CHAPTER 14: Fate on Fire

Sookie POV

I could feel Eric's lust as our convoy left the airport. It was controlled but I knew this would be a hard night for him, watching my charm and the way I was expected to interact as fae royalty. Deciding it was best to talk to him now I rubbed my hand up his groin gaining his full attention.

"Viking," I pouted, forcing him to grin. "You must trust me… You and I were both born to royalty, tonight we must act it. Don't get jealous, instead show me off bask in the fact others will lust for me knowing I am only yours."

I watched his face and I knew he understood what I was saying when he nodded. He realized I was not a simple human telepath anymore. Fae was stepping out, and I was the forefront of the movement with a specific part to play.

"I want to take you to the room so no one can see you." He grinned, "but I will play your fairy games."

"Oh, we will have our time in the room" I winked before he wrapped his arms around me gently kissing my forehead.

I loved the feeling of his muscular arms around me, but I knew we had much to discuss before our arrival at the hotel. "There are many things we haven't talked about Eric; some can wait others can't. From here on out you need to be a part of my planning process. The only way we win is if we work together and I have left you in the dark… not intentionally, everything has just happened so fast and I wasn't able to explain Cyrus, Xavier, or fae's coming out in full." I smiled gazing into his steel blue eyes. "So, it's time you knew about the things I've been putting together."

"I agree" he grinned.

"For starters, I know everything about your hierarchy. I had to learn it for my position and the treaty but it's something I have studied to determine who my enemies would reach out to. As you are the primary fae liaison, you should be aware that a few trusted vampires have been set in place by Niall over the years to monitor the states we don't feel we can trust. They will begin reporting to you, they currently report to Niall. He said they were all vamps that are connected to you somehow. Oklahoma is one of the few we haven't been able to penetrate, that's why I used the wolf. In Vegas we have Palomino and Thalia is in New Mexico now, after determining California wasn't a threat."

He almost went to speak but sensed I wasn't finished.

"We knew if Xavier were to do anything, he would require the assistance, and I expected him to reach out to the vamps. Freyda or Castro were my top choices, but the addition of Roman is something we didn't see coming and are closely monitoring. I never thought he would involve Cyrus…" I shook my head. "I guess there were worse alternatives, but his desperation makes him more dangerous than the fire prince. He's after all a master strategist, cunning, and obsessive. Cyrus on the other hand knows the consequences. He doesn't just jeopardize himself but the fate of his clan. If any harm were to come to me at his hands it would mean an all-out war on fire. Our clans are also locked into a peace treaty for the first time in history. The only way he could challenge me is if our clans consented, but I highly doubt grandad would do that. If I lost a Brigant would no longer rule over skye."

"How many enemies do you have?" he softly growled.

"There are maybe a handful that I know of, not including Cyrus and Xavier. Each has a file in the locked drawer of the office desk, but I must warn you the files are detailed, and you may not like everything you read. There is another prince, but his intended is more likely to be a problem, there are a couple battlefield rivalries, and Solana's twin Soleera… none of which I rate high as a threat currently, but you should be aware of any potential. Maybe go through them when you get home, as well as the vamp files. You can add anything I missed."

"You impress me my love" he raised his brow, taking my hand in his before my phone rang.

"Hey Boss, I'm in. She took on some extra wolves for her protection detail and I got vouched for. You were right, tall guy wasn't your vamp… He's with her and we are heading to the reception now. Watch your back those two are up to something. We are 10 minutes out see you soon." Porter reported before hanging up.

"Freyda and Cyrus are on the move, seems like he is acting as her "date", the wolf says they are up to something. Why can't they just fuck each other and leave us alone? Things would be so much easier that way."

"Because he wants you my lover, and Freyda will never be anything like you. I know from experience…" He trailed off as if remembering his time trapped in that contract and I could see the pain in his face.

"It's show time Princess" Becker called from the front as our vehicle pulled to a stop along the curb.

Eric POV

I watched as Sookie turned up her charm like switching on a light. It was as if her beauty was amplified. Her eyes were almost sparkling, her tan skin radiated an invisible light, while her mouth had the most delightful sensuous pouty grin. My fangs almost dropped, I'm going to be fucked tonight I though, she was so damn irresistible I might kill anyone that looks at her. "Is that "charm" level ten" I asked with a raised brow.

She laughed, and it was the sultriest sound I had ever heard. "No, this would be level one. Don't worry you'll be perfect" she purred into my ear as the door opened sensing my feelings through the bond.

