Anointed

By Sarah Witenhafer

A Nephilim Prince, angels, demons, traitors and love....

Threatened by an unholy alliance born in the depths of hell, Damon Sarantos returns to Greece intending to take his father’s place as King. By his side is the one person he has cherished more than any other through a lifetime that’s lasted centuries, his new bride, Reign. Knowing she’s unprepared for the realities awaiting her in the isolated world of the Nephilim, Damon is determined to safely guide his wife into the role of Queen while protecting her from their enemies. But when the couple is ambushed in Athens, the Crown Prince is gravely injured and it’s Reign who must protect him in a sinister palace that will test her sanity and faith.

Enemies circle, laying plans to steal the crown. Seeking more than their blood, the ultimate goal is to use the Nephilim people to build an invincible army to destroy all of humanity and set up Satan’s kingdom on earth.

Can Damon heal in time to thwart their plan and save his right to the throne? Anointing waits on the other side of fiery trials... if he can survive the flames.

Anointed is the second in the Tamed series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sarah Witenhafer
• Release date: Sep 29, 2011
• ISBN: 9781465923509

Sarah Witenhafer

Sarah Witenhafer is an avid writer/blogger/connector. She is the author of several novels including the "Tamed" series. She loves to connect with her fans via Facebook and Twitter. When she's not writing, she loves being a mom to 3 beautiful girls and a wife to one great guy.

Book preview

Anointed

Sarah Witenhafer

Anointed

Copyright 2010 by Sarah Witenhafer

Smashwords Edition

Discover other titles by Sarah Witenhafer at Smashwords.com:

Tamed – smashwords.com/books/view/66277

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Trademarks

All product names, designations, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. They are used in editorial fashion for the benefit of such companies with no intention of infringement of any trademark or trade name. No such use, or the use of any trade name, is intended to convey endorsement or other affiliation with this book or its author.

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

Acknowledgements

I hope I never forget Dale’s reaction that day. He had been working so hard at two jobs in order to get us back up on our feet financially and I was feeling incredibly guilty. The house was a disaster. Clothes were piled high on the small loveseat in our bedroom, dishes were stacked in the sink and dinner was absent. I’m so sorry for everything, I moaned. He looked at me confused. For the house, I added. He smirked. Why would I care about that? You’re almost done. What can I do to help? That’s real love. The chances of us making any substantial money off my stories are very small, yet Dale has supported me happily with his time and extremely hard-earned money. He designed the cover, using photographer Grigoris Siamidis’s beautiful picture, formatted my book and worked out publishing details. Dale also created my website and proudly boasts about my work to almost every person he meets. We’ve gone through our own fiery trials and now standing on the other side I can see what a golden guy I have. Thank you, my love, you’re more than I deserve.

I would also like to thank my Mom who has been a constant encouragement. Thank you for using your awesome talents in creating the artwork for Damon’s family tree and thank you for standing by us through dark times. I have seen the Lord do wonderful things in your heart and life and I’m proud to call you my Mom. Everyone loves Pie.

Thank you to my children, Emily, Hannah and Rachel. Thank you for your encouraging words and willingness to help out. Thank you, Emily, for bragging about me at your work and college classes – that really touches my heart. Thank you, Hannah, for expressing a desire to follow in my footsteps – what an honor! I know whatever you do – you’ll glorify God. Thank you, Rachel, for all your high-fives and abundant kisses. You make mommy smile. I love the three of you more than I can ever express and I’m constantly amazed by the blessing that you are.

Thank you to Grigoris Siamidis for allowing me to use your amazing picture for the cover. May God richly bless you for your generosity to me. I cried buckets the day you consented. It is an enormous honor.

A big thank you to Justin Unger, who graciously allowed me to use the lyrics of his song. The first time I heard it I knew it would be a great theme song for the story and I would sing it often. Thank you for trusting me.

Thank you to Hellenism.net where I learned so much about Greek culture and history… and debate! Your site rocks.

Thank you to Fluer at the Mediterranean Garden Society for helping me research the gardens around Damon’s home.

Thank you to David Witherington for helping me find music to set a scene. Believe it or not, it made a big difference and I was able to tackle, what was for me, a difficult passage to write.

