Taken by a Nymph Lizzie Lynn Lee Published: May 2012

Published by Summerhouse Publishing. Copyright, Lizzie Lynn Lee. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This book contains material protected under International and Federal Copyright Laws and Treaties. Any unauthorized reprint or use of this material is prohibited. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the author. This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the authors imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental. Editor: Chris Stout|Cover Artist: Lizzie Lynn Lee

Chapter One
Prince Avaran de Charmange didnt like bars in general. He loathed the smoke from the cigarettes humans seemed to be fond of. He didnt care for the human taste in music either. He failed to understand why humans thought bawling like a banshee along with the cacophonous musical instruments was considered an art of singing. He was told it was called rock music. Absurd. Avaran recalled Dymar, the ancient footman in his palace, often did the same thing when the old fool was deeply inebriated. Avaran had been frequenting the bars along the Canal Avenue for the past two weeks because Councilor Rohim had said bars were where Avaran could meet women in the human world. A potential mate to be bedded and bred. Love wasnt important. At present, his unique circumstances didnt allow him to have the luxury of proper courting, let alone falling in love. It is dire that Your Highness claims your bride before the new moon, Councilor Rohim had said. Or your right to the throne of Surian will be forfeited. Avaran clenched his fist. He was damned if he would surrender his rights without a fight. His late father, the king, hadnt been in his right mind when that warmongering, crown-stealing, honey-tongued Tamyan Hallburn whispered

lies and more lies into his fathers ears. Avarans uncle had suggested that the kings own son, the sole and rightful heir of the throne, wasnt good enough to take the throne upon the kings death. Tamyan Hallburn had managed to convince his brother to issue a decree that if Avaran didnt fulfill, he would be cast out from Surian forever. The decree involved three challenges, and also demanded for him to be a wedded man before Avaran was deemed worthy of the throne. The three challenges had been easy. Claiming a bride had been a problem. By his royal birthright, Avaran should only wed princesses. It wasnt like Surian or the Realm of Athea lacked princesses or noble women. However, Hallburns webs of deceit were so deep and treacherously intricate, Councilor Rohim was convinced that any princess Avaran chose was more likely one of Hallburns cronies. It was a gamble Avaran couldnt afford to take. If he desired, he could choose a commoner. He only needed to snap his fingers and any father would surrender his daughter willfully. Alas, even then Avaran worried that Hallburn would be able to corrupt his bride. His uncle was as devious as he was evil. Hallburns name instilled fear and terror throughout Surian. His power was vast, wicked. His legions were many. But then Councilor Rohim had come up with a plan and suggested that Avaran take a bride from a different realm, such as the human realm, a clueless bride who wouldnt likely be affected by Hallburns influence. And how

could she? She wouldnt know who Hallburn really was. And all Avaran needed to do was to find one and claim her. And fast. Avarans body tensed. The glass of beer he ordered remained untouched. He disliked the taste. He ordered it because plenty of human males drank pints upon pints of the yellow, foamy brew. He assumed beer was a manly drink. In Surian, they had their own version of beer: an ale called natah. Brewed and fermented from spring water and gubi wheat, natah tasted rich, distinguished, and smooth. This beer tasted like horse piss. Not that Avaran had ever sampled horse piss before, but he imagined it would taste pretty close. The barman noticed him staring down his glass with vehemence. A sympathetic grin broke over the older gentlemans weathered face. His gaze skittered from Avarans sports jacket to his long hair tied with a leather thong. Avaran immediately felt out of place. The patrons of this bar were dressed in grubby looking garments. A peasant tavern, apparently. Avaran was overdressed. Sorry, the barman said, his voice sounding rustier than the wrinkle lines on his visage, we dont carry fancy drinks in this joint. That draft is as good as you can get. He made a faint gesture with his hand. If you want something better, you ought to hop in one of those froufrou joints downtown. They serve foreign beer and microbrew. That is all right. Avaran offered a smile. I guess I am just not in the mood to drink. Your accent. The barman cocked his head slightly.

British? Avaran didnt know what British was. People in the realm of Athea spoke the same language as the humans. Or at least he thought they did. He had exited from the farthest crack of the Realm of Athea into the human town called Springfield. Just to be safe, Avaran chose his answer carefully. He wanted to blend in with the locals. It made the hunt much easier. I have lived overseas until recently. Ah. That so. Want something stronger? The barman pointed out his glass. Ive got a bottle of Remy Martin in the back. My own private stash, mind you. Not that I offer it to most of my customers. They like their liquor fiery. Like jet fuel. Avaran wasnt interested in another horse piss concoction this nice man had to offer. He shook his head politely. I would like to stay sharp tonight. I would not mind some nice cola though. Avaran loved soda. One thing that humans excelled at was inventing sweet bubbly drinks in a vast array of succulent flavors. The barman shrugged. One cola, coming right up. Thank you. No problem. Avaran paid the drink and tipped him handsomely. This barman was unpretentious, unlike those who manned the establishments on the north side. The fancy joints. The bars Avaran had previously scoured and failed to find a suitable mate. He didnt know why.

The women in those establishments were fine to look at and many of them were at the tender child-bearing age. It was their demeanor that Avaran didnt care much about. Some of them were plain aggressive. As a nymph, his natural pheromones could cause uncontrollable carnal desires in human females. He didnt wish for a submissive weakling, but he didnt like being chased either. In the tight patriarchal culture of Surian, Avaran believed a man should be the one who hunted. Not the other way around. The bartender pushed another tall glass of cola to him. Avaran sipped it with delight. He made a mental note to bring some cans of soda to Surian upon his return. Excuse me, a feminine voice called from his side. If you dont mind, Id love to buy you a drink. Avaran turned to the owner of the voice. A svelte woman was leaning on the bar, taking the previously empty seat next to him. She was young, perhaps just a few years his junior. Her firm body was wrapped in a fine black fabric that enveloped her like a second skin. Her eyes were green and her hair was yellow. Blonde, he was told. It appeared human males liked their women with such color. Avaran found nothing special about blondes. Almost all nymphs in Surian possessed pale hair. The woman threw a dazzling smile. Im Anna. Im not usually this direct, but youre amazing. Amazing? Avaran echoed. From where he was from, titles such as amazing, brave, or fearless were earned with blood and sweat on the battlefield. And he hadnt done anything in this foreign land that could possibly

earn them. She laughed. I mean youre very good looking. I almost couldnt believe seeing a guy like you in this kind of place. She leaned closer. Are you British? There it was again. British. No, Avaran replied, feeling a little vexed. I am Surian. Where is Surian? Between Iona and Durkstar. Not that this female would guess anyway. Avaran abandoned his attempt to blend in. Tonights hunting was as disappointing as the nights before. He started to wonder if he had been hounding the wrong places. Bars werent suitable places to meet a potential mate. Is that like one of those itsy bitsy European countries like Luxembourg or Estonia? she asked. This female was hopeless. You are absolutely correct. Avaran slid from his seat. I need to go Avaran looked for an exit. to the mens room. Sit tight. I will be back. Oh, I wont go anywhere. Her voice was laced with a purr. Her smile was suggestive. Avaran couldnt wait to get out of this place. From his experience of the past two weeks, it was much easier to just leave stealthily than let a woman know he wasnt interested. A couple of them could be downright pushy and hysterical. Avaran disliked making a scene. Sit tight, he repeated, hoping this woman wouldnt feel inspired to follow him into the mens room. Sure, honey. Ill be a good girl.

Avaran caught the barmans eyes. The amusement was there. Avaran gave a nod and headed toward the back. Instead of going to the restroom, he sneaked into the kitchen and went out through the back exit. Cold air welcomed him into the heart of a wintry embrace. Invisible tendrils of chill found their way into his skin, seeping through his sports jacket. Avaran wasnt bothered by it. He was used by the gloomy weather. The sun rarely shone in the realm of Athea. Seven months out of the year, the goddess of Isthara raged in her wake, leaving Surian blanketed in the midst of an icy climate and a thick carpet of snow. For a moment, Avaran felt as if he was home.

Chapter Two
Thirty-two-year-old nurse Raine Jackson felt her name was more of a curse than it was romantic or nostalgic. A flower child to the core, her nineteen-year old mother met a guitar player in a club in Haight-Ashbury, had a drink together, and brought him home. It was a one-night fling. Her mother had cheerily admitted she was kind of high on LSD that night and she hadnt been bothered to find out her dates real name other than sugar and baby. Raine had never known who her father was. Nine months later when she was born, her mother named her Raine because there was a thunderous rain the night after her father left. Again, sentimental value. She resented the name. She wished her mother had named her something like Summer or Daisy. Heck maybe even TieDye or Mary Jane. The name Raine had affected her life like rain itself: wet, soggy, yucky and unlucky. Like now. She stared at the deflated car tire with dismay. Her battered old Honda had clocked almost two hundred thousand miles and the transmission was in dire need of a replacement, but she had hoped she could get at least a few more years out of it. Her job as a nurse paid a decent wage, but the ongoing treatment of her ailing mother in the county hospice had drained most of her savings. She couldnt afford a new car. Of course the damn tire had to be busted now. Late at night. When it was bitter cold. And her

cell phone battery happened to be dead. And slushy drops of wet snow had started falling from the sky. Raine wanted to cry. She opened the trunk for the spare tire, a jack, and a wrench. But she had never changed a car tire before. Before her divorce three years ago, her ex was the one who dealt with car problems. Shed seen Andy do it. Put the jack in, pump it several times, loosen the screw thingy, take the punctured tire out, put the spare one on, screw it back in and undo the jack. That should be easy enough, shouldnt it? Raine glanced at her wristwatch. It was well past midnight. Her shift had ended at eleven, but she didnt leave the hospital until forty-five minutes later. The trauma center had been busy this evening. They had several car crash patients from a pile up on the I-90. Raine could walk home and take care of the car problem tomorrow. Her apartment was only a few blocks away. But then she remembered that she had promised Colleen she would cover her friends morning shift. Not good. There wouldnt be enough time to call a body shop and have it towed. Besides, she was short on cash. She was down to two options: walk home and ride buses to work or drive with the spare tire until payday. Either way she still had to switch the stinking tire eventually But did she have to do it in the cold though? Raine contemplated her situation. Maybe she should just drive home since it wasnt that far. A few blocks wouldnt make much difference for the old Honda. She could freeze to death if she attempted to play mechanic in

this kind of weather. Raine slammed the cars trunk shut. Hey, lady! Raine whipped her head around. A scruffy-looking old man was trudging toward her. His parka was neon orange and his pants looked like they hadnt seen the inside of a washer for months. And he smelled like a brewery. Great. He must be a stray drunk from the nearby bar, she thought. Her luck just kept adding up. She couldnt catch a little break, could she? There was always something shitty coming her way. Raine hastened her walk to the drivers seat. A hand grabbed her. Lady. Do you have spare changes? Dont you pretend you didnt see me. Raine shouted in surprise. Her back slammed against the rearview. Jeepers. The man scowled darkly. I just asked for some change. A lady like you must have some. She dug into her coat pocket without thinking, fishing for coins. She found a few and shoved them into the mans hand. Here. Let me go. The mans eyes narrowed. Three quarters and two dimes. You gotta be joking. I dont have any more. Im short on cash. He craned his neck, peering into the car window. Maybe you oughtta check your purse. Hard to believe a fine lady like you dont have some change. Christ. Was this man panhandling or mugging her? Raine avoided his fetid breath. It made her stomach roil.