When I exited the car, I saw Killian behind the door, he was expressionless watching the gathering crowd. I reached in for her hand before she glided perfectly out of the SUV, taking my arm in hers she positioned herself beside me. My future queen I thought as a hush fell over the crowd. Seeing a fairy is extremely rare but seeing fairy royalty out publicly is practically unheard of and they were taking in every graceful movement she made.

"You're looking dapper in your guard uniform Killian." She winked mocking the fairy who didn't acknowledge her, instead he closed the door and took position in front of us leading our way into the hotel. I glanced down at Sookie who whispered through her sexy little grin, "The royal guard way, all business. Killian will be on his best behavior tonight."

They took care of everything, from our room keys to the luggage. We had the entire top floor reserved and it was filled with guards. These fucking fairies are on top of their game I thought as we entered the large room and observed Becker, Jones, and two other fairies take position around the perimeter while Killian dropped back behind us.

Silence fell upon the reception as we entered but it didn't faze Sookie, she smiled scanning the faces in crowd as we glided across the floor. I knew every fucking vamp in here was looking at her with lust and I about lost it when I heard a few fangs drop. All I could do now was roll with it I thought putting on an arrogant grin that said "that's right bitches, she's mine" before the council president approached us.

"Well, well princess Brigant aren't you just enchanting this evening." He grinned taking her in as desire began filling his face. I wanted to rip his fucking head off, but I knew this was what Sookie was talking about in the car.

"She is isn't she" I said with a raised brow and cocky grin looking down at my lover. "Wait until you see her tomorrow when I take her as my wife."

"I have to say Northman I am jealous," he laughed glancing to me. "You are the envy of every vampire in this room right now. I hate admitting it but even I can see you make an exquisite couple. I look forward to working with you Viking king, you and the beautiful miss Brigant." He grinned gazing into Sookie's eyes.

"As do I" I nodded, still wanting to end him where he stood.

"It was a pleasure seeing you again Mr. President" she cooed as the fucking vamps' legs almost turned to jello, if he were human, he would have passed out just from the sound of her voice. It was disgusting how her presence affected him, I hated it.

We made our way through the room and I could feel how much pleasure she was getting out of my suffering. It was like she was taunting me, laughing through our bond. "You better stop that my little fairy vixen this is already hard enough without you enjoying it" I scowled as she smiled up at me.

"I can't help it; I missed your jealousy Viking it turns me on" she winked.

This was a conversation I desperately wanted to continue in our room, but that would have to wait for later.

"Well, well Northman you are finally bringing the delectable miss Stackhouse, I mean Princess Brigant out for us to see. I hope we are not interrupting your conversation." Russel Edgington exclaimed as he approached us arm in arm with his husband Bartlette Crowe. "I mean we have all heard the rumors by now but seeing is believing. I knew you were a special girl" He grinned looking her up and down before Crowe elbowed him.

"Bartlette, tell me how you have made it this long married to such and insufferable fool" Sookie smiled enchanting them both.

"That my dear I do not know the answer to, but what I can tell you is I am a fool for love… something we both have in common" Crowe winked. "Why don't we leave the boys to talk and you allow me the honor of escorting you. There are some Royals dying to meet the infamous Sookie Stackhouse now fairy princess, you don't mind do you Northman?" He glanced to me waiting for permission. It wasn't an idea that I was fond of, but I knew I had to play the fairy game.

"By all means" I gestured holding my arm out leaning down to kiss the top of her head. "I will have Pam bring you a drink lover" Sookie seductively smiled instantly making me regret my decision before I watched her stroll off arm in arm with Crowe, Killian on her heels. I sent Pam off to the bar to fetch a drink, but I couldn't help watching her every move as was Karin.

"She will be fine Northman," Russel laughed glancing between Karin and myself. "We are talking about the human that killed Lorena, and the fairy that ended Compton are we not. King Bill," he snorted, "how that sniveling little twerp ever came to power was beyond me. It makes me wonder what he had on Castro. I would have loved to have seen his death, what did she tell you of it. I heard rumors it was witnessed by wolves in some sort of medieval torture chamber."

"I was there Russel." I stated coldly staring at him.

"You witnessed him commit the blood crime, you watched him drink from her, and you did not end him yourself Viking?" he scoffed, "I find that hard to believe knowing how you claim that one so vehemently. Tell me old friend, it was you who killed Compton wasn't it?" He smirked.

