by Nira Steele
“Maybe a dragon does, but a human doesn’t,” Andie said quietly. Letting out a sigh she slowly dropped her chin. It was quickly dawning on her she was not getting through to him.
The real pinch here was what this would ultimately mean. Just the thought of having to leave Lunaris was almost unbearable now. Andie had just started connecting with people outside of Tessa’s family. Then there was the secret plan she had devised – an idea which would ensure she remained a part of their world….
“Alright then, I can see your point,” Darius admitted calmly. “It doesn’t change the fact you shouldn’t be staying in Lunaris. I know you think I’m being stubborn but I have good reason to mistrust that House.”
Glancing up from under her brows Andie was met with a grave expression.
“My dragon senses have identified something truly evil within their walls,” he divulged solemnly. “It has exactly the same aura I detected after my home was attacked. I simply cannot bring myself to become vulnerable to them.”
Andie could not help but smile a little. Finally he was being completely honest with her.
“It’s not safe for you there, it’s not safe for anyone. No matter what anyone says to you, no matter how many reassurances they give you.” Darius’s voice dropped to a low murmur. “It’s there. It’s being hidden somewhere.”
“Then you must let them know,” Andie responded fervently.
“None of them will listen, you already know this. Not to you, not to me.”
“But we must try to tell someone!” Andie implored as she leaned forward to touch his shoulder. “If we don’t say anything people could get killed!”
For a moment he stared at her before breaking into a wide smile.
“You have such a spirit. When you’re passionate about something you really do come alive.”
“Please Darius, this is really serious,” Andie murmured as she quickly withdrew her hand.
“Oh I know it is, but have you considered for a moment where the darkness must reside? There is only one place it could hide so well.”
“Are you saying what I think you are?”
“You know I am.”
Andie sat quietly as she realised what he was implying. If there was something evil within the palace then it was well and truly beyond her reach. She would be shot down in flames for even suggesting such a thing. What evidence did she have? Just the beliefs of another foreigner.
“There is nothing I can do then,” she murmured.
“Neither of us can change it.”
“So this has all been a waste of time. If you leave now then I’ve failed,” Andie lamented.
“No you haven’t,” Darius responded with a smile. “You are the first human to reside within one of our Houses. Do not underestimate what you have achieved.”
“I suppose so but you forget why it happened. You know full well why I was allowed to stay in Lunaris.”
“I do,” he said smoothly. “But you have done far more than just keep me company.”
Wincing slightly Andie looked away from him. She already knew the affection between them had developed beyond what it should have.
“We cannot be more than friends,” Andie pointed out. “I’m just a human being remember?”
Leaning forward he fixed his golden eyes onto her.
“Not true,” Darius breathed.
The next few moments were a blur. She remembered looking at him, gazing into his amazing faceted irises. They seemed to light up again with their incredible inner glow.
“Are you afraid of me?” Darius said softly as he moved closer. Shuffling forwards on his knees he made contact with Andie’s legs.
She felt her lips moving to form the word ‘no’ but no sound came out. Staring back, Andie’s mind became completely absorbed with his appearance. His skin, its warm honey shade and flawlessly smooth perfection. The richness of his hair, the deep ruby tones flashing amongst the thick strands. Those soft full lips, so close now she could see a glint of moisture upon them.
“My sweet, passionate lady,” he breathed. His words echoed through her head like the purest of hymns. Then he leaned forward and gently began pushing her legs apart. Moving slowly, he brought both hands up to encircle her face.
Darius’s touch felt like magic. His fingers ran delicately over her skin leaving behind a soft trail of warmth.
It seemed like a lifetime since anyone had touched her like this. Long lonely days, hungering for the heady feeling of being desired. Andie could sense a flush coming to her cheeks as a tremble moved through her body.
His body moved right up against her as his hands slid back into her hair. They touched noses, just a brief nuzzle before a soft sigh escaped from his lips.
“I can give you everything you want, more than any human can,” Darius whispered softly. “Come and join me as I rebuild my kingdom. You will be treasured like no concubine ever has before.”
She felt his breath moving over her face, tickling the tiny hairs just beneath her nostrils. Breaking into a sweat Andie tried desperately to move. But it was impossible – her body was not responding to her will. Her mind was swirling with thoughts she had no ability to control. Two blazing orbs burned into her soul, he was way too close and it was too intense….
“My heavenly Andromeda,” he breathed thickly.
Instantly the spell was broken. Somewhere in the back of Andie’s brain an alarm went off.
Her subconscious mind had recognised her real name. The moment it was uttered it she had immediately regained control. Blinking rapidly Andie realised the position she was in now. Darius’s blanket had disappeared and his naked body was pressing against her.
Andie squealed as she flew into a panic. Flailing, she pushed him backwards as her knees jolted upwards.
“Shit!” Darius choked out. Collapsing to the floor he curled up into a ball.
She stared at him in a state of complete astonishment. Then she clasped both hands over her mouth as she realised what had just happened. Surely Darius would not try to seduce her? He was her friend. Her confidante, her reason for embarking on this amazing journey.
