out, I promise.”

  Together, the couple walked holding hands towards the greeting butler. Once they arrived, the short, slim gentleman bowed as he said hello. “Sir, madam. Can I have your names please?” Yousif stepped forward and answered his question. The butler’s eyes widened when he heard their names. “Oh, welcome you two! Here you put on these special masks.” He pulled out two gold elaborately decorated masks and slowly offered them. “Please allow me to escort you inside.”

  Luna and Yousif looked at one another then shrugged their shoulders. As they walked through the double doors, they were amazed by how many people were able to fit inside the dining room alone. There were at least a hundred people inside. All finely dressed; some chatted in groups while others surrounded the open bar. Maids and butlers walked around with crystal glasses filled with champagne. Laughter filled the air; acrobats performed flips above the guests while swinging on giant silver rings. Anyone attending could tell this party was very expensive.

  As Luna and Yousif made their way through the crowd of party guests, they tried to blend in by getting a plate to eat. There was an extra-large table filled with food from end to end. One observation that really stuck out to Luna was the men who were dressed in what resembled military formal attire. Their masks were similar and with the same turquoise color with navy blue feathers surrounding the eyes. Their formal military attire was navy blue with gold buttons going down the middle. Some men had gold epaulettes on their shoulders while others wore symbol pendants on their chest. Jordy only had one epaulette on his left shoulder.

  Cupping her arm around her date, Sky let Jordy give her the tour. He made a few pit stops to say hello to other KFM members. “Come this way, I want to introduce you to someone.” He slowly guided her through the crowd then stopped in front of a laughing mid-aged woman. She wore a dark red sleeveless evening dress with a gold belt around her waist. The V-neck dress exposed just enough cleavage to keep the dress looking elegant. When the woman turned and saw Jordy coming, she quickly turned and threw her hands in the air. Sky was impressed the lady recognized him even with the mask covering his face.

  “Jordius, my dear! How are you my gorgeous boy?” The woman reached out and grabbed Jordy by his cheeks. Her nail polish matched her dress and wore several rings on each finger.

  “Aunt Margarete, I would like you to meet Sky. She works with me at the tavern. I asked her to come along with me this year.” Jordy said while holding up Sky’s hand. She also wore an elegant turquoise spaghetti strapped dress. Her colors matched Jordy's mask.

  Margarete turned her arms towards Sky and gave her a big hug. Not sure what to do, Sky tapped the friendly woman on the back. “Oh hello. Nice to meet you.”

  Her soft hands grabbed Sky’s shoulders then slid down to her forearm. “Oh sweetheart. I can tell even with the mask on you’re a real beauty. Is Sky short for something?” Sky noticed his aunt Margarete was a much lighter complexion than Rogelio and Ishmael. Jordy was also a shade or two darker... If the LaGons were to be standing next to one another, Sky wouldn’t know they were related.

  Sky smirked and said, “No, ma’am. Just Sky...” She looked over to Jordy and noticed he was looking away. Many guests came and went until a man dressed in white formal military attire with same gold buttons appeared. His salt and peppered hair was combed back, exposing all of his facial features. His party mask was also elaborately decorated with gold and white trimmings. He stood out like royalty amongst the crowd that surrounded him. When Sky laid her eyes on the man dressed in white, she knew immediately who that was. Fuego...

  Fuego continued walking through the crowd then quickly grabbed Margarete by her waist. “There you are the love of my life. Have you seen our daughter?” Margarete cupped her hand around Fuego's face as he whispered in her ear.

  She leaned back into his shoulder and replied, “I’m not sure, dear. I’m sure she’s around here somewhere.”

  “I’m right here Papa...” A young lady also dressed in turquoise approached the small gathering. “Jordy, please introduce me and Papa to your date.” She slowly walked up to Sky with her hand extended. Looking Sky up and down from head to toe the young woman said, “We know nothing about her... I do hope that’s not Molly’s dress you’re wearing. That would be a bit tacky.”

  Jordy quickly stepped in between the young woman and Sky, intervening at the right moment. “No, it’s not Molly’s dress. I bought it myself so she could attend this party with me. Have some respect, why don’t you. I get you’re upset about your bestie but don’t take it out on my date.” He turned around, clearing his throat in the process. “Everyone, I want you all to meet Sky. She works with me at the tavern so I’m expecting you all to show her the same love you show me.”