"No, I did not," I grinned thinking about that night. "I won't lie, I wanted to rip him apart myself, but my little Valkyrie ended him in front of us. She is not the same girl she once was Russel." I raised my brow glancing at Sookie working the room with royal elegance, instantly charming those Crowe introduced her to before returning my attention back to Edgington. "It was effortless, he even begged for his pathetic life before she staked him. Sookie was absolutely stunning, covered in blood practically naked dancing on what remained of Bill fucking Compton before I demanded everyone leave and she told me to take her right then and there." I laughed watching his eyes widen with shock and lust. He preferred men but I knew he would appreciate the feral nature of the situation, and shit I wanted to brag a little bit.

"My god Northman you lucky fucking vampire." He grinned patting me on the back. "So, what of the allegations concerning that repugnant ex-wife of yours. I've heard that beautiful fairy humiliated her in more ways than one. Some even said she morphed into a Viking warrior before their very eyes, exhibiting exceptional skills with a silver sword bearing the name "Freyda"." He asked with a raised brow waiting for me to confirm with eagerness.

"All true" I smirked and be both laughed.

"Speak of the devil and she shall appear," Russel pointed to the doorway as my ex-wife and her entourage entered. "I had a bet with Bartlette you would kill yourself within a half century. I'm glad you proved me wrong, I'm sure the rumors of your treatment were true. Tell me friend, did you know of the fairy… you had to right it was what kept you going. Settle another bet for me, Bart thinks if you knew you would have fucked it up."

"No, I did not know" I said coldly, "Looks like you lose again Russel because I probably would have fucked it up, I almost did 100 times thinking she was aging and dying. You saw me at her funeral I was hollow after her death. If I hadn't found out days later when the ascention was complete… I would have killed Freyda just to receive the true death."

"So, it's true, they aren't recognized until the ascention is complete. Do they think she is the one from the prophecy?" He asked in awe, but I didn't hear his words I could only watch as Freyda, Cyrus, and their group that included the fucking wolf casually worked the room slowly mingling their way towards Sookie. That bitch couldn't be dumb enough to start something here I thought as I felt a sudden need to rush to my lovers' side.

"Don't move Viking she is safe here," Edgington smiled holding his dainty arm up. "More of us are working with the fae than you know" he smiled. "Mississippi and Illinois are on board, as is anyone Bart is introducing your fairy Princess to."

"That fairy with Freyda is the fire fae prince." I growled watching his every movement. "He wants Sookie, he broke into our home, threatened her..."

"Oh my," he scowled. "Looks like tonight may turn out to be even more interesting than I thought. Maybe we should head that way Northman, it appears Castro is also on a path to intercept your fairy." He pointed in Sookie's direction as we began walking towards where they were standing.

We just made it to the group before fucking Castro sauntered up.

"Ah Viking it appears you are just in time" Sookie grinned putting her arm around my waist before fairy filling her glass with whiskey, it's going to take me some time to get use to that shit. "I needed a drink she whispered; without it I may kill him. He also has a file…"

I glanced down at her understanding fully what she was saying before looking over to Edgington and Crowe whose interest had been peaked.

Felipe de Castro POV

"Well Northman, I guess congratulations are in order for your newly acquired kingdom." I sneered. "It's ironic how Compton's death benefited you. Originally, I thought it must have been you that ended him, but now I am not so sure." I looked to the magnificent creature hanging at his side. She was more beautiful than ever and knowing the power she possessed renewed my lust to have her. The fucking Viking just had to add that clause to the contract… she should have been mine after he set her aside.

"Thank you" the Viking said coldly, and I could see the rage building in his icy dead eyes.

"I wonder now if you always knew your human would come back to you as a fucking Brigant" I grinned trying to goad him on as my eyes longingly swept every inch of his lover's body undressing her in my mind. "I must say that was an exceptional trade off she looks absolutely insatiable and that divine scent is something I haven't forgotten in all these years." I closed my eyes inhaling deeply before letting out a low grown and opening my eyes. "Tell me Viking she has to be an amazing lover, yes? I thought so often of what it would feel like to take her."

I watched the fury rapidly building inside of him before glancing to Edgington and Crowe whose eyes were on the fairy. It was fascinating watching her tip the drink back finishing it instantly before the fairy guard behind her stepped forward to retrieve the emptied glass. Her now free hand slid up the Vikings chest as she watched me with a deviously sexy grin immediately relaxing him and catching me off guard.

