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Spoils of War (DareToDream and Nightingale)

As he made his rounds, taking his time to stop and talk to each man he came across, Marcus couldn’t help but notice the energy that flowed through the camp. Men were watching men, sizing each other up, sides forming even though their High Knight and Lord were not fighting. The actions the previous night had done some damage, that much was clear, but Marcus couldn’t change that nor would he want to even if he could. Now that he controlled quite a bit of their in-city army, Aquitaine would be forced to play by the rules, at least in public. Marcus was under no illusions that it would stop entirely though; it would simply move to the background and be done more secretly now. He understood this and knew that what they played now was a game of chess, where each man would move his players here and there, trying to get the upper hand. Aquitaine still had the higher numbers at his disposal but Marcus had the heart. His troops actually believed in what they fought for whereas the others simply fought for power. The one unknown were the troops outside the city; he had no idea how many of them were loyal to him. Making a note to have Cedric send one of their men out there to get a gauge on that, he continued making his rounds.

Each man he met spoke of the Goddess and how she had chosen him as her champion, offering her protection during the punishment. He didn’t discourage such talk but he did use it to his advantage, taking the time to joke about the inferiority of Tomas and those that followed him. It was underhanded, he had to admit, but this was a war within a war now and he needed all the help he could get. The more he moved through the camp, the sorer his back became, a fact that wasn’t helped each time one of Aquitaine’s men bumped into him, something that happened quite frequently. One man was even bold enough to slap his hand down on Marcus’s back which almost drew a moan from his lips but he managed to hold it in. By the time he made it to the chow tent for lunch, he could barely stand and gratefully plopped onto a stool to gobble the plate of food. Cedric slid in next too him, taking one look at his pale face, and immediately slid a glass of water to him. “Are you going to make it until tonight, Marcus?” he asked quietly, his voice pitched low so only the two of them would hear. Marcus gave a stiff nod. “The Hounds of Hell couldn’t keep me away, Cedric. Not when Illayna will be there.” He finished his food slowly and then stood, using the table to steady himself. “My cot calls me, I think” he murmured as he gave Cedric a nod and then headed out.

After a much needed rest, the High Knight rose from his bed, noting the setting sun. With a groan, he began to get ready for the night’s events, choosing a loose fitting shirt first, one that hid the bandages well, and a pair of tight pants. Next went the daggers, more strapped on than normal, and his black vest over top, also sporting a hidden dagger or two. Normally Marcus didn’t like being so heavily laden down by metal but the danger had increased in the last days and now warranted it. Strapping his sword to his back, he added a dusk colored cloak, which added a bit of flair to his wardrobe. Next went his boots, a dagger in each and when he was finally done, he left his tent and headed towards the stables to await Cedric and their Lord. They arrived soon enough and after a few fake pleasantries were exchanged the three were on their way, trailed by a contingent of men loyal to Aquitaine. Marcus glanced at Cedric who gave a nod before sending a discreet signal into the shadows. No sooner had their contingent passed before a few additional guards trailed behind, these men loyal to Marcus, there to offer protection. He didn’t think Aquitaine would be stupid enough to attack Cedric and him in public but he was taking no chances.

They were soon joined on the Aurelian streets by other soldiers, these from neighboring kingdoms, all heading towards the palace at a brisk pace. Marcus was soon hailed, the voice all too familiar, and he turned to see the High Knight of Merivale riding towards him. With a nod to Aquitaine and Cedric, Marcus moved away from their group and met his friend at the edge of the road. “Hello Marcus” the man, named Cirac, said. “I see your bravery continues; between last night and today you’re making quite a legend for yourself.” Marcus frowned at that news, wanting nothing to do with legends, but before he could speak the other man beat him to it. “Rumor also has it that Greymere was offered an alliance tonight but turned it down. It’s quite possible they made another enemy as a result. You’re cause is getting harder my friend but I still support you.” With that, Cirac rejoined his own group, never letting Marcus get a word in edgewise. His words were disconcerting on two levels and the knight mulled them over; the legend bit he cast aside since it was irrelevant but the information about the rejected alliance he found very interesting. What role would it play in their future? Since it was an unknown at this point, Marcus rode with the rest of his group to the palace, heading inside once they’d been cleared, all weapons allowed for this particular dinner and the discussion that would follow. The minute he walked through the doors, his eyes began to watch for her, wanting one more glimpse of Illayna before things went sour. His steps were shaky at best, the ride having brought his back pain to the surface again, but he never faltered in his path.
 
Illayna walked with her father towards the stables. She'd grabbed a feminine white cloak and clasped it over her shoulders, Just beneath the skirt of her dress, a slender dagger was strapped to her thigh. She was not going about this unprepared. She mounted, the skirts of her dress pooling over the saddle and rear flanks of the horse. her cloak falling over them like a veil. She sat tall, always the image. Since she was young the temple of the Goddess had sought her, she had represented so well the virtues they required. It was not until her first marking as Acolyte, that Illayna had begun seeing.. speaking, and translating the will of the Goddess. She had done things, no Acolyte before her had. She had been special, and now.. the reasoning as to why, was all around her. Gripping the reigns tight, she rode along side Sir Richard, and King Ulric. As they rode through the gate, a small group of men behind them, she focused on the path before her. Ignoring the gnawing ache in the pit of her stomach, the lightness she began to feel.

The ride was taken in a comfortable silence between the three of them. Illayna enjoying the scene of the country side as they passed through towards the Aurelian Castle. They arrived, amongst others. Dismounting and handing off as was expected of them. Illayna entered into the great hall with a smile upon her face and a soft laughter ringing from her. She had been greeted quite enthusiastically by one of the High Kings noblemen. She smiled, and allowed him to escort her to the dining hall. "My Lady, when we looked upon you last night, I must admit, I was all too shocked to see a woman in armour, and now here you are prim and proper.. what a conundrum you are my dear Princess." She shook her head softly, eyes scanning the room for Marcus. "What good will I be, a whimpering woman when Greymere becomes mine? My father has no sons, nor brothers to pass on his crown, and I'll be damned if I let someone steal it." The man nodded. "Right you are my Princess, but still.. you are quite the conundrum. " She patted his hand softly with hers. "If you're a well read man, then perhaps you'll understand this quote. 'In Alyssians we trust'" A quirky smile came upon the mans face and he seemed to beem with brilliance. " You've read them my lady?" "Of course! Why would I not? Stories about Queendoms do fancy my interest." she teased before politely parting ways to rejoin her father.

She spotted him, Arriving alongside Aquitaine and Cedric, all weapons bared. She smiled to herself. He was a brave soul.. and the poor man must be hurting. She felt for him, and wished she could go to comfort him.. but not just yet, they would have to find time to speak out of eyesight and earshot of that monster. Allowing a hand to remove her cloak she thanked the woman kindly before proceeding to give a warm thanks to the High King for his invitation and to express her sincerest apologies on which the terms resided. It was not hard to find why the High King and his Wife greeted her with such kindness, and warm smiles, before dismissing her with that same kind glow, and her dismissal came with a smile. Where the High King would not favor one Kingdom over another, it did not restrict him from being kind to those whom he knew as well as he did her.
 
The noise in the palace was loud as they made their way down the main hallway, eyes following their every movement, focused mainly on Lord Aquitaine. Marcus could well imagine what they were thinking as they watched, could imagine their irritation at the man from Narvashal who dared to almost wage war on Aurelian soil. When those gazes fell on Marcus, they softened somewhat and whispers of “goddess touched” could be heard. He glanced at Cedric in irritation, his rumor having spread like wild fire apparently, but the man only grinned impishly in return. That Marcus was indeed Goddess touched was, in his mind, totally irrelevant; what he hated was the attention that it gained him, almost fanatical in a way. He was simply a man, one fighting for peace during a time of strife, who had also found love. Of course, the people didn’t know about that last part just yet and he wondered if their whispers would falter or grow when they did. Illayna being an acolyte of the Goddess made things interesting, that was for sure, and he quite liked that fact.

