Chapter One

Night Mistress stood gazing out the window, head resting on the sill, deep in thought of Taker. She let out a sigh, as she looked over into the garden. Her place of choice for solitude. She noticed Dark Lady walking through the garden. And from the looks of it, she was also deep in thought.

Dark Lady sat on the bench in front of the large pond in the midst of the garden. In the middle of the pond was a fountain, comprise of two Unicorns. She watched as the waters spurted upwards from the top of the two Unicorn’s heads and flowed down their sides into the waiting pond.

She was so deep in thought, contemplating, whether to betray a friendship or be disloyal to the man who held her heart in the very palms of his hand. She was a kind soul! But one day she caught the eyes of the Lord of Darkness!

She was one of the ladies of the castle! He wanted to know who was the beautiful petite blonde! Soon she found herself being asked to his chambers! The rest was history! He captured her heat from that day!

But there was a problem! Night Mistress! She had held first place in his heart for so long! Could she ever establish her on place higher than hers! That would remain to be seen! If she could get Night Mistress out the way! Then she would be alone with him! She found herself jumping, as she felt a hand gently touch her shoulder.

“Dark Lady!! What has you so deep in thought?” She asked as she took a seat next to her on the bench!

Umm--nothing! I was just appreciating the beauty in this part of the garden! It is so serene! I was so into it you startle me!” She was trying to cover up her true thoughts.

“Oh yes! It is lovely here isn’t it! I love sitting here and thinking about things that are troubling me! She sort of drifted off into Take thoughts! Dark Lady raised an eyebrow as she could see there was something on her mind!!

“Penny for your thoughts!” Dark Lady said.

She could see Night Mistress had something on her mind! Well if what Markus was saying was true! Then it was her loyal duty to see if she was up to something that might cause something to happen to all of this dimension!

“Night Mistress! Hello! Are you still there?” Dark Lady made another attempt!

“Oh yes! He he he he!! I’m okay! I was just thinking about someone...I mean something!!” She corrected herself hoping Dark Lady didn’t catch on to the slip of the tongue.

“You know! I’m exhausted! I think I’m going to take a nap before dinner! See you there?” She asked giving her a quick hug and going back towards the castle!!

Dark Lady eyes narrowed! She looked over her shoulders as she watched Night Mistress sauntered down the walkway and turned the hedges! She slowly eased up from the bench, walking over to the pond and staring down in it at her reflection! She smiled at the beauty staring back at her!

“You heard what she said, didn’t you?” He reflection asked!

“Yes! I heard! She has someone on her mind! And I think whoever it is, would make a good bargaining piece! She will not want Our Lord to know about this! She would do anything to spare his life!” She smiled deviously! She began to devise a plan! Soon The Lord of Darkness will solely be hers! She turned and walked towards the castle as her small hips swayed from side to side!

The Dark Lord watched from his chamber room, at the encounter of the two women who reigned supreme in his life! He watched as Night Mistress saunter out of the garden, with such grace as an swan gliding through the water! He began to remember more fonder days, when she was his Mistress! Now there was someone else! He intend on discovering who was this person!

Then his heart skipped slightly as he gazed at Dark Lady leaving the garden, her small hips moved from side to side, like an pendulum! She had caught his fancy one day as he watched he frolicking in the garden with some of the other Ladies! Her beautiful eyes were captivating! He had to have her!

After some time of watching her around the castle, he couldn’t deny himself any longer. He had to have her! He had her sent to his chambers! She has been his every since! Though they have been discreet! He knew Night Mistress had gotten wind of him being with someone, but she never knew who was the person! She left his bed! She has sought out another! He will discover this person, with the help of Dark Lady!

Chapter Two

As Taker began to stir from a long night sleep! He seemed to be confused at his whereabouts. Everything seemed to be a little foggy at the time. His head rested on the pillow with his arm covering his eye. He tried to focus his mind.

He was trying to adjust to the throbbing in his head. Soon his mind began to regain its memories. Yes! Night Mistress! Everything was becoming more clearer! He had followed her through the woods to a clearing. He saw this ball of ring form and she went through it! He decided he didn’t want to wait for her so he jumped through before it could close. And that’s all he remembered until he woke up in the forest, seeing as if nothing had changed.

Taker swung the covers of him and braced himself on the side of the bed as his head continued to throb and he felt very dizzy! He eased himself up off the bed and slowly walked over to the bathroom! Looking in the cabinets, took out something for his head.

“Feels like I tied one on last night!” He whispered to himself. He went back to the bed, turned to the clock sitting on the nightstand next to his bed.

“Hmmm!” He said as he picked up the clock! It stopped at about the time he went through the ring. He sat it back down, decided he would laid down and give the pills a chance to work on his throbbing headache. He slowly drifted back to sleep.

Sometime later, Taker woke! He laid momentarily. He realized he hadn’t ate anything all day. Left the bed going into the kitchen to find what he could eat. He pulled out some bread and meat making him a sandwich!

He walked to the bar, grabbed a cool beer and went to the door, opening it stared out at the scenery before him! He looked around study everything, as he took bites out of his sandwich washing down with a swigs of his beer.

His eyes slit as he seemed to catch something different! He couldn’t quite put his hand on it, but there definitely was something different! As he went to turn to go into his cabin something caught his eye! He dropped the beer as he stared over at the spot!!

Chapter Three

Dark Lord stood in the doorway of the dining area, gazing on the two most important women in his life. They were to deep in conversation to notice his present. He decided to remain on noticed as he listen to the two women’s exchange.

“So, Night Mistress! Where is it you go when no one is able to find you?” Dark Lady asked as she took a sip of wine.

“Why, Dark Lady! I had no idea you were curious about my whereabouts!! I can understand the other women about the castle, but you are above them!” She finished, leaning back in her seat eyes fixed on Dark Lady.

Dark Lord stiffened! He could see Night Mistress was on alarm! Now how was Dark Lady going to get her to reveal anything to her!! He went to come in the room to divert Night Mistress attention. But paused as he listen to Dark Lady troubleshoot!

“I’m sorry Night Mistress! I’m just making small talk> Yes you are right! I’m not concern with your whereabouts unless you want to confide in me!” She said nonchalant, as she rubbed the back of her neck and taking another sip of wine!

Woo! She thought! That was a little to close for comfort! She would have to be a little more discreet next time! Night Mistress stared at Dark Lady and saw she had turned her attention elsewhere.

She had made a mistake to think Dark Lady was anything like some of the other women around who have nothing better to do then pry in other’s affair!

Night Mistress was aright about one thing! Dark Lady wasn’t ever interested in gossip! But would listen to any knowledge they may have to help lift her in the ranks! Whether the Dark Lord knew it are not! She had staged there union.

She had gotten word he had noticed her in the garden. She was told where he would be and when! She just always happened to be there at the time! She played on his emotions, until she made him hers!

Only one thing stood in her way! Night Mistress! She had to get to the man she has been seeing and maybe convince him to take her away from here. Only if she knew where he was! Her thoughts were interrupted.

“Well! How are my two lovely ladies!” He bellowed as he entered the room going to one and then the, other as he took their hand in his own and lifted them to his lips, planting a kiss on them.

“Dark Lord! So good to have you join us!” Dark Lady said beaming at his show of affection.

Chapter Four

Dark Lady watched every movement the Dark Lord made, as he went to take his seat at the head of the table! The two most important ladies in his life, at either side of him!

Night Mistress’ eyes narrowed, as she took in the way the Dark Lord lingered with the kiss to the hand of Dark Lady. And the shared glance each gave the other.

She knew for sometime now there may be a possibility he had someone else in his life now. But now, seeing the exchange between these two, the person who had come into his life, was a great possibility Dark Lady!

She had a wonder why in such a short time Dark lady had gain the right to dine in the great hall with The Dark Lord! That had been a privilege she alone had owned. Suddenly jealousy reared its ugly head. And before she had realized what she had done! Night Mistress struck out in a very catty way! Not at all her style. But what is there to expect! One man and two women!

“So My Dark Lord! It’s been a long time since you have asked me to share your bed! Why is that my Lord?” She asked running her tongue over a grape very seductively before sucking it in to in mouth! Then she looked from him to Dark Lady, studying her response.

“Well My Night Mistress! This is a surprise! I thought you found me very repulsive since you haven’t been around much to invite to my bed chambers!” The Dark Lord responded, as he sat back into his seat comfortably, hands clasped together, just resting under his chin.

“NO! Not at all My Lord! I figured you had found someone else to warm your bed! And had preferred them more than I!” She leaned in to the table in his direction as she gave him an even more seductive look! Then quickly turning her gaze to a very disturbed Dark Lady!

“My dear Night Mistress! Remember! I never uninvited you to my room! It has been your choice not to make your way to my bed! You always did! So! If anyone had taking your spot, it’s because you had allowed it to be so!” The Dark Lord responded with an raised eyebrow! He stared at Night Mistress, oblivious to how this conversation between the two of them were effecting Dark Lady!!