"Mmm yes," she mused. "My Viking and I have no problems when it comes to fucking. We are exceptional lovers." She winked mocking me, I wasn't going to let her play the same game with me she had with Freyda.

"Maybe in your fairy form, but from what Bill Compton said your human form was… um… less than average." I laughed as the fairy guard began to growl but fell silent when she removed her hand from Northman's chest motioning to him with a slight flip of her wrist.

"That is interesting" She laughed seductively. "Bill did love a good story; in fact, I have heard several about you and Freyda… you know in that "special" room he had. What I thought was the most disturbing detail was that Bill often joined you." She raised her brow, "So tell me, which of the two were better lovers!"

"I don't know what you on earth you are talking about fairy" I coldly laughed dismissing her, knowing all the while there was truth behind her words. How in the fuck did she know that? Northman was grinning as were Edgington and Crowe, while the Viking's progeny Pam cackled behind them.

"Surely you remember," she cooed. "All the hours you spent fucking while you negotiated Compton's kingship. Bill got a Kingdom, Freyda got to watch me die without Bill turning me or you abducting me voiding her contract, so why don't you tell everyone what you got Felipe, or should I say what you would have gotten. Something I have now single handedly denied you."

"You are most unexpected Sookie Brigant," I grinned knowing the fairy had me. "Well he did keep you protected all those years. Can you really blame me? I wanted you and I should have had you the moment he set you aside. Louisiana was a headache from the start, a small price to pay for Eric Northman's head after his contract ended. Now that he is a king… I am left with nothing." I laughed at the bewilderment rolling over the old married couple, but the smile on the Vikings face filled me with anger.

"I think we have said all there is to say Felipe" She chimed proudly knowing she had verbally bested me. She was playing the long game and I had profound respect for her skill at it. We'll see if she survives the fairy tomorrow night, I thought already strategizing my next move as I abruptly walked away.

That fairy Cyrus glared as I crossed the room rejoining Tobias Roman at the table.

"You should go meet her Tobias, then you will understand why I am doing this, why I must own her it's my second chance. Just look at her…"

"I have fucking seen her." Roman growled, "She is Venus in the flesh, a goddess. Which makes me question what you plan that much more. Northman is different now… His maker even knew it. Any fool can see the way she looks at him, she has chosen the Viking and to alter her choice would go against the will of the gods. You saw what happened to Ocella when he intervened. She could be the one… the prophecy."

"You and the fucking Viking with your gods and prophecy bullshit. You're in this Roman, get your fucking head in the game. Don't forget what's at stake here." I grinned. "I would hate end that sweet little progeny of yours after I spend many hours making sure you feel the endless suffering she endures before her final death."

"I'm going to kill you and that fucking fairy Xavier if anything happens to Octavia" he hissed before stalking off towards the princess. He was going to be a problem I thought, watching as he cut past Freyda to gain an audience with newest Brigant.

Sookie POV

Killian leaned up whispering in my ear before handing me a whiskey. When the glass was emptied, I nodded giving him the approval to go ahead. Things were about to get interesting I thought learning that none other than Tobias Roman was making an approach and we had potentially viable intel coming in that something was not quite right in New Mexico. I would have to work the gladiator a little differently I thought turning around to face Eric's questioning eyes.

"Bill apparently kept reliable records." I grinned eluding to the information I had shared regarding Castro. The guard swept the house taking his hard drive which took some time to crack his encryption code. We weren't even sure if it was all true, but I rolled the dice and ran with the details after Castro landed the first jab. "what do you know about the gladiator?"

"Tobias Roman" Eric grunted rolling his eyes. "His allegiance was to Appius Livius Ocella he helped set up the contract with Freyda."

"I see... We have new intel from Thalia, Becker will brief you while Killian and Karin come with me." I grinned at my former bodyguard as I slammed my fairy filled glass, tipping my head back as Roman approached me from behind.

I caught a slight curl in the corner of Killian's lip as I handed him the glass and turned around. We had achieved the desired affect and the game was set to be played. I saw a picture of Roman, but it did him no justice I thought as I gazed upon the tall warrior who stood before me – Russel Crowe type right straight out of the movie gladiator – His ancient eyes bore the weight of thousands of battles.

"Viking," he forced a nod watching Eric's face for a reaction that he didn't get.

"Tobias, it's been too long," Eric grinned showing no emotion. "Have you met my lover and future wife, the skye fae princess... Sookie Brigant." Eric motioned to me.

