by Donald White
The prince grew nervous, thinking about the greater he-fay. He had heard that they were taller than Lady Persephone, with a cold gaze that could freeze a man’s heart within his chest. Once more, he regretted having taken her. Recovering, he gestured towards the food. “Please eat, milady.”
A servant cut a piece of roast duck and put in on her plate. He added cooked vegetables and fresh bread, laying the food before her.
Lady Persephone asked for a basin filled with water. It was brought and she dipped her hands in it, cleaning them thoroughly. Then, she took a piece of roast duck and placed it in her mouth.
Prince Hayden eyed the unused utensils next to her plate. He thought, It is like a doe eating at my table. She knows nothing of etiquette, and yet she is not slovenly. So graceful, and yet, so wild… Though she ate with her fingers, every piece of food was picked up and placed carefully into her small mouth. She chewed thoroughly and then swallowed.
She noticed him staring at her. “Yes?”
He shrugged. “You interest me, milady. Are you deliberate about everything?”
The elf replied in her melodious tone, “It is wise to consider one’s actions. To be careless in one thing is to show a tendency toward apathy. Yet, one can ponder overmuch. This can lead to inaction due to a growing anxiety. You must be aware of what you do, and not focus on the thinking but the doing.”
He thought about her words. They were simple and precise, but the wisdom could not be denied. Had he considered his own actions? No, he had only been concerned with his rights. He had taken her out of lust. And would he fulfill his desires by taking her to his bed? He grew adamant. She is mine. Lady Persephone gave herself to me. I am no thief. I only took what is mine. Prince Hayden noticed that her plate was empty.
Lady Persephone cleaned her hands once more, drying them with a napkin which a servant took from her when she was finished.
The prince asked, “Was the meal to your liking?”
She nodded. “It was well prepared and well served. I thank your servants for their diligence and care.”
The man nodded. “You live here now, milady. My servants are also yours.”
Lady Persephone replied, “Very well.”
He continued to eat his meal.
The nymph waited patiently.
Prince Hayden felt the urge to hasten. Soon, he had finished and taken the last sip of wine. He stood up. “Come, let us go into the parlor.”
“Very well.” She stood up and followed after him.
***
They entered a room with large windows which let in the fading light of day. There were a few chairs around a small round table in the middle and he sat down, gesturing for her to do the same.
One entire wall was filled with books of all sorts. The floor was covered in a finely woven rug.
Lady Persephone stared at the strange designs woven into it. “These pictures seem to be telling a story.”
Prince Hayden nodded, “It is the history of Androtopia, milady.”
“It is beautiful and wrought well. Though certain of the scenes it depicts are of violence between men.”
He bowed his head. “Our history is a bloody one. Kings have risen up and were overthrown. But Androtopia was forged in adversity.”
She chided, “Such needless slaughter. Can man not live in peace?”
Prince Hayden smirked, “Would that be the same peace which lead your own people into exile, milady?”
The elf corrected, “It was the Usurper who defiled the peace. He and his followers rejected the Queen of elves. Blessed be Nicnivin.”
He changed the subject. “Milady, you mentioned that you could see things past, present and future.”
She replied, “I can see that which was and is, and what could be. The future is shrouded in mist, for the choices that are made here will determine the outcome.”
“So, you cannot divine the future.”
Lady Persephone responded, “A sibyl can see what will be unless changes are made. That which you have done, and what you now do shall determine your course. If you desire a different outcome, you must heed wisdom and follow a better course.”
The youth grew irritated. “You speak in riddles. Make your meaning clear. Can you tell me my future or not?”
She frowned, “Anger shall lead you into folly. In order to see, calm your heart and quiet your mind. If there is darkness within, there will be naught to light your path.”
He stared at her, not knowing what to say. He wanted to be a great king someday. But was he too dark to see his goal clearly? The young man bowed his head. “Teach me wisdom, milady.”
She stared at him. “Very well.” The nymph stood up and walked over to him. She knelt down on the rug beside his chair. Then, she gestured for him to do likewise.
He reddened slightly, thinking, She wants me to kneel on the floor? How undignified! The prince glanced about to make sure that none of the servants were around to see. Then, he slid from his chair and knelt on the floor in front of her.
Lady Persephone closed her eyes, placing her hands on his head. “You were born into prominence. But with prominence comes expectation, and you bear the burdens of your station. As a child, your friends were not chosen by you, but for you. And you came to like the choices which were made on your behalf. You understood what was expected of you, striving to become what was desired.”
Prince Hayden’s countenance darkened. He thought, She speaks of the burdens of royalty in general. Where is the power she spoke of?
