A Kiss of Flame (Shadows Eternal #3)

Chapter 6

Chapter Six

London

six days remain to finish his last adventure

L evian floated down the dark stairwell ahead of Barith, the skirt of her purple dress billowing behind her along with the soft scent of her night jasmine perfume. Her dark pink curls were loose around her shoulders, cascading along the front of her wool coat. When they reached the large black door at the base, she took a deep breath and glanced back at him over her shoulder. Barith tamped down his nerves and smirked at her reassuringly.

“I suppose we knock,” she said before delicately doing just that. There was no knob or latch to try—just a solid, ominous black door down the stairwell behind a set of posh shops.

They waited, but nothing happened.

“You’re sure this is it?” Barith asked.

“Of course, I’m sure,” she bit back, knocking again.

Still nothing. Barith leaned over her shoulder and slammed his fist against the door several times, causing it to rattle.

The center of the door twisted and morphed until a face’s vague, silvery essence appeared within. “Who knocks?” the door asked in a deep, gruff voice.

“Levian Myrddin and my companion, Barith McCroy,” she replied.

“Welcome,” the door greeted them flatly. “As guests of Kamár, a secret must be offered.” A glowing ring of white runes appeared around them on the ground.

“Isn’t that clever,” Levian huffed. She turned to Barith. “It’s a Revealing Ring,” she explained. “A rather good one, too. It exposes any disguises or glamours and will also know if you lie.”

Barith grunted. “What kind of secret?” he asked the door.

“One of value,” it replied vaguely. “Admittance requires it.”

Levian sighed, her irritation evident. “I’m assuming it needs to be juicy enough that we won’t go blabbing about what we see here?”

“Correct,” the door answered.

Barith leaned closer to the door. They’d come this far. “I know where to find Princess Liora of the Summer Fae— alive .”

“You do ?” Levian gasped, her face alit with shock. Princess Liora had supposedly been killed a century or so before by a sect of faerie rebels seeking to overthrow her father. The princess’s death had nearly brought about civil war in Li’tha, the hidden lands of the Summer Fae. Only it turns out, as Barith had unexpectedly discovered, the princess was not dead but living amongst witches in some small village in the Swiss Alps.

The ring around them glowed and settled. “That is acceptable,” the door said.

Levian stared at Barith in disbelief. “How have you never told me this?” she hissed.

Barith shrugged. “It was a secret,” he pointed out.

Levian made a sour face. “Well, now the Eldreth have it to hold over your head,” she grumbled.

He didn’t much care. He figured it would satisfy the door. “Your turn,” he told her.

Levian sighed, then narrowed her eyes on him. “Cover your ears,” she ordered.

Barith shot her a look. “Ye heard mine,” he argued.

She cocked an eyebrow, her stance defiant. “I didn’t ask you to blurt it out for me to hear, did I?”

With a grumble, he scowled but boxed his hands over his ears. Satisfied, Levian turned and leaned in close to the door. He tried to listen, but all he could make out was her whispered voice—possibly speaking the language of her mother’s people, the dryads.

Levian leaned back, straightening the front of her coat. The ring around them glowed and settled once more as Barith dropped his hands from his ears. “That is acceptable,” the door said. Welcome to Kamár.” The door shimmered, the face fading, and it vanished, revealing a long, pitch-black hallway.

“Are you coming, or will you just guard the door?” Levian taunted, clearly excited, before disappearing into the darkness.

Barith hovered outside. He wasn’t keen on being trapped underground, and he knew that’s where he was headed. The fine, dark purple suit Levian had made for him felt much more suffocating all of a sudden. When he lost sight of the mage in the unnatural darkness, he cursed and followed after her. It was ghastly cold, and his hackles rose. He didn’t need to be a magickal genius to know they were walking through a portal.

“Levian?” he grumbled, unable to see anything. He felt a squeeze around him just as the darkness consumed him. The scent shifted—from spiced to citrus to floral—before all he could smell was Levian’s jasmine perfume. Suddenly, he stepped out of the consuming darkness and into a small elegant room with wood-paneled walls, rich dark blue fabrics draped from the ceiling, and a few tasteful bronze sculptures of a naked fae male and female on the far end. A small fire burned in the hearth, filling the room with warmth and a soft glow.

