A New Beginning
A Lexi Ander Free Read
Copyright © 2013 Lexi Ander
[e-mail]
This is a work of fiction. Names, places, characters, and
incidents are either the product of the author's
imagination or are fictionalized. Any resemblance to any
actual persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
Cover Art: Tabatha Heart Art & Design
All cover art copyright © 2013 Lexi Ander
All rights reserved worldwide. This book may be
distributed freely in its entirety courtesy of the author,
Lexi Ander. This work May not be sold, manipulated, or
reproduced in any format without the express written
permission of the author.
This work contains graphic language and explicit
sexual content between two consenting male adults.
Intended for adult readers only. Not intended for
readers under the age of 18.
First published in January 2013
Second Edition June 2013
eBook Edition
This book is written in US English
A New Beginning
(Sumeria's Sons #2.1, Sumeria's Magi 0.1)
By Lexi Ander
CHAPTER ONE
How could I not be aware of him with as close as he
stood to me? I glanced at Juan Ybarra out of the corner
of my eye. Something about him caused me to& to want
to be more. His presence alone turned me into an idiot. I
kept putting my foot in my mouth, or doing stupid shit.
When Juan walked into the room, I turned shy.
Bashfulness is not something people generally accuse
me of. Around him my mouth would become so desert
dry that I would embarrassingly smack my lips. If he
smiled no, I didn't hear angels or birds or whatever I
walked into walls and tripped over my own two feet.
And yet, he made me want to be a better person. With
just one uplift and twist of those lips, I wanted to take on
the world.
Today, as he stood next to me in battle, I
automatically pulled my shoulders back and held myself
differently. I wanted him to notice me, to make him
proud to be by my side even if he stayed at Tristan's
command.
How stupid was that? I already had enough to deal
with. I didn't have time to get involved with anyone.
Especially a Warrior of Anat bound by a blood oath to
one of my best friends. The vow was the only thing that
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A New Beginning
saved him from Tristan's wrath. He, along with other
warriors, broke Lycan law by following a Magi into an
alpha's territory without gaining Right of Passage. Even
though the council orders had been forged, it didn't
excuse their trespass.
Not when the intrusion was against their future
king.
As we waited for the wounded to be gathered, I
studied him. Juan was tall, broad through the shoulders
with thick powerful legs. His glossy black hair curled up
around the edges below his ears. He had a strong brow
and bright hazel eyes with a prominent nose above full
lips. I always caught myself staring when he would
come around like now.
I turned away to hid the blush of embarrassment.
Early in life, I was taught to hide my thoughts and
emotions behind a mask. People glimpsed what I wanted
them to. Around Juan, I lost the necessary focus, and I
couldn't afford the distraction.
Self-consciously I smoothed the wrinkles from the
blue-gray robes, now mud caked and bloodied. I tucked
away hair that had come loose from the crown-net. I
sensing the weight of his gaze, I dared not look.
"Tallis Borchetta." The warrior, Michael Wayne,
stood in the doorway waiting for my acknowledgement.
I contemplated supergluing Tristan's ass to the toilet for
giving me a damned title. "Those more seriously injured
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Lexi Ander
will be brought to the front porch. The Xenres's brother,
Nathan Janick, said he'd handle everything else."
I nodded. "Place them on the yard instead of the
near the entrance. I need them touching the Earth."
Michael bowed, staring at Juan who stood behind
me. The warrior paused as if he would say something
else then simply shook his head and left.
Our small tribe had been attacked by a serial killer
with about fifty of his followers. There were only
sixteen of us now: thirteen warriors, Tristan, his consort,
Ushna, and myself. Nineteen total if you counted the
two Shirdal and the golem. It had been a bloody battle.
The intruders lost nearly half of their number. We'd been
lucky to have suffered only two deaths.
Juan had stayed with me, his sword whistling in the
air as he cut down the enemy. I had the golem to protect
me but those who'd made it past the stone construct met
their end at the edge of Juan's blade. Not once did he
leave my side. It was too dangerous for me to wonder
why because that was a line of thought I couldn't afford
to indulge.
Nervously, I wiped my sweaty palms on my robes
and startled out of my thoughts when Juan grasped my
hand, drawing my gaze. "Why are you anxious? No
healer can surpass your skills." His soft accented voice
calmed me, his warm fingers entwined with mine.
"There are so many wounded. If I fail, someone will
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A New Beginning
die," I confessed.
"You'll do fine. I'll be here to assist you." He gave
me a soft encouraging smile.
Before I could respond, the warriors began to bring
people to me, awaiting my directions. I shoved the rising
trepidation aside and went to work. I was Magi. A
Lycan, who at the cusp of puberty, not only transformed
into a wolf for the first time, but also gained the gift of
magic. I despised the development. I longed to be a
warrior like my friends. Warriors were born with eight
toes but as a boy I'd harbored the hope to be able to join
them, regardless of my station of birth.
