“That was a hell of a race. You did great.”
Hand tucked in his bent arm, we stroll to the Royal lunch tent.
“I loved it. Kendrick didn’t hold back, and I enjoyed every second of it. I know Artax did too. He came alive out there.”
“You both did. I could see how much the race thrilled you.”
“I think I’m still buzzing from it. I could use a glass of wine to settle my excitement.”
Coming up to the tent, Malark’s family immediately notices me and greets me with raised glasses.
“To Fiora!”
Malark hands me a glass of wine, and I take it willingly.
“Thank you to the Levore house. Your trial was pleasurable. I enjoyed it immensely.”
Malark wraps his arm around my waist bringing me to his side.
“We’re honored you enjoyed it, Princess. You were amazing out there.”
With a watchful eye, Matheas joins my family and their conversation.
“Will you sit with us, Princess?” Malark’s mother asks.
“Of course. It would be my pleasure.”
Taking my seat at the Royal table, I’m pleased to see Kendrick take the seat next to me while Malark occupies the other side.
“That was kind of you to invite the first-place rider to lunch,” Malark compliments.
“I like to give appreciation where it’s owed.”
Across the table, I wink at Matheas. The corner of his mouth raises ever so slightly before lifting his glass to his lips. Next to him, Kellan, a man of average build with shiny raven hair, son of House Nevari, chimes in.
“With how well you did at the race, I’m eager to see you perform at the bow and arrow trial. We did ensure to make the trial challenging for you, Princess.”
Kellan isn’t a bad-looking man, but it’s his higher pitched voice coming from a muscular frame that takes getting used to. I can’t bring myself to trust the man either. The ideas from his house are unpredictable and peculiar to me. Why my father likes Turi so much is beyond me. Perhaps it has more to do with loyalty than actual friendship. Turi Nevari always votes the same as my father, every single vote.
“Your trial may prove to be the most challenging of all, Kellan. Time will tell this afternoon.”
“I do hope you enjoy our trial, Princess. The maze race should be challenging, but fun for you.”
Luther, son of House Cindora with his short, light blond hair and kind smile is the quietest of all the suitors. He’s either shy or doesn’t feel he needs to vie for my attention like Malark does, it’s yet to be determined.
“I wish I could say the same,” Riorrick tells me. “My father insisted the fire and water be the most challenging trial of all. It is the last one after all before you’re put on view for the splendor ceremony.”
Matheas’s jaw tightens, his teeth clenching. I understand his irritation. It’s strange how nonchalantly it’s being discussed that my naked body will be put on display for them all to see.
“Are the Royal suitors the only people allowed in attendance to the splendor ceremony?” Kendrick asks the men.
“Yes,” Matheas answers.
Kendrick makes a face, clicking his tongue. “That’s unfortunate.”
The men sitting around me look at Kendrick as if he’s just insulted them all. My eyes widen, and a giggle escapes me. Kendrick clears his throat and lets out a quiet laugh.
“You’re all lucky men to be suitors for such a talented and vibrant woman.”
“They are,” Matheas agrees.
In unison, the men release a barrage of compliments, nods, and gestures of agreement. Steaming plates arrive, carried by our palace staff. The timing couldn’t be more perfect. For the first few bites, I get to enjoy my meal in silence.
Tether, my father’s right hand, enters the tent and whispers something to him. Immediately, the King’s gaze goes to me with a recognizable expression of concern. My muscles tighten as I stare back at him.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I apologize for taking the Princess from lunch, but I need to speak with my daughter alone.”
Rising from the table, I follow him out of the tent, feeling the eyes of every house on my back. My father stops before exiting the tent and turns to address them all.
“Her purity is intact. Rest assured. This discussion is of a different subject.”
Relief washes over their faces. I can feel the room take a breath. With a quick dip of my chin, I give a reassuring smile.
“We’ll return as soon as we can.”
Walking next to my Father and Tether, I glance over my shoulder and feel comfort the moment I see Matheas behind us.
“What is it? You seem worried.”
“King Beckett and his son, Prince Belore are in a rover craft outside the shield, requesting entry. They insist they’re here to support you in your trials. I do not trust them, Fiora. King Beckett made an offer to align with us if you married his son, Belore. His son is a horrible man. One I would never give you to. I must grant them entry to appear gracious and amicable, but while they’re here, I want you to add extra caution to everything you do. Do not let your guard down at any time.”
“Understood. How long will they be here?”
“Likely for the remainder of your trials.”
“They’re Royals. Does that mean Belore will be attending the splendor ceremony?”
“No.” My father, with his kind smile, brushes his hand over my hair. “That is for Anaukin Royals only. They have no rights to view your unsullied body.”
Relief pours over me like cool refreshing water.
“Thank you for the word of warning. Let them in. I’ll do my best to keep my distance as much as I can.”
With tension in his face, my father faces Matheas.
“Don’t worry, Your Highness. I’ll add more arms men to watch over her.”
“I know she’s well protected in your care.”
“Of course.”
“Grant them access,” my father orders Tether. “Give them housing with the Royals. It’s a safe enough distance from the central area of the palace. Increase security for all entrances and do scans for domicile admission technology every hour.”
