Marie Kelly's Blog, page 2

The Lost Sister

It has been many years since Diona and Daryle married the Dranias boys, and many have asked what became of the foursome.  Well, I have just finished my new book ‘The Lost Sister’ which is going through editing as we speak, which is the follow up to ‘Kidnapped The Wrong Sister’.

So for all those who asked, I am bringing them back!  Find out how Diona and Nikias fared when we meet Hayden Carmichael – the sister neither of the girls knew they had.

Tough, smart and motivated, Hayden has triumphed over a childhood devoid of any affection or love to become a lawyer.  She is doing just fine, all by herself, until Diona Dranias appears at her door.  Now, she has an entire family she knew nothing about, and a dream job that she proves herself more than capable of.  Life is good, but becomes complicated when she meets Henry Grant.  Forced to keep her family a secret, how will the man react when he finds out the truth about her?

Henry Grant is the CEO of one of the largest cruise liners in the world.  During talks with Nikias Dranias he meets a young lawyer, Hayden Carmichael, and falls instantly for the fiesty brunette.  But he she is working for the Dranias team and it would be unprofessional to mix business with pleasure.  Wouldn’t it?  So why then does he go to such lengths to create a situation in which the two can spend more time together?  He does not need the distraction with the partnership plans, a scheming gold digger and a back stabbing member of his own board, who will stop at nothing to gain control of his company.

With both having experienced less than ideal childhoods, and complications in their current situations, can they make a better future together?  Or will events conspire to tear the two apart.

Warrior’s Bride (Pt 30)

Chapter Thirty

The two men circled each other for what seemed an eternity, Tialla’s fingers digging into Cadell’s arms until he unfurled them and took her hand in his. She jumped as Garel made the first move, lunging at Zandria, he sidestepping just in time, his arm raised as he brought the grip of his sword down onto his father’s back. Garel however, seemed to hardly notice the blow and quickly recovering, swung around, his fist arching around to deliver a blow to Zandria which saw him fly backwards, hitting the ground hard.

As Garel sneered and moved closer, his sword raised once more, Zandria quickly raised his feet and slammed them into the oncoming man, now it Garel’s turn to fly backwards. Without even needing to use his hands, Zandria flipped back onto his feet, he waiting for the other man to get back onto his. For the first time there was surprise in his father’s eyes, Zandria smiling. “I learnt a few things since I left your palace”, his eyes flicking briefly to Cadell. “Amazing what you can do when you have a good teacher.”

This time Garel charged at him, a roar leaving the man, Zandria not able to move out of the way this time as he raised his swords to fend off the ferocity of the attack, the swords making a loud noise in the clearing, the warriors surrounding the two starting to cheer, they losing themselves in the fight going on.

And it was a fight worthy of watching, Tialla stunned to see just how well Zandria fought, she crying out when after several minutes, one of Garel’s thrusts winged Zandria on the arm, a thin line of blood now flowing down his sleeve. But he seemed hardly to notice, though she could also tell that he struggled to hold the sword in that arm.

As though sensing victory Garel charged once more, his swords stretched out for a body blow. However, Zandria was ready for him, rolling to the side and quickly rising onto his feet as he spun around, his own sword thrust out as the cruel father who had tried to have him killed on many occasions ran right into the tip. As the sword sliced into him, he seemed to freeze, disbelief in his eyes that Zandria had brought him down, his lips curling into a hateful growl before he fell to his knees.

The assembled men hushed instantly as their leader pitched forward, dead. Now Zandria too seemed to crumple, his legs giving out as he fell to his knees, leaning on the other sword, exhaustion taking over as the adrenalin seemed to leave him.

His turned as one of the warriors, rushed him with a blood-curdling scream, his sword in hand, he trying to push himself back to his feet, just as another stepped in halting the new challenger. Cadell dragged Tialla with him, thrusting her towards Zandria and away from the circle of men as he stood between Zandria and the newcomer. With a single swing of his sword the other man fell to the ground, Cadell moving to help Zandria back to his feet. However, the other man refused the hand, standing himself, knowing the importance of looking strong in front of the other warriors.

Now his look moved around the men, he raising his sword high, his voice coming out strong. “As is our tradition, I have challenged the leader and won. Is there any other here who would seek to challenge me?” His eyes scoured the men as he continued. “Speak now or on your knees and accept your new leader.”

For a second there was silence, before one by one the men fell onto one knee, their one hand covering their breast as their head bowed with respect. It seemed that Zandria was now leader. Beside him Cadell also made to move to one knee, Zandria’s hand stalling him, his head shaking. “No my friend. You will never bow to me. You are a great leader and friend.”

Tialla felt her lips curve at the way the two men smiled at each other, those smiles full of love for the other. The sound of running feet saw the three turn their heads as Nadia came running from the trees. Zandria moved to meet her, the men clearing a path for him as she threw herself into his arms, he lifting her from the ground as he kissed her soundly, before leading her back to the middle of the circle to join her princess and Cadell.

Now he lifted his hand in a motion for the men to stand, many looking at the newcomer with surprise, their eyes fixed on Zandria. Raising a hand to silence the soft murmurs he regarded them proudly. “We have been at war for years – for what! The need for a cruel man to wreak havoc on his own people and others. Our province needs to make changes, and that begins with ending this war.” Turning to Cadell, he gave him a large smile. “My friend, it is my intention to broker a peace deal between our peoples. Are you with me?”

Nodding his head, Cadell offered his arm, Zandria gripping it tightly as the two men shook, Cadell’s voice warm. “Be assured of my every support my friend. As you say, this war is long overdue ending and I believe that our provinces can live peacefully side by side with you as its leader.”

