Kris in A Sentence

    1

    And Rhyn and Kris and Kiki, Toby said cheerfully.

    2

    You made Kris and Gabe trade their souls for Katie and baby's then you quit.

    3

    The only thing that concerned him now was killing Kris.

    4

    When he was out of Hell, he'd already planned on kicking the ass of their eldest brother, Andre, and killing Kris.

    5

    I'm coming for you, Kris.

    6

    Kris raised an eyebrow and turned to Ully.

    7

    Kris waited until the door closed.

    8

    Kris's normally iced features clouded, his violet eyes going green as he thought.

    9

    Kris asked, the worry lines on his forehead deepening.

    10

    Neither Kris nor Sasha was capable of mercy or empathy.

    11

    Kris's features clouded, and Gabriel suspected it was because Kris had been with his current lover, Jade, for hundreds of years.

    12

    Gabriel liked Kris as much as he'd ever liked anyone despite the bad blood between Kris and his half-brother, Rhyn.

    13

    Kris slid two rare green life crystals across the table, the common form of payment for an assassination not ordered by Death herself.

    14

    Kris left, and Gabriel closed his eyes, crossing into the shadow world before emerging on the street outside the woman's apartment building.

    15

    No girls ever visit my lab, and Kris rarely lets me leave.

    16

    You must be Kris.

    17

    Kris glanced at her and then back at the screen.

    18

    He didn't doubt his second and his lover would move on, if Kris chose to take the woman as his mate.

    19

    Kris felt the intent gazes of both of his deputies, who left the obvious unvoiced.

    20

    Surprised, Kris eyed him.

    21

    Kris had never heard anything so ridiculous.

    22

    Kris traveled via shortcuts through the shadow world as Gabriel did and willed himself to the in-between world.

    23

    Andre was dressed in cashmere and wool, his hair kept short and neat, his loafers more expensive than Kris's conference room had cost to build.

    24

    Kris smiled, and Andre echoed the movement, the skin around his eyes crinkling in warmth.

    25

    Kris chuckled, at ease with his brother despite the unprotected penthouse on the top floor of a building that could be easily leveled by a single explosive charge.

    26

    Andre pursed his lips in displeasure as Kris reappeared.

    27

    Kris asked as he poured himself a second glass of whiskey.

    28

    Kris sat opposite his brother.

    29

    Kris knew his brother too well to know he'd not betray the trust of anyone, even a man who wanted to kill him.

    30

    Next to Kris's whiskey Andre kept at the wet bar was Tamer's favorite vodka, Kiki's rice wine, and Erik's diet soda.

    31

    Kris, care to explain?

    32

    He didn't say this, but Kris knew it was on everyone's mind.

    33

    Kris sat back, satisfied.

    34

    Kris remained where he was, aware they'd destroy each other if allowed.

    35

    What are you not telling me, Kris?

    36

    Kris chuckled, aware his older brother could wait him out.

    37

    Kris said nothing, feeling at once foolish and like he was the child Andre used to chastise for failing to focus on his duties.

    38

    Kris willed himself to the shadow world and walked back to his underground refuge, heart heavy.

    39

    Kris accepted the glass of whiskey but avoided Jade's extended hand.

    40

    Jade waited, and Kris held his gaze in silence.

    41

    Kris let him go despite his desire to follow him.

    42

    Images of Kris, his only love in two thousand years, swam through his thoughts.

    43

    Kris will send a car for you.

    44

    She'd fallen asleep in Kris's library after half a bottle of whiskey and awoken in her own bed with a throbbing headache and dry mouth.

    45

    Katie, you forgot your drink at the bar, Kris said, holding out the iced whiskey to her.

    46

    Kris rested one hand on her shoulder.

    47

    We gotta get out of here, Kris said.

    48

    Several doorways glowed around her, and Kris yanked her toward one.

    49

    Kris muttered curses and touched her shoulder.

    50

    He was built like Kris with dark hair.

    51

    You know my brother Kris.

    52

    The angrier she got, the calmer Kris looked.

    53

    If Kris didn't kill you on the way here, he might on the way back.

    54

    I'm going to send Kris away and bring you a bottle of whiskey.

    55

    His presence and words were as soothing as Kris's were not.

    56

    At her hesitation, he motioned for her to sit again and turned, continuing to block Kris from sight.

    57

    She heard Kris stir, and the cocoa-skinned Jade followed.

    58

    His words appeared genuine, unlike Kris's.

    59

    Andre and Kris seemed to think she was there for the long haul.

    60

    She saw Kris and squeezed

    61

    Right about now, she'd be happy to see Kris and would even risk going to the shadow world!

    62

    With some satisfaction, Rhyn wondered if another of Kris's men had gotten as fed up with Kris as he had.

    63

    He'd thought himself in love with Lilith once, and so had Kris and half their brothers.

    64

    Who'd have ever thought she'd want to be found by the jackass, Kris?

    65

    His reflexes were like Kris's, too fast to follow.

    66

    Who would you rather see her with, Kris or me?

    67

    Kris must be livid I've stolen her from him.

    68

    He wanted to keep Sasha talking, to find out what it was about this woman that was so special that both Sasha and Kris wanted her.

    69

    He hated Kris even more.

    70

    Even Kris was better than any of these creatures, and she'd barely tolerated him!

    71

    Did Kris even know about Jade's betrayal?

    72

    You know Kris and Sasha are brothers, right?

    73

    Kris's not stupid enough to send you here.

    74

    Hey Rhyn, bet Kris wants this one back.

