“Pre-mated calm,” I mused. “You lifted Nahel's tent with one hand. His entire tent.” I waved my spoon at it. “It's a big tent.”
“I was in dragon form. I transformed while I tossed it aside so I wouldn't scare you.” He swigged some water and leaned back, utterly comfortable in his nudity.
Glancing down his body, I understood his comfort. There was nothing for Raven to be ashamed of. I, however, was glad to be clothed. Although I knew he found me pleasing, I had spent too long with my body revealed to be comfortable with nudity yet. At least when we were out of bed.
“As soon as our bond is secured, I'm taking you back to the palace.” Raven scooped up some stew with a piece of bread and chewed with a look of satisfaction.
My head jerked up. “What?”
“It's too dangerous for you here, Mate. Nahel has proven that he'll do anything to have you.”
“He wanted me because he thought I knew Bara's procedures. He even questioned me while I was wearing the ribbon to be sure I told him the truth. He was furious when he found out that I knew nothing more than him.” I blinked, suddenly remembering what Nahel said. “Oh, dear Gods! He has one of Bara's notebooks!”
Raven scowled, trying to follow me. “Nahel has Bara's notebook?”
“Yes!”
“That's impossible. It's back at the castle.”
“That's what I'm trying to tell you!” I leapt to my feet. “You've been betrayed, Raven! Someone in the castle stole that notebook and gave it to Nahel.”
“What?” He surged to his feet. “Who?”
“I don't know. He didn't tell me much, only implied that he had a spy in your court.”
“No.” Raven slashed his hand down. “No, that can't be.”
“It's true. I saw the book myself. It was the same one you showed me.”
“Fuck me,” he growled and ran a hand over his hair. “Stay here.” He pointed at the ground and then left the tent.
I grimaced. “At least put some clothes on.”
But he was already gone.
I returned to my meal, but my stomach churned with worry, and I couldn't get much down. There was movement outside, but I didn't dare look. I knew he needed me away from his men. If I showed my face while he was already upset, it could go poorly. For all of us.
So, I waited.
When he finally returned, I lurched to my feet.
“Finish your food, Mate.” Raven waved me back down.
“But what are you going to do? Are we going back to Ahanu?” I sat down.
“I sent Vanoak. He's good at finding the truth. He'll discover who's been helping Nahel.”
“Then we're staying here?”
“Yes, until the bond is settled. Then I'm taking you—”
“No, Raven!” I cut him off. “I need to finish this! I'm not going back to hide in your castle like a scared rabbit. I liked helping those people. I want to—”
Drumming came from outside the tent.
I paused, turning to look at the flap.
“It's, uh, they're . . . it's traditional for Dragon mating in Tabaa.” Raven cleared his throat.
