Isabelle Saint-Michael's Blog, page 17

The Dueling Dragon

The icy air cut through the layers I was wearing and penetrated my skin like a chilling dagger. Every hair on my body stood at attention, puffing itself up to face the coming challenge. I was scared. I don’t mean nervous, though I’m sure those feelings were scrambled in there too. Scared! Fear had wound its grip around me and held tight.

Across the field a tall form stood in dark contrast against the bright North Pole white. I didn’t need to see clearly to know that it was Ian. I felt Hue grip my shoulder to reassure me but I could feel the fear and anxiety that had him knotted up as well. “Are you ready?” he asked in a voice that sounded sure and confident.

“No, I could train a thousand years and I wouldn’t be ready for this.” Even as I said the words they sounded disembodied and I couldn’t feel my own lips speaking them.

Hue’s attention shifted as a long string of shadows approached the field. Among the faceless forms mere my mother Lady Jura, Briar, Chieftain Cariss, Marthailain, Justin Kringle, and Dani. “Oliver will be here shortly once the sun finishes setting. Do you have the vial Ian gave you?”

I opened my hand and looked down at the tiny vial of Ian’s blood. “I’ve already marked him, what will this do? Is it going to boost my senses or something?”

Shaking his head Hue leaned closely. “As much as I dislike it, it will strengthen your bond with him. I cannot say more than that.”

I narrowed my eyes to turn and glare at him. “I’m in a life or death situation and you can’t give me more info than that?”

“No, because it was hard enough convincing everyone over there that I be allowed to come over here and walk you onto the field. I assure you it is only due to your tender age that I was granted that much.” With those final words he placed a hand on my lower back and guided me towards the center of the field.

I’m scared. I reached out with my mind.

I know. I am too. Focus all your fear on me. Let me carry the burden of it during the duel. Our connection is a tool that is yours naturally, carry it into battle. Pull whatever you need from me. Use everything at your disposal. His silent coaching did lighten my nerves and the closer we got to center field the more I felt him pull on my fear. In a quick motion I lifted the vial to my lips and consumed the metallic tasting liquid within it. It burned down my throat.

Hue, in case I don’t make it through you should know…

I know, and you are forever in my heart as well.  

As we approached the group and the sun finally set Oliver appeared at Dani’s side. He nodded silently in my direction. A large man with long dark hair, highlighted with streaks of white stepped forward. It was like looking into the future of Ian’s face. Cariss was handsome but his eyes lacked the kindness that Ian’s always held. This was a man who was a hardened warrior. His eyes raked over me as Hue stepped beside Lady Jura, taking her hands.

“You’re the Halfling whelp that has caused all this trouble? My son’s kindness and compassion attest that he would agree to a battle that doesn’t have to end in death. I wasn’t sure why the Dragon Lords wouldn’t discipline you for your interference, but now I understand. Lord Hudraer is as in love with you as my son is. You will not find Ian as weak.” His words were firm but not forceful. They were merely matter-of-fact and cold. Nobody there thought I stood a chance at winning this duel.

I squared my shoulders back and looked from Hue to Ian, then back to Cariss. “I’m sorry you find love weakness but make no mistake, I don’t regret my interference and no amount of duels would. I care about your son and the fact that you would allow any of your clan to face me on the battlefield shows your politics are dated.”

Everyone’s jaws dropped open at my statement except for Dani who nodded her encouragement for me. “You dare?!”

“Obviously, I do.” I gave Cariss one last glare before turning to face Ian. “Shall we.”

Ian considered me. “Don’t hold back because I won’t be either.” Even though his words were filled with warning they were filled with encouragement.

Marthailain stepped forward and gave the orders. “Duelists, face away.” We both turned, standing back to back. “Count your paces.” I began counting out my twenty-five paces from center field. Then came the words I was dreading. “Ready!” and in the split second before the last call came I forced out a breath and all my fear with it. “Begin!”

I flung myself around to face Ian. He was shifting as he crossed the field, effortlessly rushing towards me. Reaching with all my strength down through my toes I pulled on the earth in front of me, lifting a wall of dirt and stone between us. I heard a small gasp go up in the crowd. I forced my legs to start putting distance down the length of the wall between myself and Ian. The wall did little to slow him down as he found away up and over it.

I could feel his breath on my heels as I turned to venture a glance over my shoulder. He lunged at me, knocking me to the ground with his force and weight. Cariss cheered loudly from where he stood as the air rushed from my lungs with the impact of it. I desperately pulled my knees up between us as Ian’s teeth snapped at me, nearly catching me in the cheek. With all of my strength I kicked him with both feet, knocking him off of me.

We both scrambled to our feet and now stood facing each other in what felt like a staredown. He lunged at me me again and this time I jumped, pushing off the ground and connecting with the air. I felt something with in me shift and my skin tingled and the ground slipped effortlessly beneath me. I suddenly understood what Vallen and Geren had been trying to teach me with my flying lessons. My heart and body felt lighter but something within me told me I was more solid than before. My feet touched down just before Ian tackled me again.

As he connected with me he shifted, pinning me again, but I was ready for him this time. I twisted my hips and rolled him under me. shoving at his shoulders. He looked me in the eyes and shuddered for a moment before forcing me off. I flew back, hitting the ground on my backside hard. He recovered before me and charged again.