As they turned the corner, his eyes fell on her, standing off to the side with Sir Richard and her father nearby. Behind him, Aquitaine muttered a muted curse, one his men heard, but Marcus ignored it. The man would not be such a fool to attack in the palace, not a second time at least and not after last night. Standing tall, Marcus buried the pain, buried the hurt, and smiled at her as they passed, his love shining bright through his gaze. Looking to Sir Richard next he couldn’t miss the man’s little grin but he only gave him a nod in return. Then they were past them and acknowledging others in the hallway next, different ones greeting them warmly while others did so with cold shoulders. At one point, a man burst from the crowd and “accidentally” slammed into Marcus, knocking him sideways into the wall. He took the brunt of the blow on his back, which was no doubt planned, and a groan of pain slipped past his lips before he could stop it. Cedric moved immediately, his sword slipping from its sheath, but Marcus recovered quickly and told him to stand down. “It was just an accident, Cedric” he said, reaching down to grab the other man who had fallen after the collision and helping him to his feet, sending him on his way. The hit had done its job though as the knight now walked more unsteady than before, his face pale from the pain that was racing along his nerves.

They made it to the dining hall and settled into their seats, Aquitaine in the middle, Marcus on his right, and Cedric on his left. Others began to filter in also and soon the High King and his wife joined them, sitting at the head of the table. Soon a gong was clang and servers began to bring in the food, settling it in the middle of the table. The next hour passed relatively quickly, everyone partaking of the generous meal provided to them, light chatter filling the room. Glances kept coming their way but Marcus ignored them, focusing his attention on the High King whenever he spoke. As the last of the dishes were removed, the High King stood and looked down at them. “Gentleman, a grave matter occurred last night that brings me great concern. I thought it best to bring everyone together tonight to discuss it. During Mid-Summer Festival, peace reigns but last night, that peace was almost shattered. Were it not for the brave actions of a few good men and women” he glanced down the table at Illayna then, dipping his head in respect “blood would have been shed on Aurelian soil for the first time in years. I will not stand for that so tonight we will discuss the incident and lay down the rules of what will happen after that.” The High King proceeded to summarize the events of the previous night, including the brave actions of Illayna and Marcus and the “unseen archer”. Marcus almost snickered at that last part. Next to him, he could feel Aquitaine stewing, his eyes darting over to the Greymere group, no doubt with fire in his eyes. When the High King finally turned, he addressed Greymere next. “Lord Ulric, Lady Illayna, as the group that almost suffered this uncalled for attack, it is your right to speak first. Please give us your thoughts on this matter so we can begin discussing it.” Marcus turned, his gaze falling on Illayna and he gave her a small smile, his own way of showing support.
 
Illayna had been too closely marked and followed for anyone to get close enough to even touch her. They made their way to their appointed seats, Illayna sat to Ulrics Left and Richard to his Right. They ate, Ulric joyously conversating with their neighbors while Illayna ate in silence, thinking about the past few days.. how all of this had played out so quickly. Once they were finished and the High King spoke his piece, then appointed the floor to Greymere. Before Ulric could even clear his throat or move to stand Illayna took the floor, Standing swiftly, and proudly. "Thank you, My Lord. On the behalf of Greymere I would like to apologize for the disruption of peace.. but as Goddess Acolyte, I must inform you, all of you, Narvashal Especially, That Greymere would like to try for peace. For as it has been openly admitted, it is a greater desire of the Goddess." She swayed for a moment, paling in complexion just a bit before shaking her head slightly and letting her hand move to rest against the table, bringing her eyes to the High King. "She has blessed a chosen few amongst either kingdom, and greatly desires peace between the two.. and I would like to make that offer here, and now. Should Narvashal refuse, they refuse the will of the Goddess and once Festival has ended, Greymere will have no choice but to uphold it's oath to war."

Ulric raised cautious eyes to his daughter as she began to look very much unlike herself. Illayna closed her eyes for a moment and took a deep breath, as she opened them, those once brilliant green eyes were now a crystaline blue and where a spark of colour seemed to glow about her, it suddenly vanished and Illayna lost her grip on the table and fell. Though she had not made it to the floor before Ulric had moved quickly to catch his daughter. Gently lowering her further he reached then to point towards the door and commanded Richard "Hurry, find me a healer! She's caught fever!" Though she was burning to the touch, she herself was freezing, shivering in his arms as Ulric craddled her gently close. The Goddess had tried to prove a point, to show her present more physically than she had before, but Illayna had been too weak. Still recovering from the days events and the trials she had passed, her body had been overwhelmed by the power and energy of the Goddess, and she'd lost consciousness.

Richard immediately bolted from his seat and ran down the hall to fetch a healer. He returned shortly with a young man, who lifted Illayna from Ulrics craddled arms, and with Richard at his side, carried Illayna to the infirmary. Ulric stood, and gritted his teeth, looking back to the High King. "My Lord, forgive me, Illayna has not been well these past few days, she will be safe in My Knights Care.. I wish not to interrupt this meeting any further, something must be done, and words must be spoken. " Though it pained him not to be at Illaynas side in her time of need, he knew he must stay and hear what Narvashal had to say about Illaynas proposal, it had been a long shot yes... but it needed to be said, the will of the Goddess needed to be pressed. Though she was Acolyte, it was too far to believe that even as Acolyte, the Goddess would choose now, to speak to one of her devout followers.
 
Silence settled over the room as the High King finished speaking, handing it off to the Greymere group. Marcus expected Lord Ulric would be the one to speak, as did most everyone else in the room it seemed, for when Lady Illayna stood instead a strong murmur rushed through the crowd like a fast moving tidal wave. He felt Lord Aquitaine come to attention next to him, his body leaning forward, suddenly rigid and hard and it put Marcus on alert instantly. Turning so he leaned more towards the man, his hand dropped to his hip, fingering the dagger that rested there, suddenly uneasy though he couldn’t say why. As the Princess began to speak, his eyes drifted across and down the table towards her and a smile came over his face. Her words flowed effortlessly, spilling from her lips like a fine wine, catching their attention and holding it. Her posture, her choice of words, demanded their respect and she got it as each man and woman at the table focused on her and listened to what she had to say. Peace was put on the table, peace between two kingdoms that had been at war for ages, supported by Greymere as well as the Goddess. Her words were answered with a barely audible growl from Lord Aquitaine, who was gripping the table with all his might, but no one heard him. They were too busy gasping at the change that was taking over Illayna, pushing through her consciousness, becoming something other.

“Goddess” Marcus whispered then, understanding what was happening before the others did. The deity was channeling through Illayna, showing the members of the kingdoms that she was there and did indeed want peace. A few others made the connection too, the word moving around the table slowly, but before anyone could react to it the Princess suddenly collapsed, crashing downward. Her father moved with a speed that belied his age, catching her before she hit the ground, his voice calling out for a healer. Marcus rocketed upward in his seat immediately, moving so fast that he knocked his chair over, and started to move around Aquitaine, his thoughts on one thing only – getting to his love immediately. He hadn’t made it two steps though before a hand clamped down on his arm with a vice grip and he was wrenched around to face Lord Aquitaine. The man moved forward, crowding Marcus’s personal space, spittle flying. “Take one more step in that direction, Marcus, and you are done as High Knight. I will personally kill you myself and blame it on Greymere. She is nothing but a worthless piece of trash that can’t even perform her duties as an Acolyte properly.” Marcus froze where he stood, anger blazing in his eyes, and it took all of his self control to not pull the dagger at his hip and plunge it into his Lord. “Let go of me” he said, pushing the words through gritted teeth “or you will not live to see the sun rise.” It was a threat, plain and simple, and Lord Aquitaine’s eyes widened slightly. Reluctantly, he slowly released his grip and waited to see what Marcus would do.

