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A Gypsy's Tale

By: Ladytiger199



The fire rose higher and turned green for a moment as the drums grew louder, and the flutes played faster. Sweat stuck to the young woman's dark skin as her thin yet strong arms were held above her head. Her dark wild eyes danced with the flames and her thin pale lips were stretched into a smile. 

She wore little clothing on her body, for even though the night was cool her body felt hotter than the fire itself. A dark green cloth covered her large breasts, but left her stomach bare much to the delight of all the men leering at her. Her long green skirt hung from her hips, deep slits showing the glitter of the golden rings that decorated her ankles

The rings on her ankles rung with a bell like sound every time she moved adding to the eroticism of the scene.

Her feet were in time with her hips, which were in time with the music " her body moved in time with the music the sound seeming to move like a wave from her hips to her feet" as she danced around the fire. 

The woman felt free when she danced. Free from her nomad life, from the harsh words and dirty looks. She was also free from the men who try to touch her because they think they can. The men who treat her like a common whore. 

However she was no whore, she was a simple gypsy girl trying to fill her stomach with food. The only talent she possessed was dancing.

She has danced longer than she has walked, or so she is told. Yet she would have it no other way.

She stopped just as the music did. Her long black hair swung around one last time as she took sharp deep breaths. Cheering and clapping came immediately afterwards yet she paid little attention to that. She was looking at a man who had seen her dance for two weeks now.

He was like the rest of the men, dark hair and bright blue eyes. His skin was not tanned like the others, and he was clean shaven, most of the time it was the guards that were like that. Yet the young woman knew he was no guard for he disappeared after she danced. Most guards tried to get into her bed. 

The young women let her arms drop and she stared hard at the man. He met her gaze. Neither of them budged not willing to back down, until the next act stepped into position and she was forced to move. 

She sighed and sat down on the far end of the fire so that she was by herself. She took a long drink of warm water. Cold was better but that was hard to get in the desert. Still the water refreshed her. 

She smiled and watched her friends perform. They were all good dancers as well.

"They are good but you are far superior," said a dark husky voice.

The young woman's hand quickly found a small dagger she kept strapped to her leg. She bought it the first time a man tried to touch her without her permission. Then she saw that it was the man who had been watching her. 

He saw her hand clutching something and smiled. "Relax," he said in a calm voice, as he sat down next to her. "I will not hurt you,"

She relaxed a bit and looked at the man carefully. "Alright, then what do you want?" she asked bluntly. 

"Not the kind to waste words are you?" 

"We only have so many words in our life, why waste them?" 

"Very true. You are very wise for a gypsy,"

"One does not need a home to know the way things work,"

"Once again very true," 

"You have yet to tell me what you wish of me," 

"For now... I just wish for your name,"

"Why would you wish for something like that?" 

"So we may have a civil conversation with one another," 

"Are we not having one now?" 

She could see the man tighten his jaw with anger. Telling her he was a man of power few people spoke back to him so he was not used to such questions. However; this did not scare the young woman. If she was going to die then it was her time and the gods wished for her to join them. 

The man relaxed a bit and let out a soft breath. "Will you please tell me your name?" 

Please is such a simple word, yet holds so much power.

The young woman sighed in defeat. "Fine. My name is Tecor,"

"Such a beautiful name it is too,"

"Since you know me, who are you?" 

"I am the High marshal of these areas. I control the lands you see around you and its people. However, you may call me Esric,"

Tecor took in a slightly shaky breath. A high marshal could kill her for the way she talked to him, or do much worse to her. There are so many things worse than death. 

"So Esric what do you wish of a lowly nomad like myself?" 

"Not much really. I just like the way you dance," 

"There is more to it than that," she stated. 

"Yes. I am holding a banquet, and I want you to perform,"

Tecor wanted to laugh but she held it back. "I am not suited for your halls Sir," 

"With a bath and clean clothes you will be," 

"Do I have a choice?" 

"Not really, but if you accept I will pay you generously and give you my word that you will be treated with respect," 

"Then I shall do it," 

"Good we leave tomorrow at first light,"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

First light came sooner than Tecor wanted it to. Her eyes would not stay open as she followed Esric's horse with her own. The horse was not hers but she refused to ride with someone.

Esric of course did not travel alone; he had a handful of guards. However, Tecor got the impression that he really did not need them. They were more to please the people who look after him.

The journey was long and hot, but Tecor was used to such things since she had been moving around since she was born. The guards required more breaks than she needed or would have taken if she had traveled alone. 

By the end of the day they arrived at the fortress of Kash. It was an unrivaled thing that was for sure. Its tall pale stones made a thick wall over thirty feet tall. The front door was reinforced with steel and made of solid wood as thick as Tecor's arm was long. It had four tall towers that spanned above it so they could see an enemy approaching.

Trumpets announced their arrival and the large door opened with a load groan.

People were cheering and Tecor wondered how many were actually happy to see Esric return. 

Soon they were inside the main house of the fortress. Around the fortress was a small town like setup. Places like this needed many things and it was easier to move the maker of these things to them, than the actual thing. 

Inside of the fortress was just as impressive as the outside. The walls were a dark shade of green, and hung with ornate tapestries. There were chandeliers made of colored glass hanging from the high ceilings. Tecor had seen fancier places but it was grand for what it was: a safe haven, a prison, and a home.

"I will show you to your room now Tecor. You will bathe and dress in the approved outfit, which I assure you it is not much different than the one you wore last night. "Food will be provided for you and then you will dance just after diner. Are there any questions?" Esric spoke in a militaristic matter. So proper and thorough that it made Tecor wants to laugh, but once again, she held it back. 

"No," She answered as she followed him down the many halls. 

"Good," He said stopping and grasping a door handle firmly in his large hand. "This is your room. There is a cord, pull it if you need anything," 

Tecor looked into his light blue eyes and saw lust. She sighed but smiled politely. "Thank you." She said as she waited for him to open the door. 

Esric either saw that she was not interested or he had other things to do. Either way he opened the door, and bowed his head to her. "I shall see you tonight then." He turned and walked away. 

Tecor sighed in relief and walked into the room. 

It was a nice room, very large with everything the color blue. She found the bathroom with a bath already drawn for her. She smiled at the thought of a hot bath, and quickly discarded her clothing and was soon immersed in the hot perfumed water. 

She let out a soft sigh and relaxed. 

Tecor fell asleep, or so she assumed since the next thing she heard was her door opening and an old lady telling her that her dinner had arrived. 

She noticed the water had gone cold. She slipped out of the now cold water and wrapped a towel around her.

The dinner tray they provided her with was rich, filled with everything one could ever want. A rich assortment of meat, vegetables, sweetbread, and fruit, she smiled and quickly ate her fill. 

After she was done, she moved to the closet to see what they wished her to wear. Esric was right in the fact that it was something she would normally wear. It was dark blue with silver stars that danced upon the fabric. It was a simple two piece that would leave her midriff open for all to see. 

She put on the brassiere, then the long skirt which, unlike her own, had a slit that reached up to the middle of her thigh. She would have to be careful about the way she danced if she did not want to rip it more.

Tecor slipped on her ankle bracelets and combed out her mostly dried hair. 

Then she sat on the bed and waited. There was not much she could do. Fortunately she had a lot of patience. However she did not need to use it this time. Within minutes of her sitting there, there was a knock upon the door.

Tecor answered it to see a middle-aged man wearing a servant's uniform. 

"They are ready for you miss." He said in a low tone, then turned around and continued "If you would be so kind to follow me." With that he started to walk away. Tecor quickly followed him for fear of being punished if she showed up late because she got lost.

The dining hall was elaborate and decorated with banners and flags of various things. Tecor saw Esric smile at her from his place at a long table of people. He then stood up and cleared his throat. 

"Gentlemen may I present the dancer Tecor. I am sure will both entranced and entertained by her dancing," 

Tecor moved to the center of the room and stood there.

Silence gripped the room as if it was a matter of life or death.

Violins and flutes began to play. Tecor closed her eyes as her body began to move in the slow rhythm. Tambourines began to make their appearance and then drums. As the music moved faster, so did her body. 

Sweat clung to her skin as her skirt tried to keep up with her movements. She let the music take her body and soul in a natural and exotic way, her body and soul making love to the music. 

Tecor was lost in the music, lost in the movements of her body, and loving every minute of it. She longed for such a thing, and made her wish that she could live forever. 

Soon the music stopped and her movements gracefully ended. The only sound that could be heard was Tecor's harsh breathing. Then applause erupted and crushed the silence with a deadly blow.

Tecor smiled and bowed to her audience. Then, stood up straight and waited to be dismissed.

A large man whom Tecor could not see because of the poor lighting, who sat to Esric's right, stood up. "My dear friend you have truly found a desert flower. Not only is she beautiful but talented," 

"Thank you. I am glad you liked the entertainment," Esric said warmly.

"Is she ripe for the picking?" the man asked. Tecor heard the lust in his voice and did not like it. 

"Sorry my friend. She is a guest here, but there are plenty of slaves you may choose from if you must pick something," 

"Well I guess it is better than waiting to see my lady wife," 

Esric let out a deep roar of laughter. "So true my friend," 

"Now if you excuse me, my lord Prince," 

Prince! Tecor's mind screamed and she felt herself go pale. 

The reigning King had four sons, which one Esric was she did not know. 

Tecor stood there scared and not knowing what to do. She licked her lips to try to calm herself. 

"You may go Tecor," She heard Esric's voice.

She nodded elegantly and slowly moved to the edge of the room. The same elderly servant was waiting there for her. He slowly led her back to her room. 

As soon as Tecor was alone she stripped the clothes from her slender body and slipped on a night shirt that she found. She would have normally worn something more warming because the nights are cold in the desert, but the fortress was warm so that was unneeded. 

She was not yet tired so she moved to one of the large windows. She leaned against the cool glass and looked upon the moon. 

Tecor did not know when she fell asleep but the next thing she knew she felt someone stroke her hair lightly. She woke up with a start and looked up to see Esric's blue eyes shining in the moon light. She was stricken by the pure beauty of them and could not speak nor move for what seemed to be an eternity. 

"I did not mean to scare you," He said in a gentle voice. "I just wanted to thank you once again for dancing tonight," 

Tecor took a deep breath and remembered to hold her sharp tongue, for this was not a man to let it loose on. 

"It is alright," She said softly. "And you are most welcomed My Lord," She said bowing her head slightly to him.

"I am sorry I did not tell you who I really was. I did not think it was all that important," 

"It does not concern me," She said looking up at him. Once more she saw the lust in his eyes and did not like it. She was scared of it as well, for she has never been bedded before and this man could order her to do so and she could not argue. 

"You looked like a scared cornered animal, why?" He asked, reaching out to touch her face. She quickly moved away from his invading hand. 

"Like any animal I know a predator when I see one,"

Esric smiled slyly and arched an eyebrow. "So you think me as a predator?"

"The most dangerous kind,"

"The powerful kind?" 

"No, the patient kind. The kind that wants their prey to come to them,"

"How do you know that?" 

"Because if you were any other kind I would be on my back right now," 

"True," He said with a smile that quickly vanished. "However; I find that I have little patience with you. My skin burns with want like nothing I have felt before. When I look into your eyes, I almost lose control,"

"Surely you have some slave just as beautiful," 

"It is not just your beauty. It's your wit, your energy, and your quick tongue that I find so flattering,"

Tecor sighed and looked at him calmly. His eyes spoke the truth and yet she knew that neither of them was ready especially her, yet his eyes softened the harsh words she would have otherwise said. 

"Your Highness," She said in a civil, even tone. "I thank you for your kind words, but I must ask you to leave. I am not some whore that you can just use for a good time. The ways of my people are different from yours and the coupling of two people means more than you think. Even a kiss means more. I am a complex person and you do not want that in your life so please leave," 

Esric sighed and his shoulders sagged a bit, and he looked down at the floor. "I can't..." He said lightly. 

"Why not?" Tecor asked in a slightly angry tone. 

"Because my friend, the one that wanted you... Well if I leave he will force you. He is not an evil man, just crazy when he has too much to drink," 

Tecor put her hand on her hip and gave him a level look. "You must be kidding,"

"I am afraid not my lady. I promise I won't try anything in fact I will sleep on the floor,"

"I cannot have a Prince sleep on the floor," She said shaking her head.

"Well I cannot sleep in the bed with you, now can I?" 

"If you promise to keep your hands to yourself you may," She said, regretting it almost instantly. His eyes lit up like a child's do when they see something amazing. 

"Are you sure?" He asked looking at her carefully. 

She sighed, moved passed him and crawled into the large bed. "Yes now get over here before I change my mind," 

He smiled making him look like a little boy. 

He then slipped off his shirt and Tecor's eyes swept over his now bare torso. Esric had muscle that could be seen in the dim light. Tecor could tell that he was lightly toned, just enough to make her lick her lips. She could not deny he was an attractive looking man. 

Tecor saw that he was watching her stare at him. He had a knowing grin on his face. 

Tecor scowled at him but she could feel the heat come to her face. She quickly moved under the covers in an attempt to hide it. 

While she did that Esric moved to the other side of the bed and sat down, to take off his boots. 

"So tell me Tecor. What does it mean to you when two people couple?" He asked in a gentle tone. 

"It means that they are willing to spend the rest of their life with each other,"

"Like marriage?" 

"Yes but more binding. You cannot get out of it even in death," 

"Have you ever wanted that?" 

"What woman does not? However; I have not met the right man," 

"I see," Tecor could feel his eyes upon her. "How do you know if the right man comes?" 

"I honestly do not know, yet who does?"

"True, I have also yet to find someone that I am willing to spend the rest of my life with," 

Tecor could feel him move under the covers. "Sometimes I think I will never find the right woman," She felt him move, turning his body.

Tecor sighed and turned to talk to him and found herself once again lost in his sea blue eyes. Her breath caught in her throat, and she forgot what she was going to say. 

His eyes looked into hers and he too appeared lost, not that he seemed to mind. He slowly reached over and touched her face lightly, and this time she let him. 

She wanted to be touched. Their breath seemed to come as one and she could feel something far greater than the both of them happening. She was unsure what it was. 

Esric smiled and moved his head so his lips lightly touched her cheek. "We should get some sleep," He whispered. Tecor could only nod lightly. He removed his hand and turned away. 

She blinked a few times and slipped into sleep.

A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 02



A hot rough hand lightly touched Tecor's inner thigh. She sighed at the touch and moved her still sleeping body slightly. The hand lightly caressed the spot earning another sigh from the sleeping gypsy. A large smile crept across the unknown face in the dark. 

