“Is it going to be weird having this discussion with him with such a large audience?”
“I don’t think so. My brothers and our cousins have a right to be here, I think. I appreciate all the security,” Somerly replied. The Reverent Knights, Lich Sentinel, Skeleton Seven, and the Coven Lords were all present to ensure nothing untoward happened to anyone in the room, though the men of the Sentinel Brotherhood chose to remain invisible for the meeting.
The two Venerable Knights were tasked with picking up King Ethelindraconis from the airport and driving him to Order of the Fallen Knights Headquarters, where they were all awaiting him. Somerly didn’t fear his father and he doubted he had any nefarious plan to hurt anyone, but there was a madwoman out there waiting for the opportunity to hurt the D’Vaire family. He was glad no one wanted to take any chances with his mate’s safety.
“How do you think your father’s going to react to your brothers and cousins?”
“It’s a mystery to me.”
There was a brief knock on the door; then it opened to reveal five men. The two fallen knights were accompanied by Somerly’s father and two of his dukes. King Boian’s eyes filled with fury as he took stock of the attendees to their meeting.
“Welcome to our headquarters. Thanks for being here today,” Reverent Knight Drystan said.
“I agreed to come here to meet with Somerly. He’s the only one I’m going to speak with,” his father retorted.
“Dad, I’d like to introduce you to my mate. His name—”
“I don’t care what his name is. He was one of the men who showed up on my doorstep with that freak of a dragon. Somerly, I’m your father and it’s my duty to look out for you. All your life you’ve been gullible, and I’m sure this person has filled your head with all kinds of crazy ideas, but it’s time for you to come home. Princess Lucretia’s worried about you and wants to have your wedding straight away.”
“I’m not marrying Princess Lucretia. You know how to sense a matebond—Fate gives us the ability. I know you can feel I’ve mated with Grand Summoner Dre’Kariston D’Vaire.”
His father’s expression morphed from furious to forlorn in less than a heartbeat. It was such a quick transition that it couldn’t possibly be trusted. “Somerly, be reasonable. You’re my only child. How can you do this to me? How can I possibly sleep at night knowing you’re here being manipulated by these D’Vaires?”
“Only son, is it?” Worth shot out. “Try again, old man. You’ve two more, not that you want to claim us. Which, I can assure you, is just the way we prefer.”
Boian’s attention switched to Worth, and his eyes changed again. Somerly was watching him carefully, and he could readily see the hatred blazing in their depths. “You’re nothing but a criminal who has abducted my only child.”
Worth turned to Aleksander with a bored expression. “This is the part where he tries to have me arrested.”
“Why are you pretending Aleksander and Worth aren’t your sons?” Somerly asked. “They’re good men. Excellent, actually. Any man should be proud to have them for offspring.”
“All the children I had before you are dead,” Boian stated flatly.
“All the children? You only told me one had died, but I suppose you’re including Aleksander in your count now. Did you ever tell me the truth in my life? Were you ever honest with me about anything? Besides wanting to sell my best friend to a wizard to be experimented on?”
“You never wanted the truth, Somerly. You’ve spent your whole life with your head in the damn clouds, clueless about the world around you,” Boian countered.
“That’s because you sheltered me. You told me lies about Fate, magickind, and the Council. I’ve met the Emperor. He’s a good man with the best intentions for dragons and everyone else in the Council. He’s not betrayed anyone. He simply wants everyone to have the same luxuries.”
“I’m not going to stand here and explain my actions to you. I’m your father. It’s up to me to decide what you need to know and what you don’t. They’ve filled your head with all kinds of silly notions. I’m a king. Once I believed Fate only anointed those that were deserving of the title,” Boian said. He pointed at Aleksander. “Then he was chosen, and I understood what a foolish system we’ve all been tricked into believing. I’m a true ruler, one who knows what’s best for the dragons who work for me.”
“King D’Vairedraconis is one of the most well-respected leaders in the dragon world,” Reverent Knight Conley drawled out.
