by Aria Winter
I dig my heels into his back, begging him for more. When I’ve touched myself, it’s never felt as amazing as this.
“Raidyn.” His name escapes my lips in a breathless moan as he tastes me. “I need you.”
He presses one finger into my core and I arch into him, taking him deeper. He pumps in and out of my channel, creating unbearable friction as he continues to tease his tongue through my folds.
He growls again and the sound vibrates straight through me, igniting a fire deep inside. Pleasure roars through my body, so intense all the air rushes from my lungs as I cry out his name.
When I finally come down from my orgasm, he lifts his head to smile at me. I tug on his shoulders to pull him back up my body. I hug him tightly. He places several tender kisses to my face and neck as I run my fingers lazily up and down his back. His hearts hammer against mine and I know he’s still aroused and unsated.
I cup his face and meet his eyes. “You didn’t climax,” I whisper.
He shakes his head. “Your pleasure is all that matters, my mate. I want my first release to be inside you. We will wait until you are ready.”
My thighs involuntarily clench at his words as I imagine him thrusting deep in my channel.
He rolls us to the side and pulls me against his chest as he whispers in my ear, “My beautiful mate. You are perfect, my Skye.”
Chapter 20
Skye
I don’t remember drifting off to sleep, but when I wake, the sun sits high overhead and Raidyn is not in the bed beside me. I stand and pull on my robe, padding downstairs to find him.
His voice in the library catches my attention. Quietly, I move to the doorway to listen. On the screen before him, a dragon-man with dark-gray scales and deep-green eyes is displayed. I recognize his guard, Tai, almost immediately.
“Your father has completely lost his mind. Your cousin is whispering in his ear. They are searching for you. Whatever you do, you must stay hidden.”
Raidyn shakes his head. “My father would never hurt me. I know this to be truth.”
“Yes, but he is no longer making the decisions. He has left the Clan in Durzain’s hands. Your cousin wants you gone so that he may rule in your stead.”
Raidyn slams his fist on the table with so much force, the indentation stays after he has lifted his hand. “Durzain is a dishonorable male! How could my father turn our people over to him?”
Tai shakes his head. “Besides you, Durzain is the only family your father has left. And remember, he is not in his right mind.”
Raidyn clenches his jaw. “I should have forced him to abdicate long before now, but I did not wish to see him brought low. He was already suffering from the death of my mother.”
“What will you do?”
Raidyn runs his hand through his hair. “I must take my mate to find her people. Their ships were downed by Rovaran pirates, who may be still searching Drakaria for them. You know they do not give up their quarry easily.”
“Word from the Water Clan is that Varus has already found the humans. He and his warriors brought them to their capital.”
“Then I will take my mate there as well. She longs to be reunited with her people.”
“It is too dangerous for you to enter Fire Clan territory without—” Tai begins, but Raidyn cuts him off abruptly.
“Varus was like a brother to me once. I believe he will listen to reason.”
“You cannot be certain that his people will not attack you.”
Raidyn sighs heavily. “I have no choice but to hope he remembers the friendship we once shared. My mate wishes to be reunited with her friend and I must ask a favor of the male I once considered a brother.”
Tai frowns. “You cannot mean to take her to them.”
“I must.” He pauses. “I cannot keep her with me. It is not safe. Not until—”
I step inside. “What are you talking about?”
He spins to face me. “I will take you to the Fire Clan. They have your crew. It is not safe for you to remain with me. I must challenge my father—my cousin, as well—for the right to rule.” He pauses. “I must leave you there. You will not be safe until my father abdicates the throne.”
I send him an incredulous look. “And what if something happens to you?”
Instead of answering, he turns back to Tai. “I will contact you later.”
Tai bows. “Of course, my prince.” He leans forward and shuts off the display. The screen goes dark and then Raidyn reluctantly lifts his gaze to mine.
“I can see no other way to ensure your safety, my mate.”
“My mate,” I repeat his words. “When you say this, you make us sound like we’re already married—bonded,” I correct myself, using a word he’ll understand. “Where I come from, bonded pairs make decisions together. One party doesn’t unilaterally decide because they think they know best.” Though that’s not the whole truth, it’s also not a complete lie. Every couple is different, but he doesn’t need to know that. Right now, he just needs to understand that I refuse to allow him to make a big decision for me instead of with me.
Clenching his jaw, he meets my eyes evenly. “I am sorry, but I will not allow you to risk yourself. Gather your things. We are going to the Fire Clan territory.”
His tone is commanding. I hold his gaze with narrowed eyes for a moment before I go back upstairs to our room. I have no belongings to gather, except for maybe a spare robe. I’ll accompany him to the Fire Clan, but only because I’m desperate to see Lilliana and the rest of our friends again. However, I won’t let him leave me there while he goes to wage war against his father and cousin.
He wants me to be his—fine. But I have one condition. When we reach the Fire Clan, I’ll tell him I will accept him as my mate, but only if he promises to stay by my side. As desperate as he is to claim me, he’ll have to agree.
When I come back downstairs, he studies me warily. He probably expects me to protest more, but instead, I face him calmly. “I’m ready to leave.”
