Princess of My Immortal Heart

By Darlyne Frederick

In this second installment of the Immortal Heart series, we follow King Luke and Queen Nicoletas daughter, Zaria Ara Sofia.
Zaria loves being a werewolf like her father. She is strong, beautiful, and smart. She doesnt need a man to take care of her. Or, so she thought, until she sets eyes on Adrian Lucas Conners. Once she meets Adrian, the handsome young vampire turns her entire world upside down.
Adrians whole life has been dedicated to doing whatever it took to please his father. However, when he falls head over heels in love with Zaria, keeping his father happy is no longer important, but when she finds out his terrible secret, will their love be able to prevail or will it mean his death?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Oct 11, 2013
• ISBN: 9781493114597

Darlyne Frederick

Darlyne is 29 years old, resided in southern California, and spends most of her time with her husband and her three children. She writes in her spare time and this is her second novel. Darlyne has read romance novels since the age of 10 and draws a lot of her inspiration for her stories from life events and personal experiences. She wants to continue her writing career and is grateful to all her fans who have supported her and enjoy her work. When she is not writing, she is baking, cooking, playing with her children, or spending time with friends. Her favorite shows are Bones, Sons of Anarchy, and Walking Dead. She listens to all types of music, but her roots are country.

Book preview

Prologue

December 31st . . .

Julian Satan paced the floor with great agitation. His mistress, Vivianne Connors, had been in labor for almost sixteen hours now and he was growing more and more impatient for the delivery of his child.

Curse you, Luke Sangre! he shouted to the ceiling, then swiped his arm across a nearby table in the hall outside his guest room. The smashing of the priceless vase and thud of the two heavy silver candlesticks hitting the floor calmed his fury a little.

Clean that up, you sniveling bastard! Julian shouted at a small servant cowering in the hall a few feet from him. The little round man quickly moved forward and began to clean up the broken vase with shaking hands.

Julian had been in a fury ever since that night in late August when he’d found out that the babe inside Queen Nicoleta’s womb was not his, but that despicable werewolf’s instead. Julian had wanted to kill them all, but that wolf had stopped him once again. The only small satisfaction he felt was in the fact that he had injured him.

Lucky for Julian, he already had a plan B in place in case something went wrong. He had bedded Vivianne several times and gotten her pregnant. Now, just a few short days after the birth of Queen Nicoleta and King Luke’s twins, Vivianne had gone into labor and was about to bore his child. For her sake, and that of the child’s, she had better give him a son or she would pay with her life. The child he would send far away to a village, never to claim it again. He, unlike his father Lucard Satan, would not murder an innocent child.

Vivianne’s loud scream of pain echoed from behind the closed door, then a tiny maid poked her head out and scanned the hall for him.

What is it, Margaret? He asked, stepping from the shadows.

Your child is here, my lord. Please, come in. she said happily.

Julian pushed past the woman and strode straight up to the small bed. Vivianne’s hair was a mess and she was drenched in sweat. She reminded him of a fat, sweaty, pig at the moment. A tiny cry caught his attention and he pulled back the blanket to reveal the tiny baby in her arms.

Julian, my love. It’s a girl! A beautiful, healthy, baby girl! Vivianne cried happily and smiled up at him.

Julian’s blood boiled and he saw red before his eyes. A girl! A tiny girl would never be able to help him carry out his revenge on Nicoleta and that werewolf.

Doctor Greyson, take the babe, if you please. Julian said quietly, but forcefully. Both Vivianne and the Dr. stared at him for but a moment, then the doctor lifted the tiny bundle from Vivianne’s arms and walked away.

My lord, whatever is the matter? I have given you the child you wanted. Why do you look so displeased? Vivianne cried nervously.

Julian stood silently for a moment and stared into her chocolate brown eyes. Vivianne wasn’t a super model, but she was a beautiful woman. She had long auburn hair, a smooth, clear face, and soft, dusty pink lips.

Her breasts were small, only a b cup when she wasn’t pregnant. She had been a little on the scrawny side before Julian had gotten her pregnant.