    75

    If you're Kris's, pain like you've never known.

    76

    She looked for Kris.

    77

    Kris's pets can go anywhere but Hell.

    78

    He'd been furious when Katie mentioned Kris.

    79

    So, this was an opportunity too good to pass up and isn't about getting back at Kris?

    80

    Kris relaxed, as if expecting a refusal.

    81

    There's no telling what he'd do to you, Kris said.

    82

    Kris had planned to claim you.

    83

    Ully found out Kris can use your power to make him immune from the other Ancients.

    84

    Jade glanced sharply at Ileana, then at Kris.

    85

    Kris met his gaze, and the intensity of the exchange left her no doubt as to their relationship.

    86

    Katie, my brother Tamer, who's in charge of Africa, Kris grated.

    87

    How did she tell Kris his closest advisor had betrayed him?

    88

    Kris didn't know what Jade had done; he couldn't protect her.

    89

    Who spent the last million years in Hell, thanks to Kris.

    90

    She wrote Kris a short message and folded the paper, presenting it to Gabriel.

    91

    He'd claimed her, whether in a fit of jealous fury after hearing Kris's name or for some other purpose.

    92

    They say he went mad when the woman he'd chosen as his mate chose Kris instead.

    93

    The legends don't say what happened, but after Rhyn killed the woman, he tried to kill Kris.

    94

    He didn't have Kris's noble look or Andre's delicate features.

    95

    Andre said Kris planned to do what Rhyn did and make me his mate.

    96

    What shall I tell Kris?

    97

    She was the first Ancient's mate born and should've been Kris's mate, if she hadn't first promised herself to the Dark One.

    98

    Rhyn killed her to protect Kris and his brothers.

    99

    Kris never knew and never forgave him for killing the woman he meant to take as his mate.

    100

    Why didn't he tell Kris she was evil?

    101

    So he'd spend eternity in Hell because he couldn't sit down with Kris and tell him what happened?

    102

    The woman, Lilith, was pregnant with Kris's heir.

    103

    Though all seven were constantly fighting, Kris and Rhyn were always at each other's throats.

    104

    Curiosity drew her to the gate again, where tiny Daniela was animated and angry as she stood between Rhyn and Kris.

    105

    Kris's white hair, fair complexion, and amber eyes were at odds with Rhyn's darkness and glowing pewter gaze.

    106

    Kris looked at Rhyn, who refused to take the hint.

    107

    But are you done with me, Kris?

    108

    Kris, you can't use people!

    109

    Andre had claimed Kris was highly combustible.

    110

    I know what I saw, Kris!

    111

    With effort, Kris drew a deep breath and blew it out.

    112

    Her gaze settled on Rhyn, who was waiting as tensely for her response as Kris.

    113

    Kris's gaze flared again, and she assumed he'd expected her to ask for her freedom.

    114

    Kris shouted too late.

    115

    There were many still forms around them, with only Kris moving.

    116

    Kris told us you both were coming.

    117

    Rhyn's mother was a powerful demon, and his father is the same as Kris's.

    118

    You can say it --Kris won't let me forget I'm a square in a round hole.

    119

    She didn't know if she could trust him, or Kris, or anyone yet, but she could at least know the man beneath her was probably the only man she was safe from.

    120

    Her eyes found Rhyn first, then Kris.

    121

    Jade was there, another man with Kris's eyes but whom she didn't recognize, and a fifth man.

    122

    All but the man with Kris's eyes and oriental beauty were sweating and bloodied in at least one spot.

    123

    His voice held an accusatory note that Kris ignored.

    124

    Kris was for all of five minutes.

    125

    It doesn't matter, Kris.

    126

    Both Rhyn and Kris sulked.

    127

    Your place is there, Kris said dismissively.

    128

    Kris, can you spare a few warriors?

    129

    She wiped her eyes and twisted, surprised to see Kris in her doorway.

    130

    What do you want, Kris?

    131

    He didn't take blood gently as Rhyn did; no, Kris wanted her to hurt!

    132

    Kris released her and stepped away.

    133

    He and Kris are barely working together as it is.

    134

    I think Kris is right --the fate of humanity is more important than me.

    135

    A touch of coldness made the hair on the back of her neck rise, and she sat up, fearful Kris or Sasha had come for her.

    136

    He sat beside her and reached for her, his gaze on the newest scars given to her by Kris.

    137

    Why wouldn't you just tell Kris the woman he loved was evil?

    138

    I knew when Gabriel summoned me to you and went to Kris.

    139

    Don't care what Kris does.

    140

    She didn't like Kris, but he did what he did for some greater cause than himself.

    141

    Her body was still exhausted from Kris's attack and a day spent with Hannah and her friends.

    142

    She'd been scared since Hell, if not before, for which he blamed Kris.

    143

    It was Kris, wasn't it?

    144

    Maybe Kris thought turnabout was fair play.

    145

    You can't go after Kris.

    146

    He was sick of Hell, yet Kris's crime deserved punishment.

    147

    He had to protect her from Sasha and the Dark One; he had to protect her from Kris and his people.

    148

    He began to believe Kris was right about the bloodline of his mate's family.

    149

    It wasn't in the barracks of Kris's fortress.

    150

    Two months is all Kris asks, and I'm free.

    151

    You said you're giving Kris two months.

    152

    She.d never understand how Kris could treat his own half-brother as he did.

    153

    Kris said she needed anyone but him in her life.

    154

    Kris waited for him to change forms.

    155

    Kris strode past him and led him through the castle's ground floor, whose wide, carpeted halls felt nice on his paws.

