Syndrome of Mortality (Break of Breath Book 2) Read online

  Break of Breath:

  Book Name

  Book 2

  By

  Eden R. Souther

  Copyright © 2018

  Edenrsouther.com

  Copyright © 2018 by Eden R. Souther

  All rights reserved.

  ISBN-13: 978-1-945567-03-2

  Crystal Heart Imprints, Springfield, Illinois

  Dedication

  For Debora Clyde, who meant the world to me,

  and who deserved to get to read this book.

  I love you.

  Table of Contents

  Dedication

  Table of Contents

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Chapter 23

  Chapter 24

  Chapter 25

  Chapter 26

  Chapter 27

  Chapter 28

  Chapter 29

  Chapter 30

  Chapter 31

  Chapter 32

  Chapter 33

  Chapter 34

  Epilogue

  About The Author

  Other Books by Eden R Souther

  Chapter 1

  The sun smiled brightly from its resting spot upon the horizon on that July evening. Rays of golden splendor danced through the dusky cobalt sky. White fluffy clouds drifted aimlessly without worry or purpose. The happy atmosphere perfectly reflected how he was feeling. It was another gorgeous day. Summer suited the town of Seneal so very well. In the distance, a trainsport bellowed its steamy call. Birds sang out as they enjoyed their warm thermal ballets. If one moment could capture the true meaning of perfection, it was this.

  Ravin couldn’t help but admire the way his obsidian horns warmed. The effect of the shining sun combined with zero humidity was comfortable and relaxing. Standing out on the balcony of his apartment was just what he needed to quell the anxiety inside him. He was fully looking forward to the coming evening.

  Almost a year had passed since the destruction of everything good in the world had been narrowly averted. It seemed so long ago that Iraldin had tried to bring back the dark angel Fenriel. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he’d tried to do it in a way that would grant him power over her. A guy like that did not need a grenade, let alone a super-nuke like Fenriel.

  With every passing day, the incident was farther away. Though it was a scar on his memory, it was fading as better things came to pass. So much had changed since last autumn and they were so much for the better.

  Because of everything he’d had to do to stop Iraldin, Ravin had met new friends, and found himself more carefree than ever. This summer had been the best for as long as he could remember. He had a tight-knit group of friends with whom he got to spend time on a daily basis. They had done so many fun things, and the summer was only halfway completed. They had explored the Seneal forest, gone swimming many times, enjoyed afternoons shopping, and some nights they went drinking as a group. It seemed like a dream come true. What could be better? He looked back at the window and a sigh escaped his lips.

  Tonight would be exceptionally special.

  “Ravin, get your ass back in here,” the Summer elf, Letvan, called from inside the slider door.

  All of Ravin’s friends had gathered to help him prepare. For the first time in months, he felt like he was in over his head. He needed the moral support, even if they weren’t being overly supportive. He took in a final breath of the sweet fresh air before wandering back inside.

  Sitting on the open kitchen counter was his roommate and best friend, Kazun. The boy’s brown puppy-dog-like eyes were full of delight. On the couch was Letvan, who was lounging with his legs draped over his vampire boyfriend Xinalist’s lap. The Knight of the Summer Kingdom looked like the cat who had caught the proverbial mouse.

  “I don’t see why you’re so worked up.” Letvan was busy braiding his boyfriend’s long luxurious raven hair. His emerald gaze shifted to the demon. “You already got the hard part out of the way.”

  “I can’t remember the last time I had a legitimate date.” The demon scrubbed a hand over his face. “So, excuse me if I don’t want to ruin my shot with Michelle.” Ravin tangled his fingers in his hair and yanked a bit using the pain to bring a bit of clarity.

  Xinalist chuckled, his perfect fangs gleaming. “Oh please, Ravin.” He waved a hand. “It’s not something you suddenly forget.”

  From the counter Kazun added, “You’ve been hanging out with her a lot since…” He paused and bit his lip as he considered his next words, “… since it all happened. You shouldn’t worry, because no matter how bad the date goes, you guys will still probably be friends.” His almond shaped brown eyes twinkled.

  Ravin rolled his eyes. “You should both consider yourselves lucky that I don’t smack you upside the heads.”

  “What they’re trying to say,” Letvan sat up straight and elegantly crossed his long legs. “Is that it’s going to be fine. You two have founded a friendship based on mutual respect. You asked her out on an actual date, and she said yes. You will pick her up at seven, and the whole thing will go off without a hitch.”

  The knight gestured to Marius. “Take him for example. He almost killed Jo with a sword, and they’ve been together ever since.”

  Marius’ cheeks flamed in response as he hid behind a veil of his blonde hair.

  “Second example,” Letvan continued, pointing to himself. “I’m in a relationship with a man who wants to devour me on a silver platter and it is totally taboo in the eyes of my family and if they knew, I could get in big trouble.” He sighed dramatically, putting the back of his hand to his forehead. One eye opened and he looked at Xinalist. “No offence intended.”

  Xinalist looked down at his boyfriend and brushed the elf’s cheek. “It’ll just mean I have one more reason to eat you.” He winked and pulled Letvan up into his lap, then pressed a kiss into his neck.

