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Chapter 57: Partnership
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 58: Truth And Dare
Frost's POVI sat rigidly behind the heavy oak desk in my private study, brow furrowed in thought. My second-in-command Flint had just finished briefing me on the skirmish with unknown assailants beyond our northern border. From his account, they did not seem to be the work of the dragon Scar or his forces. Their fighting style was different, more ruthless and chaotic. Humans, perhaps a renegade warband. But we had been at peace with the local villagers for some time now.I waved a hand, dismissing Flint for the evening. "Double the patrols for now, but do not engage unless provoked. And keep this quiet - no need to alarm anyone unnecessarily." Flint bowed. "Of course, Commander. I will inform only the sentry captains.""One more thing," I added as he turned to leave. "Do not let Lena know of this incident. She has enough to fret over as things stand."Flint nodded in understanding before departing to relay my orders. Alone again, I sank back in my chair, rubbing my temples wearily
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 59: Dining Together
Lena's POV I awoke to rays of morning light spilling across my face, along with a splitting headache. Groaning, I buried my head under the pillows, fragments of the previous night flashing through my mind. Dancing provocatively, shedding my clothes, then finally joining passionately with Frost. My cheeks burned remembering it all. At the time, the excess wine had bolstered my courage to be bolder. But now I just felt terribly self-conscious about my wanton behavior. Peeking out, I realized Frost must have cleaned and dressed me before leaving me to rest. Another flare of embarrassment went through me. The imposing commander seeing me in such a state! What must he think of me acting like an infatuated girl, using wine as an excuse? I wished the furs would simply swallow me whole.Only the pressing needs of my protesting bladder finally drove me from the bed. After tending to necessities and splashing cold water on my face, I surveyed myself critically in the mirror. My dark mane wa
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 60: Freya's Crush
Lena's POV I was abruptly jolted from a peaceful sleep by a tremendous crash directly overhead, followed by muffled cursing. Heart racing, I bolted upright in the massive bed, peering around wildly. It took a few panicked breaths to get my bearings and realize there was no attack or imminent danger. Only the patter of footsteps across the ceiling, accompanied by more thuds and colorful vocabulary. Exhaling shakily, I wrapped a robe around myself and crept upstairs to investigate the source of the commotion that woke me at this godsforsaken hour. Pushing open the door near the top of the stairs, I was met with a scene of chaos. The pretty blonde maid Helga stood in the midst of what looked like the aftermath of a small hurricane - smashed pottery, torn fabrics, broken furniture and assorted debris scattered everywhere.In the center of it all stood Freya, hands planted on her hips defiantly as she surveyed the damage with a critical eye. Hearing my approach, she whirled and broke i
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 61: Karaoke
Lena's POVI lingered in the restaurant after lunch, sipping tea by the window. Freya sat nearby, unusually quiet as she picked at the remnants of her meal. I studied her pensively, remembering how flustered she had seemed yesterday morning around the archivist Mars. My curiosity finally got the better of me. Setting down my cup, I leaned toward Freya conspiratorially. "So...is Mars the 'friend' you hope will impress you at the tournament?" Freya's head jerked up, cheeks flushing scarlet. "I never said that!" But her telling reaction answered the question well enough. I had to bite my cheek to keep from grinning outright."But you do fancy him, don't you?" I pressed gently. Freya huffed, stabbing at her food. "And what if I do? It's pointless anyhow. He's not some muscle-bound warrior."I waved my hand dismissively. "You needn't hide your feelings. I saw how tenderly he looks at you, Freya. Why not speak openly together?"She smiled sadly down at her plate. "If only it were that sim
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 62: Cold Shoulder
Lena's POVI awoke feeling troubled after the unpleasantness with Frost the night before. His severe reaction had been so unlike the patient kindness he had shown me previously. I knew his overprotectiveness came from care for Freya, yet it still rankled. Rising slowly, I decided to seek him out and appeal to his reason today if he was receptive. Last night's harsh words could not stand between us if we were to build trust. I would remain calm but firm that his sister deserved happiness, and I autonomy.After washing and dressing warmly, I headed downstairs only to be intercepted by a maid informing me the commander had summoned me to the training grounds after I my breakfast. My nerves fluttered anxiously, unsure what Frost had planned. But I steeled myself and made my way to meet him. I found Frost examining the racks of practice weapons with flinty eyes. At my approach, he turned, expression unreadable."Lena. Let us begin your archery lesson." He gestured curtly for me to choose
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 63: Home Alone
Lena's POV I was jolted awake by the loud crash of shattering pottery. Blearily opening my eyes, I realized I had dozed off curled up on the armchair in the study while waiting up for Ryder. My neck and back protested as I straightened up with a groan.Looking over, I saw the vase of flowers I had left on the oak table now lay in pieces across the hardwood floor. Cursing under my breath, I carefully avoided the shards scattered everywhere as I went to fetch the broom. So much for my sweet surprise for Ryder after our misunderstanding. I swept up the mess bitterly, realizing he had never even come home. Have I missed him too much for my brain to conjure him in my dreams? Where had he been all night? Probably off brooding somewhere while I made a fool of myself trying to make amends. Men!Dumping the remains of my ruined gift in the trash, I trudged upstairs to shower and change. No texts or calls from Ryder of course. Sighing, I resolved to just give him space today. I couldn't keep