A second hand moved up under her nightgown slowly. Hot skin on hot skin, this hand caressed all the way to the swell of Tecor's breast and lightly touched the left one with hardened finger tips. This was rewarded with a small moan from the young woman's slightly pale lips. 

Her body moved slightly, caught up in a dream that she couldn't escape. Colors dancing, and a face smiling but nothing she could pin down. 

The unknown figure smiled again, but he was getting impatient. He needed release from his hard member soon. 

Tecor let out another moan as the hand continued to caress her breast. The visitor took this as a sign that she was ready to please him.

The hand that was on her thigh moved down her leg ever so slowly. It grabbed her ankle roughly and yanked her down so that his body was over hers.

The rough grip and pull woke Tecor up, and she saw a pair of dark lustful eyes looking down at her. 

She let out a loud scream and tried to kick the man off of her. She hit him a few times with little result. 

Suddenly the unknown man was tackled by a shadow, pulling him off her. 

Tecor was breathing hard as she sat up to watch the shadows fight. 

***

Esric felt the bed move with weight but figured that Tecor was moving in her sleep again. He sighed wishing that he could hold her to him to make her stop moving. However she would never allow that and he really did not want the woman mad at him. He was not truly disturbed by her moving around anyhow. It was her shrill scream that made him bolt up. 

His eyes narrowed when he saw a large figure over Tecor. 

His whole body filled with rage and he tackled the man to the ground. 

The larger man struggled against Esric, but Esric had the advantage of grip and leverage. 

The man finally gave in and sank to the floor in defeat. 

Once Esric calmed down a bit, he was able to see who the assailant was by the moon light. 

"Malik what in the name of the great one are you doing here?" He growled in anger. 

The drunk man, who had sobered considerably now, looked up at him ashamed.

"I honestly did not think you would be here." he said in a soft tone. "Everyone knows you have never touched a woman."

Esric blushed at that and glanced at Tecor who was watching the situation with interest in her wild eyes. Those eyes drove him insane, almost past reason. What Malik said was the truth. He had yet to bed a woman, though many made themselves available. Countless women wanted to be bedded by a Prince. However, none of them truly inspired him to go through it. Not until he met Tecor. Esric moved his eyes back to his friend when he began to speak once more. 

"Honestly I thought you were joking..." Malik smiled at him and raised one of his thick eyebrows. "By the underworld Esric did you..."

"NO!" Both Esric and Tecor said at the same time. 

"I am here for her protection. I promised her she would be treated with respect if she came here, and you know that I am a man of my word."

Malik nodded firmly. Everyone who knew Prince Esric knew this.

Esric sighed and moved off of the larger man, and offered him his hand. Malik smiled, took it, and pulled himself up.

"If you were just protecting her, why are you in the same bed?" 

"It is a long story I will tell you in the morning over breakfast when you are not drunk. Now get out of here before I really have to hurt you."

Malik scoffed, but walked out of the room.

Esric sighed and looked over at Tecor with concern. "Are you alright?" he asked gently. 

"I will probably have a bruise on my ankle which will affect my dancing." she said softly as she rubbed the tender spot gently. "Other then that I am fine, thanks to you." 

Esric smiled and let his shoulders relax. "Good. I am glad you are alright."

"I should give you something for saving me."

"You really do not have to, Tecor. I did not stop him for my own gain. I promised that you would be treated with respect. Being raped did not seem very respectful to me." 

"All the more reason to give you something," she said with a slight tilt of her head.

"But..." she put her hand up killing the words he would have said.

"Esric." She said so softly that it made him shiver slightly. "I am very stubborn. Once my mind is made up there is no changing it, so accept it." Tecor said in a firm voice. Esric simply nodded. "I will grant you one request that does not involve you touching me, or seeing any of my naked body, nor will I be your slave including marriage. I will not harm or kill for you. I also maintain the right to negotiate a little bit." 

"You truly have thought this through. How many times have you done this?" 

"You are the first but I have heard stories," she said with a smile. 

Esric smiled back, walked over to the bed, and sat down on the edge. He looked at her softly, and wondered what he could ask of her. Then it hit him. 

"Stay," he whispered. 

"What?" she asked looking at him confused. 

"Stay with me," he said with soft eyes moving closer. 

"Why in this world would you want that?" 

Esric smiled a bit. "I would think that was obvious. I really like being around you Tecor. I like talking to you, watching you. I may be greedy, but I want that everyday for as long as I can get it." 

Tecor sighed heavily "I told you that I am a complexity you do not want in your life." 

"I think I do," he insisted. 

"And I am telling you that you do not!" She shot back.

"Then stay and prove me wrong," he challenged. 

Tecor sighed in defeat, knowing she was not going to win this battle. 

"Very well. My tribe is staying here for another month, maybe two. When they leave so do I. I do not wish to be separated from my family sir." she said in a soft tone. 

Esric smiled and touched her warm shoulder, happy that she did not pull away. 

"I would never be the one to do that."

Tecor gave him a smile, then let out a soft yawn.

"We should get back to bed. We will talk more about this over lunch," Esric said softly as he removed his hand and slid under the covers, then watched her do the same. He sighed and tried to slip into sleep for the second time the night.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 03



When Tecor woke, Esric was already gone. She looked around the empty room and blinked a few times to get used to the sunlight flirting in through the window. She yawned and stretched her sleepy muscles, then sighed and slid out of the bed. As soon as she set, her foot on the floor pain shot through her and was forced to remember the night's events. 

Tecor winced in pain and let out a loud audible sigh.  Why on earth would he want me to stay? Why would he even ask? He is a Prince he should just take, yet he does not. He should force me to stay and be with him, yet he is kind and does not. Maybe I should stop thinking about a stereotypical Prince. Not all Princes' are bastards who take what they want without question, She thought to herself as she moved to the bathroom. 

A bath was already drawn for her and there was a note on the sink. 

 Tecor,

I did not have the heart to wake you, when I woke this morning to attend the breakfast I promised my friend. I have had clothes brought to you, and a bath drawn. I shall meet you in the garden at noon for a small lunch. Breakfast is on a tray in the other room

Yours truly,

Esric

P.S. I drew a map to the garden on the back since you do not know your way around the fortress just yet. 

Tecor smiled softly at the note, stripped off her clothes, and slipped into the warm bath. She let out a happy sigh and relaxed. 

***

Esric woke just as the sun was coming up. He yawned and stretched until he felt something next to him. He then remembered that Tecor was sleeping next to him. He quietly slid out of the bed and looked down at her sleeping form. She looked so peaceful in his eyes. 

Her small lithe body lay curled on its side. Her long black hair thrown gently over her face only added to her exotic beauty. He was tempted to reach out and touch her but resisted. He did not wish to wake her.

He settled for putting the blanket back over her body. He then quickly dressed and walked out of the room. 

His mind was still on Tecor when he entered the dinning room. His desire was growing and he did not know how much more patient he could be. Breakfast was laid out on the table. 

Malik was already there eating. He saw Esric and smiled at him. "Have fun last night?" he teased with a smile. 

Esric felt heat rush to his face. 

Malik smiled then looked down to his friend's growing bulge. "More than a good time." he said with a wicked smile. 

"Oh, by the maker!" Esric said moving to the table to hide his growing desire. He rubbed his face and looked at his friend who was holding in a laugh. "You shut up!" he said with a growl.

This only made Malik burst into a loud laugh. 

Esric groaned and put his face in his hands. "It's not funny," he said in a muffled voice.

"Oh yes it is! Esric the man who has never had a woman never even looked at one is in love with one that he can never have!" he said in a loud laugh.

Esric sighed and put his head on the table. "The sad part is you are right...and all because of that stupid curse," he said with a growl. 

Malik stopped laughing and looked at his friend with concern.

Only Esric's close friends knew about the curse he suffered. Esric was born as the second of four brothers. He did not have the privileges of his older brother and he was never spoiled like his younger two brothers. That was the true reason why he was so patient with Tecor. He always had to be patient with people. Yet ever since that night, he was even more patient.

He was a young man of sixteen, on the road to his father's castle in the south. His group came upon a band of gypsies, and Esric's eyes fell upon the dancer. She was more beautiful then anything Esric had ever seen. The ways she moved only made her more so. 

That night he tried to force her to lay with him, but she got the better of him, and he ended up on his back. He had never seen someone so angry before in his life.

"I curse you to fall in love with someone who will never want you. I curse you until the raven comes to you and forgives you." 

Since then Esric had never touched another woman. However, Tecor stirred up so many things in him. 

"I do not know that I love her Malik, but I want her," 

"So just take her!"

"Oh yes because that went so well with the last gypsy," Esric said with a roll of his eyes. 

Malik shrugged. "You just got the raw end of that deal, my good friend." 

"Thank you for pointing that out." he said with a sigh. 

"Do not worry my friend it will pass when she leaves." 

"I do not wish her to leave."

Malik raised his eye brows at that. "Truly?"

Esric nodded his head. 

"You like her, don't you?"

He nodded again. 

"I think you, my friend, are in love," Malik said with a smile. 

"Just great," Esric said as he hit his head on the table again. 

"You cannot control love. Many have tried, and they all have failed,"

"Thank you, oh great one. Now tell me what to do!"

"Don't let her get to you...Just let her go," Malik said in a simple voice. 

"I'll try, but I doubt I will be able to," 

***

It was long before noon when Tecor moved into the warm garden. It was a regular paradise, full of flowers and trees that were all in bloom. Tecor moved with grace in the long blue dress that was given to her with grace. It came down to her ankles, had a small plunging neckline, and showed much of her back. 

She took in the sweet smells and smiled. She walked along the invisible paths until she found a small pond. 

Tecor smiled as she sat down on the cool grass. She touched the still water with her golden colored hand, enjoying the feeling it gave her. 

As Tecor lost herself in that spot, she did not realize how close it was to noon it was.

She sighed from the heat and pulled her long black hair over her shoulder and away from her neck. 

***

Esric moved quietly through the garden with a basket full of food in his hand/ He intended to have a picnic with Tecor, even though it seemed to be as hot as the sun itself. 

He smiled when he found her by one of the many pools of the garden.

The hardness in his pants from thoughts of her grew harder still when he saw her in the slim fitting, dress dipping down to show most of her back.

His breath caught in his throat as he moved closer. He saw nothing but her. 

Then something caught his attention, something on the back of her neck.

When he was only a few inches away, he saw it was a birthmark in the shape of some type of bird.

"Raven..." he whispered as he fell to his ass in shock, as both his curse and his salvation looked at him confused by his reaction.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 04



The "Esric..." Tecor said in a worried voice as she moved close to him. "Esric are you alright?" 

Esric did not move; he just stared at her, barely breathing.

Tecor bit her bottom lip lightly, reached out and gently touched his cheek. "Esric," she said softly. 

Esric blinked and looked up at her. He reached up and touched her face. His palm cupped her face gently. 

Tecor smiled and leaned into his hand. She was relieved that he was alright, though she did not know why he seemed so stricken.

Esric licked his lips and moved his face closer to hers. He held that position to see what she would do. 

When Tecor saw him coming closer she grew scared, and her heart beat frantically against her chest. 

She took deep breaths, making her breasts move up and down in a rapid movement. 

"Esric," she said in a scared whisper.

Esric heard the terror in her voice and he moved back a few inches. "I am sorry," he said softly. "You just looked so beautiful, and your eyes... I just lost myself."

"Are you alright?" she asked gently. 

"Yes, I am fine; the heat of the sun got to me is all." 

Tecor nodded and gave him some water, making him drink it. "You said, 'Raven' before you fell. What did you mean by that?" 

"The birthmark on your neck," Esric said, sitting in more of a comfortable position. "It looks like a raven." 

"So I have been told, but I cannot see it so I do not know if it is true or not." 

Esric nodded then placed the basket he had brought between them. "Hungry?" he asked with a large smile on his face. 

Tecor smiled and nodded as she replied. "Yes." 

***

It had been two weeks since the incident in the garden. 

Tecor sat once more within the garden. She leaned against the wooden bench and looked up at the night sky. The cool wind blew the nightgown she wore, rippling the fabric. 

Once more Tecor could not sleep. Esric still pursued her even though she showed no interest in him, or so she thought. She could not be certain what he determined from the many signs she gave him. 

She sighed as she looked up at her bedroom windows. He was up there sleeping on the floor next to the bed. He said that he liked to hear her, that it helped him sleep. 

Tecor sighed and closed her eyes. The man is pathetic. Sweet, caring, nice, but pathetic. Surely, he can see I am not interested in him. 

***

Esric watched her from the doorway of the garden. He had heard her move from the bed and feared something was wrong with her. He knew he was getting possessive over her, and that she did not like it. 

She was a free spirit, she had told him many times. Yet he just could not give her the space she desired: it was as if his very being relied on her.

I need to give her more space... he thought to himself as he watched her. First, I should apologize... 

He sighed and moved out to the garden. He was silent as he moved across the cool grass. Then there was a large snap underneath his boot, and he cringed and looked at Tecor, who was glaring at him as she sucked her finger. 

"Sorry... why are you sucking your finger?" 

***

The sound of a branch breaking startled Tecor so much that she literally jumped. A sharp pain went though her forefinger as she did. She looked down at her finger and saw blood. She growled and knew she must have gotten a splinter in it. 

She put her finger in her mouth to suck on it and glared at Esric. 

"Sorry... why are you sucking your finger?" he asked as he moved towards her. 

Tecor sighed and showed him her finger. "I think I got a splinter," she said softly. 

"We will have to get it out," he said quietly. "Come with me." He took her hand without waiting for her to reply, which annoyed Tecor to no end. 

He led her into the brightly lit kitchen to better look at her finger. 

Tecor sighed as she watched him look at it carefully. Then he brought her finger to his mouth. 

Tecor quickly pulled her hand back. "What are you doing?" she demanded. 

"I am trying to help you," he shot back quickly. 

"I can do it myself."

"I am sure you can, but I want to help," 

"I do not need your help, Esric!" she said with a growl.

"Well like it or not you are getting it," he said with a glare. 

Tecor met his glare with one of her own. She was not about to give in to him. 

"Please..." he said softly, giving her a gentle look. 

Tecor could never win against that look. She sighed and nodded, "Fine."

Esric smiled in triumph and placed her slender finger into his warm mouth. 

Tecor relaxed and closed her eyes. She could feel his tongue against her skin, and it made her shiver a bit. He then scraped his teeth against her skin, which made her toes curl with pleasure. She gave out a soft sigh as he moved his tongue over her skin once more. Then he pulled her finger out of his mouth. 

