Lena’s yelp of relief fills the chamber as she slumps into my arms and tentacles.
“We can be together,” she coos as she tenderly peppers my face with kisses.
“Soon I will have you completely,” I respond, my heart filled anew with a burning hope.
“Until then, the human will stay with the jewels. Her fellow females can teach her more about our culture,” Hirouz says.
Lena nods quickly. “Whatever it takes.”
“I will direct the medics to provide our human jewel with heat suppressants as well,” the chancellor advises me with a knowing glance. “To make sure we don’t stretch the hopeful’s willpower any further than necessary.”
“Wait, there have been heat suppressants this entire time?” She looks hurt, her eyes filled with sadness.
I lean in closer and quietly admit to her, “I had no idea they existed.”
“It is not something we encourage the use of here on the Korlyan Moon. In fact, I’ve only seen it used when a newly mated Andjin’s mate has died. It’s the kind thing to do.”
If Lena died…I couldn’t go on.
“We have two days until the battle. I hope you survive, Hopeful Kitaico, for what it’s worth. May the goddess keep you.” The chancellor breaks his steely demeanor only for a moment to wish me well.
“Battle? Kitaico, what does he mean if you survive? What in the hell is this last test?” Lena is frantic.
I let out an inaudible sigh, knowing this moment was coming.
“Chancellor, may I have permission to spend the afternoon with Lena, to explain the Great Proving?” I ask humbly, gulping at the thought it might be the last time we’re alone together.
Hirouz turns to the elders on either side of him, their disapproving glances not going unnoticed.
“This afternoon, until the rest of the jewels retire, you may converse in private with Jewel Lena. A guard will be posted outside the door, but I will allow you this.”
I bow, knowing he’s given us much more grace than I deserve. I’ll wonder about his reasoning later.
The elders watch us silently, their wise eyes observing every move we make. Lena’s worry is etched on her face, her brow furrowed and her lips pressed into a thin line. I can sense the fear radiating from her.
I hold Lena all the tighter, silently promising her we will face whatever comes our way as a united front. Our embrace is a silent reassurance, a gesture that I hope speaks volumes to these revered figureheads of my community.
I will win, I will claim Lena. There are no other options.
21
burning for me
Lena swigs the dark blue liquid from the small vial provided to her by the jewel’s personal medic.
The heat suppressant should work instantly, or so I’ve been told. I’m still astounded such a thing even exists.
When the guard snaps the door shut behind us, I can’t help but worry that maybe without the effects of my venom, she won’t feel the same about me. I distract myself from that prospect of pain by surveying our surroundings.
The room is no better than a glorified cell, with no windows, and no furniture beyond the two plush, high-backed chairs that face each other in the small space. I almost wonder what this room is used for, but I’m preoccupied by the warm body that presses against me.
As if they know our mate needs to be soothed, the brothers instinctively reach for the weary-looking Lena. My arms soon follow.
As we stand, my mate slumps against me, her body as heavy as her heart, I think.
“What’s the last test, Kitaico?” she mumbles into the crook of my neck.
“It doesn’t matter, because I will win for you.” I kiss her eyelids. The human gesture just seems right at this moment.
“I believe you, but my goal is to be prepared. I wasn’t ready for most of what space has offered me. Some of it’s been awful—but you, Kitaico, have been one of the best parts. Despite the heats, despite the situation we’re in now, I love you.” She grips her fingers into the muscles of my back, as if she’s afraid she’ll disappear.
My heart racing, I find the words to respond.
“I love you, too,” I tell her, feeling completely surprised. “I never thought it was possible to feel this for someone without the mating sting. Even without the mark, or your venom, I know you’re my mate.”
I stroke my hand down her pink hair, which has faded since she first arrived.
“So, we both care about each other. You can’t shoulder this fight alone. Tell me what to expect and how I can help you win.” She pulls back, her brown eyes determined.
I suck my bottom lip between my fangs, trying to find the best way to break the gravity of our situation to this precious creature.
“The last test of the Great Proving is a gladiator battle against the hopefuls from my division.” I lower my eyes. “The last Andjin male left alive will have the privilege to mate for life with one of the jewels.”
“A battle to the death?” Fat tears are already cresting over my sweet Lena’s lower lids.
“Yes, but save your tears for the others. Knowing you’re what awaits me after victory gives me no choice but to succeed.”