Focusing on my connection to fire I flung my arm forward, pulling a flaming ball of anger from the air and hurling it his direction. It caught him square in the chest. I managed to make it to my feet as he recovered. The smell of burned hair hung in the air. When he looked me in the eyes this time his stare was red and intense. Before I could pull another fireball from the air he threw back his head with a howl that pierced the night. My knees went weak and the pain was mind numbing. I clasped my hands over my ears as I sank to my knees. Out of the corner of my eye I noticed several of the watchers doing the same.

This time when he charged at me I had no defense and his teeth sank deep into the arm that I threw in front of me to prevent him from connecting with my throat. Against all odds and intense pain I ripped my arm free of his iron jaws. My blood splattered across the pure white snow. The moonlight seemed to glisten off my skin and cause me to glow with its silvery reflection.

Ian began circling me. Not giving myself any time to second guess, I dug deep. “Blessed fire protect me…” I whispered into the frozen air and pulled on every ounce of magic I could feel pulsating within me. Flames rippled over my skin and I felt the familiar burn as my clothes were consumed by flame and replaced with white armor. With a flash and gust of icy wind I pulled my sword and shield from the air.

A gasp went up from everyone watching but Hue. His eyes were level and calm. Cariss swore under his breath and mumbled about weapons and unfair advantage. Ian grinned, allowing his body to shift into a monstrous form somewhere between man and beast. He towered over me by at least two feet now and had claws that gleamed, revealing their razor sharp danger.

He swung at me while letting loose a deadly growl. I raised my shield to knock away his blow. As it connected I stepped in with my sword, turning under his arm and drawing the blade across his ribs. The blade caught hold and opened a gash along his side. He whirled around and returned my blow, drawing his claws up across my thigh, ripping through my armor and cutting deep. My leg buckled under me causing me to stumble.

I recovered just in time to pull the shield up in front of me as his claw connected with it. The force caused my blood to gush from my earlier bite. “I commend you, Lady Alizeyah, for your bravery,” called Cariss. I could barely hear him over the thundering of my heart in my chest. “But it is time for you to surrender before your blood loss becomes something you cannot survive.”

I felt myself weakening as I deflected blow after blow. Ian’s next attack knocked the shield in such a way it flew free of my hand and skittered across the icy snow-covered battlefield to rest in front of Lady Jura. Cariss looked at me with glee flooding his eyes. Ian stepped in to deliver a final blow but I dropped my shoulder, stepped into his side and drove my elbow with all my weight behind it into his gut. I allowed momentum and instinct to guide me. I grabbed with my weakened arm, pressing my sword’s shoulder into him and turned, pulling him down. He flowed over my shoulder, his own weight slamming him to the ground with the sound of a crunch. He struggled to get to his feet but from nowhere I dragged a silver scaled talon down his bare chest, opening the flesh wide and adding his scarlet blood to the pale cold ground. His wound hissed and steamed angrily and he staggered back in pain.

Knowing in my heart that if I didn’t push this to the end he would, I lunged at him, knocking him flat onto his back. I buried my taloned fingertips into his open chest wounds and he howled in agonizing pain. I laid my sword across his throat, drawing a hairline string of blood and continuing to apply pressure.

“HOLD! He surrenders!” called Cariss’s panicked voice behind me. I heard footsteps crunch furiously across the frozen ground to us. “Lady Alizeyah, we accept your victory.” Cariss’s hand clutched my shoulder, causing me to glare up and him and growl. A man who does not scare easily snatched his hand away as if I were made of fire.

Hue’s arms closed around me, pulling me to my feet and whispering calming words into my ear. I stood watching as Oliver and Cariss pulled Ian to his feet, already making preparations to get him immediate medical attention. Cariss turned to face me where I clung to Hue doing my best to appear strong. Marthailain and Justin assisted Oliver with Ian’s now unconscious form.

“I didn’t think you would kill him. I didn’t think you had it in yourself to kill someone you love.” Cariss said as he eyed me from head to toe.

“You threatened my nest, my clan and my honor. I love your son but make no mistake, I swore I would win.” I was shaking with anger because it should have been him being carted off for emergency care.

“Ian never said you were a warrior. In fact, he led us all to believe that you were weak and needed his protection. Quite the neat little bag of tricks you have there, using your Elven powers to commune with all the elements thus making your Tempest abilities all the stronger.” He paused, considering his words. “However seeing you shift partially into your Dragon form was awe-inspiring. I was told half Dragons never gained any of the forms but you, my dear, have most of them.”

I lifted my chin and held the Chieftain’s gaze. “Per the terms of our contract Ian will be surrendered to myself and my clan. We will decide what the appropriate punishment is. Thanks to you, your son broke my trust and my heart. While I understand your desire to see heirs, this entire fiasco was not my fault, it was yours. Your blood should be paying the price, not his.”

The old Were started to say something but instead gave a small bow and turned to follow the others with his son.

Dani and Lady Jura approached us. Jura looked at me with vindicated pride in her eyes while Dani stared at me in shock. I looked at my closest friend. “I’m sorry if that was scary,” I apologized to her, wondering how her perception of me had changed.