Seeing her now, Julian felt nothing but disgust and hatred.

Yes, whore. You have indeed given me a child. However, the child is useless to me. A healthy son is all I asked of you and you failed. For this, I no longer have a use for you. He explained calmly, with no emotion. His cold, ice blue eyes never left her face as he pulled his dagger from his belt.

Vivianne’s eyes widened in horror as the silver dagger glittered in the light. Then, another wave of pain gripped her belly and she screamed again.

Julian lowered the dagger confused and looked at the Doctor. Take the child, my lord. She is birthing again! Dr. Greyson said quickly and shoved the tiny, crying babe into Julian’s unwilling arms.

Julian stared, dumbfounded. He looked down at the tiny girl in his arms and for the first time in months, he smiled. His daughter had instantly quieted and was looking up at him curiously.

She was a beautiful child indeed. The fuzzy hair on her little head was as golden as the sun and her skin as pale as the moon. Her lips were a deep dusty pink like her mother’s and her eyes were like two emeralds glowing in the light. She would be a real beauty when she grew up.

An idea came to Julian and he smiled even wider. This girl would be of use to him after all. He chuckled as the plan ran through his mind.

My Lord, did you hear me? Dr. Greyson asked, bringing Julian back to the present.

What? Julian snapped.

My Lord, ’tis a son you have. Congratulations, my Lord, you have twins. A young lady and a young lad. Dr. Greyson said, smiling at him.

A son! Yes, this was just too perfect! Now, his revenge would be even sweeter.

What shall you name them, my Lord? Vivianne asked weakly from the bed.

Julian looked up at her and smiled. At least she was smart enough to know her place. She wasn’t as dumb as she seemed, yet she was a threat to his plans. He would have to watch her closely and limit her time with his children, least she turn them against him.

Why, my dear, I have the perfect names picked out for them. My little lady here shall be called Shaina LeeAnn, for she is white perfection. My son should have a strong name, like his father and grandfather before him. He shall be named Adrian Lucard. Julian replied proudly.

They are fine names, my Lord. Dr. Greyson replied, as he dried his hands and peered down at the tiny babes. They are perfectly healthy, my Lord. However, I would like to return in a week or so to check on them and ensure everything is well.

Yes, yes, fine. Julian replied. You have done great work, sir, and it will not go unrewarded. Please see Gerald on your way out and he will pay your fees plus a little extra for your trouble.

You are most gracious, my Lord. I do thank you, indeed. Dr. Greyson bowed and left the room.

Do you still sentence me to death, Julian? Vivianne asked nervously, looking up at Julian with fear in her eyes.

Julian smiled. Her fear would keep her in check and that would be of great use to him in his plan.

Not at this time, my dear. I still have use of you. However, if you cease to obey me and do exactly as I order, you will be killed immediately. Is that understood? he asked.

Yes, my Lord. She replied quietly and looked down at the baby boy in her arms. As she baby talked softly to his son, Julian felt sick. A mother’s tender love could turn a sharp young man soft and that would not work for him.

Nurse! Take the babes to the nursery immediately and feed them. Their mother shall only visit if I allow it and at no other time. Is that clear? Julian said to the portly woman standing on the other side of the bed.

Yes, my Lord. It shall be done immediately. She replied coolly and took the babe from Vivianne, then the other from him.

No, please. Do not take my babies from me, Julian, I beg you! Vivianne cried as the nurse briskly left the room, carrying away her newborns.

Quiet! You have done your job. They are my children now. However, behave yourself and do as I say, I might permit you to see them. Until then, you are to stay away from them and the nursery. That is an order! You may stay in here today, but you are to return to your cottage tonight and not return unless invited by me alone. Julian replied harshly. He left the room and slammed the door closed on her pathetic sobbing.

He made his way to the nursery to check in on his twins and found them asleep in the large crib he’d had built for the new arrival. Good thing he’d ordered it be built large, even though he had not expected twins.

