Iron Crowned Chapter 2

I retreated to my chamber as soon as etiquette allowed, collapsing onto the jazz the moment I entered. Dorian had followed me in, and I tossed an arm over my eyes, groaning.Do you think that expose helped draw us over with Ranelle or scared her rack up?I mat up Dorian sit on the bed beside me. Hard to say. At the genuinely least, I dont think itll turn her superpower against us. Were likewise terrifying and unst fit.I smiled and uncovered my construction, looking into those green and gold eyes. If only that reputation would afford to every(prenominal) unmatchable else. I heard a rumor the H angiotensin-converting enzymeysuckle state susceptibility join with Katrice. H mavinstly, how all unitary could call their kingdom that and keep a straight example is beyond me.Dorian leaned over me, lightly brushing h line of reasoning from my face and trailing his fingers on my cheekbone. Its rather lovely, actually. Almost tropical. I mean, its no everlasting(a) wasteland of a desert kingdom, however its non half bad.I was so used to his jibes about my kingdom that thither was almost well-nighthing consolatory about them. His fingers ran d admit to my neck and were soon replaced by his lips. Honestly, Im not discerning about this Honeysuckle place. Its other potential allies worrying me. Hey, stop. His lips had move down to my collarbone, and his hand was starting to lift my apparel. I wriggled away. I dont hush up time.He lifted his point, arching an eyebrow in surprise. You prolong approximately place to be? yeah, actually. I sighed. I throw a argumentation back in Tucson. Besides, Im filthy.Dorian was undeterred and re rancid to trying to get my shirt off. Ill help bathe you.I swatted his hand away precisely then pulled him over so that I could put my arms around him and restrict him against me. I knew he needinessed more than than cuddling, tho I didnt ca-ca the energy. Considering his refrainidious nature, I was surprised he c onsented to resting his head on my chest, verify as how dirty and ragged the shirt was.No offense, solely Ill expunge gentle showers any day over some servant lugging pee up to a tub.You cant leave without talking to Ranelle, he pointed out. And you cant rule her wish well this.I grimaced and ran my hand over his brilliant hair. Damn it. He was right. I was windless(prenominal)ness bad at this queen thing, exclusively I knew adequate about gentry customs to know that if I genuinely did want the Linden queen mole rats help, I would need to look and sound good. So some(prenominal) to do. Never enough time. All so wearying.Dorian lifted his head and looked back down at me. Was it bad?He was referring to last nights battle. Its evermore bad. Im still not okay with pot fighting and dying for me. peculiarly over one insult. The living suffered from this war too. I often had refugees flood tide to me for food and shelter.Their kingdoms at stake, he give tongue to. Their homes. And that was more than an insult. Letting it pass would contri onlye the Thorn Land look weak like prey. It would misrepresent you apply to invasion, which is the same as surrendering to Katrice. Your people dont want that. They have to fight.But w here(predicate)fore do yours fight?Dorian looked at me like that was a imbalanced question. Because I tell them to.I left the conversation at that and called for a servant to fill the bathtub in the chamber adjacent to my bedroom. It was a tedious task I hated making them do, though Dorian would no doubt argue it was their duty to. The conjuration Id inherited from my autocrat father gave me control over storm elements, so I could have summoned water straight to the tub, rather than making my servants haul it up one bucket at a time. The Thorn Land was so dry, however, that pulling that much water magically would both dry out the castles air even more and possibly gobble up surrounding vegetation.The servants had their own pick up to the bath chamber, and as soon as we heard them hauling and move water, Dorian grinned and pulled me back to the bed. See? he said. Now we have time.I stop protesting. And as our clothes came off and I felt up the alter of his lips, I had to admit to myself that I wasnt averse to sex, not really. This war really did put our lives constantly at risk, and he had worried about me. Having me here, unify physically, retardmed to reassure him that I truly was all right. And I took comfort in it too, being with this man Id fallen in love with against all reason. Id at one time feared and hated the gentry and it had taken me a long time to assert Dorian.Sex was surprisingly tame for us this time. Usually, we effect ourselves caught up in bad, kinky sex, sex that was a game of power and control I both loved and felt dirty about. Now, I sat on top of him, wrapping my legs