The tension in him began to rise. They were definitely underground—deep if his instincts told him anything. The mage stood near the fire, already slipping out of her coat. Barith moved closer to help her with her, trying to tamp down his cresting anxiety.

Once she was free of the coat, Barith found himself pleasantly distracted. He hadn’t seen her dress yet, thanks to her coat. It was a beautiful strapless number made of purple silks to match his suit. The bodice sported a very low cut, dipping to her navel, accentuating her small breasts. The ethereal skirts flared about her slim hips and cascaded to her ankles, with two large slits on either side hinting at her long legs. Barith gulped before he could stop himself.

Levian’s eyes twinkled, and she smirked. “It’s rather fine, isn’t it?” she purred, twisting to admire herself.

“Aye,” he replied, his voice a bit hoarse. He cleared his throat delicately. “It is very fine.”

She leaned in close, laying her hands over the lapels of his jacket. The touch made his skin tingle, even through the many layers of fabric between them. “Relax,” she said, her voice honey-soft. “We’re here to have fun, remember?” She winked at him.

Barith knew she was putting on a show for the eyes that were undoubtedly watching them, but that word cropped up in his mind again— companion .

“Vi,” he began lowly, leaning close to her ear, “am I meant to be treating you like more than a friend this evening?” It felt like an odd question, but necessary to clarify.

Levian leaned in closer, her hands running up along his chest. The intimacy made his stomach tense. “It couldn’t hurt,” she whispered. “If you’re comfortable playing the part.”

They’d pretended to be lovers before. Usually, he’d have happily leaned into his flirtatious, charming habits and thought nothing of it, but this felt different—heavier. As Levian’s hands rested on his chest and he breathed in her intoxicating scent, Barith recognized that she was possibly the only person he’d follow into such an enclosed space without feeling like a caged animal. He also knew these moments with her would be some of his last. She’d been giddy about their plans tonight, and he’d been too, so much that he’d only grumbled a few complaints when she’d forced him into his suit. They were about to spend an evening infiltrating an exclusive private club all to get the name of an illegal artifacts broker. It was precisely the type of mission they’d both relished when they’d worked together.

Levian looked as fine as wrapped boiled sweets, and if playing the part of her lover got her closer to her thieves, he’d do it despite the weird heaviness lingering over him. It was likely just nerves from being underground. Plus, he’d wanted one final grand adventure with her, so he might as well lean into it. “Aye, darling,” he whispered back, his voice a low growl. “As long as ye aren’t going to hex me for touching ye.”

The mage’s breath hitched, and she pulled away slightly, her cheek brushing against his beard. She looked up into his eyes, then down to his mouth. They had to pretend to be lovers. He could manage that, but now he wondered how far Levian would take their little charade.

The mage ran her hands down his shoulders, and his tail flicked with appreciation. “Whatever gets the job done,” she breathed, her lips inches from his.

His blood heated in reaction. Barith knew Levian was playing the part, but they both loved to one-up each other. “Oh, I can get the job done, lass,” he grumbled, pulling her in so her slender body pressed against him. She fit rather well. Levian leaned back, her seductive expression faltering. Barith smiled smugly down at her. “As ye already know.”

A flare of violet filled her eyes before a dark smile tugged at her lips. “I’ll make you a wager,” she offered.

“Will ye?” he said, sliding his hands to her hips.

Her expression darkened a touch. “Whoever calls chicken or gets the name of our ‘friend’ first wins,” she explained, substituting the word ‘Curator’ to be tactful.

He grumbled. A voice in his head told him he shouldn’t take her bet. Even as a sun dragon, he knew when it was best not to play with fire. Yet he also knew it would seem odd if he didn’t accept; besides, the voice was not nearly as loud as the one telling him to take the mage’s challenge just for the satisfaction of watching her crack like an egg.

“What are the stakes?” he asked.

