“It was unbearable without you.” Stroking my cheek, he raises my chin to look at him. “I hope you know I won’t be letting you out of my sight for some time.”
“I do, but I am still a Queen with duties.”
“It does not matter.”
Bringing my lips to his, he feeds my desire with a sensual kiss.
“I cannot put into words how exceptional it feels to have my Queen back in my arms. I love you.”
One of the arms men announces our descent. Outside the window, the palace grows in size as we near it. My muscles tense at the memories from inside the cold, dreadful place. Ryker’s warm breath feathers my cheek as he puts his arms around me.
“I’ll be by your side at all times.”
My hand takes his, and we stand, exiting the rover craft once landed. Ryker lifts me before my feet even touch the ground. Holding me in his arms, he carries me to the palace doors. The arms men gather a larger gun, one meant to blow a hole through a door, but as they prepare to launch the gun, the doors open. One of the kitchen staff, an older, gray-haired man, raises his arms in the air.
“We’re not a threat. There are eleven of us, all staff members.”
“Where are your arms men?” Everett asks him.
“Killed by the Anaukin arms men. They left some time ago. We didn’t know what to do. We were all going home.”
Ryker steps forward. “We’ll need your assistance for a while longer.”
The staff members clear a path for him and the arms men guarding us. Ryker faces Everett.
“Do a sweep. Secure or kill any remaining Iowan soldiers you find. Find the man named Richter. Take him to the healing chamber.”
“What can we do for you?” the kitchen staff member asks.
“My men need food, water, and to rest. Please prepare a meal for them, show them where they can rest, begin a bath for Queen Fiora in the Queen’s suite, and lay out clean clothes and shoes for her. I’ll ensure you’re all compensated for your work.”
“Will you be staying long, Queen Fiora?” a woman in the background asks, her voice soft and hopeful.
Ryker sets me on my feet, keeping an arm around me.
“No, she won’t be. She’ll be returning to the Free territory with me as soon as our business here is completed.”
Placing my hand on Ryker’s arm, I glance at him, noting how protective and unyielding his demeanor is.
“Your King is dead,” I share with them. “I’ll be staking claim on Iowan and will take the necessary actions to make it official. Before I leave, I’ll be selecting someone to temporarily rule in my place. All of you will be welcome to remain a part of the palace staff should you choose to.”
Ryker’s head tilts, his stare incredulous. Not missing a beat, he looks to the staff members.
“You’re dismissed.”
As promised, Ryker doesn’t leave my side as we follow a woman upstairs to a new room I haven’t entered. Inside, the room is warm and inviting, the colors in shades of red. I imagine the room remained the same as how King Beckett’s wife decorated it years ago. Two more ladies enter behind us, opening the curtains and turning on the fireplace. They move to the bathroom, turning on the water and filling the bath with oils. The third enters the wardrobe and searches for clothes and shoes. Ryker takes my hand, leading me into the bathroom.
“Ladies, please have fresh tea, wine, and fruit brought to the room for Queen Fiora.”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
The ladies leave, and Ryker undresses me, his warm hands making my stomach flutter as they caress along my bare back.
“You surprised me when you said you’re staking claim on Iowan.”
“Does that upset you?”
“No, I think that’s an advantageous decision for your territory but also a dangerous political decision. It could garner more fear we’re trying to take over the world.”
“I believe it’s an obvious decision. There is no one left in the succession of Belore’s family. Having killed him, I have the right to stake claim on his territory.”
Ryker extends his hand, helping me into the bath.
“It’s true. I wonder your plans is all.”
Letting the warm water ease my sore muscles, I lean back, resting against the tub.
“Can we save this conversation for later? I’d like to rest.”
“Of course.”
Kissing my head, he strokes his hand over my hair.
“I’ll step out and attend to a few important details. I’ll have guards outside the door.”
“Thank you.”
When the door closes behind him, I raise my soul band and contact Pollo.
“My Queen, I’m so pleased to hear you’re all right. Where are you now?”
