The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
The Ice Princess By Lillith Payne
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. The Ice Princess Copyright© 2007 Lillith Payne ISBN: 978‐1‐60088‐133‐6 Cover Artist: Melissa Findley Editor: Tracy Seybold All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. Cobblestone Press, LLC www.cobblestone‐press.com
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
Dedication For my husband, my personal warrior. Acknowledgements Thanks to everyone at Cobblestone Press for their support, especially my editors, Tracy and Brandi. Thanks to Melissa Findley for the lovely cover art.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
Chapter One No matter how hard Sigurd swam through the cold, swirling waters, he couldnʹt reach her. Her face hovered just above the water line, dark brown curls floating on the surface. Her brown eyes and full lips smiled at him, called to him, yet no matter how hard he struggled he couldnʹt reach her. Each time he slipped back under, the waves enveloped him in the cold darkness. He woke with a start, fighting to push the water out of his way, only to be held back. His eyes fluttered in the strange light; his head pounded and his body ached. ʺCalm yourself, my lord,ʺ a feminine voice whispered above him. He stilled and took deep breaths of air, surprised he could breathe. He’d thought he was still under the water. ʺThatʹs right, just be calm and all will be explained.ʺ He heard her speaking, but her meaning wasn’t clear. Her arm came over him and he automatically reached to slap it away, only to be immobilized by a wave of pain. ʺPlease, Lord Sigurd. You must not reinjure yourself. Just breathe deeply and your mind will clear. Stay still and your pain will subside.ʺ He stilled again as he heeded the instructions his angel whispered. She knew his name. ʺWhere am I?ʺ he managed to choke out, his throat dry and sore. ʺWhere is my crew, my ship…?” ʺYes, my lord,ʺ the angel whispered. ʺYour crew is being attended to; your boat is in shelter until the damages can be assessed.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺShip!ʺ he hollered, forcing himself to rouse further into wakefulness. Her slim, delicate hands held him down and stroked his forearms. ʺAll right, ship.ʺ He would have sworn she was laughing at him. No woman laughed at him. He wouldn’t tolerate it. ʺDrink this, Sigurd. It will ease your throat.ʺ A tumbler pressed against his lips, the liquid cool against his parched mouth. It took all of his strength to take a few sips before the dizziness swamped him again. ʺClose your eyes for a moment. It will pass, my lord.ʺ What choice did he have? He had no other options. Lying back, he tried to remember how he ended up here, wherever here was. He remembered a storm…. As captain, it was his responsibility to look after his ship and his crew, neither of which he was doing a good job of at the moment. He tried to sit up and groaned at the pain, then let the blackness take him. * * * * * ʺMorning, Lord Sigurd, how do you feel?ʺ Sigurd’s dark‐eyed angel leaned over him. Her locks fell over her shoulders and brushed against his bare chest, tickling his skin. He still didn’t know where he was or what had happened. All he could tell for sure was that he was alive. To prove it to himself, he grabbed the woman behind the neck and pulled her to him, covering her mouth with his. She was warm and soft. Her breath released in short pants as he tried to force her lips open to his invading tongue. She struggled from his embrace and pushed him forcefully away, wiping his kiss from her lips with the back of her hand. ʺReally, my lord, one would think youʹd have better manners!ʺ ʺYouʹre real,ʺ he managed to say, his voice brittle. ʺYes, and so are you.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He drank when she pressed a cup to his lips. The taste was familiar. Water, he realized, and he drank more. Just the simple act of leaning forward to drink exhausted him. ʺThere, now rest.ʺ ʺMy ship and my crew? Tell me, maid, or find me a man to talk with!ʺ She laughed but didnʹt move away from his side. Her smile was wide, and he realized she was making fun of him. Anger shot through him, and he reached to her again, holding her over his chest with his right arm. She tried to squirm away, then smiled when she couldnʹt. ʺReally, Sigurd. Let me go. This isnʹt good for your arm, and you must regain your strength.ʺ ʺMy ship and my crew?ʺ Exhausted, he let his arm fall away and allowed her to rise off his chest. He assumed sheʹd flee. Instead she steadied herself by bracketing him as she leaned over him on her hands so he could still see her. Her arms bent enough that her breasts teased his chest. She smelled of basil and mint, of the land, reminding him he was no longer at sea. ʺYour ship is in safe dock. The damages are being assessed. Your crew is being looked after. We were able to save fifty‐four including you; most of them suffer from cuts and broken bones, some worse than others. Those that werenʹt injured are at your boat directing our workers on how to best salvage the vessel.ʺ ʺWhere am I?ʺ The thought repeated inside his head each time he woke. Where had the storm left his ravaged ship and crew? Things could be worse, but until he knew more, heʹd remember to be leery of his new friends in this strange land. Every person heʹd ever met had an agenda, even himself. It would be interesting to find out what these people wanted from him. ʺYouʹre in King Bohdanʹs castle on the Isle of Ice. Itʹs been five sunrises and sunsets since we discovered your ship on the glacier.ʺ She reached behind his head. His right hand came up and stopped her progress. ʺMy lord, Iʹm only trying to make you more comfortable. Your
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne left arm is broken and must be kept tight to your body or youʹll re‐injure it.ʺ He groaned as she lightly touched his arm. The pain swamped him once again. His vision was blurry; he couldnʹt clear it. He tried shaking his head from side to side, but it didnʹt work. ʺPlease donʹt. Your right eye is bandaged. You had a splinter. You must let it heal.ʺ ʺWho are you?ʺ he managed to ask when the pain subsided. Ice glaciers? His last memories were of warm, calm waters. How had he gotten so far off course! ʺIʹm Dara.ʺ Her face hovered inches above his. ʺYou must believe we mean you no harm. We only want to heal you. Can you drink this?ʺ He watched her stare at him. Were his size, his light hair, and green eyes all so different from the men in her homeland? He reached for the cup, but she brushed his hands away and pressed it to his lips. This time the liquid reminded him of the wine heʹd grown up on. ʺI must get to my men, then to my ship.ʺ ʺAnd you will, in a few days when youʹre stronger.ʺ She spoke as if she truly believed she could keep him there. A strange smile curved her lips as he struggled to rise from the bed. His head pounded, his chest ached and layers of pain shot from his arm through his entire soul. After several moments he dropped back, angered at himself for being sick and her for being right. ʺI must see Kerr. Bring him to me, now!ʺ Sigurd was beyond nettled when she only smiled. He promised himself that if he ever got out of this bed, heʹd make sure she lost that smirk. His lips tilted upward as he thought of several ways to accomplish that feat. The most inviting was to take her over his knee and redden some sense into her. Their eyes connected. She had no way of knowing his thoughts, yet her look challenged him silently, making him wonder if sheʹd take to his hand? No, he decided quickly, she wanted control. She wouldn’t submit easily like so many of the willing maids he’d encountered on his travels. Her fiery spirit might prove a challenge.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺYes, Sigurd. Iʹll bring Kerr to see you in the morning. Heʹll tell you about your men and boat.ʺ She was treating him like a child, and he wasnʹt going to accept the womanʹs word until heʹd heard from Kerrʹs lips that what she told him was true. ʺNow. Bring him now.ʺ His words were the most forceful he could summon. ʺMy lord, itʹs the middle of the night. You must rest. At first light, Iʹll send for him.ʺ They both knew she was right, but he had to have the last word. ʺShip!ʺ He grumbled, and she didnʹt hold back her laughter. ʺIʹll take it that means you accept my terms?ʺ He grunted again but let her hold the wine to his lips one last time before he slept. * * * * * Mandara sat beside him long into the night, as his fever spiked. Hoping to relieve his discomfort, she wiped his forehead, neck and chest with cool wet cloths. During this time she noted his erection strengthen and diminish, and found herself drawn to it with the same intense need she’d felt the first time she’d seen him. Did she believe in soul mates or kindred spirits? Up until Sigurd’s arrival, men were all brothers to her. This man made her want more. The few times they’d spoken he’d been gruff and sometimes rude, but she blamed his attitude on his injuries and situation. Had her father and mother felt this way? The king had been alone so long after the queen’s passing, and now she understood his loneliness on a different level. She reprimanded herself for her thoughts. The sea captain was probably married with a family. They would be worried about him. If he was unmarried, why? He was no young lad. He was probably close to a score and ten himself, well beyond the age to settle with a wife and
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne family. Deep inside her heart she wanted him to be unwed. Wonder filled her mind as she imagined the places he’d been and the women he’d met. When he finally fell into a deep sleep, she straightened his covers. Hesitating a moment, she drew them back to brazenly look at his engorged penis. So long and thick, larger than any man she’d seen in her work as a healer. It moved with each breath he took. Dara sat beside him and reached out to touch the pulsing flesh. She closed her hand around him, surprised by the warm, velvety texture. She stroked him several times, then watched with fascination as his release spurted into the air and landed on his abdomen and her fingers. The liquid was warm and thick against her skin. She wiped him clean with a warm wet cloth. Although he stirred, he never awoke from his deep sleep. Her body had heated from the inside out, a new sensation. The dull ache she’d felt at watching his release needed attention. Her breasts felt full and heavy while her lower lips went slick with heat. Dara knew of arousal but had never experienced it before. Wanting to be alone with her new feelings, she rang for Bard to sit with Sigurd while she went to her chamber to rest. Sleep was elusive; her body had undergone too many new feelings to allow her any rest. * * * * * When Sigurd woke, he wondered if the girl had been a dream. His body still ached, his arm was wrapped tightly against him, and one eye was covered. Each time he woke he remembered a bit more. He wondered if sheʹd really touched him or if he had dreamt it. ʺIʹve sent for Kerr, my lord. Heʹll be here tonight with a report on your bo...ship.ʺ She pressed a cup of water to his lips. As he drank, he glanced around his prison and accessed his situation further. ʺHe was to see me this morning.ʺ ʺThat was two days ago. Heʹs been down to the dock and will bring you a complete report upon his return. Your men are healing, and weʹve lost no others. Now, are you hungry?ʺ ʺYes,ʺ he managed, his throat dry.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺGood, Iʹll have the morning meal brought to you.ʺ He was disappointed when she moved away. ʺThis is Bard,ʺ she said as a young man moved within his sight. ʺHeʹll help you with your bath and see to your meal.ʺ He grabbed her arm and held her tight. ʺNo, you stay.ʺ ʺI can’t, my lord. Bard will help you bathe, and Iʹll come back later, after I’ve seen to my other duties.ʺ He wanted her to stay, so he could absorb her body heat, and have her touch him again. This time he wanted to be awake and knowing, participating. Alas, it could not happen in real life. ʺNo, you stay...ʺ Somehow he felt his very life depended on her. ʺNo, Sigurd, it would be inappropriate, and I have responsibilities. Bard is here to help you; you must trust him and me. We mean you no harm, only to help you recover.ʺ ʺNo bath,ʺ he grunted, and she laughed at him again. ʺYes, youʹll feel better when youʹre clean and have eaten.ʺ Apparently sheʹd had the last word, for she turned and left him. Her attitude left him aghast. ʺShe is a most infuriating woman,ʺ he said aloud, and young Bard nodded. ʺYes, my lord,ʺ the young man said, but Sigurd couldnʹt deter him from helping him to a large wooden seat in a far corner of the room. He saw no tub, but when the lad pulled a long cord he was engulfed in hot water from above. He surged upward in surprise, and dizziness overwhelmed him. Bard helped him back to the bench. ʺIs it too hot?ʺ the boy asked, but Sigurd didn’t answer. He let the water rush over him and watched it disappear into several small holes in the floor. The boy pressed a bar of soap into his hand and used more to soap his hair. While Sigurd detested needing help, he felt better. The process had several stops and starts as the two established the limits of the bathing ritual. He allowed the boy to help him dry and slip a clean tunic over his head before clean cloths were used to tie his arm back against his chest. Back in a clean bed he had to admit he felt better. His meal was bland but edible. After Bard stopped hovering over him, he had a moment
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne to look around and think about all that had happened. The room had stone walls, yet somehow was filled with warmth; he lay under only a light layer of soft cloth. Light came from several openings high up on the wall. There were two ornately painted wood chests and a large table before the fireplace. Beyond the fireplace was another small table and straight‐backed chair. On its surface a quill and ink caldron waited for use. Books lined a shelf above it. The arched door to the hallway matched the window openings. He was curious about the warmth around him, especially since the fire was banked low. In the far corner where Bard had taken him to bathe, a strange device spit warm water from the ceiling and was sucked up by the floor. Waxed sail material blocked the waterʹs spray into the room. He rubbed his temples with his thumb and index finger, trying to remember how he’d ended up in this strange new land. * * * * * Sigurd feigned sleep when he heard the chamber door open. Cool flesh pressed against his forehead, and he grabbed the offender’s wrist. Dara stared at him, her brown eyes wide with surprise. Her hair was the color of his sable cloak and flowed around her neck and shoulders, pooling onto his chest. Her slim nose, high cheekbones, and full lips were perfectly proportioned, and her long, graceful neck disappeared under the squared neckline of her ivory tunic. She arched an eyebrow in question. ʺDara,ʺ he whispered and she nodded. She tried to move away, but he held her to him, slowly using his strength to pull her up across him. Her eyes widened as her anger became apparent. ʺMy lord, let me go.ʺ He didnʹt heed her words. Instead, he pulled her closer, just a breath away from his lips. ʺLet me go,ʺ she said again, this time twisting harder from his grasp. Her attempts were futile but she fought him until her lips were pressed against his. She tensed against him, harder than stone; he saw fear
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne in her eyes. Sigurd kept his hold but didnʹt punish. Instead, he softened against her, and used the tip of this tongue to trace the line of her lips before running it between them. Her eyes slid shut as she slowly relaxed against his chest. Her sudden capitulation frustrated him. He wanted to taste her fully, not like a child. Yet, her innocence pulled at something deep in his belly. His cock rose at the thought of her inexperience and how heʹd teach her. In a moment of irony he realized at least that part of his anatomy still worked even if the rest of his body betrayed him. He made no effort to shift the blanket to cover his arousal, and wondered if she was the woman from his dream. She ignored his engorged state and tried to change the subject. ʺMy lord, please donʹt do that. Itʹs not proper. What if someone had seen?ʺ ʺSo, am I not allowed to kiss a maid in this strange land of ice?ʺ ʺOnly if the maid is willing, sir!ʺ ʺWell you seemed willing enough for a moment...ʺ A red flush crept up her neck and landed on her cheeks. She turned from his view, but he released a hearty laugh. A loud knock on the door interrupted their battle of wills. As the door slowly opened inward, her gaze left his, and she gave the guest a welcoming smile. ʺKerr, come and sit. Iʹm sure Sir Sigurd is eager to hear about his crew and bo...ship.ʺ She crossed the room and placed her hand on Kerr’s, allowing him to lift it to his lips. “My lady, I thank you and your villagers for all the help theyʹve given us. Youʹve been a most gracious host to weary travelers.ʺ They both smiled, then laughed. Sigurd didnʹt like it. He didnʹt like the closeness he saw between them. ʺKerr!ʺ he hollered and was surprised when his faithful second in charge hesitated before letting her hand go. Approaching the bed, Kerr stopped to take the chair Dara brought bedside.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺIʹll leave you now. Wine will be delivered shortly. Let Bard know if you require anything else.ʺ She slipped away, and both men watched her go. As soon as the door closed, Sigurd grabbed Kerrʹs tunic with his good hand and dragged him forward. The two men stared at each other a long time before Sigurd released his hold. ʺSigurd. In rare form I see.ʺ Kerr was his oldest and closest friend, and had been his second since they went to sea years before. There was a trust between them that had been built with time. ʺTell me what you know,” Sigurd demanded. “How are the men and the ship?ʺ “The—” Kerr halted when Bard brought a tray with wine and biscuits, hovering until Sigurd bellowed at the boy to be away. Kerr then gave him the details he required. “The ship is in dry dock at a fiord about a day’s travel. The hull is breeched in several places, and the main mast rigging is gone. All the sails will have to be replaced along with some interior work in the bunk and hold areas.” Kerr paused and took a drink, while the information he’d relayed to Sigurd sank in. “We lost seventeen men total from the storm and resulting injuries.” Both were quiet for a time. “The storm, Kerr?” “The last any of the men remember is being in the Atlantic. You said maybe we’d gotten caught in a hurricane, and we tried to sail west out of it. Beyond the crushing waves and confusion we landed here.” “Yes, on a strange isle of ice I’ve been told.” “Sigurd, wait until you see the isle. It’s a fully productive community surrounded by glistening iced land. There’s so much to see I don’t quite believe it all myself. The men haven’t admitted we don’t know where we are. All they’ve said is that a storm blew us off course.” “We’ve heard tales of these strange isles of ice but I never believed them.” “Neither did I, until I saw the city. I still don’t believe it.” “Are we at the far pole, do you think?” “I’m not sure Sigurd. None of our charts match the stars.”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne “Then it will be best to stay quiet until we know more. Don’t ask to see any of their charts just yet.” “It will take months of work to make the ship seaworthy again. I suggest we all relax a bit while you and the others heal. We’ll accept the king’s hospitality and help. Once we know our situation better, you can speak to the king.” “I agree. That’s the best alternative. Until I’m back on my feet, you’re in charge of the men and repairs.” Their talk had tired Sigurd, but he resisted letting Kerr see. Instead, he changed the subject to lighter matters. “You’ve experienced the bathing system?” “Yes, with many unanswered questions. Have you ever seen a chamber pot that empties and cleans itself?” They both laughed. “Or how this castle is kept warm without large fires? Wait until you are better. There are more perplexing sights. They have huts all around the keep growing vegetables and others flowers, all heated the same as the castle.” “Flowers grow here?” “They have their own hives for honey production and pollination.” “What else am I missing lying in bed?” “Every morning the whole of the city rises to the blessing before breaking feast. After that all the children are taught classes, reading and calculations, both the boys and the girls.” “The girls, too?” “All the children. It’s an extremely well run keep.” “It seems King Bohdan is loved and respected. His empire runs smoothly, and his villagers are content with their way of life.” “What do you know of the maid who has been caring for me?” Sigurd tried to temper his interest. “Dara is an amazing healer, and you’re her best effort. The rest of the injured prosper, too.” “What do you mean?” “You had the worst injuries, Sigurd, and look how far you’ve recovered.”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne “Yes, it’s time I got out of bed and made use of myself before the men forget who their captain is.” “Relax, the men are well, and the ship is being repaired. They need their captain whole and healthy.” “I’m not the type to laze around. You know that.” “Dara has managed you well. I’ve tried several ways to get closer to her, but she tells me she thinks of me as a long lost brother. She’s very polite about dismissing me and all the other male advances.” “My crew has made advances on her?” Sigurd couldn’t keep his anger out of his voice. “A few in the beginning. Now they all understand she only has feelings for you. They’ve moved on to some of the other maids in the keep. Maids willing to accept their advances.” ʺHow does she feel about me?ʺ he questioned. ʺIt was her insistence that kept you alive, Sigurd. Youʹd been fighting the sea for too long and had no breath left. Dara refused to let you go. She took one long look at you and started to cry, then refused to let the men push you aside.” Sigurd forced himself to stay where he was, though he wanted to lean forward and hear every word Kerr spoke. “Dara pounded on your chest repeatedly and breathed for you until you did so on your own.” “I had no idea,” Sigurd managed, his mind wondering. Unable to concentrate any longer he added, “It’s late. You must be tired. You’ve done well in my absence, Kerr.” “I was taught by the best, Sigurd. I’ll see you on the morrow.” “Yes, I’ll rest easy knowing you have the situation under control.” Kerr smiled as he rose and moved the chair back. “Good night.” Hours later Sigurd watched the night sky through the high window and remembered feeling something pounding against his chest. He’d thought it was something from the boat, and perhaps it was to start, but ultimately it had been Dara who saved him by refusing to let him die. Tomorrow, heʹd ask her for more details. He was starting to feel stronger. It was time he left his bed and got back to being captain.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
Chapter Two Sigurd waited for Dara for two long and frustrating days. Finally, she slipped in quietly, late in the evening, and placed a cup of mulled cider on the table beside him. He watched her through heavily lidded eyes and spoke only when she turned to leave. ʺYou were supposed to be here two days ago.ʺ ʺItʹs good to see youʹre feeling better,ʺ she answered, ignoring his attempt to bait her. ʺAnd Iʹve been here each night, but I didnʹt want to wake you.ʺ ʺCome earlier then!ʺ She surveyed him intently in the dim light, as though deciding how to answer. She was tall and slim as a willow with sable locks, and her eyes held too many unasked and unanswered questions. He liked her serenity. While he could do with a bit less arguing, at least she didnʹt shrink away from him. His large size intimidated women in general, yet not Dara. ʺTell me about this land. How does water run hot and how does a castle that dwells in a land of ice remain warm without furs?ʺ A small smile crossed her lips as she settled across from him. “For years we’ve captured the geyser steam. It heats the stones and radiates inside. The outside of the castle has a special coating to push the heat inward instead of letting it escape outside.” “What kind of coating?” “Probably similar to what you use on your ship. Hale can give you more detail when you’re up and around.”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Her descriptions of steam being captured from geysers fascinated him. Her laugh was light and used only occasionally. Sigurd found himself wanting to hear more of it. “We learned to harness the steam from the geysers and pipes force it through the castle walls.” Sigurd leaned forward. “Pipes in the walls? I’ve never heard of such a thing.” “Through all of the castle and the keep. Villagers with small farms and homes of their own use the same system, only they pipe steam from the closest geyser.” “The farms, too?” “Yes. We grow all the produce we need in the keep huts and our hives pollinate the flowers. If you’d like, when you’re feeling stronger I’ll take you around and explain it all to you. It’s quite a process.” She hesitated only briefly before adding, “Wait until you see the kitchens. No precious wood is wasted on fires. Instead they regulate the heat through valve turns. You’ll see.” She was obviously proud of her home and their accomplishments. “Of course this may not interest you, so don’t feel obligated.” “I want to see your castle and the keep, my lady. I’m quite interested in all the working ways of your isle, and I must meet the king.ʺ “I’ll arrange it as soon as he returns from the fjord.” Her slim fingers fussed with the hem of the sheet covering him, smoothing the edges. “The king has ridden out to see my ship?” “Of course. He wanted to make sure our men were working well with yours on the repairs. Rest now, Sigurd. Sleep and regain your strength.” ʺDara, come here.ʺ As he waited for her to approach, he gazed upon her lithe body. ʺNo, my lord.ʺ ʺYou dare to refuse me, a ship’s captain? What would the king think?”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺGo ahead and tell him, Sir Sigurd.ʺ Still she didnʹt move from her place but bit back a smile, obviously enjoying the taunt. ʺIʹll come and take you, if I have to.ʺ Her laughter annoyed him. He sat forward, and reached for her with his right hand. Neither moved, and he decided to try another tack. “Dara, do you read? Kerr told me all the children take lessons.” “Yes, of course. All our people are educated.” “Perhaps one night you’ll read to me from your collection.” He gestured toward the shelf. “If you like. Until your eye heals it will be difficult for you to read.” “I’d like it very much.” His hand was still extended, and she reached to take it. Just before Dara’s fingers closed around his, she pulled away, remembering her place and who she was. This giant of a man, so different from any other she’d seen, would leave her as soon as he was healed and his ship seaworthy. She had a passing idea to sabotage the repairs but was smart enough to realize a man like Sigurd would never be tied to the land or to any woman. With perspective, she decided to enjoy his company, accepting he was only a temporary guest. But she’d always have her memories of him. She slipped away and moved to the foot of his bed. She had to put an end to this before she did something that would embarrass her. Being physically away from him was the only way she could manage not to reach to him. “My lord, I know not of your homeland or your customs, but here a maid chooses her mate. She decides when she wants to be kissed and touched, not the other way around.” This time he laughed. ʺYou canʹt be serious, maid. Iʹm a shipʹs captain!ʺ ʺThat you are, but here we use manners, sir. Women are equal to men in all aspects...ʺ She stopped speaking while he enjoyed a laugh once again. ʺIʹm sure the king can explain it to you better. While our customs may be different, please remember you are in our lands now and would be best served to follow our lead.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺFollow a womanʹs lead, you say, Dara? Thatʹs unheard of.ʺ ʺMaybe in your land, but not in ours. All people are cherished, and all our people are free. No maid is forced into anything she doesnʹt consent to. Men who forget this donʹt fare well in our society.ʺ ʺThe maid tries to teach the captain manners? Iʹve been all around the seas and never have I defaulted to a man let alone a woman.ʺ ʺThen this will be a new experience for you.ʺ His mouth fell open at her words. She successfully hid her smile, liking the lively verbal sparring. Men on her isle were sometimes intimidated by her. He was up from his bed before she could flee, and pressed her back against the door with the length of his body, chest to chest, thigh to thigh. There was no denying the throbbing hardness pushing against her belly. . ʺIs it all men who you hate, maid?ʺ he asked, holding her in place with ease despite his injuries. ʺOnly the ones who think they have a right to my body.ʺ His cock bobbed against her, and her nipples hardened further. It took all her restraint to keep from touching him. ʺKiss me and then tell me you donʹt want my hands on you,ʺ he said, his voice more husky than she was used to. There was a current in the air around them, almost palpable to them both. ʺA kiss is intimate, not to be shared without understanding and want on both sides.ʺ She held his gaze, and his cock throbbed between their bodies a second time; she ignored the contact. ʺIf I disgust you so, why did you fight to save me?ʺ ʺIʹd fight to save all life, human or animal.ʺ ʺAnd youʹve decided Iʹm more animal than man?ʺ ʺOnly your actions will define your character, my lord.