Home of Origin.

Yawning Sky stretched inside her warm and somewhat comfortable bed. Snuggling back down into the warmth of the blanket she froze as the realization hit her. Not only was she in a warm bed, not only did it smell like cookies and lavender, but she also wasn't alone. Someone's arm was hanging over her. Moving the covers enough to see the appendage she followed it to the shoulder and up to Michael's sleeping face. Instantly her ears cough on fire. Not only was she in his bed, but he was naked spread out a crossed it. Currently, she was the only one covered and on top of that, his dragon was still out. Shiny black scales ran from the base of his scull down to his tailbone protecting his back bone. Just under his ribs, they flared out a little to aid in the protection of his vile organs rapping around to his stomach that lay beneath him. Rolling over Sky reached out and ran her fingers along the length of his horns. Out of all of the dragons, he's where the only one who had this style of horns and to her, they were the prettiest. Running her hands over the growth rings Sky marvel at how smooth they were. Even were they compressed together at the tips as if the rings continued on into infinity. At the end it looked like the rings were just so tiny she couldn't see them anymore. To her, his horns were the most practical and useful. Starting at the forehead and curving over his scull before turning sharply up. Because of that they afford his head protection. There were only a couple places that were left vulnerable with the design, but maybe that's why the Goddess created him this way. He was the King after all, and Kings don't mate huffed Sky in her head before sliding out from under his arm careful not to wake him.

Finding herself in one of his t-shirts Sky looked around for her clothes. Surely he didn't undress her, thought Sky hating to be a burden to him like she seemed to be all the time. Like last night, she had another one of those attacks. They are getting harder and harder to push back, and each time it's draining more and more power. It didn't help that each time she suffered an attack it seemed as there were more people than last time crying out to her. Stepping out from behind the curtain Sky froze at the sight of all the people sitting on the other side. "I hope you slept well My Queen," said Shelby getting to his feet and taking off his long jacket. "You're clothes where washed and they are currently drying."

"Oh," replied Sky slipping on his jacket that was no longer than Michaels shirt.

But if it made him feel more comfortable she'd do it even if she was supper uncomfortable right now. Everyone, including the entire council and five other faces she didn't know just watched her walk out of the King's bedroom. Well the bedroom side of the tent anyway wearing nothing besides his shirt. They probably think…. "Om we didn't do anything. This isn't what it looks like," stammered Sky definitively.

"Sky, can you please sign this," asked Eli quickly snatching a stack of papers out of an old man's hand and slapping them against Kyles back.

Taking the pin out of his hand Sky signed where he was pointing before looking at the council's suspicious faces.

"Do you know what you just signed," asked Lady Winter with a look of a disapproving mother.

"No," replied Sky taking a step back from the scary woman.

"They why sign it," snapped Lady Winter.

"Because he asked me too," replied Sky hiding behind Kyle.

"Hiding behind my nephew won't save you, you gullible little woman! Eli you should be ashamed of yourself" snapped Lady Winter causing Michael to grumble behind the curtain.

"What is going on," growled Michael stepping out from behind the curtain with only a pair of pants on.

Sky licked her suddenly dry lips at the sight of him scratching at his scale-covered belly. Either it was the scales or his dragon made him appear leaner and muscle packed. His chest and arms seemed more defined than normal and as he moved the muscles in his stomach sway like an ocean of black. Inside her, a war raged as her dragon debated on either attacking him and testing that muscle strength or licking him to see what he tasted like. Before she knew it her dragon let out a rattle that had Kyle moving away from her quickly and all faces turned toward her. Bringing her hands up to her mouth so fast, Sky smacked herself in the face. Turning wide eyes to everyone in the room Sky could feel her face burning even hotter as she stammered. "I um, I um, I stink. I need a bath."

With that Sky ran from the tent as fast as her legs could carry her.

"Were we going mom," asked Mayaya who came running up beside her.

"Someplace far far away to die under a hole," cried Sky as tears of embarrassment ran down her face.

"No," snapped Mayaya tripping her up and making her crash into the leafy undergrowth of the forest. "I'm not letting you die again! You almost die too often!"

Sniffing Sky rubbed the dirt off of her face along with the tears. "It's just an expression," said Sky sitting up to rub her face against Mayaya. "I just embarrassed the crap out of myself that's all. My dragon just rattled at the King."

"Running away from your problems isn't like you," huffed Alivia as her and April came jogging up.

"We come bearing gifts," said April a little more winded than Alivia holding up clothes.

"That's all good and well but it does me no good to put on clean clothes when I'm dirty," stated Sky using Mayaya to haul herself out of the forest floor.

"Oh there is are a really nice place to bathe," exclaimed Mayaya bouncing. "I found it last night when I went hunting with the Felix. He's really nice. I met his son too. He's nice too and he feels really bad for hurting you. Oh! but I met this one manticore. He's the shaman's apprentice you should see him!" Bounding a couple of steps in front of her, Mayaya hopped from side to side as her tail swung wildly. "He was so pretty! So half of his mane is blonde, like white blonde, and the other side is black as father's scales! And his eyes!"

"As black as who's scales," choked Sky.

"Fathers scales, okay so maybe I'm a little early," stated Mayaya jogging after the angry Sky. "You like him a lot. Your dragon wants to mate with him. Honestly when she's supper close to the surface. She smells like she already has. Don't give me the evil eye," laughed Mayaya side stepping as Sky glared at her. "That's the truth whether you want to admit it or not. So whenever you stop pretending and give in to him, he'll be my father as you're my mother. So there," sticking her tongue out at Sky, Mayaya gave her a cat-like grin.

"Yeah well everyone knows that the King doesn't mate," screamed Sky balling her hands up into firsts.

Sky didn't mean to scream that at Mayaya, she honestly just meant to say it normally. Unfortunately due to a fresh set of tears, it forced the words out a lot harsher than intended. Stopping in her tracks Mayaya shook her head before walking back to Sky and giving her a head butt. "When did my mother start caring about what everyone else says. Just because everyone calls you a dog doesn't mean you bark and wag your tale. So why should this matter."

Sniffing Sky rested her head against Mayaya's, "Because, those people where only one group. They, constituted everyone in that one place. The everyone who knows that Kings don't mate is everyone in this country. That's a lot more everyone's. Even Michael himself will say Kings don't mate."

"Then I say they're all wrong. If you like him, mate with him. Worse cause scenario he's not your mate, but you have a really good time anyway," joked Mayaya head butting Sky hard before running off into the woods calling over her shoulder. "Hey come on!"