“In the Iowan palace. With Belore dead, I plan to stake claim on Iowan but will need to leave someone in my stead. One of Belore’s arms men helped me. I believe him capable of giving my orders while I’m away. I’d like for you to send two dozen Anaukin arms men to join him and assist in carrying out my orders.”
“I’ll have them prepared to travel in the next hour.”
“Thank you. Is Matheas with you?”
“Yes. He received severe wounds. He’ll need to spend the night in the healing chamber, but he will live.”
“Thank you for rescuing him. He means a lot to me, Pollo.”
“I understand.”
“There’s more.”
“Yes?”
“Assemble the Royal Faction for a meeting. I have important plans I need to inform them of. I want you to be prepared. Our political affairs are about to become complicated.”
“Whatever you need, your arms men will provide. You have our loyalty.”
“I value your loyalty, Pollo, more than I can ever express in words. I’ll await the arms men’s arrival this evening.”
CHAPTER EIGHT
FIORA
Rubbing my hands downward, I smooth out the fabric of the black pants I’m wearing. In the mirror, I assess the outfit chosen by the staff. The black pants are a little too long, but the red blouse fits nicely. They did a fine job of styling my hair in a loose wave with a single jewel clip pinning my hair back on the right side. Leaving the Queen’s suite, I’m greeted by two Freean arms men, both joining me as I follow the sound of Ryker’s voice. In the threshold of Belore’s suite, I watch Ryker’s tense muscles flex as he barks orders, his tone aggravated.
“Tear everything down, burn it all, recycle what you can’t. Do not leave a single remnant of Belore in this suite.”
Sensing someone entering, his attention turns to me, his expression transitioning from tight and angry to worried.
“Fiora.”
Coming to me, he hugs me as I take calming breaths, pinching my eyes closed as I fight tears.
“Let’s leave this room.”
Arm around me, he leads me out, keeping me close to his side as we walk the hall and descend the stairs.
“Everett has set up a station for our men in the King’s planning room and sitting room. I’ve had the Queen’s sitting room prepared for you.”
Entering the room, I’m surprised to see it’s warm and inviting like the Queen’s suite. The walls are lavender, complementing the gray couch and pale yellow sitting chairs. Across from the white stone fireplace, we sit on the gray couch. Bringing my hand to his mouth, Ryker kisses it, the affection tingling my skin.
“I’ve received word Matheas is alive and recovering.”
Surprise sweeps over me, my belly fluttering.
“I appreciate you contacting my arms men to learn of his condition.”
When his hand rises to stroke my cheek, I tilt into his touch, craving more.
“I know it’s important to you he’s safe and cared for.”
Swallowing my guilt, I read the unease he’s hiding behind his ebony eyes.
“It is.”
“We have a lot to discuss and many choices to make, but all I want to do right now is hold you in my
arms.”
Coming forward, I move onto his lap, comforted by the feel of his warm chest and strong arms around me. Caressing my back with one arm, he cocoons me with the other, the moisture of his lips lingering after every sweet kiss. My hands roam his hard chest, caress along his neck, traveling up to enjoy the feel of his soft strands between my fingers.
A quiet moan slips from his lips, and he pulls me in closer, tighter.
“My beautiful Queen,” his lips vibrate against mine. “I love you.”
Looking into his dark eyes is like staring into a deep pool of emotion—fear, guilt, longing, love—it’s all there, and he’s struggling through it all, just as I am. The weight of my upcoming decisions are heavy on my chest, a jagged knot in my gut, a horrible lump in my throat. A single tear rolls down my cheek, and he wipes it away.
“What’s wrong? Talk to me.”
“Belore caused so much pain and devastation in my life. My world is upturned, and now, there’s so much I must do to fix it. I want to return home with you and be with you, but I cannot stay long. My territory needs me. I’ll need to restore my territory’s defenses, trade and business, and assure their safety. I’ll need to attend to affairs for Iowan and deter any other ruler from making an effort to claim it. I hate the words I must say, but as a Queen, I have no choice. Our engagement tour will have to be put on hold.”
