Page 36 of The Aether

“True, but all’s well that ends well, right?”

He grinned and heard her suck in a breath.

“Put that thing away, Aether,” Baz growled. “I swear, you could seduce a snail from its shell.”

“He should definitely come with a warning label.” Mack’s bright blue eyes were twinkling as she handed off Delaney to Sebastian, giving him a kiss on the lips. “But I’m yours, now and forever, babe.”

Glancing down the aisleway to check Sabrina’s whereabouts, she lowered her voice and said, “Let’s get back to the business of this threat. What do you know?”

“There’s not much to tell,” Damian said. “Just this morning Sabrina told us we needed puppies to guard Nate and her from ‘the bad men.’ One of which has a scar from temple to jaw. Her description of the villain’s partners was vague. Other than to say one had scary yellow eyes, Beastie couldn’t reveal any distinguishing information.”

“But?” Mack asked, sensing correctly that he was holding back.

“But she said one of the men was Morgan Black. Also known as Morcant Thywyll. He’s an Arcane Devourer.”

“I don’t even know what that is. Do you, Baz?”

Sebastian nodded. “Vaguely. Legend states they are magical individuals who gain power from feeding off another’s energy.”

“Energy vampires? That’s a thing?”

Damian almost laughed. Probably would have if the situation wasn’t so serious. “I think that’s simplifying it, Mack, but yes. Morcant is the worst of his kind, but not the only one.”

“Do you have a timeline?” Baz asked, shooting a frown down the aisle.

“No. I believe it’s safe to assume the attack will be when the pups are big enough to defend my children.” With a heavy sigh, Damian shook his head. “It never stops. However, I’ve been offered a position with the Authority, and I’m going to accept their deal.”

“Damian, no!” Shaking her head vigorously, Mack said, “From what I understand, they require a lifetime commitment. Their contracts are written in blood, for fuck’s sake!”

“What choice do I have? The Fates drive the Authority, and neither will relent. They’ve stolen my ability to predict the future, Mack. I need it to see the threat.”

“You have Sabrina and me for that,” she argued.

“And if I’m in a situation without either of you? It might mean my death.”

She exchanged a worried look with her husband. “Baz? Want to weigh in here?”

“You’ve stated everything I would’ve, love. But Damian’s a grown man, with centuries under his belt. It’s doubtful he can be swayed by us.”

Damian lifted his brows, and a wry smile curled his lips. “Way to make me sound like an old, stubborn fool.”

“Well, if the shoe fits…”

“On that note, I’ll collect my daughter and her hounds.” He paused on his way to the back of the barn. “How long will you be gone? Do we need to care for your animals, or will Arabella and Gwennie be here?”

“My sister will be joining us, but Aunt Gwennie will stay behind. It’s just for today, but if you could keep an eye out for her, I’d be grateful,” Sebastian replied.

“Consider it done.”

“Damian”—Mack placed a hand on his forearm—“please reconsider joining the Authority.”

“Have you received a vision that would make it ill-advised?”

“No.”

“Then I’ll move forward until you do.” He patted her hand like a kindly uncle. “I’ll be in charge of a band of Sentinels, Mack. Hopefully, I’ll inspire loyalty, and by extension, so will my children.”

Damian left them to find Sabrina.

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