Craved by the Dragon (Stonefire Dragons 8)

Brenna remembered something. "What about the DDA inspector? She's here a few more days and will probably notice the extra patrols."

"She's only here until Killian passes his interview and Lorcan either leaves or agrees to a treaty. Do you think Killian's ready to do his interview with the inspector this evening?"

Shrugging, she answered, "While having more time to prepare is better, I think he should be fine. After all, his dragons have been behaving the majority of the time." She glanced at the clock on the wall. "He should be attempting his first full shift right about now."

Bram raised his mobile phone again. "Then I'm going to see what I can do about Lorcan. With any luck, Ms. Day will be leaving tomorrow morning, allowing us to discover who this Ivy Passmore is and what she's up to without the DDA's interference. If the human is the key to destroying the Dragon Knights in the UK, then I'll do whatever it takes to make that happen." Bram looked at Kai. "Deliver the news to Zain and Sebastian yourself, freeing up Brenna to tell Killian of the change and provide the necessary support."

Some might take offense at the change in duties, but Brenna considered helping Killian as important as any other duty on Stonefire.

They all split up to do their respective tasks. As Brenna rushed out of central command, she only hoped Killian had already completed his first full shift. It was the one thing that had been rocky with his inner beasts, and yet it was the most important. An out-of-control two-headed dragon would cause a panic like no other.

~~~

Killian wat

ched his talons return to fingers for the fifth time as Black tried to console Blue. I know you want to be in control for this, but trust me. I can guide you through it.

Blue huffed. I think I know what I'm doing.

Not enough. If we don't get the shift right, it could end badly.

Tristan MacLeod approached him. "What happened this time?"

"They're still arguing."

"If you don't sort it out, you'll never be cleared by the DDA."

"You think I don't know that?" Killian bit out.

"Look, I know it usually takes months if not years to get a young dragon comfortable and informed enough to shift. But we have hours left, a day at most. So, sort it out."

Taking a deep breath, Killian spoke to his dragons. Enough. At the dominance in his tone, they quieted. Only then did he continue, Blue, I know you want to prove you're as skilled as Black. And one day, I'm confident that you'll take the lead. However, for now, your main focus is working with him and ensuring your own head grows as it should.

The young dragon hesitated. I don't know. Giving in to Black only convinces him he should always be in charge.

Killian spoke up before Black could. I am ultimately in charge, at least until you two learn to work together. I promise you'll have your turn once you're ready. With more practice, I'm sure you can master it. Don't you think so, too, Black?

For a few seconds, Black remained quiet. But he eventually sighed. I think Blue has promise, yes. Even if he is incessantly optimistic about everything. And far too nice.

Ignoring the insults, Killian focused on the blue dragon head. So, let's try one more time, okay?

Okay, Blue mumbled.

Killian blanked his mind and was about to step back to allow his beasts to take control when Brenna's voice stopped him. "Killian, I need to talk with you."

Tristan spoke up. "We're busy, Brenna, Come back later."

Brenna rushed to Killian side. "I can't. Something's happened, and Killian's interview should be happening any time now."

He wrapped an arm around Brenna's waist. "Tell me what's going on."

As she explained about the human and the initial findings on the thumb drive, Killian's frowned deepened. When she finished, he asked, "So it's possible the information on that thumb drive is related to what was used on me?"

Brenna nodded. "Yes, although we won't know for certain until Sid and the other doctors take a closer look."

"However, if it is related…"

She finished, "Then we might be able to return you to normal." Placing a hand on his cheek, she asked, "But is that what you want?'