Chapter 21
Raidyn
As we make our way to the Fire Clan territory, I pay careful attention to my mate’s thoughts and emotions, grateful that I can sense them in this form. Though I’ve told her I can sense her thoughts, it is clear from the pattern of images that flit through her mind that she does not realize I can visualize them, as well. I probably should have made this clear to her, but I am glad that I did not.
Her mind is a joy to witness.
My hearts soar because she has decided she wants me as her mate. Images of us mating in various positions and places fill her mind. One stands out above all others: She imagines me pressing her against the edge of the bathing pool, her legs wrapped around me as I thrust into her.
This wish I am determined to fulfill when she decides to claim me. Remembering the sweet taste of her nectar on my tongue, I must force myself to focus as I fly us toward the Fire Clan territory.
She wants to claim me as much as I long to claim her but plans to present her decision as a bargaining tool to keep me at her side and safe from danger.
I wish I could stay with her so that we could begin our life right away, but I must deal with my father and cousin. If I do not, she might never be safe. My cousin wants me out of the way so that he can inherit the throne. I must try my best to make her understand that if I had a choice, I would never leave her side.
But in this matter, my resolve is absolute. I will do whatever it takes to make certain she is safe. Even if it costs me my life.
The floating islands give way to mountainous terrain, which in turn fades into an ocean of crimson sand as we enter the Fire Clan territory. I focus my attention away from my mate’s thoughts and toward the red plains below. I must remain alert. I have entered enemy territory and do not want to be caught unaware by one of Varus’ warriors.
I know we will encounter them sooner or later, but I’d rather avoid them, if possible, for as long as I can. When we meet, I must hope that they will listen to re
ason before deciding to attack.
Skye must sense my trepidation because she sits up and I realize she, too, is scanning the area for signs of another Drakarian.
I scent one a moment before a deafening roar splits the air—a warning call from a Fire Clan warrior. I recognize him as soon as I scent him on the wind. Rakan, Varus’ most trusted guard and faithful friend, has orange-red scales and crimson eyes. I remember him well from my childhood.
He barrels toward us at lightning speed. I cry out to stop him before he attacks. “I have a human female with me!”
Instantly, he slows and hovers beside me, circling once to verify that I speak truth. As soon as he notices Skye, he calls out to her. “Are you all right?”
“Yes,” she shouts over the wind. “We’re here to look for my friend, Lilliana, and the rest of my crew.”
Rakan’s eyes widen slightly. “You speak of our new princess and mate to Prince Varus. She is well and resides in the capital city. We have taken in the rest of your people as well.” He narrows his eyes at me. “They are under the protection of the Fire Clan.”
“I want to see her,” Skye calls. “Will you take us to her?”
He studies me warily for a moment before nodding at Skye. Then he snarls as his crimson eyes meet mine. “No tricks, Warrior of the Wind Clan. Do you understand?”
A low growl escapes me, but I nod in response.
Rakan turns to lead us toward the Fire Clan’s capital city. The crimson desert plains give way to a towering plateau. As we climb the cliff face, the orange-and-red layers of rock seem to race by. I can sense Skye’s fear of falling through our touch connection.
“Do not worry,” I reassure her. “I would never let you fall, my mate.”
I cannot help the smile that crests my lips as I sense her complete and total faith in my words.
When we reach the top of the plateau, the altitude affords us a view of the capital city atop the mesa across the river valley below. Turbulent waters feed the canals that line the green farmlands at the base of the mesa. Houses dot the landscape of the valley, but not nearly as many as sit atop the tower of red sand and stone, surrounding a castle at the city center.
The orange-red earthen towers of the palace spiral toward the sky as if reaching for the sun. I squint my eyes as the structure’s five golden domes reflect the light in an almost blinding display. Open-air markets emanate enticing, exotic scents that drift across the valley.
Rakan guides us to the central courtyard of the castle. Several Fire Clan guards watch us warily as we land, their eyes widening in shock when they notice Skye.
I transform as soon as my feet touch the ground, quickly wrapping my arms around Skye’s waist to lower her the rest of the way.
A sharp cry from inside the large central dome of the palace draws my attention. Before I can comprehend what is happening, Skye rushes from my arms and runs toward Varus’ mate—the female with hair the color of flame. This must be Lilliana.
They embrace one another, jumping up and down excitedly in a strange display of greeting.
I growl, matching a low grumble beside me that I quickly realize is coming from Varus. We both watch the interaction warily. Drakarian females are very territorial, known to attack one another in close quarters.
“Is your mate attacking mine?” I grind out.
He arches a brow. “Though it might appear that way, I’ve learned this is how human females greet one another after spending time apart.”
Varus moves to his mate’s side and wraps an arm around her waist, tugging her back to him. I notice the permanent glow of the fate mark on his chest; they have completed and sealed their mating. I find intense jealousy flaring to life with my mark. The swirling pattern dims then brightens again, telling the world that Skye and I have yet to seal our bond.
“Why have you come?” Varus demands in a firm voice. His gaze drops to my chest and surprise flits briefly across his expression.
