by Jen Robyn
“As we were traveling down the hall, we heard you mention an Earth girl,” Inferno remarked. “What happened, Dominick? Did you travel into someone’s nightmare again?”
“The last one from Earth was certainly a beaut,” Buddy chimed in with a laugh. “Being chased by an army wielding swords in an otherwise tranquil surrounding of green fields could make anyone want to steer clear of dreams.”
Dominick said nothing, but betrayed a grimace. No, he certainly hadn’t forgotten that particular trip. What really amazed him was how imaginative the people of Earth could be as far as creating ideas for such movies and books. Imagination, of course, was most revered by the dreamphasers, since without it, dreams would be humdrum.
Of course, there was nothing humdrum about being chased by a nightmare of an army. That was a little too much imagination for comfort in the dream-state, best kept to a movie screen.
“No, no,” said Riff, shaking his head. “This doesn’t sound like it was from a nightmare. It sounds more like he got shot down in his latest attempt to win a female.” The others turned to Dominick with curiosity.
He groaned in irritation. There was nothing—absolutely nothing—more annoying in the universe than his smart-mouthed elder brother.
“It’s no big deal,” he told them, glaring at Riff. “I met a distressed female who was dreaming of a ball scenario dated back a century or so on her world. She was overwrought regarding someone who jilted her, so she turned to me for comfort.” Riff gave a low whistle. “Not that kind, you idiot!” he snarled.
“If that’s true, then why were you swearing like a hurricane just a few minutes ago? Were you interrupted from something important?”
Dominick shut his eyes and sighed, his irritation dissipating somewhat as his memory faded back to his last moments with Julianna. Her sweet kisses, her laughter, the touch of her gentle hands... At least before those hands suddenly gripped him in fear of their impending separation. He could still hear her calling out his name.
His meeting Julianna somehow seemed like a device of Fate, he decided, thinking back to the first time he’d seen her a few months ago. He remembered how she’d been dreaming of a beach scene, galloping along on horseback, when he’d drifted into her dream that night. He’d been searching for a pretty dream companion to spend a pleasant evening with, astral traveling through multiple towns before he found her. Not so much travel compared to his coming from the other side of the sun!
When he’d first met her on the beach, his intentions were the same as always. A quick courting, followed by a few stolen kisses, and then... well, what many times followed. During their kiss, he’d been thinking that perhaps he’d enjoy this encounter more than others he’d known.
Just before she’d nearly crushed his foot beneath her heel.
This was one incident he certainly hadn’t mentioned to Riff, but despite his surface irritation at the time, the dream had lingered in his mind ever since. Hence, he began searching for her again as of a week ago. Much as he’d thought at the time, who was this spirited woman to get away with wounding his pride?
A woman who’d succeeded in erasing his irritation last night, when he finally found her again.
Was it her tears that drew out another side to him? Or was it her personality, which never lacked for being unique in her own way? Whichever, there was no denying the sparks between them were mutual by the way they’d clung to each other in their most powerful embrace.
Just before they were suddenly interrupted by the annoying disturbance of morning on her world.
Earth! he thought, glowering.
If only she’d been here on Chavernos with him in reality, then their sparks wouldn’t have been forcibly extinguished so soon.
“I don’t know what might have happened,” he lied, feeling justified in this case since it really was none of Riff’s business. “She woke up too soon for me to tell.”
Having a more sensitive nature, Inferno picked up on his friend’s hidden disappointment, voicing a suggestion. “If that’s all it is, why don’t you go back to find her?” Dominick’s gaze snapped up to face him with uncertainty.
“Go back?”
In all these years, that was the first time one of his friends ever suggested the notion.
“Sure,” continued Inferno. “You told us that you’ve contacted dreamers more than once before.”
Not often, but yes he had, he admitted privately, obviously including last night although the others didn’t know that. He’d only done that regarding a few of his favorite paramours, but he’d said good-bye to the last of them years ago. Finding Julianna again hadn’t been easy in itself, although determination was one of his more prominent qualities.