Before he could react further, Sir Richard hurried from the room with Illayna in his arms and Lord Ulric called for order. Torn between his love for the Princess and his duty to his kingdom, Marcus hesitated and his gaze drifted towards the door. That’s when he saw Cirac slip through the doorway after Richard, pausing just long enough to give him a brief nod. In that brief gesture, Marcus felt his body relax, knowing deep inside that Cirac would watch over her with Richard, protecting the interests of his kingdom as sure as he protected the Princess. Turning back to the table, Marcus slowly took his seat, and looked to the High King who had turned to face them. “Lord Aquitaine, the floor is yours. What say you to Lady Illayna’s proposal?” Marcus knew what would be said, could feel it in his heart, yet he still hoped that Aquitaine might show sanity for once in his life and do the right thing. It wasn’t to be though as the Lord stood and faced the High King. “I say….that Greymere is a weak kingdom for believing in a Goddess that can’t even manifest herself properly in her heralded Acolyte, a woman who is clearly weak and insignificant herself.” Turning towards Lord Ulric, he leaned forward, slamming his hand down on the table. “You will fall to the might of Narvashal, Ulric, and it will be my personal pleasure to spill your guts in your courtyard and then fill your daughter’s womb with my seed.” The room erupted into verbal chaos at those words, men shouting over men, some leaving the table in anger only to be called back by the High King. Marcus sat where he was, his body rigid and humming with an unearthly energy, the desire to rip his Lord to shreds a powerful one. Next to him, Cedric was equally shocked by the audacity of their Lord’s verbal attack, unable to do much more than sit there with his jaw hanging open. A few shouts by the High King finally restored order and he glared at Lord Aquitaine. “I can see that this discussion will prove fruitless from this point forward so here this, Lord. Aurelian is neutral territory and you will abide by the truce or find yourself at war with my troops, do I make myself clear?” After a brief silence, Lord Aquitaine nodded and then removed himself from the table, signaling Marcus and Cedric to join him. Together, the three strode from the room, leaving everyone in their wake reeling from what they’d just seen. Marcus wanted desperately to find Lady Illayna and check in on her but he never had a chance as they reached their horses and were off without another word.
 
Once in the infirmary, the healer laid Illayna upon one of the sick beds, and moved to check her fever, and her pulse. Richard stood close, and looked up curiously when Cirac entered, reflexively, in earnest to protect the Princess he drew his weapon and held it at point. " What business have you here? " His voice was a rough growl, He'd had enough of these people playing foul games and making attempts on the Ladies life, they would happen no more so long as he still breathed. Illayna groaned, and writhed on the sickbed, the Healer gently holding cool cloth to her forehead. It sounded like she was coming to. In distraction, Richard quickly sheathed his sword and immediately returned to the Lady's side. She let out a scream of pain. Brows furrowing as she clutched at the edge of the bed, still not fully conscious but obviously in some kind of pain. The Healer, panicking from his lack of knowledge as to what was happening, tried to sooth her and tried to get her to lay back on the bed.

---

Ulric clenched his fist, red with outrage to Aquitaine's choice words. Such a threat would not go without retort. " YOU FOUL DOG!" Ulric shouted, her voice trembling with anger. " You will eat those words, by the Goddess, you will pay!" He slammed his fist on the table, a man restraining him. Aquitaine called his men, and left. Ulrics burning gaze following him with a burning, fire fueled of hatred. He knew Marcus was trusted dearly by Illayna.. but it irked him to watch him follow Aquitaine like a trained dog. The High King turned his attention to Ulric then and gestured towards the door. "Your Daughter, may very well need you, Ulric.. please tend to her, you're welcome to stay here as needed before you return to your camp." Ulric bowed his head and let out a deep breath. "Thank you, my Lord." He then tore away from the table and was lead down to the infirmary.

--

Illayna screamed, her body was burning up, the fever so heavy she was sweating. With Richards help, they had managed to get the dress off of her, leaving her in the sheer, thin slip she'd worn underneath, her shoes kicked off to the floor. Finally she settled down, her body falling faint again. Trembling against the cool sheets of the bed. The healer relaxed his shoulders just a bit and began to dab the cool cloth along the back of her neck and the nape. "I don't know what is happening to her.. she isn't showing any signs of illness, or poisoning. She'd just very feverish... any abraisons and wounds she may have had, are old and healing... what happened in there?" He asked Richard. Richard gently brushed loose honey curls from Illaynas face and sighed heavily. " The Goddess.." He whispered quietly.. Perhaps that was it, the Goddess was still there... or she had done something to Illayna.. but he didn't know what.
 
Cirac moved fast through the hallways, following Sir Richard silently, not wanting to disturb the man. He held in his arms the future of Merivale, the thing that could keep his kingdom out of the war, and he would not see her harmed. As long as she lived, Sir Marcus Steele, High Knight of Narvashal, would fight for peace and only through peace could his family and his countrymen be spared. Slipping into the infirmary after them, his eyes darted to the Princess and noted the poor state of her health, his own heart sputtering in his chest at the thought of her possible death. It was the swish of a sword being drawn that gained his attention though and he shifted his gaze, taking in her guard and the blade that was pointed at his heart. Spreading his arms slowly, showing that he had no weapons, he spoke. “Easy there man, I mean you no harm. Marcus sent me to keep watch and ensure that no one gets to the Princess.” Their eyes met in a hard stare, each man measuring the other, but when a scream erupted from her lips Sir Richard forgot him. Cirac stared for a moment, watching Illayna thrash about but the sight was too much for him and he slowly turned, drawing his sword and facing the door.

***

The ride from the castle was a hard one, Aquitaine’s anger leading them on, the horses pounding through the streets so quickly that their rear guard fell behind. The Lord was in the lead, followed by Cedric and then Marcus, the High Knight hanging back, feeling a strong pull from the castle and the wounded woman that was there. As they rounded a corner at full gallop a wind kicked up out of nowhere, sending dust and debris flying. It startled his horse momentarily but he tried to knee her through it, to push on towards camp, but the wind just grew stronger, swirling into a virtual gale that spiraled into a funnel that floated directly in front of him. He pulled Ariana to a stop then, watching in amazement as the cloud of dust moved and spun, finally taking the shape of the Consort. “Marcus” the deity whispered, bits of dust floating out of its mouth. “Illayna needs you. Go now…before it’s too late.” The knight’s eyes widened then as the dust cloud suddenly blew apart and without a second’s hesitation he turned back around. Ducking down a side alley he avoided their rear guard and then rode hard for the castle.

As he entered the main courtyard he threw himself from the saddle in mid-gallop, landing nimbly in the dirt. Guards surrounded him instantly but before they could attack a female’s voice rang out, halting them. “Sir Marcus, why do you return in such a hurry?” asked the High King’s wife, who looked down at him from a balcony. “Lady Illayna needs me, your Highness” he answered right back, his body itching to move, to be gone, but he held back. The High Queen studied him for a moment and then gave a signal, pulling her men back. “Go, Sir Marcus, go at once.” With that, he was off, racing through the corridors of the castle and sliding to a stop when he reached the infirmary. His eyes locked on Cirac then and the other man gave a slight bow. “She is not well Marcus, very unwell. The healer doesn’t know what is wrong.” Marcus’s eyes widened and he felt fear shoot through his body then, sliding along his nerves and turning his insides cold. With quick steps he was past his friend and at her side, standing across from Sir Richard. Their eyes locked for a moment and then the older man stepped back, giving him space. Glancing at the healer for confirmation and receiving a nod in return, Marcus reached out and took Illayna’s hand into his own. “Illayna, my love” he murmured, his fingers lightly stroking the back of her hand. “You must separate from the Goddess and come back to us.” He felt her body shift on the bed and the heat pour forth but he held tight, continuing to talk to her. “Greymere needs you Illayna, your father needs you.” Glancing at the healer again, he moved closer to her and leaned down so that his lips hovered just above hers. “I need you, Illayna” he whispered so softly that only she would have heard, his lips finally kissing her. In that touch, he wished for her return with all his heart and soul, wanting it more than he’d ever wanted anything else in the world.
 
