Mated to the Dragon: A Dragon Shifter Romance (Feral Dragon Book 3): Feral Dragon, #3

By Mac Flynn

The dragon of the Pitted Mountains has been vanquished and all that remains to set things right is to venture to Lochanna, the Empire of Swamps. There awaits Sullivan, the final dragon of the three and the last, and first, to be cursed.

 

Emma and Edmond's journey to the swamps is not without its own adventure, however, as they find themselves in a mess of trouble along the long route they decide to travel. Their path takes them through several small towns and villages, and at each one they find themselves confronting mistakes of the past brought on by the century-old curse.

 

Things are made worse when they discover that something lurks in the shadows of the magic-laden land. A creature stalks the enchanted creatures and is suspected of stealing magical items from the humans. That thing sets its sights on the pair, and they find that their new foe is actually an old enemy, one that has no intention of letting them reach their destination.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Crescent Moon Studios, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 26, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223435099

Mac Flynn

A seductress of sensual words and a lover of paranormal plots, Flynn enjoys writing thrilling paranormal stories filled with naughty fun and hilarious hijinks. She is the author of numerous paranormal series that weave suspense, adventure and a good joke into a one-of-a-kind experience that readers are guaranteed to enjoy. From long adventure novels to tasty little short-story treats, there's a size and adventure for everyone.Want to know when her next series comes out? Join The Flynn newsletter and be the first to know! macflynn.com/newsletter/Also check out her website at macflynn.com for listings and excerpts of all of her books!

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

I hate mornings.

The bright sun. The cold air. All of it wrapped around me like a wet blanket as I slid out of bed and shuffled over to the dresser. I slipped into my clothes, though giving the intruding sunlight an obligatory glare, and shambled out of the room.

Coffee. Need coffee.

I paused in the corridor with its stone floor and walls, and the archaic unlit torches that hung from them, and a groan escaped me. Sometimes it sucked being stuck in the middle ages.

I should invent coffee. . . I mumbled as I shuffled down the hall and the stairs.

I found the foyer a little more inviting. A large fire burned in the hearth and the table was set for two. Elinor stood beside the hearth stoking the flames with some fresh logs.

She looked up at my coming and offered me a bright smile. Good morning, Emma.

‘Morning. . . I mumbled as I took a seat beside the empty head of the table.

Elinor moved over to me and poured me a cup of her warm brew. I hope you slept well.

Like a log, I replied as I picked up the mug and took a sip. The heat warmed me, but my thirst for dark brew was unsatisfied.

Elinor’s smile widened. You have the most unusual sayings, but when one thinks about them they are so appropriate.

I snorted and set the mug on the table, cradled in both my hands for its warmth. They were thought up by people a lot smarter than me.

She wagged a wizened old finger at me. You have your own wit about you. You did save My Lord from his brother with your bravery and thought.

I thought back to that episode and stared down at my hands. Yeah. I just wish I could figure out how to use this power instead of just getting lucky.

Elinor set a hand on my shoulder. I’m sure you will. In the meantime, would you like your breakfast served?

I cast a curious look at the empty chair beside me. Where’s Edmond?

She shook her head. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen him. He must have risen early. Perhaps he is checking on his brother. But if you will excuse me, I can see you’re rather chilled. I’ll fetch some warm food. And with that she whisked herself into the kitchen.

Without her company my mind slipped back into its dullard state. That is, until I was jolted out of my sluggish mood by the sudden slam of a door. It was Edmond coming out of the entrance to the labyrinthine basement. He had a look of annoyance and fury on his face.

He marched a few yards into the foyer and swept his eyes over the high open-rafter ceiling. Niks! Niks!

A moment later the little ball of light floated out of the wall behind the fireplace. You rang, My Lord?

Edmond balled his hands into fists at his sides and he nearly quivered with rage. Where is it?

Niks floated about his head, though well out of his reach. Where is what, My Lord?

Edmond’s words came out in a growl. "Where is he?"

