“Get in there!” The guard said while shoving his captive into a small room. He then locked the door behind him, leaving the ancient Star standing in the dark. Instead of panicking, Arkaminus slowly and gently sat down in the corner. He crossed his legs then closed his eyes, trying to focus on Sky’s energy. He was relieved to see one of his strongest children, however, this was not the time for a meet and greet. Technically, none of the Angels have met Arkaminus. Since he governs the power of the Star Lord, he knows every detail about his Angels. It's more of a feeling than a tool to pry. To have the power of the Star Lord is to have a fraction of the power of an Ancient.

  Once Jordy made it through the gate of Boro’s entrance, he quickly made his way to a hardware store. There was no need for Blacksmith’s in this town; people assisted the machines who took care of the labor. Sky, however, did not want to follow. She couldn’t get the thought of seeing Arkaminus out of her mind. Besides, deep down Sky feels like she needed to stay focused now more than ever. Last night’s ‘events’ were completely unexpected and threw Sky into a whirlwind of confusion. She knew she had to get ‘close’ to Jordy. However, sleeping with him was not a part of her plan per say. There was no denying that it was incredible and intense.

  Sky needed to find a reasonable excuse to break away from her companion. She needed to find out what was going on and why the Ancient Star was here. She told Jordy she would meet up with him later after she found a place to quickly wash up. “Just be careful, ok. Boro is not a place for the weak...” Jordy walked up to Sky before they parted ways. “If you go straight down that road and turn left, you’ll see the street sign Jess Ave. Next to it is a huge hotel named Paradise. Go in there and tell them I sent you. The people there should take care of you from there.”

  Sky stepped closer so he could hear. People rushed by as vehicles zoomed past in all directions. Shouting seemed inevitable, “How long are you going to be? I’m assuming you're going to get a ride back to the wagon?”

  “Maybe a few hours? I have to leave the wagon at my aunt’s house anyway. After I leave there, I’ll be all yours.” Jordy leaned down and kissed Sky on the forehead. “Trust me this is the last thing I want to be doing right now, but those supplies have to get back to Freeland. Oh, and I almost forgot to tell you. Originally, I reserved two rooms and well… um, it’s up to you if you want to keep it that way. I’m not implying anything, I’m just…”

  Sky placed her index finger on his lips, making Jordy stop talking. “I know what you’re trying to say. I’ll meet you up later…”

  He grinned while taking her hand then kissed the inside of her palm. “See you soon.”

  As soon as Sky was clear, she dashed towards the brick building where she saw Arkaminus. The building was small and looked abandoned. It definitely was not building the public used. After turning a few corners, Sky ran past the hotel Jordy had mentioned, Paradise. She looked up, trying to find the street sign Jordy had mentioned. A small blue and white sign hung above the four-way street, and it read Jess Ave. Good enough for me... Sky ran and once more quickly turned the corner, ending back at the entrance of Boro. She scanned the nearby buildings and there it was... Three guards dressed in full black military uniforms stood near the rundown front doors.

  Sky ran around towards the back-alley way and found the back door. Of course, it was locked. Heating her finger up to bright orange, Sky jammed her finger into the deadbolt, melting the lock away. The metal door slowly crept open to a dark, pitch black space. Something seemed off about this building... Something didn’t feel right. Just as Sky was about to walk into the unknown, she felt the overwhelming sting of the Essence Stones.

  “Stop!” Arkaminus voice once again appeared in Sky’s head. “If you walk into this building, you will not be able to leave.”

  The Ancient Star’s voice echoed in Sky’s head as she heard guards fumbling inside around the corner. She quickly took a few steps back towards the alleyway and realized the walls were aligned with deadly blue metallic rocks. “Your Highest One, I am here to get you out of here.”

  “No. It’s a trap. They want you to come and rescue me.” He tried to explain.

  Sky scratched her head unsure what to do. “Sir, I can’t leave you here... It's too dangerous. My sister and I have been looking for you for weeks now. Our father, Councilman Esio sent us to retrieve you and the rest of the captured Star Children.”

  Arkaminus interrupted. “You must. The human leaders do not have what it takes to harvest my essence. Only an Ancient can dispose of another...”

  “I don’t understand, we were sent here to...” A hard realization hit Sky like it was a real physical manifestation. “They want us... This whole kidnapping has been about luring us to one place. The rebels want the Angels of Death to create a strong Essence Stone. My father sent us on this mission to be trapped. He knew the Star Lord’s power is...”

  “Is to be a part of an Ancient. All three of you girls are a part of me and no, your father is a very loyal servant to the Counsel. That’s why he sent you in secret... Esio is starting to see the truth for himself as well.” Arkaminus’ voice started to fade into a whisper in Sky’s head. “My daughter, I don’t have much time remaining, so I need you to listen carefully. The essence that dwells in me is failing, and the body I am in will soon fade away. Everything I have foreseen so far has come to past... The captured Star Children do not have much time left.”

