Page 14 of Saving Dakota

"The witch has gained these abilities by draining the rogue. That was the purpose of unleashing the infection, and I believe it has returned in the hopes of doing the same to Eric. It knows the rogue infected him and is looking to take advantage of the outcome. Alert those in town to watch for more of the infected, that rogue could have cursed more than just Eric."

“I’ll take care of it.” Ismael responded and then asked. “How’s he doing?”

"He's being watched, but there is nothing the doctors can do until the witch is found."

"From what I hear, the tribal cop was pretty dogged in his pursuit. He upset several at the Sheriff's office." Ismael smirked. "They need to be taken to task every now and then it keeps them on their toes."

"Detective Lieutenant Winters was a force for sure. He and his shaman, a man by the name of Able, according to Ethan's information, are formidable mystics. Winters is a dedicated warrior, and I look forward to welcoming him into Coven DuCane." Ismael looked at him surprised and then smiled.

“He’s a beloved?”

"Terrance claimed him last night. I felt it in the air."

"That's wonderful. We need more mystics in our ranks. Unlike the Hadden Coven, who have cornered the market on mystics and sorcerers, we have very few."

“Native magic is pure and powerful and not even Nik Hadden possesses Native magic in his ranks.” Just then there came a knock to Louis’ door and Ira his guard announced that Terrance was there to see him. “Show him in.”

Terrance had contacted the medical wing where Eric was being treated and let them know that Dakota was coming to sit with him for a while. Dakota had called Able and explained where things stood with Eric and the danger that he was in. Able immediately began to pull together the things he needed for the protection ritual and healing prayers. Dakota could sense that the day was going to be filled with dangers, and he wanted all his defenses in place.

Breakfast had been just coffee and juice since neither he nor Terrance had much of an appetite after having a late dinner. “Able and Eric’s friends and family are gathering for a prayer it will aid to shield him against any further interference of the witch.” He explained to Terrance who sat next to him on the sofa as they finished their coffee.

"Your energy and that of your people will be a great help to him," Terrance responded. "He won't wake up, but he will know that you are there with him. The doctors are keeping him in a catatonic state in order to stave off the mindless rage and the insidious progression of the infection.”

They stood, and Terrance pulled him in for a full-body embrace, holding him wrapped tightly in his arms. It was a wonderful feeling to have someone of his own. His only family had been his grandmother, who raised him, and she'd died just over three years ago.

He had many friends and associates, but nothing felt as good as being in the arms of your lover and knowing their devotion was true. He knew very little about Terrance since they hadn’t had those talks yet, but still he trusted him above all others. It was absurd and ridiculous considering everything but all he felt was blessed and he knew he was exactly where he needed to be and where he should be. He did not question Fate, and he did not challenge the universe.

"I'll meet you as soon as I finish with the Master," Terrance repeated and then pulled him in for a heartfelt kiss, which Dakota reciprocated eagerly. They'd made out a bit while getting dressed that morning, and while Dakota had his mind on Eric and his recovery, his thoughts always seemed to stray back to the gorgeous man in his arms. He looked forward to more of what they had last night. He would never get enough of this nightwalker, Terrance Collins.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Terrance knocked on the Master's door and waited for permission to enter. He was met by Ira, the Master's personal guard, and escorted to his office. Master DuCane was there, as well as the second in command, Ismael Patronne. They dispensed with the pleasantries and quickly got down to business.

Master DuCane explained the status of the search, and Terrance informed him of Dakota's call back home. Master DuCane nodded and looked pleased. "Their works will help build his strength and fortify him against what the witch has planted. He will be in a good state when the doctors administer the cure."

"I know that we are dealing with a lot right now, but I wanted to make you both aware that Dakota is my beloved, and I have claimed him. He is not unaware of our world, although he admits there were some serious surprises."

“Not the least of which was you, I'm sure." Ismael laughed and congratulated him, as did Master DuCane.

Dakota made his way to the medical wing and entered the outer room he walked to the observation window and peeredin at the still and silent body of Eric Blackbird. There was a technician with him but otherwise he was alone. Dakota stood there for several minutes taking it all in before entering and introducing himself to the tech.

“He’s been quiet as you see the entire night.” He told him and offered him a chair so he could sit by Eric’s bedside. He then stepped out and positioned himself in the outer room to give Eric time alone with Eric but also allowed him to maintain his observation of the patient.

Everyone apart from Deputy Lawson had been pleasant and helpful recognizing that they were both seeking the same end which was saving an innocent young man. He took Eric’s hand and held it in his feeling the essence of his spirit in that touch. Eric was strong and he was a fighter. Dakota talked to him telling him about his sister’s concern for his safety and the tribes support for his recovery.

"You're not alone, Eric. You will never be alone." He assured him, and he felt the gentle stirring of his presence. Eric was pushing to return. He sat there and continued to talk to him, explaining to him what had happened and where he was. "The Coven is not like those back home, Eric. These people care about more than just themselves."

He heard a commotion from the outer room, he stood and looked out the observation window. He saw the technician on the floor and a tall man dressed in all black with flowing white hair standing over him. Dakota rushed for the door, intent on keeping the thing out of the room and away from Eric. He sensed the power and depravity of the witch and Eric's vulnerability.

The witch blew past the door like it wasn't even there, knocking Dakota backward onto the hard floor. He was back onhis feet in an instant, using himself as a shield and standing between the witch and Eric.

"Move aside your power is no match for me." The voice crackled, and the eyes the color of dried blood tracked Dakota's every move. Dakota remained rooted to the spot and held the monster's gaze. "I will drain the young one, and then I will drain you." It laughed with a sour tone of anger and hatred.

“The boy is weak not worth your time take me I will not resist if you promise to spare the boy.” Dakota made the proposition.

“I don’t care if you resist me the fight makes the blood and the energy that much more delicious.” He said and began advancing on Dakota.

Terrance was just leaving the Master’s office when a sense of distress washed over him. It took him a moment to recognize the source and then it hit him, and panic exploded in his mind. “Dakota’s in danger.” He shouted and took off racing to the staircase with Master DuCane on his heels. His mind was reeling with the possibilities Dakota was not a man to fluster easily.

---