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Dragon King's Mate

NovelShort Completed

Romance Second Chance Love Triangle Child

She was supposed to be just a pawn in the games of throne that I played. A nanny for my Damian and perhaps also a little entertainment in my bedchamber as well. Why then did I have to risk it all for her sake? Why then was I willing to take a second chance? She was just a human. I had not felt this way even for my queen, a mighty dragon. *** Draco was a ruthless Dragon King who only cared about power and position. He and Liana were no match. The only thing connecting them was Damian. Damian was Draco's son from his deceased wife, Kiara. And he happened to slip down to the mortal human world. There he was being raised by Liana who saw him as her own son. Things turn difficult when Lucian, Draco's brother start developing feelings towards Liana just like he had for Kiara, in his heart.

Chapters (10)

第1章

In the darkness Liana could feel the thumping of her heart, loud and clear amid the perfect silence. She hid inside an abandoned, under construction building. Her hands wrapped around the soft bundle, that was her baby boy Damian.Her legs shaking and sweat dripping down her forehead and body. "Come on out you bitch, " Yelled a malicious and loud voice as one of the walls between herself and her pursuer blew open. Liana ducked and started running down the other side of the stairs, almost crying in panic. She had always been a fast runner. The best in her class. But this was something else. She was running for her life. Rather for both their lives. Specially her son's. "How long do you think you can keep this up? " Roared the voice once more as a few more bricks flew here and there. "I will leave with my son ,that's destined. Don't maul you feeble life in between. You have no power against my might. Stop annoying me you little wench. " The voice roared again as the thunder in the background. Liana kept going down even though her body was terribly shaking. She was having a hard time holding on to the child in her arms. The heavy footsteps following her wasn't far behind. She could hear it quickly catching up as her fatigue and fright weakened her pace. She was struggling to find a proper footing as she descended down the stairs. "It's going to be alright. It's going to be alright, " She was whispering in the baby's ears. But it was a reassurance for herself. She was trembling from head to toe. She had never seen anything like him ever before. A perfectly sculpted man with hair as white as snow and eyes as red as blood. His bare shoulders had scales for skin and his lower body was made of steel. At least it looked like steel or some sort of metal. The mere sight of him was enough to make one stop breathing in fear.Leave alone the ferocity of his vocals. Everything about and around him reeked inhumane. "Stop playing already , I have no time for this, " He was suddenly in front of Liana as she froze in her track, as if petrified. As soon as he extended his hands to try and snatch Damian away from her grips, Liana took a few quick involuntary steps backwards. Neither did she think nor did she look back. They were in an under construction building. The stairs that they were standing on had no guards. Her sudden retreat took her flying off the seventh floor of the unfinished structure. As things around her zoomed past in slow motion, Liana turned herself with force. She thus positioned herself so that when they collide, the child stays above and she braces the earth. She was trying her best to make the collision as less traumatic and fatal as possible for her baby. It was a motherly instinct. She didn't even have a moments room to think about herself. As the ground came zooming in on her she closed her eyes shut. The impact sent her rolling across the ground for several minutes. But hold on a second. Why would she go rolling over instead of smashing her skull open. She quickly opened her eyes. What met hers were those bright red iris which were now rapidly changing colour. She was lying over the steel body, covered in scales, her hands tightly wrapped around the owner. His one hand holding her around the hip and the other firmly grabbing Damian by his wrap. Before her brain could clearly decipher what actually happened, she stood up and pulled Damian back from his grip. He didn't seem as strong as he appeared as Liana was easily able to take Damian back. She opened him from his swaddle and checked him thoroughly for injuries . The man suddenly came from behind as his hot breath fell on Liana's exposed back. She instinctively grabbed Damian in her arms before turning around. He raised his hands as she ducked for cover. But he reached for her forehead and wiped something away. He then turned his hands around and showed them to Liana. It was blood. She was bleeding at her forehead. How bad was it, she had no idea. There was a lot going on around for her to feel anything. But it must have been bad because it was bleeding again after he had wiped it off. " You need to do something about that, " The malice in that voice was suddenly gone as the creature pointed in her direction. It was still hoarse and heavy but tender. Much more humane as one might say. Liana looked at him, confused. Just a few moments ago there was a ferocious beast, threatening her with death. Wild and feral, vicious and raw. A blood crawling image that had made Liana cower in fright. Now suddenly in front of her, was someone rather something, with compassion. Confused and puzzled, Liana didn't bother to respond to his gesture. Instead she picked Damian up in her arms once more and started running as far away from the creature as she could. This time around, he didn't seem to move. She wasn't being chased. Liana looked around. He was standing still in the position she had left him with, his sight fixated on her. Liana slowered her pace but she kept running while looking back. The creature standing before her was gradually morphing. The white hairs became shorter. His eyes that were already changing colors were now a shade of green. His scales and steel had already transformed into skin. But his glare still hovered above her. Before Liana could marvel or wonder at what she was witnessing her eyes went blank. Everything around her was flooded with a stream of white, rushing from all directions. Within what seemed like a flash of a second, the white turned to black and Liana found herself engulfed in utter darkness, the darkest it could get. ******* There after Draco and Kiara travelled extensively between the dragon and human realm. They were blessed with twins within the span of the next couple of years. They named the twins Casius and Christopher. Draco stopped annexation of more lands. Even the Hell Hounds were glad to have a truce after the devastation that Draco had caused them. As news about Draco's changed demeanor and the miraculous rebirth of Kiara spread, more and more creatures from all around the dragon realm, came forward to form an alliance. It seemed like everything was falling in place. Nemesis had joined the ranks and was serving the kingdom as an honourable general. There was a huge uproar when Draco had declared that he was revoking the rule that forbade mating with human. " Anybody and everybody has the right to love whoever they wish, under my kingdom, " he had concluded with an iron fist. He had to pay by bearing an entire night under the Thunder Tree. That was his price for revoking a law that was existing. Kiara was the only one who knew. They left the kingdom under Damian's care, aided by Caleb and Raba, twenty four seven. Draco and Kiara, went away for sometime, for Draco to completely heal from the effects of his turmoil. Master had gone away to complete his journey in the world of meditation. There was no news of Lucian as well. The world seemed at peace. Untill one night, Kiara had another dream. " Draco We need to head back home . Now... " Draco was puzzled to see the look of dismay and grief on his beloved queen. " What is it my love? " He asked touching the end of her hair that fell over her hips, spiralling. " It's another dream. As real as the one that I had before I was kidnapped my Nemesis... This is worse. My heart is sinking... We need to head home now. " And with that they were headed back towards the Dragon Realm.