“My mate wanted to be sure that her people were well. I knew that you had already found them and brought them all here.”
He narrows his eyes. “And now that you are here, what will you do?”
“I did not come to fight.” With a slight clench of my jaw, I meet his eyes calmly. “I would ask a favor of you.”
He tips his head to the side, regarding me with suspicion. “After all this time? What would you ask of me?”
I am glad that he does not deny me outright. Perhaps some part of our friendship still survives in his hearts. As I study him, I am surprised at the realization that it still resides in mine. “I ask you to take care of my mate. To offer her shelter in your lands.”
He seems skeptical. “You would leave her with me and my people—your sworn enemies?”
Reluctantly, I nod. “I must.”
“But, why would—”
Skye steps forward, and takes my hand firmly in hers. “You’re not leaving me here.”
With a heavy sigh, I cup her cheek. “It is safer for you to remain here while I—”
“I’m not letting you go,” she proclaims. “And that’s final.”
Varus arches a questioning brow at me. “Perhaps we should discuss this inside.”
I nod and we follow him and his mate into the palace. He leads us to a large sitting room that overlooks the back gardens, a verdant space overflowing with plants full of vibrant red, purple, and yellow blossoms. A large fountain with sparkling blue water bubbles in the room’s center. The sound of running water relaxes me, lending an air of tranquility to the entire space. The desert breeze blows in through open windows, moving the sheer white curtains like wisps of clouds. We used to spend much time here together, he and I. I remember it all so clearly.
“It’s beautiful here,” Skye comments, rousing my jealousy once again. I regret that she had no chance to experience the full beauty of my castle because of my father’s madness. Although the Fire Clan palace is aesthetically pleasing, it is not nearly as grand or ornate as my home.
Varus turns to us. “I am pleased that you like it.” His gaze sweeps to me. “Raidyn, this is my mate, Lilliana. Lilliana, this is my—” he falls silent abruptly as if carefully considering his words before finally concluding, “This is Prince Raidyn of the Wind Clan.”
Lilliana smiles kindly. “Varus says you’ve known each other since you were children. It’s nice to meet you.”
I’m surprised when she extends her small hand toward me. I look to Skye for direction.
“Our people shake hands when we greet one another,” my linaya explains.
Strange that my mate does not mind my touching another female, but I will honor her customs. I reach out and take her smaller hand in mine. She gently shakes it.
Varus’ low warning growl beside me tells me he is uncomfortable with this greeting, as well.
“Oh, stop it,” Lilliana rolls her eyes at him and I’m surprised when he immediately stops. “It’s just a handshake. It’s not like I’m asking to claim him or something.”
Varus pulls her back to his side and gently nuzzles her hair, murmuring, “Forgive me, my linaya. I am still learning the ways of your people.” He turns to me. “Now, tell me. Why would you want to leave your fated here?”
With a heavy sigh, I explain my father’s reaction to my human mate and her crew.
Varus narrows his eyes. “If he tries to come for the females, we will be ready for him.”
Lilliana glances at her mate in alarm. “You think they would come here and try to take us?”
“I won’t let that happen,” I reply firmly. “I am returning to the Wind Clan castle to try to reason with my father and convince him to relinquish the throne.” I pause. “And if he will not see reason, I must take the Clan from him by force.”
Skye tugs at my arm. “No, it’s too dangerous. I won’t let you go.”
“Skye, I have to—”
Alarms suddenly blare throughout the city, the shrill sirens sending a chill down my spine.
Ra
kan rushes in. “My prince! It is a trap! The Wind Clan is attacking!”
Varus snarls. “How dare you try to deceive me!”
“This was no trick!” I deny. “I spoke truth!”
Instantly, he transforms, his tail whipping out to wrap around my mate and pull her behind him.
How dare he take my mate from my side! I shift into draka form, roaring in anger. “She is mine!”
“You think to bring ruin and destruction upon my people?” he growls.
“If ever you loved me as a brother, know this,” I grind out. “I would never betray you like that. I did not deceive you. My cousin Durzain is now controlling my father and wants me gone. He wants the human females too. I’m sure this attack is his doing.”
“He’s not lying!” Skye cries out. “Listen to him! He’s telling you the truth!”
Varus scrutinizes me intently. After a moment, he inclines his head. “I believe you.”
Another guard rushes inside. “They’re after the humans! They’ve already taken some from the city!”
Panic fills my veins, for I do not know my cousin’s intentions toward the humans if he is willing to steal them away against their will. I have reassured Skye that my people would never harm a female, but Durzain is a dishonorable male. He would not force-mate them, but he might imprison them, only allowing freedom to those who choose a mate among our people.
“Warriors, to me!” Varus commands. I follow him and his guards outside and we take to the skies in our draka forms.
I’m shocked and appalled to find Durzain leading several Wind Clan warriors in an attack on the city. Many of my brethren carry human females on their backs. As the humans wail in terror, I have never felt more ashamed of my people.
Chapter 22
Raidyn
The city is in complete chaos as Drakarian Wind and Fire warriors collide in the air, tearing into flesh with teeth and claws. Obsidian blood rains down onto the city below.
