Highness

[plightofsabine]

Sabirah rested her hand on his and squeezed it as she looked up at him.

"Maybe you won't have to 'sway' them. Let the facts speak for themselves. I'm sure they'll come to the same conclusion. In the event they do not, there is still a card on the table."

She really wasn't sure what the reaction would be, but she knew without a doubt, a scandal wasn't something that group would go for. They could just bless off on it and go the easy route. Besides, it would be to their advantage to help Marsdan. As far as Sabirah was concerned, it was a done deal.

"I know this was unexpected, and perhaps I did not give you the time to think this through. I'm sorry for not giving you that opportunity, but I do not regret this," she admitted.

Sabirah nestled close to him, comforted by his scent and the heat from his body.

"Do you honestly expect resistance from the mages college? I think we may have to consider the reactions of the nobles and neighbors instead," she pointed out.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan nodded at the beauty snuggled with him. "While the others may prove bothersome as well, ultimately if the mages back it, the nobles may prove less of an opposition to it."

His hand trailed down her back until he could reach her ass which he cupped and squeezed wantonly, over and over, as if he had discovered a new toy.

He almost sat straight up, "What if we found a suitable husband for you?"

He felt her stiffen against him. "Two ideas come to mind a tournament or a gay husband. One I can enter in as a warrior and the chivalry rules could work in our favor. The other we set clear expectations that he is merely a figurehead, and in truth you are mine."

 

[plightofsabine]

Sabirah didn't enjoy the thought of having a figurehead as a husband. Generally those figureheads eventually thought they had some measure of power. Sabirah wasn't about to run that kind of risk. Even if she was unattractive to him he would eventually attempt to take advantage of the marital bed. No she didn't like that idea at all. She wouldn't be able to control him completely.

Now the tournament on the other hand would be far more feasible. The rules of chivalry were long and complicated but Marsdan was familiar with them all. There were some nobles who seemed to think they were above all others, and they were jealous of Marsdan's position. If he took this route, the relationship had to be concealed at all costs. She wasn't sure this was the best idea either.

What if the mages did give him consent? The worst that could happen was he could be challenged, to prove his worthiness. The rules of Chivalry would still apply. Marsdan could almost see her thoughts as she considered the options.

There was one other option. She could easily just choose him and let the rest be damned. Was it her emotions that were starting to play with her or was she losing her logic?

"I am not going to put a puppet on the throne. That is a disaster waiting to happen. Go to the mages and seek their approval. If we must put on the tournament then so be it. Sooner or later they will have no choice but to accept my wishes."

Sabirah glanced up at him with a smile he knew very well. It was the one she used when she saw her plans come together. It was also the smile that he knew often landed her in trouble with her level-headed and politically strategic father.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan considered the situation a moment then said, "The mages will have over a thousand years of tradition that separates those with magic from the throne. The temporal power linked with the arcane power would be intoxicating, and enticing."

He turned to face her, their noses and mouths separated by little more than a breath. "They do have a point in some regard. Krixeor once was a court mage who married well. His desire for power, both arcane and temporal, forced, or drove, him to become a lich."

His hand caressed her hip as he concluded, "And that memory will be very fresh in their minds. Young men die, while wise men wonder. Mages aren't any different."

"If I consult with them, they may forbid me to pursue you. The consequences are severe enough that disobeying them... Well it has not been done in years."

His memory led back to the last time a mage disobeyed a directive issued by the council, the description of the punishment was horrific. They neutralized the mage's ability to access magic, and the bastard went mad.

His voice dropped so low that Sabirah had to strain to hear him, "That is not a punishment that we can suffer. I would be so fundamentally changed that you would be forced to either have be killed or banish me."

He gave a half grin, "And frankly my choice would be for you to have me executed."

Marsdan kissed Sabirah tenderly for a moment, and he felt his blood beginning to stir for her again. "I better get you back to your rooms, before they launch a Queen hunt for you."

He stood up from the bed and offered Sabirah his hand, "Come, I will take you back via the secret passage that goes to your chambers." He grinned, "Of course you need to be blindfolded."

 

[plightofsabine]

So therein lay the truth. The mage’s council would remain a thorn in her side. Not even in her own palace could she be guaranteed freedom of her own will and she wasn’t going to be denied. She didn’t want Marsdan to suffer the council’s wrath either. Really, as head-strong and stubborn as she could be, she just wanted a life of her choosing.