Now the men stood around all seemed to be smiling, the thought of returning to their families no doubt a great motivator. Turning to Tialla, Zandria gave her a grin, his head bowed respectfully. “Princess, it comes to me to ask that you consider finding yourself another handmaiden”, his eyes sliding to Nadia, Tialla feeling tears rise to her own eyes as understanding came on her, her head nodding.

“It will be with pleasure Lord Zandria”, she rushing forward to give Nadia a quick hug before Zandria took Nadia’s hand and pulled her to his side, his voice raised once more.

“Behold your new queen”, his hand entwined with Nadia’s raised high, the handmaiden standing tall as she smiled at Zandria, the love for him shining from her. Around them the warriors cheered.

Cadell pulled Tialla into his arms, his wrapped around her waist as her back fit against his chest, his chin on her shoulder. “I love you Tialla of Leando.”

Her head fell backwards as she nuzzled his cheek with hers. “And I love you too, Cadell of Karok and Leando”, his arms tightening around her at this perfect moment. Who could have foreseen such a perfect ending, made possible by the woman in his arms. Looking at Nadia and Zandria he chuckled, “So, do we have a double wedding now?”

end.

Warrior’s Bride (PT 29)

Chapter Twenty Nine

Cadell glared at the man before him, his body stiffening with the mention of his sister, before his eyes flit briefly to Tialla. She stood to the side, fighting in vain with one of Garel’s men, her aqua eyes filled with fear, not for herself but for him, as she tried to get to him.

Swallowing, he managed a small smile to her, before his look once more turned to the man he despised, his eyes now full of hatred. “You fight women Garel. Only a coward does that.” Letting his eyes move around the assembled warriors he growled out, “If you are any kind of warrior, then you will behave like one”, his look now focussing back onto Garel. “I challenge you for leadership of your realm and your armies.”

Garel barked out a laugh, though from her vantage point, even Tialla could see the way the other warriors shifted uncomfortably, their eyes narrowing at his refusal of the direct challenge. He however, only glowered at Cadell, his words spat out with distaste. “You do not have the right to challenge me Cadell. You are nothing but a commoner, and a traitorous one at that. Only royalty have the right to challenge a leader.” Turning, his features contorted into a snarl. “Hold him. Like all traitorous dogs. He will die at the end of my sword.”

Wordlessly, Cadell was grabbed by two warriors, his arms held securely, though he offered no resistance. Tialla screamed as Garel unsheathed a large sword, he stepping closer to where Cadell stood, he seeming at peace with his fate as he stood proudly, the thought of death something that seemed not to affect him. As the brutal warlord lifted his sword, Cadell turned to look at Tialla, the smallest of smiles on his lips as he mouthed ‘I love you’ to her, she feeling the tears slide down her face, pain ripping through her. Without him she would rather die herself.

Just as all seemed lost, Garel swinging the sword back to deliver the final blow, the two men holding Carell jerked forward, both falling to the ground dead, arrows in both their necks. All eyes flew to the man now marching towards them, his features solemn, the cross-bow in his hands held high as his eyes scoured the men for any sign of another ready to fight.

Garel staggered back a few steps, his mouth slack in disbelief, as he saw who was moving towards him before his lips pulled back in a snarl. “Zandria!”, the word filled with hatred and contempt.

Zandria stopped as he drew level with Cadell, his head bowing slightly, an equal hardness in his eyes. “Greetings father. I assure you I feel the same.”

Cadell groaned, his head turning slightly. “I thought I gave you an order”, his voice hard as Zandria beside him chuckled softly, his head nodding.

“Indeed you did my friend. And I believe that order was to do what was best for Tialla.” His lips quirked as his look flit briefly to the princess “However, a certain handmaiden, who is as stubborn as any mule I have ever met, persuaded me that what was best for her princess was to ensure that she remained with the man she loved”, he giving Cadell a humorous look. “She also informed me that whoever Tialla came out of this jungle with would be the man she married, and who would then control her lands and have Harbin as an ally.” Now his look became more sombre. “So, I decided that the little handmaiden might have a point.”

Beside him, Cadell groaned, the truth sinking in as he nodded, his hand moving ready to grab one of the many weapons he wore. “Well, I might not like our odds Zandria. But at least we will go down fighting. Though if one of us could take down your father, that would be much appreciated.”

Now Zandria chuckled again, his hand stalling his friend. “I believe there may be another way.”

Before Cadell could say anything, Zandria took a step forward, his voice raised so all could hear. “You may not have accepted Cadell’s challenge. But I am your son, and as such, royalty. Therefore, I challenge you to a fight to the death. The winner will take control of all.” His eyes fixed solemnly on his father. “Or are you too much of a coward old man?”

By now Garel seemed to have recovered from his shock at seeing his son, he pulling himself to his full, imposing height, his cruel mouth curving into a sneer as he guffawed loudly. “You! You dare to challenge me. You are a weak runt”, his eyes shining with expectancy. “I will take great pleasure in putting you down”, his look turning to Cadell, “Before I destroy this one.”

Tialla, sensing her chance, kicked the warrior holding her, the man releasing her as he cursed loudly, she taking off at a run to throw herself into Cadell’s arms. The warrior’s however, seemed to have momentarily lost interest in both Tialla and Cadell as they moved to form a circle around father and son. Cadell held her firmly to him, his mouth kissing the top of her head as he whispered words of love to her, before both grew silent along with the rest of the assembled group, though Tialla was aware as he slowly pulled a sword out and held it at his side.

