Wings of Change

by Bianca D’Arc

  Lucia also agonized over Reynor’s slow progress and wondered if there was more she could do. Each day, she offered solemn prayers that Rey would heal on his own. Marcus had asked what she was doing on the first day when she placed wildflowers as an offering in the small window above Rey’s place on the stone floor. She prayed according to the teachings of her youth, which were different from the way things were done in Draconia. Marcus asked pointed questions, but the next day brought beautiful hothouse blooms from the queen’s own conservatory to add to the small vase she’d placed in the sun.

  Each day after, he brought a new flower for her offerings—rare orchids and lilies, simple daisies and roses. Each day a new flower and a presence at her side while she offered her prayers over the healing dragon.

  Silently, he’d stand with her while they added the blossoms to the growing collection, weeding out wilted flowers each time new ones were added. She was touched he would respect her beliefs in such a way and glad he didn’t push for more than friendship, though she knew he hoped for far more. Still, there was Reynor to consider.

  Lucia decided to take the chance of moving to the Castle Lair with Kaden. For one thing, she was falling in love with the rugged knight. She already loved Rey and wanted to be on hand to help him work through his recovery. She couldn’t imagine being left behind when the dragon left the tavern.

  And so, with some trepidation, she let the owner know she would be leaving the tavern when Reynor and Kaden left. The other girls didn’t seem surprised when Lucia packed her few belongings, and each of them wished her well. She was touched by their friendly gestures and the small parting gifts they gave her. A ribbon for her hair from one girl, a carved comb from another. They were small gifts, but dear to her for the true friendship they represented.

  When Reynor was able to walk for short distances under his own power without causing more damage, the knights arranged for his removal to the Castle Lair. A huge flatbed wagon was pulled into the tavern yard, drawn by a team of eight sturdy draft horses. Rey walked out to meet it, suffering the indignity of being hauled up to the castle in stoic silence. Well-wishers lined the streets as he was wheeled by, speaking prayers for him and offering their quiet support.

  For the second time, Lucia entered the Castle Lair, worry foremost in her mind. Rey had been silent as they moved him. It took some time to negotiate the late afternoon streets and by the time they pulled up to the castle, night had fallen. The cart brought him as close as possible to the large door, where he was able to lower himself to the ground and walk painfully through the Lair to the suite that had been prepared. The other dragons watched his slow progress, silent and solemn. Rey didn’t raise his head. He was the very picture of defeat.

  Lucia’s heart went out to the dragon who’d become one of her closest friends. It hurt to see him this way. He walked gingerly, pain evident in every step as he made his way to an area of the Lair she hadn’t seen before.

  The Lair section of the castle was constructed in a series of circular ledges with the center being open to the sky above. Stairs for the human inhabitants wound through the inner walls, but it was clear the dragons negotiated the different levels through flight. Rey couldn’t strain his wing, so a ground floor suite was set aside for them. Rey didn’t speak or even make as sound as he struggled for each step, Kaden, Marcus and Linea following close behind.

  Kaden had prepared the way, taking a few hours the day before to move his and Rey’s belongings from their old residence, higher up on one of the upper floors. He’d told Lucia all about the new suite. It was larger than their old one, and more luxurious. He thought Rey would like the larger sand pit, and Lucy looked forward to seeing the place he took such obvious delight in.

  As the small party slowed, Kaden moved in front of his dragon partner to open a huge door, big enough for the dragon. Lucia noted the mechanism on her way through. Rey could’ve opened it easily with a stretch of his neck, but perhaps it was too much for his healing hide. Better that Kaden do the stretching for the time being.

  A surprise awaited them as the group came to a halt inside the large suite.

  “Welcome home, Sir Reynor.” Alania, the queen of Draconia and her twin, Princess Arikia, also known as queen of the nomadic Jinn people, sat on the lip of the sandy oval that was clearly Rey’s domain. The two women stood, Draconia’s queen in leathers, as Lucia had seen her before. Her twin sister wore an ornate green dress that matched her emerald eyes.