"I never considered they could actually forbid you doing anything, but I imagine it's a very real possibility." She sighed and considered his points. Whenever one had to conceal anything it was ultimately a lot of work to maintain. Concealing their relationship from the council, while also an option, would only be temporary. They would eventually, somehow, find out.

They would figure it out tomorrow.

Sabirah took his hand and rose to her feet. He was right, of course. Before long, a search would be launched if she didn’t show up. It wasn’t normal for her to disappear, especially from her ladies. Now that her father was dead, so many people would be watching over her, whether it was for her benefit or theirs.

"Come, I will take you back via the secret passage that goes to your chambers." He grinned, "Of course you need to be blindfolded."

“Yes, I wouldn’t really want to know how you manage to get from here to there,” she responded with light sarcasm. Had they a disliking for one another, she would have been more concerned.

Sabirah retrieved the gown and slippers she had abandoned earlier and donned them, lest her ladies were camped out somewhere nearby. Her dark gaze remained fixed on him as Marsdan dressed in a less ceremonial version of his mage’s robes. It was almost a disappointment to watch as he covered himself and she had to smile. She pulled her ebony locks over her left shoulder and allowed him to cover her eyes.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan took a length of silk and tied it around Sabirah's head covering her eyes. As he did so, he kissed her neck. "It is a pretty long walk in tight quarters, and you must be quiet through out the journey. There are many state rooms we will pass."

He led her to a section of the wall that moved easily at his touch and they entered a passage so narrow that Sabirah's shoulders almost brushed both walls. Marsdan had to twist his torso at an angle to pass through. He held her hand as they made their way down one corridor up some stairs, along another corridor, down some stairs, in a route that seemed meandering, but he walked it with confidence and purpose.

Ten minutes or more later he arrived at a panel in the wall and waited, listening. Hearing no one in the room on the other side he cracked the door open and led her inside. He spun her round and round and round, stopping her and then spinning the queen the other way. When she about lost her balance he stopped and removed the blindfold.

"Ta da, like magic you are here," he said smiling.

He held her hand a moment looking into her eyes. The smile started at his eyes and finished at his mouth, "You better go to bed, you have a bad case of bed hair."

Turning he slipped out of the room, and then her apartments without being detected.

 

[plightofsabine]

Sabirah’s hands immediately shot up to her hair as Marsdan slipped from the room. The silk had caused her hair to go awry once it was removed, well, that wasn’t totally the reason, but she wasn’t going to admit the truth even to herself. She even dared to look shocked.

The queen was once again left in silence. Sabirah padded over to the large bed. She stripped out of her clothes and slipped between the comfortable sheets. While her body clearly wanted rest, her mind was arguing. There were so many things that kept her on edge, she laid there on her back staring up at the ceiling for countless minutes until finally, her mind had tired and allowed her some much needed rest.

When she finally stirred, she was well into the morning. Her eyelids fluttered open and she was greeted with a sunny day. Sabirah stretched as she lay there in bed. It took her a moment before the memories of the night before flooded her consciousness. Was it a dream or did it really happen? She closed her eyes momentarily and slid her hands down her body, over the gentle swell of her breasts and across her tummy, lingering, as if the very surface of her skin could speak the truth to her. The moment of silence was broken as she heard the tapping of slippers from the other room. No doubt it was her ladies. As Sabirah rose from the bed, she noticed her clothes had been removed from the floor.

She took her time getting ready for the day. When she moved, she felt the reminder of Marsdan’s presence and a brief smile graced her lips. There was no dream. This was reality. The queen turned and caught a glimpse of herself in the looking glass set above her dressing table. The woman looking back at her had a secret. Once she’d hold on to for as long as it was necessary.

For the time it took for her to be bathed, dressed and readied to meet whatever came next, the activity in the palace had already begun. Sabirah had chosen a silken wrap of crimson. The diaphanous material was layered in such a way there was no opportunity for a roving eye to catch even a glimpse of the supple skin beneath and yet it gave her the silken comfort she desired. Her mane was once again upswept and pinned in place allowing the midnight tendrils to fall around her face. Sabirah walked with her ladies back to the hall and they sat around the table as the meal was served.

The chatter began. Sabirah entertained it because overall, she enjoyed the company of the three.

“Farah, I’m going to have Lord Hadad released tomorrow, so, enjoy the quiet while you can. I don’t recommend you give that man any more of your time. He really was quite lecherous,” Sabirah warned. “The others will be coming back from the front lines, so you will have some decent company before too long. Maybe then you’ll have an opportunity to mingle.”