Let go of my hand and Ill check my purse. Now youre just yanking my chain, lady. The drunk tightened his grip. She yelped. It hurt. It was also pointless to argue with a drunk. She shoved him. Dont touch me again, you creep. Gimme your wallet! he barked. Let me go. Bitch, gimme your fucking wallet! He pushed her so hard, Raine fell on the frozen asphalt. Snow had started blanketing the ground with its white, icy sheet. Her face was only a few inches from the mans equally dirty sneakers. Raine fought the bile rising in her throat. Panic claimed her. Please dont stab me, please dont stab me. She silently murmured the words like a chant. A few days ago, she had witnessed a victim of domestic violence die on the operating table. The woman was only twenty-two years old. Her husband had stabbed her fifteen times before cops could charge through the door. Being stabbed wasnt a pleasant way to die. Of course, the smart way to deal with a mugger was just give her wallet and be done with it. She didnt have much cash anyway. But what if this man wanted more than her money. Eww Raine croaked, Help! Just as she thought screaming was a stupid mistake who was going to help her anywaysuddenly, the drunks shoes levitated a few inches in front of her.

What the hell

The mugger wasnt actually levitating; someone had

grabbed him by his collar and was shaking him like a rag doll. Someone tall. Someone Raine blinked several times to see if her eyes were playing tricks on her. No way. A man like him only existed in fairy tales. Nope. He was real. Like a knight in shining armor. He also looked very strong. The way her savior grabbed and lifted the drunk as if he weighed nothing stunned her. The young man ranted as if he wanted to chew the mugger from ear to ear. The drunk was terrified. Her knight probably would scare her as well if she hadnt found him very attractive. That was the weirdest thing. One second she was scared out of her wits and the next she was aroused. She didnt detect it at first; a cloyingly sweet floral fragrance, faint jasmine or lilac, and beneath it the undiluted scent of pure sugar cane hit her sense of smell, and Raine found herself burning with desire. Lewd images flashed in her mind. She felt ashamed. Raine got up and dusted the dirt and snow from her coat. The mugger immediately crumpled on the ground then promptly scuttled away with terror in his eyes. He muttered, Sorry, mister, over and over until he was finally able to stand up. He fled. His movements were clumsy at first. When he regained his footing, he ran as fast as his stumbling, inebriated legs could carry him. It was very comical despite the circumstances. Are you all right? the young man asked. Heat warmed her cheeks instantaneously. IIm okay, she stammered. T-thank you.

Did he hurt you? No. He just Their gazes clashed. Her words evaporated on the tip of her tongue. Raine forgot what she was going to say. Those eyes Her breath stalled in her throat. They were gorgeous. She had parked under a street lamp and she could see the color of his eyes: deep blue like the color of the ocean. They were sparkling. Mesmerizing. She released her breath slowly and inhaled another. As she had suspected, the sugary sweet scent belonged to him. It hit her in full force. More dirty images filled her mind. Bodies writhing. A womanhermoaning in the throes of ecstasy.

What the hells wrong with me?

Raine forced herself to break her stare from this strangers hypnotic gaze. She felt furious with herself. How could she think inappropriate things like that in a moment like this? True, she hadnt been laid for a long time. She wasnt big on sex anyway. After five years of marriage, she and her husband had drifted apart to the point she felt as if she was living with a stranger. They tried marriage counseling but the sparks werent there anymore. Their separation was a mutual agreement that was best for them at the time. She didnt date after the divorce became final. She didnt see the point in it. Andy was the most-easy going man she had ever known. If Andy thought she was unappealing, it was no use trying so hard. Her trade was a high-stress job so she had turned to food for comfort. As a

result, her weight had ballooned over the years. Her addiction to chocolate also didnt help. Not a single man she knew ever clamored over big girls. Uhm. Raine stared at her feet. He just shoved me. But Im fine. Thank you. You dont fine. Im justshaken. Liar. Youre horny. But Im good now. The man made a sound as if he knew she was bullshitting him. My name is Avaran. What is yours? Raine just realized the man talked like James Bond. Elegant and cultured. She was half-expecting him to say, Shaken, not stirred, next. ImuhmIm Raine. Rain as in rain? He sounded intrigued. With an e. Raine. And why did he want to know her name, anyway? Shouldnt he be on his merry way after rescuing a damsel in distress? Besides, she wasnt much to look at. Size sixteen. Brown skin. Plain face. Straight hair. Totally forgettable. She was the type of person who could blend in with the wall in a party, not that she liked to attend any. Its getting cold. Anyway, thank you for helping me. She opened the car door and hurriedly slipped in. She didnt dare to take another look at him. She was afraid her dirty imagination would run wild. The man was much younger than she was and thinking stuff like that made her feel like a perv. It wasnt right. Though, she was curious. She knew he had long hair tied at the back. The darnedest thing was she couldnt

remember what the color of his hair was. Or the clothes he was wearing. Or his complexion. Fair, she recalled. She wasnt sure. Raine had been captivated by his eyes. Hypnotic. One hell of a gorgeous pair of eyes. The young stranger was still seizing her with his stares. She didnt like it. She felt naked. Vulnerable. I should accompany you home, he said through the crack of the window. I need an assurance that you will be safe. What? No way. That was a very bad idea. Nah. Absolutely not. She was afraid if she lingered a minute longer, she would do something stupid or embarrassing. Like asking for his phone numbers or worseinviting him home for a cup of coffee. She shook herself. That wont be necessary. The key was still in the ignition. Raine started the car. The engine gave a weak whine and spluttered.

No, no, no. Please dont.

Raine tried again. Her heart slowly dropped to her guts. She tried again. The car coughed and died. The orange light on the dashboard indicated the cars battery was depleted. She couldnt believe this. First, busted tire. Now the battery was dead. A surge of frustration overcame her momentarily. Dont do this to me, you piece of crap, she thought angrily. You owe me to get me home. She would have banged her head on the steering wheel if she wasnt aware that the stranger was still watching her. Problem? he asked. The battery died.

What killed it? Raine looked at him. She noticed the beige-colored designer jacket he was wearing. Crisp, sleek and undoubtedly expensive. And the button up shirt underneath. It was a shade lighter than the color of the jacket. The whole ensemble didnt seem to come from the regular department store racks. The guy must be pretty well off. And from her experience, people like him most likely didnt know anything about fixing a car engine. Sometimes it just dies. How curious. Is your house far from here? Just a few blocks. I shall escort you home. I dont I must insist.

Chapter Three
She didnt know it just yet, but Avaran was determined to claim her. Sweet Raine. Shy as a butterfly. Lush and sumptuous as ripe summer fruits. He hadnt expected to find a perfect bride in his quest in the human realm, but one look at her and he just knew. Whoever she was, he wanted her and nothing in this mortal realm would get in his way of claiming her. In Surian, a fierce attraction to a potential mate was called the erzha. The soul bound. Not every man in his homeland mated with their soul bound. Only a few lucky ones would experience the bliss of a lifetime. There were no tell-tale sign how to find one either. When a nymph laid eyes on their soul bound, they would instantly know. The erzha called for him, irresistible as a siren song. It felt as if every cell of his being was screaming for her. That was what Avaran experienced now. If she were a nymph, Avaran would have torn her clothing apart and claimed her on the spot. Humans had different customs. Counselor Rohim had warned him that human females were more reserved than nymphs. Also more delicate. The last thing Avaran wanted to do was to scare her. Avaran opened the car door and helped her out. Raine looked timid and unsure. He wondered if she could sense he wasnt human. He was a little worried that would

be a hindrance to her agreeing to be his mate. Are you well enough to walk or should I call a taxi? Avaran asked. In Surian, nymphs relied on bending water as a matter of transportation. Every city, every establishment or grand building was interconnected with narrow canals. Avaran only needed to dip his toes into the water and it would carry him to the destination in a blink of the eye. Avaran preferred not to bend water in the human realm. Not all the places he wanted to visit were connected with canals, and besides the streams and rivers he had seen were putrid. Truly disgusting. Instead, he had learned to go places by renting four-wheeled wagon machines the humans called taxi. Im fine, Raine said. She tightened the flimsy coat around her. The poor thing was shivering from cold. Avaran wished he had a cloak. The fashionable jacket he was wearing wouldnt protect her from the chill if he offered it to her. Nevertheless, he took off his jacket and draped it around her. No, Im fine. I cant take this. Youre going to freeze without your jacket. Take it. Im used to the cold. This is nothing compared to my homeland. Where are you from? Surian. A perplexed look was on her face. Is that like England? Yeah, England. Avaran grinned. Pray, tell me, you

are not mated, are you? Mated? Married, you mean? Yes. Are you unattached? She blushed. Oh, Im single. If thats what you mean. Yes, that is what I mean. Avaran took her hand and held her tight. Show me your home, Raine. You dont need to do this. I want to. They walked hand in hand on the frozen sidewalk, leaving the broken car behind. Do you live alone? I have a cat. His names Mr. Fluffy. A cat. How curious. Human keeps cats as pets? Excuse me? In my homeland, we do not keep cats as pets. They are vicious animals. Not Mr. Fluffy. Hes the gentlest creature Ive known. Hes lazy, though. I would like to meet him, then. How about your parents? Avaran was curious about her lineage. Do they live close by? No. My mom is in the county hospice. Shes ill. Oh, I am sorry. What is her ailment? Renal failure. Avaran was unfamiliar with that type of illness. He wondered if the court physician could heal Raines mother. How about your father? Oh. My mom raised me alone. I presume you do not have siblings, then?

No. Its just me and my cat now. Just her and her cat. No one would miss her if he spirited her away to Surian. Maybe her mother. But it would only be for a short period of time until he could settle all his problems. Once he banished Hallburn and his cronies, he would bring her mother to live with them in Surian. Avaran could already imagine Raine as his queen. She was one a Surian would call exotic. Dark hair. Dark skin. Big brown eyes. Lush body to bear him many children. And Goddess, was she breathtaking. Avaran couldnt believe a beautiful woman like her wasnt already attached. He guessed there must be a story behind it. She wasnt a nubile maiden. She was a fully bloomed rose at her prime, but not yet touched by any frost. Maybe she was widowed. Beneath those dreamy eyes, he could see sadness and loneliness. Once she was his, Avaran would never let her succumb to sorrow. What do you do for a living? she asked. Good question. As a prince, he spent most of his day sparring with his men. Studying the way of the sword and military strategies. When he wasnt on the training field, Elder Edwisch tutored him about philosophy, art, and literature. Avaran didnt like to waste his time in debauch parties like most of the young noblemen in his fathers court. Ever since he was little, he had worked hard to make himself worthy in the kings eyes. Something his father had never appreciated due to Hallburns deceit. He gave Raine a neutral answer. I work for the throne. The government?

Yes, the government, he echoed. Defense. I train men to fight. That sounds exciting. Not as exciting as you might think. What do you do? Im a nurse. A healer. Just perfect. A future queen that also was a master of healing. Avaran could already picture her surrounded by his people who had come from far to seek her advice and wisdom. What kind of hospice do you work in? You mean hospital? Ah yes, hospitalI suppose it is called here. Saint Edwards Parish. I work in ER. Emergency Room. Did you tend your mother yourself? Tend? Taking care of her, you mean? Yeah. No. Not directly. I visit her a couple times in a week. But, you are a healer. Can you not heal her? Im only a nurse. Not a doctor. A doctor, Avaran mused. Master healer? I suppose a doctor is a master healer. I see. Do you like your work? I have good days. And bad days. I love being nurse all in all. A healer that was dedicated to her work. At this point, Avaran believed that their encounter wasnt a merely random accident. This was fate. They were meant to be. Surian needed not only a pretty queen, but also a woman

who was compassionate and dedicated to her people as well. And Raine fit perfectly. The only thing left to do was to make her his. Avaran asked few more personal things about her and received surprising answers showing how humble she was. Raine was a woman of simple tastes, like him. His admiration for her grew. They walked a few blocks into a narrow street with houses that looked like boxes stacked against one another. All of the snow-covered windows were darkeveryone was already asleep at this wee hour of the morning. She stopped at a worn brick building. Well, this is my home. I live on the second floor, she said. Avaran quickly memorized the address. Now that he knew where she lived, he planned to come the next day to take her out on what humans called a date. Councilor Rohim had enlightened him on how to woo human females before he crossed realms. One thing he learned: that women here adored flowers and sweets called chocolate. I uhm dont usually do this, but would you like to come in for a cup of coffee? she asked shyly. Avaran just couldnt believe his luck.