Tecor opened her eyes and looked up at him. Sometime during the whole thing he had moved closer to her. They were only about an inch apart. 

"All done," he said still holding her hand.

"Thank you..."she said softly. She then licked her lips, stood on her toes, and lightly kissed his cheek. She slowly moved away from him, and her eyes locked onto his. 

He was smiling at her, but all she saw was how his eyes were glowing in the light. 

She could not look away from him; in fact, she felt herself drawn to him. 

She moved closer to him and closed her eyes. She moved until her lips touched his in a small, short kiss. 

His lips tasted like a warm summer wind. She broke the kiss and looked at him to see his reaction.

***

Esric enjoyed her finger in his mouth. She tasted like a sweet fruit that only came once a year. He never wanted to let it go, but he felt the splinter give, and he let go of the finger to spit out the small sliver of wood. 

He had not realized that he had moved closer to her, but he was definitely not complaining. 

"All done," he said in a soft whisper.

"Thank you..." She replied softly. 

Esric saw her move closer and wondered what she would do. Then he felt her warm lips on his cheek and he smiled. 

He watched her slowly back up then stop. 

He watched her carefully once again, lost in her exotic eyes. By the Maker, how he loved those eyes. He could lose himself forever in them. 

Then she moved again, and once more he wondered what she would do. 

He felt her warm lips on his and kissed her back, wrapping his arms around her gently. 

She tasted sweet and intoxicating like a fine wine.

Then her lips where gone, and he looked down at her.

He smiled and brushed her hair from her face. She was so beautiful just then.

Suddenly the door opened and a small messenger came in. "Sir, a message from your father has arrived." 

Esric cursed under his breath and slowly took his arms from around Tecor, who quickly fled from him. He sighed and mourned what could have been that night.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 05



Suddenly the door opened, and a small messenger came in. "Sir, a message from your father has arrived." 

Esric cursed under his breath and slowly took his arms from around Tecor, who quickly fled from him. He sighed and mourned what could have been that night. 

His hard, angry eyes turned to the servant, who was looking down at the floor as he played with his fingers nervously. "I am sorry, Sir," he said slowly. "It is urgent." 

"How urgent can it be if it cannot wait till morning?" he growled. 

"Well you see... your father..." 

"Spit it out, and tell me already man!" Esric demanded. 

"Your're...father..." 

"Is here,." said a deep and royal voice. Esric's eyes moved from the babbling servant to his own father, who had moved into the room quietly.  

Alessio was a tall man: over a foot taller then his second son. He had long dark hair that reached to the middle of his back groomed neatly with some silver showing through it. He wore Arabic -style clothing the color of the ocean at night. His dark eyes were hard as he looked down over at his son. His strong arms crossed over his broad chest. He was truly an impressive man. 

Next to him could have been his twin if he did not looked so young:. Esric's oldest brother Damien. His hair was shorter then his father's, and his clothes were a dark red instead of the blue their father was wearing. He smiled brightly at Esric as if he knew something that Esric did not. Esric did not like the idea of that at all. 

"Father,." Esric said as he bowed his head deeply to his father in respect and honor. "I was not expecting you Father." 

"Of course you were not, my son., I did not give you time." he said with a stern voice, but a smile was on his face. "But I have reason for that. I did not want to ruin the surprise, my son." 

"Surprise, Father?" Esric asked as he looked up at his father. Confusion filled his face. "Is that why Damien is here as well?" 

"He is here because he wanted to be here, nothing more,." Alessio said with a smile as he came over to his third son and drew him into a large hug. 

Hugging was an odd thing for Esric. He could count on one hand how many times his father has hugged him, including this one. He must be truly happy,. Esric thought to himself as he hugged his father back gently with unsure hands. 

Alessio pulled his son back at arm's length and smiled at him warmly, smiled at his son's confused sons face. "Come, come! I wish for you to meet someone,." he said as he put an arm around his son and pulled him toward the door, down to the study where Esric liked to sit and be by himself from time to time. 

The fire was lit in the medium -sized room, which lit up most of room. The rest of the remaining light came from the large window, through which the moon shone brightly through. It created a relaxing atmosphere, which is why Esric liked to come here at night. 

In front of the fire stood a small, curvy figure with long blond curly hair that reached to it's small but curved ass. Esric's eyes moved up and down the figure, slowly drinking it in, and wondering who it was and why it was here at the same time. 

The figure turned to see who had come through the door. Eyes flashed lightly from the light of the fire, blue eyes, the color of the sea cloudless sky before dusk after a storm. A smile came upon her soft ruby lips, making the pale skin light up magically. The beautiful figure turned fully now, showing off her large ample breasts barely contained behind the low cut dress. 

One could tell just by looking at her that she was used to men falling easily to her charms. 

All but Esric. 

He saw her as beautiful without a question, but she did nothing for him. His man hood did not respond as it did with Tecor. Perhaps it is the curse... Perhaps it is love, he thought as he looked at what could have been a goddess with confusion. Why had his father brought him a woman? A beautiful woman admittedly, but he had many women in this fortress, so why this one? She did not look that of a whore or even a gypsy. He could tell from her threads that she was high born. Daughter of a Duke, or even a King from a neighboring country. 

Had his father set up an arranged marriage without his knowledge? No... he promised their mother that they would be free to choose whom they married with their own heart, just as Alessio did with her. Their mother who died only a few short years ago. That is when Esric moved out to this barren desert. He could not stand being near anything that reminded him of his mother. He loved her so much that it hurt to even think about her sometimes.  

"Father... who is this?" Esric asked as he looked over at his father in confusion. The young lady also looked at Alessio in confusion. 

It seems she was told that I knew that she was coming. 

Alessio cleared his throat and moved into the room so that he was standing between his son and the lovely creature before him. 

"This is Lady Branwen, daughter of Duke Litus." 

Esric smiled at her and bowed his head to her. "It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Branwen." Then he turned to his father. "You still have not told me why she is here Father,." he said in a blunt tone. 

"She is the answer to everything, my son!" he said cheerfully, as he moved close to his son so that Branwen would not hear them. He whispered into Esric's ear,. "Her name means, raven my son... She could be the one that will break the curse of that gypsy," he said in a hopeful voice, as his dark blue eyes looked over at the young maiden. 

Esric sighed and moved from his father so that he could look at him properly. "I wished that you would have contacted me, father. I believe that I have found the answer to the same problem, but with someone else,...." he said looking over at the young woman. She looked to be about his age, maybe younger,; yes, she had to be around twenty years old, he guessed. 

His father looked at him in surprise. "Oh, really? Where is this lady of which you speak.?" 

"Most likely in her room. If you wish I can have someone fetch her." 

"Yes I wish that more then anything at the moment." 



****** 



Tecor stood in her room looking upon the darkness just outside of the window, holding the finger that started the kiss. She moved her fingers to her tender lips. She could still feel his lips on hers. They still tingled with joy and elation. She had never felt something like this before, and it was both confusing and exciting at the same time, maybe even a bit scary. She let out a loud sighed and put her forehead on the cold stone, relishing the feeling. She did not know what to do know. He would never give up on her now, even though he should. She was too free to be tied down to something like this. Her spirit would never allow it. I will just avoid him for a few days. Maybe then, he will finally stop trying to pursue me, she thought to herself. 

That is when there was a loud knock on the door, and she heard his voice from the other side of the thick wood. "Tecor. May I come in? I wish to introduce you to someone," he said in his very polite deep voice that always made her shiver. Why she did not know. 

Tecor let out a sigh and knew that she could not turn them away. It was not just him but guests as well. She was many things, but she was never rude. She moved gracefully and opened the door. "Of course, Esric, please come in," she said as she bowed her head politely and moved to the side so that he and his two guests could come into her room. She picked up her head and looked at the two. She noticed the resemblance between them; the same hair, and facial features. They must be related to him, she thought as she looked at the two with curiosity. As the younger of the two looked at her lustfully. She sighed and turned her attention to Esric, waiting for him to explain. 



***** 



Esric felt as if he was going to be sick as he led his father and brother through the hallways that lead to Tecor's room. He knew that they would never really accept her. After all, what king would accept one of his sons marrying a gypsy over a princess? He sighed lightly as he knocked on the hard wooden door that led to her room. There was silence, and he feared for a moment that she was not going to answer. Maybe she was distressed over the kiss. Even if it was just a harmless but wonderful kiss. This first one he had in many years. 

Just then, the door opened, and he saw her still in the dress she wore that day. It fit her perfectly and; it made him want her even more. "Tecor. May I come in? I wish to introduce you to someone," he said in a polite voice. He did not want to order her., Sshe would never accept it first of all, but mostly he did not wish to control her. He liked her free spirit. "Of course, Esric, please come in," she said as she bowed her head politely and moved out of the way so that they may enter the room. Esric smiled and lead his brother and father into the room. 

"Father, Damien. This is Tecor," he said softly. "Tecor, this is my father Alessio, and my eldest brother Damien." Esric waited for what seemed like forever, until his father moved closer to Tecor and looked at her carefully. Then he smiled warmly. "She is something else, I can see that in her eyes. Such exotic eyes. I can see why you have fallen for her, my son. She is a true desert flower. From her skin, I see that she lives with the nomads of the sands. Otherwise called Gypsies. Tell me, my dear, what is your part in the band?" 

"I dance, your Highness. I am the best dancer in the entire desert. Or so I am told,." she said in an even but soft voice. Esric could tell that she was tense by the way she held herself. It was not easy to talk to the King of the land as one would talk to a friend. 

"Well, you will have to dance for me sometime. I think I would enjoy that," the older man said as if he was nor more then her own father. His calm seemed to seep over to Tecor, and she seemed the relax.

"I would be honored, your Highness,." she said with a graceful bow of her head, her unbound hair shifting as she did, making it cascade over her shoulder. When she raised her head, back up she saw this Damian was looking at her as a hungry man looks at food. She sighed. Just what I needed; both brothers coming after me. 

"Well, we should let you sleep my dear. You look like you have had a long day,." Alessio said with a smile, then bowed his head to her. "Come, Damien." 

Damien smiled at Tecor and took her hand in his large, callused one. "My lady.," he said as if he was her lover, and then placed a soft kiss on the back of her hand. He let go of her hand, then followed his father out of the door. 

Tecor let out a breath that she had not realized she was holding, and looked to Esric, her eyes filled with uncertainty and confusion.

Esric smiled at her gently and moved so that he was next to her. He took her hand in his, and held it tightly. "I promise I will explain tomorrow, after I have talked to my father. For now you should sleep and be contented with such a thing." He lifted his free hand and placed it on her cheek lightly. "I also wanted to apologize for the kiss earlier. I should not have... I mean...." He was stopped when Tecor put her slender index finger on his lips. 

"It takes two to kiss, Esric, besides I was the one to kiss you,." she said as she blushed lightly, and pointed her gaze to the floor. It was not the way of her people to just kiss, without a reason, but what reason did she have for kissing Esric? The odd feeling she got whenever she was near him like this conflicted with the traditions of her people;, it was as if a war was waging with in her, and she did not know what to do about it. 

Tecor felt a finger under her chin that pulled her gaze up until it met with Esric's. His blue eyes shinned in the candle light, impossibly making him even more handsome then any other time. Her breath almost but stopped, and time seemed to slow. 

**** 



Esric held her hand in his, as if it was the most precious thing in the world, and to him it was. He kept the smile on his face as he looked down into her exotic green eyes. They were like emeralds the way they shined. By the Gods, she is beautiful, he thought as he held her gaze. "I promise I will explain tomorrow, after I have talked to my father. For now you should sleep and be contented with such a thing." He lifted his free hand and placed it on her cheek lightly. It was so warm and soft, he wondered for a moment if the rest of her skin was like that. The very idea made his manhood ache with want. "I also wanted to apologize for the kiss earlier. I should not have... I mean...." The feel of her finger on his lips made him just want to move it and capture her lips with his and never let go. 

"It takes two to kiss, Esric, besides I was the one to kiss you,." she said as she blushed lightly, and pointed her gaze to the floor. Did she feel guilty that she kissed him? He should have been the one to kiss her; he would rather bear the guilt then have her do it. By the Gods, he was in love with this small woman before him. She was everything that he wanted. He hungered for her as he hungered for none other. She was the first woman to catch his inflame his desires after all these years. 

Esric moved his hard finger under her delicate chin and lifted it up so her eyes met his. She was so innocent then, so inviting. He did not ask; he just read the expression on her face that seemed to say kiss me.... 

She did not pull back as he drew her mouth to his until they touched in a pure, fiery kissed that seemed to want to consume them both. Esric moaned as he drew her closer to him until there was not space between their bodies. His semi-hard manhood quickly coming alive as he felt her soft body against his. His large hand clutching to the dress she wore, just itching to tear it from her body to truly see if her skin truly was as soft as her cheek was.

Tecor broke the kiss first, breathing hard and looking up at him with such soulful eyes.

Esric bit his lip suddenly, feeling sorry that he kissed her without asking. "Tecor...I am..." she stopped him once again, but this time with her lips. 

"Shut up and just kiss me,." she breathed with lust in her voice. 

Esric did not waste a second of time to put his lips on her sweet ones. She tasted of pure sweetness, and he devoured it. He relished in the taste. His body grew hot as his manhood became suddenly fully hard. He moved his arm around her tiny waist and pulled her closer. He smiled when he felt no resistance in the action. She was warm and soft against him making him want more of her, to take anything she was willing to offer. 



****

Tecor pulled away from his fire- consuming kiss. It made her wet in a heartbeat, and her loins hummed, making her want more. She breathed in harshly as she looked into his eyes. They glowed with passion and lust. She knew that he truly did want her, but was he ready for such a commitment? 

She spoke the truth before, that once he had laid with her he would never want another woman, that he would be stuck with her. Was she ready for such a thing? She still did not know how to feel about Esric. However, when he was close like this, and he kissed her, she could easily make the decision. 

"Esric... what do you see when you look at me?" she asked softly. It was the same question her mother asked her father, now they; were old and happy living on a farm somewhere in the south. 



Esric paused a moment and thought. He then looked straight into her eyes. They were a beautifully a bright green glowing bright green. "A beautiful, intelligent, independent woman that I have fallen deeply in love with." He smiled at her lightly, and touched her face. 

Tecor let out a soft sigh and pushed away from him. "Thank you, but it was not the answer I was looking for, " she said softly looking up at him. "Esric, I do have feelings for you, but I believe you do not realize the gravity of the situation we would be in if we had made love,." she said bluntly, her eyes still soft upon him. "Until I think you do, this is far as we will go." She moved in and lightly kissed his cheek. "Good night, Esric."