“Ask yourself if you’d be standing here as some undead creature if not for him. You wouldn’t. You’d still be an emperor.”
“You hear that, Drys? We’re undead creatures,” he told his mate, then turned his attention back to Boian. “Your eldest son had nothing to do with our deaths. There were many people involved in that, none more than your old friend Imperial Duke Bernal. I’d believe you were part of that conspiracy before I’d believe it of Aleksander.”
“He’s not my son, and I’m insulted that you would dare accuse me of such a crime.”
“It’s fine with me if you want to pretend that I’m not your son. In fact, I prefer it. I don’t want anyone to know I have such a manipulative and delusional man as a father. Whether you like it or not, Somerly’s now a D’Vaire, as is Worth. You might not think you owe us anything, but you do. You can start by telling us who our mothers are. We’ve had tests run, and Worth and I share the same one. You told me she was dead. Who is she, and where can I find her?” Aleksander demanded.
“How many times do I have to say that you’re not my son?”
“I wasn’t going to say a word. I was just going to stand here and observe, but I can’t. I’m sorry I just can’t. Cut the bullshit. Tell your sons who their mother is and start explaining why you’ve spent the last century pouring a concoction down Somerly’s throat, which stunted his growth,” Dra’Kaedan ordered. He’d crossed his arms over his chest, and there was pure rage in his eyes.
“Brogan, perhaps you’d be so kind as to tell your mate I don’t deal with magickind unless I have to, and since this whole discussion is none of his damn business, I’d prefer it if he kept his mouth shut,” Boian said.
“Yeah, if you want Dra’Kaedan to shut up, you’re going to have to tell him yourself,” Brogan offered in a bored voice.
“Dad, enough. This might very well be the last we see of each other. Don’t insult my new family. My brothers…they’ve a right to know who their mother is, and so do I. We know you gave me a potion which has made me short. You wished to make my dragon small, but your wizard messed up the recipe. I know it’s because Aleksander and Worth have large beasts, though I don’t understand why that’s not a good thing,” Somerly interjected.
Boian appeared unimpressed. “I didn’t give you a potion. I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Somerly turned to Aleksander and Worth, who were standing side-by-side. On either side of them were Noirin and Dravyn. The family resemblance in their dark hair and striking facial features was undeniable. He realized his father wasn’t going to cooperate and give them the details they wanted. “I’m sorry. You’re right. He’s a shit, and I don’t believe he’s going to help.”
Aleksander’s smile was sad. “I would’ve preferred for you to have been able to keep the image you once had of him. I’m sorry he didn’t turn out to be the parent you thought you knew. I know this is difficult for you to handle, and I apologize that his true colors have come to light.”
“Well, I’ll not apologize for the shit. He should be doing that himself,” Worth retorted, then turned to Boian. “You’re quite dreadful, you know? But I’m glad you’re vile because if you’d have been a different person, I might not be standing here today as a D’Vaire. Your son Aleksander is about a hundred times the man you are. I don’t know how a shit like you managed to birth three amazing men, but you did. I won’t give you any credit for it though, for I know it was despite you, not because of you. You had no right to spurn Al
eksander. I don’t know why you’ve done what you have, but to lock me up because I’m a pink dragon is senseless. And to punish your youngest by pouring poison down his throat…I have no way to reconcile that. You’re right about one thing, though. Fate does make mistakes. The silver ring in your eyes is proof of that.”
“Oh, I can tell you why he kicked Aleksander out. He feared him,” Brogan told Worth. He mirrored his mate’s pose by crossing his arms over his broad chest, then addressed Boian. “You knew how powerful Aleksander was. He’s the largest dragon ever born, and you knew it. You were afraid your entire court would give him fealty over you. So you turned him into a monster.”
“I’ve listened to enough drivel for one day,” Boian answered. “Somerly, take off that fucking D’Vaire sash and come on. It’s time to go home. That’s not even your crown you’re wearing.”