Taking a deep breath Sky smiled at Alivia and April before she took off running. Taking care not to step on anything sharp it took them no time at all to reach a beautiful waterfall and a meandering deep creek.

Shedding their clothes all three girls rushed into the river. Laughing and playing, Sky paused when she spotted the girl and one of the manticores that had been following them the day's pryer. Eyeing the distance Sky jumped right in front of them making the girl stumble backward. Grabbing her hand Sky flashed them right over to the creek. Reappearing over the middle of the creek, the girl cried out in shock as the floor dropped out below her. Splashing into the water with Sky, the girl shot out of the water. "What the Hell," snapped the woman finally dropping her camouflage and trudging out of the river.

Anger flashed into her green eyes as she glared at Sky. "Well it looked like you really wanted to join us, so I figured I'd invite you," smiled Sky before looking back over her shoulder. "Hey, are you coming too, or do I need to come get you too?"

April, Alivia, and Mayaya looked from the woman who was cursing up a storm while shucking her boots, to whoever Sky was talking too. As they watched a stunning manticore seemed to melt out of the woods and onto the beach. Half his mane was half white and the other half was black as pitch. One eye was green, and the other was blue like the Goddess had drawn a perfect line down the middle. "You are gorgeous," gushed Sky charging out of the water and face planting the manticore with her body. "You are the prettiest thing EVER!"

"Do you mind," snapped the woman throwing her sock down to the ground with more force than necessary. "He hates being touched."

"But he's so soft and cuddly," exclaimed Sky heaving herself up onto the manticores back. "Hey, Mayaya do you mind if I keep him?"

Flopping herself onto the manticores mane Sky rested her face against his forehead. "No, you can't keep him! He is not a pet! What is wrong with you," shouted the stranger as she watched her best friend since childhood lay down and purr with a crazy woman on his back.

All of the steam blew out of her in that one moment as a look of happiness came over D'jarious's face. The loud thunderous purr filled the forest as the crazy woman scratched his head all over. "I see you have found your Queen," said the Felix appearing out of nowhere causing both Alivia and April to drop down into the water. "Good, now I don't have to introduce the two of you. Your tribal elder has requested your presence healer. It seems he'd like you to share some of you knowledge with one of the Kings healers. So he asked if I could come and find you since you refuse to return to the village."

"I'm not teaching them murderous basterds shit," snapped the woman crossing her arms.

"Now Jade you can't be like that," chided the Felix. "You are now one of the Kings people and must follow orders. The King has requested it and so shall it be."

"You'll like Jamie," said Sky showing up right beside Jade.

Letting out another string of curse words the woman swung at Sky. Defecting the swing effortlessly Sky watched as Jade seemed to grow angrier and angrier with each swing and kick. "Oh come on, you can't say you hate the guy when you've never met him," replied Sky to the memories that flashed into her mind from her contact with Jade. "He's one of the good guys. He's great with knives, but I've never seen him kill anyone with them. He's nice and funny, but sometimes quite. Just the opposite of you really," stated Sky getting a thoughtful look on her face before sidestepping a kick aimed for her head. "You know I can probably fix this? You should really meet him. He's super smart about plants and healing stuff," continued Sky as she sent her dragon down to tug on the bond she had with Jamie. She'd never thought about trying to communicate this way even though she knew Michael did it all of the time. If he could do it then so could she, thought Sky as she pulled Jade's shirt over her head.

Snarling Jade pulled her shirt the rest of the way off freeing her arms. Calling up the metal from around her Sky looked at the iron swords that floated in the air around Jade. Snatching up one as it passed Sky smiled as the fight entered onto a level she enjoyed. All out, full force, you're going to die if you messed up kind of level. Unfortunately for Jade, she was a good fighter but nowhere close to the training Sky had. By the time Sky was done playing with her, Jade was huffing and puffing while she tossed her ruined bra off of her body. Drawing her sword back, Jade charged at Sky with an angry growl. Out of nowhere, a body slammed into Jade sending her and who ever hit her into the creek. "Ah, Jamie! You can't go treating a woman like that," scolded Sky.

As Jamie jumped out of the water snarling, Jade's dragon returned it just in kind. "Why are you attacking your Queen," snarled Jamie before turning his dragon yellow eyes to Alivia and April who were just standing in the water like idiots. "An why are you two letting your Queen fight her battles alone!"

"Oh cool it short stuff," joked April trudging out of the water. "Sky was just playing with the woman. If she was a real threat I would have jumped in long ago."

"Excuse me what did you say," snarled Jade growing even angrier.

"You can cool off too," laughed April before a wave of water took Jade out.

Coughing and sputtering, Sky watched as Jamie's horns receded as he anger faded quickly. "You jerked so hard on my bond, I though something was wrong. Good grief, don't do that again."

"I'm going to fucking kill you," screamed Jade as she popped out of the water and charged at April.

Dancing away from the tiny raging inferno April whirled around and ran smack into Eli. "Well hello April," growled Eli as his dragon let loose a rattle as he pulled her close to him.

"Why are you here," shouted April in a panic before she slid out of his hands and raced toward her clothes barely missing getting taken out by Jade.

"You all need to stand still so I can kick your asses," shouted Jade in frustration.

"Here," said Sky bouncing over to her completely dressed with the exception of the shoes she offered Jade the black t-shirt she was toting. "You might want this because you're about to have a crowd."

"I don't want anything from your ass," shouted the woman still fuming.

"Where's the fire," asked Jeffery racing up to the group and looking around.

Spotting Alivia sliding into her pants Sky laughed before closing Jeffery's mouth and handing Jamie the t-shirt causing him to drag his eyes off of Jade. "You know Jamie, she's as cute and cuddly as a teddy bear."

"Yea, If teddy bears cursed like sailers and where super violent," laughed Alivia eyeing Jeffery as he shamelessly watched her getting dressed.

Growling as several more people arrived Jade snatched the shirt out of Jamie's hand and covered herself. "Oh gross this thing smells like shit," stated Jade rudely before picking up her socks and shoes.

Making her way over to the other side of the creek Jade climbed onto the pretty manticores back. "Now isn't he pretty," said Michael stepping out of the shadows and onto the beach. "You know if you're going to keep a manticore in my castle how about we keep him," stated Michael pointing at the male Manticore that Jade had just crawled on top of.