    156

    He wondered what poor fool was stuck babysitting the high-maintenance angel as he followed Kris.

    157

    He changed shape before descending behind Kris.

    158

    Kris produced a key chain from his pocket and unlocked the five locks before pulling the heavy door open.

    159

    I.ve sealed off the crypt with magic to keep Immortals from entering through the shadow world, and installed locks for those who wander where they shouldn.t be, Kris said.

    160

    Kris lit another torch to shed light on the murals on the floor.

    161

    Kris was next in size, standing on a mural of North America.

    162

    Kris lit another torch to display a darkened case on the wall.

    163

    Wouldn.t you like to have Kris out of the way, so you and your human treat can live in peace somewhere?

    164

    Kris had given them to him weeks ago as payment for two assassinations.

    165

    Kris yelled at me for it, Katie said, leveling a glare on Ully as he opened the door.

    166

    Kris said the normal Immortals aren't allowed around you, because they tend to attack you.

    167

    She suspected Kris might override his promise to let her go in five weeks, if Ully couldn.t figure it out.

    168

    Kris entered, followed by someone whose appearance made her gasp.

    169

    Fear fluttered through her, and her gaze flew to Kris, whom she trusted little more than his sadistic brother.

    170

    At least before, Kris had a reason to keep her around, because he wanted something from her.

    171

    Like Kris had flung him aside to make way for a mortal.

    172

    How Kris treated me.

    173

    You can.t destroy Kris.

    174

    She was as cold as Kris!

    175

    Maybe she wanted Kris, too.

    176

    He.d seen the way Kris looked at her and had long suspected the Council leader had two lovers, not one.

    177

    At least this way, she.d never have Kris.

    178

    Kris is your brother, and family should stick together.

    179

    She.d seen the acrimonious relationship between him and Kris and understood some of what made them enemies.

    180

    A man named Kris invited them.

    181

    Hannah never traveled light, and there was no way of knowing what Kris was doing.

    182

    Following him was Kris, dressed in nothing but judo pants, as if Ully had dragged him straight out of bed.

    183

    Ully and Kris carefully wrapped one of his arms in gauze.

    184

    No, Kris, I won.t!

    185

    It.s my fault Toby was wandering around without someone watching him, but really, Kris, who assigns a woman an Immortal kid that.s not even her own and expects her to know what to do with it?

    186

    Be out of here by nightfall, Kris said at last, his voice quiet and hard.

    187

    You all won.t live long if I go, Kris.

    188

    Her surprise echoed what he felt from Kris.

    189

    Keep everyone out of the forest, Kris.

    190

    She wasn.t expecting his ministrations—however rough and sloppy they were—or his mouthing off to Kris.

    191

    And neither was Kris.

    192

    She was still staring at the doorway when Kris walked through.

    193

    Weeks ago, when she.d been at the Sanctuary, Gabriel entrusted her with the secret of what had caused Kris to turn on Rhyn.

    194

    And no one had ever told Kris.

    195

    Kris finished tying his boots and crossed to the door, slamming it on his way out.

    196

    Kris does a big feast here every year, and Andre used to arrange the December holiday celebration.

    197

    She recalled what sent her outside the castle, and her anger at Kris ratcheted up another notch.

    198

    Kris keeps a roster.

    199

    While he didn.t care what happened to Kris, he did care about Katie and when the demons would choose to attack.

    200

    Kris would never listen to him.

    201

    Or he could take Katie, disappear, and leave Kris and the Immortals to their fate.

    202

    She went the back way—the servant.s route, as Kris had so kindly informed her—to the front door.

    203

    She didn.t hear Kris draw abreast until the man stood at her side, staring at the gorgeous woman approaching.

    204

    Both of them looked at Katie, and Kris pursed his lips.

    205

    Before she could respond, Kris strode from the doorway down the path, stopping in front of the two approaching.

    206

    Kris greeted Gio, stepping aside to walk them up the path.

    207

    Hannah.s gaze strayed beyond Kris to catch sight of Katie.

    208

    Hannah asked, gaze on Kris once again.

    209

    His name is Kris.

    210

    You just wait to see what Kris has in store for you.

    211

    Katie wondered what had called him away—news of the demons in the forest or some other awful plan by Kris?

    212

    Kris asked me to bring her here.

    213

    Katie faced Kris with a glare.

    214

    As she thought of Toby, she wondered how much of what Kris said was true.

    215

    He wouldn.t have been hurt if not for her, and Hannah may not have been dragged into the Immortal world if she hadn.t hit the radar of Kris.

    216

    Kris wore a rare, charming smile as he sat across from Hannah, talking.

    217

    Kris caught Katie.s gaze and shook his head ever so slightly, warning her against coming in.

    218

    Like Kris saying he.d break the mating bond between us.

    219

    Kris can.t do it, by the way.

    220

    None of you knew about the demons in the forest, and you were right about what you said to Kris.

    221

    Kris watched the door to the guest bedchamber close, unusually hopeful about his discovery.

    222

    Kris poured himself chilled whiskey from the small refrigerator tucked in a corner.

    223

    Without him, Kris felt as if he were alone trying to solve the world.s problems.

    224

    You forget, Kris, he was my brother, too, and I considered him a friend.

    225

    Unless Sasha posed a direct threat to the Council, Kris was forbidden from buying an assassination, despite suspecting his brother wasn.t as innocent as he proclaimed.

    226

    Lilith had been intended for Kris and was pregnant with his son when Rhyn killed her and the baby both.