Having been to her house twice now, and thankfully having an excellent memory, he knew he could locate Julianna easily should he wish to be with her again, but a part of him was hesitant. If all she’d spoken of was true, then Roger and the others she’d known had hurt her badly emotionally. Given this fact, Dominick wasn’t eager to return to perhaps accidentally hurt her in her sleep as well. She’d dealt with enough.
Yet at the same time, he couldn’t deny that a part of him yearned to continue where they’d left off. He wanted to kiss her again, to hold her, and to feel their hearts beat as one. To brush away her tears, and see her come to life again in his arms. Just remembering last night rekindled the warm desire of deepening blue in his eyes.
Eyes that blinked rapidly to erase the sensation, as he heard Riff’s mocking laughter.
“It would seem my little brother’s suddenly lost his touch. Or is it the girl herself who displeased you?”
Dominick’s jaw tightened, setting his strong determination once more, with a forced smile. “Neither, I assure you. And for your information, I fully intend to see Julianna Sherborne again. Tonight, if possible. After that, we’ll see who’s laughing, brother.”
Riff took undisguised amusement from his words as he finally left, followed by Buddy, but Inferno remained behind, his expression concerned.
“I didn’t suggest it as a challenge, Dom. I meant it genuinely, since you do seem to care.”
His friend nodded. “At times like this, you’re more of a brother to me than he is. But rest assured, my wanting to see her again really doesn’t have anything to do with Riff. I do care about her.”
More than I initially thought, he mused privately.
*****
The woman glancing in the full-length mirror turned this way and that, making sure every fold of her new gown was correctly draped over her slim figure. The dress was a pale blue, drawing out the similar color of her eyes. Every strand of her flowing golden hair was firmly in place. She was proud that she’d never needed to use her illusion magic to enhance her beauty, but sometimes it made it necessary to use her force-field ability against persistent suitors.
“You look like an absolute angel,” her mother confirmed.
Turning with a smile, Sionne looked past her ever-doting parent to find someone else appraising her similarly. “I’m quite sure my grandson will think so as well,” said the man beside her, kissing the younger woman’s hand.
“Maybe,” she sighed, “but I doubt he’ll be as agreeable with the prospect of marriage.”
“He’ll accept,” assured her mother, her eyebrows knitting together. “After all, with his status, he can’t very well expect to remain a bachelor forever. And who better than a beauty like you to stay by his side always?”
Sionne blushed becomingly, more out of her breeding than an innocent gesture. Most men, even worldly ones like Chaos, often mistook this as genuine.
“I heartily agree,” he said, just before hearing a voice call out from downstairs. “Ah, that sounds like the prospective groom himself. If you’ll excuse me, ladies.” Both nodded as Chaos strode down the hall, just before Sionne’s mother eyed her daughter speculatively.
“I’m afraid he’ll take a bit more charming than his grandfather,” she murmured. “You’d best u
se all your charms to advantage, my girl.”
Sionne fluttered her lashes once. “Why, Mother, I think you underestimate my intelligence. Why else would I choose such a low-cut gown?” Nodding once in approval, the elder woman departed.
“Surface beauty only goes so far, sister,” said another voice, highly similar to her own. Not surprising, since it came from Sionne’s twin Sireni. “But a man like Dominick Westbrooke will want far more than a pretty face. He’ll desire a willing woman to warm his nights, which you my dear sister, are not.”
Her words struck an expected minor chord from Sionne, for unlike her sister, she had a strong dislike for physical closeness, repulsed even by kisses, and had no intention of giving up her virtue lightly. Fortunately, intimacy was required but once to consummate a marriage. After that, she had every intention of keeping things in name only with her future husband.
“Dominick doesn’t need to know that,” Sionne retorted. “And you aren’t going to tell him, unless you want me to let it drop that you’re having an affair with his worst enemy.”