第2章

In the Dragon kingdom the entire palace was a mess. There were soldiers running in every direction. Females wailing in the background. It seemed like the picturesque place had been turned upside down. But it wasn't supposed to have been that way. It was supposed to have been the happiest day in the kingdom, full of joy and celebrations. The queen was about to give birth to her first child. The midwives were ready. The palace was decked with floral decorations of the rarest type. Everybody was waiting patiently for the good news. As the queen went into labour, nothing seemed out of control. But within a few moments she started going pale. The doctors and caregivers went into a frenzy trying to find out a cause for that. The errand boys and girls were running across the mountains and clouds, trying to find the herbs they were instructed to. Every possible anecdote was made and given to the queen who was severely withering in pain. "Has anybody sent words to the master? " Yelled the lady in waiting. "Yes, they have. He is on his way. " answered a young assistant of the senior doctor. "We also need to send word out to the front line. Master Draco needs to know about the situation too. Things are escalating very fast out of our hands. " The lady in waiting signalled another assistant to immediately write a scroll and dispatch it. The males in the dragon kingdom usually stayed away from the birthing process. It was women who usually handled it. But the sudden exacerbated condition of the queen had pulled everybody out of their chambers and had made them surround the Royal Birthing Hall in anxiety. There was a panic amongst the nobles as well.Dragons had near to no complication rate during labour. This situation was so complex that they had to call in the Master, that is, their heavenly doctor , breaking his decade long meditational retreat. An emergency note was sent to the ruling dragon king, and husband to the queen in labour, who was fighting at the borders. He was widely known for his bravery and courage. With his wide spread expeditions and expertise, the dragon kingdom was able to reach its farthest trenches, unifying lands that nobody had ever dreamt of annexing. He was a true namesake, a versatile, fearsome dragon, Draco. "Girls,give me a hand here and help me sit up, " The queen whispered with whatever strength she was left with.She soon started spitting blood all over herself as two of the ladies tried supporting her up. They immediately panicked and tried pulling her back again but she raised her hands, instructing them to stop. She pointed at the head of the midwives and asked her to come over to her left side. The little maid ran at her order. "Yes, Our Lady,what do you want me to do, " She asked with enthusiasm. The queen reached upto her ears and whispered something that made her enthusiasm disappear . Her eyes and mouth were wide open, "Not possible. You cannot do that our lady. " She was trying to pull away but the queen caught her hands. " You have to do it. It's for the sake of our kingdom. It's our duty. You cannot run away from that. " The little maid stopped for a moment at the queen's words and then nodded her head with a smile, filled with sadness. "Everybody please evacuate the room.The queen needs something done in private. Quickly now. " She shoved everybody out of the room as they kept looking back with a mixed feeling of sadness , worry and confusion. As soon as the room was empty and the door was shut, the little maid stood there perplexed, urging, " My lady, it is going to hurt. Should you not... " But before her speech was ended the the queen harnessed whatever little energy she was left with. A crystal light engulfed her and it strained towards her right. It circulated upwards at the heart and the queen, with the final ounce of strength that she had saved, pulled her Core out. With trembling hands and dripping body fluid, she secured the core, around her womb. "This will keep him safe till the birthing is complete. " The queen whispered, gasping for breath, " Take us to the Hidden Fountains. Keep him safe. Hand him over to none other than his father. Trust no one. " Before the maid could even confirm, she had to rush to support the queen's limp arm. She looked at her Queen with a deep look in her eyes and then diligently proceeded to fulfill her duty assigned. People, unaware of all the tragedy, grew more and more worried as they waited outside. They couldn't even barge in as it was the queen's order. But one from amongst the crowd slipped away, totally unnoticed. He kept running, till he reached an abandoned ruin in the outskirts. "My Lord, my lord, master,master " He huffed as he reached the broken doors. "Is it over? " Called back a sweet and melodious voice from behind the closed doors. "Yes Master. I have done exactly as you have instructed. But the queen has locked all of us away from her chamber. Only one of the midwives is with her. I thought you needed to know, so I came here right away. " He said it all together without a pause. "Hhhhmmm, that's interesting. But you shouldn't have been this careless. How can you come here straight from the palace? Now go back and keep doing what you do best. " The melodious voice rang with rhythm again. "Yes Master. I will be careful not to commit any more mistakes in the future, " He bowed and swished away ,as fast as he could, on his way back. "The queen locked herself inside in this condition. Interesting. " The melodious voice was heard, contemplating, from somewhere far inside those ruins, behind two closed doors. By the time the assistant was back at the palace, the imperial doctor, also referred to as Master by all, had just arrived. Everybody moved aside, paving his way.He looked at them, waiting for somebody to open the doors. But everybody was just staring back at him. "What's wrong? Why aren't the doors being opened? I thought it was an emergency I was called for. " He looked over his half moon shaped scanners, hanging from his head, over his fat, chubby face. "Master, well, ummm, the queen has locked herself in, along with one of the midwives and asked us all to wait outside. It's been awhile but we couldn't interfere because it's an imperial order. Maybe,you could try calling , I think. " Replied one lady in waiting. The doctor was already looking at the door with a weird gaze, through his crescent scanners. He slowly walked away from the doors, and instead of asking permission to come in, rammed right into it. The doors went flying in two directions, leaving the entrance wide open for all those waiting to pour in.