****



Esric sighed. "As you wish,." he said softly; then he left the room. His anger grew as he walked down the hall. His manhood was so hard that it hurt. He moved swiftly to his room, not wanting to talk to or see anyone. 

Esric slammed the door behind him, locked it quickly, shed his clothes quickly, and lay down on his back on his soft bed. 

He moved his hand down to his aching manhood, lightly touching his shaft. He moaned lightly as he moved his hand slowly up and down, lightly touching the round head with his finger tips. He thought of the kiss he and Tecor shared and what it could have lead to. 

A dark passionate night of sex, wanted and needed from the both of them. Hot bodies touching as he whispered all the worlds she wanted into her ears. Watching her cum on his shaft repeatedly as he thrusted into her. 

Esric shuddered and felt the release his body was begging for run through him. He laid there for some time, just breathing hard as he looked up into the darkness. Wondering what words, she wanted him to say.

****

Down the hall in a large guest room, Lady Branwen, took off her clothes and slipped into a large bath, smiling because she knew the guard outside her door would not want nothing more then to burst through that door and join her. She sighed happily, loving how her charms worked on all men.

Yet it troubled her that the Prince did not seem at all interested in her. In fact, he had turned her down for another woman! Branwen growled lightly at the thought of losing her prince to another woman. She deserved to be a princess, maybe even a queen! Yet some little tramp was going to ruin everything for her. "No, she will not! I will get rid of her and have Esric all to myself. I am the answer to his prayers. He just does not realize it yet," she said to herself as she laid in the hot water, letting her mind drift to more evil thoughts.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 06



The bright light entering Esric's room woke him long before the pounding on his door startled him out of bed. 

He groaned as he walked slowly to the door, opening it to reveal one of his servants. Esric could not remember the servant's name at the moment, nor did he care. 

"What is it?" he asked in a sleepy tone. 

"Your Father requests that you and your gypsy guest join him for breakfast," 

"Has Tecor been informed?" 

"Yes your majesty," 

"Then I will be there momentarily." 

The servant bowed, "Yes your Majesty," and then walked away. 

Esric closed the door, and then made his way to his closet. Most princes would have a servant to help them dress, but Esric was never comfortable with the idea, and preferred to dress himself. He chose a dark green suit and donned it quickly. Then he made his way to the dining hall. 

The sound of his father laughing stopped him from entering the room right away. Then he heard Tecor's voice. "So then my father was forced to prove his love to my mother," 

"How did he do that?" his father inquired.

"Well he wrote her a song, and made a dance for her, but that did not work. He gave her many handmade gifts, but still she did not accept. Finally, he dropped in front of her feet and said 'I do not have much to give you, in fact I have given you everything that I have, even my heart, and still you will not be with me. I cannot sleep, eat, or even think. You are my soul, my breath, my life, and I cannot live without you. You are more than beauty to me, you are my very reason to live, and without you I will surely die.' Well my mother did what any woman in that situation would do. She married him." 

"I had a difficult courtship with my late wife. In fact you remind me of her. So spirited, and free. She was everything to me," his father said in a distant voice. 

Esric loved his mother very much, and always tried to be like her, but going into the military had killed that. He realized now that it was one of the reasons he loved Tecor. She brought that out in him. 

Esric smiled to himself, and then walked through the door. 

Tecor noticed him before his father, and gave him a warm smile. 

***** 

Tecor heard the door open, and saw Esric walk through it. She remembered the kiss they had shared, and wondered if she was being too harsh on him. 

She decided to give him a smile to silently tell him that she was glad to see him. 

"Ah Esric!" his father said in a warm voice. "Tecor was just telling me the most enchanting story of her parents' courtship. Do you remember the story of your mother's and mine?" 

Esric smiled back, as he sat down. "Yes I remember that story, father," He said in a semi sad tone, as he put some food onto his plate. 

The tone made Tecor wonder how close Esric was to his mother, and what she was like. His father had said she was free, and spirited, but what did that entail? She was so deep in thought she did not realize Alessio had been talking to her. 

"I am sorry your Highness, I was thinking and was not paying attention." 

"I was wondering if all men must go through such lengths to win a gypsy's heart?" 

"Only if the gypsy is in love with them," Tecor said without thinking. 

Esric picked up his head, and looked at her in confusion. 

Tecor wanted to hit herself for saying that. She was only repeating what her mother had told her, and she never truly understood it herself. 

"That is a little odd, don't you think?" Esric stated, his eyes steadily upon her. "Why not just tell him, and save him the trouble?" 

Tecor felt her shoulders shrug. "That is just what my mother told me. I have never been able to figure it out." 

Esric opened his mouth to say something when the door opened, and Damien walked in. "You ate without me?" he asked looking over at his father who sighed. 

"I wanted to get to know Tecor, since she has captured your brother's heart. Besides I did not realize you were a child and required company to eat," 

"I do not require company; I prefer it to eat by myself," he pointed out. "Besides I wish to know her better as well," he said with a grin that reminded Tecor of a tiger stalking prey. 

Alessio did not miss the grin and said in a strong tone, "You can do that when she is your sister!" Damien frowned at that. 

Tecor nearly choked on her food when she heard the word sister. She quickly swallowed her food, and then asked in a puzzled voice, "Sister?" 

The king looked at her with an arched brow, "You are the first woman my son has been interested in since the curse was laid upon him. I am not about to let you get away from him." 

"Are you saying that you would force me to marry Esric?" she asked in a slightly angered tone. 

"I am hoping I will not have to resort to force," he retaliated. 

Tecor was just about to retort to his comment when Esric's voice rang loudly throughout the room. 

"Father, I will not sit here, and let you dictate the life of my guest, who is only here as long as she wishes! It is true that I am in love with her, and would be with her without question, but I will not keep her here against her will. I promised her she could leave when she wishes, and I intend to keep my promise." He did not wait for his father to reply, he stormed out of the room. 

Tecor sat there for a moment before going after him. "Esric wait!" she cried out loudly. He stopped and waited for her to catch up. She did not waste a moment, taking his head, and pulling him into a heated kiss. She felt his body relax as he put his arms around her, accepting her kiss. 

**** 

Esric felt so angry at his father as he walked out of the dining room. How dare he try to keep Tecor against her will! No one was going to hurt Tecor while he was still breathing, and that included her spirit. Forcing her to marry him would kill her. If she wanted to be with him, than that would be her choice. "Esric wait!" Tecor's voice ran out calming him. He stopped, and watched her run up to him out of the corner of his eye. She looked so beautiful, her long hair flowing as she ran, her eyes full of mixed emotions. Soon she was beside him, and he wondered what she would say to him. She would probably yell at him for not letting her handle the situation herself. Instead, she took his head in her hand and guided his mouth to hers. It was a complete shock to him, but he found himself relaxing, and putting his arms around her to pull her closer. 

He could feel the heat of the kiss, making his staff harden. His body reacted before he could even think. 

His hands moved up her back slowly, and gently, as he poured his hunger, soul, and love for her into the kiss. He felt her respond to him, moving her body closer to him, her hand clutching the sleeves of his shirt. He heard her moan as she rubbed her body against him. He growled lightly at the feeling, and moved his hand to her hair running his fingers though it's silk-like texture, and holding her head in place. There was so much fire and hunger in the kiss that he did not want it to end. All too soon, she broke the kiss, carefully, breathing hard, and looked up at him with starving eyes. Esric touched her cheek with his thumb lightly. "By all the stars I want you Esric," he heard her say softly. "You stood up against your father for me. That meant a lot to me, that you were willing to let me go, because you love me," 

Esric felt his body shiver as she said the words. He wanted nothing more than to take her into his room, lay her on his bed, and make love to her, but it did not feel right. "Tecor...," he said in a soft voice. "I care too much for you, to have you without letting you think about it," He sighed. "Your mother put your father through a lot, because love is sacred to your people. I do not want you to regret your decision to be with me," 

The kiss felt so right that Tecor did not think about that. All she knew was that her body ached for Esric, as it ached for no other, but his words rang true. She looked up into his blue eyes trying to look into his soul, but the only thing she saw was the softness that was there. She smiled at them then kissed him on the lips again. "You have slept next to me without touching me, you have never pushed me even though you have wanted me, and even now you look out for me even though I know you want me," she said grinding her hip against his hard cock. Esric groaned and closed his eyes in the pleasure she gave him. "I do not come to this decision lightly. Come to my room tonight," she said with a grin. "I will show you what a gypsy does to a boy," She detached herself from him, and walked away slowly, making sure to really swing her hips. 

Esric followed her hips with his eyes until she turned a corner. He was half tempted to follow her, but decided to wait until tonight. It would make the experience richer. He grinned devilishly, then turned around and started for his study. He wanted to make sure to get everything done before tonight. 

***** 

Jealous eyes watched the two lovers interact from their hiding spot. The unseen spy growled as they watched them kiss, listening to them practically protest their love to each other. It was enough to make one sick to their stomach. The spy now knew that it could not do this alone, but who would be willing to help split up the happy couple? Only someone that would also gain from the destruction of this relationship. 

Gears started to spin until they clicked into place. A smile drew upon a face. The spy knew exactly who to enlist in such a plan. 

**** 

Night came quickly, though it did not seem that way for Tecor. She spent the rest of the day in her room, pacing and talking to herself, making sure this was the right decision for her. Wondering if Esric truly understood what it would mean for him. A gypsy did not give her body lightly, and her heart even less so. From the moment of the heated kiss, she knew she was in love with him. Her soul and heart ached to be near him. She lied earlier in the day when she said she never figured out what her mother meant by gypsies only tested those they loved. She knew the answer when he kissed her last night. Her mother was simply telling her to make sure it is truly love. 

Tecor sighed, and moved her hand down the white nightgown she wore and looked up at the moon. 

A knock on the door startled her. She opened it with a sexy smile, expecting it to be Esric, but the smile soon faded. "What are you doing here?" she demanded. 

**** 

Esric did not get much work done for the day. He looked at the piles of papers on his desk, even reading a few, but his mind was on Tecor. He sat there watching the clock, playing with his fingers. He never felt this way with a woman, wanting to be with her in every way possible. If he had his way, Tecor would be his wife. Yet, he did not know if she would stay. She was born a nomad. Would she be willing to give it up for him? 

Esric was putting papers in order a few minutes before he was to go to Tecor's room, when there was a knock on the door. He moved to the door, opening it to expect a servant, but instead he was looking at Lady Branwen. 

"Lady Branwen," Esric said, bowing his head slightly to her. "What do I owe this visit to?" 

"Oh, I just wanted to see if you would like to take a walk in the garden. The moon is full and it is a beautiful night," she answered, with a bright cheerful smile. 

Esric gave her a regrettable smile. "I am so sorry Lady Branwen, but I have other plans, with Lady Tecor." 

Lady Branwen gave a distasteful look. "She is hardly a lady," she said in a harsh tone. "She is nothing but a gypsy, while I am a Noble's daughter. I can give you many things," she said, putting her hand on his chest. 

Esric grabbed it quickly and pushed it away. "She may be a gypsy, but I still have plans with her. I am not a man who breaks his engagements," he said firmly, trying to move past her. 

Lady Branwen moved in front of him, taking his head in her hands, and forcefully kissing him. Esric felt sick, as her lips touched his. He quickly pushed her away, only to hear, 

"See I told you he was only using you," It was his brother's voice. He looked over Lady Branwen to see Damien with Tecor, anger written all over her face. 

"Tecor, wait!" he cried, as she stormed away from the situation. He looked down at Lady Branwen. "You will be escorted back to your home first thing tomorrow," he growled and then he ran after Tecor. 

****** 

Lady Branwen fumed and looked at Damien. "You idiot! He is going to be able to talk his way out of that. She will forgive him, and the curse will be broken." 

Damien rolled his eyes. "For a woman, you know little of your own kind. She will not listen to him tonight. He will seek solace in drink, and that is when you should make your move. With my brother out of the way I shall have the gypsy, to myself," he said with a large devilish grin.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 07



Authors Note: I would like to thank all of the people who were patient to wait for these last two chapters. I am sorry to keep you waiting for so long, but my editor became busy, and I no longer wished to be burdened with my stories. Now thanks to a few people who volunteered to edit my story, I was able to post once more. I would like to thank all the people who volunteered to edit my story. Thank you all for commenting, and voting. I hope you enjoy this latest chapter! Lady T  

*

Esric stared at his wine glass as the shadows in his room enveloped him. His mind was fuzzy from the many drinks he consumed since his fight with Tecor. 

She did not even want to listen to him, she shut her door, and that was the end of what could have been a memorable night. 

Damien sat across from his brother, smiling as he saw the dazed look in Esric's eyes. The sleeping powder he had slipped into the wine was starting to take its effect. 

Esric yawned and looked over to his bed. "I guess I should call it a night," he said with a slightly slurred voice. He moved to get up but found he had not the strength. "I think I shall just stay here," he told his brother as his eyes closed. 

Damien waited a few more minutes before making sure his bother was sleeping. He smiled and went to the door where Lady Branwen was waiting for him. The small blond moved into the room, and fixed her eyes immediately on Esric's sleeping form. "How is this supposed to work if he is asleep?" she asked, her blue eyes turning to Damien with fury, waiting impatiently for answers. "No one will believe he slept with me unless there is proof!" she fumed, her pale face turning a slight red from anger.  

Damien gave her a charming smile, then picked up a lock of her hair, playing with it between his fingers. "Well my dear," he said locking eyes with her. "I guess you shall have to settle with me." 

Lady Branwen gave him a horrified expression. It had been Damien's plan all along to have both Lady Branwen, and Tecor first. His brother would be stuck with Lady Branwen, and he would be free to woo Tecor. 

"Really my lady, do you see any other way to make sure you are no longer a virgin?" he asked, closing the gap between them. "My brother is incapacitated, and even if he was not, he would not be able to perform because of the curse, and you knew that." He put his strong arm around her small waist. "You knew he could not pleasure you, he would never be able to pierce your virginal vial, as proof he laid with you." Lady Branwen shook her head denying him, but Damien could see that he was winning this argument in the end. "In truth, you wanted me, not my brother. The only reason you settled for my brother was, because I am betrothed to another." Damien moved his free hand to cup her chin, making her look at him. "You want me Branwen. You want me to pleasure you like my brother never could. Try to tell me that is not so, and I will call you a liar." Lady Branwen's eyes were on the verge of tears, as she licked her red lips lightly. "I cannot," she whispered softly. Damien growled and then claimed her lips with his in a fiery kiss. 

