The Soldati Prince

  "I can't find you," Riley whispered hoarsely, his eyes still void of iris and pupil. His voice broke when he next spoke. "I'm scared."

  Khalon took hold of Riley's hand and placed it on his where it lay on Riley's chest. "Feel me, Riley. I am here. Tell me. What do you see?"

  Riley whimpered, another tear rolling down his cheek before he replied. "Death. So much death. The world is burning. There's no hope. They're all dead. Every last one."

  Khalon stared at Ezra, his wide eyes a reflection of Khalon's own. He seemed to snap himself out of it and nodded toward Riley. Khalon cleared his throat.

  "Who's dead?"

  Riley squeezed Khalon's hand, his body wracked with shivers. He moved his lips but no sound came out. Khalon leaned in.

  "I can't hear you, Riley. Tell me."

  Riley took hold of Khalon's head and turned it gently so his face was inches from Riley's, their lips almost brushing. Khalon inhaled sharply as a horrifying scene flashed before his eyes. Riley's reply was whispered, but Khalon heard it as if it had been shouted.

  "The Soldati. They're all dead."

  A fierce jolt of anguish and pain flared through Khalon, and he tore himself away from Riley and the bed, his chest heaving. Tears welled in his eyes. Oh Goddess above! Khalon shook his head. This couldn't be. Every last warrior dead. Adira, Ezra.... Khalon shut his eyes tight in an attempt to get the image of Rayner's lifeless, broken body out of his mind. His amber eyes, once filled with such mischief, were vacant, his handsome face and strong body smeared in his own blood caused by the sword piercing his chest, pinning his corpse to the earth. Khalon saw it clear as day, as if reaching out, he might be able to touch Rayner's bloodied cheek. The smell of burning, rotten flesh stung his nostrils and he gulped fresh air through his mouth. It wasn't real. He shook his head of the haunting vision.

  "Khalon!" Riley gasped and bolted upright, his eyes wide and back to their former state as he clutched the blankets on either side of him. His face crumpled, and without thought, Khalon was immediately at his side, drawing Riley into his embrace.

  Riley buried his face against Khalon's chest, his arms wrapped tight around him. Riley's sobs made his body tremble, and he clung to Khalon as if releasing him would thrust him back into the carnage. The brief glimpse was enough to unsettle Khalon, and he was a warrior king accustomed to death. He could only imagine how spending any time at all in such horror would feel to a human. Khalon let his cheek rest against Riley's head and he tightened his embrace, offering what comfort he could.

  "It was only a terrible dream," Khalon assured him softly. He dared not speak the truth. There was no sense in frightening Riley any further. He ran a hand over Riley's back before giving Ezra a subtle nod. Ezra placed a hand on Riley's shoulder.

  "Sleep now, Riley Murrough. Dream of coffee and sweet cakes."

  Riley's body relaxed against Khalon, his arms slipping from around Khalon's back to fall at his sides. Carefully Khalon laid him down, relieved at the smile on his boyish face, his expression no longer plagued by fear. Khalon ran a hand over the feathery golden locks before pulling away to stand.

  He followed Ezra into the foxling kitchen, both of them having to duck through the doorway so as not to hit their heads. When he turned to face Ezra, his suspicions were confirmed. "He is Saugur."

  Khalon shook his head. It couldn't be. "There has not been a Saugur since the days of our forefathers, and never has there been a human Saugur."

  "Never has there been a human Soldati prince," Ezra reminded him. "I did not believe either was possible."

  Khalon let out a heavy sigh. "I have no bloody notion what the hell is going on." He met Ezra's amber gaze. "The Eye flows through you, Ezra. Can it tell us nothing?"

  "The Eye cannot find what has never been."

  Ezra took a seat at the small kitchen table and Khalon joined him. Why were foxlings so blasted small? Khalon barely fit in the chair, his knees bent somewhat awkwardly. Ignoring his current discomfort, he studied his dear friend. It did not bode well that Ezra was at a loss.

  The Soldati Eye saw all and Ezra was its voice. Whenever a new Soldati became king, the old king's trusted council stepped back to make way for the new king's council. After his father's departure, Khalon knew of no better council than that of his childhood friends. There was no one he trusted more with his life. Rayner, Ezra, and Adira had been by his side all his life. The moment Khalon became king, the Eye chose its voice, a Soldati warrior who would be connected to its power and fathomless knowledge. It chose the gentle and quiet Ezra. It made sense. When they weren't training or fighting, Ezra's nose was always in a book. He was a calm and peaceful soul. A healer even before the Eye chose him.