Chapter Four
She couldnt believe what she just didinviting a stranger into her apartment for coffee. Just as she promised herself she wouldnt do. But how could she not? Avaran was nice. He was polite and kind. His interest in her seemed genuine. It seemed he liked her not because he wanted to get into her panties. Well, if he did, she wouldnt mind anyway. She wasnt the type where handsome men like him clamored to get into her panties. And besides, he had helped him from being mugged and was kind enough to walk her home to make sure she was safe and sound. A man like him was one in a million. And it was just for coffee. A friendly gesture. An appreciation for what he had done for her.

Right.
Avaran smiled. Her heart fluttered like the dance of a butterfly. I would be delighted to have some coffee. I also want to meet Mr. Fluffy. Then it was settled. Not only did he like her enough to have some coffee, he also harbored an interest in her cat. The guy was definitely a keeper. Okay. Her hand trembled when she put the keys on the door. Well, come in. Mr. Fluffy meowed by the door, greeting them. The

tabby cat took one look at Avaran and purred excitably. He rubbed his head on his legs. Holy crap. Even my cat cant resist him. I think he likes you. How curious. He didnt try to bite me. Avaran picked up Mr. Fluffy and petted him. The cat purred even louder. You have bad experiences with cats? Raine asked. They ate my goldfish. Nooo. Really? I was going to eat it first. Raine laughed. He was joking, right? Avaran looked so serious. But then there was a naughty twinkle in his eyes. Teaser. She put her keys and purse on the kitchen table. Well, this is where I live. Its not much, but its home. Avaran sat on the couch and looked around with fervent curiosity. Her apartment only had one bedroom, a bathroom, and an open room that served as her living room and kitchen. She used to live in a five-bedroom, ranch-style house in Colonial Peak when she and Andy were together. After they got divorced, they split the money from the sale of the house and most of her share had gone into her mothers care. Raine didnt need a bigger place to live since she spent most of her time in the hospital. She wasnt big on decorating either. Now with a guest other than her extended family, she realized how pitiful her life was. Her small place was practically bare. A few books here and there and a couple knick knacks on the shelves. No

hobbies. No interest. She had no life. It is lovely. I see you are very tidy. Raine swallowed a smile. It was easy to be tidy if she didnt have much stuff to begin with. Ill put the pot on. She took Avarans jacket. It was covered with snow. The melting ice started dripping on the floor. Id better dry this off. Do not trouble with it. A little wet does not bother me. Ill just put this in a dryer. Wont be any trouble at all. Dryer? She arched her eyebrows. Its a machine to dry clothes. Certainly he was joking, right? English people must know about dryers considering they lived in the land of four seasons. How curious. Can you show me? Avaran got up from the chair, Mr. Fluffy in his arms, still purring like a radiator. Raine pointed out the washer and dryer under the kitchen counter. This one is for washing and that ones for drying clothes. How do you do laundry in your country? My servants do it for me. Of course. Raine felt silly. She had forgotten that a well off man must have somebody taking care of everyday chores. She examined his jacket. This is dry cleaning only, but I suppose I could dry it with air fluff setting. It wont damage the fabric. It is just a jacket. But it looks expensive.

A rag nevertheless. I am not too fond of it, to be honest. Too constricting to my liking. Really? The jacket was made by Armani and it looked fabulous on his tall, muscular frame. She bet all her ten fingers it cost more than a months salary. Raine put it in the dryer and turned it on. Avaran watched her with interest. And that will dry clothes? he wanted to know. Yeah. How ingenious. Raine doubted even his servants knew what a dryer was. They must go to the dry cleaner for all their laundry needs. She took off her own jacket and hung it behind the door. Ill make that coffee I promise. Thank you. Its no problem at all. Her cheeks blushed when she caught Avaran ogling her. What? I love your clothes, he said, sizing her up from head to toes. You look very lovely in it. Right, Mr. Fluffy? The cat gave a loud purr in reply. Her face heated. Its called scrubs. A nurses uniform. Uniform? You say every healer dresses in it? Well, yeah. How does a nurse dress in your country? In a white robe. They wear different belts to distinguish their ranks. Yellow for apprentice and black for master healer. Which country are you from again? Surian? That is correct.

Where is it? Honestly, Ive never heard of it. Between Iona and Durkstar. Avaran added quickly when he saw her still puzzled, It is near England. Oh. Raine tried to recall if she ever saw it on the map. But, whatever. She made coffee while Avaran put Mr. Fluffy on the floor and examined the few photos she had on the shelves. One photo was when she was a child, with her mom when she was young. Is this your mother? Avaran asked. Raine nodded. She is beautiful. You have your mothers eyes. They are breathtaking. Lord, where was this guy when she was single? Well, she was single now, but before she met Andy where she was young and slim and still good to look at. You have a way with words. He only shrugged. I only speak the truth. Compliments are useless when they are empty. Careful, you can make a gal fall for you. He turned at her and smiled broadly. Is it working? Raine blushed. She had never been good in the flirting department. Y-your coffee. She brought the cup to the kitchen table and made another for herself. Avaran sat down and murmured his thanks. Mr. Fluffy purred at his feet. Avaran reached his head and petted him. The cat closed his eyes in bliss. Avaran sipped his coffee. I tasted this in my hotel. Very flavorful. I must say I am rather fond of it.

Where are you staying? La Salle. Raine wasnt surprised. La Salle was a pricey boutique hotel downtown. What brought you here to Springfield? Business? Yes, very important business. Oh yeah. Defense stuff? Avaran laughed. No. Actually, I am looking for a bride. Youre kidding. I am certainly not. Why Springfield? I have good feelings about this town. Pray, tell me, Raine, do you have a lover? What? No, no. I was married once but we got divorced. Oh, why was that? Wewed just grown apart. I am sorry to hear it. Avaran reflected on his words. No. Actually, I am not sorry. It is my luck now that you are unattached. What? Avaran straightened in his chair, bright-eyed. I would very much like to court you. How about dinner tomorrow night? I will bring flowers and chocolates. Whoa. Really? II Please say yes. Yes, yes. A thousand times, yes. I dont know. Arent you too young for me? Avaran couldnt be older than

twenty-five while she was in her early thirties. It didnt feel right. Avaran stared at her deadpan. You are the perfect one for me. Raine wanted to faint. It was hard enough acting normal without thinking dirty stuff but when he contemplated her like a piece of juicy steak, she felt like the temperature in the room had risen a few degrees. Avaran reached for her hand from across the table. I am sorry. I do not want to offend you, but I want to make sure you are my erzha Your what? Avaran rose from his seat and pulled her closer. He dipped his head and pressed his lip to her chin. He started slow. A light brush first. Teasing. Lingering. When his lips grazed hers, a dark thrill spiraled upward from the base of her spine. Heat stirred in her sex. Raine trembled, wideeyed. The kiss was incredible. One that thrummed through her soul. Exquisite. You are the one, Raine. We are meant to be. With a groan, Avaran threaded his fingers into her hair, fisting it possessively as he pried open her mouth with his tongue. Wildfire raged in her veins, making her nipples erect and her pussy ache. The sweet kiss turned ravenous. He devoured her. Raine melted in his embrace. Her thoughts became jumbled and hazy. She became aware of his hard erection when he drew her deeper into arms. His body pressed hard against hers. Heat radiated from his skin. God. He smelled so

good. And his touch. His kiss. What he did made her crave for more. Avaran licked the side of her jaw, trailing down her neck and shoulder. His teeth grazed her skin. Raine shivered. Where is your bedchamber? he asked huskily, his voice dripping with lust. Huh? Oh, my bedroom you mean? Raine looked over her shoulder. Its right there. She motioned with her chin. Raine yelped when Avaran swept her off the floor and carried her to her bed as if she was a sack of potatoes. The ceilings looked upside down before her face hit his back. Avaran! she protested. Ssh. He closed the door with the heel of his shoe. He deposited her in the middle of the bed, kicked his shoes off, and straddled her. Where were we? Raine bit her lower lip. I dunno. You were kissing me? Mmm. You are absolutely right. Avaran braced his arms next to her head. Their bodies grazed. Her nurses scrub brushed the designer shirt he wore. He stroked her hair with such gentleness as if she was the most precious thing in the world. His breath seared her skin when he dipped his tongue into her mouth. He kissed her like he meant it. Tenderly. Passionate. His eyes never left hers as he nibbled, licked, and marked her neck with love bites. Raine shivered from the thick pleasure. Avaran

seemed to be the type who enjoyed foreplay. Her ex Andy was a slam-bam-thank you-maam type. The two men she had ever accepted into her bed were like night and day. I love your skin. You remind me of Surians sweets that I am so fond of. Sumptuous, he told her. I want to taste every inch of you. She whimpered from the declaration. Kiss every inch of my body. Her heart thundered fast. She had never had a man who was eager to worship her like a goddess. She wondered how that would feel. But she didnt have to wait. Avaran pushed her top up and palmed her bra-covered breast. Raine gulped hard. He yanked the bra open with impatience. Her breath caught in her throat as Avaran dipped his head and licked her hardened nipple. God. Shimmering pleasure cocooned her tightly. Heat rushed through her veins. The effect of the lick devastated her, burning her alive. Her pussy moistened from the impact. The throbbing aches between her legs intensified. Goddess, he breathed out. You are truly a delicious sweet thing. I could eat you all night long. Raine moaned when Avaran sucked the feverish skin of her neck. Her body was engulfed by a fiery brimstone of lust. She had never felt this way. Her sex life with Andy had been vanilla. And then they had stopped having sex altogether. Sex was the last thing on her mind when there were bills to pay, the house to clean, and her sick mother to visit and take care of. By the end of the day,

all she wanted was a nice long bath and a good uninterrupted sleep. And now being intimate with Avaran, her body responded to her carnal needs. She didnt realize how much she craved a mans touch. Everything he said, his every touch served like fuel to the flame. She was burning with desire. Avaran felt her. He hurriedly undressed her. Shoes, pants, and panties followed. Before long, she was stark naked in his presence. She trembled when Avaran kissed her open-mouthed. She wanted to faint, her mind turning to mush with every stroke of his tongue. He groped and fondled her. Her breasts. Her nipples were pinched. He caressed the curves of her waist. And stroked between her thighs. Avaran made a pleasant noise when he discovered how wet she was. Open. I want to see you, he ordered. Raine felt alarmed. Why? I want to taste you. She wasnt sure about that. Her ex rarely ventured down there to please her. Once in a blue moon perhaps. If he was feeling generous. II dont know. Please? he asked so sweetly. I Your scent is so intoxicating. I simply must sample your womanly dew. Avaran Close your eyes. I

Shh. Be still, my sweet. Close your eyes. She reluctantly did what he asked. And tell me how good this is. Avaran spread her legs wide. Oh, Goddess. You are so beautiful. He stroked her curls and spread her sex lips apart. Moments later, Raine gasped when Avaran put his mouth directly on the source of her ache. The pleasure was unbelievably wicked. Pure heat seared through her center, straight to her soul. She writhed, grabbing a handful of his hair, instinctively trying to push him away. Avaran gave her a warning growl. He licked and licked her wet seam before capturing her clit and sucking it deeply. She threw her head back. The sensation was too sinful for words. Maddening. A keening whimper escaped from her throat. When she thought she couldnt hold the building tension any longer, Avaran speared his tongue and tasted the inside of her sex. She yelled his name. What he did brought her to an instant climax. Red hot pleasure raked her body, leaving her shaking, whimpering. However, Avaran didnt stop. He fastened his arms around her waist, her legs on his shoulders as he licked and sucked as if he was a starving man. He fucked her deeper with his tongue. Raine rambled and thrashed, pleading with him to stop. She loved it but she couldnt bear his salacious torture any longer as her pleas fell on deaf ears. She squirmed and clawed the sheet while ranting his name unintelligibly. Avaran tongue-fucked her faster. She came again. Harder than before. Raine was shaking from head to toe, burning with desire, enslaved by her own lust.

