2 comments/ 15871 views/ 1 favorites Spring Fever: Holy City of Solis By: wudelfin The soul is known to be the one of the most fragile energies created in the universe. It is a fragment of what is and what is to become. This fragment is split into harmony and melody, male and female. Each transcends time and space always searching for the other. Two halves becoming whole are risks beyond what is understood of flesh and bone. If one is able to find the other only the mind creates the problems the heart is willing to risk. Be friendship, family or lovers your soul becomes complete. Now understand if they are not completed the halves can sustain life with an undercurrent of absence. So then you question the quality of the lifetime. Loki understood this well for he is a part of the universal chaotic dance. Hair of the slivery moon and green eyes of mirth he sits. His frame is tall and slender, clothing embroidered in purple and gold is relaxed. He smiles looking at his statue of his first Herald. A feather duster appears meticulously cleaning the bronze statue. "I know of an interesting story I will tell you." Within the walls of its many libraries that litter the castle sits the Queen Mother Cleosia Malkin. This particular one was a favorite of the other occupant, her youngest daughter, Junediai Lyric Rune-Feather Malkin. The two-story walls lined with knowledge and multiple alcoves hold pleasant memories of laughter and play. The highly polished dark wood and brass tells of wealth and history. Illuminated only by the roaring fire they share the silence as her mother reads the report of the latest peace negotiation and assignation attempt. Both clad in traditional family colors Junediai wears hers in the typical jester fashion of geometric designs, as her mother is formal. Hair swept up and pinned, makeup minimal at best Queen Cleosia's aura speaks of commanding power, her face reveals nothing as the pages turn. Junediai stands mockingly bored in front of the roaring fire. Her elbow rests on the mantle her face resting on her fist. Flirtatious in both manner and dress she sports a blouse with bellowing sleeves cinched at the wrists, the open collar ravels only a hint of cleavage. The colorful vest compliments her small waist accenting her full hips. The matching skirt reaches her knees with a saucy split at the side flattered with heeled calf high boots. Though her hair is partial drawn up it is held by a Jester style barrette of ribbons leaving her jet-black ringlets to cascade down her back. The only indication of her mood is the constant twirling of the wineglass in her hand. Taking a lazy sip she savors the warm sensation of the liquor in her stomach. She doesn't hear the pages of her report turning. Her mind is in the distant land where the trouble began. Dispatched to the distance planet of Crane for new trade routes, Junediai quickly came to find the tense political mood of the government. As time drew near the holiest days of the year a demonstration of intellectual force was needed for the benefit of her host. Her Consort Cieslik, in name only, was at her side. A trusted friend who skills laid with the study of Warriors Guild, discipline Man at Arms, Master rank. A fine man of experience and great deterrent against unwanted advances from other males. After positions were established the real games began. Twelve hours of bantering tip toeing, and cock holding both parties agreed to resume the established routes between the two governments. Clearly the state of the economy within the country was poor and was used as an excuse to attack the main palace. Among the chaos Junediai and her entourage battled their way out. Just as they arrived at the port for departure the ship exploded. Scattering them to the winds. Two separate acts executed with the same intentions. Manipulate the authority of the current government. For a few precious moments she awoke within the debris face down. Something heavy pressed her down into the ground. Coughing she struggled to move causing more debris to fall upon her. Her strength gave after a time, more concerned for her friends than herself, she tried again but couldn't. Something was wrapped around her waist. After many hours rescuers found her. There were no other survivors. Her protector and friends covered her during the explosion taking the full impact of the force. Some she would not be able to bury only her consort was found whole. His eyes were vacant but his hands kept a vise grip on her, fulfilling his promise of protection. Seven people died protecting her, three jesters, two warriors, a healer and her consort. Each person handpicked by Master Cloves was connected to her in a personal way. All vowed protection of the Herald and Princess each fulfilled their duty. An investigation was underway within the government of Crane but she and her mother didn't put much stock in their law enforcement. After debriefing with Master Cloves, Junediai immediately informed their families in person. After the wakes and funerals she worked even harder. Their killers would be brought to justice, Jester style. Over the next two months Cleosia and the rest of the family became more worried over the youngest princess. She didn't