"Oh, the gladiator" I winked at my vampire before turning my attention to Roman. "Come, walk with me. I need to get some fresh air" I smiled taking his arm in mine giving him no opportunity to refuse as I guided him through the balcony doors while Killian and Karin drifted silently behind us.

"Your Viking will not like this fairy" he grinned. "I would not let you out of my sight if I were in his position. I know Northman, he is a selfish creature who cares for no one but himself… that's why Freyda was his perfect match, what he deserved." He trailed off staring at me.

"Maybe you did know him once gladiator," I smiled. "I know your allegiance was to Ocella, a man that tried to destroy my life, but I have to ask could you not now align yourself with the Viking his progeny?"

"I had no choice, I owed him an honor debt that he claimed," Roman growled. "Ocella was no friend of mine and I trust his Viking even less. I don't understand how a creature like that can gain the favor of a goddess… I was told his human lover was weak, helpless, reckless but to survive an ascention you could have been none of those things…"

"In my human life I was all of those things." I smiled taking a sip of my whiskey when Killian handed it to me. "You look at me as if you want to ask something gladiator, you are free to."

"How does a princess get scars on her back like that?" He asked without hesitation.

"Many battles, over many many years. I am not just a princess I'm also a renowned warrior," I grinned as his eyes lit up. "I've been run through with a sword, grazed by an ax blade, and cut by my commanders' knife. I would have many more scars but those I choose to keep as reminders."

"The commander was a skye fae" he asked suddenly realizing he knew the answer, giving me the opening I was looking for.

"Yes, a very un-honorable one. I denied his lust after a battle and he didn't like being refused… I bested him but wear the scar as a reminder to trust no one. I believe you know him actually." I raised my brow, "Xavier commander of the skye fae army, you are working with Felipe de Castro are you not?"

I watched the wave of rage sweep across his face before disappearing, but it was too late he gave me exactly what I was looking for. He is not working with Castro by choice as our intel suggested.

"If you can't trust my Viking, I can guarantee there is no way you can trust Xavier or Castro. So, where does that leave us gladiator?"

He brushed his hand down my arm before glancing to Karin who was now growling. "Maybe you can convince me to trust you goddess" he grinned ignoring the noise coming from my former bodyguard. "Prove yourself and give me something."

All I could do was laugh at his attempt to play in my game, although I had to admit he wasn't all that bad at it for a vamp.

"Mmm, you are playing a game I know all too well Roman, so let's just cut to the chase, shall we?"

"Yes," he smirked. "I prefer the direct approach. I am missing something…"

"A vampire… possibly being held in Vegas" I cut in watching his eyes widen with shock. "This is a matter we are already looking into, but if you are asking for help, I would need to have unwavering allegiance sworn in a blood oath. This is something you must not take lightly as a pledge to me is a pledge to the Viking as well, he is not who you think he is gladiator. He is not his maker…" I smiled, "Take some time to think about what I ask of you, but in the future know that while my lover trusts me, he would not like you touching me it's something you should avoid doing again." I raised my brow before turning to walk away.

"Wait, I will think about your offer an oath like that would commit my loyalty to you. I don't know if I can trust you just as I can see through your fairy smoke screen you do not trust me." He grinned, "But I will give you something… Oklahoma plans on challenging you after the wedding, she has that fairy training her or something."

"Thank you."

As we walked back into the reception I was thinking about that bitch and her fucking pathetic attempt to ruin my wedding day. After all this shit don't I deserve one day of happiness where everything isn't going sideways. Hell yeah I do I thought, I'm not giving that bitch anymore… she has taken enough if she wants to be ended, so be it tonight is the night.

By the time we got back to Eric who was still standing with Edgington and Crowe, I had made up my mind. "Well gentleman it appears this night is about to get interesting" I grinned before downing my endless glass of whiskey twice. "It seems Freyda will be accepting my challenge tonight or not at all, she plans on trying to ruin the wedding and I refuse to give her anything else."

"Did Roman tell you that?" Eric asked with a suspicious raised brow.

"Yes, but our intel was also correct he is not working with Castro by choice."

Eric glanced at Between Killian and Karin who nodded, "I guess if she wants to be ended, make it tonight lover not the day I make you mine forever." He had a feral grin as if giving me permission while Edgington and Crowe glowed positively excited to see the upcoming events, "You'll have one hell of an audience for your show my little Valkyrie."