Making a hurt sound and giving him big sad eyes Michael laughed, "It's not like I'm kicking you out Mayaya. I'm just saying he's just cooler hogging up the floor then you. Not to mention he's hug! Look at him. I'd say he's the biggest Manticore I've seen yet and I've seen plenty."

"You do know D'jarious can hear and understand you right," snapped Jade offended for her best friend.

"Only if Jade can come," rumbled D'jarious.

Squealing Sky ran in place for a moment before blinking over in front of D'jarious. "Oh man! Your voice is like so supper low. You can feel the sound waves. I bet you if you do the territorial call we could super feel the sound waves. Oh," exclaimed Sky running in place again. "Oh do it! Come on, do it! I want to hear what it sounds like!"

"Does she do this all the time? I mean, talk in a langue no one can understand," asked Jade wondering if she was rally having a conversation with D'jarious.

"It's not allowed," informed D'jarious. "If I did I would be signaling the Felix that I'm challenging him to this territory."

Smiling really big Sky turned her child-like expression to the Felix. "Can you plug your ears and ignore the sounds you hear for a little while?"

"For you, I'll do my best," laughed the Felix at her excitement.

Turning back Sky bounced with excitement. "He said it's okay! Will you please! Pretty Please! With Sugar and cookies on top!"

"Go head D'jarious, because I don't think she's going to give up," laughed the Felix waving him on.

Sighing D'jarious stretching himself out and let loose a bellow that almost shook the ground. Birds took to the air and Sky practically danced in place. Moments later his bellow was answered by the Felix who was now in his true form. Everyone was impressed and stared at the two massive manticores separated by a creek. "That was awesome," shouted Sky jumping into the air.

Suddenly out of nowhere a bright wave of energy flew out of her sending everyone to the ground laughing. Pausing in her excitement Sky looked at all the laughing bodies before turning to see Michael shaking his head. "What's wrong with everyone one," asked Sky a little worried.

"You hit them in the face with your joy," laughed Michael as he gave her a heart-stopping smile that made her want to melt into a puddle. "You know this would be a great weapon if you could learn to harness it. No one could argue with you if they were super happy and laughing."

"Well it looks like it's flawed because you're not laughing your head off," replied Sky making her way back to their side of the creek.

"Oh no I felt your joy and happiness. By I am a King and Kings don't roll around on the ground," laughed Michael before he sent out a wave of his own power bring the laughter to a stop.

"Oh you're such a buzz kill," complained Eli getting to his feet and wiping the tears from his face.

"I'm so sorry everyone," said Sky honestly feeling bad for what she did.

"By the Goddess, I haven't laughed that hard in years," replied the Felix as he pulled his clothes back on. "I thank you for that heart of the world and the gift from the mother of us all. That was fun. We should do that again. Come on now D'jarious we should be heading home now. Mayaya would you like to come with us? You are welcome in my home."

Looking between D'jarious, the Felix, and Sky, Mayaya looked lost on what to do. Sighing Sky looked deep into her adopted daughter, and at the male cat, she was currently fawning over. "You know what," said Sky bringing everyones attention to her. "We came here for a reason right," said Sky waving Mayaya toward her. "I hate to say it, but maybe staying with the Felix is a good idea."

"What," cried Mayaya rushing over to Sky and rubbing her head against roughly. "I thought we would stay together for ever. I thought you were just going to bring me here so I could find a mate for fall and we leave together. I don't want you to leave. I'm going to stay with you!"

Rapping her arms around Myaya's face Sky sent her reassurance and love as she said. "The next two Lands I have to go too are the Land of Fire and Wind. Manticores can't make it in either of those two environments. That's why I chose the White Woods even though this isn't it. That way I knew you'd be safe and taken care of until I got done with my classes. I'm not going to take you somewhere that's detrimental to your health. I'm actuarially happy that the City of Manticores does exist. It's more amazing than I thought it would be. It won't be forever. Manticores can live for a good thousand years so we've got plenty of time to terrorize Michael in his castle like we planned. I promise."

"Please don't make me stay," cried Mayaya as he shoulders began to shake and tears rolled down her face.

"Okay I'll make you a deal," said Sky rubbing the tears aways. "I'm not leaving any time soon okay. I mean come on, the Land of Earth wants me dead. Oh yeah that's right," said Sky cringing and looking at Michael. "Okay, I'll deal with that later. Right now let's deal with you. Go hang out with the dreamy eyes over there- huh-" grunted Sky as Mayaya socked her in the gut. "What Michael likes him, so talk him into coming home with-huh- Quit that! That hurts!" snapped Sky nocking Mayaya's paw away. "Go hang out, make friends, be a manticore for a while, doing manticore like things. You've missed out on so much of your culture and traditions being with me. Go get dirty and pick up flees-"

"We do not have flees," snapped the Felix.

"Even if you get flees I'm sure he'll- ouch," shouted Sky as her thousand-pound daughter stomped down on her foot. "Okay I'll quiet, but you get my point. Go have fun and when it's time to go I'll come to get you. At that point, you can make your decision, but I'll tell you right now when you have icicles hanging off your nipples I don't want to hear you complain. Deal?"

Purring Mayaya rubbed her head against Sky's belly before trotting off in the direction Jade and D'jarious were going. Turning glowing blue eyes to the Felix, Sky's face went stern. "I will treat your cub like one of my own Heart of the World and a gift from the mother of us all. What is precious to you, is also precious to us. Plus I think she'll be good for the Shamans apprentice. He could us a more down to earth and less vulgar friend. Jade might learn a thing or two as well," said the Felix before walking up to Sky and rubbing his face against hers with a purr.

Once Mayaya was out of sight Sky let the tears fall that she'd been holding back. "It's okay, it's not like it's forever," said Michael trying to comfort Sky only for her to shot him a disgusted look.

"You don't get a say in this. Man, I've turned into you," grumbled Sky as she began making her way back to camp. After several paces, Sky whirled around on Michael and stabbed him in the check with her finger. "No! I'm not like you at all because I'm not leaving her in the middle of the night to figure stuff out on her own. So I'm nothing like you!"

