Sanctuary: Sanctuary, #1

SANCTUARY

A FAN FICTION COLLECTION

SHERI-LYNN MAREAN RACHEL HAILEY NICKI NANCE KRISTA KELLN KIMBERLY FORREST T. ELIZABETH GUTHRIE MARY E. JUNG CARRIE HUMPHREY L.J. SEALEY SAM BRETON JENNIFER FORIST JENNIFER BECKER CATHY GRAHAM KIM MAY

Foreword by SHERRILYN KENYON

Edited by CAROL SHAUGHNESSY

Foreword by SHERRILYN KENYON

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be sold, copied, distributed, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or digital, including photocopying and recording or by any information storage and retrieval system without the prior written permission of both the publisher, Oliver Heber Books and the authors, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Dragon Heart Awakened Copyright © Sheri-Lynn Marean

Brave Copyright © Rachel Hailey

Mourning Shadows Copyright © Nicki Nance

Dreaming of New Orleans Copyright © Krista Kelln

Hot Wings and Howlers Copyright © Kimberly Forrest

The Fugitive Jackal Copyright © T.Elizabeth Guthrie

Ravaged Angel Copyright © Mary E. Jung

Sanctuary Copyright © Carrie Humphrey

One Fated Night Copyright © L.J. Sealy

Valentine’s Day at Sanctuary Copyright © Sam Breton

New Beginnings Copyright © Jennifer Forist

From her Darkest Dreams Copyright © Jennifer Becker

Falcon’s Delight Copyright © Cathy Graham

A Fox With New Fur Copyright © Kim May

Cover Design: Dar Albert

Published by Oliver-Heber Books

0 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

CONTENTS

The Legend of Sanctuary

Sherrilyn Kenyon

Dragon Heart Awakened

Sheri-Lynn Marean

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Brave

Rachel Hailey

Chapter 1

Mourning Shadows

Nicki Nance

Chapter 1

Dreaming of New Orleans

KRIS KELLN

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Hot Wings and Howlers

Kimberly Forrest

Chapter 1

The Fugitive Jackal

T. Elizabeth Guthrie

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Ravaged Angel

Mary E Jung

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Sanctuary

Carrie Humphrey

Chapter 1

One Fated Night

L.J. Sealey

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Valentine’s Day at Sanctuary

Sam Breton

Chapter 1

New Beginnings

Jennifer Forist

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

From Her Darkest Dreams

Jennifer Becker

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Falcon’s Flight

Cathy Graham

Chapter 1

A Fox With New Fur

Kim May

Chapter 1

Thank you…

THE LEGEND OF SANCTUARY

SHERRILYN KENYON

You can take my life, but you’ll never break me.

So bring me your worse...

And I will definitely give you mine.

Those words, written in French, still remained on the top of Nicolette Peltier’s desk where she’d carved them with her bear’s claw after the death of two of her sons. It wasn’t just a motto, it was her angry declaration to the world that had taken her sons from her. A ruthless tragedy that had spurred her on to create the most renowned of the shapeshifter havens.

Sanctuary.

For over a century, she’d owned the famed Sanctuary bar and restaurant that rested on the corner of Ursulines and Chartres in New Orleans.

There, she’d reigned as the queen of her kingdom. The mother bear of her remaining twelve cubs who struggled hard every day with the grief over the ones they’d buried.

Not a day had passed that she hadn’t mourned them.

Until the day war had come to their door. True to her nature and the words she’d carved as a permanent reminder of her spirit, she had done her worst and she’d protected her children with everything she had.

But that love for them had cost her her life. When her enemies moved to kill her daughter’s mate, she’d protected the lycanthrope with the last of her strength and she’d given her life to save her daughter Aimee the agony of burying the wolfwere she loved.

The tragedy of her loss was felt throughout the entire Were-Hunter counsel. Nicolette Peltier had been as much a legend as the club she’d owned. A club that had welcomed all creatures and promised them safety and protection so long as they obeyed her one simple rule:

Come in peace.

Or leave in pieces.

Since the night of her death, her cubs have sought to carry on without her support and guidance.

Any fan of Dark-Hunters knows the legend of Sanctuary, as well as the Were-Hunters who frequent and populate it.

It’s the cornerstone and stands as a sentinel against outside ills.

A true Sanctuary for anyone who needs it.