Edgington cleared his throat and I knew the bitch was approaching. I was going to get the jump on her I grinned slamming a whiskey, handing the glass to Killian before turning around. Eric's arm was around my neck and mine around his waist as the horrible creature slithered up to us.

"Ah Freyda" I greeted her my voice harsh with authority gathered attention from the crowded room. "Have you finally come to accept my challenge." I waved my hand questioningly completely catching her off guard while the room began filling with eager whispers. "You take the opportunity now, because you will not ruin my wedding day." I could hear a low rumble of laughter sweep through the crowd as rage swept over her. She could not refuse now… not after I just humiliated her and made it known there was an open challenge.

"I do she grinned, fifteen minutes the tiger is onsite. Choose your weapons wisely fairy slut…" she scowled letting out an evil squeal that unnerved me for some reason. "Your death will come tonight by my hands and you will never marry your fucking precious Viking." She hissed walking away, but what I noticed more than her extreme confidence was Cyrus. The way he glared at her; his eyes were full of rage.

"Prepare the room for a battle" I announced, "I accept the terms under the blood laws" I smiled as the room erupted in applause.

We silently rode the elevator to our floor, not saying a word until the door was closed behind us. Killian posted outside was waiting the permission to enter. I couldn't help but feel like there was something off, Roman said the fairy was training her but what did that mean. He couldn't possibly make her battle ready is a few days and she can't use magic just as I can't. What part did Cyrus play in this showdown? The more I thought about his part only one answer seemed to possible for Freyda to defeat me. I hoped he wasn't that fucking stupid but the way Freyda crowed about choosing my weapons wisely filled me with the need to prepare for the worst.

Eric POV

Something was different I could feel it in her as we entered the room and she walked directly to the bar pouring a double whiskey before slamming it. When she turned to me grinning the feeling was gone, I wondered if the alcohol was doing something to keep her emotions in check, she was just too damn good at hiding shit I thought.

"Everything will be fine Viking, I'm sure of it" she smiled as she texted a message to the wolf. "Have Killian come in, we need to have a pre-battle drink it's tradition."

I let the fairy in and watched him scurry to the bar, placing two shots in front of each of them. He leaned down and pressed his head to hers, and I fucking hated their connection… but it was beautiful at the same time two warriors embracing before a fight. They took their shots and we headed back downstairs in silence.

Everyone was gathered in the room we had just used for the reception waiting for the "royal rumble". As we reached the entrance, Sookie stopped motioning our group to go in before she turned to me grabbing my collar. "I love you vampire" she smiled before pulling my lips into hers kissing me with a depth I had never felt from her. She was on fire, her skin hot to the touch as she passionately savored my mouth as if it were the last time. Watching her eyes as she released me to walk in, I didn't like the felling It gave me. It felt like a goodbye, a warrior farewell not knowing if they would return from the battlefield.

When I reached Killian, we watched as the smoke transformed her and the crowd gasped at her little magic display.

Her golden hair was intricately braided around a black crown and pulled to the top of her head in a high pony that was a cascade of curls while her face bore a black painted mask across her eyes and a single black line down her chin but It was but her battle gear threw me off. She had a shield and sword but also two iron blades strapped to each leg of her black tactical pants.

"Why does she have iron blades Killian"

"I was going to ask you the same thing Vampire." He winced, "What the fuck did she say to you before I came in. The face paint she's wearing, It's symbolic for her… "the art of war" or some shit."

""Everything will be ok, I'm sure of it" those were her exact words before she texted the wolf. What does that fucking mean I know the book?"

"I don't know honestly I couldn't read it… that was her thing not mine. Are you positive she said, "I'm sure of it"? That doesn't sound like Brigant …" he trailed off.

We watched Freyda enter the room also electing to use a sword and shield which I found peculiar. She had always chosen to fight with knives and daggers during our miserable time together. I never even seen her hold a sword before let alone a shield.

The tiger made his announcement starting the fight and all I could do was watch as Sookie's every attack was countered. The pair spun, dipped, and lunged repelling one another's advances until Freyda's blade caught Sookie's arm and she kicked my fairy across the floor with power she has never had. Something was wrong… I had never seen that bitch fight like a warrior once and now she was besting my little Viking.

I scanned the crowd and caught sight of Castro whispering to Roman whose mouth gaped and eyes grew wide as they darted to my lover before meeting mine holding my gaze. When my phone started blowing up, I tore my eyes from him. It was the same message ten times.