“So tell me My Lover! Are you telling me if I had never stop coming to your room!! No one else but me would be there?” Night Mistress put emphasis on ‘No one else but me’, as she turned to give Dark Lady an wicked evil grinned! Dark Lady was very distraught by now!

“You know this is true! Why even ask?” He said as he leaned in to face her, their heads inches from each other. The Dark Lord never realized until too late, what he had been baited into saying. Suddenly Dark Lady jumped to her feet! Stood at the table, as she glared first at Night Mistress and then to the Dark Lord! Then with one swift movement she had left the dining area .

“Why you Witch!“ Was all he could scowl at Night Mistress as he ran after Dark Lady, who had made it to the door and was putting on her cloak. Night Mistress sat back in her chair, laughing as she popped a grape in her mouth! Very pleased with her results.

“Dark Lady! Please my Love!! She tricked me into saying those things! I didn’t mean them! It wasn’t the way it should have come out! Let me explain to you, exactly what I was trying to say!” Dark Lord had caught up with Dark Lady! He had blocked her way to the door and was now holding her by both shoulders.

“Tricked! There were no trickery done in there! You don’t even realized it, do you? She was right! If she had still been in your bed! I wouldn’t! I would have done anything for you! That’s how much I loved you!! Can you say the same? You’re so determined to find who she’s bedding! You would even use me! You know what? I’m out of here! Have a good life!” Dark Lady through her cloak around her shoulder and dashed around the Dark Lord, out the door! He made an attempted to stop her, but was detained by his advisor, Mideon!

He yelled after her to stop! She wouldn’t listen! He watched as she made her way over the bridge into the forest! He beckon for two of his guards to pursue her! He half heard what Mideon had to say! Suddenly frustrated, he turned to Mideon, yelling at him!

“What? What the hell are you talking about?” He turned to Mideon after he watched his guards disappear into the forest after Dark Lady! He was hoping he could get her back into his life! But also feeling his anger kindle against Night Mistress for being so treacherous!

“My Lord! We have a situation brewing! It happened when Night Mistress use the portal to go into the other dimension!” Mideon informed him!

“She has use the portal many of times to travel in and out of dimensions! What makes this time so different?” Dark Lord asked as he slowly closed the great door!

“Yes but......She didn’t bring anyone back with her before!” Mideon announced, watching a very angry Dark Lord get even angrier, if that was possible, as what he just heard, penetrated his ears!

“She did what?” He screamed at Mideon.

“Someone came through the portal! Either with or after her! It’s not known yet! But in any case! We must find them and send them back to their dimension are our worlds will collide! His dimension will try to him, to correct the imbalance, from pure instincts! Things have already begun to happen Sir!” Mideon cowered after the last remark, as the Dark Lord snapped his head in his direction, green eyes turned into dark green slits!

Suddenly unable to hold in the days events, Dark Lord let out a roar that sounded through out the castle, sending everything scurrying for cover! Night Mistress sat straighten up in her seat, hearing the Dark Lord’s voice as it boomed! She knew there had to be something awfully bad for him to outburst in such a manner! She thought it best if she retired to her chambers!

Chapter Five

Dark Lady made her way through the forest with great pace! Fueled by her anger and frustration! She was very capable of taking care of herself! She had made it her business to know everything there was to know about survival techniques! She was halfway in the forest, when she heard the men coming up behind her. She made a hasty retreat into the tress!

She watched as they pass by her and she ran into a different direction of them! She had first decided to take a quick walk and cool herself off before going back to the castle! But after she kept thinking about why she was out here in the first place, her anger just grew worst! And now seeing the guards pursuing her, she decided enough was enough!

“To hell with you Dark Lord....and you too Night Mistress!” She screamed as she flipped the bird towards the castle! She was making her way through the forest, before she was overcome by the guards!

Taker looked in the spot his bike once sat! He could hardly believe his eyes! How could anyone steal it way out here? Then reality hit! He wasn’t in Kansas anymore! Somehow his cabin, if it was his, made it through! But his bike remained where he came from, he guessed! He decided he would go and investigate what else had changed in this new world, where ever he was now!

He looked around at the trees in the forest, all appeared to be the same as where he came from! He continued his exploration! It was getting close to dark, he decided this little nature trip could wait until morning, when he heard footsteps! He hurriedly, jumped behind a tree, not knowing what to expect in this new place!

He was surprised to see a beautiful petite blonde stomping through the forest, so late in the evening! And from the way she was mouthing her words, and such words to come from a pretty little mouth! She wasn’t very happy!

He was about to come from behind the tree to introduce himself, when he heard more footsteps coming towards them! He watched as the two Medieval times looking soldiers, caught up with her and tried to restrain her!

She began kicking scratching and biting them for her freedom! She was giving them an handful, when one soldier, laid one right across her jaw, sending her into the arms of the other soldier, unconsciousness!

Now Taker was piss! How could two big men, not be able to take a little thing like that without resorting to violence? He moved from behind the trees, towards the men! They men took one look at him and immediately fell to the ground pleading their case!

Taker’s anger subsided as he heard himself being referred to as the Dark Lord! He knew about the Dark Lord! Hell he had created him for his wrestling gimmick!! But never in his dreams, could he ever believe he existed!

Then he thought about the first night he met the Night Mistress! She referred her self to the Dark Lord’s faithful servant! Okay! Now he knew he was in the right place! So Night Mistress shouldn’t be too far away! He decided to have some fun!

“Dark Lord! We thought you wanted us to bring her back to you at the castle! And My Lord! I didn‘t mean to hit her at all, let alone hard enough to knock her out! But you saw how hard it was to contain her!” One of the guards began pleading his case as Taker approached!

“Yeah! I saw how difficult she was being! You have done well! I will take care of her now! You may return to the castle! NOW!!” He said in his best Lord of Darkness voice! Taker moved towards her very slowly as he watched the two men, scramble to their feet, hurrying and thinking everything they would not have to face the wrath of the Dark Lord!

Taker came near to Dark Lady, as she laid totally out of it! He gather the small figure in his arms and carried her back to his cabin! He watched as her jaw began to bruise and swell! He needed to attend to it before it got any worst!

Chapter Six

I will have your heads!” The Dark Lord roared at his incompetent guards! TAKE THEM AWAY! NOW!!

“What kind of fool do they take me for! Seeing me in the forest indeed! How could I be in the forest if I sent them to go after her! Know this the two of you! If I don’t get her back here safe and alive! You will both regret the breath of air that enter your bodies the day you crawled from your mothers’ womb!” He was up in their faces as he spurted out these words, afterwards he motioned for them to be removed!

“Ahem! Dark Lord! May I inject something in here?” Mideon said as he watched the men being carried away.

“What is it, Mideon? Do not try my patience!” He snapped, as his mind went to what had happened to his Dark Lady!

“Maybe it isn’t a mistake they saw someone that looked like you!” He said slowly, taking a few steps backwards, when he saw the head of the Dark Lord snap in his direction, with fire in his eyes!

“What the hell are you talking about?” The Dark Lord asked, his voice calmed but angry!

“What I’m saying My Lord! And please Sir, stay calm on this one! It’s just a thought! What if the person they saw, was the same person who came through the portal? He could be your double in the other dimension! And the reason everything is going haywire! The one Night Mistress took up with!” Mideon injected.

“Someone who looks like me?“ The Dark Lord said very quietly, rubbing his goatee.

“Yes My Lord! She found your double in the other dimension!“ Mideon was very pleased with himself for coming to this conclusion. And the fact the Dark Lord was thinking about its possibilities.

The Dark Lord waved for Mideon to leave. This was something he would have to give great thought. If this was true, what had just been told to him. The Night Mistress still has some feeling s for him! Why else would she seek out an imitation of him? But the worst of this little situation is, he has Dark Lady!

Taker brought the unconscious Dark Lady into his cabin and laid her on his bed! He wrapped some ice in a towel and gently pressed it to her now swollen jaw. It was going to leave a very ugly bruise, but at least he could get the swelling down some.

Dark Lady began to stir! Taker waited in anticipation! He wanted to see the lil’ lady up close and woke. He didn’t have to wait long. She slowly opened her eyes, as the light began penetrate them. She let out a groan as the dull pain became sharper. Her had quickly shot up to her jaw as she became very alert and aware of her surroundings! Her eyes sprung wide opened as she looked into the face of the Dark Lord!

She quickly scooted backwards onto the bed. As she looked around for a way of escape. The pain from her jaw was throbbing now! Suddenly, she realized something. She wasn’t in her room or the room of the Dark Lord! But she noticed something else! The green eyes she stared into, were soft and caring! And they seemed genuinely concerned for her!