Looking away, his gaze is thoughtful, his jaw tense. Nerves bundle in my belly as he remains silent.
“Ryker?”
When his eyes meet mine, he forces a brief smile and caresses my back, his touch giving me hope.
“It’s not what I want. I’d marry you tomorrow if I could. I want you as my wife, to be able to live in the same palace and be able to see you every day, but as a King, I know the burden of being a ruler all too well. I’ll give you the time you need.” Gathering my hands in his, he rubs his thumbs over them. “But as soon as your affairs are in order, I want us to be married.”
The automated door slides open, and Everett enters, interrupting my response.
“Your Highness, Richter is out of the healing chamber. Would you like to speak with him?”
“Yes, please. Have him brought here.”
“Will do. My King, your presence is needed in the planning room.”
“Can it wait?”
“Unfortunately, it can’t.”
Ryker brings me forward, leaving me with a kiss before standing.
“Stay with her,” he orders Everett.
With a nod, Everett accepts, raises his soul band, and gives my orders to the Freean arms men. Rising from the couch, I walk over to Everett. His smile widens, his eyes soft and fatherly as he watches me.
“It’s good to see you well, Your Highness.”
Coming forward, I embrace him in a hug. At first, he stiffens with a surprised ‘oomph,’ then gradually places his arms around me, giving me back a gentler squeeze than I’m giving him.
“I have no doubt you helped Ryker makes his plans. Thank you.”
With a pat on my hair, he separates, giving me a jovial smile.
“I’m relieved you’re all right. If he’d lost you, I believe he would’ve lost himself.”
“I thought about him every day, hoping he’d come for me.”
“He’ll always regret not being able to arrive sooner, and so will I. I’m sorry for the pain you suffered while in Belore’s captivity.”
“Do not worry yourself with thoughts of what has passed. You’re both here now, and I’m grateful.”
With a breath, he bows his head. “I am too.”
The automated door opens to Richter, in casual clothing, being escorted in by two Freean arms men. With a bow of his head, he greets me. Above his left eye, I notice the new scar on his brow and the weakness in his step.
“Your Highness, thank you for having me released.”
The two arms men leave, and I gesture to the silver dining table on the left side of the spacious room.
“Please join me. We have much to discuss.”
Everett remains standing, his hawk’s eye on us, protective and keen as usual. Taking the head seat at the table, I motion for Richter to take the first chair on my right. With weak and tired movements, he takes the seat offered.
“You need more rest.”
“I do, yes. I’ll be myself again in a few days.”
“I’m pleased to hear it because I have a purpose for you.”
Chin raised, there’s interest in his gaze.
“What is it you need of me?”
“If you haven’t heard yet, your King is dead. I’m staking claim on Iowan, but I won’t be able to remain here. I need to return to Anauka and attend to internal and political affairs. I’ll need someone here in my stead to keep peace in Iowan and deliver my orders. I believe you’re capable of fulfilling that role.”
Lips parted, his eyelids rise.
“Forgive my shock, Your Highness. This isn’t what I expected when I was told I’d be meeting with you.”
“Do you believe yourself capable?”
Clearing his throat, he sits up straighter.
“Yes.”
“I’m pleased to hear it since I’d like to begin plans immediately.”
“You have my full attention.”
“Two dozen Anaukin arms men will be arriving this evening. You’ll work together to create a stable base of operation here in the palace. I want all new codes. Basic entry codes will need to be given to the arms men. Administrative codes will only be given to me, you, and my head of security, Pollo Maree. Any orders you receive will come directly from me or Pollo, no other soul unless I direct it.”
With a confident posture, he gives a curt nod. “Understood.”