Porter: Freyda still in her room. Boss thought the bitch might try something. Tall blonde fairy asshole MIA. When boss looks at you shake your head no, it's the signal… don't let her down you piece of shit vamp.

That fucking fairy and Freyda were going to die tonight I thought as I texted the wolf back.

Eric: Watch her until back up arrives. Once she is silvered bring her down. Don't fuck up wolf.

Porter: I won't asshole.

"Freyda is in her room," I growled at Killian. "Get some guards up there to silver her and have the wolf bring her down."

He immediately whispered into his radio as Becker and Jones tore out of the room drawing speculation from the crowd as Sookie jumped up from the ground for the second time. She glanced back as I shook my head and I was immediately flooded with grief before the fake Freyda landed a shot to her face sending her flying back to the ground. I couldn't fucking watch this anymore… but Killian held his arm up pointing to Niall fucking Brigant and another fairy talking to Quinn.

"Why would she be feeling grief Killian?" I demanded.

"She is going to have to do something she doesn't want to" he dropped his head.

"STOP THE FIGHT. The queen of Oklahoma has violated the Blood laws and will face the consequences of her actions" the tiger bellowed his eyes never leaving Sookie were a combination of fear and desire. "Skye fae has excepted Fire Fae's offer to settle their grievance in the form single combat rather than go to war."

The crowd was enthralled as Freyda was transformed into the fire prince. Rampant whispering swept the room renouncing Freyda, her attempt to cheat the blood laws, and Cyrus's size vs my lover but everyone was silenced as Sookie dropped to one knee in front a Niall while that fucking fairy Cyrus took a knee in front of the female fairy who accompanied Brigant. Their aura's momentarily glowed Sookie's white while Cyrus's shown red.

"What the fuck is this shit Killian" I hissed. "I am going to kill Niall fucking Brigant, how is she supposed to win, and who is that other fairy."

"I am right there with you vampire" he growled. "she is Cyrus's grandmother, the fire queen Aoife."

As the two fairies took their stance in the middle of the floor, I could see Niall whisper to Aoife, I couldn't hear his words, but his lips said, "have faith, she will do the right thing". What the fuck was he up to.

"You have to stop this Eric" Pam protested, as Karin growled behind her.

"It can't be stopped Killian" cut in. "She has no choice in the matter, it's our way."

"Du är min Valkyrie visa ingen barmhärtighet. (You are my Valkyrie show no mercy)." I yelled not knowing what else to fucking do, I can't lose her not like this. I was about to fucking panic when I felt her calm energy rushing through me.

She turned blowing a kiss before savagely grinning. "Jag höll tillbaka; han är lika bra som död. (I was holding back; he is as good as dead)." That fucking little fairy vixen was playing him the whole time, letting him dominate her, making him think she was weak… I hated seeing her get her ass kicked like that, but I understood the art of war reference now. She was baiting his arrogance before striking.

I glanced to Pam and Karin whose rage filled eyes were fixated on the Cyrus eagerly awaiting the battle to start before I looked back to Killian who was racked with fear.

"Let the challenge begin" Quinn announced stepping back.

"I hope you told your Viking goodbye; Niall is a FOOL… Fire will rule both realms now" he growled charging her as she spun around swinging her sword while avoiding his attack grazing his shoulder in the exchange before retaking her stance. "You vampire loving fucking bitch, you'll pay for that."

He charged her again, leaping in the air but she ran towards him pivoting before jumping twisting in the air as she thrusted her shield into the back of the fairy's head sending him hurling to the ground while she landed like a cat positioned for the next attack. I couldn't help but glance at the gladiator who looked impressed as he watched her understanding the game she had just played.

Cyrus rose furiously charging her again, "I am going to fucking kill you slut and your vampire will be next" he hissed arrogantly before leaping in the air. She ran towards him, dropping to her knees leaning back she slid underneath his body thrusting her blade up slitting him from his navel to his cock before he fell to the floor, frantically trying to hold himself together while she jumped to her feet.

"What was that you were going to do again Cyrus?" she mused flourishing her sword as she circled the seriously injured fairy. "The only thing you have done here tonight is end your bloodline, a Brigant will rule your realm from this day until my last and you are to blame. You failed your people." She said coldly before glancing to his grandmother. "I'm sorry Aoife there is no other way." She told the older fairy who was in tears looking to Niall with fear in her eyes.