Every adult had warned me the wish wouldn't be
fulfilled, and they were correct. Weeks away from
spring, with ice cycles upon the branches, I experienced
my first transformation into my wolf. At the same time,
the magic awakened within me, bursting forth in an
electrical shock wave. The power had been so strong it
had spurred the woods in a one mile radius to bloom.
That day forever changed the course of my life. The
Magi clamored excitedly amongst themselves,
considering the powerful display as a beacon of
untapped strength. My absent father, Kassian Borchetta,
who had ignored me since birth, swooped in and took
me away from everything I'd known and placed me into
the Magi College.
The painful memories of my youth had no place
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Lexi Ander
here, instead I concentrated on the wounded man lying
before me. The warrior gritted his teeth, moaning in
agony. Dirt and blood coated him; a stained cloth
covered the wound on his stomach. I attempted to
remove the hands clutching the material so I could peer
at the injury, and he grasped my wrist and twisted. The
warrior's action had been automatic even though his
eyes were hazy and lost in the pain.
"You're named Helios?" The Lycan blinked
blurrily. "I can't help you if you don't let me go," I
coaxed, tugging gently to free my hands.
Juan knelt next to us, his presence grabbing Helios's
attention. "Release him, warrior." His voice held the hint
of command, enough to cause Helios to comply.
The blood began to flow more freely once the cloth
had been removed. I placed my palms on each side of
the ragged gash and began to chant the incantation for
healing. All Lycans had an affinity with the Earth, which
meant the Magi were mainly proficient in that branch of
magic. The strength of the power within me allowed me
to be proficient in all four disciplines; earth, water, fire,
and air. I was the best at the water class aptitude of
healing.
As I chanted, I wrapped the magic around me and
dropped down into the injury. Quickly assessing the
damage, I directed the flow of magic, and wove the
energy around the wound. When I withdrew, only bright
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A New Beginning
red scar tissue remained.
Sitting back on my heels, I refrained from panting
from exertion. I held my bloody hands in front of me,
hating the color that stained them. Juan handed over a
towel which I used to wipe them on before moving to
the next person in line. I worked diligently to restore the
injured, focused only on the task at hand until someone
grasped my elbow, and a sharp word barked into my ear
jolted me from the duty.
"Stop! That is enough, Tallis," Juan whispered.
"You do too much. If you continue to push yourself,
you'll be the one who needs a healer."
Strong arms encircled my torso and waist, securing
me against a broad chest. I would've protested but noted
the way my hands shook. The color of the skin appeared
dangerously close to gray of my robes.
"Nathan!" Juan called, his voice sounding alarmed.
A Lycan carrying a black medical bag hurried
toward us. Tristan's brother was gorgeous with his wavy
brown hair and chocolate colored eyes. Stress pinched
the corners of his mouth when he noticed us.
"Dammit, Gregori," Nathan admonished. "Tristan
will have a fit if something happened to you."
"I have two more and then I'm done," I said leaning
to peer past him. I couldn't remember how many injured
remained. Juan made an annoyed huffing sound.
"No, you won't." Nathan grabbed my hands. "I'll
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Lexi Ander
attend to the last of the wounded. Gods, you're skin's
cold and you're trembling from exhaustion." Nathan
vigorously rubbed my cool fingers between his. "You've
saved enough people today. The others will be fine in
my care."
"But& "
"No buts," Juan griped. "You heard what the doctor
said. You're help has been more than sufficient." The
warrior's warm nose nuzzled my ear. The heat of his
body seeped through the silk robes. "Nathan, what do I
need to do for him?"
"He'll require rest, then food and water. He's
expended enough magic today to equal a dozen strong
Magi so he'll drop from fatigue soon. Are you going to
stay with him or should I check in with him later?"
Juan's arms tightened around me as I scowled at
Nathan. He talked over me as if I wasn't capable of
taking care of myself.
"No!" Juan snapped. "I'll stay with him," he
responded more calmly.
Nathan smirked. "As you say, call me if& uhm,
yeah." He turned, chuckling as he examined the one of
the few remaining wounded.
Clearly we'd been dismissed.
Juan hoisted me to my feet. "I'm able to walk," I
snapped and my knees promptly buckled, making a
complete liar out of me. I hated being vulnerable and
10
A New Beginning
relying on someone else.
Juan grunted as he bore my weight. "I can see that."
He led the way into the house, the screen door
slamming behind us. Forced to lean into him, I inhaled
Juan's strong scent still evident under layers of dirt and
grime. He made me want things I shouldn't. Even before
the current problems plagued me, I sucked at
relationships. I'd lost a friend because I followed my
heart, instead of my head, only to end up hiding the hurt
and disappointment behind a mask of indifference. Now
with the threat of the Triad, I couldn't take chances with
the lives of others.