    227

    Kris looked at him sharply, suspecting his brother was trying to play on his emotions.

    228

    Surprised at the raw, bitter note in Sasha.s voice, Kris studied him.

    229

    Jade had disappeared after Kris sent him away in hopes that Katie would become his mate.

    230

    Kris could kill or have him killed in retribution for any life he took while inside the walls.

    231

    Sasha wasn.t that stupid, though Kris wondered what game his brother played.

    232

    Darkyn was a head shorter than Kris and wider, his steady gaze and roughly hewn features reminding him of Rhyn.

    233

    Kris was quiet, pretending to consider.

    234

    There was no way in Hell Kris would give this creature the key

    235

    I hope not, Kris thought but said aloud, "I'll warn him."

    236

    Darkyn.s features were too shuttered to read, and Kris didn.t wait for him to second-guess anything.

    237

    Kris heard the sickening sound of the demon.s body breaking from the distance and watched the other demons shapeshift to charge the half-demon.

    238

    Kris nudged Ully awake, motioning for the scientist to follow him out of the chamber.

    239

    I need confirmation before the Council meets, and I need to know if you can alter whatever it is Sasha's people did, Kris said.

    240

    Kris opened the door to his lab, pushed him in, and closed it.

    241

    Jade waited for Darkyn to return from his meeting with Kris.

    242

    He clenched his fists, not wanting to think about Sasha or Kris or how quickly he, too, could have the tables turned on him as he had done to Sasha.

    243

    Kris refused to turn over Sasha or the vial.

    244

    I want my revenge against Sasha and Kris both, but there are innocent people there.

    245

    Sasha and Kris were his enemies, not the rest of the Immortals!

    246

    He.d been unable to shake the empty hole in his heart resulting from Kris flinging him to the side to pursue a human female.

    247

    Even as he thought of his last moments with Kris, he felt his anger turn to resolve.

    248

    He.d use the tricks of manipulation he.d learned from Kris and Sasha both to get Sasha to do what he wanted.

    249

    My brother Kris is too good, as you know.

    250

    More anger stirred as Jade bit his lip to keep from defending Kris.

    251

    No matter how badly Kris had hurt him, it hadn.t been for a selfish cause like Sasha.s.

    252

    Kris won.t tolerate what you do to them.

    253

    I.d be a bigger fool than Kris to return with you, Jade.

    254

    If you can help him get to Kris, he.ll call it even and leave you alone.

    255

    You and Kris toughened me up.

    256

    Jade waited, hoping Sasha.s desire to return to Hell or take out Kris overwhelmed any suspicion he had.

    257

    She felt bad for scaring him but knew the alternative—people like Kris or Sasha finding out—would doom her.

    258

    Master Kris has ordered us to respect any wish you have, Miss Hannah.

    259

    Kris explained everything to me last night, Katherine.

    260

    Kris wasn.t there, but Sasha was.

    261

    Where.s Kris? she demanded.

    262

    Is Kris with you in the lab?

    263

    He left the sparring level without saying a word to Ully and followed his instincts up a flight of stairs and down a narrow hall he recognized from his visit to their father.s catacombs with Kris.

    264

    Kris had managed to create a barrier around the chamber to keep Immortals from trespassing via the shadow world.

    265

    Kris disappeared into the portal behind him.

    266

    I turned it over to Kris, and now the Dark One wants me dead-dead, Sasha said.

    267

    Ully is still working with it to verify, Kris replied.

    268

    He crossed his arms, interested to know Katie.s sister was as special as she was and wondering if Kris had already claimed her.

    269

    Everyone chuckled but Kris, who levied a glare at him.

    270

    Kris was frozen in place, as if not yet registering what had happened.

    271

    But I.ll have to agree, Kris.

    272

    Rhyn looked to Kris, then to Sasha, whose smile had faded.

    273

    Kris looked up at Rhyn.s low voice, his gaze lingering.

    274

    Kris was crushed, and Rhyn wasn.t sure how his eldest surviving brother hadn.t expected the rest of them to walk away.

    275

    That Kris could attack his brother.s mate but refuse to strong-arm his brothers into fighting demons made his anger boil.

    276

    The demons are planning something, Kris, and hoping someone comes to your rescue is stupid, he returned.

    277

    But, if you do as Sasha says and break the bond, I will keep her safe, I swear it, Kris said.

    278

    For the first time in his life, he felt something akin to pity for Kris.

    279

    Kris doesn.t need your blood anymore.

    280

    Rhyn joined Kris in the hallway and waited until Katie was out of earshot.

    281

    Of course I suspected him of something, Kris snapped.

    282

    Furious, Kris stalked away.

    283

    Did Kris send you?

    284

    I.m doing what Kris won.t.

    285

    I gave you Kris and the Immortals.

    286

    He shifted in the brush, wishing he could.ve found a better way to draw out Kris and Sasha than by sacrificing everyone.

    287

    Jade had trained under Kris, the greatest of the Immortal warriors, and knew Sasha to be a lazy fighter.

    288

    Kris has a scientist named Ully who would.ve likely been given the vial.

    289

    While feeling vindicated that Kris might already be dead, he couldn.t help the growing guilt at hurting so many other Immortals.

    290

    She didn.t know if there was a second gym where other Immortal mates were, but Kris had said Hannah would be down.

    291

    Master Kris said you were coming.

    292

    Nice of Kris to abandon you upstairs like that.

    293

    You think Kris is okay?

    294

    His tactics would never earn anything but scorn from Kris, but they worked.

    295

    Two, what are we going to do when Kris chooses the Code and his oath over our unanimous vote to kill Sasha?