Avaran let her go. He reached for her face and crushed her lips with his. He kissed her greedily. She could taste her own femininity on him. She kind of liked it. Strange. I simply must have you now, he said huskily. He sat up and undressed. He unbuttoned his shirt, revealing his ripped muscles and abs. He didnt wear any undershirt. Raine swallowed hard. This man was so unbelievably beautiful. Raine just had to touch him. She ran her hand over his belly. He was firm all over. Truly every womans wet dream. He smiled. Her heart fluttered. He caught her hand and pressed it to his bulging groin. See how hard I am for you? Oh God. That thing between his thighs was as hard as a rock. Raine felt giddy. She experimentally squeezed it. His cock twitched with the attention as if begging to be free from its containment. Take it off. His voice was hoarse. Raine was only too happy to oblige. She swallowed again. She unzipped his pants and shoved them down. His cock tented the briefs. Raine curled her fingers on the waistband and pulled it down. He was big. Oh God. His cock didnt match his elegant beauty. His cock was rough, long; a big fat masculine cock whose sole purpose was to fuck and to be blown, nesting on a thatch of hair the same shade as his locks. Her mouth watered at the sight of his virility. Touch me, he said.

She wrapped her hand around his hard shaft, stroking it up and down. Avaran sighed happily. That is it, sweet. Harder. Raine tentatively gave him a harder squeeze. Do not worry. You are not hurting me. She tightened her grip as she pumped him. His heat seared her palm. His cock pulsed in her hand. Oh, Raine. That feels good. Lick me. Take me into your mouth. She was heady when she dropped her head and planted a tiny kiss on his cockhead. What she did made pearly cum blossom from his tip. Raine wasted no time licking him. Avaran groaned loud. Salty, creamy ocean flavor burst out in her mouth. She liked it a lot. Avaran tasted different than her ex. God. Scratch that. Avaran didnt just taste different. He was delicious. Greedy for more, Raine stretched open her mouth and sucked him. Goddess. Avaran drew a deep breath. That is it. So good, sweet. Deeper. Raine plunged her mouth until his tip grazed the back of her throat and she sucked him as if her life was depending on it. She hadnt done this in a long time, but worshipping him came naturally. Raine wanted to please him after the immense pleasure he had given her. Oh, Raine Raine Avaran praised her in between breathless gasps. Her name rolled out from his tongue like a mantra. Raine loved the sound of it. She had never thought her

name could sound so sexy. Wait. Avaran suddenly halted her. He withdrew from her mouth and shed the rest of his clothes. Raine was eager to suck him again when he finished undressed. But Avaran had a different idea. I am sorry. I simply must have you now. He pushed her on her back and straddled her again. His cock rested on her stomach. Her giddiness intensified. His hard shaft met her wet sex. Avaran pushed and pulled, oiling the length of his shaft on her pussy. Each tug and push sent thrilling, high-octane pleasure into her spine. She gushed more juice. The aroma of sex permeated around them. Added to the scent of him, it burned her sanity to cinders. Avaran she whispered. He positioned his cockhead on her entrance. His gaze drifted upward. Yes? Please Mmm. He thrust. Raine bit her lip. He was big and she wasnt fully ready. Her cunt resisted his intrusion. He pushed harder. He slipped in an inch. Raine was wide-eyed. The stretching feeling was something new to experience. God, I can take him? A brief panic alarmed her. But Avaran seemed determined to have her. He grabbed her waist and rendered her still as he pushed his cock into her. Avaran didnt stop until he buried his whole erection inside her. God. She mewled. The heat. The pressure. It

was incredible. There was a slight pain on the initial penetration but afterward, the only thing she felt was pure pleasure. From the look on his face, Avaran seemed mesmerized by the way their bodies became one. His face was flushed red and drunk with lust. Raine His voice choked in his throat. You feel so good. He lifted one of her thighs wider, angled her up and pushed the length of him up to his hilt as if he was seeking deeper penetration. But she couldnt take him more. She was beyond full. He kissed her again as he pounded in and out, their flesh making lewd sucking sounds. Her breath turned ragged. She mewled. His veined shaft felt as if it had scorched her from the inside. Hot. Red. Sinfully good. Each thrust rendered her crazy. Bracing both arms beside her head, Avaran fisted her hair and battering her with hard fucks until she groaned in ecstasy. New pleasure shot deep through her cunt. The manic pleasure built rapidly, like a gathering storm. She came hard. His face blurred at the height of her rapture, replaced by silver-red lights as the paralyzing ecstasy consumed her fully. The rippling sensation was unbelievably wicked. Her pussy spasmed around his shaft. He climaxed a heartbeat after her, his cock shuddering inside her, filling her with his cum. When it was over, he withdrew from her and collapsed at her side. Raine Avaran pulled her into his arms and kissed her until she was aroused again. Are you tired?

Why do you ask? Her gaze drifted to his cock. Oh God. He was hard again. This was perhaps why a woman her age should never date a younger guy. She couldnt keep up with him. I simply must have you again. Raine laughed weakly. Do not worry, sweetling. I am going to make you feel good. His words were so tender and affectionate. Even though he was a stranger that she had just met a few hours earlier, she felt as if she had known him for a lifetime. And he wanted to make her feel good. Only pleasure. Pure pleasure. Raine believed him.

Chapter Five
The sound of a bell jolted him awake from his dream. For a moment, Avaran felt displaced. No. He wasnt in his bedchamber in the Surian palace. This bed was too small, part of his heels were hanging over the mattress. But then, there was a naked warm body beside him Raine. His erzha. The lush full-figured beauty slept next to him, where her naked heat made his loins stir into full attention. Raine woke up. She reached for the side table and silenced the screaming bell with a tap of her hand. She looked over her shoulder and gave him a sleepy smile. Hello there Morning to you too, beloved. What is that wailing thing you have on your table? This? An alarm clock. Yes. Throw it away. It is too early to wake up. Come closer. I want to feel your body against mine. She giggled. Id love to. But sadly, I have to go to work. Do you have to? Even a royal healer deserves a day or two off. I know, but I promised my friend Id fill in for her this morning. I must get ready for work now otherwise Ill miss the bus.

Avaran cursed under his breath. What is that? Damnation? Raine grinned. It is a damnation that you have to go attend your duties when we could cuddle and explore each other. But a promise is a promise and I myself never break one. When you will be home? Around seven tonight. Are we still up for that dinner? Of course, sweetling. I did not forget. Yay. Im going to take a shower and catch the bus. Would you feed Mr. Fluffy for me? Im running late without my car. It would be my pleasure to feed your cat. Raine wrapped the bedsheet around her and hurried into the bathroom. He heard the shower turn on and a beautiful humming filled the air. Avaran sat in the bed, listening to her singing. It didnt last. Moments later, she got out and dressed hurriedly. Avaran was tempted to seduce her for a quick coupling. He changed his mind when he saw Raine looking frantic. She shoved her shoes on and scurried into the kitchen to make a pot of coffee. Avaran got dressed and received a cup of delicious brew from her. Raine pecked a kiss on his cheek. I really have to go. See you later? Of course, beloved. She smiled. Suddenly the sun brightened the room. Avaran was captivated at how beautiful she was. She gave him a spare house key and left. Avaran sipped his coffee. All of a sudden he didnt feel the weight on his shoulders

like he always did. He had never guessed that finding his erzha could alleviate his inner burden. Mr. Fluffy meowed by his feet. Good morning to you too, Mr. Cat. I guess you are hungry? Avaran stroked the cat behind his ear until he purred. Avaran fed the cat with a can of food that Raine had left on the kitchen table. Mr. Fluffy ate it greedily. Avaran wondered if Mr. Fluffy would be happy to live in Surian. The tabby could have as many fish as he wanted. A wellbehaved cat was something unheard of. The royal cook would adore Mr. Fluffy. And speaking of Surian, he had to start making arrangements. First, he must notify Councilor Rohim that he had been fruitful in his quest of finding his bride. He had even found his erzha. Then he must challenge Tamyan Hallburn in Elder Council to claim his right to the throne. Avaran rummaged in the kitchen drawer until he found what he was looking for to contact Councilor Rohim in Surian. A sharp knife and a marker. He went to the bathroom and closed the door. Avaran wiped the surface of the mirror. He pierced the tip of his finger with the knife until it oozed blood. Then he drew his house sigil on the mirror with it. As soon as he finished drawing it, he chanted a calling spell and the whole sigil disappeared. Suddenly, a scribble loomed in the mirror. It was black and splotchy like ink written in haste. Council Rohim wrote his message from the other end. Greetings, Your Highness, are you well? The scribbles vanished after a few seconds. Avaran

wrote his reply in black marker. Ive claimed a bride. Her name is Raine. She is my erzha. His own writings also vanished after Councilor Rohim finished reading them. Goddess above, this is wonderful news. We eagerly await your return. Rohims inkwork smeared and was replaced with new sentences. Come home soon with your bride. The situation is dire. Avaran frowned. He hastily scribbled the moment Rohims inkwork vanished. What has happened? This time, Councilor Rohim didnt reply. Avarans message stayed on the mirror. The link was broken. Avaran cursed. He grabbed a bathroom towel and cleaned the mirror. Inside, he was troubled. Had Hallburn done something devious while he was gone? He should have known. Could it be his departure to the human realm had given his uncle the opportunity to seize power? Avaran scowled into the mirror, thinking hard. There wasnt any other option left at present. He should return home, but he wouldnt do that without his erzha. Tomorrow. First thing in the morning. He would take Raine to the realm border and spirit her away to Surian. Tonight, he wanted to woo her with dinner and flowers.

Avaran decided to return to his hotel room to retrieve his things. He called a taxi service from a small rectangular device called a cell phone. As he waited for the taxi to come, he caught a glimpse of a flat glossy book called Cosmo on the coffee table. His eyes rounded when he read the first section: How to impress your date. *** Raine couldnt wait to get home. The grueling work hours she had endured during her shift felt like a week. Many times she caught herself grinning for no reason. Well, there was a reason. She had just been laid. By an extremely gorgeous man. That last nightoh GodRaine kept replaying the scenes in her mind over and over. That was what a real fuck felt like. Real ecstasy. Heaven on Earth. Her patients and co-workers commented that she was particularly perky this morning. She told them she had won a church raffle. Well it felt like she had won something. A night of unforgettable pleasure with a handsome man. She wondered if Avaran was still in her apartment. Or had he left already? Was that only a one-night stand, or was he serious about taking her out for dinner? She cursed her inner dorkiness. She shouldnt put her hopes that high. Life had taught her never to have expectations because when she did, she was always left with disappointment. She guessed if she came home and found him gone without a note, she shouldnt be so surprised. When her shift was over, she took a quick shower and changed into fresh clothes. She whipped her phone out and called home to see if Avaran was still there. Nobody

answered. Apparently he had left. Maybe he had gone to his hotel. Or he had just gone? Was he really serious about the dinner? Ugh. Not knowing about things was really killing her. Raine sat gingerly during the whole ride home. The bus couldnt be slowershe could walk faster if the weather wasnt so cold. Many times she was tempted to call home just to see if Avaran was in her apartment, but that sounded useless. She was sure he wasnt there. God. Could she be more pathetic? At last, the bus stopped and Raine practically lurched from the step and hurried home as if the devil himself was chasing her tail. Her lungs burned in her chest when she finally swept through the front gate. She opened the door with a trembling hand. Hello? she cautiously called. Raine was greeted by a loud meow from Mr. Fluffy and a large bouquet of red roses. Her heart leapt. No, make that two large bouquets of red roses in crystal vases. No. There were more. Actually, her living room-slashkitchen was filled with red roses. On the floor. On top of the TV and cabinets. On the coffee table. It seemed like somebody had bought out the whole stock of a florist shop. Holy crap, she commented, shocked but in pleasant way. And in the kitchen was the man of her dreams. Avaran was juggling with a spatula in one hand and a battered mitten in the other. He was struggling to place a foil-covered Pyrex on the kitchen counter. All of her pots and pans were out of the cabinets. Stuff bubbled on the stove. Something was baking in the oven. The redolent

