Bang! Bang! Bang!
“My queen! My king! You have a visitor!” bellowed Elexon. He sounded small and far away.
Eryanth cursed. He gave her one last kiss, his face twisting with frustration and a touch of anger. “We will finish this later,” he growled. He pushed himself upright with a snarl and covered his body in scaled black and silver armour. His dragon immediately pushed through his chest plate and snarled at the door. “Later, my friend,” Eryanth soothed him. “Our mate will be ours later,” he promised.
Diamond felt heat rush her limbs at the possessive rumble and promise in those words. With a flourish of his hand, the shadow by the bedroom door fell away. Elexon interpreted that as permission to enter.
Diamond said nothing about her mate sealing their door. Part of her wanted to tell him to seal it again so they could continue what they had started. Reluctantly, she pushed herself upright, just managing to straighten her clothes as the tallest woman Diamond had ever seen entered, followed by an entourage of helpers—and Rose.
Rose took one look at Diamond’s flushed cheeks and Eryanth’s dark face; she smirked, raising her brows. Clarissa’s friendship and counsel had apparently helped Rose.
“My queen. My king,” she said formally, bowing her head.
Diamond almost chastised her for the formality until she realised it was for the benefit of the gigantic lady standing in the doorway.
“This is Madame Kidaf. She has brought many outfits for you to choose from.” Rose eyed Diamond’s worn, sandy outfit and frowned before addressing Madame Kidaf. “I think perhaps my queen should like to bathe before she chooses a gown. It would be best if you arranged the gowns for her to try on and view in the living area,” suggested Rose.
Diamond could have kissed her friend. She did not really want a bunch of strangers in the bedroom she was going to share with Eryanth. She wanted this space to be theirs alone.
Eryanth walked back towards her. Resting his big hands upon her shoulders, he kissed her gently and sweetly. Diamond kissed him back, feeling warmth in her chest where her magic had once tingled, for the first times in months. He broke the kiss, but she wound her arms around his waist and held him tightly, resting her cheek against his stomach. “Where are you going to go?” she asked, not wanting him to be alone.
“Do not fret, my love. I will seek out my father and my sister. I know where their rooms are located. We have much to catch up on, and I should like to train for a while before I bathe and change.” He kissed her forehead and stepped away. “I will see you later, my queen. Have fun.”
Hours later, Diamond let out a sigh of relief as Rayan left her chambers. Thankfully, Eryanth had not yet returned. She knew from Rayan that her mate was training his shadow magic with Firan and that he would call on her to escort her to the ball. Presumably, he was bathing and readying himself in Firan’s rooms.
She jumped at a knock on the door.
“Enter,” she called, trying to look calm and collected. She smoothed her shaking hands down her fitted midnight blue bodice. Her shoulders were bare and the structure of the bodice highlighted curves she hadn’t realised she possessed. She felt both self-conscious and beautiful. Her heart banged against her ribs, and she suddenly wished Rose hadn’t tied the bodice up quite so tightly. Out of all of Madame Kidaf’s creations, this outfit had been the most practical—one that would blend into the night. The skirt hung low upon her hips and could be easily removed.
It was hard to take a deep steadying breath when her lungs were so tightly bound. She hadn’t felt this nervous since she had waited for Hugo to take her on their first night out together. Now she waited for Eryanth, the same man but different in so many ways.
Her stomach tightened to the point of pain as she thought about the way he had touched her and kissed her. Gods, she wanted tonight to be over so she could be with him again.
She stood and faced the opening door, the silk of her skirts whispering. Around her hips the material fitted before flaring to the ground. A sheer layer of silver tulle covered the midnight blue silk, shimmering as it floated on the breeze from the open window.
Eryanth strode in, smiling broadly. His smile fell away as his eyes roamed over her bare shoulders before dipping to where her necklace rested between the swell of her breasts.
The venom bond mark peaked above the edge of her bodice, and his eyes flared with fire and heat at the sight of it. His attention flicked to her bare neck.
Diamond swallowed hard; she had deliberately left her scars visible for all to see. They proved their unity, the bonds they shared. She couldn’t help but tilt her head to the side, exposing the creamy skin of her neck to his attention.