Richard stepped back, bringing himself beside Cirac, as he watched Marcus with Illayna.. that was a display of pure love, and devotion in that man.. and he prayed, oh he prayed with all his might, that Marcus might have the strong enough will to bring the Lady back.. and to free the Goddess. Illayna stirred, as Marcus approached, and her face showed pain, as she groaned and writhed just a bit, the heat expelled from her body unlike anything before. The raw power rippling off her flesh in torrents. Licking at his flesh, and the walls of the room, spilling out to all those who surrounded her like an open flame, a wild fire filling the nothingness, filling the air with a heavy tension. He took her hand, and she gripped it subconsciously, his touch soothing.. but the pain.. something had gone terrible wrong, and where Illayna hurt.. where Illayna struggled to keep hold on her body. The Goddess struggled to let go, to free her acolyte.

When Marcus touched his lips to hers. Illaynas eyes snapped open, their normal emerald was a luminescent sapphire blue. Sparking with energy, only as his will, his wish, his desire set in, screamed in the back of his mind.. his name screamed in the back of hers. The colour drained from her eyes, revealing those emerald hues and they fluttered closed as her body relaxed beneath him. Her free hand moving to trickle her fingers down along his jaw. Tears streaming her cheeks. "Marcus.." She whispered softly.. trembling hands gliding down his jaw, before she threw her arms around him and clutched him close. Her skin still felt hot, and she was still feverish, weak, and in need of a lot of rest.. but she was herself again.. she was awake and no longer in pain. She clung to him so tightly, as if she was afraid of letting him go. "Don't leave me.." she whispered. Just then, a throat cleared in the door way, but Illayna refused to let him go.

Ulric stepped into the room, a look of confusion upon his as face as he stepped between Cirac and Richard. His face reddening, though one could not tell if it was in anger, or what else. Richard watched Ulric Nervously as the king cleared his throat again and raised his voice, though it was not threatening, it seemed as if it was just to be heard. "What.. What is the meaning of this?" Thick brows furrowed as he watched Illayna finally let go of Marcus, but she did not look at her father. She let herself gaze at Marcus adoringly, she was still sweating with fever, and pale from weakness, but she was determine.. to pull through for Marcus. The healer unknowing of what to say, looked to Richard pleadingly. Richard cleared his throat. "My lord.. It appears that the Goddess, had a tighter Grip on Illayna then we suspected... if it was not for Marcus.. I fear the Goddess would have taken Illaynas life from her body, in her own exit."
 
Her hand had been limp, almost lifeless, and she’d failed to open her eyes when he spoke, causing his heart to flutter in his chest, his fear increasing. The Goddess had tried to possess her in the dining hall but Illayna had been too weak, her body not prepared, and now she was paying the price. Marcus had nothing to offer her, nothing that could help but he’d been sent there by the Consort for a reason so he had to try, offering the only thing he did have…his devotion and love and need, all of it pouring out of his heart, willing it into her. His words had no affect so he’d move to the kiss, hoping with all his heart that it would work, that their touch would be enough. When her eyes snapped open, their brilliant blue shining forth, he almost stepped back in surprise but held his ground instead, continuing to pour his will forth, repeating “I love you” over and over again in his head. Somewhere in the middle of that mantra, a burst of pain blasted through his mind and was gone just as quickly but he didn’t even think about it, his gaze riveted to her face, noticing the change come over her. When she moved, her hand coming up to trace his jaw, his name flowing from her lips, his legs almost buckled and would have if her tears hadn’t frozen him in place. At first he thought they were tears of pain but that faded as she moved, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face against his clothes. Her plea broke his heart and a thousand men wouldn’t have been able to pull him away then, not with his love in his arms, awake again. “I won’t leave you, baby” he whispered to her, his voice almost breaking on the words.

He heard the throat clear but ignored it at first, finally turning his head when it came once more. Lord Ulric was standing between Richard and Cirac, his face flushed though Marcus couldn’t have said why. When he spoke, the knight ignored the words, too busy trading emotional stares with Illayna, an unspoken message of love passing between them as effortlessly as it had back in that glen. It wasn’t until Richard spoke, answering him, that Marcus was finally able to break the gaze and turn, his strong arms pulling Illayna against him, wrapping her in a cocoon of safety and warmth. “I…did nothing, Lord Ulric” he murmured, his gaze darting back to Illayna before returning to her father. “I was on my way back to our camp with my Lord….” his voice trailed off then as he remembered the words that were spoken by Aquitaine in the dining hall, his face turning a deep crimson color in his shame. With a small cough, he continued. “As I was saying, I was on my way back when the Consort made an appearance, urging me to return to Illayna’s side. I came immediately and did the only thing I could….let her know I loved her.” The minute he said the words to her father, he felt a pressure lift from his shoulders, one that he hadn’t even been aware was there. It was a risk, making that declaration, but it was the right thing to do so he did.

“Sir, if my Lord finds out, things will go from bad to worse. I ask that everyone in this room keep our secret for a little while longer.” His gaze bore into each man then, the look he gave them making it clear what would happen if this spilled out. The healer was the only one he truly wasn’t sure about, since he was the High King’s man and owed no allegiance to any of the kingdoms involved, but there was nothing he could do about him. Bending down, he kissed her forehead and then her lips, pausing to whisper quietly. “Illayna, love, you need to rest now. I won’t go anywhere, I promise you, but I need to speak to your father for a few moments longer.” With that, he gently pushed her back to the bed, gazing fondly at her before turning and walking over to the others. As soon as he left her side, the healer returned and began to wipe her brow, trying to comfort her as best he could. Striding over to Lord Ulric, his steps loud in the room, he came to a stop and gave a small bow of respect. “My Lord, I owe you my humblest apologies for what occurred tonight. Lord Aquitaine….well….I don’t know what’s happened to him, sir. He used to be a good man but this war has changed him, made him into a monster that just continues to grow.” He paused, closing his eyes for a moment to gather his thoughts then nodded. “I want peace for my kingdom and peace for yours; Illayna and I are bound together in this through the will of the Goddess and her Consort. I don’t know how we are going to achieve it yet but I promise you I will do everything in my power to bring it about, short of killing my Lord outright.” Turning to Richard, he lightly thumped his chest. “I owe you for the other night, my friend; from this day forth, if you ever need anything, if you call on me, I will be there.” Turning to Cirac last, he smiled. “Cirac, I know you do what you do for the good of your kingdom but I still appreciate it. It is an honor to consider you an ally.” With that, Marcus returned to Illayna’s side, taking her hand in his, his smile as bright as a golden sun as he gazed down at her.
 
Illayna clutched to Marcus, despite the presence of her father. She was hurting, the fever causing her to tremble. He comforted her, soothed her, held her. All the while he answered to her father, his words brave and true. She listened to them, they sounded as if far off in the distance compared to the thunderous pounding of his heart in her ear. She closed her eyes and listened to his heart rather than the words that filled the room. Ulrics face flustered a little more, though this time in fear, as Marcus confessed to him his love for the man daughter. Aquitaine would kill him, surely, if he ever knew. So Illayna had penetrated far deeper than Ulric had suspected, it was no wonder so many people clung to the words spoken by the two of them the night before, they had been working together... and all the while Ulric had been clueless. He felt his shoulders sink at the grave situation before them. So many lives... loves were at stake here. It was no longer a war between two kingdoms, it was a war between a man and a monster... and the lives of others were caught in the midst. Ulric would not become a monster like Aquitaine.. if.. if Illayna loved this man, who was he to tell her no? Marcus had betrayed his own lord to return here for her... he had come back at the risk of his own life, to ensure Illayna was safe. That was commendable.