The nurse was keeping guard over the tiny sleeping babes, her eyes glancing toward the door every few moments for signs of Vivianne. She was very trustworthy and did her job well. Julian nodded to her and shut the door.

In his library, Julian poured himself a glass of blood and sat behind his great desk. Tonight had been very eventful indeed. He now had not just one, but two children who would help him in his plot to destroy Queen Nicoleta, King Luke, and the whole IAKM. The Cast Outs would see victory this time. Julian vowed it on his father’s grave.

Vengeance, would most certainly, be theirs at last.

Chapter 1

216 years later . . .

The full moon felt marvelous on her silver/white fur. Zaria stretched and yawned contently, as its pale bright light warmed her fur.

Zaria Ara Sofia Morganthe Sangre loved this time of the month. Especially in late summer, like tonight, when it was warm outside and the woods were fragrant with old leaves and hints of the cooler weather to come. Her werewolf blood sang in her veins as she sprinted through the woods and leapt over fallen trees.

In the distance, she heard the familiar howl of her beloved father calling to her. She yelped in reply and ran toward Dragon Castle, her home.

When she broke through the tree line, she slowed to a walk when she saw her father proudly sitting near the marble fountain on the large, round patch of grass in the middle of the circle driveway in front of the castle. The crushed white shells that served at pavement shone bright in the moon’s light and her father’s thick, dark grey fur glistened.

She walked up to him and rubbed her head along his neck and he returned the gesture of affection.

You wander farther and farther each month, Zaria . . . You must remember to stay within our boundaries. You never know if a Cast Out is out there or has set a trap for one of us. Luke said to her telepathically.

I know, Father, and I’m sorry. I just feel so free when I run that I want to keep going on and on until I reach the end of the world. Zaria replied, and then lapped her tongue across his front paw as a sign of obedience.

Luke chuckled in his throat and lapped her ear in return. They both smiled at each other, then phased back into their human forms. Thanks to a special magic that was within them, they always phased back to human form with their clothes on, otherwise this would be very awkward.

I understand all too well, my love. You get that from me, grandpa Ulrik, Grandma Sofia, and all your wolf ancestors before you. Luke said, putting his arm around her shoulders and turning her toward the castle.

Will you please tell me the story of grandpa Ulrik and Grandma Sofia again? I love hearing it. Zaria asked, laying her head on her father’s shoulder. She looked up at him with her dazzling silver eyes, identical to her mother’s, and hoped he would melt to her like he always did for his queen.

Luke chuckled again and kissed her forehead. You minx. Just like your mother, trying to melt me with those beautiful eyes as she does. However, I unfortunately do not have the time to tell you the story right now. Your mother and I are meeting with your grandparents and Father Loragen tonight about you and your brother’s official crowning ceremony Saturday night. A few things still need to be discussed and finalized. I promise you, though, that I will tell you again tomorrow after our evening run. Will that be ok?

Zaria smiled up at him and kissed his cheek. Sounds like a plan, Father, I look forward to it. I will see you at dinner. I’m going to go find my brat of a brother, she said sweetly.

Zaria, please, do not harass Vincent so harshly tonight. His mind is on training our armies and the upcoming ceremony. Luke said cautiously.

Yes, sir. She replied and sauntered off toward the lower bailey where she knew Vincent would be practicing swordsmanship with the army.

It never ceased to amaze her that in a world of tanks, guns, and powerful weapons; in their little slice of Romania, time seem to stand still and the sword, mace, and daggers are still used as they were centuries ago. They even still held jousting tournaments at the annual fall festival and feast every year. It seemed so medieval to her, yet it was still so much fun. The guards did carry guns loaded with silver bullets and the army had a few more powerful weapons hidden away in case of war, but that was for added protection from the Cast Outs, for they carried the same.

She just hoped that her brother was in a good mood this evening or her fun would be very short lived.

—

Vincent Valtar Ulrik Morganthe Sangre was in his prime. The young solider he was fighting now was quick, but still weaker than he was. He had an arrogance that he was a great swordsman and Vince was all too happy to show him otherwise.

