Forever Changed (The Mystic Wolves) (13 page)

“What?” The surprised question came from all directions—Mason, Devlin, Daniel, and me.

“Please don’t be alarmed. I’ve seen this method used before and it is most effective. We’ll be embedding a powerful binding symbol below Darcy’s skin. The exact location will be your choice.”

“And this will work?” I asked.

“I believe so. While we can’t reenact the mark that appeared on your skin when you were born, it follows a similar concept. I believe it will trick your magic and lull it into silence and control.”

“At this point, I’m willing to try anything.”

“Will this stop the power beacon signaling Julian?” Mason spoke up.

“Yes. He can’t find what he can’t sense. For extra precaution,
though, I would still be careful.” Holding her hood’s fabric between her fingers, Helena glanced over at Christina. “Come, child. Complete our circle.”

Christina pushed by us, accepting another robe, and
joined the other members around the altar.

“You could’ve warned me,” I whispered to Devlin.

“She was born a witch, but was converted in her mid-twenties. She’s actually related to Sarah Good, one of the witches hanged during the Salem witch trials,” Devlin replied. “For the longest time, she was angry and bitter over how her family had been treated, hell-bent on revenge. That’s how we met. Zane saw great potential in her, but needed to temper her rage. He sent me to mentor her and show her justice is much more satisfying than vengeance.”

“Seems you showed her a lot more than that,” I murmured, elbowing him gently.

“I don’t kiss and tell, Darcy.” He chuckled.

“Thank goodness for that
. I don’t want the image of my uncle bumping uglies in my head!”

Devlin groaned, shaking his head at my comment. “I swear you say the damnedest things.”

“But it’s the truth.” The ritual was almost ready to start. “So, why is she still with the coven?”

“Because
now she’s sensitive to both groups. She’s proven a great mediator when needed.”

“Do you miss her? You know, for when you get . . . lonely
?”

“I’m so not going to answer you. Besides,
it looks like we’re about to start.” Sure enough, Helena was gesturing for us to join her around the altar.

“You too, Mason. Your blood will be needed for this as her mate and Alpha.” The three of us approached, leaving Daniel to lean against the doorway and observe. “The spell calls for a power connection to the recipient as well as their own life essence. It will give the spell something to grasp hold of and heighten the chances of success. Please, if you will, cut the end of your finger and offer the chalice five drops.”

Devlin went first, followed by Mason, neither making a sound as they silently counted out the required amount. Holding the knife in my hand, I didn’t wait for doubts to surface, as I sliced a small line and quickly added my blood to the ingredients. “Is that all that’s needed?” I asked, sucking on my finger to take away the sting.

“Yes,
Darcy. Thank you. If you’d like to rejoin your friends, the rest of the ritual is for the coven and me. It won’t take long and then we can progress to the next step.”

Mason wrapped his arm around my waist, and we left the altar. The moment we passed the last member, they closed ranks, forming the perfect circle with Helena securely in the center. As much as it intrigued me to see someone other than Vivien practice magic, there was no denying I was content being excluded from this. The last two times had been brutal and I was happy to
play the part of spectator.

“Let us begin.” Helena’s voice took on an ethereal tone of authority
, now. Holding the chalice in the air, she swayed back and forth with her eyes closed, her followers doing the same.

Blessed Mother, Goddess of all

I ask that you receive my call

Sanctify this potion new

Add to it your essence, your magic true.

In your name, our hearts beseech

Hide this child from evil’s reach

Strengthen this spell and powers bind

Make it hard for him to find.

Through blood and ink and humble desire

Through victory over refining fire.

Bless this spell and silence power

Once below the skin, within the hour.

So hear our plea, grant us now

Your loving grace on us endow.

So let it be, so mote it be.

By heaven and earth.

Grant this unto me.

Helena swirled her hand through the air and it was hard not to gasp as rose petals twirled from the jar
where they were stored and encircled the chalice before gently descending inside. Next, she carefully dropped sweet smelling oil from vials into the potion, all the while muttering something under her breath. Once she was done, she pierced her finger, adding the final ingredient of her own blood to the mixture.