She like all others, turned her attention to the men now at the centre of the circle. She clung to Cadel as Garel pulled out another sword, the two weapons glinting in the sun as Zandria did the same. Her eyes flipped between the two, her stomach diving as she took in the difference. Garel was a monster of a man, Zandria, while tall and muscular tiny compared to him. Swallowing she knew this was a David and Goliath moment, she praying that the kindly Zandria could win.

{Next installment 12th Dec}

Warrior’s Bride (PT 28)

Chapter Twenty Eight

Cadell gave Zandria a sombre look, the other man already looking around the area for any further traps. As Zandria gave a curt nod, a sign that there were no more, Cadell ran into the hidden passageway leading to the cave, his watchful eyes looking out for any further traps, but he sure there would be none. The rock would be too hard to plant them.

Moving into the cave that had been their home for the week, he pulled up short seeing the signs everywhere of a fight. The dishes and even the animals he had made for her were strewn everywhere, the cave upturned. His look flew to Zandria’s, he not aware of the desperation and helplessness in his own, his friend looking around keenly. Spotting something, Zandria moved to where a knife, the very tip of it covered in blood, lay, a sheet of paper under it.

Lifting the sheet, his brows furrowed as he read the words, his look rising to meet that of Cadell. “It’s my father’s handwriting.” His words were spoken slowly as Cadell turned to him, his eyes filled with horror.

“What does he say?”

Nadia sniffed softly, fear making her eyes flit between the two warriors. “W… Who is your father?”, she finally managed, Zandria’s eyes closing softly with dread as he turned to face the handmaiden.

“I would have told you Nadia, but it is not something I have ever been proud of.”

“What did Garel say?!” This time Cadell’s words were full of urgent demand as Nadia gasped.

Her hands covered her mouth in horror as she whispered, “Garel is your father?”

Zandria’s jaw tightened as he gave the smallest of nods before looking once more at the paper, his voice sombre.

To the scum sucking traitor Cadell

I hold your princess, and will keep her alive until the setting of the sun. After that I will not guarantee or even care about her safety. However, I am sure that she will provide some fun for my men during the night if you do not show up. If you do not wish this, then you will appear at the great clearing before the setting of the sun, where I will trade her life for yours.

Garel

Cadell was already heading out of the cave as Zandria grabbed him, his features beseeching. “You cannot believe him. You know that Cadell. He will do with her what he wants, and he will still kill her. You cannot walk into his trap.”

Pausing Cadell stared back at him. “Zandria, you are like a brother to me, and you are every bit as good a leader as I.” Briefly, his eyes slid to Nadia. “I need to at least try to save her. You must understand how I feel.”

Zandria’s eyes closed as he nodded, before once more gripping his arm. “But there must be another way.”

Shaking his head, Cadell gave a sad smile. “With me dead he will not kill her. With her under his control, so too is her kingdom – and Harbin’s.” Now, his hand gripped Zandria’s arm. “They will have to move her back to the city. Get our army and set a trap of your own. It is her only real chance my friend. Promise me you will do what is best for Tialla.”

Zandria nodded, he releasing his friend, Cadell moving swiftly from the cave in his quest to save Tialla.

It took him less than an hour to reach the great clearing, Cadell moving slowly around the area, carefully watching what was going on. Tialla was bound and tied to a post in the middle of the clearing, Garel’s men leering at her as she stood silently, her head raised proudly. For a second, he was reminded of doing something very similar to her on the day they first met, she as regal then as she was now.

He watched the sun, wanting to give Zandria as much time as possible to get help, he knowing that he had to wait to the last minute before showing himself. His eyes scoured the site looking for any sign of Garel, finally seeing the brutal warlord.

For a second he considered using his bow to bring down the evil man, he fighting the urge, knowing that it would only result in the quick execution of Tialla. While Garel was cruel, without mercy and a killer, he was also smart. He would have ensured that if anything happened to him, then Tialla’s would have been the next death, he also knowing that Cadell would know this. For now he just had to bide his time.

With the sun now low in the sky, Garel moved to the post holding Tialla, a short sword in his hands. Raising it, he brought it down onto the ropes securing her. Free, she instantly tried to flee, he grabbing her arm in a cruel vise grip and dragged her back, his arms pinning her small body to him as he jeered at her.

Tialla however continued to fight, though it was like watching a mouse battle with a cat, he and his men laughing at her attempts. Looking into the sky, his free hand rose, the men around him growing silent.

Now Garel’s eyes flit around the trees on the border of the clearing, his voice raised. “I know you are there. Come out Cadell. I will count to three and then I will slit her throat and let you watch her bleed out.” Again his eyes moved around, Cadel taking a deep breath. It seemed that time was up.

“One.” The booming voice of Garel filled the sky, birds taking flight at the suddenness of it.

“Two.”

Cadel stepped into the clearing, his hands raised, his look fixing with that of Garel.

Pushing Tialla into the arms of one of his men, he strode forward, stopping a few feet from the other warrior, his eyes flashing with a triumphant gleam. “Women always were your downfall Cadell. You think I did not see your face the day your sister killed herself?”, his features contorting with contempt. “You are weak.”

next installment {29th Nov}

Warrior’s Bride (PT 27)

Chapter Twenty Seven

Garel loomed over the crumpled woman, her long hair fanned around her, his lips curving into a large smile. “Well I doubt that she will be bringing Cadell now, but I have no doubt he will be coming for her anyway.”

Kneeling, his hands flipped her over, his look taking in every perfect inch of her. “Oh yes, she will make a good queen”, an expectant light making his cold dead eyes almost glow. “I am going to enjoy breaking this one. She will fight for a long, long time.”