ʺ Sigurd hated to admit she was right. Ever since he’d awakened in this strange land, he’d been far more crass and demanding than usual. Instead, he laughed and backed away. ʺGo away, little girl. Iʹll not force you. Iʹll find a maid who wants to warm my bed.ʺ ʺAs you wish,ʺ she whispered, slipping out the door quietly. If he wanted female company, she’d make sure he met some willing maids.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne * * * * * Sigurd bellowed for Bard. He sat at the table before the fireplace, a cup of mead before him. ʺSir?ʺ Bard asked. ʺWhy have there been so many maids in here during the last few days? I feel like Iʹm for sale!ʺ Bard smiled. ʺDara said you wished for female companionship. These maids are unmarried and looking for...ʺ ʺA husband?ʺ ʺWell, yes, sir. Are none of them to your liking?ʺ ʺNo. Donʹt let any more of them in here. When is the king due back?ʺ ʺOn the morrow, sir. He and Kerr are due back for the evening feast.ʺ “Then make sure Iʹm dressed and ready to join them.ʺ ʺOf course, my lord. Will there be anything else tonight?ʺ ʺYes, take me to the flower hut where Dara works.” Bard looked as if he’d like to protest, but then he nodded and showed Sigurd through the castle, leaving him at the door of the hut. The room was huge even by his standards. Hot and humid, flowers of all kinds grew in abundance all around him; some he was familiar with, others heʹd never seen before. The hut appeared unoccupied, and he was about to leave when a door at the far end opened. He couldnʹt see the manʹs face, for it was covered in several layers of veiling. The rest of the man’s body was covered in a long sleeved tunic and trousers. He carried a large pot in his gloved hands and paused to place it on a table just inside the hut. ʺGo and find your mistress,” Sigurd commanded. “I was told Dara would be here.ʺ ʺI donʹt believe Dara would be pleased to be summoned, sir,” the man answered, his voice so soft Sigurd had to strain to hear it. “She has many duties to oversee.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Sigurd took the sickly thin man by the tunic and held him up against the door with one arm. ʺYou donʹt believe...ʺ He trailed off, shocked to realize it was a woman. She was soft and lithe, and the outline of her breasts pressed against the tunic. He slowly released her and backed away, taking the seat beside a small table in the center of the room. ʺWho are you?ʺ he asked, ʺAnd why are you wearing menʹs clothes?ʺ ʺI was working in the hives, Sir Sigurd. Fresh honey was needed for the feast tonight.ʺ Dara realized Sigurd didnʹt know who she was and decided not to tell him. Keeping him off guard seemed to be her only defense against her want. Alone in the humid hut, she longed to stroke his cheek and feel his lips pressed to hers. She wanted to touch him without layers of clothing between them. She closed her eyes, hoping to clear her thoughts. ʺTell me where Dara is.ʺ ʺSir, sheʹs busy...ʺ He dragged her across his lap, his legs sturdy and solid beneath her. His large hand landed several hard passes against her bottom as she struggled and squirmed to get away. His strength overruled her initial need to flee, and she realized the more she moved, the harder his cock grew under her belly. His right hand landed several more punishing blows before he pushed her away. ʺThe next time I tell you to do something, maid, youʹll think twice before ignoring me.ʺ He stood and stalked out of the hut without looking back. She rubbed her backside. The pain was bearable, but the heat his touch had produced in her feminine areas was not. She pulled off her gloves and veil, tossing them both on the table. ʺI hate that man,ʺ she said aloud, knowing only her flowers could hear her. ʺI should have let him die!ʺ She was instantly ashamed by her own thoughts. Any human life was worth saving, even Sir Sigurdʹs. Now if she could just stop getting all weak‐kneed whenever he was around, her life would be much easier.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Knowing that wasnʹt going to happen, she dreaded the feast. Tonight her father would change their destinies forever. If she had to deal with Sigurd on a personal basis sheʹd have to stay strong. She couldn’t let her emotions cloud her mind with thoughts of love and fidelity, even if they were the ways of her land. When Sigurdʹs ship had grounded, all attention was focused on saving the crew and ship. Now, weeks later, it was clear news had reached Nandin, their enemy from the other side of the isle. The threat he posed would force changes Dara didnʹt want to think about, let alone have materialize. Just saying his name made her cringe. Leader of the other side of the isle, he was a long removed cousin. His people lived in poverty and depression, his gluttonous ways guaranteeing him and his chosen few a well‐heeled life while others suffered. His visits were always stressful and disruptive, and he’d made no secret of the fact that he meant to take her as his wife, thereby gaining control of her father’s wealth and prosperity as well. Maybe that was why she was so attracted to Sigurd. She viewed him as a protector from Nandin and a much better prospect for a future king. Of course, she wanted Sigurd to agree to the marriage her father would propose because he loved her. She feared the circumstances of this arrangement would only produce animosity between them in the future. She bathed with deliberate care before the feast, then rubbed lotion onto her bottom. She felt a strange warmth between her legs each time she remembered Sigurd spanking her. How she’d wanted to touch his growing cock as it throbbed against her belly. How her breasts ached to be touched. Ingrid came and helped style her hair, then secured a thin veil with ropes of pearls in the dark strands. She’d chosen a dark green gown in brushed wool that complimented her coloring. The low squared neck hinted at cleavage but didn’t show it. The long straight sleeves followed her arms and tightened at her wrists. The rest of the gown hugged her every curve, nipping in at her slim waist and smoothing over her hips. All
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne the golden embroidery at the neck and wrists as well as on the veil had been done by her own hand. When feast time was near, she slipped down to the hall to make sure all was ready for their meal. After she’d overseen a few last moment preparations, she went in search of Sigurd. She needed to speak to him before the feast. She rapped soundly three times before his deep voice granted entrance. Taking a deep breath, she walked into his chamber and smiled at Bard. ʺIʹd like a moment with Sir Sigurd, Bard. Please leave us.ʺ The young page smiled and nodded and all but tripped over his feet to take his leave. When the door closed behind him, she turned to Sigurd. She allowed herself the pleasure of looking at him from top to bottom. He wore a fine linen tunic and wool trousers. A longer over‐tunic had been made for him in deep green, and his shipʹs flag was embroidered on his right shoulder. His boots had been dried and polished, his hair was pulled away from his face, and his jaw was clean shaven. His eye patch only added to his allure. Heʹd taken the breath from her lungs the first time she’d laid eyes on him, even though he’d been half‐dead and beaten by the storm. Tonight, he looked healthy and very much like the Nordic sea captain he was. She forced herself to finally meet his gaze. A blush crept along her cheeks. ʺMy lord, your health seems to have returned.ʺ ʺWith the exception of this blasted arm,ʺ he said, ʺand my eye.ʺ ʺWith time, Sigurd.ʺ Their gazes locked and held. She cleared her throat. ʺIʹve been told you were looking for me at the hives earlier. What did you need?ʺ ʺIt doesnʹt matter now, but you have a maid who should be taught how to respect a man.ʺ His shoulders set back and his chest puffed up in defiance at her narrowed glance. ʺAbout that... Sir, I must insist you not strike any of my villagers. Never is a woman struck or physically hurt in our land.ʺ ʺAll I did was spank her—ʺ ʺThat was enough!ʺ She didnʹt add she liked the feeling of his hand or her ability to make his organ grow. Didnʹt verbalize how the thoughts
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne jumbled in her mind all day. ʺSir Sigurd, I tried to explain this to you days ago. On our isle, women and men are equals. No man has a right to take from any woman, whether you are the king, a sea captain, a farmer or a blacksmith. I know nothing of your homeland, and maybe one day youʹll tell me all about it, but while youʹre here, I must ask you to respect our women.ʺ She remembered the purpose of her visit and steadied herself. If she were to be queen one day soon, she couldnʹt indulge in fantasy and hope it to become a reality. ʺIs that why you sent a parade of women in here during the last few days, all offering themselves to me?ʺ ʺI was led to believe you were interested in female companionship. All the maids who introduced themselves to you were open to mating.ʺ Sheʹd started out mad at him and managed to calm her anger, hoping it would be a better way to deal with Sigurd and his archaic ways. Even his crew had learned to leave the maids alone. She held back from rubbing her tender backside. ʺAnd why didnʹt you join them?ʺ His question struck a nerve. He couldnʹt know how it churned her inside each time a maid passed through his door. She couldnʹt hold it against the women; they were merely looking for a companion. But she could still blame him for striking her. And on that remembrance her anger returned. ʺThat question doesnʹt deserve an answer.ʺ Sigurd stood beside the large stone fireplace, his right arm on the mantle, looking down with a strange smugness. She didn’t give Sigurd the chance to reply. Moving very slowly toward him, she stopped just inches from his chest, and tilted her head back to see his face. A slow smile formed on his lips, and his right arm lowered to her shoulder, pulling her a step closer. She felt the same rush of heat when his body stretched along hers. The sensation disconcerted her. ʺSo, have you changed your mind, Dara? Are you here to offer yourself for companionship?ʺ He laughed, and she almost hated him. Instinct ruled her actions. Sheʹd only meant to talk to him, but his attitude
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne roused her ire. Holding his stare, she drew a breath and slid her hands along his chest, resting them on his shoulders. ʺNo, my lord, I haven’t changed my mind. I donʹt wish for your affections. In reality, Iʹve come to even the field.ʺ Before he could recognize her intent, her right knee impacted squarely with his groin. All of the air rushed out of his lungs, and he grunted loudly. She guided him into the chair, while he tried to gain his breath. ʺDonʹt ever strike another female on this isle, sir.ʺ She moved slowly backward, keeping her eyes on him as she reached the door. She paused with her hand on the door. ʺIʹll send Bard to fetch you when the feast is ready.ʺ She closed the door behind her and took a deep breath. She realized sheʹd actually done it, actually hurt him. She’d never hurt anyone before, but she had to admit the rush of power she’d felt when she’d struck him was exhilarating. Now all she had to do was see how he reacted during the feast. Dara knew sheʹd opened a doorway to Hades with her impulsive move. Striking Sigurd would have its repercussions. When she realized heʹd probably take her over his knee again, she warmed. Her breasts grew heavy, her belly felt strange, and her privates moistened without her touch.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
Chapter Three Sigurd paused on his way to the main table to greet his crew, and a few introduced him to maids they’d formed bonds with. One particular crewman asked to see him privately tomorrow, which could only mean he wanted to break his contract. The blonde maid at his side seemed quite taken with her sailor. For the first time since the storm stranded them on this strange land, Sigurd enjoyed a meal. The great hall itself was nothing like he was used to. The space was warm, and the people wore brightly colored tunics and gowns. There were no reeds on the floor. Instead, thick woolen carpets softened each step. The crowd laughed and made merry, but never got loud or out of control. Only two dogs occupied the space, and both sat behind the king. Sigurd sat to the king’s right with Kerr beside him. The seat on the other side of the king was empty, and a short, plumpish woman with a wide smile sat in the one next to that. She exchanged flirtatious glances with Kerr. No one fought or tossed bones onto the floor. Metal plates replaced the bread trenchers he was used to. After the introductions were made, the king engaged him in a discussion about the repairs to his ship. “The main mast beam will be the most difficult to replace,” the king told him. “It’s hard to find lumber in such a large size although we’ve tried to conserve our forests.” Sigurd understood that might be a problem.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne “Not to worry. Between your crew and our townsmen, they’ll figure a way to repair it properly.” “I’ve no doubt about the quality of repairs.” “Your men have given measurements for the sail cloth that’s needed. The production work will start tomorrow.” “It seems I’ve landed in a most impressive land. Besides your harness of the geyser steam, your keep seems well run, and your people happy.” “We all work for the common good. Everyone reaps the benefits.” “An amazing place for sure.” The king nodded his acknowledgement of Sigurdʹs words then turned back to his meal. Sigurd knew there was no perfect Utopia where man was present, but the king made him want to believe. There were no troubadours. Instead, several musicians played quietly in the background. They dined on a sweet salad of hollyhock greens and fresh vegetables before the game and wild boar were served. There were knives and spoons of fine silver along with what the king called stabbers, a two pronged U‐shaped utensil with a handle. Sigurd watched the crowd and saw his men use the strange utensils with ease. Finally, trays of sweet breads and fresh fruits were placed before him. The bland meals heʹd suffered through up to now were a thing of the past. Each course was spiced with garlic and onions, parsley and aniseed. The fruits were accented with mint. The only thing wrong with the meal was Dara’s absence. He kept a watchful eye, and wondered which man sheʹd sit beside when she slipped into the room. He knew sheʹd show up, especially after her outrageous behavior before the meal. While sheʹd caught him off guard, he didnʹt think sheʹd shrink to the background. No, she’d stand tall and defend her actions. The kingʹs smile widened, and he nudged Sigurd with his elbow when Dara entered the great hall. An unexpected rush of emotion he didnʹt know he possessed surfaced as he watched her closely and recognized sadness in her expression. No dramatic hush greeted her entrance. But as she made her way across the room she stopped at several
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne of the tables and spoke with the people. Some laughed at her comments. Others, he noted, reached for her hand and held it tight, while whispered words were exchanged. When she made it to the kingʹs side, she slipped into a slight curtsey and then threw her arms around the manʹs neck and hugged him tightly. Sigurd couldnʹt understand their low conversation, but sorrow laced her words. ʺOf course, youʹve already met the Princess Mandara,” the king said, as he turned back to Sigurd. “My Dara has a talent for healing.ʺ Sigurd stared at her through narrowed eyes, stunned. She perched on the edge of her seat like a bird ready to take flight. In all the time sheʹd spent with him, neither she nor Bard, not even Kerr, had referred to her as a princess. Heʹd assumed she was simply a maid. ʺI heard there was a problem with one of the maids at the hives today; Ingrid heard loud voices but didn’t intrude when the noise settled quickly.ʺ ʺYes, father.ʺ Dara spoke clearly, looking past the king, staring directly at Sigurd. ʺIʹve spoken with the maid and with Sir Sigurd. I believe weʹve come to an understanding, and theyʹll be no confusion of that sort again.ʺ She paused and smiled a smile that Sigurd hadnʹt seen before. It made her features look sweet and pure, and he held back a bout of laughter. ʺDo you agree, my lord?ʺ ʺWeʹve come to terms, I believe,ʺ he said carefully. She gave him a slight nod before she turned to her maid. Sigurd watched her pick at her fruit but, a few moments later, a second maid approached, and Dara left with only a mumbled word to the king. He sat there long after the meal ended, but she didn’t return. At last he stood and wandered the castle halls restlessly. Heʹd done nothing but sleep and rest for the last month, and he’d had enough. He was used to being busy, overseeing his ship and crew. Here, he had no purpose. Even watching the night skies didnʹt offer him solace. They’d made arrangements to ride to his ship as soon as the storm cleared, but that probably would not be for another day or two. It irked
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne him that just about everyone else, including the king, had seen his ship except him He’d always had trouble sleeping. He’d carried the curse all his life. Long periods of sleep evaded him. Instead, he settled for short spans, leaving his nights long and empty. That was why the sea suited him so well. Even in the darkest of nights, the sea never slept. He wandered until he was lost among the great stone walls and stood outside a closed, carved wood door. A simple, abstract design inlaid with precious stones was mounted to the surface, and he slowly pulled it open. What he saw inside angered and confused him. Dara sat in the front row of the chapel, holding a man in her arms. His head lay against her breast, and both were sobbing. Sigurd watched for several long moments before he backed away, unable to watch Dara comfort the man. Back in his chamber he bellowed for Bard. The sleeping youth stumbled to his side. “May I be of service, my lord?” ʺWho is the man in the chapel with Dara?ʺ The lad rubbed sleep from his eyes and gave Sigurd a nervous glance. ʺMost likely Eddie, sir, though I didnʹt see them so Iʹm not sure. His wife had a fall, and he lost her to the gods earlier this evening. Even Dara couldnʹt save her.ʺ ʺAnd why is it no one ever told me Dara was Princess Mandara?ʺ ʺSheʹs always just been Dara to us, sir. Is there something I can get you, wine or cider?ʺ ʺNo, go back to bed, Bard. But tell me this, where is the princessʹ chamber?ʺ ʺDirectly across the hall, sir.ʺ The boy seemed to struggle with some inner conflict before once again squaring his shoulders. ʺSir, while it isnʹt my place, I must tell you it would be improper for you to visit her in her chamber alone.ʺ ʺImproper, you say? But sheʹs been in here for hours at a time, and nobody has mentioned it being improper.ʺ ʺBut that was because you were sick, and she was healing you.ʺ ʺI see. Go to bed, Bard. I wonʹt need anything else.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Restless still, he moved quietly back to the chapel, only to find it empty. Instinct pushed him to the flower hut. There he found her leaning against the same small table heʹd sat at just yesterday spanking her maid. Her head drooped, and her arms braced her weight as she cried openly, thinking she was alone. He stood in the darkness for a long time before moving silently behind her. While his left arm was still banded, she was light enough to lift with his right arm. He slipped onto the chair, and settled her on his lap. She let out a small cry, but didnʹt pull away. Instead, she simply buried her head against his chest and cried more, her muffled words a mix of regret and shame. He smoothed his fingers gently up and down her arm and held her tight against his chest. This was trouble. She made him long for permanence in a way he never had. Now to find out she was Princess Mandara, the kingʹs only living child, made the situation worse. ʺI should have done more.ʺ She sobbed against his chest, her heart obviously breaking for the life that had been lost. ʺHush, Dara. Iʹm sure you did all you could.ʺ Sigurd’s deep, comforting voice finally broke through Dara’s grief. Stunned by his gentle tone, she glanced up at his handsome face. She’d never seen this side of him. While she had hoped he had a gentler side, she hadn’t been given much evidence of it to date. ʺHow did you know?ʺ She studied him carefully, wondering what game he might be playing. In the end she decided it didnʹt matter. She was just glad he was here to hold her. ʺI asked Bard who you comforted in the chapel. He told me the man lost his wife tonight.ʺ She nodded and dropped her head back against his shoulder. ʺShe fell from her horse, slipped as she was dismounting. But she landed wrong, and her head hit the ground. Such a waste. She was such a good woman. And they married only a few months ago, so there was no time to produce a child to comfort Eddie.ʺ ʺDo you let each death affect you so?ʺ Dara straightened slowly. She moved off his lap and used a linen cloth to dry her eyes before answering him. This comforting side of him
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne confused her. The big, strong sea captain could be kind and gentle. It made it hard for her to remember to hold her emotions in check. ʺSenseless death, yes. If the person is aged, has lived a full life and is ready for the next, I feel sadness. I understand we have only so much time in this life, and itʹs natural for us to progress to the next.ʺ ʺAnd war? What about those killed in war?ʺ ʺWar is a senseless act. It takes human life to settle what intelligent people could do with words and understanding. It takes resources and deprives everyone of their freedoms.ʺ ʺBut it happens, just like the accident that took Eddieʹs wife.ʺ ʺBoth are unforgivable as well as useless destruction.ʺ She wandered away from him, knowing he watched as she started to pickup pieces of broken pottery. ʺIs that how you vent your anger?ʺ ʺA useless act of aggression, Iʹm embarrassed by my actions. It was wasteful and nonproductive.ʺ He moved behind her and waited until she gave him her attention. ʺIʹm sorry you lost a friend.ʺ He stared for a moment and then pressed his lips to hers, his kiss a mere touch of warm skin to warm skin. She slid her hands up along his chest, her fingers gliding along the warmth of his neck. Sigurd pulled back and looked directly into her eyes. ʺShould I be cautious?ʺ he said, and she couldnʹt hold back her smile. ʺNo, my lord. I thought that was behind us.ʺ He didnʹt answer, only dropped his lips back to hers one last time. Then he pulled back. ʺUntil tomorrow, princess.ʺ * * * * * The next morning Sigurd was up and dressed before Bard arrived. He made a point of joining the religious service before breaking his fast and was surprised to see most of his crew present for the daily blessing. He was to meet with the king privately after the feast and wondered again
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne what it was about. Dara joined them for the meal. Today she wore a simple gown of brown wool with flowers embroidered across the bodice. Her hair lay in curls down her back, with pearls woven through it. She looked tired, and it bothered him to see her sad. He had to admit she was unlike any other maid heʹd met, and that was a considerable amount in all his travels. The kingʹs chambers were the most elaborate in the castle. Sitting in a large chair beside the fire, Sigurd was seated across from the king. Dara paced the length of the room, pulling a white linen cloth between her fingers. As he watched her twist the fabric, his gaze became riveted on her slim fingers, and he hardened at the idea of her touching him. Last night, as he sat before another fire, heʹd thought back to the dream. Deep inside he knew it had been real. The princess had eased her hand over his cock that night and taken him to release. At least that was what he chose to believe. ʺSigurd, I will speak frankly because in the short time weʹve known each other Iʹve come to like you and have learned your men respect you. Youʹre a good captain and have the makings of a fine man. We are in a quandary, and your presence here has included you by default.ʺ The king folded his hands in his lap, an action Sigurd read as nerves. A page entered with a large tray, and another followed behind him with wine and cider vessels. At Dara’s nod, they arranged the food on a nearby table and then left the room. Dara served both men wine before taking a cup of cider for herself. Still she paced and mangled the cloth between her fingers. ʺKing Bohdan, I appreciate all you and your subjects have done for me, my crew and my ship, but I would ask what this is about.ʺ ʺYouʹve only heard of our country, not yet experienced it for yourself. There is a vast land around us. Through generations of hard work, weʹve made a life here for our people. Our problem is Lord Nandin. He rules the far side of the isle. Mostly weʹve kept our distance over the years.” “Generations ago, two brothers were each given half the isle. You are experiencing what the Bohdan descendents did with their half. The
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Nandin generations have preferred festivals to hard work. Their side of the isle has suffered from their forbearers’ weaknesses.ʺ The king paused and took a sip from his cup. ʺWe have word Lord Nandin is on his way here.ʺ ʺHow does this impact Bohdan land?ʺ Unease rose within Sigurd. ʺEach time he arrives uninvited he brings harm and destruction. In the past ten years weʹve sent several parties of good men and women to help them change their ways, to teach them how to harness the steam and to grow crops year round. And each time, the parties have met with doom, one way or another.ʺ Across the room, Dara let out a sob, than quickly turned her back on the men. The king frowned at his daughter and then continued. ʺHe has made overtures in the past about moving his people to our side. I fear he does not do so with the hope theyʹll assimilate into our society, rather use it for their purpose.ʺ ʺWhy would he come now? What does my landing here have to do with any of this?ʺ ʺYou are a threat to him, Sigurd.ʺ The two men watched each other closely for long, quiet moments before Dara moved beside her father, her hand dropping to his shoulder. ʺSigurd, the last party we sent to educate the Nandinʹs was killed just two years back.ʺ She took several deep breaths and then shut her eyes, obviously holding back tears. The kingʹs hand moved over hers, and she tried to smile. ʺMy brother Roland and his wife headed the party. They all died under mysterious circumstances.ʺ ʺAre you saying Nandin murdered them?ʺ ʺIn one form or another, yes. You see, Rolandʹs wife was with child when they were killed. He was next in line to rule, and his child would follow. With them both gone, Nandin felt secure he could overcome us with little resistance. Without an heir, Bohdan land would revert to Nandin. We fear heʹs decided not to wait and let nature take us in due course. He will out live me easily, but Mandara is years younger than he.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺSo you must produce an heir to keep the line intact and Nandin from gaining control.ʺ ʺPlainly put, sir, yes. Itʹs either that, or he could...ʺ Dara didnʹt finish her thought. The king continued for her. ʺIf Nandin took Dara as his wife, and she bore his child, the fate of Bohdan would be back in his hands. The Nandin line would rule forever over the Bohdanʹs.ʺ Dara glanced at Sigurd, then quickly away. ʺWhy wait so long? Why havenʹt you married some man from your village? Surely there must be one man who could service you?ʺ Sigurd’s voice held true confusion. ʺNone of them are strong enough to dissuade Nandin from trying to gain control.ʺ ʺHow does this involve me? In a few months time, my ship will be repaired, and Iʹll be back at sea where I belong.ʺ He held the king’s gaze, silently daring him to give voice to his obvious wish. Sigurd had no wish to involve himself in anything that would tie him to one land or one woman forever. ʺThatʹs one option,ʺ the king agreed. ʺThere are several others when one takes the time to think them through.ʺ Bohdan and Sigurd engaged in a fierce battle of wills. While they sipped their wine, Dara paced in the background. ʺWhat makes you think he wonʹt attack even if sheʹs married to me?ʺ Sigurd tired of the pretense and asked the question bluntly; he had a right to an answer. ʺHonestly, I donʹt know that he wonʹt. But of all the possible options, we felt you made the best choice to defend our isle. You and your crew could help him see weʹre not as vulnerable as he believes. And there are other niceties that would befall you if you decided to take Mandara to wife. Youʹd rule on behalf of your offspring until they were of age to do so for themselves.ʺ ʺWith me! Letʹs get that straight right now,ʺ Dara put in hotly. ʺWith you?ʺ he asked. He knew he annoyed her and didn’t bother to hold back his amusement.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺYou know nothing of our isle or our way of life. We would rule together, sir, or not at all. You are a stranger here, and it will take time for the people to get to know you and deem you fair and just as a ruler. Together, we would make a smoother transition. Ruling together is our tradition.ʺ ʺI see. And just how long have you known Nandin was on his way?ʺ ʺWe only got word yesterday.ʺ ʺAnd what of my ship and crew?ʺ ʺIf you married Mandara, the first few years you would be expected to be by her side. In the future, if you felt the need to return to the sea, it would be possible, providing you returned here several times a year to reinforce the marriage and bloodline.ʺ The king paused before adding, ʺOf course, there is no reason you couldnʹt send your ship out and oversee the journey from here in the beginning.ʺ Deafening silence filled the room.