Juan sat me on the lid of the toilet and carefully
removed the silver circlet and net from my hair. The fine
wire pulled on some strands but his gentle ministrations
detached it without taking my scalp with it. When his
hands fell to the clasps of the robe, I grasped his wrist.
"You can't stand. How are you going to take a
shower?" Juan rationalized. Dusty and sweaty, he was
just as exhausted as I was.
How could I convey to him without words that I
didn't want him to see what the clothing hid? What I'd
allowed to be done because I thought I sighed and
released him.
Juan undressed, kicking his clothes over to the
corner. He was so beautiful with sculpted arms and legs,
heavy firm pecs capped by large ruddy nipples. His cut
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Lexi Ander
abdomen was sprinkled with dusky hair around his
navel, leading a trail down to the dark nest of pubic hair
that nestled a set of substantial balls and a stunning
uncut cock that slowly plumped as I stared. I hissed
out a breath and diverted my gaze.
He crouched down in front of me and started
working the clasps of the robe. I would've done it myself
but Nathan had been correct. I had overextended myself.
If I could've, I would've walked away to escape the
touch of the man of my secret dreams. He undressed me
with tender care but soon he'd detect the disfiguring
marks. I didn't want to see his handsome face transform
into a mask of disgust or witness his regard for me
change into pity.
He'd look at me differently men always did after
they'd seen the scars. Once the clothes came off, people
took what they wanted and left without a backward
glance at the freak. How could I blame them? I was the
most powerful Magi born in five hundred years, and I
didn't save myself. How then would I be able to protect
a mate or partner?
Juan turned on the shower, adjusting the
temperature. Reluctantly, I shrugged out of the robes
with trembling hands. The mask of, "I don't give a fuck,"
fell into place and I allowed Juan to draw me to my feet.
His palms slid down my back and paused at the first
ragged scar. Paying more attention to Juan's reaction,
12
A New Beginning
and not what I should be doing, I tripped on the clothing
pooled around my ankles. He caught and pulled me
firmly against his body.
For a second, I permitted him to hold me and
imagined what life could be like if none of my past or
present mattered. I wished I was normal, leading an
ordinary existence somewhere far away from
everything. Then the moment was over and I pushed
weakly against his chest, needing him to release me
before I broke down.
Stepping into the hot shower made me gasp for air.
I hadn't realize how cold I'd been until the water hit me.
Juan kept a steadying arm around me as he awkwardly
lathered a washcloth with soap. The trembling continued
and hindered any help I attempted to give, so I simply
held him instead. I refused to dwell on how good he felt
against me, how I loved his calloused fingertips as they
traced over my skin, or how his soft, dark stubble
rubbed against my cheek.
At first, the run-off turned pink from the blood,
swirling down the drain. The grit and grime washed
away, the sharp scent of copper exchanged for the aroma
of sandalwood soap. More exhausted than I'd admit to
anyone, half way through the shower I rested against
Juan.
"I've got you," he whispered. "Not much longer and
you can rest for a while. I promise. Tilt your head back
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Lexi Ander
and I'll rinse your hair."
I was a slave to the sound of his voice. In that
moment, I would've done anything he asked of me.
Closing my eyes and tilting my chin up, the water
streaming thought my hair, his lips brushed my chin.
When I lifted my eyelids, I met Juan's hazel eyes, more
brown than green, staring back at me. The soft desire
reflected there made me pause. Surely after what he'd
seen I had to be misinterpreting the message in his
gaze.
"Juan?"
He glanced at my lips, his gaze lingering. "Yes,
Tallis." His low gravelly voice caused things within me
to stir.
"Don't call me by a title," I griped, blushing. "Use
my name." Damn, his eyes were distracting.
His lips quirked up and took on a mischievous
shape. "There are many names I'd love to call you."
I snorted and frowned even as my heart skipped a
beat.
He chuckled, switching off the water. "The Xenres's
sarcasm has rubbed off on you."
"I've always had& " The sharp retort was cut off by
the towel thrown over my head. It didn't keep me from
hearing his light laughter. Why did he have to be such a
likeable guy?
Exhaustion tugged at me and the toweling only
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A New Beginning
added to the lethargy. "Come on, tiger, let's get you in
bed before you fall asleep on your feet." Why was he
still chuckling at me?
The scent of sage and tangy incense permeated my
quarters. I knew how disastrous my room appeared;
nothing less than a small tornado could've wrecked as
much havoc to my personal space. There was a method
to the madness mostly. I had no inclination to explain
the chaos at the moment because a pillow with my name
on it beckoned me to snuggle close.
I burrowed down into the bed, pulled the fluffy
covers to my chin with cool shaky hands as Juan turned
out the light. After the door snick closed, I sighed with
relief as my body became heavy with slumpber closing
in fast. The bed dipped and a muscular form spooned
around me under the blankets. I pried my eyelids open to
glower at Juan.
"Right now, I'm going to hold you while you sleep.
Tomorrow you can yell at me if you wish, but
afterwards we need to talk."