第3章

Soon enough the Master, imperial doctor, arrived. He also had been waiting at the door for too long. He had paced in front of the doors a little, put his ears against them for a while then sensing something was a miss, he had ordered the soldiers to immediately barge in. The chaos that followed was very much indescribable. Everybody was too shocked and scared at what greeted them. "Wherever did the queen go? What are we supposed to do? " Came a panicked wail from a lady in waiting. "The king will not keep any of us alive. Scatter around. Look for anything. Anything that might let us know what happened. " exclaimed another with her hands over her head. The Master, however, silently looked around the room for some times. He went about touching the bed the queen was on and sniffed what he touched repeatedly. He then went about touching and sniffing several other items and then with a very serious look, stormed out of the room. He went straight towards the ministers' residential quaters. He barged in without permission inside the chief minister's office. "Master, Master, you can't come in like this. Let us ask for permission… " The guards were desperately but respectfully trying to stop him, but he came face to face with the minister attending a meeting, nevertheless. The chief minister looked up and immediately dismissed the guard and the other officials, after seeing the look on Masters face. "What happened Master? " He immediately asked him as soon as they were alone. "The king needs to return right now. " He announced urgently. "Why? What happened? Word was sent, if you are worried about the queen's condition.But you know he takes his own time and decision. " The minister tried explaining. "His child might be in danger. " The Master said a little louder this time. "What? Is her condition that bad? " The minister asked worried. "The queen is missing, " The Master turned to reply. "What? The queen what? " The Minister felt like the earth under his feet was gone, " What do you even mean? " "I think she did it on purpose. This brings to light another serious issue. There is a blood thirsty imposter ,right inside the Royal palace . " The Master said with his brows raised. The minister looked at him one last time and then hurried inside his back office. He unlocked the treasure chest there and quickly brought out the ancient telecommunication mirror. It was a magical mirror that let dragons communicate face to face from any distance. But it's use was limited as it drew power from the Blue Moon. The minister right away tried connecting with Draco. After a few failed attempts, the perfectly sculpted face of their king immerged infront of them. He was what seemed like , in the middle of a training ground. "What made you use the telecommunication mirror at this time, Minister? " Draco called out. "Hail the dragon Lord, I dared not disturb you my lord. But Master here had something important to say. " He turned the mirror towards the Master. "My greetings Master" Draco bowed before him, " I thought you were in meditation. What happened? " Draco asked. He had practically grown up under Master. He regarded him as nothing less than a father figure. Their bond was something enviable. " Draco, you need to come over right now. " The Master literally ordered, without even bothering to give an explanation. " We can't replenish this mirror's power at our will , so i will explain everything once you are here. I will meet you at the north-easthern entrance to your castle. Be there on time. Hail the dragon Lord. " The Master wrapped the mirror and handed it over to the minister . He then left the place in as much hurry as he had come in with. Draco knew something huge was up back at the palace. He had been married to his queen the last season. He was actually very reluctant with his marriage. His only focus in life, had been to perfect himself and his skills. He hardly ever had to or thought to give anything other than self perfection any room or space in his daily routine. But he had to marry in the last season if he wanted to keep his throne. He had been a king and single for decades . His family had left no stone unturned to persuade him to get a bride. But he never felt like he wanted to share his life with another. However, the high priest had suddenly called for an urgent meeting with the Royal descendants. "Listen carefully, o! remnants of the great dragon bloodline. " He had warned them from his trance-like state, " A mighty calamity is about to be ushered in this blessed realm. If the progeny of this pure bloodline is not secured, there hovers a terrible uncertainty over its future. Listen, loud and clear, o! protectors of the mighty dragon clan, protect the threshold of your homes before the last season is past. " His warning had left no other option for Draco to either marry before the last season was gone or to abandon his throne and hand it over to any of the others in waiting, so that they could be a ruler with progeny, to guard the realm from the upcoming turmoil. So Draco had finally agreed to the nuptials. He hadn't even bothered to meet or know about the girl that was going to be his mate. For him, it was another one of those difficult missions that needed to be done with. Even the pregnancy of his wife and the eventual birthing process of his first child, were all part of the game of thrones for him. He was happy, really happy, when he had first heard the news. Not because he was going to be a father. Not because it felt so special. But because it was a seal. A seal that marked the invincibility of his kinghood. A seal that meant there would never ever again be a dispute about who the authority belonged to, as long as he was alive. So naturally when he was sent the news about his wife's difficult labour, he hadn't paid much attention, thinking it was the women's and doctor's department. He had other important works at hand that he needed to tend to. His heart didn't even flinch once out of concern for the to-be mother of his child. However, now that the Master had called him back, he knew something grave was happening back at the castle. He wasted no time briefing his subordinates at the borders, before heading right back to his appointed place. "There should be no room for even a minute's hindrance to our honourable plans. My absence, rebounds your responsibilities. Every general should report back right on time. And every subordinate must report back to me on their regular basis. Is that understood? " He roared. "Yes my Lord. Hail to the dragon kingdom. " Echoed across the grounds as Draco blasted off, into the clouds, towards his destination.