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Chapter Four Sigurd stood abruptly and started to pace. He brought his right hand to his temple, and used his thumb and index finger to rub away the pain. How could he tell them he didnʹt know where he was? The storm had swept him to this strange isle that neither his crew nor he had ever heard of. If he sent his ship out without him, he might never see them again. How would they find their way back to the unknown? ʺIʹll need time to think this through, King Bohdan. There are other possibilities you may not have thought about.ʺ He was stalling for time and feared they recognized his tactic. ʺAre you married to another?ʺ Dara asked with a hesitant voice. ʺNo.ʺ He stared at the king for several protracted moments as he tried to get his thoughts in order. ʺIʹd like to go for a ride. I need to be outdoors.ʺ Alone, he added in his mind. He needed to get away from here so he could clear his mind of her image and make sense of this mess the fates had landed him in. ʺI can arrange for a horse and guide.ʺ ʺJust the horse, sir. Iʹll not need a guide.ʺ ʺBut Sigurd, your arm is still weak...ʺ Dara trailed off when he gave her a forbidding expression. ʺIʹll see a horse is saddled for you and a sack of provisions readied.ʺ She swept from the room. The King gave Sigurd a troubled look. ʺIf there was another way to defend our home, if violence wasnʹt Nandinʹs mainstay... He knows we abhor the concept and threatens us with it constantly.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺHow long before he docks?ʺ ʺThe journey usually takes a full moon. I believe we have half that time.ʺ Sigurd studied the king, realizing he was an aged man already. Sigurd had had a good run on the sea. Most captains were long dead or retired by now. ʺThank you for being honest with me. If it were just me, I might be more willing to accept your proposal. But I have fifty‐three men to consider.ʺ ʺOf course, Sigurd. We just felt, if you understood our plight, you might be willing to help us protect our land. And as Iʹm sure youʹre aware, some of your crew have assimilated into our life quite easily.ʺ ʺYes, I fear my next meeting will be to break a contract with one of my crew so he can ask a certain maid to partner.ʺ ʺYes, your Olaf and our Christina. They suit each other.ʺ ʺI’ll relieve him of his contract to make his future plans.ʺ ʺGo for your ride. Clear your mind. This is all a lot to be surprised with. Bedding a maid is one thing, taking a princess and future queen as a wife is another, especially in the powerful place youʹll be guaranteed as my successor. Be aware that our society believes in fidelity, and we frown upon those who mock us.ʺ Sigurd nodded and left the kingʹs chamber quickly, realizing heʹd have no mistress to comfort him when Dara refused him. A horse was waiting at the main gate along with his cloak. Each time he glanced down at the garment it reminded him of Dara. The sable fur was the same color as her hair. He laughed at himself and the situation that befell him. Heʹd seen the ice land’s vastness on his trips to the ship, but today he rode in circles around the castle, larger and larger passes until he reached the outer edges of the ice forest. The glaciers gleamed in the sunlight, and the small farms were recently harvested. Much later in the day he returned, still confused but clearer headed for the air and ride. After the evening meal, he and Dara adjourned to her private chamber so they could talk.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺWould you like wine or cider?ʺ She moved to a table before the fireplace. On either side stood a large chair, padded and covered in rabbit skins. ʺHave a seat, my lord. I can only assume you have questions and thoughts on our earlier conversation.ʺ She didnʹt sit. Instead she began to pace. At least she wasnʹt mangling a cloth between her fingers. During his ride he’d realized how anxious she must be about her future. What little he knew of her made him think she equated marriage to him with a death sentence, or at least a lifetime of imprisonment. Sheʹd saved him from the sea, tended his wounds, and watched over him. Yet the idea of his touch seemed to repulse her. ʺWhy me?ʺ he asked. ʺAnd donʹt bother to lie. Iʹve seen the way the men in your village idolize you, so why pick me? Even my own crew adores you.ʺ ʺI donʹt relate well to men on a personal level,ʺ she said bluntly. He gave her a bitter laugh. ʺIʹve seen you with Eddie; you relate well enough to him.ʺ ʺAs a sister would, my lord. I couldnʹt let him touch me...ʺ ʺYet you seem to relate to me.ʺ ʺAgain, on the same level, as a person, not as a man.ʺ He stood and walked to the table, buying time by refilling his cup. Heʹd bet his precious ship that she did relate to him as a man and that was what scared her. ʺWhy do men frighten you, Dara? Why do you hold back? Youʹre a healer. You understand men’s needs.ʺ ʺDonʹt be crude, Sigurd. Of course I understand. And if Iʹd found a man I could love I would have taken a mate long ago.ʺ ʺSo again, I ask, what are you afraid of?ʺ ʺNothing, Iʹm not afraid of anything.ʺ She pushed her shoulders back, and her chin jutted higher. Sigurd put his cup on the table and advanced forward. With each step he took toward her, she took one back, but she was forced to stop when the table barred her progression. He stopped a step away and tilted her chin with his fingers so he could survey her face.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺYouʹre petrified of me right now.ʺ Dara wasn’t a complete fool. No, he didn’t love her but might the idea of one day being king be enough to keep him here? And if he stayed would he always wonder what else might have been? Would he grow to hate her in the years of monotony on land? When Nandin had been sighted, she’d known their situation was coming to a boil. What she hadn’t counted on was the frustration and humiliation she’d feel if he turned her down. Just the fleeting idea of another in his bed made her jealous, an emotion she was unfamiliar with and loath to experience. When Sigurd left her and the land of Bohdan, a small piece of her would go with him, leaving her always unwhole. It was not a promising outlook for her future. She didn’t allow herself to contemplate the idea of Nandin touching her or ruling her people. She swallowed hard. ʺNo” she whispered, but she trembled beneath his hands. ʺIf we married, Iʹd expect my wife to service me. Especially since your father told me that taking a mistress is out of the question.ʺ She wondered if she had the makings of a wife and lover buried within her. After all, she was beyond age and still a maiden. Perhaps she trembled out of anticipation and not fear? Did she want his touch? ʺIʹll do whatever is necessary to service you, my lord.ʺ ʺNecessary? Dara, what about pleasure, yours and mine?ʺ ʺIʹll do whatever you want behind closed doors, as long as you donʹt take a mistress.ʺ Anything but another woman, she decided. Sheʹd do anything he wanted as long as she could keep him for herself. ʺAnything?ʺ His tone was a husky dare. ʺI touch you now and you quake. What will you do when it comes time to touch me?ʺ ʺIʹve touched you...ʺ she said bravely. ʺAs a healer, not as a lover. Have you never been bedded, Dara?ʺ ʺOf course not!ʺ she told him, her cheeks heating with embarrassment.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺI see.ʺ Sigurd pulled his hand from her face, and moved back to his cup, draining it in one long pull. ʺAnd just what do you think a lover will do to you?ʺ ʺThat would be between the lovers. And we are not lovers. We would have a business arrangement. Weʹd have sex, not make love.ʺ She couldnʹt believe sheʹd been so blunt. If she werenʹt careful, sheʹd tell him of her need for him and how it would crush her if he left, especially if he left her to Nandin. “What’s the difference?ʺ He rested his hip against the edge of the table, and seemed as though he was truly interested in her answer. ʺWeʹd have no intimacy, sir. That would be the difference.ʺ ʺAnd you donʹt think you could ever grow to love me? With time, of course?ʺ ʺI ask the same from you, sir. Do you honestly believe you could ever love me as a husband should?ʺ ʺMarriages are arranged all the time in my country. Most of them work fine because both parties know what the stakes are beforehand. Love doesnʹt blind them.ʺ ʺAnd you wonʹt let love blind you, ever?ʺ ʺI suppose that remains to be seen.ʺ He laughed again and finally took a chair beside the fire. ʺMust you always pace like that? Itʹs like being in a cage with an animal. When we first spent time together you were much calmer.ʺ Dara glared at him but slowly moved to the seat across from him. She sat gingerly on the edge, holding back a grimace at the rush of heat that sliced through her belly to her nipples, which budded against the soft wool of her gown. The arousal then traced lower, leaving her heavy and full. Each time she sat, she still felt his hand against her from the flower shed. ʺYou value fidelity, and I value honesty. What donʹt I know about the situation, Dara? What have you and your father kept from me?ʺ ʺNothing. Weʹve been open about our situation. Iʹm not trying to trap you into anything worse.ʺ ʺMaybe not worse, but thereʹs something...ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne She decided to tell him everything. ʺPhysically you resemble the great forefather. It is said he was larger than life and very wise. While you are fair and obviously from the north, he was dark. He, too, had only one eye. He was an honest ruler, fair to all. Itʹs his teachings we live by— honesty and fidelity. You, Sigurd, remind my people of the old one for all these reasons. And your size alone makes you stand above most men.ʺ ʺYet they donʹt know me. Few have seen me, let alone met me.ʺ ʺYes, but they see how your crew respects you.ʺ ʺWhat if my eye heals, and I donʹt need to cover it?ʺ He laughed, lightening the moment. ʺWhen your eye heals.ʺ She gave him a soft smile. ʺYouʹre that sure of your healing?” ʺWith the gods help. The patch is only symbolic, another way they associate you with the old lore. Once they see you’re fair and honest, theyʹll come to respect you as your own man.ʺ They were both quiet for a long time. ʺWhat would be my duties if I took you to wife?ʺ His question gave her hope. Perhaps he was actually considering it. ʺFor the next few years you would be expected to learn how our society works, to be involved in all aspects of castle rule. My father has absolute power until his death, then it would revert to me...us. We would rule together as my father and mother did until our time in this life is up. Then our children would rule.ʺ ʺYou mean your mother helped your father?ʺ ʺMy mother and father ruled equally as a couple. Their decisions were always made together. Each offset the other, a male perspective and a female perspective, making them see as one. It is a system that has worked in our land since the beginning.ʺ She couldn’t hide her exasperation at his denseness on this point. Would he ever see her as his equal, as his partner? ʺAnd how old is this land, Dara?ʺ ʺMuch older than any of us can remember, my lord.ʺ ʺAnd your parents never argued about their decisions?ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Dara laughed at his question and gave him a genuine smile. ʺThey argued, my lord. As I recall, sometimes very loudly, but in the end they respected each other enough to find solutions they both favored. It forced them to be extremely creative at times.ʺ She turned her gaze to the fire, and wondered if she and Sigurd could ever have that sort of relationship. ʺDid your mother love your father?ʺ ʺYes, I believe they loved each other very much. Even now, years after her loss, my father has not taken another. He believes she waits for him in the next life.ʺ ʺYet you donʹt love me, Mandara. We have no bond.ʺ ʺWith time, I would hope weʹd find our own level of closeness.ʺ ʺCloseness, not intimacy?ʺ ʺIntimacy is earned.ʺ That was the dare, and it cut both ways. ʺDo you think you would grow to love me with time?ʺ ʺI would hope to, my lord. And I would hope with time youʹd come to see me as your equal, your other half. If not, it will be a long, useless life, both for us and for our people.ʺ She felt him move up behind her and couldnʹt help but flinch from his approach. If he touched her now she might let her true feelings show, and that would never do. They had to start out as equals. Until he decided if he could love her, she wouldnʹt allow him to put her at a disadvantage. ʺMy people work hard to make productive and happy lives. They deserve more than a king and queen who canʹt stand the sight of each other. In no time, our land would become a parody of Nandinʹs.ʺ He moved around her and lifted his hand as though to touch her cheek. Her eyes drifted closed, but he didn’t touch her. Instead he sat heavily in a chair beside the fire and watched the flames, while she imagined he pondered his fate. ʺI will not live my life with a frigid queen beside me. Will you shrink back if I touch you in public? What would that say to your precious people?ʺ ʺIʹll do my best to accept your . . . attentions, both private and public, as long as the public ones arenʹt degrading.ʺ ʺNo, weʹll save those for behind closed doors.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne She glared at him, stunned by his wicked words. ʺHow do I know you are what you claim? You may carry another manʹs child as we speak. Whatʹs to stop you from passing it off as mine?ʺ ʺOh, please, my lord. Iʹve already told you Iʹve had no others.ʺ ʺAnd Iʹm supposed to take your word for truth.ʺ Dara moved very close. She placed her hands on the arms of his seat, and braced her body over him, her face just inches from his. ʺI bleed now so you can be assured my womb is empty.ʺ ʺIt could be faked if necessary. Other men have been trapped by lies.ʺ ʺNot by me!ʺ ʺBy any wench or maid if they chose.ʺ ʺWeʹll just have to learn to trust each other. With time youʹll come to learn I donʹt lie. Itʹs pointless and always has repercussions.ʺ ʺAre you sure youʹre empty, Princess Mandara?ʺ When he started to laugh she tightened her fingers around the arms of the chair. She couldn’t understand how she could hate him one second and lust for him the next. Dara found it all quite perplexing. How dare he question her honesty? ʺI should have let you die!ʺ The words escaped her lips before she could stop them, but he’d been so horrible she couldn’t bring herself to take them back. She stood before the glowing embers with her back to him, and refused to turn around. Instead of the explosion she expected, he left, closing the door quietly instead of slamming it as she might have imagined. How had she sunk to this? Just a few months ago the harvest was full and life in Bohdan was pleasant. Now, she was destined to marry a man with barbaric ways who laughed at her. And worst of all sheʹd let herself fall in love with him. That was the one thing she would hold back from him. Confessing her love to a man who saw her only as a body would only make her life more difficult. No, sheʹd stick to the arrangement if he agreed, but she could never let him know how much he affected her. It would be too dangerous. Already he consumed her, and he hadnʹt even really touched her yet.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne She wondered how experienced he was at lovemaking. When heʹd held her close, his solid power made her want to melt against his length. Even now, his kiss lingered on her lips. She longed for him to be the one to show her the unknown. * * * * * Having been a child of deceit and being reminded of it his whole life, Sigurd wanted something different for his child. Never would he or anyone doubt the legitimacy of his offspring. His status had forced him to become strong and to fight for what he felt was right. Heʹd never known his mother; he’d been told she died as he was born. But the man who raised him had doubted his parentage, and it had come between them. Heʹd gone to sea before his time, but his size and quick mental skills had pushed him ahead. He wasnʹt afraid to fight and had learned early only to take on those you were sure to defeat. If there was any other way, heʹd prefer to explore other options rather than be equated as a brawler. Now at this time in his life it seemed divine intervention had made the decision. The storm had left him and his ship so far off course his charts were useless. His crew was safe. If he turned down this offer, he had no idea where heʹd sail to when his ship was seaworthy, thus putting fifty four men at risk of losing their lives. Worse yet, heʹd fallen for the princess. Heʹd never given a thought to marriage and had always liked the idea of meeting new willing maids in exotic ports. Of course they always stayed behind when he shipped out, just as he liked it. Leaving Princess Mandara would be different, difficult even. The realization heʹd fallen in love with the hot‐tempered wench came as a surprise and relief. Of course he wouldnʹt tell her. Heʹd keep his male advantage over her, knowing if she ever knew of his feelings heʹd be lost forever. With a laugh he decided a man could die in worse ways! The image of her lying under him hardened him; and a different smile crossed his lips. Training Dara to be his willing wife would have its benefits. And if she ever relaxed with him, sheʹd learn the benefits worked both ways.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺYes,ʺ he said aloud. This was the perfect solution. Heʹd take Mandara to bride and rule with her. At least his men would understand that motivation, leaving him no need to elaborate on their current position among this great land of ice. Theyʹd never understand a sea captain afraid to go to sea, and heʹd never tell them they were lost. Dara had unwittingly solved his problem. Heʹd maintain respect from his crew and have a wife of his own to teach how to love him. Her lessons would begin soon. His lips curled into a serene, yet slightly sinister smile. His decision made, he moved back to her chamber to clear the air between them. Opening the chamber door, he paused, stunned to find her beneath the fall of water, her long, lithe limbs bare to his interested gaze. He stood watching her pink behind move under the water. Dara was the maid he’d spanked in the flower shed. Pleased to see that his hunch had been right, he felt his cock immediately swell, and he drew in a breath, enjoying the rush as she rinsed the soap from her long locks. It wasn’t until she turned around to reach for her drying cloth that she realized she wasn’t alone. With a shriek, she blocked her breasts with one hand while the other dropped to cover her feminine curls. “Sigurd, what on earth are you doing? Give me my robe.” He watched her for what seemed like an eternity, his eyes locked with hers. Water dripped from her hair and body, cold starting to overtake her as she shivered before him. He finally tossed her the drying cloth and moved away. He’d seen the proof that she was bleeding, and relief washed over him. He dropped several more logs on the fire while he waited for her to dress. When she finally stormed out from behind the curtain, her hair dripped wetly down her back as she stalked toward him, her hands fisted at her sides. “Did you enjoy humiliating me, Sigurd? Is this what our lives together will be like? Maybe I should marry Nandin! At least I know what he wants from me. You’re perverse on a much more dangerous level!” He liked the spirited side of her, remembered how she’d settled over his lap stroking his cock with her hip. If she ever could let go and just
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne enjoy the act, she’d be interesting to teach. In the last days many ideas crossed his mind—how he’d take her, where and when. The where was simple, anywhere there was privacy; the how he visualized over and over. Now having seen her nude, his vision would be complete. Most likely he’d wind up taking her to bed, but the prospect he liked best was her draped across his knees in the flower hut as her cheeks reddened from his hand. Then he’d turn her over the table, stretch her before him, waiting and wanting. One day soon he’d feel her surrender to him, and he’d keep the memory as a treasure. From the angered look on her face, that moment would have to wait. “I had to know for sure.” It was a simple statement, his words calm as he handed her a cup of wine. She shook her head, refusing the offer. “And now you know?” “It’s one point in the trust category.” “I hate you, Sigurd.” At that moment they both knew she truly meant her words. “Yes, but you’re also attracted to me on some level, or you’d never consider marrying me.” He moved beside her, his fingers tilting her chin to his gaze. “Why did you save me if you hate me so, angel?” “I’d save all human life—” “Yes, but mine was gone until you breathed it back into me. Think about that while you fall asleep tonight.” He finished the wine in his cup and put it on the mantle, finally releasing her chin. “And just so we both understand, maid, if I have a want, I’ll take you over my knee any time I choose.” “Is that the only way you can feel excitement, my lord? Physically hurting a woman makes you hard?” “I’ll never take you in anger, Dara, only in pursuit of passion.” “Ha! Passion and violence don’t go together.” “We’ll see. If you truly are untouched there are many ways that will be new to you, some familiar, some not.” Sigurd let his lips twist into a smile knowing he was pushing her beyond any limit she’d known in the past. Moving to the door he paused, adding, “I’ll tell the king to set the marriage. Until the morning Dara.”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He pulled the door closed behind him and stood in the hall just long enough to hear a cup hitting the hard surface. His method had been crude but effective.