Too tired to argue with him, I grunted instead. Arms
snaked around my torso, I couldn't help but to sink into
the warmth he provided, and inhaled in his clean heady
scent. Tomorrow seemed a long way off, and right now,
I was exactly where I'd been dreaming of since he'd
walked into my life.
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Lexi Ander
CHAPTER TWO
I woke to the glorious aroma of mint tea and
something sweet. My treacherous stomach rumbled. A
low chuckle sounded in my ear and I froze, my fuzzy
mind gradually recalling the events of the day before.
Long arms tightened, drawing my body against a firm
muscular chest. A hard hot shaft nestled between the
cheeks of my ass.
I stiffened.
Juan sighed. "Why are you so wary of me? I've seen
how you stare at me. You can lie and tell me you don't
want me. Your body language says keep away, but your
eyes, they betray you every time you don't think
anyone's watching."
He was right. I had always wanted him, but I
couldn't chance a relationship, no matter what I wished
for.
I remained silent.
"Is it these marks on your back?" Anger seeped into
his voice. "Do you think a few scars will chase me off?"
"It wouldn't be the first time." The bitter words were
out of my mouth before I stopped them. I closed my
eyes, naming myself every kind of fool.
"If this is the only reason men shy away from you,
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A New Beginning
then they are fools, and not worthy to be your partner."
He kissed a deepest scar located over my right shoulder
blade. Skin pebbled under the brush of his lips.
I wished Juan would simply let go of this line of
conversation, verify I was better after the much needed
rest, and go about his business. I understood him enough
to realize he wouldn't. I rolled over to face him and
pressed flat palms to his chest to keep him from drawing
me closer. Once I peered at him and took in the sleep
tousled hair, his soft hazel eyes more green in the
morning light, the naked almond skin smooth under my
hands, and I almost gave in to my desire for him.
I drew on a stern face. "Have you forgotten what
brought you here to begin with? Caspian MacCuill gave
the Order of Anat falsified retrieval orders for Ushna.
He then threatened my friend if I refused to cooperate.
Don't you wondered why he'd attempt to strong arm me?
What he'd want that was so important the Triad would
blatantly break numerous laws to acquire?"
I hadn't been that frightened since I'd been eighteen
years old and dumped on the side of the road to die.
Tristan had backed Ushna and I into a corner as the
Warriors of Anat invaded his home. I'd realized then I
couldn't allow Caspian seize Ushna. If the Triad had
only wanted me, I would've left without causing an
uproar, and found a way to escape later. But the Triad
had attempted to use Ushna as leverage against me and
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Lexi Ander
in doing so they had underestimated Tristan.
All of us changed in different ways that day.
"I recall perfectly well what happened. I don't
understand why you're so worried?" He looked
perplexed.
"The Triad has been pressuring me for as long as I
can remember. The last time I turned them down I
almost died."
Didn't he recognize how dangerous it was to be
around me? In the beginning, after Caspian had been
dispatched, I swore with each rising of the sun I'd leave
my friends disappear. And every day, Tristan or Ushna
sought my company and kept me busy and I had
allowed them to distract me.
For too long, I'd lived in the largest Lycan tribe and
had stayed separate from others out of fear. If it
appeared as if I had no attachments then those whom I
loved couldn't be used against me. They would be safe
from potential harm. But I hadn't realize how much I
hungered for the companionship of others, or had longed
for the closeness of friends and loved ones until I had
stepped into Tristan's and Ushna's house. For the first
time, I felt as if I'd come home.
Then I understood what I'd allowed the fear to steal
from me. Yet I knew I brought danger to the doorstep of
my closest friends, my brothers. When did the good and
the bad balance out? The Triad led the Magi College and
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A New Beginning
the three of them, Caspian MacCuill, Kevah Khortdad,
and Barron Silvio had made it abundantly clear I'd
eventually bow to their will or those closest to me would
suffer.
I'd left the college, my friends, and that life behind.
It was the only way to keep people safe. I had the
command of more magic than any one or dozen Magi
living. Normally that kind of power would've terrified
others if it had been anyone else. But everyone knew I
refused to harm others. A fact the Triad was able to use
against me time and again until I withdrew.
"You're strong, Gregori, more capable than most
people I know. What do you have to be afraid of?"
Why was Juan being a stubborn man? Anyone else
would've left me alone long before this point. I had to
make him leave. I adored him too much already and I
would be crushed if he came to harm.
"Fine," I snapped and glared when he grinned.
"First I must use the restroom and then I'll eat. If you're
still insistent with," my hand waved back and forth
between him and me "whatever you think this is, I'll
talk, but you'll need to wait."
I climbed out of the bed and walked nonchalantly to
the dresser for a pair of boxer briefs. I sensed his eyes
following me, and I flushed a soft pink before I could
escape to the bathroom. The exhale of relief echoed
noisily within the tiled space. I washed my hands after
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relieving myself and stood for a moment staring at my
reflection.