The face she gazed upon, was softer and gentler! Then it dawned on her! This was not her Dark Lord! She held her hand to the pain emanating from her jaw! She watched him as he left her side going into the bathroom and reappearing with a glass of water and sitting on the bed stretched his opened hand to her, offering her some pills. She slowly reached over and took the water from his hand and plucked the pills out of the other! As she remained backed up in the corner of the bed. He then handed her the cold compress!

“Those pills should work in several minutes! But this will help ta keep the swelling down! Its going ta leave a small bruise fer a few days! But soon will go away! He gave ya a good lick across the jaw! I guess ya were just ta much fer two striking men! HAHAHA!!” Taker aided in trying to lighten the atmosphere!

“Where am I? And who are you?” Dark Lady asked, as she took the compress from him and pressed it to her aching jaw, giving a small squeal!

“Everyone calls me Taker! But my real name is Mark! You can call me whichever makes you comfortable!” He said smiling at the bond beauty staring at him!

“Taker or Mark, huh? I think you will be Mark to me!! I’m tired of these strange names people are using lately! You’re a stranger here, aren’t you? I can sense that! Where are you from?” Dark Lady began throwing one question after another his way!

“Whoa lil’ lady! So many questions! Right now, you need to get some rest! I’m going to throw something together for us to eat! I’m pretty sure you’re hungry right now!” He said as he left the bed looking at her. Dark Lady realized she was hungry and nodded her head in agreement! She watched as he smiled and left to go into the other room!

Her thoughts went back to the disastrous dinner she was about to enjoy, before the Dark Lord and Night Mistress started to play their little games! Then her anger began to swell up as the tears began to form in her eyes! She sunk down in the bed as her mind replayed the event over and over! She began to let the tears fall from her eyes! Just to think! She would have done anything for him! He had used her! If she never see either one of them, would be alright with her!

And the dark witch, Night Mistress! If she could just discover the one she holds so secretively in her heart! Then she could repay her kindness two folds! And that would take care of them both!

“Why lil’ darlin! What is making you so upset?” Was all she heard as she laid with her face buried in the pillow! She felt his gentle strong hand touch her shoulder! She looked up at him with tear filled reddened eyes! Al the pain seemed to dwindle as she looked into the beautiful green caring eyes, as they searched hers for a response!

Everything about him was so powerful and yet subdued! He was everything the Dark Lord wasn’t! He had an heart! Taker looked into the saddened blue pools, background by the bloodshot redness, from crying!

He couldn’t help himself! He moved onto the bed, gathering her into his arms, holding her close to him! Lightly stroking her hair! His voices was so quiet as he spoke reassuringly to her! She found herself easily relaxing in the huge arms that engulfed her! She allow her anguish to fully release, as he absorbed it! Taker smiled as he felt her calming now! Pleased he was able to bring her some comfort!

Chapter Seven

Night Mistress started to leave her seat when the Dark Lord stormed into the room! She slowly sat down awaiting the torrent she knew would befall her!

“Okay, Night Mistress! What the hell was all that about? You decided not to come back! You wanted no parts of me! You found someone else to play your little games with! Now that you found someone else has filled the void you left! You can’t stand it! You tricked me into saying those things! I didn’t mean them! Yes, if you hadn’t left I would still be with you! But you did leave! And she was there! And I because she is there! You aren’t going to be! That’s what I wanted to say, before she stormed out of here!” The Dark Lord said with great regret and despair!

He paced back and forth, wondering what was going on with the Dark Lady and the man Night Mistress had inadvertently brought back with her , from the trip to the other dimension! He stood for a moment as images danced in his head of her and him together! He began to run his fingers through his hair!

“Trick you my Lord? No My Lord! There was no trickery here! You spoke what was in your heart! Or you could have been silent! Considering she was sitting right here, at the table! And she knew exactly what you meant! Somehow I have the feeling, you haven’t quite convinced her, she is number one in your heart!” Night mistress said smiling slyly! As she sat back in her chair comfortably.

“You presume too much! Night Mistress! The Dark Lord said as he came over to the table and leaned in to her! His fist hitting his fist on the table with such and impact!

She jumped from the sound it made, staring up at him! He then leaned his face closer to her own, their eyes met for the first time! They locked, a spark shot between them! As old memories flowed from one to the other! Night Mistress felt old feelings resurfacing from his nearness! Dark Lords eyes caressed the form of Night Mistress! He remembered!

Night Mistress, flustered, quickly shoved the chair back, leaving it, without a backwards look, fled the room in a haste! The Dark Lord watched, Night Mistress left him without mumbling a word! He had his answer! So it was true! She sought out someone just like him, to replace what she stored inside and felt she had lost!

But what he also discovered! Something was tugging at his heart for her! Could it be true! Had he not loved the Dark lady enough that she had sensed what he held in his heart? Could it be he what he was denying in his heart, everyone else knew? But him! He needed to explore these feelings much thoroughly!

Night Mistress made it to her room slamming the door behind her! She stomped around the room trying to disregard what had happened down in the dining hall! She could not believe what had just exchanged between the Dark Lord and her! She thought she had long since vanquished those feelings!

Yet, when he was so near and their eyes locked! She felt the strong vibration surging between the two of them! If she hadn’t left! They would possibly be up in his room now sharing a night of long overdo passionate lovemaking! No! She can’t think of this! Taker is the one in her life now! He’s the one she wants!

And yet! The way Dark Lord always made her feel! She had missed that so much! They were two of a kind! They were from the dark side! Maybe that’s what pulled them together! She did miss those nights in his bed!

Night Mistress!” The Dark Lord yelled from the other side of her door as he gave it to hard pounds! She jumped out of her thoughts!

“Markus!“ She whispered! Now it’s time for the truth be told!

Chapter Eight

Night Mistress listen to the constant pounding on her bedroom door by the Dark Lord! She was bedside herself! She didn’t know what to do. She felt her heart tugging between the Dark Lord and Taker! NO, no! She wanted Taker! She needed him! He alone could help her make sense of this madness engulfing her head!

Why did she start this stupid game with the Dark Lord? He seemed perfectly content with Dark Lady. But now she has left, because of them and their silly game they played at dinner. Where could she had gone? Who knows? Maybe if she could fine her and try to convince her how much he really loves her, then would come back and he would leave her alone! That constant damn pounding on her door was driving her crazy! She wished he would stop!

“Markus go away I-I don’t want to be disturbed!” She yelled to him from her bedroom, cowering in a corned. Knowing fully well, this won’t stop him.

“Oh but you will be disturb my Night Mistress. Open this damn door! NOW!” He yelled from the other side of the bedroom door.

“PLEASE MARKUS!! Go away! Don’t do this! Let’s get some sleep! By morning we will all see things a little more clearly.” She pleaded. Taker! Markus! She went from one to the other in her head! She was startle out of her confusion, when she heard to loud noise at her door!

CRASH! The door flew opened! He entered, slamming it closed behind him!

“MARKUS!“ She yelled, as she saw his dark green eyes filled with passion, advance towards her.

With three long strides! He was upon her, taking her into his arms! She felt his hot breath on her face, as he held her close to him. Their faces just an inch from each other! He studied her face as he looked into her dark eyes, sending him mixed emotions! Partly pleading for him to stop! And partly begging him to continue!

He took in her wet lips! He covered them with his mouth, groaning how delicious she tasted. His tongue parted them and entered her mouth! She let out a small moan, finally once again to be able to feel his touch and taste him! Their hands began to grope and touch each other’s bodies, as if it was the first time.

His kisses moved from her mouth to her cheek, down to her chin, lingering there, sucking it until it had reddened. He cupped her breast in his hand, moving his kisses down to her throat and on to her bosom!

He ripped her dress from her body, savagely took her breast into his mouth, causing her to groan loudly. He felt himself coming to full arousal! Picking her up in his arms, carrying her to the bed! He laid her there as she watched with great urgency as he quickly removed his clothing!

Her breathing had increase with her rapid heartbeat! He joined her on the bed, at her side! The fires were burning out of control within them! The stared into each others eyes.....knowing they had reached the point of know return!

Chapter Nine

She wanted him! She needed him on her, around her, in her! He read her eyes! He obliged her, taking her breast one after the other, feeding on them until her nipples were raw and hard!

He moved down her body, as he licked and kissed his way to the dark patch of his desire. He became intoxicated with her enchanting scent! He covered her fully with his mouth, sending her to heights she had never gone before!

She cried out his name over and over, his tongue traveled in her, touching sensitive spots that caused her to release over and over! He drank of her delectable nectar! He took the small harden nub in his mouth as he sucked it hard and long! He body bucked from the sheer pleasure he gave her!

Seeing she was ready, he rose over her like a great shadow! They looked deep into each others eyes, seeing the longing of each, to have the raging fires to be quenched!

His body in position, he entered her with one thrust! She let out a small whimper! He slowly moved completely out of her and thrust into her once again! He continued this over and over! She moaned from the pleasure he was giving her! She was enjoying the feel of him once again inside her!

