The Hobbit : Desolation of Smaug

This is the second of three films based on The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien.

      I really enjoyed The Hobbit : an Unexpected Journey. This installment was good, but could have been better. First off, it didn't feel like a movie. It was like watching a stage play on a really big screen in 3-D. It didn't feel like a movie, which was disappointing, and strange.
     Second, it seemed to be a wee bit too long. Could have cut a little of the fighting scenes. I loved Smaug. At points he kind of reminded me of a Raptor from Jurassic Park. If you've seen Jurassic Park, and the Raptor facial expressions, you'll undersstand what'I'm talking about.
     Overall, it wasn't bad, wasn't great, just pretty good. A few changes and I think that this film would have been a lot better. 3-D was well used, and nothing beats seeing a film on the big screen. But don't expect it to be like the first installment, you'll only be disappointed.
   

Stroke of Midnight : Story Anthology

I usually only read anthologies that have at least one author I like. This collection has a story by L.A. Banks. The theme of this collection is paranatural or supernatural tales of sensual romance. Sometimes a bit too much sensual and not enough supernatural.
     An average collection of tales. I have read better anthologies. This one contains four tales by four different authors.
     1. The first tale is Winter Born by Sherrilyn Kenyon. This story focuses on a human born were-animal trying to find the "person" who can help her get home. But destiny has other plans, involving a beast born were-panther.
     Too short for my taste. I also thought certain elements took away from the story. Specifically, the use of time travel. The other powers were a bit much too. The tale did have interesting cast of characters, and wasn't a bad read. Just could have been so much more.
     2. Next is Born of the Night by amanda Ashley. This tale is about a man who is cursed to be a werewolf. He captures and holds his enemies daughter for ransom, in hopes of luring him inot a duel to the death, but of course, love has other plans.
     I enjoyed this tale. It wasn't too short or too long. The characters were well written. Liked the twist on the werewolf curse. The story grabs you and takes you on an entertaing ride.
     3. Make It Last Forever by L.A. Banks. I have read her Crimson Moon series. Not quite the type of story I would expect form her, but it was alright. It's the tale of a woman who is trying to reach her Grandmother in hopes of stopping from turning into a vampire. She meets a man, who is more than he thinks he is, and their destiny's come full circle.
    Story felt a bit off, at times. Not sure how to explain it. I can get over the I barely know you and I have to have you thing, typical romance scenario stuff. But I mean, you have things in a prophecy and then you break the rule I thought a Prophecy had: Certain things can't be altered. But you have six and not seven, when it says there is always seven guardians. Plus, why didn't she just tell him the truth, after he seemed to begin to believe in vampires? All that time they spent having sex, when they could have been headed toward help. Not a bad tale though.
     4. Red Moon Rising by Lori Handeland. This story is about a writer who is the chosen one, needed by a shapeshifter to complete a ritual that would give him immense power. But standing in his way, is a monster hunter, determined to save the girl and stop the bad guy.
     I enjoyed this tale but I wanted a more climatic show down. You build things up about this man's power and then Bam, he's dead. The story isn't bad, but does seem to grab you, and is a roller coaster ride up to the bad guy showdown, then sadly, simmers down in a slightly disappointing way. Ending should have been a bit different. Didn't quite flow with the rest of the tale.
     Like I said it was an average collection but not a bad read.

Thor: The Darkworld

     I enjoyed this installment much more than I did Thor. For the record, it wasn't because it was the origin / introduce story. I liked Iron Man.
     This one moved more fluently. More balanced story. Didn't feel too long or too short. Great villian. A few unexpected twists and turns in the tale. Leaves you wondering where it is heading to next. Liked the 3-D. Worth paying to see it. A good blend of action and tale too.  Plus, the nice splashes of humor too.

Sebastian by Anne Bishop

     I was hesitant for a while about reading this book. I had read other of Anne Bishop’s books, and loved the tales from her Black Jewels and Pillars of the World Series.  I think part of it was the fact this installment focused on an Incubus, and the story idea didn’t quite grab me.

     But then I found an offer I couldn’t really refuse. I found the third book in the trilogy at a bargain price, so I thought I’d take a chance on the Sebastian and I’m glad I did.

     If you have read The First Pillars of the World book, you might notice that it seems to have influenced this tale just a little bit. I won’t go into detail, in case you haven’t read Pillars of the World. Besides that, the tale is well wroth the time to read.

     A tale that moves well. Surprisingly, little sex, considering it focuses around an Incubus. Characters you love and ones to hate. Interesting world, with strange villains, and even stranger secrets, and twists.  A world I want to get lost in again.

     By the way this is the first book in The Emphera Trilogy.

 

 

    

    

 

 

 

Catching Fire Film

For the record, I never made it past the first book, The Hunger Games. Only book I ever read that left me numb, and not in oh my shock numb. Only saw this movie because it was my sister's birthday choice. I did see The Hunger Games and it was one of the worst films I have ever seen. I had hoped for better.

This film, thankfully was better than the last. It was a bit too long. Could have developed characters a bit better, and spent less time on other things of not so much importance. Costumes were great, as well, of effects. But I kind of wanted more time in the arena, that's where things move a bit better, get more interesting. Not bad, but to me, not worth the money, thought maybe 3-D especially in the scene with the Baboon, and Katniss in the water, would have been so much more in 3-D. I could take this film or leave it, but then again. I'm not a book fan, though so if you love the books, you'll probably love the film.

The Monster's Corner : A Story Collection

This is story collection focused on the point of view of the monster. It does have one author I love but I might have made an exception because I loved the idea of monster point of view. I just wish it stayed focused on the paranatural or supernatural, an average collection of tales, but worth checking out if you’re looking for a change or break from series or single tales.

1.       The Awkward Age by David Liss.      Had the feel like a Ghoul Lolita. A little disturbing and could have been more if the reason why she chose to be ghoul was looked at.

2.       Saint John by Jonathon Maberry.      Human monster tale. At the end of days, a monster becomes a hero.

3.       Rue by Laura Goff.     A re-envisioned Rapunzel.

4.       Succumb by John McLiveen.     Lackluster succubus tale. Why not have teen succubus falls in love. Succubus’ first time. Could have been much more.

5.       Torn Stitches, Shattered Glass by Kevin J. Anderson.     Frankenstein’s monster in WWII.

6.       Rattler and the Mothman by Sharyn McCrumb.     One of my favorite tales. Enjoyable characters. In this tale Mothman has his say on things.

7.       Big Man by David Moody.     Reminiscent of the science experiment tales, like The Fly or The Incredible Hulk, with a slight twist.

8.       Rakashi by Kelley Armstrong:     One of my favorite writers. Live an evil life. Die and be transformed into a demon warrior. Have the chance for redemption, but can a monster truly change?

9.       Breeding the Demons by Nate Kenyon.     A morbid, disturbing tale of art and creation, the monster within.

10.   Siren Song by Dana Stabenow.     Didn’t like the end at the start. Made it harder to follow. Had some issues with this tale, about three sisters who kill a pimp, and become the “angels” of the community. All this trouble, to get away from a really bad family situation. For a girl that was so smart, there are other ways, to get out of this situation besides murder. Felt fake, and left one wondering if maybe they weren’t human, real Sirens.

11.   Less of a Girl by Chelsea Cain.     Disturbing. Weird. Creepy. About the monster under the bed.

12.   The Cruel Thief of Rosy Infants by Tom Piccirilli.     Interesting tale. A twist on the changeling story in Fairy Tales.

13.   The Screaming Room by Sarah Pinborough.     One should not assume that all possible readers of the story know how Medusa came to be. Should have started from her point of view there and added the rest of the story. Not bad though.

14.   Wicked Be by Heather Graham.     Loved the use of Salem and the Witch Trials in the tale. Loved the idea of a witch just wanting to have a normal life.

15.   Specimen 313 by Jeff Strand.     A tale that gives voice to man eating mutant plants.

16.   The Lake by Tananarive Due.     Liked the twist on the don’t go in the water tale. Thought at times the teacher was border pedophile.

17.   The Other One by Micheal Morghall Smith. Why was this story in the collection? One sort of human monster, in it. Confused ending. Time travel? Doppleganger? Shapeshifter?

18.   And Still You Wonder Why We Our First Impulse Is To Kill You: An Alphabetized Faux Manifesto Transcribed, Edited, Annotated,(under duress and protest) by Gary A. Braunbeck.    Huh? Confusing. Tripping, weird.

19.   Jesus and Stan Go Jogging in the Desert by Simon R. Green.     From Satan’s perspective of course. A bit strange at points but not a bad tale.

Worth checking out if you want change or break from the normal serial or novel.

 

 

Blood Bond by Jeanne C. Stein

This book is part of a series, Anna Strong series, and needs to be read in order. The first is The Becoming.

     I wonder if this is the last book. It had that feel, and I know she is working on a new series. But one could write more if wanted.

     Though this installment had a lot less action, then some of the others in this series, it was still a good, entertaining read. The story focuses more on peronal growth and changes in characters lives. Anna and Frey get engaged. Anna's mother is dying. A potentional threat surfaces from the European Vampires, and a myth is proven to be reality.

     If this is the end of Anna, it was worth the ride, and her story was beautifully, naturally, tied up in a way, that leaves the reader contented.

The Eye of God by James Rollins

     This is part of The Sigma Force Series. Much better if you read it in order, trust me. Sandstorm is the first in the series.
     The last book in this series wasn't one of my favorites. Eye of God is what made me fall in love with James Rollins writing. The right balance of action, history, science. Twist and turns. One of those books in a series that has some major changes in characters lives.
     I found it hard to put the book down when I hit the last five chapters or so. Typical Rollins rollercoaster. The tell tale of a good story, is when it's really hard to put it down. Rollins is back, and in prime form with this tale.
     What more could one want in a tale: a dash of romance, a comet that could end life on Earth, a race to discover the truth before it's too late, a good sprinkling of character conflict. Perfectly balanced for am entertaining read.
     If you haven't been following The Sigma Force missions, it's never to late to start.

Gift of the Dragon : Original Story

This story is my creation. It is copyrighted on October 29, 2013.

The Gift of the Dragon

Kingdoms have their beginnings. The three great kingdoms of Viperion, Ghoston, and Chamelon, were no different. Legend has it that there were three brothers, each given a gift. The eldest, who was renowned for his cruelty, had the gift of the Viper. He was immune to poison, moved as quietly and swiftly like a predator.

     The middle brother was given the ability to vanish from site, down side, had to be nude to not be seen. Clothes didn’t vanish. He was known as to be kind and gentle, and a just ruler. Last but not least, was the youngest brother of the three, he was given the ability to blend into his surroundings. He was known as crafty thief.

     But these three weren't the only ones to receive gifts. There were others who were deemed worthy and given abilities, similar to certain animals in the wild.

  “If I didn’t know better, I think your brother literally turns into a dragon and tries to eat them.” Bella said as a young woman sat in the chair in front of the desk.

     “He’s stubborn. He’s stuck in a Contractual marriage where his wife, won’t even share a bed with him, let alone say a word to him. She uses him like a prized bull, and nothing more. A way to ensure her and her family moves up on the noble ladder. I won’t blame you for not doing business with me, but he’s my little brother and I want him to have a chance at being happy even if it’s unconventional.”

     “Alright Countess, I’ll see what I can do for you. Tell me about your brother.” Bella sat down behind the desk and took a tablet of paper to scribble notes on.

     “What do you know about him?”

     “Well, Countess, I know he has the gift of the dragon. Dragons have prominent fangs, golden eyes, like any Viperian but with a touch of something else in them, a temper, from what I hear, and rugged looks with a vicious reputation as a Warlord Prince.”

     “Reputation is true, and has served to keep the North men at bay and keep the peace. Yes, my brother can be temperamental, it’s part of the Dragon side of him, for the most part. But the Cassian, I grew up and know has a big heart, kind, gentle, wants a family. He wants a woman who could be his equal. Not submissive to him, not afraid of him, someone willing to stand up to him when he needs it, a partner. He tests them. Once they have seen that Dragon side of them, they leave.”

     “Alright, I see him a better now. What else does he need, besides the miracle of me finding a woman who won’t run screaming away into the night?”

     “Intelligent. Educated. Wants children. Willing to try new things. Doesn’t have to be a perfect beauty, my brother wants more than looks. Bloodlines don’t matter.”

     “Give me a moment to see what my other houses and I have available.” A few key strokes and Bella smiled.

     “How does your brother feel about someone who is gifted?” The Countess raised her eyebrows in question.

     “I have a Mountain woman who has the gift of the wolf, red wolf.”

     “So she has golden red eyes, and hair, prominent fangs and a temperament closer to my brother.”

    “Yes. She won’t come cheap if she lasts. I figure a small deposit for the Consort Mistress. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll give you the money back. If she works, we’ll finish the payment details, deal.”

     “Deal.” The women shook hands and paperwork was signed. As soon as the paperwork was filed, Bella, stuck her head out of the door, and had a man go and fetch the red wolf, as she was known.

     “Countess, I hope she works out for you.”

     “I do too.”

     The Red Wolf was brought to the countess. She was simply dressed in a wrap around dress, with a cloak covering her bare shoulders. Her long hair was pulled back in a loose braid. She had a draw string bag with her, just big enough to carry a night gown, a couple of changes of clothes, toiletries and a few other items she owned, plus, one pair of mid calf tie sandals. She was currently wearing her ballet like slippers.

     “Countess.” She properly curtsied. The Countess said thank you and she and the Red Wolf headed out.

     “Do you have a name besides Red Wolf?”

     “Cassia of Tanglen.”

     “Cassia, have been told about my brother?”

     “Yes, Countess.”

     “If you choose to leave after meeting him, I completely understand.

I will not hold you accountable.”

     “Perhaps, I will surprise you, Countess. I am not a typical Mistress Consort.”

     “I can already see that. He’ll be home late tonight. I figured you would like a little time to get acquainted with the servants and the manor. There is just a bed and a small dresser in the Consort Suite.  If you stay, I’ll take you shopping for clothes, furniture and whatever else you need.” They both got into the waiting coach.

     “Countess, could you tell me about his wife.”

     “If she wants to see you, she’ll come to you. She lives in a small but luxurious cottage close but far enough from the main manor, that she never sees my brother. She basically treats my brother like a prized bull. A healer collects what is needed for her to conceive. She has never slept with my brother. It was part of the contractual arrangement. She has a Consort. She's a ladder climber, pretty, and spoiled.”

     “Thank you, Countess. I do have a few other questions?”

     “Go ahead.”

     “Your brother is still a virgin?”

     “Yes, he’s never been with a woman. Interested in love and having a family, yes. Women tend to fear him. They don’t understand his gift.”

