The Wolf King: The Dragon's Cove, #2

By Tammy Bradley

The Wolf King is a saga of The Dragon's Cove.  The Wolf King is a continuing story of Grayson trying to protect his family from the evil that lives in the walls of the castle.  Grayson was given lands from his brother, King Ezra that others have set their sights on.  Grayson is accused of murder based on what his wolf might have done.  His son Mateo is taken by the ghost that he befriends in the walls and his life is threatened.  Will Grayson be able to save his son?  Twists and turns around every corner of this continuing saga.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tammy Bradley
• Release date: Apr 7, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224845743

Book preview

In dedication to my Father Melvin Ray Bradley

I love you and miss you every day daddy. 

Copyrighted: March 10, 2024

Tammy Bradley

The Wolf King

The Dragon’s Cove Saga

GRAYSON WALKED IN THE map room. His brother King Ezra had maps laid out on every table in the room. 

Ahhh, you are here.  Ezra smiled standing up straight stretching his back.

What is all this?  Grayson gestured to the mess.  

I promised you lands for your people Gray.  We need to find the perfect place.  Ezra was in a nervous state as he shifted through the layers of maps.

"Your son is about to be born and this is on your mind?  Grayson chuckled. 

I figured it would keep me occupied.  Ezra fell into his chair.  I don’t remember being so anxious when Salillia was born. 

You were.  Grayson said looking down at the maps.  Grayson pointed at the map and tapped it.  I was thinking about this northern region.  It has a lot of wooded areas and is great for the pack.  I believe it has a lake on it too if I’m not mistaken.

I believe it does, that would be a great place indeed.  It is yours.  I will have it written up for you.  Let me know when you would like to go look it over and I should like to go with you.  Ezra looked up at Grayson.  It will be strange when you leave and not having you close by Grayson.  Ezra rolled up the map and smacked him with it.

Mateo burst into the room and ran to Grayson.  Father! Look, I have wolf ears! 

Yep.  Grayson said pulling on the tips of them. 

Ouch!  Mateo rubbed them and shook his head.

Those are great ears Mateo.  Grayson raised an eyebrow at his son.  With those you should have heard that Uncle Ezra and I were having a conversation, which you should have knocked before entering. 

Yes sir.  Mateo pouted.  By the way, Uncle Ezra Aunt Asia sent me to find you.  Something about a baby.  Mateo said picking up a map looking intensely at the markings.  Ezra looked at Grayson then quickly left the room throwing the map at him on his way out the door.  Grayson looked down at Mateo with a frown.

What?  Mateo shrugged.

You should have led with the information about the baby Mateo. That was important.  Uncle Ezra has been anxious for word on the birth.  Grayson said walking toward the door. 

Sorry Father.  What are all the maps out for?  Mateo asked, looking around the room.

Uncle Ezra and I were looking for a place for us to call home.  Grayson said, leading him out of the room.

I thought this was our home.  Mateo made a face.  He was confused.  Grayson stopped and sat on the stairs with his son.

You know how Uncle Ezra is king of all the dragons and the people in this kingdom right?  Grayson said Mateo nodding.  I am the king of wolf people.  I must build a life for our people.  That will be our forever home and someday will be yours to rule.  Grayson tapped him on the shoulder.

Vada walked up behind them smiling.  Well, you have a healthy nephew.

That is good news.  Grayson said standing.  He looked at Mateo who remained sitting.  Mateo when your mother enters a room you stand.  His tone was harsh.  I believe he woke this morning without his manners.  Grayson said frowning at his son.  Mateo stood and apologized to his mother. 

Mother look at my wolf ears!  He remembered suddenly.

Oh, Mateo those are the best wolf ears I have ever seen.  Vada said rubbing his head.  Grayson noticed how tired she looked. 

It won’t be much longer until our sons arrive.  Grayson placed his hands on her very extended belly and kissed her lips. 

Yes, I am ready.  I am tired of being tired.  Vada put her hands on Grayson’s massive upper arms. 

Why don’t you lie down and rest while Mateo and I go to the market?  Grayson suggested.  She had been up with Asia helping her with the birth of the baby and hadn’t rested. 

Oh, a nap sounds like a wonderful idea.  She said with an exhausted smile.  Before she knew it Grayson had scooped her up in his arms.  She laid her head onto his chest as he carried her to their bed chamber.  Lying her down gently, he took pillows and arranged them to make her comfortable.  Thank you, my love.  Vada said hugging one of the pillows tightly. 