He soon increased his pace as she began to moan louder! She lifted her hips to meet each of his thrusts! They began to dance together in one steady rhythm, he growled her name, as they soar to the outer limits of ecstasy!

Reaching their peak! He gave himself to her, as she released all of the love she had stored up! She screamed his name given name, Markus, as he yelled out hers!

Finally drained of all of his contents, he fell to the bed next to her, taking her into his arms, drawing her close, holding her tight, as if she would disappear! He kissed her gently, as their bodies dripped from the fluids of their passion.

Exhausted and satisfied, they fell asleep in each others arms! Later during the night, they will awaken, many times to rediscover and consummate the love they have for each other! Going places they had never with each other.

Chapter Ten

Somewhere in deep in the forest, in a small cabin, in a room. Taker laid in the bed, holding Dark Lady close to him! He looked down at the tiny blonde beauty! She seemed so angelic as she slept! He watched her bosom rise and fall with every intake and output of breath! She seemed so much more relaxed and calm now!

He laid with her in his arm, as his thoughts went to Night Mistress! He had come here looking for her! They had shared two passionate nights together! He felt he didn’t want her out of his life! So he followed her the last time, hoping to discover where she would went whenever she would leave him! He did! He followed her through the portal! Finding himself here, in this strange place!

She began to stir in his arm, he pulled her closer to him to settle her! He felt something stirring in himself! She was intriguing! Where did she come from? Why were the guards trying to capture her? And who were they taking her to? Some one of great power! He must wanted her badly, to send his guards after her! Some one who looked a great deal as him! This Dark Lord he felt!

But that would mean, he realized, they will be coming after her soon! When they discover the mistake they made, confusing him for this Dark Lord!

He made his mind up at that point! He would do whatever it took to protect her! He felt it was a very good reason she was out in the forest, traveling alone near sunset! Another thought crossed Taker’s mind! Where was Night Mistress? He wondered if Dark Lady knew her and her whereabouts. But then, that could wait! Right now, he needed to take care of her!

Dark Lady began to stir once more! She sensed the huge man next to her, feeling his arm around her! She laid there momentarily, relaxed! She looked up into his face, deep into his dark greens, searching for any resemblance of the Dark Lord! He returned the gaze! No! Nothing like him! Soft, gentle and caring, was all she could find there! Satisfied, she snuggled into his chest, as he tightened the hold on her!

Taker was captured by the sensuality and deep passion emanating from this woman, as he gazed into her blue pools! It was no feeling he had ever encountered before! It was confusing! He felt connected to her! As if they were meant to be here for some inexplicable reason! He let out a silent sigh! How could this be? No!

It can’t be! Maybe she was just missing Night Mistress! Yeah, that’s it! It has to be! He had just met this woman! But then, he had just been with Night Mistress twice! How did he know it wasn’t his loneliness and need to have someone in his life, that wasn’t steering him towards her? This will all have to wait! She was fully awake! He needed to feed her!

In the distance, a storm brewed! Taker cocked his head, as Dark Lady! It reminded him of the nights of passion with Night Mistress! He felt maybe she was coming to him once again! But from the sound of the storm! It was far away......heading away from him, in another direction!

Dark Lady felt her heart break! She knew now, the life she had hoped for had ended! She moved into Taker more! He felt her movement and pulled her closer into him, as if trying to join them as one! He felt something flow from her into him at that moment! Neither knew it! But a plan had come together on this stormy night!

Chapter Eleven

As the two lay in each other arms, listening to the storm slowly fizzle down to just a whisper of what it had once been. Outside a large bird took its leave from the shelter of the tree it had been perched on, from the storm.

It soared high above the earth, as it left the area of the cabin. It flew over the great castle, where two others lay exhausted from the passion they had shared. It flew into the surrounding forest, going deeper into it, to a place even unknown to the Dark Lord.

It soon came towards a great old redwood in the midst of the forest. It made its decent, coming to land in front of it. As its feet touched ground. It transformed into a beautiful dark, raven haired young woman. She stepped up to it, an opening formed, allowing her to enter. And as quickly as the opening appeared, it vanished.

The young woman found herself in a small homelike setting. As she enter into a part like unto a living area, she took in the scene in front of her and sighed contentedly. This was her home. She turned towards the lit fireplace. There sitting before it in an old rocking chair, rocking back and forth, taking puffs from her long pipe, sat an old creature. As old as time its self. She stopped her rocking to turn towards the beautiful young woman. The young woman smiled lovingly onto this one.

“Hello Mother!” She said as she came to kneel before this ancient one. The old one reached and touched her daughter’s cheek.

“Hello my Daughter! What news do you have for your mother?” She asked as she turned back towards the fire blazing warmly.

“Everything is coming together as planned. You were right as usual! The couples have found themselves to where they need to be.” She informed her mother. The old one just stared into the fire.

“What is wrong my mother? You don’t seem to please with the news.” She asked as she watch her mother deep in thought.

“Yes! I am very pleased my daughter. But, there is an wildcard here.” She said as she slowly moved from her chair and moved towards her brew hanging over the fireplace and began to stir.

“Is this someone who may offset your plan?” She asked as she settled down on the floor next to her mother’s chair.

“Yes! Someone who will have to make a choice! And it depends on where their heart is, if they will make the right choice. The outcome of the plan will depend on it.” She said as she turned from the great pot.

“But, mother! You can make it right! Can’t you?” She looked at her mother with great concern.

“I can only form the plans. It’s up to others to follow them. The decisions they make will determine the outcome. I must never interfere.” She looked at her daughter and began to move towards the table.

“Wow Mother! You mean the happiness of all depends on one to make the right choice. What a bummer!” She said as she shifted on the floor trying to get comfortable. Her mother took a seat at the table, as her daughter‘s words had an great impact on her.

Yes! Someone’s decision will dictate how this story plays out. But it isn’t a story, this is people’s lives being formed here, along with their happiness or lack of. Suddenly the door opening reappeared. Both turned to it. And both watched as the person entered the room.

“Nightwalker! Glad you are here! Your sister I have need of your services.” The old one said to her youngest daughter.

“Okay Mommy! Whatever you may need of me, I will do! Hey Ladyhawke!” The young one acknowledging her sister.

“Hello Nightwalker! Good to see you back with us again!!” She said as she came to her sister, giving her a huge hug.

The old one watched her two daughters proudly. Yes, this will work out just fine. She still had a back up plan. This will come to pass. Or her name Isn’t................... Mystique!!!!!

Chapter Twelve

Dark Lady laid in Taker’s arms, feeling more relaxed than she has had for some time now. She felt secured and he comforted her. She seemed confused with what she was feeling. She turned to him and once again looked deep into his eyes, trying to find any glimpse of her former lover, the Dark Lord.

But when she searched them, all tat came back to her was a soft, gentle and caring person within. No, nothing like the Dark Lord! Satisfied, she turned and snuggled into his chest! He tightened his hold on her.

He was mesmerized by her deep blue eyes! They were fascinating. He had become very intrigued with the tiny blond lying next to him in his arms. There was more to her than the eye could see, he couldn’t quite put his fingers on it! But yes, deep in his guts, he could feel it.

He was concerned with the guards he were trying to capture her. Why were they after her? Went through his mine. Someone of great power he felt! And they evidently wanted her badly. Maybe this Dark Lord they mistook him for.

Soon they will realize their mistake! And now this Dark Lord will be informed of his existence. And that means, soon they will becoming to look for her soon! And him! He made up in his mind. He will protect her at any cost!

Then his thoughts went somewhere else! Of another person, the one he had followed to this strange place! The Night Mistress! He wondered about her whereabouts. And if she was somewhere thinking of him! He felt Dark Lady stir!

“Lil’ Darlin! I’m gonna rustle up us somethin ta eat! I know yer hungry! I am! Will yer be alright while I‘m gone? I‘ll just be in the next room if yer need me!” He said as he slowly moved his arms from around her.

“Oh yes....yes!! I’ll be fine! I am hungry! Maybe I can assist you?” he said as she made a moment as to leave the bed also.

No! Ya stay here and rest! I’ll bring it in here! on’t be but a minute!” As he moved from the bed and headed out the door no taking his eyes away from hers for one moment!

She watched him move out the room. She smiled. Never had she felt so free and content in her life! Like she belonged! He was so sweet and thoughtful. Not bad from the back either! He was nothing like that self centered SOB........Dark Lord! No! It ends here!! He is out of her life!!! And from this day.......out of her thoughts too!!!!

Just as promised, Taker was back in no time, with a tray of food! Dark Lady ate freely. She hadn’t realized how hungry she really had been. Taker was please to se her eating. She needed to replenish her strength. Taker joined her watching her every move. Curious, he struck up a conversation about herself.

“So! Why were those men after ya anyways?” He asked, as he took a BIG bite out of an sandwich.