“Yes, it is. This is the crown of the Grand Summoner-mate. That’s who I am. I’m also a D’Vaire, and that’s a very proud thing to be. I won’t be going anywhere with you. My home is under Aleksander’s roof right alongside Dre’Kariston here. I hope you’ll take some time to think about the things you’ve done and the way you deny our Emperor. You need to apologize to all three of your sons, our cousins, and the entire family of D’Vaire for the things you’ve said about them and their name. You owe us explanations and the names of our mothers.
“I might not be the smartest dragon in the world, but I’ve grown up quite a lot in the last few months. I see you for who you are. You can’t even admit the only reason you want me home is for the money you’ll get from King Variusdraconis. Duke Drogo served you for centuries, and you tried to sell his only child to a wizard, so he could be a lab rat. I’ve learned the only person you care for is yourself. I hope you’ll remember—Fate chose you because she believed you deserved the honor of having dragons follow you. You need to think of them and join the Council, but you won’t do that because you prefer to make your own rules. That’s not how I wish to live my life. I’ve fallen in love with an incredible man, and we plan to fill our lives with joy and happiness.”
Boian’s eyes narrowed, and all Somerly could find was meanness in them. “After all I did for you, this is the thanks I get? I’m your father. You need to obey my wishes. I know what’s best for you.”
“I’ve discovered that all I need to do is trust myself. I know what’s best for me, and it’s being with Dre’Kariston. It’s pretty awesome that on top of that I get to be a D’Vaire and have a family with my brothers and cousins.”
“Fine. Have it your way. Don’t come crying to me when D’Vaire betrays you as he has everyone his whole life,” Boian retorted. He turned on his heel and stalked out of the room with his dukes.
“I’d love to know who I betrayed,” Aleksander said conversationally.
“Well, you did steal my face,” Worth teased.
Dre’Kariston pulled Somerly into a hug, and he held on to his mate tightly. “You okay?”
Somerly took stock of his feelings and found that he was. He had the opportunity to say what he wanted to his father, and now it was time to close that chapter of his life. If in the future Boian made smarter choices and acknowledged his mistakes, he might consider the idea of some kind of reconciliation, but he wasn’t going to hold his breath that it would work out that way. “I am. I’m relieved it’s over.”
“I really wanted to set him on fire,” Dra’Kaedan stated.
“I would’ve had to arrest you,” Drystan replied.
Dra’Kaedan rolled his eyes. “Everyone ready to head home so we can get away from these undead creatures?”
“I am undead and live with you,” Gavrael stated. He, like the other sentinels, had left the shadows and shimmered into view the moment Boian stormed out.
“Gavrael, you’re sucking away my soul,” Dra’Kaedan retorted.
“Get out of my conference room, so I can go back to my office and get some fucking work done,” Drystan said.
“Let’s go home,” Somerly remarked. Then it hit him that D’Vaire truly was home, and it was the best one he’d ever had. He kissed Dre’Kariston as he closed his eyes to avoid getting sick while Dra’Kaedan cast the teleportation spell. A few months ago he’d believed his life was going down a path where he’d never find happiness. He’d learned the hard lesson of standing up for himself and what he wanted. The reward was the amazing man he had for an eternity and the bonus was being part of a real family he was only just beginning to know. He couldn’t be prouder of the future in front of him.
Chapter 44
Dre’Kariston couldn’t deny he was pleased. For the last several days since their meeting with Boian, a weight seemed to have lifted from Somerly’s shoulders. The dragon was engaging with all the D’Vaires including his two brothers and cousins and had taken a vested interest in not only the sanctuary but magic in general. He’d even talked about taking a class or two with Mac and his younger brother, who were attending one at the local college—he was already using the primer books the pair gave him. It meant a great deal to Dre’Kariston that Somerly wished to be not only involved but interested in every aspect of who he was.
He was doing his best to reciprocate his efforts and was spending time getting to know Lex and Worth. He’d also made a trip over to Court Bera to have lunch with Duke Drogo and Duchess-mate Emmeline. It was important to Dre’Kariston that there be balance in their lives. He didn’t ever want Somerly to have any cause to regret leaving his country and his father behind. Somerly didn’t talk a great deal about the clash with King Boian at the Fallen Knights’ Headquarters. When Dre’Kariston pressed to make sure Somerly wasn’t hurting, he’d assured him the only feeling he had was sadness and that he was sorting through it.