Thank you to my fans and Facebook friends. Some of you have truly gone above and beyond in your efforts to get my name out there: Robyn, Melissa, Janell and Mark, and so many others. There were times when I wanted to quit, but your insistent calls for the sequel kept me going. I hope you enjoy Damon and Reign’s journey into new territory.

And finally, thank you to Taylor Collins, my young and wonderfully talented editor. Without you, this book would have continued to sit in a pile on my desk. Your hours and hours of hard work helped me tremendously in refining the story. I’m so blessed to know you. If Harvard is lucky, they’ll have you on their campus.

Most of all, thank You, Lord Jesus, for making this story come alive. I owe You everything I am and everything I have and even then the offering is pitiful compared to Your beauty. You have gone before me and You have made my way bright. Ps. 18:28

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you,

which comes upon you for your testing,

as though some strange thing were happening to you.

1Peter 4:12

Table of Contents

| One |

| Two |

| Three |

| Four |

| Five |

| Six |

| Seven |

| Eight |

| Nine |

| Ten |

| Eleven |

| Twelve |

| Thirteen |

| Fourteen |

| Fifteen |

| Sixteen |

| Seventeen |

| Eighteen |

| Nineteen |

| Twenty |

| Twenty One |

| Twenty Two |

| Twenty Three |

| Twenty Four |

| Twenty Five |

| Twenty Six |

| Twenty Seven |

| Twenty Eight |

| Twenty Nine |

| Thirty |

| Thirty One |

| Thirty Two |

| Thirty Three |

| Thirty Four |

| Thirty Five |

| Thirty Six |

| Thirty Seven |

| Thirty Eight |

| Thirty Nine |

Epilogue

About the Author

| One |

Reign… Damon began. He circled the top of a glass with his finger, not looking at her, then leaned over it. Elbows resting on the table, he pressed a thumb into his temple and massaged the side of his head. Slowly, Damon lifted his eyes to meet hers and stalled.

Damon, what is it that you’ve been wanting to tell me? I can’t count the times you’ve started to say something since we got on board.

He fell back against his seat, gazing out the window of the luxury jet his father, King Amurri, had given them as a wedding present; brand new, it smelled of fresh carpet, fine leather and exotic woods. Below them, the Aegean Sea, dotted with small specks of land, grew closer as the plane descended toward the Athens airport. He took a deep breath and held it. I love you…

The corner of Reign’s mouth tucked into a dimple, That’s not what—

And I’m sorry for what you’re about to go through. Damon’s violet eyes were locked on hers when suddenly they darkened.

Heart starting to pound, Reign watched as her new husband got up out of his chair and moved around the table to sit in the seat next to hers. By the time he sat down her legs were shaking. When you’re married to a man who’s half demon and he tells you tough times are coming, anything could be about to happen.

There are some things about my family that you need to know. Damon put one arm around her and covered her hands with his other as he leaned toward her. You’re already shaking? It’s okay - nothing’s going to happen to you. It’s just that… our world is very different from yours, and you’re going to find much of it… disturbing.

She felt the blood draining from her face as she stared into his eyes.

Reign, we have slaves.

Suddenly the jet hit some turbulence and dropped into what felt like a long freefall. Reign closed her eyes and grabbed the armrests, sucking in air while Giant, her Wheaten Terrier, whined in his crate. When she opened them again, Damon was watching her, concerned.

You own slaves?

I don’t. I haven’t for many centuries. I freed my personal servant, Albus, shortly after Rome was divided. He scoffed. I couldn’t get rid of the old man, though. He chose to be my bond slave and I’ve been supporting him ever since. Obviously amused, he reached back across the table for his glass.

I fail to see what’s funny.

Believe me, when you meet Albus, you will. The smile faded. He’s the only Nephilim slave that I know who’s ever been freed. Damon tipped his head in the direction of their attendant, a young, plainly dressed woman with a thick, chestnut-brown braid that fell to the middle of her back, She’s one of the slaves, he paused, and she’s been given to you.

Reign’s stomach turned over as Damon reached above her to press the call button summoning her new property.

Bring a wet cloth with you, he said, looking at Reign but speaking to the servant. She disappeared and half ran back to them, the towel in her hands.