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 64: Summer Sports
Lena's POV The week dragged by with still no sight of Ryder except brief notes saying he was unavoidably detained by work. I missed him more each day, fearing we'd never have a chance to truly make amends after our quarrel. Finally, the long-awaited day of the annual summer tournament and games arrived. This massive outdoor sporting event gathered warriors and athletes from all the clans to compete in contests of skill and strength. I was excited to attend with Freya.She arrived early, brimming with enthusiasm, and helped me dress in stylish athletic wear. "This will be such fun! You'll see skills no other clan can match. Maybe some handsome muscular men too!" She winked conspiratorially.I just laughed and shook my head indulgently. How quickly bold Freya's thoughts turned to handsome men. Linking arms, we set off walking under the sunny skies to where the massive arena and adjoining fields were located.We passed vendors hawking snacks and cold drinks, the atmosphere buzzing wit
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 65: Kiss & Make up
Lena's POV The thrill of the tournament still buzzed through me as Ryder led us away from the crowds. We walked hand in hand to where a motorcycle was parked on a secluded forest track. My heart fluttered wildly being alone with him again after so long apart."I thought after so much excitement, a private picnic might be pleasant," Ryder remarked, handing me a helmet and strapping on his own. "Just the two of us." His eyes crinkled warmly.I nodded, cheeks heating. "That sounds wonderful." Settling behind Ryder, I wrapped my arms snugly around his lean, muscular torso as the engine roared to life. We took off down the winding wooded lanes.Ryder drove expertly, slowing whenever he felt me grip him tighter around sharp turns. I breathed deep of the pine-scented air, feeling carefree and exhilarated. With the quarrels behind us, it was like I could finally relax and just enjoy being with this man who made me feel so alive.We arrived at a secluded glade blanketed in wildflowers and dis
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Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 128: Epilogue
I woke slowly, languidly, enveloped in warmth. Soft lips pressed against mine even as fingers trailed down my body, igniting smoldering embers inside me. I yielded to the kiss, the caress, feeling wanted, desired.Until an angry snarl shattered the moment. The lips disappeared and a solid weight pinned me down. My eyes flew open to see Hunter sprawled on the floor, Scar looming over him, fists clenched."Scar!" I exclaimed. "What the hell?" His magenta eyes blazed as they fixed on me. "What the hell? You're seriously asking me that?" He stabbed an accusing finger at Hunter. "I can feel everything you feel, remember? So imagine getting woken up by you getting all hot and bothered over some bastard pawing at you.""Hey!" Hunter launched himself at Scar, both crashing to the floor in a tangle of limbs. I scrambled back as they rolled, grappling furiously. "Enough!" I shouted, but they ignored me. With a cry of frustration, I flung myself between them, shoving them apart with all my str
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 127: End Of An Era
Lena The dull roar of the crowd gathered outside the hall was audible even from within my dressing room. I stared at my reflection as Sage zipped up the back of my knee-length black dress, her skilled hands working quickly. "There," she said. "You look beautiful, Lena."I sighed, brushing a strand of hair from my eyes. "I don't feel beautiful. I feel like I'm being served up for auction."Sage squeezed my shoulder, meeting my eyes in the mirror. "Today marks the beginning of real change. No more hiding, no more fear. You're bringing peace, Lena."Footsteps at the door made us both turn. Scar loomed in the doorway, striking in his black suit, silver hair glinting. Hermes hovered behind him, looking slick in navy blue. "It's time," Scar rumbled. I lifted my chin, striding forward. Hermes offered his arm and I took it, letting him guide me down the plushly carpeted hall. The clamor outside crescendoed as we approached the doors to the hall itself, camera flashes visible even from her
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 126: Homecoming
A feeling of bittersweet joy hung in the air as our ragtag group celebrated my unexpected reunion with my son. Jackson gazed at me with such awe and longing, as though unable to believe I was real. I found myself overwhelmed trying to reconcile Jackson to his grandson.In the midst of the emotional upheaval, I noticed Hunter slip quietly from the room, a shadow dimming his usual vibrancy. My joy dimmed, realizing how difficult this reunion must be for him. With care not to jostle the sleeping babe in my arms, I slipped out to follow Hunter's brooding silhouette."You deserve time to process all this change," I offered gently once we were alone outside the battered walls.Hunter exhaled harshly, avoiding my searching look. "I just need...space, to adjust to everything." He attempted a strained half-smile. "Don't mind my sulking."My heart clenched hearing the hurt poorly masked beneath his gravel tones. Impulsively I laid one hand on his slumped shoulder. "I haven't decided anything ye
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 125: Rebirth