Sookie dropped her sword and shield as she walked closer to Cyrus pulling an iron blade. "You have brought this on yourself Cyrus." She smirked at the fairy her eyes were full of pity as she dropped on top of him landing a left hook to his jaw before burying the blade in his chest turning him to pile of glitter. When she looked up our eyes met, and I could feel the lust flowing though her before she grinned turning it off as she stood.

"Skye will not claim the fire realm I declare this on my name as a Brigant. Aoife your bloodline will remain intact. I refuse to punish your people for the acts of an ignorant coward." She announced as we watched the older fairy walk forward embracing her with thankful tears. The fairy prince watched his granddaughter gleaming with pride but I couldn't help think this was part of a test as the older fairy whispered into her ear reminding me of Niall's earlier words.

Sookie put her palms up as Aoife stepped back when the orbs appeared one red and the other white. In stunned silence everyone watched as the white ball absorbed the red, whose color now swirled within her light. When I glanced to Roman, I saw the look on his face and had a feeling we were witnessing something that had never been seen, he confirmed it when our eyes met.

"Our clans are now joined," Aoife announced glowing. "This act of generosity will forever bind us in an era of endless peace." Smiling as the orbs disappeared and she rejoined the fairy prince before they popped away.

Sookie glanced back to me in confusion before the wolf came hurling in the room dragging a silvered Freyda behind him.

I went to go to her, but that fucking tiger held his hands up motioning the crowd to remain where they were and since it was an official event I couldn't move. Forced to watch as Quinn whispered into her ear, I calmed myself, remembering my part until he stepped back brushing the blood off her lip allowing his hand to lingered on her face before she angerly swept it away. I growled dropping my fangs gaining the attention of everyone in the room.

"Enough" my lover commanded before giving me that sensual sexy pout she wore when the night started. "This vampire accepted my challenge openly you all witnessed it." She pointed to Freyda gaining the support of every vampire in the room, "she cheated me out of my claim, tried to end me by deception, and she wronged me in my last life." She grinned as the crowd began feverishly whispering. "Un-silver her she now belongs to me… unless I am misinterpreting the blood laws" Sookie cooed batting her eyelashes igniting a thunderous eruption of laughter.

"Fuck you bitch I would rather be silvered for a thousand years in the dungeons" Freyda groaned as the council members stepped forward.

"I love that idea Freyda" Sookie raised her brow as a wicked smile swept her face. "I would accept imprisonment under the right terms and conditions. This vampire has wronged me in more ways than one… she conspired with the late Bill Compton to stalk, abduct, and torture me which is only the tip of the iceberg." She paused glancing at Castro before returning her attention to the council, "She dishonors Skye fae with her treachery and blatant disregard for the blood laws. I personally demand retribution and request two hundred years imprisonment at my hands. I have a special place just waiting for this creature to call home on the 6th plane. Can I get a formal decision from the council?"

"Kill me now bitch," Freyda growled lunging forward.

Sookie held up her hand laughing "Sit still, death is far too good for a creature like you" and instantly Freyda was sitting on her knees frozen to the floor.

As we waited for the council to finish deliberating, I glanced at Killian, "what do you know of this?"

"Nothing, the 6th plane is the equivalent of hell. I didn't even know she could access it not many can… I can't." He winced, "It's the shit nightmares are made of. Neave and Lochlan used it as a prison before…" he paused, and I knew Sookie had showed him Compton and her past. "Brigant is going total fucking dark side and I love it." He cackled.

"Silence" the council president shouted. "We have come to a decision; the council agrees with Skye fae. The actions witnessed here tonight were not only a blatant disregard of our laws, they were an act of war per our treaty with the fae realm. This was an act of treason… The queen of Oklahoma is hereby stripped of all titles and property. You may take her away and do with her what you will princess, any harm that may befall her is at your discretion." He grinned wildly at my lover who nodded accepting the ruling before she popped away with Freyda only to return minutes later redressed in her beautiful golden gown.

We watched her shake hands with the council charming the fuck out of those fools who were practically drooling hanging on her every word before she turned to walk towards us. I could see the cut on her arm, a split lip, and a bruise on her cheek, but she was fucking radiant.

"Come Viking, take me to the room… I want you right now" she grinned pulling at my tie before I lifted her into my arms.

As I walked to the elevator everyone in that room knew what was happening, lust hung in the air like a stiff fog felt by all, and I was the one fucking this fairy vixen, she was mine. Only the fucking tiger was arrogant enough to attempt to approach me. I dropped my fangs glaring into his purple fucking eyes stopping him dead in his tracks before I took my lover to our room.