“It is done. All that needs
to happen now is for the light of tonight’s moon to shine on it for an hour, then it will be ready to use. Blessed be, everyone. Blessed be.” With the ceremony over, coven members began disrobing, exiting the room to go back to whatever they were previously doing. Christina stopped briefly to talk with a tall, dark haired man and I couldn’t help feel a little annoyed on Devlin’s behalf. Even though I didn’t know the full story, I wanted him to be happy.

“So
, what should we do while we wait?” Mason asked, once Helena joined us.

“I’ll have someone show you to your rooms where you can freshen up and relax. Once it’s ready, we’ll take you to Chunk.”

“Chunk?”

Helena laughed. “My son. Why he chose that as his tattooist name, I have no idea
; but that’s what he prefers being called. Personally, I think Michael is a lovely name.” She shrugged her shoulders; clearly showing this was a frequent topic of discussion. “I say, be ready in an hour and a half.”

“Sounds like a plan. Thanks,” I replied.

Looked like I had a date with Chunk.

Chapter 13

The Ink Bomb was just how I’d imagined a tattoo parlor to be. Mason and Devlin were worried about being vulnerable and questioned Helena’s choice in not having her son simply come to the house. Apparently, Chunk didn’t always approve of what his mother did, but he owed a favor. Eyeing the storefront, the neon sign turned off, I couldn’t help but wonder if he’d backed out and gone home.

“Are we sure he knows we’re coming?” I whispered, unsure.

“He’s inside. He knows better than to disappoint me,” Helena answered. “The store is closed for the evening, but he’ll be in the back, waiting. Let’s go.”

Devlin and Christina led the way, like my own mini swat team, checking to make sure nothing was waiting in the shadows to jump out and surprise us. The parlor was one of five shops in a small string of stores, conveniently located off the main street in Salem. It had only taken a few minutes to drive here and if I hadn’t known what to look for I would’ve gone right past it. With all the lights off, it didn’t stand out. Hopefully this wouldn’t take long and then bye-bye beacon.

Moments after knocking on the door’s glass window, a young guy, with
short brown hair, unlatched the deadbolt. He eyed us suspiciously until he saw his mother; then he nodded his greeting and ushered us inside, locking up behind us.

“Thanks for seeing us so late, Michael.”

“No worries. This will settle the debt between us, right?” So far he hadn’t acknowledged the rest of us awkwardly standing there.

“It does. The slate will be wiped clean,” Helena answered. “Until the next time you need me.”

Michael ignored his mother’s somewhat sarcastic comment and extended his hand. “Hey, I’m Chunk. Welcome to Ink Bomb. I heard one of you needs a tattoo?” He glanced at each of us, before settling his attention on me. “I’m guessing you?”

I raised my hand, chuckling nervously. “Yep, that would be me. I’ve never had one before; so, yeah . . .” I didn’t know how wise it was to tell him I hated needles.

“Well, you’ll be fine. I promise to be gentle.” He winked and I tried not to roll my eyes when Mason growled low beside me.

“Sorry,” he muttered, sheepishly. “We appreciate you keeping your store open to help us. I don’t know how much your mother told you, but this is extremely important.”

Chunk gestured for Mason to stop. “Say no more. The less I know, the less I’m involved. I’m just happy to help out, especially seeing I’m working on virgin skin.”

Mason growled again, forcing Daniel to place a warning hand on his leader’s shoulder. “Dude, chill. Possessive much?”

Watching Mason carefully, Chunk frowned, unsure of what was happening. “Sorry, my husband seems to have forgotten his manners.”

“Werewolf, right?”

“Alpha,” I added.

“Then this should be fun.” Chunk extended his hand again, this time holding it in front of Mason until he shook it. “I mean no disrespect, man. I’m used to talking a certain way with clients is all. I promise everything’s above board and all I’m interested in is helping you guys out. My mom called saying you needed a magical tattoo. I’m the guy for that. Best tattooist in the state.” He beamed proudly. “No need to sweat it.”

Mason rubbed his fingers through his hair, clearly embarrassed. “Sorry, I’m just a little on edge. I know you mean no harm. Again, thank you for doing this. You’re helping to keep my wife safe. If there’s anything I can ever do for you, let me know.”

Chunk nodded and then clapped his hands, looking back at me. “Well, you ready?”

