Page 14 of Dragon's Honor

“Without our secrets staying hidden, it won’t matter if justice is served. The human world will tear apart our world to make sure we’re eradicated.”

Henrik jutted his chin out. “The humans have climbed out of their caves. They’re not the simpletons they once were, maybe they’ll be able to see beyond.”

Marcus chuckled humorlessly. “You give the human race too much credit, and the dragons not enough.”

Henrik pointed at him. “There is a video of a wolf shifter on the internet. It keeps resurfacing no matter how many times the hackers delete it. There are numerous accounts of magic and stuff the human world cannot explain. It is not a matter of if, but when, Marcus.”

Marcus shook his head. “You weren’t alive the last time the humans hunted us. There are still some that do. The closer the humans get, the more I worry about the safety for all our kind.”

“What about the Dragon Fire?” Henrik asked.

Marcus pinched the bridge of his nose. “We are no further along on that mystery. The autopsy that Verrick did proved dragon essence was in their bloodstream, but we don’t know much else. We’ve pulled in a couple of… we’ll call them friends to help with the investigation.”

“Who?”

“Grey and Warren. I’ve requested help from the fae as well, but I have not heard back.”

“You reached out to a vampire and a wolf?” Henrik said.

Marcus shot Henrik a glare. “In these trying times, it’s important to use all of our resources.”

Henrik didn’t reply, just held his stoic expression.

Ash glanced at his brother. “Grey’s resources are bottomless. It’s a good thing if he’s truly willing to help.”

Marcus sighed. “Go back to Miami. We will update you on our investigation with Tristian.”

“He’s in the wind. What the fuck good does it do now?”

“You’re the one who attacked him,” Henrik barked.

“That is very unlike you, Ash. Are you well?” Marcus asked.

Ash glanced at Henrik then back to Marcus. “I’m fine.”

Ash didn’t have to look behind him to know that Henrik was rolling his eyes.

“You are king apparent now and the best one to take the throne. Find your mate and get your act together and you will make a fine king and your father proud.” Marcus turned and left Ash and Henrik on the beach.

“Ash, what the fuck?”

Ash growled. “I wasn’t prepared for him to show up. Why would he be here?”

Henrik sighed. “You’re not going to like what I have to say.”

“He did it, Rik. I was there. I saw him.”

“I know. I know. I do. But he didn’t look guilty. He looked scared.”

“It doesn’t matter.”

“It does. More than that, you’re losing your cool. And Marcus is right. It’s not like you. You’re starting to show signs of the craze, Ash.”

The craze. Every dragon’s nightmare.

“It’s not the craze.”

“It’s not? Really? Because you found your mate a month ago and you’ve completely turned your back on her.”