“I want the mermaid necklace,” she told him. The necklace was one of the rarest gems in his collection. It was a stunningly crafted swirl of delicate gold inlaid with pearls and diamonds.

He grunted. It was one of his favorites, and she knew it. “Fine,” he agreed. “And I’ll have the sapphire necklace back.” Levian had won it from him decades ago in another bet, and he knew it to be one of her favorite pieces.

A wolfish grin spread over her lips as she leaned in, her mouth shy of touching his. “This might be the easiest bet I’ll ever win,” she taunted.

He chuckled. “Aye?”

She nodded, keeping her plump mouth hovering near his. Her finger glowed violet as she traced it over his lips, sending a tingle shooting down from his mouth to his cock. He rumbled a growl, and she laughed, pushing him back playfully before slipping from his grasp.

“Welcome,” a soft voice came from the far side of the room. “I apologize for the delay, but it seems you two have been entertaining yourselves.” A fae with deep olive skin, dressed in a slinky black dress that clung to their slim, muscled frame, stood by one of the bronze statues. Their short, white hair was perfectly swept to one side, accentuating their pointed ears covered in dangling earrings. They smiled coyly and added, “I must apologize for interrupting.”

Levian moved closer to Barith, stroking his arm affectionately. “It’s no bother at all,” she replied.

And they were off to the races, Barith thought.

“I’m Sil, your escort. Would you follow me, please?” The fae snapped their fingers, and a door appeared in the wall between the statues. Sil led them down a long, empty hallway lined with dark green textured paper. “I’m here to offer any aid you may desire,” they added, snapping their fingers again as a door appeared to the left, which they opened immediately, gesturing for Barith and Levian to enter. “Your private room.”

The mage glided into the small chamber, immediately throwing herself over a dark grey settee. The walls were covered in rich blue paper adorned with a silvery star chart and complimenting fabrics draped from the ceiling. A large dark wood wardrobe stood behind the settee, next to a matching chair and an elegantly carved wood dressing screen. A small oblong table covered in decadent plates of fruit, cheese, chocolates, and wine was laid out, which Levian perused. Barith stood behind Levian as Sil closed the door, sealing them in, and he tamped down the impulse to shudder at being trapped further underground.

“As first-time guests, you should know there are a few rules here in Kamár,” Sil explained, crossing to the wall opposite where they entered. “Clear consent is paramount everywhere, including your own room and all common areas. Refusal to comply will result in immediate expulsion and banishment. You are welcome to every chamber within Kamár that reveals itself to you, and your invitation permits you both to stay no longer than three consecutive days with or without the other.

“Only the two of you will be able to find this private chamber—no other patrons are allowed entry, even if invited. It’s your sanctuary, though other rooms are available if you desire additional company.

“If you need anything not contained here, simply step outside, ask the room, and step back in. If the room cannot manifest what you require, call, and I will assist.” Sil motioned to a thick velvet rope that hung along the wall before snapping their fingers. Another door appeared next to the rope. “Magick is allowed but dampened in all of Kamár,” the fae finished. “Any questions?”

Barith had a hundred but couldn’t form any into words.

“Where would you suggest we start?” Levian asked, snatching a truffle from the tray and popping it into her mouth.

Sil’s golden eyes shifted between them both. “I would recommend starting with the pools,” they suggested.

Levian’s brows rose. “Pools?”

The fae smiled before explaining, “They are unique to our current location and rather popular with the members.”

The mage looked to Barith and smiled. “It sounds like we must.” He grunted his agreement.

Sil nodded and snapped their fingers again. “I’ll see it done,” they said, motioning to the wardrobe. “You’ll find suitable options to change into here unless you prefer to go unclothed. Just call when you’re ready, and I’ll escort you.”

Levian thanked Sil, and the faerie gave a final nod before leaving, the door remaining this time. Levian shot up and flew to the wardrobe when the fae was gone. “I wonder what they have here?” she chimed with delight, throwing open the doors.

Barith felt a touch of whiplash at how quickly Levian’s countenance had changed. The seductress was gone, replaced by her usual spirited self. He couldn’t help but smile at her excitement as she sifted through the clothes. She pulled out a long silk robe and held it against her front. It was rather flattering, though not as much as her dress.