Milady, are you ill? the young woman asked, crouching beside the chair.

Reign buried her face in the cloth and held it there for awhile, then reached out to take her slave’s hand. Thank you, no. I’ll be fine, she said, looking directly into the eyes of her maid.

A sharp gasp escaped her servant, and for a moment the woman didn’t move. Then timidly, she pulled her hand away and stood. A deep flush crept over her oval face, she half-turned, eyes glued to the floor, then turned back with a small curtsey. Is there anything else you require, Milady?

Reign started to say something, but Damon put his hand on her shoulder, interrupting her.

Thank you, that will be all, he said flatly while reaching for his glass.

Keeping her eyes on the floor, the servant tucked an imaginary stray hair in place and scurried back to her post near the exit. From there she glanced at them, nervously watching for the next order.

She doesn’t know how to handle your attention, Damon said in a low voice. She’s Neemosh. It means ‘not one of us.’ We never look at them, never touch them. We speak to them but for the most part, they serve us like ghosts. Just my thanking her has probably unnerved her.

I’ve wondered why you haven’t looked at her or called her by her name. I thought you were being rude. Reign covered her mouth with her hands, I can’t believe this, she said through them, staring at the woman. Dropping her hands, her brows furrowed as she turned on Damon. We’ve been on this flight for seventeen hours and you’re just now telling me this, right before we land?

He held up a finger, motioning for her to keep calm, Attendant, Damon called, tell the pilot to circle until further notice.

Yes, your Highness, she curtsied and turned to the cockpit.

Damon, I can’t treat people that way. I can’t ignore them and I can’t bear the thought of them serving me. She put her hands to her head, I can’t own a person! How can your family still have slaves?

He paused then picked up his glass, taking a final drink. Before he could set it down, the slave had another one in front of him and was gone again. We’re an ancient and isolated people. Freedom from slavery is to us a very modern idea. Damon shrugged lightly and raised the glass, Two hundred years? He took a quick drink. The jury is still out as to whether it works or not.

You are going to free them, right?

Lowering the drink, he stared at her for a moment.

Damon? she asked, disbelieving his hesitation.

Reign, I have to be very careful how I lead initially.

You are really freaking me out. Reign drew her legs up, propping elbows on knees to sink her fingers in her auburn hair. This is freaking me out.

This is freaking you out. The most powerful Nephilim from my Uncle’s clan has joined forces with the Second Commander of hell itself and my telling you we have slaves freaks you out? Come on… he murmured with a slight smirk, I’ve seen you take on bigger battles.

I know how to fight demons and Nephilim. But this isn’t about fighting – this is about connecting to my future family. I’ve come with you hoping to see people taste true freedom, not be served by slaves. How am I going to relate to them?

Damon encircled her with his arms, Babe, I’ve never seen my father take to someone like he has to you. You have the King in the palm of your hand. She smiled tentatively as he swayed her side to side, trying to get her to lighten up. I think you’re golden.

He pulled back, As for how you are to treat them, I’m not expecting for you to behave like we do. You can look at them, you can talk to them. But for now, we cannot breathe a word about freedom.

She started to protest and he put a hand on her knee as his voice dropped to a whisper. My people need to be controlled for the sake of the whole world. If I don’t secure the loyalties of the ruling class, if I can’t lock down the new clans coming in… Marduk can come in with Seducer, unite the clans and take over the world. But even worse than that, rocking the boat now will make it harder for me to protect you and that’s what I care most about. Ending slavery has got to wait. Do you understand?

Reign’s blue eyes searched his in troubled silence, she turned to look out the window and felt him squeeze her hand. What had she gotten into? Her mind raced through the last eight months. It was surreal, part fantasy, part nightmare. She had met the man of her dreams then discovered he was an actual Prince… of a half-demonic, half-human people who were locked in a civil war that predated Christ. Marrying Damon had changed her physically, intertwining her DNA with his and thereby imparting her with a few supernatural abilities and near immortal life. It also made his family – and his enemies – hers for the next several thousand years.

Caligula, his mostly demonic uncle and ancient foe, had been defeated in the Albuquerque desert when his own men, tired of being enslaved, had turned against him and joined their ranks with Damon’s father, King Amurri. She and Damon had watched as Caligula’s military Commander, Naram, successfully killed off almost every leader of Caligula’s inner circle in an ambush that had lasted only minutes. Only one Senator escaped – a powerful Nephilim who called himself Marduk.