     “Ok, his household servants fear or respect him?”

     “Respect and love him.”

     “If I stay, will you want to have updates from me?”

     “Updates?”

     “I was told about his promise to try a Consort Mistress if she could handle all of him. So do you want me to keep you informed on what’s been going on?”

     “You wouldn’t mind?”

     “Countess, I have no issues meeting and updating you. But keep in mind; you may not get a lot of details. I don’t want to overstep my boundaries as a Consort but updates have been done by others, and Consorts are trained how to balance the fine line of information.”

     “Oh, I see. Whatever you decide to tell me is fine. That’s the manor up there.” Cassia took in the large home and the surrounding estate. She assumed the wife’s home was off toward the back.

     The Countess made sure she was settled in and left her to her own devices.

***

     Cassia wandered around the manor, getting to know every nook and cranny, turn, and straight hallway. Where rooms were and what they were used for. The place had a large library, gymnasium, a few guest rooms, servant quarters, garden, swimming pool, among other things.

     She met the servants, who were a bit apprehensive of her. She was used to that and she figured they thought she’d be gone by tomorrow, so be polite but don’t pursue a more intimate relationship. But unlike the other Consorts, she had an Ace up her sleeve. She understood Dragons, and she understood beasts in general, she was gifted as red wolf after all.

     It was full moon, and Cassia, went for a stroll through the garden. Full moons seemed to bring out her wolf more and she needed to be outside, even if it was a leisurely stroll under the stars. She headed back in and her inner wolf had sensed a stalker. The Lord of the manor had returned. Cassia had to fight to keep the urge to attack the stalker. As a Dragon he would test her. Show his inner beast, the complete Dragon. Dragons wanted an equal mate, not a submissive one. In the wild, they would stalk a potential mate, and see if she would hold her ground, or flee.

     She was about to turn a corner and head up the walkway to the manor, when he made his move. He slammed her gently against the wall that bordered the walkway to the manor. He didn’t want to hurt her, and he could have easily bruised her back or even broken bones when he shoved her into the wall. To his surprise, Cassia, took a deep breath. Not to calm herself, but her inner wolf down. She glanced up at him. Not maintaining eye contact. Even Wolf understood that this was the Dragon’s territory and picking a fight with him was a bad idea.
     He waited for her to go screaming into the night. She didn’t move or even twitch a muscle. He eased up, and backed off. Cassia kept her eyes adverted toward the ground, occasionally looking up to track his movements.

     “Looks like my sister has won. Welcome to my home, Cassia.” He stormed off toward the garden. He wasn’t angry about his sister, or her. His Dragon side was upset that a Wolf wouldn’t cower in fear of him. The Dragon was confused. All predators quaked in his wake, but for some reason this wolf wouldn’t. Cassia, survived the first test. She wasn’t naïve to not think more tests of some sort would be coming her way in one form or another in the future. This Dragon had been hurt before, and he would be more protective over his heart now.

    Cassia’s wolf was intrigued, as she was with him. She wanted to get to know him better. She knew that wasn’t going to be easy. The key to getting the Dragon to open up would be his sister. Cassia and she were going to definitely being seeing each other for more than updates, if she was to have a chance at breaking the walls around his heart.

***

     Cassia was up early. She grabbed an apple, just enough to get her going on her morning run. She always felt free when she ran. Her wolf loved it. It was as close to the hunt, as she could get. She did tell the butler, Magnus, where she was going. As a Consort, she had certain freedoms, but someone in the household needed to know where she was going and when she expected to be back, which was an estimate at times.

      Cassia returned a half an hour before breakfast. Enough time to take a shower and change clothes. She checked back in with Magnus, and headed to her room. Before she made to her door, the Dragon spotted her. The Warlord Prince enjoyed a morning swim. Cassia couldn’t help but notice the water glistening off his bare skin. Thankfully, he swam in a pair of short pants. She kept her gaze up toward his face.

     “Cassia, my sister will meet you soon after breakfast. I have given access to her, from the Consort account. She can act as my proxy. Get whatever you need. Thank you for telling Magnus where you going.” He headed to his room, and Cassia, went into hers and took a shower.

     When she emerged from her room she was wearing a pair of soft cream pants, with a pale white tunic shirt. She had her sandals on. Her hair was loosely pulled back with a white ribbon. A few loose strands framed her face, drawing a bit of attention to her eyes.

     The dragon had a large appetite but so did Cassia. A faster metabolism came with some of the gifts, and the dragon and wolf were two of those. Cassia, kept her gaze adverted from the dragon. She had perfect manners, and complimented the cook on the meal. She even helped clean up. The dragon was watching and trying to figure this enigma of a woman out. She had started to awaken something in him, something primal, yet pure. He had to be sure.

     Soon the countess arrived and Cassia was sure this shopping experience was going to enlighten the Countess.

     “My brother sounded a bit disgruntled when he called me earlier. Care to enlighten me on what happened?”

     “I met the Dragon. Held my ground. Now I got him confused and he’ll have to deal with that. He doesn’t understand why I didn’t run. A Dragon is the top predator, not the wolf. I’ve sparked his interest. He was studying me at breakfast, Countess.”

     “Please call me Valeria.”

     “Alright, Valeria.”

     “Now what do you need in your room?” Valeria pulled out a small notebook.

     “A small desk, small table, a couple of chairs, wardrobe, a small vanity, or floor length mirror. A couple of bookshelves or wall shelves.”

     “Sounds like you have given this some thought. Mistress Bella told me you have a consort account. Enough money to get some extras for your wardrobe, and other things. But I want to cover normal wardrobe and toiletries, and such.”

     “Alright.”  The women ordered the furniture first. It would be delivered in the morning. Then Cassia got a decent wardrobe dresses for different occasions as well as shirts and pants. Then the educating of the Countess would begin. After normal toiletries, such as hair ribbons, soap, and tooth brush. Cassia took over the shopping locales.

     “Valeria, does your brother having any scents he dislikes?”

     “Anything too strong.” Cassia couldn’t help but smile.

     “I completely understand that. It’s the heightened sense of smell. But otherwise, nothing else that you know of.”

     “Right.”

     “Okay. Could I borrow the pencil and a piece of paper?” Valeria gave her the pencil and tore a piece of paper from the notebook. Cassia made a list of flowers. She then made an order for several different perfumes, and bath oils.

     “Any colors he likes?”

     “Feminine. Softer, lighter shades.”

     “Ok. Let’s get some nail polish shades.” Valeria helped her pick some colors; Cassia also added a deep red to the mix. Then she took Valeria lingerie shopping. She even got Valeria to loosen up and buy a more conservative but sexy satin gown.

     Cassia bought several different types of lingerie. She bought a knee length conservative black satin on, similar to Valeria. A mid thigh, bustier style, cream satin one, a similar bustier style, mid thigh, in red lace, and a mid thigh, more conservative top style in a soft pink. She also bought garters and stockings to match each one.

     She also bought a few pieces of jewelry due to Valeria’s prompting, to add to her wardrobe. Valeria also insisted on a few other items for her and the room. A jewelry box, a library starter set of books of her favorites, so she could have her own copies. Basic desk supplies, matching accessories for the bathroom, and a set of linens and pillows for the bed. Even a flower vase. By the end of the next day, Cassia felt at home. Valeria even secretly added a painting for the room, one of a red mountain wolf howling at the full moon. Mountain wolves are just shy of the height of the pony, so the painting was an eye catcher to say the least. Valeria obviously wanted to be friends with Cassia and Cassia liked her. Plus, a friendship, with her would be nice. Household servants may stay wary of her and her wolf craved a pack of some sort. Some companionship and a female friend was a good start.

   Cassia had a few boxes stacked on each other, some things that were set from her family. Cassia wasn’t the typical Consort. She was allowed to contact her family, and them her. Though her small communication tablet was monitored, to ensure she was just communicating with family.

     Cassia could just barely see above the boxes when she turned the corner and nearly ran over one of the maids. The boxes hit the ground and the load of linens the maid was carrying hit the floor, sliding all over the place.

     “I’m so sorry.” Cassia said as she began to pick up some towels. The maid couldn’t have been older than fifteen or sixteen.

     “I’m Cassia. You must Neela.” The shy girl looked up her, and slowly offered her hand to shake.

     “I’ve heard about you. You work part time after school, to help your father out. That takes a lot of courage. When I was a bit younger than you my father died. I had five younger siblings, with another coming in a few months. My mother did some sewing but could only do that part time. We did get a bit of money after my father died, the rest of his soldiers share. My older brother and I went to find work. He helped the fisherman with their nets, and unloading the days catch. They even gave him some fish as part of his payment. He would only be able to help out for another year, before he had required soldier training, since he would be eighteen. I worked at a nearby pleasure house, helping to sweep, do laundry, and other odd and end jobs. When I was a few months from turning sixteen, a lot of men started to notice me. I heard things, about people who would sell themselves to be a Consort or Pleasure slave. I talked it over with my mother, after I talked to the house Mistress. She made a deal, I would begin training, to a certain extent. Continue my schooling, and working for her, and when I was eighteen, I would finish my Consort training. My mother agreed, when she knew we could keep in touch. The house mistress kept one percent of my sell price, and my siblings and mother haven’t had to worry as much about new clothes, and food.” Cassia and Neela had been refolding the linens, while she talked.

     “If you ever need any help with anything, or just someone to talk to. I’m here. I just wanted you to know you’re not alone. You really are doing a brave thing.” She helped Neela stand up and handed her the now restacked basket.

      “I really am sorry.”

      “That’s alright. They are right. You’re not that scary.” Cassia smiled, as Neela continued on her way. Little did either of them know but Cassian had heard the boxes fall, and had headed toward the sound, when he heard the two females talking. He didn’t want to interrupt but didn’t leave either. He heard Cassia’s story, and it caused his wall to weaken, just a bit.

     After Cassia made sure Neela’s load was able to be safely carried, she went to find Magnus. She had been told that he was in charge of the house, and the man was the only way to meet with The Warlord Prince. Magnus was nice enough to her.

     “Magnus, could I take a moment of your time?” Magnus looked up from the bread he was cutting.

     “Go on.”

     “You’re familiar with my contract. I’m assuming.” Cassia asked as she pulled a stool up to the counter.

     “I am. I know you have contact your family, and you have a small account in your name, under the guardianship of Mistress Bella, which has now been switched to the Warlord Prince of Viperion. You make extra money by mixing a few perfumes, massage oils, the like. You want to know if you can have access to the garden.” Magnus eyes twinkle with a bit of amusement.

     “It would be easier if I could.”

     “I don’t know what’s out there, but I know that my wife wouldn’t mind you taking some plants. I talked to her earlier.”

     “No wonder he left you in charge.”

     “Olive doesn’t have the garden catalogued. And the Warlord knows a good thing when he sees it. Sometimes, it takes him a while to warm up.” It was obvious Magnus knew something but Cassia knew it would be futile to get him to open up.

     “Thank you.” Magnus smiled and went back to cutting the bread loaf. Cassia went to her room and picked up an electronic recorder that also took pictures. She then went to look at the garden. For a while she was alone with her work. Then she heard footsteps and looked up.

     “Well, so this is the exotic whore my husband has decided to buy. “ Cassia knew it was only a matter of time before she ran into the wife.

     “Princess, nice to finally meet you.” Cassia was not going to let her goad her into confrontation.

     “What do you get to bed my husband? Oh, wait, nothing, because you’re just a Pleasure girl.” Cassia smiled showing a little fang. The Princess stepped back just slightly.

     “Enjoy your walk, and may the child be healthy and strong.” Cassia’s wolf could smell the change in hormones.

     “Into gossip too, figures you’d get your entertainment from such people.”

     “If you’ll excuse me.” Cassia said while putting her recorder up in its carry pouch. The princess blocked her path. Cassia let some of her wolf top the surface. The princess moved out the way.

     “You’re nothing to him, just a bed warmer.” She hollered at Cassia as she headed back to the manor.

     One of the ground guards saw and heard everything. Cassia held her composure pretty well. She wasn’t the kind to cry, but words can and do hurt.

     “Cassia, slow down, please.” The guard said. Cassia slowed down and the guard caught up.

     “Usually, she avoids the garden. He likes to stroll through there. She probably heard you were there and ambushed you. You alright?”

     “I’ll live.”

     “How did you know about the baby? He just found out.”

     “Pregnant women have a certain smell that my wolf can pick up on, like a dragon, or cat.”

     “Ah, mind if I walk you back. She might try for round two, she has before.”

     “Thanks, Akland.”

***

     A few days passed, and Cassia felt more at home. She and Cassian still did their dance. He had no idea how much he had affected Cassia and her inner wolf. What Cassia didn’t know was Cassian was just as affected as she was. In fact, he finally, had the nerve to go see his sister. It was time to admit Cassia had enthralled him and he wanted to know more.

     “So she has sparked your interest, brother.” Valeria couldn’t help but smile.

     “What do you know about her?”

     “You could try a little thing called discourse with her.”

     “Val.” He had slight growl in his voice when he said it.

     “Fine, since you’re so stubborn. But first tell me what changed your view of her.”

     “When I overheard her talking to Neela, about how she became a Consort.”

     “Spying on her.”

     “I heard a yelp of surprise and a crash of something on the floor, down the hall, and I went to investigate and overheard Cassia and Neela talking.”

     “So you’re spying on her.”

     “Curiosity got the best of me. Please, tell me what you know. I know you read her Consort file.”

     “Her uncle is the only living relative by blood. Her parents died when she was a few weeks old. She was adopted by a family of non-gifted Mountain folk. Her Uncle helped the family in raising her though. He had the wolf gift. She has some healer training, usual for Pleasure House incidents, and a bit above that. She makes massage oils, perfumes, and such things for extra cash. That was in her contract information.”

     “Yes, I read that, mentioned it to Magnus who talked to his wife, and now she has access to what she needs to continue to make money. I also know once a month a portion of her account gets transferred to what I assume is her family’s account.”

     “Yes. That’s all. Besides she’s pleasant to be with. Friendly.”

     “What has she said about me?”

     “I should have known you would find out.”

     “I have a reputation to keep, sister. “

     “You’re brusque when you talk to her. You’re studying her. She catches you watching her. You don’t go out of the way to avoid her, but don’t go out of your way to talk to her, like you do with your other household servants. I think it hurts her a bit, but I think she knows that she has to accept that. Yes, brother, she observes too.”

     “I’ll try to be a tad nicer.”

     “I think she’d like it sincerely or not at all.”

     “No promises.”

     “Alright. No pressure. Just don’t make her too miserable.”

