Five days later…

Fuck!

Why the hell was he being summoned? Things had been going better. His sleep had improved some since getting an herb draught from the healers. His mind still wandered to the vampire often, but he’d been able to clear his head, to remain more focused, at least during work hours. Alone, at home, was another story entirely but when it had counted, he had been attentive. There had been no more major screw-ups. At least, none that he knew of.

Bay continued to walk towards Torrent’s office. His mind raced, going through each scenario. What could it be?

He sucked in a deep breath as he arrived at the large double doors that lead to his king’s chamber. He knocked, waiting until he was called upon to enter.

Bay walked in, stopping in his tracks when he saw who was in attendance. “Good morning,” he choked out when he finally found his faculties.

“Morning.” Torrent nodded once.

“I’m not sure if you have met Blaze yet.” Torrent motioned to the male in question. King of all four dragon species.

Bay inclined his head. “I have never officially met you, my sire, no.” He shook his head. “It is good to do so now, an honor.”

Blaze held out his hand and Bay clasped it at the wrist. “Let’s make it official then since we will be traveling together.”

Bay’s eyes widened and he nodded once. He had no idea what Blaze was talking about, only that it must be that mission Torrent had referred to the other day. “I am glad I can be of service,” he stated simply, meaning it.

“This is Inferno, my younger brother, Prince of Fire. He will be accompanying us.”

“You are going in Tide’s place.” Torrent didn’t look happy about that fact. “We leave on Monday. The Water dragons were lucky enough to have been selected to accompany Blaze and Inferno on this mission.”

“I am most honored,” he addressed Torrent, turning to Blaze as he finished the sentence.

“We leave on Monday, giving us the weekend to prepare,” Blaze stated.

“You will need to pack for three days,” Torrent all but growled, still frowning heavily. “We are meeting with representatives of the other species to discuss the slayers. We feel that all the species are in danger.”

His heart beat faster and his mouth suddenly felt dry. “All of the species?”

“That’s what I said.” Torrent narrowed his eyes.

“Yes, sire.” Bay inclined his head. “Where are we meeting?” It was like he already knew the answer. Knew without a doubt where they were headed before anyone could say anything. His heart pounded in his chest anyway.

“To Sweetwater,” Blaze said. “We are meeting on vampire territory. It is the most central. They have the most suitable accommodations as well.”

Sweetwater.

Shit!

He was going to vampire territory. To her. To the female with the green eyes. Holy fucking shit!

“Bay!” Torrent snapped. “Are you listening?”

He swallowed thickly. “Yes, apologies!”

“Is there a problem?” Torrent asked. “Do you have something against vampires? If so, I can take Beck in your place.”

“No!” he practically yelled. “No problem. I will be packed and ready. I look forward to attending the meeting. I’m sure the other species will be a big help in eradicating the hunters.”

“A help,” Blaze scoffed. “More like a hindrance. We don’t need help from any of the others. We thought they needed to be informed. If they wish to aid us, then that is their decision and their right, but we don’t need them. We are perfectly capable of dealing with this ourselves.”

“Of course, my lord.” He was screwing this up at every turn. He needed to keep his mouth shut and his ears open. Needed to stay focused!

“You have all the details,” Blaze spoke to Torrent, who nodded. “We’ll see you Monday first light?”

Torrent nodded again. “Good.” Blaze gestured for Inferno to follow him. “Then we’ll head out.”

Once they were gone, Torrent turned to him. “Don’t make me regret taking you on this mission. It is an honor that we were selected to accompany the Fire dragons. The other two tribes were not impressed, I can say that much.” The male finally hinted at a smile. It didn’t last. “Don’t fuck this up. Stay close, keep your mouth shut and do as you are told.”

Bay nodded. “Yes, sire. Understood.” He bristled with excitement. He shouldn’t, but he did. He had already made up his mind, he was going to find the female and find out everything he needed to know. On his off time, of course. There was no way this would interfere with the mission. He’d make sure of that. No-one even needed to know about any of it.