Throne of Scales and Bone

Torin Steele had his fair share of pickings when it came to women, but the Grand Council of Elders wouldn't soil the royal bloodline with a low born female. Or any who didn't obtain the same level of power.
After years of searching in courts for his fated mate and coming out empty, the kingdom could not wait any longer for an heir.
After many meetings and votes the decision was finally made from the Elders. Torin could pick any mateless female dragon, or one low stationed girl that had enough power in her veins to not make him look like a fool.

Ridge Kaelith had made his life simple. Well, as simple as it could get. He told himself countless times he was just fine being the first bonded rider in history, and the first orc to ever leave their mountain villages let alone be Hand to the King. Torin and Ridge had grown up as brothers, but life in the capitol wasn't easy for an Orc. His own kind disowned him, and finding love was practically impossible. That stoicalness drifted when met by a feisty redheaded pirate who melted away the bitterness. Ridge's biggest problem? His brother already had his eyes on her, and even worse, he had to be her escort and guard.

Aspen Leighson had lived a quiet life in her fishing village on the southern shore, until the royal guards came with two witches asking for all girls between the ages of 16-28 who were unmarried, to withstand tests by order of the King.

The cover picture is NOT mine, only the title is that's on it. It was an image I found on Pinterest but dont know who had originally posted it. If anyone does know, I'd love to know that way I can give the proper credit. Thanks!