As the circumstances were now, I wouldn't leave
Tristan's tribe unless my hand was forced. It was my
fault the Triad would focus their attention on him. I'd
need to find some way to impede any retaliation Kevah
would no doubt perpetrate, and because of that I'd
probably be unable to escape death a second time. Juan
needed to understand I refused to allow another to be
harmed again because of me. If what I told him didn't
persuade him, then I'd be an asshole and chase him
away.
My heart twisted in my chest but I ignored the
sensation.
Game plan selected, I stepped back into the
bedroom. Juan wore the smallest pair of blue briefs I'd
ever seen. I nearly swallowed my tongue. On the bed sat
a breakfast tray laden with a decadent feast. The strong
scent of the mint tea made my mouth water. In the face
of food and a gorgeous man, the game plan was shelved.
I crawled warily on the mattress to sit cross-legged
facing the warrior and accepted the huge mug of tea.
Sipping the drink, I studied Juan as he ate. He had a
piece of toast waiting after I gulped half of the cup's
contents. I demolished the bread and everything else he
served to me. The fact that his hand fed me as much as
my own didn't escape my attention. I squashed the
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A New Beginning
pleasure of his attentiveness even as I opened my mouth
to take the peanut butter covered apple slice from his
fingertips.
I was playing with fire but I couldn't seem to help
myself.
"So, are you going to tell me why you keep pushing
me away?"
I chewed slowly, breakfast becoming a hard lump in
my stomach. I had a course of action to follow, also
known as being an asshole. "You witnessed what they
tried to pull. I didn't take you to be a dense man. I'm
going to have to reassess my opinion of you." Juan
laughed and shoved another slice of fruit into my mouth
to cut off the insult.
"I already know what happened. What I don't know
is why you're frightened. The Xenres sent a message to
the Triad and the Magi College. He's claimed you as his
own and you've seen how fiercely he protects us."
"There are more than just Kevah and Barron to
worry about. As leader of the Triad, Kevah commands
the loyalty of some of the strongest Magi the college has
to offer. He's ruthlessly pursued me since I came of age.
Tristan's threat will only stall him. With Caspian's death,
Kevah has been weakened now but eventually he'll
come for me again." I sipped my tea and stared as he
absorbed the information.
Meeting my eyes, he shrugged. "When he does,
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Lexi Ander
then we'll meet his challenge."
"You're an idiot. How the hell do you think I
acquired these scars? The last time he tried to force me
to join him, he almost killed. They dumped me on the
side of the road where I was found by a friend. Without
him I would've died." I scrubbed a hand through my
long hair.
"I was eighteen and had recently graduated to fourth
level of magics called a Sami, the youngest Magi written
history. Very few reach fourth level and when they do;
they're in their twilight years. Shortly afterwards, one of
the Triad, Barron, approached me attempting to coax me
to swear allegiance to Kevah and the Triad." My throat
constricted and the hollow in my chest burned as I
remembered. Unbidden, the words poured from me in a
story I'd long kept secret.
Barron had found me in the college's extensive
library where I'd been looking for information on fire
mages. I attempted to ignore him but he stepped close,
too close, and I immediately became uncomfortable with
his proximity. Everyone heard the rumors about Kevah's
jealous tantrums when Barron flirted. The man was
indeed beautiful, with straight chestnut hair that touched
his shoulders and sorrowful blue eyes. Of the three
members of the Triad, Barron was the least intimidating
and the one who would get you in the most trouble with
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A New Beginning
Kevah.
"He won't wait for your answer much longer."
Barron ran his fingertips over my cheek. It took every
ounce of willpower not to shy away from his lingering
touch. "Kevah's patiently allowed your meddling in the
college business but his tolerance is wearing thin."
I casually distanced myself from Barron, and
walked to the window overlooking the rose garden.
Presenting my back to him wasn't wise, but I was afraid
my anger would crack the carefully constructed façade
of nonchalance I wore. Some members of the college
were beyond corrupted, and young Magi who weren't
considered powerful had been mistreated.
"Those instructors deserved a worse fate than what I
gave them. As Sami my responsibility is the welfare of
all students, not just those who've curried favor." Maybe
I didn't have my temper under as much control as I'd
thought.
Barron laughed hoarsely behind me. "You actually
believe that? You're just an upstart teenager who's
become power drunk. Caspian was right. The time has
come to show you the consequences to your actions
when you work against the will of the Triad."
I spun and glared at him. "What's that supposed to
mean? I've done nothing to break College rules."
Barron stood in the doorway appearing almost
sad. "You're a foolish boy." He sighed deeply. "Come,
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Lexi Ander
there is something you must see."
Reluctantly I followed him through strangely empty
stone hallways and downstairs to the Hall of Discipline.
The underground amphitheater had been lit with torch
light. The granite benches climbed several tiers up the
carved walls. The students of the college filled every
available space.