scent of roses and burning food filled her tiny apartment. Avaran took one look at her and sighed. His face was crestfallen. I ruined the dinner. Raine bit her lip so she wouldnt laugh. She was just happy to see him again. What happened? She put her keys and purse on the table. Avaran scowled at the burned dish in the Pyrex. Well, I am a warrior, not a cook. I tried to surprise you with homemade dinner and flowers but I failed greatly. I had no idea cooking could be so complicated. I am ashamed. Oh, baby, dont be. Raine hugged him. Thats very sweet of you doing all of this. Avaran ditched the spatula and the mitten, hugging her back. I missed you. Raine almost choked. Really? You have no idea. He released her. Do you have to work such long hours? I have a twelve-hour shift. Good news is tomorrow I dont have to go to work. Im off. Wonderful. We can have the whole day to ourselves. You dont say. Raines gaze drifted to the stove and oven. What are those? Oh. Avaran turned off the oven. It is supposed to be manicotti and garlic bread. But I burned them. And whats in the pots? Minestrone soup and marinara sauce. They are terrible. I put too much salt in the soup. And that? Raine nodded at half-chopped

vegetables on the cutting board. Salad? Antipasto. I was supposed to grill the red pepper before tossing them with the cheese and meat. Now I am not sure. I could burn water. Raine couldnt help laughing. Baby, youre so sweet. Ive never had someone doing all this for me. Avaran looked sheepish. I wanted something special to woo you. Oh, you wooed me all right. Let me see. We can still have salad and bread. The bread is burned. Okay, salad and She caught a newly purchased ice bucket perched on the coffee table. A bottle of expensive-looking wine was half-buried in ice. And wine. They told me it is champagne. Even better. And I picked a cake from a bakery. Chocolate kind. The woman said it is really delicious. Raine lunged on him. I love you. Moments later, her face burned. Did she just say what she thought she had said? I mean, I love chocolate cake. Really, really love chocolate. As you can see, Im not a bean pole all because of the sweets and chocolate I ate. I probably should shut up before I embarrass myself. Avaran didnt say anything. He studied her intently then grinned from ear to ear. He pulled her into his arms and planted a deep kiss on her mouth. I love you too. She thought her heart had stopped when she heard his declaration. Could this be true or was he just yanking

her chain? He let her go. I am famished. I had never thought cooking could be such a labor-intensive endeavor. Ill make the salad. Yes. That would be for the best, since I would burn it too. Raine grinned. She pushed him out of the way. Go sit on the couch. Ill take care of the rest. I dirtied up all of your cutleries and have not had a chance to clean them up yet. Avaran rummaged in the drawer. But I saw some ouch! Whats the matter? Raine narrowed her eyes. Did you cut yourself? Avaran flexed his right hand. A four-inch red blister was on his palm. I got burned. It was nothing. Oh gosh. Does it hurt badly? It is nothing. But this is a second degree burn. How did this happen? I touched one of your butter knives. I think it was made from silver. I am allergic to silver. Raine shook her head. This is the strangest thing Ive ever seen and I thought Id seen them all. Let me clean your booboo and bandage it. I am fine. Nurses order. Raine planted her hands on her hips and tried to look stern. She couldnt. One look at him and she melted into a gooey puddle. Avaran grinned. Very well, Mistress Healer. I leave

my fate in your hands. Her heartbeat went wild when Avaran kissed her again. Okay, stay still. Ill get my first aid kit. She dashed to the bathroom and returned. Avaran was nursing his hand by running it under cold water. Good move, she thought. It seemed he wasnt a stranger to all types of injury. Did he

say he was a warrior?

Raine examined his hand again and dried it with a clean towel. The burn had turned into an ugly blister. She thought this was rather strange. All this caused by touching silver? Luckily she wasnt wearing her silver jewelry. She had a cross made from sterling silver, a family heirloom that her mother had given her, but she decided it not to wear it yesterday because it needed polishing. It could burn Avarans face since he loved to kiss her all over. Hmm, kiss her all over. Thinking about it made her face hot. Are you really for real, Avaran? She wondered. He was young, gorgeous, and kind. Her knight in shining armor. Guys like him were just a myth. Raine applied a thin layer of antibiotic ointment for burns and wrapped the wound with a sterile bandage so his blister wouldnt come into contact with germs. She examined her work with pride. There. Avoid strenuous stuff for the rest of the evening. Such as? Raine made a face. Dont touch any more silver, please. But I can still touch you?

Maybe. What do you meanmaybe? Are you not mine? Ooh that made her frisky. She was his. Am I yours? Damn right you are mine. I have claimed you. Avaran pulled her into his arms and kissed her until she wanted to faint. His hands were all over her. What he did was make her horny. Raine squirmed in his embrace. It didnt feel right. He just got hurt and now he wanted nookie. His burn was quite substantial. She should give him some painkillers and Avaran should rest for the night. He groaned and tightened his hug as if his bandaged hand wasnt bothering him at all. Sneakily, he slipped his good hand under her blouse and snapped off her bra. Hey! she protested. What are you doing? What kind of perfume are you wearing? Avaran inhaled a lungful of her scent. You are intoxicating. I dont wear any. Its my soap. Evelyn and Crabtree. I had a shower at work before I came home. Well, I love it. He nuzzled her neck, trailing butterfly kisses along the side of her jaw. Raine shivered. It tickled, but she loved the sensation from his unshaven jaw stubble grazing her skin. It felt very erotic and intimate. Avaran pulled down her pants. Then her panties. They tangled around her knees. She heard fabric rustling. Avaran unzipped his pants. He turned her around. A heartbeat later, hard throbbing flesh nudged her ass. Her heartbeat started to accelerate again.

She writhed. Avaran... Yes? His cock pressed on the middle of her ass. Gloriously hard and huge. Raine creamed luxuriously. The faint scent of a womans arousal permeated the air around them. Avaran noticed it and made a delighted sound. Hmm, just when I thought you were not in the mood. Not in the mood? Hell, that was impossible. Everything he did made her horny. Avaran was irresistible. Like those chocolate-covered brownies she craved when she attempted to diet. He licked the side of her jaw and paused. His breath hovered just below her lip. Instinctively, she found his lips and kissed him. He murmured appreciatively, kissing her back with the same heat. Her nipples hardened in an instant. Waves of deep, longing aches thrummed from her very center; liquid sex seeping from her pussy. Avaran kissed her open-mouthed before the tip of his tongue skimmed the outline of her soft plump lips, then thrust inside, forcing her mouth open, branding her with his own lust. Avaran became very possessive. Raine wanted to faint from lack of oxygen. She gasped for air when he finally gave her a chance to breathe. He slid his hands up, under her unclasped bra, settling on her breasts. He tightened his hands, kneading with such expertise that Raine found herself burning in fiery lust. Especially when he pinched her hardened nipples, tugging and rolling them with such mastery that each touch

caused an exquisite pleasure shooting straight to her cunt. He kissed her neck, teeth grazing on the shell of her ear. She shivered involuntarily. She couldnt stand being kissed in that sensitive area. But she loved it so much. It was addictive. Avaran Yes, sweetling? He released her breast and slid a hand between her thighs. Her heart thundered when she felt his cock slip between her legs, nesting under her dampened sex lips. She looked down. His cockhead peeked just below her clitoris. His granite-hard shaft throbbed, slicked with her sexual juice. Raine moaned as every cell of her being screamed with need for him. Hunger for him. Avaran grabbed her waist and rubbed his whole length against her pussy lips. She became wordless. The sensation was incredible, too sweet for words. She got wetter and wetter with each tug and pull. Finally, Avaran spread her legs wider and positioned himself on her entrance. With a strained groan, he penetrated her, thrust his cock into her dripping heat. He didnt stop until he was fully embedded deep inside her. God. She could feel him up to her belly. The only thing she could think of was the sinful pleasure he was giving her. No one else has granted her this. She loved it. Fucking loved it. He nipped her neck and whispered in an urgent voice, Fuck me. Raine moved and slammed her ass against his cock, riding his hard shaft in and out. Avarans breath

labored. Goddess, yes, I love it. Harder. She didnt need encouragement. It felt so good it had to be a sin. She surrendered to her carnal craving and bounced up and down furiously. Avaran released her hands and wrapped her deeply in his embrace. His hot breath singed her cheek. Faster, he grunted. His voice sounded animalistic. Raine obeyed without thinking. She became frenzied, ramming herself on his ready cock over and over until the edge of a climax hovered around the corner. Avaran sensed she was going to come. Not yet, hold it, my sweet. He stopped her and retaliated her last assault with a torrent of short, hard, and rapid fucking. He pummeled in with brutality. He pulled out. Rammed in. Faster. Harder. He rocked her, battering her with lash upon lash of vicious fucks. She groaned. It was almost too much to bear. The pleasure. The way his hard shaft ground the sensitive inner walls of her cunt. The way their bodies became one and their souls melded in the essence of their lust. She didnt want the moment to end. But apparently, Avaran had one more trick up his sleeve. He slipped a hand to her clit and rolled it between his rough fingers. Raine had to shout. She came in an instant. Her body shuddered as pure, unmerciful pleasure raked through her whole body and her mind. Avaran didnt stop. Every savage stroke delivered jolts of ecstasy to her nerve endings, dragging her closer to the ultimate rapture. He kept fucking her and fucking her

until a second orgasm claimed her again. She thought shed died. In a very pleasurable way. Fireworks exploded before her eyes. Her breath cut off from her lungs. She felt lightheaded for a moment. When she finished floating in the bliss of pure carnal utopia, she found Avaran jerking, climaxing. She could feel his cock spasming, emptying his seed inside her. She shuddered as she breathed in the pure scent of him, cloying like a heady, forbidden substance. She was wrapped in a state of ethereal bliss. Sated. And thoroughly loved. A woman could get used to this. Her knees weakened all of a sudden. Avaran caught her before she could collapse onto the floor. Is it too much for you, sweet? Forgive me. I cannot control myself near you. Raine laughed. I dont mind you being naughty. He laughed along with her. I hope you will not regret it. I can be devious in bedsports.

Chapter Six
Raine woke up to an empty bed. She didnt get up until well past noon. She was exhausted from the rabid fucking they did. With his young cock, Avaran was like that bunny battery that didnt have an off button. All night long. Not that she complained. It had been a long time since she had that much sex in one night. Hell, she got more sex with him than during her whole marriage to Andy. A lifetime even. This morning, Avaran had woken up early to check out from the hotel and arrange a few things. He said he had another surprise for her and it involved driving all the way to Windham Creek. With its waterfall and shallow river, the place used to be a tourist attraction. She and her classmates had gone there when she was in grade school to observe nature. There were a few restaurants and a bed and breakfast in Windham Creek, but she heard everything had been shut down because people didnt go there anymore. Raine wondered what the surprise would be. She liked surprises. It felt nice being wanted. Andy hadnt even spoiled her like this during their courtship. What Avaran did made her feel special. The bleak sun peered behind the half-closed curtains when she decided to take a shower and clean the kitchen. Avaran told her to be ready at three. And she

should pack a bag with a few clothes and also ask her employer for a couple days off. Since tomorrow was also her day off anyway, plus the weekend, she didnt need to ask for a vacation. After the kitchen was clean, she packed an overnight bag. Undies, bras, a pair of comfy pajamas, a couple of shirts and jeans. She needed toiletries too. Raine hurried to the bathroom to retrieve her toothbrush and toothpaste. That was when she noticed the sink was leaking. Jesus. What was going on here? The water that dripped from the faucet was brown. Like mud. Smelled gross too. What the hell? She might have a plumbing problem in her bathroom. When she did the dishes earlier, the water from the sink there was fine. She wasnt looking forward to a ruined romantic gateway with her new beau because she needed the sink fixed. Raine tightened the faucet, but the damn spout kept dripping. After a few minutes tinkering, suddenly, the faucet splashed mud water continuously. Crap. Raine panicked. The dirty water quickly filled the sink and poured onto the bathroom floor. Double crap. She grabbed a towel and wrapped it around the faucet. The water gurgled and slowed down. She grabbed another towel from the hamper and mummified the faucet. No more water leaked out. But the sink and the floor was beyond dirty. It looked like somebody has mud-wrestled in her tiny bathroom. God. What a freaking mess. Raine grabbed a

nearby towel and started wiping as best as she could.