Standing, he flicked a look to the other warrior, contempt in the glare he threw at the man still bent in pain. “Bring her”, his snapped words making the other warrior stumble to his feet. A curt grunt was the only response as he scooped up the small woman, throwing her unceremoniously over his shoulder, her hair flowing down his back, the golden tresses swaying as the two moved from the cave.

Cadell moved cautiously around the perimeter of the meeting area. He knew he was early, but better to be early and prepared than walk into a trap. His eyes missed nothing as he took up a position he was sure gave him the best vantage point.

For an hour he waited, not moving an inch, even the animals around seeming to forget he was there as deer moved closer. The snapping of twigs had his eyes darting to the sound, though he remained still. Breaking through the heavy undergrowth to the clearing, Zandria and the Lady Nadia came into view. His lips twitched at the sight of Tialla’s friend. He knew that Zandria would have tried to come alone, not wanting to put the other woman in peril, he only imagining what kind of resistance he must have met if she was there. Seemed that the women in Leando in general were headstrong.

Once more his thoughts returned to Tialla, lightness filling him. How had he ever gotten so lucky as to deserve a woman like her? He held down the chuckle as the memory of his talk with Harbin flashed through his head. He had to admit the older warrior was right. He never thought he could feel the way he did about another human being, but he loved Tialla with everything in him and she would make him the perfect partner in life.

The sound of a Jibbit bird brought a smile to his lips. Zandria’s signal that all was well was their secret, he knowing that the other man would never betray it. Standing, he silently moved into the clearing watching the other two, their backs to him. Pausing, his brows furrowed in surprise as Zandria’s arm rose, his hand resting gently on Nadia’s shoulder, the woman covering his hand with hers in a tender motion. Seemed that he was not the only one to have found love in the region, his lips curving into a smile. Zandria certainly could do a great deal worse than with the woman who had been prepared to die for her queen.

Taking another step closer, Zandria spun around, his small crossbow in one hand, the weapon pointed at his heart. Stopping, Cadell smiled, his hands raised in a motion of surrender as he grinned. “You have not lost your touch my friend.”

Letting the weapon fall to his side Zandria laughed back, the two men moving forward as they embraced, both clapping the others back in greeting. Pulling back, Zandria’s handsome face was filled with fun. “So how was your holiday?”

Shaking his head, he could not help the large smile which filled his features. “One of the best. Thinking of making it a yearly thing”, his look sliding to Nadia, devilment in his tone. “And yourself Zandria, how was your week?”

He could see the way his friend’s eyes softened as they turned once more to the lady-in-waiting, his response warm. “It was also good my friend.”

Stepping forward, the two covered the distance to the woman watching them both warily, her eyes scanning the area, obviously looking for her mistress. Bowing slightly as they came to a halt, Cadell smiled gently, he seeing the wary look from the stunning woman. “Lady Nadia. As always it is a pleasure to see you. Tialla will be very pleased to see you also.”

At the mention of her mistress’s name, Nadia seemed to relax a little, though her look still flicked behind him. “I hope that you are well Lord Cadell. Where is my lady?”

Grinning, his hand opened in a gesture to follow him. “She insisted that we join her for food before we begin our journey back. She is preparing lunch, a feast I believe”, he adding more gently, “I did not want her coming with me, until I was sure that things were safe.”

He could see the approval in both Zandria and Nadia, before the woman chuckled, “The princess is cooking?”, her voice a little teasing. “I was sure that my lady could hunt, but I was not so sure of her cooking prowess”, her head lifting with pride. “But then again, she could master any skill. She is proficient in anything she turns her hand to.”

Nodding, Cadell began to lead the two back to their hideout. As they walked, he drilled Zandria for any news of Garel, both men aware that the evil warlord was notorious for using spies to gather information about his enemies. Cadell was sure that he would have discovered that they had seized Leando and that he planned to marry the princess.

Hearing that there had been no activity, or any sign of the man’s armies moving had been a surprise. Despite the fact that it would be suicide to take on both his armies and Harbin’s, he had expected some kind of retaliation – something, he uneasy at the lack of movement from the man.

Reaching the waterfall, he led the two to the small pathway leading behind the curtain of water. Not seeing Tialla, Cadell could not help the way his lips curved. She must be waiting for them inside, his steps quickening, he gasping in surprise as Zandria grabbed his arm, pulling him back just in time before the arrow, triggered by the small thread on the ground embedded itself in the tree to his side.

Fear thudded into Cadell – they had been discovered, and Tialla had been alone.

Zandria pointed to the ground, Nadia already dragged behind him for safety. Looking down he could see the two sets of large footprints, one set much heavier as they moved away from the secret cave. Tialla, where was Tialla! Panic squeezed his stomach, that feeling of helplessness making it hard to breathe. He had to find her and find her fast.

next installment {15th Nov}

Warrior’s Bride (PT 26)

Chapter Twenty Six

With Cadell gone, the campsite seemed quiet and a little sad, she moving around and quickly packing up those items going back with them. She would never forget this time, her and her future husband’s special time, a soft smile playing on her lips.

Moving to the cave, she began to prepare the final meal, determined to ensure that Cadell was proud of his new wife when his friend, and Nadia – she knowing that her lady in waiting would not allow herself to be left behind – would arrive. The sound of footsteps had her heart starting to beat faster, the strangest joy filling her, “You’re back much earlier than I expected. I wanted to…”, shock thudding into her as she turned round not seeing the man she expected, but a large stranger blocking the entrance. Screaming, she fled to the other exit, pulling to a shuddering halt as another figure loomed out of the blackness. She was trapped.

