StealingFireCalibre Read online

  "Penny, my Penny you are mine," he declared, his voice husky with longing. "There is no other I desire more than you."

  Penny almost cried out in confusion when he set her down and kissed the top of her head before backing away.

  "If you want me, why stop?" Penny gazed up into his dark midnight depths.

  "You tempt me to my limits, Penny, but not until you are healed. You need rest. I will not take advantage of you in this state. There are urgent matters to be attended to. I am King after all, and there is a land I must run."

  "I understand, your majesty." Penny felt a little hurt, but it was the type of pain she could bare.

  Adalardo smiled softly. "Use not my title, Penny, I am your Adalardo." He kissed her lips softly and quickly before pulling away. "I am going to explore every last inch of your beautiful body. I am going to bring you to such pleasure that never again will any other. Once I have challenged your Earthling mate to relinquish his claim, I will make you my queen."

  Penny's eyes widened. "How are you going to challenge Darrel? On Earth we just get a divorce. I'm sure he won't object to divorcing me as long as you are with me." She sat up on the bed as he sat by her side. She lifted her hand and twisted off her ring, holding it in the palm of her hand.

  "I don't want this anymore; as far as I'm concerned he is no longer my husband."

  "This may be so but you are in Kell now." He took her offending ring from her hand and set it by a small bedside table. "We need to settle this the Kell way. Your Earth mate will have to be brought here and challenged. If he concedes or loses then he will be exiled back to your world, and it will be acknowledged by Kell law that you are now free to be claimed by the victor. I am a strong warrior, Penny, I will win you and I will have you for my queen."

  "So you won't kill him?"

  She saw his jaw clench; she got the feeling if he was allowed to, he would, but even Kings have to follow laws.

  "To bring such harm to a woman is a crime worthy of death, but to ease your fears, I make a vow not to kill him."

  Having Darrel put in his place may not be a bad thing after all, and she believed Adalardo when he promised not to kill him. It made her feel a heck of a lot better.

  "I trust you." She gave him a smile.

  "It gladdens my heart to see you smile, and to have your trust, my future queen. Now lay back. I wish to heal you."

  Penny obeyed, feeling lighter of heart and soul than she had in a very long time.

  When they had first met, she had thought herself in love with Darrel, but as soon as he had the ring on her finger, he had changed into a man she didn't know, a cruel heartless man. But this large warrior King before her was open and honest. She could see the dark, dangerous streak in him, even that was not hidden from her view. It was the kind of darkness that no doubt made this man a formidable warrior. Yet he had a gentle way about him. His words and kisses could melt away any problem she had. He was a man she could easily trust and lose her heart to.

  Chapter Five

  Tamara sat with her arms folded, refusing to look at Tuthal who sat opposite a long crystal table. Jane and Drystan sat between her. The king, looking refreshed in his royal robes strode in and took his place at the head of the table. Tamara had taken a bath and had some loose fitting clothes on that Jane had lent her.

  "Where's Penny?" Jane asked the King.

  "Resting. The shock of current events has been very taxing on her."

  Tamara saw Jane frown. "With all due respect your majesty, she is a married woman. You are going to have to take her back to Earth and to her husband."

  Everyone jumped as the king suddenly slammed his fist on the table. "The Kernoc dog will die by my blade." Tamara watched as he drew in a calming breath to explain his sudden outburst of anger. "Apologies, the lady Penny is under my guardianship until the matter of her unworthy human mate is dealt with. He has physically harmed her. I have witnessed myself the marks on her body."

  "It's sad but true, some human men do abuse their women." Tamara said. "I don't blame you, your majesty. If you can help a woman like that, then you have my support."

  "And mine," Jane piped in. Jane's husband nodded.

  "It is appreciated," the king said, "Now to other matters." The Kings gaze moved over everyone present.

  "First things first. Before we get to Tamar's and Tuthal's issue, I have to explain what happened back in the apartment on Earth and why we had to get out of there in a hurry." Jane paused to take a breath, absently rubbing the swelling stomach.

  "I kind of figured this would happen eventually, considering there are eighteen women from Hobart now here in Kell. Their disappearances wouldn't go unnoticed by the authorities. I'm guessing they probably think we're some kind of cult or mass murderers and are pulling apart the apartment as we speak. If we ever step foot back in Hobart, we are more than likely to get arrested."

  "We have not harmed any of these women," the King said. "And we are still in need of more willing ladies."

  "I know. Humans are funny, fickle creatures. They don't always see things the same way as others do. But I wouldn't worry too much. There are many other places on Earth to find willing women," Jane said with reassurance. "Oh damn, I forgot about the ruby. I left it on the bedside table in the apartment."

  "It is no matter, I can create you another," Tuthal assured Jane. The sound of Tuthal's voice made Tamara snap her head up, his dark gaze fixed on her.