“I want you to lead the Iowan arms men who are left. Those we captured are being held until you can determine which of them should be saved or executed. Any arms men who were loyal to Belore must be executed. Those you trust can remain. I’ll be joining you as you make your decisions.”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
“You’ll lead the remaining arms men to fortify defenses against an attack from another territory. Along your borders, you’ll raise the Anaukin flag and place it next to Iowan’s. When word of Belore’s death spreads, there’s the possibility a hungry ruler will attempt to seize the palace. You will take every measure to deter them until I can provide reinforcements. Understood?”
“Fully. You have my loyalty, my Queen.”
With his words, I hear his sincerity.
“Your new role will be my right hand. This is either the beginning of a new, prosperous life for you, or you betray me, and I execute you myself.”
“I will not fail you. I believe in your ability to bring peace and prosperity to our territory.”
When I stand, I put my hand out for him. Rising from the chair, he takes it, giving it the customary kiss of respect. Keeping hold of my fingers, he caresses them, his gaze softening.
“I will not disappoint you. Not when you’ve kept your promise to me and saved my life.”
Pleased with his dedication, I withdraw my hand.
“As you know, I won’t be able to uphold my entire promise.”
The corner of his mouth curls.
“I’ll always be hopeful you change your mind.”
A smile passes between us, lightening the intensity of our discussion.
“Would you like for me to wear the Anaukin or Iowan emblem in my new position?”
“Wear the Iowan emblem. I want your arms men to trust your actions are in the best interest of Iowan. They’ll trust you more if you’re still representing your home.”
“I agree, my Queen. That’s well considered.”
“Thank you.”
“I’ll rejoin you for my assignment after I change into a fresh soldier garb and locate my soul band.”
Everett withdraws a black band from his pants pocket and tosses it to Richter.
“I’ve had Iowan communications terminated. Your men
will have to establish a new channel with the Anaukin arms men,” he tells him.
“Understood.”
Richter places the soul band on his wrist, the DNA receptor beeps, then the two ends lock, fastening the band securely in position.
“Where should I meet you, my Queen?”
Raising my soul band, I click through the screen until I find what I need. Outstretching my arm, I hold my soul band outward, the digital screen displayed with monetary value. Richter raises his soul band and receives the payment.
“Meet me in the rover craft engineering building. The Iowan arms men are being held there.”
“Will do, my Queen.”
He leaves the room and Everett joins my side, walking with me to the main palace entrance.
“Do you trust him?”
“I do.”
“Until I do, either me or my second, Declan, will remain by your side. At least, until your arms men arrive.”
“I appreciate the added security.”
Nearing the entrance, a Freean arms man accesses a panel on the wall. An automated door opens to coats and shoes of many shapes and sizes. Entering the room, I find a knee-length black coat, matching gloves, and black boots a size too big, likely more of King Beckett’s late wife’s clothing. Dressed for the cold weather, I leave the palace and walk the distance to the rover craft building.
Inside, the building is large enough to house a rover craft with all the necessary equipment for repairs. The open space is chilly, but spacious enough to fit the arms men from each territory. Everett greets the Freean and Rakian arms men guarding the Iowan soldiers. I listen as he receives updates. I’m disappointed to hear two Iowan arms men attacked two Rakian men, injuring one of them. Both Iowan soldiers were executed, and since that incident, there haven’t been any others.
Sitting on their haunches, their arms tied behind their backs, the Iowan men survey me nervously. Their attention switches to the entrance door when Richter walks in, wearing the Iowan soldier’s garb. Coming to my side, he gives a polite bow of his head. We both face the Iowan arms men, their expressions showing different emotions of confusion, surprise, and hope.
“Your King is dead,” Richter announces. “But that does not mean you must follow his path. Queen Fiora is staking claim on Iowan with no intention of bringing us harm. She wishes to rule Iowan with the same goal of peace and prosperity as she does Anauka. I believe her capable of fulfilling that goal. I believe her far more capable of leading our territory than its predecessor. And with her goal in mind, she has asked me, a blood born Iowan man, to lead Iowan in her stead. She’s a Queen worthy of our respect, a Queen worthy of our loyalty, a Queen worthy of leading Iowan. If any of you men do not believe her capable, speak now.”
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