show any emotion at the funerals her hours became longer as she immersed herself in work. One person was found to have the knowledge of what happen. She was demon of Brina and refused to tell. Master Cloves himself found the female to be resilient then Junediai took over the interrogation, the prisoner talked after a half an hour. There is something to be said about a former student of a God. Scares run deep within Junediai. The loss of her entire entourage was devastating embracing the pain she plowed daringly forward. To act out in her loss would tarnish the memory of the fallen warriors. She has faced pain and deception before and survived. Now she feeds off it for it told her she was still alive. From her birth she was trained the art of Deceit. Disguised and whisked away to the castle she was shown her fate as the child of the void. In defiance she grew to have no fear of mortal or God. Loki only made it worse in a sense he exposed the beauty of chaos. Ideals are false hope and egos are meant to be broken. Yes, there is to be a balance but then what is life without struggle? She has refused any bodyguards even at the request (more threaten) by her mother. Juni's eyes are vacant and lips become thin. Her skin becomes flushed as she states "Let them come I'm ready." Taken aback Cleosia relents on the bodyguard; she knows Juni could easily make hell for them. In this state Juni is more dangerous than her opponent could imagine. The rest of the family isn't so convinced. Her brother calls in a favor from one of the best trackers, he is known to do anything to get the job done. Currently in the Healer's Guild training and raised off world he is the best candidate to look after her. On the top of the ridge Junediai sits sketching the Holy City at night during the first few days of Spring Fever. She can feel the effects but it seems hollow. Lately everything has lost its glow even food as lost is flavor. Checking her watch she finds it will be quite some time before the sandstorm forms. Looking at the rising moon she estimates her distance from the city to be an hour. After securing her bag she unfurls her ebony wings then proceeds to look for the right sand dune for the picking. Landing some distance away she starts the hunt for a blue crystal. Her back to the sea of sand she looks at the temple ruins in the mountain. The wind starts to pick up and the sky darkens. No clouds in sky she hears thunder. Frowning in confusion she looks back then sees the silent wall of shared glass and sand. Looking at the mountains again she finds she misjudged the distance dropping her pickings she ascends. Pumping her wings she races to make the ruins. The winds nip at her heels as she forces her body faster. Then just as she thinks she has made it the storm hurtles her within its clutches. Screaming she falls then is pickup by the whirlwind. Her skin burns from the multiple cuts from the fragments. Drawing in her wings she tries to curl into a ball. Covering her face she tries to breathe but the sand becomes lodge in her throat her body feels as if being shredded layer by layer. Her feathers felt as if being ripped. Then she slams into something solid, passing out. The cavern is spacious enough for a dragon to comfortably turn around. Settling down Jarenth feels Liam slide down the side of his neck. Holding her body close to he finds the ruin was converted into a traveler's shelter. Kneeling he gently places her on the cot in the alcove of the cavern. Her body and wings are covered with multiple gaping lacerations. Her clothes ruined with blood; ebony feathers fall on the floor with tissue pulp at the ends. Quickly stripping he notes bloodstains on his coat. Checking her vitals he swallows. Her heartbeat is faint, losing blood at this rate she may not make it. Rolling up his sleeves he rummages through the medical cabinet for supplies. Blood trickles from the cot on to the stone floor. Calming the panic threatening his composure he braces himself then sets to work. Her body is relaxed as he fingers deftly work he mutters prayers to any god listening. Using all his medical knowledge and healing spells he works against time. Her breath becomes shallow drawing a blade he draws it gently to her nose the moisture of her breath barley registers. For a moment her skin seems to glow then fades. The room is filled with paintings and sculptors of past and present artists. An orchestra is playing in another room. Someone calls her name, to her left she sees Mala, harbinger of death, sitting reading a huge book with a perplexed look on her face. Repeating her name she looks up into the eyes of her niece. Always dressed for the occasion Junediai looks as if ready to for a luncheon. Then Mala remembers the first time she met Juni. She was sixteen and wrangled her way in demanding to meet her. Curious what her sister had adopted into the family she found a fearless little girl in yellow bearing handmade gifts. Mala recognized her niece didn't know she was dead. Smiling "Am I late auntie?" A figure appears behind her, a man brave or desperate enough to follow her to this domain. Mala can see the connection between the two. It is become an interesting day to say the least. There was only