Read Online Curse of Shadows and Light by Penelope King - Free Book Online

other things to take care of first.
    “ I’m okay,” I murmur. “Not exactly loving this jacked-up curse the witch put everywhere. I can’t stand feeling this weak and tired. I gotta get out of here.”
    He nods. “Yeah, I wouldn’t mind if she toned it down too. We’re no stronger than an average human right now. But I suppose it’s for the best. If it affects us this badly, you know others are weakened too. Others who could hurt Liora if they wanted to.”
    I roll my eyes. “Yes, the perpetual thorn in my side. Maybe if the witch puts us back together I won’t have to worry about that anymore.” I raise my hands over my head and give a good, long stretch. “Do you really think the Light-angels will come after us here? Maybe they’ll just find another way to get into Thiberoux.”
    Kieron shrugs. “Dunno. Sure didn’t seem like it was just a casual whim before. They meant business, and I don’t think they’re the type to just give up if they don’t get what they want the first time. They’ll probably regroup and double-down on their efforts. But until we know for sure, better to be safe than sorry.”
    I let his words sink in. I’ve often thought about the two Light-angels who’d escaped into the woods that night at the cabin. Tattie warned me they’d be back, and that’s why we had to leave. While she could protect herself, Liora would be a virtual prisoner in the little cabin, and I’d be a target as well. They knew my weakness—that I was human during the day. With my demonic allies behind me I had a chance. Alone, without the support and sanctuary of my family in Dryndara, I was good as dead.
    “ We need to find a Demon Bar… a portal… a haven where we can—”
    Kieron grins and holds up a piece of yellow paper. “Our kind and gracious hostess gave this to Liora earlier. It’s our best bet.”
    My eyes narrow suspiciously. “Are you sure it’s not some sort of death trap?”
    He chuckles and shakes his head. “Nah. I spoke to her a bit earlier, and while she’s clearly not too fond of us demions, she has a soft spot for Liora and seems to want to help. She just has a funny way of showing it.”
    I snatch the paper from his hand and study it. “How are we supposed to get there? I’m too tired to run that far, and I’m not getting back in that horrific automobile for another second. That was the worst, most unpleasant –”
    “ Don’t worry, don’t worry,” he laughs. “I got us another form of transport. I know it’s not your favorite, but it’ll have to do for now.”
    “ Wait, not another motorcycle.”
    He nods. “But don’t worry; this one fits two perfectly. You can sit behind me on an actual seat and hold on to my waist. It’ll be very comfortable, I assure you. Nothing like last time.”
    I cringe remembering the time I rode with him on his bike after he helped rescue me from the Altrumina Demons. It was a horrible experience all around.
    I miss my Diablo.
     
    ********
     
    Close to thirty minutes later I’m feeling halfway decent for the first time in days. Apparently Liora went shopping and had totally stocked our bathroom, so I was able to take a shower, wash my hair, and put on some makeup. I was impressed that she’d actually hung up all my dresses and outfits neatly on one side of the massive walk-in closet. It was funny, though, how she’d put her own things on the far side, as if she was afraid her clothes would get cooties or something.
    I slide on my black leather pants and matching boots, and for the first time in a long while I’m starting to feel normal again. Like me . Tatiana’s face flashes in my mind, and I give a bittersweet smile. I miss seeing her first thing when I wake up, and I miss our nightly ritual of planning my evening. It feels so odd to be entirely on my own, with no one to guide me or help me. Not that I need help… but I didn’t always hate it.
    I open the door and step out into the living room area. Suddenly I hear a gasp,