Eryanth said nothing but rumbled low in his chest. A purely feral fae sound. Before she could blink he was before her, his hands hot on the bare skin of her waist.
“Gods, I want to sink my teeth into this soft, beautiful skin,” he rasped, gently scraping her neck with his teeth. “I want to taste your hot blood on my tongue. Gods, I want to taste you.”
Diamond held his hips, wanting to pull him against her but she stopped herself. They had a ball to attend. “And I want you too. I want you to take my blood and reawaken our bonds. I want to feel you inside me—your magic, your body and your soul,” she breathed. Playfully, she nipped his earlobe when he moaned loudly at her words and dropped his forehead to her shoulder.
Diamond steadied her breathing, bringing her own wants under control. “But we have other responsibilities tonight.”
Eryanth’s warm fingers reluctantly let go as she pulled away and straightened her skirts, though his attention remained fixed wholly upon her. He inspected her slowly. Her silver hair was arranged in an intricate pattern of curls and braids piled high. Silver strands wove around a thin silver circlet that sat upon her head. His gaze travelled over the swell of her breast and the bare skin of her midriff right down to the hem of her skirts.
Diamond felt her necklace heat under his attention, his magic brushing against her, nipping at her skin.
Awe suffused his face. “You are utterly captivating,” he breathed.
“Thank you. You don’t look so bad yourself,” she replied, unable to stop her pleased blush. Guilt almost had her spitting out that she was also wearing leggings and weapons under her voluminous skirt. She bit her lower lip to stop herself, then ran her gaze over him in appreciation.
He looked stunning. His dark armour was nowhere in sight, though she knew he could call it in within seconds. He had dressed in a deep blue and silver embroidered silk shirt. It hugged the muscles of his chest and grazed over his toned abdomen. His leggings were a loose and comfortable soft grey material, and his boots were a soft tan leather. He had opted for an outfit of proper cloth rather than his own magic tonight.
“Come, my king. We must go and mingle with our new friends and enemies,” she said, taking his arm and squashing her reluctance to leave. She had to make it through tonight, for it was not just about creating lasting relations with the rulers of the Southern Hotlands, it was about embarking on the path of freedom for the rest of the world.
Chapter 7
The High Wizard’s face was implacable as he greeted Diamond and Eryanth. “I trust your rooms are to your liking?” he asked politely.
Diamond inclined her head and nodded, equally polite. “Of course. Your home is beautiful, as is your city.”
“Yes, it is,” he agreed, his eyes glittering and cold. “And it is my responsibility to ensure it will stay that way.”
“Of course, and our alliance will help ensure that too.”
“Yes, Queen Arjuno, an alliance is definitely the only way to ensure the survival of all I have built here. It cannot be allowed to fall.”
A shudder rippled down Diamond’s spine for a reason she could not fathom. Perhaps it was the utter resolve in his cold voice or that look of pure determination in his eyes.
“I will leave you to enjoy my hospitality. We shall convene at first light tomorrow
to discuss our treaty. I will send a guard to escort you to my council chamber.”
Diamond nodded, and Eryanth gave a perfectly executed bow.
The High Wizard turned away and greeted the next guest in line.
“Where did you learn to be so respectful to those you don’t trust?” asked Diamond, remembering the disdain Eryanth had once had for just about everyone in Griana’s court.
Eryanth smiled. “My father is teaching me many things, and glamour—magical and non-magical—is one of them.”
“Ah, the art of manipulation and lies,” she said.
“Yes, precisely. I am practising observing, listening and being polite instead of shaking the truth from my enemies.”
Diamond’s brow furrowed a little. “So you don’t believe he is going to form an alliance with us?” she asked, keeping her voice low as they made their way through the crowds to the tables laden with exotic foods and drinks.
“No, I do not. Despite his words, something feels-off about him and this whole situation.”
Diamond took a glass of iced lemonade and sipped the bittersweet liquid. She groaned as it rolled over her tongue and down her throat. “Mmm, heaven,” she whispered.
