“It was such a tragedy how your people were destroyed by Carvallius and his greed. His deal with the Cwylld elves was disastrous for everyone involved. I was incredibly moved when I learned that the Cwylld chieftain now calls D’Vaire home right alongside the Grand Warlock. It told me a great deal about what kind of men you raised,” Irina added.
“I understand you have two amazing sons yourself. I’m sure you can relate to our feelings of awe over being a parent to children who literally forge ahead, changing destiny along the way,” Saura responded with a broad smile. “We can swap stories about their less-than-jaw-dropping adventures when we get a chance to sit down and chat. For now, we’ll give you some time with Del and Grigori.”
T’Eirick and Saura strode off. Delaney was not surprised when they sought out Vadimas and the three began chatting animatedly.
“They’re lovely, and the world needs them,” Irina stated.
“We can’t talk about it, Mom,” Grigori warned.
“I know,” she whispered. “I’m just excited.”
“Okay, but be excited quietly.”
Ignoring her son, Irina said, “Del, did Grigori tell you everything you need to know about tomorrow’s ceremony? It’s going to be a little uncomfortable when your fangs form, but I understand it’s just pressure and some tingling.”
“I know I’m getting fangs, but when? After we exchange blood or after he bites me?”
“It’s a good thing I asked,” Irina commented dryly with a pointed stare at her youngest child. “You’ll get them once your blood mixes, so it’ll be during your ceremony. It only takes a few seconds, then you’ll have them. They’ll elongate when you’re both ready to seal your bond with a bite. That doesn’t hurt, it will just be a strange sensation the first time it happens.”
“Um, is there anything else I need to know?” Delaney asked. Before he could think better of it, he added, “Sorry about being a sorcerer and, you know, a really powerful dark one. I know this would be easier if I were a vampire. I wouldn’t have a lot of stupid questions or worries, and Grigori wouldn’t have to set three alarms just to drink from me.”
The Volkovs all wore expressions of complete bewilderment and exchanged glances with each other. After a few seconds of strange silence, Nikolai spoke. “No one here is upset about who and what you are, Del. Least of all my brother. Your blood’s a gift, one we’re grateful you can give him. If I had one wish, it would be to have a mate who could offer me the same. Our culture, our very way of life, depends on blood. Without it, no vampire can survive. The reality is, Grigori’s going to be just fine after the two of you get used to that life-giving exchange and the effects it’ll have on him. I cannot believe Fate’s going to do anything to make it unpleasant between you if you’re careful and start slow. You’re both too intelligent to stray from your plan of doing just that. Fear of the unknown is normal, so we’ll all feel better when you both conquer that first time drinking and can answer the question of what impact it’ll have on Grigori. We’re proud that Fate has given Grigori someone much the same as he is—smart, driven, and humble. You’re honoring us by carrying the Volkov name and besides the personal satisfaction we all take from this great match, we’re also excited about an alliance with you and your family.”
“Thank you, Nikolai.” Delaney turned to Grigori and grabbed his hand. “You’re right, your brother’s super charming and eloquent.”
“He got all the Volkov grace. There wasn’t any left over for me.”
“I disagree,” he told Grigori, then returned his attention to Nikolai. “I feel like Grigori’s the real gift here, and I’m the type of person who worries over stuff. I just don’t want to hurt him. That’s what’s most important to me. All my life the darkness inside me has beckoned me, propelled me forward and brought me to this place where I can be proud of it. I like being powerful, and I enjoy pushing my magic to greater heights. I know it’s scary for everyone around me, so it’s kind of natural for me to apologize for it.”
“It didn’t occur to me to be frightened of you or be upset that we were matched,” Grigori responded. “Fate gave you this path.…What choice did you have but to follow it? I don’t think you should ever apologize for who you are or what you’ve worked so hard to be. There’s one dark wizard. Just one. And he’s mine. Do you have any idea how incredible that is or how it makes me feel?”
Delaney smiled up at him, then pressed their lips together in a soft kiss. “I love you,” he said, trying not to be embarrassed because Grigori’s family heard him say the words that he simply couldn’t hold back.
“I’m so fucking in love with you, Delsaurus.”