Minha clapped her hands in delight. “How long will it be until they start returning?” she asked.

“I’m not sure. I know everyone is headed back, but everything takes time when you’re moving large groups of people,” Sabirah answered. “Personally, I’ll be glad to see them all back, myself. Maybe then I can make some decisions and stop worrying about hurting people’s feelings” she added.

“What do you mean? Alia inquired.

“I mean this issue of deciding on a suitable husband,” Sabirah answered.

The three women simultaneously “ooooo’d” like they had been signaled it was the appropriate thing to do in that moment. The excited chatter started again.

“Have you thought about anyone in particular?”

“You need to find some devilishly handsome Lord”

“Good looking is only temporary; he needs to be good in bed too!”

The woman broke out into laughter. Sabirah had to laugh with them. “I have to find someone that is all things and is acceptable to all parties,” she reminded them.

The guards who were stationed around the room seemed more interested in the ladies than the conversation at hand. Sabirah hadn’t forgotten that even the palace wasn’t safe from prying ears. She sighed softly.

Farah tilted her head as she looked at the queen. She noticed a healthy flush to her skin. Farah didn’t say anything about it, but if she didn’t know any better she would have assumed the queen had found her choice already. Perhaps in one of their many conversations, the queen would be more inclined to share her thoughts.

Sabirah did not want to give herself over to another. That simply could not happen.

Meanwhile, in the shadows, another figure lingered within earshot to hear what the women were saying. It wasn’t much to report, but it was enough to stir up some rivalry. The report would have some good information and maybe the concealed figure would get some time off. Surely his lord would appreciate the advanced notice.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan left Sabirah and headed back into the secret passages; instead of heading to his chambers he worked his way down, past the subbasement, past the dungeons, and further still. Through the journey he went through some secret doors, and ignored others.

After nearly an hour of descent, he arrived at a blank wall, which in truth was a portal to dimensional space with an accelerated time. Time there moved one week for every hour that passed in the realm that held the Star Empire. He debated with himself about whether he wanted to go through it or not. It would give him time to train as a swordsman, time he would sorely need if he were to take up arms in his pursuit of Sabirah. Yes he would age while there, and there were spells to offset that aging, but it was a step he once vowed to himself that he would never take.

It was a step that Krixeor and every other lich had taken. Could he step through one door with out looking for additional doors later on? Once he would have easily said yes. Now? Now he wasn't sure.

Would Sabirah be an anchor for him? The anchor that Krixeor didn't have. He took a deep shuddering breath and let it out slowly. "What the fuck, eight weeks won't be so bad."

Casting a spell of immense power which normally would be felt by every mage within a mile, the depth protected the spell and it would not be felt by anyone. The door cracked open with a rumble, when it finally opened he stepped through.

The sun was brilliant filling the sky with a brightness not seen in the Star Empire. The sky was a deep red, not the customary blue and clouds were not to be seen anywhere.

A few hours later he arrived at the village, the sole populace. It was a wretched collection of hovels none of them solid enough to keep out a drop of rain, if it ever did rain. A brief conversation later, Marsdan was being frilled in weaponry by the SwordMaster of Red Waste.

Day by day, week by week, Marsdan's skill with blade and shield increased. The benefit of having a will unmatched by most men, and an intelligence to match, came in handy. He pushed himself to the limit of his mind and body daily. By the end of the eight weeks, he was stronger, faster, and very familiarHe with fighting techniques. Was he a master swordsman? No. But he was very good now.

He returned to the Star Empire, his skin bronzed and muscles rippling like they never had before. Almost immediately he felt the summons from the mages council. He groaned and headed to them, electing to walk instead of teleporting.

When he arrived they elders were already in place, a semi circle of 20 mages, some his equal, others not. His chair was empty and set to the side. One was clearly superior and it was her who spoke.

"You entered the Red Wastes," she said, her voice cold and powerful.

Marsdan recognized the statement and did not bother to reply.

"Marsdan you know that is forbidden."

He looked at her and replied, "No. It is discouraged, and one must have something that will anchor them here in the Star Empire or adjacent realms." With a wave of his hand his chair floated over to him, and Marsdan sat.

"I have such an anchor," he declared.

There was a low murmur at his comment. "What anchor do you have, Marsdan," Tacor, an elderly man to the side asked.