Dani shook her head. “Kat, I understand why you did what you did and could only hope I could find the same strength to do it if I were in your shoes. Do you know what you look like?” she blurted out.

Hue, not waiting for me to process her words, swept me up into his arms, flattening me against his chest. He crossed the snowy terrain quickly and came to stand beside a frozen lake. I gazed at the creature whose reflection stood before Hue.

Her skin glittered with the slightest twinkle of silver scales in the moonlight. Long taloned fingers hung from her hand, ending in tips that looked like steel points. Eyes as black as night with glowing violet irises dominated her face. A mouth with a set of deadly sharp teeth grinned back at me. Small but sharply pointed Elf ears pointed towards heaven and then there behind me were two beautiful, leathery silver Dragons wings. I let out a shaky breath as I realized the reflection of “her” was in fact me.

“Your Dragon form. You’ve completed your awakening,” Hue whispered softly against my ear. My breath caught in my throat and the armor slid away in a puff of smoke. My features and eyes shifted in front of me, returning to the way I normally was, only now with pointed ears. The gashes on my leg and arm were still bleeding. A dozen little cuts and two dozen bruises adorned my body. I stood naked in the cold staring at myself. Hue pulled off his long black coat and slid it around me before gathering me back up in his arms to return to our rooms.

Dani and Lady Jura walked alongside us all the way.

Release Party for Isabelle Saint-Michael

Post 100! Can you believe it?!?! I can’t. It wasn’t that long ago that this adventure started.

Next week the first 2 books in my new series release. They are both available through Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, Kobo, and Smashwords. You can pre-order them now if you like.

Book 1 in Otherworld Realms

Book 2 in Otherworld Realms

Then on November 29th, 2014 from 3PM-6PM I will be meeting with some of my fans here in Asia to kick off my book tour. You can come join us at the “You Are Here” cafe in Hongdae (Yes, the Eat Your Kimchi people’s cafe.) and come follow the party as we hit the pub afterwards. We will have some physical copies of the book there to purchase and have autographed. We will also be giving out some prize packs and swag. If you’re a digital/ebook reader I am happy to sign covers, cases or whatever. Come join us to participate and have a chance to win! Official Facebook Event Listing Here!

After my kick off in Hongdae I will be signing books at some of the Kyobos in Seoul and the main store in Busan in December. You should also check me out on my blog tour with Bewitching Book Tours starting December 1, 2014 for exclusive gossip, behind the scenes, and interviews. See their site for the full listing.

 

Have you already checked out “Practical Uses for Princes with Pointed Ears” and “Holiday Spirit for Hire”? Still looking for something else? Check out the other new releases with my Publisher: Otherworld Romance. Chantam Hex has some really great new stories coming out this winter as well.

 

Finally and most importantly, Thank you! Thank you for reading my blog and books. Thank you for cheering me on. 2015 is going to bring even more great new content from Isabelle Saint-Michael and Elven Life.

 

All my love,

Isabelle

Preparing to Duel

Why aren’t you more concerned? I don’t think you understand how dangerous this situation is. Hue and I had been waging a silent battle for over an hour about the duel that night.

Way to have faith in me. I shot back angrily.

I believe in you. I believe in you with every fiber of my being. You must be able to feel that? It doesn’t mean I am not concerned. He sat there and raised his gaze to meet mine. The circles under his eyes were black and he stared as if I were already a ghost.

Then stop looking at me like that!

Like what?!?!

“Like I’m already dead!!” The words shot from my mouth in an angry yell.

Hue stood up and slammed his hands down on the table. “You are my Soul Mate, Alizeyah. Let’s actually say the words. You are mine! I am yours! We were created for each other. I can’t rest. I can’t stop worrying knowing that you are going to march into battle with one of the fiercest warriors the Were has among its ranks. Our people need me but I WILL NOT go on without you.”

I ignored the soul mate comment and went for what I thought was my best argument. “The duel is not to the death.”

“I know, but that doesn’t mean you won’t accidentally be killed or that Cariss will not take out vengeance on you.” Tears now pricked at the corner of Hue’s golden eyes.

“I’m not going to lose. I will beat him.”

Hue closed the distance between us in less than a second. He slammed me forcibly against the wall, pinning me with his weight. Before I could question what he was doing images of us in the throes of passion filled my mind and rather than fight him I leaned up and pressed my lips to his. He ran his tongue along my lower lip before biting it lightly. When my own darted out to meet his he deepened the kiss and ran his hands over my body. He pressed me tighter against his own so that I could commit every line of his body against mine to memory. I started to pull away but he held me in place. You don’t have to lay with me. Please just allow me to hold you like this for a little longer. If you are to part this world from me I want to at least have dreams of you. 

I broke the kiss and leaned my head against his shoulder. You can’t think like that. If you don’t believe in me, how can I believe in myself?

We stood like that, embraced in each others arms, for almost an hour. My phone buzzed to life at my hip Hue growled. “Don’t answer it. They  can’t rob me of my time with you.”

I shook my head. “I have to answer it.” Before he could stop me I brought the phone to my ear. “This is Alizeyah.”