Turning once more to the first figure, she shivered seeing as each step the man took brought his grotesquely harsh features into focus, the blood in her veins freezing. There was no softness to this man, he was a killer through and through. Backing up, her eyes flicked around the small space looking for any weapon she could use to defend herself, although she knew that she was doomed.

“Where is he princess?” The giant before her spoke, his tone as menacing as his looks. Tialla clamped her mouth closed, her head shaking, her small sign of defiance seeming to amuse the man, a cruel rumble of laughter leaving him as he looked over at the second man, equally as fierce looking, he too descending on her as he crept forward. “Look at that. The little mouse would like us to ‘persuade’ her to talk.”

With that he lurched forward, Tialla having no time to move out of the way, another strangled scream leaving her, despite her determination not to. The giant wrapped a large fist around her hair, gripping it tightly before dragging her against himself. With her back against his chest, his other arm grabbed her arm, pain exploding throughout. “I think that we need to make the little mouse squeak harder. See if her screams don’t bring back our little traitorous cat.”

The other man’s mouth curved into a sickening smile. “Indeed Lord Garel. And how do you propose we do that to such a pretty little creature?” Panic filled her as the sickening realisation of just who held her sunk in. It was Garel himself.

Behind her, she could hear the peel of cruel laugher. “How do warriors tame any woman? On her back of course. She can show us both what Cadell has been enjoying.”

Terror slammed into Tialla – there was no talking with men like these. To them she was nothing more than property to serve their needs. Dragging in a deep breath she vowed not to let herself die that way. As the second warrior stepped closer, she grabbed Garel’s shoulder, using it to anchor herself, her legs lifting and drawing into her body, before she kicked out with all her strength, her feet slamming into his groin, his cry of pain filling the small area. She however, was already moving, her hand grabbing one of the many knives slung around Garel, pulling back and ignoring the pain, as some of the strands of her hair were ripped from her scalp, her hand arching towards the man.

Garel though was already moving, stepping back before the knife could cause any real harm. She watched as the tip sliced through his shirt, a thin line of blood starting to flow, proof of just how close she had come to bringing down the brutal warlord.

Before she could position for another swing, his hand fastened painfully onto her wrist, twisting it so violently she thought he might have broken it, the knife clanging noisily onto the stone ground, before he released her once more.

Now both stared at the other, terror and determination in her, stunned disbelief in him. As his companion slowly dragged himself to his knees his eyes murderous, once more blocking her escape Garel held up his hand to stop the man, Tialla sure he would have killed her otherwise. His finger skimmed his chest, before he licked the tip stained with his own blood. “Well, well”, his mouth curving into what seemed to be an amused smile. “This little mouse has heart and spirit. I like this little mouse. I planned on enjoying her and leaving with her as my wife – keeping her alive long enough to secure my leadership and get Harbin off my back”, his cold eyes boring into hers. “Not even he would go against tradition”, before his look dropped to slide down Tialla. “But she has fire. Imagine the sons she will provide”, his mouth now snarling. “They would not be mutinous rodents or weaklings like those of my other sickly wives.” His eyes flashed now. “I think I will be keeping you after all princess.”

Tialla shook her head, her angry words full of venom. “Never. I would rather die than have you lay with me.”

Again Garel laughed, this time the other warrior joining in. “I think you are right my Lord. Indeed she is a little spitfire”, his laugh full of evil humour. “And that passion. It will make her most enjoyable in bed.”

Garel laughed too, his eyes dissecting her. “Yes. She will do. But like all pets, she will need to learn her place and who her Master is.”

About to declare that he was no Master of hers she never got a chance to speak as his arm pulled back, the back of his hand catching her fully on the cheek, Tialla flying sideways through the air, slamming into the wall, blackness flooding in, blissful, empty darkness.

next installment {3rd November}

Warrior’s Bride (Pt 25)

Chapter Twenty Five

The week flew by. As a young girl, Tialla never understood the tradition of Tol Dor. It seemed a tortuous start to any relationship, the couple having to fight to survive. She could only see troubles with such a trial, most likely ending with one of them trying to kill the other as they attempted to survive.

However, now she got it, now she understood. This was their time. This was the only chance they would have to really get to know each other without any of the pressures of leadership. Here and now it was just Tialla and Cadell, and they worked together to ensure that the week was one filled with laughter, talking and love. She knew him now better than she had ever known another person, and she had kept nothing from him, sharing her whole life. He was to be her husband, her partner and her love. For the first time in her life, Tialla knew that she had found the person who would stand by her and support her as she would him, to the death if necessary.

As the two woke on the last morning of their week-long trial, she looked up at him, a sadness in her eyes, her hands gently tracing the strong curve of his jaw, her voice whimsical. “Do you think if we kept really quiet they might not find us, that maybe they would just find somebody else to rule?”

His laugh skittered over her, his eyes glowing as he leant in to kiss her. “I’m game if you are. I cannot think of anything else in the world that I would want more than to be right here with you.”

She huffed out a sad sigh, her arms draping around his neck. “It has been so nice. Like a dream”, her eyes trailing to the side where fruit-filled a wooden bowl he had carved for her sat, fish ready for their breakfast waiting to be cooked hanging in a corner. He was an excellent hunter and fisher, and they were definitely not struggling for food or other comforts, she having even made a few pieces of rudimentary furniture with his help. No, life with Cadell was only enhanced.

“You know, there was one new custom I was thinking might be nice.”