In the middle of the floor a tall wooden post had
been erected. Two dainty wrists were chained to the iron
ring embedded in the pillar. The whistle of the whip was
the only sound until the end kissed the welted back of
the girl.
"What& " Shock had stolen my words.
"She struck Caspian. Assault on a member of the
Triad carries the penalty of fifty lashes," Barron replied
from beside me, his tone resigned.
I recognized the girl Karen my friend. She'd
continually turned down Caspian's advances. He'd
arrogantly refused to take no for an answer and hounded
her every time they crossed paths.
"She slapped him when he tried to force himself on
her." My voice was filled with all the disgust I harbored
for the Triad. "She cannot be disciplined for protecting
herself."
"If you were aligned with Kevah you could've went
to him for help."
I gave Barron a withering look. "I shouldn't need to
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A New Beginning
beseech the Triad's good graces for them right a wrong
or to protect the students in their charge." My hands
fisted as I refused to flinch at the sound of the next
swipe of the whip.
Barron huffed angrily. "That's not the world you
live in. Kevah rules here. All Magi abide by his statues
or they risk being declared rogue when they attempt to
leave. You cannot change the outcome."
The whip whistled again. Karen cried out, going
limp with only her bound wrist keeping her upright.
"The hell I do." I strode to the amphitheater floor.
"Caspian!" I spat. "Hold!"
The Magi had taken off his suit jacket and dress
shirt. Sweat glistened over his toned torso, dampening
his blond hair. He smirked at me as he swirled the tip of
the whip against the floor around his feet.
"Well, if it isn't the illustrious Sami who's decided
to grace us with his presence. We've a packed house
today. You might not be able find a seat."
"That's enough, Caspian. You've proven your point.
Look at her, she can't handle any more." I stalked
towards him. He held his ground but fear flashed across
his face before he could school his features.
"She drew blood." He pointed to a scratch on his
cheek. "You understand the college law. No one may
attack a member of the Triad for any reason."
"Self-defense can be declared," I countered.
25
Lexi Ander
"Only in front of the king, which we don't have."
Caspian grinned maliciously.
"Then her case can be argued before the Council of
Five."
"Elder Ion Argus declined the hearing." Caspian
circled the whip and I lunged forward and caught his
arm.
"How many more?" I asked through gritted teeth.
"Twenty-three," he responded, appearing
triumphant.
I knew Karen couldn't take much more. The smug
look on Caspian's face told me the asshole was aware of
fact as well. He'd break her if he could and I refused to
allow him the chance.
"I'll take them in her stead." My voice echoed
through the theater.
For the first time the audience reacted, murmuring
among themselves.
Barron stepped up to me. "Gregori."
"No, Barron, the swap is allowed. He's made his
choice." Caspian seemed almost giddy.
"Kevah said& " Barron interjected.
"Kevah's not here!" Caspian snapped.
I ignored them as I closed the distance to Karen,
stripping off my shirt as I went. A soft moaning cry
came from my friend. I pushed her thick brown hair
from her face.
26
A New Beginning
"Shh, now," I whispered. "I made him stop."
"No, Gregori, you can't take my place. This is what
he wanted," Karen warned.
"And I refuse to stand by while you take his abuse. I
won't leave you alone," I promised.
I draped the T-shirt over her bare back, whispering
apologies because I knew it had to hurt. She struggled to
rise. I grasped her under her arms and assisted her to her
feet.
"Come on Gregori, we don't have all day. Classes
are disrupted enough without you drawing this out."
I declined to acknowledge Caspian. Karen gripped
the chains above the shackles leaning against the post. I
used my larger frame to cover her, supporting her as I
was able before I reached up and grasped the iron ring.
"I'm so sorry," she sobbed.
"I'm not."
The whistle and snap sounded before the eruption of
pain bloomed. Again and again the whip licked a trail of
fire from the base of my neck to the small of my back. I
refused to give Caspian the satisfaction of my screams
and caged them behind clenched teeth. I lost count in the
fog of pain and yet I stayed still, protecting Karen,
knowing if I moved Caspian would strike her out of
spite.
It took a moment for me to realize the lashing had
stopped. The students were filing out of the room.
27
Lexi Ander
Barron pried my stiff fingers away from the iron ring.
My knees buckled and I slid to the floor. Sweat stung
my eyes as my body attempted to process the abuse my
back had taken. Barron unshackled Karen and drew her
away, helping her to slip into my T-shirt.
Hands roughly grasped me under the arms and
hauled me to my feet. Before I could protest, my wrists
were clamped in iron, and chained to the post as Karen
had been.
"Do you think I'd allow you to defy me in front of
the whole of the college and not exact a price from you
for your open defiance? Kevah wants your allegiance,
and by the Gods, you'll give your fidelity to him."
Barron held Karen in his arms, his face a blank
mask. She stared me with wide frightened eyes, too
weak to do anything to help me.