    296

    Tamer emerged from Kris's chamber into the hallway first, armed with a scythe and a bo, while Erik followed with a long sword.

    297

    Kris and a few of his Immortals were surrounded in the middle of the park while demons darted from the forest to attack pockets of Immortals.

    298

    Kris, he knew, was the best Immortal warrior ever known.

    299

    I evacuated the castle, Kris said.

    300

    Kris turned away and maneuvered through the piles of dead-dead Immortals and demons toward Tamer.

    301

    Kris didn.t go far, just far enough to be out of earshot of the Immortals.

    302

    The Ancient Kris probably contacted the other three, because we only have about forty Immortal refugees here now.

    303

    For the first time since meeting him, she almost preferred to deal with Kris.

    304

    I guess it wouldn.t matter if you succeeded in altering it like Kris said.

    305

    The second looked like Kris might.ve in his younger days, when his face still glowed with hope.

    306

    She whipped around to see Kris standing in the doorway, holding the door open as if debating whether to enter.

    307

    God, Kris, did you have to go there?

    308

    You.re right, Kris, I can.t understand how you could turn your back on the person who needed you most and justify it with your shortsighted arrogance.

    309

    You chose the wrong side, Kris.

    310

    Rhyn killed her to protect you, Kris.

    311

    She.d never understand a man like Kris, who saw the world only in black and white!

    312

    Mostly. The Council sent in their warriors to help Kris.

    313

    Ancient Kris would never admit to that.

    314

    The guy I spoke to said he beat the ever-living shit out of them all at once, until they agreed to come back and do what Kris says.

    315

    Kris was glaring up at him, he knew without looking.

    316

    I brought it to Kris.

    317

    Katie couldn.t stay with her sister if her sister chose Kris, or she.d be subjected to the same treatment he was.

    318

    He would go to the Sanctuary and bring Sasha back to Kris.

    319

    Kris had sworn to protect her if Rhyn un-mated her.

    320

    Kris rose to find his brothers.

    321

    Kris was silent, surprised at Darkyn.s audacity.

    322

    While Kris would love to sacrifice a certain infuriating mortal to further his cause, he wouldn.t even sacrifice her, let alone allow Darkyn.s to wipe out a village.

    323

    Kris opened a portal to the Indian Ocean Sanctuary, where Erik had gone to seek out Ully.

    324

    Kris wasn.t about to lose Hannah the same way.

    325

    Kris knew the opposite to be true but said nothing, enjoying the moment of peace.

    326

    He looked … different, though Kris couldn.t pinpoint why.

    327

    Kris gave him a sidelong look.

    328

    He was safe at the castle, Kris said as they walked.

    329

    Gabriel's ominous words made Kris uneasy.

    330

    Kris had come close to breaking the Immortal rules or his own oaths to his father.

    331

    Kris took in his mutilated brother.s body.

    332

    She.d been the reason Kris turned his back on him, and she.d been the one to bring the vial to the demon she thought was Ully.

    333

    If he killed her, Kris would finally see the folly of his ways.

    334

    Maybe there was a chance he could leave Hell and come back to Kris.

    335

    He would go to Kris and tell him just that—that Sasha had done this all, and he, Jade, had tried to help but been nearly killed by the demons!

    336

    He saw only warriors on the main floor of the castle and ascended with increasing pain to the floor where Kris would be.

    337

    Kris's chamber was a burnt-out hull, and he lingered for a moment, regret in his belly.

    338

    Kris looked up, surprise crossing his face.

    339

    Kiki, the Ancient from Asia, sat beside Kris at the small conference table and looked him over with a frown.

    340

    Emerald was the color of Kris thinking, and Jade.s favorite hue.

    341

    Kris managed at last, standing.

    342

    I was worried, Kris said in a soft voice.

    343

    They slashed him up good, but he.s still alive, Kris said.

    344

    She.d brought him nothing but pain, and now her family had taken Kris from him.

    345

    Please, go take care of yourself, Kris said, not unkindly.

    346

    Kris waited until the guest bedroom door closed before he motioned to one of the Immortals posted on either end of the hallway.

    347

    Something was drastically altered about his friend, and the thin collar around his neck told Kris everything he needed to know.

    348

    Kris waited until five Immortals were present in the hall before he retreated to his conference room.

    349

    Kris crossed to his burnt-out bedchamber and dug through a trunk in the closet.

    350

    Kris closed his eyes.

    351

    Kris looked at his condemned brother anew, not sure how to take Rhyn.s newfound intent and resolve.

    352

    What he did was for the good of Immortals and humans alike, Kris said.

    353

    Kris stared at him.

    354

    I only ask one thing of you, Kris, in exchange for doing your dirty work.

    355

    Kris had assigned her a babysitter and ordered her to spray herself down with the skunk spray so she wouldn.t draw any unwanted attention.

    356

    I gave it to Kris!

    357

    Sounds like he did the same to me as Kris did to you.

    358

    She wondered if Kris would check on her then dismissed the idea he.d seek her out for any reason.

    359

    Kris will need to be convinced to turn it over to me.

    360

    Kris gave me one of Andre.s old jobs.

    361

    He twisted his head to see Kris standing outside of a portal.

    362

    Kris gave no explanation, simply strode into the shadow world.

    363

    Kris caught him and shoved him back into the wall with his forearm across Rhyn.s throat.

    364

    But Kris was right; this was time to think, not act.

    365

    Gritting his teeth loudly enough for Kris to grimace, he nodded.

