Kingdom of Venom, page 16
“Or your soul just knew who it was waiting for, even if you didn’t.” Talbot ran a finger down her silky cheek. She was the most lovely creature he’d ever seen, and she belonged to him.
A throat clearing drew Talbot’s attention, reluctantly, away from his mate. Turning his head back toward the doors, he saw that the Kingdom of Venom’s Shaman, Link, stood in front of them.
Talbot inclined his head respectfully to Link even as irritation flickered through him at the interruption.
“Your Highness, all are gathered and awaiting your entrance,” the shaman intoned. His sharp gaze took in Talbot’s close proximity to Rose, and he gave him a nod of approval.
Talbot wrapped an arm firmly around Rose’s waist and drew her against his side. She came willingly, molding her curves to him in a way that made his blood heat. But now was not the time to indulge such desires, no matter how enticing his new mate was. Duty called them both.
Drawing strength from Rose’s presence, Talbot inclined his head to the guards who pulled the double doors open wide. Squaring his shoulders beneath the elegant cloak marking his royal status, he strode with measured steps into the courtyard beyond, Rose matching him stride for stride.
As expected, the expansive space was packed with representatives from all kingdoms, a sea of judgmental eyes focused on the new king and his mate. Low murmurs rustled through the crowd as they passed, curiosity and suspicion heavy in the air. He could understand some of their suspicion, considering Azure had sent him on errands, though they’d always been mundane business. And the only reason he’d done it was to keep Talbot from learning about Azure’s treachery. He’d either forgotten that his great-nephew could pick up on his thoughts or he was so sure in his own abilities that it wouldn’t matter what tidbits Talbot saw, and felt, whenever he came in contact with his uncle.
Talbot kept his gaze fixed straight ahead, hyperaware of Rose’s anxiety bleeding through their bond. He projected back waves of reassurance and pride, hoping to drown out her nerves. By the way she lifted her chin and glided more smoothly at his side, some of the tension eased from her frame. That small victory reinforced Talbot’s own resolve. It was amazing what you’d willingly endure if you had a comrade, whether it was a mate or a close friend, on your side.
The Council members, along with the full retinue of the Royal House of Venom, awaited. Those present represented the Kingdom of Fangs, Tides, Fur, Silver, and Hooves. He’d have to send out letters to those who hadn’t attended, letting them know he was sorry they were unable to do so, but also to remind them he was aware that they’d chosen not to show their support.
As they took their places on the central dais, Talbot sought out familiar faces, subtly offering greetings. Link’s stern and almost imperceptible nod offered cautious hope. Slick flashed a discreet thumbs up that nearly made Talbot chuckle. Even dour Crowley, the Shaman for Kingdom of Fangs, managed the barest upward twitch of his lips in acknowledgement. Isla, the Shaman for the Kingdom of Tides, offered him a raised glass and a slightly bowed head as her approval.
Only one absence really bothered him. He looked around but couldn’t see… Talbot’s phone buzzed with an incoming text. Checking it discreetly, he saw it was from Nico.
Nico: Congratulations, T. I’m proud of the male you’ve grown into, despite having that ass of an uncle. I’m sorry I can’t be there today, but I’m currently hunting said asshat uncle. I know you’re going to be amazing. And Rose is a sweet female. She is a good match for you.
Talbot: Thank you, Nico. I appreciate you and the time you invested in me over the years. You will be missed today. Be careful. Azure is desperate. Desperate, cornered animals don’t go down without a nasty fight.
Nico’s response was brief and very Nico.
Nico: I’ve sharpened my blades just for this occasion. I will be fine, as will the rest of the hunting party. You just focus on the fact that you’re going to have to weed out those that might still be loyal to Azure. Keep an eye on Rose. If Azure finds out you mated, he will try to have her killed.
Talbot cursed under his breath. Nico was right. Rose would be in danger if Azure knew about her. This hunt couldn’t end soon enough, for all their sakes. And Nico’s warning to watch their backs made Talbot’s lungs tighten anxiously. He couldn’t even guarantee his new mate safety in her own home.