I drifted gradually up through velvety shadows toward waking, feeling almost reborn. Every muscle ached fiercely, but my spirit felt cleansed by recent trials. We had walked through fire and fury both literal and figurative, somehow emerging intact on redemption's far shore.With effort I pushed upright, taking in familiar features gathered anxiously around the modest pallet where I had slept. Concern furrowed Sage's brow until she noted my returning gaze. "Lena! Thank the ancestors." She gripped both my hands urgently. "We feared you might never rouse after expending so much strength against the darkness."I managed a wan smile, ribs protesting even that small motion. "I yet breathe thanks to your steady watchcare, my friend." My searching look found May and Freya curled together nearby, worry softening into relief. But foreboding still weighted the strained atmosphere. I hesitated before voicing the question that haunted me most. "And Scar? Has there been any change while I drifted
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 124: Awakening
LenaScar's smoldering draconic shape halted its ruthless assault mid-dive, wheeling with fury towards my brazen challenge. Behind my defiant stance, Hermes and Sage stood with weapons drawn, prepared to defend unto death. Their unwavering courage fortified my quailing spirit. If these were destined as my final moments, I would face fate proudly surrounded by such selfless love.The dusk sky tore violently as the dragon folded its terrible wings, plummeting straight for me with jaws gaping hungrily. I glimpsed no flicker of familiar azure gaze nor glimmer of recognition, only endless ravenous void racing to consume me. Despair's chill fingers scraped my fragile hope. Had scintilla of Scar's psyche already been devoured beyond all reclaiming?Mere body lengths from certain obliteration, a piercing mental lance speared my psyche. I gasped, driving to one knee beneath the assault. Then chaotic fractured awareness crashed over me. Insanity! The maelstrom threatened to drown rational mind
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 123: Confrontation
Lena "You need rest." Hermes' firm tone brooked no argument as he helped me climb into the van's rear seat. I scowled, but couldn't deny sheer exhaustion once adrenaline drained away. "The Fortress lies over a day's journey north," Hunter remarked, sliding behind the wheel beside Hermes. "Best try recovering strength before we arrive."I nodded reluctantly, too spent to argue logistics. Food and sleep called seductively. Sage draped a scratchy blanket over me before everything faded into dreamless void.I came to as the van jostled over rough terrain, weak sun glinting through cracked windows. Groaning, I shifted gingerly upright. Every bone and muscle throbbed fiery complaint, but my mind felt oddly clear for once.Hermes twisted around with a grin. "About time. We're less than an hour out." His expression sobered. "Scar's still assaulting the fortress walls relentlessly."Memory crashed back. The bond! I frantically grasped for our mating link, nearly sagging relief finding that e
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 122: Bonds
Lena Sage stomped Zoya's neck, finally finishing her for good. "Don't mind her words. You need only focus on your bond with Scar like Natalia taught you. You'll be able to reach him again." Sage's comfort grounded me amidst the chaos as I nodded gratefully. Hermes and Hunter supported us outside to the vans parked at the valley's edge. "Rest here. We need to regroup and plan." Hermes opened the van's back door, helping me climb inside. I sank onto the bench seat, adrenaline crash leaving me numb and dizzy. We were miraculously alive, but at such cost."Hermes?" I called as he lowered himself down beside me with a tired groan. "What really happened while I was captive?" He scrubbed both hands over his face, lines of strain showing clearly. "Over a month ago, Scar said he suddenly sensed your bond and left to find you alone. He never returned." Hermes' fists clenched helplessly. "Zoya claimed he was unfit to lead, insisting we waste no time tracking one rogue dragon. I should have kn
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 121: Rage
Lena The heavy ebony doors groaned open beneath our combined strength. Beyond should lie sanctuary however temporary - a chance to rest battered bodies and souls...and forge strength for the next leg in reclaiming freedom. Instead, a nightmare awaited us across that carved threshold.Zoya herself stood imperiously flanked by a score of armed guardsgrinning in feral anticipation. At their feet sprawled a cruelly familiar frail form - Natalia! My heart dropped through the floor recognizing the terrible stillness to her flesh, the mocking angle of broken limbs. Our protector and guide, ruthlessaly dismembered and discarded by her own blood."No!"The grief-stricken howl that ripped from my chest scarcely sounded human or sane. But the rage flooding my veins in its wake burned far hotter than mere anguish as I took in the mutilation of that innocent wise woman. Blinded by fury and vengeance, I flung myself straight for Zoya's sneering throat heedless of the death bristling eagerly around
Stealing The Dragon's Heart Chapter 120: Close
LenaI floated, cradled in peaceful oblivion. Bonded bliss enveloped me, sheltering my battered spirit. Scar's beloved presence intertwined so tightly with mine now I could no longer distinguish where one ended and the other began. We were finally, utterly one.Distantly, a familiar voice called my name, pulling me reluctantly towards wakefulness. I struggled against the intruding summons, craving more time to bask in the oasis my mate's restored mind and soul created within me. But the speaker persisted until I identified Sage's worried tone. With deep reluctance I allowed our cherished haven to dissolve."Lena! Can you hear me?" Sage's concerned face hovered over me as my vision slowly focused once more. I blinked sluggishly up at her from my supine position, still caught halfway between planes. Wait...if I was awake how could I still feel Scar's arms cradling my limp form?I turned seeking my mate's smiling visage, only for my spirits to crash finding empty space beside me. Thick w