Somerly had believed Boian was one person and found out he was wrong. Dre’Kariston was proud of his man’s courage in dealing with it all in such a straightforward fashion. It made him rather embarrassed that he was hiding from his own issue. Inside of him a familiar was lurking, and he deserved the ability to make his own choices. It was time to stop denying his freedom and summon him from his pool of magic. He took a deep breath and decided not to worry that it would be a repeat of his relationship with Derwin.
He wanted a friendship with his familiar. Dre’Kariston wished he’d find happiness at D’Vaire and that he’d enjoy time spent with the incredible family Aleksander built. Decision made to go ahead and release him, Dre’Kariston needed to hunt down Somerly to have him at his side for this important moment. Somehow, he’d found himself alone in the office the Coven of Warlocks used, and he elected to start his search in the living area of their home. He strode out of the building where the workspaces were kept and crossed the lawn with confident steps. Dre’Kariston waved to Dravyn hard at work in the garden, then walked into the cool embrace of the house.
The open layout of the D’Vaire mansion was massive, but it wasn’t difficult to find his mate smiling as he sat on the sofa. He was joined by Dre’Kariston’s brother, his parents, and the entire Coven of Warlocks. It was as if Fate aligned things perfectly for his announcement. It took him seconds to reach Somerly’s side, and he leaned down to kiss his welcoming mouth.
“Join us?” Somerly asked once his mouth was free.
“Nope, I need to stand.”
Dra’Kaedan narrowed his eyes. “You’re up to something.”
“Yes, I am.”
“I’m not up for a guessing game, so spill it,” Saura demanded. Like his twin, his mother wasn’t one for suspense.
He held out a hand for Somerly and the dragon took it without any prompting. Rising from the sofa, he stood next to him. Dre’Kariston appreciated the eager way Somerly offered any support he might need. “I’ve decided to borrow some of Somerly’s courage. I’m going to summon my familiar.”
“My courage?”
“Yes, if you can face your father, then I can handle my past.”
“Dear, I couldn’t agree more with Somerly being courageous, but there’s no
reason at all for you to believe your new familiar will be a repeat of the old. Fate has gifted you with a new person inside you. One who will have a different personality and therefore will see the past through another lens.”
“Logically I know, but I can’t help but be nervous, I guess.”
“I’ll be right here for you,” Somerly promised earnestly.
“I know, I’m counting on you to be.”
“Have you thought of any names for him?” Brexton asked.
“I looked at some online this morning, but nothing jumped out at me. I’m hoping you guys can help and he might have some ideas himself.”
“This is so exciting. Of course we’ll help,” Renny enthused.
“I think so too,” Wullem added quietly. “I wish I had the magic to summon one.”
“I do believe we can figure a way to encourage your magic well to give you one. We’ll work on it if you’d like,” Dra’Kaedan offered.
“I do hate to impose but if it’s something you might be interested in trying, I’d be happy to participate,” Wullem replied.
“Our little sorcerer group is always looking for projects and if it’s something you want, then we’re certainly interested in helping you out,” Dre’Kariston promised.
“Thanks. I won’t be upset if you don’t succeed. But now I think we should stay focused on your plans,” Wullem suggested.
Saura wrapped an arm around the shy warlock and squeezed. “We’re going to give you a familiar, Wullem, but you’re right. Let’s not get distracted from Dre’Kariston’s. I’m sure you remember the spell. Are you ready?”
Dre’Kariston dropped another kiss on Somerly’s mouth, then released him. He couldn’t touch him as he cast. “I’m ready.”
“Let’s hope he doesn’t decide to throw a pissy fit when he arrives like some people,” Dra’Kaedan said dryly as he gazed at Renny.
The Summoner's Path (D'Vaire, Book 10) Page 33