Digging deep for calm, Talbot slipped his phone away and reached for Rose’s hand. Her slender fingers twined tightly with his. Her hazel eyes were luminous with trust when they lifted to meet his gaze. His thumb caressed the back of her hand softly as the officiant—Link—stepped up.
“Are you ready, Your Majesty?”
Talbot raised his chin. “I am.”
This was not how Talbot would have wished for his coronation or their mating ceremony to proceed—on display before biased onlookers. But he took comfort in the steady pulse beneath his fingers, Rose’s courage flowing into him through their joined hands. She had embraced this destiny at his side without hesitation or regret. He could ask no more of her than that.
Link’s voice rang out clearly in the hushed courtyard. “By the ancient rites, passed down since the dawn of our people, I now proclaim Talbot of Venom to be king. May his rule be just, his judgment wise, and his compassion enduring.”
He turned solemn eyes on Talbot. “Do you so swear to take up the mantle and burden, to reign with equity and honor, holding this kingdom’s welfare above your own?”
Talbot met the shaman’s gaze unwaveringly. “I so swear it.”
Nodding, Link continued. “Then by my authority as Shaman of Venom, and by the Creator’s will, I confer this crown upon you, Chosen King.”
The ornate silver circlet, with the bodies of interwoven snakes, was lowered onto Talbot’s head. He straightened, feeling the symbolic weight of that crown and all it represented. This moment defined his life’s purpose going forward: to rule with the wisdom of kings’ past while illuminating the way to a new era of light.
“Rise now as Guardian, as Shield, and as True King, Talbot of Venom!” the shaman pronounced.
Before the cheers could follow, a blinding light filled the courtyard, stealing breath and thought. Talbot’s heart pounded wildly even as serenity flowed into him from that divine glow. He was not the only one so deeply affected. Those around him knelt in reverence, even the visiting council members. The Creator himself had deemed this coronation worthy of His presence.
“Look upon Me, Talbot and Rose.” Visata’s voice boomed so that the very ground they rested upon shook like an earthquake.
Within the brilliance, a figure took shape, man-like but radiating infinite power and matchless grace. The face was ageless, neither old nor young, but etched with wisdom beyond millennia. His eyes brimmed with endless compassion and gazed upon Talbot and Rose where they had sunk to their knees.
“Rise, my children,” Visata’s voice filled their minds, rich with love. “You have chosen the hard path. The narrow way that few will even give eyes to. You have set aside future plans that may never come to pass because you’ve taken up the mantle I have given you. And instead of complaining, or turning your back on My will, you stand up and do the arduous thing. The wide path is easy. But the narrow path will reveal your character. It will test you and your faith until you think you might fall, but I tell you: Do not look to your right or your left. Do not turn your head to look behind you. Only look straight in front of you so that you will be ready for the enemy’s advances.” His light suffused them, blessing and welcoming their union. “Together, may you heal what is broken, mend what is torn, and gather the pieces of that which are shattered. My peace and joy be upon you both, as well as on the Kingdom of Venom.”
When the Creator’s piercing stare moved across the still kneeling crowd, a bolt of foreboding shot through Talbot. “The light still shines where shadows fall,” Visata intoned. “But judgment comes on swift wings to all who embrace darkness. Turn now from wickedness or reap sorrow.” His words rang with warning but also a tender invitation back to the fold.
With a final piercing look that reached the depths of Talbot’s soul, Visata’s form began to fade, the brilliant rays retreating last of all. “Keep your eyes fixed on Me alone, Dear Ones. I will guide your footsteps.”
Then the courtyard held only awed silence once more. Talbot sought Rose’s stunned gaze as all around them hushed conversations broke out about the Creator’s miraculous appearance. Talbot cared nothing for gossip or novelty. All he knew was that they walked in Visata’s will, and that was enough.
Rising on unsteady legs, he drew Rose close, pressing his brow to hers. “We do this together,” Talbot whispered fervently. “Our lives, our rule. All of it. Just as we were meant to.”