“Well I guess I can tell you, since it was you who saved me!” She said smiling at him as she swallowed a bite of food, swiping her mouth with a napkin! After taken a drink of water to wash it down......she began!

“How do I began? I was running away from someone I thought I loved. I thought he loved me too! But that wasn’t the case. He was in loved with someone else! I was just his little plaything until she came back to him!” She said trying to hold back the tears forming in her eyes.

Taker reached out and gently placed his huge hand on hers. She sniffled back the tears and taken in the adoring smile he was giving her. That gave her strength to go on.

“It took a harsh event tonight, to make me see! In reality, his heart belonged to her! Now that I ran away, he knows now that I want know parts of him!” She said as she took another drink of water staring pass Taker to a place deep in her mind!

“Oh I see! He wants his cake and eat it too!” Taker raised an eyebrow, as she turned to him.

“Yes! My sentiments exactly! I’m a one man woman! I want your heart wholly, or I want nothing to do with you! Especially if you use me and lie to me, as he has done!“ She left the bed and began to pace! She could feel the anger swelling up in her!

“Good fer ya! Ya deserve only the best lil’ Darlin! May I asked? Is this the Dark Lord the guards mistook me fer?” He said as he watched her stopped her pacing abruptly from what he had just asked.

“What? Is that how you got them to let you have me? They thought you were the Dark Lord? Oh my!! The irony of it all! I wish I was there to see his face when the tried to explained how they let him have me!!” She threw her head back and let out a laughed!

Taker smiled and watched as she laughed and how her blond hair tossed about with her moment! Her laugh was so soothing to him! It was good to see her happy! She looked so radiant! His heart grew warmer for her! This was very confusing for him! But he felt as if they were joined together, like his search for his soul mate had come to an end! He didn’t understand!

Somewhere, someone smiled satisfied! He was finding her again! They just rocked in their old chair smoking their pipe! Soon it will all come together! Very Soon!!

Chapter Thirteen

Mystique sat and rocked in her chair before her fire place, as she took a quick puff from her pipe!! She smiled at the fact everything was coming together as planned. Yet, she was concerned with the wildcard!! Would they upset everything from being as it should! Only time will tell!!

She left her rocker, moved towards a great book and slowly ran her hand over it!! This was a very special book! No one else could decipher the ancient writings! Except one other! They didn’t know it yet!! But they too possessed great powers! And they will be the back up plan, if needed to be!

Mystique turned to see her two daughters come into the room! They had went over the plan with each other! They all sat down at the table to eat dinner! Tomorrow they will embark upon the task at hand!

“Mom! Don’t we have the greatest adventures?” Nighwalker said, talking a bite of a morsel of food. Ladyhawke smiled first at her mother then to her sister.

“Yes my dear! Always!” Mystique replied as she smiled. Truly the three of them have been through some very adventurous situations! But always have persevered.

“I remember each time we were faced with a dilemma, Mother would always say....’Don’t we have the greatest adventures?’......and then I would feel a lot better!” Ladyhawke injected, as after swallowing her food.

“Yes, my daughters! Life is the greatest adventure! The outcome depends much on our choices in life. Now only if all will make the right choice! This will having a very joyous ending! But, if any allow the darkness in their souls to prevail!! Then I have my back up plan! I hope I don’t have to resort to it!” Mystique said, looking over to the great book that laid on a small table in the corner of the room!

The girls listen and watched their mother. They knew of the book, but was not privileged to understand the secrets it held! They were not the other, to whom this power was given! They respected this very much. For each held their on powers!

“Go, my daughters! Get some rest! For tomorrow there is much too do!” She said to them. Each finished their supper and washed their dishes, giving their mother a kiss goodnight, left the room! They smiled at each other! They knew it will be no rest for their mother. It never is when she is weaving lives together.

“And each of you get your rest too! My young ones! Things are going to get very interesting!” She said, moving back to her rocker and taking a seat, as she picked up her pipe and began to puff on it! She slowly closed her eyes to let her mind wonder to a place! She smiled again, as she read the conversation each mind before they revealed it to the other. She was pleased.

“Well lil’ Darlin!! I guess I’m going to turn it now! I’m going to go get the dishes washed up. I’ll leave ya ta get cha’ some rest now!! I’m gonna take the couch. Ya can hav the bed!“ Taker explained, leaving the bed and gathering up the tray.

“No Taker!! Don’t leave me alone!! I don’t think I can sleep, if I’m alone in a strange place!” Dark Lady pleaded, giving him a very sad look.

He watched her closely, pondering if it would be a good idea to sleep in the same bed, knowing what his heart was feeling! He didn’t want to take advantaged of the situation! But as an answer to his question.................

“Okay Taker! I understand! You can go sleep on the couch! I won’t act like a child!” She said as she laid the bed, covering herself, turning away from him, began to lightly sniffle! Taker felt his heart aching! He didn’t mean to upset her.

He quickly moved on the bed and gather her into his arms. He looked into the sad baby blues. The ache in his heart swelled. He saw so much sadness, pain and longing there! He couldn‘t contain himself any longer. He covered her mouth with his own, kissing her deeply.

She responded likewise! She had never received such passion! It was different! It was powerful! It was consuming! She was overwhelmed with the feelings he sent through her body!

He absorbed everything she gave him, as he deepened the kiss. His tongue probed her mouth hungrily! He didn’t think he would ever get enough of her! Nor she him! They moved as close to each other as was permitted! He moved over her like a great eclipse!

An atmospheric current occurred, as they became one! It was felt over the land! The joining of to souls, as they made love for the first time! A gentle breeze flowed outside! So delicate and yet so sweet!

Night Mistress slept next to the Dark Lord from their shared passion! Something woke her as the breeze washed over her. It was a strange sensation! She sat up in bed! A dread filled her heart! Things weren’t right! It was as if something was lost to her forever!

Clutching her heart, she left the side of the Dark Lord! She moved towards the window! She looked out over the land! Her eyes roamed to the forest she had came through from seeing Taker! Her heart broke! Now she knew!

“Taker!!!

Chapter Fourteen

Night Mistress woke to find the Dark Lord was no longer at her side! She laid in bed wondering what the feeling she felt concerning Taker meant! She had this forbidding feeling something wasn’t quite right!! She sat up in the bed, trying to figure out a way to find out what it was, she was feeling!

“I have to get in contact with Taker! But if I go through my usual channels, Markus will know I’m up to something! I have to go to the one person Markus knows nothing about! Maybe she will be willing to help me!!” Night Mistress whispered to herself!

Jumping out of bed, she prepared to make her small journey! Now only if she can get away unnoticed! She knew by now Markus had someone to follow her every move! This will take her most cunning ways to elude this person.

“So what news have you brought me?” The Dark Lord asked as he looked out the window into the garden! Mideon cowered be hind him, head lowered as his eyes searched for something to tell his master!

“I am sorry Sir! But we have been unable to locate her or the one who resembles you!” Mideon said as he moved backwards slightly. Dark Lord took in a breath and took a moment before he exhaled. Turning to Mideon, he seemed all so calm!

“You listen to me! This day will be your last on earth, if Dark Lady is not found and brought back to me! Or the one that has her! Now go and do not grace my presence again until you have succeeded in what I have ordered of you!” He said this without raising his voice once! But Mideon could see the fierce anger behind the flared green eyes.

Mideon hastily removed himself from the Dark Lord’s presence! It was all that Night Mistress’ fault! Why couldn’t she keep herself in this realm! No, she had to go into the other dimension! And to make things worst! She brings back the one who looks so much like unto the Dark Lord!

Oh! Let’s not forget that little vixen Dark lady! She decides to run away from the Dark Lord! And guess what? She gets taken by the one who resembles the Dark Lord! These two women, Dark Lord and the one who resembles him can go to........

Suddenly Mideon’s thoughts were interrupted by the sight of Night Mistress making her way through the hedges of the garden! She had been able to elude her followers! Not this time he thought! He has enough problems then for her to contact that other one!

Wait! Maybe she could lead him to that one! Well, now that would be interesting to catch them all in one place! Dark Lord will be very proud of him! Then he could eliminate all three problems at once! Mideon move stealth like, as he made his way into the garden and through the spot of the hedges he saw the Night Mistress go!

In the air, a large hawk flew over head! Keen eyes on the scene below! It let out a great squeal as it followed the two closely!

Somewhere near the cabin where two lay in each others arms, a small doe stood not far away! It cocked it’s head to the side, as it ears turned in the direction of the sound of a distance bird! it slightly flinched as a beautiful sleek woman made her way to it’s side!

She bent down near the doe, rubbing it’s coat slowly with care!

“Did you hear your sister? She is on her way to the dark side! This is not good at all! She will a price dearly for what she does this day! Come Nightwalker! We are needed elsewhere!” Mystique instructed her daughter! With that the doe transformed into a beautiful Clydesdale! Mystique mounted it without any effort, as she rode quickly to a destination, hoping she maybe able to curtail the disaster ahead!