Plopplopplop
The faucet dripped with big fat tears of mud again despite the tight wrap of the towels. The sink gave out a deep gurgling noise that sounded like it came from the belly of a beast. Raine fought the sinking feeling in her gut. Oh

no. No burst pipe. Please dont. I couldnt afford a plumber. The drainage pipe rattled. Raine scuttled back
instinctively. No. No. No The pipe stopped shaking. Perfect silence blanketed the room. Then she heard a deep swoosh from the drain. More mud water sloshed onto the tile as something dark clawed the edge of the sink. Like fingers. Elongated hand. Black with grey mottle. Sharp nails clicked against the white porcelain.

What the hell was that?

Raines heart thundered so hard, all she could hear was the frantic beating of her pulse. She scrambled up and stepped back into the bedroom. Demon. Good Lord, this apartment was haunted. What other reasonable explanation was there? What she saw just didnt make sense. And she wasnt going to wait any longer to find out what this was. She wasnt that stupid like the victims in a horror movie. She ran to the bedroom door. Before she could reach it, something got hold of her ankle. She stumbled down. Black slimy tendrils wrapped her leg and pulled her toward the sink. No! Help! Help! Raine screamed from the top of

her lungs. A full desperation filled her. Who was going to help her? Her neighbors worked at this hour. Even if somebody could hear her, help wouldnt come fast enough. Raine thrashed, trying to shake off whatever it was grabbing her. Another tendril slithered out from the bathroom door and snatched her other ankle. Help! she bawled. She was powerless against the brute force of the monster trying to assault her. She was easily dragged back toward the bathroom. Raine grabbed the edge of the bed. The cover went down with her. She grabbed the foot of the nightstand. It moved with her. The lamp fell along with her books. Something dropped on her face. Her cross necklace that she was going to polish. Raine seized it and waved it at the slimy tendrils. She heard the thing hiss. She waved it again and pressed it again one that held on to her ankle. The moment the cross touched the tentacle-like creature, it burned its skin with a sizzling noise. Go away! Go away! Raine brandished her cross to the tendrils. She watched with horror as something big, dark, with dozens of slimy tentacles perched on her sink. It whipped its tentacles agitatedly. One of them smacked Raine hard in the face. Her head hit the door frame. Darkness engulfed her. *** Avaran told the driver to wait. He had checked out from the hotel and his things were packed in the trunk of the taxi, ready for their long drive to Wyndham Creek. From there, he would take her to the realm of Athea. He had

called Raine earlier, but no one answered. He guessed Raine must be indisposed. Somebody told him that humans didnt take calls when they were in the bathroom and such. He wanted to leave a message, but didnt know how it really worked. So he just hung up, hoping that Raine would be ready by the time he picked her up. Avaran rang the bell. After a minute, Raine still didnt answer. Avaran rang it again. He then remembered that he had Raines key. He opened the door. The first thing that struck him as odd was the pungent smell of sewers. Raine kept her home immaculate. She wouldnt have let the chamber pot overflow with filth. Something wasnt right. Raine! he called. She wasnt in the kitchen so Avaran headed to the bedroom directly. He was alarmed when he saw mud streaked on the floor and wall. The stench of offal assaulted his nostrils, making his stomach roil. Revenants Tamyan Hallburns minions. The haunts of Surian. Avaran balled his fist. His uncle used revenants to kidnap and terrorize those who opposed him. With the revenants under his command, Hallburn extended his claws to the farthest corner of the country, making him the shadow king of Surian. And now he had Raine. Suddenly, Avaran knew why Tamyan Hallburn wanted him to take a bride. ***

Her head hurt like a bitch when Raine opened her eyes. When her vision came into focus, she found herself sprawled inside a dirty cell. The floor was covered with straw. A blackened wooden bucket was stowed in the corner; it reeked with the stench of offal. God, what the hell was that? Raine struggled to maintain the involuntary stomach heave that threatened to erupt. For a clean freak like her, the condition of the cell freaked her out more than being kidnapped by a tentacle monster. Tentacle monster! Raine hurriedly scrambled up. Where am I? How did I get here? She wanted to peek at what lay beyond the cell but she didnt want to touch the dirty bars. God knows who

else who has touched those.

She wrapped herself with her arms, feeling cold. Hello? Is anyone there? Anybody? Her calls echoed through the tall brick ceilings unanswered. Beyond her cell was nothing but a brick wall, caked with thick grime, deeply red stained, and all things disgusting. The corridor was lit by a torch. Not a sconce or an artificial lamp, but a real fuel torch. She could smell kerosene burning among the unpleasant miasma of the place. Where the hell am I? Raine looked around. Am I in

a dungeon?
It looked like it. That monster had brought her into a dungeon? But why? Something sharp poked in her cleavage. Raine

quickly plucked it from under her blouse. Her cross. The silver cross. It must have gotten there when she was headslammed by that monster. That monster was afraid of crosses. No, silver. Avaran was allergic to silver. Her blood ran cold at the thought. God. Was Avaran even human? Raine shivered. The man who shared her bed intimately and even made lovey-dovey like a schoolgirl wasnt even human. Thinking about it, there were many odd things about him. The way he talked. Not just his James Bond accent, but the guy talked like people in Charles Dickens books. His obliviousness about modern appliances. The things he said about him being a warrior, not a cook. Healer instead of a nurse. His scent that drove her wild. And he came to Springfield looking for a bride. Her face heated instantaneously. Her. Avarans bride. His mate, he had called her. Jesus. How could she be so blind? Raine clutched her cheeks. Her heart drummed wildly. She exhaled a long breath, waiting to see if she was going to be repulsed by the revelation. It didnt turn her off. The fact that Avaran wasnt human didnt turn her off. How weird. Maybe because Avaran was the first man who had treated her as if she was his goddess. If Avaran wasnt human, what was he? Was he some kind of tentacle monster too?

No. Raine shook her head. That nasty thing that kidnapped her was evil. Malicious. She could just feel it. Avaran was different. She felt safe when she was with Avaran. Cherished. Loved. Then why was she here now? Was it because of Avaran? Avarans enemy. Enemies? They didnt want him to be with her. That was the most sensible scenario she could come up with. Maybe Avaran already had a wife or a jealous girlfriend? Suddenly, her chest filled with anger. That must be it, otherwise why would somebody kidnap a nobody like her? Her train of thought was cut short by the sound of footsteps clanking against the brick floor. Raine straightened. She clutched the cross in her palm, hiding it out of sight. She might need it. Whatever these people were, they were allergic to silver. A fierce-looking man strode in front of her cell; a throng of grunts on his trail. All of them wore sneering scowls on their faces and were dressed in medieval clothes. The leader, who looked neither old nor young and was wearing some kind of shiny armor, gave her a stern once over. He had white-blonde hair down his back, braided like a Viking, icy blue eyes, and a cold face. His body was slender as a knife. And two swords on his hips screamed bad ass. Raine instinctively took a step back.

Is this her? Blondie asked the bald man next to him. Baldie bowed his head. Apparently, Blondie was a big fish in this place. Yes, Highness. She is Prince Avarans erzha. Raines eyes rounded. Wait a minute, Avaran was a

prince? Sheiiiitttt
Blondie narrowed his eyes. Is she not a tad old for the prince? Raine frowned. Well, youre a tad blond, asshole. Blondie laughed. A fiery wench, I see. Chain her and bring her to the common room.

What?
*** Avaran crossed into the realm of Athea with fury. As soon as his feet touched Surian soil, he looked for a nearby stream and bent water into the palace. He stormed into the front gate. The guards recognized him and bowed their head. Your Highness, said one guard. You are just in time. Councilor Rohim Where is he? In the throne room, Your Highness. And General Hallburn I know. Avaran hastened. The palace looked empty. He didnt see the usual guards stationed on their post. Some of them were Hallburns spies, but many of them were loyal to him. Avaran wondered what had

become of his people. Had things changed so much since his departure? Had Hallburn eliminated those who were unwilling to switch sides? Avaran barged into the throne room unchallenged. Hallburns own men opened the majestic doors. He saw the Elders and Councilor Rohim present. Their expressions were hard as stone. His uncle, Tamyan Hallburn, lounged on the throne as if he owned the right to rule Surian. Nephew, Hallburn greeted him with a flourish. It warms my heart to see you have returned. How was your journey? Save it, Uncle. I know you have Raine. Where is she? Hallburn smirked. Then we shall cut this needless pleasantry and discuss what matters the most, shall we? I swear if you lay a finger on her She is sound, worry not, Nephew. I ordered my men to be gentle with her. I know human females are quite delicate. I want to see her, Avaran demanded. Of course, in due time. Hallburn rose and stepped down from the dais. He signaled one of his men to fetch him something. The man scurried and returned with writing instruments. He unrolled a parchment on a table and dipped the quill in the inkwell. You know what I want, Nephew. The throne of Surian. And in exchange, you will have your bride unharmed.

You are jesting! Councilor Rohim burst out in fury. Your Highness. He turned to Avaran. You cannot consider this travesty. Youve fulfilled all of your fathers decrees. The throne of Surian is rightfully yours. Your fathers legacy. To surrender to General Hallburns demand is an insult to your fathers memory. Councilor Rohim threw a poisonous look at Hallburn. The rest of the Elders voiced their support in unison. Avaran was torn. Weeks ago when he crossed realms, he would never have considered giving into Hallburns demand. But after he met Raine, he couldnt bear the thought of losing her. He would go mad, he was certain. Raine was his world. What was the point of ruling the throne if it meant he would lose the woman he loved the most? His life would be empty But on the other hand The people of Surian would suffer. They had lived in terror ever since his father had fallen ill and Hallburn became the shadow king. What would become of his people if he let Hallburn rule Surian? The needs of the many outweighed the needs of the one. It was his duty to protect the weak. It was his duty to defend the people of Surian. But Raine If she was hurt. If he lost her Avaran shook the thought away from his head. He straightened his posture. I need to see my mate before I make any decision. I need to see her safe and sound.

I am hurt. You doubt my honor for not You have no honor! Avaran barked. A real warrior would not use a woman as an instrument of his machinations. Using Raine as a shield just shows how low you have sunk. Do not lecture me about honor when you lack any. Tamyan Hallburn roared with laughter. Pity. All of those times you spent on studying the art of war. Not all battles are fought with swords and blood, Nephew. I am simply utilizing the oldest military technique: know thy enemys weakness. You of all people should know that. But today I am feeling generous. He motioned his men. Bring in the princes bride. Two guards in Hallburn livery scurried to the door and returned with Raine in tow. Rage boiled in his chest when Avaran saw Raine was chained and being herded like a common slave. She looked dirty, confused, and scared. Goddess, he lamented in silence, what had they done to her? His uncle had the infamous reputation of torturing his prisoners. Showing mercy was something his uncle was incapable of. No one was ever spared. Not even women and children. Release her from the chains. Avarans voice choked with anger. Hallburn nodded at his men. The guard hurriedly removed the manacles from her wrists and ankles. Raine rubbed her arms. Avaran? she called. Who are these people? Whats going on?