  Sky dodged being seen by one of the guards patrolling the building. “Sir, I’ve been trying to find them. Do you know where they are located?”

  “Somewhere nearby... I have yet to see any of them since my captivity. I can feel them though they can’t be far away. I overheard one of the guards speaking the other day. They said tomorrow night the human rebel leaders will host a party and afterwards they will be announcing a new weapon. Something they believe will help them win this war against us.” Arkaminus sounded weak and frail.

  The dots were starting to connect in Sky’s mind. Everything was beginning to make sense now. “Sir, we received some not-so-good intel about the rebellion. Queen Nira is helping the rebels along with her son and Luna, the Child of Chaos.” Sky put her head down when she mentioned her sister’s name. She pushed down the anger than refocused her attention. “At the moment, my Highest One, we don’t know who all is involved from our side.”

  There was a long pause before Sky could hear Arkaminus again. The guard patrolling the area started making their rounds again. “I know about Nira... She’s the one orchestrating the rebellion. Lurking in the shadows like a spider waiting for its food. Unfortunately, she isn’t the only one who pushes for reform. Nira and her followers believe I killed the love of her life, Ephrim, along with many others. Nothing I say will convince them otherwise. As for Luna, don’t be so quick to count her out just yet.” Arkaminus coughed hard into his hand. His breathing became heavy as if he was struggling. “My Child, I have another message for you. What I have to say is pertaining only to you.”

  Sky quickly looked around then ducked down in a corner so she could concentrate. “I’m listening, sir.”

  “The lad you are with. His destiny is intertwined with this war as it is for you and I.” Arkaminus’ knew his words were cryptic. He had to be careful not to reveal too much of the future.

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  “I’m not following.” Sky placed her hand on her forehead.

  “It doesn’t make sense to you now however it will towards the end. Violence and revenge only produce the need for more violence and revenge. Love is the answer, Sky. Love will end this once and for all... Last night was not a mistake. It was the beginning of a needed end. Don’t hold back from him and he will not hold back from you...” Sky was flabbergasted and started to blush. She was lost for words and didn’t know what to say.

  Arkaminus continued to explain. He gave her further instructions and things to look out for when looking for the captured others. His words echoed in her mind as she listened attentively to every word her superior was saying. Sky had low-key been given another assignment. One she didn’t quite understand or know how to execute just yet. “I have one more conversation that needs to be had before my time is up. Look for the house that dwells within the forest. There you will find the entrance to the mountains... Go. I have faith in you, my child.”

  Circling the building trying to avoid the guards was only going to last for so long. Sky didn’t want to leave Arkaminus but she knew at the moment that was impossible. Leaving empty handed gave her a sting that she couldn’t let go until she reached the hotel. Damn! What just happened right now? My whole plan just blew up in my face... Kahree’s going to be pissed! I was going to take out the guards first then free Arkaminus before anyone noticed. Boom. Done. Part one of the mission freaking complete, but no. Sky turned the corner and entered the Paradise Hotel. Arkaminus’ words were still ringing in her mind. Jordy’s destiny? Love? I can’t fall for him... I can’t fall in love with someone I’m supposed to end... I can’t, no I shouldn’t, but he is different though.

  The hotel’s main lobby was enormous for the main entrance. There were couches next to a fireplace and even a wet bar to the left of the reception desk. Sky walked to the desk to check in. The receptionist mentioned a second room. To her own surprise, Sky told the employee to cancel the second room and put them together in one room. She made her way to the reserved room and to her surprise, it was actually really nice.

  The receptionist mentioned that the rooms Jordy reserved were owned by the LaGon family. Every time they came to Boro these are the rooms everyone stayed in. This hotel room was definitely next level classy compared to Freeland’s taverns. It was decked out with modern technology and AI features to assist the guests without needing to call the front desk. The carpet was freshly cleaned with newly furnished furniture and decor. Sky felt like she had walked into a room specifically reserved for royalty. A place one of the Twelve Queens would reserve... High class everything.

  After Sky gave herself a tour, she stepped outside to the balcony for some air. With a freshly new joint rolled in hand, Sky was able to examine the compact city of Boro. Throughout her years as an Angel, Sky never really took the time to appreciate her surroundings. She was always focused on the mission. Always on her target... She didn’t see the need to enjoy anything about her target’s home. Whether they were rich or poor, they were already dead to her. She didn’t waste time getting to know any of them besides what she needed to know. It wasn’t until she was forced to go under cover that she started to pay attention. When Jordy told Sky she ‘did something to him’, she understood that completely. Jordy was something special and Arkaminus saw it too. Falling for Jordy would go against everything she was taught and told to do. It was Kahree who liked to ‘play with her food’ like a cat and a fresh kill. She liked to toy with her targets and make it out of a game for her entertainment. Not Sky... She believed in companionship.