Niks ghosted over to the table where I sat, and Edmond stomped after him. I haven’t the faintest idea to what you refer, My Lord. If this is some kind of game then I do want to play-hey!

Edmond swiped his clawed hand across Niks’ body. The wisp was cut into ribbons, but quickly reformed himself and zipped out of reach about our heads. That wasn’t very nice!

I stood and set a hand on Edmond’s arm. Before you cut him into fine bits, could you tell me what’s going on?

At my touch some of his rage was soothed, but he still glared at our bright, mischievous friend. Balmore’s egg has gone missing from its place in the basement.

Niks floated back and let out a gasp. And you suspect me of doing that?

I snorted as I directed Edmond into his chair. Who else?

Niks flitted about our heads as I resumed my seat. I’m insulted! I’m outraged! I’m-

Guilty, I finished for him as I leaned my elbows on the table and lap my chin my clasped hands. So where is it?

A laugh escaped Niks as he danced above us. Alright, you have me! I stole the egg, but I bet you can’t guess where it is!

Breakfast, My Lord, Elinor announced as she swept into the dining room with a tray full of food.

She set the platter on the table in front of us and lifted the lid of one plate to reveal a veritable mountain of omelettes. A look of horror spread across both Edmond and my faces, and we whipped our heads to the wisp.

Niks zipped back a few feet. No, not there! Sheesh! You two act like I’d murder an innocent egg!

So where is it? I mused as I helped myself to the feast.

Niks floated to and fro. I’m not telling! You have to find it!

Then you killed him? I teased as I took a mouthful of food.

I did not!

Then prove it!

Fine, I will! Niks flew over to the pile of fireplace and hovered over the mantel. He’s in the fire.

I spit out my food and the color drained from my face. I would have leapt to my feet, but Edmond grasped my hand and offered me a small smile as he pulled me back into my chair. We’ll leave him there.

My jaw hit the table. But he’s on fire!

He shook his head. We’re dragons. Even though his main element is earth he can’t be burned, even in his current form. The heat will actually be beneficial to him.

A little bit of my tension slipped away and I removed my hand from his to pick up my fork. Is anything normal about you guys?

He flashed me a mischievous grin. We are still men.

I snorted and resumed my eating. My aching bones are reminded of that nightly.

Niks floated over to us and landed near the platter. You fleshy creatures are so strange!

I lifted an eyebrow. So how do wisps do it?

Niks laughed. We don’t do it at all! Wisps are born from the mists of sorrow that are created by your tears!

My face drooped. That’s not very cheerful.

The wisp pranced across the tabletop. Maybe not, but it gives life to us! That’s a cheerful thought!

I snorted. Now that’s a matter of opinion.

Speaking of opinion, Edmond mused as he stood with his plate unused and offered me his hand. There’s something I would like to discuss with you.

I lifted an eyebrow, but set my fork down and accepted his hand. He drew me out of my chair and up the stairs. Rather than toward the bedroom as I expected, he led me to the far end of the hall which led out onto the parapet. The high wall looked out over the vast forest kingdom, still uninhabited but just waiting for humans to return.

Edmond stopped us beside one of the lower walls and set his hands on the stone and his sights on the woodlands. It has been a long while since I stood up here. The view grew to be too painful to bear.

Is that when you stopped flying around, too? I wondered.

He nodded. Yes, though I am pleased to say my wings have improved greatly. I may need them in the coming days.

My heart skipped a beat. Why?

He didn’t look away from the view as he pursed his lips. The road to Sullivan’s domain was never hospitable, and after a century of neglect it could be incredibly dangerous.

I leaned my side against his and lay my head against his shoulder. You know I’m not letting you leave me behind.

A sigh escaped him. Even if I desired that outcome, I don’t believe I could resist the temptation.

I snorted. I can’t really be that nice smelling, can I?

You did lure the king of the fae to attempt to cheat on his wife.

He was sick at the time.

He looped an arm around my waist and lay his head atop mine. Sick or not, you do attract trouble.

I rolled my eyes up to him. I guess that means we should cancel each other out. You’re just as much trouble as I am.