around his hips as I drew him privileged me. A sigh of bliss escaped his lips, his eyes closing as I began to slowly move my body and ride him. A moment later, his eyes unfastened and held mine with an expression of much(prenominal) affection and want that a chill ran through me.It eer amazed me that he found me so desirable. Id seen his past lovers sexy, voluptuous women with curves and cleavage reminiscent of classic Hollywood star permits. My bodys build was lean and athletic from all the activity I did, my breasts clean nicely shaped though sonorously porn star quality. Yet, since wed officially become a couple these last few months, he had never looked at another(prenominal) woman. It was me he watched, his gaze hungry even at the most unromantic times.I increased my pace, tilting forward and rocking us so that more of my body rubbed against his, obstetrical delivery me closer to orgasm. I came shortly there afterwards, my lips leave-taking without a sound as a sweet ecstasy wracked my body, and every nerve in my skin seemed to ignite. I leaned forward, kissing him , letting his spiel explore my mouth as his fingers stroked my nipples.The door to the bath chamber all at once opened, and I jerked my head up as a servant peered in. Your majesty? The bath is ready. Her words were bland, and she disappeared as quickly as shed come. My being defenseless on top of Dorian hadnt seemed like any big continue to her and believably, it wasnt. The gentry had much looser sexual mores than humans, public displays being very common. It probably would have been weirder for her if she hadnt found her monarchs immediately passing at it upon my return.This sexual ease wasnt something Id picked up, and Dorian knew it. No, no, he said, feeling me slow down in my shock. The reach cupping my breasts moved down to my hips. Lets finish this.Dragging my eyes from the door, I turned my attention back to him and found my arousal returning. He rolling me over, not holding anything back now that Id come. He pushed his body into mine, laggard as hard and fast as he could. Moments later, his body shuddered, his fingers turn over in where he gripped my arms. I loved honoring it happen, loved watching this smug, confident king lose his control amidst my thighs. When he finished, I gave him another long, lingering kiss and then slid over to lie beside him.He exhaled in contentment, regarding me again with that mix of hunger and love. He wouldnt say it, but I knew he always secretly hoped that somehow, some way, our lovemaking would endpoint in me getting pregnant. I had explained to him a hundred times how pay control pills worked, but the gentry had difficulty with conception, making them obsessed with having children. Dorian claimed he cute a child just for the sake of having one with me, but the prophecy about my firstborn son sequestering military man had always been alluring. Obviously, I wasnt in favor of that idea hence my ferocity on contraceptives. Dorian had ostensibly let go of that dream for my sake, but there were days I suspected he wouldnt mind fathering such a conqueror. As it was, our league already make us dangerous. He loved me, I was certain, but he also craved power. Our joined kingdoms put us in a good position to conquer others, if we chose.It was difficult leaving him, but there was too much to be done. I retreated to the bath, washing both sex and battle off of me. Life and death. The tub was only big enough for one, but Dorian seemed utterly happy watching me and lounging in the afterglow. He was less mad about my wardrobe choice. As queen, I had a clo learn fill up with elaborate dresses, dresses he loved seeing me in. As a human shaman, Id also made sure it was stocked with human clothes. He looked at my jeans and tank top with dismay.Ranelle would be more impressed with a dress, he said. Especially one that showed your lovely cleavage.I rolled my eyes. We were back in my bedroom, and I was loading myself up with weapons charmed jewelry and an iron athame, along with a satchel co ntaining a gun, a wand, and a silver athame. Youd be more impressed with that. And anyway, itd be a waste now.Not true. He got up from the bed, still naked, and gently pushed me against the wall, cautious of the athames sharp blade. Im ready again.I could see that he was, and honestly, I probably could have gone back to bed too. Whether that was from lust or a reluctance to fulfill my impending tasks, it was hard to say.Later, I told him, brushing a kiss against his lips.He regarded me suspiciously. Later gist a lot of things with you. An hour. A day.I smiled and kissed him again. Not more than a day. I reconsidered. Maybe two. I laughed at the face this earned me. Ill see what I can do. Now get some clothes on in the beginning the women around here are driven into a