“Irina, these two are going to be just fine,” Alexei remarked.
She let out a little sigh. “They’re exquisite together,” Irina replied. “Nikolai, we simply must find your mate.”
Without taking his attention away from Delaney, Grigori said, “Talk to Idris. He bargained with Fate for Mac, then to get Del and me together. Maybe he can help. Or you can speak with the warlock twins. They both scryed to find theirs.”
“I’m going to let this weekend be about you and Del, but don’t think I won’t be speaking with all three of them afterward,” Nikolai retorted.
Delaney wrapped his arms around Grigori and wished for his brother to find his other half. He wanted everyone to be able to enjoy the same things that were flourishing in his heart for Grigori. With a sense of wonder, he thought about this being only the start for them and was suddenly impatient for the ceremony they would share the following day. The sooner Grigori was his in truth, the better.
Chapter 28
If asked, Grigori would have insisted that standing in front of any large group of people where he was the center of attention equaled extreme anxiety. But, as he stood in the beautiful memorial garden built by Court D’Vaire, he focused on a set of enigmatic black eyes and was calmed. They were dressed in matching black cloaks heavily embellished with fresh roses.
Although he’d only met Delaney weeks before, he had waited forever to tie their lives together. The wizard was smiling as Aleksander and Dra’Kaedan stood nearby, ready to conduct their ceremony. All around them was the fragrance of perfumed blooms; Dravyn had scattered petals in the large fountain, and there were thick swags of flowers all around the gazebo.
“We’re just waiting for everyone to shut up,” Dra’Kaedan grumbled loudly.
Aleksander raised a dark brow at the warlock, looking especially regal in his crown. “Did you mean for them to hear you, Squirt?”
“Of course, this is about Grigori and Delaney. Do you think I care if I hurt everyone else’s feelings?”
Once the assembled family and guests quieted, Aleksander asked, “Are you ready to begin?”
“Absolutely,” Delaney assured him.
“Ladies and gentlemen, today is a truly incredible day. The Grand Warlock and I have the distinct pleasure and honor of presiding over the mating ceremony of two people whom Fate matched perfectly. Vampyr Lord Grigori Volkov-D’Vaire has chartered new ground since he was in his teens. It’s in his nature to be humble about his incredible mind and fortitude, but he’s allowed me to share with you all the gift he gave to his people. At the tender age of fourteen, he crafted a formula which takes a few drops of blood and multiplies it into vast quantities. This creation has saved countless lives among the Vampyr Clutch. Such an accomplishment might fill a person with pride and conceit, but not Lord Grigori. He’s modest, kind, and has a delightful sense of humor. We’re privileged that he’s decided to make D’Vaire his home, and it’s difficult for me to believe he wasn’t born to be one of us. As king, I’m also thrilled at the alliance this fabulous match has created between our family and the Volkovs,” Aleksander said.
Dra’Kaedan smiled broadly. “One day the idea of our sanctuary was born with the goal of assisting outcasts. With the dedication of our small family and the open minds of the Council of Sorcery and Shifters, Dra’Kaedan’s Coven opened its door
s. Our first applicant was a dark wizard and when he walked through our doors, he changed all of us for the better. High Arcanist Delaney Volkov-D’Vaire has forged boldly ahead his whole life to pursue his destiny. Though there are those that misunderstand him, and the gifts Fate has bestowed on him, it hasn’t altered his personality or his determination to be a part of the leadership of the Spectra Wizardry. Like his mate, he’s unpretentious, compassionate, and witty. I don’t know how else to say our family wouldn’t be the same without him. The future for this wonderful pair is bright, and we are looking forward to watching their love flourish.”
Grigori’s parents walked toward them, each with a small box in their grasp, and his mother had her mating athame as well.
“I’ve had the honor of aiding a great many mating ceremonies in my lifetime,” Irina said. “But none so important as one of my beloved sons preparing for his future with the man he adores. My darling gentlemen, we’ll begin today by attaching your collars.”
Grigori stood still as his mother placed the gold collar around his neck, leaving it open in the front. His father did the same for Delaney.
“Your hands please,” Irina requested. They dutifully did as they were told and lifted them to be cut for one of the many times they would be on this afternoon of combining so many traditions.