Branwen let out a soft moan as her inexperienced lips moved against his. Damien grew hard as he taught her to kiss. He knew she would be inexperienced, but he had no idea how much. He was going to have fun teaching her how to pleasure him. 

His hands went to the buttons on her dress, undoing them quickly. He wanted to feel her skin in his hands, wanted to hear her as a man touched her body for the first time. He pushed the dress past her shoulders, letting it puddle at her feet. Now she was only standing her plain white shift. 

Branwen let out a squeak of surprise, and went to cover herself, but Damien stopped her. "No need to be shy little bird," he whispered softly, his mouth kissing her neck softly. "You are beautiful, you know you are beautiful, so there is no need to hide your beauty." Branwen let out a soft sigh, her body relaxing against his, and her hands moving to his chest. She moved her small fingers under his shirt, exploring the toned skin that was underneath. 

Damien let out a growl, smiled, and peeled his shirt away from his body. Branwen grinned and used her whole hand to touch his chest, moving down to his stomach. She saw how much pleasure it gave him. She mused on what would happen if she went a little lower. 

Her hand went to her his hip, then to his thigh, moving towards his cock. She touched it briefly, amazed at how hard it was. She licked her lips and touched it again, exploring its length. It seemed impossibly large, and she wondered if it would fit. 

A loud groan broke her away from her thoughts. She looked up to Damien who had his eyes closed. "You like that?" she asked touching him again. 

"Yes," he growled. 

"Is it supposed to be so hard?" she asked, as she explored him some more. 

"Only for this purpose," he answered, his voice on the edge. His hands went to the thin straps that held her shift in place, and broke then easily, making that garment fall from her body. Branwen's face grew red, and she pressed against Damien's body in an attempt to hide her nakedness. 

Damien smiled and kissed her shoulder softly, then moved up her neck slowly. His hands went to her back, rubbing it lightly. He then took her ear into his mouth, and sucked on it lightly. He was rewarded with a loud moan. "Are you scared little bird?" he asked, as his hand moved to her ass. "Do I frighten you?" he whispered into her ear. 

Branwen could not answer, only nod her head slightly. 

"There is no reason to be afraid. I want to pleasure you, not hurt you." To prove his point, he cupped her pussy with his hand, groaning when he realized she was already wet. He moved his hand up slowly then back down, inserting a finger into her when he did. He could feel how tight and hot she was. He groaned, slightly grinding his hips against her. "I can tell that you want me." he growled into her ear, moving his fingers in and out of her slowly. "You are so wet, for me." 

Branwen moaned, moving her hips in time with Damien's finger. She was so lost in the feeling that she did not even notice when Damien moved her to the edge of the bed. 

He pulled his finger out of her gently, picked her up and placed her in the center of the bed. He grinned as he undid his trousers and slid them off his body. 

Branwen's eyes moved down his naked form, stopping at the large protruding flesh hanging from his hip, and her eyes grew wide. 

Damien chuckled lightly, knowing the question on her mind. "Yes it will fit," he said, moving towards her, his hand moving slowly up her leg. "So smooth...," he whispered, as he stroked her leg, moving closer to her. His hand moved up her leg teasingly, until he cupped her pussy. Branwen let out a short breath of surprise, and then groaned as he pushed his finger into her once more. 

"Do you like that?" he growled, just before sucking her nipple into his mouth. 

"Yes...," she breathed. 

Damien grinned, and pushed his finger back into her, which was rewarded by a loud moan. 

Branwen felt like she was on fire from Damien's hot mouth touching her sensitive nipples, his finger driving her crazy with need and want. "You are driving me crazy," she breathed, as she clutched to the blankets on the bed like they were her life. 

"Just wait," he growled, pushing another digit into her already wet pussy. He loved how she felt so tight, waiting for him to break her. 

Suddenly, her muscles convulsed as her first orgasm rushed through her. 

Branwen felt the wave of pleasure rush into her veins, making her let out a loud cry. "Wha...what was that?" she asked, in a ragged breath. 

Damien pulled his fingers out of her slowly, and positioned himself in front of her waiting entrance. "That...," he said, kissing her lips softly," was only the beginning. Now this will only hurt once," he explained. Then quickly he thrusted himself into her hot, tight hole, feeling the resistance of her virginal sheath as it broke. 

Branwen let out a cry, tears streaming from her eyes. Damien kissed them away gently, waiting for her to adjust to his large size. "Trust me," he whispered, as he moved his hips, slowly pulling out of her and then sliding back in, then repeating. 

Branwen felt the pain give away to the pleasure of the wonderful friction between them. She could not help but try to move her hips in time with his, hoping it would increase the feeling. 

Damien felt her move underneath him, and began to move faster and harder, making sure to push himself all the way into her, enjoying the small moan she gave every time he did. Her cries were music to his ears, the tightness that enveloped him was the cherry on top. He knew he had to be careful not to cum too early, and end this too soon. His large hand cupped her breast and his fingers played with her nipple. 

Branwen clutched the bed tightly, letting the pleasure overtake her. Soon the bed did not seem enough in her hands, and she clutched onto Damien, her nails sinking slightly into his skin. He let out a groan, bucking into her a bit harder. Branwen smiled wickedly and clawed lightly down his back. 

Damien arched his back, growling as he did. He quickly grabbed her hands and placed them above her head. Branwen looked at him confused. "I thought you were enjoying that?" 

"I am," he replied in a husky voice, pushing into her harder to prove his point, making her let out a squeak. "However, I do not want this to end until I give you want you want." He let go of her hands and held onto her hips, gripping onto them tightly. He began to pound into her, hearing her ragged breathing telling him he was doing something right. 

Branwen felt an orgasm build once more, much bigger then the first one she experienced. 

Damien moved one hand to her clitoris, touching it lightly, moving in small circles, hearing her short groans and gasps. 

Suddenly, the pressure peaked and rolled over her, making her shake lightly. 

Damien let out a roar as he felt her muscles clutch around him, making him finally release into her. 

Heavy breathing was all that could be heard for awhile. Damien pulled out of her, carefully, and got out of the bed. "Where are you going?" Branwen asked, sitting up slightly to look at him better, watching him pull his pants on, and move to his brother. "I need to get Esric into the bed then leave," he said, undressing his brother quickly. 

"You are not going to stay with me?" she asked in an emotional voice. 

"I cannot. We both cannot afford to be caught together in this situation." He picked up his now naked brother and carried him to the bed, placing him next to Branwen, who was on the verge of tears. Damien looked at her with slightly cold eyes. "Do not give me that look, Lady. You should have realized that I was not going to stay. You got what you wanted Branwen, now you will have to learn to live with the repercussions of your actions." He then pulled on his shirt, and walked out of the room, leaving Branwen to cry herself to sleep.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 08



Pounding, loud pounding, echoed in Esric's foggy and sore head. He groaned and rolled to get away from the blinding morning light, stopping, when he hit something that groaned back. He forced his tired eyes open, trying to figure out what he hit, his blurry eyes trying to focus. He could tell it was a person, sleeping next to him. "Tecor?" he asked in a horse voice, reaching out to touch the body.

"No." said a cold voice that was not Tecor's. 

Esric rubbed his face with a hand. Then it dawned upon him whose voice it was. "Branwen?" he said, sitting up quickly, and regretting it when the room began to swim. "What are you doing here?" he asked, holding his head, hoping it would make it feel better, but the instant swimming told him that he was wrong. 

"You invited me to your room remember?" she said, sitting up, letting the blanket fall from her naked body. 

"You are naked!" Esric exclaimed, quickly covering his eyes. 

"Yes! You do not remember the wonderful night we had together?" she asked with a sad look.

"No. I remember drinking with Damien, and then everything is black. Could you please cover yourself?" he asked, afraid to look. He felt ridiculous having such a conversation without looking at her. 

Branwen sighed and pulled the blanket up, covering herself. She felt sore and tired, Damien turned out to be rougher than she thought. She spent most of the night thinking of what to say once Esric woke up. "You can look now." she said softly

Esric removed his hand and looked over at her with a serious look. "You have to tell me everything." he said in a firm tone. 

Branwen let out a soft sigh, than replayed what she had thought of during the night "Well Esric, you asked me to come to your room to talk, you seemed fine to me. Then you began kissing me, and one thing led to another, and we ended up making love on your bed." 

Esric shook his head. "I could not. I have never been able to do such an act." 

"Well you preformed wonderfully last night." she replied with a happy sigh and a small smile on her lips. 

"There is..." whatever Esric was about to say was lost when his door opened with a single knock, and Damien walked in. 

"Brother...." Damien stopped pretending to be surprised. Damien was waiting all morning to catch his brother and Branwen in bed together. "What is Lady Branwen doing in bed with you?" 

"I have been trying to figure that out." Esric said, getting out of the bed, moving to his closet, pulling out a pair of pants and quickly pulling them on. "I cannot remember past drinking with you."

"You said you wanted to go to bed. Perhaps you wanted something else as well?" he said with a slightly devilish grin as he watched his brother's world fall down around him.

"You know I could not do such a thing," Esric said, combing his hair with his fingers. "Let us go to my study and let the Lady get herself together. We can discuss what to do." He looked over at Branwen, but only for a moment.

Esric shook his head; Damien put a hand on his shoulder. "Come brother; let us get out of the room, to let the Lady get dressed." With that said, Damien led his brother out of the room. 

In the hallway near Esric's room was a young servant girl, scrubbing the floor. She had heard everything that was said, and was itching to spread what she just heard. 

Damien waited for Esric to close the study door before he spoke in a firm tone. "Brother you know there is only one thing you can do. She could be with child. Father will force you to marry her, whether or not you wished to. You must keep her honor, and our family's." 

"But, I could..." 

Damien quickly interrupted him. "That does not matter Esric. All people will know is she was in your bed, and that is enough." 

Esric searched his brain for the memory of what happened last night. "Father is going to kill me." he groaned, looking up at his brother. 

"He does not have to know just yet brother," Damien said with a slight shrug.

"What of Tecor? I told her I only cared for her. She will never forgive me, and I do not blame her," he said with a heavy heart, as he hung his head in shame and heartbreak. 

Damien stood there unable to keep the smile from his face.

*****

Tecor woke up later than normal, but still managed to catch Alessio for breakfast. 

"I wonder where Esric is?" she said, as they finished their meal, looking over at the door hoping it would open, and he would appear. 

Alessio smiled and put a reassuring hand on hers, "I am sure he will be here shortly. I have never known Esric to be late for a meal," he said with a gentle smile. 

Tecor smiled back softly. "I just wanted to apologize, for my over reaction last night," she explained with guilty eyes.

He looked at her confused. "What happened last night?" 

"I found him kissing Lady Branwen, and I did not give him a chance to explain. Damien was telling me that he did not care for me, he was just using me, but that did not sound like Esric," she said, looking down at her hands. 

Alessio nodded his head in agreement. Of all his son's Esric had the most integrity and sense of honor. Even after he offended the gypsy that cursed him, he searched for weeks wanting to make amends. "No it does not. I believe he cares for you deeply. Let me ask my man servant to fetch him." He waved over an older gentleman. "Hector, could you please fetch my son." Hector who prided himself on knowing whatever house he was in like the back of his hand, already knew were the Prince was, and what situation he was in. He bent over and whispered all that he knew into the King's ear.

Alessio's face grew purple, and he stood up quickly. "Excuse me my dear, but I need to go talk to Esric." 

"Is something wrong?" she asked in a worried voice. 

"It is a family matter my dear, I hope you understand." With that, he left 

Tecor sat there for a moment, then decided to follow him. She was not about to be left in the dark, family matter or not.

Tecor followed the King to the study and could already hear the raised voices. 

"I have always thought you were the least likely to do such a thing Esric," Alessio shouted loudly. "Even before the curse, you have always had good morals and a sense of honor. Now...Now, I do not know what to think of you. I am ashamed to call you my son." Alessio took in a deep breath, "I have already called for the wise women to see if Branwen's story is true, that you did indeed sleep together." 

A large shattering sound echoed in Tecor's ears, and she knew it was her heart breaking. She did not even realize she was screaming until Esric was holding onto her, blubbering empty apologies through his own tears. Any servant that walked by would remember it for the rest of their lives, as when true love was killed. 

It took ten minutes for Tecor to calm down, and the first question she asked was, "I thought you loved me...?" with red empty eyes. 

Esric bit his bottom lip. "I do, Tecor. I lo..." She stopped him with a hard slap that made him let go of her. She stood up with a dark look in her eyes. 

"Do not lie to me Esric, do not say you love me, because my heart is already broken, my soul destroyed. Lovers do not do that. I curse the day I ever looked upon you, Prince Esric. And may the goddess curse you with a long life with your new wife." She spat in his face, turned and ran down the hallway with tears running down her cheeks. 

Esric sat on the floor, unable to move, unable to breathe. He took in a sharp breath only when Damien put a hand on his shoulder. "Come brother," he said, pulling Esric to his feet. "Let us go hear what the wise women have to say." 

"I have to go after her...I have to..." He was quickly cut off by his brother. "And tell her what Esric? When will you learn to leave an angry gypsy alone? She is gone Esric, you will just have to live with it for the rest of your life." The words cut Esric like a knife, and he let Damien drag him back into the study. 

The wise women later confirmed that Lady Branwen was no longer a virgin, and the blood on Esric's sheet's confirmed his fate. 

"You will have to marry her Esric." his father said in a sad voice. 

"Father, there has to be another way. You know there is no way I could do such an act. She kissed me last night, before I started to drink. She made me sick; Father, there is no way I could do more." 

"The curse never said you could not make love to a woman, Esric." Damien said, leaning against a wall. "It simply stated that you were cursed to fall in love with someone who would never want you." Of course, that is not what he told Branwen when they had started this whole thing. "I do not think Tecor will have anything to do with you now," he said in a harsh voice. 

"Damien!" their father growled. "There is no need for such words. However Esric, he does have a point." 

Esric sighed heavily. "I have never been able to perform the act. Every time a girl is near me, I feel no desire towards her." 

"Are you telling me that you are virgin, little bother?" Damien said in a disbelieving voice. 

"I swear on our mother's grave that I have never done such an act," he said in a firm and confident voice. 

Alessio rubbed his chin, thoughtfully. "We will have to test this." he said finally. "Although I believe someone deflowered Lady Branwen, Esric does bring an interesting point." 

"And how do you propose we test this?" Damien asked, trying to hide the worry in his voice. He did not want this to come back to him. He was already engaged to marry a foreign princess, and would not settle for a Noble's daughter. 