Reign had never seen him, but she had seen another Senator from Caligula’s inner circle who was like him. With grey flesh, bulging red eyes, and a spindled, spider-like frame, a Senator’s most valuable gift was the ability to transform into any image; most often becoming what you wanted to see. Their half-human nature made them Nephilim - but unlike Damon’s clan - their demonic allegiances made them monstrous.

Rubbing her arms, Reign suddenly felt cold. As an expert in ancient Mesopotamian culture, she knew the implications behind Marduk’s name. The Nephilim identified himself with a Babylonian god who rose up against all the other gods to rule supremely and enslave mankind. She imagined that was a plan Damon’s ancestor, the demon Seducer, was only happy to empower, especially since Damon had given his life to Christ.

Have you ever seen Seducer? Reign shifted in her seat to face Damon.

I may have seen him when I was very little, but I can’t be sure.

Do you remember what he looked like?

No, not really, but my father has seen him many times and describes him in glowing terms. ‘A magnificent creature of unequaled beauty, strength and intelligence’ is how I think Amurri put it.

Reign shivered and held her arms tighter. Doesn’t he understand that Seducer is evil?

Oh, Amurri knows that better than anyone. Seducer may be our ancestor, but he’s fought against us more than a few times, siding with Caligula whenever it suited him. We’re both counting on him to attack from all sides in order to undermine my leadership. Seducer will do anything to keep his descendants from following me, which is why I don’t dare give him ammunition. If I anger the ruling class with talk of freeing the slaves, Seducer won’t even have to show up to start a rebellion. Even without the issue, he’ll have plenty of opportunities to challenge me and I’ll have to move quickly to stop them.

He paused.

This is going to be very hard for you. You’ll hate having slaves and you’ll always be anxious for it to end. I just hope you can be patient.

What? Do you think that I won’t be with you? she asked.

Damon swirled the drink in his tumbler, For all that your family has gone through, at least they’re human. There are so many things about my Nephilim family I don’t want you to know or see. Lifting the glass, he stared into his drink, Contrary to popular belief, there are some very dark parts of Greece.

She sat up and grabbed the release on the side of his chair, throwing it back into a full recline as he tried to keep from spilling his drink. Whoa – what are you – he smiled, amused as she straddled him, knees tucked under her and grabbed his shirt in her fist.

I will never leave you, Damon Sarantos. For better, or worse, demonic family included, you’re stuck with me. Tears sprang into her eyes even as she smiled a full dimpled grin.

God, I love that smile. But you’re killing me with the leaking thing. He brushed his fingers over her shoulder, I can hear your heart thundering away in your chest - you’re struggling and I can understand why.

She blinked furiously, trying to keep the tears from flowing over while turning to place his drink on the table behind her. I’m sorry. I’m trying. Give me a moment and I’ll dry up. Just don’t be ashamed of your family or think for one second I’m going to love you any less because of them. I’m sure I’ll love them and I know I’ll always love you.

Damon gave her a sly smile. His eyes darted toward the back of the plane where there was a small bedroom We still have time, he whispered, slipping his hands around her waist.

I think we’ve secured our place in the mile high hall of fame. You really do have a one track mind, don’t you?

Mmm, I told you shortly after we boarded not to bother getting dressed. He untucked her shirt and unbuttoned the lower half.

Reign smiled down at him, That would have been rather awkward for the staff, don’t you think?

You have a lot to learn about royalty. Pulling her down to him, he kissed her neck as his hands roamed.

Damon… as much as I’d like to we were talking about something important, she murmured as her hair fell in a thick curtain around his face. His breath tickled her ear as he exhaled. She turned her head; they were nose to nose.

Neemosh, he reminded himself and she nodded.

Dark secrets, she added, looking into his eyes. Raising back up, she laced his fingers in hers then pinned both of Damon’s hands above his head on the leather seat. Talk now or I’ll be forced to take action.

He snorted, You think that helps me concentrate? I swear, I’ll never talk so do what you must, he closed his eyes tight as if bracing himself. Reign let go of his hands and he opened one eye.