  A few moments later, Sky heard the keypad open to the door. When she turned around, Jordy flashed a smile when he saw her inside his room. “So, you made your choice?” They slowly walked towards one another. Him looking down at the girl he admired.

  “I did...” Sky replied while returning the smile. A warm feeling went through her body causing more confusion than expected. Her mind screamed, no stay focused. Her body said otherwise...

  “Good... I want to take you out. Come there’s much to see.” Jordy grabbed Sky’s hand and darted towards the door. Once they were outside the hotel, a burst of light lit up the night sky. Rows of streetlights filled the streets lighting the path for the vehicles. Crowds of people filled the sidewalks and local businesses. Boro almost felt like home to Sky...

  The two went to a prestigious restaurant and drank delicious wine with their fancy entries. Afterwards, Jordy took Sky to his favorite coffee shop and bakery. He bought a box of homemade muffins that were made from scratch. Next, the farmer’s market. Sky had never seen an outside market still open in the middle of the night. They explored a variety of fruits and vegetables as well as the handmade jewelry.

  A short round merchant saw Sky looking at a pair earrings and decided to make his move. “Those would look so nice on you. A pretty lady such as yourself, these earrings would make the other ladies jealous...” He gave Sky a smug grin as she continued to examine them.

  Once she saw the price, her eyes widened. “Whoa... these are beautiful but out of my price range, sorry.” Sky flashed the merchant a smile before gently setting the earrings back on the tray. Jordy saw the whole exchange from another booth. Instead of rushing to her side, he decided to stay back and listen. An idea came to his mind...

  On the way back to the hotel, Jordy and Sky laughed and joked about the others at the marketplace. It was interesting to see an outside market that big. Hundreds of people filled the street that was blocked off for the remainder of the night. As they walked along the streets, Sky asked, “Why didn’t we stay at your aunt’s house? Could have saved you some money.”

  Jordy huffed and looked away, “Yea, but I like my privacy. My aunt and her people like to drink and party. It’s all good until it's not if you get my drift. Tomorrow night, her and her fiancé are hosting a mask party and she invited us. They apparently have some big announcement to make.”

  Sky studied Jordy’s demeanor. He didn’t seem too interested in going, however Sky knew she had to go. “I’d be happy to go if you do... I think it would be silly for me to show up without you.”

  “Honestly, I’m having the best time of my life right now. When we go back to Freeland, everyone’s going to be in our business and...” Jordy’s tone sounded sad. Sky reached down and grabbed his hand.

  They stopped walking mid stride, pulling Jordy’s hand back. “Who said we have to tell anyone? I like my privacy, too. What I’m saying is, I’m ok keeping this between us if you’re ok with it too. I don’t like to kiss and tell.” She leaned in and kissed Jordy gently on the lips. “I just kiss...”

  Jordy smiled and replied, “Really good too, I might add. I’m glad you feel the same way. I fucking hate drama and gossip. There is a saying here in this town, you know. What happens in Boro, stays in Boro.”

  When they entered their hotel room, Sky kicked off her shoes and began to settle for the night. The last few days have been quite eventful. What she didn’t see was Jordy still standing by the door. He reached in his pocket and pulled out the pair of earrings Sky was interested in. They were a beautiful purple sapphire gem that was wrapping around with silver metal trimmings. The moment he saw them; Jordy knew why Sky liked them.

  Still with her back turned, Sky gawked again at the beauty of their penthouse style room. “I cannot believe you were going to have me stay in an enormous room like this by myself...” When she turned around, her eyes went straight to the pair of earrings dangling from Jordy’s hand. She slowly walked over to him while never breaking their gaze. “Are those?”

  “The earrings from the market, yea. I saw you put them back down on the tray. So, when you walked away, I went over and bought them for you.” Jordy explained as he offered Sky the earrings.

  That warm feeling overwhelmed her body, making her heartbeat faster. “They were very expensive, Jordy. I don’t even know what to say... No one has ever been so kind to me as you are.”

  Jordy slowly caressed Sky’s cheek. “It’s my pleasure really. Besides, I knew that merchant and he owed me a favor. Now, I owe him one... I know this feels like it’s going a bit fast, but deep down it feels like I’ve known my whole life. You are truly one of a kind, just like these rare gem earrings. Someone like you is rare and very special. I care for you Sky and I want you to know that. I didn’t do all of this to get in your pants...”

  Again, Sky placed her finger over Jordy’s moving lips. “I know you didn’t do all of this ‘to get in my pants’.” She moved closer while keeping her finger still on his lips. “However, it’s working.” She leaned in and pulled Jordy down to her kissing, pressing his lips hard against hers.

  One thing quickly led to another... They had way more room this time than they did in the wagon. Jordy picked up Sky by her thighs and placed her on top of the counter in the mini kitchen. Still embraced, they continued to remove their clothes piece by piece, leaving a path to the bedroom. This time it wasn’t just one position; it was several. This time it didn’t last only for a few minutes; it lasted for hours. This time they made love for the first time and now there was no going back...