The sound of meaty thuds and grunts drew his attention back to the fighting males. It seemed that one of the younger of the elite, Griffin, was a real contender and might just garner himself a place in the program. He had always enjoyed the lighthearted nature of the younger male and hoped that he did in fact make the top ten. It was certainly entertaining watching how he exchanged blows and gracefully avoided being hit.
“I am truly grateful to have been given a place in the trial phase of the program.” York needed to tread carefully. Brant was known to have a short temper. York had granted Brant’s younger brother, Xavier, a favor some time back. The agreement was, that York would be given a position in the breeding program in return. The only thing he needed to do was to pass the trials.
Bloodlust.
It was a known fact that a percentage of the vampire population suffered from the affliction. The exact percentage, however, was unknown as vampire/human relations had always been banned. The affliction turned calm, collected vampires into blood crazed maniacs liable to drain a human of their blood within minutes.
Brant nodded, his jaw clenched. His king was impatient as always.
“I think that it would be better if I fought for my place as well. I do not want to be looked down on by my peers. The last thing I want is for them to think that I’ve had an unfair advantage over them. That I’m not worthy to take a human mate.”
His king’s expression remained unreadable. “You do have an advantage and should take it and not worry so much about what others think. You do realize that you could lose your place should you decide to fight?”
York had to hold back a laugh. “Highly doubtful, my lord. I am one of the top elite warriors. There are ten spots available in the program.” He shrugged. “It’s a no-brainer. I’m not worried.”
Brant looked him up and down. “You’re a cocky bastard,” he growled before grinning. “I like that.” Then he looked thoughtful for a moment. “Xavier mentioned that you have wanted a human female and a family of your own. That this has been a dream of yours for a very long time.” His whole expression softened, which was strange to York. His king was never emotional or sentimental. “It’s wonderful…having a son is better than I ever thought it would be. Are you sure that you are willing to risk that? Human females are…” If his expression was soft before, it was positively gooey now and York was tempted to ask his king to stop. He looked just plain freaky with that expression on his face. “My little human is the best. They are full of nonsense, but it will only adds to their appeal. Their scent is out of this world. Right now, you are guaranteed a place. I don’t think I would risk it.”
“Like I said before, there is no risk.” Even now, York felt the adrenaline surge through his body at the thought of a fight. He felt his muscles bunch beneath his skin in preparation. Grinding his teeth, he slammed his fist into his open hand.
“Be my guest but know that should you lose, you forfeit your place.” Brant’s eyes darkened.
“I understand, my lord.” York dipped his head as a show of respect and thanks. He then made his way to where the action was.
The crowds were thick. A male fell to the left of him, his lip split open and his eyes swollen shut, yet he still clawed his way to his feet only to be slammed back down again. York kept on walking, his gaze fixed on the largest of the elite males.
“I thought you had decided that being a pussy was more your style.” Lazarus said, his eyes glinted with humor.
“I eat pussy.” York growled, looking down at his chest and arms. “Nope…no pussy here.”
Lazarus grinned. “I was starting to get disappointed there for a second. My biggest competition, sidelined by choice.”
He and Lazarus were neck and neck for top position in the elite team. They were both big motherfuckers with Lazarus having a few more pounds on him. Where Lazarus beat him in bulk though, he won out on in speed and agility. It just depended on which direction the wind blew as to which one of them would win a sparring bout on any given day.
Sparring was one thing, York looked forward to an actual no-holds-barred fight with his nemesis. He removed his shirt, making his intentions clear.
Lazarus leaned back against the wall behind him. “You would have one up on me though since this would be my second round in less than five minutes.”
York choked out a laugh. “Are you talking about when you punched that poor schmuck a handful of times in the face before he fell down? It must’ve tired you out something fierce.”
Lazarus’ lip twitched. “I’m exhausted.”