Chapter Twenty-Four #2
The relief Redford felt buckled his knees it was so intense. Damon’s arm came around his waist, steadying him.
“It would be really helpful,” Councilor Gordon added, setting down the folder he’d been reading.
“For you to document everything going forward. The awakening process, the anchoring ritual, how the ward structure functions, how the castle’s consciousness integrates with daily sanctuary operations.
If other ancient sanctuaries exist with dormant protective magic, this could be the key to reawakening them. ”
“You want us to write an instruction manual for sentient castles?” Damon’s tone was barely hiding his amusement.
“Essentially, yes.” Councilor Brennan smiled.
“Though I doubt it’s truly replicable. The combination of factors required here - ancient gargoyle foundation magic, a powerful witch’s wards keyed to specific species, the pairing of hellhound and gargoyle mates whose bond could anchor the consciousness, backing from the entire original hellhound pack...
” She shook her head. “It’s unique to Duncarrick.
But documenting the process might reveal principles applicable elsewhere. ”
They returned to the sitting room for a final cup of tea. As Councilor Ivanova prepared to leave, she caught Redford’s eye and gestured him aside.
“A word privately, Special Agent Stone?”
Redford followed her to the courtyard entrance, his pulse quickening. His experience had taught him there was always a catch, or one more condition.
But Councilor Ivanova’s expression held approval rather than concern.
“The hellhound pack’s display last week sent shockwaves through the paranormal community.
Magnus Kenric and Sergei Volkov have been quietly building power for decades, profiting from keeping paranormals afraid and scattered.
Having eleven original hellhounds manifest simultaneously, backed by Lord Hades himself...
” She smiled wider, showing her teeth. “The Keepers of the Old Ways lost significant political capital that night, and any other groups who profit from paranormal secrecy are quietly reconsidering their positions.”
“We just wanted to protect Duncarrick,” Redford said carefully.
“You did more than that. You changed the political landscape for all paranormals.” Ivanova’s gaze held his.
“Sanctuaries have always been protected, but never so visibly as this place was that night.
Anyone attempting what the Keepers of the Old Ways tried will face consequences from beings powerful enough to enforce them.
“Don’t you see, you’ve given hope to paranormals of all kinds who have been hiding in fear. That matters more than any ward structure, or magical innovation. You’ve done well – you and your mate – and you should be proud.”
She departed with the other Councilors shortly after, leaving Redford and Damon standing in the empty courtyard as sunset painted the stones gold and amber.
“Well, that was another thing you can now cross off your list.” Damon wrapped his arms around Redford’s waist. “Not only did we get council approval, but it included full funding and support.”
“I know.” Redford couldn’t quite process it yet. “It’s all a bit much, taking it all in. I genuinely thought…” He broke off and huffed a laugh. “Well, you know what I was thinking.”
“It just shows that you can’t go around predicting council decisions.” Damon pulled Redford close, pressing a kiss to his temple. “You worry too much.”
“One of us has to.” But Redford leaned into the embrace, letting tension finally drain from his shoulders. “Though I suppose having an entire pack willing to manifest on short notice helps with the approval ratings, and that’s all because of you.”
They walked to the crystal chamber, following a path that had become familiar over the past week.
The massive formations glowed steadily, no longer pulsing with anxiety but humming with contentment.
Through the stones, Redford sensed their two residents were safe in their rooms. Finn was studying for his return to school in two weeks, while Kara was preparing dinner in the west wing kitchen and humming to herself.
“I never imagined this life,” Redford admitted softly. “Purpose, family, belonging...and a sentient castle.”
“Neither did I.” Damon’s arms came around him from behind, solid and warm. “I thought I’d live in that cottage alone forever. Just me and my morning coffee watching the castle ruins and wondering why they meant so much to me even then.”
Redford turned in Damon’s embrace, seeing his own thoughts reflected in his mate’s dark eyes. Through the bond, he felt the idea forming before either of them spoke it aloud.
“Yes, Red, I know, and yes, I think we’re ready,” Damon said quietly. “It’s time to talk about expanding our family.”
“The sanctuary’s stable now. Protected.” Redford’s gargoyle rumbled deep in his chest. “The pack proved they’ll always come if we need them. The castle will help protect a child. We’ve built the perfect foundation.”
“You don’t have to sell me on the idea, Red,” Damon said with a grin. “We have a home worth sharing with someone new. I guess the only question left to answer is, are we talking about me or you?”
“Me.” If someone had asked him six months before if Redford not only wanted children, but was prepared to be the one pregnant, he would’ve sent the speaker home to sleep off whatever booze he’d been drinking.
But now, with the castle’s crystals flooding their bond with approval and promise, Redford knew that was something he really wanted to do. “Translocate us to the bedroom.”