Merilyn cried out, tortured. The need to satiate her burning arousal was so intense that tears welled in her eyes.

She humped against his thighs, hard and desperate, rubbing her throbbing clitoris against his leg, gasping with pleasure, her head thrown back in ecstasy.

"That is it, dearling. Ride it out. Allow it to pass through you," he murmured, cradling her waist, gently supporting her swollen belly.

Merilyn cried out as her orgasm cascaded through her, like the sweet, gentle waves of a serene ocean. Her body gradually stilled, eventually leaning against him.

Lord Vladya embraced her, offering her stability and solace.

"Feeling better?" he asked after some time.

Merilyn blinked hard, and winced, "A little. Thank you for maintaining control.”

“As if I would allow you do something you would regret.”

No, he would not. This was the male she used to have feelings for–she loved him for so long. If only fate was not too cruel to them.

A soft smile graced her lips. “I must now return to my Beloved, lest we both succumb to this desire.”

Lord Vladya reciprocated her smile. "Indeed, that seems wise." He released her gently. "As you depart, please summon a maid for me. It matters not which one."

That would not be difficult. Every female vied for the slightest bit of attention from Lord Vladya. They competed ardently for a chance to gain his favor, even to the point of fighting among themselves for a place in his bed.

As Merilyn departed from his chambers, the echoing screams continued to pierce the air. Relentless. Agonizing.

Her heart welled with pity. For whoever it was to scream this way for hours on end, the sexual act must not have been too pleasurable for her.Poor child.

Grand Lord Zaiper is at it once again, isn’t he?

Or, is it the feral king?

Chapter thirteen

A STIR

In the early hours of the morning, the king beast lay curled in its favorite corner. Deep, contented purrs filled the air as it slept.

Then, the beast stirred. Its powerful limbs twitched, and a low growl rumbled from its chest. One paw jerked violently, rippling and twisting.

All at once, its fur melted away, revealing pale human-like skin.

Fingers—rugged, strong, and clearly male—twitched where sharp claws had been just moments earlier.

The transformation stopped.

As quickly as it had started, the shift reversed.

The male hand clenched, skin hardening, and nails grew back into long, black talons once again.

Chapter fourteen

THE QUESTIONS…

Aekeira awoke the next morning in an unfamiliar environment, her eyes taking in the luxurious surroundings–the expensive bed, and the highly decorated bedchamber.

Confusion clouded her mind as she tried to piece together the events of the previous night.Where am I? How did I end up here?

And then, the memories came crashing back.