第4章

Liana's eyes rapidly battered as she came back to her senses. Her instinctive response , the moment she came around, was to start looking for Damian. "Damian, Damian, " She was screaming as she tried to get up. "Sssshhhhhh, " A warm but strong hand slapped her on the forehead. "Ouch! " She immediately fell back on the ground, reeling in pain. "Look at you, wriggling like a snake on the ground in pain but still trying to save a dragon child in that condition. Hilarious. " the loud and husky voice smirked and laughed as Liana's blood trickled down her forehead. She touched her head to wipe the blood away. As she touched her head, she found her head was wrapped in cloth, as if bandaged to stop it from bleeding. She looked up at the towering figure standing right infront of her. He was still smiling and laughing as if her weakness amused him. As Liana looked carefully, her eyes clearing up a bit, she found it was the same inhuman creature that was giving her a death chase a few moments ago. Or was it just a few moments? She looked around. It still seemed pretty dark all around. How long had she passed out? Liana had no clue. She looked up at the creature, thinking if she could ask him about it. But instead something else caught her eyes. "Isn't that the same fabric I am wearing, " She thought looking at the very floral fabric, wrapped around the creature's waist, to look like a miniskirt, just about enough to cover his private part. The realization made her look at her own dress. She was wearing a floral maxi gown for the evening. It now just reached the length of her thighs. "Did you? Did you just tear off my dress and wrap it around your…, " She erupted in rage but paused to bring herself to articulate the word penis and butt. However she could not and ended up saying, " Did you just uncover me to cover yourself? " "Wow! " The creature exclaimed as if amused. "You even have rage? In this body? " He pulled her hands up and threw them back again as if she was a rag doll. He then turned around laughing as if he had heard the funniest joke ever. "Hey you! " Liana yelled this time, too furious to control her temper. " What do you think you are doing? Turn around and look at me like a man. " She could hardly keep standing as the blood still dripped down her forehead and her eyes started blacking out from time to time. She held onto the tree trunk beside which she was standing and kept looking at him with anger. The creature turned slowly towards her. "Hey! " Liana yelled again. But before she could utter the next word , the creature ran towards her as if it were a bullet shot from a gun. She was almost about to lose her balance, bedazzled, her eyes blinking at a super awkward speed. But before she could fall to the ground, her body collided with his strong and hard muscles. She looked up, only to get her eyes locked in his emerald wonders. His eyes were ,however, fixed on her forehead. " Don't move, " He leaned forward over her, before she could even move after his warning. He opened his moist mouth and started licking the blood away from Liana's face, as if he was a mother to some wild pup. It took Liana a few moments to realise what was happening to her. She pushed him away with all her might , but he didn't seem to budge even a millimeter. He was thick like a rock. "There.That's nicely done. I should have done this before. That cloth was useless to begin with. It would have been better for me to keep it on me instead. " He tapped Liana's head again and shook it hard as if checking a bottle for leak. "Ouch! You are hurting me. Just stop already, " Liana pushed him again. This time he moved. But was it voluntarily or had Liana's force increased, she couldn't tell. She looked at her own hands, wondering, when she suddenly remembered about Damian. "Where is my boy? Where is Damian? " She stood up this time with absolutely no problem. "Damian? My boy? What are you even talking about? " He distorted her words like a kindergarteners, repeating them. "Do you even know him? " He aimed his hands towards the tree Liana was standing by. From the branches, came down her baby boy, still wrapped warm and tight, sleeping without a worry in the world. She ran towards him and pulled him down on her lap and started kissing him frantically. The baby smiled as he slept, as if dreaming. "You even smile, you little brat. " The creature retorted as Damian smiled. "You are such an actor. " Liana looked up at him, with eyes filled with anger, wonder and confusion. He definitely sensed that and began, " Human, do you have any idea who you are dealing with right now? Do you? Of course you don't. I am the king and lord of the mighty Dragon realm. The one and only ruler of the blessed dynasty, the robust and fearsome, Draco. " He said that with an air of drum rolling in the background and trumpets blowing all around. He stood there like that for a few moments with an air full of grandeur, waiting for Liana to perhaps collapse with shame. But she kept staring at him without batting an eyelid, while still cuddling and hugging Damian. He seemed very annoyed with her nonchalance. He walked up to her slowly and pulled her up so she was staring right into his eyes, with her feet hanging above the ground. " You don't get it. Do you? I am the Dragon king. And this, " He said, pointing at Damian in her arms, " is my one and only son. " This time Liana reacted. Her eyes grew wider and her lips parted, leaving her mouth wide open. There was visible signs of wonder with shock in them.

第5章

Liana's mind instantly traveled back to the time when she had first found her adopted son, her life, her Damian - Liana was sitting by the window, gazing at the bright red moon.It wasn't very often that one got to catch a glimpse of the crimson ball.The sky was crispy clear too. It looked magical from every angle.She had found herself drawn to another dimension, simply by staring at it. Things weren't very good at home either. She had just hung up after yet another heated argument with her mother. Ever since her father died, her mother had been a totally different person. She had left Liana in the care of workers and set off, wanting to make a fortune for herself. She sure was successful in multiplying the wealth her father had left behind. But she had no room or space for Liana in her world anymore. Liana was just another liability for her. The only time she had for Liana was to sign her monthly allowance cheque. At first it deeply disturbed Liana. She was very close with her father as it was. His death had shattered her from within. It was the perfect time for her mother to fill in , but she chose to abandon her right at that point when she needed her the most. Over time, Liana didn't actually care about it anymore. She got herself busy in her own world. However things turned a little different after she joined college. Ever since she moved into her new home, her mother wouldn't let her be. She would often try to interrupt Liana's plan of actions . She would interfere in Liana's social life. She interfered with Liana's position in her college with lump sum donations. She would even get Liana followed by bodyguards sometimes. Liana was getting frustrated with her mother's sudden overflow of concerns. This led to the two often arguing whether in person or over the phone. It wasn't that Liana didn't want her mother to be present in her life. In fact that was what she had always wanted. But the fact that she was always judgemental without giving Liana a chance to explain herself, drove Liana crazy. She had grown to be self dependent over time after her mother had left. Now she suddenly wants to control everything in Liana's world.This made the rift between the two, even wider. Liana had put on her jacket and decided to go for a walk. Walks were excellent for clearing her mind. She had taken some energy bars in her pocket. Put the music on loud in her headphones. Pulled the hoodie over her head and started walking. It was like she was invisible to the world. Neither did she notice anybody nor did anybody register her. A few miles down the road, she had found the perfect view to sit and admire. The mountains had met the ocean with its head bowed down in submission. It was a picture of perfect union between the high and the low, the rugged with the lively. She had sat there for a while, hanging her legs down the cliff, dangling it to the beat of the ocean splashing its water against the walls of those mountains. She was so engrossed in grooving, she hadn't even noticed what the time was or that the bright moon was already shadowed by huge clouds. It wasn't till a few drops had fallen on her that she had noticed the overcast over her head. She remembered looking up at the sky.At that moment she had seen something glittery and shiny move right past her like a shooting star,and fall somewhere across the horizon.But it wasn't exactly like a shooting star. It was much smaller and less bright. The place it fell on hadn't seem very far from where she was. But before she could have pondered more over it, a few more drops had drizzled over her eyes and face. "Shit, " She had closed the zipper of her coat and started running towards her home. By the time she reached, it was already raining quite heavily. She herself was drenched too. So without wasting any time she had to run to the washroom to get cleaned and changed. "The rain sure felt refreshing, " She had thought to herself looking for something to eat while towel drying her hair. Suddenly, she was distracted by some strange howling of the dogs. It wasn't that strange though. They would often fight late in the hours of the night while scavenging for food. It was due to their over breeding in the area . Liana hadn't paid much attention and got back to looking for her food. "Here, what do I have here? Oh, eggs.And, bread? No bread, Damn. " She remembered closing the fridge with a bang and continuing towards the kitchen, " Instant ramen to the rescue, then. " She had happily hummed as the food got prepared. Her mood seemed to have been lifted. "Wneeeeeeeeeeeeeeee" a sudden cry like shriek had caught Liana's attention. "Are those cats fighting again, " she had thought. Then it had happened again. It was a combination of the crying and the howling of dogs. And it was getting more and more intense. Liana had immediately looked out of her window. There sure was something going on in the waste bin area. She had the thought that it was none of her business, but curiosity had got the better of her and she had hurried outside, tossing over her raincoat. She had taken a walking stick along too. The nearer she had gone the more human like the cry had seemed. She had to hurry and run towards the bin, keeping those dogs at bay with her stick. Liana had to strain her head inside and immediately had taken a few steps backwards. There sure was a baby inside. As white as milk. Unclothed, with dirt all over its perfect little body. At first Liana couldn't react. She didn't know how exactly she should have reacted. But the child's cry had brought her back to reality. As soon as the child cried the dogs had started going rabid yet again. Liana had to quickly gather her wits and had picked the baby up. She had it covered with both her hands and had run inside. Strangely enough, the dogs hadn't followed her. She was expecting a full chase but none of the canines had budged from their places. Liana had closed the door behind her,after taking one last look at the dogs who were standing in perfect silence, staring in her direction.