There was heavy breathing on the other end of the phone. “Kat, it’s me.” said Ian’s husky voice. “I need to see you before the duel. Alone.”

I looked up at Hudraer, whose eyes now narrowed on the phone. “Ok, where and when?” I asked.

“Fifteen minutes, out by the field where the duel is being held. We need to talk before all this goes down.”

“Alright, I’ll see you there.” I clicked the phone off and looked up at Hue. With a heavy sigh he pressed one last kiss to my forehead then released me.

Boots and coat on, I closed the distance from the dorms to the field in record time. In the center of the field I could see Ian’s long hair dancing in the wind behind him. He didn’t turn when I approached. He just stood staring at our surroundings like I wasn’t there. “I’m here,” I announced.

“I know,” he finally said, turning to face me. He wrapped me in a big hug and held me close. His hands were shaking where they rested on me. “Kat, my father is here. I was going to throw the fight but I can’t do that now. If I don’t give it my all he will have the right to face you on the field and I don’t trust his rage.”

I took a deep breath, holding it for a moment before letting it out slowly. “I will defeat you. I’m sorry if it hurts your pride but I have to win for your own good as well as the good of my nest.”

“Please win. Please defeat me. If you must kill me, do it, but keep yourself safe.” He stroked my hair. “It may be impossible to knock me unconscious to defeat me.”

“I will win, and I will do it without taking your life. I know I can.”

“If anyone can, it will be you. Don’t let my father see your fear. He will use Dominance on you. No matter how much fear builds up inside, don’t let him see you sweat. I have a number of gifts that I will use in the duel. Keep your guard up and don’t rely too much on any one of your senses. Remember to trust your instincts and allow yourself to react with your instincts.”

“Why are you telling me all this?” I asked him.

“Because I want you to win and I know you can.” He slid something small and cold into my hand. “Drink this before we meet on the field.”  Suddenly, he lifted me off the ground and kissed me. The kiss was over as fast as it had come and he was walking away before I could ask any questions.

I turned to head back to the dorms. As I walked I looked at what he had given me. It was a small vial of blood and I had little doubt it was his.

 

Misunderstandings of the Young

Young sat quietly at the bar listening as a minstrel sang a tune about a princess locked in a tower for a hundred years, guarded by a Dragon who held her prisoner. Many heroes tried to save her but they all failed until one fateful night a Prince saw her in the window of her tower. Drawing his sword he attacked the Dragon and slew it. When he went to the tower to let the princess know he was there to save her and that the beast was dead, he found the princess so overjoyed she had accidentally fallen from the tower window. The Prince rushed out of the tower down to the princess who lay broken and dying beside the great beast. Kneeling, he took her in his arms and listened to her final words. “My love we will meet again. I will see you again soon.”

Many of the patrons sniffled at the song and wiped away tears that pricked at their eyes. Young allowed the ale to speak for him and scoffed with a chuckle. The bard turned, glaring at him. “You there, lad. What sort of cruel soul laughs at such a sad story?”

Taking big swig of his drink Young cringed inwardly and swung around to fully face the bard. “You’re telling the story wrong. That’s all!”

“I’ll have you know I know the cousin of one of the Prince’s guards. He swears it is the truth.” The bard sat down his stringed instrument and stood up, preparing the close the distance between the two.

“All I’m saying is you are telling it wrong,” Young explained with a youthful grin.

“How so?” the bard demanded, his face turning the most delightful shade of red.

“The Princess was a Lady, not royal. The Dragon was her husband – they were Soul Mates. When the busybody Prince slayed him she threw herself to her death so she could be with her Soul Mate. Her final words were for the Dragon, not the Prince.”  Young stood up, finally sensing it was time to leave.

It was the bard’s turn to laugh. “That’s foolish. As if a beautiful maid could ever love a monster like a Dragon. Obviously, lad, someone has lied to you.”

Young shrugged. “I’ve never doubted my mother’s words before. She should know the story of her parents well, but I will be sure to let her know you called her a liar.” The bard paled noticeably but Young was already heading out the door before the full weight of his words sank in.

A Pixie’s Concerns (Dani’s POV)

“I can’t believe she has to duel with Ian. I’m not sure whom I feel worse for.” I flopped ungracefully onto the couch beside Sheldon. The fuzzball lifted his head from his nap long enough to survey me before lowering his head again.

“If the duel was between Hudraer and Ian, there would be no contest. The Dragon would destroy Ian faster then we could expect. Ian against a Dragon warrior would at least be a fair fight. Ian against Kat though… she isn’t a speed caster, she isn’t a trained warrior, she isn’t a full blooded anything.” Sheldon rolled over, exposing his belly, and looked at me. “Ian will most likely win and there is about a 50/50 chance he may kill Kat in the process. If he doesn’t, who knows what Cariss will do to her.”

“I can’t believe that Hue is letting this happen. He’s so protective of Kat.”

“Yes, but understand this isn’t about the life of one, it’s about the lives of everyone in the nest. Sometimes being the leader means making the hard sacrifices.” Sheldon had wanted to know all about the duel when I returned home. Oliver had done his best to explain everything to us both but now that it was just the cat and I we could discuss it easier.