  Lucia lowered herself in a respectful curtsy, though her eyes never left the two powerful women. She straightened only when the men greeted the two queens. They checked Rey’s wounds and the tang of ozone and magic scented the air as they used their healing powers in tandem on his tough hide. After some time, the women moved back and Rey was encouraged to settle into his warm sand wallow.

  “The heat will be good for him.” Queen Alania faced the knights. “Just leave him be for a while. We’ve done all we can, but I fear it may not be enough.” She looked back at the dragon and Lucia wasn’t surprised to see him already asleep. All the activity had tired him out.

  Queen Arikia of the Jinn produced a pot of herbal salve from a low table near the door. “You can use this on the scab. It might help loosen the joint a bit.”

  Surprisingly, she handed it to Lucia.

  “See that he rests. No running around the Lair.” Her smile gentled the stern words. “I’ve heard good things about you from the Jinn, Lucia. Be welcome here and if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

  Flabbergasted, Lucia nodded and dropped a small curtsy as she clutched the pot of salve. She remained in that position until the women left.

  Linea loomed in the doorway, but backed away as Marcus took his leave. It was clear the other knight didn’t want to go, and neither did his dragon, but they did leave, for which Lucia was glad. She had to get used to this new arrangement before she could even consider the three-way relationship the knights proposed. And there was Rey to consider. If he couldn’t fly, all her worries might be for naught.

  When they were alone, Kaden closed the door. He came up behind her, drawing her back against his chest as they gazed at Rey.

  “Will he be all right?” she whispered, unwilling to disturb the dragon’s rest.

  “He’ll be better now that he’s back home among his own kind. The tavern was a friendly place, but the good folk who came to see him couldn’t communicate with him as we can.” He settled his chin atop her head as she snuggled into his arms. “Perhaps it was a good thing for the first part of his recovery, but it’s best he’s here.”

  “I hope you’re right.”

  “Come now.” He tugged her toward a doorway to their right. “One of the lads brought your belongings to our room. There will be time to unpack tomorrow, but for now, I think we could use a good night’s sleep.”

  “Just sleep?”

  “Well, I can think of a few other things to do before we sleep.” His roguish smile lit a fire in her womb. “If you’re interested.”

  “I am most definitely interested, Sir Knight.”

  She tugged him toward the doorway. There was a large bed—larger than any she’d ever seen before—against the center of the far wall, laid with soft blankets in colorful hues. It was one of the grandest rooms she’d seen since she’d left her homeland.

  “I arranged to have some things made for you, Lucy. I hope you’ll like them.”

  She spun to the sound of his voice, finding him by a carved wooden closet. He’d opened it and was holding up a whisper thin silken nightgown in a pale blue. It was a costly garment, indeed. Lucia hadn’t seen anything so fine since she was a child in her homeland and she’d been too young to own such a daring, inviting garment.

  “It’s beautiful.”

  “I want to see you in it.” Kaden’s eyes flashed at her. “But first, I want to show you our new bath chamber.” He led the way to the adjoining room where a large mosaic pool was filled with clear steaming water, waiti
ng for them. Even in her homeland, she’d never seen such a large and beautiful bathing chamber. She stepped forward with some hesitancy into a room, tiled in gorgeous, rich hues.

  “How does the water stay warm? Where does it come from?” She looked all around to see if she could discern how they’d managed such a feat.

  “All Lairs are designed with a mix of science and magic. This being the Castle Lair, it’s probably a bit grander than the others, of course. All the water comes from two sources—one deep within the mountain on which this fortress was built and the other from large cisterns designed into the structure that collect rain and snow and funnel it where needed. The heat is a byproduct of associating with dragonkind. Most often, the resident dragon in each suite will provide heat for his family, but some friends made this ready for us at my request just before we arrived. I wanted your first night here in the Lair to hold every comfort.”