Sleep well.  Grayson tucked a blanket around her and kissed her softly.  Come on boy, let’s get your coat.  He put his hand on Mateo’s shoulder and led him out of the room.

Father, I don’t like it.  I can’t move around in it.  Mateo frowned kicking at nothing. 

We all must do things we don’t like Mateo.  I am wearing mine and I don’t feel comfortable in it either.  Grayson said shifting his shoulders. 

Yes, but you are king you have to wear it.  He pouted sliding his arms into the sleeves.

And you are future king so you must wear yours too.  Grayson said messing Mateo’s hair.  Better put those ears away for now.  As they walked down the street people acknowledged them with bows and curtseys.  They stopped at the vendors to shop and visit with them.  Mateo was given gifts of sweets from the wives of the merchants as they walked along.  You are going to have a stomachache if you don’t slow down with the sweets.  Grayson warned.   Mateo looked at his father and smiled, he was enjoying the afternoon with just him.  Grayson stopped when he saw a beautiful hairbrush lying on one of the tables.  May I see the brush?  Grayson asked, pointing at the one that was made of silver with a pleasing floral pattern engraved into it.  The bristles were soft as he ran his thumb across them.  Would you wrap this one up for me?  I think my wife will love that.  Grayson smiled and handed the merchant his pay.  He turned to check on Mateo, but he wasn’t there.  Mateo!  Where did that boy get off to?  Grayson wondered as his smile quickly turned to concern. 

He is over here with me Wolf King!  A voice shouted from across the street. When Grayson turned around quickly, he saw that a man was holding his son with a knife to his throat.  The man’s face held panic and his body was tense with nervousness.   Fear hit his stomach like hot metal.   

Barrett had been looking for his brother in the market when he saw a crowd building up ahead of them.  He slipped in the shadows between the buildings coming up behind the man who he saw was holding Mateo.  He made eye contact with Grayson and leaned up against a post waiting.  Grayson’s outward appearance was very calm as he addressed the man who held his son’s life in his hands. 

You are wolf.  So, why do you hold my son hostage?  Grayson asked, sniffing the air his silver-tipped fangs showing as he spoke.

Yes, I am wolf!  But I didn’t ask to be.  He was very angry.  He held Mateo tightly with the knife touching Mateo’s neck.  The man was shaking, and Grayson was afraid that if the man made a sudden move, he would cut his son.  I can’t go home my wife won’t let me around my children like this.  The man was dancing around nervously.  She is afraid of me.  I tried to explain to her that I had control of the wolf, but she doesn’t believe me. 

Just let my son go and I will help you.  Grayson stood calmly with his hands together in front of his body in a non-threatening manner. I have a way to release you from your wolf and you can go back to your family.  Just don’t hurt my son.  Grayson’s voice was pleading.  The man stumbled backwards causing the knife nick Mateo’s throat.  Grayson saw blood trickle down his son’s neck.  Barrett noted the sudden change in Grayson’s expression and saw his muscles tense.  In one swift moment Grayson was directly in front of the man.  Grayson saw Barrett grab the knife and swing Mateo out of the way as he moved in on the man.  With one hand wrapped around the man’s neck Grayson shoved the wolf crystal hard into the man’s chest.  Grayson growled into his ear.  Say it!  Tell me you give up your wolf.  Say it!  

The man gripped Grayson’s arm trying to loosen his grip.  He trembled in fear, stuttering his words.  I surrender the wolf!  I do not want it.  Grayson moved his fangs across the man’s throat.  His pulse was throbbing under Grayson’s hand, and he had to fight the wolf in him not to taste the man’s blood.  Grayson moved his fangs against the his neck nicking the skin and his nostrils flared at the scent of his blood.

Barrett saw Grayson open his mouth wide. Your Majesty!  Barrett shouted.  He could see Grayson’s eyes were of his wolf.  Grayson!  Grayson looked over the man’s shoulder at his brother then whispered into the man’s ear.

If you ever come near my family again.  I will kill you.  Grayson said shoving the man backwards.  Barrett spun him around so he could see the knife melting in the palm of his hand leaking out around his fingers onto the ground.  Grayson picked up his son and looked at the cut on his neck.  He wiped away the blood.  Your decisions were poorly made.  This could have been resolved with a simple conversation.  Grayson said turning back to the man who was crying.  Two men from the pack were in the crowd and came up to each side of the man in question.  Just escort him out of the city.  Make sure he doesn’t return.  Grayson ordered.  That doesn’t mean kill him.  He added.  Grayson turned his attention back to Mateo.  Are you ok? 