Her curious look flipped back to him hearing his words. “Oh? And what would that be?”

Grinning, his mouth trailed down her cheek, once more the familiar sizzles of want bursting deep in her belly. “Well. Perhaps each year, the king and queen should take a week to honour Tol Dor, show their commitment to each other and their kingdom by taking part in the tradition.”

She chuckled, “Can we do that?”, his head nodding against her, a wickedly sexy drawl sending all new tremors through her.

“Hey, I just started a new one where people get sweets on the announcement of matrimony in the palace. They accepted that, so no reason why not. It’s good to be the king”, she unable to stop the happy laughter as she clung to him, that laughter turning to soft moans as he kissed down her. It was not so bad to be the queen either sometimes.

Two hours later, both were finally up and dressed, their breakfast nothing but a fond memory as she exhaled a long sigh. Looking around what had been their first bedroom together, she began to pack up their belongings. By that night they would be back in the palace, their accommodation more luxurious, the responsibility of leadership once more placed heavily on her shoulders, back to the same routine she had led her entire life.

Looking over at Cadell, her heart soared. No – it would never be the same and she would never have to bear the weight of leadership alone again. She had him now. He was her partner in everything.

Cadell watched Tialla. She looked a little sad to be leaving, as indeed did he. This week had been perfection, the time tying the two closer than even he could have imagined. He loved her, adored her, would die for her, he knowing this with certainty. Moving over, he wrapped his arms around her waist, his head resting on her shoulder, a deep sigh leaving him. “Is it wrong of me to hate to have to share you?”

She melted into him, her head turning to nuzzle her cheek with his. “It must be quite freeing to be like normal people”, his head nodding softly against hers as he kissing her cheek reverently.

“OK. I will meet Zandria at the meeting spot. I’ll bring him back with me so he can help carry some of this stuff you seem hell-bent on keeping.” His eyes were full of humour as they took in all of the little animals he had carved for her over the week, she insisting on keeping them because they meant something. Woman’s talk for ‘everything you do is special to me’ he assumed, he deep down really touched.

Turning in his arms hers wound around his neck. “Miss me.”

His lips quirked as he kissed her before pulling back slightly. “Every single moment”, he dropping another on her nose as with a rueful grimace he stepped back. “If I don’t go now, then Zandria will be the one looking for us, and I should tell you that man is a hell of a tracker!”

Giggling, her head nodded, her eyes sparkling. “OK. I will prepare one last meal for us. Seems the least we can do for Zandria – poor man has no idea how much stuff he is carrying!”

Chuckling, he nodded before picking up his sword and bow, winking at her as her eyes widened with surprise seeing the array of weaponry. “I like to be ready my love. Can never tell what might be waiting for you in a jungle.”

Nodding, her mouth curved into a smile. “Just don’t forget what is waiting for you in this cave”, her brows wriggling with innuendo.

next installment {12th October}

Warrior’s Bride (Pt 26)

Chapter Twenty Six

The week flew by. As a young girl, Tialla never understood the tradition of Tol Dor. It seemed a tortuous start to any relationship, the couple having to fight to survive. She could only see troubles with such a trial, most likely ending with one of them trying to kill the other as they attempted to survive.

However, now she got it, now she understood. This was their time. This was the only chance they would have to really get to know each other without any of the pressures of leadership. Here and now it was just Tialla and Cadell, and they worked together to ensure that the week was one filled with laughter, talking and love. She knew him now better than she had ever known another person, and she had kept nothing from him, sharing her whole life. He was to be her husband, her partner and her love. For the first time in her life, Tialla knew that she had found the person who would stand by her and support her as she would him, to the death if necessary.

As the two woke on the last morning of their week-long trial, she looked up at him, a sadness in her eyes, her hands gently tracing the strong curve of his jaw, her voice whimsical. “Do you think if we kept really quiet they might not find us, that maybe they would just find somebody else to rule?”

His laugh skittered over her, his eyes glowing as he leant in to kiss her. “I’m game if you are. I cannot think of anything else in the world that I would want more than to be right here with you.”

She huffed out a sad sigh, her arms draping around his neck. “It has been so nice. Like a dream”, her eyes trailing to the side where fruit-filled a wooden bowl he had carved for her sat, fish ready for their breakfast waiting to be cooked hanging in a corner. He was an excellent hunter and fisher, and they were definitely not struggling for food or other comforts, she having even made a few pieces of rudimentary furniture with his help. No, life with Cadell was only enhanced.

“You know, there was one new custom I was thinking might be nice.”

Her curious look flipped back to him hearing his words. “Oh? And what would that be?”

Grinning, his mouth trailed down her cheek, once more the familiar sizzles of want bursting deep in her belly. “Well. Perhaps each year, the king and queen should take a week to honour Tol Dor, show their commitment to each other and their kingdom by taking part in the tradition.”

She chuckled, “Can we do that?”, his head nodding against her, a wickedly sexy drawl sending all new tremors through her.

“Hey, I just started a new one where people get sweets on the announcement of matrimony in the palace. They accepted that, so no reason why not. It’s good to be the king”, she unable to stop the happy laughter as she clung to him, that laughter turning to soft moans as he kissed down her. It was not so bad to be the queen either sometimes.

Two hours later, both were finally up and dressed, their breakfast nothing but a fond memory as she exhaled a long sigh. Looking around what had been their first bedroom together, she began to pack up their belongings. By that night they would be back in the palace, their accommodation more luxurious, the responsibility of leadership once more placed heavily on her shoulders, back to the same routine she had led her entire life.