     “That I Promise you, I won’t do. I’ll see you tomorrow for dinner?”

     “Of course, Cassian.”

     “Till then, Valeria.”

***

     The Warlord Prince had no idea what he was going to walk into when he came back home. The wife he rarely saw was being guarded by his men. His Consort Mistress, had her fangs bared, and was being held back by two of his strongest guards, barely held back. He recognized that Cassia was gone and the wolf was present. Neela had a cold cloth pressed to her cheek. It took Cassian two seconds to put two and two together, and every ounce of self control he had to keep the dragon under control.

     As soon as he was close enough to be heard, The Warlord Prince, tempered his temper and became The Dragon of Viperion.

     “Enough.” His wife tried to speak but one look from Cassian and she quickly became quiet. He walked up to Neela, and a short whispered conversation confirmed what Cassian suspected. Next he approached Cassia and the two guards.

     “Wolf.” If Cassia had pointed ears on top of her head, they would have been attention. That voice said alpha. Wolf knew to settle down. She kept her eyes just downcast enough not to challenge, but not completely submissive either.

     “Look at me.” Cassia did.

     “Neela is mine to protect. Not yours. But I appreciate your concern. Go and take care of her. I will make sure justice is served. Let her go.” The guards let Cassia go and she went to get Neela, but not before she gave once last glare at the princess.

     “If you’ll excuse me and my wife gentleman.” All the guards left. As soon as they were out of ear shot, Cassian gently grabbed his wife’s arm to ensure eye contact.

     “How you treat your slaves is your business. Neela is a paid servant. She is under my employ. More importantly she is under my protection. This is the only warning you get, touch any one under my protection and you will regret it, Princess. Don’t test me. By the way, Cassia was letting those guards hold her. I’m willing to bet she was only being cooperative because you’re pregnant, not because of protocol. Pack animals have their own protocol. Listen closely, Princess. This time you were lucky. Next time, you may not be. Cassia may not have been here long, but she has begun to make this her home, and to her Wolf, the people who live and work her are becoming part of her pack. She knows I’m the alpha, here. It’s my territory. Something you seem to forget when it inconveniences you. Law says that her healer bills, and a week of pay, are required. Out of your personal finances, no later than tomorrow. Understood.” She meekly nodded her head. She wasn’t stupid, arrogant yes, stupid no.

     “Dismissed.” Cassian headed toward the gardens to cool off, and do some thinking. Cassia was getting to him, bit by bit, and it scared him. He hadn’t realized that she was forming a pack, thinking of his territory as her home. Part of him wondered if she would ever see him as her mate. He quickly dismissed that thought.

     Cassia took Neela to her room. She had a healer’s bag in the bathroom. She grabbed a washcloth and the bag stored on a shelf above the sink. Neela had taken a seat by the table, and after putting the bag and washcloth on the table, Cassia pulled a nearby chair out, and placed it in front of Neela. She had a thoughtful look on her face.

     Cassia took a vial of liquid and a small box with a powdery substance in it. Cassia then grabbed the small bowl on the table and mixed the liquid and powder into a paste, and put that paste on the washcloth. She then handed it to Neela.

     “Press this on your cheek.” Neela did as she was told.

     “You’re like him.”

     “What?” Cassia was now putting the extra poultice into a box.

     “The Warlord Prince. When I first came here, he scared me. You did too. But I learned to see through the eyes, to see the person underneath. You were trying to protect me, like he does. The beast isn’t scary, unless you’re the one the anger is pointed at. It took me a while to understand that.”

     “Hmmm. Really. Interesting.” Cassia slid the box over to Neela.

      “Rub it on to the before your go to bed and wash it off with warm water in the morning. Once the bruise is completely faded, and gone you can stop using it. I have some makeup cover up you can use to hide the bruise.”

     “Thank you.”

     “Not a problem. I’ll go get it, and then your brother should be here to walk you home.” Cassia got the makeup and showed Neela how to apply it, and like clockwork, Magnus came to get her, her brother had arrived.

     “Neela, I’d like to meet him sometime.”

     “Alright. Soon.” Neela said goodbye and headed out.

     “Could I have a word with you?” Magnus asked. He was standing in the doorway.

     “Come in.” Magnus halfway closed the door, it would be improper for a man to be in a closed room with a woman who wasn’t his wife, or relative.

     “And I thought he was a handful.”

     “I’m sorry about how I handled things out there.”

     “Don’t apologize. I know you let those guards handle you. Don’t ever apologize for doing what any good person would have done. You forget that I understand better than anyone here, what having a gift of the beast really is.” When Cassia had first arrived, Magnus had told her that his family had served the household for generations. He had grown up, with the Warlord Prince.

     “So if you’re not scolding me, then what?”

     “There’s someone you need to meet. He’ll be here tomorrow, when the Prince is at the Trades Guild meeting. Dress nicely. You’ll understand when you meet him tomorrow. Cassia, you handle yourself well. See you at dinner.” Magnus left. Cassia pulled out the small communicator she had and dialed home. Her mother answered. She had obviously been out in the garden. Her hair was coming loose, and she had overalls on.

     “I know that look, you need to talk.” Cassia filled her in on what had happened earlier.

     “But what scares me, is a part of me wanted to challenge her for him. I’ve never felt that way before anyone.”

     “You’ve never had a typical life. But I know that Mountain Wolves, as well, as people can be drawn to someone, in a way they never expected. Tread carefully. But I know your Uncle would tell you trust your wolf. From what you’ve told me, The Prince, seems like a good man.”

     “He surprises me. The more I discover about him, the more I want to be with him.”

     “The heart is fragile but it’s worth the risk. I want you to be happy, you know that, right?”

     “I know. But you don’t want me to get hurt either.”

     “Good. I love you.”

    “I love you too.”

    “Is Uncle, I mean Dad around.” Her adopted mother and blood uncle had recently married. Cassia, was trying out Dad. He was always like a second father to her.

     “I’ll get him. Talk to you soon?”

     “Of course. Love you.”

     “Love you.” Her mom blew a kiss. A few moments later and a man that looked a bit like Cassia filled the screen.

     “Little cub, how may I help you.”

     “I just can’t call you to say hi.”

     “You could, but the gleam in your eye says something else.”

     “I do have something to talk about.” Cassia caught him up on everything.

     “Your mom really can surprise me at how well she knows me. Now what do you need?”

     “I wanted to give a gift for the Prince’s baby.”

     “What did you have in mind?”

     “I was thinking a mobile for the crib, with four animals, a dragon of course, a desert hound, saber cat, and a desert horse.”

     “I can do that. I’ll send it to you when it’s done. Talk to you soon. Love you, cub.”

     “Love you, too.” Cassia blew him a kiss, and then as soon as her uncle turned off his monitor, Cassia, did the same and put the communicator back in its case.ragon, one wolf, one desert hound, and one desert cat., what hav

***

     The next day Cassia, wore a simple deerskin tunic style dress, with a pair of light brown sandals. Her face had subtle makeup on it. Her hair was pulled back in a simple but tight braid. Magnus approved of her choice. Soon the mystery guest arrived. One look and Cassia could see the Viperion was the Former Warlord Prince, Cassian’s father.

     “You must be Cassia.” He offered his hand for her to shake and she took it.

     “Care to walk with me?”

     “The garden is free of prying ears this time of day.” He smiled. His daughter was right about her, she reads between the lines, well.

     “Let’s go there, then.” He held the front door open for her, she stepped outside and for a brief moment shut her eyes and breathed in the outdoor scent and let the sunshine touch her face.

     “When you’re ready Cassia.”

     “Sorry, sir.”

     “Don’t be. Cassian does the same thing.” They headed to the garden.

     “I’m sure you’re wondering why I came to meet you.”

     “To be honest, you were the last person I thought of who wanted to see me.”

     “Magnus didn’t tell you. For the record, he could have.”

     “So what can do for you?”

     “I was curious. Wanted to meet you in person. Valencia talks about you a lot. She likes you. My son likes you; he just doesn’t realize it yet.” Cassia had a surprised look on her face.

     “You’ve managed to get under his skin. Very few women have done that, not including his sister.”

      “I knew I sparked his curiosity. Valencia told me he asked her about me. Can I be frankly honest with you?”

     “Of course.”

     “I’m sure you know my consort history?”

     “Yes. You became one to help your family. So you wouldn’t have much experience with traditional courting and love.”

     “Exactly.”

     “So…”

     “Your son has stirred something in my wolf. More than curiosity, but it’s hard to explore these feelings when your son goes out of his way to avoid me.”

     “You’ve told Valencia this?”

     “Yes, I have. But she’s not even sure how to manipulate events without getting caught.”

     “I have an idea. I’ll talk to Magnus. You’ve passed his test, so I’m sure he and I can figure a way to allow you to have an accidental meeting or two.” He had a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

     “I’ll let you know when plans are finalized. I’ll leave you here. I need to check on my daughter-in-law. I heard what happened. Magnus updated me. You did what any one with a shred of decency, and nobility would have done, and you kept yourself in check. A mark of a good person with an animal gift.” He gently squeezed her shoulder and headed toward the princesses home.

***

     He stood by the river’s edge, he was topless. A slight sheen of sweat made his skin glisten. He stretched, the tensing of his muscles made her shiver, ever slightly. He kicked his boots off. Then he took off his belt and let it fall from his hand and land on the grass near his feet. Then he seductively shook his hips ever so slightly, as he pushed his pants, slowly down his thighs. Once he pushed the pants down far enough, they slid down his toned legs, and puddle at his feet. He slipped his feet out of the puddle and looked over his shoulder, a mischievously wicked grin plastered on his face. He headed toward the nearby water fall. When he was standing underneath the water fall, he turned around. The water made his skin sparkle in the sunlight. He crooked his finger and beckoned her to join him. She did. She wrapped her arms around his neck and their lips met in a passionate kiss. He grabbed one of her bare legs, and pulled it up to his hip. Her other leg soon followed.

     Cassia woke up with a start. Her skin was flushed. Her heart was beating fast. She was filled with desire. This was the fourth time that night she had awaken from such dreams. These types of dreams weren’t uncommon to her. She was in heat, which made them more commonly occurring. That wasn’t what bothered her. It was the man that kept haunting those dreams, which frightened her. Usually, the men remained varied. Generic representations of men, or men she had seen or met. But rarely were there repeat dream visits. But now one man, the Dragon Warlord Prince, kept visiting her dreams. She wasn’t afraid of risking her heart, she was afraid that these dreams would be the closest she ever got to being in love with someone, with him.

     Since the princess had carried her pregnancy far enough along, that it was considered safe to assume she would carry to term, that preparations for a nursery in the main manor had begun. The future prince or princess wouldn’t live all the time in the main manor but would stay there at least one week a month, if the child wasn’t gifted with the dragon. Otherwise, her highness had stated that she wanted nothing to do with the child, it was in her contract.

     When Cassia was in heat, she did her best to avoid single or unmarried males of the adult age. Married men smelled taken to her wolf, so the drive to mate was mellowed down around them. Though Magnus and Cassian’s father, had succeeded in Cassia and Cassian have chance encounters, he knew when she was in heat, and did his best to avoid her. As a Dragon, he only went into rut once to twice a year, but Cassia in heat tended to bring out a bit more of the beast within him.

     When Cassia went into heat, which was a mild form monthly, and the more animalistic once to twice a year, she used herbal teas to help relax and take some of the edge off. Being busy helped, the more physical, the better. The more tired she was, the less of a mate drive.

     Magnus was working in the nursery. Cassia’s gift had arrived and she knew the crib had just been finished. So she took her mobile to the nursery. She knocked on the door, it was partially closed. Her nose knew he was in the room, but so were Neela, Olive, and Magnus. Her drive would be sedated in a pack setting.

     “Come in.” Magnus said. Cassia tentatively opened the door.

     “I just wanted to drop this off for the baby.” Neela took the mobile.

     “It’s beautiful.” Olive said. Neela handed it to Magnus to attach to the crib.

     “Well crafted. Thank you. Perfect for a boy or girl and I do love the dragon.” Cassian said.

     “My Uncle made it. You’re welcome. Its clan tradition to give a gift to someone expecting a baby, a way of welcoming the coming new member.” Cassia said before hearing Valeria call for her.

     “I better go. I’m glad you like it.” Cassia slightly bowed in respect before leaving the room. Though she had learned that formality for the most part, was lax in the manor, once one was considered part of the extended family, Cassia, found it hard to always be informal.

     “I just have to grab my case of goods. He liked it.” Cassia said as she headed down the hall to grab the oils and teas she had made to sell.

     “See, worried about nothing.” Valencia said as Cassia returned in the hallway with her large case. Over a couple of months, the two had become close friends.

     “So, what’s new?” Valencia asked as the two headed to the coach. To ensure if anyone accidentally overheard the conversation between the two, Cassia, started her update about her life first, then later the news concerning Cassian.

     “So he does at least hold brief conversations now with you, over a sentence or two. Well, that’s a definite improvement.” Valencia said.

     “It is, but he does his best not to be alone with me, when it’s safe for us to be alone.” Valencia understood she was referring to being in heat.

     “I’ve seen a change in him, subtle but there. Give him time. Stubbornness runs in my family, especially with the males.” Valencia didn’t know how much that revelation met to her.

***

     The manor was bustling. Final preparations for the nursery were being made. Baby supplies put in their proper places: blankets, diapers, toys, etc.  In case she was needed, a nurse maid had been hired, for now she had temporary quarters, and was guaranteed a month pay if she wasn’t needed. For now, she kept to herself, mostly.

     That night, the Warlord Prince gained a son. He would be the fifth in his family line to have the gift of the dragon. Within the hour, the child was bathed and examined, healthy. He was then bundled up and sent over to his father, and he would hardly ever see his mother again.

     Cassian didn’t leave the nursery until he knew that Braden was sound asleep. Cassian didn’t sleep much that night. He got up several times to check on his sleeping son. Cassia, heard him every time, even though he was careful not to be loud.

     In the morning, Cassian made the contract arrangements for the nurse maid, as well as moving arrangements for her. Then Cassian had to see his wife and finalize contract arrangements for her, and decide what to do with the nursery things, unless, she had a change of heart.

     She didn’t have a change of heart. Cassian made arrangements for the nursery supplies that he couldn’t use, he donated to families that could. He wouldn’t admit it, but part of him hoped she would want to be a part of her son’s life. He couldn’t figure out how a person could carry a living, breathing, person inside for nine months, and not want that child. He vowed to make sure that his son would always know that he was wanted and loved, like his father, was and is.

     It took a few days, for life to adjust to having a baby around. But soon everyone got use to the new schedule, and newest member of the family. Even the nurse maid, Lilia, became a bit friendlier to everyone; she was just a bit shy.