It will be all right, beloved, Avaran answered. Your Highness Councilor Rohim began. Silence! Avaran barked. I cannot lose her. And I cannot betray the good people of Surian. Hallburn snorted. You cannot have both, Nephew. I can have both or nothing at all. I am listening. I challenge you in aghanqai. Fight to the death. The winner takes all. Hallburn smirked. If I lose, you will have the throne of Surian, but you have to return Raine to the human world. Why would I fight you when I practically have you by the leash? It is an opportunity to redeem your honor. If I lose, I will be out of your hair forever and Surian is yours for the taking. Hallburn pondered. All right. I accept your challenge, Prince Avaran. We shall commence the aghanqai at sundown. Avaran bowed his head. Very well. I would like to have a moment with my mate. I do not think that is wise. You will see her if you win. But fear not, I will treat her well. Avaran watched in frustration as the guards herded the cursing Raine through the big door. Sundown it is. *** Raine was herded into a room before she had a

chance to talk to Avaran. Her brain was overloading with what had happened in the last few hours. Actually she didnt know how long she had been here. It could be a few hours. It could be a couple of days. She was parched and hungry as hell. Dirty. Itchy. Yucky. She even smelled like the hobo who tried to mug her. She wanted to kick and punch the mean-looking men who had kidnapped her, but she was too chicken to do that. She wanted to keep her head fixed neatly on her neck, thank you very much. These people werent human. God only knew what they would do to her. The only familiar face in this twisted place was Avaran. And she couldnt talk to him. The guard brought her into a spacious room. Did this mean they werent going to throw her back in that dingy cell anymore? Raine allowed herself a small measure of relief. God, she hated the cell. The stench alone made her want to puke. The guard closed the door, leaving her alone in the big room. But not for long. A minute later, several women dressed in all white came in. Their gowns looked like a priests cassock and they were bare-footed. All of them had braided their hair at the back and their youthful faces suggested they were in their late teens. My lady, we are the acolytes from the Sun and the Moon Temple. It is an honor for us to attend your every need, the leader of the nun-girls said. What do you mean my every need? Raine asked suspiciously. My lady seems in dire need of a bath and

sustenance. Well, yeah. She was hungry and dirty. Thank you. I am crazy hungry. The food will be ready once you have finished your bath. The acolytes prepared a hot bath and gave her food when she was clean. She was given clean clothes. A simple white long gown, a pair of underwear, socks, and a white cape for when she went outside. The girl nuns werent chatty. Raine tried asking them about Avaran, but they all clammed their mouths shut. Raine ate her food in silence. When she finished, the acolytes cleaned up the dishes and withdrew from the room. A minute later, Blondie came in. Raine jumped from her seat. What do you want? God, she itched to smack the smirk off his face. I trust you are comfortable and rested? Sure, yeah. Thank you. I am Tamyan Hallburn. Prince Avaran is my nephew. So Avaran really is a prince? He did not tell you? Blondie laughed. Of course not. Raine scowled. What are you people? Are you the one who sent that monster to kidnap me? The revenant? Revenant? Useful creatures they are. But they are not capable

of handling a lady delicately. For that, I must apologize. Raine narrowed her eyes. Usually, she was a very forgiving person. For some reason she still held a grudge against this man. Being kidnapped by that tentacle monster was downright traumatic. She couldnt just lightly let that one go. As to why I am here, I would like to let you know that my nephew has challenged me in aghanqai. Aghan-what? Aghanqaia duel. A fight to the death. Why? He is unable to choose between you or the throne of Surian. I dont understand. My half-brotherAvarans fatherwas the king of Surian. Since I was born from a consort, I was denied my right as the successor to the throne. My half-brother ruled instead of me. The throne should be mine. After all, I was my fathers oldest son. Before my brother passed away, he made a decree that Avaran was to claim a bride before he could take the throne. So he went into the human world to claim one. You. Me? Raine blinked. The truth ambushed her, stabbing her heart raw. He came to me because he needed a wife? Raine didnt want to believe what she just heard. Avaran wanted her out of necessity. Not because he loved her. Raine felt like a fool. She should have known. If something was too good to be true, it probably was. Then what happened after Avaran claimed the

throne? Hed leave herjust like Andy did. What am I doing here? she croaked. Tears threatened at the edge of voice. It turns out my nephew is fond of you. I offered him to choose between you or the right to rule Surian. He could not choose, so he proposed Aghanqai. If he wins, he will rule Surian and you will become queen. Blondie paused. Eyes glared maliciously. If he loses, he dies. What? I dont want him to die. Cancel the duel. I am afraid it is a done deal. I wanted to let you know that at sundown, it will be the last time you see him. His words made her blood run cold. Raine struggled to make sense of everything she had just heard as the blond bastard left her alone in the beautiful room. *** Avaran entered the palace courtyard with the Shadow Swords in his hand. Two priests from the Sun and the Moon Temple had prepared the arena for the sacred aghanqai. They purified the air by burning ramtan incense and blessed the ground by sprinkling it with holy oil. Right at the center of the courtyard, a circular line was drawn in ox blood. The contender who was pushed out of the circle would lose. Of course, in this duel it didnt matter much. This was a fight to the death. There would be only one survivor and the winner took all. Like himself, his uncle had donned a simple white jerkin and white trousers. Feet were bare. They werent allowed to wear jewelry or amulets or such. Magic was

forbidden. Aghanqai was a battle of strength and sword skill. The best fighter would win. Problem was, Avaran wasnt sure if he would win. His uncle hadn't become a general commanding the army of Surian by lounging around all day. Hallburn had honed his skill in rigorous training and in many battles. His sword had beheaded many of his enemies. He was merciless. His nickname was the Butcher of Tolada. Avaran was only five years old when his uncle marched home with victory in the war with the neighboring kingdom. The Tolada war had killed more than ten thousand warriors. Hallburn didnt take any prisoners. All of his enemies were executed on sight. There were so many bodies, they said the blood on the massacre ground reached knee level. Carrions feasted on the corpses for months. Avaran took a deep breath and calmed his mind. He didnt have many options. He couldnt forsake his country and he couldnt live without Raine. As he stepped into the circle, he caught sight of his beloved. She was seated in a wooden chair, surrounded by the acolytes of the Sun and the Moon Temple . She had been bathed and donned in a clean gown. She looked beautiful. His heart ached for her. So far, his uncle had kept his words. And he would also keep his word to return her to the human world if Avaran lost Avaran dismissed the disheartening thought away. No. He had to win. For Raine. For the people of Surian. Hallburns dark reign must end.

The whole court watched his every move. Avaran unsheathed the Shadow Swords from a white linen that wrapped the blades. No one was talking. Every face he saw was tense. He glanced at Raine. She silently mouthed his name. Avaran looked away. He couldnt afford to be distracted at a moment like this. Are you ready, Nephew? Hallburn called. Avaran didnt indulge in his mockery. He swung the pair of Shadow Swords to his sides, striking a defensive position. He studied his opponent; the way Hallburn held his swords. The way he was breathing. His facial expression. Nothing escaped Avarans observation. His uncle was of the predisposition that he would win this duel. He also got easily angry. Hallburn was infamous for his wrath on the battlefield. Avarans tutor once said that anger bred carelessness and stupidity. Avaran planned to use the tactic to defeat his uncle. Hallburn shouted and struck the first move. But Avaran was beyond ready. He blocked the attack. Their swords clashed. Metal against metal. Sparks of fire erupted. Hallburn pushed him and launched a series of lightning-fast thrusts. But Avaran had calculated the pattern of attack that was the signature of his uncle. With the pair of blades in his hands, he met Hallburns sword and struck a counter jab to his uncles side. Hallburn blocked the stab midway. Avaran was too busy focusing on the stealth tactic, he hadnt anticipated that it was a trick movement. His upper right side was open for attack and Hallburn hit the side of his

head with his elbow. Pain exploded in Avarans temple, making him stagger for a few seconds. A smug smile blossomed in Hallburns face.

Calm. Dont lose yourself in fury. Persevere

Avaran stood his ground and twirled his twin swords into an intricate pattern and lurched to attack his uncle. Blades moved fast; one to strike, the other to defend. Hallburn parried with a breeze. He didnt even break a sweat. His uncle had a fast hand, but Avaran was young and agile, he matched blow by blow. The twin swords danced, each was the extension of Avarans arms. Two steps before the blood circle, Hallburn swung left and gave a hard kick to Avarans face. He blocked it in time. The foot connected with Avarans wrist, sending a tremendous shock into Avarans nerves. He almost dropped his right sword. Avaran retreated while lashing a left jab to his uncles face. Hallburn avoided it in time and defended with his sword. Avaran attacked again with the double sword pattern. Left and right. Attack and defend. Hallburn danced with him and pushed back. Avaran struck tightly, covering all his bases and not leaving any opening. Hallburn gritted his teeth in irritation, frenzied with the attack.

Good. Make him angry. Make him lose control

Avaran shouted and launched a rapid attack. *** Raine gripped the edge of her chair; she couldnt

breathe. The duel was crazy. Those two men were mad. She had seen men dueling with swords in movies but never in real life. Each time the swords swung, she thought shed faint. She wasnt squeamish about bloodshe was a nurse for Gods sake. She just never witnessed people trying to hack each other to pieces. Silently, she prayed for Avaran. His face was strangely calm with a hard set determination. Raine couldnt guess who would win. They were both fast and fierce. Both were deft with their weapons. Their fight was almost too beautiful to watch. But they were deadly. She halted her scream when Blondie grazed Avarans left shoulder with his sword. Blood stained the white shirt. Seconds later, Avaran gored Blondies stomach. But Avarans uncle kept moving as if he didnt feel anything.

God, please let Avaran win.

Raine reached her silver cross and squeezed tightly. She had never been on the edge like this. Her heart wanted to crawl out of her throat each time she saw Blondies blade come close to Avarans body. The two men fought in fury. Anger turned into hatred. It was getting too difficult to watch. Raines stomach gave out unpleasant roils. She felt like throwing up any second. Blondie kicked Avaran in the belly, causing him to fall down to his knee. He stabbed. Avaran rolled out just in time and swiped his leg, tripping his uncle. It happened too fast. Avaran knocked Blondies sword from his hand and the twin blades were poised on Blondies throat.

Raine couldnt believe it. Avaran had won. Surrender, Avaran said in a cold tone. Blondies face was livid. What are you waiting for? Finish me. Avaran hesitated. I cannot kill you. We are blood. Coward. I was not wrong about you. You do not have what it takes to be a warrior. Unlike you, Uncle, I show mercy. Avaran withdrew his twin blades and started to walk away. The duel was finished. Blondie snatched something from his boot and pounced onto Avaran No! Raine jumped from her seat. Blondie stabbed Avaran from behind. Avaran wheeled over and seized Blondies throat, choking him. The two men were in a deadlock. Raine couldnt believe how Avarans uncle had cheated. That was totally unfair. The cross in her hand pierced her skin. Raine looked at it and had an idea. Avaran! She threw the cross to him. Avaran dropped his sword and seemed to catch it without thinking. The silver burned his hand. Raine meant to give it to him so Avaran could use it against his uncle. Avaran shoved the cross into Blondies mouth. Avarans uncle choked. The silver burned his throat. Blondie staggered. He released his grip on the knife. Foam and smoke bubbled from his mouth. He heaved several times before collapsing onto the ground. The spectators were silent. They kept their silence even

when the priests who followed the duel declared that Avaran had won. Avaran, still stony-faced, pulled the knife from his back as if he didnt feel anything. Raine started to go to him, but the acolytes halted her. Let me go! Raine thrashed. The girl-nuns were surprisingly strong considering the way they looked. They dragged her back into the beautiful room no matter how hard Raine screamed and fought.