第6章

Liana looked to and fro. There was no mistake that Draco and Damian shared striking resemblance. The hair line, the jaw, even the way their eyebrows moved were similar. As Liana stared she could clearly see that the olive in their eye sparkled with the same hue. "You can see it, can't you? " Draco pulled Liana closer as she looked up, puzzled as to what she aught to have seen. "See what? You mean... " she was about the mention the unquestionable similarities but as usual she was cut short by him. " The mark. The Dynasty Marking. You can see it right? " Liana had no clue what Draco was implying but she felt an urgent need to get away from his iron grip. The way his hands held her at the middle of her spine made a constant tingling sensation run around her core and belly. She looked up into his eye, one last time, in a attempt to correctly answer his question so he would let her go. There was a distinct spiral in the iris, around which was wrapped a serpent like something. But it had, scales, and limbs and eyes that burnt like flames. It definitely looked like the shapes Liana had noticed in Damian's starry eyes as he gazed innocently at her for hours. She hadn't paid it much attention, thinking it might have just been a birth mark but now that Draco mentioned it, it didn't after all seem very random. "The spiralling beast do you mean? " Liana just uttered these syllables when he exclaimed," I knew you could see it. " But instead of letting her go, Draco bent over, sniffing Liana at her collar bone. He traced her shoulder blades and neck with his nose, as she shuddered from the feel of his hot breath against her pale skin. He sniffed like a wild dog sniffing it's prey. "What do you think you are doing? " Liana tried pushing once more as she tightened her grip around Damian. " I knew you smelled different, " But before Liana could ask him anything more, Draco moved at lighting speed. He wrapped Liana and Damian in an invisible wing and flipped like a spining wheel. In what seemed like an instant they were standing on top of the highest tower in the city. Liana grabbed tighter this time. She was extremely scared of heights. " What on earth are we doing? " Liana grabbed around Draco's neck as he took Damian in the sky. He unwrapped his clothes as the baby hung mid air. But Liana was too scared to protest, let alone of any help she could be. But Draco seemed absolutely unfazed. He kept unwrapping the cloth around Damian till there was a silvery glimmer emitting. A silvery cloud engulfing the little baby. Liana panicked. "What exactly are you doing?Will you just let go of me? " she kept hitting Draco right at his chest. Though it would have been much easier for him to shove her off like a flee, he seemed to prefer to ignore her for the time being. Draco kept his eyes fixed on Damian till he was completely shrouded in that silvery thing. He turned towards the dangling Liana after he was done and ripped her hands free. Liana screamed in fright as Draco flashed his unholy smile. " You wouldn't, " Liana looked at him with dread and dare as he rolled his eyes and smirked like he did. " Didn't you ask me to let you go just a moment ago? " Draco looked into her eyes with glee. " What did you do with Damian? " Liana asked, as it was no use reasoning. Draco pulled Liana towards him again and shoved the silvery cloaked Damian in her side. She caught him promptly, trying to find his face and check for his breathing signs. "You can still see him? You seem like a very interesting specimen indeed. " Draco whispered in Liana's ears as he looked for something across the horizon. " You dare... " Liana was about to yell but he placed his hands inside her mouth. Liana gulped at the sudden impact as her teeth dug into his skin. It didn't seem as hard after all as it had appeared in the beginning. "Ahhhmmmm! ... " Liana was still trying hard to protest , however Draco blew a strict, " SSHHHHHH, " in her ear that instantly made her regret. " They are headed this way. Keep your volume down. " Draco instructed as his eyes morphed to a different shade and his eyebrows constricted into a deep frown. "The Shadows. They are here. They had dispatched The Shadows to track Damian without my knowledge. That is the only reason I had to come down in this mortal world myself, " though Liana understood that Draco was trying to explain himself, she was unable to convey that she needed translation to make anything out of the explanation itself. " It seems that they had the Shadows doing the rounds before this as well. But since they were not able to track you both down, I think I am sure about you as well. " He continued as he carefully retreated down the roof of the structure they were on. " But it's the Shadows we are dealing with, that too in the mortal world. It's better that his Aura stays hidden for awhile. " he said pointing at Damian, " as for you, you will be alright till I am by your side. " They jump landed on the first floor of the top most storey in the structure which was perfectly deserted. Liana finally breathed as Draco pulled his hand out of her drooling maw. "What are the Shadows? I thought you were a king? Why are we hiding here? What is that thing? " Liana instantly started bombarding with her question machine as she wiped her face and trailed him from behind. He turned towards her with a jerk stop that almost sent her flying, but the table behind her made her stop. Draco placed both his hands on either side of the desk, as dust rose making her cough. " Listen human, I have been paying you much more respect than I actually can. As you can see, there is a world here beyond your ignorant competence. Just stay close if you want to make out of this place. "