“Will do, Sir. Should I put a tracker on their rover?”
“Yes, listen in on any calls they make within the palace walls as well.”
“Done, Sir. I’ll leave you to your lunch and start the tasks immediately.”
“Let them know they can join the bow and arrow trial after they’ve settled in.”
Tether accepts my father’s orders and departs, walking with quickened steps. Putting his hand through my arm, my father leads me back to the tent.
“You know how much I cherish you, don’t you, Fiora?”
“I do, Father. You’ve done everything you can to ensure I’m combat-skilled and I have the best bodyguard in Anauka. Stop worrying and enjoy the day.”
Kissing my head, he smiles into my hair.
“Yes, let’s do that.”
Stepping through the tent, all eyes face us.
“Thank you for your patience. We have guests who have arrived to honor our Princess by attending her trials. Please, let us continue our lovely meal.”
Taking my seat, I quietly eat. The suitors give me the time without interruption, respecting I need the food for the activities. When my plate is cleared, I stand before any of the men can request time with me privately and address Kendrick directly.
“I must go to the stable to check on Artax. Your horse is there as well. If you’d like to join me, I’ll take you to him.”
“Yes, I appreciate that, Princess.”
Together, we leave the tent while conversations continue on with the Royal families. Matheas joins my other side until his soul band vibrates. Taking the call, he falls behind. Several feet forward, I look back to check on him, but he’s nowhere in sight. Within moments, Demerick appears from behind a vendor booth and follows us, taking over protection duty.
“Yo
ur arms men are efficient in Anauka.”
“They are. They’re dedicated and have rigorous training. If a man is weak, he doesn’t survive to become an arms man. I hear the arms men of the Free territory are a force to be reckoned with.”
“They are. We have the largest army in the territories, available at a moment’s notice. King Ryker is a great King. He’s kept the Free territory a peaceful territory for many years.”
“I hope to meet him someday.”
“I have no doubt you’d like him. He’s a rider too, but being a King limits his freedom.”
“Do you know him well?”
“I do, we’re blood linked. Our fathers were brothers.”
“Did you grow up together?”
“We did. It’s how I came to love riding. His family had horses, and I’d spend many nights at his home so I could ride the horses too.”
“Is it true the Free territory welcomes anyone to live there once they’ve crossed the shield?”
“It is, but they’re expected to contribute to the territory with any skill they have. We’re not merciful to those who come with ill intentions. It’s how Ryker keeps the peace. Offenders of any kind are beheaded with haste.”
“I don’t disagree with that philosophy. I feel our own laws are too merciful to offenders. I hope to change that.”
“The pure Queen will surely surprise her people with a notion like that.”
“It’s necessary. True fear of lawbreaking keeps the people honest. Believe me, I know this personally.”
Reaching the stables, we slow our pace.
“Your purity law is eccentric. As a grown woman, you should have the choice to lay with any man you want.”
“I agree, but my purity is a lure, bringing the best suitors the Royal houses have to offer.”
“If the men I saw today are the best suitors they have to offer, I feel sorry for you, Princess. Those weren’t men, those were boys.”
“You are bold, Kendrick, but compared to you, I can see how you feel that way.”
Looking him up and down, I admire his build, the large muscles of his arms and chest. With longer, dark hair, dark eyes, and colorful tattoos along his right arm, I admit, I do enjoy the appearance of a Dolorian man.
“I might be too bold, Princess. By the expression on your face, I’d say you’re attracted to me.”
“It’s true, but not the way you’re thinking. I do find you attractive because you’re new and different which makes you all the more beautiful to me.”
“If there weren’t barriers between us, would you lay with me?”
Arriving at the stall containing his horse, I stop before the gate and wink at him.
“Now Kendrick, a smart woman never tells her secrets.”
A smirk stretches his lips as he stares down at me, his dark eyes noting my lips before returning to my eyes.
“They really are a bunch of lucky bastards. They don’t deserve a warrior like you.”
“Even you’re charmed, Kendrick. The unattainable truly is an incredible lure.”
“That it is, Princess.”
CHAPTER FIVE
—
FIORA
“Where did you go?”
The automated door of my preparation room closes behind Matheas. Ria is behind me, tying the corset back of my top as he approaches.
“Tether called me. Needed my help with one of the tasks your father gave him.”
“I’m glad you’re back before the bow and arrow trial.”
Matheas tips his head and gestures for Ria to leave.
“I’ll take it from here.”
“But her hair isn’t finished, Matheas.”
“It’s all right, Ria. Come back in fifteen minutes.”
She leaves, and Matheas makes sure the door is closed before he speaks.
“What is it?”
“Nothing we couldn’t handle. I just needed a minute or several to kiss you.”
Nibbling my lip, I raise my mouth to his. With his hand cupping my chin, he seals his mouth over mine. Soft lips and the taste of sin tip my need for his touch over the edge. Hands on his arms, I move in closer, needing to feel him against me. Hand gripping my ass, he squeezes, pinching my cheek as I’m pulled flush against him.
