Page 69 of Heir of Draga

“He can keep it,” Adelina said, coming up to Varan’s side. “I appreciate the effort, though we both know some think they know better than us.” She gave Varan a sideways look. “If it helps you feel more comfortable here I will allow it.”

“I appreciate that, Princess.” Delphine glared at her shipmates again and Varan decided they were safe enough for the moment.

“Let us escort you to the dining area,” Adelina said, stepping aside to give them access to her ship.

A crewmember ran towards them and Varan tensed. The male looked harried and sweaty, as though he’d run all the way from Command.

“Princess, Prince,” he said, panting and out of breath. The male bowed quickly then straightened with his eyes on the floor. “We reached the border ahead of schedule and just crossed. A Drakesthai ship is hailing us. The captain wants to know your orders.”

Instantly that sweet jasmine turned dark and Varan winced as he felt Adelina’s fury for barely a moment before she reined it in. The effect on everyone was clear as they flinched. Some bared their throats and others dropped to their knees depending on where they fell on the dominance spectrum.

“Pease tell the captain we are on our way presently. Delphine, you and your crewmates will join us.”

There was no room in her tone for defiance. No one dared question her, not even the shifty one. Varan offered his arm in the submissive position. Perhaps he could help ground her anger before they reached Command. But honestly Varan thought the world should see her anger more often.

She was so cunning and vicious when she was angry. Varan smiled in anticipation.

Her amethyst eyes blazed and when she settled her hand delicately on his, her claws glittered in the light with that black lacquer she liked to wear. All three pirates balked when they noticed how sharp they were.

“Pray it’s not an enemy,” he whispered to the captain, knowing full well Adelina could hear them as they walked back to the lift. “She might just board their ship so she can tear them to shreds herself.” Varan winked and tapped the lift panel.

His princess would have a reputation by the time they returned to Draga Terra if he had anything to say about it – and give the pirates turned privateers something to think about before going back on their word.

---