Marsdan knew the question would come, but he wasn't yet sure how to answer yet. He tried to prevaricate by replying, "Nothing in the rules states that I have to reveal the anchor, but the anchor is there."

Aenethea, the most powerful mage, as haughty as she was brilliant, said, "What if we press the issue?"

Marsdan looked at her, "There is nothing to press. You may not force me to reveal my anchor. The only recourse that the rules of the college allow for is my dismissal from the from the college, in essence making me a free mage, beyond the control of this body other than you seeking to kill me."

The voices raised far past that of a whisper or murmur. Generally the voices seemed to be very much against defrocking him. Marsdan took some comfort in that.

"ENOUGH," roared Aenethea. "Prove to us that your anchor suffices, Marsdan. If you can then you are free to pursue the secrets of the Red Wastes."

Marsdan replied, "Very well." He stood and removed his robe showing the collected mages his toned, larger, body. Eight weeks of daily training had wrought a near physical body from his old one. "I went seeking physical training, not magical training. For our war is not done yet, but just beginning. I need to be ready for it, and this is working most excellently."

The council gasped as his robe fell to the floor, the demonstration not quite what they expected. Aenethea looked at him, her mouth open and closed. She collected herself quickly enough, "Yes, I can see they have."

Grabbing his robe, Marsdan looked at the council of elders, "Are there any objections to my continued physical training then? I suspect another week worth should be sufficient, and then I can continue here instead."

Tacor replied for the group, "You will not be challenged again, provided you do not walk to far along the path, Marsdan."

Marsdan bowed, "Please let me know before I get there revered one."

Turning he left the college and headed for his room, donning his robe as he went.

 

[plightofsabine]

Lord Alcor Moren had left his advisory duties for the moment. He had a tall, robust frame that had hardened over time. His lighter skin contrasted with his dark hair and there was a cruel line to his dark eyes. Lord Moren had found himself left behind to tend to the more mundane over watch rather than out on the front lines. Those privileges were given to his other peers, much to his dismay. His duties, along with Lord Stain and Lord Hamed were minimal and left him disgruntled and brooding. This morning however, he found some distraction.

The red-headed kitchen maid that had brought his breakfast was bent over his desk with her skirt hiked up and his pants around his thighs. As he continued pounding into her, the shadowed figure slipped into the room and hung back waiting. When the crescendo had been reached he grunted as he thrust one last time into the maid. When he had finished, he stepped back a half-step and pulled her up by the hair, directing her mouth to his still twitching member.

“Clean it.”

The maid responded. When she was finished, he released her and he pulled his pants back up into place. The maid quickly scurried away.

A mousey figure stepped from the shadows.

“I see your habits remain,” the figure commented.

Lord Moren turned to face the voice.

“Can’t babysit all the time,” he responded casually, walking around the desk that had just been occupied.

“I’ve got some news I thought you’d be interested in hearing.”

Lord Moran took a seat in his chair and steepled his fingers in front of him, his dark eyes flickered up over the tips of his fingers looking at the man. “Do tell,” he responded.

“As you know, the emperor is now dead. It turns out that the would-be queen is now talking about finding a husband.”

“That’s probably a wise move, in her case,” Moren answered.

“Now would be the perfect time to act. The majority of everyone else is away, and she hadn’t had time to negotiate a contract.”

“What’s in this for you, Joss?” Moren asked.

The mousey figure bowed deeply glancing up with a toothy grin, “Just an opportunity to serve you, should you find yourself elevated to a more substantial position?”

Alcor Moren waved the man away. Joss was an annoying toad, but useful for keeping an eye out within the palace. He sat back in his chair awhile, considering the possibilities. It was more likely the queen would turn to the trusted advisors in this matter, but now he wondered how he could insert himself into her direct line of sight. He thought a little longer. He really had no time to waste. She was a woman and could be seduced. Before she became the wiser, he could have her wed, bedded, and breeding. By then, he could hold the power of the empire in his hands and have his lusts sated with whatever he wished. The corners of his mouth turned upward in a cruel smile. He reached for a few pieces of fruit and popped them into his mouth, his mood significantly improving.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan arrived at his chambers where he bathed then dressed in his court robes. The robes were suddenly very tight across his chest. He stood in front of a mirror and looked at the fit. He had always thought he was in decent shape, but now he realized that perhaps he was decent before he was far superior shape now.