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Chapter Five Bard summoned Sigurd to the kingʹs chamber just before the evening feast. Only Dara was present when he arrived. She seemed calm, almost too calm. ʺWine or cider, my lord?ʺ she asked as soon as Bard left them alone. ʺWine,ʺ he said, accepting the cup. He glanced at it and then to her. ʺShould I be wary, Princess Mandara?ʺ He held back a laugh when she bit her lip guiltily. ʺThe thought occurred to me, Sigurd, but that would be the coward’s way out.ʺ She took the cup from his hand and drank from it before offering it back. ʺThat is how you kept me in bed so long, isnʹt it?ʺ ʺI only wanted you to rest. Iʹd never give you anything to harm, only to heal. And staying still isnʹt your strongest suit.ʺ ʺSo you medicated me each night with your wine, then talked to me until I fell asleep.ʺ He shook his head at the irony of their situation. Those nights together had made him decide to accept the proposal. ʺIn the beginning you were too weak to decide. Then when you were feeling better, it was the only way to get you to rest. By the second week you started healing, so I didnʹt add anything to your wine from then on. Our evening talks were between us, Sigurd. No drug or agenda came between us on those nights nor the nights I read our history to you.ʺ He nodded in wry acceptance and drank from the cup. She could never tell him their talks were for her. Sheʹd wanted the memories of
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne being alone with the golden haired giant, of having his attention all to herself. They would stay with her until her last breath, his smile and his laugh, how he seemed genuinely shocked at some of her ideas of how Bohdan strived. Sheʹd seen the gruff, cranky side of him and still wanted more of him, even if he was hard to handle occasionally. The fight in Sigurd, the non automatic response to defer attracted her on another level. ʺWhat does the king want?ʺ ʺHeʹll see us at feast. I wanted to talk with you before his announcement.ʺ Dara poured a second cup of wine and carried it between her palms, warming the liquid. ʺWe have a sighting. King Nandinʹs ship is only a week away.ʺ As she drank from her cup, she swiped her lip with her tongue and saw his body react. He hardened instantly and moved beside the table, letting his hip ride the edge, thus pulling his tunic away from his body. ʺI wanted to give you one last chance to...decline our arrangement, sir.ʺ She prayed silently he wouldnʹt. ʺDecline our arrangement, Dara? I think the fates have made this arrangement, and we must live out their desire.ʺ She turned quickly to face him, not believing heʹd really choose to stay with her. ʺI met with my crew earlier. Iʹve told them of our marriage and given them the choice to stay here and make a life or to work my ship while I remain here. Iʹve also given them the option to return to their homes and find other arrangements.ʺ ʺYou did? Already?ʺ Dara took a step forward and held his gaze for a long moment before slowly lifting her hand to his patch. Carefully she pulled it aside and studied him. His scar ran in a jagged line from his eyebrow to the outer corner of his eye. While it had been a flesh wound, she had been concerned for his sight. Sigurd blinked several times at the difference in light and looked down. She gently kissed his scar. ʺMy sight is full, Dara, thanks to your healing. Iʹve left the patch on since you told me about your ancestor. I think Iʹll leave it in place a while longer, at least in public.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺIt can help rest your eye, Sir Sigurd. Iʹm pleased there are no lasting effects.ʺ She wanted to turn away and couldnʹt. Instead she could only stare at the ocean green of his eyes, the color so clear, as if she could see inside him. Something about his expression made her want to believe their life together would be satisfying, and she realized sheʹd have to be half of the solution. ʺThank you for accepting the agreement.ʺ Still she didnʹt look away, and Sigurd moved his right hand to touch her cheek. This time she stilled and didnʹt pull from his touch, rather let herself lean farther toward him. ʺHow long will Nandin stay and how many are in his party?ʺ Dara pulled back and shook herself to find an answer. Itʹs the power heʹs marrying, she reminded herself before she went all soft and dewy. This wasnʹt going to be a marriage of love and trust, rather power and possession. ʺIf he believes weʹre married and war would be useless, just a few weeks. If he has any doubts, Iʹm afraid heʹll want to stay the winter.ʺ At that thought her whole body shook. The memory of his last visit was still vivid on her mind. ʺWhat distresses you about his stay?ʺ ʺHe is a user, sir. Heʹll bring his party and spend the winter months expecting to be waited on. His presence here will change our daily life. His people are users of people and supplies. Theyʹll drink and eat to excess and expect more from our maids, taking what isnʹt offered.ʺ Her voice betrayed her hate for the other leader on many levels. ʺThen it is to our advantage to make him see we are united and his time would be better served elsewhere.ʺ His smile was genuine. Dara once again recognized the pull toward him. ʺYes, my lord, exactly.ʺ ʺMy crew will help to control his party. He will soon see under my...our rule, life in the castle has strict rules. Since the king was of his blood line it was difficult for him to find fault with Nandin. As your husband, I can enforce our standards upon him while he lives under our roof.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺOh, thank you, Sigurd.ʺ Dara hugged him before thinking about what she was doing. Once her arms were around him and his chest was pressed to hers, she felt his warmth. Felt his heat transfer to her nipples. It traveled low to her belly and made her flush. Sigurd’s raised arm encircled her but didnʹt confine her. Embarrassed at her show of affection, she moved to pull away. ʺDonʹt go, not yet,ʺ he whispered. He continued to hold her against him but didnʹt trap her further. It was her decision, and they both understood the significance when she leaned toward him, her lips pressing lightly against his. He let her kiss him, only meeting her want, letting her explore his mouth. When she finally slipped the tip of her tongue between his lips he let out a sigh and opened to her. They never got a chance to explore further. Bard knocked on the door, and announced it was time for the feast. Dara let her head drop to his shoulder and let out a rueful laugh. ʺAre you sure, Sigurd?ʺ ʺIʹm sure, Mandara. Let us go announce our marriage. Weʹll have time to get to know each other, I promise.ʺ He pressed his lips to her temple before placing her away from his body. * * * * * Three days later, Sigurd stood at the head of the chapel in a new green tunic with his shipʹs emblem and the Bohdan crest embroidered at his heart. A black leather patch covered his eye and gave him an authoritative air. When Dara started up the aisle on her father’s arm he gave her a genuine smile, and she relaxed. Her simple ivory gown was intricately woven with pearls at the bodice and wrists and hugged each curve of her body. Her hair was plated with pearls, and a small crown of fresh flowers held her veils in place. Sigurd didn’t wait until the king gave him her hand. Instead, he met them halfway down the isle. He allowed her to kiss her father on each cheek before he guided her to the front.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne In the crowded chapel, Dara and Sigurd said their pledges. King Bohdan decreed them married and placed a golden crown encircled with precious diamonds on Sigurdʹs head. Ingrid came forward and slipped off Dara’s coronet of flowers, and the king placed a smaller, delicate diamond crown on hers. There was a moment of complete silence while Sigurd and Dara turned toward each other. They were supposed to walk down the aisle together and then begin the feast. Instead, Sigurd took her hands and then lowered his lips to hers. After a moment of surprise, Dara responded to his kiss. The villagers cheered. Only then did they pull away, Heat burned Dara’s cheeks as Kerr stepped forward with Sigurdʹs sable cloak. She drew a breath as Sigurd gently placed it around her shoulders. They had not discussed the kiss or the custom of him shielding her with his cloak, but Dara was very glad he’d cared enough to keep her people’s traditions. Holding hands, they made their way toward the great hall, greeting each person who joined their celebration. Dara took her place beside the king with Sigurd on her other side as a symbol of her new power, of her equality with her father and husband. As the feast progressed, Sigurd drew Dara to the center hall, and pulled her toward him in a ritual dance. As the evening went long, they drew closer, and she felt safe against him. Even the feel of his hard shaft against her belly didnʹt frighten her. At last he took a deep breath and whispered that it was time for them to leave. Dara was glad to be away from the crowd. She wanted Sigurd all to herself, and her earlier fears were not as prevalent in her mind. They slipped from the crowd to lock themselves away in Daraʹs chamber. * * * * * The chamber was lit with candles, a table laid with a small feast. Dara’s small bed had been transformed into a massive platform covered with layers of soft silken cloths and furs. Veils roped along the upper rails and along the four corner posts. Fresh flowers in pottery vessels sat
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne around them and scented the warm air. Dara looked around the chamber with a keen eye. Touched that he’d taken the time to arrange this for them, she slowly untied his cloak from her shoulders and handed it back. ʺThank you, Sigurd. You surprise me at the oddest times.ʺ ʺYouʹre welcome, wife. Iʹm sure weʹll both be surprised at times.ʺ He smiled warmly. Dara slipped behind him and dropped the large wooden bar across the doorway, barring any entrance. ʺWould you like wine?ʺ she asked, nervous now that her fate was sealed. Sigurd nodded and dropped his cloak at the foot of their bed. He accepted the wine and sat beside the fire. Her hand shook as she lifted a cup to her lips. Here she was, married to Sigurd and the most scared sheʹd ever been. Yet there was a strange excitement in the air around them, almost palpable but unidentifiable. ʺDara, come here please?ʺ She stood transfixed, staring in complete disbelief. Heʹd actually said please, she realized, so she slowly moved to his side. Taking her hand he pulled it to his lips, watching her the whole time. ʺCalm yourself. You are my wife, now. I have no reason to harm you.ʺ She averted her eyes. ʺOr to push you...ʺ Her cheeks heated and he pulled her onto his lap. ʺTell me, how long do we have before theyʹll want proof Iʹve broken you?ʺ His completely resigned tone shocked her, and she jumped away from his lap. ʺI beg youʹre pardon, sir!ʺ Sigurd reached toward her. ʺIs there no need to prove weʹve bedded?ʺ He was completely serious. ʺWhat kind of a land do you come from?ʺ Confusion had defused her anger at the suggestion, and she allowed him to pull her back to his lap. ʺYou canʹt be serious...ʺ ʺBut I am. Where I hail from a noble wedding would be consummated and proved complete.ʺ Dara shook her head in disbelief. ʺYou mean...how would you prove it?ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He settled back and shifted her until she rested against him. Her arm rested around the back of his neck, similar to how they had sat the night in the flower hut when he found her crying. ʺWell, there would be witnesses...ʺ She stood with shock, and he pulled her back with a laugh. ʺThe couple would draw the curtains and when she was no longer virginal theyʹd produce a cloth bearing her blood. Only then would they be left alone to enjoy each other privately.ʺ ʺThat is barbaric, sir. Iʹm quite thankful to say we have no such custom here.ʺ ʺI prefer it this way, too, Princess. I donʹt need an audience and from this time on, only my eyes lay upon you.ʺ ʺYes,ʺ she whispered, huskily. ʺThey really make you...show her stain. What if...ʺ Dara paused. ʺThatʹs why you were so rude last week when I told you I bled?ʺ ʺYes, trickery has found its way into marriages for centuries.ʺ ʺThose poor women,ʺ she said, finally relaxing against the great wall of his chest. ʺCan you imagine people waiting on the other side of a curtain? They could hear every word said, every cry...ʺ ʺImagine how the man must feel, pressured to perform quickly, yet in most cases not wanting to hurt his bride, thus starting their union with pain instead of pleasure.ʺ Dara eased the cup from his hand and sipped before handing it back. ʺTell me more about the land you come from. When we talked at night, you only wanted to hear about our isle. You rarely told me about your homeland. Will you miss it? Do you have any family youʹll miss?ʺ ʺNone that survive. That is why being a sea captain suited me. I had no restraints to home or the land.ʺ ʺAnd now, do you think you will feel tied here and eventually grow weary of being land locked?ʺ ʺNot if my queen keeps me occupied,ʺ he said, slowly lifting off his crown and placing it aside. Next he took off hers and carefully unwound her veil, his large fingers slowly taking the pearls from their plaits before smoothing them free down her back.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺAs husband and wife, what is between us stays with us?ʺ she asked, glad that he couldn’t see her face. It gave her the courage to ask the questions that weighed heavy on her mind. ʺAlways, our private time together is sacred.ʺ She turned back toward him, slipping her arm around his shoulder. ʺThen I will admit something to you, sir, but please donʹt think badly of me.ʺ Sigurd nodded. ʺAs a healer, I understand the process, but I just canʹt see how it all gets started.ʺ She felt her cheeks heat with embarrassment, but Sigurd didn’t laugh. He simply pulled her against his chest. ʺWeʹve already begun, wife.ʺ Softly at first, he kissed her, renewing their connection. She held his tunic tightly, finally relaxing into his embrace. As he continued to tease her lips with his, her fingers relaxed their hold on the cloth, and she pressed her palm against the wall of his chest. His tongue danced along hers, and she sighed, finally opening to him. When Sigurd would have pounced in the past, tonight he wanted to take time to enjoy Dara, to make her feel and see the possibilities they could obtain. He gently sucked her tongue into his mouth, and she responded by slipping her hands along his shoulders, her fingers ultimately locked in his long blonde curls. He grew even harder and surged forward when she sucked his tongue into her mouth. Her nipples hardened into tight little nubs as he stroked her arm, and then trailed his fingertips down her stomach, just missing the caress he knew her body craved. She pressed her chest to his, kissing him, exploring his mouth with her lips and tongue. All the while, his hands stroked her back, from shoulder to hip, each pass making her squirm over him a bit more. ʺDonʹt stop,ʺ he murmured. ʺI like the feel of your lips on my skin, of your hands touching me.ʺ ʺAre you sure?ʺ ʺQuite sure, wife. Between us and behind closed doors nothing we do together that we both enjoy is wrong.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺThen kiss me again, Sigurd. You fill me with a strange ache when you kiss me.ʺ ʺI understand your ache, Dara. Soon Iʹll soothe it, and you’ll soothe mine.ʺ ʺNow, Sigurd,ʺ she whispered, taking his face between her palms and directing it to hers. ʺSoothe me now...ʺ Her mouth locked over his and sucked his tongue deeply while she rocked against him. His will was waning. It had been a long time since heʹd taken a woman. Heʹd handled himself in the last weeks but that wasnʹt the same. The idea of his young wife wanting him was almost too much to bear. He swept her up in his arms and walked across to the bed, gently lying her down on the fur covered mattress, sliding down half over her and half beside her. They continued to kiss, and their stroking became bolder. He cupped her breast, taking her budded nipple between his fingers to tease it tighter. ʺI donʹt want to rip your gown, Dara,ʺ he said against her neck, alternating small kisses and light bites along the column of her throat. His head dipped lower, and his tongue drew along her chest, but her gown impeded him from touching her the way he wanted to touch her. ʺSigurd,ʺ she said as she let her hand slip lower on his belly. His stomach tightened, and he surged against her side. Her hand was too small to hold the length of him. She closed her fist around him as best she could with their clothes on, and he quickly pulled away, flipping her over onto her stomach with one smooth move. He unlaced her gown, freeing her from its restraints. When he lifted her back against him, the bodice fell forward, and she worked the long sleeves down her arms. She wore a whisper thin chemise under it. His lips teased her through the light cloth while his fingers kneaded her. She relaxed under him, her sigh confirming she was no longer afraid. With his mouth to her breast, he continued to knead her with one hand, letting his other drop to her belly again, this time dropping lower. Dara froze under him for only a second when she felt his touch. He understood no man had ever touched her there, yet he was certain she
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne now wanted him to—wanted him to do it now. She wriggled from his grasp, and he turned quickly to watch her. ʺDid I hurt you?ʺ ʺNo, but I want...ʺ ʺWhat do you want, wife?ʺ His lips curved into a smile, and she tore off his eye patch. Leaning over him she watched him carefully. ʺFirst I want to get out of this gown. It limits my movements.ʺ She backed off him and turned her back before letting the garment fall to the floor, then slowly turning forward once more. Sigurd swallowed hard at her bold attitude. He liked that she’d taken the initiative. Her long chemise was so fine he could see her breasts through it and the dark mound of curls he so wanted to invade. ʺAnd you, sir? I would prefer not to be the only one naked.ʺ Her arched eyebrow challenged him, so he sat up with a laugh, tugging at his boots before standing to rid himself of his belt and tunic. He went to toss it aside and paused when he noticed the intertwined crests. ʺDara, remind me to thank who ever did this,ʺ he said, his finger stroking the fine threads. ʺYouʹre welcome, husband.ʺ She glanced away, and he pulled her to him. ʺYou are a woman of many talents.ʺ ʺSome we hope still lie hidden!ʺ Sigurd laughed aloud. She joined him, and some of the tension dissipated. ʺWine?ʺ She moved across the room and brought it back, while he stripped off the rest of his clothes. He took the cup from her and drank deeply, then put it aside and dropped his trousers, his erection bouncing to life after its tight confinement. Dara stood mesmerized before him. She reached out to stroke his chest, her fingers a mere whisper against him. ʺYouʹve seen men before, Mandara. Am I so different?ʺ ʺLarge,ʺ she whispered, ʺso large.ʺ She licked her lips, dropping to her knees before him. She reached out and let her fingertips brush against
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne the bulbous head of his erection, and he gasped, his cock surging against her hand. She sat back on her heels quickly and stared up at him, her eyes wide and uncertain. ʺTouch me, Dara. You wonʹt hurt me, and you know I long for your touch.ʺ ʺYou could have had any of the maids who came to you,ʺ she said, and as her breath reached his cock, it strained toward her. ʺI wanted no other maid but my healing angel.ʺ ʺSomehow I believe you, Sigurd.ʺ Her gaze moved over him and once again she stroked his stomach, letting her hands ride over his hips and down his thighs. His muscles tightened at her touch. He drew a breath as her fingers slowly encased his length. When he groaned, she grew bolder. She stroked him with both hands, touching him all over, watching his reactions. When a glossy drop of fluid leaked from his tip she looked up. ʺYou make me want you more...ʺ She took the drop of fluid on her fingertips, feeling the texture between them. He took her hand and pulled her up along his body, taking her fingers to his lips and sucking on them lightly. ʺIs that what Iʹm supposed to do?ʺ ʺItʹs one possibility,ʺ he told her. ʺThere are others, Dara. Right now, weʹll explore differently.ʺ He raised her arms and gathered the chemise in his fingers, slowly pulling the garment over her head, then dropping it aside as his eyes feasted on her nakedness. He swept her up in his arms and laid her across the bed a second time, leaning over her, lowering his lips to her breast as his fingers slid to her curls, finding them moist. Gently he stroked her as he sucked her nipple. Dara grabbed at his shoulders, coming alive under his touch. Her body instinctively knew what it needed. Sigurd fingers parted her damp curls, stroking her intimately. She groaned under him, and he released her breast, kissing his way down her body until he reached the place his fingers had been and replaced them with his tongue. She gasped at his intention and grabbed at him to stop.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺBetween husband and wife, Dara,ʺ he said again and tongued her deeply. ʺBetween husband and wife, Sigurd. I need...ʺ Her body arched against his mouth. Her head dropped back, and she braced herself with her hands while she pushed toward his mouth. His large index finger followed his tongue’s path, and she gasped a second time but didnʹt pull away. Instead she closed her eyes and let him touch her, teach her. He slipped his finger inside her easily, using her body’s damp heat to ease his way. When he slowly withdrew, she cried out at the loss. He soothed her with comforting whispers and filled the ache again, over and over, never pushing her too hard, letting her become accustomed to the stretching burn of first one, and then two fingers. Soon she was thrusting against him, wanting more. Wanting something she couldn’t even name. When the release hit her, she shuddered under him, crying out as she fell back against the pillows. He moved up her body, his lips wet with her release, and kissed her, sharing her essence. His body slid over hers, nudging her legs wide, as he settled between them. He rubbed the head of his cock head against the damp crease between her thighs. She writhed under him, wanting more yet not knowing how to get it. ʺDara,ʺ he whispered against her throat. ʺSigurd, please help me, I need...ʺ Her fingers tangled in his hair, and she pulled his mouth to hers, taking his bottom lip between her teeth. He pushed against her, and she felt herself stretch to accommodate his girth. ʺDara, I promise it will only hurt for a moment.ʺ His words registered, but she didn’t care. All she wanted was to feel him inside her completely. Her hips opened wider, and gravity forced him forward. He bent to press his mouth to her breast and suckled her nipple as he pushed forward. She cried out as he possessed her completely. She froze under him, then slowly rotated her hips against him.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺDara, be calm. The pain will pass, I promise.ʺ ʺI donʹt care, Sigurd. Hurt me, by the gods, please hurt me!ʺ He pulled back, then slid deep inside her. His large hands took hers and pulled them over her head as they watched each other intently. Pushing forward, he invaded her again, and she understood, tried to relax and accept his length. She was tight and wet, hot inside and out. Dara prompted him, begging him to go harder and deeper until she burst from the inside into the darkness of orgasm, clenching him in place, forcing him to empty deep inside her. She crumbled under him, her body quaking, and he pulled her tight. ʺWeʹve made a good start, wife,ʺ he whispered against her temple. ʺThank you.ʺ ʺOh, Sigurd, it was...I mean...you found your pleasure?ʺ ʺYes, Dara. And tonight is only a beginning. Weʹll learn together what pleases each of us, and with time, our wants will change.ʺ ʺHow often will you want me?ʺ she asked, stroking his chest as his cock pulsed back to life. She let her fingertips drop lower. His nod was all the approval she needed. Continuing, she grew bolder as he grew larger in her palm. ʺAll the time, wife,ʺ he said, with all seriousness. She started to pull her hand away. ʺNo, donʹt go. I wonʹt hurt you again tonight.ʺ ʺOh, will you sleep now?ʺ ʺEventually, are you tired?ʺ ʺNo. Iʹm...awake and alive. I feel so...ʺ ʺSo? What do you feel Dara?ʺ ʺI feel wonderful. Relaxed yet I want...more!ʺ She sat up beside him, staring down at his naked body in amazement. ʺSigurd, I want you again. Is that wrong?ʺ ʺNo, itʹs not wrong; in fact, itʹs just right.ʺ He slipped from the bed, pausing only to lift her to his chest before walking toward the waterfall. He sat on the bench with her on his lap, her back to his chest, and let the water wash over them, cleansing her blood stained thighs. She slowly worked the soap toward his groin, giving his cock special attention as she washed away their stains.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He took the bar from her and gently washed her lower lips. At first she tensed then relaxed, letting her head drop back to his shoulder as he stroked her further with his right hand. His left arm held her close, her legs spread wide over his, his cock bobbing just below her entrance. Her fingers pinched at his arm as she moved to his touch, her breathing becoming labored. He slipped one large finger inside her, and she moaned deep in her throat as her muscles grabbed at him. ʺDara, itʹs time to dry off,ʺ he told her. ʺSigurd, if I just turned around, couldnʹt you just...slip inside me?ʺ She wiggled on his lap and turned to straddle him. He pulled them from the water and didnʹt bother to dry them off. Instead, he moved before the fireplace, laying her on the carpet. ʺAnother time for that, Dara. I donʹt want you sore.ʺ ʺPromise?ʺ ʺYes, I promise. For tonight, we go slow and easy.ʺ He lowered his strong body between her thighs, burying his face between her thighs. His large hands closed around her slim waist and pulled her to him. She groaned as he tongued her, giving herself willingly, allowing him to possess her and guide her. After she’d found ecstasy once again, Sigurd draped his cloak over them as they lay sated beside each other. He propped himself on one elbow, watching her as she slept, fascinated by the way her hair mixed with the sable fur. With the gods help and the erratic storm that had tossed his ship to this strange world, heʹd found himself content for the first time in years. While heʹd never admit it to anyone, the last several voyages had lost their appeal. It had become work, a job to be done. He wondered once again if he would have chosen to stay in this land even after his ship was repaired. That was what had made him accept the marriage arrangement. Deep inside he knew he was destined for something else. With his angel beside him they would explore the future together.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