What? Are you giving up already? he asked. An arched eyebrow told him yes. Okaaay, Damon sighed, kissed her fingers and switched gears. It’ll be interesting to see what the Nephilim do when we look at the Neemosh. But don’t be surprised if they find it disgusting.

Reign moved off of him, back to her seat, buttoning her blouse as she went. But she’s beautiful. Have you seen her eyes? Even from far away the color stands out because they’re almost yellow next to her pupil.

She has yellow eyes? Damon sat up, looking at her slave.

No, they’re really a chartreuse, but almost completely yellow in the middle. They seem to glow against her dark skin. I noticed them right way.

Reign, I haven’t looked at her. I’m sure she’s gorgeous – they all must be, but no one looks at them. It just isn’t done.

Why? Are they part of a conquered clan that you hate or something? She paled, Damon, are they humans?

No, no. We don’t steal humans away to enslave them, he tisked, as if that were a ridiculous thought. They’re children of Nephilim who were born without any supernatural abilities. They live as long as the rest of us, but they have no extra power. It’s the greatest shame a parent can go through.

How sad that they can’t love their own children, she said, as they both watched her slave.

He grabbed his glass and ate some of the ice as he thought. Yes. It is.

And what if we have a Neemosh child?

Then she’ll be covered in pink from head to toe and her feet will never touch the ground, he winked then grew somber. I promise you that, Reign. No one will dare suggest anything less.

She, huh?

I want another one of you as soon as possible.

Reign leaned closer, slipping her arm through his. So, what’s her name?

Damon blinked. I thought we were going to name a girl after Hope.

No, sorry, not our baby, my servant. What’s her name?

Oh, my father sent me a text shortly before we boarded. He said her name is Ishmay and she’s one of the finest personal servants in the palace. That’s why she was appointed to you.

So when you’ve gone home, you’ve never looked at them? Not once?

No, I haven’t. I’m the Prince, it would be highly inappropriate. If I had lived with my people more, I might have challenged some of our ways. But you have to remember, I haven’t been home much over the last thousand years so I’m a bit of an outsider. They say they love me, but really, they barely know me.

Except for Esdras, right?

He smiled. As Commander of the Nephilim army, Esdras is supposed to uphold all of the rituals and keep tight control on the classes. But in reality, he and I see eye to eye on every issue. He laughs at some of our beliefs, hates slavery and really has no use for the pomp and circumstance of the crown. Every time I see him it’s like we were hanging out yesterday, even though it’s been a century.

The acid test.

Damon nodded and stretched, When he picks us up at the airport, don’t be surprised if he starts giving you a hard time. He can be merciless. I was astonished at how well-behaved he was at the wedding. He lowered his eyes on her, And don’t believe anything he tells you about me.

Does he exaggerate?

No, not really. But I’d still appreciate it if you wouldn’t believe him. He grinned.

Reign shook her head, Esdras is your…?

Cousin. My mother’s, sister’s, son.

She nodded, putting the family together piece by mysterious piece. So how do I know which ones are slaves? she said, looking at her servant.

He breathed in, You’ll know by their demeanor. But they all wear that plain, brown linen tunic with charms and bells.

Reign took Damon’s drink and drained the remaining contents. She coughed, I thought that was soda.

It had a little of that too.

From the way it’s burning all the way down, I’d say the soda is gone. You’ve had several of these. Are you drunk?

No, it takes a lot to get me drunk. He leaned back and ran his fingers through his hair. I am stressed, which is not good. I have to get back in the habit of appearing completely at ease. Confidence is very important to the Nephilim.

Reign looked at the glass realizing there was so much she didn’t know: how he reacted to stress, how much he drank, how he would handle advice. Her father’s concern over the rush of their marriage came back to her and Reign turned away to look out the window at a foreign land looming before her.

Damon took her hand and she turned back to him.

What are you thinking?

Nothing.

He cocked an eyebrow and she pressed her lips into a thin line, debating what to say.

Okay. It scares me that you hide things. Plus, we’re going into the fire here. You can’t be relying on Scotch and soda to take the edge off, she said, holding up the glass. But more than that, Damon, I hope you understand how much God loves you and that He will take care of us.