Or was he?
“What did you just do?” she gasped between her fingers.
Fortunately Darius wasn’t facing towards her anymore. Piled at her feet was her aunt’s colourful blanket, a potent reminder of what had transpired. Then she remembered what he had just said….
“You piece of shit!” Andie blared as her eyes flashed wide.
A murmur came from the floor. Darius grabbed the blanket, reaching back to collect it with incredible speed. Within a heartbeat he had snatched it up and thrown it over himself.
His movement was so fast it caused Andie to flinch. It was only a brief distraction though, barely causing a pause to her anger. Leaning forward she loomed over him like a bear preparing to maul its prey.
“You said my real name!” she blasted. “There’s only one way you’d know that horrible word! How long have you been following me for?”
A groan emanated from the pile on the floor.
“Get up you pervy little shit and explain yourself.”
He raised a hand into the air in an attempt to signal defeat.
“You’ve got five seconds to get back to the couch,” Andie growled as she held her position.
“Understood,” Darius mumbled. Slowly rising from the floor he carefully adjusted his blanket. Slinking back onto the couch he cast his eyes down into his lap.
They sat in heavy silence. After a short time Darius spoke up.
“During the evenings I have been investigating Lunaris,” he admitted quietly. “I can hide myself from everyone there.”
“What about the banquet? How did you get into the royal dining room?” Andie demanded.
“I was genuinely surprised by the lack of security there. Their private space had no shielding or protections. I was already inside when you appeared.”
“Why should I believe you?”
“You don’t hav
e to, but you weren’t what I was seeking,” he replied. “Every night I have been trying to find an unsecured entrance into the palace.”
Andie sucked in a sharp breath as she realised what he had been up to.
“Have you been looking for the evil in Lunaris?”
“Of course,” he responded quietly. “Why else would I be sneaking about?”
Rubbing her chin Andie absorbed what he was saying.
“Look, I didn’t mean to eavesdrop but it’s not what’s concerning me,” Darius added with a frown. “I’ve completely misread you haven’t I? All those sweet words, the touching and stroking, it was all just innocent affection to you.”
Andie just sat there as his words struck home. Willa’s words of warning had obviously come far too late.
“I never meant to mislead you,” she muttered quietly. “But you were a dragon when I was doing those things. I didn’t even know what you really were. How could you think it was okay to overpower me? Do you do it to all the girls?”
“Certainly not!” he exclaimed. “I just thought you were shy and needed a little encouragement.”
“What!?” Andie spat out.
Flinching from her response Darius added, “I do apologise, it was clearly a bad idea. To be honest I’m not even sure why I did it.” Dropping his gaze he shook his head a little. “You know, I’m just not the same person I used to be. I seem to have forgotten all of my manners in the last few weeks. My family would be appalled but what does it matter, they are all gone now….”
Andie listened as his words trailed off. He had just admitted his whole family had perished.
She knew he must be deeply affected by their loss. Should she try to overlook his bad behaviour today? It certainly wasn’t something she would normally tolerate. However there was nothing ordinary about this situation. The fate of an entire House was resting upon Darius’s shoulders.
Taking a deep breath Andie spoke quietly, “You have suffered terribly. I’ve never met anyone who has lost as much as you. I can’t begin to imagine how much you’re hurting.”
“I can’t put it into words, I feel like this empty shell,” Darius breathed in slightly strained voice. “When I try speaking of it the grief consumes me.”
“I know the feeling, though it’s only a fraction of what you’re going through. Human beings see a lot of loss in our short lives.”
Pinching his brows together Darius looked up at her.
“Do you? Then tell me of it,” he said softly.
Sitting back Andie muttered, “I really don’t think it would be appropriate right now. The last thing you need is another depressing story.”
“Why don’t you let me be the judge of that? I have never lost anyone before,” Darius revealed. “Before the attack I had only experienced the passing of one person.”
Andie had not shared her personal bereavements with any of the Draconarid. Such things only made people feel sorry for her.
One particularly devastating event was barely spoken about these days. It would always evoke such pity she never mentioned it to anyone. The way people would react was always so predictable. Their eyes would grow sad as they began apologising profusely.
As she sat there frowning Andie had a realisation. Sharing her personal tragedy might actually be useful here. If they could connect through their loss then she may be able to influence Darius. So she relaxed her face, fixing her eyes onto her aunt’s cabinets as she delivered her own sad tale.
“Six years ago my little sister Vela died,” Andie stated levelly. “She was poisoned by some berries she found in the forest.”
“Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry,” Darius murmured.
“It happened right here, out in the woodlands behind the house. Vela wasn’t meant to be out there but she was always wandering off. There’s a bush with pearly fruits which doesn’t normally grow around here. My sister found one in the forest and ate some of its berries.”
Andie paused for a moment and looked straight at Darius. “Apparently it was a painless death. Poor little Vela just fell asleep. She lay down in the grass and never woke up,” she added quietly.