The clang of metal on metal and the smell of the wet grass under their feet was like a drug to Vince and he felt invigorated. Working out with his men was his favorite pastime.

His opponent parried his blow and swung, but he dodged it easily. With a quick swing of his sword, he sent the other man’s sword flying from his grasp, and then gently pointed the tip of his sword to the man’s chest.

I do believe that is my win, Kenny. He said quietly, smiling at his solider.

You are a great fighter, your Highness, a very worthy opponent indeed. I’m greatly honored to have the opportunity to learn from you and fight by your side. Kenny replied humbly and bowed before Vince.

Oh, get up, you fool. While your praise is appreciated, I prefer to have a strong warrior by my side than a bowing buffoon at my feet. Vince laughed and clapped the young man on the back.

Who’s next? Vince called, looking around to his men.

How about me, dear brother? he heard Zaria say from behind him.

His men bowed before her as she stood dressed in her black leggings and red tunic with their family’s crest in gold on the front. Her tall knee-high brown boots hugged her calves and her long, thick, black hair was tied back. She held a sword in one hand and a helmet in the other. She could tempt any man alive.

Vince was not so blind that he could not see how beautiful and shapely his sister was. It was not a wonder why he and his father protected her so closely. However, it was very difficult indeed, when she chose to parade around dressed like that in front of his men.

Sister, how many times must we go over this? Swordplay and fighting is not for a delicate woman like yourself. Why don’t you go find Aunt Tawny and let her do your hair or go shopping with Marlissa and leave this to the men and myself? Vincent replied in a condescending tone.

If you are too much of a coward to fight me, my brother, what message does that send to your men? If some of the Cast Outs are delicate like me, should you let them pass? She asked sweetly, undeterred.

Of course not! That is not what I meant and you know it. Stop twisting my words to suit your agenda. Vincent snapped and glared at her.

Well, well. There is still some fight left in you. I was getting worried there for a minute. I was afraid the handsome Kenny had taken the fight right out of you. She replied, smiling mischievously. She knew that would get his attention. No one seemed to be able to get the best of Vince, no one except her and her parents, of course.

Fine. You want to dress and fight like a man, I’ll show you how to lose like one. Vincent said smoothly and put on his helmet.

Zaria smiled with triumph as she donned her own helmet and brought her sword up to the ready.

She and Vince saluted each other acknowledging that they were ready for the fight, than began to slowly circle one another.

Vincent knew his sister was much lighter and weaker than he was and had already resolved to take it easy with her, yet not so easy that she did not quickly realize his words to her were true.

Why does she always have to be so stubborn? He wondered to himself.

She made a few quick swings at him, which he easily parried and blocked. When he took a sharp swing of his own, he could tell it took all her strength to block him.

She had spirit he would give her that. He couldn’t help but admire her for not giving up the minute that blow hit her. Still, swordplay was no joke and he did not want to see her get hurt.

He stepped back and held his sword low. Give it up, Zaria. I don’t want to hurt my little sister. He said calmly.

I am only your little sister by four minutes, dear brother. Please do not treat me as if there are many years difference between us. Now, pick up your sword and fight me, blood breath! she shouted, then giggled as he quickly brought up his sword and stood at the ready position.

Fine, have it your way, fur face! he shouted back and quickly ran at her, sword high.

Zaria blocked his hard blow, but the power of it reverberated down her arms and she had to bend down on one knee to balance herself. Her brother was very strong and a master with his sword.

She pushed him back with all her strength and then spun around quickly and knocked his feet out from under him. He fell back hard on the grass and his sword went flying, as did his helmet.

Zaria pointed the tip of her sword to his chest and pulled off her helmet. Her bright silver eyes met his burning gold ones as she smiled down at him.

You see, dear brother. A woman can fight just as well with a sword as you. You would do well not to underestimate a simple female who looks delicate. She said sweetly, then spun around and walked away. She knew the men were staring at her, absolutely dumbfounded by what they had just witnessed, and she stood a little taller.