"I will think of something. Now both of you leave me." They did not dare to argue with their father at this point, and quickly left the room. Alessio waited until the door was closed to turn to his servant, Hector. "We will have them repeat the act, with a witness. I shall watch them, without them knowing. Someone will tell the Lady Branwen that she needs to make a sexual sacrifice. It will unmask her if she is playing a game. She knows little of our culture, and would not dare to upset us." Hector nodded with a slight smile. 

"I will see to it, Your Highness." He bowed and left the room. 

 ******

Later that night, Esric and Branwen were led to his room. Branwen had a smile on her face. She heard from the servants that if she wished for her marriage to work well and be blessed, that she would have to offer a sexual offer to the Goddess. She would have to make love to him, in the name of the Goddess. 

She was sure that she was able to do it, no matter what Damien had said about the curse. She was sure it was just some story he made up. 

The doors were closed behind them, and they stood their looking at each other. After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, Esric finally spoke. "You may have the bed my Lady." He said as he pulled some blankets off the bed.

"Oh come now Esric, we are to be married, we should sleep in the same bed. We have already done so before," she said with a sly smile, as she laid down in the bed. 

"I do not remember that, so in my mind we never have done such an act," he said, looking over at her. Branwen continued to smile at him as she reached out and took his hand, tugging it lightly. 

"Then let me remind you," she said, pulling him towards the bed, until he was right in front of her. She sat up and kissed him softly on the lips. 

Esric growled and pulled away quickly. She tasted bitter and sour, like milk that had gone bad. "I do not wish to be reminded," he said, firmly pulling his hand out of hers. 

Branwen let out a small huff as she watched Esric settle on the floor, in his clothes. But she would not give up that easy. She smiled as she pulled off the night gown she was wearing, and slithered next to Esric completely naked. She wrapped on arm around him and felt him stiffen under her touch. 

"Lady Branwen, if you do not go back into the bed, I shall make sure you stay there. I may have to spend the night with you, but that does not mean I will make love to you." Branwen let out a soft growl, and moved back to the bed with a sour look.

Satisfied, Esric slipped into a troubled sleep, filled with guilt and sadness. 

Branwen waited until he was asleep, and moved back onto the floor with him, still naked. He may be able to resist her while he was conscious, but she was sure he would not fare well now that he was asleep. 

She moved her hands carefully down his hips, undoing his pants with daft hands, then slipped one of them in. She gently took hold of his limp cock, and started to rub it gently. Her fingers moved up and down the shaft, but it did not seem to harden. "What the..." she whispered to the darkness, as her frustration began to build. 

Esric groaned and shifted in his sleep, his dreams full of Tecor moving through the desert, creating distance between them. He did not feel the hand down his pants, or realize that the woman next to him tried to get him hard until her hand would no longer move.

From behind the wall, Alessio smiled cunningly to himself. His son had no interest in the woman, even in his sleep. That is when he knew that Lady Branwen had lied about who she spent the night with. However; if it was not Esric, than who? He would know soon enough. Tonight, he could rest easy knowing that his son would not have to marry the Lady Whore.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 09



Authors Note: I would like to thank everyone who has voted and sent me e-mail. I know I have no posted regularly to this story, but I think two stories so close will make up for it a bit. I will try to have the next chapter out as soon as possible. A HUGE thanks to my Editor, who made it possible for me to continue this story. 

Lady T

*

The sun was hot as a small band of gypsies moved slowly across the desert with their beasts of burden and colorful wagons. Most of them played cheerful music, and laughed making the travel more bearable. One young woman however could not even coax a fake smile on her lips. She was too lost in her own sadness to care about the happiness that surrounded her. Her older sister, who was sitting next to her on the wagon for the past few days, had, had enough of her dark mood. "Tecor, when will you stop mourning a life that was never yours to begin with, and start celebrating the one the Goddess gave you?" she asked, looking over at her sister, with concern. Since Tecor had come back from the fortress, she did not dance, nor smile. She would sit by the fire, holding back tears. When people asked her what was wrong she only said that the Marshal did not need her anymore, but Lili suspected that a man was involved.

"I am mourning nothing," Tecor said in a soft tone, not looking at her sister. 

"That is a lie. You were always the sun, Tecor, a frown never touched your face until you came back from the fortress. I do not know what happened there, Tecor, or why you stayed so long, but I know two things,"

Tecor sighed and looked over at her sister, waiting for her to continue. "One that you fell in love with someone, and two, he broke your heart for whatever reason." Tecor bit her lip and tried to hold back her feelings, but the sorrow that she held for those days came to a boil, and burst forth as tears. 

Lili pulled her sister close, comforting her like their mother used to. "Heartache happens to us all Tecor, but it is never an easy thing to heal from, so cry little raven," she cooed, using Tecor's childhood nickname. "I think we should go see mother," she proclaimed, after letting Tecor cry for a time. "She is close to the next place we stop. She will know what you should do." Tecor nodded slowly, not trusting her voice. 

*****

Esric sat in his study with his father, rubbing his hands together, trying to calm himself. "Who would have helped her?" he asked softly, mostly to himself. 

"It would have to be someone who would benefit from you and Tecor separating. However, I am sure they did not suspect her leaving that very day. She did not even claim the money you owed her for her dancing when she first came here. She just took her things and vanished."

In the corner of the room, Damien growled lightly to himself, making sure his father and brother did not hear. He did not even get a chance to see Tecor again. She was gone within the hour, without a trace or a good-bye. 

"I have to find her," Esric said, standing up and moving to the window. "I have to explain what happened. She may not forgive me, but I cannot let her go without at least saying good-bye," he said in a sad tone. He then he looked over at his father. "Are you sure Lady Branwen will not say who put her up to this scheme?" His father shook his head. 

"Lady Branwen seemed determined to be your wife. I guess she would not settle for anything less than a prince. I guess this is mostly my fault. I sent for her, and now she will have to marry someone in the court. She was our responsibility. I cannot give her to one of you two since Damien is already engaged to marry Lady Alerna, and your heart belongs to Tecor, and I do not wish to pawn her off on your younger brothers. In fact, if I had my way, she would be banished from court completely,"

Damien cleared his throat. "Is not Sir Relis of the northern province looking for another wife?" They both stared at him like he had two heads. "I know he is older than she imagined, but he will not care if she is used. He will just be happy to have someone to warm his bed,"

Alessio shook his head. "Sir Relis' health is not well, but his son,...I do not think his son will mind. Lady Branwen still comes from a good family, with a handsome dowry. I will send a letter to them, explaining everything. Now Tecor has had three days start on us, Esric, we shall go find her." Esric was about to argue the fact he could not leave the fortress. "Damien will look after the fortress, Esric. Now get ready, we leave today," he said with a wild grin he had not given since his wife had died. Esric smiled back as he followed him out of the room. 

Damien watched their horses disappear into the desert from his bedroom window, when he heard the door open. He did not have to look to know it was Branwen. "What do you want?" he asked in a cold voice, without looking at her. 

"I want Esric, but now that is not going to happen. Maybe I shall tell your father the truth when he returns, and he will make you marry me," she said with a seductive smile.

Damien looked over his shoulder at her with dark eyes. "Be careful Branwen, you do not want me as your enemy. Besides, I was able to get father to think of Lord Relis' son Bron. He is a strong young man, who will look past your condition because your dowry will save his lands from poverty. He is a good man, and will take care of you, although you may have to work a bit. The northern lands are harsh and unforgiving, but I have faith you will adapt beautifully," he said with a fox like grin.

"What about your ambitions to have Tecor?" she asked in a dejected tone. "I thought you wanted her?"

"I only wanted to sleep with her, not to keep her. I have my own betrothed, who I now will have to learn to love enough to settle for I suppose. Now you will keep your mouth shut, or I will make sure you are cast out of our society, and that of your own people, because you have no proof we were together Branwen. Take what I have given you and be happy about it," he growled. "Now leave my room." Branwen glared at him for a moment, but quickly left the room. She knew that now she was no longer a virgin she did not have any options left to her. 

****

It took two days to find any gypsies, but another night to find ones that knew of Tecor, but none of them would talk. 

"Please, if you know where she is, please tell me," Esric pleaded, as he talked to an older man. The old man chewed on the end of his pipe, and shook his head. "Look, we know she lived with you. I even remember some of the faces the night I met her. I need to find her. I need to tell her that I love her." The old man sighed, but shook his head again. Esric sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. "She once told me that you people cherish love, and honor it. Please honor it this once and tell me where she is," he said with empty eyes.

The old man took the pipe from his mouth and looked Esric in the eyes. "I am Tecor's uncle, Richan. I rejoiced the day she came back to our family. Your world can cloud the eyes, and make young people choose against their path, their family. Yet, she did not smile, she did not look anyone in the eyes. Her soul had died. I knew she was suffering from heartache, and now I meet the man who caused it." Richan took a long draw from his pipe, and blew it out slowly. "And I see the same look in your eyes. She may hate me for a time for telling you, but you both need this. Go north of here, until you reach a small village, go to the end there is a small hut, just off the main village. Tecor is there with her elder sister, and mother, though I warn you, those three women will not be happy to see you,"

Esric smiled widely, and hugged the old man. "Thank you Richan, thank you." Then he and his father left the gypsy group. Richan smiled after him. "God help your soul young man," He then laughed loudly. 

****

Tecor sat at her mother's table with a cup of hot tea, letting the warmth sooth her. "Come Tecor, you must at least tell me of this man," her mother said with a soft smile. 

"He was arrogant, stupid, and full of pride," she said with a scornful look. "I do not want to talk of him; I want to forget about him completely."

Her mother took the empty cup from her and looked down at the tea leaves at the bottom. Maysha used to be the one to tell people their fortunes, before she decided she needed to stop roaming. "You will never forget him Tecor. He is meant to be with you, this was all planned by the Goddess."

"Mother I know you cannot really read those," Tecor said, like a sulking child. 

Her mother raised an eyebrow. "Oh? He will come here before the day is out, and tell you everything." Tecor rolled her eyes, and sat back in the chair. She knew better than to argue with her mother. "If you say so, mother," was the only safe reply Tecor could come up with. 

It was mid day when Esric and Alessio entered the small village. A young man told them where the hut they sought was, for a gold coin. 

Esric took in a deep breath as he got off his horse, and held it until he reached the door. He was just about to knock when an older woman answered the door. "Ah, you must be the young man who broke my youngest daughter's heart," Esric nodded, and sighed. He wished she was not so blunt. "Come in, and your father as well," she said, opening the door. 

The first thing Esric saw was Tecor, and his heart broke more. She looked as if her soul had left her. There was no spark in her eye, or confidence in her pose. Her dead, lifeless eyes just stared past him as if he was not there. "Now young man, please sit," the old woman said, gesturing to a few chairs. Esric nodded, and he and his father sat down. The old woman smiled and sat down as well. "Now what is your name?" 

"My name is Esric, ma'am," he said softly. "I am Prince of this land, and Marshal for the fortress Kash." 

"I am Maysha, Tecor's mother. Now she did not tell me anything about what happened while she was with you. Perhaps you can enlighten me?" she asked as she poured a few cups of tea. 

Esric nodded. "I met Tecor among the gypsies. I was impressed with her dancing, and hired her to entertain a friend of mine who was visiting, and she agreed. My friend was taken with her, and wanted to bed her, so the first night she stayed, I slept in her bed to protect her. I did not touch her in anyway," he added quickly. 

"No doubt my daughter would have cut you from nose to navel if you had. Please continue," Maysha said, handing Esric a cup of tea.

Esric took a sip, then continued. "As I predicted, my friend, while drunk, attempted to bed your daughter but I saved her, so she granted me one wish. I wished her to stay with me, until her people moved. So she stayed, and I fell in love with her. Then my father and elder brother surprised me with a guest, a young woman he believed I would be happy with. I told him that I was in love with Tecor, and that night, they met."

"The next day Tecor and my father got to know each other, and when my brother tried to be a little more than friendly towards her, my father called her his sister. Of course Tecor was angry, but I could not let my father treat her so. Tecor is a free spirit, and will not be ordered about. I believe I earned her respect that day."

"That was until the young woman I mentioned before forced a kiss upon me, just as my brother and Tecor entered. She fled and would not let me explain. So believing I lost the woman I loved, I got drunk with my brother. The next day, I woke with a large headache and the young woman who kissed me in my bed. Tecor over heard my family and I discussing it, and that is when her heart broke. She left that very hour without a good-bye or trace."

"We found out later that I did not sleep with the young woman." It was than Tecor looked at him for the first time with interest. "She had planned it out with someone, and wished to trick me into marrying her. However; I was never able to repeat the act, even when she tried to while I was asleep."

You see ma'am, there is something I never told Tecor. I am cursed. I was cursed by a gypsy when I was sixteen, to fall in love with someone who will never want me until the raven comes to me and forgives me." Esric finished his tea, holding the cup in his hands until Maysha took it from him. 

"You believed my daughter is the raven," she said, looking into his cup. "You heard the curse wrong, young prince," she said, looking at him with the same green eyes as Tecor. "You are cursed be with someone who will not love you, until the raven comes. That young lady was part of the curse. You were meant to be with her, thinking she would end the curse. You were right Esric, my daughter is the raven, and all she needed was to be there." Maysha put the cup down and looked at him with a kind smile. "We do not use that curse often, because the woman who is the raven usually falls for the cursed man, technically cursing two people instead of one."

Esric licked his lips and looked over at Tecor, who quickly looked away. She did not know if she believed his story about Branwen. However, it did make sense. 

"What about the part where the raven has to forgive me?" Esric asked, looking back at Maysha. 

"That part is new. Maybe this gypsy wished to make an escape for the raven. If she does not forgive you, you both will go your separate ways," she said, looking between her daughter and Esric. "I think a test is in order. Esric must prove his love to Tecor, beyond a doubt. If she accepts, she will forgive him, if not, he will leave your life forever,"

The word 'forever' made them both flinch, and that made Lili, and Maysha smile.

Esric sighed, softly, then carefully undid a clasp, pulling a small gold locket from his neck. Alessio gasped loudly, and looked at his son questioningly. Esric got up and knelt in front of Tecor holding out the heart shaped locket. "My mother gave this to me when she died. In fact she placed it in my hand minutes before her passing. She told me to give it to the woman I loved. I know this does not prove my love for you, but I think it is a good start." He placed the locket in her hand. "My mother's secret is in there, something only she and I shared. Open it when you are ready, I shall be outside," He stood up, slowly and looked over at Maysha. "Thank you for the tea, ma'am," he said, and with a nod, he left the hut. 