“I assume they can hear us in here?” Barith guessed.

Levian tossed the robe over the screen and went back to rummaging. “I’d wager every room is enchanted to record anything a patron might be stupid enough to disclose that the Eldreth could use to their advantage,” she replied.

“Charming,” Barith muttered, surveying the room. It was finely appointed—cozy and elegant. “I’m surprised there’s no bed,” he thought aloud.

Levian paused and looked back at him over her shoulder. “Indeed,” she said. “In need of a nap?”

Barith cocked his head with a smirk. “Not quite,” he replied. “I think my ego might be a bit bruised, though. Apparently, they don’t think I can coax ye out of that fine dress.”

The mage laughed, the sound warming his insides. “I believe it’s to encourage us to participate with the other patrons,” she told him. “I’m sure some of the members have been told a male dragon may be present this evening.”

He huffed a depreciating laugh. “It seems all I’m good for is as a good show horse these days,” he told her.

Levian eyed him. “Barith—” she started, seemingly unsure what to say. “If this?—”

Barith scoffed, her discomfort making him feel like an arse. “Dinnae flap,” he told her, his expression stern. “What good is it to look like this if I don’t get paraded around from time to time?” he teased, hoping to lighten the mood again.

She smirked, looking him over. “You do look rather fine in that suit,” she complimented. “I’m quite proud of myself.”

He chuckled, running his hands down the front of his jacket. “I’m ready to be out of it,” he admitted.

Levian rolled her eyes. “How am I not surprised?” she sighed. “Though it is unfortunate no one will see either of our outfits.” She returned to her rummaging, pulling out a few bathing suits to examine.

Barith wasn’t. He rather liked that he’d been the only one to see her in her fine dress. Well, him and Sil, he supposed. The dragon found his gaze drifting over her slender curves as she rustled in the wardrobe before he caught himself. He needed to keep his focus and not get distracted by Levian, which seems more difficult these days.

“This sounds like I’m doing most of the work,” he said, a hint of smugness in his tone.

Levian turned to face him, amused. “Does it?” she purred.

Barith already knew the plan. They’d discussed it many times. They would flirt, tease, and weasel information from whoever they could until they found their Curator. Though Levian had conveniently left out the part about them pretending to be an item, or maybe she’d just assumed that’s the role they would fall into. Either way, their mission felt like a long shot to Barith, but Levian was confident.

He strolled up and brushed some of her long, soft curls behind her shoulder. “I’m going to win that bloody necklace,” he told her, running a finger along her neckline.

She tilted her head at his touch, and he lifted his finger to run it along her jaw. Levian nipped playfully at the inside of his wrist. A jolt shot through him, and his cock twitched. Barith recoiled, and she laughed triumphantly, tossing something at his face.

“You forget, Barith,” Levian said as he pulled the dark swimming shorts from his eyes. “I am me , and I do loathe losing.”

She pulled a few stringed bits of almost sheer fabric from a hanger before turning her back to him and raising her hair from her back with her free hand. “Do you mind?” she asked.

Barith’s gaze fell on the small buttons along the back of her dress. The room suddenly felt warm and tiny. Perhaps it was for the best there was no bed—he’d rather not be tempted. Not that Levian would ever entertain him in the first place. Not that he should be thinking about her like that at all.

The dragon cursed internally.

Levian felt Barith hesitate, and it filled her with triumph. She hadn’t been entirely sure what had compelled her to make the bet with him, but she felt more and more confident about her chances of winning.

She and Barith had been friends for so long that it seemed ridiculous to cross the boundary into lovers, even if they both found each other attractive. They were each terrible when it came to relationships. It had simply been an unspoken understanding between them for ages that flirting and teasing for the sake of a mission was fine, but indulging beyond that wasn’t worth possibly sacrificing their friendship.

Still, she did enjoy making him squirm. And she found it deeply flattering that he found her attractive, even after all this time. His fingers brushed her back as he went about undoing the buttons of her dress, which she could have easily managed herself with a small bit of magick. It’s how she’d gotten into it, after all.