***

     Cassia awoke to the sound of thunder followed by a flash of lightning that lit up her room. She always had trouble sleeping during storms; it drove her mother near mad on occasion when she was a baby. She wasn’t the only one.

     Cassia, grabbed the robe off the nearby chair. And hastily put it on over her slim sleeved, long nightgown. She ignored the slippers, and quickly left her room for the nursery.

     Lilia, was trying everything she could to get the Prince to fall back asleep. Nothing was working. Olive was with her. Cassia knocked on the door. Olive opened it. Both women looked exasperated.

     “He’s not hungry. Rocking doesn’t help.” Lilia said, the prince in her arms, wailing away.

     “Is there anything in this room that his father has used a lot?” Olive picked up the blanket from the rocker and handed it to Cassia.

     “Where is he?” She asked as Cassia took the young Prince from Lilia, and wrapped him in the blanket. She began to walk around the room with him.

     “Horses were upset. I heard him and Magnus head out side to check on them.” Cassia said, while she continued to walk around the room, gently bouncing the little prince up and down.

     “Dragons and Wolves aren’t like Vipers. They don’t dig a hole into the ground, and hide from the storm.” The prince was still upset, but not as loud, He was slowly settling down.

     “How?” Olive asked.

     “He knows his father’s smell. Scent is calming to those of the non-viper animal gifts. Some can sleep during a storm, other don’t. I didn’t. I still have trouble with it.” Cassia looked down at the little bundle in her arms; his eyes were wide open, glistening with curiosity. She smiled at the child.

     “My mother used to tell me a story when I couldn’t sleep. She couldn’t sing well, so lullabies were out of the question. I think we should try the story first.” Cassia heard the front door quietly open. She took a deep breath, and began her tale.

     “Once a long time ago there was a young dragon who unlike his brothers and sisters wanted to leave home and see the world. So one day he decided to leave home. He traveled far and wide. He found it hard to make friends because everyone he met was afraid of him because he was dragon. One day he was walking through the mountains, when he heard a strange howl. He decided to investigate. He came upon a clearing and found a mountain wolf whose paw had become caught in a rope snare. To his surprise when he approached the wolf wasn’t scared of him. The wolf let the dragon help get him out of the snare and they became friends. The wolf had learned to look at the inside of the person, and not what they looked like.” Cassian entered the room. He had been eavesdropping on the story. Olive and Lilia bowed and left the room.

     “I didn’t mean to overstep any boundaries. He was having trouble sleeping during the storm. Lilia and Olive needed a hand.” Cassian took Braden from Cassia.

     “I never had storm sleep trouble. You didn’t overstep. You’re part of the family here. You stepped in to help. Braden and I are lucky to have you in our lives. I think he finally wore himself out.” Cassian laid his son in the crib and the two of them stepped out of the room. Leaving only the dim lantern on. Cassian left the door cracked. Olive and Lilia were in the kitchen making tea.

     “Do you have any suggestions on what I can do to help him during storms?” Cassian asked as they sat on a couple of chairs that Magnus had moved closer to the nursery.

     “My Uncle used lavender. He put a plant in my room I was little. If he doesn’t like the smell, I could try jasmine, and chamomile. If all else fails, I could make scented oil and try those with a little vanilla.”

     “Thank you. Cassia, feel free to help out with Braden whenever you want to.” Olive gave them both a cup of tea. They gratefully, listened to the storm and sat in silence. Eventually, they all headed off to bed. As she lay in bed, Cassia realized that Cassian trusted her enough with his son and considered her family. For now, she would accept that, hoping someday it would be I love you.

***

     A few days had passed since the storm and Cassia had just returned from the garden, and Cassian approached her.

     “Could I have a word with you?” He asked, as Cassia put a basket of picked herbs on the table for Magnus.

     “Of course.” He led her to the office and the door was left cracked enough for anyone passing by to hear or see what was going on.

     “I’ve been doing some talking with my parents and they agree with my decision. I’ve seen how Braden looks at you. How much you care for him. I was hoping you’ll say yes to be his guardian if anything should happen to me. You understand him, better than my parents can. So.”

     “I know his mother gave up her rights to raising him, but in case of your death, she still maintains her rights on what happens to Braden.”

     “You know your contracts.”

     “Anything that could affect the master of the house, can affect the consort mistress. So I know your arrangement details.”

     “I’ve already talked to her highness. She’s not pleased but she did give up her parental rights, and couldn’t suggest an appropriate alternative. All I need is your signature, and it’s done.” He set the contract in front of her. She picked up a nearby pen and signed the paper. No regrets or second thoughts. She loved Braden, and wanted what was best for him.

     “Thank you.” Cassian picked up the contract and attached his royal house seal at the right hand bottom of the contract, under Cassia’s signature.

     “Now it’s official.” Cassian said while picking up the contract and placing it in an envelope. He and Cassia then left the office.

***

     A week since Cassia had signed the papers. Neela and Cassia were returning home from a trip to the market place. It was one of those rare times that Neela actually stayed at the manor. It was part of the hiring contract, that when her family had to go out of town for trade reasons, that Neela would stay at the manor.

     It was early evening; the sun was just going down, Cassia’s wolf prickled. Someone was watching them. Cassia, focused her nose on picking up on scents, and weeding out the normal smells, and focusing on what doesn’t fit. Her ears were doing the same things with the sounds in the area.

     Cassia, gave Neela the signal, that all the household had been taught, that something was wrong. Neela, headed toward the manor at a brisk pace, after telling Cassia, she realized she was running late, and her brother would be here soon escort her home.

     Cassia’s wolf senses picked up on the slight movement of a bush. Not many people knew that Cassia had been trained by some of the best soldiers in the land. Cassia knew she had to keep calm and play dumb. Hopefully, Neela would find help quickly, and this person wouldn’t try to go after her. Cassia wasn’t lucky.

     The man behind the bush leaped out and grabbed Neela. Once he knocked her to the ground, he looked surprised. Neela, screamed at the top of her lungs, and then took her finger nails and clawed at the man’s face and eyes as she had been taught, the whole time wailing away.

     Cassia ran and jumped on the man, at an angle, knocking him off of Neela. She rolled off him, and grabbed the dagger she had concealed in her boot. She faced her attacker. He smiled wickedly. He recognized his target. She must have let the other one, borrow her cloak and cowl. He charged.

     Neela’s screams had brought Cassian and several others from the household running outside. Magnus went to Neela’s side. Cassia and the attacker were one blur locked in hand to hand combat. Cassia, didn’t hesitate when the opportunity arrived. She stabbed her opponent in the stomach. She was only able to get deep enough to get him to back off, but with proper and immediate care, he would survive. When he went down, he scratched Cassia. The poison was strong and she went down seconds after he did, into Cassian’s arms.

     “Keep him alive.” He told a nearby guard. Another had run off for the healer. Cassian looked down at the attacker. The Dragon had completely surfaced.

     “She better survive. Or I guarantee you I will make sure you wish you were dead.” He gently picked up Cassia, and brought her to his room. The healer told the guards what to do, to slow the bleeding. He went to check on Cassia first.

     The healer recognized the poison. He quickly administered the antidote.

     “The toxin moves fast. But given her animal gift, Mountain wolves have a better tolerance with poisons. The antidote was administered quickly, so chances are good she’ll survive. It’s the after effects I’m concerned about.”

     “Such as?”

     “It could ruin her chances of having a child. Weaken her endurance by making it harder for her to breath, or weaken muscles. She may get lucky. Time will tell. She’ll run a fever for a while. A damp washcloth will help with that. She’ll most likely be out for a day or two, maybe a few more. There’s nothing more I can do, I’ll check on her daily. As for the prisoner, I’ll make sure he sees tomorrow. If you’ll excuse me Warlord Prince.” Cassian moved out the way, and the healer left the room.

     The prisoner survived and a deal was made, if he confessed to who hired him, he wouldn’t be put in prison and possibly executed if Cassia died. He would be exiled, given one day to leave the region. Exile, was the choice he wanted. When the truth came out, Cassian was furious. The local head of the judge tribunal followed him. They had evidence. The hired thug was no fool.

     “I never took you for a fool.” Cassian said to his wife. Two guards had also followed them to the cottage.

     “Was she such a threat to you? Stay quiet. It’s my term to speak.” The dragon glared at the princess.

     “Your hired thug wasn’t a fool. He gave us proof of your betrayal. I gave you prestige, rank, wealth. I never asked for your heart, never asked you to share my bed, not even a kiss. All you had to do was give me an heir, and make an appearance when needed. You have your consort. I made sure you had enough to live the way you wanted, gave you your own house. Then Cassia comes along, and something switches in you. You’re jealous. How did she threaten you? You are by law my wife, not her. We have never shared a bed. Cassia, better survive or you’ll wish that you were dead. Before you arrest her, and her Consort, I want a word with her." Her eyes got big.

     “Oh, we know of his involvement too. Thug wasn’t an idiot, dear.” The last word he spat out with obvious hatred.

     “Before you arrest her, tell me why?” She glared at him. The dragon returned that stare, with a wicked grin that said don’t push me.

     “I hated her. You shouldn’t be happy. I wanted to put you on guard, test your defenses, in the end get to you and kill you, and that monster of a child. Inherit everything. Marry the man I love and we rule together.”

     “Take her away. I never want to see her face again.” The guards took her and her Consort out to a nearby waiting coach. According to their arrangement, due to her betrayal, her family lost any wealth she had obtained while being his wife. They also lost ten percent of all their wealth, which would be given to him. As of tomorrow, a simple signature on an official document would make their arrangement null and void. He would no longer be married to her.

     The tribunal met that night. Until it was clear if Cassia would survive, the Consort and his Princess would be held in jail. As soon as medically permissible, the thug would be exiled. The paperwork was expedited and before Cassian went to bed, he was a free man and told that by tomorrow, all wealth that was due him would begin to be collected.

     Cassian rarely left Cassia’s side. She was never left alone. If he wasn’t there, Magnus, Neela, Olive, or one of the other of the household was keeping vigil by her bedside. Two days had passed, and during the middle of the night, of the third day, Cassia started to wake up.

     She slowly opened her eyes. The scent in the room was wrong. It took her a moment to realize she wasn’t in her room. She was in his. The only other person, who had ever been in his room, was Magnus. He didn’t have to say those words to her; his actions said everything she needed to know. He brought her to his domain, his very personal territory. He loved her, whether or not he was willing to say it to her or himself.

     Cassian was just waking up himself. He had fallen asleep in the cushioned chair he pulled next to the bed. He stretched that looked over at her.

     “Hi, there.” He said, helping her sit up.

     “How long?”

     “Nearing day four. Do you remember what happened?”

     “Clearly. Neela, all right?”

     “She was shook up, but alright. How do you feel?”

     “Hungry, wanting a shower or bath.”

     “I’ll see what I can do about that, at least the food part. Think the bathing can wait till morning.”

     “I survived this long.”
     “I’ll go get some food together.” He went to the kitchen and made a couple of sandwiches, grabbed a variety of fruit, and a pitcher of milk. While Cassia ate, she got filled on the details of what had happened. She had more money since the Princess would have to pay for her attack on Cassia. The Princess lost all her titles, form birth and marriage. Her family wisely disowned her. Her Consort was exiled. She would be sold into slavery, her choice over life imprisonment. She would be sold out of Viperion.

     The next day the healer came and checked on her. His only concern was that she would have trouble conceiving but it wasn’t impossible. News a bit better than she thought. Cassian had also told her what the healer had told him. Considering what could have happened, she was relieved, for the most part.

     It took her about a week to get back on her feet. During that time, Cassian and Cassia got to really know each other better. He even made sure Braden came to his room for visits while she was recovering. He wasn’t the only visitor. Everyone in the household came to visit her at least once. Any remaining doubt of whether or not she was part of the family here was completely washed away. She knew this was her new home, her new family.

***

     Cassia had been back on her feet for two days. She still had to take it easy, and a lot of the chores she usually helped with, she couldn’t. So she was out taking a walk through the garden enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.

     “So Magnus, what have you found out.”  Cassian said while uncharacteristically pacing the room.

     “Well, in order for Cassia to get the title of Princess, and since you and your previous wife, didn’t share a bed, her virtue would have to be proven as well, as yours, to collaborate that you never shared a bed with your former contractual spouse. I can arrange that. Legally, you can elope using a traveler’s marriage. Then have your official royal ceremony later. All that is required is a tribunal judge or lawyer, to preside over the ceremony, and two other witnesses.”

     “Make the necessary arrangements. I’ll get the bride.” Cassian picked up a small velvet box. Magnus and Cassian left the office and headed to the garden.

     He headed straight toward the center of the garden, where the fountain was located. Cassia, loved lying on the grass under the weeping willow near that fountain. She was there leaning against the tree trunk. Eyes closed, taking in all the scents and sounds around her. She knew he was walking toward her. He had a strong musky order about him, the closer to mating season the more pungent the odor, Cassia loved his smell.

     She opened her eyes, moments after Cassian sat down next to her.

     “Could I steal a few moments of your time?” He asked, while taking the box out of his pants pocket and hiding it behind his back.

     “Of course.” 

     “I have been told I can be stubborn, hard headed, stupid man. It took almost losing you to wake me up. I have been fighting my feelings for you for way too long. I’ve been an idiot. I love you Cassia. You are my Alpha female, my equal, my mate. Will you marry me?” He pulled the box from behind him and opened it. Inside was a simple and traditional mountain engagement ring. It was made out of wood, oak, and had dragon and a wolf lying next to each other. It was polished.

     Cassia smiled. “I would be honored to be your alpha female.” He placed the ring on her finger. Cassian then updated her on his plans, and she agreed. She was going to tell her family, but found out Cassian had asked permission to marry her, so they already knew.

     The two of them spent some more time in the garden then Cassian went to make the finishing touches for the ceremony, he hoped to have that night. Cassia contacted her family and showed off her ring.

     That night, the entire manor household would stand witness for the couple. But before they could get married, purity of both Cassia and Cassian had to be tested. A simple chemical spray called Pure was used. If one wasn’t a virgin, it gave a burning sensation. A female healer tested Cassia and a male healer tested Cassian. Both healers signed the necessary paperwork.

     The ceremony was simple. The groom and bride wore traditional mountain wedding outfits, a simple, long sleeve tunic dress, in ivory, for the bride. The groom, wore an ivory long sleeved shirt, with a lace up front part way down,  black pants, and as the bride wore white boots, the groom wore black, Cassia’s hair was free, a wreath of flowers, a variety of mountain blossoms on her head. Simple vows were exchanged, and they were husband and wife.