第7章

There was quick successions of tapping on the roof top followed by a few chilly winds. Even the hair strands on Liana's body, screamed in panic. It was like watching some horror show, holding your breath anticipating, but the difference was she was actually living inside it. Liana started having an emptiness growing inside her pit. Like something was sucking at her very core and it's made her weak at her knees. " Steady! They can sense fear and pain. " Draco ordered, helping Liana recuperate. The glass at the back shattered as Liana saw what she should not have seen. A deformed face with bifurcated eyes. Made of thick dark smog, dripping as it crawled, inhumanely upside down, hanging from the wall. It jumped from one side , then it went to the next, but before Liana could move, it was standing against her breast. She felt the cold sweat form on her forehead and under the nose. It tilted itself in strange angles as above Liana's head it rose. " Surrender! By your Majesty's Order! " Draco yelled. But it kept staring Liana into her eye as she felt everything tighten from inside out. She turned her eyes to find her body slowly phase into solid stone. Despite that she looked at Draco desperately, asking him to hold Damian before he slipped from her hands and hit the ground. But this time Liana caught something else in Draco's eyes. He was looking in another direction, like someone waiting for a cue. But Liana was in no position to even turn to catch it's view. "Now! " Draco barked as two consecutive jumps surrounded the Shadow in some kind of a net. It howled in pain as the two figures struggled to have it restrained. Draco walked nonchalantly towards it this time, filled with air and poise like he usually is, and robust. He placed a hand on its mouth as it shrank. The two figures came in front of Liana's sight as they packed The Shadow up like some pile of dirty laundry. "Nearly done... " But Draco slammed the speaker at his back before he even uttered the rest of his words. " What took you so long Calix?Did you find the ones issuing this order? " Draco demanded as the lad looked up at him with timid but big eyes. He was covered in steel, waist down like Draco was the first time she had clear view of him on that ground. The lad had fiery hair, reddish in hue very unlike Draco's white which was now short and cute. " Ah! Did I just think this Dragon was cute! " Liana hit herself in her head and winked hard trying to shake what was in her mind. " Oh! You. I had completely forgotten. Neutralise this one Raba, before we are found. " Draco looked at Liana as if disgusted with her winks and threw the instructions at the girl standing next to her. She looked as badass as it could get. Liana kept staring as she blew her with a blast. The girl Raba, opened her perfectly sultry mouth as flame poured out from some mount. It warmly melted the solid entrapping Liana inside and she broke free and almost fell on her rescuer once again. "Careful! " Raba smiled at Liana with the sweetest voice. That was completely opposite to what she looked like. Her hair was tied in several tails unlike the boys and it appeared golden like, very much close to a blonde. Her frame was strapped in leather and steel but what set her apart from the two men were her hands, that appeared mechanical. They didn't just seem metalic but Liana could tell by the touch that they were actual steel. " Is that our little prince? "She asked taking Damian in a little embrace. " Let him be for a while. We still don't know how many more are lurking. " They all nodded and then looked like they were getting ready to leave. " Are you sure we should head back first?" " How long do you plan to stay here? " " It's better this way till we are able to detect the source of the defectors. I cannot risk what happened to happen again. " Liana listened with concentration trying to understand what they were getting at, however Draco tucked her back under his arms as the other two leapt out of the open window frame. " So? " Liana finally asked when nothing came from Draco's end. "So? So what? Don't you know where you live? Do you need help to even find your own home? How pathetic. " Drack rolled his eyes like Liana had asked him an elementary question. "Is he planning to come to my house? Is it for Damian. Can I even trust this man? It's improper to take someone to one's house on a first date. Date? How did I even come with this word... Shit! shit! shit! There is something definitely wrong with the wordings in my brain. " "Do you plan to stay here all night? " Draco's husky voice brought Liana back from her self reprimanding journey and she smiled the most awkward smile, and then moved slowly away from under his hands. "Umm, may I ask if you were asking for my house so you could see Damian and me off? " She asked, knowing full well, it wasn't what he was talking about. "See you off? I am going to live with you. You have my son and I need to be here too. We cannot set off to our kingdom right away. And isn't it obvious we would need a place to stay. Since he his already living with you, it's just going to be one more gracing your lowly residence. " "Yeah, " Liana forced another smile, " Live with me, Yeah! And grace my lowly residence, " She looked at themselves and repeated, " Just the three of us. Under a single terrace. Alright. As you say your Majesty. I will lead the way. " She cursed under her breath so hard, she almost bit her tongue away. But Draco seemed to be quite impressed by the last few of her words. He nodded apparently quite pleased as she walked sulking in front, taking the lead.