Sireni’s cheek twitched, but she maintained her usual catlike smile. “Touché, Sionne,” she murmured, folding her arms. “And may I ask how you intend to keep your husband at bay with forced celibacy?”
Sionne’s smile rivaled her own. “Very simple, dear sister. I shall suddenly contract a migraine every night.” Laughing at her own cleverness, she waltzed out, ignoring Sireni’s skeptical expression.
“Sir, I’m sure he’ll be down presently,” said the palace butler, trying desperately to maintain decorum.
A pointless battle with the Westbrooke brothers.
“Grandfather!” Dominick shouted again.
“Blazes, boy, you don’t have to crumble the castle walls with your bellowing!” Chaos barked back from the staircase.
“Yes, you rival our kind when you do that,” chuckled a deeper voice, as a silver dragon emerged from another room, earning the attention of both. Fortunately, the wise Chaolyn had altered his size to fit more comfortably in the palace without bumping into furniture, although he knew Chaos wished he’d revert to his human form altogether when indoors.
Calming slightly, Dominick faced him apologetically. “I’m sorry for that, Chaolyn, but I received an urgent message to come, and I didn’t want to waste any unnecessary time.”
“Humans can’t help that with their limited lifespans, but I understand, my young friend,” the dragon replied. When the elder man came downstairs, eyeing him questioningly, he gestured a taloned claw forward. “After our talk earlier, I’d hope you wouldn’t mind my merely listening in, my friend.”
“As you will,” sighed Chaos.
Dominick’s expression became grim as he strode towards his grandfather. “I got here as soon as I could. Don’t tell me. The pyromasters are at it again, right?”
Chaos’s green eyes widened, before he gave a short laugh. “Not quite. If that was the case, Chaolyn and I could have handled it.” Ignoring his grandson’s bemused look, he shook his head. “No, Dominick, this involves a more personal issue, regarding these foolish dream-state affairs of yours.”
Thinking of Julianna, Dominick frowned. “Riff certainly doesn’t waste time in spreading lies about me,” he said icily. “Look, Grandfather, contrary to what he may have told you, I’ve been steering clear of female dreamers for the past several months. But as to the one Riff may have mentioned...”
“I might have known,” sighed Chaos. “Dominick, it’s time you stop chasing dream women, and settle down with one woman of our world. In other words, it’s high time you married.”
Chaolyn’s ears perked up at that, while Dominick began to laugh. “You’ve been saying that for years now. You hardly needed to drag me here for that.”
“Chaos,” Chaolyn interjected softly, sensing his friend’s thoughts. “This might not be the best way to...”
“I’ve received your counsel earlier, and you agreed to listen only. Now let me finish,” Chaos replied, shooting him a sharp look before returning his gaze to Dominick. “There’s more,” he continued solemnly. “I’ve decided that if I wait for you to find someone, you’ll end up like your excuse-ridden brother, and I’ll never see any great-grandchildren. Thus, I’ve taken the liberty of making the decision for you.”
Dominick’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. “And what’s that supposed to mean?”
Footsteps on the stairs answered him as Sionne appeared, resplendent in her new gown. “Dominick,” she said lightly. “It’s so good to see you.” Turning to Chaos, she flashed him a dazzling smile. “Am I interrupting anything?”
“Your timing is impeccable, my dear,” he replied, taking her hand as she reached the bottom step, before turning to his bemused grandson. “Sionne’s been with us for many years, and has become quite a beauty, has she not?” At the younger man’s reluctance to answer, he frowned, nudging his arm.
“Yes, she is that,” Dominick said finally.
“Now you’re being reasonable,” murmured Chaos, beaming moments later. “Which brings me to the point. You’re no strangers, and have gotten along well over the years.”
Tolerated each other is more accurate, Dominick thought.
“Thus, I’ve decided your betrothal will be announced today, and your wedding will take place in a few weeks.”
Chaolyn gave a low funereal whistle, to Chaos’s chagrin.