“I don’t want my bestie to die. Is there a chance she could win? I mean she did beat the high priestess.”

“That was fate,” argued Sheldon. “Fate is written and can’t be undone.”

“Don’t let Kat hear you say that. She firmly believes we write our own destiny. Let’s say it wasn’t fate?” I begged.

Sheldon looked deep in thought for a moment.”Ok, let’s say that Fate holds nothing on her. She has no threads in the grand tapestry that apply to Kat, then yes. Yes, there would be a chance that Kat could defeat Ian. She’s in theory much stronger and better trained than she was when she faced off against Avrae. She has trained with Hudraer… so I guess if it gives you a layer of hope, then yes it is possible.”

“Why do you make it sound like such a long shot?”

“Because it is,” he purred. “She accepted the terms. She named Ian as the other duelist. She could have requested being allowed a champion or let Cariss choose the competitor. I think she is foolish, personally. Pregnant or not I would have challenged Briar. Kat could have defeated Briar.”

“Kat’s sense of honor runs too deep to do that.” I reached out, reflexively petting his stomach. In times of stress, petting Sheldon always made me feel better.

“Then her sense of honor will be her downfall. It’s unfortunate – despite her being a bad influence on you she always fed me the best morsels of food and kitty treats.”

“Stop it! Stop talking about her like she has already lost. I believe in her.”

Sheldon sighed heavily and closed his eyes saying nothing else on the topic.

Harbingers Walking the Red Carpet

I stared at my reflection in the mirror in front of me. I had on a long white strapless dress that did little more than shield my body in a fog. It was slit on either side clear up to my hips. I wore red and gold sash over one shoulder. My hair had been pinned up into a crown of sparkling snowflakes that glittered under the lights. I didn’t struggle as a highly trained team of stylists fussed with my hair and makeup.

Beside me Hue sat deathly still as his hair was coiffed into perfect golden spikes and curls. In his matching white “Prince” costume and red sash he made me think of the Nutcracker form the ballet. He smiled as my thoughts flitted past him, glancing at me without turning his head. “Alizeyah, you look lovely.”

“Thank you, amazing what a team of highly trained professionals can do with makeup, hairspray and a couple of hours.” I grinned at my reflection as I spoke to him.

He chuckled softly beside me. “Well, they did start with a beautiful canvas,” he commented.

“Always the charmer I see,” I said teasing him.

Just then a small woman with tall pointed ears wandered in. “Are you two ready? Guests have started to arrive at the theater. We have the horse-drawn sleigh ready for the two of you,” Her voice had a slight squeak to it that added to a cute factor that played into her outward appearance.

Hue rose from his chair holding out a hand for me. Like a magnet my own hand slipped into it and I was pulled to my feet and guided out into the cold snowy air. Two hands at my waist lifted me up onto the sleigh where Hue quickly joined me. Once seated I tucked myself tightly against the side of his body, happy for his added warmth.

The ride was brief but cold and I was grateful to have Hue’s warmth. I felt like I was arriving to an award show as the paparazzi swarmed around us when we entered the building. We made our way down a long red carpet into a large decorated theater that had been converted for the night’s black tie affair. Tables of food and drink littered the space and Otherworlders of all types noisily greeted each other. With his hand at the small of my back Hue and I made our way up to the stage where we joined Justin, a VERY pregnant Helen, her husband, and Marcus the reigning Santa Claus.

Justin took my hand giving it a warm squeeze. “Lady Alizeyah and Lord Hudraer, I’m glad you arrived. Please have a seat and we will get this party started.” I nodded and I allowed myself to be led to a row of chairs backstage.

I had no sooner sat down when a short bouncy Dani launched herself at me giving me a big hug. “I’ve missed you!” She squeee’d happily.

Throwing my arms around her I hugged her back. “I’m so glad you made it!”

Oliver cleared his throat behind us. He and Hue shook hands. “How are our favorite Weather Dragons?”

Hue laughed deep in his chest but confirmed we were doing well.

Dani smiled brightly, happy to be there. “So what’s new?”

I hesitated for a moment. “I’m dueling with Ian this coming week for peace between the Dragon and Werewolf clans.”

“Dueling? Like with swords or pistols?” Concern creased her brow.

“Using whatever our natural powers are.” I smiled and shrugged trying to defuse her worry.

“Is it to the death? Even if it’s not, you could still be killed. Werewolves are fast, strong and have a few other traits that make them nasty opponents. Why don’t you look more concerned? It’s Ian, he’s one of the best at what he does.” Oliver came to stand behind her, squeezing her shoulder affectionately.

“It’s not to the death, but yes that is still a possibility. I am worried, but I also know I can defeat him.” Concern was radiating off of Hue but he didn’t interject his opinion.

Just then Justin stuck his head backstage. “Hey Harbingers, we’re ready for you.”

I smiled at him. “We’ll be right out,” I called with a smile.

Arm and arm with Hue we made our way out on stage where we explained the plans for the seasons, caused an indoor snowstorm, then cracked open the first of the seasonal foods. Over the next four weeks Hue and I would travel across all the realms, making appearances and checking in that people were prepared for the season. If they weren’t we would be responsible for helping to coordinate the things needed.