Eryanth chuckled. “No wine tonight, my love?” he asked, indicating the rows of glasses on the table.
“Err, no, not yet. Perhaps later.” She turned and put her free hand on his broad chest. “I want to keep my wits about me—for now. Then, once we have done our duty and are alone again, I am going to let you take over my wits and everything else.”
Eryanth almost choked on his own drink. Whilst he was recovering, Rayan approached them, a woman on his arm. Everything about her had Diamond’s hackles rising, from the way her grey eyes narrowed as she looked at Eryanth to the way she took the daintiest little steps, almost running to keep up with Rayan’s long stride. But it was the coldness on her thin face, which swept up to her eyes, that Diamond disliked the most.
“Queen Arjuno. King,” greeted Rayan stoically. “This is Reanne.” His blue eyes pierced Diamond’s.
Diamond’s interest piqued. His betrothed. Rayan had once told her his arranged match was his worst nightmare. A spoiled, power-hungry woman.
“Ah, Rayan has told me much about you,” Diamond greeted the woman.
But Reanne was not looking at Diamond; her shrewd gaze lay upon Eryanth, assessing him from his head to his toes. Diamond’s ire rose, her stomach heating the way it used to when her magic surfaced. Griana had looked at Eryanth like that, as though he were an object of desire purely for her taking.
Eryanth must have felt her emotions, though she tried to hide it. He smirked knowingly and bowed low over Reanne’s hand. The obsequious woman fluttered her eyelashes, utterly ignoring Rayan and Diamond. Eryanth let go and purposefully slipped his hand around Diamond’s waist, his thumb brushing up and down her bare skin.
Diamond let herself relax into his touch for just a moment. Then her eyes met Rayan’s.
“Diamond? There is someone whom you need to meet,” he said, holding out his arm.
Eryanth stiffened at the gesture.
Diamond swallowed hard at the mild confusion and irritation flowing down their bond. She quickly reassured him with a touch of her fingers upon his lips and a smile. “Why don’t you stay and entertain, Reanne?” she asked, though she made it a plea with her eyes. “I will be back with you as soon as my business with Rayan is done,” she said, using all her self-control to appear calm.
Eryanth narrowed his eyes. He knew she was up to something or she would not leave his side, not in the den of his enemy. He looked to Elexon, who stood nearby looking dashing in his new armour and with his red wings on display. He was clearly not a guest but a guard at this party. “Go with my queen,” Eryanth ordered.
Diamond tried not to panic. She smiled gently but hardened her voice. “Eryanth, I do not need Elexon to guard me, Rayan will be by my side. He has far more incentive than most to keep me safe.” She did not give her mate time to answer and, ignoring his flaring nostrils and the squaring of his shoulders, she turned to Elexon. “You will stay here and guard my mate from all threats,” she said meaningfully, looking at Reanne, who had taken hold of Eryanth’s arm and was leaning close enough for her less than ample chest to touch his bicep. Diamond swallowed her snarl. Trusting Eryanth did not lessen her desire to punch the girl. Hiding her fury, she turned away. She had a job to do tonight and the fate of the world rested upon it. Her jealousy would have to wait.
Leaving Eryanth fuming and glaring at her, she swished her hips and followed Rayan.
The High Wizard’s general was in his early thirties. He was not a handsome man but neither was he distasteful. Astute brown eyes set in a tough, uncompromising face watched her and Rayan approach. She did not miss the slight stiffening in his posture. Not a fan of Rayan then, she decided. Or just very suspicious of me.
She smiled in what she hoped was an inviting way.
“General Thir, are you enjoying the party?” asked Rayan tightly.
The general eyed his prince with disdain. “I never enjoy these gatherings, prince,” he retorted. “They are full of sycophantic fools who try playing games of manipulation they will never win.”
Diamond smiled. “I hope that doesn’t mean me?” she quipped in smooth tones.
Thick eyebrows lifted. Clearly, it did.
Diamond held his assessing stare. He did not look her over. Diamond was not surprised. He was a hardened warrior and no fool. He would not be distracted by a glittering gown, bare skin or a pretty face.