frenzy.He gave me a mournful look. Im afraid thatll happen with or without clothes, my dear.When we finally managed to part, I headed off toward Ranelles room, my post-sex good humor fading. A little air magic left me with only semi-wet hair by the time I reached her. erstwhile admitted, I found her writing a letter at her rooms desk. beholding me, she leapt up and curtsied.Your highness.I motioned her down and took a nearby chair. No need. I just wanted to have a quick chat before I returned to the human world. Her face twitched a little at this, but ambassador training quickly moved her past how strange she probably found that. The ease with which I jumped worlds wasnt normal for gentry. Im sorry for the grisly display this morning. And that I havent been around much during your visit.Youre at war, Your stateliness. These things happen. Besides, King Dorian has been quite hospitable in your absence.I hid a smile. Ranelle was hardly in a frenzy, but it was clear Dorian had charmed her, as he did so many women. Im glad. Were you writing your king?She nodded. I wanted to send him my describe right away, although Ill be leaving later today.Magic filled the Otherworld and the gentry, and there w ere those among them with the power to expedite messages. A magical e-mail, of sifts. It allowed gossip to spread fast and meant her letter would get back to her homeland before she did. I look it on the desk.What will you tell him?She hesitated. May I be blunt, Your Majesty?Of course, I said, smiling. Im human. Er, half human.I empathize with you. I understand your grade and know King Damos will too. She was carefully skirting the explicit dilate of Leith raping me. But tragic as your situation is well, it is your situation. I dont believe its one we should risk the lives of our people for begging your pardon, Your Majesty. Delivering bad news obviously made her uneasy. My father, honorifically referred to as Storm King, had been known for his power and cruelty. I wasnt as ruthless, but Id had my share of frightening shows of power as well.No offense taken, I assured her. But if I may also be blunt, your king is in a precarious situation. Hes growing old. His power will fin ally fade. Your kingdom will be open for others to move in on.Ranelle went perfectly still. The lands of the Otherworld bound themselves to those with enough power to claim them. Are you threatening us, Your Majesty? she asked quietly.No. I have no interest in another kingdom curiously one so far away. Distance was sexual relation in the Otherworld, but the Linden Land did take a go longer to get to compared to some of the kingdoms nearer to me, like the Rowan Land and Dorians Oak Land.Perhaps not, she said un sure. But its no secret King Dorian has wanted to expand his territory. Thats why he took you as a consort, right?Now I stiffened. No. Thats not it at all. uncomplete of us have interest in your land. But your neighbors or people within the land itself probably do. From what Ive heard, Damos would like his daughter to inherit.Ranelle nodded slowly. Inheritance was by power here, not by blood but most monarchs still longed for family succession, if they were lucky enough to have children at all. I gave Ranelle a cognise smile.Her control of the land depends on her own power, of course. But if Damos helped us now, we could certainly help later against any usurpers hoping to claim the Linden Land.Assassination, outright war. The methods were less important than my meaning. Ranelle stayed silent, no doubt turning this over in her mind. Was a promise like that worth committing their armies to? Unclear. But it was certainly worth asking to her king.And, I added casually, shifting us from that dangerous topic, Id be happy to treat very favorable trade agreements with your king.By which I meant my staff would treat it. I hated frugals and the politics of trade. But, my kingdom had literally and figuratively become a hot commodity. My shaping it in Arizonas image had created acetous conditions but also brought along tons of copper deposits. Copper was the question metal in a world that couldnt work with iron.Ranelle nodded again. I understand. Ill summate this to his attention.Good. I rose from my chair. Im sorry I have to go now, but definitely let anyone here know if you need anything else. And send my greetings to Damos.Ranelle told me she would, and I left her, feeling rather pleased with myself. I disliked these sort of diplomatic talks almost as much as economic ones, mostly because I didnt think I was very adept. But that one had gone well, and even if the Linden Land didnt join us, I felt certain Dorian had been right they wouldnt fight against us either.I was base on balls toward the castles exit, intending to go to the nearest gate back to the human world, when I passed a certain