    366

    You don.t think, Rhyn, Kris said.

    367

    I tried to get the vial from Kris.

    368

    Or who let him have the vial or who knew how to use Jade to get to Kris?

    369

    Kris pushed him aside to offer her a chair.

    370

    Kris opened a portal.

    371

    Daniela.s little legs moved fast, and she was across the courtyard while Kris stared toward the room where Rhyn assumed his mate was.

    372

    As if sensing what he intended to do, Kris took his arm.

    373

    Kris entered and closed the door.

    374

    Rhyn looked at Kris, puzzled by the nonsense.

    375

    He thrashed, knocking Kris back.

    376

    Jade.s shouts turned to screams, and Kris motioned Rhyn out of the room.

    377

    Rhyn thought nothing of it until Kris opened the door.

    378

    Jade had freed himself during his thrashing and launched out of the door, machete in hand as he flung himself on Kris.

    379

    Kris appeared surprised and furious.

    380

    He didn.t wait for the shocked leader of the Sanctuary to respond but took Kris into one of the empty rooms and laid him out on the bed.

    381

    He was alone, roasting in the sun for a long moment before he sensed Kris approach.

    382

    Kris asked, sitting heavily on the ground beside him.

    383

    At one time, I would.ve probably agreed, Kris admitted.

    384

    Kris was quiet for a moment.

    385

    I can.t control it, Kris.

    386

    I.ll figure something out, Kris said.

    387

    I know, I know, Kris says I'm an angel and angels are supposed to protect humans and you're anything but human but I still want to stay with you.

    388

    Kris and his mate, Hannah – Rhyn's other buffer – weren't about to live the rest of Immortality on the beach with him.

    389

    Rhyn glanced at him, taking in the arm in a sling.  Kris was healing from an attacker Rhyn had saved him from, the day Katie killed herself.

    390

    Kris rose but didn't leave.

    391

    Kris was silent for a long moment.

    392

    You're doing exactly what Kris wants you to, Rhyn, going to your death like a lamb.

    393

    Kris stood outside, waiting for him.

    394

    Kris frowned and opened his mouth to speak when Toby gave an exasperated sigh.

    395

    Kris opened the portal to the shadow world and held out his hand to his mate.

    396

    Rhyn glanced back to see both Kris and his mate frowning as they watched him.

    397

    Kris had opened it near the cliff.  On the other side of the world from the Caribbean Sanctuary, the French Alps were dark and cold, and it was sleeting.

    398

    He gritted his teeth to keep it contained, silently cursing both the angel and Kris for not just letting him die-dead, like he deserved.

    399

    What are you doing?  Did you do what Kris said?

    400

    She wanted Kris dead in that moment, even if the arrogant Immortal was her sister's husband.

    401

    It was better than traveling the underworld with Gabriel or fighting with Kris for an ounce of respect.

    402

    And then I saw how good his heart is.  He's a train wreck, but he's honorable and capable of such good.  Kris pulled me into this world and assumed I'd do what I was told like a good little human.  But when I told Rhyn I wanted to leave him, he asked for another chance.  It's like he woke up then and realized he wasn't in Hell anymore or trapped by his brothers' expectations.

    403

    He ascended two floors to the hallway where Kris's supplies had been stocked.  He recalled how hard it could be taking care of a helpless creature like Katie or Toby.  He strode to the chamber that had served as a department store full of clothing to Kris's Immortals.  Not surprised to find the chamber ransacked, he sifted through the remaining clothing on the floor.  He guessed Toby's size and stuffed a bag with a few items before going to the food supplies.

    404

    She's alive now.  I told Kris and Hannah the same thing.  No one listens to me.

    405

    Uncle Kris is right.  You are more brawn than brains, Pops.

    406

    You don't bring something food and clothing if you don't care if it dies.  If you want it – Toby - to live, come to the castle this evening after dark falls.  We have matters to discuss.  Bring Kris.  If you want the angel to die then stay right here.

    407

    Testing his magic, he realized he could call forth a portal.  He needed an ally, but it wasn't Kris.  He had no intention of bringing Kris to meet Darkyn, not when he didn't know what Darkyn wanted.  His thoughts went to Gabriel, the best friend he hoped he hadn't lost completely.  Gabe wouldn't try to negotiate with Darkyn if things went bad.

    408

    Kris would've helped you.

    409

    It's been three days!  You and Kris couldn't get along for three days?

    410

    You must tell Kris about Lilith.  I'm sick of this war between you two.  We need you both on the Council.

    411

    He'd have a way of keeping my mind off of things.  I think the demon side of him makes him a better Immortal than people like Kris.

    412

    A tingle of alarm went through Rhyn, but his head was too heavy for him to process it.  Instead, he focused hard on containing the power within him.  When he felt he wouldn't explode, he looked around.  Darkyn had claimed Kris's library and stood near a pane of windows overlooking the snowy Alps.

    413

    Let's talk to Kris.

    414

    I want to see Kris first.

    415

    If you loved her enough to destroy the world for her, then you know the pain Kris has been through twice.  Hell cannot hold a candle to that kind of pain.

    416

    Kris gave you the position of enforcer.

    417

    He thought of Hell, and the portal glowed blacker than night.  He thought of Kris, and the portal for the Sanctuary lit up.  He thought of the Immortal underworld – Death's domain – and the portal turned gray.

    418

    At the Sanctuary, Kris was just getting ready to return to his tent when Kiki burst onto the beach, looking as if he were being chased by demons.

    419

    The portal closed behind his half-brother, and Kiki lowered the knife in his hand, facing Kris.