Alessio sighed and stood up, but Maysha quickly put her hand on his arm and whispered something in his ear that made him turn red with anger. Alessio left Esric, saying that he had urgent business back home. 

Esric sighed as he sat down in front on the hut, with his bags on his lap, waiting for Tecor. 

Tecor sat there holding the locket carefully. "Open it," her mother said softly. "It will help you with your choice. I know you love him Tecor." 

Tecor growled at her. "That does not matter, he betrayed me," she stated in a hard voice. 

"No he did not. He got out witted by a woman, and someone who wanted you in their bed." Tecor's mouth dropped slightly. "He loves you." A soft flute began to play a sad song. "And right now, he is telling you in your language." 

Tecor listened to the flute. "That cannot be..." Her mother interrupted her with a stern look "Open the locket, Tecor." 

Tecor sighed, then carefully opened the locket. Inside there was a picture of a young woman who had Esric's mouth and nose, and a young man with his grin. They wore bright clothes and headbands, proclaiming their heritage. "They are..." She looked at the door, as the music grew louder. She got up from her chair, and moved to the door in a dream like state. She opened the door, and there was Esric playing the bone flute of the gypsy. If it was not for his fine clothes, he would have passed for a skilled gypsy player. 

"I did not know you played." she said, softly moving towards him. Esric nodded, finished the song, and then put the flute down. "The people in the locket..." 

"My grandparents on my mother's side. They died before I was born. My mother's family was attacked by raiders when she was a young woman. They killed her parents, and would have killed her if my father had not happened by. He saved what was left of her family. My father took them back to the palace, and took care of them. He fell deeply in love with her, and did not care what she was. 

My mother said she did not start out loving him, but felt that she owed him everything and agreed to marry him, giving up her gypsy life. A year later, Damien was born. My mother loved him, but felt he was forced upon her. She avoided my father for some time, and would play this in her spare time. My great-grandfather made it from a wild cat he killed with his bare hands, or so the story goes. 

My father saw how sad she was and told her that if she wished, she could go back to the desert, that he loved her enough to let her go. She left for one month. It was within that time when she realized that over time, she had fallen in love with him. She went back, and made love to him, and a year later I was born. She said she loved me the most because I was a child of love." He smiled and stroked the flute with his thumb. "She taught me how to play the flute, and dance a few dances, but only me. My father never knew. She told me when she gave me the flute, that I had a gypsy spirit. It was only when you came into my life that I realized she was right." 

Tecor smiled softly, and sat down across from him, "How do you have a gypsy sprit?" 

"I wanted you to love me, not because you were beautiful, or because you are intelligent, or any other reason I could come up with, but because it felt right. My spirit sang to yours, and it responded. It just took me too long to realize it. It is such a strong feeling that I am willing to play this flute, and travel with you for the rest of my days, maybe even dance. I will do anything to be with you Tecor, because I will die if you send me away, it will kill my spirit." 

Tecor sighed softly and put her hand on his cheek lightly. "I know now that you never meant to hurt me, to do so is to hurt yourself. Yet this does not prove anything." 

Esric smiled and stood up helping her stand as well. "I am going to give you back your dance, and your smile, because that is who you are. I always want you to be who you are." 

Tecor grinned at him lightly. "I do not think you are that good with that flute."

Esric grinned at her then put the flute to his lips. The song started out slow, with soft, low, long notes that were full of his soul. 

Tecor closed her eyes and listened as the music became faster, growing like a fire. She began to move her head to the song, then her hips. As the music grew louder, her feet began to move as she gave herself over to the music. 

She opened her eyes, looking over at Esric, who's eyes burned into her, making her want to let loose, making her dance more exotic. She smiled as her hips moved quickly, as the bracelets on her ankles chimed in time with the music. She moved around him quickly as a smile came to her face. 

The music and her body moved as one, as if they practiced a hundred times. Then the music came to a climax, and stopped, as did Tecor. Her chest moved heavily, as her eyes never moved from Esric's. "Then again, I can be wrong." she said, letting her body relax. "You are very skilled, and I bow before you," she said, bowing her head slightly.

Esric bowed his head back, "To you as well," he replied softly. Tecor smiled and moved until her body touched his, then pressed her lips to his.

Esric let out a soft sigh, and held back letting her kiss him how she wished. "For the dance," she said softly against his lips. Then she kissed him passionately, and Esric could not help but to put his arms around her, kissing her back with fire. She broke the kiss carefully. "For giving me back myself. I cannot stay mad at you Esric, when you do such a thing." She then touched the flute lightly. "Besides, music and dance have always gone together." Esric grinned, then kissed her again, letting her know how much he cared through one kiss.




A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 09



"Marry me," he whispered softly, as he looked into her eyes, knowing her answer would either save him or destroy him. 

Tecor smiled. "Yes, I will marry you, but only if you travel with me for a time."

"You lived with me, I shall live with you. We will find common ground in between." He then captured her lips again, and the world for once seemed to be alive. 

From the doorway, Maysha smiled at the two. "Oh Isadora my friend, if only you can see your son now, and how happy he is." 

****

It took another three days for Alessio to ride back to the fortress. He was blind not to see the truth from the beginning, blind with love for his eldest son. 

He stormed into the main keep, expecting to see Damien great him, only to find Lady Branwen sitting in Esric's chair, wearing a wedding dress, and a sinister smile. "Hello, your Highness," she said with a sweet voice that still had a bit to it. 

"Lady, where is my son?" he said softly, with concern, "Where is Damien?" 

Branwen sighed and pushed a stray lock of her golden hair behind her ear. "He is safe until he changes his mind about wanting me. He made love to me, so that means he has to have some feeling for me. I know it," she said, looking over at Alessio with bright blue eyes. "Besides, I could be carrying his child, the next heir to the throne." She gave him a wicked smile. 

"This is madness Branwen! Now release my son, or I shall have to call the guards." 

"Call them. I have already taken care everyone in this fortress. You really should have been more careful when dealing with my family." She said this as she moved towards him, madness in her eyes. "You see, I come from a long line of mages," she explained, as she held up her hand, and fire appeared at her finger tips. "I am not as powerful as my family, but I can manipulate simple people, although your sons seemed to be immune. Damien was easily brought to heel when I threatened to hurt the servants. Oh do not look at me like that," she said as she put a hand to Alessio's shocked face. "Now we shall wait for Esric to come, and I will have my pick between your two sons. Come your Highness, let me show you to your son," she said in an eloquently dark voice. 

Alessio nodded as he watched the flames die on her finger tips. He only hoped that Esric would not fall into such a trap, and that Bron got his message. Esric would need all the help he could get.



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 10



Tecor tightly hung to Esric as the horse ran across the desert. Tecor was not used to riding a horse. Her people used them to pull carts, and other tasks, but hardly rode them. However; it was important to Esric that she would come with him, to tell his father of their engagement. After riding for two days, her butt and legs were sore. All she wanted was a hot bath, and a soft bed. 

"Do not worry Tecor, we are almost there," Esric said softly, as he looked across the grand expanse of sand. "Then we can start our life together." Tecor smiled at that and nuzzled his back lightly, resting her head on it. 

They arrived at the fortress at noon. As soon as they entered, Esric's face became serious. "Where are the people?" He asked looking around the empty streets. "There should be merchants, and throngs of people in the streets." He stopped his horse and climbed, off motioning to Tecor to stay. 

Esric's eyes scanned the shadows, as his hand went to his sword. He heard a sudden noise behind him, and unsheathed his sword in a blink of an eye, meeting another blade. It was quickly lowered once Esric saw who it was. "Bron, what are you doing here?" He asked as he sheathed his sword

Bron, of the northern lands, was a tall man, with large muscles he earned from long days of working. His long black hair held back with a leather thong, and his hazel eyes, which normally were smiling, look at Esric with a serious tone. "Your father sent for me to meet a possible wife, to help my lands," he said in his deep voice, as he too sheathed his weapon. "I arrived yesterday, and found it like this. I knew something was wrong. I found a servant girl who told me, that a female mage was holding your brother and father captive. I have spent time since then trying to figure out how to get into the fortress to free them." 

"Bron, are your people not sorcerers? I know your magic is strong I have seen you use it," Esric said in a worried voice. "Could you not simply challenge her?" 

"And risk the life of my King? I know you are worried Esric, but use your head. If I knew they were safe I would challenge her," he said, firmly crossing his large arms across his chest. "Now that you are here, you can get me in there." 

Esric shook his head. "No. There is only one entrance, and that is through the front." 

"Then we seem to have little choice." The large man said with a sigh.

"You have no choices," said a bitter voice behind Bron. Both men turned as Lady Branwen hit Bron in the head with a stone, knocking the man unconscious with a wild look in her eyes, "You are mine now, Esric," she said with a smile, as her fingers lit with a blue flame

"Branwen," Tecor breathed. 

Branwen growled, and threw a fiery ball at the horse. The horse reared, knocking Tecor to the ground. 

"Tecor!!!" Esric yelled, as he began to move towards her, but fire stopped him in his tracks. "Leave her, Prince." Branwen growled. "She is nothing but a gypsy you deserve more...," she said, moving to him and putting her arms around him. "So much more," Esric snarled, and shoved her away from him. "Get away from me, witch."

Branwen glared at him. "Then I guess I will have to kill your brother and father," she said, with an evil grin on her red lips. 

"Let my family go!" Esric roared, moving towards her with rage in his eyes. 

"Harm me and they die Esric. I have placed a spell that can kill them if I wish it." That stopped Esric in his tracks. He did not know much about mages, and was not sure if such a thing was in their power. "That's a good boy. Now here is what you will do. You are going to marry me, or I kill your family, and the wench as well, for the hell of it." 

Esric looked down at Tecor's body, then over to Bron's. They were both depending on him. "Alright Branwen. Let me see to my friend first though," he said motioning to Bron, hoping she had not heard their entire conversation. 

Branwen looked at Bron then nodded. "Fine take care of him and your whore as well, but quickly," she snapped

Esric moved over his friend noticing that the wound was already healed. Bron was just playing hurt. "When I move to Tecor make your move. Bind her, do not hurt her, I do not know if that spell was a bluff," he whispered. He then moved over to Tecor, slowly his eyes turned to Branwen. He gently picked Tecor's unconscious body up in his arms; that was when he saw Branwen go ridged, and her eyes go wide with shock. 

"I love dealing with mages," Bron said with a large smile on his face, as he moved over to Branwen, his hazel eyes aglow with magic. He put his finger under Branwen's chin making her look at him. "You do not have enough power for the spell you described lady. Now where are the King and his son?" 

"Go fornicate yourself Sorcerer, I will not tell you anything," she said looking up at him with a defiant eye. Bron looked over at Esric. "I like her, can I keep her?" He asked with a joking smile, which vanished when he saw tears in his friend's eyes. 

"She hit her head harder than I thought. She won't open her eyes, and her breathing is slow. I have to get her in a bed and a healer to her, but where is everyone?" Bron went over to Tecor and examined her carefully. "She will live Esric, but we still need to know where everyone went." 

Branwen cried out loudly as Bron tightened her binding. "Tell him." 

"I do not know! I used my father's magic. He gave me a vile in case I needed it, I simply told them to be gone. Everyone vanished, even the king and Damien," she said tears coming to eyes. 

"There is only one place we can vanish people, the shadow realm, but the monsters there will not likely give up their new toys so easily. You will have to go there Esric, and free them." 

"Why cannot you go?" Esric asked, reluctant to leave Tecor's side. 

"I need to stay here to make sure Branwen does not escape. Also I have to keep the portal open so you have a chance to escape." Esric nodded, finally agreeing. 

"Let's get Tecor to a safe place first," he said lightly. 

Esric laid Tecor out on his bed, and touched her face lightly with the back of his hand. "I will be back," he whispered, softly kissing her on the forehead. He then turned to Bron, and nodded. "Alright I am ready." 

"Alright my friend, but first some things you will need to know. Human swords cannot cut the shadows. The only thing that will hurt them is light." He reached down into a small bag tied to his belt and handed Esric a small golden idle, with a red diamond in the center. "This will keep them back. You need to go to the shadow king and challenge him. I will warn you that if you lose, you will be lost forever." Esric nodded holding the idle tightly. Bron muttered ancient words softly, and a dark swirling vortex appeared in front of them. "Good luck my friend." Esric smiled then ran into the vortex.

The demon world was a mirror image of his own, except all of the colors were gone; there was nothing but shades of grey. He was at the edge of the town, and moved quickly through it. He could see the town folk walking around with horrified looks on their faces; he tried to speak to a few, but none seemed to even know he was there. "I guess they cannot see me," he said softly to himself. "Now if I was the demon king where would I be? The fort, in the throne room," he said with a smile on his face. He moved through the town like a ghost, making sure to watch his back. 

He entered the castle carefully. He had yet to see a demon in this world, maybe he was lucky, or maybe it was just the idol. He moved through the halls he knew so well, reaching the throne room easily. He was right. There, where he would usually receive visitors, was a large demon. 

He was not ugly, but rather strange. He had long curled horns that twisted this way and that. He had a dark grey color to his skin. He had long finger nails which he looked at as if he was bored. His legs were long and slightly crooked and currently being propped up by Damien. Esric then looked around for his father, finally spotting him in a cage in the corner of the room. At least they are safe He thought to himself, as his eyes returned to the demon. Esric took in a breath, gathering his courage, as he stepped out of his hiding spot. 

The demon turned his face, and his red eyes locked onto Esric. "I was wondering how long it would take you to get here human. I grew bored waiting for you," the demon said in a deep knee shaking voice.

"So you knew that I was coming?" Esric said softly trying to remain calm as possible, but it was hard, the demon was truly frightening. 

The demon smiled, showing its slightly yellow teeth. "Of course it was not hard to sense something alive, and fresh. I am guessing you are here for the new toys I have obtained. Honestly most of them are not very fun, I was going to let them go anyways, however these two," he said gesturing to Damien and his father. "I am going to keep them I think, but I sense you do not wish that." The demon smiled and relaxed into the chair. "You have nothing I want human, so please just leave."

Esric bit his lip, and took a moment to think of what a demon would want. Something cruel and evil.... Suddenly he had an idea. "Of course not, I am but a cursed man; I have nothing to offer you." 

The demon picked up his eye brows, and turned his head so that he was looking at Esric directly. "Cursed you say?" Esric nodded and gave a sad look. "Yes. I am forced to love a woman, and she me. We have no control, and now I must spend the rest of my life with someone I do not wish to be with. Such a horrible thing to happen to two people, especially to a young man such as myself. No more freedom for me, it is marriage for me, and she is the only one that can satisfy my lust." The demon smiled with delight. "Such an evil curse, I could use that with such delight on my fellow demons..... But is a curse worth these two souls?" 