My idea for it spun out of the clubs I frequented as a teen and young woman. Those were my refuge from the evil in my real life, so when I was building the Hunterverse, it was only natural that the very thing I relied on for my relief would be brought into my fictional world.

I had no idea just how popular it would become.

The idea behind Sanctuary was to be a meeting ground for people of all walks of life and from widely different backgrounds.

All accepted.

All equally loved.

Therefore, I could think of no better title for this anthology as it represents the breadth and depth of Dark-Hunters fandom. A safe meeting place where they can let their own ideas flourish.

I am thrilled that so many fans turned out for the project and honored that so many have embraced my series for so long.

And I have a special thank you to Carol who took time from her own writing to spearhead this project.

Thank you all!

I hope you enjoy this foray into my universe as explored by the fans who have made it what it is.

And I will leave everyone with one small reminder. These are fan stories, written by fans. While I gave them the ability to write in my world, what they have done isn’t necessarily Dark-Hunter canon.

This book exists outside of the time line of the Dark-Hunters.

And I hope all of you enjoy our little side adventure.

Hugs!

DRAGON HEART AWAKENED

SHERI-LYNN MAREAN

1

THREE YEARS AGO

Afigure dressed all in black, with glimmering chestnut hair that hung past her shoulders, hurried into the lab. Sawyer got to his feet. He crossed to the bars of his cell. What’s going on?

Evany rarely came here unless it was time for an injection, though sometimes she’d sneak in and visit with Sawyer. She was the daughter to the scientist who kept him here and an Ilyium witch and mortal enemy to his kind, but Sawyer liked her. He lived for the moments he’d get to see her. What are you doing here?

Freeing you. She unlocked his cell then reached up to remove his collar. A collar that prevented him from accessing his teleportation ability.

Why?

I shouldn’t like you, but for some reason I do, she said.

She did? You do?

I’ve shocked you. She grinned.

Yes. Sometimes Evany seemed like two different people. One day she’d sneak a smile his way, other times her eyes would be full of hatred. Your father will be furious.

Guilt followed by resignation crossed her face. I know, but I can’t leave you here any longer.

Despite the fact she often confused him, he didn’t want to leave her. Come with me.

We’re enemies.

You don’t feel like my enemy, he said.

I can’t. If I go, my father will know it was I who released you. But if I’m here I can tell him you escaped, and get on the team sent to retrieve you, and attempt to keep you safe, she said.

Sawyer had forgotten she was also an Ilyium soldier, trained from a young age to fight his kind. Evany—

No. Now go before I put this collar back on you!

Sawyer left, but as he teleported away, a part of his heart remained with Evany.

2

THREE YEARS LATER

Arustle outside the hut jarred Sawyer’s sleep. Heart racing, he opened his eyes. Had they found him? He shoved the threadbare blanket away and sat up. He inhaled mildew and rotting wood—the structure he’d been sleeping in for the past few weeks.

The Ilyium had been relentless in their goal to recapture Sawyer, and it was beginning to wear him down. He sighed inwardly and his eyes started to slide closed.

No! Sawyer mentally shook himself. What the—? No matter how fatigued he’d been lately, now was not the time to slack off. Those following him certainly wouldn’t.

He listened and caught another whisper that didn’t belong to the night. Though the Ilyium were well trained, he always knew when they were near.

Time to go.

Sawyer reached for his knife, wincing as pain stabbed his skull. As it dissipated, he slid the blade into its sheath. Then with a longing glance at his pallet, he teleported away.

He hated running, but his fighting skills ended at age fourteen when the Ilyium first captured him. He could possibly take one of their soldiers, but not more.

They’d follow. They had his blood and even if they didn’t, they’d probably conjure a spell to find him. That didn’t mean he had to make it easy.

Sawyer materialized in the alley of a city not far away, then teleported to a town on the other side of Lavellas before jumping to another realm. Then another, and another.

He lost track of the time and places as a throbbing drummed at his head. Out of breath, he gazed around. Whatever town this was, the noon-day market was in full swing.

He grimaced when he caught a glimpse of his reflection in a shop window. His long brown hair was a mess, and his golden eyes were dull and bloodshot. He desperately needed rest along with a meal.

Sawyer gazed around, looking for an establishment that might be willing to trade work for food and a place to sleep, when someone grabbed his arm.