one connected to Junediai. What has he done to sever it? Junediai tries to take a step forward then feels someone's hand on her arm. Turning to the source her eyes settle on the most beautiful shade of violet she has ever seen. He pleads, "Juni come home." "I can't leave my auntie here alone. That would be rude. Besides who are you?" Gathering her close he kisses her, "Come home with me." Her body feels drained and cold; heavily leaning closer she can see the tension around his eyes. Unconsciously she caresses his cheek, her hand is cold and stiff against him. Concern nips her heart confused she blinks. "Why? There is nothing keeping me. I like my aunt, she shouldn't be alone like me." Looking over her shoulder Liam sees Mala stand. She doesn't comment just watches. His lips brush against her cool cheek then capture her lips for a second kiss. Whispering in Junediai's ear "Your not alone anymore." His emotions filter into her like a rainbow. Blissfully sighing, she breaks away her eyes heavy with his echoing love. "I shouldn't...she needs..." leaning towards him they kiss. She starts to feel warm and with strength returning. Her blue lips become flush and swollen sharing his breath of life with her he tries to complete the link between them. Her heart flutters then begins to beat echoing his own. Opening his eyes a tear falls as he murmurs, "Trust me." Looking into his eyes she feels herself falling. Nodding she agrees. Relief that he has never known fills him relaxing his grip around her waist. "But one moment I have to say good bye." Running Junediai stops in front of her aunt before Liam was able to stop her. Unknown to Junediai her color was returning and hair became fuller with each step. Her clothes once colorless became bright. A giggle escapes her "I'm sorry auntie for breaking our engagement but someone needs me." Kissing Mala's cheek Junediai lets the chill of death pass handing her aunt the customary gift, a small colorful clutch bag. Taking a quick peek over her shoulder she spies Liam, whispering, "May I go?" Mala look back and forth between them "Is he worth it niece?" Her wings flutter for a moment shimmering the colors of the rainbow, the mark of the Herald. His respond the same. Junediai face unknowingly reflects joy, breathlessly she replies "Yes." Falling heavily on the floor Liam groans in protest of his stiff limbs then begins to shudder from the chill of death. Concerned Jareth nudges him questioning. Mind unable to focus clearly from the journey from the underworld Liam gropes for his Master. Nudging his hatchling Jareth gently helps Liam stand. Trustingly Liam relaxes against his friend. Sensing the chill deep within the hatchling Jareth swallows water then huffs creating a cloud of steam. The cloud elopes Liam's body, cradling his hatchling Jareth spies the female. Eloquently shifting his massive body Junediai rises by an unseen force then is tenderly lowered into his embrace. Both feel colder than ice against his skin, inspecting his clutch he settles close to the fountain. Liam will recover quickly until then he shall guard them. Waking to the sound of the dying storm her body feels as if being cradled in a warm, heavy blanket. The pounding within her head feels as if she was knocked around like a rag doll. Then she remembers the storm, she was. Slowly flexing her muscles she finds no broken bones. Groggily opening her eyes she wonders why she is still alive. Confused she tries to focus on the big red blur in front of her. Blinking the great beast comes into focus. She is lying on a huge maroon dragon, naked. Before panic sets in she feels another presence within the room, a man with a strong undercurrent of power. Across the way in elaborate fountain she sees him bathing. Her blood stirs as she took in his form. Carefully sitting up she winces but is transfixed by what she sees. A stark contrast to his body his silvery gray feathers take on a glow from the waterfall. Shoulder length dark copper hair, goatee, and long lashes any woman would envy. His tanned skin tells signs of battles. Just before she could make out the color of his eyes he turns his back to her rinsing the soap off his shoulders. She wondered if his all his feathers were the same color. Pushing the thought aside she looks at the dragon. The tail covers its eyes listening for its heartbeat she finds it slow and steady, asleep. Gritting her teeth against the pain she unsteadily pulls herself into a sitting position. Carefully her toes touch the cold ground keeping an eye on her captor. Dunking himself underwater she uses the opportunity to escape. Willing her body to stop shaking she attempts to walk collapsing into a heap. The coils wrap around her with alarming speed saving her from falling completely on her face. Her head begins to spin and body spasm uncontrollably. She feels rough hands on her shoulders pulling her back, ready to defend herself even if feebly her fists clench to strike. Muttering to himself Liam pins her against the wall of coils. Helplessly she emits a squeak then defiantly tries to utter a spell. Feeling the charge of magic his hand clamps over her mouth. Calm pours into her body drugging her mind and actions. The fight seeps out of