Page 177 of Kneel Before Me

“How is giving someone twelve orgasms indicative of who should be king?”

Kronos smiled. “The point is to determine who is most fit to rule. You must remember that we are ranked based on our sexual ability.”

Daphne could never forget that.

“While the first challenge is run by the hosts, the second is run by the guests.”

That was intimidating to Daphne. “How so?”

Kronos shrugged. “It is different every Ranking; we will not know what it is until the time comes. All we know is that the guests will choose the winner.”

Daphne pursed her lips. She didn’t want to be in charge of choosing anything.

“The third day provides an opportunity for the people to cast their vote. Every attending basilisk will participate in the final challenge.”

Daphne decided right then and there that she didn’t want to know what the final challenge was. The first one was already terrifying enough.

“It sounds like…a lot,” she whispered.

Kronos’s hands rested reassuringly on her waist. “It is,” he said quietly. “But I will be right there with you.”

Daphne nodded. “Is there anything else I should know?”

“The challenges will be difficult. They are meant to test both guest and host.”

Daphne sighed.

“Each night there will be a gathering in the courtyard,” Kronos continued. “After which we will retire to my chambers. That will give you an opportunity to rest.”

She noticed how he didn’t say we. Apparently Kronos did not require rest.

“Daphne,” he whispered. “What are you thinking?”

It was difficult to put what she was thinking into words. To be honest, Daphne was terrified. But it only took looking at the man before her to know that he would not let anything bad happen over the next three days. Daphne already trusted Kronos in theory. It was time to do so in practice.

“I’m thinking… I’m ready.”

Kronos looked upon her with pride. “As am I.”

He gave her a soft kiss on the lips. They were still intertwined; she was still straddling him. Daphne settled herself against his body, kissing him slowly and without hurry. This was the man she had chosen to guide her through the challenges. This was a man who would do so with care.

Eventually, Kronos pulled away. “It is nearly morning,” he murmured. “We should go.”

The passageway was packed with basilisks, all in a fervor.

“Everyone is so excited,” Daphne whispered.

“The Ranking does not happen often,” Kronos said. “Even the Senecas have come from the sea to witness it.”

“I thought it happened every time the prince chooses a wife.”

He shook his head. “The Ranking can occur during the competition. But only if the Serpent King calls for it.”

“Why did the king call for it this year?”

“He wishes to guarantee Drakon power.”

“But the Drakons are already in power.”