THE LAST SECRET KEEPER Secret Keeper series books 1-4

CHAPTER 9

Lanecea met Hans' eyes for a moment over Herja's head before Lani stood, stepping toward the edge of the dais. Men stepped out of the shadows, wearing uniforms that matched Hans', before, as one, taking a knee in front of the goddess. These men were feared throughout the far corners of the earth, serving the woman standing before them who no longer hid exactly who she was. The warriors didn't lower their eyes, however, as their shout, "Hail victory!" caused the ground to shake while streaks of pale blue lightning struck each of those bowed before the queen directly behind her soldiers' backs. No one cried out in pain, however, as the symbol Herja had kissed was seared into cocks and pussies, the goddess marking her territory as she stood before those who worshiped her. Out of Lanecea's companions on the dais, only Herja received the brand on her pussy, the others remaining untouched although Revna checked her pussy twice just to be sure, already jealous of her mother. Revna was incredibly astute and in sync with her Goddess Mamma, and was very disappointed Lanecea refused to brand her as well.

"Stop pouting, Revna," Thorson warned for the second time that evening, her brother containing more of the divine in his blood than his sister. "Lani gave you a brand too - only gods can see it though."

"Is it on my pussy too?"

"No, Silly. It's right here..." Thorson pointed to Revna's heart which made his sister glow with happiness.

"Hail victory!" The men shouted once more in unison as they stood like a wave, saluting the woman who no longer would hide, a smile kissing their lips as Goddess Lanecea's eyes transformed into an incredible shade of velvety blue.

"Hail victory!" They roared for a third time as Lani's wolves leaped from the dais, the familiars carrying out their Wolf Charmers' silent orders as fog filled the room, rising higher and higher until it was difficult to see a few inches in front of your face, only the men saluting their queen untouched by the magical mist.

Hans looked over at Storm, the man Lanecea's Secret Keeper mother had promised her unborn child to in a promise made between best friends, unaware of the treachery within the goddess' heart. He'd heard the rumor, of course, that the vow had been passed down to Storm's firstborn son after the gods had discovered Storm's foolish decision, but it was just a rumor. Tonight, however, could change everything. Hans turned his attention away from father and son as they flanked Lanecea just as a man entered the great hall, the air static with electricity as he approached the dais.

Wolfstein smiled at Lanecea as their army stood at attention, his blue eyes, which were identical to hers, gleaming with pride.

"You've had your fun, Lanecea. It's time."

Lanecea didn't argue with the man who reached for her hand, not that she ever would have questioned his authority as Wolfstein turned to face the gathering, stretching out his right hand as blue electricity shot through the earth, circling the sacred groves throughout the four corners of the earth before snaking along the borders separating territories. Dryads, armed to the teeth, moved into position at Wolfstein's silent command, the leader of the Black Sun warriors commanding both the seen and parallel worlds, his authority making even the underworld tremble.

"This must be the young man you mentioned," Wolfstein turned away from the guests at last, before smiling at Thorson, giving the young man his full attention. "You were correct, Hans. He is perfect."

Thorson had no idea how huge a compliment it was, but said, "Thank you."

Wolfstein tenderly caressed Revna's cheek with his thumb while searching her eyes next.

"You are fearless, Young Lady. I will instruct Eva to begin your training immediately. Hans has brought me your reports, Lanecea. They are very thorough, but you have been far too distracted. Now that I have taken care of that issue, I need you to be more focused. The common who have returned to the ancient paths will also be able to see your children now, as well."