第8章

Liana turned the tap off to sush the sound of the running water. "Did you get the television on all by yourself? " Liana peeped over from the kitchen sink as the sound from the Hall blasted her ear drums. Draco looked at Liana with such an expression that was a mixture of disbelief with wonder. "What does your question even mean? " Of course he sounded very offended. " Oh! So you did switch it on by yourself. My bad. I thought you were some kind of an ancient Dad. I mean like from the books - 'Old, grumpy, rustic dragons, vicious and wild, eager to take over lands'... " but yet again Liana was cut short as Draco jumped over the couch and was beside her even before her eyelids could move up half a milimeter. "I don't no about the rest but they did get the vicious part correct, " He pulled her close with one hand behind her waist as she lifted both her dirty hands, still inside the washing gloves. "and if you so insist, we can check about the authenticity about the Wild, title, " his lips curled up in such an unholy suggestive manner, Liana almost chocked on her own saliva and coughed, as she moved away. "Did you just try to flirt with me? " She actually asked looking at him from behind the cabinet. He laughed , twirling around, as if it was the best amusement. "Well, if you are so capable, I guess you could atleast try being a little sensitive as well. The reason I asked if you switched on the television was because you have kept it on at full blast. And if you remember, there is a baby sleeping just next room. Turning the volume down wouldn't hurt your ego or sentiment. " Liana blinked as Draco stared at her with what seemed like an expressionless avatar. " You are right. " He leaped back on the couch with the remote in his hand. " Did he just admit I was right? " Liana just turned around, slowly walking back to the kitchen, contemplating. "Come here. Look. " She had to turn immediately back after his sudden command. Draco had the news on. The anchor read about - Strange occurrences across the city. Thunder clouds sighted at odd locations followed by severe lighting strike and property damage. A total of ten lives lost till count and several others missing. Liana turned towards Draco, her brows lifted up. " Are those the Shadows? " Draco simply nodded as he browsed on. The incidents were everywhere, however none were able to say anything specific about it anyway. " What are those things? " Liana wondered aloud, looking again back at the screen. There was another footage of a building being ripped apart as the 'thunder cloud' hovered away. " Those are our hunting dog. They can be very usefull in warfare. " " But then if you are their King, aren't they supposed to have listened to you back there? " Liana was clearly mentioning about the incident back at the top storey where Raba and Calix had to intervene for the Shadow to be retracted. Liana seemed to have noticed how it had clearly disobeyed Draco, back there. " They don't have a working brain. They act upon what's fed inside their head. They would not be deterred unless they are once again held back. They have been our deadly offense against the most fierce of enemies." Liana could tell if he detested of actually cared about those beasts. "It must be someone from amongst my top closest men, who mobilised them here. And I can't leave unless we can surely tell. " "Tell what? Your men mobilised something that's killing people in this world. And you goa round calling yourself mighty, sitting in the couch, loking at some news. " Liana's voice was very different this time and even Draco understood. He turned towards her and said, "that is precisely the reason we haven't yet left, " he was of course referring to Damian and himself. " There is something big going behind my back in my kingdom. I can't possibly take my son back and put him in harm's way once again. I can't even leave him alone back here with these Shadows everywhere. But if I show myself right now, whoever is behind all this would surely know Damian is also nearby. For me keeping him safe is for the time being ,the top most priority. At least till we have a lead as to who is behind all these. " He added with a paused. At that moment Liana found he wasn't as invincible after all as he had seemed. "You said 'in harm's way once more'.Tell me, did something happen to Damian before this. " Draco looked at her as if she had stabbed him in the spleen. " You sure have a lot of guts for a human. Do you think the Dragon Lord is here to discuss his state affairs with a earthling? I just shared a little bit about what Damian is already up against since you have been taking his care. Consider it a favour and don't dare to cross your sphere. " Liana smiled. She was glad Draco was back to himself again. But she wasn't thick enough to atleast get the fact that her Damian has been facing hardships since his birthing. " Ahhh! Correct. I still need to do the sink load of dish. " Liana stood up and streched, her hands soggy, still under those washing gloves. " You can skip it, " Draco declared out of the blue as he swished his hands facing towards her kitchen. Liana, had to almost hold the table's edge as she watched her dishes bathing themselves in the sink pool, drying in the towel then dancing their way back to their shelves, and she felt her knees were almost out of power. " Keep that closed, " Draco banged her lower jaw shut as she had her mouth wide open, taking a full grasp. She jingled behind Draco who switched off the television and walked towards the terrace door. " You could have done that all along. But you kept sitting with your snout. " " Are you complaining? " Draco turned around with yet another swift jerk. " I can put them back just like they were, with every single spot. " " No! No! No!I was just going to thank you" Liana turned immediately around, quickly changing her mood. " You can take the living room couch or sleep in the spare bed beside Damian. I will get going first to my room. " She bowed and ran on her toes back inside as Draco stood at the door watching her fool around.

第9章

The crystalline dew, resting on the transparent leaf of the Olive Tree beside her window looked as surreal as her marriage prospect with the King. Draco, the mighty, popular, philanderer, sybarite owner of the present Dragon realm. He was the most self-centred person she had ever known. Most vicious, hot headed, even cruel to some extent. But then why didn't she oppose the proposal? Why wasn't she upset when they sent the betrothal gifts? Moreover, why did her heart leap with joy, every time they mentioned him? Kiara had grown up with the rest of the Royal children, Draco and his brethren. She was the daughter of Draco's father's most trusted Officer. From the moment her eyes had layed it's glance on Draco, her heart wasn't her's anymore. She had fallen badly in love with a man, who was devoid of pitiful emotions. Her heart beat everytime he moved past her. At every word he uttered. Even though he was always surrounded with girls. For Kiara , it never mattered. "He is here my lady, asking for your audience. " A maid announced suddenly from the back, which left Kiara startled. " Who's here Lima? " Kiara asked, turning back to the window, once again. " Our King , my lady. He is waiting for you in the next chamber. " Kiara was up on her feet. "What? Draco? He is here? Then why didn't the guards announce his presence? " She looked as nervous, as she was puzzled. "They were instructed not to, by the king himself. " Kiara ran in front of her mirror. Checking herself out. She looked perfectly made up, from her head , down to the toe tips. Yet she brushed over her cheeks with a little rouge. Then added a little more colour to her tinted lips. "May we?",the maid asked. " Yes, Yes, Of course." Kiara followed her, holding her breath and walking on tip-toe. She announced herself, stammering as she did. But Draco smiled, for the first time, atleast in Kiara sight. She had never seen him smile before, not as gently as he did this time. He would often laugh out loud, or smirk, when he was having a good time. " Come Kiara. Have a seat. " He pointed to his right and cued all the attendees to leave. Kiara went with her head down and followed his command like an obedient child. " I know how much you might be against the notion of this marriage. It hasn't even been particularly easy, either for me... " Draco began as Kiara looked up, wondering what did he even mean. Of course he had no idea what he meant for her. Neither was he aware of her feeling.But what could have possibly made him think that she might be against this union totally? "No, I mean... " Kiara bravely tried to cut him off, but as usual failed miserably. " You don't have to be formal here. It's just you and me." The words hit Kiara straight. She had no idea why her spleen squeezed. Or was it her bladder, lungs or her entire being. " I know you have seen me with women. We have literally grown up like brothers and sisters. But you might as well be aware of my temperaments. They were nothing but temporary fun. " Ahhh. So that was what he was implying. He thought Kiara might test him knowing his womanizing nature. It wasn't entirely false though. It cut deep like a knife when she had first seen him with a brunette beauty. How she had cried that night. How had her heart ached. But it had long stopped hurting as she saw him everyday with a different girl. " You see, Kiara... " Her heart skipped a beat as he called out her name. How sweet it sounded. She didn't know it had a melodious nature. "... you see I have had no interest in marriage. In settling down with a mate. But you might well aware be of the Prophecy, that has recently been doing the rounds. For me, my kingdom means the most. And since it's about my throne, I had no choice but to give in to their toast. My parents have long been coaxing me for marriage. They must have had their eyes on you. Hence the sudden decision and rush. I hope you were able to follow? " " Huh? Yeah. Absolutely. I totally understand. It is not like you think. I have no problem to stand beside you with your hand in my hand. " Kiara wanted to tell him that but instead she decided to keep her mum. Just nodded her head, letting him understand what she got his point. "Like I said before, I would never have agreed if it wasn't for the throne. I need a heir. As soon as possible, to shut all their mouth. " Draco banged on the table beside him, as the vase fell tumbling down. Kiara shuddered in surprise as it made a loud sound. " Kiara, I will need your cooperation and help in this. We have been friends for years, I hope I can count on you. " Draco continued unapologetically. " Friends? When were they friends? " Kiara was calculating as Draco suddenly bent on his knees. " I promise I will never force myself on you. Nor will I ever restrict you in anyway. If I have to get married and produce a child, I might as well do it with someone like you, loyal and filial. " Draco had her hands in his, as she suddenly felt her core trembling. She bravely looked up to meet his eyes as he looked at her's, reassuring. " Do you promise to be my aid? Bear a child for me? " He asked once again, as if afraid, she might refuse birthing once the child is borne. Never had she realised he was promising her word by word, what exactly he wanted from her, what their relationship had. His eyes melted something deep inside as it burnt with rekindled flame that she had kept suppressed in silence, and it was becoming hard to stay apart. Eagerly she nodded her head, giving him her heart felt consent. He stood up, happy and relived and he actually looked content.

