Curse of a Dragon's Claim

by Ciara Lake

  Withdrawing from her, he rolled to his back.

  For several minutes, he silently watched the ceiling, then he looked toward Arianna. “Was Amuliana Synvera here last night?”

  “How do you know?” Arianna turned on her side to look at him. Her face showed her surprise.

  “I can smell the fragrance she prefers. It’s like Amuliana to choose to do such a thing, coming in the night to introduce herself. She likes drama. What has she shared with you?”

  “Too much.” Arianna inhaled sharply. “She showed me things I’d rather not have seen. I wish never to have known any of what she showed me. But now it’s done, and I’ll never be the same.” Arianna placed her hand on his bicep, rubbing him tenderly. Pain reflected in her eyes.

  “What did she show you?”

  “She told and showed me much. I don’t even know where to begin.” Arianna looked thoughtful. “I saw you in your dragon form. You’re remarkable. Scary too.” She smiled softly. “I saw the reason for your rage. I felt your hurt too. I understand it.” Arianna caressed the side of his face.

  Turning into her hand, he kissed her palm.

  “What she showed me was frightening, like nothing I could ever imagine.” Arianna absently rubbed his arm. Clayne enjoyed her touchiness. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. “I never wish to be the cause of your rage or to hurt you. Besides, you’re terrifying when mad.” A tremor ran through her.

  Clayne gently pushed her hair back behind her ear. His heart ached with her evident distress. “I hope Amuliana hasn’t caused you to fear me again. I’d hoped we were past that.”

  “I don’t fear you, not really. I certainly respect your power though. The most disturbing thing I witnessed was the blood lust of the vampires. Their demon red eyes haunt me. They’re monsters. To know they’re my ancestors is something I can hardly stand.” Arianna shivered. “I’m ashamed.” Arianna looked down as if fearful to meet his gaze further. “Do you hate me for what I am?”

  “Has Amuliana alleged that?” Putting a finger under her chin, he brought her eyes to meet his.

  “No, I just wonder. You’ve reason to hate my kind.”

  “You’re dracvipen. You’re my kind as well.” He caressed her face, wiping away free flowing tears. “You aren’t responsible for who sired you and yours. I’ve given my commitment to you. I don’t regret we’ve mated. I married you in this mortal realm in front of all of your family and friends. I could have just taken you away.”

  “Amuliana said that.”

  “Did she?” Grinning, he put his arm around her waist. “There were times, in past ages, a dragon would see a female he wanted and take her away. But she wasn’t typically his mate. I didn’t feel the need to do that to you.” Clayne massaged her back under her hair. “I knew as soon as I saw you, you were meant to be mine. I wish to seal our union with a joining ceremony in front of dragonkind as well, to share my magic with you. I hope you can…forget how atrocious I can appear to be. I did have my reasons to be monstrous. My orders were from Amuliana to destroy those vampires and unfortunate humans. I followed her orders. I’m sure Amuliana showed me at my very best.”

  “You were memorable.” Arianna grinned. “Again, I must say, I never wish to cause rage in you such as that. You followed orders in finding me?”

  “Yes, I did. I didn’t know what I would find or how I would react. Are you fearful to see me in my true form, to ride upon my back?” He pulled her closer, kissing her shoulder and up her neck. Arianna shivered against him.

  “No, I look forward to soaring with you in the heavens, through the clouds, above the treetops.” Arianna giggled at his soft kisses. “You’re amazing.” She kissed his neck in return.

  “Thank you, I try to be amazing. We can fuck some more, I’ll show you my true amazingness. It’s only for you.” He winked.

  “No, I mean you’re an amazing warrior.” Arianna pulled back to look into his eyes. “The vampires were foolish to take on you and your kind. Saltar, along with his clan, must have been insane or truly under the control of blood lust to do such a thing.”

  “I believe there was more to their actions than we may ever know. Over the ages, I have reflected on all which occurred. I’ve let my emotions quiet down to think more clearly. I don’t fully trust our goddess of immortality. You should know all deities have their agendas. We’re blessed if they’re benevolent. Hush, say nothing aloud regarding what I’m telling you.” He put his finger to his lips. “Amuliana’s nosy, invading of our privacy. She watches us.” He kissed Arianna’s lips.