Edmond chuckled and pressed our lips together in a long, gentle kiss. I was sorry for it to end as he drew away. We’ll have to see how much trouble we can find on this trip.

So when we do leave?

Tomorrow.

CHAPTER TWO

Packing. Again. It was a chore I hadn’t yet gotten used to, and I was glad for the help as I rummaged through the attire Edmond had given me.

Well, most of the help.

Niks flitted about Elinor and my heads as we packed as much as we could manage into my bag. He dropped the occasional odd sock and torn shirt. You should take this! And this!

I tossed away another in a long line of red handkerchiefs and frowned up at our flighty friend. You’re not helping.

The wisp rolled through the air. Maybe not now, but I can help on the way!

I shook my head. I don’t think you’re going to be coming with us.

Niks drooped onto the bed covers beside the bag. But I didn’t get to have fun last time. . .

Elinor needs your help around here, I reminded him.

I noticed a small wince from my packing buddy. He was. . .amusing during your journey to the mountains.

I snorted and clapped a hand on her shoulder. It’s okay. He drives me nuts, too.

She blinked at me. ‘Drives me nuts?’

I shook my head. Another one of the funny sayings from my world. It pretty much means he strains my patience, too.

I help out! Niks insisted as he snatched up the clothing in Elinor’s hands and dropped the bunch into the bag. See! I’m helping! That means I can help you on the way to the dragon’s domain!

I plucked the clothes out of the bag and shook my head. I think we’ll have to ask Edmond about that. In the meantime- I set the clothes back in Elinor’s arms and moved over to the dresser, -we have some work to do.

Niks zipped over to me. You don’t think I can help! Remember when I saved your life!

I set my hands in the open drawer and sighed. I’m not trying to be ungrateful, but you’re, well, over-exuberant and more than a little mischievous.

Niks puffed out his front and shone a little brighter. Thank you!

I snorted as I dug through the clothes. That’s not really a compliment. Something in the drawer caught my attention, and I reached in and drew out the green and white stones I had been given. But maybe you can tell me what these are.

Niks flitted up to me and hovered over my hand. Where did you get those?

I shrugged. Some sprites gave me the white one and Lady Ione gave me the green one.

They have a great deal of magic in them, Niks mused as he fluttered from one to the other. "

I wrinkled my nose as I set them on the table near the middle of the room. They haven’t helped so far, at least not the white one. I had that with me at Mur and nothing happened, though to be honest it didn’t leave my bag.

Keep them close to you! Niks insisted as he flew up close to my face. They’ll protect you!

At that moment Edmond entered the room and the light from the candles about the area illuminated his pensive expression. At the sight of me, however, his mood lightened and he smiled. I came up to see if you needed any further assistance.

Not when they have me! Niks spoke up as he flitted about us. And I was just giving Emma advice on her stones. I told her she should take them in case she needs their magic.

Edmond lifted an eyebrow. Magic is a fickle friend. These may be more of a hindrance than a help.

Niks flitted over to Edmond and bonked him on the top of the head with his warm body. Trust me! I’ve had this feeling before and it turned out to be true!

Edmond studied our flighty friend with a curious look. When was that?

Niks flew back a little and cleared his voice. That is, well, it was a long time ago. Very long. I forget the details. Anyway, what time do we leave tomorrow?

The dragon lord kept his focus on the wisp as he nodded at Elinor. She may need your assistance while we’re away.

The wisp’s body flamed up a bit. She didn’t need my help last time! All I did was light her way through the halls so she could sweep the cobwebs out of the corners!

Edmond crossed his arms over his chest and studied our glowing friend with a sharp look. If you travel with us you will have to swear to be silent when commanded.

Niks shot up and bounced up and down through the air around us. I swear! I swear! You won’t hear a peep out of- A look of warning made our wisp companion fall into silence.

Edmond closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose before he raised his head. We leave at first light. I expect you to be at the gates at that time.

And we’ll finish the packing, I assured him.