I know that. I don’t need a drink. If it worries you I’ll stop, he said with a slight edge.

Reign’s heart tightened. He was a baby in Christ, focused on controlling and doing things on his own. Damon still didn’t believe deep in his heart that God had not only forgiven him but also loved him.

Damon, she began, but was halted by the expression on his beautiful face. Nothing she could say would cause him to understand – he would only think he was failing. This was God’s department and her job was to simply accept him. She put a hand on his cheek, You are everything to me. A jolt went through her as she gazed at him. She didn’t think she would ever get used to the way his face and skin blended into perfect harmony: deep set eyes lined thick with dark lashes, broad, strong jaw and a wide, sometimes mischievous smile. He was still far more breathtaking than any work of art that she could recall.

You have no idea how that affects me. And I wish you could see what your light just did. His eyes traced around her and then came back to her lips. When you glow like that and tell me you love me I have more hope that God... well… let’s just say, you’re far better than any drink.

She still couldn’t get used to the fact that the Nephilim could see her faith, radiating about her like a neon sign. It was what first attracted Damon to her and he was addicted to the peaceful affect it had on him.

So don’t let secrets keep you from enjoying me. What else do you need to tell me?

He nodded. Alright. My people are also extremely superstitious. Did you notice the charms Ishmay is wearing?

How can I not? The choker looks like it’s cutting off her oxygen and she chimes with every step.

Nephilim believe that if they can live in perfect balance then God will look with more favor on them when they die. The Neemosh are seen as incapable of maintaining balance, so their masters load them with charms and bells to remind them constantly. If balance is threatened, rituals are performed to restore the order.

Ying and Yang?

Almost, he answered. Ying and yang with a bite. They take balance very seriously, so be prepared to be scolded.

Reign chewed her lip, Does Babas practice the rituals?

Damon scoffed. "Your Babas is a hypocrite to his faith. Well, all except the oath of Allegiance. That command says: Allegiance to the King. Faithfulness to those you choose to love. The choose part is the loophole where Amurri has always placed the greatest devotion. Everything else he practices only when certain eyes are upon him, for political reasons. He may or may not care depending on who’s in the room.

Do you remember Nahroo?

I don’t like that man, Damon.

I’m not crazy about him either, but Esdras says he’s a dedicated soldier and a hard core believer in keeping balance. I think Esdras is hoping Nahroo will be more of a son to him than a second in command but I sense Esdras has some doubts. Chief among them is Nahroo’s fanatical devotion to the rituals. I’m telling you all of this so you will understand that while there are fanatics, many Nephilim see the rituals as a waste of time. You will learn over time who does and who doesn’t.

He looked out the window past her, then up towards the cockpit.

It doesn’t seem like that’s all of it, Reign said.

Damon glanced at her then looked out the window again. She moved to look him in the eye.

There is one more thing, he paused, taking her hand, I don’t know what being around my family is going to do to you mentally or spiritually.

What do you mean?

Damon turned her palm upward, brushing his fingers across it, If you start feeling like things are getting to you… if you become frightened or have strange thoughts that are not normal for you… I need you to tell me.

You’re afraid I might go insane? Reign pulled away.

We try never to have humans in the palace. With that many Nephilim, the outcome is usually not good. He stared at her, There have been some who have lost the ability to cope very quickly.

You’re telling me this now?!

I’m not that concerned about it. You never have had a problem being with me and when my father and his men came to Albuquerque, you didn’t have a problem with them either. I think you have a unique ability to deal with it.

But what if this is different? her eyes were big pools of a frightened blue.

We should know that very quickly - within the first week. If that’s what happens, then we leave. I promise you, I will be watching you very closely. No one will touch you and I won’t let anything happen to you.

No one will touch me? Do you think some of your people will want to hurt me? her voice sounded pinched.

I haven’t been with them in so long, and I’ve never brought a human into our world. Most of them will receive you warmly, but you’ll need to be careful. Don’t assume anyone is being honest with you. You asked me to talk and I’m telling you my concerns.

I wish I would have kept my gun with me, she muttered. Can I carry my sword in the palace?

Reign, I expect that you’re going to handle everything beautifully and be an amazing Queen someday.