Spinning back around, Michael let the anger roll off of her knowing it was caused by her grief for knowing she would have to leave Mayaya. At least now she kind of knew how his shoes felt when he chose to leave her. Well maybe just a little bit, but he'd allow her to be sore about it anyway. Her anger lasted about fifteen minutes before she spotted a group of piglets running threw the woods. Everyone but her new to keep their distance from the mother pigs with their razor-sharp tusks, and then there was Sky. Owing and ahing in turn, she had to pet them all before the group could continue on. From there she was back to being her playful fun-loving self. Rushing over to Alivia and Jeffery, Sky jumped in-between the two and rapped her arms around their necks. "Hey have you tried those sugar-covered dough balls yet! When we get back do you want to see if we can find some," asked Sky as the three of them trudged through the woods.

Making their way back to camp Sky's adventure for the sugar-covered sweets got put on hold as the council summoned her to their tent. Walking in slightly upset she couldn't go stuff her face, Sky glared at the council. It wasn't like she disliked the council but they had always been nervous around her. An since they didn't make her nervous she just didn't like them in return. To most people that kind of logic doesn't make since, but for Sky it did, so she just went with it. Sitting at a table all on one side facing Sky, Lady Winter held up a small stack of papers. "Sky we called you here because we know you can be a little.." pausing as she tried to think of a word as Shelby piped up with, "Dense."

"That was not the word I was going to use but yes," agreed Lady Winter. "Before we put our names on this we want to make sure you fully understand it, and I mean fully understand it."

"We understand that you have matured at a human speed, and your intelligence is on par, but we have some lingering doubts," stated a man in green that she didn't recognize.

"Who are you," asked Sky bringing her dragon up enough to look into the man without being seen.

"I am Lord Troy, my Queen. I am the new Council member for the Land of Earth," replied the man in green as he bowed slightly.

"No one understands the legal jargon besides lawyers and crooks, but I get the jest of it," replied Sky wanting to go get something to eat.

"Understanding the jest isn't good enough," stated Lady Noctis. "This is a big thing with big consequences, and it changes your life forever. We need you to read this and tell us you understand what's going on before we sign it."

"Ugg," complained Sky, "fine I'll read it."

Mumbling under her breath Sky took the stack of papers from them and began to read through the five-page document. She kind of skimmed through orders on standing arms as well as what the population would have to reach before metal dragons would be required to man the King's castle in full force. Then she breezed over taxes and Lord ships and how those worked and were handled. Blah, blah, follow the King's orders, blah, land rights, blah, blah, yadda, yadda. Flipping over to the last page Sky read the first line of I, Queen of the Metal dragons do here by under sound body and mind agree to join with Michael Azazel Fafnir under bonded contract. To take him as my mate to unify these two kingdoms as one. I and my people will follow everything as set forth within this contract, yadda, yadda, yadda. Trying to hand the papers back to them Sky shrugged her shoulders, "That's a lot of jargon I don't understand and words I'd never use like Forthwith. I mean who seriously uses that word."

"The last page is the most important one," said Lady Winter. "Do you understand… No, let me ask this. Do you know who the Queen of the metal dragons is?"

Thinking about it for a minute Sky pointed at herself. "I think that's me or that's what everyone says, but then again Grant and guys call me Queen too so I guess it could be someone else."

"No, it's you Sky. You are the Queen of the Metal dragons. Do you know what a bound contract means," asked Lady Noctis.

"Yes it's legally binding and normally the contract is magically enchanted so that it's unbreakable once signed," answered Sky quickly because she knew exactly what that meant.

"The line after that states that you will take him as your mate to unify his and your kingdoms," stated Lady Winters hitting that mother tone again.

"Wait, what," stammered Sky before looking back down at that last page and sure enough in black and white it said that she legally was mated to the King and right below all of it was her signature. "But the Kings don't mate," exclaimed Sky as her hands began to shake. "Everyone knows that! I can't do something that doesn't happen."

"In the south, this kind of thing happens all the time. We have never had to join a new branch of dragons within our land. As it stands no metal dragon is bound to the King. Every dragon out there feels foreign to us like they are strangers. Unifying in this manner would tie their bonds to the King bringing them into the fold of our system. Under the wings of his protection they would reside," stated Shelby finally speaking.

"So what you're saying is the killing will stop, and all I have to do is be the mate to the King," asked Sky as her hands continued to shake.

"Well you'd be more like a human wife, but yes. In a sense, you would be married to the King, like humans do. This is a marriage contract per say if that helps you understand it better," said Lord Troy.

"No, I understand," said Sky with a stern nod. "If it stops the killing I will deal with being a wife. I'm still not following his orders though," continued Sky with conviction as her head ache began to return.

Laughing Shelby muttered no wife does before taking an elbow to the solar plexus from Lady Winter. "I just wanted to make sure you understood this fully. Meaning that later down the line if the Goddess graces you with a mating mark you can not leave the King for your one true mate. You are forever bound to him, which includes your body. If your season comes and you need release he's the only one you can turn to," informed Lady Winter.

"If you are destined for a different mate the touch of Michael will become unbearable but there is no going back. That will be a pain you'll have to deal with for the rest of your life. You can not have more than one mate which is common among dragons, because none are equal to the King. Do you understand," asked Lady Noctis.

"I understand that as things stand now," winced Sky as she grabbed her head. "That babies are being.." pausing again as her pain increase Sky dug her fingers into her scolp.

"Sky stop," shouted Shelby but it was too late.

The word was already echoing through her head and everything was beginning to go white. Sky could hear Shelby yelling for Michael. He was practically screaming it, but Sky could barely make it out over the noise in her head. Trying to hold her head together before it shattered into a million pieces, Michael's black eyes were in front of her. Dark pools that looked like they could contain many galaxies within them. Wormholes that were sucking in all the light around him including her. She felt like she was drowning in those dark depths, and then they faded to green. Green as fresh clover within a field of lavender thought Sky as he eyes grew heavy.

When Sky woke up again she found herself back in Michael's bed inside his tent. By the grace of the goddess this time he wasn't sprawled out naked beside her. Groaning Sky rubbed her face trying to rub what was left of her headache away. When she opened her eyes again several people were there to greet her. "Welcome back," smile April. "You only slept through lunch this time. You're getting better."

Groaning again as she sat up Sky slung her feet out of bed. "I really need to get these voices out of my head and then I'd be doing great."

"I would say go pray to the Goddess and she might be able to help, but there's no temple here," replied April helping Sky to her feet.

"There isn't a temple? How about a shrine," asked Sky changing out of another Michael scented shirt and back into her clothes.

"I haven't seen one of those yet either," answered April bringing Sky her shoes

Slipping her shoes on, Sky headed out the tent as she brought her dragon up. Finding William waiting outside for them Sky mused his hair before turning her eyes down to the ground. "Where are we going," asked William falling in line.