Chapter Seven
It felt like forever, but in the end they allowed her to see Avaran. He walked in gracefully as if the injury he had sustained during the duel didnt bother him at all. He had changed into clean clothes, but looked exhausted. His hair was combed and tied at the back. Beneath his simple shirt, Raine could see the bandages bulging on his back and arms. Are you okay? she asked. Seconds later, she regretted her question. Of course he wasnt okay. He had just finished playing hack-people-to-pieces. Seeing Avaran look so miserable, the last wall of her defense came crumbling down and shattered to pieces. After all, this man was willing to gamble his life for her. She understood how hard it must be for him to choose. His duty to his people or his love for her. Raine he began. Save it. I believe you. She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him. The moment their lips touched, a wave of exquisite shuddering raked throughout her body. She didnt realize how she had missed him until she had him in her arms. It hurt her to see him like this. To see his tortured eyes. The agony painted in his face. No. She couldnt see him like this. Her instinct took over. She wanted to soothe him, relieving him from his pain and burden.

Avaran whispered her name so tenderly, it melted her into a puddle of goo. He drew her closer and wrapped his arms around her back. The fire in his eyes burned with lust. I love you. The words sounded so beautiful in her ears. A man who loved her for who she was. Raine deepened her kiss. Avaran returned the kiss with the same heat, so full of passion like he always did. Greedy and demanding. Raine loved the way he kissed her and couldnt get enough of it. Her inhibitions loosened. Avaran slid his tongue into her mouth and claimed her ferociously. Raine felt as if she wanted to faint from lack of oxygen. When she broke the kiss to take a breath, she felt dizzy. She was burning from the inside out. Every fiber of her being screamed for him. She needed him. Badly. Her nipples hardened. Her pussy throbbed with unfulfilled longing. Take me, baby. I missed you. Raine was surprised to hear her own voice. So needy. So wanton. But she was beyond caring. All she could think of was him. To be with him. Now and forever. Avaran let out a primal growl. He didnt seem to need any encouragement. He swept her off the floor and carried her onto the bed. The moment her back touched the mattress, he went on top of her and continued kissing her. I missed you too. You do not know how much it hurt me to think I would not be able to see you again. He began disrobing her. But you won and were together. Isnt that all that matters?

He let out a relieved laugh and laved the side of her cheek. Raine moaned. She shuddered in pleasure. Her heart hammed hard. No part of her body was immune from his kiss or his touch. Avaran yanked off her skirt and underthings. There was unmistakable desire in his eyes. He hissed through clenched teeth as he skimmed the curves of her body with his wounded hands. Rough soldier hands. Honed by hours of sword training and hard labor. He kissed the hollow of her throat, her cleavage, her belly, and her mound. Raine squirmed under him. She loved the way he kissed her. Touched her. A keening mewl escaped her when he palmed her breasts and pinched her nipples. Sparks of pleasure burst out when he rolled the hardened bud between his thumb and forefinger. Her body tensed when he took one nipple and sucked it hard. Pure pleasure shot deep through her. He deepened his suck, tongue playing with her erect nipples, leaving her trembling all over. His teeth scraped her tender flesh. She didnt mind that he bruised her. She wanted him to leave his mark on her skin. The brand of his conquest over her. Bite me. The words lurched out before she could think it over. Mark me. Avaran nibbled gently at first. Oh, baby, harder. With a growl, Avaran sucked the ample flesh of her breast until the sensitive skin became tender. Oh, baby, I love it. Raine clawed her fingers on his

head. It seemed her encouragements only served as fuel to the flame. Avaran pinned her under his weight and began to nibble and suck every part of her body he could get his mouth on to. Raine gasped. Writhed. Yes, yes, oh, Avaran He parted her thighs wide and stroked her pussy. Her cunt clenched. More liquid sex seeped from her. Avaran put his mouth on her very core, tongue sliding inside her. Avaran! Raine thrashed. He latched on her clit and sucked her ferociously. He wrapped his arms around her waist, no matter how hard she thrashed she couldnt get away from his wicked mouth and even wickeder tongue. He released her throbbing clit and licked her folds. Raine shivered, feeling overwhelmed by the state of her arousal. He slipped a finger into her opening. Then another one. Raine stiffened from the intrusion. The tight walls of her pussy clenched his digits like a vise. He mashed his palm against her vulva and stroked her in and out like the way he had fucked her with his cock. The sensation was so intoxicating, leaving her a quivering mess. Her back arched. She became so wet that her sex made lewd sounds. Pleasure gathered fast. Especially when Avaran rubbed her special spot. Raine fidgeted. The impeding pleasure turned into frustration. Oh, God. A little more and Ill be gone. Raine clenched the sheet. She knew her climax was coming but

when it hit her, she wasnt prepared for the intensity of it. Red hot fireworks exploded before her eyes and a kaleidoscope of ecstasy swept her in its tide. Raine screamed his name at the height of her rapture. Her sex was on fire and her mind was catapulted into oblivion. Her spine stretched and kinked from the pleasure. Her body shook as her cunt fluttered around his fingers. Avaran stopped. He watched her reaction. A satisfied smile plastered across his face. Slowly, lazily, he licked his juice-drenched fingers like a cat savoring its cream. He shed his clothes. Boots. His jerkin and trousers. He didnt have on any underwear. His cock bobbed obscenely the moment he freed it from its containment. Her heart raced wildly when she saw his cock. The virile flesh that had given her so many pleasures. She felt heady just by looking at him. Her pussy clenched in agreement as she imagined having that hard shaft inside her. God. She swallowed hard. A wicked thrill coursed down her spine. She loved the way he had fucked her, having him so deep inside her. So intimate as if their souls melded into one. She just had one explosive orgasm, but the wanton part of her was already begging for more. Raine reached for his cock and stroked him. Avaran kissed her mouth. She could taste her own femininity on him. She liked it a lot. A fervent greed overcame her. She couldnt think of anything else but becoming one with him. Nothing else in the world mattered. Fuck me, she begged. Like this? Avaran finger-fucked her just to tease

her. Aww. Raine sighed. That feels so good, baby. But I need your cock. Fuck me with your cock, baby. Raine. Avaran hissed. Who am I to deny such a request from a beautiful woman? He grabbed his cock and pumped it several times. Raine noticed pearly, opalescent drops leaking from his slit. Suddenly, she felt ravenous. She wanted to taste him. Suck that addictive, creamy goodness. What do you think you are doing? Avaran pushed her on her back. He straddled her. Raine licked her lips. That gesture elicited a growl from him. You are so beautiful, beloved. Her heart stuttered from his praise. Avaran pushed her thighs apart, splaying her open. He pressed his groin to hers. His cock rested on her sex. It was intimidating yet Raine wanted it so bad. She had never been ready to fuck like this in her life. He didnt penetrate her right away. He lubricated his shaft with her abundant juices. He eased himself back and forth, oiling his whole magnificent length with her sexual elixir. Waves of heat rolled throughout her body as his shaft became slick and slippery. Baby, dont tease me. Take me. Fuck me. He chortled and pressed his cockhead into her entrance. He slipped in. But only an inch. Yes, she urged. Avaran thrust another inch.

All of it, baby, please He groaned and plowed into her up to his hilt. Raine shouted and threw her head back, baring her throat. Avaran kissed and nuzzled her neck. Raine found his lips and kissed him hard. Avaran stilled, didnt try to move. His cock throbbed in her depths. So insanely huge, making her feel stretched to the limit. The sensation was unbelievable. She loved the way he claimed her. Her man. Hers and hers alone. Raine buried her face in his throat. Avaran pulled and thrust. The sensation of pure pleasure engulfed all of her senses. Her chest tightened. Suddenly, she felt out of breath. Raine, you feel so good, he murmured. So tight. Avaran slid an arm under her and planted a hand on the small of her back. He pushed deeply until his balls pressed against her perineum. He let out a primal growl, praising her. Raine instinctively tightened the muscles of her cunt. Even though he had fucked her so many times, somehow she wasnt used to his size. Slowly, Avaran moved. Tugged and pushed. The friction caused by the way his veined shaft rubbed against the inner walls of her passage rendered her mindless. She could feel the texture of his cock. She could feel the way it pulsed in cadence to the rhythm of her beating heart. They became one. Body and soul. He pulled out almost all the way to his cockhead before thrusting back until the delicious, pure sensation shimmered from inside her. She loved the way he relived the initial penetration, showing her just how deep she took

him, becoming one with him. He watched her reaction as he continued his slow pull and deep thrust. A smile broke over his handsome face. Eyes blazed with fire. Good? he croaked. Perspiration beaded his temples and forehead. Raine nodded. Faster? Please. He picked up his pace. Like this? Raine only moaned. Avaran quickened. How about now? She was shaking from head to toe, burning with desire, enslaved by her own lust. Yes, baby, yes. It felt so good having him inside of her while they embraced and looked into each others eyes. She wrapped her legs around his waist, wanting to take him deeper beyond any rational thought. It seemed Avaran felt the same. He fucked her harder and harder, slamming her pussy with sharp, relentless thrusts. The pleasure was so intense, Raine temporarily forgot how to breathe. Avaran growled and fucked her rougher. Raine panted. Her breathless cry turned into a keening mewl. Avaran ambushed her with a hard, starving kiss. He plunged his tongue into the cavern of her mouth, ravaging her as his cock plundered her cunt. He seized a handful of her hair as he fucked the life of her. Each thrust and yank was rough, the pleasure comingled with the pain, feeling so mind-bendingly exquisite. He fucked her as if it would kill

him if he didnt show her he was the master of her body. Each thrust and grind invoked a jolt of pure ecstasy within her. The pleasure dragged her higher toward rapture, making her heart pound and heat rush to her head. She tore her mouth away from his kiss. She gasped, filling her lungs with much-needed air. Raine cried out. Avaran let out a growl that was too primal to be human while flooding her with one fuck after another until she couldnt take it anymore. She cried harder, the ecstasy too intense, a burgeoning pressure of release building inside her. Her thighs clenched and her sex muscles contracted. She surrendered. Raine came so hard she thought she was going to die. Avarans face blurred in front of her, replaced by rainbow sparks as the paralyzing ecstasy consumed her fully. She didnt know how long she was trapped in the rapturous torrent of pleasure. When she finally collected her mind, she found Avaran jerking, shuddering as he empty his seed inside her. His face was a mask of ecstasy. They panted together. Minutes went by before he finally rolled off her and collapsed next to her shivering body. He drew her in his arms and held her tight. So. Raine cleared her throat. The acolytes told me youre a nymph, huh? Avaran twirled her hair. I am afraid so. And youre a prince. I guess I am. Wish youd told me that when we first met.

Would you have believed me then? Raine giggled Maybe not. I thought so. We need to talk. All right. Does it have to be now? I cant leave my mom. Then she could live with us. Avaran kissed her neck. Dont try to distract me with a kiss. Can I distract you with sex? Fiend. Youre a sex fiend. I guess I am. Avaran kissed the tip of her nose. I guess we have a lot to discuss and things to arrange. But right now Id like to savor our time together. Raine smiled. Love you too big guy. The End

About the Author

Lizzie Lynn Lee was a guitarist, receptionist, executive assistant, tarot reader, boutique owner and graphic artist before she discovered writing is her dream job. The advantage is she can do it in her pajamas and socks. Shes an incurable chatterbox, heavy metal aficionado, book worm, digital enthusiast and a night owl since most of her stories were done in the wee hours of the morning because of her caffeine-induced insomnia. These days she still plays her guitar whenever she gets bored, staring at her computers screen or plotting the most elaborate scheme of world domination. Fortunately, she has a chronically short attention span. She loves to hear back from her readers, so drop her a line at: mailto:lizzie@ilizzie.com http://ilizzie.com