Chapter Six ʺMorning, husband.ʺ Dara’s words pushed sleep from Sigurd’s brain. He tightened his arms around her lithe body, still tangled with his. ʺMorning wife,ʺ he answered, rolling toward her. ʺIs it light already?ʺ ʺAlmost. I have a surprise for you.ʺ She stretched against him before sighing deeply and moving from his arms. He pulled her back against him and couldn’t resist the urge to take one of her budding nipples in his hand. ʺStay a while longer,ʺ he said. ʺWe canʹt. Weʹre expected at the blessing.ʺ ʺWonʹt they let us sleep in just this once?ʺ He groaned and released her breast. ʺYou can have your surprise after we break fast.ʺ She slid off the bed and stood naked before him, just out of his reach. ʺCome with me, Sigurd. Trust me. I think youʹll like it. Iʹve made arrangements…ʺ Her voice trailed off as she walked toward the waterfall. Sigurd dropped his hand to his morning erection and gave it a quick pull before letting it go along with the idea of satisfying his need. Hours later he stood transfixed in the doorway of his old bedchamber, gazing at his surprise. Theyʹd gone to the blessing and dined as usual. Afterward, Dara had brought him back here. The large bed had been replaced by long tables. Two rabbit covered chairs stood near the fireplace and the rest of the room seemed more like a receiving chamber.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺWe can make more changes later on, but this is a start. Weʹll have our private work space here, if that suits. In the past Iʹve always kept work in my chamber, but I thought this might be better? Do you agree?ʺ ʺYes, I prefer our bedchamber not be used for work.ʺ He moved farther inside to discover all his chests from the ship waiting for his key. ʺThis will work well, Dara. Thank you for thinking of it.ʺ She moved behind him and slipped her arms around his waist. ʺThis isnʹt your surprise, Sigurd. Well, a bit of it I suppose, but your real surprise awaits. Kerr and Ingrid will be here shortly. I thought you might want to give him orders in your absence.ʺ Sigurd twisted easily in her arms until he faced her. ʺIn my absence?ʺ he asked, searching her brown eyes for a clue. ʺYes, I thought youʹd want to leave him in charge of your crew. If there is someone you’d rather, Iʹll summon him.ʺ ʺNo, Kerr is my second. But pray tell, wife, more about my absence.ʺ ʺI’m taking you to a secret place where we can be alone for a couple of days.ʺ ʺFor two days and nights, are you sure?ʺ He gave her a suggestive glance and her skin reddened. “I’m sure,” she whispered as Kerr and Ingrid arrived for their instructions. Later, Dara directed him to a closed wing of the castle. “This section is under repair,” she explained. “The steam system is being updated. It’s just a bit farther. You’ll get used to the hallways, and soon you’ll see how the castle was laid out, and it will all become familiar to you.” After trekking through a labyrinth of halls and doors they finally came to a small stone room. What looked like a closet door was unlocked to reveal a downward staircase carved in the stone. She used her key to relock the door from the inside. One flickering candle in her hand lit their way as they made several twists and turns before coming to a narrow passage. In the distance he could see light.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺClose your eyes,ʺ she told him, taking him by the hand several paces before she stopped. ʺMy lord, I share with you my secret place. Few know about its existence and fewer are allowed to come here.ʺ He opened his eyes and blinked several times as he beheld a world he never could have imagined. All around him walls of ice twinkled like diamonds, yet warmth surrounded him. Shrouding fog drifted through the air. A small table laid with wine, cups, trenchers of fresh fruit and vegetables, and breads wrapped in cloth waited for them. ʺWhat is this place, Dara?ʺ ʺItʹs an ice cave, Sigurd. With time, steam from the geysers has created this space inside the far glacier. We are quite safe, weʹre below the ground, and the temperature is constant.ʺ He pulled off his cloak and stared around him in awe. ʺCome, thereʹs more,ʺ she said, leading him to a small, light‐filled passage at the far side of the room. He wondered if heʹd fit through it. She urged him to try, and he managed to fit his shoulders through the crevice. On the other side lay a pool of steaming water. Heat fogged the room, and met the ice walls, producing the steam. ʺItʹs warm, a fresh spring,ʺ Dara informed him. ʺFresh?ʺ ʺYes, although nobody has been able to figure out how or why. We just accept this is a private place we were destined to enjoy. At the far end it’s cooler. I’ve had some bedding placed there for us to rest on.ʺ ʺAnd the light?ʺ She motioned for him to look up and he gasped. High above the layers of steam and ice he saw the sky, blue and sun bright. His mouth gaped open slightly as he watched clouds move over them. ʺIn the night?ʺ ʺYouʹll see for yourself, later.ʺ She gave him a contented smile. ʺNobody really knows how high the ice roof truly is; only that it stays clear to the sky. You should be here during a storm. Itʹs like being outside, yet weʹre protected by the ice.ʺ ʺIʹve never seen anything like this, Princess.ʺ He turned, and grasped her hand. ʺThank you for sharing this with me.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺOnly with my husband,ʺ she said before slowly pulling her outer tunic over her head. She moved beside him, presenting her back. ʺUnlace me, Sigurd.ʺ She needed to extend no further invitation. His fingers worked the garment quickly, pushing it off her shoulders. His hands captured her breasts as his lips moved to the back of her neck, stopping to tease the tender skin behind her ear. ʺI like you without the chemise, Dara. The idea of the material rubbing against your nipples, especially after Iʹve had them...ʺ His whole body quaked behind her. ʺSigurd,ʺ she uttered as he tugged her nipples. ʺWhat do you want? Tell me. You chose to share this place with me for a reason. You wanted to be alone with me, beyond a closed door. What is your desire, wife?ʺ Her hands slipped behind her, stroking his thighs, finding his cock through his trousers. ʺI want to see you, Sigurd, to touch you.ʺ He groaned and pulsed in her palm. ʺThat can be arranged,ʺ he managed to say, before setting her away from him so he could strip off the rest of her gown. She stood naked before him, her breasts high with puckered nipples, her belly flat, her long, slim legs waiting to wrap around him. The touch of his palm was long gone from her skin. He stripped quickly and moved her to the thick carpets on the spring side. When he would have lain down, she placed a hand on his belly and knelt before him. She learned him, watched him, touched him, and waited for responses to her ministrations. He groaned when she stroked him and stilled when her tongue swept across the tip of his cock. For long minutes he stood tall, his shoulders back, his legs apart as Dara loved him. She was tentative at first, and he quelled the urge to push her forward, to hurry her. Instead, he gritted his teeth when she placed light kisses all along his shaft and lapped up the clear drops oozing from his tip. He drew a sharp breath when she suddenly took his head in her mouth, overwhelming him with warmth.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne She teased his sack while she struggled to capture him between her lips. Her tongue swirled around him, goading more fluid from his tip. He glanced down and watched her lips close tightly around his cock. Her right hand held him, and her left tugged at her own nipple. He wondered if she even realized she touched herself. The sight made him twitch, and she pulled back, quickly dropping her hand. He reached down and pulled her up against him. ʺDonʹt take your hand away. It pleasures me to watch you.ʺ He gave her a deep kiss. ʺLater, Dara, but first Iʹll explode if I donʹt find release.ʺ ʺHow?ʺ she asked. ʺQuickly, wife, Then weʹll have time to explore.ʺ He lowered her to the carpet and moved between her thighs, testing her with his fingers, finding her slick. Unable to wait, he plunged deep inside her, feeling her velvet skin grasp him. Dara cried out, but he held still until she calmed. Her body relaxed and accepted his intrusion. Slowly he began to move, and her body arched to meet him. Their loving was quick yet intense. His strokes pushed her into a frenzy, and she tugged at his hips to pull him closer, to take him deeper. Her voice echoed through the ice cave when her release struck, and he quickly followed her. ʺThank you.ʺ He brushed his lips to her temple. ʺThank you,ʺ she whispered with a smile. ʺNow, sir, would you like a cup of wine?ʺ Pushing to her feet, she brought the wine and food, and they spent long hours stroking and learning each other as they lounged beside the spring. He told her a bit about his home land and how it differed from hers. She told him the ways of the castle, and how each child was taught to read, write, and learn numbers before they were sent to apprenticeships. Both sexes took turns in the bakery and the blacksmith. They learned how a loom worked and how to sew a straight tight seam. And they all took turns mucking out the stalls and learning to ride. He laughed at her descriptions of her first seams and how her time in the bakery was a disaster.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He was surprised she and her brother each took their turns, and she told him it was only fair. If they were to supervise the jobs, they needed to understand what had to be done. Other stories from her youth included swimming here with her parents and brother. ʺThis is the only place we use our royal privileges. All the rest of the castle is open to our people. This place is our retreat. When there is a big decision to be made, we always wound up down here. And by the time we left, all would be decided.” She told him her father came here occasionally now, but never swam. He’d been alone for so long now, but she thought it was beautiful that he loved his queen enough to wait to see her again. ʺYour parents let you listen to them discuss the castle problems?ʺ ʺNot exactly. When we were younger, coming here was an escape from the pressures. Theyʹd talk while Roland and I swam and played. We always knew when they had reached an agreement, because then theyʹd come and swim with us, and we’d be a family. Usually, before we left here, they would tell us what changes were to be made. It was their way of teaching us how to one day rule. As we aged, we were allowed to voice opinions and ask questions to clarify.ʺ ʺIs that how you see our future, Dara? Bringing our family here to work out our differences?ʺ ʺMaybe later, but for now this place is just for us.ʺ She sprung to her feet and found her gown, returning with a key. “Father gave me this last night. Itʹs his way of blessing our union.ʺ She opened her fingers and let the symbol of their future together drop into his palm. ʺNo one has one, Sigurd, only us and whatever children we may be granted.ʺ ʺAgreed,ʺ he whispered, overwhelmed by the gesture, both hers and the kingʹs. He wrapped his arms around her middle and hid his face against her breast. ʺThank you, Dara. This is humbling, from you and your father.ʺ ʺItʹs our way of welcoming you, of showing how much we trust you.ʺ ʺI wonʹt disappoint you.ʺ He wasnʹt prepared for her laughter.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺOf course you will on occasion and I you.ʺ She ruffled his hair playfully. ʺBut if we remember how much we want this to work, I feel we will be successful.ʺ ʺIʹll always remember this night. Iʹll never forget.ʺ He held her for a long time, both of them quiet with their own thoughts. Only when his hands slipped down to capture her buttocks did she rouse from dreams, reality at hand. He cupped and kneaded her, lightly pinching her luscious ass. His cock bobbed to life, and she groaned aloud. ʺCome, Sigurd.ʺ She moved toward the waterʹs edge and gently lowered her body into the swirling fog, and into the warm water below. ʺThere are three large steps,ʺ she cautioned. ʺIt flattens out for several paces then drops toward the center.ʺ He tried the first step, learned that the warmth was agreeable, and continued farther. Once submerged, he swam toward the center, taking long strokes, the heated water relaxing his sore arm. Dara watched him enjoy the freedom of the water from the second step, where the water was level with her shoulders. His muscles rippled and she warmed deep inside. Her nipples peaked below the water, and she reached to stroke them, intent on keeping her actions private. With her eyes half‐closed, she remembered his kiss, and a shiver shot from her pinching fingers to her core. Wanting to touch him again, she swam out and met him in the center of the spring, directing him to a ledge on the far side. Once seated, the warm rush of water against his back and shoulders should ease any lingering stiffness from his injury. ʺDoes it ease your pain?ʺ she asked. He moved his shoulder and neck, relaxing back against the forced water. She treaded her legs to keep afloat before him. He pulled her toward him, until she straddled his legs, and his cock bobbed against her belly. ʺYou can ease my pain, Dara.ʺ He lifted her by the waist and moved her back and forth slowly against his tip. She used her weight to settle firmly astride him, capturing him in a different kind of warmth. He caught her arms, slowing her progression. She watched his face as she accepted him, felt her body tense and then release to accommodate him further. Her arms came up around his neck, and he kissed her hungrily.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Time had no meaning, as the sky changed from light blue with sun to dark blue with twinkling stars. They talked as lovers would, small groans instead of words, strokes instead of questions. Her body melted around him and she let her weight drift back in the water. The difference in angle amazed her and she gasped aloud when he rubbed the spot where they joined with his fingertip. It was more than she could take. She sat forward, pushing her chest toward his waiting lips, pressing her breasts together so he could suckle them both at the same time while she rocked over him, taking them to a shattering release. They eased back against the ledge, still joined. Neither spoke. Instead they just held on tight. Dara was certain not every man and woman connected on this level. They ate and drank, loved and talked, slept and loved, laughed and loved. And each time it was slightly different. Each time she learned something new about her body and his. And each time she fell a bit deeper in love with him. By the second evening, Dara had never felt so free, so alive. She stretched naked beside her husband, and he rested his hand on her belly. ʺWhat do you desire, Sigurd? Our time here grows short.ʺ ʺYou are my desire, Dara. Only I never knew you existed.ʺ ʺI always dreamed Iʹd find you, but until I saw them drag you from the sea I never hoped to find you in reality.ʺ She realized what sheʹd said and stilled. Breaking the awkward silence, he laid her on the carpet, moving behind her, his body spooned along hers. ʺI desire to watch you,ʺ he said, taking her hand and placing it over her breast. ʺSigurd, I couldnʹt. I mean donʹt...ʺ He laughed and she narrowed her eyes. ʺYou asked me what I desire. As my wife, you pleasure yourself without guilt or embarrassment.ʺ ʺBut...ʺ ʺAs long as I get to watch,ʺ he added, resting his head on his hand as he waited for her to touch herself.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺI canʹt,ʺ she whispered, but knew her answer wouldn’t be accepted. ʺYes, you can. Close your eyes,ʺ he said, lowering his voice. ʺThink back to when you were on your knees in front of me, touching my cock, your lips closing around me, tasting me.ʺ She groaned and let him move her hand to her curls. ʺThink back, Dara. How did it feel to hold me in your mouth, to know you held the power to release me or stall me? How do I taste? What would you do to me if you had no boundaries?ʺ His words continued, and slowly she traced herself with her fingers. She lay breathless beside him, her back crushed against his chest while his arm held her tight. His words of lust and want allowed her to go free, to take pleasure at her own hand with him as witness. He groaned deep inside his chest when she reached to pull her own nipple. Encouraged, she explored herself as if it were the first time sheʹd touched her own flesh, dipping her own finger inside her, and using her own moisture to ease her movements. He took her fingers to his mouth several times, each time making her groan. His fingers pushed hers deeper, taking her to liberation like none other. Sheʹd cried out his name as the blinding moment came, and he tightened his hand over her, keeping her in the abyss. The whole time she spiraled beside him he whispered only one word, ʹwifeʹ, over and over again. Later, sated and exhausted, they lay together, and she buried her face against the great wall of his chest. ʺI canʹt believe you made me...that I touched myself and...ʺ ʺAnd? Did you not like the feeling?ʺ ʺIʹm embarrassed by my actions,ʺ she finally admitted, her words mumbled. ʺNever be embarrassed with me, wife. Together, whatever we choose to do isnʹt wrong.ʺ ʺBut, I feel...ʺ ʺWould it help ease your mind if I chastised you for your actions?ʺ He let his hand slip down to cup her buttock. She stilled against him, as his hand tightened. ʺEver since I realized it was you I spanked in the
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne flower hut, Iʹve wanted to do it again.ʺ She drew a short breath and held it. ʺNot in anger, Dara, for pleasure.ʺ ʺFor pleasure?ʺ She was confused and forgot to be embarrassed or outraged. Instead, she leaned up, propping her head on her hand as she gazed up at him. ʺI donʹt see how the two mix. You were mad at me and spanked me like a child. That gave you pleasure? Will you hit our children?ʺ He pulled her closer. ʺThat was a reflex to your attitude. When I spank you again, it will be because you want me to, because youʹll realize with time that many things if done in moderation can be enjoyable. Itʹs a prelude, a different way to get things started, if you will.ʺ ʺAnd who decides this kind of prelude? Should I be prepared to be taken over you knee at your whim?ʺ ʺMore like at yours, wife. Weʹll learn each otherʹs moods, each otherʹs needs. And occasionally youʹll taunt me into reddening your behind. And when I take you those times, the heat from your skin will scald me to come.ʺ ʺI canʹt imagine ever asking to be taken over you knee, Sigurd. Iʹm afraid Iʹll disappoint you.ʺ ʺTime will tell, but donʹt wonder on it now. If it will be, it will come automatically with your mood and with lust. I told you, there is a world of ways for us to explore each other.ʺ ʺIf I ask you to stop, will you?ʺ ʺIf by accident Iʹm hurting you, yes.ʺ ʺThis leaves my mind in a quandary, Sigurd. I cannot comprehend.ʺ ʺLet it go, wife. There is time for us to discover our deeper selves.
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Chapter Seven Reluctantly they returned to castle life the next morning only to hear Nandinʹs ships were steadily approaching. Sigurd left Dara to her own work as he conferred with Kerr. He was preoccupied through the evening feast, surprising Dara when he asked the king back to their quarters. Dara knew heʹd already talked with the king earlier in the day and thanked him for his acceptance and gift of the ice cave. Pouring cups of mulled cider for the three of them, she waited until Sigurd motioned her toward him, pulling her to rest on the arm of his chair. ʺI think I might have found a way to make Nandin re‐think his possibilities. However, it is going to take a lot of trust from you, my king, and from my wife.ʺ He had a strange look on his face but his arm reached around behind her, reinforcing contact between them. “It will take everyone’s help, my king, but if we make Nandin’s stay uncomfortable he may not stay long. Limiting his movements and those of his party will definitely bore them quickly.” “Go on,” the king prompted. “This is a very comfortable castle; everyone has gone out of their way to make me and my crew welcome. I suggest we don’t extend the same amount of courtesy to Nandin.” Sigurd looked to his new wife and saw her confused look. “Only until his party leaves, you understand, but while they’re in residence might we become a very…staid keep?”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne The king laughed aloud, and Dara relaxed beside Sigurd. “Gather the people together, and we’ll work it out. Mind you, they may think your idea a bit outlandish, but I myself like it.” He laughed a second time but didn’t share the joke with them. “Go, I’ll meet you later. There’s something I want to look for.” Dara and Sigurd were almost to the door when he added, “A very interesting idea at that, Sigurd. Let us remind Nandin his home will better suit him for the future.” After receiving Bohdanʹs full blessing, they dispersed and started their work. Time was short and the entire village would be needed to make his plan effective. Ingrid and Kerr were both summoned even though the hour was late, as were the heads of all the castle areas. Sigurd chose to meet them in the chapel. He wanted a serious surrounding when he asked these strangers to follow his unorthodox orders without complaint or question. At first they were all stunned by the requests of their new prince. Not until each area was explained did they start to understand. Dara stood beside her husband, proud of his ideas to save Bohdan from Nandinʹs presence, reinforcing her and the kingʹs approval. ʺFrederick, I want you to bring all the older horses forward in the stable along with the work horses. Move the rest of the horses toward the rear of the barn. If necessary, stable the more important animals with your...our villagers. Replace them with their work horses.ʺ The generally quiet man seemed affronted. ʺBut, my lord, Nandin will think our stock depleted.ʺ ʺExactly. Would you rather he and his party use your best breeding stock, running them ragged without thought?ʺ Sigurd knew his idea was a long shot but probably the only one they had. And deep inside he didnʹt want to disappoint Dara. ʺNo, sir, but...ʺ ʺIʹm told Nandin likes to ride to survey your land. Weʹll let him ride; only his mount will not be your best horse, nor any of his party. If they donʹt enjoy their rides, they wonʹt race them for entertainment and soon grow tired of taking them out.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺOh,ʺ Frederick answered. ʺYes, sir, we have a few that are skittish and untrained, some who are old and tired and others who donʹt take the bit well.ʺ ʺGood.ʺ He turned to Sarah next. ʺI know this is against your training to make all guests welcome in Bohdan, my lady, but I would like you to empty your stock of the fine cloths you weave. Also, take all the fine linens from the guest quarters, use older and patched cloths.” He watched the color drain from her face. ʺBut my lord that would make our rooms look...ʺ ʺOutdated and not as comfortable. Would you want to stay months in a castle that wasnʹt the highest quality?ʺ ʺNo, my lord,ʺ she whispered. Sigurd understood the idea went against everything sheʹd been taught through the years. ʺMarta, I appeal to you also. While your kitchens have turned out luscious meals, I must ask you to...ʺ The old maid nodded her acceptance. ʺI understand, my lord. No spices, no special feasts.ʺ Sigurd smiled. ʺThatʹs right. Keep everything bland. And simple, the less fuss the better. Tell the bakers to relinquish all use of sugars in the sweets.ʺ ʺEdible only?ʺ She didnʹt hide the conspiratorial smile forming on her lips. ʺExactly.ʺ Sigurd went on to tell them how he saw their daily life changing while Nandin and his party were in residence. Finally, he turned to Hale. ʺYou, sir, have the hardest job. I want you to make life in the castle uncomfortable. Nandin and his party will be housed in the north wing for their stay.ʺ Hale smiled fully as he nodded. ʺItʹs a shame the steam doesnʹt run easily through those old pipes, my lord. Why itʹs been our pity weʹre unable to repair them.ʺ ʺExactly. Now, Ingrid, instruct all your maids to make ready those chambers, but first I want the rest of the castle locked and all keys brought
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne to Dara. If Nandin can get in the other rooms heʹll insist on being moved. Make sure their chambers are useable, but sparse.ʺ ʺAye, my lord, we have the woolen blankets that itch,ʺ Ingrid said, and was obviously pleased when Sigurd laughed aloud. ʺThatʹs the spirit, my lady. I understand this is all a major inconvenience, but we feel it necessary to make our guest see his home would be preferable to ours.ʺ ʺSigurd, what about our men?ʺ Kerr inquired. ʺFrom the moment Nandin lands, make sure enough of our crew remains at the ship to keep it safe. None of his party is allowed on board, for any reason. No tours, no exceptions. The rest of the crew I want stationed up here in the castle, their presence noticeable. Theyʹll stand as sentries.ʺ ʺI understand. A quiet presence, yet visible.ʺ ʺWe are all to be polite but not to bow to their wishes or requests. Anyone who is asked to accommodate his party will smile and make a show of accommodating the request. Then they are to report back before any action is taken. And I mean any request. From fresh bedding to special meals. Let Dara or myself know their wishes and weʹll sooth the disappointment.ʺ He glanced to his wife who stood tall beside him, giving her a private smile. ʺUntil Nandin and his party are safely boarded back on their ships, castle life has taken a turn for the worse. And all blame is to be placed squarely on my shoulders, understand? Itʹs most important Nandin regard all the changes as my doing. Hale, can you turn down the steam in the great hall?ʺ ʺAye, my lord, it can be diminished.ʺ ʺGood and only small fires in their bedchambers at nights. If they request more wood, let me know. Also, they are not to have freedom in the castle as they might in the past. The great hall, their chambers, the chapel and the outer keep are the only places our guests are welcome. They are to be kept from the kitchens and especially the growing huts. And above all, they are not to be let in any of the keep cellars.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺWhat about Nandin himself, Sir Sigurd?ʺ Ingrid asked. ʺOn his last visit, he roamed the keep like it was his own. How will we deny him the same freedoms?ʺ ʺDonʹt worry about it. Iʹll have my crew stationed throughout the keep, inside the castle and out. Theyʹll dissuade our visitors from wandering, as will all the locked doors. Now, during his last visit, what did they do?ʺ Sigurd listened to tales of horrible behavior and rude actions. ʺThat stops now. He may be a guest, but he is an uninvited guest. This is our home, not his, and he will be loath to remember it in a short time I assure you. Marta, I want his whole party woken each morning and sent to the blessings.ʺ ʺThey never rise before half light is gone, sir. We always brought them special meals to their rooms to break feast.ʺ ʺNot on this visit. Everyone else rises to attend the daily blessing, so will Nandin and his party. They will live on our schedule, not us on his. When, and I say when, not if, he starts to complain, direct him to me.ʺ He answered more questions and they laid out a plan of complacency for Nandinʹs visit. King Bohdan joined them just before they disbanded, adding his sanction to Sigurdʹs plan. ʺIʹve found my fatherʹs walking stick and will use it while they are in residence. I will also be seen much less and will let them think I am ailing. That will force them to bring grievances to Sigurd and Dara.ʺ ʺBefore I forget, Hale, make sure the cellars are locked. Only cider is to be served during the day and only new. No hard cider at all. Also, tell the vintner to water his wine.ʺ There was a gasp from Hale, but he again nodded his agreement. ʺSir, I believe we have some that was below standard from harvests years back. Perhaps if itʹs still in casts...Iʹll see they are moved to the forefront.ʺ ʺGood and water only to their chambers. No fruits or vegetables are to be brought to them either. All their meals will be in the great hall.ʺ ʺSir, if I may?ʺ Bardʹs voice came from the back of the group, a light squeak accompanying it. ʺYes, Bard?ʺ Dara said, prompting the boy to speak.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺLast time, they brought their dogs...Last time they brought them inside.ʺ ʺAh, yes. How much kennel space have you, Hale?ʺ ʺEnough, sir, although I dare say I prefer to separate theirs from ours.ʺ ʺCan you arrange it?ʺ ʺIʹll move most of our dogs to private kennels with the farmers. Theyʹll care for them as if they were their own.ʺ ʺGood. When they arrive, weʹll automatically take the animals to kennel. Let Nandin approach me about the arrangements. As for the Kingʹs two pets, they are the only ones allowed inside, understood?ʺ All heads nodded. ʺSigurd, we may have one other problem,ʺ Dara said. ʺWhat is heavy on your mind, princess?ʺ He didnʹt stop the impulse to reach to her cheek, his finger lightly drawing along her chin. ʺOn their last visit, their party was rough with our maids. We managed to keep them mostly away from them, but it could turn into a problem again.ʺ ʺAll right, from the moment they land, no maid is to walk the halls alone, for any reason. Hale, the harvest is complete; will some of the farmers come and help escort the maids?ʺ ʺIʹll see to it, sir. Am I to assume they are not allowed to roam the village freely?ʺ ʺOnly during afternoon hours and always with a guide. The castle closes at dusk, with the whole party inside.ʺ ʺMight we move the childrenʹs lessons in here for the duration?ʺ asked Ingrid. ʺA wonderful idea,ʺ Dara told her. “Nandin and his party donʹt discriminate on the age of their victims.” A small shudder ran through her to him. Turning to Sigurd, she added, ʺLast time he went out of his way to interrupt their lessons, told us it was a waste of time. His party made it...difficult to teach, watching and jeering.ʺ ʺHale, find a few farmers willing to stay close to the children, and to make sure they get home safely each night.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺThank you, Sigurd.ʺ They discussed details longer until the king and Sigurd were certain every eventuality had been discussed. Then Sigurd took Bard aside and asked him to stay with the princess whenever she was not at his side. He blushed at being given the special honor to guard his princess. As Sigurd and Dara walked back to their own quarters, Dara gave him a troubled glance. ʺSigurd, do you really think Nandin will accept the changes?ʺ ʺIf we donʹt bow to him, heʹll have no other choice.ʺ ʺIʹve married a very smart man,ʺ she said, teasing her hand along his stomach. * * * * * The next afternoon, the castle hummed with activity all day while tapestries were taken down and stored and new carpets were replaced with old. There was an odd air around them all; knowing how much was at stake, namely their freedom to enjoy their own lives without Nandinʹs hounding presence. When Dara heard a strange ruckus from the keep she ventured outside. She was shocked to find most of her male villagers practicing with their sabers against hay bales. Her blood boiled in a way she’d never known possible. How dare her husband introduce such violent behavior? Worse yet, Sigurd had ridden out to ready his crew and secure his ship before Nandinʹs arrival. So now she paced their chamber, anger and resentment filling her deeper and deeper. By nightfall she heard his party return and knew Bard would send him directly to her. She should have calmed herself before he arrived, for when he entered their chamber he was greeted with her temper. ʺHow dare you!ʺ she started, her voice hot and angry. ʺWhat is wrong, Dara?ʺ he asked, tossing his cloak aside as he filled a cup with wine.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺYou know whatʹs wrong. We are a peaceful people. And youʹve turned us into a warring faction. How dare you!ʺ Dara grabbed a cup from the table and sent it sailing toward her new husband with all her might. He ducked, and the cup hit the wall behind him. He bit back a smile at her ire, but was tired and not in the mood for games. He let her rant a bit longer before trying to soften her, all to no avail. When his patience grew short he grabbed her by the shoulders, holding her to face him. ʺNandin must believe we are not vulnerable. If that means your men wearing sabers and standing sentry while theyʹre here, so be it!ʺ He was exhausted and had looked forward to returning to his warm, sweet wife. Dara pulled from him and continued her tirade. ʺI thought we could trust you, and all youʹve done is turn us into an army. I thought you understood how we abhorred violence, yet you would change us overnight to fit your outdated ways.ʺ ʺHave you any better suggestions, wife?ʺ Sigurd wanted only to relax with her, not to fight her, but was having no luck in calming her. ʺI thought you were different from the others,ʺ she said, a shiver of disgust running through her body. ʺI gave myself to you, in trust. I thought what we did together was bonding. Now I realize it was just another way to have sex!ʺ Something snapped inside him. ʺThis has nothing to do with how we come together each night.ʺ ʺIt has everything to do with it. You wanted sex and control. And I handed it to you like a fool. I would have been better off marrying Nandin. At least his reasons are forthright. He is greedy and lazy. You, sir, are worse, making me believe you cared...ʺ Sigurd moved quickly beside her and grabbed her shoulders a second time. ʺBe careful, my princess. You cross a line with your words.ʺ ʺDonʹt call me your princess, Sigurd. Call me your whore instead. Thatʹs all I am to you, another maid to conquer. Only I came with a dowry.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne His fingers bit into her arms, and she finally stilled, her breath coming in short pants from her tirade. Something foreign shifted over his face, and he forced her down, face first over the table. His large hands pushed her forward, and held her down while he tore her gown from her back. ʺSigurd, donʹt,ʺ she started but knew it was too late. Sheʹd gone too far. Tears rolled down her cheeks in frustration and shame, but she refused to cry out. ʺDonʹt? Donʹt what, my princess? Don’t treat you like my whore?ʺ He moved behind her, his cock hard and full. Without preparing her completely, he thrust deeply inside her. He was angry but took care to not actually harm her. Sigurd feared heʹd gone too far but didnʹt stop. How else would she learn the difference in the love they’d made and the selfish lust of a man and his whore? So, he took her in an animalistic way, heeding his bodyʹs needs instead of hers. Again and again he pushed inside her until he felt her moisten against her will, which allowed him to pound harder and deeper in her. When he realized she couldnʹt take any more, he pulled his cock from her and grabbed her, tearing away the rest of her dress before dropping her to her knees in front of him. Holding her by her hair, he hardened his expression even as his heart ached to hold her in his arms. His other hand stroked his cock until his cum shot across her tear‐streaked face and chest. His own hand finished stroking his cock, and he wiped his fluid against her lips. Only then did he let her hair go. She dropped to the floor, naked and covered in his cum. ʺThat, my princess, is sex. How a man treats his whore. Donʹt ever say what weʹve shared each night was just sex!ʺ Dara stayed on the floor at his feet while he pulled his trousers back in place. He moved toward the door adding, ʺThink about it. Youʹre a smart maid. Now that you know the difference, decide what kind of wife you will be.ʺ Never in her life would she believe he could be so cruel and vile. And never in her life would she have believed his actions would make her moist and wanting. Her breasts were heavy with the need of his mouth;