"We are following that, and where's Jeffery," ask Sky pointing down to the ground.

"He's chasing Alivia's shirt tails," laughed April.

"Good for him," replied Sky happy that for once he was taking an interest in the opposite sex.

Jeffery wasn't a bad looking man since he'd filled out, and was constantly doing push-ups and training his body. So now he was nothing but a six-pack and muscles. All the girls fawned over him, but none of them had him batting an eye lash. Sky was honestly happy for him, but the question was. Was Alivia interested in Jeffery? All the years she'd known Alivia she hadn't heard her mention anything about being attracted to men. Then again she lived bathed and ate with nothing but men. Maybe that dulled her scenes a little to them. Feats of strength didn't impress her at all, but then again not many could best her in a fight. She wasn't girly enough for flowers and poems so that was out too. Jeffery had his hands full impressing her. Catching a quick movement to her right Sky paused in her adventure to see Jeffery running toward her. "Sky you're awake," said Jeffery coming to a stop right beside April and falling in line.

"I thought you were chasing after Alivia," laughed Sky giving April a shove so that she ran into Jeffery.

Shrugging his shoulders Jeffery blushed a little. "Well, you're awake now so you're a higher priority. Plus it's not like I can even get her to have a conversation with me. I spend more time laughing and joking with everyone else. Do you know that Eli still hasn't filled your spot yet?"

"Why are you wanting to fill it and work under Eli," asked Sky giving him a big grin as she looked at the whirlwind of memories that were flashing through him.

"My Queen, I would never," exclaimed Jeffery quickly causing Sky to laugh harder as she stopped to face him.

Placing her hand under the pink ribbon that ran from his heart out into the world Sky could feel Alivia within it. They would one day become a mated pair but the color was slight, meaning Jeffery had more work to do. If she needed to lose him for that to happen then she would willingly send him to work for Eli. Placing both hands on his face Sky looked into his eyes as she filled him with reassurance and love. "If that's what it takes to win her heart then you will do it because I say so. I mean, after all, I did sign my name on the dotted line of that contract this morning. So as of that moment, I am technically the mate of the King and a Queen by title. My word should count for a little something. Plus the pay is way better anyway," joked Sky before dropping her hands.

"I don't want to serve anyone but you," replied Jeffery as his eyes went stern. "I owe you a life debt, not Eli."

"True," said Sky turning in a small circle shuffling through the bodies all round her in search of Eli. Finding him she took off in that direction before continuing. "But my mates life is mine or so I'm told. So in working under Eli you are in turn protecting Michael, and so protecting me right?"

"That's only if you mate for real," growled Jeffery not liking where this conversation was going. "Right now you are bond by paper and nothing more. I could care less about the King. It's not like I'm bound to him. Remember I'm from the south and not born under his reign. Why should I risk my life for him?"

As they entered the great hall everyone came to a stop as Jeffery growled out the last word, him. Continuing over to Michael and Eli, Sky stopped inches from Michael. Honestly she didn't want to be this close to him right now. She didn't even want to be within the same building until she could mentally deal with the thought of them being mated. Some things were more important than her errant hormones. Sky liked bringing people together so that they could fill the world with new life. If that meant upsetting someone to ensure their happiness down the road she would. "I got this," said her dragon as she placed her hand on Jeffery's chest.

Laying her hand on Michael's chest Sky could feel a weigh move from her threw her arm and into Michael. The muscles under her hand clenched as Jeffry dropped to the ground with a look of horror and betrayal. Dropping her hand, Sky sank down in front of Jeffery and rapped her hands around him before whispering in his ear so only he could hear, "because I love him."

With that Sky stood up and turned to Eli's shocked expression. "You better take good care of my guard." With that Sky turned and walked quickly away before anyone could see the tears welling up in her eyes.

When Eli called her name, Sky ignored him as she exited the Hall as fast as her feet could take her. Sniffing and wiping the tears from her face April rapped her arm around Skys shoulder. Pulling her close April laid her head against Sky's. "You know if he mates Alivia, she gets demoted out of the guards right," asked April as they continued going into the direction Sky had chosen.

"Yes I know that," sniffed Sky.

"So think of it as a trade. You traded Jeffery for Alivia. You are just giving Eli an advanced loan," joked April before hugging Sky's neck harder.

"Hey," called Alivia running to them full speed.

Rubbing the tears from her face quickly Sky forced a smile and waved at Alivia as she slid to a stop. "Did you feel that," exclaimed Alivia out of breath.

"Feel what," asked April looking between William and Sky.

"That..That..It was strong…" stammered Alivia trying to find her words but failing. "Where's Eli and the King?"

All three of them pointed back the direction they came and watched Alivia run off quickly. "Surely she didn't feel when you moved Jefferys bond from you to Michael," stated April slightly confused.

"I didn't feel anything," said William with a shrug.

"Do you think the Kings guards have their own kind of network that keeps them close to each other. If that's so, then she might have felt it when they added him to the network," theorized April as she pondered the dynamics.

"I have no idea. I never felt anything like a connecting bond between all of us. The bond I have with all of them is no different than the one I've got with you," informed Sky as she went back to following the magic that flowed under there feet. Making her way out passed the village they came to a beautiful meadow or festival ground. Pretty colored paper lanterns hung along the grassy edge. Ribbons of all colors decorated the tees and children ran around screaming in play. "Wow, this is gorgeous," breathed April taking in the sights.

"I'm glad you like it," said the village Chief making his way over to them. "We're getting prepared for the celebration happening tonight. It's to celebrate the joining of the metal dragons to the King of the North. A celebration of life and a new beginning for us all. We could not be happier the Goddess sent you to us."

Giving Sky a hug the Chief continued on his way barking orders as he went. Giving him a quizzical look, Sky continued on to the center of the festival ground. Squatting down Sky laid her hand on the center of the power source. "What is it," asked William laying his hand on the grass next to hers.

"It's the mother," said Sky slightly perplexed by what she was feeling. "It feels like the White Woods but it's condensed down into one small spot. It's strange." Shrugging off the oddity of it she smiled at her two remaining guards. "I'm hungry you want to go find food?"

"Like we would ever say no to food," laughed William.