I’m fine!  That was great!  Mateo was excited and wiggled down from his father’s grip.  Father look it’s Thomas!  He shouted, pointing.  Thomas!  Thomas!  He waved at his friend running toward him.

Grayson tried to stop him.  Mateo!  Wait!  An arrow struck the ground in front of Mateo.  He stopped and looked back at his father.  Grayson leaped over in front of his son as another arrow flew striking Grayson in the back just below his shoulder blade.  Grayson growled as he felt the searing pain.   Barrett slammed his staff on the ground, fire engulfing him.  He stood over Grayson and Mateo with his wings spread wide.  Another arrow spun through the air burning up as it reached Barrett’s fire.  Barrett looked in the direction the arrow had flown.  On top of one of the buildings a man stood his bow readied with another arrow.  His bow was embellished with black feathers and what looked like a wolf’s tail.  To mask his identity, he wore a painted cow’s skull.  He let another arrow fly which Barrett struck down with his sword. 

Father you are bleeding.  Barrett heard Mateo cry out.

Grayson?  Barrett called to his brother with eyes still on the archer.

I’m good.  Grayson coughed.  Barrett could hear a rattle as he spoke. 

I see Cole!  Mateo shouted, pointing at him.  Cole pushed through the crowd to reach them.  He took ahold of Mateo and tossed him to the guards behind him. 

Take him to safety.  Cole ordered.

Grayson stood slowly turning.  He looked over Barrett at the assailant.  Grayson broke off the arrowhead that had exited the front side of his body.  With a bloody finger he pointed at the man who tried to kill his son.  The man pointed back at him while backing up.  Then he disappeared.  Cole ordered guards to search for him.  Grayson spat blood on the ground bending over trying to catch his breath. 

Barrett, we should probably fly him back to the castle.  Cole urgently told Barrett who was still watching the top of the building.   Barrett turned around and closed his wings shutting down his fire. 

I am not riding on either one of you.  Grayson growled looking at them both.  Just let me sit here a moment then I will walk.  Cole pulled up a stool for him to sit on.

Grayson we’ve no time for your stubbornness.  Barrett said noting the severity of his wound.  Grayson started to tetter on the stool losing his battle with consciousness. 

That’s it.  Barrett said and transformed into his dragon form.  Cole opened his wings and grabbed Grayson just as he toppled off the stool.  Straining with the weight of this large man Cole flew Grayson up to Barrett’s back.  Cole looked around to see several dragons guarding them as they readied for flight.  Cole, being gifted with the ice dragon touched Grayson’s body with the tip of his sword chilling him hoping to slow the blood flow. 

Vada and Ezra were waiting for them as they landed.  Cole helped Grayson down then he and Barrett carried him to his bed chamber. 

Mateo??  Grayson moaned as they carefully removed the arrow shaft from his back.  Is my boy ok?

He is my Love.  Vada answered removing his coat.  What happened?  She asked Barrett.  Barrett and Cole filled them in on what happened at the marketplace. 

There was a wolf’s tail attached to the bow like an adornment.  He was definitely targeting Mateo, but I don’t believe he was intending on killing him.  Barrett said, turning his head around to see Ezra who was standing on his blind side. 

Were the two incidents connected?  The guy who took Mateo and the guy on the building?  Ezra asked.

No, the archer was a much younger man.  I think it was merely coincidental.  Now, did the archer take advantage of the situation at hand no doubt.  Barrett shrugged.

Cole, from now on no member of this court is to leave the castle without guards along with them until we can figure out who is behind this.  Ezra ordered.

Yes, your Majesty.  Cole acknowledged.  I sent some men out to investigate who it was, but he has disappeared. 

We figured there would be some resistance to our takeover of the kingdom, but not to this extent.  Barrett said watching Grayson breathe.  They all turned toward the door when a scream echoed through the castle coming from the Great Hall below them.   Ezra, Cole and Barrett ran downstairs and into the room.   A frightened woman pointed to a blood-soaked animal lying on the floor. 

Cole squatted down to get a closer look.  It is a wolf.  He said looking up at Ezra and Barrett.  I don’t think it was ever man and its tail is missing.  Cole stood.

This is not resistance.  This is personal.  Ezra folded his arms across his chest.  Did you see who did this?  He asked the still sobbing woman. 

