Read Online Witches Be Burned: A Magic & Mayhem Novel by Stacey Kennedy - Free Book Online Page A

headquarters of all things Otherworldly resembled a medieval church similar to those he’d seen in Scotland. From stained-glass windows and pointed stone arches, it was impressive. This, and the foyer outside the main doors, was the center of the Otherworld’s castle. The surrounding four towers making up the structure of the castle were the housing for the Council’s Guard.
    On his way through the cathedral his mind drifted to thoughts of Astoria. The design of the castle proved enough that supernaturals preferred to stay among their races. Kyden believed the reasons Astoria joined the vampires was to lead them down a path of dark magic, bringing forth mayhem. With his every thought Kyden was becoming anxious to rid the world of her.
    The witch concerned him.
    While his mind stayed centered on the loss of Trefan, he also did not want Nexi anywhere near that witch. Knowing his Nexi, with thoughts of avenging Trefan on her mind, she wouldn’t run from that danger, she’d run straight for it.
    Kyden clenched his jaw and was an inch away from demanding Nexi be taken off this case. Yet that control belonged to the Council, and he knew they’d never suggest it—Nexi had proven to be one of their strongest fighters, as well as being a powerful witch in her own right.
    Feeling utterly helpless, Kyden reached back, taking her hand in his, keeping her safe, even if for only this moment. He’d never loved a woman so deeply, not like he loved Nexi. Nor had he
needed
anyone before her. His life amounted to nothing much before her and he had enjoyed a bachelor’s life. Now that he’d tasted happiness and a life with Nexi, she had become his drug of choice.
    An addiction he never wanted to give up.
    Torn between his duty and his heart, he regarded her desolate eyes, and the pain there wrenched his gut. Trefan’s death was a clear reminder of all she’d lost. He assumed that Nexi believed he simply beat his chest because he wanted her safe, but there was more to it. He wanted to keep Nexi out of danger, not only for her protection but also because of the sadness she had endured from her past.
    He didn’t want her to relive all she’d mourned because of Lazarus.
    On the other hand, death had unfolded on their home and blood would be shed in retribution. His hope: Nexi would stay close in the process. He didn’t beat his chest because he didn’t trust her in her abilities—she was strong and he’d given her the combat training to become a fine guardian. He protected her because he couldn’t lose her.
    His heart clenched as he turned away, focusing on the four throne chairs resting in the center of the room. Before him sat the impressive Masters of the Otherworld: Zade, Master of Vampires, the tall, pale vampire that most Earthborn folklore was based on; Holtin, Master of Werewolves, a big and burly werewolf that had a mean bite; and Kyden’s father, Talon, Master of Guardians.
    Though Kyden shared his father’s green eyes, he always thought his father’s eyes had a harder edge, due to the three centuries of wisdom held in their depths. While Kyden preferred his hair long and shaggy, Talon’s brown hair was gelled back and tidy. He wore the same guardian gear as all male guardians, though Talon’s kilt had intricate designs along the sides, marking him a Master of the Otherworld.
    These three supernatural males, along with Zia, had led the Otherworld for the last two centuries.
    Once Finn, with Haven wrapped in his arms, settled in next to Kyden there was deadly silence among them. Talon slowly stood from his chair; his muscles were strained and veins protruded in his forearms. “Who’s responsible for Trefan’s death?”
    “Vampires,” Zia responded, hurrying to his side. “Astoria was there, too.”
    “The black witch?” At Zia’s nod, Talon frowned. “Did you discover the reason behind the murder?”
    Zia paced in front of the chairs, her long black skirt waving behind her. “The vampires spoke of wanting