When Marcus left her, Illayna let out a small whine, still not really comprehending what was going on. The healer took his place at her bedside, and tried his best to comfort her. She smiled softly, and gently patted his hand, though she was burning up, and the world still spun a little she tried to comfort the man, whose face was strained and she knew he was trying his hardest to ignore the happenings around him. "You're brave.." She whispered softly. Closing her eyes and nuzzling her cheek into the pillow, her petite hand still resting on the healers as he held a damp cloth to the nape of her neck. "Listen, and know the truth. Speak of it if you must.. you are under no threat, and are not compelled to keep a secret that is not yours." She whispered once more. The man looked at her curiously, understanding now settling over his face. He gently brushed the hair from her face and dabbed the cool cloth along her brow. "Your secret is safe within these walls, Princess Illayna.. the High king and those who follow him do not meddle in the business of others less it is necessary. But no man, is worth the sacrifice of love." He reassured her, as he propped her up, and helped her drink down some water. Her new dress in a pile on the floor. Illayna glanced down to it. It had been so pretty.. and now she knew why, it resembled the dress the Goddess had worn the first time Illayna had seen her...

Ulric stared at Marcus as he approached and spoke strongly of his apologies, of his determination to bring peace at any cost, short of killing his Lord. "You have Greymeres assistance, for the Goddess has touched our own." His eyes looked to Illayna then, filled with hurt for and sadness for that his daughter was struggling so. She was so weak now, and it pained him to see her such. He looked back to Marcus. "You can leave the Matter of Aquitaines life to us.. if he does not see the error in his ways soon... and rethink the offered truce.. I fear Illayna might make true on her threat.. that woman, she is the image of her mother. Vicious and justified in all her actions when it comes to protecting that which is hers... and after watching what that vile man did to her mother.. it was surprising she had not gone raving mad...But mark my words, Knight, She loves you.. but if you fail her... if you hurt her... Aquitaine will not be your greatest fear." With that, he let the knight part and speak his peace to the others before returning then to Illayna, who clung to him once more. "Now will you not leave me?" She asked him softly, nuzzling once more into his chest as she sat up against him.

She then turned her eyes to her father who came up on the opposite side, and gently brushed his hand down along her hair to cup her cheek. "You have been through so much.." He whispered. Everything finally dawning on him. "If the Goddess hadn't touched you so strongly.. I'd have half a mind to send the two of you away where no one could harm you.. but alas.. this fight is ever yours as it is mine." He leaned and kissed her crown. "Please, get better Illayna... I couldn't fathom losing you.." She smiled softly, and lifted a hand to gently brush her fingertips over his face, as she had done many a times as a child. "You won't lose me.. the Goddess won't allow it." She spoke strongly, confidently, her body still nestled in as close as she could to Marcus. The healer cleared his throat then, and gestured towards the corridor. "I would like to keep the Lady here, in safe haven for the remainder of the night and possibly on until the morrow.. to ensure she is well rested and in better condition before releasing her. I will inform the High King of my report of her condition, and will see to it, that the lot of you are properly fitted with rooms for the duration of her stay if you so desire.. as for you sir Marcus." The High Kings wife entered then and smiled. "The Knights situation has been delt with, I have sent word to Lord Aquitaine that I have detained his High Knight upon request of the High King for matters concerning the training of our own men. He is safe to stay shall he so wish it, and if you gentlemen will please follow me.. I believe the young ones would like a moment before we move the Princess to a more fitting accomidation."
 
As he stood by her side, his body hummed with energy, little sparks of magic coursing through him, riding the network of nerves that laced his limbs. Confessing his love for Illayna to her father had been wonderful, their secret now out in the open for a select few; he’d seen the look of happiness that flashed across Sir Richard’s face at the news but it was the look of fear on Lord Ulric’s that stuck in his mind. Turning the man’s words over in his head, Marcus felt his heart warm inside, and he glanced at the man again. Illayna’s father had pledged his kingdom’s support in their joint goal of peace and he knew that he would uphold that oath to his death if necessary. His comments regarding Aquitaine had caught him but surprise but as he thought about it more, he realized it really shouldn’t have. Aquitaine had harmed Illayna, and hurt Greymere as a whole; if peace required the loss of one man’s life, why should it not be Greymere’s right to take it? A smile came over him then as he recalled his final words, the protectiveness of his daughter coming out, spoken like a true father who knew nothing but love for his own kin. Marcus had to admire that trait for he knew he would be the same way with his own daughter, assuming that the vision he saw in that magical little glen came true.

Glancing down at Illayna then, his smile brightened even more, love pouring from his gaze to trace the curves of her face, his mind memorizing every detail. “I promise to stay by your side all night, my love” he murmured, giving her hand a squeeze. “You need your rest but I will not leave this room, even if I have to stay up all night to do it.” He wondered what tomorrow would bring, when he returned to his camp and faced his Lord; he could imagine the anger that would come his way and the punishment that would follow but looking down into her eyes, he knew it was worth it. When her father stepped to her other side, Illayna finally glanced at him, a look of love dawning across her profile. They exchanged a few words quietly and when they were done, Marcus raised his gaze and studied her father. “I would not have gone, my lord” he murmured, thinking of the responsibilities that he had to his men, his kingdom, and Illayna. “This fight is ours as you noted; we started it and together we will finish it for the good of all.” Glancing over at Cirac, he gave a slight nod and added more. “Rest assured that we don’t walk alone either, sir. Allies and Deities walk beside us every step of the way, lending assistance and strength when we need it.”

When the High King’s wife entered the room and spoke to them, Marcus turned in shock. In the first sign of non-neutrality that the High King and his court had shown in years, the woman had arranged an excuse for his absence, saving him from a punishment and giving him the freedom to stay by Illayna’s side. The news stunned him into momentary silence as he realized that, with such a simple gesture, she had placed her support behind their cause, giving what aid she could without openly supporting one kingdom or cause over another. Releasing the Princess’s hand, he bowed deeply to the Queen and then smiled. “Thank you, milady” he murmured, the respect obvious in his voice. “I fear I am not worthy of such a gift.” The Queen laughed then, her voice rich and deep, carrying through the room. “Oh, Sir Marcus, you are quite wrong on that fact. You are worthy of that and so much more. I only wish I could do more to help you and the lovely Illayna enjoy the life you so deserve.” Her face grew serious then and she spoke again. “Whatever you can do to bring peace to our lands, know that I will aid however I can.” With that, she withdrew from the room, pulling the four other men with her.

The minute they were alone, Marcus turned back to Illayna and pulled her into a sitting position, then climbed onto the bed with her. He nestled her back against his chest and wrapped his arms around her waist, his legs bracketing hers. Pulling her into the security of his arms, her body right where it belonged…at least in his mind, he gave a happy little sigh. Leaning down, he buried his nose in her hair, nuzzling the back of her neck, then gave it a playful nip. “Mmmm, my love” he whispered, his voice low and hoarse “you gave me such a fright tonight. I thought I had lost you for sure. When I rode from this castle, knowing I left you behind, my heart broke inside.” He paused then as a single tear slipped from his eye and slid down his cheek, leaving a glistening trail in its wake. His voice catching, he continued. “That is the last time I choose my duty over my heart, Illayna. I give you my promise, to love and cherish and protect you with all my heart and all my might and know that you will do the same for me.” He closed his eyes then, a sob bubbling up from his chest as emotions overwhelmed him but instead of fighting it, the warrior stepped aside and let the tears flow. That night had changed their future, for better or worse, and he would face it with his head held high and his heart full of love, even if it cost him his life.
 