Looking over at Cadell, her heart soared. No – it would never be the same and she would never have to bear the weight of leadership alone again. She had him now. He was her partner in everything.

Cadell watched Tialla. She looked a little sad to be leaving, as indeed did he. This week had been perfection, the time tying the two closer than even he could have imagined. He loved her, adored her, would die for her, he knowing this with certainty. Moving over, he wrapped his arms around her waist, his head resting on her shoulder, a deep sigh leaving him. “Is it wrong of me to hate to have to share you?”

She melted into him, her head turning to nuzzle her cheek with his. “It must be quite freeing to be like normal people”, his head nodding softly against hers as he kissing her cheek reverently.

“OK. I will meet Zandria at the meeting spot. I’ll bring him back with me so he can help carry some of this stuff you seem hell-bent on keeping.” His eyes were full of humour as they took in all of the little animals he had carved for her over the week, she insisting on keeping them because they meant something. Woman’s talk for ‘everything you do is special to me’ he assumed, he deep down really touched.

Turning in his arms hers wound around his neck. “Miss me.”

His lips quirked as he kissed her before pulling back slightly. “Every single moment”, he dropping another on her nose as with a rueful grimace he stepped back. “If I don’t go now, then Zandria will be the one looking for us, and I should tell you that man is a hell of a tracker!”

Giggling, her head nodded, her eyes sparkling. “OK. I will prepare one last meal for us. Seems the least we can do for Zandria – poor man has no idea how much stuff he is carrying!”

Chuckling, he nodded before picking up his sword and bow, winking at her as her eyes widened with surprise seeing the array of weaponry. “I like to be ready my love. Can never tell what might be waiting for you in a jungle.”

Nodding, her mouth curved into a smile. “Just don’t forget what is waiting for you in this cave”, her brows wriggling with innuendo.

next installment {12th October}

Warrior’s Bride (Pt 24)

Chapter twenty-four

For a few seconds there was silence as Tialla digested the story, her head shaking softly in shock. She felt pity for the young boy who had watched his family die so needlessly and pride for the man he had become. Where many might have given up, he had risen above and determined to free his country. His fingers entwining through hers brought her head snapping round, she seeing wariness in his eyes, his tone cautious. “So, do you still think that you are making such a good marriage now princess? Not exactly the noble lineage you likely expected to marry.”

Cupping his hand with her other, her eyes blasted respect as she smiled, “I have known many princes and leaders, their positions not earnt but inherited. Most were spoilt brats, only interested in their own welfare and comfort.” Her voice softened. “But you – you have been to the gates of hell and rather than lie down and die you fought your way back, fought because you wanted to free your own people from a tyrant. How many lives have you saved already Cadell? Garell is a monster. He would have brought darkness and death to all whose paths crossed his. But you have given hope to them. You are a shining ray in their desolate lives. In my province, no man or woman is held back from achieving their potential. Those who possess that special ability for leadership or greatness have every opportunity to succeed, not because they are born into it, but because they deserve it.” Her eyes shone with pride. “And you Cadell, are the noblest man I have ever met. I am humbled by you.”

Cadell swallowed. He could see the sincerity shining from her, that last protective layer around his heart shattering. He loved this woman, and he would lay down his life for her. Reaching over, his hands cupped her cheeks as he took her mouth, his kiss hungry and demanding. With a sigh, her lips flowered open for him, her body falling willingly against his.

Shifting, he lay them both down on the fur, his lips now kissing along her cheeks as he whispered soft words of love to her, her eyes fluttering shut as she murmured ones back. He took his time to undress her, his eyes feasting on every luscious curve, his tongue licking the raised peak of her nipples and dipped valley of her belly and hips. She was the most perfect woman he ever knew. Turning her, his mouth worshiped her back and sides, his tongue teasing the dip of her spine as she shuddered, her fingers gripping the fur. He could smell her arousal, that tangy aroma that was all her, that scent which filled his nose and his soul. He would never need another – she was his, and he hers.

Her sighs turned to wanting pants, soft pleading words escaping her lips as he tore at his breeches, needing to be part of her, to be deep inside her, to be joined in the most primitive of ways with the woman he loved. Guiding himself to the heat of her body, he thrust up, his arms wrapping around her belly, dragging her bottom harder against himself. As his fingers teased her nipples, his hips drove into her time and again, she matching him with each and every one.

He could feel the need for release rising within him, his teeth gritting as he fought to control it, to feel her beating around him. When her head turned their lips met in an incendiary kiss, her lips trembling against his as she erupted, he greedily swallowing even her cry of orgasm, wanting everything from her. He could feel the fluttering of her body against him, the way her fingers frantically gripped his arm, her body growing rigid, the need in him no longer able to be held back, his own orgasm shooting from him. Now it was her turn to swallow his cry, their kiss desperate, yet bonding. He felt one with her, their bodies jerking as the aftereffects of their shared experience shuddered through them both.

Finally, his lips fell from hers as he burrowed his head into her long hair, his nose inhaling her. This felt good – right. A peace settled over him, one that he had never before known. Somehow he had found his home in this woman, his lips curving into a happy smile.

As she stirred, he let her roll onto her back, he rising to stare down at her, his head resting on the palm of his hand, a content smile on his lips, pride filling him seeing the glow in her. Her hand rose to stroke his cheek, an impish smile on her lips as her head cocked playfully to the side. “First, wow that was amazing.” His chuckle made her smile widen as she continued “Second, how come I’m completely naked and a bug feast, while you are still dressed?”

His appreciative laugh brought one to her mouth too as he nodded. “That my love is because I only had time to undress one of us, and you look way better naked than I, and secondly I’m not a fool and had no desire to be a ‘bug feast’.”