Esric shrugged his shoulders, "I do not know myself, but it is hell for us, to be stuck with someone for the rest of our lives.... Can you imagine if we hated each other?" The demons eyes filled with gleam. "Yes human, I shall take your curse, and you can have these humans. You will be free of the curse and your woman." The demon moved his hand, and Esric felt cold, then the realization hit him. Tecor may not want me..... Then the world went dark. 

Light slowly washed over him, and he realized that he was on a bed, and someone was stroking his face with a wet cloth. He moaned lightly, and someone soothed him, by touching his arm slightly. "Tecor..." He whispered lightly. "Shhh... Rest my love. Your father and brother are safe as are all of the villagers." Esric let out a satisfied breath. Tecor was still there, and everyone was safe. 

When Esric woke again it was night, candles lit the room giving it a warm glow. Someone was singing lightly as a hand touched his face lightly. "Tecor..." He whispered as soon as he recognized the voice. "Yes," She said softly. "I am glad to see you are awake, you have slept all day. I was worried about you." Esric smiled and sat up slowly groaning as he did. His head pounded like he was hung over, and the world spun slightly. Tecor reached over and grabbed a cup and placed it in his hands. "Drink this it will make you feel better." Esric drank the brew slowly; it was sweet, but strong enough to make him cough after he finished it. Soon the world stopped spinning, and his head did not hurt. "Thank you," he whispered softly, and looked at her for the first time since coming from the demon realm. He had had nightmares during the darkness of looking at her and not wanting her anymore. She was the only thing in his life that made it worth anything. 

Their eyes met, and Esric felt a rush of want, and desire. He smiled, realizing that he still loved her. Was the curse really gone then? Surely the demon would not let them go empty handed. He reached out and touched her face wanting to make sure she was real. 

Tecor smiled and placed her hand on his, enjoying the comfort it gave her. She had no idea what happened in the other realm. The town's people appeared out of thin air, then after a time so did Alessio and his brother. Esric fell from a vortex from the ceiling; he was muttering "No curse, no curse," as he shook violently. She spent the hours by his side worried about him, wondering what happened and what he did. 

"I am so happy to see you," he said leaning forward and kissing her on the lips. Tecor smiled and kissed him back. "And I am happy to see you." 

"I love you Tecor," he whispered against her lips, his eyes locking onto hers. Tecor smiled softly, "And I love you." Esric breathed a sigh of relief. 

Tecor saw the relief, and confusion ran across her face. "Esric, what is wrong? Did something happen?" Esric breathed in slowly. "Nothing terrible my love. The demon let the villagers go without a fight, but my family was a different matter. I managed to trade him for my curse."

"Your curse?" Tecor thought about it for a moment, and then realized that she was no longer bound to Esric, and then another thought hit her. "Wait did I not break that cruse when I forgave you?" 

Esric thought about it for a moment. "Yes I guess you are correct. I just had such horrible dreams while I laid here, it is just comforting to have you here and hear you say that you love me." Tecor smiled and held him close.

It was then the door opened and Alessio entered the room. He smiled when he saw the two holding each other. "I am glad to see you are well my son. I know that you are not completely well just yet, but I need to talk to you." Tecor took the hint that it was a serious talk and stood from the bed. "I am going to get Esric something to eat," she said with a smile, and then left the room, closing the door behind her. 

Alessio smiled softly, and then sat next to his son on the bed. "I have not done this since you were a boy." He sighed wishing for those simple days once more. "Esric, your brother was the one who sought to tear Tecor and yourself apart, for the reason of wanting to bed her. I do not know why he would do such a thing when he has his own betrothed, I guess I do not know him as well as I thought. However; now I believe I must call off his wedding, and forgo giving him the crown. If he cannot make the right choice regarding his family, how can I ever trust him with this kingdom?" Alessio took in a deep breath. "You are the next in line to rule, and I know you would treat this kingdom with fairness, and rule with a calm head." 

Esric nodded slowly, he never expected to be king, even though he was the second oldest. "Father.... I know that my role as the second son implies that I should accept this role, but I could not do such a thing to Tecor without asking her."

"So I gather that she accepted?" Esric could only nod. "Yes I figured that out when I saw she came back with you. I am happy for you my son, and I will not make it final until you have had a word with her." 

"Also, a condition of our engagement is that I travel with her. It is only fair since she lived in my world for a time, that I would live in hers." 

"I do not plan on leaving this Earth anytime soon." He then pulled Esric into a tight hug. "I only wish your mother was here to see you so happy." Esric smiled and hugged his father back. "I am sure she smiles upon us." He broke the hug, "Now you must tell me what you have done with Branwen?" 

Alessio chuckled lightly. "Amazingly, Bron still wants her. He says it will be fun breaking her, and teaching her a lesson or two. He has more than enough power to control her, and I doubt her father will disagree to the union. He comes from a good family, and any children they have will be well versed in magic." Esric laughed lightly. "Well I shall have to wish him luck with that viper." 

Tecor reentered the room. "I did not want to interrupt, but Esric has not eaten since this morning," she said, gesturing to the tray full of food she held. She placed it on his lap. "Now I want you to only eat as much as you can. Do not force yourself, otherwise you will get sick." 

Alessio laughed. "She already sounds like a wife," he said standing up. He hugged Tecor tightly and kissed her forehead. "I am happy to have you in this family." And with that he left.

Tecor sat down and enjoyed the company of her love, as he told her of what his father proposed for the kingdom, what was to happen to Branwen, finally where they should travel to once he got better. Soon he was fast asleep with her humming lightly and caressing his face with her finger tips. She knew that many things would change in her life, but this was forever, and that what mattered most to her. 



A Gypsy's Tale Ch. 11



Author's Note: Thank you to all my readers, I apologize for making you all think that Chapter 10 was the last chapter. This is chapter is not long but it did not belong in the last chapter. I hope you all have enjoyed this story, and yes I will be writing more! 

Lady T



Esric felt like he was going to vomit, as he stood in the rose garden. People filled the garden as they talked quietly among themselves. His father put his hand on his shoulder. "Breathe Esric, it is important to breathe." He said with a large smile. "Yes I know, father," Esric responded as he straightened his shirt. "I am just nervous, that is all." 

Alessio laughed lightly. "There are only a few times when a man has a right to be nervous, the birth of his children, and his wedding." Esric nodded and looked around at the guests. His younger brothers were there with supporting smiles, his friend Bron was there with Branwen in check next to him. They had stayed the week at the fortress while the preparations for the wedding took place. He wondered how Bron was going to keep her under control. I suppose he will have his ways. And his magic is stronger than hers, but that will still be an interesting story in itself. Esric then saw Damien who wore a submission collar. Their father did not know what to do with him, but still believed that he would redeem one day, he just needed a reason to. 

The music began and Esric held his breath, as Tecor came into the garden wearing the most beautiful white dress, made of silk that clung to her curves, and a lace vale over her face. White flowers were braided into it her hair.

The world slowed for both of them, as she came towards him. She blushed gently as her eyes drank him in. It was a perfect moment for them both. 

His hand took hers in his as he guided her to her place on the altar. "You look amazing," he whispered, with a smile. "So do you," she whispered back. Their eyes locked and they heard and saw nothing else but each other. The priest began the ceremony, and they both where aware enough to say "I do." 

"By the goddess I join these two in life, till the end of their days." Esric smiled and kissed Tecor gently, yet passionately. The crowd cheered bringing them both back to reality. 

The reception was filled with music, laughter, and dancing. Tecor danced with her sister and the other gypsies from her camp. Esric played his flute with the band watching his new bride with lust, and wanting. 

Tecor's mother took Esric's hand, and pulled him to the floor. "Time to dance with your wife!" She said, as Tecor took Esric's hand and they danced together. Their bodies touched molding together as one, they grinded together as their bodies caught fire. "I need you." Esric whispered into her ear. Tecor grinned, and kissed his lips sweetly. "Then we should retire from the party, and you can show me." Esric let out a growl and gathered her in his arms, picking her up off her feet. The crowd laughed and cheered as he carried her out of the party. 

Tecor let out a sigh when Esric placed her on the bed, still in her wedding dress. She smiled and watched him carefully, as he moved his hands up her legs. She placed her foot on his chest, stopping his motion. "Let me get changed, my sister will be mad at me if I ruin this dress." She slipped off the bed and went into the bathroom. 

She slipped off the dress, and put on a simple silk night gown that reached to her knees, and a slight v-neck that pronounced her breasts. Her sister gave it to her as a wedding present; she thought it would make the first night more fun. Tecor smiled and brushed her hair free of the flowers and the braid, letting it lay against her back. Tecor opened the door, to see Esric sitting on the bed, his shirt undone, and his shoes off. His eyes watched her like a hungry wolf; she smiled, and swayed her hips as she walked to him. She put her arms on his shoulders and moved them down his chest. "I think you should become more comfortable." He growled in response as his eyes moved over her body. "I will take that as a yes." She whispered pulling the shirt over his head, then rubbed his body down with her hands, enjoying the heat coming from his skin. She kissed his shoulder, moving slowly to his neck as her hands undid his pants. Esric's breath caught in his throat, as her hand touched his member which was already hardened. 

Tecor smiled and nibbled his ear, her hand rubbing his member softly. Esric needed more of her, and stood up, and gripped her at the same time, placing her on the bed. He slid his pants off kicking them across the room. His hands were on her skin hungrily moving up her body trying to touch every inch of her. "You are so beautiful, and now you are my wife." He kissed her lips. "And I look forward to spending every second of our lives making your life wonderful, blissful, and happy." Tecor smiled and kissed him back. "I already have that, because I have you. However, I look forward to it." Esric kissed down her shoulder. "Good," he whispered into her skin. 

His hands caressed her skin, moving up to her breast, sliding the gown up her body revealing her body. She sat up and he took the gown off her body tossing it to the floor. She moved up the bed, and he climbed onto it with her. He bent down and touched her forehead with his, and they stayed there for a moment their naked bodies touching each other softly. "I love you, Tecor. You are my soul, and I could not live without you." Tecor smiled and nuzzled his cheek with hers. "And you are mine." He kissed her again passionately this time unleashing all he felt for her in one kiss. 

Tecor wrapped her arm around him pushing her body into his, moaning softly as his hard member rubbed against her wetness. Esric moved his hands down her, and cupped her pussy lightly with his hand, rubbing it softly as his fingers moved up and down her slit. He became harder as he felt how wet she was. He inserted a finger into her hot wet core, groaning on how tight she was.

Tecor let out an impatient whimper. She had wanted Esric like this for so long, and they were here... He was hers, as she was his. She let out a ragged moan as he rubbed her clit softly, making her twist and turn in the bed."Like that, I see," Esric said with a smile as he watched her face, as pleasure took over her body. 

Tecor felt like she was on fire, as she moved her body against Esric's hand. Her nails dug into his skin, as she felt like she was going to explode. "Esric." She whimpered softly. "Shhh... Just enjoy it," he whispered softly, kissing her neck, softly and gently biting the skin. Tecor let out a soft cry as a wave of pleasure rode through her body rocking her to the core. Esric was breathing as hard as she was, as he let her body come down before positioning his member in-front of her entrance. 

Tecor shuddered slightly when she felt the head of his member touch the entrance. "Ready?" he asked, locking his eyes with hers. She smiled and arched her body, making him enter her a little. "Yes," she whispered. Esric leaned down and kissed her as he slowly entered her tight body. 

Tecor gripped the blankets, whimpering slightly from the pain of stretching. Esric stopped when he hit a barrier, he knew she was a virgin but this was the true proof of that, so he waited until she was breathing slowly, then pushed forward breaking through. Tecor let out a soft cry, and tears ran from the corners of her eyes. Esric kissed them away and waited again for her to adjust to him. "I am okay," she said putting her arms around him, kissing him passionately. 

Esric groaned into the kiss, and began to thrust in and out of her at a slow pace, enjoying the warmth of her around his member, as every inch of her gripped him, making him shiver and moan with each thrust. 

Soon their bodies became one and moved against each other as their souls seemed to touch and meld together as one. Esric never knew that it would feel so wonderful; it was truly another world experience.

Sweat dripped from him onto her as Tecor gripped his skin moving against him. He felt himself getting close and his body moved faster, as their kisses became harsh and rushed. Soon his body could not hold it any longer, and he let go, letting his passion come to an eruption. 

Esric shuddered, and pulled out of her gently, laying next to her, pulling her into his body. Tecor breathed deeply and snuggled into him. "The goddess has truly blessed us both, I have never heard of anything more wonderful than that." Esric smiled and kissed her forehead. "Yes, I think she has, we will have to see what else she gives us," he said as his hand moved to her stomach rubbing it gently. "Ready for that already?" she asked with a teasing smile. "I was the first time I realized I loved you." She giggled and moved on top of him, kissing him softly. "Then I guess we should get started right away." Esric smiled and drew her in again. 

******

Esric paced up and down the hall as his father sat in a chair watching him. "You will wear the floor to nothing my son." Esric nodded but did not stop. "Have you thought more about being crowned prince? I have given you almost a year to decide." This made Esric stop and look at his father. "Tecor told me she would support me no matter what I decided." Alessio nodded and let his son continue without responding. "I will accept my responsibility to my country, Father. I will succeed you when the time comes." Alessio smiled, stood up and hugged him. 

"This makes me happy, my son. Now if only we could get help for your brother." Esric smiled and hugged his father back. "Maybe he should spend some time with Tecor's family. Her mother would set him straight and living with women who can take care of themselves may give him respect for other women." Alessio, nodded and was about to respond when a loud cry came from the room. Esric's face went white, and his father patted his shoulder. "Go," he whispered. 

Esric opened the door, and entered the room where Tecor's family was cleaning up bloody blankets, and her mother was placing a small bundle in Tecor's arms. Tecor smiled at the bundle before her eyes saw Esric. "Come meet your daughter." She said softly. Esric smiled and his whole body shook as he lay next to her, looking down at his daughter. He reached out and touched her face lightly. "She is beautiful, she looks like her mother." He kissed Tecor's forehead softly "She has her father's smile though." She said back, leaning against Esric arm. 

Esric and Tecor ruled the kingdom with justice and many prospered. They lived many happy years together. 

Damien was made the fort's new regent after spending many years in the desert with the gypsies. Bron and Branwen ruled the northern lands keeping the peace for all, but those are different tales for a different time.