Sawyer tried to teleport away, but nothing happened. Then he realized it was an elderly woman with salt and pepper hair and pale blue eyes in a wrinkled face. Can I help you?

Her eyes paled to milky white. Hurry! Go to Sanctuary on Earth. It’s in New Orleans. You must get there before sundown.

Earth? Are you an oracle?

She nodded. Go, or you’ll be done, young man.

Her words sent prickles down Sawyer’s spine. What do you mean?

She turned back to the market.

Wait, tell me why?

But she’d already melted into the crowd.

Sawyer didn’t know the oracle’s motives, but her words stirred a deep sense of foreboding. New Orleans, huh? He’d been there, but honestly, would being done be so bad? He was tired of running and looking over his shoulder.

Except, while he might want nothing more than to sleep for a year, was he ready to give up?

Sawyer envisioned the lively city in Louisiana. Why not? It was as good a place as any, and it was always warm.

Only as he drew on his ability, it sizzled, then sent him on his way with a burst of power.

3

Sawyer landed in a swamp. As he sank under the water, sharp needles bit into his leg. Sawyer grabbed hold of the snout of whatever creature had him and fought his way to air. The beast came with him and as they surfaced, he found himself staring into cold reptilian eyes.

Crap. He’d teleported onto the mouth of a freaking alligator?

He grabbed both sides of the powerful jaws, but as he tried to pry its mouth open, it started to pull him back under.

A piercing whistle rang out. Release him!

The teeth embedded in Sawyer’s leg let go.

As the creature dove under the water, Sawyer swam to shore and dragged himself up the bank. What the heck was up with his ability, he wondered, as he stared up at a large blond-haired male.

Are you alright? the guy asked.

Sawyer nodded, unable to speak as he tried to catch his breath.

Not sure what you’re doing way out here, but I’m headed to town if you need a ride, the guy offered.

I’m good, thanks.

Okay, well, try not to feed anymore alligators then, the guy said as he left.

A few hours later Sawyer wanted to kick himself. Why hadn’t he accepted the ride? Cause he was a grade-A idiot, that’s why. Sure, he’d grown leery of strangers over the years, even apparently ones who saved him from scary water monsters, but the truth was he’d been shaken, and thinking didn’t seem to be his strong suit today.

Now, as he entered the French Quarter, Sawyer found himself racing the sun.

His leg had healed, but the throbbing in his brain, along with the lethargy that had plagued him for days grew even worse at the cacophony of music and humans laughing and talking.

Even the aroma of food made his stomach cramp.

A skinny man with shifty eyes approached. Dude, you look like roadkill. I got something’ll make you feel better if you get my drift?

Sawyer kept going. Roadkill sounded appropriate—what was wrong with him? He never got sick and always recovered from injury fast. Not that he didn’t feel pain. He did, and it had been beating his ass all day.

Never in all Sawyer’s twenty-one years—including the ones he’d spent in a cage—had he ever felt quite this horrible.

Sawyer passed a happy couple walking hand-in-hand, and envy flared. What would it be like to have a mate to love and who’d care for him in return?

In his mind Sawyer saw Evany smiling and talking to him in the lab. He’d have liked the chance to know her better, but that would never happen now.

The sun sank even lower, and a warm breeze caressed his skin, bringing with it the scent of salt water. Despite his screw-up, Sawyer finally found himself in front of a three-story rust-colored structure. A sign—a full moon rising over a hill with a motorcycle underneath—hung above the door. Sanctuary.

As waves of dizziness assaulted Sawyer, he braced himself against the warm brick of the building. He needed to go another few feet. Sawyer closed his eyes and let the sounds of the city soothe him as he waited for the spell to subside.

When it was over, he pushed off and as the last rays of the sun splashed a warm haze over everything, he made it to the door, where a male and female stood talking.

Not so fast, the male said, as he blocked Sawyer from entering.

4

From their scent, Sawyer realized they were bear shifters. I seek sanctuary.

The female smiled at Sawyer, her blonde hair shining in the fading light.

But the male, a muscular guy with long blond hair tied back, wrinkled his nose. I see the day upchucked another stray wanting shelter, only this one reeks of Talon’s bog.

Sorry, Sawyer said, hoping his smell wouldn’t stop them from letting him in.

The female nudged the male. Let him in, Dev, he looks half dead.