"This is not what Kevah said to do." A hint of fear
tinged Barron's voice.
"I swear if you can't shut up, Barron, "Caspian
snapped, "I'll get what Kevah wants. Watch and learn."
I pressed my forehead into the wood of the pole as
Caspian started again. I fought down panic, trying to
keep a clear head. The only thing I could do was wait for
Caspian to become exhausted. That was where I'd been
wrong. He didn't tire, the strike of the whip landed
harder, and the fire of its kiss more wicked. Agonized
screams filled the amphitheater as the torture continued
28
A New Beginning
and blood soaked the waistband of my jeans.
Every so often Caspian would stop and whisper to
me. "Do you give your vow, Sami?" He spat my title
with undisguised derision.
Each time I responded with, "Fuck you."
I didn't remember passing out but when I opened
my eyes, I hung limp from the shackles, the strain on my
shoulders a muted misery compared to the torment of
my shredded back. Within my line of sight, Barron and
Caspian wrestled for the bloody whip.
"You must cease!" Barron screamed. "You've
assured he'll never give his power to Kevah and if you
kill him, Kevah will murder us both!"
"I'll make him yield!" Caspian yelled.
"No, you won't because he cannot be broken. I've
already told the two of you that and yet you've ignore
my council." Barron shoved Caspian down retaining the
whip. "You should've listened to me. You've guaranteed
your fate with your stubbornness. I promise you, I won't
share in your punishment."
Karen cupped my face, her eyes red and swollen
from crying. With trembling fingers she pulled sweat
soaked hair away from my sight.
"I'm so sorry, Gregori," she cried.
"I'm not," I croaked, my throat sore, voice hoarse.
"I'll have my pound of flesh." Caspian grasped
Karen by her hair and pushed her aside. He pushed his
29
Lexi Ander
face close to mine, the stink of his sweat made me gage.
"Every tear she cries, every scream she gives me, each
time she begs for mercy, when I strike her, bleed her, all
of it is on your head. You could've stopped this but it's
too late. She'll be the one to pay your dues." A vicious
kick to my groin added a new agony and stole the air
from my lungs.
Karen fought, kicking, clawing, and biting as
Caspian hauled her away. I had no breath to call out, or
strength to make him stop. The magic kept slipping
through my fingers because I couldn't focus beyond the
haze of pain. The last thing I witnessed before I passed
out was Caspian beating Karen until her struggles
ceased and she went limp.
30
A New Beginning
CHAPTER THREE
I didn't remember how I'd come to be straddling
Juan's body, clutching him tightly to me with both arms
and legs. My chest ached and eyes burned from the
memories of the friend I couldn't save. Juan's low calm
voice whispered in my ear as he stroked my back from
shoulder to waist.
It took time for his actual words to penetrate my
sorrow. "You're with me now. I've got you and you
won't be alone anymore." I attempted to push away from
him but he refused to release me. "No more running,
Gregori."
"Gods, you are dense," I snapped without much
anger.
"Why, because I stayed?" He trapped my cheeks
between his palms, forcing me to face him.
"Karen was killed because I failed. I was stubborn
and selfish. I refused to bend to the Triad's will so
Caspian murdered her to make me pay. I wasn't strong
enough to protect her."
His thumbs wiped away tears I didn't know I cried.
"How would you been able to save her? You told me
they left you for dead. You aren't responsible for the
Triad's actions."
31
Lexi Ander
"Had I yeilded, Karen would be alive." The echoes
of her cries still haunted my dreams.
"Do you actually believe Caspian intended to spare
Karen? I don't. If you' given your allegiance you
wouldn't have been able to live with yourself. You
would self-destruct if you had surrendered to the
corruption of the Triad. You wouldn't be the man I've
come to admire if you had compromised your values to
travel the path they had laid out for you. Some things are
worth fighting for."
Juan dipped his head and brushed our lips together,
scattering my train of thought. How long had I waited
for a man to be interested in me? Not my strength in
magic. Not my body or my family name. Someone who
had enough constitution to stand boldly by my side, who
wouldn't hear the words I spoke but listened to what I
didn't voice? Would I allow that person to slip away?
Juan deepened the kiss and an unintentional moan
escaped my lips. The silky smooth texture of his mouth
called to me and I gave in and pressed into his body,
opening at his gentle coaxing.
The breakfast tray crashed to the floor when I fell
backwards, bringing him with me. I kissed him back,
fingers carded through his silky black hair. I locked my
legs around his waist, pulling him closer as my tongue
dueled with his, exploring him, tasting him. He was
voracious, delving deep, stealing my breath and
32
A New Beginning
stamping his name on my heart. He pulled away and
gazed into my eyes, he seemed determined.
"I won't push for more than you're willing to give
me. But you need to understand this one fact, I'm here to
stay. You can't chase me off, so quit trying."
I licked the taste of him from my lips. "I'm scared,"
I confessed.