As the night drew to a close I felt Hue’s mind brush against mine. I’m afraid for you.

I shook my head. Don’t be. I’ve got this.

If it were myself, Vallen or Geren I wouldn’t be as concerned. We’re all trained warriors of a status that equals Ian. You’re untrained and so young. You may have the noble breeding but you weren’t raised in it. You were raised in a Human realm that has you totally unprepared for something like this.

I leaned on my tip toes and pressed a kiss to his cheek. “I will win, I promise.”

The Terms

Hue and I sat one one side of a table with Ian and Briar on the other side. Justin Kringle, the North Pole’s COO, sat at the head of the table. He had graciously offered to serve as a non-biased witness to the terms of the agreements between the Dragons and Werewolves.

Justin’s sparkling eyes were level and displayed no emotion as he read the terms of the Werewolves were offering to prevent the war. Clearing his voice he began to read:

“I Cariss, Chieftain of Clan MacGregor of the Were set forth the following terms in hopes of bringing about a peaceful resolution to the threatening war.

1.) The Dragon known as Alizeyah will face one warrior of our choosing on the battlefield.

2.) If the Dragon Champion Alizeyah loses she will forfeit herself to Clan MacGregor for punishment and dishonorment trials.

3.) If the Werewolf Champion loses he/she will forfeit herself to the Dragon’s Council for punishment and dishonorment trials.

4.) While the duel will not be to the death once a victor is named the winning clan does have dominion over the defeated.

The Rules of the Duel shall be as follows:

1.) Participants may not bring outside weapons in to the field.

2.) They may use defenses natural to their origins.”

Justin paused and looked up at the four of us. “Are there any questions?”

Hue clutched my hand under the table and looked at Ian and Briar. “I don’t see this as a fair arrangement. Alizeyah is being named as a champion but you have not revealed your champion. If your clan has the right to choose who will battle then the Dragon’s should as well.”

Ian resonded with a calm tone that didn’t match the emotions in his eyes. “Alizeyah is responsible for this war. She was the one that involved herself in the Werewolf laws; that is why she was named. This happened because she couldn’t stay out of affairs she shouldn’t have been involved with.”

Hue’s anger flared for the first time in a week. He shot to his feet, slamming a fist against the table, casing it to shake under the impact. “No, this happened because you as her lover lied to her and then didn’t keep your bitch on a leash.” Hue jabbed a finger in Briar’s direction. “I will also remind you that what she did, was done for your benefit, and finally, I was the one to inflict any damage. I will stand in as her champion.” The final words were snapped loudly.

I tugged on Hue’s arm urging him back down into the chair before looking at Ian. “Can you at least tell me who I will be facing? Name your clan’s champion?” I searched his eyes which showed how torn he was about this entire situation.

Ian nodded. “Originally, we had decided to name Briar the champion. Then we found out today she is pregnant and we do not with to endanger any pups.”

I nodded and Hue looked at me, horrified. “Agreed, I wouldn’t want to chance her miscarrying over something like this. A baby doesn’t choose who its parents are.” I turned and looked at Hue. “I’m sorry to cause so much trouble, but I will take care of it.” His brows drew together as he read my thoughts and then the shock of my next words hit him before I spoke. I stood up and looked at Ian and Briar. “So be it, Ian, I will accept the terms provided you defend your clan as champion. As she is your mate you will take responsibility for her.”

“I can’t fight you! I won’t fight you. I am a trained warrior, I could kill you,” he argued.

“Well, that’s a chance I will take. I suggest you start practicing because I will not be holding back because of my feelings.” I sat back down when Hue tugged on me.

“Do you understand what you’re asking?” Briar blurted out. “If he loses then the future of our clan will be in your hands. If he wins our clan will most likely strip you of your title and you could very well end up a slave or something horrible since you had the audacity to challenge the son of Cariss.” Her words actually sounded concerned.

“Briar, even if Ian fights with everything he has in him, I don’t plan on losing. The fate of your clan will rest in my hands. The two of you should prepare Cariss for it now.” I turned to Justin. “If Ian will accept the challenge I will accept the terms.” Hue started to argue but was cut off when Ian agreed.

“So be it. The Duel will take place next week on neutral ground.” Justin signed the bottom of the contract then handed it to myself and Ian to sign. Hue stormed out of the meeting room, and neither Ian nor Briar could meet my eyes. Justin looked at me one last time and offered a reluctant smile. “I hope this won’t interfere with business here at the Pole. Either way, good luck. Ian would be a challenge for Lord Hudraer or Lord Vallen. I’m afraid for you.”

“Don’t be.” I shook my head. “I destroyed a Dragon High Priestess with no training. It’s been months and I know ten times what I did then. I just hope I don’t accidentally kill him and make things worse.” I didn’t say anything else to reassure him, I just left to go find Hue.

 

Never Too Young for Honor

Young lay stretched out on the riverbank. His toes dangled in the water while his arms rested leisurely behind his head. It was autumn and the air had grown cool. The icy cold water was refreshing and numbed his poor blistered feet. When his knight’s horse had injured its leg on the long ride back from a neighboring kingdom he had been forced to give up his own mount. Now he was stuck walking the mare back to the castle. A ride which would have taken three days had now been going on for five long days. Five days of hiking around in borrowed, ill-fitting boots. He sighed heavily knowing there was at least two more days ahead of him.