her, her body sags into his arms. Gently he scooping her up her head rests against his shoulder. Not bothering to cover herself she whispers, "Am I your prisoner?" Not bothering to answer he lays her next to Jarenth. By the time he covers her with a blanket she fell fast asleep. His conscience begins to surface as his body responds. His heart rate increases as the pressure on his chest moves back and forth. Feminine moans echo in his ears, a wet prickling sensation against his neck makes him snarl. His body tightens as the waistband of his pants opens a small hand cups him. Sweet urging pleas and soft kisses coax him further. She murmurs something but he doesn't understand her words. His mind nudges hers questioning. Responding she repeats her request, "Touch me." Complying he should remember something. His hands skim her body opening his eyes he sees and feels her arching against him. Calling her name in wonder she responds wrapping her long supple legs around his waist urging him. Her lips part between cooing and taking in a sharp breath. Her warm hands rub his back trailing down pushing his pants over his buttocks. Her feet take over pushing the gathered material past his hips. The friction causes him to growl. Nipping her shoulder he kicks the offending clothes off. Shifting his weight she wraps her arms around his neck and shoulders. His hard lines fill her soft curves, their lips touch and sample. Caressing her face she playfully nips his fingertips. Her eyes are soft with want drawing each finger between her lips a jolt of electricity passes through him. Her musk wafts into him, the need to posses fills him. Licking her jugular he invades her. A small cry escapes her, digging her nails into his shoulders her body shudders readily accepting. His eyes close from the sensations ricocheting inside him becoming greedy his hands caress every plane and valley of her body. Steadily plunging into her his hands cup her bottom bring her closer. Biting his neck while raising her legs she mews in response. Her wetness increases as her body responds, his concentration wanes as his body builds for release. He can feel her body start to tremble increasing his thrust she strains against him in return. Her wings flutter as she loses control crying out in ecstasy. Drawing out her climax as long as he can his control snaps when she utters, "Come with me." shouting he releases deep within her womb. Life begins. They arrive at the Elysian Manor within the walls of Solis, the Holy City. Landing within the guardhouse he slips off, raising his arms she slips between them. For a moment he lingers, looking up she wonders if last night was a dream. The cloak engulfs her body as the hood swallows her face making her look frail and vulnerable. Her eyes reflect his confusion. The morning after was awkward. They awoke in each other's arms. Spooned chest to back his arm cradled her head as her fingers laced within his cupping her breast. The aroma of sex clung to their skin. Shifting to face him her muscles protest. Wincing her confusion shows. He didn't remember falling asleep next to her. His expression becomes murderous. That could have been a fatal mistake. Flinching she ducks her head covering herself. Angry with himself he quickly dresses. Sitting up she looks around in a daze. She never acted like this before. Just hours ago she didn't know if he was friend or foe. Now he became a lover maybe the near death experience clouded her mind. What ever it was it has now past and reality has set in. Rubbing her arms a slight chill elopes her as she starts to weigh her situation. Boldly staring at her companion she notices that he wasn't looking at her either. His dark skin has a slight blush as if embarrassed. His movements are graceful and determine. Wrapping the blanket around her she tosses her hair over her shoulder in a clear commanding voice. "Who are you and how did you find me?" Catching his attention he struggles with her words then decides to speak to her in his own. Presenting himself to her no movement is wasted as he bows humbly "Sokeht, Jan'Ki Malkin. Ee sa fysan ko memme o na (My name is Liam Tal'kereth, I have an important document for Princess Malkin.)" Spring Fever: Holy City of Solis For a moment she looks at him in confusion. Then the translation for ancient Guarosi registers. Smiling warily she greets him in turn. Silently regarding each other he sees she has turned into the diplomat as she sees a man of mystery. Looking at her state of dress he grabs his cloak. "Milady?" Offering it to her she slowly stands testing her strength walks to him. Turning he settles the material over her shoulders. Surprising the both of them he lifts her hair from the collar the silkiness of her tresses slip through his fingers. Shivering from the electricity running from the back of her neck through out her body her eyes close. Want so strong fills her with last night still fresh in her mind her body betrays her. Stepping back he avoids temptation. Looking everywhere but her he disposed of any evidence of their stay. Disappointed she doesn't look back her pride would not permit her to. The huge dragon stretches with a jaw-popping yawn. Resettling he shifts leaving a small space