Levian held the bodice to her front, but inch by inch, she felt his small tugs and the air hit her exposed back. One of his fingers traced along her skin as he worked one of the final buttons just above the ridge of her backside. That touch sent a little skitter of heat cascading around it, and her breath hitched.

“We’ll be here all night at that speed,” she snapped before ducking behind the changing screen. She suddenly felt annoyingly less confident that she would win their bet and blamed it entirely on her lack of recent lovers. The sex deprivation was getting to her, and it seemed satisfying herself wasn’t enough to slake her desire.

Levian felt Barith hovering on the other side of the screen but didn’t look back. “You’re the one that wanted out of the suit,” she reminded him. “I think the shorts will do fine to draw some attention.”

She peeked around the edge when she heard Barith shift. He’d begun unbuttoning his jacket. “I don’t think we’ll need to worry about that,” he replied.

Levian chuckled. “We always could draw attention, couldn’t we?” she mused, twisting a bit of magick around her finger and running it along the last few buttons of her dress to undo them. She dropped the gown to the floor and peeked again around the screen. Barith’s slightly unbuttoned shirt stretched over his muscled chest as he pulled the suit jacket off, and her gaze lingered.

“I meant because you’ll be wearing those scraps of fabric,” he told her, not seeming to notice her peeking. “Though ye’r right about the other, too. We could cause a stir when we needed.” He chuckled, and she dipped back behind the screen with a smirk and threw her dress over the top. The bikini was rather sensual, but it would also be quite effective toward their goal of drawing attention.

Levian took a few steadying breaths as she slid her panties down her legs and reminded herself this was meant to be fun. They were here for an adventure, to catch her thieves, to flirt, to push each other—nothing more.

“We were a formidable pair,” she said, keeping her tone light. “When we got along.” Barith laughed, his pants audibly hitting the settee. She forced herself not to peek.

“Do ye remember when we snuck into that fae party and faked a row so Sirus could help that High Fae Lady escape?” he asked.

Levian snorted. “I don’t think Sirus was helping her escape,” she corrected. “I think Sirus and the Lady were having an affair. If you recall, she showed back up looking a touch rumpled.”

“No,” Barith said, shocked, clearly trying to recall the details.

“I’m fairly certain,” Levian insisted as she slid on her bikini. She suspected Sirus’s affair had ended abruptly that night. Not that Sirus had seemed bothered over it or had ever mentioned it.

“I knew he had lovers, but a High Fae?” The dragon grunted in surprise.

Levian cinched her robe and stepped out from behind the screen to find Barith standing in the swim shorts—they hugged his rippled thighs and hung low on his hips. He was so very broad and deeply muscled. His thick chest hair trailed down his ridged stomach before it disappeared beneath the line of his shorts. Barith’s tail lingered behind him, swishing casually back and forth.

She’d seen him similarly under-clothed only days before back in the bathhouse in Berlin, but somehow, he was even more appealing in those little shorts. It was irritating how her body betrayed her and throbbed with arousal.

Feeling a touch vindictive over her visceral reaction, Levian sauntered closer with devilish intent. “Turn around,” she ordered.

“Why?” he growled, though he did as she requested. “Is it too big or too small?”

It was perfect—snug enough to hug his round ass. She mostly wanted to see if a particular fun fact about the dragon still held true. “Stop,” she ordered when his back was to her.

“What is it? My tail fit?”

Levian lifted her finger, coiled with magick, and ran it down his lower back, stroking the top part of his tail. Barith shuddered, his back rippling. “That—is no’ fair,” he ground out darkly.

Levian laughed. “I think it is, darling. All’s fair in love and war, and I will win.”

He turned, his eyes brimming with fire. “You’re not the only one with tricks,” he growled, leaning down. “And if you’re going to play dirty, so am I.”

The mage’s heart fluttered with anticipation at the threat, though she merely rolled her eyes, glided over to the thick velvet rope next to the door, and gave it a good tug to let Sil know they were ready. “Please,” she purred, hoping to get under his skin. “Like any of your moves would work on me. I’ve seen them all, remember?”