At that moment, Taker stirred from his sleep! He felt as if someone he knew was close by! And just as quick, the feeling was gone! He turned his attention to his lady love lying cuddled up to him!

It had been a unforgettable night! One he hadn’t experience in sometime! He wasn’t able to explained the closeness he felt for her so soon! But it seems he has known her forever! Like he had searched high and low for her! And now that he has found her, he has no plans of losing her again!

Again? Did that thought just run through his mind? What the hell is going on? He thought! Is it possible they had known each other some place in time?

Taker stared at her for sometime, as something played with his memory! A place and time, just vaguely on his mind! But on reachable! If he could just remember, he felt he would have some answers!

Mystique had gone a small distance when she stopped! It was as if some of her essence was drained from her! He is remembering at a rapid speed! Everything must be done with haste or there will be hell to pay! She instructed her youngest daughter to run faster than the wind! She bucked and took off without hesitation!

“Brumja!! I have need of you!” Night Mistress address the old witch, as she entered the cave!

“Don’t I always!” The old witch said laughing her hideous laugh that coursed through the forest. Mideon stopped in his tracks! This was not good! Where had she led him! He watched from behind a tree! Waiting for her to emerge!

“So! What do we have here?” The voice said! Mideon turned to face his master! The Dark Lord!!

Chapter Fifteen

Mideon hide behind the cave, pondering if he should move in closer! Good! He thought! He had all three of them! This no doubt is where Dark Lady and the other were! If only he could get word to the Dark Lord! But in his haste to follow the slippery Night Mistress, he had followed her alone! So it was left up to him to see that all of them were brought back to the Dark Lord! Now to figure out a way!

“So! What do we have here?” The Dark Lord asked coming up from behind Mideon! Mideon nearly jumped twenty feet in the air as he turned to face his Master!

“Master! You nearly scared the devil out of me!” Mideon said trying to catch his breath!

“Nearly is good! Just make sure I didn’t scare him out! Then you would be no use to me! Now! Answer my question! What is going on here?” The Dark Lord asked as he passed Mideon to look at the cave!

“Night Mistress went into the cave! I have the feeling this is where you will find Dark Lady and the other!” Mideon informed him, still trying to calm his fast beating heart!

“I don’t think so! I feel a great power flowing from within! Not mortal! Possibly one of her witch friends!! I thought I got rid of all of them! Must have missed one! That will soon be remedied! Come! Let’s see what lies ahead!” The Dark Lord quickly advanced towards the cave, as Mideon followed close behind!!

“Ok Brumja! Tell me what I want to hear!” Night Mistress snapped at the old witch! Brumja looked at the impatient Night Mistress, then turned to her crystal ball ( I know, I know, authentic huh?).

“Ok! What is this? A small cabin! With a large room that serves as a living area and kitchen. Ok........now I see a door.........and it leads to a room..........behind that room is a BEDROOM!!” Brumja was interrupted by Night Mistress!

“That’s Taker’s cabin! Your powers are that great that they extend to the other dimension?” Night Mistress said with great amazement! Brumja looked at her with confusion!

“I don’t understand what you’re saying! You think what I see is in the other dimension?” The witch said staring at her puzzled!

“Yes! How else could you see his cabin! I left him in the other realm!” Night Mistress had a bewildered look on her face, as she addressed the witch!

“Let me continue, then you will know the truth! I’m going passed the door........I‘m now in the room.......I look around.........I see another door.......it‘s a bathroom.......now I turn to another part of the room........there...........a bed...........and in that bed.....lies a flamed hair giant, with pictures sketched on both his arms.......his eyes are like green emeralds!!!” Night Mistress gasps! Yes, she thinks! That’s my Taker!! Brumja glances at her and continues.

“Oh, what is this? He does not lie alone.........there lying next to him........is a tiny figure.......she is dwarfed by him.......her hair is like the sun.......her eyes are like the ocean waters.........his heart is full of her.....they have become one........they...........” Brumja never finished!

“NO!!! You lie old witch! I will see that you follow all your sisters! Wait and see!!! Taker would never betray me! I am in his heart forever.......” Night Mistress yelled, picking up the crystal ball, threw it across the room, just missing the head of the Dark Lord! She along with the witch, froze as if they had become statues!

“Well, well!! What has my Night Mistress in such an uproar? What did I hear.....Taker? Is that the name of the one you have brought back with you from the other dimension? The one who has stole something from me! Not once, but twice!” The Dark Lord smiled, but his eyes were like slits, as he looked from one woman to the other!

“You will finish what you started old woman! Or I will deal with you swiftly!” The Dark Lord admonished her. She became very frighten, she had heard things about him! She knew what he was capable of doing! But she couldn’t do anything without her crystal ball!

“I am unable to tell you what you want to hear! She took my all seeing power away from me, when she destroyed the crystal!” She was scared! And she had every right to be!

For not given him what he wanted, meant to suffer the consequences! And for Brumja, the price was high! The Dark Lord, moved upon her swiftly! Placing his hands on both side of her head, at the temples, he absorbed the information he needed!

Brumja screamed with agony as he removed all her all knowing power! He was that vicious! He never was able to take only what he needed, it had to be all or nothing with him! It was all, as Brumja sunk to the floor, an shadow of what she once had been!

Night Mistress screamed as she looked into the vacate eyes of the witch she had depended on for so long! One she had even called friend! She looked at the Dark Lord! He seemed more powerful then before! He looked at her with a look of distained!

“What’s wrong Night Mistress? You look frighten! As well you should! I told you before, not to play your games with me! But you never listen! Do you?“ He said as he advance on her!

“You came to her! Looking for the other one! Well, I will take you to him! And retrieve Dark Lady! Kill two birds with one stone! Isn‘t that how the saying goes?” He began to laugh, until his laughter carried out through the entrance, flowing through the forest! Coming to light on the ears of one who stood a distance from the cave, that housed one she knew all to well!

She lowered her head, in respect of the loss of one so powerful! And the newfound power of one who was an maniac! This was not going well at all! She looked to the sky as the large bird circling, soon came to land at her side, transforming into the beautiful Ladyhawke! The horse soon took on the shape of the equally beautiful Nightwalker!

“Did you feel the shift of power mother?” Ladyhawke asked, staring in the direction of the cave!!

“What does it mean, Mom?” Nightwalker asked. Mystique took in a long breath, holding it for a moment, then letting it ease pass her lips!

“Let’s go! We need to get to them before he does! He would never find them with us! No matter how powerful he thinks he is! I hope my wildcard will choose more wisely! Come daughters! We have two to save! They will not be separated again!” Mystique along with her daughters moved quickly towards the cabin, where an unsuspected Taker and Dark Lady, lie resting in each other’s arms!

Chapter Sixteen

Mystique, along with daughters at her side, moved through the forest as quickly as she could, away from the area of the cave! She needed to get to the other side of the forest, to the cabin, where Taker and Dark Lady were! Before the Dark Lord!

Her thoughts were deep as her mind went back to that moment when the Dark Lord absorbed the powers of Brumja! Now Mystique didn’t care much for her, but in her book, you didn’t take anything away from someone without their permission! And certainly, he didn’t have hers! So he stole from her! Costing her, her life!

She felt with this added power, he may not be stoppable! She began to form an alternate plan. One she knew was foolproof! Dangerous but necessary!

The Dark Lord stood away from the fallen witch, as she sat motionless, oblivious to her surroundings. He felt revitalized as her essence surged through his body, combining with the powers he had already possessed.

His eyes took on and evil green glow. He turned to the Night Mistress. She had backed into a corner of the cave, as she witness the assault on the one she knew as her mentor! Suddenly it all became quite clear in her mind!

The Dark Lord was and always has been more powerful than her. And now with the added powers of Brumja! Who could withstand him?

“Now Night Mistress! There is one we need to go see! Dark Lady will pay for her treachery! As well as you! But for the one who wants to pretend to be me, I have other plans for him!

“Mideon! Return to the castle! Get a few of my guards! Come Night Mistress! Let’s began our journey! You shall not leave my side again! Ever!!”

The Dark Lord turn to go out of the cave! He paused as he caught a glimpse in his mind of one he didn’t know, but possessed powers also! They were powerful! Maybe more than his, even with the added powers of the fallen witch!

As quick as he saw them, just as quick their mind was closed to him! He tried to pick them up again, nothing! He shrugged it off as a possible side effects of the powers he drained from Brumja! Night Mistress observed this with curiosity!

“What has you so spook, M’ Lord?” She asked! Dark Lord slowly turned his glowing eyes to her! She shuddered momentarily, wishing she could retrieve the question!