第10章

Kiara had her limp body carried inside the mossy cave by the maid she had chosen to be her confidant. "Hold on my lady. We are almost there. " The poor thing kept reassuring. But Kiara was in no stare to share her care. They were both doomed. Both knew none of them would leave that cave alive. Yet they had to do what needed to be done. The Heir was very important to the King. Kiara tangled the Vines of Youth in both her hands, drawing a few more drops of strength from them. They were inside the Eternal Cave. It was a one way route. But that was the precise reason Kiara had chosen to come there. That was the only place they would not be found. Kiara knew her Kingdom was in deep trouble, the moment she realised she had been poisoned. But she dared not divulge the fact, least it would ensure choas and further harm her lad. Yes her lad. She was told it would be a boy. She had been blessed by the Guardian Mother's in the Floral fields of their Dragon Realm. " My lady. Bear a little. " The little maid was again beside her, stroking her beautifully long tress, as her eyes filled with tear. She had already given up her core. She had given up her Dragon Core to sheild her unborn son from the effects of the deadly poison. Kiara had spent her free time in the Royal Infirmary. It used to be the best spot for her little retreats. She knew the smell of every herb, symptom of every poison and their possible cure. This poison that she was administered didn't have any taste. Neither did it have any smell or aftertaste. But she could say it was one of the deadliest from the effects it started having on her skin. At that moment she was sure it was given to her by some one, at war with her King. The aim was not to kill her. It was targeted at her son. And it was done by someone in the Palace's inner circle so Kiara didn't take anymore chance. Draco's look still burnt fresh in her eyes. When he had pleaded her for a child, that would be his aid. His weapon against the hierarchy fight. "What is it that . " The maid screamed suddenly. There was a silvery liquid dripping down Kiara's thing from her lady parts. Kiara looked down panting. Her heart rate exceeding the speed of an unruly cyclone. She let out a heart clenching roar. Reaching the ceiling of the cave, tearing the cave's indoor. Her hands began to bleed as the vines cut deep into her skin as she pulled looking for something comforting. Kiara had her legs stretched apart. It was completely involuntary. She twitched as if something cut her from the inside , with blades sharper than knives. Kiara had her Dragon skin. It was even impossible for acid to burn. " They did not just poison me. " She thought, " there is also dark sorcery involved. " Something moved inside Kiara. From her spine towards her breast. It handled her the worst possible way, a woman's body could be handled. The maid looked on in horror. She had nothing she could do. She was just helpless. " My lady... My Lady. " She kept mumbling, waiting for her pain to end. Kiara kept struggling. The trace of life inside her fading yet again. But she still had to deliver her son. So she drew again from the Vines. Finally the ache of labour reached her wombs. She felt the sharp trigger. As muscles contracted in unison, in a symphony, one after the other. The Eternal Cave was a place, every living soul coveted. It was a place most people wanted to go to replenish their lost youthful vigor. Many had been there. In groups and in troops. But the only reason it remained unexploited was because none could get out. One could experience their long lost stamina. Become the man or maid of their adolescent years. But there was a catch. They would devour themselves in hunger and fear when the exit door never again opened. The place was scattered with such skeletal remains. Some turned to stones who were from the Dragon's higher ranks. Kiara however was detached from all these observations. She was well aware of her end. The she felt it again. The contractions overlapping. "He is here. He is here. " She yelled with joy. The maid was surprised she still had the courage to smile. The maid took a look inside her dilation. The crowning was very prominent. She helped the ailing Kiara. Comforting her as much as she could. Just then the silvery thing that dripped down Kiara's thighs, lashed out at her, as if it had a mouth. " Not good. " Kiara thought. She had to fight back even at the last moment. The sorcery was trying to devour her son, even when she beared all the pain, to difuse it before. " Get the water from that pond. " Kiara commanded , sitting in the middle of her bloody pool. There indeed was a pond at the back. The maid spared her two glances, marvelling at her knowledge. Kiara indeed knew more than the average Palace females. She was not just another Dragon Mate. She was gritted and strong enough to match her robust husband's exterior, just that she had it in her interior. " Quick. Bring that water. NOW. " Kiara yelled, out of breath. " I am unable to hold anymore. " She shrieked with all her vocal. "Here it is. Here it is. " The maid brought it in a dragon's discarded skull. " Place your hand on his head. " Kiara ordered pointing at the baby's divulging head, " pull him out at the count of three and don't you dare look back. Go straight to the end of this cave. You will find a doorway, covered with a watery layer. Both of you go inside. Remember. You are not supposed to look back. " The maid nodded. Kiara gulped the liquid down as she let her load off, as she finished the countdown. The maid ran with the newborn Prince. She hugged him and just ran. She heard the blood coiling mourn of the Queen as she heard sounds of breaking bones.