“Diamond Arjuno,” she said, introducing herself.
“Hmm, the young queen and saviour of the Eight Kingdoms,” he replied stonily. “It is a pleasure to meet you.” His tone indicated it was anything but.
“Is it?” Diamond smiled in what she hoped was an innocent manner. She knew his tastes lay elsewhere; Rayan had told her, but she had to somehow get this man alone. “Well, it is certainly amazing to meet you. Rayan has told me of your prowess on the battlefield. In fact, I remember seeing you fighting the Ashmea alongside your lord,” she fawned in her most sincere and wide-eyed way. “It was an amazing display of spells and casting. I have never seen anything like it.”
This man would not respond to feminine wiles, but he would respond to adoration of his power and battle prowess.
The general narrowed his eyes.
Diamond kept her eyes wide and her chin tilted, an innocent smile fixed upon her face.
He relaxed, allowing a tight smile to stretch his mouth. “You have heard of me? And you saw my triumph against my enemies?” he asked, though it was more a statement than a question.
Diamond resisted rolling her eyes at his conceit; instead, she smiled up though her long lashes at him. “Of course, I asked Rayan to tell me all about you,” she flattered. “Though perhaps you can tell me more about how you fought off the two Battle Imps that I saw you best. It’s amazing to be able to kill two at once,” she simpered breathlessly. Got him! she thought, as his spine straightened and his shoulders squared. His chin raised and he studied her silently for a moment.
“Whew! It’s warm in here,” she said, fanning herself delicately with her hands. “Would you care to escort me to fetch one of those delightful glasses of wine?” she asked, threading her arm through his and edging towards the far wall where the refreshments were set out.
She almost thought he would refuse but she tugged on his arm. “It will be lovely to find out more about your triumphs on the battlefield. Perhaps you can advise me on some strategies that may help me in the future. I’d love to learn from the best warrior here.”
“The best? What about your king? Your own warriors?” he asked, his eyes narrowed.
“Oh,” Diamond waved her other hand in dismissal. “My king is a fine warrior but he has not fought many battles—not like you,” she answered, still pulling him towards the refreshment table.
Rayan did a small perfunctory bow as they left him. “Take goo
d care of her, general. You know of my pledge.”
Diamond pretended not to notice the sneer on the general’s lips before he answered, “Of course. I know everything that happens in this realm,” he replied, leaving Diamond wondering about his network of spies and the magic that bound the wizards. Did they all have such abilities to see things through enchantments, like the High Wizard?
Rayan watched them, clearly not happy about leaving her.
Diamond ignored him and the weight of Eryanth’s gaze as she led the general through the crowd.
With steady fingers, she reached out. Condensation dripped down the cold glass, running over her fingertips. Never really one for wine, her eyes widened as the gloriously sweet liquid slipped across her tongue and down her throat.
“It is good, isn’t it?” asked the general, a small smile curling his lips at her response.
“Really, really good,” she agreed.
“It is made in the vineyards of Ion Mah and shipped here. Only a small proportion is sold on to the other kingdoms. It commands an extortionate price, as it should. Others should pay highly for the superior standard of goods that come from our lands.”
Diamond brought the glass to her lips and took another swallow to cover her incredulity. She had never met anyone quite like this egocentric wizard. She fanned herself again. “I am clearly not used to the climate here. Does this beautiful palace have a balcony you could show me?”
The general looked down his nose at her, as she knew he would. “Of course it does,” he retorted with condescension.
Diamond pretended to be relieved. Gods, the man is too much! she thought with distaste, already looking forward to returning to her mate’s side.
Once through a set of double doors, the air was marginally cooler and laden with the scent of jasmine and incense. Diamond inhaled, the sweet and musky smell calming the knot in her stomach. She swished the skirts of her dress, sending the silver shimmering as it caught the soft glow of the lights strung up on gold metal poles. Other couples walked in the gardens, some disappearing into the dark shadows which reminded her of Eryanth. She steadfastly refused to let her gaze be drawn back to the ballroom. She trusted him even if she didn’t trust Reanne.
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