“Touch me, Matheas, give me something to hold on to until tonight.”
Unbuttoning my pants, he pushes us to the wall, farther away from the door. With my pants folded down, he caresses my clit, and I moan with relief. Holding my hands above my head, he suspends my body as I writhe against the palm of his hand. The scent of his masculinity carries on each breath as his lips savor me, one kiss at a time. Moaning into his mouth, he protects our secret, muffling my cries of pleasure as I come on his hand.
“There’s nothing better than feeling you come alive from my touch. Tonight can’t come soon enough. All I want is to feel your body beneath me.”
Cheeks warm, I exhale a breath, my body tingling from the orgasm.
“Anticipation is a cruel tease.”
Matheas’s head rests against mine as he chuckles, his handsome smile lifting the corners of his full lips.
“Yes, it is.”
Putting his finger to my mouth, he swipes it over my bottom lip, leaving the taste of me on my lip just before he kisses me. Feeling the hardened bulge against his pants, I massage into it, rubbing him up and down. Hand on the wall, he leans forward into my touch.
“Stroke me, Fi, I need it.”
“Lock the door first.”
“Ria will wonder why it’s locked.”
“I don’t care. Lock it.”
Touching the button on his soul band, he brings the screen up and with the touch of his finger to the monitor, the automated door clicks, locking in place. Dropping to my knees, I unbutton his pants, freeing his erection. Looking up at him as I take his length in hand, his cerulean eyes spark with elation. Bringing him to my mouth, I suck hard and fast. Hand gripping my hair, he moans above me.
Thrusting his hips forward, he pushes farther back into my throat, moaning louder with each thrust. Arousal aches between my legs, making me wet with need once more. Hand between my thighs, I rub my fingers against my clit as he takes pleasure from my mouth. Pumping rhythmically, his eyes darken with desire as he watches me satisfy myself. With the tightening of his grip, he lets out a low groan. Cock thickening, the taste of him fills my mouth.
Looking down at me, his lids are hooded, his expression satisfied. Lifting me off my knees, he holds me close, ending our shared pleasure with a kiss.
“No one’s ever made me feel as good as you do, Fi. I’m completely addicted to the pleasure you give me.”
Joy threatens to burst from my chest. His words are what I need to hear.
“I want you to be addicted. I want to be the woman who’s given you the most satisfying pleasure.”
“You have, you have no idea how much.”
Our lips lock, and he squeezes my ass as our kiss deepens. A light-handed knock sounds at the door, and we both sigh heavily.
“She’s back already?”
Matheas looks at his soul band before quickly fastening his pants.
“It’s been twenty minutes.”
“That was worth every second.”
Hands to my hips, he caresses my lower abdomen, stirring my arousal as he moves to my buttons, fastening them.
“It was,” he agrees, giving a wolfish grin.
“Now it’s time to get prettied up so I can please everyone else.”
Matheas clicks his soul band, raising the screen to unlock the door.
“You are good at pleasuring, Princess. Very good.”
My mouth curls lasciviously as I turn my back to him. The palm of his hand comes across my ass within seconds of Ria walking in the door. Shaking my head, I laugh, and she smiles as if she just walked in on a joke.
“What’s so funny?”
“The challenge of putting a long thick weapon in a small hole.” Behind me, Matheas laughs, and
my smirk widens. “He got a peek at what House Nevari has in store for me.”
“Oh! No wonder you wanted privacy.” Ria walks to the vanity, and I join her, sitting in the chair so she can style my hair. “I hope you do well. I heard they wanted to give you a difficult challenge.”
“They’re not the only ones. House Tuller has something wicked planned for the Fire and Water trial.”
“I think their house wants the glory of having given you the most challenging trial,” she says, completing another part of my hair in a braid.
“I do too.”
“Do you think any of the men are attractive?”
Matheas leans against the wall by the vanity, within view. His expression is mischievous and curious, awaiting my answer.
“They all have interesting qualities. Based on physical appearance alone, I like the way Luther looks.”
Thumb under his chin, Matheas’s finger curls at his lips as he hides a smirk. I can see the wheels turning in his head. Narrowing my eyes at him, I glare, knowing how amusing he finds this.
“Do you look forward to laying with the man you choose?” she asks, finishing the other braid on the opposite side.
“I do. Very much so.”
Grin wide, Matheas does his best to keep his composure.
“Have any of them kissed you yet?”
The memory of Malark’s kiss pulls laughter from my gut.
“Yes.”
“Oh, was it not pleasant?”
“No, Ria, it was not.”
“Who was it?” In the mirror, I see her face full of interest and anticipation.
“It’s best I don’t say, to respect him and his house.”
“Of course.”
Bringing both of the French braids she created on either side of my head to the back of my hair, she twists them together into a braided bun, leaving the rest of my hair loose beneath it.
“There you are. That will keep your hair out of your face while you shoot.”
“Thank you, Ria. Have I ever told you that you’re my favorite member of my staff?”
With a cute smile plumping her cheeks, she looks up at me happily.
Claimed Royalty: (Crowned and Claimed Series, Book 1) Page 6