He headed to the audience chamber for court a wistful smile on his face as he went. He wondered if Sabirah would like the new look, and if she would like the changes another week of nights there would render.

Inside the audience chamber the day was in full motion already and the normal clangor of petitioners, high born and not, filled the room to a low din. Taking his place among the court advisors he stood next to Aenethea, who whispered, "Are you training with the SwordMaster?"

Marsdan gave her a sidelong glance, then nodded, "But not in weaponry, just physical fitness. The Death Pyramid pushed me to my physical limits, once or twice beyond them. I had to correct that deficiency, his apprentices are still out there somewhere."

She looked at him, "You are going to track them down?"

Marsdan nodded again. "Yes, as much to find his secondary library as to kill them or bind them into submission and tuck them away someplace very far away."

Aenethea touched his forearm and ran her hand up his triceps, and gave it a squeeze. He looked at her trying to discern her intention. She wasn't a bad looking woman, but she wasn't what one would call a raving beauty either. "Handsome" was the word that came to mind. She looked into his eyes and whispered, "A shame it would never work out for us. I like the changes."

Marsdan gave her a warm smile and said, "Thanks"

The morning drug along in a pace that made snails appear quick, and fortunately, or not, he had no cause to speak to the queen directly. His need for her only developed stronger while he was gone. Each night he thought about her as he collapsed on his mat, dreamed about her as he rolled in erotic dreams on his mat. Each sword swing, thrust and block with a shield glimpses of her danced through his head.

As court broke for lunch, he slipped out and grabbed a bite to eat in the gardens. He wasn't avoiding Sabirah, more trying to hide the changes until she could see them in private. While he ate, Marsdan pondered the best way to communicate with Sabirah in private while in public. There were spells of course, but they were too short a duration, 25 minutes at most. There reportedly were a couple rings that would do the trick as well, but they had been lost hundreds of years ago.

He sighed heavily but the last option appeared to be to remake the rings. More time away, more time researching, more time that should be devoted to politics or warring. Or both/

 

[plightofsabine]

The issues were numerous and always recycled. The number of petitioners was never a small one and Sabirah noted each issue with care. Every person was equally important, and it was her responsibility to make sure they were taken care of. By the time lunch had arrived, she was nursing a headache.

As Sabirah headed from the audience chamber Lord Moren had inserted himself in her path.

“My Queen,” he greeted, bowing deeply.

“What can I do for you, Lord Moren?” Sabirah asked.

“I just wanted to offer my sympathies once again in regards for your father’s passing and if you need anything, I would be happy to assist you,” he answered smoothly.

“Thank you, my lord,” she answered. Before she could step around him he stepped in her path once again. She raised both brows and looked at him.
“Is there something else, Lord Moren?”

“Yes, my Queen, is there anything I can do for you? Perhaps see to your midday meal?”

She gave him a somewhat quizzical look. “No my lord, I do believe everything has been taken care of,” she answered. He bowed once again and stepped back as she continued out of the audience chamber.

That was quite strange, she thought. Sabirah shook her head and headed to the office that was almost adjacent to the chamber. Sabirah sat down at her father’s desk and leaned back in the chair. She rubbed at her forehead a couple of times before one of the kitchen staff stepped in with a tray and pitcher of water. The girl curtsied and left Sabirah in peace.

She was missing Marsdan and it had been less than a day. Yes, he was at court, but like everyone else, had a job to do. She would catch a glimpse of each advisor now and again as the petitioners shuffled in and around the hall. Sabirah honestly couldn’t wait until the end of the day, where the activity would die down and things would grow quiet. Maybe she would get to see Marsdan. She hoped to anyways.

Sabirah picked at the food on her plate. She didn’t want much, but she needed something to sustain her through the rest of the afternoon. In the meantime, her secretary walked in.

“Novar, I need to arrange a tournament. Do you think you can do that for me?” she asked.

He looked up from his book, “Yes my Queen, I believe I can do that. What kind of tournament are you looking for?” he asked

“Well, I need a contest of skills. Melee combat, no pikes, lances or other long poles. One would-be killing blow, follow the rules of chivalrous battle. I don’t want injured contestants. I simply want to eliminate and find the winner. One winner gains the right to court the queen…” she explained, chewing on a piece of cheese. “All eligibles, by birth or by title and we may have to wait until everyone starts returning. If you have any questions, make sure you ask.”