“Yes,” I gulped, following him into the store. The room had so much character—drawings and funny signs were hung all over the wall. My favorite part, however, was the back end of a pink Cadillac that served as a couch for people to sit and wait. Daniel was already inspecting the different tattoo designs while Devlin and Christina were quietly laughing over the sign that requested extra money for complaining. I had a good feeling about this place. It was clean and organized, Chunk obviously knowing his business.

Chunk guided me over to a padded bench, patting the surface for me to take a seat. “Do you know what design you want and where you want me to put it?”

Mason and Helena stood beside me. The coven leader pulled out a piece of paper with a sketch drawn on it. “We need the quaternary.” She handed over a vial filled with dark liquid. “And this is the ink you must use.”

Chunk lifted it up to the light, studying it carefully. “So the four-cornered Celtic knot with blessed ink.” He let out a loud whistle. “You don’t mess around with your magic, Mom.”

“No, son. It’s important Darcy’s protected.”

“Then let’s get to work.” Placing the drawing and ink down on his workbench, he smiled. “So, where would you like it? Arm, leg, back, shoulder?” With each word, Chunk placed his hand on his own body. “I don’t think it matters where or how big. But, if you’re wanting it on your main torso, you’re going to have to . . . you know . . . take your . . .” He pointed at my shirt.

“Can I get it on my wrist?” I blurted out, before Mason’s head exploded. He knew it was necessary, but no newly mated wolf liked the idea of someone else touching his wife’s body.

Thank you
, Mason sighed with relief.

You’re welcome. Breathe, okay? You’re making me nervous.

I didn’t think this would bother me
, he admitted through our connection.

Do you need to go somewhere else?

I’ll be fine. Thanks for making it easier.

“Wrist will work. What I’ll do is make a transfer and we’ll position it where you want. I’ll stain the pattern on your skin, and then I’ll start using the ink. It should take
about forty-five minutes at the most.”

“Sounds good.” The slight tremor in my voice betrayed my fake confidence.

Chunk moved about the room getting everything he needed, explaining that all his equipment was sterilized and the needles were brand new. As he explained each step and what to expect, I started to relax, caught up in his friendly banter. He also engaged Mason into our conversation, something I was grateful for; and before long, they were both talking about sports.

Glancing around, the others had given up their exploration and were now quietly sitting on the couch, talking amongst themselves—no doubt plotting our next move. It didn’t escape my notice the way Devlin and Christina sat close, and it made me wonder just how lonely Devlin really was. He wasn’t someone who talked openly about his relationships, never traipsing his latest conquest in front of everyone. It had me believing that he kept to himself a lot, putting his job as an Enforcer first in his life. It was good to see him with Christina and, even though I didn’t know all the details, I secretly hoped there would be some “alone time” for them. The look of adoration she tried to hide from her eyes told me the female Enforcer wished for the same.

Are you matchmaking again, sweetheart?

No. Maybe. Fine, yes. Don’t you think Devlin needs . . .
I couldn’t bring myself to finish the sentence. Knowing he was my Uncle now had added a new level of weirdness when it came to thinking of him in a sexual way.

Mason’s chuckle filtered through our mental link. He obviously felt my discomfort and found it amusing.

“Okay, it’s time,” Chunk interrupted. “I need you to lay your hand here and keep it steady. I can’t stress that enough. You can’t move or flinch.”

I did as I was told, watching as he printed the pattern on my left wrist. I couldn’t help but jump at the buzzing noise that filled the air when he switched on the tattoo gun. Taking a deep, steadying breath, I braced myself for the unknown.

“I’m right here,” Mason soothed. “If it gets too much, I’ll help keep you distracted.”

All I could do was nod, last minute fear threatening to shatter my resolve and leave me fleeing the parlor.

“You’ll be fine, Darcy. I promise. It’ll feel weird at first—a sting, but you’ll adjust to it and then it’ll just feel like a bad sun burn.” Chunk lowered the magnifying goggles and gripped my wrist gently. Hovering the gun over my skin, he tightened his hold momentarily and began.

“Breathe, sweetheart,” Mason reminded. I hadn’t known I’d stopped.

“You doing okay?” Chunk asked again, not stopping as he began tracing over the pattern.

“Yeah, it’s not as bad as I thought it would be. It’s not the best feeling in the world, but I’ve handled worse.”