Young finally sat up, resigning himself to another two days of hiking along the countryside. He glared at his loaner boots with contempt while he bandaged his feet before pulling them on. Climbing to his feet he headed to the horse to check on it.

Rover was a large warhorse whose main concern was food. He never spooked, he followed commands on the battlefield without question, and was perfectly content to meander along the countryside at a very slow pace. Rover had probably recovered enough that he could have carried Young. Especially since his knight had taken all of his own gear and heavy armor. All there was to carry was   small bag of Young’s own belongings, a food bag and a second sword. As Young began to hobble along, guiding the horse, he was tempted to swing himself up into the saddle, but he wouldn’t do that until he had gotten to a town where a stable master could take a closer look.

Rover nudged at his shoulder encouraging him to feed him another treat. Just as they were about to cross the treeline that bordered the river he heard the sound of giggles from upstream. Pausing for a moment,  he figured it was water Nymphs or Fae playing nearby. Shaking his head he pushed on, ready to get back on the road and hopefully find a town before nightfall. A moment later the giggles turned to screams of terror. Young stood contemplating for just a moment what he should do. With another heavy sigh he tied Rover to a tree and trudged with his sword drawn in the direction of the screams.

“Someone had best be dead,” he mumbled to himself. With each step he cursed his brother Vallen a little more for instilling a sense of honor and duty into him. He would make sure to drink his brother’s entire private reserve when next he was home.

Just ahead of him where the river curved there was a pool it had created. As he arrived he took note that nobody was around but there had surely been a struggle. Heavy Troll footprints were deeply imprinted on the muddy banks along with the small foot and handprints of what could have only been Nymphs or Fae. Paying close attention it didn’t take long for him to find the tracks where they had been dragged off by their large Troll captors.

“I really would rather have been a bard,” he commented as he chased after the Trolls.

Finding a Resolution

Ian paced back and forth across the worn wooden floors of his small Seoul apartment. Briar sat on the corner of his bed staring blankly at a black spot on the opposite wall. She had done little more than stare for the last few weeks since the incident. She never wanted this, any of it. She had pined for Ian most of her life but when she realized she could never make him love her as he had his mate she knew there was no REAL future together. Being mate to Cariss’s heir had made her a social pariah. Nobody wanted to be around her unless they wanted something. Being his castoff, however, was even worse.

Pain clutched at Briar’s heart. Sure, she had done things she wasn’t proud of but she just couldn’t take it any longer. She couldn’t stand the hatred in some of the women’s eyes, but what was worse was the pity. The clan pitied her because she had proven herself so useless.

“Ian, I’m sorry,” she said when she finally spoke up.

Ian stopped pacing and leaned against the wall, covering the black spot she had so absently been staring at. “And?”

“I thought I could make you love me. I was wrong. What I don’t understand is how you could fall for her.” She found herself fixating on the face of the Dragon Elf Changeling. Alizeyah was infuriating with her treatment of Ian. She treated him like he was common. She abandoned him during this painful time of the year so that she could go support the North Pole. Then, there was Lord Hudraer. There was something there between them. She couldn’t see Hudraer swooping in to save a woman he wasn’t involved with. Either Alizeyah and he were seeing each other or she was a lot more important than Ian or anyone else was letting on.

“Who I see is none of your concern,” he answered.

“I am your mate. Like it or not, ANYONE you become involved with is MY business. Ever since your family was killed you have shirked your responsibilities to the clan. You must take responsibility, you must produce  heirs.” Briar sprang to her feet and went to stand before Ian. “You would sacrifice everything for this woman?”

“I would gladly lay down my life or give up my claim as heir for her.” His tone was flat and it cut through Briar’s chest like a blade, causing her to gasp for air.

“But would you sacrifice the lives of your clansmen? Do you get that what’s at stake isn’t just your claim? It is the lives of your sisters, cousins and friends.” She pursed her lips.

Emotions flitted across Ian’s stoic face ranging from fear to rage then sorrow. “I can’t sentence othe’s to death for my own desires. Myself, yes, I can surrender myself.”

“Then you need to make the sacrifice and so does she if you want to keep your people safe. If you want me gone, then so be it. I will step down and face the shame but you will have to replace me with someone from the clan and produce an heir and prepare yourself to lead. Cariss is not as young as he once was. He will not bow down to the Dragons either. He has pride and meeting their terms would weaken the political position within the Darkling court.”

He nodded. “You’re right, but we need to keep our clans safe.”

“You and Lord Hudraer could duel. It would keep both clans out of the war. Name Alizeyah as one of the prizes?” Briar offered.

Ian laughed and the more startled Briar looked the harder he laughed. “That would never work.”

“Are you afraid of a Dragon Lord?” she asked, her voice edged in irritation.

Ian stopped laughing immediately in response to her accusation. “Afraid, of Hudraer? No. Afraid of Alizeyah if we told her she was the prize in a duel… VERY. I have little doubt that she would smite both Hue and myself just for thinking it. Not to mention she would put herself in harms way to try and prevent the duel.”