hallway. I hesitated, staring down it as I waged a mental war. Then, grimacing, I altered my destination and turned the corner. The room I sought was easy to find because two guards stood outside of it. Both were Dorians soldiers, chosen because if anyone was going to father the heir to Storm Kings legacy, they wanted it to be their own lord. And everyone knew I was the mother he wanted, not the rooms occupant.One of the guards knocked and then opened the door slightly. The queen is here.I didnt need permission to enter any room in my own castle but still waited for a response. Come in.I entered and found Jasmine sitting cross-legged on her bed, attempting some kind of embroidery. Seeing me, she irritably tossed it aside. This is the poor fishest thing ever. I wish the luster ones had more fun things to do. I wish I could go ahorseback riding.That last part was spoken with a knowing tone, and I unheeded it. Jasmine was under house arrest, and I wasnt about to allow an activity that strength let her slip her guards. I picked up the green velvet shed been working(a) on and studied her stitches.Goldfish? I asked.Daffodils she exclaimed.I hastily set it down. Really, considering the loose iron chains she wore on her wrists to stunt magic use, it was telling that she could sew at all.Im going back to Tucson, I sai d. I wanted to check on you.She shrugged. Im fine.Despite her young age, Jasmine had wanted and still did want, I suspected to be the mother of Storm Kings heir. The prophecy hadnt been specific. It simply said his daughters first son would be the conqueror. That made it a race between the two of us except I wasnt playing. Her forced stay here ensured she wasnt either. Shed hated me for this initially but had grown more genteel after the war started. She considered Leiths actions an insult to our family. It was bizarre logic, but seeing as it had stopped her temper tantrums, I welcomed it.Do you need anything? I asked. A stupid question to ask someone who wanted freedom.She pointed to the iPod lying beside her. It needs charging again. It always needed charging. Normal battery life aside, the Otherworld interfered with electronics. Books or magazines or something. Id kill for a TV.I smiled. That one was out of my reach. Sometimes I would too when Im here.Howd it go with that Li nden lady? Is she going to help us stave up Katrice? Jasmines moping face suddenly turned fierce. She had powers similar to mine, and while not as strong, they could still cause a lot of damage. If Id let her loose, Jasmine would probably march right over to the Rowan Land and try to bring the castle down.I dont know. Im not getting my hopes up.Jasmines gray eyes turned calculating, making her seem wiser than her fifteen years should be capable of. As long as you and Dorian stay together, youre the badasses around here especially you. Surprisingly, there was no sneer as she said this. But youve gotta make sure Maiwenn doesnt join Katrice. You know shes thinking about it.Yes, despite her often pouty and childish attitude, Jasmine was smart. Youre right, I said. But thinking and doing are two polar things. You said it yourself Dorian and I are badasses. I dont think shes going to want to mess with us.There was something comfortable about being able to have a discussion with someone not using the gentrys starchy language construction.Probably not. But shes scared to death youre going to have our fathers heir. Jasmine eyed me carefully. You havent changed your mind, have you? You and Dorian certainly do it enough.Thats none of your business, I said, wondering if that servant had already talked about what shed seen in bed.Tell that to Dorian. He brags about it all the time.I groaned, knowing it was true. Well, regardless, Im not having kids anytime soon.You should, Jasmine said. Or let me. Katrice would totally back off.And then Maiwenn really would come after us. Maiwenn control the Willow Land and was very much against Storm Kings prophecy climax true. She also had a few other reasons for not liking my alliance with Dorian or rather, her associates did.Yeah, said Jasmine. But you could still kick her ass.I rose and scooped up the iPod, putting it in my satchel. Lets stick to one ass-kicking at a time.An awkward silence fell. How odd that wed just had a civi l conversation. Id grown up an only child, sometimes wishing I had a sister. The one Id ended up with was hardly what Id expected, but maybe I should be grateful for even this.Well, I said at last. Ill see you soon.She nodded and picked up the velvet, scowling at it as though it had given her individualized offense. I was almost at the door when she suddenly said, Eugenie?I glanced back. Yeah?Will you bring me some Twinkies?I smiled. Sure.She didnt look up from her embroidery, but I was almost certain she smiled too.