As his mother gave him a small wound on his fingertip he said, “Your blood is my gift. I cherish the immortal life I shall have at your side. I vow my eternal love and devotion to you. I give my oath that I shall allow no harm to befall you.” After he was finished, Grigori pressed his sliced digit first to Delaney’s collar and then his own.
“Willingly I offer my blood to nourish you. I cherish the immortal life I shall have at your side. I vow my eternal love and devotion to you. I also give my oath that I shall allow no harm to befall you,” Delaney responded. They’d changed the last line since the words were usually used between a human and a vampire. Traditionally, the human would thank the vamp for his or her protection, but a powerful dark sorcerer certainly wasn’t going to wait for his vampire mate to fight his battles.
Once Delaney added his blood to the locks cleverly hidden behind the design worn at the front of each collar, Grigori latched the wizard’s closed. Delaney reached up and did the same to Grigori’s. The only way to remove the collars was to mix their blood once again over the top of it. The practice had started to mark their humans to offer them safety. It was unlikely someone would harm a human who had a vampire to safeguard them. Though sheltering one’s mate was not as necessary as it once was, Grigori was glad the tradition continued.
Grigori grinned as Charlie walked over with Tigglesworth at his side and Greggory in his arms.
“Grigori thought it would be remiss not to give a vampire collar to Greggory as well. He’s a special friend to Delaney, and they all share their lives together,” Irina informed the crowd as Tigglesworth put the collar around Greggory’s neck. The dragon stretched as much as possible, and Grigori glanced over at his wizard, whose eyes were suspiciously damp.
“We vow to care for you and always make sure you have plenty of cookies. Del and I pledge to protect you and share our immortal lives with you,” Grigori told Greggory, who made a growly sound. Since their tiny wounds had already closed, T’Eirick and Saura approached them. The pair were handed the athame, and Grigori and Delaney were soon able to place a bleeding fingertip on the dragon’s blood lock. After they were done, Delaney leaned forward to kiss Grigori.
“Thank you,” he whispered.
Grigori did not get the opportunity to respond; he was too busy being hugged by his parents. They, along with Tigglesworth, Charlie, the soon to be darkfallen, and the still-preening Greggory, stepped away so the ceremony could continue.
“In the tradition of elven matings, Chieftain Cadlyr Cwylld-D’Vaire and Chieftain Lorcan Acwellan-D’Vaire will offer floral wreaths designed by Duke Dravyn D’Vairedraconis,” Dra’Kaedan stated. Grigori and Delaney bowed their heads to allow the elves to place gorgeous circles of red and black roses on their heads. After they embraced the chieftains, the two men returned to their mates’ sides.
“Gentlemen, please raise your left hands,” Aleksander requested. Grigori did as he was told as did Delaney. He smiled at the wizard because he could not hold the expression back. They were about to get one step closer to being connected at their very souls. Shifting slightly he tried not to think about how they would seal it later with bites.
Nikolai approached him with the same athame his parents used thousands of years ago. It was as beautiful as it was simple; the only decor was the string of roses etched in the hilt. His brother winked, then sliced his palm. He handed the dagger off to Idris who did the same to Delaney.
They pressed their cuts together, and Grigori could feel the shift inside him of having Delaney nearly tied to him. It was both peaceful and exhilarating at the same time. Delaney’s face scrunched a little as he adjusted to his fangs forming. Grigori could hardly wait to see them.
“Vampyr to wizard. High Arcanist to Vampyr Lord. Their souls are now tied, and their lives now linked. May their hearts always stay united, so they will never want another,” Dra’Kaedan said.
“Dragons claim their mates with a bite that leaves no mark. Centuries ago, a draconic tradition began of exchanging rings,” Aleksander stated. “Delaney and Grigori will exchange bands to allow the world to bear witness to their joining.”
Somerly handed Grigori a gorgeous wide ring that bled from red to black and was coated in D’Vaire blue-black on the inside. He slid it onto Delaney’s finger as he said, “Chosen by Fate and accepted by my heart as true, I accept you as my mate.”