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne her body ached for the release he’d always assured her before, but this time hadn’t met. Still, though he’d taken her roughly, he hadn’t hurt her. Dara was both angry at Sigurd and herself for the situation, but she had to admit sheʹd angered him. Somehow, even after the ugly confrontation, a small smile wanted to quirk onto her lips, and she brushed her fingertips against her sex, easing her own want, staying where he’d dropped her on the floor until her fingers pushed deeply inside her, pushing her into release as she licked his cum from her lips. Different from how Sigurd made her feel, she was more ashamed of her last actions than all before. Dara had to wonder if deep inside she hadnʹt created the situation as a test, to see if heʹd take her over his knee. Instead, she’d gotten a new lesson, one sheʹd never forget. ʺWhatʹs happening to me?ʺ she said aloud. ʺIʹve lost all my sense to his cock!ʺ * * * * * Dara sat quietly beside Sigurd at the evening feast. She dreaded being alone with him later, and didn’t know how to change the air between them. All night, heʹd been polite, too polite, and she wondered what awaited her in their chambers later. She need not have worried. After the feast, he left her at their chamber door, telling her he had arrangements to oversee. He didnʹt come back. All night, she waited, prepared to make amends. With each hour that passed ideas went through her mind, from sending him away to begging his forgiveness. At morning light, she dressed with apprehension. When she left her chamber, he approached her in the hall. He extended his arm, but offered no words of greeting. Her fingers shook as she took his arm and allowed him to escort her downstairs. After breaking fast, he busied himself with preparations for Nandin’s arrival. Each time Dara saw a piece of her beloved castle being changed it grated inside her. Ultimately, she knew the reasons, had sanctioned them, but she hadnʹt anticipated on feeling so violated. She
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne hadnʹt counted on feeling so hollow inside by the lack of her husbandʹs body after just one night. When she found him in the flower hut hours later she wasnʹt surprised. Instead, she quelled the want to run toward him and beg his forgiveness, staying where she was near the hive entrance. ʺNandinʹs ship approaches. Theyʹll dock soon,” he said, without looking up. ʺHow soon?ʺ she asked, glancing around at her flowers, knowing sheʹd have to let them go to seed during the visit or risk him seeing through their plan. ʺTheyʹll arrive in time for the evening feast. The castle is ready.ʺ She gave him a short nod of her head. He watched her for a long moment before he laughed lightly. ʺSo, what is your decision?ʺ ʺMy decision?ʺ ʺYes, are you my wife or my whore?ʺ She turned away, wishing she could pull back her embarrassment. Sigurd moved quickly, gathering her against him, tilting her chin so she couldnʹt look away. ʺIʹd prefer a wife,ʺ he said quietly. ʺI prefer to be a wife,ʺ she whispered and wondered why she’d almost said whore. She lowered her eyes, and he tilted her chin a second time, his green eyes baring her in ways she couldnʹt comprehend. His hold loosened, but he didnʹt release her. ʺIʹm sorry if I hurt you,ʺ he said clearly, staring directly at her. ʺDonʹt make me do it again, Dara. Do you understand? As you have a temper so do I.ʺ Her eyes watered, and she dropped her head to his chest, hiding them from him. ʺIʹm sorry, too, Sigurd. I saw the men training and couldnʹt get past it, even though I understood. And then you were gone so long, and I couldnʹt talk to anyone else about it without undermining your authority. I was angry and lashed out at you.ʺ ʺYes, we both handled the situation poorly. Shall we put it behind us as a lesson?ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Dara let her hands slowly drift up across his chest, winding behind his head, her fingers tangling in his blond curls. ʺYes, Sigurd, letʹs put it behind us.ʺ Reaching up she kissed his lips lightly. ʺI much prefer this side of you.ʺ ʺAye, wife, and I prefer my angel to the shrew princess.ʺ He lifted her in his arms and strode to the chair. ʺKiss me, Dara.ʺ He groaned against her lips as he sat down. ʺWhere did you sleep last night?ʺ ʺWhy? Did you miss me in your bed?ʺ ʺYes, I did, my lord. I missed you terribly.ʺ His mouth crushed hers, and it was a long time before he moved her from his lap and dropped her onto the table top. They both understood her admission was important on many levels. He took her hand and placed it over his erection. Her fingers drew him from his trousers, her touch inflaming him harder. His hand moved to her lower lips and stroked her through the cloth while his other hand kneaded her breast, tugging her tunic up to feel flesh. She sighed openly and let her head fall back, her hand moving harder over him while she tightened her thighs around his. She had him near his breaking point and knew they were only moments away from completing the act they both wanted. Her tunic was pushed aside, her breast bare in his hand, when the hut door opened quickly, slamming into the frame. Sigurd blocked Dara from Bardʹs sight as he ran toward them. ʺMy lord, they are here,ʺ Bard yelled as he came toward them. ʺAll right, son. Go and make sure Kerr and Ingrid are there to greet them. The princess and I will see him at the feast, not before.ʺ ʺYes, sir,ʺ Bard said and all but ran from the room. Dara dropped her head against Sigurdʹs chest and started to laugh. ʺThat will remind you to lock the door, my lord.ʺ He glanced down at her disheveled appearance. His trousers were pulled down in the front, exposing his cock to her touch. He laughed with her and then pulled her tunic down.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺCome, we must make it to our chamber before Nandin arrives.ʺ Reluctantly, they straightened their clothes and quickly took leave of the flower hut. * * * * * Dara stood naked beside Sigurd under the waterfall in their chamber, as his strong fingers washed the soap from her hair. Their coupling had been quick yet caring, both wanting to re‐establish their bond. Standing before the fire, combing her sable locks, she watched her husband dress. Without consideration, she moved toward him, dropping before him as he sat to draw on his trousers. ʺSigurd,ʺ she started, unsure of how to express her want. His index finger drew down along her cheek, his eyes knowing, looking softly at her, his lips tipping upward. ʺDara?ʺ She turned away and he pulled her up against him, his face buried in her hair. ʺLater, wife, weʹll talk later.ʺ He hesitated before adding, ʺAnd just to ease your mind, a wife can be her husbandʹs whore, when they are both in the same mind.ʺ Her head shot up, and her eyes widened. ʺBetween husband and wife, nothing is depraved.ʺ ʺI want to feel ashamed, but...ʺ ʺBut you felt excitement at the same time?ʺ She nodded and was grateful he understood her body relaxing against his. ʺKnow this, wife. Iʹll never willingly hurt you...not in anger.ʺ ʺWhat do you mean?ʺ ʺJust there are many ways we haven’t yet had time to explore together.ʺ He watched her process his words and laughed. ʺYes, you liked my spanking you as much as I did. Admit it. When you got past the shame and embarrassment, you went wet, didnʹt you?ʺ When she tried to look away, he held her closer, his fingers tugging one of her bare nipples. ʺIf weʹre both in the same mood, amusement can take all kinds of forms, Dara.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺBut—ʺ ʺLet us leave this conversation for later. I grow hard at the idea of taking you over my knee, and now is not the time to start something when we are sure to be interrupted.ʺ As he stood and gently placed her on the floor before him, his fingers dipped against her, finding her wet. She moved instinctively against his hand, and he stroked her again. ʺDara, move to the table,ʺ he said, his voice husky. She backed up the few paces to the trestle table and let him lift her onto the edge. His middle finger slipped inside her as he suckled her nipple. They stayed there only a short time before she came with a fierce abandon, writhing over his hand and holding his head to her breast. When she calmed, he drew her to him. ʺAnything between us, wife, is acceptable.ʺ He suckled her a bit longer, stopping only when she started to grate against his hand again. ʺSigurd, let me touch you,ʺ she said, her words a mere whisper. ʺLater, we donʹt have time.ʺ Slowly he moved away from her, and he saw the disappointed look on her face. ʺLater, you can have me to your heart’s content.ʺ ʺPromise?ʺ ʺYes, tonight, when weʹre alone, Iʹll be all yours.ʺ Dara straightened, her brown eyes shining, her face brightened and her cheeks flushed. ʺSigurd, anything between husband and wife?ʺ ʺBetween us, yes. Tell me what you want tonight while we dress,ʺ he said, moving to pull his outer tunic over his head. She smoothed it in place over his shoulders, her palm resting over his heart where her fingers had embroidered their crests. ʺMaybe not tonight, Sigurd, but some day...ʺ ʺYes, some day?ʺ ʺI think it might be exciting to take you over my knee!ʺ The look on his face thrilled her, knowing he was beyond shocked. A discrete knock on their chamber door ended their words, and they finished dressing quickly to join their guests at the evening feast. Neither
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne said anything more about her wants, but Dara got the distinct impression that her request was one Sigurd had not counted on.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Chapter Eight Dara gripped Sigurdʹs left arm tighter as they entered the great hall. The room was strangely quiet. All heads turned as they approached, and she shuddered at the sight of King Nandin. He was middle height, overweight, and had beady black eyes like a raven. His body was soft and pudgy when he moved, and his hair was slicked back, giving him the appearance of a bloated seal. ʺHeʹs in the kingʹs seat,ʺ she whispered, furious. Before she could explode, Sigurd placed his right hand over hers. ʺIʹll handle him,ʺ he said quietly. ʺJust trust me, Dara, especially now. This is a most important first meeting.ʺ ʺThatʹs why we kept him waiting?ʺ ʺThat and I wanted a few minutes longer with my wife,ʺ he said, grinning wide. Dara dropped her eyes and granted him an intimate smile. Together, they nodded to their villagers and scanned the table with Nandinʹs crew, twenty five head plus their king. They were a rough looking group, she decided, thankful now the halls were guarded. Sigurd moved steadily toward the dais with Dara by his side. Nandin studied their approach, hate and loathing undisguised on his face. His gaze lowered as if he visually undressed her. A glance at Sigurd told her that he’d seen the look as well. The two men’s eyes met and locked. Nandin sized up Sigurd, obviously intimidated by his height and breadth. ʺNandin, your visit was a surprise. Are you and yours well?ʺ Each word cost her, her tone was laced with false sweetness. Being polite to the man who had murdered her brother, his wife and unborn child was nerve‐wracking in the least. ʺAye, young Mandara. I see a lot has changed since my last visit.ʺ ʺYes, let me introduce you to my husband. Sigurd, this is Nandin.ʺ Instead of reaching to shake Nandin’s hand, Sigurd slipped Dara against his side with his right arm, his left one still bound loosely at his side as a reminder of his injury. Sigurd had wanted Nandin to think him
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne weak so he made her re‐bind him over his tunic for all to see. Heʹd also put the black patch back over his eye. ʺNandin, I assume you’ve come to celebrate our vows?ʺ Sigurd’s voice was steady, setting the tone for the evening. He dropped into the seat behind him, tugging Dara onto his lap. She tried not to show her surprise at the unorthodox move, especially in front of a full dining hall, but a small gasp escaped her throat. ʺOf course,ʺ Nandin answered, ʺand to check on our little Mandara.ʺ ʺAs you can see, she is in fine health. Becoming my wife has only enhanced her beauty, donʹt you agree?ʺ ʺOf course,ʺ Nandin had no choice but to reply. Everyone in the hall watched Sigurd pull her closer then release her. He leaned past her to Nandin. ʺMove down one, Nandin. Thatʹs a good fellow. I donʹt like to be separated from my Dara, not even for meals.ʺ Several seconds passed before the obviously confused Nandin lifted his bulk from the kingʹs place and moved down. ʺThatʹs a good sort. Now, my princess can enjoy her meal.ʺ Dara’s cheeks flamed red but she held her head high, a full smile on her lips. She nodded to Marta and trenchers started appearing on the tables. Through the meal, Dara pretended to eat, knowing not a morsel would settle inside her until she was far away from Nandin. Sigurd kept the conversation going in a polite tone, yet with an undercurrent no one missed. ʺMany things have changed, Dara, not all of them for the good, I see,ʺ Nandin finally said when the last serving of sweets and fruit were placed before them. Dara let out a gasp, but stilled under Sigurdʹs touch. ʺMostly my intervention, Nandin. You wouldnʹt believe the amount of waste that went on. Spices and sugar being used like they were sand. And overfeeding at each meal...ʺ He shook his head, adding, ʺOf course, my tastes are reflected in our meals. I never could stomach rich food—plays havoc with my innards.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Dara almost burst out laughing but managed to hold it back by quickly pulling her cup to her lips. ʺAnd the wine, do we have you to thank for the inferior quality?ʺ Nandin groused. ʺAh, the wine. Itʹs a shame they didnʹt conserve better, but then Iʹll oversee production in the coming years...ʺ He let his voice trail off, another opening Nandin didnʹt take. ʺAnd our chambers?ʺ Nandin asked rudely. Sigurd laughed aloud. ʺAh, quite nice, arenʹt they? Why, once we got rid of all the softness, itʹs starting to feel like a real castle again, donʹt you agree, Nandin?ʺ ʺI feel a castle can be comfortable.ʺ ʺAs well as functional. Is there something lacking from your chamber?ʺ Sigurd had neatly backed Nandin into a corner. ʺIs there not a bed to rest on?ʺ ʺIf you call it that—ʺ ʺDara, you didnʹt tell me your cousin was a soft boy!ʺ Tossing back his head, Sigurd let out a hearty laugh, as did Kerr and the rest of the villagers in ear shot. ʺNandin, Iʹm slowly working the waste out of our daily lives. Weʹll be efficient in no time.ʺ Nandin tried another tactic. ʺYour staff is slipping. Thereʹs only kindling in my chamber, sir, no firewood.ʺ ʺKindling, you say?ʺ He gave a pensive glare then nodded. ʺDonʹt tell me you allow the waste of wood in your castle to the degree I found here? Surely the rarity of the commodity is more precious than a spark of heat. Iʹll have the maids make sure to drop off extra blankets to keep you from chilling.ʺ Sigurd drank from his cup than added, ʺAre all your party so...delicate?ʺ ʺWeʹre used to certain standards and, quite frankly, I find this keep severely changed, sir, and not for the better.ʺ ʺWhy, Nandin, you are a soft man, arenʹt you? This is the isle of ice, a land where everyone will prosper by showing a bit of restraint. Why, where I come from, youʹre not a man if you have to have a fire to get you through the night.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺI dare say your bulk warms you,ʺ Nandin snapped back. ʺMy Dara doesn’t need a fire any longer...ʺ She blushed on cue. ʺIs the king not going to welcome me?ʺ Nandin asked hotly. ʺIf not, Iʹll retire after a long journey.ʺ ʺThe king is resting tonight. Heʹll welcome you and your party at morning blessings before we break fast.ʺ Nandinʹs jaw dropped and his mouth gaped open until he could shake himself and regroup. ʺWe break fast in our chambers, Sigurd.ʺ Nandinʹs voice would have had a lesser man slipping away from his tone, as if his words were final. ʺNot in this castle.ʺ Sigurdʹs statement stood as fact. ʺAll who enjoy life here in Bohdan rise to the blessing.ʺ The men locked eyes, and Sigurd continued. ʺIʹll make sure you and your parties are awakened with time to dress.ʺ ʺIʹve had quite enough.ʺ Nandin stood, pushing his chair back. ʺIʹll retire, sir, before I speak my mind and insult you.ʺ He moved several paces than paused. ʺMandara, you will come to my chamber later. We will talk alone.ʺ ʺNo, she wonʹt, Nandin. Anything you have to say about this keep will be said directly to me, its leader.ʺ Sigurd’s proclamation stilled Nandin. ʺYou may be in line for the throne, sir, but it remains to be seen if you actually take possession.ʺ The whole room fell silent at Nandinʹs loud words. Dara couldn’t believe her cousin had the nerve to threaten her husband before the whole keep. ʺNandin, that sounds like a threat. Why would you presume to hold control over Bohdan? You are merely an uninvited guest. Iʹve put up with you so far, but your visit will be short, I assure you. While you and your party are within our walls, you will live according to our ways.ʺ Nandin huffed several times before stalking away. His party slowly rose and followed him. Sigurd refrained from smiling and surveyed the
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne rest of the villagers. He said nothing, only nodded his head twice and smiled broadly before pulling Dara onto his lap and kissing her cheek. ʺCome, my princess, it has been a long day. We will rest.ʺ Laughter and smiles followed them from the hall. * * * * * Dara lay naked beside her husband, as a roaring fire sparked in the hearth. She stroked his bare chest while he stroked his cock, the movement easy and unhurried. ʺThis would feel better if you did it, wife.ʺ ʺI like to watch you, Sigurd. You move differently than how I touch you, much bolder with your strokes.ʺ ʺGive me your hand,ʺ he said, taking her smaller one under his. ʺIʹm proud of you, Dara. You behaved well tonight. I know how hard it must have been to hear me speak disparagingly about your home.ʺ ʺOur home, my lord.ʺ ʺOur home.ʺ His lips found her skin, slowly kissing his way up her neck, forcing her to writhe beside him. He stilled when the knock came on their chamber door. Reluctantly pulling away from his wife, he paused to pull the cover over her body before reaching for his cloak. They were stalling until Kerrʹs prearranged visit. Sigurd opened the door only half way to his second and spoke briefly. He knew his wife watched him relock the door and toss his cloak aside, taking large strides back. He thought heʹd lie beside her. Instead he dropped across her, his arm straddling her legs. ʺRelax for tonight, my princess. Kerr assures me all of Nandinʹs party is in chambers for the night. Guards are posted at all halls. Youʹll be safe tonight.ʺ ʺItʹs not me Iʹm afraid for. Sigurd, you heard him threaten you. Arenʹt you the least bit anxious heʹll retaliate?ʺ ʺNot for a few days. Heʹll be confused first, then annoyed. Only then will he begin to decide how to end my life. In the meantime, I suggest we enjoy the respite.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺHow? I canʹt reach you from here.ʺ She let her lips fall into a pout, and he laughed. ʺThere are ways, wife, and many possibilities.ʺ He shifted his legs toward her head, until they lay head to toe, his weight propped on his elbow. His free hand brushed her lower curls, and she sighed. Turning slightly on her side, she reached for his erection. There was no need for words between them. Each touch was a declaration, each brush of their hands or lips an affirmation. Daraʹs lips moved over him, making his pleasure her mission while he used his fingers and lips to push her to release. He pulsed in her mouth and twitched when she stroked his sack, her motions in sync with his. ʺCome sit on me,ʺ he told her, trying to shift her over him. ʺNo, I want to stay here and finish what I began.ʺ She laughed and winked, a second before engulfing him whole with her hot mouth. At her actions, he drove his fingers deeper inside her. His lips suckled her bud harder. He paused to glance down at his wife sucking him. She was a sight, her hair tousled behind her, her eyes closed while she pleasured him, her cheeks hollowing with each stroke. He knew he would come soon, too soon, so he changed their position, lifting her easily on top of him, facing her away from him this time. ʺSigurd, youʹre so deep,ʺ she said, obviously amazed at the new position. ʺRide me, Dara. Make me fill you.ʺ Her hips moved over him, her pace becoming more urgent with each advance. The muscles in her thighs tightened under the strain to continue. Her head fell back, her hair teasing his belly. ʺSigurd, I...ʺ ʺYou want something but don’t know what?ʺ he asked through gritted teeth, trying to hold back his finish until she was completed. She groaned above him, her hips taking short lifts over him, then longer slow ones. ʺLean forward,ʺ he told her, his palms gliding along her back from shoulder to hip, each touch making her want more somehow. He bundled her hair in his left hand and wrapped it once around his wrist.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺIʹll finish soon,ʺ he said, before taking his middle finger to his mouth, moistening it and slipping it in her anus. No person had touched her so privately and Dara would have jolted from him, but he held her in place by her hair. ʺJust breathe, relax and breathe.ʺ She took long seconds to get accustomed to his double invasion, her body relaxing back over his cock and his finger, finally seating herself where liberation would find her. She came with a shudder over him, clenching both his body parts, drawing them deeper inside her. He came without choice. Her bodyʹs spasms pushed him beyond restraint. She slowly moved her hips again, feeling his cum drip from her, wetting his legs. Sigurd slowly pulled his finger from inside her anus and used his hands to lift and lower her hips a few more times before she all but collapsed over him. ʺWife,ʺ he whispered. ʺHusband,ʺ she whispered back. He finally lifted her from him, pulling her beside his chest. ʺIʹm exhausted, yet somehow elated, if that makes sense.ʺ ʺThank you,ʺ he said, pressing a kiss to her forehead. ʺThatʹs an extraordinary compliment.ʺ ʺYouʹre extraordinary in your own right. You donʹt mind having to teach me?ʺ She buried her face against his chest. ʺI prefer it. Now, get some rest, the morning blessing will be here soon, and I fear Nandin will keep us on our toes tomorrow.ʺ ʺCouldnʹt we just lock our door and not come out until he leaves?ʺ ʺWe could, but weʹd never leave our chamber again.ʺ ʺWould that be so bad?ʺ she teased. ʺYou exhaust me now. Youʹll make me old before my time if I stay locked away with you for too long.ʺ ʺYou poor man—ʺ ʺNo, not poor. Iʹm a very lucky man. Lucky my ship was tossed during the storm so you could find me and encourage me back to health. Only to kill me with loving! What a way to die.ʺ ʺYes, I agree, but not for a while yet. I fear there is much I have to learn from you.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺIn our own time, in our own time. Sleep now,ʺ he told her, his breathing steady beneath her cheek. Sigurd was finally at peace with himself and his choices. Even with Nandin in residence, deep inside him a strange calm prevailed. Heʹd never felt like this before. The desire to keep moving was gone. Heʹd fallen in love with his wife, and it felt right. * * * * * The next weeks were long and tedious with Nandin and his party complaining about everything from the lack of heat to the woolen blankets. They hated the meals and consumed the turned wine in great volumes only to have stomach distress. They were verbally loud and obnoxious about the lack of freedom to roam the castle and the keep. They didnʹt ride after the second try and most stayed in their chambers, out of Nandinʹs cruel ways and words. Two of Nandinʹs party seemed the exception. These brothers were from a farming family that had become self‐sufficient. Their ruler’s revenge was to take their sons into his service, leaving the older parents to struggle in their absence. Everyone knew this because Nandin was quite proud of his punishment. Sigurd and Kerr had taken to them both. Their obvious differences from the rest of Nandinʹs group made them approachable. Their outlook was more Bohdan than Nandin, since they seemed the least selfish in manners and ways. Kerr had been summoned one afternoon to find the brothers sheltering a young maid Nandin had cornered. Their actions were not favored by their king, so they were shunned by the rest of their party for days. Sigurd was leery of them, explaining to Dara that they might be a plant by Nandin to gain the access he was now denied. Time would tell their true allegiance. * * * * *
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Daraʹs temper was short. She was cranky and didnʹt want to be understanding and compliant. Nandin was beyond annoying, and she was repulsed every time he neared her. Sitting beside him at morning blessings was a chore itself. His body odor offended everyone. Retaining her smile was impossible. Now her lips drew into a thin line when he complained. She made it through the day and finally excused herself before the evening feast ended, not giving a reason. Sigurd didnʹt question her, and he silenced Nandinʹs harsh words at her retreat. He remained for the rest of the feast, giving Dara time to escape. Knowing she wouldnʹt be in their chambers, Sigurd moved quietly to the flower hut. He relieved Bard of his duty and remembered to lock the door behind him. He stood with his back braced against it, watching Dara smash a piece of pottery. The sight of her in such a rage made him smile. Heʹd known it was coming, that sooner or later sheʹd lose her composure, and heʹd instinctively known sheʹd come here. Only he wanted to be around this time, to open another door into the depth of their relationship. She threw another piece of pottery to the dirt floor, smashing it into several large pieces. She grumbled under her breath. He tried to keep from smiling, or worse yet, laughing. ʺTry it from a greater height,ʺ he said, breaking the spell of silence. She didnʹt turn, but she did speak clearly and calmly. ʺIʹm in a state. Youʹd be best served to leave me to it before it spills onto you. And you donʹt deserve my anger.ʺ ʺI appreciate the warning, princess, but I came here knowing you were angered and needed release. Iʹve come to offer just that.ʺ She turned and gave him a quizzical glance, watching as he walked toward her. Grabbing her around the waist, he hoisted her up on his right shoulder, grasping her legs tight to keep her from slipping. With his other hand, he handed her another pot, ʺTry for distance,ʺ he said, with a laugh. Dara shook her head, trying to back away from her destruction. Sigurd felt her relenting. ʺHe mocks the king.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne She pulled back and threw the pot with all her might. Quickly he handed her another, adding, ʺHe thinks you have no spine where Iʹm concerned.ʺ That pot went farther, smashed harder and into smaller pieces. He thrust another into her hands. ʺFor Roland and his family...ʺ As the pot slammed to the ground she let out an anguished scream. He didnʹt hand her any more. Instead, he slid his hand between her thighs, lightly grazing her sensitive nub with his thumb. ʺThis isnʹt the time,ʺ she snapped, but her body moved against his touch. ʺIʹm angry and...ʺ He stroked her deeply, and she moaned and arched against his touch. He strode to the nearest flat surface, the small table near the hive door, then shifted her weight off his shoulders and onto the table, still working her with his hand. ʺYouʹre angry and what? Go with your feelings. You want to lash out instead of succumb?ʺ Her weight rested on her elbows, her gown bunched up at her thighs, and her hair trailed over the surface. His movements became harder, his strokes longer, deeper against her. ʺYouʹre in need of release and donʹt want to admit it.ʺ ʺAnger and love donʹt go together,ʺ she whispered, letting her head drop back farther, her eyes drifting shut as his fingers moved against her. He knew she was losing the inner battle to stay mad. The noise from the hives became a background of musical sounds, rhythmic and urgent. ʺI agree, but that doesnʹt mean there are no other options.ʺ He pulled his hand away and leaned over her with the fullness of his body, pressing his lips close to her ear. ʺYouʹve been a bad princess, Mandara. Look at the destruction your temper has caused.ʺ He watched her carefully, noting first recognition, then fear in her expression. Then it melted away, and she gave him a smile heʹd not seen before. One that made him take a step back, second guessing his original idea. ʺI do have a temper, my lord,ʺ she whispered, watching him for guidance.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne They spoke no further words. He simply lifted her by the waist and turned to sit, leaving his legs a shoulder width apart, and bracing his feet against the dirt floor as he dropped her unceremoniously over his lap. Facedown, she tried to squirm from his hold, but he held fast. He reached over her shoulder and cupped her breast as his right hand stroked her ass through her tunic. He couldnʹt believe she was letting him have his way, yet the strange smile on her lips invited his hand to her buttocks. He decided heʹd married well. Mandara was beautiful and smart, kind and loving, generous to a fault. And she was a sexual being, a woman who did her best to pleasure him and took from him with little guilt. ʺYou need to be disciplined. You must remember the rest of the women look up to you, emulate you. What would happen if all the maids broke pottery at an angry whim?ʺ He lifted his hand and swatted her lightly. She jumped but stilled as his fingers cupped her cheek again. For several minutes he whispered, telling her she must set an example, and in between each taunt, his hand rose and dropped back, each impact a bit heavier than the one before. Dara did not move as each stroke heated her backside and, he suspected, it heated her elsewhere, too. He cupped her breasts, finding them heavy and her nipples hard little buds. She rocked her sex across his thigh, and he smiled to see her efforts that confirmed his suspicions that aroused heat built inside her. Sigurd watched her squirm over him and committed the image to memory. He liked seeing her stretched across him. His fingers tugging her nipple and his other hand cupping her cheeks, he could feel the fever escape from her, warming his leg, hardening his cock to new heights as it strained against his trousers. Dara twisted in an obvious attempt to look at him, her face red with embarrassment and shame, yet she was warm and writhing under his hand. Slowly, he pulled back the top layer of her clothing. She started to object. ʺSigurd, stop this. Itʹs not—ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺNot what? Not ladylike to be taken over your husbandʹs knee and have your bottom reddened by my touch? Or not enough? Are you wanting more, Dara? Are you too embarrassed to ask?ʺ He gave her that same strange smile just as his hand struck her, forcing her to jolt against his thigh. ʺOuch, stop that.ʺ She tried giving him a completely serious look. He laughed and continued to swat her buttocks with the palm of his hand, each one stinging in a new place. He lifted the next layer of clothing from her, exposing her pinkened cheeks. He couldn’t resist the urge to cup her, to pinch handfuls of her heated skin. ʺStop. What if somebody came in? The joke is over now...ʺ If she hadnʹt moaned he might have stopped, but the groan worked its way from deep inside her, showing her true feelings as her breast grew heavier in his left hand. She dropped her shoulder, forcing more of it into his grasp. She gave herself to him, trusted him. Heʹd not let her down now. Instead theyʹd find another layer to their relationship. ʺThe door’s locked. We’re alone, and you must learn some manners.