“Spooked, Night Mistress? Now you know nothing spooks me! And now, after all your treachery, you acknowledge me as you Lord? Oh yes, M’ Lady! You shall pay dearly! For I see you don’t quite understand all of this yet! But! You will! You WILL!!“ The Dark Lord took one last glance over to the fallen witch, let out a loud wicked laugh, clasped his huge hand around Night Mistress’s arm, pulled her out the cave opening along side him.

She was visibly shaken, this was not the man she knew and loved! This was a man possessed! The side effects of Brumja’s powers she gathered! Or was it always there and she never could see it! She too was on her on power trip! Gaining as much knowledge she could concerning the dark side! But one thing her mentors would never disclosed to her was the fact that the Dark Lord was as powerful as they, or more!

Now she knew why they would never speak of him! She just assumed they wouldn’t speak ill of him because they knew what she felt of him! Then he would always brag about how he ran them away, she thought it was because they just moved on! But they left because they sense he had found them out!

Brumja was different! She was more powerful then the others and felt she could hold him off! She said there was something needed to be done! So she stayed to finish whatever she needed to do! Well too bad Brumja, maybe she should have left with the others! Then she would be alive now!

“You can stop thinking of Brumja and the others I either drained of their powers or sent them fleeing for their lives!” He laughed once again as the shock expression covered the face of Night Mistress!

He can now invade her thoughts! He looked at her with this smirk of confirmation of what she had just thought! She turn away from him, looking out as if for some possible help from this situation!

Mystique paused as her and her daughters made their way through the forest at an great pace! He daughters watched as she closed her eyes and then just as quickly they flew opened! Her eyes took on a dark appearance!

Someone had tried to probe her mind! It was for an instant, but she knew who it was and knew she would soon be discovered along with her daughters! And that wasn’t in the plan!

“Listen to me daughters! There is a change of plans! I need you to get to the two quickly! I will just slow your progress down! Ladyhawke, transform into your alter being, the Hawk, go! Fly ahead! Nightwalker, you also transform into one of the many forest creatures you are so gifted to do! One who can move with great speed! Follow your sister! Now go my children, make haste!” She commanded her daughters as she walked a short distance in the direction of the cave.

“And daughters! When you get there, take the two back to the great tree! They will be well protected there, as you! Do not leave from the tree once there! No matter what! Everything will soon fall in place! I promise!” She looked at her daughters reassuring! They felt comforted! Their mother always kept her promises!

“Now go my children! Quickly! And be safe” She said gravely.

Ladyhawke was the first of the two to transform into the hawk, lifting off the ground changing instantly! She made her ascent, circling over the two below as if she didn’t want to leave, but soon went her way towards the cabin on the other side of the forest!

Nightwalker came to her mother! With an question in her mind! Her mother touched her cheek with the palm of her hand! And motion her head in the direction of the cabin! Nightwalker nodded and turn, fallen to the ground to land on all four, instantly transformed into a wolf! Fast and powerful! She turned to look at her mother, then disappeared into the surrounding tress!

Satisfied her daughters will be successful, Mystique turned to stand what would come her way! She had heard the evil laughter emanating from the cave! It touched her very soul! He has definitely lost whatever humanity he had!

Why didn’t Brumja listen to her as the others had done! This could have been easily diverted! But no, she felt she was an matched for this one! Who was following his destiny. Now everything is left for her to make it right! At whatever cost! She will make it right!

Chapter Seventeen

Taker had just come out of the shower to the smell of coffee and food coming from the other room! He was famished from the night spent with Dark Lady! He finished drying himself off and putting on his clothes, leaving the bedroom!

He stood in the doorway, watching Dark Lady moving around in the kitchen! He walked over to her as she stood at the sink washing some of the dishes used to prepare the meal! He wrapped his arms around her waist as he brought her close to him, planting a kiss on the back of her neck!

It had been a very beautiful night! One of lovemaking until the dawn of day! They fell asleep in each other’s arms, totally exhausted and fulfilled!!

“Hmmmm!! How happy I am that I found ya!” He said pulling her even closer if that was possible! He clung to her as if he would lose her! He felt this dread come over him while he was taking a shower! Didn’t quite know what to make of it! But he held her close, for dear life!

Dark Lady smiled as she leaned back into him! He had made her very happy! She was also glad they found each other! In fact, she had the Dark Lord and Night Mistress for the terrible game they played using her! If they hadn’t, she would have never met this wonderful man! She had found more in one night with him, than all the nights with the Dark Lord!

“Yes Taker! I also am glad we found each other! You have made me very happy in the short time we have known each other! It feels so strange! But in the back of my mind, it’s as if I have known always!! As if I’ve been waiting for you all my life! You make me complete!” She turned to face him as she spoke these words, gazing into his soft emerald eyes!

“Yes! As if I have been waiting for ya too!” He said this as his mind almost touched a place in time, but it again evaded him!

“Taker!!” Dark Lady alarmed at the vague expression! Coming to himself, he looked down into her eyes and smiled reassuring her everything was alright!

“I’m sorry! Didn’t me to alarm ya! My mind seemed to drift for the moment! Now, what were you saying?” He looked at her earnestly!

“I was saying breakfast was ready! I‘m starved after last night!” She said blushing, as she gently hit him on the arm with the towel she was holding! Taker gave her an wicked smile as she thought about how to work up an appetite for lunch! He went and took a seat at the table!

Outside the cozy scene, Ladyhawke circle above the cabin, sounding her arrival. She watched as her sister came out of forest to stand in front of the cabin. Ladyhawke made her descent, transforming back into herself, as she touched ground! Her sister rose to stand on her hind legs, also making her transformation! The two looked at each other then towards the cabin!

“Lady! I’m worried about Mom! What if something happens to her? What will we do?” Nighwalker asked, turning to her sister. Ladyhawke could see the fear griping her! She had to calm her! They had a difficult task ahead! She needed to be in the right frame of mind if this was going to go as planned!

“Nightwalker! In all our lives, has she ever let us down? Has she ever broken a promise she has made?” Ladyhawke said as she laid her hands on her each of her sisters shoulders, hoping to convince her everything will be alright! Even though she shared the same feelings as her sister.

“No! She has always come through! She hasn’t ever broke a promise she made to us!” Night walker stared back into the dark eyes as her sister’s! They reminded her of her mother’s! They had that same strong determination to do whatever it was needed to be done! She found some comfort with her sister!

Not once had they ever known their mother not to know what she was doing! Everything was always well planned! So why would this time be any different? The two sisters gave each other a nod, then turned their attention to the cabin and its occupants! They made their advance!

Reaching the porch, Ladyhawke gave the door a soft rap! Nightwalker survey the area for anything out of place, instinctively!

Taker was just finishing taking his last bite of food when he thought her heard someone knocking! He poised himself to listen! Yes, there it was again, a very soft tap at the door! This time Dark Lady heard it also! He motion for her to go to the other room, as he cautiously moved towards the door!

As he headed for the door, his thoughts went back to when someone was at his door it usually was a beautiful dark lady, accompanied by a storm! There was no storm, so it couldn’t be her!

Taker slowly opened the door! He paused for a moment, as he looked at the two lovely girls at his door! Well, he thought! His door is one for the ladies! Ladyhawke and Nightwalker smiles sweetly at the huge man standing before them!

Mystique waited patiently for what she knew was inedible!! She didn’t have long, as the Dark Lord moved out of the forest into the clearing where she stood! She knew at one point in time they would have to meet! The Night Mistress flanked his side, as Mideon along with four of his guards, came up from behind! They came to a halt in front of Mystique!

The Dark Lord didn’t seem to surprise at all! It was like he had expected to see her! Mystique never moved from her spot, as he approached her, leaving the others where they had stopped! Night Mistress was curious as to who was this woman! She had never seen her before and yet she could sense she was one of great power!

Chapter Eighteen

Taker along with the Dark Lady, had just finished breakfast. They were gazing into each other eyes, reminiscing of the night before. They had joined, becoming one, body and soul.

Suddenly, there was a faint tap at the door, interrupting the intimate moment. At first, Taker wasn’t quite sure he had heard anything, as he cocked his ears to listen! Yes, another tap just as gentle as the first! Dark Lady poised, hearing it also!

Alarmed, Taker waved his hand in the direction of the room, signaling Dark Lady to take refuge, as an precaution. He wasn’t sure if they had been found out by the Dark Lord or not! He moved towards the door slowly and soundless, picking up an poker just for added insurance!

He didn’t think it was the guards, he felt they wouldn’t knock, but just to be on the safe side, having a weapon couldn’t hurt none, he thought. Putting his hand on the knob, he moved with one smooth motion opening the door quickly, beginning to bring the poker up, but stop abruptly as he saw what stood on the other side!

Taker looked over the two young girls at his door, puzzled to who they were! he threw the poker in the corner behind the door as he opened it wider! He looked out over them to see if anyone else was with them! No one as far as he could see! He then turned his eyes two them!

“Well, what can I do fer ya? Are ya lost?” He asked as he looked from one to the other.