"Only a fool wouldn't be."
I didn't argue with him.
I'd struggled with this attraction for him, just as I
fought the need for a tribe, for the closeness of friends,
and yet I'd found a new home with people who were
more my family than my blood relatives. I stared at a
man who carried the potential of a new beginning if I
had the courage to grasp onto him.
No, life was far from perfect. But I could see a
promise of something more when I gazed into his eyes.
Regardless of what he said, it was selfish of me to want
more when I realized Kevah would eventually hunt me.
I'd need to find strength to either walk away from him,
or I'd have to leave behind my reluctance for violence
to protect my tribe, my family, and those I was
beginning to love.
33
About the Author
Lexi has always been an avid reader and at a young
age started reading (secretly) her mother's romances (the
ones she was told not to touch). She was the only
teenager she knew of who would be grounded from
reading. Later, with a pencil and a note book, she wrote
her own stories and shared them with friends because
she loved to see their reactions. A Texas transplant, Lexi
now kicks her boots up in the Midwest with her Yankee
husband and her 80 lbs. puppies named after vacuum
cleaners.
Website:
http://www.lexiander.com
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/lexi.ander.9
Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/LexiAnder1
Blog:
http://lexiander.blogspot.com/
Email:
[e-mail]
Also by Lexi Ander:
Available from Silver Publishing:
SUMERIA'S SONS
Twin Flames
Songs of the Earth
Silver Short: A New Beginning #2.1
Dreams of the Forgotten
Starting Fires #3.1
Surrounded by Crimson
I.O.N.
Ruby Red Booty Shorts & A Louisville Slugger
Silver Presents: Love is Love (Leap of Faith)
Available through Self-Publication:
THE VALESPIAN PACT
Alpha Trine
Striker, Lord of Thunder (Coming Soon)
Reviews:
Twin Flames (Sumeria's Sons #1)
"This is an amazing initial entry of not only a new series,
but a new series by a new author. The very beginning of this
story grabs you, keeping a fevered measure of page turning.
& I found this a unique take on the paranormal story, with
obviously more to come. Highly recommended."
 Lucy, 5 out of 5 Hearts, Hearts on Fire Reviews
"So some advice to you readers& read this book! This
book is brilliant and a fantastic beginning to an awesome
series which I am going to be glued to for its uniqueness. &
The storyline and plot hold your attention until the last page
and you cry out 'no keep going, I want more!'
 Pixie, 5 out of 5 Hearts, MM Good Book Reviews
"I cannot wait for book #2, Songs of the Earth, if It is as
good as Twin Flames I will be a very happy reader. Lexi
Ander has written a very, very good book& Highly
recommended reading for those who like mystical,
mythology, shifter, M/M, paranormal, friends to lovers and
some cowboys thrown into the mix. Seriously works like a
charm."
 On Top Down Under Book Reviews
Reviews
"The storyline is fast paced and full of information. It is
engaging and dramatic. Nothing in this story is predictable,
save the relationship between Tristan and
Ushna& I highly recommend Twin Flames to anyone in need
of a new twist on the paranormal genre, and even if you just
plain love paranormals I have a feeling you will love this
book too."
 4.75 of 5 Stars, Joyfully Reviewed
"I thoroughly enjoyed every single aspect of this story!
If you like legends and old mysteries, if you enjoy tales with
more twists and turns than chapters in the book, if you want a
very hot and emotionally fulfilling love story on top all of
that go buy this book! I loved reading it and cannot wait for
the sequel!"
 Rainbow Book Reviews
Songs of the Earth (Sumeria's Sons #2)
"This series started as an epic fantasy/paranormal drama,
and continues to progress into the arena of inventive, new
worlds with their own rules. I thoroughly enjoyed all of this
second story! If you like ancient legends brought to life in a
modern way, if you enjoy tales with a mix of devious and
delightful twists and turns, and if you are ready to suffer and
triumph along with the main characters, then by all means, go
and buy this book! Again, I cannot wait for the next sequel!"
 Rainbow Book Reviews
Reviews
"Songs of the Earth is beautifully crafted. The main
character a delight. The secondary characters are equally well
developed& It was better than Twin Flames (Sumeria's Sons
#1), and that was a very good book. If you like shifter,
mythical elements, sexy men, some cowboys, some action,
intrigue, and wonderful characters that you just cheer for,
then It is all here. I highly recommend Songs of the Earth. I
am certain you will love it."
 On Top Down Under Book Reviews
"This story is wonderful, it flows brilliantly and it pulls
you in, making you turn the next page wanting more of this
incredible series& makes you envisage that you are standing
there as the enemy charges toward you, had your heart
pounding along with Tristan's as he fights the urge to make
Ushna his in every way and makes your throat tight as
Tristan realizes that his life is changed forever. God damn but
I love this series& so unique and refreshing; I really cannot
wait for the next book.
 5 of 5 Hearts, MM Good Book Reviews