Vincent sat up and watched as his sister sashayed away. He shook his head and smiled. She was most certainly not a delicate little woman content with just shopping and nails. Her inner wolf was fierce and she carried that trait proudly. He just hoped that it did not get her into trouble one day.

She’s a handful, sire. Kyle said quietly, as he stepped up beside Vincent and helped him up off the wet grass.

That she is, Kyle. I just hope it aides her and doesn’t get her killed. Vincent replied, looking to his servant.

Kyle was a decent looking young man. He was shorter then Vince, only coming up to his chin, and very lean. He was the son of a farmer who supplied fruits and veggies to the castle. He had come to the castle seeking to train under Vincent and become a soldier in his army.

He had sandy colored hair, slight build, and dark brown eyes. He was strong in his own right; however, Kyle Lemmon was not fit for war. He was just took kind and tenderhearted. One day, while they were training with the mace, Kyle had swung his mace at his opponent, Jaycen, and barely dented his armor. He had screamed and broken down into hysterics, begging Jaycen for forgiveness. The other men had laughed at him and teased him mercilessly, but Vince’s heart went out to him.

Therefore, Vince had spoken to his father and asked to take Kyle on as his personal assistant rather than a soldier. His father, and Kyle’s, heartedly agreed. Kyle was very grateful and had done his best to see to every demand. He was very loyal and Vince appreciated having him around.

Come, sire, Lady Tawny is looking for you. The seamstress is here for your final fitting for Saturday’s ceremony. Kyle said, smiling at Vince.

Ah yes, of course. Please tell Aunt Tawny and my cousin, Tessa, that I will be along shortly. I want to shower and change first. Vincent replied.

At once, sire. Then shall I go to the garrison and polish your armor? Kyle asked, bowing.

If that’s what you want to do, Kyle, be my guest. However, I wish you would take a break, occasionally, and go see your father. It’s been nearly a year since you’ve seen him and the old man could use your help with the harvest. Vincent replied, and gently patted Kyle on the shoulder.

If that is what will please you, your Highness, I will leave this very evening. However, I will return on Friday to help you prepare for the ceremony. May I invited my parents and little sister to the ceremony, sire? Kyle asked.

Well, of course, you dolt! Vincent said and playfully smacked Kyle upside his head. They both laughed and walked back toward the castle.

Chapter 2

Zaria Ara Sofia, if you do not hold still, I will stick you with this pin myself! Tawny shouted, glaring at her.

I’m sorry, Auntie Tawn Tawn. Zaria replied in a childlike voice and lowered her head so Tawny could not see her smile.

Tawny K Ulrich had been in the family for many centuries. She had been her mother, Nicoleta’s, nurse as a babe and her personal assistant as she had gotten older. She still helped her mother, but still tended to her and her brother as well. She had become more like family than help and had taken over as head of the house cleaners, butlers, and gardeners. She was more like an Aunt to her and Vince than an assistant or nurse and always had been. They respected and loved her greatly, as did their parents and grandparents.

She looked down at her second cousin, Tessa, as she delicately placed several pins in the hem of her dress.

You are truly magic with a sewing machine, Tessa. This dress is a work of pure perfection indeed. Zaria said down to her and smiled.

I thank you, Princess. It was a great honor to design and make your mother’s coronation dress and wedding gown and I’m so glad I can now have the honor of making your dress and your brother’s suit as well. Tessa replied happily, and then returned to her work.

Zaria looked at her reflection in the triple full-length mirror before her and sighed. She felt like a princess in this dress. It was just gorgeous.

It was made of pale gold silk and embroidered down the V-neck and along the hem in delicate gold thread. The sleeves came down to her elbows, then fell to the hem of her dress in a delicate cascade. Tessa had also made a wine red, velvet overdress to go over the dress. It was sleeveless and had the same delicate gold embroidery around the top. It had a thin silk gold belt sewn around the chest that buckled with a gorgeous gold buckle of her family’s crest just beneath her breasts. She had beautiful wine colored, high-heeled sandals to complete the outfit.