  Ravin had to concede Letvan’s point. “If it does go wrong,” he forced a cocky smile. “I’m going go kick all your asses for giving me the worst advice ever.”

  Letvan’s expression warmed like the sun. He leaned into Xinalist, and pointed to Ravin’s bedroom. “Fine, fine. Go try on the outfits we brought over before we all age to dust.”

  The demon rolled his eyes, raising his hands in defeat. “Alright, alright.” He strode into his bedroom and looked down at the outfits that had been laid out meticulously. Leave it to the elf to be so orderly. Ravin had glanced over the clothes, yet, he couldn’t make himself focus on them. None of his friends really understood it. Michelle had initially hated him just for being a demon. Through their crazy adventure that had nearly resulted in both of their deaths several times, she’d lightened up about that. Truth be told, somehow she’d wormed her way into his thoughts in a way no one else ever had.

  Once they’d stopped the summoning of Fenriel, things had become normal again. Well, as normal as it could be after saving the world. Ravin could count the number of people who knew about that on one hand. During the events of the preceding Fall, he’d kissed her, twice.

  It hadn’t made things awkward between them. Since then, they’d been c
lose, despite Michelle and her younger sister Lian’s new angelic roommate. It wasn’t that the angel, Loviel, was against a friendship with the demon, or that he hated Ravin. There was just the small matter that historically, Angels had a habit of exterminating Demons.

  Nevertheless, Ravin was very grateful for Loviel. If not for him, they’d all be dead. If he had to be completely honest, Loviel was an awesome guy. In contrast, Ravin’s standing amongst his own kind wasn’t the most sterling. In fact, he only knew of one demon who still liked him: his boss, Sin.

  He was infinitely indebted to her at this point. She’d spent months helping him hide Kazun when there’d been a bounty on the human’s soul. Of course, it was only there because Ravin hadn’t collected it as part of a pact they’d made when Kazun was a boy. It wasn’t Ravin’s fault that he’d had a soft spot for Kazun. When the thought crossed his mind, he made a mental note to get better armor. He had too many weaknesses when it came to humans.

  Sin wasn’t just his boss in spirit. For the last six months he’d been a manager at her bar, Sinsation.

  At length, Ravin pulled off his shirt, careful to not puncture the fabric with his horns. Then, he tried on the first of the combinations. The pants fit well, and were a dark slate in color. The shirt was button-up, sleeveless and pale blue. He frowned. Was this really what he wanted to wear on a first date?

  Unsure, he opened the door and presented himself to his friends. “What do you think?”

  Marius stroked his chin. “It’s not bad, but I don’t know.” He glanced over at his teacher, Letvan. “It isn’t a bad choice, but it’s just sort of strange.”

  “Honestly, the color doesn't suit you at all.” Letvan tapped his chin. “And the cut isn’t flattering on your frame either. No, there is no way I will allow you to leave the house wearing that. Next.”

  “Maybe try something more formal?” Kaz suggested. “You guys are going to a pretty nice restaurant.”

  Ravin sighed and shut the door. Three more outfits awaited him. He tugged on his hair and started to try on the second option. He couldn’t help but wonder if he was overthinking this date. Would Michelle be off put by a fancy outfit? More than anything, he hoped not. After all, he’d managed to secure a table at one of the nicest restaurants in town. After months of spending time together as friends, he’d learned quite a bit about Michelle, including the fact that the food made by Spring elves was her favorite.

  He missed being in the same dorm building as her. While it didn’t take any longer for him to visit, it was no longer just a walk upstairs for her. Ever since the bounty had been removed from Kazun’s head, they’d been able to move out of the dorms and into an off-campus apartment.

  It was, admittedly, much nicer than the dorms. That fact was due to the lack of students partying at all hours of the night. He didn’t miss that at all. He hadn’t minded the noise too much, but he did care that they never bothered to invite him.

  Once he was dressed, Ravin threw open the door to show off his new outfit. This time, it was a subdued yellow half-sleeved sweater, with a white shirt underneath, the cuffs of which folded back over the sweater. The pants were khaki, and heavily starched. He felt a bit like a firefly.

  Xina shook his head. “Too yellow.” He couldn’t hide his cringe. “You look like the sun.” The vampire draped an arm over his face dramatically. “I think my skin is burning.”

  Letvan reached down and picked up his holophone and placed it to his ear. “Hello? Oh Ravin, it’s for you. The cubical committee is calling. They want their style back.” He winked. The knight stretched and appraised Ravin.

  “You need something dark, that won't wash you out. Something that would accentuate your nice strong shoulders. Something simple, and sleek.” Letvan nodded. “And maybe a little pop of color so you don’t look quite so bland. Definitely not this.” The knight waved his hand, shooing Ravin back into his bedroom.

  The demon rolled his eyes and did as Letvan demanded. He stripped down and stared at the remaining options. One caught his eye. He pulled on the streamlined black pants. The crisp white shirt followed, and he topped it with the sleek black jacket. A red flower was tucked inside the pocket.

  If this didn’t work, then he was going to punch someone in the damned face. Once he was ready, Ravin tried one last time to impress his friends. His expression was calm, but his tail flicked behind him, belying his irritation.