As all but Marcus left the room, Illayna shifted slightly as he joined her upon the firm bed, her body craddled in against his chest as he wrapped her in his hold and held her close, his nose in her hair as he spoke, his voice full of emotion. She felt her heart sink, and when he finally let that sob bubble to the surface Illayna moved so quickly she didn't even feel the pain of the fever thrashing through her body. She settled on her knees between his legs and cupped his cheeks, brushing her thumbs gently over his tear stained face. "Your following your duty is what protects us Marcus.. it is what allows us to see each other alive... be it in glimpses, or full fledge.. it is a sacrifice we must make, but knowing that we are forever in each others hearts.. allows me to know that truthfully you did not leave me behind.. you went to protect me.. I can not blame you for that." She whispered softly against his lips. Taking deep breaths between every other word, before gently pressing her lips to his, and kissing him with an abundance of passion, emotion, and fervor. Though as she did so, he would likely notice she was leaning heavily against him, as if for support. Her body trembled but she refused to break that kiss not yet, not until he got her point. She slipped her arms around his shoulders and hugged close to him, her chest pressed to his as she deepened that kiss. Fingertips musing through the short strands of his hair. She broke the kiss and took a deep breath. Her eyes gazing into his.

He had to understand, no matter the situation, Marcus was sworn to his duty... and if he had stayed for her.. things would not have ended well Aquitaine could have very well made an attempt for his life with his back turned, or returned to end hers while she was incapable of protecting herself. "Marcus Steele.. I love you, for better and worse... what good and bad may come with loving you, I accept with all its consequences. I would rather die, then see you in pain because you believed you did me wrong.. never in a million years." She whispered to him, closing her eyes momentarily and resting her forehead to his. It was shortly after that point, the Healer returned, knocking lightly on the door. "Forgive me, Sir Knight and Lady Illayna.. but I have been requested to take the lady to new Quarters, you've permission to stay with her sir, but the room will be heavily guarded.. please.." He offered Illayna his hand stepping closer. Illayna looked at him then to Marcus.. "Don't leave me.." She whispered again.. softly, pleading with him to stay the night with her. She reached then for the edge of the bed, to pull herself off of it, but the Healer stopped her. Her trembling body evidence she was still not better, and the heat that roiled off her flesh more evidence. "Please Princess you mustn't walk!" He exclaimed, offering to carry her, but she shrunk back from the offer and looked to Marcus with a pleading face, begging him without words to carry her.

Illayna desired nothing more than to have constant physical contact with him, what ever had happened in her time of being unconscious had really taken a toll upon her, and even in her weakened state she refused to let anyone in. Anyone, other than Marcus. He had cried for her, heart had broken for her.. and though the tears filled her eyes, unspilled, and her pain for his troubles unspoken, she did not want to bring the healer into a conversation that was best left between two lovers. She took his hand softly and nodded towards the door. "Please love... let us go, we at best.. only have one night together without questions and secrets... " She spoke softly, this was their chance, to be together, unhidden, open, and their secret not so secret.. here they had no fears, they were safe, protected by both man and Goddess.. the high Queen had sent her blessing, truly a woman who favored love over all else. Illayna cherished this gift more than anything.
 
When he was finished speaking, the words out of his mouth and into the air, Marcus felt his body relax, comforted by the emotions he’d finally released. He had been holding them back, letting guilt riddle his insides, so to voice them, to spit them out into the open, was cathartic and healing in its own right. When Illayna spun out of his hold though and turned to face him, surprise spread across his face, eyes blinking as she cupped his cheeks. Her words flew from her lips, each one forced out through deep breaths that wracked her body but she was determined to say her peace and he did the only thing he could, listened with an open heart. When she was finally done, her body pressing against his, lips claiming lips in a passionate kiss, he melted into her hold, letting his body become one with hers. Somehow, in that passion, a small part of his mind analyzed her words, turning them over and over again, and when they finally parted, he nodded his head. Before he could speak though, more words flowed from her mouth, as if she’d been holding them all in for ages and suddenly the dam broke. He listened as best he could until he finally started to laugh, his finger shooting out to cover her lips. “Shhh, my love, you’ve won. I concede your points.” His smile faded into a more serious look, though there was still a twinkle in his eye, and he took her hand in his, his thumb brushing along the back of it.

“You are absolutely right, Illayna, and I know that now. My love for you is strong and sometimes blinds me but with you in my life I will never be lost for long. You possess inside you an ability to cut through the fog and point me back to the path that I must tread.” He paused then closing his eyes, slowly pulling his strength in around himself then gave a short nod. “I will place duty before us, my love, because it is duty that will protect us and let me do what needs to be done but know that you will always be in my heart no matter what.” Silence fell between them then, the two simply enjoying the close contact, but when the healer re-entered the room, Marcus knew what had to be done even before Illayna asked for it. Sliding from the bed, he smiled at his love and simply nodded, his arms reaching out for her. One slid under her legs and one around her waist and with the strength of a warrior he lifted her, cradling her body against his chest. Smiling down at her, the twinkle in his eye was joined with a smirk. “Mmm, love, when I imagined carrying you across the threshold, you had far less clothes on and much more energy then you currently do. We will have to recreate this moment in the future, when we can finally have the life that we long for…a live free of war and full of love.” Once she was securely settled he gave a nod to the healer who turned and left the room, Marcus in tow.

High King guards moved in front of them and also fell into step behind, allowing Marcus to relax some more, comfortable in the fact that, at least for one night, their safety was secure. They moved through the halls at a fast pace, Illayna’s fever causing his body to overheat, dampening his shirt so that it clung to his chest. He ignored it though and carried her, stopping when they finally reached her room. The healer stepped aside then and motioned him in, closing the door quietly behind them. Marcus moved to the large king sized bed immediately, setting Illayna down on it and then stepped back, slowly peeling off his shirt. “Damn, woman, you are on fire” he murmured, using the cloth to brush the excess sweat from his skin. “Now get under those covers so I can join you after I wipe down.” He slipped away then into the adjoining room, filling a serving bowl with water and taking his time to scrub himself. It was an exercise in cleanliness to be sure but truth be told he was simply stalling so he could begin to think of his next steps. After tonight, he would go back to his duty as the High Knight, serving a Lord who was slowly going berserk, and attempt to steer his kingdom towards peace. Politics were not his forte but he was learning fast, studying with one of the best that he’d ever seen though he knew she’d never admit it. Smiling at the thought of her, Marcus returned to the bedroom and slid under the covers, his body curling against hers. His fingers reached out and stroked her cheek, tracing her delicate curves and then he leaned forward and claimed a kiss. “My love” he murmured as he pulled away, barely brushing her still, “we need to get some sleep despite the torturous need that I feel for you right now.” It was true, what coursed through his veins right then was desire but he knew she was tired and weak. He could wait for the right moment, that time when they would be alone and he could show her what it meant to be in love once more.
 
Illayna nestled into his chest when he lifted her. She sighed softly, closing her eyes and listening to his heartbeat, before she knew it he was laying her down on the bed and telling her to get under the covers. She watched him wander off into the adjoining room and she sighed softly. Shifting herself atop the bed to wiggle underneath the sheets. Once nestled in she laid her cheek on the pillow and watched the door to the other room for a moment. He was taking longer than she would have though necessary but she shrugged it off and closed her eyes, curling into a ball. A while later he finally came back out and joined her under the cool sheets of the bed. His fingertips brushed along her cheek and then his lips were on hers in a kiss. She kissed him softly. Eyes still gently closed, opening as he parted from her, and spoke words she knew to be true, but it still did not slake the desire she held for him and vice verse. Even in her weakened state.. Illayna desired him. She leaned forward just a bit, gazing upon him with half lidded eyes and gently pressed her lips to his. Fingertips lightly tracing the defined line of his jaw as she curled her body into his. Looping her leg over his own. The soft, thin and sheer material of her slip barely shifting with the movement beneath the sheets. Her flesh warm, but with a different sort of fever.