    420

    Kris watched him for any telltale signs he was a demon.  So far, every move was very Kiki.

    421

    Even if it could, only Ully knew what Ully was doing in the lab, Kris said in frustration.

    422

    Sorry, Kris.  Andre had a way with people, even Rhyn.  Without him or Katie, we can't fix whatever it is Rhyn is going to do.

    423

    Rhyn does understand, but he can't control what he is.  Even if he wanted to do good, he'd fail.  He's too weak to control his impulses, Kris.

    424

    There had been no hesitation, no second guessing when Rhyn snapped Jade's neck.  Over and over, Kris had tried to convince himself he'd do the same for his half-brother.

    425

    Kris, I think the era of the Council as a whole is over.

    426

    Kris heard what Kiki didn't say, that only Andre had been able to keep the Council together after their father's death.  The six headstrong brothers of the Council That Was Seven had respected Andre, who was an adult when the rest of the brothers were born.

    427

    Listen, Kris, I'm not trying to be an ass, but logistically and in practicality, there's no reason for us to maintain the Council.

    428

    At that moment, Kris couldn't help resenting both Rhyn and Death or hoping Death's visit to Rhyn hadn't been her way of showing support for Andre's successor.

    429

    Kris felt as if he'd glimpsed his fate – and it wasn't good.

    430

    Look, Kris, don't take our resistance personally.  Anyone who tried to step into Andre's shoes would receive the same treatment.  It's too soon after his death.

    431

    But sometimes I look at Hannah and see Katie, Kris said, recalling how he'd taken Katie's blood by force soon after she went to the castle.

    432

    He slapped Kris on the arm.

    433

    Kris lingered, deep in thought, until Hannah sought him out.  She still looked pale.

    434

    Kris let out a surprised laugh at the image in his mind of Rhyn being sent packing like a misbehaving puppy.

    435

    Hannah's pretty eyes grew dark.  Kris kissed her on the forehead, not wanting his mate to worry, even if he didn't know what would happen once he and Kiki left for the underworld.

    436

    Please, don't worry, Hannah, Kris said.

    437

    She hesitated then kissed him on the cheek and turned to go.  Kris watched her, unable to shake the uncanny sense it was the last time he'd see her.

    438

    I don't think both of us will make it out of the underworld.  It makes me think about all the things I wish I'd done before I died.  I wanted to backpack through Europe and go on a cruise somewhere warm.  I wanted to make love with you on the beach under the full moon.  Without worrying about demons or Kris or anything.

    439

    Besides, you have to show up Kris and the rest of them.

    440

    I mean, how are you not a traitor like Sasha or a cold jerk like Kris?  How did you spend so long in Hell and still try to follow parts of the Code?

    441

    Kris can't keep everyone together.  He needs your … charm.

    442

    Kris glanced up, expecting Kiki to enter his tent; however, it was one of his Immortal messengers who approached.

    443

    The messenger held out a small thumb drive with what Kris hoped contained a report identifying the two shapeshifter demons.  He left, and Kris plugged the thumb drive into his small PDA.  A single file was on the drive, and he opened it.

    444

    Puzzled, he pulled the drive free of his PDA and reinserted it.  The single file within was still empty.  Kris tossed it on a table.

    445

    Kris drew a sharp breath, unaware that the deity could enter his dreams.

    446

    Kris crossed his arms, looking hard at the deity.  "I think I said it."

    447

    Kris blinked, trying to figure out what the deity wanted.

    448

    She was a risk for revealing the Immortal society to the human world or alerting the demons as to where Kris's strongholds were.

    449

    Death's words made the air in the room feel heavy.  Kris sat down at the table.

    450

    Kris, what if I said you could have anything in the world from me?  A favor.  A wish granted.

    451

    Answer me, Kris.  What is your deepest desire?

    452

    As suddenly as she appeared, Death was gone.  Anger rising, Kris looked around to make sure she really was gone then cursed.

    453

    Kiki froze halfway through the doorway, frowning.  Kris breathed a sigh, wondering how one tiny woman could make him tense enough he wanted to raze the beach.

    454

    Kiki left, and Kris felt he'd frustrated the one brother willing to help him.

    455

    Instead of following, Kris dwelt a moment longer on Death's words.

    456

    Kris's memories stirred stronger than he liked. He remembered Lilith, a beautiful Immortal whose laugh had filled him with happiness. Their love had been intense and brief, lasting less than a human year in total. One day, she was just … gone.

    457

    Even if Lilith wasn't meant to be his mate, she didn't deserve such a brutal death.  She didn't deserve death at all.  Instead of mourning a son, Kris could've spent the past few thousand years raising a successor.

    458

    Of all the things Death had told Kris, she hadn't seemed in the least concerned about trespassers in her domain.

    459

    Kris caught a glimpse of what looked like a shopping mall west of them.  His gaze lingered.

    460

    Kris attempted to summon a portal.

    461

    Kris didn't answer, not wanting to think of how that conversation would go with the deity.  He tested his power again.  Kiki was right; they had none.

    462

    Hannah looked to Kris, her blue eyes watering.

    463

    Kris pursed his lips, wanting to release the curses coiled on his tongue.  He looked her over.  She'd at least worn sturdy shoes, long pants and shirt.  She was in decent shape, slender and toned from Pilates and the gym.

    464

    Kiki shook his head and stalked off into the brush.  Kris held out his hand to Hannah, unable to shake the small part of him that was grateful he had one ally, even if she shouldn't have come.