  "I don't understand why the priestess would mark him," Ezra said, his blue eyes filled with concern. "It seems to me an exceptionally cruel jest."

  Khalon let out a heavy breath. "I have been telling myself that very thing since we found him."

  "No, not because he is a human." Ezra's eyes glowed a whitish blue, signaling the use of his powers. He was most likely communing with the Eye. Finally they might have some new information. Ezra let out a gasp and Khalon straightened.

  "What is it?"

  Ezra's eyes returned to their usual blue and he met Khalon's gaze. "If Riley is truly a Saugur, he will die."

  Khalon stared at him. "What?"

  "As a human Soldati prince, his body is frail and vulnerable, but he can continue to be Soldati. As a Saugur? A human soul cannot hold the power of the Saugur. Once it seeps into his mortal body, he will wither and die."

  "I'm going to die?"

  Khalon stood abruptly, the chair toppling behind him and clattering noisily to the floor. Riley stood in the doorway, looking stricken. He leaned against the doorway, his face ashen.

  "You should be resting." Khalon picked up the fallen chair before walking over to Riley. "Come, get back into bed, and I'll have Ezra bring you something good to eat once you wake."

  "Tell me," Riley insisted, his hazel eyes determined. His expression softened. "Please."

  Khalon felt the pull of compassion. He could sense the fear in Riley, yet he also sensed courage. Here was Riley, a human in a strange world of magic, his life threatened by demons, forced to follow a king who had done nothing but show anger toward him, and yet he was soft, trusting, and bold. Riley did not ask for this. He did not deserve to die for someone else's mistake.

  "You are not going to die," Khalon promised. "We are going to get you to the priestess and have her remove the mark, as well as the gift of Saugur. She made a grave error. A human should never have been made a Saugur."

  "What's a Saugur?" Riley allowed Khalon to usher him back toward the bedroom. "And how did we get here?" He looked around. "One minute we're walking through the woods and the next I'm waking up in someone's bed. Is this a B&B or something?"

  "This is the home of Flora, Lasa, and Tinia, a kit foxling family in the village of Selvan. We were attacked by demons in the woods and you lost consciousness. I carried you here."

  "Oh." Riley sat on the edge of the bed and rubbed his arm, his cheeks turning a rather pleasant shade of pink. Khalon had the sudden urge to sit beside Riley and pull him into his embrace, but he restrained himself.

  "You don't remember anything after the walk in the woods?"

  Riley shook his head.

  Khalon was thankful Riley couldn't recall the terrible vision, though a part of him was disappointed their embrace was equally forgotten. It was a good thing Riley didn't remember the way he'd clung to Khalon, or how through his fear he called out for Khalon and no one else. Soon he would be back in his world with no memory of Khalon or the Soldati. It was best they not grow attached. There was no keeping Riley now. Not that he'd intended to.

  "So what's a Saugur?" Riley asked, drawing Khalon's attention.

  "A Saugur is a Soldati prophet, one who has visions of what may come to pass should the warnings not be heeded. They are exceptionally rare. There has been only one
other in the history of the Soldati."

  Riley tilted his head in thought. "What makes you think I'm a Saugur?"

  Damnation. Khalon thought about how much he should tell Riley and decided there was no need to worry him further. "Ezra is connected to a powerful force. Its knowledge is all-seeing. Now rest. When you wake up, we shall dine and see about getting you to the priestess." Khalon summoned a smile. "All will be well." He turned to leave when Riley grabbed his hand, the warmth quickly spreading through him. Khalon schooled his expression as he met Riley's bright hazel eyes.

  "Yes?"

  "Thank you for, um, carrying me here. For keeping me safe."

  "You're welcome." Khalon meant to leave but Riley held on to his hand. As if reading his thoughts, Riley released him.

  "Sorry."

  Khalon nodded and walked away before he did something foolish. Like stay.