Brogan passed Delaney a matching band. The wizard gave Grigori’s hand a squeeze, then pushed it on. “Chosen by Fate and accepted by my heart as true, I accept you as my mate.”
“By the tradition of the Draconis Court of D’Vaire and the Vampyr Clutch, you are now mates. You have honored all of us by allowing us to bear witness to your joining,” Aleksander said.
Grigori slid off his cloak and gave it to Dre’Kariston as Delaney did the same. After they were both standing there in their sleeveless black shirts, Vadimas and Mac cut across their palms. Delaney lifted his chin as they pressed their hands together and said, “Vampyr to wizard. High Arcanist to Vampyr Lord. Our blood has spilled, and our spirits have bonded. We ask Fate to grant us a mark from left shoulder to elbow so the world may bear witness we belong only to each other.”
A burn worked its way down Grigori’s arm as three beautiful dark-red roses bloomed onto Delaney’s skin. Two of them were large, while the third was hardly more than a bud. He supposed it was him, his mate, and Greggory. As for his own artwork, when the sting disappeared, he saw his wizard in all his glory. Crowned, and looking delicious in his full cloaked regalia, he stood proudly in front of a dark sky with a large thunderbolt crashing down. At his feet was Greggory, complete with his vampire collar.
Delaney crossed the tiny distance that separated them and pulled him down for a very thorough and loving kiss. He heard chuckles around him, but he didn’t care. When his lungs were burning from lack of oxygen and his dick was starting to come to life, he pulled his head away.
“Smile for me,” he demanded.
The amazing grin he loved on his wizard’s face greeted him seconds later, and he smirked back. While his fangs would never reach the size of a vampire’s, they were clearly visible.
“Nice fangs.”
“ ‘Little pressure,’ she said. They stung like a bitch,” Delaney informed him.
From down the line of all the people who took part in their mating ceremony, he heard his mother’s laughter. “Welcome to the Vampyr Clutch,” she managed over her mirth.
“Yeah, thanks. I’m wondering what other doozies are waiting for me,” Delaney retorted.
Grigori leaned in to whisper in his ear. “Wait until you see what I’ve got planned for later.”
“Okay, so I’m a dra
gon. I can hear you,” Aleksander drawled out.
“Are we going to end this thing, or do you two want to stand here all day flirting?” Dra’Kaedan asked.
“I don’t know, flirting’s pretty tempting,” Grigori responded.
“Yeah sure, right. Yummies await. You’ve got an eternity to flirt,” Dra’Kaedan retorted.
“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for sharing this incredible day with Grigori and me. Although all my soul needed was my mate, it warms my heart to have been able to have you either assisting or witnessing our vows to each other. I’ve always been proud to be a wizard, but it’s an honor to be added to the Vampyr Clutch. Thanks again, and let’s go get changed into some comfortable clothes, so we can have beer and steak,” Delaney said to the assembled crowd.
“Nicely done, High Arcanist, and congratulations to you both,” Aleksander offered.
There were more hugs and more well-wishes before Grigori and Delaney were finally able to head toward the house to get into jeans and sneakers, but each moment was delightfully spent. As far as Grigori was concerned, it was a perfect ceremony. He planned on making sure the rest of the day and night were just as wonderful for them both.
Chapter 29
While it was fun hanging out with everyone and celebrating, Delaney was overjoyed to finally be following Grigori into their bedroom. As the afternoon bled into the evening, Delaney spent every free moment running his tongue over his new fangs. It led his thoughts right to what it would feel like with Grigori’s buried in his neck; then he got a little overheated at the idea of what other parts would be penetrating him. The truth was, he’d stayed in a heightened state of arousal for most of the day.
When the door closed behind him, his familiar immediately knew what was up and dove into his private space. The hum of the television leaked through the curtain, and Delaney hoped the dragon kept it up loud enough to drown out what was sure to be a lot of noise. Since Grigori’s back was still to him, Delaney closed the distance between them and hugged him from behind. He dropped a kiss against at the base of his neck and, after winding his arms around him, drifted one hand south to grab his package. Grigori stopped him by wrapping his long fingers around his wrist.
Becoming D'Vaire (D'Vaire, Book 11) Page 23