Fingertips lightly trailed down along his neck as she held him in that kiss. Trailing her tongue lightly along the bottom tier before sucking it gently between her teeth and giving it a delicate nip. Her hand coursing lightly over his shoulder, then down along his chest and side. Nails lightly grazing the exposed, toned flesh and muscle. Before softly slithering back up along his back, pressing so close to him he'd feel every line of her body against him, her fingertips tracing up his spine. She sighed softly and broke that kiss. Gently flicking the tip of her tongue over his bottom lip again. "Good night my love." She cooed with a mused little smile. She could tease.. she could be ever more torturous than the desire that already coursed through him. With a small shift of her body she pulled away from him, and turned to settled her back to his chest and curled her body in against his, tucking herself in against the warmth of him, craddled by the cool feel of the sheets. She murred softly and smiled to herself. Figuring he would take the tease, and follow her to sleep. Closing her eyes she took a deep breath and relaxed.

This would be their first time actually sleeping together, in a bed together no less, and without fear or worry. They were safe, there were no secrets to keep. Though... they would likely be safer keeping the secret of their intimacy from her father who would likely frown upon the idea of their premarital intercourse. It was not a wise decision, but it was one she would never regret. Snuggling into the bed with him, she breathed in the calmness of the room and settled in quite well. It felt right to lay there with Marcus beside her. To be with him, and hold him dear. It was right.. they were right and always would be.
 
The softness of the bed and the warmth of her body teased his senses, lulling Marcus a bit. His desire was strong, coursing through his veins with a fiery passion, causing his heart to beat fast and furious within the confines of his chest but he held it in check. Now was not the time, nor the place, to slake that particular need no matter how much he might want to do so. Just the image of the look that would be on Richard’s face, or one of the High King’s men, if they happened to walk in on them was enough to quirk his lips. It was then that she leaned forward, pressing her lips back against his, their moist softness stirring that liquid fire once more. He’d never willingly curse the Goddess but in that moment, he mentally flipped a few choice words around, wishing for the entire world that his love wasn’t hurt. A light shiver rolled through him when her fingers caressed his jaw and her leg looped over his, drawing her warm body even closer. Torture didn’t even begin to describe what he was feeling then, a sensation that grew worse the more she touched him, her fingernails leaving burning trails of embers in their wake. When she broke the kiss and bid him good night, rolling over to press her back against his chest, a small groan slipped from his lips.

It appeared that his love had a bit of a teasing spirit buried inside her heart, a fact that he found rather delightful overall though at that particular moment he cursed it. Then a grin slowly formed on his lips, one that if seen would have simply been described as devilish. Two could play at that game, he thought, and thoroughly enjoy it. Nestling in against her, the hard muscles of his chest pressing against her back, he spooned her, loving the feeling of her shapely rear pressed into the curve of his hips. He started at her neck, his nimble fingers sliding her hair away from the skin, finger tips slowly gliding over it, moving downward from the base of her hair to her shoulder blades. It was a slow movement, the sensual drag of his hand against her body, teasing, touching, caressing. Next Marcus slowly drew a thin line along the top of her slip, sweeping along it until he slipped over her shoulder. That single finger blazed a trail along the front of her slip until it traced the hollow of her throat then moved upward, fingers fanning out to caress the tender skin of her chin. Burying his face against her neck, his lips placing a gentle kiss against her skin, his fingers moved to her cheek next and slid along its curve until it slowly traced her ear. Then it was on to her forehead, following the line of her hair before dropping to slide down her nose and over the tip, falling onto her lips. Instead of tracing them like he had the rest of her features he simply pulled his fingers downward which resulted in her lower lip being tugged briefly until they slid off.

Moving back down her chin and onto her neck, he kept going lower, his fingers sliding across the soft fabric of her slip. He could have traced her breasts then but he chose a different approach, his fingers pressing down between them instead. It pulled the material taut against her soft mounds, her sensitive nipples no doubt poking out, and though the desire to circle and touch them was there he withheld and simply kept his fingers moving downward. Splaying them out, he slowly caressed her stomach next, massaging it, circling it, and teasing it. Grasping the material, he slowly bunched it up and tugged upward, feeling it slide up her smooth thighs inch by tortuous inch, finally letting go when it had begun to reach a dangerous height. A single finger circled her navel next, going round and round it before finally dipping inside and then back out. His fingers splayed again at that point and with a little force, he pulled her back against him even harder, letting her feel what he felt. Then it was upward once more, those fingers retracing their path in every way possible, teasing and touching every chance he got, finally ending back at her neck. Placing another light kiss against her skin, he grinned. “Good night, my love” he whispered into her hair, right before he rolled over and pressed his back against hers, his body almost quivering with lighthearted laughter.
 
Every touch, every trace, graze, inching sensation of his hands upon her flesh sent a chill down her spine. Cooling her core but fueling her fire. She closed her eyes and basked in the very sensation of his touch. Goosebumps flourishing over her flesh. The added pressure and inching up of her slip causing her to bite her lower lip softly and swallow a soft moan. He was torturing her, and he knew it. But when he suddenly stopped, and turned over she had to swallow a whine and couldn't help the pout that played on her lips. She huffed slightly and for a moment just laid there, as if she wasn't going to fight back. She debated it.. torturing him by -not- touching him.. but she couldn't play that way. Slowly turned over and pressing into his back she released a soft warm breath against the back of his neck and kisses it softly. Letting her kisses trail lower down along his spine as she shifted just slightly. Fingertips dancing down the curve of his shoulder and arm. Then down along his side and over his hip.

She lightly, grazing dragged her nail along the waist band of his pants, tracing over the tender flesh of that attractive V in his pelvic muscle, and then up along his stomach. Tracing over the stone structure of his body before flattening her palm and slowly dragging it back down along his body. She let kissed at the back of his neck and along his shoulders. Nipping lightly here and there. Occassionally tracing her tongue. She slid her hand just beneath his pants. Lightly trailing her fingertips against his length. Gripping him softly and giving a delicate squeeze and stroke, before slowly sliding her hand back out, and turned back over onto her stomach, one arm tucked beneath the pillow, and one cradling the blanket to her chest. She smiled to herself and silenced a giggle. Nuzzling her cheek into the pillow and biting her lower lip, resisting all urges.. all temptations to just give in then and now. She refused to break, no matter how weak she was.. she would not break for this particular thing.

This challenge was something she could take, or so she supposed. They'd only been intimate once, and where he'd struggled to be gentle with her, it helped her to adjust and better brace for future advances. Shivering lightly to the thought, her mind torturing her with images.. memories of them in that glen. Marcus had felt soo good inside of her... had been so loving and passionate.. it had felt so right.. and now the desire to feel it again was blazing, burning through her veins and threatening to sear her from the inside out. She tightened her thighs a little, she was damp.. wet, she could feel it, her core aching, her body throbbing with want.. but she had to fight it, she was determined.
 
It had been a hard thing to do, teasing her like that, but Marcus had called on his warrior’s disciplined spirit to give him the strength to see it through. Having done it though, he found he rather liked it, that heightened awareness that came from desires that weren’t sated. It left his body tingly and aroused, his mind wide awake, but it was worth it to turn her game back onto herself. He had hoped that would be the end of it, their way of saying good night in a playful, sensual manner but Illayna had other intentions in mind. He felt the bed shift the minute she rolled over and his body tensed in anticipation of what might come, almost begging for it though he’d never admit it, at least not on that particular night. An involuntary shiver shook him lightly when that first kiss was placed against his skin, her warm breath tickling the fine hairs there. He felt his fingers clench against his legs, digging in tight, doing what they could to distract him. The kisses continued then, moving along the trail of his spine, taking advantage of his bare upper body in a finely torturous way.