She snorted and leaned her head against the back of the chair, If I don’t go insane first.

Damon turned and stared ahead of him, glad that she couldn’t hear his own heart racing as it had been since they left the States. There was no way to find out how she would do, but to go and with Marduk threatening him, he had to make a stand now.

Attendant, he called, tell the pilots to take us in.

Ishmay curtsied and turned to relay the message. In a moment, one of the pilots, dressed in a black uniform with gold trim, walked back. As he approached, Reign leaned over, Is he…? she whispered.

No.

The pilot bowed slightly, Crown Prince, there’s been a change of plans in Athens. Apparently, some kind of foreign dignitary is landing and as a security precaution every plane must go through new specified flight plans. We’ll have to land at the main terminal and you’ll need to go through screening. There will be a limo waiting for you at the front of the building. I’m sorry for the inconvenience, my lord.

That’ll be fine. Thank you.

The pilot stared at Reign briefly and then went back to the cabin.

She cast a questioning glance to Damon and he shrugged. They’re going to stare. You’re every curiosity rolled into one - beautiful, Princess of Light.

Folding her arms to hug her body tightly, she looked out over Athens.

He leaned toward her and gently swept her hair back with his finger. They’ll be staring at me too.

She turned back to him, her body still closed, mind reeling. His eyes fastened on her as he pulled her hand out from being tucked in the crook of her other arm.

This is a historic time for my people. I haven’t lived with them for nearly a thousand years and I haven’t even seen most of them for fifty. Now my return can mean only one thing…the rule of my father is drawing to a close. Every eye will be on us both. He looked over her. Can I ask something of you?

Yes.

As we go through this… don’t shut me out. Waiting for her response, his intense gaze demanded that she lower her defenses. Slowly, she relaxed her body and a soft smile stretched across his face.

I’m just suddenly really scared. What if I screw up?

You will. It’s not an if.

She frowned.

How can you not, Reign? You don’t know our customs. You don’t know who you can trust… he lowered his chin to give her a warning stare, and my father is not someone I recommend, by the way. Just know that no matter what happens, no matter what you do, in the end you and I will still be together. That’s all I really care about.

She breathed out. I’ll try.

You know, it won’t be all bad, he reached over to pull her onto his lap.

Good, tell me the fun part.

Well, you’ve spent almost the whole flight talking about your new job at the museum.

She grinned as her eyes became starry.

Damon started laughing. You should see your face.

I can’t help it. Covering her face with her hand, she laughed, peeking at him. I get so excited at the thought of working at the National Archaeological Museum of Greece, she intoned dramatically, I have to tell myself over and over to calm down.

I love that I’ve been able to do that for you. Damon kissed her, Although I almost wish I did that to you.

You do, I just keep it quiet so you won’t get all conceited.

Thank you for that. He shook his head. You know you can’t always be working - I have lots of things planned for you.

Like?

Like skinny dipping in the Aegean Sea. He kissed her neck and his finger ran down the opening in her shirt. Making love everywhere, all the time, he said, as his eyes lightened a shade.

At the dinner table—

Clear the dishes! He snapped his fingers in mock command then paused looking at her, I can’t wait to show you Greece. The northern mountains covered with pines, the islands… his eyes widened. There’s one surprise I’ve been planning for about…mmmm, five hundred years.

The plane wobbled and bounced as they flew closer to the ground and he tightened his hold.

How am I going to compete with all your schemes?

His smile faded. Just hold on, baby.

You’ve got me?

I’ve got you and that’s not ever going to change.

| Two |

Exiting the customs area, Damon surveyed the chaos in the airport and frowned. This is too much commotion for just a dignitary flying in. Something else is up.

Do you have any idea what? Reign asked.

No. He nodded ahead of them, There’s Kuri, maybe he knows.

Her former guard, dressed in dark navy pants and matching padded motorcycle jacket, was holding his helmet as he tipped his head and whispered a greeting. His light hazel eyes darted about the airport assessing the movement around them. Crown Prince, he said, then looked at Reign. Placing his hand over his heart, he bent his willowy frame forward only slightly, your Highness.

Reign moved to embrace him in greeting and Damon cleared his throat in an effort to stop her. She halted midway and held out her hand to shake his. Looking extremely uncomfortable, Kuri glanced at Damon.

