FOREVER KNIGHTS: #15 Insatiable Beasts

Nora entered the parlor with every intention of telling Nick everything. But entering the room she froze.

To her left Marcus sat in a chair stroking a giant serpent. Long twining body drooping lazily down both sides of the chair. Despite the writhing of its multi-colored body, its head rested calmly on his shoulder. Dark little eyes staring lovingly at him.

“What is that?”

Marcus seemed oblivious as he laughed merrily at Nick and Goliath’s antics. On the dusty floor, Nick batted at the huge dog. Kneeling to push against its shoulders. Growling playfully as the dog loped side to side.

Beyond them, William sat sullenly with arms crossed.

Nora’s expression turned dumbfounded just as Marcus’ gaze landed on her.

“Have you ever seen so many cats?”

“No.”

One pawed playfully at William’s ear. One on each side of him leaned against him contentedly rubbing their heads against his elbows and thighs. The familiar cream-colored cat sat at his feet, tail tossing as it stared intently at William. They strolled all over his abdomen and chest as though he were an ideal perch.

William reluctantly sat there to avoid disrupting them and eliciting their wails and scratching claws. His face was a thundercloud staring at his twin.

“He blames me for them being here.” Marcus leaned to look at the serpent’s head as he lightly stroked between its’ eyes.

“When did our home become an animal sanctuary?” She deflated. Arms outstretched helplessly.

“No idea.” Nick said seriously. Sitting on his heels to give her his attention.

She retreated from the room swarming with creatures, until bumping into something solid at her back.

Turning hesitantly, she met Deragan’s bold perusal. Sapphire eyes roving her face intensely. “What’s wrong?”

She gestured in the room. “Wh-what?”

Animals. Everywhere.

Where did they all come from. Deragan shared her confusion.

“I was wondering what the odd smells filling the house were.” He frowned. “Ah. I see now.”

“Ah?” She was incredulous.

“They’re your Bringers.”

She gave him a dumb look.

“It explains their protectiveness.”

Making a disgruntled noise she threw her arms as she stalked past him. “I’ve no idea what you’re saying!”

“The Bringers of Dawn.” He called after her. Leaning on the door jam. “It’s in the book.”