His back arched then, almost as if it wanted to pull away from her soft moist mouth, but he knew it was in pleasure not pain. Her fingers joined the action next, beginning to trace his body similar to the way he had moved, though her digits picked different paths and trails to follow, each one just as torturous as the ones he had chosen. His body twitched with each tiny movement, a moan slipping from his lips when her teeth and tongue joined in on the fun. That moan became a guttural whine of pleasure when her hand suddenly plunged into his pants, her palm circling his shaft and pumping it once before strategically withdrawing. Without another move, or even a word to him, she suddenly shifted on the bed, her warmth pulling away. He waited where he was for a moment, to see if she would return, but when she didn’t he slowly rolled over to face her. Finding her on her stomach, the blanket pulled up under chest, he couldn’t help but trail his gaze down her back and over the curve of her hips. Knowing what he had to do next, a smile played across his lips, and without a word he shifted his weight, tossing one leg over hers so that he now straddled her lower body.

Shifting one more time, he hovered just over her feet, his weight held up by his thighs. Starting at her ankles, he placed his palms on her legs and slowly worked them upward, his fingers caressing and massaging her creamy skin, every movement slow. Inch by inch he crept, fingers spreading out more when he reached her lower calves and the edge of her sheer slip, slowly pushing it up as he continued to move. As her skin was slowly revealed, Marcus let his gaze eat her up, his hands continuing to massage, now moving to her inner thighs. He spread her legs slightly then, giving him more access than he had before, and with his fingers he proceeded to tease and torture her, each movement drawing him nearer to her core. Her arousal was obvious now, that sensual odor quite clear, and it brought a grin to his face to know he was the cause of it. Moving still higher, the backs of her upper thighs now fully revealed, her most private area only inches away from his view, his fingers dipped even lower. The tips barely brushed against the outer edge of her sex, teasing without touching, and then the slip was up over her waist, the soft curve of her butt revealed. Pausing his movements then he slowly lowered his head, brushing his lips against her inner thighs before drawing his tongue over the curve of her flesh, his teeth nipping each soft cheek.

By now he was torturing himself as well as her but he didn’t care, having far too much fun with his antics to stop now. Moving his tongue to the base of her spine next he slowly traced the upper curves of her butt before moving back. His hands continued their movements after that, slowly drawing her slip higher and higher, his tongue teasing the length of her spine. When he had the material bunched near her breasts, he drew the sides of his fingers along them, just the barest of touches, his teeth biting his lower lip to keep a moan in. Next he lowered his body slowly over hers, brushing the hard line of his hips and his rigid shaft over her butt, pressing between her cheeks just enough to graze her in a very intimate way. He did this once, twice, three times, his mouth lowering to nibble on her neck, and then he pulled away, flopping over on his back, a faked tired sigh flowing from his lips.
 
Illayna laid there, settling in and finally managing to cage that desire, only to feel him shift, and she bit her lip to hold back a moan of anticipation. She loved that he was willing to play back, but when he situated himself, and began to tease.. she melted to the tender touch. Her body relaxing against the bed as each caress, massaging touch sent soothing sensations through her entirety. She could feel the fabric of her slip inching up her flesh, his mouth dancing across the backs of her thighs and his touch every teasing. She moaned softly, Fingertips clutching at the blanket to help her keep her calm and continue to pretend like he had little effect. Though as he raised his attentions higher, up along her spine with his lips and tongue she quivered in sheer delight. He brought his body up along hers and teased the hard line of his hips against her body. She gasped lightly and moaned. That was pushing too far.. and as he flopped over onto his back and faked an exhausted sigh, she had every intention to roll over ontop of him and take advantage where he would not.. though she got a better idea.

She shifted slightly and rolled to sit up, and grasped the hem of her slip. mumbling something about burning up as an excuse, and tossed it to the floor. She settled back into the bed, and glanced over to him with a playful, devious smirk dancing over her lips. Moving just a bit she let the blankets pool at her waist, as she danced her fingertips down across her flesh. One hand following the trail of her stomach, and dipping just between her thighs beneath the sheets, the other tracing the luscious swell of her breasts. Palms lightly grazing over her nipple. The hand between her thighs dipped against her sex and she let out a breathy moan. Her back arched lightly against the bed and she gasped. Her head resting back against the pillow, lashes flush against her cheeks as her lips parted and the sweet, sultry moans flowed forth. She knew he'd be listening, and what better torture, granted she was ultimately torturing herself as well, but to let him hear her in pleasure, and him not even so much as touching her.

She whimpered softly, biting her bottom lip. Fingertips teasing along her damp sex. Her molten core practically dripping as her mind played images of him. Remembering the feel of him in her hand just moments before. She moaned, a murmur of his name slipping her lips in the process. She rolled her hips just slightly, propping her knees up just a bit causing the sheets to slip a little lower as she worked that hand between her thighs. Teasing her clit, and repeating the actions he'd done to her, just the night before. Refreshing her memory of the pleasure, and sparking the need that was festering inside of her. Her body begging, aching, trembling for more.. but she was determined to make him break.
 
The game they were playing was unexpected and fun, just the sort of thing he’d envisioned he might do with a loved one some day. That it was happening in the High King’s castle, when the fate of their kingdoms and their very lives were at stake, just added to the intensity of the moment itself, ratcheting his desire higher and higher. It was pure torture, touching her the way he had and not doing anything about it, but he knew he had to do it. They were dancing a dance of lovers, but also testing each others resolve, trying to see which one would break first. The High Knight of Narvashal had continued the game with all intentions of winning it but what she did next caused that iron will to waver just a bit. Out of the corner of his eye he saw her sit up and say something about the heat but before he could respond, she grabbed the hem of the slip and pulled it off, tossing the thin material to the floor in a heap. When she moved, settling her body once again, the blanket slipping down to her waist, his eyes widened and his lips parted just slightly, tongue darting out to lick his lips.

Her breasts were now bare to the open air and he saw the way it affected her nipples, the little nubs hardening before his sight. What she did next though practically boiled the blood in his veins and he couldn’t keep the moan inside. His gaze riveted to the fingers of her hand, each set moving across her body in so many different ways. One teased her breasts, grazing across that hardened nub while the other slid down her stomach and dipped between her legs. It was clear from her movements what she was doing, her moans simply solidifying it in his mind, and when her back arched, the gasp flying forth, he felt his shaft fully harden. The states of arousal in the room were at an all time high now, his body damn near bursting with his need, and it killed him to lie there and listen to her without doing anything about it. He fought the urge to move though, fought that quickening need that threatened to control him, pulling out every trick that he knew from his days on the battlefield. With every hidden movement of her fingers though, his resolve slowly eroded, inches ticking off one by one.

Finally he could stand it no longer and with a guttural growl of passion he rolled to his knees, one hand shooting out and grabbing the blanket, ripping it away from her legs. His gaze locked onto her hand and the way it played across her folds, her arousal clear in the glint of the moisture that coated her. Swallowing hard, he moved fast, sliding so that he was positioned at the base of her legs. His hands reached out and pulled hers away then gripped her thighs and spread them. “Curse you, woman” he said with a husky voice “I can’t take any more of this.” With that, Marcus dropped to the bed and pushed his heard forward, his tongue darting out to slide along the edge of her slit, teasing without touching at first. The feel of her slick skin gliding over his rough tongue drew a moan from his lips and he shifted his head again, licking across her clit before sliding back down to drag across her moist core. He did this for a moment, alternating between the two and then he suddenly moved again, his lips closing over her sensitive bundle of nerves and sucking on it hard.
 
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