     The honey moon would have to wait, but since Cassia had an animal gift, she would bleed her first time, so she wouldn’t have to be retested, after Cassian returned from his rounds down the border. The timing was actually good. Cassia, was healing quickly, but still needed a bit more time before the healer cleared her for intimate behavior.

***

     Cassia knew when Cassian returned he would be on the verge of rutting season and she would be in animal heat. The females, of a lot of species, entered heat first before the males. Cassia, knew that she would have to put some of her Consort learning to work.

     Cassian returned, and since he was near rut, he needed to avoid Cassia. He was in the pool making laps, hoping to tire himself out. Cassia had other plans.

     She took out an almost sheer slip dress. Not her usual choice, but if it got ruined, she wouldn’t care. She put it on and it landed mid thigh. She left her feet bare and loosely pulled her hair up in a messy bun, held together by a simple plain ivory colored comb. She did grab the matching robe, and loosely tie it around her waist. No makeup on her face. She headed toward the pool.

     She stood on the side where he could see her when he turned to make another lap. When she was sure she had his attention. She released the tie holding her robe closed, and gracefully wriggled her way out of it, letting it hit the ground.

     Cassian, had forgotten his focus on the laps. He was staring at Cassia, desire written in his dragon eyes. He climbed out of the pool, precariously holding on to his human side, fighting the urge to take her right there.

     For Cassia it was a bit easier. Her wolf could be patient for a bit longer. Unlike the dragon, it is the female wolf that allows the male to mate with her. But it was getting harder, seeing the water glistening off his tone and muscled chest and arms. Thankfully, he never swam naked, he wore a loin cloth.

     “I don’t want to hurt you. It would be different if we had been together before, I’m afraid the dragon will rule.”

     “I’m a wolf. I love you and trust you. A bit of pain is expected. It will be more than other females experience, but it is my sacrifice of love to give, to be one with you and you alone.”

     “You’re sure. Once I let go, there’s no turning back.”

     “I know. I trust you; you’re my mate, my alpha and my love.” He didn’t hesitate, if he was a real dragon he would have grabbed her with his talons and took her back to his den. So he did the next best thing, he grabbed her and swung her over his shoulder and left her robe lying by the pool, and took her to their room.  Before Cassian left he and Cassia picked a room still near the nursery but one that they could make their own. A place that was bit of him and her, blended perfectly together.

     He dropped her on the bed, and tore off her slip dress. Most of Cassian was now gone and the dragon shone in his eyes. When he looked into Cassia’s eyes, the wolf was staring back at him, just a hint of Cassia in them.

     He just looked at her and drank in all of her, before he bent down and ravenously began to kiss her. She returned that kiss in like. One hand removed the comb from her hair, and he tossed it on the floor. He gently tugged her hair, with his hands as they kissed. Cassia’s, hands were busy exploring Cassian’s upper half. His loin cloth was still on.

     Soon his lips began to explore and taste other areas of Cassia. Gently, playfully, nipping at her ear lobes, her neck, mixing nips with kisses. Cassia’s wolf was reveling in the moment. The nipping and kissing continued downward. Cassia let lose a howl. Thankfully, the room was sound proof.

     The howl spurred the dragon on. Cassia was feeling Cassian when she had the chance. Her hands were still exploring every inch of his front and back end. Cassian, stopped at the end of her stomach, and looked up, catching eyes, with Cassia. Both were now burning with an intense need.

     A growl pushed Cassian on. He took his hands and gently spread her legs wide and then he lifted them so her feet were flat on the bed. Cassia, grabbed the belt holding the loin cloth closed and loosened enough so she could yank it off. The belt flew toward the wall and the loin cloth was tossed on the floor.

     Cassia suspected that dragon gifted would be endowed in a certain region, all dragons were, and she was right. She shivered a bit in anticipation. The wolf and woman knew that pain would come but pleasure and complete intimacy would follow.

     Cassian managed to control himself to ease some of the pain that Cassia felt. She pushed through the pain and held on tight. Soon she howled with relief. The pain was gone and the pleasure was overwhelming, the intimacy was beautiful.

      Not all those with the animal gifts felt the pull of mating as strongly as the dragon and wolf gifts. But Cassia was made to heal from her first experience very quickly. Ready for the next time when the urge would hit Cassian and her in the next few hours.

     Rut or mating season lasted three to four days. Short naps and quick meals were normal for this time with their wild counterparts, and the same rules applied to this dragon and wolf. Mating was usually three or four times a day.

    Cassian and Cassia slept, after a quick meal, tangled up in each other. Before the next time the urge would reign, Cassian, made sure the proof sheet that Cassia was a virgin, was taken away. It was used to protect the bride form a lies that could put her in danger.

    Cassia was a bit surprised when Cassian woke up first. The look of lust and desire burned in his eyes, but he controlled himself asking if she was ready for another go.

She was, and he surprised her when he positioned her on her hands and knees on the bed and took her like a dragon. Instead of talons holding her still under him, his hands were on her shoulders, helping him balance and keep her still.

     They survived three days together. They waited a bit before being intimate again. The sex drive for both of them was low for a bit, a time to recover. A time to plan a proper wedding which was elaborate and worthy of a Warlord Prince, and after that wedding Braden was officially made her son by adoption. Cassia couldn’t be happier; she had her mate, a cub, and a pack of her own. She was happy with raising Braden as her own, and in the future, Cassia, did get something she also really desired to become a mother.

 “If I didn’t know better, I think your brother literally turns into a dragon and tries to eat them.” Bella said as a young woman sat in the chair in front of the desk.

     “He’s stubborn. He’s stuck in a Contractual marriage where his wife, won’t even share a bed with him, let alone say a word to him. She uses him like a prized bull, and nothing more. A way to ensure her and her family moves up on the noble ladder. I won’t blame you for not doing business with me, but he’s my little brother and I want him to have a chance at being happy even if it’s unconventional.”

     “Alright Countess, I’ll see what I can do for you. Tell me about your brother.” Bella sat down behind the desk and took a tablet of paper to scribble notes on.

     “What do you know about him?”

     “Well, Countess, I know he has the gift of the dragon. Dragons have prominent fangs, golden eyes, like any Viperian but with a touch of something else in them, a temper, from what I hear, and rugged looks with a vicious reputation as a Warlord Prince.”

     “Reputation is true, and has served to keep the North men at bay and keep the peace. Yes, my brother can be temperamental, it’s part of the Dragon side of him, for the most part. But the Cassian, I grew up and know has a big heart, kind, gentle, wants a family. He wants a woman who could be his equal. Not submissive to him, not afraid of him, someone willing to stand up to him when he needs it, a partner. He tests them. Once they have seen that Dragon side of them, they leave.”

     “Alright, I see him a better now. What else does he need, besides the miracle of me finding a woman who won’t run screaming away into the night?”

     “Intelligent. Educated. Wants children. Willing to try new things. Doesn’t have to be a perfect beauty, my brother wants more than looks. Bloodlines don’t matter.”

     “Give me a moment to see what my other houses and I have available.” A few key strokes and Bella smiled.

     “How does your brother feel about someone who is gifted?” The Countess raised her eyebrows in question.

     “I have a Mountain woman who has the gift of the wolf, red wolf.”

     “So she has golden red eyes, and hair, prominent fangs and a temperament closer to my brother.”

    “Yes. She won’t come cheap if she lasts. I figure a small deposit for the Consort Mistress. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll give you the money back. If she works, we’ll finish the payment details, deal.”

     “Deal.” The women shook hands and paperwork was signed. As soon as the paperwork was filed, Bella, stuck her head out of the door, and had a man go and fetch the red wolf, as she was known.

     “Countess, I hope she works out for you.”

     “I do too.”

     The Red Wolf was brought to the countess. She was simply dressed in a wrap around dress, with a cloak covering her bare shoulders. Her long hair was pulled back in a loose braid. She had a draw string bag with her, just big enough to carry a night gown, a couple of changes of clothes, toiletries and a few other items she owned, plus, one pair of mid calf tie sandals. She was currently wearing her ballet like slippers.

     “Countess.” She properly curtsied. The Countess said thank you and she and the Red Wolf headed out.

     “Do you have a name besides Red Wolf?”

     “Cassia of Tanglen.”

     “Cassia, have been told about my brother?”

     “Yes, Countess.”

     “If you choose to leave after meeting him, I completely understand.

I will not hold you accountable.”

     “Perhaps, I will surprise you, Countess. I am not a typical Mistress Consort.”

     “I can already see that. He’ll be home late tonight. I figured you would like a little time to get acquainted with the servants and the manor. There is just a bed and a small dresser in the Consort Suite.  If you stay, I’ll take you shopping for clothes, furniture and whatever else you need.” They both got into the waiting coach.

     “Countess, could you tell me about his wife.”

     “If she wants to see you, she’ll come to you. She lives in a small but luxurious cottage close but far enough from the main manor, that she never sees my brother. She basically treats my brother like a prized bull. A healer collects what is needed for her to conceive. She has never slept with my brother. It was part of the contractual arrangement. She has a Consort. She's a ladder climber, pretty, and spoiled.”

     “Thank you, Countess. I do have a few other questions?”

     “Go ahead.”

     “Your brother is still a virgin?”

     “Yes, he’s never been with a woman. Interested in love and having a family, yes. Women tend to fear him. They don’t understand his gift.”

     “Ok, his household servants fear or respect him?”

     “Respect and love him.”

     “If I stay, will you want to have updates from me?”

     “Updates?”

     “I was told about his promise to try a Consort Mistress if she could handle all of him. So do you want me to keep you informed on what’s been going on?”

     “You wouldn’t mind?”

     “Countess, I have no issues meeting and updating you. But keep in mind; you may not get a lot of details. I don’t want to overstep my boundaries as a Consort but updates have been done by others, and Consorts are trained how to balance the fine line of information.”

     “Oh, I see. Whatever you decide to tell me is fine. That’s the manor up there.” Cassia took in the large home and the surrounding estate. She assumed the wife’s home was off toward the back.

     The Countess made sure she was settled in and left her to her own devices.

***

     Cassia wandered around the manor, getting to know every nook and cranny, turn, and straight hallway. Where rooms were and what they were used for. The place had a large library, gymnasium, a few guest rooms, servant quarters, garden, swimming pool, among other things.

     She met the servants, who were a bit apprehensive of her. She was used to that and she figured they thought she’d be gone by tomorrow, so be polite but don’t pursue a more intimate relationship. But unlike the other Consorts, she had an Ace up her sleeve. She understood Dragons, and she understood beasts in general, she was gifted as red wolf after all.

     It was full moon, and Cassia, went for a stroll through the garden. Full moons seemed to bring out her wolf more and she needed to be outside, even if it was a leisurely stroll under the stars. She headed back in and her inner wolf had sensed a stalker. The Lord of the manor had returned. Cassia had to fight to keep the urge to attack the stalker. As a Dragon he would test her. Show his inner beast, the complete Dragon. Dragons wanted an equal mate, not a submissive one. In the wild, they would stalk a potential mate, and see if she would hold her ground, or flee.

     She was about to turn a corner and head up the walkway to the manor, when he made his move. He slammed her gently against the wall that bordered the walkway to the manor. He didn’t want to hurt her, and he could have easily bruised her back or even broken bones when he shoved her into the wall. To his surprise, Cassia, took a deep breath. Not to calm herself, but her inner wolf down. She glanced up at him. Not maintaining eye contact. Even Wolf understood that this was the Dragon’s territory and picking a fight with him was a bad idea.
     He waited for her to go screaming into the night. She didn’t move or even twitch a muscle. He eased up, and backed off. Cassia kept her eyes adverted toward the ground, occasionally looking up to track his movements.

     “Looks like my sister has won. Welcome to my home, Cassia.” He stormed off toward the garden. He wasn’t angry about his sister, or her. His Dragon side was upset that a Wolf wouldn’t cower in fear of him. The Dragon was confused. All predators quaked in his wake, but for some reason this wolf wouldn’t. Cassia, survived the first test. She wasn’t naïve to not think more tests of some sort would be coming her way in one form or another in the future. This Dragon had been hurt before, and he would be more protective over his heart now.

    Cassia’s wolf was intrigued, as she was with him. She wanted to get to know him better. She knew that wasn’t going to be easy. The key to getting the Dragon to open up would be his sister. Cassia and she were going to definitely being seeing each other for more than updates, if she was to have a chance at breaking the walls around his heart.

***

     Cassia was up early. She grabbed an apple, just enough to get her going on her morning run. She always felt free when she ran. Her wolf loved it. It was as close to the hunt, as she could get. She did tell the butler, Magnus, where she was going. As a Consort, she had certain freedoms, but someone in the household needed to know where she was going and when she expected to be back, which was an estimate at times.

      Cassia returned a half an hour before breakfast. Enough time to take a shower and change clothes. She checked back in with Magnus, and headed to her room. Before she made to her door, the Dragon spotted her. The Warlord Prince enjoyed a morning swim. Cassia couldn’t help but notice the water glistening off his bare skin. Thankfully, he swam in a pair of short pants. She kept her gaze up toward his face.

     “Cassia, my sister will meet you soon after breakfast. I have given access to her, from the Consort account. She can act as my proxy. Get whatever you need. Thank you for telling Magnus where you going.” He headed to his room, and Cassia, went into hers and took a shower.

     When she emerged from her room she was wearing a pair of soft cream pants, with a pale white tunic shirt. She had her sandals on. Her hair was loosely pulled back with a white ribbon. A few loose strands framed her face, drawing a bit of attention to her eyes.

     The dragon had a large appetite but so did Cassia. A faster metabolism came with some of the gifts, and the dragon and wolf were two of those. Cassia, kept her gaze adverted from the dragon. She had perfect manners, and complimented the cook on the meal. She even helped clean up. The dragon was watching and trying to figure this enigma of a woman out. She had started to awaken something in him, something primal, yet pure. He had to be sure.

     Soon the countess arrived and Cassia was sure this shopping experience was going to enlighten the Countess.

     “My brother sounded a bit disgruntled when he called me earlier. Care to enlighten me on what happened?”

     “I met the Dragon. Held my ground. Now I got him confused and he’ll have to deal with that. He doesn’t understand why I didn’t run. A Dragon is the top predator, not the wolf. I’ve sparked his interest. He was studying me at breakfast, Countess.”

     “Please call me Valeria.”

     “Alright, Valeria.”

     “Now what do you need in your room?” Valeria pulled out a small notebook.

     “A small desk, small table, a couple of chairs, wardrobe, a small vanity, or floor length mirror. A couple of bookshelves or wall shelves.”