for her to sit. Shoving her hands inside the pockets she finds the letter. Clutching the material she is surprised at the silkiness. The texture reminds her of sequence and the pattern of snake. Curling next to Jarenth clutching the cloak in the absence of him she reads the letter. Dear Juni, His name is Liam Tel'kereth a tracker and a good solid man. Look I know you don't want someone to hover over you. I just asked that you let Liam stay around you for the season. I know the reporters would have a field day but I need to know someone has your back. I can't be there all the time. He speaks mostly ancient Guarsoi, (your gonna love this), and his dragon, Jarenth, can talk. Love Jumby Looking up at the dragon she blushes. "Hello Jarneth." Turning his massive head he regards her with a toothy smile "Good morning princess, I hope you slept well?" A watery smile upturns her lips as her body tingled. Confused by her own reaction she looks at the fountain. Surprised she giggles then falls over laughing. Stopping at the sound he sees what she is looking at. The fountain that he bathed in and washed her body inscription explains why it happened. Let all who thirst sated their need. They stayed in an abandoned of Temple of Thian the God of Love. Her fingers slightly rub his arms, electricity transfer from her fingertips to his skin. Nervously licking her lips, she looks at the surrounding walls composing herself from kissing him. His face is impassive but she can feel the conflict within him. Whispering "This would not be proper milady." Just as she is about to reply, "It seems the wandering imp has returned." Dropping his hands they both turn to the source of the voice. Smiling Jumada watches them from the guardhouse shelter. Coughing Liam pats Jarenth; Junediai bristles. Looking at her brother "You still murder the language, brother." Mockingly he folds his arms. "Somebody should have bitten off that tongue of yours long ago, sister." Jumada's gaze shift to his friend "Thank you, I hope she didn't give you any problems." Enjoying the banter between siblings Liam smirks. "No sir, she was very cooperative." Walking next to Liam he pats him on the shoulder "Good. I know you want to take your leave but I must insist on at least inviting you to dinner." Looking between them she feels left out of their shared friendship. For a moment she is jealous of her brother. Dismissing them she takes her leave wonder what lies on her desk and whom she can blame. Shaking his head Jumada sighs "Hum, feel sorry for the poor bastard." Looking at Liam he finds his friend admiring his sister. Feeling his stare Liam walks Jarenth to an open dragon stall, curious Jumada follows finding Liam meticulously grooming Jarenth. Shouts are heard all around the stable, Jumada leans against a support beam "Liam, how is the new discipline going?" Touching Liam's mind "What happened last night?" Picking out a sliver of glass he throws it in a bucket, speaking aloud "It is going well so far and the Dragon Weyr? Liam's thought "I found her during a sandstorm. Found shelter and patched her up." A breeze pulls the smell of old hay out of the room. Jumada loud "As to be expected with a large mixed group. Are you coming to the festival?" Liam shakes his head in denial "No, to many needy women for my taste. I like them to have all their faculties before bedding them." Concerned Jumada sends thoughts questioning the sandstorm. Quickly Liam tells his leader how he found her leaving out which temple they occupied. Jumada stares at Liam his expression stern, he believes him but there is something more. After a moment Liam looks down speaking aloud "I didn't dishonor your sister." Nodding Jumada looks for more "Did she show any interest?" For a moment Liam wanted to lie. "Yes, there is interest there but I am not so sure your plan is so fool proof. Princess Junedia is at a vulnerable state and if she were to find out you are behind your true intension she may not react kindly." Clasping his hands together Jumada regards his friend then smiles. "It seems my sister is always miffed at me for one reason or another. But she always forgives me, she know I try to protect her in my own way. So how do you know her state of mind?" Liam's violet eyes never waver as he answers "I could tell from her guarded actions and eyes." Rubbing his chin he regards Liam in a new light. An idea forms with a smile. "You would be a perfect candidate considering you are up for your trial soon. Looking up he wonder what did he do to deserve such attention, nudging Liam Jarenth look at him. "No one said to stop hatchling." Liam spreads his hands over his mentor slivers of glass appear then float over the bucket dropping in a steady stream. Finished he starts to wash the wounds. "Sir, she needs a cultured man who would be able to cater to her needs and status. I am a simple man born off planet with no alliance..." Liam then understands his position or lack thereof that could be appealing to Jumada. Taking aback he stares at Jumada. "You sent me on purpose hoping?" Grabbing another bucket Jumada helps Liam by filling the trove with fresh salmon. Dipping his head Jerenth begins to feast on the delicacy. Scratching above the dragon's eyes he