“I hear that a lot. The mind’s a powerful thing. It can have you imagining all kinds of stuff. Because people usually don’t have anything to compare it to, they start thinking they’ll pass out from pain.” Chunk laughed. “Trust me, if it was that bad, I wouldn’t have gotten half the art I have.”

He was wearing a black tank with jeans and I studied the full sleeves he had down both arms. “Wow, how long did they take to do?” There was so many images mixed together—stars, cross, skulls, and Celtic bands.

“It took a while. I had each piece added in over time. I also have stuff on my back, as well.”

“Wow.” I was amazed.

“What can I say? I’m addicted. Most people are. Don’t be surprised if you decide to get a second tattoo. Once you start, it’s easy to get hooked.”

I laughed out loud. “How about we see how this one goes?” What I didn’t add was I was already wondering about getting Mason’s name somewhere on my body, somewhere just for him to see.

Somewhere I can kiss . . . lick.
I glanced up and met his gaze, my skin flushing hotter than the ink gun from the desire I saw in his eyes.

“Is there anything special we need to do to care of it, once you’re done?” Mason asked, enjoying himself now he had me hot and bothered.

“There is. I’ll give you some lubrication and instructions before you leave.” Chunk didn’t look up, his hand steady as he wiped away blood droplets before pressing the gun’s needle against my skin again. “So what do you know about this symbol?”

I shrugged. “Not much, other than I like the design. I’m assuming that it holds special meaning. I know most Celtic things do.” Chunk peeked up at me quickly. “I know, I know. I should know a lot more than that. In my defense, I only just found I needed one.”

“Well, the quaternary, or four-sided Celtic knot, is mostly used for protection and, because some say it resembles the four leaf clover, for good luck. I’m pretty sure that’s why my mom chose this symbol. It also invokes the four elements, as well, for an added boost.”

“You seem to know a lot. Are you a witch, too?” The muscle in his jaw clenched, revealing I’d struck a nerve. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to intrude.”

“You’re not. It’s an easy assumption to make considering who my mom is. I learned a lot of this stuff growing up and even though I have powers, I choose not to use them for personal reasons. It drives my mom insane; but hey, I am who I am.” Chunk paused to dip the needle into the blessed ink, studying what he’d done so far. “This is going to look wicked when it’s done. I like the placement, too.”

We talked back and forth; Mason joining in occasionally, until finally the tattoo was completed. Everyone came over to inspect it, commenting on how well it turned out.

“Now all we need to do is activate it and you should become hidden,” Helena said, nodding her head with approval. “Christina, if you would join me, it shouldn’t take but a few moments.” Grabbing my wrist carefully, Christina placed her hand underneath Helena’s. I wanted to thank Chunk, but he’d already removed his used instruments and disappeared into the back room.

Chanting a few words under their breath over and over, the tattoo began to tingle, and then burn, as a soft glow overwhelmed the black ink. I wanted to touch the spot, scratch it or something, to alleviate the discomfort. It continued to flare brighter and brighter until Helena and Christina grew silent—the tattoo and the spell officially completed.

“So, that’s it? Darcy’s powers are bound again? Julian can’t hone in on her magic?” Devlin asked, leaning forward to study my glowing tattoo. “This is what your mark did when you were born.”

“But this time, it won’t take a few days to subside.”

“How long?” Mason asked before I could.

“
About five minutes. The magic just needs to resettle. But, you’re safe. Everything went according to plan and the tattoo looks good. I didn’t feel any disturbance sealing the ink to your skin. Congratulations, Darcy.”

A huge sigh of relief coursed through me and I broke out into a goofy grin. Finally, we were heading in the right direction; and I felt better knowing I wasn’t some blaring neon sign telling Julian, “Here I am, come get me.” The odds had just increased in our favor.

“Thank you.” I smiled, sliding off the bench to hug her. “Thank you for helping me —you, your coven, and your son.”

“It was my pleasure,” Chunk answered, coming from the back room. Handing me my aftercare package, he gave my wrist one last look. “Let me know if it needs touching up, okay? I don’t mind coming out to you if you’re not still in the area.”

“Will do.” It was time to leave and head home to Woodside Hollow. “You’re welcome to visit us any . . .”

Pain drove me to my knees, robbing me of breath, and my arm felt like it was submerged in acid. Screaming in agony, I flailed onto the floor, unable to control my body as everything went black.