    465

    Rhyn thought of Kiki, suspecting his brother went to Kris.  He wondered who Kris sent after him to make sure he didn't follow through on his threat to confront Death.  "We only have today," he said.

    466

    I'm beyond help, Rhyn.  I've always believed you could be all that Kris and Andre and your father were not.  Your half-demon nature makes you better prepared than all of them combined.

    467

    Kris and Kiki both looked towards the sky when the thunder began.  They'd both given their jackets to Hannah, whose step was growing slower the farther they went into the jungle.  Kiki muttered but didn't openly bitch, probably knowing Kris had no patience for anyone insulting his mate.

    468

    Kris addressed Kiki with a worried look towards Hannah.

    469

    Kiki gave him a fiery look but moved to the nearest tree.  Kris watched him scale the large tree and disappear beyond the canopy of leaves.

    470

    Kris sat beside her.  Hannah's skin had gone from pale to gray, and her features looked gaunt.  He couldn't help thinking Katie wouldn't survive a week down here if Hannah was suffering so badly after a day.  He touched Hannah's hair, revolted when a handful came off in his hand.

    471

    Hannah looked down at it then at him.  Her blue eyes had turned dark, and Kris shook the hair off his hands.  He tried to smile reassuringly.

    472

    She didn't look convinced.  Kris moved away her, his anxiety and concern growing.  They'd come there to rescue one human and might just lose two.  He paced and gazed up the tree, unable to see Kiki.  He heard Hannah stir and glanced towards her.  She rose from her seat.

    473

    Kris looked up in time to see Kiki crash through the canopy and plummet towards the ground.  Kris gasped and sprung forward.  A streak of black crossed his vision as a flying demon snatched Kiki out of the air.

    474

    It had been Andre's mantra, and Kris had always done what he thought Andre would've wanted.

    475

    Suddenly, Hannah stopped.  Kris barreled towards her.  He glimpsed movement before he burst into the small clearing.  It wasn't until he leapt over the final hurdle – a massive fallen tree – did he see what stopped her.  One moment she stood with her back to him.  The next, she was on the ground, Rhyn's dagger dripping with blood.

    476

    A similar scene flashed before Kris.  One from long ago, when another blond woman had fallen to the devil that was his brother.

    477

    Rhyn looked up, and Kris charged him.  He knocked Rhyn to the ground, wrestling the dagger free, and lashed out.

    478

    Instinct and fury blinded him.  He felt the dagger sink into flesh and struck again, only to find himself flying backwards through the air.  Rhyn shouted something at him, but Kris couldn't hear him, not with the memory of both Lilith and Hannah dying.

    479

    Magic shot through him, burning like fire.  Kris gasped.  Another blast, and he fell to the ground.  His body roiled with the demon magic, convulsing until the blow faded.  He felt himself hauled up by his neck and thrust onto the ground again.  His vision blurry, Kris could only see Hannah's beautiful blond hair.  Sorrow replaced anger, and he reached out, touching the soft wheat curls.

    480

    Rhyn snatched him again and shoved Hannah onto her back.  Fury built in Kris again at the disregard for his mate, until he saw her face.

    481

    He stared.  It was not Hannah lying beside him but a demon with blond hair.  Kris pulled his legs beneath him to sit, and Rhyn released him.

    482

    Kris managed at last.

    483

    Kris looked at him, anger building.  The muscular half-demon was bleeding from a wound in his chest.  His dark eyes glowed like a demon's, though his face was still that of an Immortal.

    484

    It took Kris a moment to regain himself.

    485

    Another thought struck Kris.

    486

    Rhyn's jaw clenched, and he looked up at the sky.  He stood and hauled Kris to his feet, indicating the forest.

    487

    Kris watched him stalk away, unable to shake a sense of guilt.  If he'd gone after Kiki, he wouldn't have put his half-brother at even greater risk.  His judgment had failed him.

    488

    As he stood alone in the jungle, Kris couldn't help feeling as though he'd failed some test, one Rhyn wouldn't fail.

    489

    No, Kris, you deserved that for letting our brother get taken by demons.

    490

    Kris slowed, hearing Andre's message in Rhyn's voice.

    491

    Sounds about right.  Everyone's got a weakness that can be leveraged, Kris.

    492

    Kris said nothing.  Rhyn's assurances that Hannah was safe in Hell didn't sit well with him.  Kris followed the half-demon without knowing where they might be headed, instead thinking of just how bad of a situation he'd left Kiki in.

    493

    Death was right.  Kris didn't have what it took to keep the Council together.  He may have just lost one of his brothers, because he lost focus of what he should've done.  Maybe he should've known Jade was a traitor or Hannah was a demon.  He hadn't known of Andre's danger or been able to bring the Council together to fight the demons that threatened them all.  He hadn't been able to keep Hannah safe or Toby or Katie.

    494

    His eyes went to Rhyn's back as his half-brother hacked through a few branches in their way.  The sense that the exiled half-demon could do what he couldn't returned.  Kris touched his collarbone, the one Jade had broken.

    495

    None of it mattered now, however.  Kris had responsibilities, and he had to find a way to fulfill them the best he could.

    496

    Rhyn stopped and knelt, placing his hands to the ground.  Kris crossed his arms.  A blast of energized air swept over him.  Rhyn sat back.

    497

    Kris asked, looking around for any change in their surroundings.

    498

    Coldness settled over Kris.  He gazed around warily.

    499

    Kris asked.  The jungle stilled around them, and the snake-like branches froze.

    500

    Kris caught it by the hilt and waited, the sound of his heart pounding loud in his ears.