  "I will need one more trip to Hobart, Tuthal. I must fetch Penny's mate to see that justice is served under Kell law."

  "Sire, allow me the task to bring the human male here, to see that justice is done," Drystan volunteered. "I am more familiar with the workings of Hobart city; with an address I will be able to fetch him easily."

  "Drystan, the police will have seen your face and would have taken photos of both of us. You will be recognized if you go back to Hobart," Jane said with obvious worry.

  "My Blue-Fire do not fear for me. It will be quick and simple. The human authorities will not even know I was there."

  "Still, I don't like it," Jane pouted.

  "I would consider it a favor to me, Jane, if you would let him," the King said in amusement.

  Jane sighed in resignation, "Alright, but you're in big trouble if I have to come in to save your butt again."

  Drystan's eyes shone with obvious love as he gazed at Jane.

  "Good, then that is settled. Now for the other matter. Tuthal, do you care to explain yourself and why the lady Tamara is accusing you of putting her in harm's way while under your guardianship?"

  Tamara raised an eyebrow at Tuthal.

  "I see she wears no Protector bracelet. Do you choose not to bond with her? Or does she refuse you?" continued the King.

  "I have every intention of calming the lady Tamara, as my Protected, but there were certain things I had to do first." The smug arrogance that rolled off Tuthal made Tamara's blood boil in rage. She glared at him as she jumped to her feet.

  "Certain things you had to do first! You sold your damn soul to a demon then used me to get it back!"

  "Lady Tamara," snapped the king, he rounded a dominant glare in her direction, making her shut her mouth and sit back into her seat. "You will be afforded opportunity to speak, but until then you will let Tuthal give his explanation."

  "It is true what she says. In my younger days as apprentice sorcerer, my powers were weak. I began experimenting and stumbled upon the way of the portal. It led me into the Hell Realm of Nasten, a powerful devil with great powers. He offered to help me in exchange for my soul. Foolishly and readily I agreed. He gave me strong powers which I confess to using, and at times, abusing. For a very long time I have been nothing but a hollow shell, empty within."

  "I knew the moment I set eyes upon the lovely Jane that through her, she was the answer to my emptiness and my salvation." All present turned to glance at a confused looking Jane. Drystan tensed beside her as if any second he would leap up ready to defend her against Tutha
l.

  "I returned to Nasten and asked for the return of my soul in exchange for an innocent beauty from Earth, I showed him an image of Jane. She is a worthy heart, just the type of soul that Nasten is greedy to obtain. He agreed and the bargain was struck. But not even a soulless creature such as I could harm the lovely lady Jane. The time in my tower when you first brought her to see me, I placed a simple finding spell upon her to assist me in finding another lady of equal innocence and beauty to take her place."

  "No wonder I felt the way I did, that each woman I came across until Tamara felt wrong, and why Tamara felt so right," Jane gasped.

  "You have my apologies, Jane and you, commander." Tuthal's dark gaze moved again to Tamara, "When I had Tamara, I delayed the deal with Nasten for as long as I could. In that time my attachment and fondness of Tamara grew. I formulated a new plan that included gaining back my soul and keeping the lady Tamara as well. Most of all I wanted my soul to fully feel the love I have in my heart for her."

  Tamara blinked. Did Tuthal just confess to loving her?

  Heaven knew she had already lost her heart to the dangerous and powerful man. But was all this deception worth the risk of her getting hurt? Tamara already hurt from the knowledge Tuthal hadn't trusted her to tell her the truth, especially if he claimed to love her.

  "So far I see that you have caused no harm to anyone but yourself, Tuthal. Deception and lies always surface. I do not blame the lady Tamara's anger," the King said. "But without yours and Jane's help our future would have been lost."

  "I have made many mistakes, and I ask your majesty to prove myself of worth once again. I offer you all my services with no fees, no more deceptions, and the chance to win the lady Tamara's favor."

  "You could have just told me the truth," Tamara said quietly, holding the gaze of his mismatched eyes.

  The King lips twitched up in amusement. "She has a point."

  "I refute it not," agreed Tuthal.

  "You may say your piece now, Tamara," the king offered.

  Tamara swallowed, trying to sort out the new emotions, uncertainty being the foremost.

  "You scared the hell out of me," she finally spoke in a calm tone that surprised even her.

  "I would have never let any harm come to you. I care too much for you to allow that. I am deeply remorseful for scaring you."

  Tamara drew in a deep breath, trying to fortify her emotions. "For a man who sold his soul in the first place, there was too little trust and too much deception. I am sorry, Tuthal. I can't risk my heart on someone whose whole life has been nothing but a lie."

  Tamara watched as Tuthal's jaw clenched in anger, his gaze remaining steady on her. She was expecting him to protest more, but was suspicious when he said nothing.

  "Lady Tamara, as you are Jane's sister, I place you under Drystan's and Jane's guardianship. Until you choose who you wish to be your protector. There are many fine warriors who will vie for your hand."