Rose’s eyes shone like stars when she drew back to meet his gaze again. “Together,” she agreed softly. Then, hand in hand, they turned to greet their people, heartened beyond measure by the Creator’s blessing on their mating and reign. Whatever storms lay ahead, His light would guide them safely home.
Chapter Twelve
Still Your Same Wildcat.
“Hunting down dangerous people, or in our case species, is nothing like they portray on TV. There’s very little excitement. It’s mostly monotonous footwork and lots of ‘I don’t knows’ or ‘I’ve suddenly remembered I have somewhere to be and therefore cannot answer any of your questions.’ In short, any thoughts I might have had about being a cop, bounty hunter, or detective have been thoroughly canceled.” ~Lola
After two days of no luck finding a ride into the bayou, Lola’s patience was wearing thin. They had made no progress yet again in their quest for safe passage. It was as if something was actively working against them, thwarting them at every turn. But she refused to even entertain the idea of failure. Katy’s life depended on them getting answers.
Nico appeared at her elbow, his grin sharp as ever despite the sweat beading his brow. He ignored the steady growl that was rumbling from Callon’s chest. It was apparent that her mate was not taking kindly to being ignored as he gently pulled Lola behind and then around, so she was walking on his other side and Nico was now cozying up against Callon instead of her.
The Chaos Shaman didn’t miss a beat. He just kept talking. “Let’s take a quick breather. I’ve got an idea that I think will get reluctant humans to show us some of that Southern hospitality they’re supposedly known for.”
Callon eyed him warily but followed the shaman to a shaded alcove where the rest of their group had gathered. At Nico’s nod, Raphael turned the force of his compelling gaze on each of them in turn. Lola braced for whatever the demon was going to do. But nothing happened. At least, not that she could see.
“You’re now seeing our lovely Lola through the eyes of a besotted, human male,” Raphael purred.
Lola crossed her arms, unimpressed by his dramatics. “What are you talking about?” she asked him. But then Callon stiffened, a low growl rumbling in his chest as he stared fixedly at her. She glanced around to find all her male companions watching her with new, heated interest.
“What did you do?” she hissed at Raphael.
“Otto told you, demon bad,” the lizard said, though his head did not pop over the top of Lyra’s purse. “I bite him.”
“No, you stay put.” Lyra zipped her purse, probably to keep the little hazard from jumping out and onto Raphael’s face like a crazed cat.
The demon smirked. “Merely amplified your natural assets to outside observers.” His smug smile faded as Callon took a step toward Lola, golden eyes simmering, his form seeming to grow larger.
Nico held up his hands placatingly. “Whoa there, Mate. She’s still your same wildcat, just through a lusty glamour.”
Callon snarled. “Remove it. Now.”
Lola’s eyes widened at the demon. “Are you insane? I’m guessing no one told you that this new mate status comes with a berserker stage for the males. And just so I’m not mincing words, Callon will turn into a massive humanoid lion and eat you. In one chomp if you’re lucky.”
“She’s not exaggerating,” Bane said through gritted teeth, his eyes also on Lola. He looked as though he was in excruciating pain, a war going on within himself. Whatever Raphael had done, it was powerful. “Either get her out of here or undo the spell.”
Laughing nervously, Raphael waved a hand, and the suffocating desire cleared from the air. Lola exhaled in relief as Callon straightened, shaking off the forced enchantment. That was an experience she never wanted to repeat.
“Now that we’re all back to normal, shall we proceed with my plan?” Nico arched a brow at the still-bristling Callon.
“Are you serious right now? My own mate couldn’t even control his attraction to me, and you want to do that in a public place? Do you two have a death wish?” Lola pointed a finger at Raphael and then Nico. “Because I’m your damn fairy godmother, and I’m happy to grant your wish with my handy-dandy weapon, A.K.A., Callon.”
“I bite you,” Otto hissed from inside the purse, almost making Lola laugh.
Raphael started to speak, but Nico held up his hand. “Do you want to get to Azure and those females?” His eyes bounced from her to Callon. The prince had a possessive hand on her hip and pulled her tightly to his side. “Well?”
“Of course,” Lola answered. “That’s a dumbass question.”