With that, they all went in search of food. The rest of the day was spent exploring and avoiding Michael and Eli. Which was successful until nightfall when Johnathon came to wrangle them for the festival. Making their way back to the decorated meadow Sky and April ow'ed and ah'ed at the beauty again. Now that it was dark the lanterns were lit making them look like multicolored fire flies. There were ever more lanterns that were hung from ropes and poles that crisscrossed the festival grounds. Making their way through the group of people that lounged on the yard, Johnathon led them to Michael. All of his first-tier guards where all lounged out on a brightly colored rug with an array of food in front of them. Creating a circle around the food Michael and his guards made up one half while the village elder, the chief, Johnathon, and a couple more made the other. Seeing that there wasn't room Sky spotted the second tier of guards sitting together in their own ring right next to Michael and his group. They were just as packed as Michael's group but with one difference. Sky was willing to cram herself in the middle with them as she wasn't about to do the same with Michael's group.

Making her way over to them Sky tossed one arm around Jefferys neck and other around Tom's. "Look it all this food," said Sky before removing her arm from their necks and patting Jeffery on the leg. "Move it on over so my big butt can fit."

"Your backside is anything but big," stated Tom earning a slap from his brother for staring at said body part.

"What makes you think I want you to sit beside me," asked Jeffery as he made room for Sky.

Sitting down Sky pulled his head to her level and kissed his temple as she smiled, "Because you still love me even under new management."

"Aw, why don't the rest of us get a kiss from the Queen. Why just the new guy? Rookies don't get special treatment," pouted Grant making everyone laugh.

Sliding in next to Alivia, April made her move over shoving her against Jeffry. "Oh look Sky they've got those sugar-covered ball things you like," stated April picking one up and eating it.

"Yum," exclaimed Sky leaning across Jeffery's lap forcing him into Alivia even more.

"Sky what are you doing," growled Alivia until Sky shoved three of the dough balls into her own mouth. "Quit that you're going to choke. No!" Snatching up the bowl Alivia found herself in Jeffery's lap as she tried to wrangle the bowl back from Sky. "You are not filling up on doughnut holes. Now fork them over!"

At that point, everything downgraded into a sisterly fight with Jeffery in the middle. Taking it like a champ he, every so often, would snatch a doughnut hole and eat it. Then he started passing them out and before long the bow was empty and the two women just growled at each other over his lap. Moments later they were back to laughing and joking with each other. April, being on the other side of Alivia and trying to talk to Sky, had the pair crushed together again. When Jeffery tried to get up Sky practically crawled into his lap to snatch something off Alivia's plate, all while answering April. The rest of the gang felt bad for him but found his predicament quite amusing. Things calmed down a bit when music began to play and dancers took to the center of the field. Servers made their way around with jugs of some kind of juice that had a slight burn to it, but was quite delicious. As the night wore on Sky hic-upped as she looked at her cup. "Hey what is in this stuff? My lips are a bit numb," asked Sky trying to take a drink.

When the glass suddenly disappeared skyward she attempted to follow up but promptly fell over into Jeffery's lap. Seeing Samuel with her glass she smiled up at him as she hiccuped, "Hey, hic, that's my hic, mine."

"If your lips are numb then you've had enough, drink water," stated Samuel poring her juice into Jerry's cup before handing it back to her.

"Ah, but that juice is way better," laughed Sky still laying in Jeffery's lap.

"This is definitely not just juice. I'm 100 percent positive it's spiked with something though," laughed Alivia trying to lean in to have a conversation with Sky only to fall over herself.

"Alivia your boobs are in my face," laughed Sky taking ahold of them. "Oh wow! These things are super squishy! Hey, Jeffery feel!"

"I will not and you two need to-" Jeffery was cut off as a mincing growl brought silence to the festivities.

"Sky," snapped Michael in a very irritated voice.

A voice that said that she was in serious trouble. Letting go of Alivia's breast she rolled out from under her leaving Alivia face down in Jeffery's crotch. Raising up to her knees Sky used Jeffery's shoulder for stability and looked back at Michael who's dragon was currently shooting daggers at her. "Come here," growled Michael as he pointed at the ground in front of him.

"You don't, hic, tell me, hic, what to, hic, do," replied Sky as her dragon colored her eyes to in her drunken defiance.

"Sky it's best if you go see what he wants please," said Samuel giving her a pleading look and offering her a hand.

Nocking his hand away Sky replied, "only because you asked, hic, not cause he said to. An I can, hic, get up on my own," stated Sky as she stumbled to her feet.

Falling over a bit everyone was on the move to catch her should she fall, but she managed to right herself. "I've got this see," smiled Sky turning toward Samuel before she hiccuped and started laughing. The laugh had her back peddling as she lost her balance again. Spinning round at the last second Sky ran into Tanner who was trying to catch her. All he managed to do was spin her around as she bounced off of him laughing. Tripping over the empty dishes Sky wound up head first into a set of horns. "Ouchy, ouchy, ouchy," complained Sky pushing herself off the ground enough to rub the sore spot on her forehead.

"Sky," rumbled a voice from below her.

Looking down, her hiccup lodged in her throat at the sight of two black pools of soul-piercing eyes looking up at her. "I am so sorry," exclaimed Sky sobering up slightly. "I so didn't mean too!"

"I got her," shouted Alivia from somewhere behind her.

Crawling backward Sky went to right herself when something slammed into her from behind. Careening forward again, this time her forehead missed his horns and they met skull to skull. "That is so going to hurt tomorrow," complained Sky as the weight on top of her prevented her from raising leaving her face inches form Michaels.

Being this close to him Sky could see the stars reflecting in his eyes or maybe it was the lanterns over head. Either way, it caused her to suck in a breath at their beauty and her body began to react to his closeness. The heat from him was settling deep within her core stoking the fires of need. The need to feel and touch his skin. The need to know what he tasted like. All of these wants and needs that seemed to be exacerbated by her drunkenness. "Sky," rumbled Michael as he breathed her in, smelling her neediness.

As he spoke Sky could feel his lips against hers. They were warm and impossibly soft and she wondered what it would be like to kiss them. She had always wondered why everyone seemed to like doing it. Why not, after all, they were mates right? "Alivia get off of them," shouted Eli as the weight shifted above them.

"Sky," rumbled Michael again since she had lost her train of thought and didn't answer.

The smell of the mango juice, and a hint of whatever the fire part in the juice was floated on his breath. Along with that was a light touch of cinnamon that mingled with the drink fueling her dragon's need as she forced her way up.

