But Raia was a good leader. She protected and looked after those in her care, and her bond-mates would learn to trust her. “We will decide who we trust, who we love, and who we gift with life. Not you, old man.” She turned on her heel and strode from the pavilion. But when she sensed herself alone, she turned to see her bond-mates gaping at her. “Well? Come.”
She didn’t wait, but walked away.
Female, we are going to have a talk,Arghet swept into her mind in a fury.
You did not agree?
No. Yes. But…Those were our elders.
“And they were wrong,” she said out loud, waiting for Skehl to chime in. He remained quiet and didn’t meet her or Arghet’s eyes. But Arghet was spoiling for a fight with her.
One she had no intention of giving him.You will stay with your clan while I tend to Skehl. We will talk tomorrow. Skehl, come, love.
He jerked his gaze to hers, surprised and pleased at her pet name, she could tell. He joined her without question.
She stroked his hand, pleased when he grabbed hers and held on.
Arghet watched them, still scowling.Fine.He ordered Skehl,Keep her safe, as if Raia hadn’t already told Skehl to join her.I’ll talk to you two later.
He stomped off.
She and Skehl watched him go. She shook her head. “Such an attitude on that one.”
“Raia?”
“Yes?”
His cheeks were a delightful pink. “Is it true? Am I a blessing?”
She softened and crooked her finger at him. When he leaned down, she kissed him. “Yes. You are my blessing. The barbarians can go to hell. You belong to me, and I don’t share.”
“Except with Arghet,” he said, his eyes glowing.
“Maybe. If he’s lucky.” She caressed Skehl’s smooth cheek. “Now, would you like to feel the inside of me again? I’m all soft and wet and warm for you.”
He moved with speed, pulling her back toward their special place.
She laughed. “Yes, yes. But first, warrior. We need food.”
***
Arghet swore his way back to Talzec’s side. “That female is like a burr underfoot. Clingy and sharp and painful. But you feel it when it’s gone.”
Talzec didn’t smile.
Arghet sighed. “You know what the elders have said?”
“Yes. Most of it, but not all.”
His alpha waited, and Arghet repeated everything he’d been told. By the time he finished, Talzec wore a thunderous scowl.
“A warrior may not interfere with the bond. Ever. It’s sacred.”
“Apparently not as sacred as the Sehvar,” Arghet said wryly.
“I understand the need. I remember the old stories of healers and the magic of those connected to the land in a way that was deeper than our concept of phelthar. But there must have been a reason the Sehvar faded away. I cannot think the elders expect you to sever your connection with each other.”
Talzec wouldn’t fathom such a thing. Mated to his beta and to Skye, Talzec had become a real force within the tribe—a male who loved his mates. He’d been a power before, when mated to Nalla, but the connection, though real, hadn’t been a true bond. When Nalla passed, Talzec didn’t die with her. He remained. A warrior filled with grief and rage, but one who put his people first.