Novar did a double look. “Are you sure this is what you want to do? Have you even considered an alliance with another land?”

“Of course I have.”

He glanced down somewhat ashamed for questioning her. “I’m sorry, my Queen, I did not mean to assume to advise you in any capacity.”

“Just take care of the tournament details, please?” she asked, and returned to her lunch as he nodded and stepped out.

The remainder of the afternoon passed like the morning, but in the end, it was a productive day. People went home happy which satisfied her.

 

[a_libertine]

Afternoon court was no more interesting than morning court was, and Marsdan found himself looking forward to the war planning meeting that night. At least then he will be in the same room as the queen.

After the afternoon court, he headed to the old Emperor's chambers for the war planning. He was the first to arrive which was fine, he did not mind the moment of solitude. As the generals filed in they started the meeting and Marsdan raised an eyebrow.

"Where is the queen?"

"She isn't aware of this meeting, Marsdan," General Rayat stated.

"Why not?"

"She would know nothing of this, her father did not educate her in war."

Marsdan gave Rayat a withering look, "I shall return shortly, this meeting is on recess until I return with the queen."

He stepped out of the war chamber, and looked at the guards, "Go summon the queen, tell her the war council has convened."

The guard took off without a word searching for the queen.

 

[plightofsabine]

The queen wasn’t difficult to find; she was still sitting at the desk signing some documents for the mundane business in the palace. Though she probably would wish the guard wouldn’t have found her, the guard was allowed entrance and he appeared before her.

“My Queen, I have been sent to inform you that the war council has convened.” He stood there, bowing low, until the queen looked up and had him rise.

“War council? When did they convene?” she queried.

“Just a few minutes ago,” the guard answered.

Sabirah’s brows furrowed. She put two hands on the desk and pushed her chair back slowly, rising, giving herself a moment to dispel the feeling of annoyance. Sabirah took her time. She wasn’t about to rush in out of breath. The meeting with the war council had not been on the agenda for the day. She would have to address that small detail for the future. She wouldn’t be cut out of the empire’s business because a room full of generals couldn’t get their act together.

When she had arrived to the old chambers, the guards swung the doors open and she strode purposefully into the room and up to the table where she had found herself exploring earlier. This time though, the room was filled with the generals. Her father’s generals. Her dark eyes purposefully met the gaze of each and every person before she chose to speak.

“Good evening, Gentlemen. I believe I am due a situational report,” she begins, taking a seat.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan watched, somewhat amused as Sabirah locked eyes with each of the men in the room until the glanced away from her. The one that didn't glance away, didn't have to, was Marsdan himself. The looked at each other for a moment longer than she had with the generals and it was all he could do to keep his emotions for her to himself.

After she asked for the report, Marsdan nodded to the generals and hit the closest activation button to him. When the other three buttons were pushed the bubble that would keep the sounds contained materialized around them.

Marsdan began, "While it is not quite simple the answer is that it is simple." He grinned at her bemused look and explained. "Most of the army is moving down from the Death Pyramid, taking a circuitous route."

He pointed at the map, "Here, here, and here, portions of the army will peel off of the main body which by law has to stop here. At the end of the month, the army will appear to be broken up, yet it will be within a three day march of reuniting."

His hand waved along a thick black line that ran from side to side of the map, "That three day march puts them all along the Kings Highway, and any point in the empire, and beyond, are readily available to us."

"All we need then is to decide who the target would be."

At that the generals all chimed in each with differing opinions. Marsdan sat, watching Sabirah enjoying being as close as he was. He knew that the time difference impacted him differently than her, he had eight weeks to think about her, and to miss her. She barely had a day.

"Relax gentlemen," Marsdan said. "We all know what the right thing to do is. First we need to secure the queen and then find the rest of Krixeor's liches and kill them. There is no safety for the Star Empire until that time."

Drache, one of the more influential generals said, "That is what you are supposed to do, Marsdan. Find them. Where are they?"

Marsdan nodded, "Yes I am supposed to find them, and no I haven't found them."

Marsdan waved a hand vaguely, "But then I have been very busy with something else. When that is over, then I will focus on the Coven of Bones."

Drache's walrus mustache bristled, "Nothing is as important as finding them, you said as much."

Marsdan looked at him and his mouth twitched. "Drache, even the walls of this old castle know that things have changed and that priorities need to be changed. At this point in time, nothing is as important as securing Queen Sabirah's throne for her. There are plenty of enemies that would wrest the throne and crown from her."