"I'll help you Alivia," shouted April before everyone yelled, "NO!"

As double the weight landed on her, Sky threw caution to the wind. Since her lips were now touching his anyway and she couldn't get up, she decided to say screw it. With all her inhibitions thrown out of the window, Sky dropped her weight on him and took up his face in her hand. She felt him stiffen with the sudden movement, and then became rigid as soon as she crushed her lips to his. Never having kissed anyone before the kiss started off a little awkward but it soon deepened quickly. Following Michael's lead, she jerked a little when she felt his tongue against her lips. Parting her lips for him on a gasp of shock Sky's let out a rumble of pleasure at the taste of mango on his tongue. Amazed by the softness of his it as it slid across hers she craved more. Sky caressed it with her own as the shouting and the giggling continued above their heads. "Jeffery you are not helping," snarled Eli as the weight above them slipped and an arm landed to the right of their faces.

Sky could care less as she lost herself in the kiss. Now she completely understood why people kissed all the time. This was great and it was stroking the fire that burned within her. The pressure began to increase between her legs as her dampness grew. Needing to find release Sky shifted her weight under whoever was on top of her now so that she was straddling Michael as Jamie shouted, "William you are not drunk why are you in the middle of all of this! You better not be drunk!"

"No I was helping when April pulled me down," snapped William as Sky felt a small hand on her rear.

Not caring at all about what was going on above her Sky pressed herself against Michael as she continued to spar with his tongue. Growling as the taste of cinnamon intensified suddenly, her tongue ran over something on the underside of his causing her to want more. Repeating the movement again Sky groaned at the flavor. Needing more of the liquid ambrosia she pulled his tongue into her mouth and sucked. Instantly there were two sets of hands buried into her hair holding her firmly against Michael's mouth. There was a rattling sound echoed by the sound of a dragon churning the fire within them. Shouts and the sounds of breaking dishes were drowned out by the rushing of blood within Sky. All she could hear was the billowing of a furnace and her heartbeat as it raced head long into oblivion. Sky wanted more, needed more of that liquid cookie that seemed to be flowing out of Michael's mouth. Feeling the rumbling below her, she whimpered when Michael broke the kiss. Flipping her over onto her back wings stretch out over them, as Michael stretched out over her. The sound of the forge intensified and a red glow seemed to come out of his mouth. "No, My Kings, her dragon isn't ready," shouted Jamie but it was too late.

Covering her mouth with his, Sky sucked in a sudden breath at the sudden heat and the contact. Feeling him stiffen above her she tasted what could only be described later as liquid sex as if flowed into her mouth. Smoke billowed out of her nose as her insides were set on fire. The fire seemed to travel deep within her and wrap themselves around her dragon. Everything was pure bliss until the pain hit. Sky went from pulling Michael toward her to shoving him away as she screamed. "Son of a bitch you should have listened," shouted Jamie as several sets of hands were instantly on her.

Michael's heart sank as the burning glow could be seen from deep within Sky. What had he done? What had possessed him to share his fire with her? That was something mates did to call her dragon forward into this world. Besides the eyes and claws, Sky hadn't shown any other dragon sign. Sure she'd come into pre-season but that didn't mean her dragon was ready for this world. On top of that, they weren't mates and the consequences for this could be great. Freaking out a little the group looked at the ground as it shook, white fog began to seep out of it. With a great heave, the ground dropped out below them by five feet. Trying to pick Sky up, the group found her tied securely to the ground. Pull as they might they couldn't lift her up. Roaring in fear and rage Michaels dragon burst through is skin sending everyone scattering as Sky screamed out again rocking the earth below them. Climbing out of the ever-deepening hole the Kings Guard watched in horror as the bottom dropped out completely sending Michaels dragon plummeting down into the darkness. Screaming out everyone held onto April and Alivia as they tried going after them in their drunken state. Pulling them from the edge of the abyss a wave of energy blew them the rest of the way. A geyser of white water erupted from the ground disappearing into the heavens as heat poured off of the water thickening the fog. Watching the water return to the earth in a resounding splash the King's naked body returned to the surface. Floating to the shore as if inviable hands were guiding it, Michael came floating to a stop. Cautiously Eli and Tanner crept up to the shore and drug him the rest of the way out of the water. As soon as he was on land his eyes flew open as he couched and hacked up water. Forcing Eli and Tanners restraining hands off of him Michael shot to his feet and looked at the white hot springs in front of him. White fog bubbled up from the water filling the field in a sheet of white. "No," shouted Eli and Tanner as they grabbed the King's arms stoping him from running back into the water.

Within the center of the pond, a white light grew brighter and brighter until it became blinding. Shielding their eyes, Michael saw Sky emerging from the water like a glowing star. Everything about her was white including her eyes as she stood on the surface of the water. Raising her hand out toward the group it looked like she was beckoning someone to her. Looking in the direction she was gesturing the group could hear a flood of voices that seemed to float on the wind. "What is going on," asked Shelby and the council members making their way toward them with wonder in their eyes.

"Is Sky doing all of this," asked Lady Winter looking between the floating Sky and the fog.

As they watched people began to form out of the mist all around them. Laughter and children ran and dashed everywhere were as they all made their way to the glowing white pond. Playing in the water the children splashed and ran wild before they disappeared into the deep waters. "By the Goddess look at all of the toddlers," exclaimed Lady Winter as thousands of kids who could be no more than two scrambled around her feet.

Suddenly a woman screamed out as she went running at one of the ghost-like children. Throwing her arms around the child the woman pulled her into her body as she began to weep. They watched as several of the ghosts like people started to gather around one person or another. Michael watched as people, by the millions, made their way into the water. The minutes ticked back as everyone who didn't have guest watched awestruck. When it seemed like the last of the ghosts had entered the water several older ghosts began to heard the last of the playing toddlers toward the water's edge. The woman who screamed earlier was screaming out again as an elderly ghost pulled the baby from her arms. The little girl waved at the woman as a teary-eyed man held the woman back. Fighting against his hold the woman screamed, "Please don't take my baby again," and reached for the child as the adult packing her entered the lake beside them.

"By the Goddess are all of these dead babies," said Lady Winter wiping tears from her eyes. "They are all souls and more than ninety percent of them are babies. Did you see them all?"

"How could we not," gasped Lady Noctis watching the last of the ghosts wade into the water.

Once they disappeared below the surface the lights went out within Sky. Michael was already rushing into the water as Sky's body crumpled to the surface.