  That this rough knight would think to do such a thing touched her heart. She turned and kissed his cheek.

  “You’re a sweet man, Kaden. Thank you.”

  He tossed the silk nightgown to a nearby bench and grabbed her around the waist, drawing her close.

  “I don’t know about sweet, but I know I’m a lucky man, to have you here with me, Lucy. If there’s anything you want, all you have to do is ask. I tried to think of everything you might need, but with Rey so ill, I’ll admit I’ve been a little distracted. Still, I asked some of the women for help. They stocked our chamber and arranged this.” He gestured toward the wall where a series of small bottles were arranged next to a mirror. They looked like lotions and creams, but she’d have to look more closely to see exactly what had been provided. Towels and soaps lay near the mosaic pool, ready for use. All in all, the chamber was fit for a king…or at least a princess. Lucia felt tears gather behind her eyes.

  “It’s perfect, Kaden. I can’t believe you thought of all this. I can’t believe you’d do this for me.”

  He bent to nuzzle her ear. “I’d do anything for you, Lucy. Absolutely anything.”

  She didn’t object when he rid her of her rough dress, discarding it on the floor. She helped him unlace his shirt and leggings, and soon they were both naked, kissing deeply as Kaden edged them closer to the steaming pool. He helped her in, steadying her when she felt the incredible warmth of the water against her skin. It had been so long since she’d had a hot bath, and never one this decadent.

  Kaden followed her into the water with a splash. He set about lathering her long hair, rinsing with an ingenious device that sprayed hot water in rivulets over her head. She did the same for him and then they were sliding against each other’s soap-slick bodies, cavorting like children as they laughed and played in the soapy water.

  Lucia’s temperature rose as the water cooled. Kaden produced more than enough fire to keep her warm. It wasn’t dragon fire, but rather, the fire of a man who knew how to please his woman. And she was his. There was little question left in her mind as to that. Somewhere along the line, during the worry over Rey and the doubts about her future, she’d fallen in love with Kaden.

  Chapter Eight

  She already loved Reynor, so loving his knight shouldn’t have surprised her. Still, it did. After losing her family, Lucia hadn’t thought she could take the chance of loving anyone ever again, but Kaden proved her wrong. It hadn’t been a conscious decision. He’d just worked his way into her heart and now he was there for good. Come what may, her future was tied up with the rugged knight and his dragon partner.

  “Out you go now.” Kaden swatted her rump with an open palm, making her squeal, but it didn’t really hurt. Lucia was taken aback by the spike in her desire from Kaden’s playful spank. She looked at him, breathless in her discovery as he smiled, slow and calculating.

  He followed her out of the tub and wrapped her in a towel, watching her all the while. She grew uncomfortable under his intense regard, but he wouldn’t let her go. When they were both dry, he moved back a pace.

  “Put on the nightgown, sweetheart. Slowly.”

  Her gaze shot to his. He was watching her with a sizzling look of intent on his chiseled features. His masterful words made her stomach flutter in excitement. This was something new. In the few days they’d been lovers, it had been intense, but usually free and easy between them. Tonight, the intensity was even greater, but the easiness was gone. In its place was a commanding man who knew exactly what he wanted and demanded no less than obedience.

  Lucia didn’t understand why that made her so hot, but it did. She followed his orders, tugging on the nearly see-through garment, fitting it to her breasts as best she could. The gown had probably been sewn for a less well-endowed woman. It hugged her breasts and pushed them upward, and she wasn’t surprised to see Kaden’s gaze riveted to the spot where she nearly overflowed the plunging neckline.

  “Turn around. Slowly.” He twirled one finger as he gave the command and she watched him while she moved to do his bidding. His cock was erect and he looked as hungry as she’d ever seen him. His words commanded, his eyes held a fire that was matched by the roiling inferno in her womb. This new, masterful Kaden was something else again.