“That’s dreadful. I can almost imagine it,” he muttered with a look of profound sadness.
“My whole family broke down afterwards. My parents, my brothers and sister - just everyone,” Andie revealed. “When my aunt found Vela’s body it nearly killed her too.”
“You have all recovered now though? Your family is still together?”
Andie suddenly frowned.
“Are you kidding? Vela’s death was like a bomb going off. Everyone around her was damaged when she died. Some of my family withdrew, some lashed out but we all suffered in our own way. To this day we’re all still dealing with it.” Then Andie reached up and tugged on a piece of her hair. “You see this? I don’t even know what colour it is any more. Ever since Vela left us I’ve been going grey.”
“You know, I had noticed that,” Darius remarked with a little frown.
“I’ve had grief counselling, medication… nothing is stopping it. My aunt says it’s simply shock and it’s irreversible.”
Pressing his lips into a thin smile Darius responded, “So I’m doomed to go grey then?”
Andie emitted a wry chuckle.
“The point is you can’t pretend everything’s okay,” she told him. “You can try to hide it but the hurt comes out in other ways.”
“So you tried to ignore it then?”
“I didn’t want to but the rest of my family shut down. They actually stopped talking about Vela, almost like she never existed. The only person who ever mentions her now is my aunt.”
“How awful,” he muttered. “Do you know why?”
“I’ve got no idea. It drove me into this shell, you know, isolating myself from everyone. I sat at home and gave up on pretty much everything I enjoyed. By now I should have been studying Astronomy but I stopped giving a damn about anything.”
“So what have you chosen to do instead?”
“I’m doing a Diploma in Business Administration,” Andie replied flatly. “My father made me enrol to get me out of the house. You see, this is what happens when you give up on your dreams.”
“Doesn’t it bother you to be here?” Darius asked her with a curious frown. “Your sister passed away somewhere nearby.”
“At first it did so I stayed away from my aunt’s place. Then I realised how much I was missing it,” Andie responded with a little smile. “I’ve been coming up here since I was born you see. When I came back, I went into the forest and spoke to Vela. She never answered me of course but it felt good to try and connect with her. Afterwards it never bothered me to be here.”
“You are a strange creature, even for a human,” Darius observed with a little smile.
“Did you just work that out?” Andie teased him with a quick grin. “You know, I’m a completely different person when I’m up here. My mind feels free and my heart is somehow lighter. This place has been my refuge for many years.”
“And I just attacked you in it,” Darius muttered dryly.
“Well now you know better,” Andie responded with a flick of her head. “Besides, I managed to pull you up pretty easily didn’t I?
Darius’s face formed into a curious frown.
“What, didn’t you think I could fight you off?” she asked him curtly. “I grew up with two brothers so I learned how to defend myself ages ago.”
For the second time since she had met him, Darius looked utterly gobsmacked.
“I’ve completely underestimated you haven’t I?” he mumbled as his face went slack.
“You hardly know me!” Andie responded with a chuckle. “If you did, you’d know I would never settle for being – what did you say? A concubine?” she uttered with a little frown. “Two years ago an older man treated me like that. He was one of my college lecturers so it was inappropriate too. I was so naïve I believed every word he said. Three months later he dumped me like a piece of trash.”
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“I see,” he replied quietly. “I am truly sorry for my behaviour then. You have my word it will not happen again.”
“I certainly hope not,” Andie responded with little nod. Smiling slightly she could not help being pleased with their frank conversation. Then a brilliant idea popped into her mind.
“You know, this place would be an excellent refuge for you. There’s something about it which just makes it feel so secure.”
Lifting his chin, Darius barked out a short laugh.
“That’s probably your aunt’s enchantments! This place is literally buried in them.”
“Is it really?” she said glancing around. “My aunt always says this is the safest place in the world. Maybe she would let you stay here?”
“It is a thought,” Darius responded with a little frown. “I would need to meet her first.”
“Absolutely. It wouldn’t work out if you didn’t get on. I still think it’s worth considering though,” she said with a rub of her chin. “I really don’t believe you should be returning to your home yet.”
“Agreed,” he responded quietly. “I suspect there are too many phantoms lurking in those ruins.”
“I found it hard with just one ghost. You’d need a lot more support than I could give you,” Andie advised him.
“True,” he muttered. “Thank you for being so honest with me, especially about the fate of your sibling. Losing loved ones is a terrible thing isn’t it? It seems we really do have something in common.”
“Of course. Why do you think I’m helping you?” Andie pointed out. This wasn’t exactly true but it would suffice for the course of this conversation.
“Very well then. I shall consider staying here with your aunt. Just don’t expect me to speak to anyone in Lunaris.”
“I’ll just be happy if you’re safe.”
Breaking into a grin Darius then asked, “So is your aunt a ball-breaker like you?”
“She would probably rip them clean off if you tried to seduce her,” Andie declared with a huge smirk.
Chuckling, Darius glanced down to examine where his blanket was sitting.
“I suppose I did ask for that. Alright, I’ll agree to meet her if it pleases you.”