He reeks. Besides, I haven’t read him his rights yet.

I don’t think he’s in any shape to harm anyone, do you? she asked.

Dev crossed his arms over his chest. Looking like something your wolf drug in doesn’t mean he ain’t a powder keg ready to blow demon boogers all over us.

True. The female focused on Sawyer. I’m Aimee, what’s your name, and do you plan to harm anyone here?

I’m Sawyer, and no, I don’t want any trouble.

Why are you seeking sanctuary? Dev asked.

I’m not sure, an oracle told me to come, Sawyer said, desperate to sit down.

An oracle? Dev repeated.

Sawyer, you alright? Aimee asked.

Sorry, Sawyer said, humbled at her concern. Not many strangers cared what happened to people they didn’t know. I’m tired and haven’t eaten in a while. He looked at Dev. All I know is I met an oracle who told me to get here before dark tonight—why, or what will happen if I don’t, I’ve no idea.

The bears exchanged a look.

I must warn you though, I am hunted, Sawyer added.

Aren’t we all? Dev muttered.

Please, he said. I’d love a glass of water, and who do I talk to about working off a meal and place to rest?

You talk to me, Aimee said. I came out to get some fresh air, but I’m ready to go back in. Follow me and we’ll get you that water and something to eat.

Don’t break your word, Sawyer, or I’ll eat you, Dev said as he moved aside.

Dev, leave him be. Aimee rolled her eyes.

I’m not kidding, Dev responded.

The place was filled with the scent of humans and supes, along with food and drink. Sawyer’s stomach cramped again, then a weird vibration shook him.

You don’t want something stronger than water? Aimee asked, leading him to a table.

No, thank you.

All right, I’ll be back..

When she returned, Aimee handed him a clean white t-shirt. Figured this would fit.

Thank you, he said, changing as she set a large jug of water and a meal that smelled divine in front of Sawyer.

You’re welcome. Aimee sat across from him. So, where are you from, and what’s your talent?

I’m from Tartaria, and the only thing I’m any good at is singing.

Tartaria?

It’s another realm, he answered, eager to dig into his meal, but afraid of looking like a starved pig, though he had the feeling Aimee might already know.

I see. Aimee said. It just happens tonight’s entertainment cancelled. How about you eat, sing a few, then I’ll show you to a room for the night?

Sounds wonderful, Sawyer said.

Good. Aimee stood up. I’ve got to get back to work, let me know if you need anything else.

Thank you.

Sawyer devoured half the meal, then his stomach cramped so hard he feared he’d throw everything up. Headache worse than ever, he struggled to his feet. He needed to sleep, but first he had to earn the right to lay his head down in this place.

Sawyer got up on stage; then, since Evany had been on his mind earlier, he picked a song he’d written for her. The ability to make up songs in his head had been the only thing that kept him sane the last three years.

As the words flowed from his mouth—words of love, loss, and unbearable loneliness—the place fell quiet.

Maybe, for once, everything would be all right.

Maybe not. A hooded figure dressed all in black moved through the crowd.

Sawyer froze. How had they found him so quickly? He should be safe, this was Sanctuary, but what’s to stop him from being taken? Yeah, he’d rather die than let that happen again.

As the figure got closer, Sawyer attempted to teleport. Nothing.

Then everything went black.

5

Terror flooded Evany as Sawyer’s eyes rolled back and he dropped to the floor. No! After all this time trying to keep him safe, she couldn’t lose him now. As she went toward him a stunning blonde blocked her.

Who are you? the female asked.

Evany, now let me pass, she snapped.

When the blonde didn’t move, Evany feinted left, then right, zipping past her.

As she dropped to her knees beside Sawyer, the female was right beside her. Get away from him.

Make me, Evany snarled. Though she’d likely die if she harmed anyone, Evany wouldn’t hesitate to burn the place down if they tried to make her leave Sawyer.

If you hurt him, you won’t walk out of here alive, the blonde warned.

I’m not here to hurt him. Evany pressed fingers to Sawyer’s neck. Please be alive.

I’m Aimee, one of the owners of this bar. I saw Sawyer’s fear when he spotted you. He said he’s hunted, so tell me why I shouldn’t have you removed.

Relieved when she felt Sawyer’s heartbeat, Evany glanced at Aimee. The answer wasn’t simple, and nothing she wanted to