ʺ His hand descended quickly several times in a row, first one side than the other. Each stoke enflamed her deeper, and she succumbed to the want he created within her. His cock strained against her belly, and she reared back to meet his hand as she tried to rub her shoulder against his erection. He recognized her tactic and let her nudge him, watching her face carefully, noting how she licked her lips and bit her bottom lip when each stinging blow hit. Dropping his fingers along her crease, he found her damp and easily slipped between her legs, forcing them wider to his invasion. She tried to pull back, but he wouldnʹt let her. ʺDonʹt...ʺ she said, her tone husky. ʺYour voice gives you away.ʺ He pushed her legs wider, exposing her to him completely. Using the advantage, he slipped his whole hand between her thighs and rubbed her lightly. She arched back to deepen his touch.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He saw the moment she finally accepted what her body craved. She let her head drop down, and her hair fell on the floor in waves. His index finger slipped inside her, and she jolted once again, forcing his finger deeper inside. ʺYouʹre wet. Does the strike of my hand excite you so?ʺ ʺNo!ʺ she said. ʺYou lie. I have the proof right here.ʺ He slid his finger in and out several times while gathering her hair in his left hand and using it to lift her head. Pulling his finger from inside her, he wiped her spilled essence against her lips and watched with pure satisfaction as she licked them clean. Again and again he dipped inside her and stroked her. The third time she captured his finger between her lips and sucked it deeply into her mouth, Sigurd groaned and his cock strained harder against his trousers. ʺYou try my patience,ʺ he managed to say, reluctantly pulling his finger from her lips. Several smacks later, he fingered her again, this time running along her crease upward between her cheeks. Dara stilled under him, frozen under his touch. Sigurd didnʹt stop. He just kept dipping inside her and drawing the wetness along her crease to wet both of her entrances. He palmed her cheeks and alternated several light swats to the backs of her thighs when she tried to pull her legs together. ʺI want you vulnerable and at my mercy.ʺ Dara drew a short breath. Sigurd understood that with realization came acceptance. All of her life sheʹd had to be so strong and so in charge it was hard to relinquish all control to anyone, especially the huge man holding her against his hardened cock while he spanked her behind. The trust she showed went straight to his heart. This time he accepted the feeling she aroused inside him. Her trust was humbling. He slipped her off his lap and between his thighs. She needed no instruction, instinctively dropping to rub his erection against her cheek, her hands on his hips holding him so he couldnʹt pull away, as if he would. ʺTake me out. Take me in your mouth,ʺ he commanded.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Her fingers gently worked him from his trousers, and her lips met him before the air could, swallowing him as deep as she could. He watched her suck him, watched her eyes flutter closed as more of his length disappeared inside her with each pass. Only when he felt his balls tightening a second time from the swirl of her tongue did he finally pull her up over him, his mouth to hers as his hands again kneaded her buttocks, reminding her who was in charge. He sucked her tongue deep into his mouth and thrust against her belly. Her fist closed around him, tightening on each upward stoke. Through gritted teeth, he said, ʺNow, back where you belong.ʺ Her eyes widened as he pulled the top of her gown down her shoulders to expose her breasts. Her nipples budded harder in the cool air. He suckled each one while his fingers kneaded her red cheeks. With each suck and pinch, she grew wetter. He put her back over his knee and was thrilled when she pulled her gown up, exposing herself for him. Several smacks later, she was moving over his thighs, her legs widening at his insistence, offering herself to him. ʺYouʹre learning,ʺ he told her, just before using his palm for several harder strokes against her flesh. She squirmed over him as he continued to taunt her with smacks and strokes against her engorged lips. Again he slipped his finger inside her and drew out her heat, wiping it along her length until she glistened below him. He tightened his left hand around her breast and started to finger‐fuck her quicker, taking short hard strokes until he felt her go slick around him. Quickly, he pulled from inside her and slipped his wet finger higher, pushing past her impulse to keep him away from the entrance to her most private place. “Breathe,ʺ he said in a low, husky voice, repeating the process until she relaxed under his hand, his finger deep inside her. Her hips strained upward to take him deeper. He gently moved inside her and let his thumb slip into her tunnel, filling her like never before. She finally let go and accepted his intrusions, used his fingers to find her release as she rubbed herself against his thigh.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Her left hand came up and grabbed his straining cock, directing it to her mouth, pulling on him in the same motion as he stroked in and out of her body. Sigurd knew heʹd lose control and knew Dara was nearing her limit, whether she understood it or not. And he wanted her to understand. He inserted a second finger beside his thumb, and she came on his second stroke, her body tightening around him, several spasms milking him deeper, both higher and lower. He let himself come, pumping into her sucking mouth, watching through half closed eyes as she tried to catch all of it. Her rear, still red, remained impaled on his fingers. She didnʹt look to him. Instead, she watched his semi‐hard cock, now mere inches from her face, and she said, ʺMore.ʺ Sigurd groaned and pushed his cock back against her lips, using his hand to manipulate her back into position over his legs. The position forced her to leave his cock and she groaned in disappointment when he pulled his fingers from inside her. ʺDoes the princess understand her punishment?ʺ ʺI was angry...ʺ His palm connected against her skin. He continued for several strokes before he lifted her off him and dropped her over the work table. She braced her weight with her arms against the rough surface as he pulled her legs wider apart and pushed his fingers between her thighs. He used his other hand to strike several blows, each in unison with his thrusting fingers. Then he pushed his hardened cock inside her slick tunnel, filling her farther, stretching her inner walls to accommodate his width and length. He was amazed heʹd hardened so quickly but the sight of her, so open and waiting for him, had given him the incentive. She moaned and pushed back against him, a sure sign that she wanted more. ʺWhat do you want? Tell me!ʺ He swatted his hand against her thigh, and she tried to stand, obviously wanting to take back some control. He pushed her back down and asked again, ʺWhat do you want? What do you need?ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Only the din of the hives behind the door and their heavy, uncontrolled breathing broke the silence. ʺMake me your whore, my prince.ʺ Sigurd pulled out and spun her around, lifting her hips onto the table top before easing inside her once again. ʺLook at me.ʺ He pushed her legs wider apart, thrusting deeper, taking advantage of the new position to draw her legs up over his shoulders. She stared up at him, dazed, as he fucked her with his cock, his pace steady. She tried to reach him but managed only to grasp his shoulders. Sigurd took her hand and pressed it against their joining. She smiled and rubbed his cock as he surged inside her. She dropped her head back and closed her eyes. He rubbed the heat of his body against hers while her heat slipped over his cock and her fingers touched both his cock and her lips. ʺSigurd,ʺ she managed, pushing harder against him. ʺYou are my whore. Iʹll do what I want with you, understand?ʺ ʺYes, my prince. Make me your whore. Prove to me you can!ʺ Her eyes opened with a strange gleam, and he throbbed inside her again, hardening more than he ever thought possible. They stared at each other for several seconds before he pulled away. He twisted her body over the table, exposing her buttocks, emboldened by their pink hue. He pulled her right arm back and pushed his cock into her palm. Her fingers tightened around him while he used both hands to re‐warm her cheeks. His strikes were more intense than before. Sheʹd asked for more, and he gave it to her. As she took each blow, he whispered over her, telling her what he planned to do, how heʹd take his cock and slip it inside her and fuck her until he came. How heʹd make her use her own hand to rub her lips while he fucked her. As he spoke and spanked her, she touched herself, pushing against her bud while he filled her with his cock. On one outward stroke he pulled completely out of her, rubbing the head of his cock along her crease as his fingers pulled her cheeks wide apart.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺSigurd!ʺ she hissed, but he didnʹt stop. ʺMy whore princess.ʺ He did it again and again, slipping inside her pussy then pulling out and rubbing his wet cock along her slit. ʺYou’re my whore, arenʹt you?ʺ His lips were pressed to her ear, and she couldnʹt answer. She moved her hands to his hips trying to hold him inside her, but he roughly pushed them back in front of her. ʺDonʹt move them,ʺ he said, using his left hand to push her farther forward before gathering her hair and wrapping it around his wrist. ʺMy whore princess,ʺ he whispered again, just before he pulled from her and pushed his hardened length higher up, forcing his cock past the barrier that automatically clenched around him. He latched onto her neck, nibbling and sucking hard. The new sensation made her stall. He pushed completely inside her. She let out a primal scream and stilled under him. He slowly started to move inside. He grabbed one of her breasts, pinching her nipple between his fingers. Moving one of her hands toward where they joined, he managed to say against her ear, ʺMove your fingers, princess.ʺ Dara slowly wiggled her fingers against her lips and groaned as she pushed back against him, wanting him deeper even though she was stretched like never before. The burning became a need as opposed to a physical reaction. ʺSlip one inside, princess. Fill yourself for me,ʺ he told her, and she moved without thought, slipping her middle finger along her lips and letting it slide inside her, feeling Sigurdʹs cock, so close, yet separate. ʺMore,ʺ she managed to utter, and he used her hair to pull her upright against his chest. ʺPut a second finger inside yourself, whore. Then Iʹm going to fuck you until I come. Make me come. Make me empty deep inside you where no other man ever will.ʺ ʺYes,ʺ she answered breathlessly as she slipped a second finger beside the first, using her other hand to rub her nub as he pulled on her nipple. She was too tight and too stretched to last any longer. He pinched
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne her nipple harder, nipping at her neck with his teeth a second time and using all his weight to push deeper inside her. She let out a second scream, this one building deep inside before it managed to make its way to be heard. Her body clutched him, and he reveled in the knowledge that she’d allowed him to spank her, to strip her bare, to fuck her where she’d never been fucked. She came hard, trembling under him as he pulsed and emptied deep inside her. She collapsed to the surface of the table and didnʹt move. Slowly, he regained his breath and rubbed her nipple gently before lifting his weight. He stroked her lightly before pulling her fingers free, and bringing her hand to his lips. He took her fingers between his lips and sucked them clean. When he throbbed inside her, she pushed back against him. His coming had eased his invasion, and sheʹd relaxed around him, trying to pull him in deeper. They stayed that way for several minutes until, fully recovered, Sigurd reluctantly pulled from her inner depths. Then he pulled her up against his chest, and dropped back in the seat, cradling her on his lap, her head buried against his chest, her arms wound around his neck. Sigurd pushed the hair from her face and pressed his lips to her temple, finding no words he could speak aloud to explain how she made him feel. It wasnʹt the right time to tell her he loved her, and he was afraid to say anything, fearful sheʹd look at him with her soft sable eyes and get him to confess. She snuggled against him, taking his warmth while she slowly recovered. She started to pull away, but he held her tight. ʺBetween husband and wife, Dara. We decide.ʺ He felt her head nod against his chest and pulled her closer, not relinquishing his hold for long minutes. He knew if they were in their bedchamber theyʹd both drift off to sleep quickly. Unfortunately, they were in the flower hut, and they couldnʹt spend the night there. Reluctantly, he roused her, lifting her chin to meet his gaze. ʺThank you, wife. You surprise me in the most wonderful ways.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Dara looked him straight in the eye. ʺI surprise myself, too. Never did I imagine I could or would let you...ʺ Her cheeks reddened, and he laughed aloud. ʺYour cheeks redden to match,ʺ he said, his hand smoothing over her buttocks, his fingers pressing the cloth to her tender area. ʺCome, weʹll go to our chamber and bathe. Do you have a potion to ease your discomfort?ʺ ʺYes,ʺ she managed to say as he stood her before him, his lips fixing to each nipple before his large fingers battled to get the top of her tunic pulled up over her breasts. Her eyes shut, and she let her weight fall against his hands. ʺOh no, not here. When weʹre back in our chamber weʹll see....ʺ Dara kissed him, swirling her tongue against his until he groaned and pulled her closer. When her hand dropped to his cock he backed away, shaking his head. ʺIn our chamber, Dara.ʺ ʺOf course, my lord. I was just trying to put you back in your trousers.ʺ She gave him a sly grin. ʺWhile you have good intentions, I fear they will not close with your help.ʺ ʺWe could leave them open for a while longer,ʺ she told him just before she dropped to her knees before him. He lifted her easily and placed her carefully on the table, after which he tugged his trousers up. Then he grabbed her around the middle and threw her over his shoulder, heading for the door. ʺPut me down. Someone will see us.ʺ He smacked her on the ass, reminding her of their lust, but he slowly let her drop to her feet just before they reached the door. He then turned her around to make sure she was redressed properly before running his fingers through her hair and pushing it behind her shoulders. ʺWife,ʺ he said, making the word a sweet endearment. Then he kissed her lightly on the lips and unlocked the door. Striding beside her in the darkened castle halls, he knew his marriage had been a good decision. A sense of well being washed over
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne him. His arm tightened around Daraʹs shoulders, bringing her body closer to his.
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Chapter Nine The evening feast was unbearable. Nandin complained about his dogs being kenneled, about the food, about the lack of drinkable wine, and the absence of maids for his use. He pouted when nobody seemed to care or jump to change the situation. He attacked Sigurd verbally about his bound arm and patched eye. Sigurd had to physically hold Kerr back from protecting his honor. Dara knew everyone was high strung, and the reason why was obvious. The situation was coming to a head, and Nandinʹs party grew increasingly restless and beyond rude. That night, after their private meeting with Ingrid and Kerr, Sigurd pulled Dara to his side and dropped his sable cloak over her shoulders. She looked at him with confusion but followed him quietly through the castle, wondering what his leather pouch held. Several twists and turns later and she knew where they headed. He used his key to unlock the secret door and then carefully relocked it after them. Once down in the cave, he stripped off his clothes and helped her with her gown. A small smile played on his lips as her gown fell from her shoulders, baring her to his gaze. She no longer wore a chemise beneath her gowns. Now, each morning when they dressed, her breasts were bare against her gown. Her nipples rubbed against the cloth all day and made her long for Sigurdʹs lips and fingers. They swam in the warm waters for a while until they were both relaxed and wanting.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺThis is a wonderful idea,ʺ she said. ʺI thought about swimming just yesterday, but it didnʹt seem right to slip away.ʺ Her hair floated behind her on the warm water as her arms went around his neck and her breasts crushed against his chest. He cupped her ass cheeks and moved her over his growing erection, pinching her skin with his fingertips. ʺItʹs been two days and nights since Iʹve had my way with you.ʺ His lips moved against her neck as he spoke, and then his tongue made lazy patterns against her skin. ʺWe were together last night.ʺ A shy smile teased her lips when she understood his intentions. ʺHave I been a bad princess? Have I not pleased you?ʺ Her nipples tightened at the thought of what was to come. Remembering their night in the flower hut, she squirmed over his erection, seating her bottom into his large hands. Just the thought of what they had done made her liquid inside, and she slipped her hand between them, capturing him against her palm. ʺDo I not please you, my prince?ʺ She kissed him before he could answer, her tongue probing the entrance to his mouth. Sigurd pulled his hands from beneath her buttocks and lifted them both from the water so that they sat on the edge. ʺWhat will put me back in your favor?ʺ She inched back into the water and rose between his parted legs. Her fingers caressed his sack as her mouth went to his cock. He was full and long, heated against her lips. It pulsed as she teased his crown with just the tip of her tongue, then slicked down his length before sucking him whole. ʺTell me what you want,ʺ she whispered after she released him. ʺI want you filled, completely, by me.ʺ Her belly tightened at his husky tone, and she wondered how heʹd take her. An instant visual of being thrown over his lap made her tingle with anticipation. ʺHow?ʺ she inquired before she repeatedly swirled her tongue over his cock, dipping down to suckle his sac lightly while her fingers teased him. ʺThe leather sack, go and get it.ʺ She moved without question. Returning to the waterʹs edge, she held out the sack, wondering what it contained.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Sigurd pulled his legs from the water and stretched out on the carpet beside the pool. His weight balanced on his hip and elbow as his head rested in his palm. He was still erect, and the long length of his cock strained toward his belly. ʺOpen it,ʺ he told her as she knelt beside him. She pulled out an ivory carving, then a second. She stared at them, slowly turning them in her palms. Both were long and wide, smooth to her touch with a wider tip. Blushing, she held one to Sigurdʹs erect cock. The ivory was an exact copy. Holding one in each palm she reddened further. ʺDid someone make these for you?ʺ He laughed aloud and rolled on his back. His cock stood tall as she leaned over him, holding a statue in each hand on either side of his living cock. ʺI mean, did somebody...ʺ ʺA man carves his own image, Mandara. Although I suppose in some places there might be craftsmen who do the carving.ʺ ʺYou carved these? I had no idea you could work in stone.ʺ ʺThe sea is a lonely mistress. I carved these from the finest ivory on long journeys, hoping someday to find a real mistress to use them on.ʺ As soon as he said, ʺuse them on,ʺ she finally started to understand. ʺYou mean...ʺ ʺYes, princess. Now I can fill you completely and all with myself.ʺ He laughed, and she scrambled away from him, hesitant and confused. He watched her play with the two replicas of his erect cock, feeling the texture of the ivory, the smooth surface heʹd soon slide inside her. Her skin flushed and her lower lips glistened, while her nipples budded harder. He moved to her side, took one piece of ivory from her hand, and stroked her cheek with the smooth end. Her eyes drifted shut as he pressed it against her lips, urging her to take it in her mouth. Her eyes flew open, and she stared at him for a long second before she allowed him the intrusion. ʺThatʹs it. Get used to the size and shape, and show me how youʹd suck me if my cock were between your lips.ʺ He gathered her wet hair in his hand and held her head while he pushed the cock farther in her
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne mouth. Dara held his gaze as she accepted it, using exotic motions of her tongue to wet the carving. Her hand dropped to his straining cock, and she stroked him as she sucked on the marble carving. When his cock oozed a drop of pre‐cum, she took the moisture on her finger, and paused to pull the ivory from her lips and wipe his heat on the tip before taking it back in her mouth. He groaned openly and surged in her hand. ʺStand before me,ʺ he ordered roughly. ʺYou’re my whore tonight. Remember that.ʺ It wasn’t a question, but a reminder. She stood and automatically moved her legs wide apart, still watching him intently. ʺYes, my prince.ʺ He left her standing there for several minutes, while he filled a cup with wine, and brought it to her lips. He took her hands and moved them behind her back. The position made her breasts jut forward. ʺDo you know what I want, whore?ʺ ʺIʹm not sure,ʺ she whispered. He slapped her lightly on her behind. Her nipples budded into tight raspberries. He suckled each one and then took a seat at the table. He pulled her in front of him. ʺYouʹre learning,ʺ he whispered, running his hands along her arms, which were still clasped behind her. ʺMandara, do you trust me?ʺ Their eyes met and held, and she took a long time to answer. ʺMore than I could ever believe Iʹd trust a man.ʺ ʺYou know Iʹd never willingly hurt you?ʺ ʺI think so, Sigurd.ʺ ʺIʹm your husband, sworn to protect you at all costs. Have I truly hurt you so far, beyond the embarrassment of spanking you, which makes you heat inside?ʺ She blushed and shook her head. ʺAnd the feeling of being completely vulnerable to me makes you hot and wet. Do you agree?ʺ ʺYes, though I donʹt quite understand it.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He kissed her with all the gentle passion he was capable of. When he pulled away, she looked at him. ʺWhat do you want of me? Please, tell me.ʺ ʺI want to fill you completely, my princess, and you will allow it.ʺ Having given her fair warning, he pushed her shoulders until she knelt in front of him, and her mouth went to his cock in an automatic response. He let her suck him while he watched, and ran the ivory cock along her neck and back. He came quickly and she swallowed all she could, licking her lips to retrieve a lost morsel. He pulled her to him in a demonstrative kiss, his tongue taking the place of his cock, then he pulled away. ʺStand up and turn around, princess.ʺ She obeyed as he picked up a length of silk cloth and bound her wrists. ʺCome kneel before me,ʺ he told her, his words commanding. She dropped before him without verbal question, but her eyes talked for her, widening just before he used the second length of silk to block her vision, tying the cloth behind her head. ʺSigurd?ʺ ʺDara, trust me.ʺ She drew a breath but said no more. Her complete trust humbled him. ʺGood. Now Iʹm going to take you to the table. I want you to rest on the edge.ʺ He lifted her easily and moved her to the wood surface, dropping her lightly onto its edge. He nudged her legs apart with his knee. ʺDoes my princess feel vulnerable?ʺ he whispered in her ear. ʺYes.ʺ She gasped as he cupped her breast, tugging roughly on her erect nipple. ʺYouʹre mine tonight. Iʹll do whatever I want with you. Do you understand?ʺ ʺYes,ʺ she managed, but her voice was breathless, and her chest rose and fell quickly with each short breath. ʺYouʹre wet. Does being bound excite you? Does being in my complete control arouse you? Will you do anything I want?ʺ He moved
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne his hand, palming her junction, letting his middle finger just brush at her entrance, hint at the penetration he knew she wanted. ʺYes, my prince.ʺ He slipped inside her, she moved over him, unaware of how her body looked as she humped his hand for relief. ʺMore,ʺ she whispered. He smiled when he heard her whimper as he took his hand away. He took one of the ivory carvings to her lips, and she sucked it greedily before he pushed it in her moist tunnel, allowing her only a moment to accept it before pushing it farther. ʺOh, it feels...ʺ ʺFeels like what, princess?ʺ With one hand he moved the ivory phallus slowly in and out of her while his lips locked onto her breast, his mouth sucking with the same stroke as his hand. ʺAlmost like youʹre inside me.ʺ ʺAnd do you like it?ʺ He moved to suckle her other nipple, and she groaned under him. ʺAnswer me.ʺ He pulled the ivory from her, knowing he left her empty and aching. ʺMore,ʺ was all she managed to say. He lifted her by the waist and turned her around, pushing her forward until her chest lay on the table, her hands still bound behind her. He pushed her legs farther apart with his knee, and his hand came down on her buttocks in a flurry of small slaps. She tried to squirm away, only to have him remind her of who was in charge. He spanked her until her cheeks and thighs glowed a soft red from his touch, then he pushed the phallus back inside her. He dropped behind her and used his tongue against her lips, mixing with the carved intruder. She groaned again, pushing her buttocks higher in the air. He continued to tease her with his mouth and his hand. Dara never knew which would touch her next. She stood quickly when he moved a finger higher, but he pushed her back roughly against the table top. ʺSigurd...ʺ ʺThe princess forgets whoʹs in charge,ʺ he said as he landed several swats on her upper thighs, the sting worse than on her behind. He stilled behind her, and she froze, wondering what heʹd do next. He did nothing
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne for a long time, ultimately pulling her up to drink from his wine before settling her back in place. ʺMy princess, my whore, youʹll do what I tell you.ʺ ʺYes,ʺ she managed, damp with excitement. Suddenly, Sigurd pushed the ivory dildo deep in her pussy and dropped to his knees behind her. His tongue teased her clit, and wetted her. Finally, between alternating slaps, he slipped his middle finger inside her also to stroke the ivory in her tunnel, forcing her to feel his invasion. She breathed in short pants, unable to find a normal breath as he filled her so fully. When he stood, leaned forward and placed the second carving to her mouth, her lips sucked it greedily. His erection pressed against her stinging buttocks, the heat from his skin scorching. He left the carved cock in her mouth and told her to suck it as if it was his real cock. He continued to lean over her, one hand pumping her breast, the other twisting the ivory cock in her mouth. ʺI told you, princess, Iʹd soon fill you with myself,ʺ he said through gritted teeth. She only groaned, her mouth still full. Then he pulled the toy from her mouth and inserted it in her anus. Even though she knew it would penetrate her, she wasnʹt prepared for the stretching burn. His palm connected against her ass, time and time again, until she accepted it. Her pussy was still filled with his other carved cock, her tunnel slick from his games. He fucked her slowly, forcing the ivory to slip against her inner walls with each thrust, pushing it deep in her, stroking it against the second cock lodged higher. He stilled behind her and took a step away. She suspected he stared at her. Dara waited, wondering what heʹd do next. She squirmed and wiggled her butt in the cool air, knowing how she must appear and thankful the door was locked. It was one thing for Sigurd to see her displayed this way, but no one else could ever know the depth of her need for his cock, his lips, and his hands. In her mind she pictured the cave, her body bent over the table, her hands bound behind her, her eyes blanketed. She knew her buttocks
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne would be bright red from his palms and a fake cock protruded from each of her holes. Just thinking about her position made her quake and moisten further. Sigurd pulled a chair up near her, the scraping sound apparent. Then he guided her carefully to her knees before him, reaching around her to push the fake cocks deeper inside her. With his help, her mouth found his true cock, and she sucked him eagerly, taking him deep in her throat while squeezing the fake cocks inside her. She groaned around him and felt him throb. ʺThe princess likes being filled by her prince?ʺ he taunted. Several light taps on her buttocks forced her to mumble a, ʺyes,ʺ around his cock. She sucked harder, wanting him to empty, but too soon he moved her away, putting her back over the table. He pulled the cock from her pussy and replaced it with his straining erection. He nudged the moist fake against her lips once again. ʺSuck it,ʺ he ordered, alternating spanks with his intrusion. With each stroke she felt not only him but the imposter move inside her ass, and she pulled the other ivory deeper into her mouth. Then Sigurd withdrew, pulled the hard ivory from her ass, and pushed his erection deep inside her. She pushed back to accept him. He dropped his fingers against her lower lips reminding her not to stop sucking the other. ʺI like watching you suck my cock while I fuck you, princess. While I spank you...while I make you writhe under me.ʺ He slipped first one, then a second, large finger inside her pussy, stroking them both. Her swollen lips slipped across his hand, moving in rhythm with his cock. He brushed the heavy heel of his hand harder against her hardened nub. The combination pushed her into the abyss, and she froze under him before collapsing on the table. He emptied deep inside her ass. Afterward, he pulled away and she groaned her disappointment. So, he took the cock from her mouth and slipped it lower between her greedy pussy lips, using his hands to push and pull until her body began to respond to the cadence, sucking the fake cock deeper while he spanked her several times. His hand continued with the blows while his other hand
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne moved to her face. He ran his fingertips over her mouth until she opened her lips, taking his middle and index fingers deep down her throat. After a few more thrusts and slaps, she came hard, a primal scream falling from her lips as she lay exhausted under him. Sigurd slowly pulled the carved cock from her body, using his fingers to gently rub her dripping holes, his fingers sliding easily against her one last time. He untied her hands first and rubbed her wrists before pulling her up against his chest and walking the few paces to the edge of the water, gently lowering them both into the warm bath. He sat on the second ledge with her in front of him and slowly pulled off the blindfold. She dropped her head against his shoulder, her eyes still shut, her body relaxed against his. “Wife,ʺ he whispered. ʺHusband,ʺ she uttered with what little strength she had left. None of it made sense, yet it felt right.