Dominick’s mouth dropped open, anger filling his eyes. “You’ve decided this?” he hissed, erasing the pleased looks from the human pair. “Grandfather, if you want to find Sionne a husband, then I’m all for it. But as far as I’m concerned, I have no intention of being the shackled groom. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a life to resume.”
As he strode towards the door, Chaos began shouting after him. “Damn it all, Dominick, I won’t have you ignore me this time! I’m announcing your betrothal, and that’s final!”
Turning at the last minute, while resting his hand on the door handle, Dominick shook his head. “You can announce what you like, but the humiliation will be on your head later when your words are proven false. And as for this obsession with great-grandchildren of yours, let me assure you that a forced marriage won’t bring them any sooner.”
Slamming the door behind him as he exited, his grandfather’s face turned purple with rage. “Blasted impertinent boy!” he growled.
“You gave him little choice in the matter, old friend,” Chaolyn said quietly.
Not replying, Chaos abruptly remembered Sionne. “I apologize for my grandson’s rudeness,” he told her. “Take heart, child. He’ll come around in time.”
“I know,” she replied softly, a few tears forming in her eyes. “I just wish it was sooner than later.”
“More likely when the netherworld freezes,” murmured Chaolyn, earning a glare from Chaos before exiting the room.
Eyes narrowing with determination, the elder man squeezed Sionne’s hand comfortingly. “Never fear. I may not be able to do anything about his brother, but one way or another, I intend to see Dominick married as soon as possible. And once I’ve set my mind to something, it’s as good as done.”
She smiled knowingly through her craftily conjured tears. Chaos prided himself on keeping his word.
Soon, Dominick would be hers.
*****
Dominick had passed the well-tended castle gardens and approached the outer gate, still seething at his grandfather’s bullheadedness. Not the first time he’d tried to marry him off, but the elder man was becoming more adamant, bringing Sionne into the matter. Knowing her scheming nature all too well, demonstrated over the years with her other suitors although she thought him ignorant—let alone her narcissistic manner—he’d sooner disappear amongst the dragons and live peacefully as a hermit than be forced to marry her.
Approaching the gate guardians who’d been talking, they saw him and immediately saluted. Smiling, he waved his hand. “At ease, guys, he’s still in the castle.” The pair relaxed, knowing Domi
nick was less interested in formalities than the others. “Right now, I just want to get as far from here as possible.”
“Allow me to assist,” a voice called out, as he glided to a halt beside him.
“Chaolyn, you don’t want to get in the middle of this.”
“Exactly. So let’s get out of here.”
Smiling at the knowing look of mischief in the dragon’s eyes, Dominick climbed up, and the pair took to the skies.
As the clouds soared by, the wind cooling Dominick’s brow, he did start to feel his anger ease. Chaolyn was as wise at reading him as he was with his grandfather.
“Feel better?” the dragon inquired.
“You know I do. But I doubt Chaos will. After all, he is your keizha benirrai.”
The dragon smiled at the ancient Chavernian term for ‘soul’s friend,’ long used by dragons regarding their oaths of friendship with specific humans or elves. Chaos had been his keizha benirrai for many years, able to communicate privately telepathically when needed, and to sense when the other needed help. Typically to represent a one-to-one friendship, but occasionally regarding a small group, it was a term long respected by all races and revered by the recipients.
“Soul friends are not obligated to agree, and Chaos would never expect it of me.”
“You’re lucky then. At least he respects your opinion.”
The rumbling laugh that shook the dragon nearly caused Dominick to lose his grip. Realizing this, Chaolyn quickly composed himself, but there was still mirth in his voice when he spoke. “I’ve been needing a good laugh today. Thank you. But believe me, Chaos is as stubborn with me as with you, as has been proven by as many of your years. It’s just his way.”
“I’m not marrying someone just because he has visions of great-grandchildren in his head. The only way he’s getting those from me is if I find a woman to love.”
“Might this Julianna be a possibility?”
Dominick’s eyes narrowed. “Where did you hear that, as if I didn’t know?”