I saw no one your majesty.  She cried with a curtsey. 

I am sorry you had to see this.  Ezra told the woman as he walked her out of the room. 

When they re-entered Grayson’s room Zane was tending to Grayson’s wound.  Your Majesty.  Zane bowed when Ezra walked in.  I heard Grayson had been injured so I thought I would see what I could do to help.  Zane said adding medicine to the wound.  It’s fascinating, his body seems to have a rapid healing process.  So, I’m sure he won’t be off his feet for long.    Grayson’s eyes slowly opened but it was his wolf seeing through them.  He growled unaware of what was happening.  Grayson tried to rise from the bed, and everyone took a step back not sure what would happen. 

Bad dog. Barrett shook his finger at his brother. 

Ezra smacked him in the chest with the back of his hand.  Really Barrett.

What?  Barrett chuckled.

Vada gave him a disapproving look then climbed upon the bed with him where the wolf could see her eyes.  Grayson, it’s ok.  Listen to me.  You are ok.  Her voice was calming to him.  He slowly closed his eyes again and slept. 

He woke the next morning with his arm wrapped around Vada and Mateo’s feet across his legs.  He remembered what had happened the moment he stretched and felt the pain in his chest.  Slowly, Grayson slid out of bed and pulled on his boots.  As he stood, he held his chest.  Putting on his shirt would be a more difficult task.  With a little grunting and biting his lip he managed.  He saw his crown on the bed post next to Vada but chose not to get it.  Mateo maneuvered over until he was snuggled up next to his mother.  He smiled at his little family then quietly left the room.  Grayson heard laughter coming from the dining hall and decided he would check it out.  Leaning against the doorway he watched as his brothers and Cole were having breakfast and enjoying each other’s company.

Finally, Ezra looked over at him and smiled. Brother! Join us.  Grayson made his way over to the table slowly sitting in the chair.  He snatched a biscuit from Barrett’s hand as it went to his mouth. 

Can’t you ever get your own biscuit?  Barrett asked grinning.

Yours are always so handy.  Grayson chuckled.  I am very hungry.  He added as if he just realized it.  Ezra handed his brother the gravy and watched as Grayson piled food on his plate.  Have you found out who the archer is?  Grayson asked adding jelly to his bread.

No, he seemed to have disappeared.  No one seems to know anything about him.  Ezra said.  Grayson, yesterday someone dumped a dead animal inside the castle.  It was a wolf.  It wasn’t of your pack; this wolf has never been man.  Ezra pushed his food around on his plate.  He laid his fork down before speaking again.  Grayson its tail was missing. 

Grayson looked sharply at Ezra.  This is directed at me then.  But who? And why? 

Father!  Mateo ran into the room grabbing Grayson, causing him to wince.  Are you better?

I am.  He hugged him and checked him over looking at his neck.  Looking good son.

Here sit with me bud.  Barrett said to Mateo and watched him take the biscuit from his plate and start to eat it. Just like your father.

Ezra sat back and tapped his spoon on his plate thinking.  When he looked up, they were all staring at him.  Sorry.  He shrugged.  I have a feeling this is just the beginning.

They all looked to the doorway when Vada stepped in holding her belly.  Grayson.  She cried out.  The babes.  It’s time.  The men stood suddenly, Grayson a bit slower.  Ezra picked her up and carried her back to bed.  Grayson walked right beside them. 

Mateo and I will go find Zane.  Come on Bud.  Barrett said, taking the boys’ hand. 

Hang on I’ll go with you.  Cole called after them and followed Barrett.

Barrett turned to look at Cole.  That will be you and Salillia before long.

Nope.  Cole shook his head.  Barrett laughed patting Cole on the shoulder. 

After laying Vada down on the bed Ezra started for the door.  Good luck to you both.  I will check in on you later.  I have meetings this morning with a couple of the Elders.  He opened the door to leave but turned back to them.  I will send for Thomas to keep Mateo busy today.

Thank you, Ezra.  Vada smiled taking Grayson’s hand. 

Are you ready for this?  She asked her husband after Ezra left.

I am my love.  We haven’t picked out any names for these pups.  Do you have any ideas?  Grayson asked as she squeezed his hand tightly.  She cried out as the contraction came.  Zane and Salillia walked in just as the pain subsided. 

Hi Aunt Vada.  Mother sends her love, and she wishes she could be here for you.  Salillia said, taking Vada’s hand from Grayson.

Alright Grayson out you go.  Zane said, ushering