gambles. "Liam, she needs protection. Of all that surround her I can say maybe a hand full could be a match. But I trust none, you could be a needed distraction." Applaud Liam squashes a need to hit him. "She isn't a burden to any but herself. She need someone with stature not war scares." Jumada sighs heavily "Liam, she needs someone who can carry secrets." His body tenses they both knew what Jumada was saying. He knew his one dirty secret that could make him a living target. Squaring his shoulders as his face darkens grimacing tossing secray aside this needed to be said aloud. "Let me state this now, I don't think this will go well." Clasping his hands together Jumada regards his friend then smiles. "Good then I will see you later at dinner, we don't dress so don't worry." Waving he takes his leave similar to his twin. She didn't show for dinner. Guests from the House of Fire and Air join them. Jumada makes excuses for his sister. Rolling his eyes in annoyance. "There is something to be said about my sister's rudeness sometimes." Many women flirt with Liam but he causally puts them off. Every so often Jumada would catch Liam taking a glance at the dinning door. Smiling he hopes. Claiming paperwork she locks herself within her library. Sitting she tries to understand her sudden lust. Falling back her hands settle on the armrest. Slowly the crackling fire lulls her to sleep. The corridor is dimmly lite, he lags behind needing put some distance between them. Pausing for a moment she looks behind her, confused. "Tired of me already?" Looking down "No, milady it is not proper for a man of my stature." Giving him a seductive stare "I assure you dear warrior that makes no difference now that I claim you." Caressing his cheek she smiles at his warmth. Reaching for his hand she laces her fingers through his. Smiling he steps to her... Within the manor Liam leans against the dinning room fire mantel with an untouched drink in his hand. Looking into the flames he needed to come to a decision. He was born out of the need for his god however; he didn't have the need to be a toy. When he came of age visions plagued him. How his body and mind was fashioned for a purpose. The pain of detachment and loneliness because of his uniqueness fills him with bitterness. In his youth he rebelled for a century and a half he played his part in this struggle called life, then slowly inch-by-inch she called for him. Determined not to become a puppet he ignored her echoing sorrow. Traveling the universe always avoiding this planet. Yet no matter how far he would travel somehow he would always be tied to it. Troops found their way to his home planet of Finfir discovering him. Meeting Jumada was not planned nor him liking the man. He did not want to be her keeper. The laughter from the party becomes distant in the background, bringing back her perfume he can feel her presence. He can see her in his mind. Wearing dark clothing and holiday mask she blends into the shadows of the street making her way towards the mountains. Snapping his eyes open he hesitates. His desire to be free with his own will fights against his blind desire to be with her. Then he remembers his instant pain he felt when she died. Quickly he follows. Knowing she may be tempting the fates she needed to get away. This time she finds a secluded spot overlooking the city from the observatory. Reading the brochure a meteor shower is predicted. A small crowd starts to form. Some come for the site as others mingle for casual lovers. Wanting to be alone she makes her way from of the building terrace to the side. Picking her way she finds a ridge with a shelter. Mindful of her surroundings she pauses. Crouching she sniffs the air. Finding nothing she proceeds on. Pulling her sketchbook from her backpack she attempts to draw in the waning light. A dragon-rider sets non-to far from her. Try as she may she cannot stop herself from looking, hoping. She can tell it is a dark red and nothing else. She waits for the rider to disembark off the great beast to before greeting. Walking into the light the rider is clad from head to toe in maroon dragon skin. Shock sets in as she takes the rider's clothing in. The cut is crude but efficient enough to cover the entire body. In formal sweeping fashion the red rider bows low watching her every move. The asteroid shower begins. Taken off guard they seek shelter underneath the dragon's wing. Clutching her sketchbook she looks at nature in awe. Liam watches her from the shadows. A spring breeze caresses her body she sighs longingly. Closing her eyes she can smell his scent finding it pleasing. Reining in her lust she turns bumping into him. He removed his mask revealing his smoldering dark eyes. Swallowing she takes a shaky breathe, a mistake for now she has taken in his scent in full force. Carefully he lifts her chin up a fraction to face him. Her eyes are closed and knuckles are white against cover. "Alhai?" (May I?) Responding softly her eyes open in a dreamy state "Isa." (Yes) Giving her enough time to stop he kisses her. The book makes a soft thud as he masters her mouth. Leaning heavily against him she pulls her mouth from his "Please forgive my inexcusable behavior. I don't..." Kneeling