FOREVER KNIGHTS: #5 Subjugation of Beasts
What Meralee Is

“I haven’t had to do it afore!” Bast defended. “I say what comes to mind. I know how to be nothing but straightforward in what I want.”

In everything.

“You need to hold that in check.” Lucien suggested.

Bast’s nose wrinkled.

“It requires precision.” Lucien made a circular gesture with his fingers.

“Like a chess match?”

“Like checkmate.”

“I like the sound of that!”

This may take a while.

“That’s precisely the kind of thing you need not to say.”

“Delicious.” Bast nodded. “I think I have it.”

No, you most certainly do not.

Lucien eyed him askance. “Well, you’ve the journey back to WaterRose to practice…You may need it.”

You’ll definitely need it.

“Your confidence in me is overwhelming.” Bast said dryly.

“These are skills you’ve never had to hone. You’ve a pretty face.” Lucien knuckled his friend’s square chin. “But no charm atall.”

Bast looked affronted. “I feel as though I should call you out.”

“You can.” Lucien shrugged. “But I’m a better strategist then you.”

“But I’m a better fighter.”

“You’re impulsive.”

“I’m strong.”

Lucien’s glance skid sideways. “I could outmaneuver you.”

I think.

“We will challenge that one day.” Bast’s chin hitched. His eyes narrowed.

Not if I may avoid it.

Lucien chuckled. “Now go away before my ‘pretty prey’ spots you. It will disgust me to watch her drool on your frilled tunic.”

“It’s understandable that you envy my tastes.” Bast plucked at his sleeve. Giving Lucien’s black, metal beaded tunic a derisive glance.

“Go away.” Lucien whispered.

Truly.

Laughing, Bast turned to leave.

“Bast.” His friend stopped him. “Thank you.” Lucien flashed his hand jeweled with the red ruby.

“I know what it means to you.”

Yes, you’re one of the few that know Ezra gave it to me.

They exchanged a nod.

Bast moved to leave a second time and lifted a finger. “Ah, and one more thing…”

“Yes?” Lucien lifted a dark brow.

“By and by, your pretty prey,” He turned his finger to point to the brunette across the Ballroom. “Is a Watcher.”

“Are you certain?” Lucien gasped.

“Most definitely. She’s shining.”

Lucien’s head whipped to assess her again. Realizing the importance of protecting her. No more lost Watchers.