Page 21 of Enchanter of Dragons
“The Fate Power?” Fersen had never paid much attention to the echelon of deities that controlled life in the Living Realm, but he remembered her because Olina had been an avid believer in Sophina.
“Yes, she is best friends with my niece, so Sophina has always been very kind to the Ariake clan.”
Fersen grew more confused. “How does your niece become best friends with the deity who controls fate?”
“Because my niece is the daughter of King Tatsuki and Arenthia, the War Power.” Fersen’s jaw dropped in shock as Jaega continued. “Since Kizoshi lives in the Divine Realm most of the time, she and Sophina are extremely close and have been since childhood.”
“I didn’t realize you had a relative who was half-Power. That’s so impressive.”
“Impressive is a good way to describe Kizoshi. So is mysterious. You have never met a more enigmatic person in your life.” Jaega laughed again. “She told me before I left for the campaign that I would find a special treasure, but I did not realize at the time she meant you. I suspect she will enjoy her ‘I told you so’ when she meets you.”
“Are there any other relatives I need to know about before we reach Valzerna?”
“You will most likely become friendliest with Kitaro, my brother’s youngest son. He inherited his mother’s kind disposition, but he is a fierce warrior when needed. Kisano is also a gentle soul, but he does not leave the library.”
The information struck Fersen as odd. “Is there a reason for that?”
Jaega carded his fingers through Fersen’s hair. “Tatsuki is a warlord at heart and does not see much value in those who prefer peace. Kisano is shy and bookish, so he does his best to stay out of his father’s sight to avoid his wrath.”
Fersen’s heart went out to Kisano. “That’s awful.”
“It is, but Kisano is also much happier with his books than he would be anywhere else, so it is not as tragic as it sounds. Especially since it allows him to avoid his eldest brother, Mitsuki.”
The disapproval in Jaega’s tone surprised Fersen. He wouldn’t have expected his mate to feel that way about any of his nephews. “What’s wrong with Mitsuki?”
“He is cruel, tempestuous, impudent, arrogant, and utterly disagreeable in every way.” Jaega’s description made Fersen want to keep his distance from Tatsuki’s oldest son. “The good news is he is self-involved, so he will probably pay you little attention.”
“I’m not sure if that makes me feel better or not.”
“Should he give you an ounce of trouble, he will earn the beating he deserves.” It was a shocking thing to hear Jaega say. “Sadly, it will not be the first nor the last for such an occasion. Violence is the only way that brute learns.”
It sent a shiver of fear down Fersen’s spine. “In that case, I hope our paths never cross.”
“You will find an excellent ally and friend in Kitaro, though. He is nothing like Mitsuki.”
It would be nice to have someone else in the castle to be on good terms with besides Jaega. “Was he on the campaign with you?”
“No, I try to keep Kitaro off the front lines. While he is an extraordinary warrior, his heart is not in warfare. Despite having Tatsuki as a father, bloodlust is not in his nature the way it is with Mitsuki.”
“Does that mean Mitsuki’s close to Kizoshi since her mother is the War Power? That probably means she enjoys fighting, right?”
Jaega’s sharp bark of laughter startled Fersen. “No, if Kizoshi could get away with killing Mitsuki, she would do it in a heartbeat. Sheloatheshim with every fiber of her being. He hates her just as much because she beats him every time, at any game, in any battle.” Jaega chuckled again. “I cannot tell you how many times Kizoshi has sent Mitsuki sailing through the training hall wall and the Enchanters have had to come repair it. I would be lying if I said I did not enjoy it every time it happens. He is a foul, odious creature.”
“I can’t tell if I’m supposed to admire or fear Kizoshi after hearing that.”
“Both. She is fearsome, but you do not have to fear her. She will have no qualms with you. Her issues are solely with Mitsuki and his mistreatment of her beloved brothers. But she is not around very often since she prefers staying in the Divine Realm, as I said.” Jaega patted Fersen’s back. “It will take some adjustment, but I promise you will be happy in Valzerna.”
“As long as I’m with you, I’d be happy anywhere.” The truth in his words made Fersen’s heart glow with a warmth that had nothing to do with his heat.
* * *
While Fersen enjoyed being marked by Jaega’s seed, he also was experiencing some discomfort as it dried. “Do you think we could go for a swim in the lagoon?”
“That sounds like a fine idea. Is it deep?”
“Deep enough to dive into safely,” Fersen replied as he stood up with a satisfying stretch.
Jaega gestured for him to go ahead. “Lead the way.”