Retrieving Sky's body from the water Michael packed her to the shore. Laying her on the ground everyone but Michael back-peddled as flowers began to sprout all around her. Cupping her face in his hands Michael pushed powers into her. He found her dragon quickly as she cried and hammered on a wall. She was distraught and panicking as she dug her claws into the barrier. Not having a dragon form afforded her no advantages as she tried to breach the impenetrable wall. Rushing up to her Michael quickly rapped her in his embrace. Trying to console her only seemed to make things worse as she cried harder. "Calm down my love," purred his dragon as he too rapped his arms around her and began to make a rumbling sound Michael had never heard.

By the sound and the vibration, it almost reminds him of an alligator rumble as it tries to attract a mate. Leaning farther into him Sky's dragon began to instantly calm. Jerk, thought Michael as his dragon gave him a small smirk. Then again he knew more about dragons than Michael did so, of course, he'd know how to soothe her. "Can you tell us what happened," asked his dragon before he went back to this rumbling.

"Well we were having a grand time kissing you and then this fire came out of now where. An it was really nice and made me feel all warm all over. It surrounded me and I kind of got lost in the way it made me feel. Well, I lost concentration and the wall collapsed and the voices flooded us. I couldn't do anything because the fire was making my brain fuzzy and then bam," said Sky dragon as she started crying again. "Then these walls came up and I can't feel Sky anymore. I can't feel anyone anymore, and she's all alone! We've never been alone! I know she's over there being brave, but I know she's scared. I know she's crying and I can't help her. I can't get through this wall!"

Tucking his chin on Sky's dragon's head Michael's dragon held her close as she went back to balling her eyes out. Giving him the stink eye his dragon looked from Michael to the wall and back. With one look ,he said without words for him to get his ass in gear and get in there. Of course, that was easier said than done, thought Michael making his way up to the wall. Sky's dragon had claws and didn't even put a dent in the wall. What were human hands going to do? Reaching out to lay his hand on the white wall Michaels hand passed right through. Weird thought Michael before stepping right threw it. Okay so maybe it was that easy, laughed Michael within his inner monologue.

Emerging from the white wall Michael found himself within an empty black expanse. In the center of the blackness was Sky. Curled up in a little ball on the floor, she was crying just as hard as her dragon. It hurt his heart to see her greave the way she was and he didn't know if he could fix it but he'd try. Sitting down on his knees right in front of her Michael reached out to touched her. Instantly Sky screamed out, "Don't touch me," as she backed away from him quickly.

Those words broke his heart as the thought of his dragon's fire had caused this problem. Was she trapped like this because her dragon wasn't ready to greet the world? "Come on now," said Michael trying to not let his feelings show on his face or his voice. "You know I'm not going to hurt you."

"It's not you I'm worried about," cried Sky as she hugged herself tighter drawing back up into her ball.

"What, is there something else in here," asked Michael crawling back toward her. "You know I'm the biggest, baddest, dragon on the block. I can kick its ass for you."

That made her giggle a little, stemming the tears if only for a second. "No It's me I'm…I'm infested with these things and they are so heavy. It's so hard to move. No," shouted Sky as she scurried aways again when Michael tried to touch her. "You just stay there. You don't need to get covered in these things."

"Sky I don't see anything on you," stated Michael scooting across the floor on his knees until he was in front of her again.

"I don't see how. I'm covered in them," cried Sky. "An they're all in my head, all of them. I can't shut them out."

Looking harder Michael couldn't see whatever it was that Sky was talking about. Looking behind himself Michael called for his dragon. Surely if he could walk through threw the wall then so could he. Watching him storm threw the walls his dragon glared at him. "I can't console both sides at the same time," snapped his dragon making his way over Michael. "You're going to have to figure it out."

"Oh shut up and let me barrow your eyes," growled Michael looking up at him.

"Why," asked his dragon curiously.

"Look at Sky and tell me what you see," asked Michael getting to his feet as Sky inched away from them again.

"Oh that is going to require both of us," stated his dragon as he stepped into Michael merging them as one.

Turning back to Sky with their merged vision Michael could now see thousands of silver treads covering her body. Instinctually they knew what those threads were because they were the King. It wasn't a wonder Sky was freaking out a little, by the entire thing. It was a little daunting to support an entire race of dragons on your shoulders when you weren't built for it. On the up side he was born to do just that. Walking over to her Michael stuck his hand out to Sky. "Sky give me your hand."

"No," replied Sky tightening her ball.

"Give me your burden," said his dragon.

"No."

Crouching down quickly Michael grabbed Sky's hand as she screamed at him, "No! Let Go! They are to heavy you'll be stuck here too! Please let go," cried Sky as the bonds began to travel up her arm and onto Michaels.

"No," replied Michael as he yanked her roughly into his arms.

"Please they're going to hurt you! They're too heavy," shouted Sky as she began to cry harder.

"We are the High Dragon. We are King of all in the north. We are built to hold the bonds of all of its people. Including your metal dragons. You signed the contract. Now you have no choice but to hand them over," stated Michael's dragon as he held Sky tightly in her arms.

Even as Sky fought them, they held her tightly as each bond left her and secured themselves tightly to Michael. There were so many so quickly he couldn't stop the reverberation through him and he knew all within the Kingdom could feel the new additions. As the new bonds settled in place Michael looked at one stubborn bond that hung close to Skys heart. Reaching out Michael brushed the straggler and laughed. "That dude is a very stubborn man, isn't he? But he can's stay there."

Grabbing the bond Michael closed his hand tightly around it. Somewhere in the real world a dragon let loose an angry snarl as Michael pulled it's bond from Sky. "You know what just for spite and I kind of like the guy," said Michael as he attached the bond right next to four strings that burned brighter than the rest around his heart. "An then I'll give a little piece back," continued Michael picking off a sliver of the string and placing it back where he found in.

Wondering why Sky hadn't said anything during this entire evolution Michael found her eyes were closed. He would say she looked cute but her mouth was slightly open on his shoulder and a small string of drool was making its way out. Chuckling a little, Michael scooped her up and headed for the barriers. As soon as they touched it the wall dropped revealing her dragon. Leaving him immediately his dragon ran to hers and by the looks of it Sky's dragon was feeling a lot better. Ignoring the tangled pile of limbs Michael laid Sky down gently. Brushing the hair out of her face Michael leaned in and kissed her softly. "I'll wait until you're ready my Queen."