  “Nice to meet you, Sky.” Fuego was the first approach. “My name is Jose Fuego, the man of this humble home.” He turned around then pointed to Margarete. “This is my wife, Margarete, and our daughter Penélope. Please make yourself at home.” Without a doubt, Fuego was charming and seemed easily likable. However, Sky could see right through his fake facade.

  After hugs were exchanged, a butler came up from behind and tapped Fuego on the shoulder. “Sir, the guests of honor have arrived.”

  Smiling from ear to ear, he replied. “Fabulous... Did you give them the special masks I requested?” The butler nodded his head, yes. “Good. I’ll be making my announcement is a few minutes.” Again, the butler nodded and then walked away. Fuego rubbed his hands together in excitement. “Showtime, ladies and gentlemen. It’s showtime.”

  Showtime? Thought Sky. What in the hell does that mean? She watched Fuego dash up to the small podium that was set up in the dining room. A maid handed him a fresh glass of champagne and a small microphone. He tapped it to make sure the microphone was full volume.

  The host of the annual KFM members' party began his speech. “Ladies and gentlemen, please gather closer, it’s that time of the night.” Guests from every corner began gathering around to listen to what Fuego had to say. “I am happy and pleased to announce, this chapter of KFM will be the biggest and baddest yet. We have worked tremendous hard to achieve our goals of finally becoming free men.” The crowd began to clap. “Tonight, we are taking the first steps to gain immortality. I can’t give you all the details right now but there is someone I would love to introduce to you all.” He quickly looked up then scanned the crowd. “Aw, there you two are. Ladies and gentlemen, I want you to meet the Child of Chaos and her partner Yousif, the son of Queen Nira. Come up here! Come!”

  Luna and Yousif understandably looked at one another, shocked. “Yousif, this was not a part of our plan. What did you do?”

  Every guest within eyesight, locked on Luna and Yousif. They slowly walked through the crowd trying not to bump into anyone on the way. Not one person made a sound until Fuego clapped his hands. He was the first to clap and the last to stop once they got in front and center. “What is this, Fuego?” Yousif leaned in and asked.

  The KFM leader placed his hand gently on Yousif’s shoulder and replied. “The beginning of the end...” He turned back to his audience, “You see ladies and gentlemen, this is the first phase of our glorious plan. These Star freaks thought they could become one of us!” The crowd laughed with their leader. Everyone laughed but one...

  Sky couldn’t believe her eyes... She stared straight at her sister without her knowing she was there. With her mouth wide open, she whispered, Luna under her breath. Everyone watched as Fuego’s guards slowly began surrounding the two on the podium. Yousif put his hands up confused about what was happening. “You invited us here, Fuego! What the fuck are you doing? Stay the fuck back or I’ll kill you all! You promised an allegiance... Wait till my mother finds out about this!”

  “What makes you think she doesn’t already know?” Fuego laughed as his guards pulled out the handmade guns then pointed at them. “Put the rag over their heads then take them downstairs.”

  Luna backed up then threw off her mask. Closing her eyes, she raised her hands and began to use her abilities on the guests. All the guests together began to hold their heads and started screaming in agony. Only those with the Essence Stone tattoos didn’t drop all the way to the ground. Even Sky had to hold her head... She fought hard to keep consciousness as Luna ramped up the chaos going through their minds. Some guests started going crazy as they grabbed the nearest object that could be turned into a weapon. Luna didn’t have enough time for it was all over within a few minutes. Trying to keep her eyes on her sister, Sky and the others heard a loud bang. When Sky looked up, Luna was lying on the floor bleeding from her shoulder.

  “Great job, nephew! Someone grab them and take them downstairs!” Fuego said as he pointed to his new captures. Sky looked around to see if Jordy was still close by. When she looked up, Jordy was the one holding a smoking gun. He was the one who shot Luna, putting her down and stopping her from escaping. Jordy the Weapons Specialist, the one who helped invent the very weapons that were created to end the Star Counsel.