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Chapter Ten Several agonizing days later, Dara slipped away to tend her flowers. The morning feast had been too much to deal with. Nandin was outwardly rude, and Sigurd let him spill out his vile lies. She’d started to confront him on one point, but Sigurd had silenced her with a look. It was then that she took her leave citing duties to attend to. Taking several deep breaths of the perfumed air around her, she started to relax, wondering if Sigurd would join her, only to be reminded that her bleeding had started—a reminder of her lack of success to bear an heir. In her mind she knew the process sometimes took months or years, but disappointment still filled her. Ingrid quietly entered the hut and moved beside her. “Dara, what is it?” “Nothing, really, just the stress of Nandin and his crew.” She turned to pull more of the browning blossoms from their stems. “I’ve known you all my life, Mandara. This goes beyond Nandin.” Ingrid hesitated but added, “Is there a problem with Sigurd?” “No, of course not.” Dara couldn’t hold back the tears and let Ingrid pull her into a hug when she let them fall. “It’s silly really. It’s just that my days had gone long, and I was hoping…I know it’s soon, but I so wanted to give Sigurd an heir.” “Oh, Dara, you will. And you’re right. You’ve only been together a short time. You know the process can take months, sometimes years.”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Dara pulled back, wiping her eyes with a linen cloth. “I know. I was just disappointed.” “Think of it this way. You’ll both have to try harder.” Ingrid let out a giggle, and Dara couldn’t hold back her laugh. She didn’t add any of the details of how they’d already tried. “You’re right, but tell, what is the situation between you and Kerr? I’ve seen the way he steals glances at you, how you acknowledge him. Why, it was only yesterday I found the two of you huddled in the dark under the main staircase.” Ingrid blushed and nodded. “Yes, I do love him, but he has no words for me, and I resist until I hear the words.” “You two will work it out when the timing’s right. I suppose, with all the stress around the keep, it’s difficult to find time to be alone.” “I agree, but if he ever does commit to me, he’d better watch out. I’ve been dreaming of how I want to touch him, for him to love me back— ” The door slammed open, and Nandin strode into the hut. Hate filled his eyes as he confronted Dara. ʺHow dare you, Mandara? You knew you were supposed to be mine! Everything Iʹve done was to see you as mine in the end. All this was supposed to be mine!ʺ His hand swept in a wide motion, meaning their side of the isle. He deliberately started pushing over the tables of seedlings she so lovingly tended. ʺNever, Nandin! Iʹd die before Iʹd let you touch me. I despise you and all the hate and bitterness you bring to our keep.ʺ Dara knew antagonizing this man wasnʹt smart, especially with the dazed look on his face, but she couldnʹt help it, the words tumbled from her lips, the tension of the last weeks erupting. ʺYouʹre no better than a common whore, despite your royal blood. Youʹre not a princess, just a common slut to a hulk of a man whoʹs not whole, who canʹt see or use his left hand to protect you.ʺ His beady eyes drilled through her. ʺYour brother was no better at protecting his wife.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne The meaning of his words decimated her soul. Although she’d always suspected he’d been to blame for her brother’s death, he’d never before admitted it. ʺSir, please leave this hut. I would call the guard but think you prefer to leave on your own not under the saber.ʺ She stood tall, hoping to stop the confrontation. ʺThatʹs where youʹre wrong, Mandara. Your guard is a joke, a boy to guard you. When youʹre my wife, Iʹll make sure no man sees or touches you, except me.ʺ He licked his lips, repulsing her. ʺIʹll never be your wife, Nandin. Iʹm married to Sigurd, and weʹll stay that way long into our aging, to watch our children grow to rule Bohdan.ʺ ʺThis place will be mine, Mandara. And Iʹll have you willingly or not. One way or another, you will bear my heir, and he will rise to rule all of Bohdan. If you choose to stand beside me, I might let some of your people live to service mine. But know this, I plan to bring my entire village here to live, and I will be in charge. Once my heir is born, you will be wise to keep me happy, or Iʹll replace you, too.ʺ ʺThe king will never allow it,ʺ Ingrid whispered and was rewarded with a back‐handed slap across the cheek that sent her off balance. Dara grabbed her before she fell to the ground. ʺGo,ʺ she whispered in her friend’s ear. ʺGet help. Find Sigurd.ʺ ʺGet out, slut. Leave us,ʺ Nandin ordered. * * * * * Sigurd and Kerr were in the outer keep when they heard Ingrid’s screams. As she ran toward them, Kerr grabbed her and shook her by the shoulders to calm her. “What’s wrong?” Kerr demanded. “What’s happened?” Ingrid took a deep, shuddering breath. “Dara is in the flower hut. Nandin cornered her. He threatened to rape her, to force her to bear his heir. Heʹs gone crazed; he talks of bringing his whole village here to live, using all of us as his servants. He admitted to killing Roland and his wife.ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne Sigurd needed no further information. He sprinted toward the flower hut while Kerr hollered orders to the men, telling them to round up Nandinʹs party and hold them in the great hall. Hale and Marta approached and as he passed them, he ordered them to gather the women and children and lock themselves in the chapel. As more of his shipmates arrived, he heard Kerr shout directions, and watched the men scatter at his words. When he arrived at the flower hut door, he took in the sight before him. Nandin was on his knees trying to grab a table edge to steady his rise. Dara lay on the floor several feet away, blood dripping from her forehead and down her legs, her clothing disheveled, and her skirt torn. She lay among a pile of broken pottery shards, tables of seedlings overturned all around them. Sigurd snapped. Grabbing Nandin by the throat, he strangled him until his beady eyes bulged. He heard Ingrid’s voice in the background and realized she was talking to the king. ʺSigurd, let him go.ʺ The king’s voice finally broke through the curtain of his rage. ʺDid you see what he did to my wife, to your daughter?ʺ Sigurd held the pressure steady, enjoying the manʹs struggle for breath. ʺI see, Sigurd. But if you kill him, he wins!ʺ ʺYou canʹt be serious.ʺ Sigurd turned to look at the king, dragging Nandin along the dirt floor, his grip never lessening. ʺIf he dies at your hand, heʹs turned you into the same monster heʹs become.ʺ ʺHow can I let him live after he touched Dara?ʺ ʺI see your point, but it doesnʹt change the fact. If you kill him, you become no better than him. Thatʹs not what I want for the ruler of my people, Sigurd. This side of the isle will turn like his in no time.ʺ Nandin lay dazed at Sigurdʹs feet, his breath still erratic and pained, tears flowing from his eyes like a frightened child. Time stood still for Sigurd. He looked from the king to Nandin and from him to Dara, who still lay crumpled on the floor. His fingers once again tightened. Kerr took a step forward, his voice steady. ʺSigurd, if you kill him now, he doesnʹt suffer. Wouldnʹt you rather see him punished?ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺDara wonʹt understand,ʺ Ingrid added, her voice low as she cradled Dara in her lap, wiping blood from her scalp with a cloth. Sigurd groaned and released Nandin, letting him fall flat in the dirt. Kerr dragged the tyrant from Sigurdʹs sight while he moved toward his wife. He gathered her from the floor and pulled her to his chest. He strode away with his wife in his arms and headed to their bedchamber, Ingrid and Marta quick on his heels. Ingrid pushed Daraʹs hair from her face and held a cloth to her temple, running beside them to keep up with his long strides. Once in their chamber, he brought her to the bed, laying her down gently. Marta placed a clean cloth to Daraʹs face as Ingrid tried to pull him away. ʺSigurd, let Marta care for her.ʺ He pulled his arm roughly back, and she stumbled, but he caught her before she fell. ʺIʹm sorry,ʺ he managed, and his eyes filled as he looked toward the bed. In defeat, he moved to the fireplace and dropped to his knees, letting his emotions overrule him. An anguished cry fell from his lips, as tears slipped down his face. Kerr came and moved him from the chamber, pulling him across the hall to the chamber where it all started—where he had awoken to a sable angel watching over him. Kerr pressed a cup of wine into his hand, but he threw it across the room and pounded his fists on the stone wall. ʺI want the man dead. Didnʹt you see what he did? I donʹt care if it makes me no better than him. Iʹll accept his death on my conscience.ʺ ʺNo, Sigurd,ʺ Kerr told him. ʺThe king is right. You need to rule as a fair king, to set an example. Killing Nandin will prevent that and all you and Dara are striving for.ʺ ʺDara. My God, why I couldnʹt protect her?ʺ ʺNo man could have, under the circumstances,ʺ Kerr assured him. ʺHis party attacked the hall guards and then Bard. Four men and a page couldnʹt help her against his twenty.ʺ ʺIʹm her husband. I should have prevented him from touching her.ʺ He dropped in the chair beside the fire, gazing into the flames.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne He had no notion of how long he waited, only that it turned night before he was roused by Ingrid. ʺDrink this, Sigurd. Dara will need you to be strong when she wakes.ʺ Ingrid sat on the edge of the hearth and studied him. ʺShe will awaken, Sigurd. Her head hit the table, and she needs to sleep until it has time to heal. Come, Iʹll take you to her.ʺ ʺNo, I canʹt. I canʹt get past the fact that he…ʺ He couldn’t form the words, and he looked away in disgust of his incompetence. Ingrid took a deep breath. ʺSigurd, I know what you think, but Nandin didnʹt rape her. He threatened but never touched her.ʺ ʺDonʹt lie, Ingrid. I saw how he used her, how her blood ran...ʺ Sigurd slammed the cup into the fire, watching the liquid splatter against the hot stones. He was surprised when Ingrid knelt before him, pulling his hand to get his attention. ʺListen carefully, Sigurd. He never raped her, never had a chance to touch her. She was bleeding because it was her time.ʺ He turned to stare, digesting her words, wanting to believe but unable to. ʺDara and I were pruning when she told me she got her monthly this morning, and she was so disappointed. Her days were longer than usual, and she’d hoped for a child.ʺ ʺWhat? Are you sure or do you lie to protect her and me?ʺ ʺI swear, Sigurd, we cried and then laughed that youʹd have to try harder. She left the feast because of its start. They were only alone together a minute or two before I found you. He didnʹt have time to take her. I admit he probably would have if youʹd not gotten there when you did, but he never had time. Think about it, he was still fully dressed when you found him.ʺ ʺItʹs just her monthly bleed?ʺ Sigurd didn’t dare believe. ʺYes, the bump on her head is the worst of her injuries. Sheʹll sleep, just like you did, until her body tells her sheʹs healed. Then sheʹll wake up and tell you herself.ʺ ʺI still didnʹt protect her. What good am I as her husband when I couldnʹt keep her safe?ʺ He shook his head in defeat, and Ingrid laughed.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺYouʹd think you were the one with the blow to the head, Sigurd.ʺ She shook her head at him like she would with a child, and he didnʹt like the implication. ʺDara loves you, and all that matters is youʹre alive and well, able to go on and rule Bohdan with just minds and hearts. You cannot protect any loved one all the time. Surely your child will fall and scrape a knee or fall from a horse. Will you refuse to have them because they might get hurt?ʺ He shook his head in confusion as she rose to her feet. ʺYou, sir, are afraid to let your emotions show. Afraid to tell her how much she means to you, how you love her. Those are the only words that will heal her, Sigurd. If you truly want her as your wife, I suggest you tell her as soon as she wakes.ʺ She left him and Kerr in a huff. ʺI somehow think some of that lecture was meant for me, Sigurd,ʺ Kerr said. ʺI believe so, too, but she has a point. In all this time I havenʹt told Dara of my feelings.ʺ Both men were silent, suddenly very interested in the fire before them. * * * * * Later that night, Sigurd and Kerr headed to the chamber where his guard held Nandin and his crew. Nandin was dragged away, crying for mercy and leaving his party disgusted by his display. In the next chamber, Sigurd pushed him onto the floor and stood hovering over him. Now that the charade was up, heʹd forgone the patch and the binding of his left arm. ʺPlease, Sigurd, I beg you not to kill me. I was wrong. I admit it. I was angry you got her first...ʺ Sigurdʹs knee came up under Nandinʹs chin and pushed him over. ʺI went about it all wrong. I came to ask for help for my people....ʺ Sigurd reached down and grabbed him by the front of his tunic, raising him off the floor with the use of only one hand, leaving his feet swinging. ʺWhat did you do to her?ʺ
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺI...I...” He started to cry again, and Sigurd dropped him to the floor, waiting until he stopped sobbing and gasping for air. ʺWhat did you do?ʺ ʺWe struggled. She fell and hit her head. I didnʹt mean to hurt her.ʺ Sigurd grabbed him a second time, only he pulled him upright, placing him on his feet, the pudgy man unbalanced by the quick move. ʺTell me what you did to her!ʺ The tone of his voice was threateningly low. ʺI didnʹt touch her. She started throwing pottery at me, and I charged her. We struggled and she fell, hitting her head. Thatʹs all. When I realized and saw blood, I backed away, and then you were there, grabbing at me.ʺ Nandin’s hands moved to his throat, as if he could still feel Sigurd’s hands locked around his neck. ʺAnd why should I let you live? Why should I send you back to your people?ʺ ʺBecause Iʹm all they have to lead them.ʺ ʺThey would be better off left to their own devices.ʺ Sigurd tossed Nandin bodily into the chamber with his party and watched the man cower at his feet, wetness staining his trousers by his crotch. Kerr nudged Sigurd, and they both enjoyed a laugh at the sissy man who peed on himself. He surveyed the group and called the two familiar men forward. ʺIs this the man you want ruling your world?ʺ “No, my lord,” the men answered. ʺIs there any among you that could rule with an honest hand? Any among your people who would dare to rebuild the chaos heʹs created?ʺ The brothers who had impressed Sigurd throughout their stay moved to the front of the crowd, no longer afraid for themselves or retribution to their family. “My brother and I would be fair. We understand the hard work it takes to keep a castle running, how all must work together.” He glanced to his brother and added, “Our family has managed to become self‐ sufficient in spite of Nandin and his cronies.”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne “There are many on our side of the isle who would rather live Bohdan’s style than Nandin’s,” the second brother said. “The basics are still present in Nandin’s castle, run down and left to ruin I admit, but I feel we can rebuild a future for our side.” Brother stood beside brother, and Sigurd wondered if the dual rule might be best for a new start. At last Sigurd escorted Nandin’s party to where the wagons were already loaded. Sigurd bundled Nandin over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and dropped him into the back of one of the wagons. He rode escort to the docks, with the two men heʹd chosen beside him. His plan was simple. They were to leave the Bohdan side of the isle and never return. Whatever happened to Nandin on his voyage home wasnʹt his concern. His only order was that they not return while Nandin was in power. Both men understood. Sigurd added he would be glad to train several of their smartest men to the harnessing of the steam, but only if Nandin didnʹt stay in power. He had their eager promise, and a truce was now in place between them. A truce, Sigurd reinforced, that was tentative at best, and only time would strengthen their new friendship. He rode hard from the dock, returning to Daraʹs side, not leaving her except for the blessings. Hale and Marta checked on them, bringing trays of food that went untouched. Ingridʹs cheek started to heal, and the bond between her and Kerr strengthened. They took turns staying in the chamber, waiting with Sigurd for Dara to wake fully. The villagers helped turn Bohdan castle back to its original glory so when she woke up, her home would be as she remembered it. * * * * * Sigurd lost his composure. Heʹd sent Ingrid to bed hours ago and lay across Daraʹs legs, his head cradled in her lap, crying and praying. While they’d managed to get Dara to drink some water and herbal
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne concoctions, she kept falling back into the deep sleep from which it was difficult to rouse her. ʺIf you let her live, I promise to never harm another. Iʹll love her until you take my last breath from my body. Anything. Just let her wake. Let her still want me after I let her down. I promised to protect her, and I didnʹt.ʺ He closed his eyes, repeating the words over and over. ʺPlease give her back to me. I love her too much to lose her. Anything I have Iʹll gladly give.” ʺAnything?ʺ she whispered, her hand rising to stroke the hair from his forehead. Sigurd stilled against her, his hand rising to meet hers. ʺAnything,ʺ he whispered, stunned to see her awake. He sat up quickly and pulled her body toward him. ʺSigurd,ʺ she whispered, brushing his cheek with her hand, her voice cracked with emotion, her brown eyes wet with tears. ʺDara, youʹre awake. Thank the gods. I thought I lost you.ʺ ʺIʹm too stubborn to let a bump on the head defeat me.ʺ They laughed and cried at the same time, and he pressed his lips to hers. ʺYouʹve had us all frightened, my princess. Youʹve slept much too long.ʺ She inhaled deeply and stretched under him. ʺI must have been very tired,ʺ she said, then burst out laughing. Her smile turned to tears, and he pulled her to his chest a second time. ʺIʹve been so afraid, Dara. Donʹt ever leave me like that again. Tired or not, do you understand me?ʺ ʺYes, Sigurd, I understand. Only I have something to tell you and itʹs best to say it straight out.ʺ He stilled over her, afraid Ingrid and Kerr had been wrong. ʺGo ahead, tell me anything, wife.ʺ ʺI haven’t conceived your heir. I bleed as we speak.ʺ ʺI know, Dara. Weʹll just have to try again.ʺ ʺIʹm sorry, Sigurd. I so wanted your baby. My days had gone long and…ʺ She didn’t finish as he leaned forward to kiss away her hurt.
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne ʺAnd you will, in time. We have time now, Dara. Nandin is gone, and he wonʹt be coming back.ʺ ʺBut how?ʺ ʺItʹs a long story that Iʹll tell you when youʹre stronger and when Iʹve had some sleep.ʺ ʺIʹm not tired at all,ʺ she teased, stretching beside him in a sultry move. Her hand slipped between their bodies, and she captured him in her palm. ʺWhen I was sleeping I remembered strange dreams. Did you tell me you loved me and would do anything if I awoke?ʺ ʺYou heard me and made me wait all this time?ʺ ʺIt was like being underwater. I just couldnʹt reach the surface, no matter how hard I swam. I could see your face, but I just couldnʹt reach you.ʺ ʺYouʹre here now, and thatʹs all that matters, my princess. Now tell me, what do you want? Food, drink, anything. I am your slave...ʺ ʺFood and drink can wait, my prince. I fear youʹve been bad while I slept.ʺ ʺDara...ʺ ʺDo you really love me, Sigurd?ʺ ʺYes, my princess, more than I ever wanted to and more than I ever hoped to love any woman. Youʹre mine for life, and youʹre stuck with me.ʺ ʺThatʹs fine. I knew I loved you the night they dragged you from the sea. I swore then if the gods let you live, Iʹd do anything in my power to heal you.ʺ ʺWe have each other. Our future is full.ʺ He hesitated, adding, ʺI should let Ingrid and Kerr know you’re awake. Theyʹve been keeping watch along with me.” ʺLater, my prince.” Sigurd realized she’d called him prince and that the tone of her voice had changed. Her eyes sparkled, and her lips tilted upward in a private smile. ʺYou said anything I want. I want you naked across my lap.ʺ “Dara it’s your time. We can’t…”
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne “There are other ways, Sigurd. I’m learning my satisfaction comes in many ways. Yours will, too.” His face burned hot, and he stared at her as if she were crazy. ʺThat bump on your head must have rattled your brains.” Sigurd stood up quickly and whirled around, trying to think of an escape, knowing there truly wasnʹt one. Did he truly want one? His cock throbbed to life, and his belly went tight. ʺDara, some things are beyond…ʺ She smoothed the coverlet over her legs and shifted to a better sitting position. Her grin widened as she looked him over from head to toe, her tongue wetting her lips. ʺLock the door, my prince. And bring the leather pouch.” The End
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The Ice Princess by Lillith Payne
Author Bio Having been born and raised on Long Island, New York, my husband and I were both eager to leave the urban lifestyle behind us and explore our futures. With his encouragement, I’m living my dream of writing romance novels full time. Our new rural setting allows us to enjoy time together and gives me guiltless hours to let my imagination go and indulge my other passion. When I realized my works consistently tended toward the erotic, I gave myself permission to explore places in my mind I might not venture in real life. She can be reached at:
[email protected] or www.lillithpayne714.com
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