He leaned against the table, "I think much skulduggery done and blood will have to be shed before she is completely secure in her rightful place."

 

[plightofsabine]

Thank goodness Marsdan was here. Inwardly, she felt some relief. His presence helped her maintain some of her calm and it gave her an opportunity to speak with him following the session with the war council.

Sabirah mulled over a couple of items in her head. The emperor had to establish his hold initially. Now that he was gone, she would have to do the same thing. She needed the men close, not off on a witch hunt, if only for a short time. She wasn’t discounting the need to wipe out the lich population; she just had an immediate need. She, as well as every man in that room knew their army would be tested by interlopers hoping to take advantage of any perceived weakness. Before she could gain the security she needed, Sabirah needed buy in by every person in that room.

Sabirah’s gaze swept the room as each spoke up. There were some good arguments on the table.

“Marsdan is right. Everyone will soon know of the emperor’s passing. As the word spreads, I expect some power plays to test our strength and resolve. The one thing we can all agree on is there will be another target and we will secure and expand the empire. We can only do that as long as we are supporting the same goals. I am prepared to move forward with the last emperor’s plans, but I will need your help to make that happen. I need your cooperation and your expertise.”

Sabirah waited to see who would speak first. These men had all been a part of her father’s world and she was just a small part of that. They had no reason to believe her and only time would sort it all out. She, like her father, understood the importance of military might and loyalty. She steeled herself for the comments to come. Let’s see what they would say now…

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan waited as the general's discussed various options of where to bivouac the troops for extended periods of time. The biggest issue was of course how to feed them, and keep them warm if winter comes prior to the campaign beginning. On the plus side the basics were covered, secure the queen then worry about foragng afield when the time was right.

As they wound down the conversation they had a plan, which of course means tehy were ready for the first major event to come along and change it for them. Dismissing the generals Marsdan began to take down the bubble of silence, his eyes avoiding the queen until the door clamored to a close.

He put the bubble back up and watched her patiently, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Well?"

 

[plightofsabine]

“I think I’ve lost some intelligence somewhere,” she commented. “I’m glad they were able to get down to the business instead of lingering in unproductive conversation. The fact I wasn’t informed this council was meeting is indicative of their opinions. I say not informed simply because it wasn’t on my agenda for the day. I find that highly irregular.”

Sabirah was preaching where she had no reason to. Marsdan knew what she was getting at. The young queen rose from her chair and approached him, leaning against the table.

“What do you think of all this?” she asked him.

All she was trying to do was to keep the prosperity growing and keeping the population healthy and productive.

Sabirah looked at Marsdan more closely. There was something... different about him since she saw him last night.

 

[a_libertine]

At that moment in time the last thing Marsdan wanted to do was think. He clasped his hands on Sabirah's hips and lifted her onto the table. His mouth closed over hers, his tongue firing deep into her mouth, betraying the need he had for Sabirah. He pulled her hips forward until her crotch was pressed against his.

He squeezed her hips firmly, while trying to gather the dress up around her ass. "It was absolutely brutal not being able to kiss you today."

 

[plightofsabine]

At first, Marsdan had surprised her. But when his tongue found his way into her mouth and he pressed his hardening shaft against her a muffled moan escaped her, prompting her arms to snake their way around his neck.

"I missed you too," she responded. Every inch of her dress he gathered, exposed more of her long legs. When he had finally worked the fabric up her thighs and around her ass, she felt the coolness of the table of her flesh. Sabirah shivered.

"Since you've mentioned it, maybe we can find some way to make up for the day?"

Sabirah reached up and grasped the fabric of his robes, pulling him down to her as she leaned upward, kissing him hungrily. He had left her with an unquenchable need. She shifted against him. Feeling the fabric that separated their bodies was like a frustrating veil. She knew what lay beneath.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan broke the kiss and flipped Sabirah over, bending her over the table. Flipping her skirt up over her back he prodded her feet apart and almost jammed his hard cock into her wet pussy.

Instead he pulled a chair over and placed it behind her. Sitting behind her he grabbed her ass cheeks and hooked his thumbs in the crevasse between each cheek. He spread her open and kissed he gently at the opening of her womanhood. His tongue pushed into her, forcing it's way deeper lapping her honey straight from the source.

He moved his right hand around between her legs and he clasped her clit between his thumb and forefinger. He massaged her clit while his tongue continued it's assault on her like barbarians looting a capital city.