he lifts her skirt kissing her thighs causing her words to lodge in her throat. Taking her silence as encouragement he removes her panties, stuffing the thin material in his pocket. Removing his cloak he spreads it on the stone ground. Sitting he tugs her down astride. Cupping his face she plunders his mouth as he opens her blouse. Unclasping her bra her breasts spring from the constricting material. Licking the tops of her breasts her hand rubs against his length, cooing in delight she frees him. Shifting he enters watching her, her face tenses in pleasure. Gasping from her tightness his fingers dig into her waist as she moves against him. Pulling at his warn shirt, it is flung over his head running her hands down his back she find it heavily scared. Recoiling she cries as if hurt stilling his movements. She gently kisses him murmuring her thanks to the gods for his survival of his trials. As if to heal them he feels her fingertips brush over his marred skin. "Oh, my sweet savior." Looking in her eyes he feels humbled by her simple act. Her eyes reflect such longing. The mood changes the coupling from mindless passion to his pleasure. Bending forward she tightens her abdomen while licking his neck just above the jugular. A feral sound escapes her as she latches on. Her teeth just break his skin careful not to draw blood. Her action causes him to shout in ecstasy spilling his seed deep within her. Slowing to a stop she milks his body. Nuzzling his shoulder her fingers thread through his hair, her body pulses from the fever. His hands remove her sweat stained blouse and useless bra. Exposing her skin to the elements she shudders. As he licks her neck she feels her body stretching. Looking down she smiles shyly, smiling in return he states "Ral nassu (I'm not done yet)." Tugging the fancy dragon barrette from her ponytail he runs his fingers in the tresses. "Kesala" (Beautiful). Humming in response she searches for his lips. Twisting he places her on the cape, fully possessing her body. This time it is not a dream but reality. The sun glints off the dragon's scales. Jareth opens one eye as Junediai awakens in dread. Sitting up the cloak slides into her lap exposing her breasts. Movement brings her out of her revere; finding lying next to her is Liam Tel'kereth. Her eyes widen in horror as last night events flood back they made love until the light of the pre dawn. Silently she quickly gathers her clothes. After a time of franticly looking she couldn't find her sketchbook, her lover stirs again in slumber his expression is so peaceful. Catching herself she backs off after covering him. Passing the dragon's head she looked at it in shame. "Please tell him I'm sorry." Running she dives off the ridge, the short drop gives her just enough updraft to unfurl her ebony wings. As she ascends Liam stands next to his friend. Patting Jareth Liam turns "Em gor, Fi'jala, Ee dena e khri so Ee urs. (It seems old friend I have quite a fight on my hands.)" Picking up his shirt he finds her sketchbook and barrette. Smiling at his fortune, he now has a legit excuse to see her. Some hours later he finds her attending a luncheon in the honor of the Healer Guild. Watching her from a short distance he shields his presence from her. Poised with grace she mingles with the committee making promises and soothing egos. Dressed in soft earth tones she radiates respect with soft smiles that reach her eyes. Pheromones of both sexes reach a high as the party starts to die down. Attracting many suitors she fends them off easily with reassurance of no offense. Quietly she leaves for the next banquet in honor of the holiday he follows. For the next six hours she attends four parties. Like a shadow he watches over taking in her beauty and any danger surround her. Finally in the morning twilight she returns home. Before she crosses the threshold to the manor he reveals himself. "Milady." The heavily accented word brought her to a stop. Turning to face him he notes the subtle signs of exhaustion. Faint smudges underneath her eyes, her movements became wary and quick glances about her. Confused by his presence she tries to hide her surprise. "Liam?" To an observer he was returning a bag, however lightly stroking her hand as he released the strap to her he transfers the much needed energy to her. Rapidly blinking her full lips puckers in a soft o. For a moment she says nothing, warring emotions flicker in her eyes. Several times she tries to say something then stop. Still as a statute he waits being mindful of the paparazzi always lurking. Life has taught her to always trust her instincts and at the moment it screams to keep him any way possible. Lightly touching his mind "Why?" Smiling he brushes a kiss on her temple, "Because I want to." Stroking his chin the texture of his goatee is soft underneath her fingertips. "This is a very treacherous game you are playing. The rules forever change but the stakes don't." Gathering her close he tucks her head under his chin. "You have now warned me, princess. May I be at your side?" Reaching for his hand she turns away proceeding into the manor just above a whisper he hears. "Please." The massive door close behind them as they walk through the hall.