13. Thalos

13

THALOS

L aia stands before me, the fire casting flickering shadows on her face. Her chest rises and falls with each nervous breath, and I can't help but admire her courage. Killing the dark elf scout was a test, and she passed. But now comes the real challenge.

I lean back in my seat, keeping my gaze steady and unreadable. "You can stay," I say, my voice low and commanding. "But you must do what I tell you."

Her eyes widen slightly, a mix of relief and apprehension flashing across her face. She nods, though her hands tremble as she clutches the hem of her clothes.

"Strip," I order, my voice cold and unyielding.

Laia hesitates for a moment, her fingers fumbling with the ties of her tunic. She takes a deep breath and begins to undress, each movement slow and deliberate. Her hands are clumsy, betraying her nerves, but she doesn't stop.

I watch her every motion, my eyes dark and intense. She's offering herself to me, a sign of submission that I demand from all who wish to stay under my protection. But behind her willingness, I see the flicker of uncertainty in her eyes.

The firelight dances across her skin as she sheds the last piece of clothing. She stands before me, exposed and vulnerable, yet there is a strength in her stance that intrigues me. She’s not just another broken soul seeking refuge.

Irix's laughter echoes in my mind as I recall his earlier words: "You’re too soft, brother." Perhaps he's right because I see things in her that other’s don’t.

I remain silent, taking he all in. Laia's breathing is shallow, her body tense under my scrutiny. Yet she doesn't avert her gaze; she meets my eyes with a defiance that challenges my authority.

"Your duties," I repeat, leaning forward slightly, "will be many." My words hang in the air like a promise and a threat.

She nods again, her resolve firming despite the fear I know grips her heart.

As more of her skin is revealed, the firelight dances across her curves, casting her in a warm, golden glow. She’s beautiful, undeniably so, but I keep a tight grip on my emotions. I can’t afford to let her in—not emotionally. She’s an asset, nothing more.

Irix and Kael enter, their eyes immediately drawn to Laia. Irix’s lips curl into a wicked grin, while Kael’s face hardens, a mixture of discomfort and desire flashing across his features.

“Well, isn’t this a sight,” Irix purrs, stepping forward. Without hesitation, his large, calloused hand reaches out to touch Laia. His fingers brushed over her bare shoulder and trailed down to her waist. Laia shivers under his touch, her breath hitching as her body responds. I sniff the air, and her unique scent slowly permeates the lair.

I take a slow sip of my ale, my eyes never leaving Laia. I watch as Irix’s hands roam her body, his touch possessive, and something dark stirs in my gut. She looks exquisite in my brother’s arms, but I know this isn’t a moment for jealousy. I just need her to be willing.

Completely willing for the three of us to take.

“Kael,” I command, my voice low and steady, “bring her to me.”

Kael hesitates, his eyes flicking between Laia and me. The room seems to hold its breath, the crackling fire the only sound breaking the tension. Kael’s jaw tightens, but he nods, stepping forward to gently take Laia by the hand. His touch is tender, almost protective, as he leads her toward me.

I keep my gaze locked on her, watching every nuanced expression that crosses her face. Her fear is palpable, but so is her resolve. She stops in front of me, her breath coming in shallow gasps.

I reach out, my hand sliding up her side. My thumb grazes the soft skin of her breast, and she gasps, her body trembling under my touch. The sound makes my heart dance in anticipation. Leaning in closer, I brush my lips against her ear, my voice a dark whisper.

“You stripped according to my wishes,” I murmur, “but I can see the doubt in your eyes. I won’t take you unless you come to me with all your heart, body and soul. I require total submission.”

Laia’s breath hitches again, her eyes wide and vulnerable as they meet mine. Her body is tense, caught between fear and something else—something darker that stirs deep within her. She swallows hard, her throat bobbing with the effort.

I keep my hand on her side, feeling the rapid beat of her heart beneath my fingers.

Her lips part as if to speak, but no words come out. Instead, she leans into my touch ever so slightly, a subtle but unmistakable sign of submission but not enough.

Irix’s hands grip Laia's waist, pulling her back against him. His lips press to her neck, his breath hot against her skin. Laia’s head falls back, panting, her body caught between us. I see the struggle in her eyes, the war between fear and desire.

My fingers find her nipples, rolling them between my fingers. Her body responds with a shudder, sending shocks of pleasure through her. Her breathing grows ragged, every gasp a betrayal of her hesitation.

Kael watches from the side, his fists clenched. His face is a mask of restraint. I know he wants her; it’s clear in the way his eyes darken, in the tension coiled in his muscles. But he holds himself back, his self-control wavering as Irix and I toy with her.

My thumb graze against he clit and she let out a moan, her back arching. A small smile tug at my lips and I press my thumb ever so slightly over the small bud.

“Ohhh…” A trembling voice escapes her lips and her legs part a bit more out of her own accord. Irix grabs her nipples forcefully and her knees almost buckle.

I rub her clit, harder this time. She’s wet for me and my brothers. My eyes darken a bit more as honey spills out from her pussy, but it’s not time yet. I want her panting, begging and screaming for me. As she’s about to come, I pull away.

I look at Irix, my eyes sharp. “Enough,” I say, my voice cutting through the tension like a blade. “We have a hunt to prepare for.”

Irix growls softly, frustrated but obedient. He releases Laia and steps back with a smirk. The disappointment in his eyes mirrors my own hidden desire.

I rise from my seat, my eyes locking onto Laia’s flushed, panting form. “Behave while we’re gone,” I say coldly, turning to leave. My brothers follow without another word.