Oh, I’m sorry, Kuri. It will take me awhile to remember that extending my hand means to kiss the back of it, she flushed and remembered not to scratch her brow – her telltale sign she was embarrassed.

It’s okay, but don’t apologize, Damon whispered, kissing her head.

Kuri, her Highness is more familiar with you than others so I expect you to help her with our customs without looking vexed.

It will be an honor, my lord.

Yes it will, so act accordingly. Damon turned to Reign, Do you want to get Giant out of his crate? he asked as the dog was being pushed past them on a cart.

Yes. Before she could say more Kuri stopped the cart and had the dog in front of her.

As she leashed him, Damon looked at Kuri and motioned to the people around them. What’s going on?

I’m not quite sure, my lord. There’s a huge assembly of press out front by the limo waiting area. I heard a rumor that a foreign king is flying in and they’ve had bomb threats at the airport because of it.

Damon turned and looked out the glass front doors then faced Kuri, Who’s with you?

Commander Esdras sent me and three other guards along with the limo.

He’s not with you? Damon asked surprised.

No, my lord. He asked for me to give you his apology.

So four bikes plus a limo?

Yes, my lord.

That ought to attract enough attention don’t you think? Damon looked cross. I would’ve much preferred someone leaving a bike for me to take Reign home, then the driver could take care of our baggage.

I’m sorry, your Highness. Kuri’s broad face revealed his discomfort even as his cleft chin tilted up a notch. I think they wanted to make you both feel welcome.

Kuri, neither Reign nor I like ceremony. Next time, low key.

Kuri mouthed his words, unfamiliar with the term.

Low key – without attention. No fanfare, Damon said.

I understand. Low key, Kuri repeated, gliding his hand downward. Damon and Reign smiled at each other.

Damon turned and rubbed his mouth thinking.

What is it, Damon? Reign pulled Giant close to her.

I don’t like it. Do you still have that cap in your purse?

Yes.

Pull it out and wear your sunglasses.

She put them on.

No. Tuck your hair inside, he said, pulling off her cap and taking the dog. Kuri, your only job is to guard Reign. Do you understand?

Yes, your Highness, Kuri answered while strapping on his helmet.

Damon shot him a stern look. I mean it, Kuri. If anything starts to happen, I’ll take the other guards, you take Reign.

I understand, my lord.

Damon, what are you thinking is going to happen? Reign asked as her heart leaped into gear.

I don’t know. He tugged on a loose strand and she tucked it under the cap. I’m probably being paranoid, but I have one of those feelings. With one last look toward the front of the airport he nodded, Okay, let’s go.

Taking out his own sunglasses, the three of them rounded the corner of the counter, heading toward the door.

Media filled the entrance, mostly photographers, and as soon as they came into view a shout went up. There they are!!!

Damon let out a storm of curses as he grabbed the leash from Reign, scooped Giant under one arm, and put his other arm over her. The doors parted with a swish and flashes popped in their faces as reporters screamed questions.

Are you the Crown Prince? one yelled.

Is this your future Queen? another called, sticking a microphone in his face.

Over here! someone screamed and Reign turned her head as a flash filled her vision.

What’s the name of your kingdom?

How long has your family been in Greece?

The questions came at them from all directions as they ran to the limo, waiting only a few paces away with its door open. A photographer jumped in front of Reign and fired pictures madly before Damon shoved him back. Suddenly they were in the limo and the door was slammed. The driver took off as the guards flanked the car.

Reign gasped as a swarm of photographers on motorcycles surrounded them. Damon yanked off his glasses, his eyes black pools.

I thought you said no one cared about you?! she asked bewildered.

No one ever has. We’ve been set up. He leaned back, rapping angrily on the window between them and the driver, and it lowered.

What the hell is going on?! he demanded.

The driver, dressed in a crisp brown linen tunic had grey hair and an equally grey face filled with fear. He ducked his head, Crown Prince, a thousand apologies. I don’t know how they knew.

Reign moved to Damon’s seat and put her hand on his shoulder. Damon—

He looked at her fuming.

Calm down. With her eyes she motioned to their driver, "One look at his face tells you he’s certainly not