Niks bobbed up and down before he scooted out of the room. I couldn’t help but smile, but Edmond gave a soft sigh. I wonder if I haven’t made this journey more difficult. . .

I set a hand on his shoulder and shook his head. Nope. After all, it means we don’t have to pack any torches and you can keep both of your hands free.

Edmond chuckled. Then the benefit is worth the risk. He looked past me and at the bed. Did you need any help packing?

No, My Lord, Elinor answered him as she folded and tucked away the last of the clothes, or at least the ones that would fit. She clasped her hands in front of her and smiled at us. Did you need me for anything else?

Edmond opened his mouth, but he gave pause and tilted his head to one side. A sly smile appeared on his lips. I fear you’ll be needed for quite a bit more.

At that moment the sound of a horn echoed over the castle rock. Elinor and my eyes widened, and we looked at each other before we spun around to face Edmond.

What was that? I asked him.

He nodded at the window. Look outside.

Elinor and I scurried over to the window, but I noticed Edmond didn’t follow us. Quite the contrary. He strode toward the door. I half-turned to him. Where are you going?

He didn’t look back as he left the room. To greet our guests.

Emma! Elinor shouted from the window. Come and see!

I cast a scolding look at Edmond’s back before I rushed to the window. Elinor and I leaned out, and I gaped at the sight at the base of the castle mount.

A couple dozen wooden wages were parked around the stony foothills of the keep. Four times more people mulled about the area, casting curious and apprehensive looks at their surroundings. They had brought with them cows, horses, and even a few sheep. The animals mingled with the people to create a busy crowd of curiosity.

The source of the noise, however, came from the gates, and Elinor and I watched the lord of the castle enter the courtyard and proceed to those large battlements. He opened those imposing slabs of wood on his own and revealed a contingent of some dozen of the menfolk.

The man in the lead stepped forward and bowed low at the waist to Edmond. Edmond returned the gesture with use of his head alone and then they shook hands. A hearty laugh arose from their group before they ventured into the courtyard with Edmond leading them.

They moved out of sight, and Elinor and I hurried out of the room and into the hall. We could already here the sounds of their voices as they ventured into the great foyer. By the time we had reached the landing on the stairs the men had taken up residence around the glowing fire.

Edmond noticed us standing in our stupor on the steps, and he hurried over and offered me his hand. May I introduce you to our guests?

I gaped at the people behind him before I returned my attention to him. Where did they come from?

In my morning wing exercises I happened to stumble upon a mess of wagons encamped a few miles inside my domain, he revealed as he swept his eyes over the people. They were the descendants of my people. Having heard the news that the curse was lifted, some of their younger folk decided to make the journey here to see if the rumors were true. I invited them to stay at the foothills and see if they wouldn’t want to settle in their ancestral lands.

Elinor’s eyes teared up and she clasped her hands against her chest. My Lord, what wonderful news! The castle will be brimming with voices and footsteps once again!

He turned to her and smiled. And neither of us will be alone. I most feared leaving you here by yourself. Even Niks would have made a better companion than none.

She shook her head. I will be very content with these new folks, My Lord! And bless the gods for bringing them here!

CHAPTER THREE

The night was pleasantly spent conversing with the humans, and come sunrise the smoke of campfires and din of voices and laughter floated up from the bottom of the hill. I leaned out my window in the early morning hour, eyes bleary but with a content smile on my face.

The door to the bedroom opened and Edmond stepped inside. It’s time we left.

I sighed and turned around to lean my back end against the window frame. Pinch me.

His eyes took on a mischievous glint as he sauntered over to me. Any particular reason why?

I snorted. Only because this feels like it’s too good to be true. Two kingdoms freed and us leaving to free the other one, and now your people are coming back.

His smile faltered a little as he looked out the window at the horizon. We must return from this endeavor to enjoy the latter.

I lifted an eyebrow. You say that like we’re not coming back.

He sighed and his studious eyes fell on me, giving me a look over like this was the last time he’d get a chance. "Sullivan was always the most violent and ruthless of we three. A century of isolation with only that hatred in his