“Forgive my lack of tact,” Nico said dryly, “but excluding any possible way for us to get to Azure would be a dumbass decision.”
Callon flashed his teeth, very sharp teeth, at the shaman. “Careful, Shaman. That’s my mate you’re speaking to.” His words were slightly garbled because his mouth was no longer fully human.
“Callon.” Lola patted his arm, attempting to get his attention off Nico. They seriously did not need him going all massive half-man half-lion on the shaman. Finally, Callon turned and looked down at her. As she held his gaze, his features returned to fully human. He closed his eyes and took several deep breaths.
“I appreciate it. I’m fine now. As much as I hate to admit it, and my instincts rebel against the thought, Nico is right.”
Lola and Nico spoke at the same time.
“He is?”
“I am?”
“I mean, of course I am,” Nico backtracked.
Lola rolled her eyes, then returned her attention to Callon. “Are you sure you can handle whatever the hell that was?” She made a circular motion with her hand to include all of their group. “In a public setting without killing anyone?”
It was at least a minute and a half before he gave her a terse nod.
“I’m not feeling reassured by your robotic head movement,” Lola muttered.
Nico grinned, looking slightly maniacal. “Excellent. Let’s go snag us a swamp guide.”
“I have a bad feeling about this,” Bane muttered.
“We can keep him under control,” Taras offered.
Bane shook his head at him, “No, Prime, we can’t. Not if he goes into berserker mode.”
“I’ll keep it together.” Callon looked at Bane. “You have permission to stop me by any means necessary if I lose it. Unless there is true harm threatened to Lola, then let me do what must be done.”
Bane’s brow furrowed.
“I’m serious, Bane.” Callon's jaw clenched and unclenched several times. “Whatever it takes.”
Finally, the panther nodded.
Lyra walked over to them and looked up at her son. “You will do what’s best for your mate.”
“Always.”
“Then you will hold it together because losing it would mean putting her in harm’s way.” This was the Prima talking to a member of her pride. Not a mother to her son. “You will control your beast. The consequences of not doing so will be a direct challenge to me.”
Bane hissed at the same time Taras snarled.
“Shit.” Nico spat as Raphael gaped at Lyra.
“Wait.” Lola held up both hands. “Wait just a minute. Why is everyone freaking out?”
“We’re freaking out,” Bane said tersely, his eyes on Lyra, “because the Prima just laid down the gauntlet. She told her son that his disobedience would be equivalent to a challenge to her strength to hold her place in the pride. He would have to answer the challenge through combat.”
Lola’s mouth dropped open as she looked at Lyra, who didn’t seem to be concerned at all, and then at her mate. To her shock, he didn’t seem surprised by his mother’s declaration. If anything, he appeared relieved. “Soooo, they’d fight until one of them … gives up?”
“If ‘gives up’ means ‘they no longer fight back because they are dead,’” Nico offered, “then yes.”
Lola’s stomach twisted into knots as she gaped at Callon and then at Lyra. “Why would you do that?” she asked the Prima.
“Because, short of you challenging him, I am the only other person he will do anything he can do to not have to fight.”
In a convoluted and unhealthy way, it kind of made sense … if you were completely insane. But Lola wasn’t taking any chances with either of their lives. “If you challenge her,” she pointed at Lyra, “then the winner of your challenge has to fight me, because I will consider it a direct challenge for either of you to take the life of someone I love. In which case, I love you both, so neither of you can kill the other.”
Nico groaned. “Why are all the good ones taken?”
“Why do you want to die so badly?” Bane asked the shaman.
“I don’t. I just want a powerful female who challenges me. That shit is sexy.”
“Language,” Taras snarled. Considering he’d not once said anything about anyone using vulgar words up until this point, Lola wondered if he was just trying to regain some control of the situation that had gone to hell in a handbasket.
Nico bowed his head. “Apologies to the ladies present. Now”—he straightened his shirt sleeves—“if we’re all quite done deciding who might kill whom, can we get on with the task at hand?” Without waiting for a response, the shaman began walking at a brisk pace.