Briar scoffed. “I almost killed her,” she spat.

“Only because she didn’t fight back. She let you attack her. She thought I would be able to break your trance over me.” Ian’s voice had become deep and dark sounding, almost ominous.

“What if I challenged her to a duel since the fight was between she and I? Winner gets you? You would still need to produce an heir within the clan but it would at least prove her worthy enough to make Cariss back off.” Briar sank back down on the bed. “It wouldn’t even have to be to the death if you are set against me killing her.”

Ian quirked a brow, his doubt in her abilities against Alizeyah causing Briar’s hair to stand on end in annoyance. “It may be an option. I will discuss it with Hue and my father.”

“What? You’re not going to discuss it with her?”

“No, she engaged with you. It’s as much her fault. She will do what Hue tells her. Despite what she likes to tell herself, she is fiercely loyal to her nest.” Ian picked up the phone to make some needed phone calls.

Stepping Out for a Bite

“I think Sheldon is depressed. I want to get him a playmate,” I announced as I set the table while Oliver prepared dinner.

“You do know that your cat is not a typical cat, right?” he asked, quirking a brow in my direction.

“Yeah yeah, magical realm traveling and talking cat. I got it. Either way, I’m not here all day and you in theory should be getting sleep at home or doing whatever it is you do.” When I finished setting the table I went to my now always stocked fridge to grab some water. As I finished pouring us both a glass Oliver effortlessly maneuvered around me to fill the plates with pasta and veggies.

Settling into our seats we began to eat quietly. Finally, Oliver broke the silence. “So I have arranged for us to go up to see Kat and Hue walk the red carpet next weekend and kick off the Holiday Season. There is then a party after the presentation; you’ll want to bring a cocktail dress for that. Would you rather go up Friday night after work or Saturday morning early?”

“I don’t do early, so Friday night would be great.” I shoved a bite of broccoli in my mouth.

Oliver chuckled. “Indeed. You do refuse to communicate via anything other than grumbles or squeaks before ten in the morning. I’ll meet you here just after dusk Friday night.” He paused while he chewed but continued with an intense stare that told me he had something else to talk about.

“What else do you want to talk about?” I prompted.

“I think I found a way to put you in touch with Queen Mab and get an audience with her.” He seemed nervous.

“That’s great,” I told him, finishing off my dinner.

“There is a small catch, and one I need to speak with Kat and Hue about before committing to it fully,” he explained. “Until we know for sure that it’s possible I don’t want to get your hopes up but at the same time I wanted to let you know I hadn’t forgotten about it.”

I grinned evilly, batting my eyes at him. “Oh, I doubt you could forget about me so easily.”

Choking on his last bite of food  his eyes flared at me. “Yes, I’m most certain I couldn’t forget about you.”

I stood and began gathering the dishes. “Let’s just put these in the sink.”

“I’ll do them,” he said following behind me closely.

“No,” I responded, spinning around so quickly I collided with him. I wobbled on my feet, flailing my arms in an attempt to to remain standing.

Oliver immediately reached out to steady me but instead pinned me against the kitchen counter. “Oh, sorry. I forget my strength compared to yours sometimes. Are you alright?”

“Yeah, if super vamp doesn’t squash me first.” I pushed against Oliver’s chest with my hands. It was like trying to push a brick wall. He moved away quickly, once again leaving me off balance.

Sheldon stretched where he sat on the couch yawning widely. “Have you prepared my dinner yet?” he asked as his ears perked.

“If by prepared you mean opened the can? Not yet, but I will shortly.”

The cat’s tail twitched side to side in annoyance as he watched the two of us. “Why do you insist on feeding the Vampire before me? Do I not provide snuggles and purring to show my gratitude? I demand sustenance.”

Oliver rolled his eyes as I moved away to open a can of cat food for Sheldon. I had hardly set the dish down on the floor before the fuzzball all but attacked my hand, muttering words of thanks between bites. “Eat up, Sheldon. You need to stay well fed to keep my feet warm,” I teased as I petted him. “Then I will turn on the iPad fish game you are so obsessed with.”

Oliver pulled on his shoes by the door and reached for his coat. “Have a good night, I’m going to go get a bite.”

“Didn’t you just eat?” I asked, feeling a little sad that he was leaving so early.

“You told me it wasn’t nice to snack on friends.” He flashed his fangs to make a point. I knew he was a Vampire but it was so easy to forget sometimes.

“Wait,” I told him, rising to walk over to the door. Before he could question anything I grabbed the front of his jacket and with a playful tug pressed my lips against his. He resisted, shocked at at first, but quickly caught on. When I leaned back and pulled out of his grip I grinned suggestively. “Then sometime we will have to discuss who it is alright to snack on.”

He stepped forward but I held a hand up. “Another night.”

He laughed and smiled warmly at me. “I look forward to that discussion.”

“Oh, you should!” I told him as I turned to walk back into the living room. “Good night Oliver. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

He mumbled his own goodbye and then the door clicked closed behind him. I balled my hands into fists to keep from going after him. I wasn’t sure why I had kissed him or why I was suddenly so jealous at the idea of him feeding.