Kingdom of Flames & Flowers (Curse of the Dragons #1)

by Raven Storm

“I won’t even ask how you know about him. You want to fight Zariah so badly?” With the room empty of her court, the queen stood, no longer needing to hide her hatred or venom. Zion stood with her, putting a hand out. “Mother, let me handle this—” “Sit down. This little trollop does not know what she’s asking for. Let’s show her.” An invisible force slammed Zion’s body back into his chair. He winced, then stood again. “No!” he ordered. “I’m the one supposed to be running these games. I order you to stop! You will not do this.” The queen whipped around, fury etched in the wrinkles around her eyes and forehead. The wrinkles weren’t visible normally, but I was so close that I could count every crevice and imperfection. “You do not rule here. Down!” Zion stumbled and fell. It was as if his body wouldn’t listen to his brain. He tried to leap toward me, but only fell on his face. “NO!” “Hold him!” Fireguards stepped forward immediately to subdue Zion. The king stood with a red face, but the queen whirled to him next. “Do you have a problem with how I manage this kingdom?” Come on, I willed him. You’re the king. Stand up to her. I didn’t know what Zion was trying to save me from, but it had to be bad if the queen was so insistent about it. My heart sank as the king bit his lip, then shook his head. The queen turned to Karthus. “Take her up to meet Zariah.”

Zariah is the dragon. Prince under mommy dearest magic. Still a bitch.