  He reached out one rough hand and smoothed it over the silk at her waist. The fabric was so thin, she felt his touch as if it were against her skin, but with the added tactile delight of the ultra-soft silk. She moaned when his hand moved upward, to cup her breast.

  “You’re beautiful, little girl.” He took her mouth, conquering and demanding a response she was more than willing to give. She would give him anything. Everything. He owned her pleasure. It had never been more clear. When he let her go, he stepped back and put pressure on her shoulders in a clear command.

  Confused, but willing to see where he would lead, Lucia sank to her knees. The straining arousal that met her eyes cleared up any questions she might’ve had.

  “I’ve never done this before, Kaden.”

  The muscles in his thighs clenched, as did his hands in her damp hair. “Then I’m honored to be the first.” There was no question in his voice, no room for argument. His surety made the fire in her belly grow hotter.

  “I don’t know if I can.”

  “You can and you will, Lucy. Lick me now. I need it.” He exerted light pressure on the back of her head until she was close enough to reach out with her tongue. She’d never imagined doing such a thing, but suddenly she wanted it more than anything. Kaden was so strong and powerful in so many ways, it humbled her to see him tremble at the first tentative brush of her tongue over the head of his cock.

  “Oh, yeah. Just like that. Take me deeper.”

  Warming to her task, she grew bolder. Her gaze flew upward, seeking his approval as she took the tip into her mouth and swirled her tongue all around. His hips surged and pushed him deeper into her mouth, but she didn’t mind. In fact, she reveled in the look of bliss on his handsome face as he watched her with half-lidded eyes.

  There was no doubt in her mind he was enjoying himself. She liked the feeling that gave her, knowing she could give him such pleasure with such a simple act. Lucia also liked the salty taste of him. His flavor and scent reminded her just the tiniest bit of the ocean near where she’d grown up. They were good memories, wild and free.

  He pulsed deeper as she got into the rhythm. Like the ocean, nothing could tame this man, but he could temper himself. For her. Every move he’d made, from the moment they met, had been gentle and considerate. Just once, she wanted to push him beyond that. She wanted to make him wild.

  She sucked as he surged, earning a groan from him that made her wet. How she loved this man. Strong, yet caring. Bold, yet thoughtful. He was a generous lover and an even better friend.

  “That’s enough, sweetheart.” He withdrew quickly, disappointing her, but the sparkle in his eye promised even more delicious pleasures to come. He lifted her by the elbows, then scooped her into his arms and carried her to the huge bed. Placing her at the edge of the wide expanse, he parted her legs a
nd stood between. She understood now why the bed was built so high off the ground. His cock was at the perfect height for her pussy without any bending or straining, but he didn’t take her yet.

  Instead, he sank to his knees, kissing her reddened kneecaps one at a time. “I’m sorry, my love. Next time, I’ll remember to put a pillow on the floor so you don’t hurt your pretty little knees.” She sighed as his hands stroked up the insides of her thighs, spreading her folds to his view. “You sucked my cock so well, I think you deserve a reward. As do I.” He grinned with wicked intent as he lowered his head.

  The next thing she knew, his lips and tongue were teasing her clit and she could form no more coherent thoughts. Pleasure was her only goal. Her body strained toward a peak, wetness issuing forth as he rumbled approval, but he wouldn’t let her come. Kaden sat back and she felt his loss keenly. She rose on her elbows to see what he was about.

  “You’re the most beautiful, responsive woman I’ve ever had in my bed, Lucy.” His expression was solemn. “I’ll never let you go now. You know that, don’t you?” Two fingers pushed into her, sliding through her excitement and driving her higher. “I couldn’t live without you now, Lucy.” Removing his fingers, he stood and pulled her hips forward to meet his cock. He slid home with little fanfare and her body convulsed almost immediately. Then he stilled until she met his gaze.

  “I love you, Lucy.”

  He moved then, as she cried out once more in pleasure. His declaration of love astounded her, warmed her and made her feel whole. She loved him with all her heart and let him know it, crying out the words as he made her come over and over again.