     “Sounds like you have given this some thought. Mistress Bella told me you have a consort account. Enough money to get some extras for your wardrobe, and other things. But I want to cover normal wardrobe and toiletries, and such.”

     “Alright.”  The women ordered the furniture first. It would be delivered in the morning. Then Cassia got a decent wardrobe dresses for different occasions as well as shirts and pants. Then the educating of the Countess would begin. After normal toiletries, such as hair ribbons, soap, and tooth brush. Cassia took over the shopping locales.

     “Valeria, does your brother having any scents he dislikes?”

     “Anything too strong.” Cassia couldn’t help but smile.

     “I completely understand that. It’s the heightened sense of smell. But otherwise, nothing else that you know of.”

     “Right.”

     “Okay. Could I borrow the pencil and a piece of paper?” Valeria gave her the pencil and tore a piece of paper from the notebook. Cassia made a list of flowers. She then made an order for several different perfumes, and bath oils.

     “Any colors he likes?”

     “Feminine. Softer, lighter shades.”

     “Ok. Let’s get some nail polish shades.” Valeria helped her pick some colors; Cassia also added a deep red to the mix. Then she took Valeria lingerie shopping. She even got Valeria to loosen up and buy a more conservative but sexy satin gown.

     Cassia bought several different types of lingerie. She bought a knee length conservative black satin on, similar to Valeria. A mid thigh, bustier style, cream satin one, a similar bustier style, mid thigh, in red lace, and a mid thigh, more conservative top style in a soft pink. She also bought garters and stockings to match each one.

     She also bought a few pieces of jewelry due to Valeria’s prompting, to add to her wardrobe. Valeria also insisted on a few other items for her and the room. A jewelry box, a library starter set of books of her favorites, so she could have her own copies. Basic desk supplies, matching accessories for the bathroom, and a set of linens and pillows for the bed. Even a flower vase. By the end of the next day, Cassia felt at home. Valeria even secretly added a painting for the room, one of a red mountain wolf howling at the full moon. Mountain wolves are just shy of the height of the pony, so the painting was an eye catcher to say the least. Valeria obviously wanted to be friends with Cassia and Cassia liked her. Plus, a friendship, with her would be nice. Household servants may stay wary of her and her wolf craved a pack of some sort. Some companionship and a female friend was a good start.

   Cassia had a few boxes stacked on each other, some things that were set from her family. Cassia wasn’t the typical Consort. She was allowed to contact her family, and them her. Though her small communication tablet was monitored, to ensure she was just communicating with family.

     Cassia could just barely see above the boxes when she turned the corner and nearly ran over one of the maids. The boxes hit the ground and the load of linens the maid was carrying hit the floor, sliding all over the place.

     “I’m so sorry.” Cassia said as she began to pick up some towels. The maid couldn’t have been older than fifteen or sixteen.

     “I’m Cassia. You must Neela.” The shy girl looked up her, and slowly offered her hand to shake.

     “I’ve heard about you. You work part time after school, to help your father out. That takes a lot of courage. When I was a bit younger than you my father died. I had five younger siblings, with another coming in a few months. My mother did some sewing but could only do that part time. We did get a bit of money after my father died, the rest of his soldiers share. My older brother and I went to find work. He helped the fisherman with their nets, and unloading the days catch. They even gave him some fish as part of his payment. He would only be able to help out for another year, before he had required soldier training, since he would be eighteen. I worked at a nearby pleasure house, helping to sweep, do laundry, and other odd and end jobs. When I was a few months from turning sixteen, a lot of men started to notice me. I heard things, about people who would sell themselves to be a Consort or Pleasure slave. I talked it over with my mother, after I talked to the house Mistress. She made a deal, I would begin training, to a certain extent. Continue my schooling, and working for her, and when I was eighteen, I would finish my Consort training. My mother agreed, when she knew we could keep in touch. The house mistress kept one percent of my sell price, and my siblings and mother haven’t had to worry as much about new clothes, and food.” Cassia and Neela had been refolding the linens, while she talked.

     “If you ever need any help with anything, or just someone to talk to. I’m here. I just wanted you to know you’re not alone. You really are doing a brave thing.” She helped Neela stand up and handed her the now restacked basket.

      “I really am sorry.”

      “That’s alright. They are right. You’re not that scary.” Cassia smiled, as Neela continued on her way. Little did either of them know but Cassian had heard the boxes fall, and had headed toward the sound, when he heard the two females talking. He didn’t want to interrupt but didn’t leave either. He heard Cassia’s story, and it caused his wall to weaken, just a bit.

     After Cassia made sure Neela’s load was able to be safely carried, she went to find Magnus. She had been told that he was in charge of the house, and the man was the only way to meet with The Warlord Prince. Magnus was nice enough to her.

     “Magnus, could I take a moment of your time?” Magnus looked up from the bread he was cutting.

     “Go on.”

     “You’re familiar with my contract. I’m assuming.” Cassia asked as she pulled a stool up to the counter.

     “I am. I know you have contact your family, and you have a small account in your name, under the guardianship of Mistress Bella, which has now been switched to the Warlord Prince of Viperion. You make extra money by mixing a few perfumes, massage oils, the like. You want to know if you can have access to the garden.” Magnus eyes twinkle with a bit of amusement.

     “It would be easier if I could.”

     “I don’t know what’s out there, but I know that my wife wouldn’t mind you taking some plants. I talked to her earlier.”

     “No wonder he left you in charge.”

     “Olive doesn’t have the garden catalogued. And the Warlord knows a good thing when he sees it. Sometimes, it takes him a while to warm up.” It was obvious Magnus knew something but Cassia knew it would be futile to get him to open up.

     “Thank you.” Magnus smiled and went back to cutting the bread loaf. Cassia went to her room and picked up an electronic recorder that also took pictures. She then went to look at the garden. For a while she was alone with her work. Then she heard footsteps and looked up.

     “Well, so this is the exotic whore my husband has decided to buy. “ Cassia knew it was only a matter of time before she ran into the wife.

     “Princess, nice to finally meet you.” Cassia was not going to let her goad her into confrontation.

     “What do you get to bed my husband? Oh, wait, nothing, because you’re just a Pleasure girl.” Cassia smiled showing a little fang. The Princess stepped back just slightly.

     “Enjoy your walk, and may the child be healthy and strong.” Cassia’s wolf could smell the change in hormones.

     “Into gossip too, figures you’d get your entertainment from such people.”

     “If you’ll excuse me.” Cassia said while putting her recorder up in its carry pouch. The princess blocked her path. Cassia let some of her wolf top the surface. The princess moved out the way.

     “You’re nothing to him, just a bed warmer.” She hollered at Cassia as she headed back to the manor.

     One of the ground guards saw and heard everything. Cassia held her composure pretty well. She wasn’t the kind to cry, but words can and do hurt.

     “Cassia, slow down, please.” The guard said. Cassia slowed down and the guard caught up.

     “Usually, she avoids the garden. He likes to stroll through there. She probably heard you were there and ambushed you. You alright?”

     “I’ll live.”

     “How did you know about the baby? He just found out.”

     “Pregnant women have a certain smell that my wolf can pick up on, like a dragon, or cat.”

     “Ah, mind if I walk you back. She might try for round two, she has before.”

     “Thanks, Akland.”

***

     A few days passed, and Cassia felt more at home. She and Cassian still did their dance. He had no idea how much he had affected Cassia and her inner wolf. What Cassia didn’t know was Cassian was just as affected as she was. In fact, he finally, had the nerve to go see his sister. It was time to admit Cassia had enthralled him and he wanted to know more.

     “So she has sparked your interest, brother.” Valeria couldn’t help but smile.

     “What do you know about her?”

     “You could try a little thing called discourse with her.”

     “Val.” He had slight growl in his voice when he said it.

     “Fine, since you’re so stubborn. But first tell me what changed your view of her.”

     “When I overheard her talking to Neela, about how she became a Consort.”

     “Spying on her.”

     “I heard a yelp of surprise and a crash of something on the floor, down the hall, and I went to investigate and overheard Cassia and Neela talking.”

     “So you’re spying on her.”

     “Curiosity got the best of me. Please, tell me what you know. I know you read her Consort file.”

     “Her uncle is the only living relative by blood. Her parents died when she was a few weeks old. She was adopted by a family of non-gifted Mountain folk. Her Uncle helped the family in raising her though. He had the wolf gift. She has some healer training, usual for Pleasure House incidents, and a bit above that. She makes massage oils, perfumes, and such things for extra cash. That was in her contract information.”

     “Yes, I read that, mentioned it to Magnus who talked to his wife, and now she has access to what she needs to continue to make money. I also know once a month a portion of her account gets transferred to what I assume is her family’s account.”

     “Yes. That’s all. Besides she’s pleasant to be with. Friendly.”

     “What has she said about me?”

     “I should have known you would find out.”

     “I have a reputation to keep, sister. “

     “You’re brusque when you talk to her. You’re studying her. She catches you watching her. You don’t go out of the way to avoid her, but don’t go out of your way to talk to her, like you do with your other household servants. I think it hurts her a bit, but I think she knows that she has to accept that. Yes, brother, she observes too.”

     “I’ll try to be a tad nicer.”

     “I think she’d like it sincerely or not at all.”

     “No promises.”

     “Alright. No pressure. Just don’t make her too miserable.”

     “That I Promise you, I won’t do. I’ll see you tomorrow for dinner?”

     “Of course, Cassian.”

     “Till then, Valeria.”

***

     The Warlord Prince had no idea what he was going to walk into when he came back home. The wife he rarely saw was being guarded by his men. His Consort Mistress, had her fangs bared, and was being held back by two of his strongest guards, barely held back. He recognized that Cassia was gone and the wolf was present. Neela had a cold cloth pressed to her cheek. It took Cassian two seconds to put two and two together, and every ounce of self control he had to keep the dragon under control.

     As soon as he was close enough to be heard, The Warlord Prince, tempered his temper and became The Dragon of Viperion.

     “Enough.” His wife tried to speak but one look from Cassian and she quickly became quiet. He walked up to Neela, and a short whispered conversation confirmed what Cassian suspected. Next he approached Cassia and the two guards.

     “Wolf.” If Cassia had pointed ears on top of her head, they would have been attention. That voice said alpha. Wolf knew to settle down. She kept her eyes just downcast enough not to challenge, but not completely submissive either.

     “Look at me.” Cassia did.

     “Neela is mine to protect. Not yours. But I appreciate your concern. Go and take care of her. I will make sure justice is served. Let her go.” The guards let Cassia go and she went to get Neela, but not before she gave once last glare at the princess.

     “If you’ll excuse me and my wife gentleman.” All the guards left. As soon as they were out of ear shot, Cassian gently grabbed his wife’s arm to ensure eye contact.

     “How you treat your slaves is your business. Neela is a paid servant. She is under my employ. More importantly she is under my protection. This is the only warning you get, touch any one under my protection and you will regret it, Princess. Don’t test me. By the way, Cassia was letting those guards hold her. I’m willing to bet she was only being cooperative because you’re pregnant, not because of protocol. Pack animals have their own protocol. Listen closely, Princess. This time you were lucky. Next time, you may not be. Cassia may not have been here long, but she has begun to make this her home, and to her Wolf, the people who live and work her are becoming part of her pack. She knows I’m the alpha, here. It’s my territory. Something you seem to forget when it inconveniences you. Law says that her healer bills, and a week of pay, are required. Out of your personal finances, no later than tomorrow. Understood.” She meekly nodded her head. She wasn’t stupid, arrogant yes, stupid no.

     “Dismissed.” Cassian headed toward the gardens to cool off, and do some thinking. Cassia was getting to him, bit by bit, and it scared him. He hadn’t realized that she was forming a pack, thinking of his territory as her home. Part of him wondered if she would ever see him as her mate. He quickly dismissed that thought.

     Cassia took Neela to her room. She had a healer’s bag in the bathroom. She grabbed a washcloth and the bag stored on a shelf above the sink. Neela had taken a seat by the table, and after putting the bag and washcloth on the table, Cassia pulled a nearby chair out, and placed it in front of Neela. She had a thoughtful look on her face.

     Cassia took a vial of liquid and a small box with a powdery substance in it. Cassia then grabbed the small bowl on the table and mixed the liquid and powder into a paste, and put that paste on the washcloth. She then handed it to Neela.

     “Press this on your cheek.” Neela did as she was told.

     “You’re like him.”

     “What?” Cassia was now putting the extra poultice into a box.

     “The Warlord Prince. When I first came here, he scared me. You did too. But I learned to see through the eyes, to see the person underneath. You were trying to protect me, like he does. The beast isn’t scary, unless you’re the one the anger is pointed at. It took me a while to understand that.”

     “Hmmm. Really. Interesting.” Cassia slid the box over to Neela.

      “Rub it on to the before your go to bed and wash it off with warm water in the morning. Once the bruise is completely faded, and gone you can stop using it. I have some makeup cover up you can use to hide the bruise.”

     “Thank you.”

     “Not a problem. I’ll go get it, and then your brother should be here to walk you home.” Cassia got the makeup and showed Neela how to apply it, and like clockwork, Magnus came to get her, her brother had arrived.

     “Neela, I’d like to meet him sometime.”

     “Alright. Soon.” Neela said goodbye and headed out.

     “Could I have a word with you?” Magnus asked. He was standing in the doorway.

     “Come in.” Magnus halfway closed the door, it would be improper for a man to be in a closed room with a woman who wasn’t his wife, or relative.

     “And I thought he was a handful.”

     “I’m sorry about how I handled things out there.”

     “Don’t apologize. I know you let those guards handle you. Don’t ever apologize for doing what any good person would have done. You forget that I understand better than anyone here, what having a gift of the beast really is.” When Cassia had first arrived, Magnus had told her that his family had served the household for generations. He had grown up, with the Warlord Prince.

     “So if you’re not scolding me, then what?”

     “There’s someone you need to meet. He’ll be here tomorrow, when the Prince is at the Trades Guild meeting. Dress nicely. You’ll understand when you meet him tomorrow. Cassia, you handle yourself well. See you at dinner.” Magnus left. Cassia pulled out the small communicator she had and dialed home. Her mother answered. She had obviously been out in the garden. Her hair was coming loose, and she had overalls on.

     “I know that look, you need to talk.” Cassia filled her in on what had happened earlier.

     “But what scares me, is a part of me wanted to challenge her for him. I’ve never felt that way before anyone.”

     “You’ve never had a typical life. But I know that Mountain Wolves, as well, as people can be drawn to someone, in a way they never expected. Tread carefully. But I know your Uncle would tell you trust your wolf. From what you’ve told me, The Prince, seems like a good man.”