  Chapter Seven

  RILEY WOKE up to the most delightful smells. His stomach rumbled and his mouth watered. Man, he was starving. When he opened his eyes, it took him a second to remember where he was. That's right. They'd run into demons and were in a cottage in some village. Why the hell did he pass out in the woods? Maybe he'd overexerted himself and not realized it. How embarrassing. Khalon probably thought he was pathetic. At least he was nice enough to carry Riley's sorry butt to safety. He didn't seem too pissed off about it.

  There was chatting and a childish squeal, followed by a giggle that made Riley smile. He got out of bed and headed toward the sounds. The cottage was cozy, with an exposed wood-beam ceiling, stone walls, and a stone fireplace. He left the tidy bedroom decorated in earthy tones and walked to what he assumed was the living room. There were vases with colorful wildflowers, the furniture all dark wood with rich hues in reds and browns. The twinkling white string of lights arranged around the walls was charming and gave the place a warm, cheerful air. Riley was absolutely enchanted to discover they weren't lightbulbs, but tiny glowing flower buds. More charming than the decor was the sight of Khalon laughing as he entered the room. Riley stood transfixed.

  Khalon's entire face was transformed. His full lips were wide and little creases formed at the corners of his eyes. He looked like a different person. Equally surprising as seeing him laugh was seeing him playing with the little girl in his arms. Her coloring was different to Toka and Tura, with her hands and feet white as snow, the color traveling up before fading into her fair skin. The kohl around her big dark eyes was barely visible and her copper-colored bob bounced as she climbed all over Khalon. She looked to be about six or seven, but he had no idea how foxlings aged. Khalon wrapped an arm around her and carried her at his side like a satchel. She squealed and giggled, kicking her small feet. With a laugh he sat down on the loveseat, taking up almost the width of it. He looked out of place, the black of his hair and clothes a stark contrast against the floral cushions. As if sensing Riley, Khalon looked up. Their eyes met and Riley's breath hitched at the beautiful smile aimed at him.

  "You're awake." Gently he placed the little girl on her feet, whispered something in her ear, and smiled as she ran off into the kitchen. Riley stood exceptionally still as Khalon walked over. He stopped in front of Riley, his expression turning concerned. "How are you feeling?"

  Riley opened his mouth when his stomach answered with an obscenely loud grumble.

  Khalon chuckled. "I guess we have our answer, though I'm not surprised. You were asleep for two days."

  Riley gaped at him. "Two days? What? How?" There was something in Khalon's gaze, something that worried Riley. He seemed reluctant to answer. A part of Riley didn't want to know, but he asked anyway. "Is it because of the whole Saugur thing?"

  "It's possible," Khalon replied quietly.

  "Oh God, am I dying?" Was it happening already? Riley couldn't believe this. First he was swept away to another world and told he was a prince, then a prophet, and now he was dying? His knees grew weak and Khalon wrapped an arm around him, leading him to the loveseat he'd vacated moments earlier.

  "You are not dying," Khalon assured him. "If you were truly a Saugur, it would take time, several prophecies before your body began to feel the strain of its power." Riley plopped down onto the loveseat and Khalon kneeled before him, his strong hands on Riley's knees. "Several of my warriors have arrived and they're keeping vigilance with Rayner, Adira, and Ezra. The rest of my warriors are forging a path to the priestess's temple as we speak. I will get you home, Riley. I promise."

  How could Khalon make a promise like that and expect to keep it? After what Riley saw in the woods? It seemed like every time he made a move, the number of demons trying to kill him quadrupled. How long before they were outnumbered?

  "What's to keep the demons from coming back after your warriors clear a path?"

  Khalon shook his head. "No demon will escape their light. They will become nothing but ash. The stench will alert the others of the danger and they will attempt to find another way. As long as we stick to the path, all will be well." He gently squeezed Riley's knees again. "You must have faith, Riley."

  "Okay. I'll try." He gave Khalon a tentative smile. "Thanks."

  "Good."

  Khalon pulled him to his feet but didn't move out of the way, so Riley ended up almost pressed against him, his hands still in Khalon's. He was all chiseled features and hard muscle, his stubbly jaw giving Riley the urge to nip at it. He was gorgeous. Why hadn't he noticed that before? He had tiny nicks and barely visible scars on his neck, jaw, and over his left brow, but somehow they enhanced his beauty. He had a strong nose, full lips, and his pitch-black hair was tucked neatly behind his ears, though it fell over his brow on one side. He felt solid. Like he could weather any storm and never break. Whatever strange trance they seemed to have been in, they snapped out of it, each turning away from the other. Khalon cleared his throat.