  “She watches us?” Arianna looked around him, back over her shoulder. “Now?” Arianna blushed pink from her hairline to her chest. “All of the time?”

  “No. I’m never sure when. But she does watch things we do, even our intimacy. Don’t worry. She’ll soon grow bored. Don’t be embarrassed. She’s ancient, she’s seen what we do too many times to count.”

  “She can’t hear us speak in this way?”

  “No. This is our private conversation, no one can hear us.” He kissed her lips. “Mmm, your lips taste delicious.” He pushed back from her a bit to continue the conversation. Otherwise, he’d soon be caught up in lovemaking. Hard to resist, like a drug, she had him completely captivated. “The god of dragons is Draconi Lizarius. You’ll meet him some day. He has expressed doubts regarding Amuliana’s motives for some time. He has concerns over her exact role in what occurred. Draconi Lizarius is our main deity. I directly serve him. My first allegiance is to him. Keep this in your heart. I suggest you choose him to give your first allegiance too. He’ll look out for us, we’re his wards. Be cautious of Amuliana, her commitment to us isn’t the same.” He rolled to his back, bringing her on top of him. “Ride me now, my love. Show me how you can handle your mighty dragon.”

  Chapter 8

  In the mornings, the townhouse was aflutter with activity. Arianna was amazed at how those around her seemed to crave cleanliness. Unlike those she’d grown up around, the dragons seemed intent on remaining clean.

  Clayne loved pressing his face into her hair to inhale its sweetness. He’d given her rose, lilac, and jasmine scented soaps that he called shampoos. She loved bathing with the soaps. After her baths, Timka would bring her the warmest towels. Bathing had become a decadent pleasure she enjoyed each day.

  She loved to listen to Clayne and Timka tell her the fascinating stories of the humans and ages to come. Plus, they were extremely knowledgeable about historic things. They’d been there, they’d seen centuries of history, telling Arianna colorful recounts. At night Arianna would spend hours just talking with Clayne followed by passionate lovemaking. Their lovemaking had become even more incredible.

  Each morning Arianna had breakfast with Clayne at the table in the breakfast room. They invited Timka to join them after their first week. Breakfast was always filled with laughter and bright conversation. Even the staff would chime in and others joined them at times. There was a relaxed demeanor between the staff and Clayne. For breakfast, they served fresh fruits, some that Arianna didn’t recognize, perfectly sliced bread that was evenly toasted, eggs, a variety of meats, and a sugary grain called cereal in amazing little shapes. A tour of the pantry had been an incredible experience for Arianna. It was like entering another world.

  The best part of breakfast was the delicious drink called orange juice followed by rich dark coffee that made her head buzz with energy. Clayne had instructed her not to share their amazing secrets with outsiders. It would confuse them, perhaps even scare them. After breakfast, Clayne would kiss her on the forehead, tell her he would miss her and be thinking of her, and then disappear right before her eyes. Sometimes he’d shimmer away.

  “Timka, what can we do today? I want to do something different. I’m bored.”

  “I can understand that,” Timka said. “You’ve been here for three weeks, and you’ve not left the house. Let’s take tea out on the patio.”

  “That sounds nice.”

  “Go on o
utside, I’ll bring a tray.”

  Arianna strolled out onto the patio. The day was gorgeous, the temperature just right. The flowers were in full bloom, making everything brightly colorful. She sat down at the patio table. Within moments, Timka arrived with the tea tray and sat it down on the marble table.

  “I miss going out, seeing people,” Arianna said. “I want to go shopping or to the theater. When I lived with my father, I often visited with people in the community too. Besides, Clayne owes me some dresses.”

  “He does?”

  “Yes, he’s ripped some.” Arianna giggled.

  “Oh.” Timka giggled too. “Impatient, is he?”

  “He can be.” Arianna grinned as she felt her face heat. “Does he always train with his warriors? I only see him in the mornings and evenings. I want to spend the whole day with him.”

  “You should tell him.”

  “I realize he’s busy. I don’t want to be a pest.”