     “He surprises me. The more I discover about him, the more I want to be with him.”

     “The heart is fragile but it’s worth the risk. I want you to be happy, you know that, right?”

     “I know. But you don’t want me to get hurt either.”

     “Good. I love you.”

    “I love you too.”

    “Is Uncle, I mean Dad around.” Her adopted mother and blood uncle had recently married. Cassia, was trying out Dad. He was always like a second father to her.

     “I’ll get him. Talk to you soon?”

     “Of course. Love you.”

     “Love you.” Her mom blew a kiss. A few moments later and a man that looked a bit like Cassia filled the screen.

     “Little cub, how may I help you.”

     “I just can’t call you to say hi.”

     “You could, but the gleam in your eye says something else.”

     “I do have something to talk about.” Cassia caught him up on everything.

     “Your mom really can surprise me at how well she knows me. Now what do you need?”

     “I wanted to give a gift for the Prince’s baby.”

     “What did you have in mind?”

     “I was thinking a mobile for the crib, with four animals, a dragon of course, a desert hound, saber cat, and a desert horse.”

     “I can do that. I’ll send it to you when it’s done. Talk to you soon. Love you, cub.”

     “Love you, too.” Cassia blew him a kiss, and then as soon as her uncle turned off his monitor, Cassia, did the same and put the communicator back in its case.ragon, one wolf, one desert hound, and one desert cat., what hav

***

     The next day Cassia, wore a simple deerskin tunic style dress, with a pair of light brown sandals. Her face had subtle makeup on it. Her hair was pulled back in a simple but tight braid. Magnus approved of her choice. Soon the mystery guest arrived. One look and Cassia could see the Viperion was the Former Warlord Prince, Cassian’s father.

     “You must be Cassia.” He offered his hand for her to shake and she took it.

     “Care to walk with me?”

     “The garden is free of prying ears this time of day.” He smiled. His daughter was right about her, she reads between the lines, well.

     “Let’s go there, then.” He held the front door open for her, she stepped outside and for a brief moment shut her eyes and breathed in the outdoor scent and let the sunshine touch her face.

     “When you’re ready Cassia.”

     “Sorry, sir.”

     “Don’t be. Cassian does the same thing.” They headed to the garden.

     “I’m sure you’re wondering why I came to meet you.”

     “To be honest, you were the last person I thought of who wanted to see me.”

     “Magnus didn’t tell you. For the record, he could have.”

     “So what can do for you?”

     “I was curious. Wanted to meet you in person. Valencia talks about you a lot. She likes you. My son likes you; he just doesn’t realize it yet.” Cassia had a surprised look on her face.

     “You’ve managed to get under his skin. Very few women have done that, not including his sister.”

      “I knew I sparked his curiosity. Valencia told me he asked her about me. Can I be frankly honest with you?”

     “Of course.”

     “I’m sure you know my consort history?”

     “Yes. You became one to help your family. So you wouldn’t have much experience with traditional courting and love.”

     “Exactly.”

     “So…”

     “Your son has stirred something in my wolf. More than curiosity, but it’s hard to explore these feelings when your son goes out of his way to avoid me.”

     “You’ve told Valencia this?”

     “Yes, I have. But she’s not even sure how to manipulate events without getting caught.”

     “I have an idea. I’ll talk to Magnus. You’ve passed his test, so I’m sure he and I can figure a way to allow you to have an accidental meeting or two.” He had a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

     “I’ll let you know when plans are finalized. I’ll leave you here. I need to check on my daughter-in-law. I heard what happened. Magnus updated me. You did what any one with a shred of decency, and nobility would have done, and you kept yourself in check. A mark of a good person with an animal gift.” He gently squeezed her shoulder and headed toward the princesses home.

***

     He stood by the river’s edge, he was topless. A slight sheen of sweat made his skin glisten. He stretched, the tensing of his muscles made her shiver, ever slightly. He kicked his boots off. Then he took off his belt and let it fall from his hand and land on the grass near his feet. Then he seductively shook his hips ever so slightly, as he pushed his pants, slowly down his thighs. Once he pushed the pants down far enough, they slid down his toned legs, and puddle at his feet. He slipped his feet out of the puddle and looked over his shoulder, a mischievously wicked grin plastered on his face. He headed toward the nearby water fall. When he was standing underneath the water fall, he turned around. The water made his skin sparkle in the sunlight. He crooked his finger and beckoned her to join him. She did. She wrapped her arms around his neck and their lips met in a passionate kiss. He grabbed one of her bare legs, and pulled it up to his hip. Her other leg soon followed.

     Cassia woke up with a start. Her skin was flushed. Her heart was beating fast. She was filled with desire. This was the fourth time that night she had awaken from such dreams. These types of dreams weren’t uncommon to her. She was in heat, which made them more commonly occurring. That wasn’t what bothered her. It was the man that kept haunting those dreams, which frightened her. Usually, the men remained varied. Generic representations of men, or men she had seen or met. But rarely were there repeat dream visits. But now one man, the Dragon Warlord Prince, kept visiting her dreams. She wasn’t afraid of risking her heart, she was afraid that these dreams would be the closest she ever got to being in love with someone, with him.

     Since the princess had carried her pregnancy far enough along, that it was considered safe to assume she would carry to term, that preparations for a nursery in the main manor had begun. The future prince or princess wouldn’t live all the time in the main manor but would stay there at least one week a month, if the child wasn’t gifted with the dragon. Otherwise, her highness had stated that she wanted nothing to do with the child, it was in her contract.

     When Cassia was in heat, she did her best to avoid single or unmarried males of the adult age. Married men smelled taken to her wolf, so the drive to mate was mellowed down around them. Though Magnus and Cassian’s father, had succeeded in Cassia and Cassian have chance encounters, he knew when she was in heat, and did his best to avoid her. As a Dragon, he only went into rut once to twice a year, but Cassia in heat tended to bring out a bit more of the beast within him.

     When Cassia went into heat, which was a mild form monthly, and the more animalistic once to twice a year, she used herbal teas to help relax and take some of the edge off. Being busy helped, the more physical, the better. The more tired she was, the less of a mate drive.

     Magnus was working in the nursery. Cassia’s gift had arrived and she knew the crib had just been finished. So she took her mobile to the nursery. She knocked on the door, it was partially closed. Her nose knew he was in the room, but so were Neela, Olive, and Magnus. Her drive would be sedated in a pack setting.

     “Come in.” Magnus said. Cassia tentatively opened the door.

     “I just wanted to drop this off for the baby.” Neela took the mobile.

     “It’s beautiful.” Olive said. Neela handed it to Magnus to attach to the crib.

     “Well crafted. Thank you. Perfect for a boy or girl and I do love the dragon.” Cassian said.

     “My Uncle made it. You’re welcome. Its clan tradition to give a gift to someone expecting a baby, a way of welcoming the coming new member.” Cassia said before hearing Valeria call for her.

     “I better go. I’m glad you like it.” Cassia slightly bowed in respect before leaving the room. Though she had learned that formality for the most part, was lax in the manor, once one was considered part of the extended family, Cassia, found it hard to always be informal.

     “I just have to grab my case of goods. He liked it.” Cassia said as she headed down the hall to grab the oils and teas she had made to sell.

     “See, worried about nothing.” Valencia said as Cassia returned in the hallway with her large case. Over a couple of months, the two had become close friends.

     “So, what’s new?” Valencia asked as the two headed to the coach. To ensure if anyone accidentally overheard the conversation between the two, Cassia, started her update about her life first, then later the news concerning Cassian.

     “So he does at least hold brief conversations now with you, over a sentence or two. Well, that’s a definite improvement.” Valencia said.

     “It is, but he does his best not to be alone with me, when it’s safe for us to be alone.” Valencia understood she was referring to being in heat.

     “I’ve seen a change in him, subtle but there. Give him time. Stubbornness runs in my family, especially with the males.” Valencia didn’t know how much that revelation met to her.

***

     The manor was bustling. Final preparations for the nursery were being made. Baby supplies put in their proper places: blankets, diapers, toys, etc.  In case she was needed, a nurse maid had been hired, for now she had temporary quarters, and was guaranteed a month pay if she wasn’t needed. For now, she kept to herself, mostly.

     That night, the Warlord Prince gained a son. He would be the fifth in his family line to have the gift of the dragon. Within the hour, the child was bathed and examined, healthy. He was then bundled up and sent over to his father, and he would hardly ever see his mother again.

     Cassian didn’t leave the nursery until he knew that Braden was sound asleep. Cassian didn’t sleep much that night. He got up several times to check on his sleeping son. Cassia, heard him every time, even though he was careful not to be loud.

     In the morning, Cassian made the contract arrangements for the nurse maid, as well as moving arrangements for her. Then Cassian had to see his wife and finalize contract arrangements for her, and decide what to do with the nursery things, unless, she had a change of heart.

     She didn’t have a change of heart. Cassian made arrangements for the nursery supplies that he couldn’t use, he donated to families that could. He wouldn’t admit it, but part of him hoped she would want to be a part of her son’s life. He couldn’t figure out how a person could carry a living, breathing, person inside for nine months, and not want that child. He vowed to make sure that his son would always know that he was wanted and loved, like his father, was and is.

     It took a few days, for life to adjust to having a baby around. But soon everyone got use to the new schedule, and newest member of the family. Even the nurse maid, Lilia, became a bit friendlier to everyone; she was just a bit shy.

***

     Cassia awoke to the sound of thunder followed by a flash of lightning that lit up her room. She always had trouble sleeping during storms; it drove her mother near mad on occasion when she was a baby. She wasn’t the only one.

     Cassia, grabbed the robe off the nearby chair. And hastily put it on over her slim sleeved, long nightgown. She ignored the slippers, and quickly left her room for the nursery.

     Lilia, was trying everything she could to get the Prince to fall back asleep. Nothing was working. Olive was with her. Cassia knocked on the door. Olive opened it. Both women looked exasperated.

     “He’s not hungry. Rocking doesn’t help.” Lilia said, the prince in her arms, wailing away.

     “Is there anything in this room that his father has used a lot?” Olive picked up the blanket from the rocker and handed it to Cassia.

     “Where is he?” She asked as Cassia took the young Prince from Lilia, and wrapped him in the blanket. She began to walk around the room with him.

     “Horses were upset. I heard him and Magnus head out side to check on them.” Cassia said, while she continued to walk around the room, gently bouncing the little prince up and down.

     “Dragons and Wolves aren’t like Vipers. They don’t dig a hole into the ground, and hide from the storm.” The prince was still upset, but not as loud, He was slowly settling down.

     “How?” Olive asked.

     “He knows his father’s smell. Scent is calming to those of the non-viper animal gifts. Some can sleep during a storm, other don’t. I didn’t. I still have trouble with it.” Cassia looked down at the little bundle in her arms; his eyes were wide open, glistening with curiosity. She smiled at the child.

     “My mother used to tell me a story when I couldn’t sleep. She couldn’t sing well, so lullabies were out of the question. I think we should try the story first.” Cassia heard the front door quietly open. She took a deep breath, and began her tale.

     “Once a long time ago there was a young dragon who unlike his brothers and sisters wanted to leave home and see the world. So one day he decided to leave home. He traveled far and wide. He found it hard to make friends because everyone he met was afraid of him because he was dragon. One day he was walking through the mountains, when he heard a strange howl. He decided to investigate. He came upon a clearing and found a mountain wolf whose paw had become caught in a rope snare. To his surprise when he approached the wolf wasn’t scared of him. The wolf let the dragon help get him out of the snare and they became friends. The wolf had learned to look at the inside of the person, and not what they looked like.” Cassian entered the room. He had been eavesdropping on the story. Olive and Lilia bowed and left the room.

     “I didn’t mean to overstep any boundaries. He was having trouble sleeping during the storm. Lilia and Olive needed a hand.” Cassian took Braden from Cassia.

     “I never had storm sleep trouble. You didn’t overstep. You’re part of the family here. You stepped in to help. Braden and I are lucky to have you in our lives. I think he finally wore himself out.” Cassian laid his son in the crib and the two of them stepped out of the room. Leaving only the dim lantern on. Cassian left the door cracked. Olive and Lilia were in the kitchen making tea.

     “Do you have any suggestions on what I can do to help him during storms?” Cassian asked as they sat on a couple of chairs that Magnus had moved closer to the nursery.

     “My Uncle used lavender. He put a plant in my room I was little. If he doesn’t like the smell, I could try jasmine, and chamomile. If all else fails, I could make scented oil and try those with a little vanilla.”

     “Thank you. Cassia, feel free to help out with Braden whenever you want to.” Olive gave them both a cup of tea. They gratefully, listened to the storm and sat in silence. Eventually, they all headed off to bed. As she lay in bed, Cassia realized that Cassian trusted her enough with his son and considered her family. For now, she would accept that, hoping someday it would be I love you.

***

     A few days had passed since the storm and Cassia had just returned from the garden, and Cassian approached her.

     “Could I have a word with you?” He asked, as Cassia put a basket of picked herbs on the table for Magnus.

     “Of course.” He led her to the office and the door was left cracked enough for anyone passing by to hear or see what was going on.

     “I’ve been doing some talking with my parents and they agree with my decision. I’ve seen how Braden looks at you. How much you care for him. I was hoping you’ll say yes to be his guardian if anything should happen to me. You understand him, better than my parents can. So.”

     “I know his mother gave up her rights to raising him, but in case of your death, she still maintains her rights on what happens to Braden.”

     “You know your contracts.”

     “Anything that could affect the master of the house, can affect the consort mistress. So I know your arrangement details.”

     “I’ve already talked to her highness. She’s not pleased but she did give up her parental rights, and couldn’t suggest an appropriate alternative. All I need is your signature, and it’s done.” He set the contract in front of her. She picked up a nearby pen and signed the paper. No regrets or second thoughts. She loved Braden, and wanted what was best for him.

     “Thank you.” Cassian picked up the contract and attached his royal house seal at the right hand bottom of the contract, under Cassia’s signature.

     “Now it’s official.” Cassian said while picking up the contract and placing it in an envelope. He and Cassia then left the office.

***

     A week since Cassia had signed the papers. Neela and Cassia were returning home from a trip to the market place. It was one of those rare times that Neela actually stayed at the manor. It was part of the hiring contract, that when her family had to go out of town for trade reasons, that Neela would stay at the manor.

     It was early evening; the sun was just going down, Cassia’s wolf prickled. Someone was watching them. Cassia, focused her nose on picking up on scents, and weeding out the normal smells, and focusing on what doesn’t fit. Her ears were doing the same things with the sounds in the area.