  "Let's get some food in you. Flora and Lasa have cooked a wonderful meal." He motioned toward the kitchen, his hand coming to rest on Riley's lower back as he ushered him in. His touch had a strange soothing effect on Riley, which was odd considering up until recently, Khalon had a talent for putting him on edge.

  Entering the kitchen, he was met with the mouthwatering aroma of fresh bread, cooked meat, and several other dishes that were unfamiliar but smelled heavenly. He was also greeted by his hostesses Flora and her mate Lasa. Behind Flora their daughter Tinia clung to her skirts. Riley smiled at Tinia. He kneeled down in front of her.

  "Hi. I'm Riley. Your dress is very pretty."

  Tinia smiled shyly. She released Lasa's skirts and edged closer to Riley, her eyes going to his hair. He remembered what Rayner said about no one in the kingdom having blond hair.

  "Do you like it?" he asked her, touching his head. She nodded, her gaze fixated on his head. "Would you like to feel it?"

  She looked up at her mothers and Flora nodded. "If it's all right with Riley."

  Riley gave her a nod and Tinia carefully drew closer to him. She reached out slowly, lightly brushing the side of his head with her small fingers. She gasped in delight.

  "It's so soft, Mommy!"

  Riley chuckled. She petted his head, her little face filled with wonder. He'd never met anyone so awestruck by his hair. Normally people didn't give him a second glance. There had never been anything extraordinary about him. He wasn't particularly attractive or ripped, and his only talent was drawing and making a mean cup of coffee. He wasn't an overachiever, and in some people's opinions, not even an average achiever. The most use he'd gotten from his art degree came in the form of a few months of freelance, and up until recently, he could boast that his coffee shop had the best-looking sandwich board on their block.

  "All right, time for bed," Lasa instructed. "Say good night."

  Tinia threw her arms around Riley and he found himself smiling like a dope. He gave her a gentle squeeze in return, then released her, laughing when she launched herself into Khalon's outstretched arms.

  "Can you tuck me in?" she asked, battin
g her long lashes, her dark eyes wide and hopeful. Riley doubted Khalon could say no to a face like that. He didn't even try.

  "Of course." He carried her out of the room and Riley watched him ago, amazed.

  "It's such an honor to have you both here," Lasa said, coming to stand beside Riley. "I am relieved to find the rumors surrounding His Majesty to be true."

  "Rumors?" Riley asked, following Lasa to the dinner table. He took a seat when prompted. "Thank you."

  "That he is as compassionate and charming as he is fierce."

  "And very handsome," Flora added with a wink.

  Riley ignored her knowing smile and placed his napkin on his lap. Was his face red? He hoped not. "So he's a good king?"

  "Oh yes." Lasa smiled brightly as she set a plate before Riley. "As was his father before him. The Soldati kingdom continues to thrive under his rule. His people are well cared for and happy. The king and his council are just. Many of us live simply but we want for nothing. His Majesty sees to it."

  "And then there's the Soldati Summer Solstice Festival held every year on the castle grounds." Flora finished placing dinner on the table and Riley's mouth watered. It all looked so good.

  "What's the Soldati Summer Solstice Festival?" That was a mouthful, much like he was about to have with all this tasty-looking food.

  "For an entire week, the castle grounds are open to the kingdom and filled with festivities and food, all provided by the king and his court. Everyone looks forward to it every year. Oh, it's glorious! The music, the dancing, and games. The king is in attendance with his council and court, dressed in their finery." Lasa's eyes lit up as she talked about it. "It's like a fairy tale."

  The festival was obviously a hit. Riley felt guilty for judging Khalon so harshly. He was clearly revered by his people. From what he'd seen of Khalon's interaction with Tinia, he also seemed to possess a gentle side.

  "Thank you so much for everything. I really appreciate it. This looks delicious." He helped himself to some fresh bread, salad, chicken, potatoes, and vegetables.

  "It's an honor, Riley Murrough," Flora replied sweetly. She took a seat at the table across from him beside Lasa. The two exchanged glances, their cheeks somewhat flushed. Riley smiled at them.