Now her laugh turned to a spluttered indignant one as he lifted her into his arms, standing as he strode back towards the cave. “OK, OK, I also know the value of looking after my future wife. Let me wash off any of those bugs.”

As understanding came on her, she started to struggle, though she was laughing so hard her movements were ineffectual, he chuckling as he walked fully dressed right under the shower she had used earlier, the two of them soaked in an instant.

Her arms flew around his neck as she gasped at the sudden cold, her head finding shelter in the crook of his neck, she giggling helplessly before finally looking back at him, her eyes flashing with fun. “Seems now you have to undress”, her fingers sliding down his chest. “Let me help you with that.”

Grinning, his head nodded. “Now that is an offer I am never going to turn down.”

next installment {29th September}

Warrior’s Bride (PT 23)

Chapter Twenty Three

Cadell dragged in a calming breath as unwelcome memories flooded into him. Something deep within Tialla swelled knowing that he was only tearing open some old wound for her, because he did not want any secrets between them. Because he loved her.

Sitting still, she gave him the time he needed, he soon starting once more to talk. “I remember hearing the scream and looking up. I could see my sister running to the balcony. Garel was behind her, part of her sleeve in his hands. He must have cornered her in one of the rooms and attacked her.”

She could hear the anguish in his voice, she unable to hold back has her hand gripped his, their fingers entwining. He clung to her, seeming to draw strength, continuing, “I remember dropping my sword and running for the wall. Next thing, I was scaling the wall. I had no idea what I was doing, I just knew I had to reach her.”

Swallowing, his fingers tightened around hers. “By that point she had reached the balcony. She was screaming for him to leave her alone. I could see the terror in her eyes. She knew what kind of man he was. She knew that nothing she did would stop him.”

Now she could feel the tremble in his hands – this man so strong, so in command, shaken by a memory. “Then she saw me. She knew that I would defend her, she also knew I was no match for that bastard.” His look rose to meet hers, pain deep inside their darkness. “I knew what she was going to do, and I screamed for her not to, but she just mouthed to me she loved me, and then she jumped onto the wall and over.” A shuddered breath escaped him. “I could only stare at where she lay. My sister, the best person I ever knew, dead.” Now anger seemed to flare in him, his lips curling into a snarl. “Then I heard him. He stood there laughing. He actually laughed. My sister lay dead, my sister with her vibrant, caring personality, had given her life to escape him and he laughed. I saw red. Next thing I knew I was racing up the rest of the wall and had pulled out my knife and was attacking him. He mocked my attempts before knocking me to the ground. I remember him taking his time to go and pick up his sword. I knew that he was going to kill me, but I just didn’t care.”

Once more pain crossed his handsome features as he stared ahead. “I waited for him to take me down, I couldn’t even look at him, but then I heard steel-on-steel. When I looked up, my father was there. He was fighting with Garel.” His head turned once more as their eyes collided, desperation in his voice. “Tialla, he fought like a demon to avenge my sister and protect me, but even he was no match for Garel. I remember seeing Garel pull another knife from his back and I tried to warn my father, but it was too late.”

Another shudder ripped through him. “To this day, I will never forget watching my father die.”

Tialla lifted her free hand, allowing it to gently caress his shoulder, the action one of support. His hand trapped it, bringing it to his lips, her soft voice like a balm to him. “But you lived. What happened?”

Nodding, he resumed his story. “I got back to my feet and lunged at Garel, but by this point others had already entered the room. I was grabbed and dragged to the ground. I welcomed death, to be reunited with my family.” She felt his body stiffen. “My whole family had just been wiped out, my world destroyed and the son-of-a-bitch stood over me and laughed. I told him to do it, to kill me, but he ordered me thrown in the cells.” His lips curled bitterly. “After all he had done, he declared me a traitor and ordered me to be made an example of. I was to be publically executed.”

Her exhale of shock brought a fleeting sad smile to his lips. “As is traditional, my execution was to take place at daybreak and I was ready for it.” His brow furrowed as his eyes once more slid from hers. “That night Zandria appeared at my cell. As you can imagine I was surprised to see Garel’s son there.”

“Garel’s son!”

Tialla’s shocked words saw his smile widen. “Yes Zandria is Garel’s eldest son. He is also everything his father is not. He is wise, brave and fair. All things that would one day have made him an excellent leader. However, I think his qualities never endeared him to his father and I think that he knew it was only a matter time before Zandria would challenge him for leadership, and given his reputation it was likely the people would support Zandria. In fact an attempt on his life had already been made, and Zandria is nobody’s fool. He knew who was behind it.”

Tialla sat back, stunned shock on her features, her head shaking softly. “I had no idea.”

Nodding, Cadell’s brows furrowed deeper. “I owe Zandria more than I can ever repay. I would be dead now if it were not for him. He along with some of the soldiers my father was friends with stormed the prison and freed me and many others imprisoned for no real crimes. He persuaded me that Drakel needed saved and that I should join them.”

Honesty and respect blasted from him. “I owe Zandria everything.”

“So why is Zandria not here now marrying himself a princess?”

Her question elicited a small chuckle as he inclined his head. “As I said, Zandria is a smart man. We had to make aliances and persuade many to follow us. It turned out that I had a knack for leadership, as did he, but he talked me into the role of leader because he knew that being known as Garel’s son, despite the fact he was a hunted man, would lose us support. So I became leader and he became my second. He is my most valued confidant and advisor and above all my friend. I trust him with my life Tialla.”

next installment {14th September}