  "No," Tuthal snapped in anger, rising from his seat. "You are still mine."

  "Tuthal, sit down," Adalardo ordered. Tuthal complied with the Kings command. "You did not claim her when you had the opportunity so she is free. Take this as a chance to prove to her you are worthy of her hand. I will not tolerate any magic used to sway her, but if she does choose another, you will not interfere either."

  Tuthal swept back the robe he favored and sat back down, never taking his dark, brooding gaze from hers.

  "Apologies, your majesty, I will of course comply. Will you allow me residence in the palace?"

  "The north tower has been long empty. You may take it," the king said with a nod. Tamara clenched her teeth. She knew there would be no avoiding him now.

  "As much as I hate to be the voice of concern, but Tuthal, you just told us you stole back your soul as well as Tamara. This demon isn't going to be coming after you, will it?" Jane piped up.

  "Lady Jane is correct. One thing we do not need is a new enemy," agreed Adalardo.

  "I have never known a soul demon capable of leaving its own realm, and even if he does manage such a feat, I have left no trail for him in which to find me," Tuthal assured all present.

  "I hope you are correct, Tuthal, for everyone sake," Adalardo said.

  ~ * ~

  Penny woke with a scream; the nightmare of Darrel's angry face and hovering fist ready to strike her had her heart pounding as she tried to fend him off. Something crashed in the darkness, before the bed dipped and two strong, warm arms surrounded her with comforting warmth. A large sure hand stroked over her back and hair, soothing and chasing away her nightmare. The exotic masculine scent of Adalardo invaded her senses; she sobbed against a hard, naked muscled chest.

  "Shhhh, my beauty you are safe, you are safe." He gently rocked her in his arms as if she were a mere child. Penny's mind began to clear, and reality began to set back in.

  Yes, she was safe, and Adalardo the alien King who had rescued her from Earth, held her. She relaxed in his arms, enjoying his warmth and his scent. She felt his smooth toned skin and strong beating heart under the palm of her hand. It felt wonderful to touch.

  Penny remembered back to before she had fallen asleep. The king had healed her with Kell healing crystals. Her whole body had tingled and vibrated with the power of the crystals. Once she was healed, she struggled to keep her eyes open and had fallen into a deep restful sleep.

  And now he was comforting her after a nightmare. Penny never wanted to leave the security she felt in his arms. Embarrassingly, her stomach growled in hunger. She hadn't remembered eating anything past a slice of toast the morning she had gone to the market.

  "How long have I slept?"

  "You were in need of rest, my little red; the crystals effects are strong, when used for the first time. But I have been neglectful in seeing to your needs." She glanced up at him.

  "I kind of need a bath or a shower; I know nothing about your land or how things work here."

  Adalardo's gave a soft chuckle." Fear not, I will show and teach you everything you need to know. There are many differences, but those differences are simple ones. Jane calls us mystical people," he said with clear amusement.

  Penny gave a soft sigh as Adalardo pulled away, moving off the bed.

  "Come, let me show you the bathing chamber. While you are bathing I will have the servants fetch you a meal then it will be an honor to show you my palace and soon the whole of my kingdom."

  Penny was still having trouble comprehending that this man was a real king. Using words like servants, palace and Kingdom, had her momentarily dazed.

  "Um, yes I would like that."

  He smiled and walked her to a door.

  "I shall send for Vanora. She is a lady of Kell and a mother to all. She will bring you Kell clothing and help you dress."

  He opened the door. Penny glanced into a room that was just as big as her house back in Tasmania. A deep pool dominated the room. Opulent day lounges off to one side were covered with rich cream material that Penny supposed were towels. A warm grey stone offset everything in loving contrast. Penny hadn't taken much notice of the interior during her bewildered state of finding herself thrust into an alien world. But now she glanced around with awe. She realized everything sparkled with many crystals and jewels set into the walls. Crystals were inlaid in the furniture and windows. It was beautiful.

  "You will find lotions by the pool." Adalardo's deep voice brought her attention back to him.

  "Thank you." Taken by a sudden attack of shyness, she glanced up at the large dark king with his tanned toned skin. She admired the lovely set of his handsome square chin, the hint of rough stubble across his cheeks chin and neck. He wore only a pair of loose comfy looking pants and his robe was open displaying a beautifully sculptured male chest, rippling muscles and fabulous abs. Penny struggled for comparative words to describe Adalardo, but only drop-dead gorgeous came to mind.

  How could this male cover model material, want a plain freckled face woman like her? Suddenly, old
insecurities rushed back with full force. Insecurities that Darrel had beaten into her. Thoughts of her own worthlessness, of how ugly she was, and how no one would want her.

  "Penny, your face is sad. Tell me what weighs heavy on your mind." Adalardo was quick to pick up on her sudden change of mood. Penny had no reason to lie and she wasn't about to start.