     Cassia, gave Neela the signal, that all the household had been taught, that something was wrong. Neela, headed toward the manor at a brisk pace, after telling Cassia, she realized she was running late, and her brother would be here soon escort her home.

     Cassia’s wolf senses picked up on the slight movement of a bush. Not many people knew that Cassia had been trained by some of the best soldiers in the land. Cassia knew she had to keep calm and play dumb. Hopefully, Neela would find help quickly, and this person wouldn’t try to go after her. Cassia wasn’t lucky.

     The man behind the bush leaped out and grabbed Neela. Once he knocked her to the ground, he looked surprised. Neela, screamed at the top of her lungs, and then took her finger nails and clawed at the man’s face and eyes as she had been taught, the whole time wailing away.

     Cassia ran and jumped on the man, at an angle, knocking him off of Neela. She rolled off him, and grabbed the dagger she had concealed in her boot. She faced her attacker. He smiled wickedly. He recognized his target. She must have let the other one, borrow her cloak and cowl. He charged.

     Neela’s screams had brought Cassian and several others from the household running outside. Magnus went to Neela’s side. Cassia and the attacker were one blur locked in hand to hand combat. Cassia, didn’t hesitate when the opportunity arrived. She stabbed her opponent in the stomach. She was only able to get deep enough to get him to back off, but with proper and immediate care, he would survive. When he went down, he scratched Cassia. The poison was strong and she went down seconds after he did, into Cassian’s arms.

     “Keep him alive.” He told a nearby guard. Another had run off for the healer. Cassian looked down at the attacker. The Dragon had completely surfaced.

     “She better survive. Or I guarantee you I will make sure you wish you were dead.” He gently picked up Cassia, and brought her to his room. The healer told the guards what to do, to slow the bleeding. He went to check on Cassia first.

     The healer recognized the poison. He quickly administered the antidote.

     “The toxin moves fast. But given her animal gift, Mountain wolves have a better tolerance with poisons. The antidote was administered quickly, so chances are good she’ll survive. It’s the after effects I’m concerned about.”

     “Such as?”

     “It could ruin her chances of having a child. Weaken her endurance by making it harder for her to breath, or weaken muscles. She may get lucky. Time will tell. She’ll run a fever for a while. A damp washcloth will help with that. She’ll most likely be out for a day or two, maybe a few more. There’s nothing more I can do, I’ll check on her daily. As for the prisoner, I’ll make sure he sees tomorrow. If you’ll excuse me Warlord Prince.” Cassian moved out the way, and the healer left the room.

     The prisoner survived and a deal was made, if he confessed to who hired him, he wouldn’t be put in prison and possibly executed if Cassia died. He would be exiled, given one day to leave the region. Exile, was the choice he wanted. When the truth came out, Cassian was furious. The local head of the judge tribunal followed him. They had evidence. The hired thug was no fool.

     “I never took you for a fool.” Cassian said to his wife. Two guards had also followed them to the cottage.

     “Was she such a threat to you? Stay quiet. It’s my term to speak.” The dragon glared at the princess.

     “Your hired thug wasn’t a fool. He gave us proof of your betrayal. I gave you prestige, rank, wealth. I never asked for your heart, never asked you to share my bed, not even a kiss. All you had to do was give me an heir, and make an appearance when needed. You have your consort. I made sure you had enough to live the way you wanted, gave you your own house. Then Cassia comes along, and something switches in you. You’re jealous. How did she threaten you? You are by law my wife, not her. We have never shared a bed. Cassia, better survive or you’ll wish that you were dead. Before you arrest her, and her Consort, I want a word with her." Her eyes got big.

     “Oh, we know of his involvement too. Thug wasn’t an idiot, dear.” The last word he spat out with obvious hatred.

     “Before you arrest her, tell me why?” She glared at him. The dragon returned that stare, with a wicked grin that said don’t push me.

     “I hated her. You shouldn’t be happy. I wanted to put you on guard, test your defenses, in the end get to you and kill you, and that monster of a child. Inherit everything. Marry the man I love and we rule together.”

     “Take her away. I never want to see her face again.” The guards took her and her Consort out to a nearby waiting coach. According to their arrangement, due to her betrayal, her family lost any wealth she had obtained while being his wife. They also lost ten percent of all their wealth, which would be given to him. As of tomorrow, a simple signature on an official document would make their arrangement null and void. He would no longer be married to her.

     The tribunal met that night. Until it was clear if Cassia would survive, the Consort and his Princess would be held in jail. As soon as medically permissible, the thug would be exiled. The paperwork was expedited and before Cassian went to bed, he was a free man and told that by tomorrow, all wealth that was due him would begin to be collected.

     Cassian rarely left Cassia’s side. She was never left alone. If he wasn’t there, Magnus, Neela, Olive, or one of the other of the household was keeping vigil by her bedside. Two days had passed, and during the middle of the night, of the third day, Cassia started to wake up.

     She slowly opened her eyes. The scent in the room was wrong. It took her a moment to realize she wasn’t in her room. She was in his. The only other person, who had ever been in his room, was Magnus. He didn’t have to say those words to her; his actions said everything she needed to know. He brought her to his domain, his very personal territory. He loved her, whether or not he was willing to say it to her or himself.

     Cassian was just waking up himself. He had fallen asleep in the cushioned chair he pulled next to the bed. He stretched that looked over at her.

     “Hi, there.” He said, helping her sit up.

     “How long?”

     “Nearing day four. Do you remember what happened?”

     “Clearly. Neela, all right?”

     “She was shook up, but alright. How do you feel?”

     “Hungry, wanting a shower or bath.”

     “I’ll see what I can do about that, at least the food part. Think the bathing can wait till morning.”

     “I survived this long.”
     “I’ll go get some food together.” He went to the kitchen and made a couple of sandwiches, grabbed a variety of fruit, and a pitcher of milk. While Cassia ate, she got filled on the details of what had happened. She had more money since the Princess would have to pay for her attack on Cassia. The Princess lost all her titles, form birth and marriage. Her family wisely disowned her. Her Consort was exiled. She would be sold into slavery, her choice over life imprisonment. She would be sold out of Viperion.

     The next day the healer came and checked on her. His only concern was that she would have trouble conceiving but it wasn’t impossible. News a bit better than she thought. Cassian had also told her what the healer had told him. Considering what could have happened, she was relieved, for the most part.

     It took her about a week to get back on her feet. During that time, Cassian and Cassia got to really know each other better. He even made sure Braden came to his room for visits while she was recovering. He wasn’t the only visitor. Everyone in the household came to visit her at least once. Any remaining doubt of whether or not she was part of the family here was completely washed away. She knew this was her new home, her new family.

***

     Cassia had been back on her feet for two days. She still had to take it easy, and a lot of the chores she usually helped with, she couldn’t. So she was out taking a walk through the garden enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.

     “So Magnus, what have you found out.”  Cassian said while uncharacteristically pacing the room.

     “Well, in order for Cassia to get the title of Princess, and since you and your previous wife, didn’t share a bed, her virtue would have to be proven as well, as yours, to collaborate that you never shared a bed with your former contractual spouse. I can arrange that. Legally, you can elope using a traveler’s marriage. Then have your official royal ceremony later. All that is required is a tribunal judge or lawyer, to preside over the ceremony, and two other witnesses.”

     “Make the necessary arrangements. I’ll get the bride.” Cassian picked up a small velvet box. Magnus and Cassian left the office and headed to the garden.

     He headed straight toward the center of the garden, where the fountain was located. Cassia, loved lying on the grass under the weeping willow near that fountain. She was there leaning against the tree trunk. Eyes closed, taking in all the scents and sounds around her. She knew he was walking toward her. He had a strong musky order about him, the closer to mating season the more pungent the odor, Cassia loved his smell.

     She opened her eyes, moments after Cassian sat down next to her.

     “Could I steal a few moments of your time?” He asked, while taking the box out of his pants pocket and hiding it behind his back.

     “Of course.” 

     “I have been told I can be stubborn, hard headed, stupid man. It took almost losing you to wake me up. I have been fighting my feelings for you for way too long. I’ve been an idiot. I love you Cassia. You are my Alpha female, my equal, my mate. Will you marry me?” He pulled the box from behind him and opened it. Inside was a simple and traditional mountain engagement ring. It was made out of wood, oak, and had dragon and a wolf lying next to each other. It was polished.

     Cassia smiled. “I would be honored to be your alpha female.” He placed the ring on her finger. Cassian then updated her on his plans, and she agreed. She was going to tell her family, but found out Cassian had asked permission to marry her, so they already knew.

     The two of them spent some more time in the garden then Cassian went to make the finishing touches for the ceremony, he hoped to have that night. Cassia contacted her family and showed off her ring.

     That night, the entire manor household would stand witness for the couple. But before they could get married, purity of both Cassia and Cassian had to be tested. A simple chemical spray called Pure was used. If one wasn’t a virgin, it gave a burning sensation. A female healer tested Cassia and a male healer tested Cassian. Both healers signed the necessary paperwork.

     The ceremony was simple. The groom and bride wore traditional mountain wedding outfits, a simple, long sleeve tunic dress, in ivory, for the bride. The groom, wore an ivory long sleeved shirt, with a lace up front part way down,  black pants, and as the bride wore white boots, the groom wore black, Cassia’s hair was free, a wreath of flowers, a variety of mountain blossoms on her head. Simple vows were exchanged, and they were husband and wife.

     The honey moon would have to wait, but since Cassia had an animal gift, she would bleed her first time, so she wouldn’t have to be retested, after Cassian returned from his rounds down the border. The timing was actually good. Cassia, was healing quickly, but still needed a bit more time before the healer cleared her for intimate behavior.

***

     Cassia knew when Cassian returned he would be on the verge of rutting season and she would be in animal heat. The females, of a lot of species, entered heat first before the males. Cassia, knew that she would have to put some of her Consort learning to work.

     Cassian returned, and since he was near rut, he needed to avoid Cassia. He was in the pool making laps, hoping to tire himself out. Cassia had other plans.

     She took out an almost sheer slip dress. Not her usual choice, but if it got ruined, she wouldn’t care. She put it on and it landed mid thigh. She left her feet bare and loosely pulled her hair up in a messy bun, held together by a simple plain ivory colored comb. She did grab the matching robe, and loosely tie it around her waist. No makeup on her face. She headed toward the pool.

     She stood on the side where he could see her when he turned to make another lap. When she was sure she had his attention. She released the tie holding her robe closed, and gracefully wriggled her way out of it, letting it hit the ground.

     Cassian, had forgotten his focus on the laps. He was staring at Cassia, desire written in his dragon eyes. He climbed out of the pool, precariously holding on to his human side, fighting the urge to take her right there.

     For Cassia it was a bit easier. Her wolf could be patient for a bit longer. Unlike the dragon, it is the female wolf that allows the male to mate with her. But it was getting harder, seeing the water glistening off his tone and muscled chest and arms. Thankfully, he never swam naked, he wore a loin cloth.

     “I don’t want to hurt you. It would be different if we had been together before, I’m afraid the dragon will rule.”

     “I’m a wolf. I love you and trust you. A bit of pain is expected. It will be more than other females experience, but it is my sacrifice of love to give, to be one with you and you alone.”

     “You’re sure. Once I let go, there’s no turning back.”

     “I know. I trust you; you’re my mate, my alpha and my love.” He didn’t hesitate, if he was a real dragon he would have grabbed her with his talons and took her back to his den. So he did the next best thing, he grabbed her and swung her over his shoulder and left her robe lying by the pool, and took her to their room.  Before Cassian left he and Cassia picked a room still near the nursery but one that they could make their own. A place that was bit of him and her, blended perfectly together.

     He dropped her on the bed, and tore off her slip dress. Most of Cassian was now gone and the dragon shone in his eyes. When he looked into Cassia’s eyes, the wolf was staring back at him, just a hint of Cassia in them.

     He just looked at her and drank in all of her, before he bent down and ravenously began to kiss her. She returned that kiss in like. One hand removed the comb from her hair, and he tossed it on the floor. He gently tugged her hair, with his hands as they kissed. Cassia’s, hands were busy exploring Cassian’s upper half. His loin cloth was still on.

     Soon his lips began to explore and taste other areas of Cassia. Gently, playfully, nipping at her ear lobes, her neck, mixing nips with kisses. Cassia’s wolf was reveling in the moment. The nipping and kissing continued downward. Cassia let lose a howl. Thankfully, the room was sound proof.

     The howl spurred the dragon on. Cassia was feeling Cassian when she had the chance. Her hands were still exploring every inch of his front and back end. Cassian, stopped at the end of her stomach, and looked up, catching eyes, with Cassia. Both were now burning with an intense need.

     A growl pushed Cassian on. He took his hands and gently spread her legs wide and then he lifted them so her feet were flat on the bed. Cassia, grabbed the belt holding the loin cloth closed and loosened enough so she could yank it off. The belt flew toward the wall and the loin cloth was tossed on the floor.

     Cassia suspected that dragon gifted would be endowed in a certain region, all dragons were, and she was right. She shivered a bit in anticipation. The wolf and woman knew that pain would come but pleasure and complete intimacy would follow.

     Cassian managed to control himself to ease some of the pain that Cassia felt. She pushed through the pain and held on tight. Soon she howled with relief. The pain was gone and the pleasure was overwhelming, the intimacy was beautiful.

      Not all those with the animal gifts felt the pull of mating as strongly as the dragon and wolf gifts. But Cassia was made to heal from her first experience very quickly. Ready for the next time when the urge would hit Cassian and her in the next few hours.

     Rut or mating season lasted three to four days. Short naps and quick meals were normal for this time with their wild counterparts, and the same rules applied to this dragon and wolf. Mating was usually three or four times a day.

    Cassian and Cassia slept, after a quick meal, tangled up in each other. Before the next time the urge would reign, Cassian, made sure the proof sheet that Cassia was a virgin, was taken away. It was used to protect the bride form a lies that could put her in danger.

    Cassia was a bit surprised when Cassian woke up first. The look of lust and desire burned in his eyes, but he controlled himself asking if she was ready for another go.

She was, and he surprised her when he positioned her on her hands and knees on the bed and took her like a dragon. Instead of talons holding her still under him, his hands were on her shoulders, helping him balance and keep her still.

     They survived three days together. They waited a bit before being intimate again. The sex drive for both of them was low for a bit, a time to recover. A time to plan a proper wedding which was elaborate and worthy of a Warlord Prince, and after that wedding Braden was officially made her son by adoption. Cassia couldn’t be happier; she had her mate, a cub, and a pack of her own. She was happy with raising Braden as her own, and in the future, Cassia, did get something she also really desired, to become a mother.