  “You are not a pest. He’s a prince, a commander of our military, and he takes his responsibilities very seriously. However, he’s working much less than he did before he mated.” Timka poured Arianna a cup of jasmine tea, the fragrant steam wafting from the cup. “If he didn’t want to be around, he never would be. Before he met you, he was always training. I mean always. I know it’s hard to believe, but he’s working a lot less now. It’s obvious he’s very much in love with you.”

  Arianna nearly choked on her tea.

  “You okay?” Timka looked concerned.

  “You think he loves me?” Arianna set her cup back down to give Timka her full attention.

  “Oh, it’s apparent to us all. Does it make you happy?”

  “Yes.” Arianna felt giddy. “It does.”

  “Those of us who see him every day, see it in his tenderness toward you, his protectiveness and attentiveness. The way he laughs and smiles. You’ve released him, freed him from his bondage.”

  “What bondage?”

  “He’s been locked up in his misery since the horrid day of Clarisa’s death. We’re grateful to have him back, and we believe you’re responsible for that. For ages he has been a prisoner of his grief. ” Timka looked sad. “You bring light, music to our world. You’ve a magic about you. Your magic’s different from what we know.” Timka paused as if reflecting. “Did you know sometimes Clayne comes home while you’re playing your piano and stands outside the music room listening? He’s told me he very much wants to hear you sing.”

  “I’ll have to sing for him. You think I have magic? Amuliana said I had magic.”

  “Did she?”

  “Do you think my music is my magic? I’ve not felt like singing much since my mother’s death. She used to sing with me. I miss her and the music we made.” Arianna gazed out into the garden, watching a bird fly about playfully. Suddenly her heart ached for her mother, tears threatened to fall. Dear me, I’m overly emotional. Arianna waved her face with her hand.

  “Are you going to cry?”

  “No, I’m fine. Thinking about my mother makes me emotional at times.”

  “Music is always magical, even when mere mortals make it. You’re much more than a mere mortal, you’re a dracvipen. Your intelligence, sweetness, and your wonderful music have unlocked Clayne’s heart. Everyone who knows him can see it.” Timka placed her hand on Arianna’s and lightly squeezed it.

  “They can?” Arianna warmed at Timka’s comments and her genuine affection.

  “Yes.” Timka’s expression was suddenly fully animated. “The other day I saw him standing outside your music room with his eyes shut. His expression was passionate. He was so immersed in the notes you were playing, he didn’t even sense my presence. I quickly left. I didn’t want to embarrass him in his private moment. But the passion on his face was intense.”

  “Thank you, Timka. You’re very kind to tell me these things.”

  “Clayne used to be playful, always laughing, smiling, until Clarisa’s death.”

  “Sit down with me. Have some tea.” Arianna poured Timka a cup of tea. “I should have offered sooner. I was so caught up in what you were telling me, I didn’t.”

  “No, it’s fine. I can stand.”

  “Please, sit. And call me Arianna. The breeze feels nice and the flowers smell so sweet, let’s enjoy it together.”

  “If you wish.” Smiling, Timka pulled back a chair and sat down. “Are you ready to leave this realm to reside in Ejdeha Dragoni? You can always come back here whenever you like.”

  “Yes, I would like to get to know Clayne’s mother, his friends, and family. I’m afraid I wasn’t as nice to his mother as I should’ve been.”

  “She understands.” Timka took a cookie. She pushed the plate toward Arianna.

  “What I’ve seen of Ejdeha Dragoni is fascinating. It’s full of unusual, beautiful things I’ve never seen before.”

  “Some of the luxuries we have are from a future era on the human realm. Humans may be fragile—for sure, the humans of this time as well as the eras prior are naïve, unsophisticated—but they do turn out truly clever in the ages ahead.” Timka relaxed back in her chair.

  “I’d love to discover more about these things.”

  “If you wish to go to Ejdeha Dragoni all you need do is tell your mate. He has let you remain here not to push you too fast.” Timka smiled. “He is being thoughtful of you.”

  “Yes, he’s very thoughtful.”

  Timka refilled their cups. “The tea grows cool. I can go refresh our pot.”

  “No, this is fine.” Arianna drank down her tea in one gulp.

  “This is a beautiful garden,” Timka said. “When you see the gardens in Ejdeha Dragoni you’ll be even more appreciative of nature’s beauty.”