  Kazun let out a whistle and winked at his friend. “Not bad, not bad at all.”

  Without a word, Letvan rose to his feet, and glided silently to the demon. The knight ran his finger along Ravin’s collar, perfecting the edge. His fingers trailed down to the flower and he straightened it.

  “You have one very lucky lady.” Letvan beamed. “This is perfect.”

  Confidence surged through Ravin. “Why, thank you.” It felt like the most marvelous gift to finally have an outfit that was Letvan-approved. He took in a deep breath, then glanced around the room. “I still have a little while before I told her I’d be there. Exactly how early should I be?”

  “I’d say about ten minutes,” Marius suggested after a few moments of thought. “It’s not too early, or late. I think it indicates you’re excited, but not trying to put too much pressure on her.”

  “I think you should review your timeline, to make sure everything is set up properly.” Xinalist gestured for Letvan to come back and sit on his lap again. “After all, it’s a big night. It’s our precious boy’s first date.”

  “With the woman of his dreams.” Letvan sat back down and cuddled against his muscular man’s frame “It’s so very sweet, and about time too. We all thought you would make us wait forever.”

  Marius raised his hand. “I shipped it the longest,” he declared with a proud look on his face.

  “Uh, excuse me.” Xina pressed a hand to his chest. “I was the original, thank you very much.” He looked so very proud of himself. His eyes sparkled with a mischievous light. Unlike most vampires, he had vivid plum-colored irises.

  Laughter rolled across the room. Xina and had only been introduced to the group a month or so prior. He and Letvan had gone out on their first date on a whim. Since then, they had been attached at the hips. The vampire was a welcome addition to their group.

  Letvan placed his hand on Xinalist’s face. “Everyone knows that I, master of relation-shipping, placed these two together from the moment I laid eyes on them.” It wasn’t really the truth. When he had first met Ravin and Michelle, they hadn’t been the best of friends. Quite the opposite—Michelle spoke not one kind word about the demon, and Ravin was too wrapped up in his own issues to care.

  It was amazing how their chemistry had shifted over time. Now, they seemed perfect together, like bees and flowers. Only time would tell if it was truly a match made in the beyond, but anyone in the room would bet in their favor.

  Michelle and Ravin deserved happiness. Both had spent so long caring for those they held close—now it was time for them to treat themselves.

  Ravin couldn’t help but shake his head. “At least you guys didn’t write fanfiction about it.” He gave Kazun the stink eye. “That I know of.” His roommate was on the hockey team, which held the unfortunate distinction of meaning Kazun knew all too well what it was like to have awkward stories written about him. There were fans dubbed ‘fangirls’ who took their adoration just that bit further, into the realm that some considered creepy.

  The demon took pride in the blush that crept up Kazun’s cheeks.

  “Well,” Ravin gave his friends a bow. “It’s about time I go meet my date.” His smile was broad as he let out a determined breath. “Wish me luck.”

  He didn’t stick around long enough to hear their farewells. In a blink of an eye, he had teleported to stand in front of Michelle’s door. He stared at it for a moment. In his chest, his heart pounded like a monster against the ribs that trapped it. His fingers itched to knock on the wooden panel, but doubts plagued his mind. No matter what his friends said, i
f things went wrong, he couldn’t imagine that things would remain the same.

  Ravin’s fingernails dug into the tender skin of his palm, cutting little half-moons into the flesh.

  Before he could muster up the courage to knock, the door swung wide open. Standing within its frame was a woman wearing a sleek black dress with combat boots. Her hair was spiked up with gel. Wild blue eyes were accentuated with a hint of dark liner, and around her neck was a simple choker.

  “Ready or not.” Michelle placed her hands on her hips, glaring up at him with amusement. “It’s go time.”

  Chapter 2

  Ravin’s jaw dropped. He’d only seen her dressed up once before, and it had been a far more solemn occasion. This time, the fate of the world wasn’t in the balance, and there was only a slight chance that ancient vampires would try to kill them. But there was still that less than one percent probability that they would be really, really unlucky.

  He scrubbed a hand over his face. When he gained the ability to speak again, he gasped, “Wow, Michelle… just, wow.”

  A hearty laugh escaped her and she stepped out of the door. “You don’t look half bad yourself. … I mean, not half good either but….” She gave him a wink as she locked up.

  “Well, gee, thanks.” He rolled his eyes. Ravin glanced at the door. “How’s Lian doing?”

  “She’s doing really well.” Michelle reached down and twined fingers with her date. “She, Loviel, and Jo wouldn’t leave me alone about today.” They had all but ganged up on her like a pack of fashion-crazed wolves. Jo had brought over her mom’s latest collection of dresses. So, for her first date, she was wearing high class Andrea attire.

  Michelle should have been flattered to be wearing expensive designer clothing, but she had been abused with a brush and gel, poked by countless makeup sponges, blinged up, and scrutinized. It was enough to make any diva want to burst.

  “But I’m glad she had fun.” Michelle shrugged. It was a great improvement from hide-under-the-bed-and-cry-about-the-laundry-detergent-squirrel Lian.