“No sir! We aren’t lost! We have come to take the lady and you to safety! Your lives are in great danger!” Ladyhawke informed him. Nightwalker continued to survey the surroundings for any scent of anyone approaching.

“Can we take this inside?” Nightwalker said nervously. She wasn’t comfortable with them being so vulnerable.

“Yes! Maybe you are right, Nightwalker! It may be safer. Can we come in, there is much to tell and no time at all?!” She said looking at the huge man standing tall over them. Taker gave the girls one glance, moving back into the cabin, allowed them to enter! He gave the out side a once over, satisfied they were along, closed the door!

After sensing the probing of her mind! As brief as it may have been! She knew now the Dark Lord was aware of her existence! He may be too preoccupied to act on it now, but somewhere down the road, it will come back to him! Then he would seek her out, putting her daughters and her lifestyle in jeopardy! And that was not the plan!

She had formed a plan! It was a dangerous one, but necessary! She waited and watched as the Dark Lord along with his band came out of the forest into the clearing! She watched him closely as he waved the others to stay where they were, as he made his advance towards her! She watched as he dismounted, walking towards her so arrogant and so sure of himself, as he stared her down.

She knew he wasn’t sure of her, but, he wasn’t going to allow anyone to discover this! He was the Dark Lord, all powerful and capable of anything but failure! So, he had to deal with this one, who stood defiant and unscathed by his advancement!

“Now! Who do we have here?” Dark Lord asks, as he dismounts his horse! Mystique said nothing as she watched him come off his horse, standing and watching her!

“Wait! You are the one I picked up in my mind, but was quickly shut out before I could identify you! You were near the cave of the witch!” He said, now pleased he knew of the one he try to seek in his mind! She said nothing!

“Who are you Woman! Where did you come from? I am not accustom to being defied? Now, ANSWER ME!” He was very irate by now! She had wore his patience to thin or none!

The Night Mistress watched this with great interest! In the back of her mind, she remembered Brumja telling stories of other beings as herself, but much different and more powerful! She felt, this one may be one of those!

She looked around at the party of guards along with Mideon! They were too engross with the scene in front of them, they weren’t paying her any attention! Good, she thought! Taker was in danger! She needed to get to him before the Dark Lord. As for Dark lady, who cares! She deserves everything that comes at her, she felt!

She urged her horse to take small steps backwards, until she had slipped unnoticed into the surrounding forest! Once there, she rode into the direction she felt his cabin would be on the other side!

All this time he had been here! He must have followed her! That means he wanted to be with her very much! She moved through the trees desperately, even more determined to save him!

Chapter Nineteen

Night Mistress continued on her course! She new she needed to get to Taker before the Dark Lord. She realized he was here because of her! He had followed her through the circle of light!

That’s what she felt, Taker! That was the feeling of lost! He is in danger, she must get him back through the portal before he is lost to her forever! But wait! Brumja said he wasn’t alone! She described him in the bed with another! DARK LADY!! What if they................she didn’t want to think about it!

Then she remembered the gentle breeze that swept over her body, filling her with an awful dread, of forebode! Then her heart felt as if it would break! Now she understood, they had slept together!

Then the pain she felt soon was replaced by anger! They will pay if she finds he has given his heart to another! If she couldn’t have him, neither would Dark Lady! She whipped her horse with the straps, urging him on faster! She would deal with the situation when she got there!

Mystique looked the Dark Lord over! He was a huge man, tall in statue! His red hair flamed in the light of the sun! His green eyes piercing! In another time and place, who would have been her lover! But then that was another time and place! Here and now, he was her nemesis, one she needed to vanquish if all is to go well! But that would take for her plan and the wildcard to come through! her thoughts were interrupted as he moved towards her with the stealth of an cat!

“You asked me who I was! Don’t you know all knowing Dark Lord?” She said not changing her serious expression!

“If I did M’Lady, would I had asked?” He said as he walked around her staring at her access!

“I guess you wouldn’t, now would?” She said smiling! She knew he was always taken by the beauty of women! That’s why she chose this form!

He was taken by her fire and beauty, as once in a lifetime! She stood firm, as he moved around her, coming to stand face to face, towering over her! He could sense she wasn’t what she appeared to be! Yet, he didn’t want to underestimate her! She seemed to have the upper hand!

“Look! We don’t have much time! Dark Lady and yourself Taker, need to come with my sister and I! You will be safe in our home!” Ladyhawke explained hoping this wouldn’t take long, as they didn’t have much time left!

Dark Lady came from the room at the mention of her name! She stood staring at the two young ladies, Nightwalker turned to her from where she stood at the window watching out!

“You know me? You knew I was here? How?” Dark Lady asked as she came up beside Taker!

“We know many things! And one thing we know is, the Dark Lord comes this way! you are not safe here!” Ladyhawke informed them sternly!

Dark Lady grasped Taker’s arm firmly, as she felt him stiffen! The Dark Lord had discovered her whereabouts! She knew how cruel he could be when crossed! And she had done the ultimate betrayal! She walked away from him and made a fool of him with the look alike!

“Taker, if this is so! We need to leave this place! You have no idea, how dark he is!” She said coming to stand in front of him, gazing into the man she loved eyes! She feared more for him than herself!

“Wait! How do we know they ain’t with him!” Taker snapped looking from Dark Lady to the two girls!!

“Because Taker! You already know in your heart we are not here to harm either of you! Only to protect to you!” She said as she looked into his eyes! Taker didn’t know how, but he peered into her mind and found what she said was true! Then he was shut out!

“He wants you back, Dark Lady! Not so much as for love, but because he hates losing anything! But then you already know that!” She said with raised eyebrow! Dark Lady cast her eyes to the ground! Her thoughts exactly!

“Well, he ain’t getting her back! EVER!! She is mine now and for eternity!” Taker said pulling her into his arms protectively! Dark Lady looked at hi with such affection! She knew he would die for her! And this is when she made an decision that would spare his life!

“Okay! But let’s get out of here while we have a chance!” Ladyhawke pleaded! Nightwalker suddenly tense, poised as an animal on alert! Ladyhawke saw her sister’s movement, turned to her!

“What is it sister?” Ladyhawke asked!

“Someone comes through the forest at great speed! What are we going to do now?” Nigthwalker said never taking her eyes from the trees!

“We are all going to stay calm for one thing! We will see this through!” She said in same manner as her mother would! Nightwalker relaxed with her sister’s composure!

Chapter Twenty

Taker narrowed his eyes! He too sensed something! He moved to the corner of the door and retrieved the poker! He listened as Ladyhawke attempted to calm her sister! He glanced at all three standing behind him!

He took a long looked into the eyes of his lady love! She could see the determination to protect her! She just turned away from him and walked into the room! She knew any attempt to stop him would be futile!

Nightwalker, signaled by her sister, followed Dark Lady into the room! Ladyhawke watched as Taker opened the door, walked out onto the porch, to confront whoever approached!

He stood with his hands to side, gripping the poker! Suddenly, the black majestic horse, with rider, emerged from the trees! The rider, commanding the horse to halt, gave a slight tug on the reins!

The horse stopped as ordered, bucking backwards, as it raised to it’s hind legs, while waving it’s front legs! Taker’s heart froze, as he looked into the dark eyes of the one who rode the horse! Her long raven hair flowing in the wind, as her black cape cascade over the buttocks of her steed!

Night Mistress gazed into the green eyes that held hers! She brought the horse down to all fours, continuing to stare at the man she held so dear in her heart! Time seem to cease, as they held each other in their sights, oblivious to everyone and everything around! For this moment, the two lovers had been reunited!

The Dark Lord towered over Mystique! He gazed into the brown eyed woman! She was not giving him anything! He knew he would have to take what he wanted! Mystique knew what was coming! She braced herself and hoped her daughters would be successful!

Dark Lord was silent and swift! He grabbed the head of Mystique before she could react, thumbs at her temples, he began to draw her power from her! Mystique let out a heart wrenching scream, one that could be heard throughout the forest! Alarming all creatures, that one who had protected them for so long, was slowly coming to her end!

Dark Lord felt the power surge into his body rapidly! And just as he felt it, Mystique’s body went limp! The power flowed through him and out! The Dark Lord’s horse bucked as a breeze swept pass it! The breeze continued onward pass Mideon and the guards, as their horses too, became spooked by the breeze that passed between them and into the forest!

The Dark Lord held the still body of Mystique in his arms! He looked upon her face, so soft and motionless, it triggered a De ja vu!! He had been here before! He shuddered, confused! Then the feeling left him! He laid Mystique’s body on the ground!

He turned to Mideon and the other’s! Completely dumbfounded! He felt this one was much powerful then the old witch! Yet, she didn’t survive his assault for a moment! Suddenly, something caught his attention, his eyes glowed with anger, he looked around and passed the men! Someone was missing!

“Night Mistress!!”