  Arianna poured herself another cup. This time she sipped it slowly. “That sounds nice.”

  Krilata suddenly appeared in front of their table. Arianna screamed as she spilt her tea down the front of her dress. “Oh, dear me.” Arianna quickly sat her teacup in its saucer. “Thank goodness the tea was cool. I didn’t mean to scream, but you scared me, Krilata.” Arianna grabbed a napkin. Hurriedly, she patted her dress with the cloth. It darkened with tea stain as it absorbed the spill.

  “I’m very sorry, my dear.” Krilata handed her another napkin then sat down across the table.

  “Thanks.” Arianna smiled as she continued to clean up the mess. “There’s so much I have to get used to.”

  “I forgot you’re not used to our sudden appearances. I’m grateful you didn’t burn yourself. Please forgive me. I just wanted to visit with you.”

  She was a feminine version of Clayne with striking blue eyes and golden hair. She looked the same age as him. They were ageless. Her hair hung long down her back in soft, full curls. The female dragons mostly wore their hair free. Clayne preferred that Arianna do the same, so she released her hair in the evenings when he was home. Arianna smiled as she thought to herself. Krilata was tall, taller than Arianna by at least three or four inches. That was saying a lot. All dragons were tall. Maybe I get my height from my dragon blood.

  “There’s nothing to forgive, it was an accident,” Arianna said as she accepted another napkin from Krilata. “I’m happy to see you.”

  “I’ve stayed away to allow you to grow accustomed to your mate, to get into a routine. I didn’t want to interfere with the newlyweds. Clayne suggested I visit with you today. My son’s very cheerful.” Krilata’s expression was kind. “Thank you for bringing him happiness. I’ve been eager to join you. I hope you’ll come to Ejdeha Dragoni soon. Everyone wants to meet you. We could do many things during the day. We can play games such as golf, croquet, badminton, and swim in one of the pools. Plus, we play outdoor chess in the garden with life-size pieces.” Krilata’s excitement was evident.

  “I don’t pretend to know what those games are, but they sound interesting.” Arianna nodded. “Clayne visits Ejdeha Dragoni daily, working with his men. I’m free all day long.”

  “He does nothing
but train. Occasionally, he takes a quick swim in the pool.”

  “A pool, like those in Roman baths?” Arianna asked.

  Timka giggled, quickly covering her mouth with her hand.

  “No, not really.” Krilata looked tenderly at her as if she were a child. “I hardly see Clayne.” She sighed, frowning, her demeanor drastically changed to more glum. “It’d be nice to have dinner with you both. Ejdeha Dragoni is far superior to this place. I’m sorry, but it’s true.” She waved her hand toward the house. “We could even take you some place out to eat. At a fabulous restaurant in New Orleans I love.”

  “I don’t know what a restaurant is or where New Orleans is, but it sounds fun.” Arianna smiled. “From the short time I spent there, I know Ejdeha Dragoni is very lavish, full of wonderful things.”

  “I’ve brought you a gift.” Krilata held her open palm out, and a roll of colorful green ribbon materialized in it. The material was a vibrant emerald, silky in texture. “When I saw this I thought of you. I was thinking you could wear your hair loosely pulled back with a ribbon. If you wish.” Krilata shrugged nonchalantly and sat the roll down on the table in front of Arianna.

  “It’s lovely. Thank you.” Arianna picked the ribbon up, admiring it. “It’s very smooth, shiny, it feels like silk, but I don’t think it is.” She examined it closely. “I’ve never seen ribbon like this before.”

  “It’s from a place you’ve never been. A fabric store with an infinite selection, at least it seems so. We could visit there if you like.” Krilata’s eyes twinkled as she sat on the edge of her chair as if eager to take off with Arianna. “I enjoy buying lovely things from other places and eras. I shop all over the realms and world in all time periods. It’s an advantage of being a dragon. Isn’t it, Timka?”

  “Yes, it is.” Timka grinned broadly. “There are many advantages to being a dragon. We’re a lot of fun.” Timka’s bright eyes lit up like fire bulbs.

  “Clayne will have to allow me to go shopping, at least here in Florence. Plus, I’m down another dress.”