 

[plightofsabine]

The heat that had been rising within her suddenly broke the surface. His tongue was a force to be reckoned with. All things considered, it wasn’t just his tongue. Sabirah squirmed as his tongue and fingers worked at her hot core. She bit down on her lip and her fingers gripped the edge of the table. It was just yesterday he had opened her and today she felt the rush in her blood.

Sabirah moaned deeply, the throaty sounds of her voice filling the space between them. He sampled of her, tasting her, caressing her, extracting the sweetness she would willingly surrender, to the point her thighs started to shake. Her sensitive clit was already pulsing with life before his fingers found their way to the small, prominent nub and she grit her teeth when the pulses spread outward through her body. In this manner it wouldn’t take much time to push her to her peak.

 

[a_libertine]

Marsdan swatted Sabirah's ass and whispered, "Not yet."

He stood behind her and aimed his cock at her opening. Nestling the head against her he pressed his hips forward the head forcing it's way in. Her pussy was hot and so very tight. Bit by bit he worked his way into her. It was as if he hadn't taken her the night before. Eventually, Marsdan bottomed out and began slicing her in two sawing back and forth.

The juices from her core ran down his length collected at his balls and then thrown off across the floor and chair. He moaned ad he felt her sheath quiver around him. His hips began firing back and forth faster and harder with each stroke.

 

[plightofsabine]

His initial push sent spikes of pain through her and wrested a cry from her lips. Sabirah was still unused to his presence in her body and her muscles protested the deeper he worked into her. By the time he had picked up his pace, though she could still feel the last vestiges of her body’s protest, the pleasant sensations she had experienced the night before began to multiply. His vigor made her catch her breath. Marsdan was quick and powerful and the harder he pushed the more she responded. Sabirah rocked back into each thrust, the impact bouncing her breasts forward and the slap of flesh sounding through the space they shared.

Sabirah arched and tossed her head back with her silken locks spilling down her back. Her lips parted as her breathing quickened to match the pace of the blood that raced through her veins. Those same lips that had tightly wrapped around his shaft the night before expelled her moans as they rose up in her.

Their coupling was more than a moment’s gratification. For Sabirah, it was acknowledging a long-held need and desire for him she had only recently come to terms with. She felt the connection and she hoped he did too. In this moment, right now, she couldn’t think. She couldn’t get past the sensations caused by his virile body. The power collected in his thighs, his hips and his hands would reduce her to a soaked, quivering mess and there was nothing she could say to prevent it. Frankly, she didn’t want to.

 

[a_libertine]

He watched her ass ripple with each thrust of his cock into her. Her body responding to his, as her cries commingled with his grunts of exertion. His cock glistened with her juices and his eyes had problems leaving the spot where he was disappearing inside her.

He knew with a certainty now that she would indeed be his anchor. The reason that he would come back from the Red Wastes each time he went. He could feel more of her than just the parts of her that were wrapped around him. He could feel her heart, almost hear her thoughts. He certainly felt her body as it responded to him.

His balls boiled and roiled, his need to cum growing with every thrust. Each wet slap of his balls against her clit sent a thrill through him that settled back in his balls, forcing his cum a little further up his cock, threatening to over boil, sending his sperm deep into her.

He pulled out before giving in to the urge and rolled her over. Hooking her ankles over his shoulders, Marsdan re-entered her, his eyes locked on hers as he filled her with his cock. His strokes were long and slow, her silken sheath massaging him with hundreds of little hands with each thrust. "Look at me, Sabirah. Keep your eyes open," he whispered hoarsely.

 

[plightofsabine]

Marsdan’s voice vibrated the very air around her and he felt her body start to tense around him. He had effectively pinned her to the table and all she could do is wriggle and squirm. Even then, her movement was hampered as his shaft sunk deep into her time and time again. Her fingers found her nipples and she twisted and pinched at them, feeling the pleasure mounting in the depths of her tummy. Her eyes looked up and were suddenly lost in his.

Her cries mounted as he continued his strokes, the slow build pushing her towards her orgasm. Gods, he was so skilled. When the pleasure had grown as much as it would, he felt Sabirah start to tremble deeply and her body quaked around him. He could see the sudden rush the orgasm washed over her features and he knew he had taken this one from her as much as she gave it to him.

Sabirah, pinned to the table under him and at his mercy, cried out, silenced by the bubble that encased them.