The elf continued, “There was that which you desired. And you took it.”
He perked up at that.
Lady Persephone stated, “You took it from Tristan.”
Prince Hayden grew alarmed. “How could she have known?”
She continued, “It was a necklace, adorned with a ruby; a gift from his mother.”
The prince pulled away fearfully. He stood up, dusting himself off. “How dare you mock me?”
Lady Persephone remained, kneeling. Placing her hands in her lap, she opened her eyes and stared up at him. “This darkness is the path you have chosen. To be free of its curse, you must cleanse yourself. And then, your path will be clear.”
He gazed wide-eyed at the elf down on her knees. And yet, I feel as if she still towers over me. He stared speechless, and then turned away, hastening out of the room.
***
The evening wore on, with Prince Hayden having secluded himself in his chambers. He stared out the window into the courtyard below. The youth turned, hearing the door open.
Lady Persephone entered the room, and knelt on the floor.
He scowled, facing the window once more. “I did not call for you, milady.”
She replied, “You are destined to be king, and yet, here I find you sulking like a child.”
The young man winced at her words. He glanced over at the door she had left open. “What do you want?”
Cocking her head to the side, she answered, “Am I not yours? Do you not desire me? I have come to fulfill your desires according to our arrangement.”
He slowly turned to face her. “Milady?” His eyes grew wide. She had removed her garment! “Milady?!”
The nude elf was still down on her knees, with her hands in her lap. Her expression remained impassive.
Prince Hayden hastened to shut the door. “What are you doing?”
She crawled towards him. “That which you desire.”
He felt himself backing up against the wall. “Milady, I…”
“Yes?” She reached for his trousers.
The youth started as they came free, sliding down to the floor. He could see the signs of his arousal and pressed back into the wall. “Milady, please…”
She completely removed his lower garments.
He stood there, trembling, as she studied his turgid manhood.
Lady Persephone lay on her back. “I am yours.”
Prince Hayden stared down at the naked elf, overwhelmed by her alien beauty. H
e dropped to his knees and approached her. Suddenly, he felt ashamed and drew back, cowering between her spread legs. “Milady, I cannot.” He could feel himself growing limp.
Lady Persephone sat up. “Very well. Lie down, and I shall pleasure you.”
He gaped at her. “Milady…”
She stared at him expectantly.
Feeling compelled, he lay on his back.
Lady Persephone knelt over him, descending towards his nether regions. Her gaze was steady and unwavering as she stalked her flaccid prey.
Prince Hayden took on an expression of terror as she opened her mouth to engorge him! He shivered, feeling her pointed tongue prodding him back to an erection.
Lady Persephone licked thoroughly, taking him into her mouth once more, her long dark hair brushing against his thighs.
The youth groaned, fearing to disturb her. She looks as if she would devour me! He gasped, as she nibbled at him.
This went on for awhile, the elf licking away at his distended member. And then, he grew alarmed, feeling something welling up from within.
She lapped up every bit of his discharge, ingesting it.
The young man just lay there, breathing heavily.
Licking her lips, the elf pulled back into a kneeling position once more. Her face showed barely a hint of exertion, and the expression was calm as ever.
The prince wondered, How can she remain impassive? I am spent, and yet she shows no loss of vigor. He shook, feeling less a sense of pleasure and more like he had been consumed!
She sat on her haunches, patiently waiting.
What is she waiting for?! He scrambled to his feet, removing the rest of his garments and fetching a robe. “I will get you some wine, Milady.”
“Very well.” Lady Persephone remained, kneeling.
“Milady, please put your robe back on so as not to further frighten the servants.”
The elf did so.
Prince Hayden rang a bell and a servant came. “We require wine.”
“Of course, Your Highness.” The man left, returning shortly with a bottle of wine and two glasses on a tray.
His prince gave a nod of approval and gestured for the servant to leave. Then, the youth opened the bottle and poured a glass for himself and for Lady Persephone.
She took a few sips. “It is good.”
“So were you,” he blurted. The young man swiftly recovered. “I am glad you like it.”
An awkward silence once more ensued.
Lady Persephone took the glasses, placing them once more on the tray. She sealed the bottle and then proceeded to remove her robe.
“Milady?” He wondered if she were going to pounce once more, worrying, “I have no more to give.”
The nymph stared down at him. “And now, you must rest.”
Prince Hayden stumbled to his feet, and stood there while she disrobed him.
Lady Persephone guided him into the bed, lying down beside him.
The youth was about to ask about the lamps, but the elf made a sweeping gesture and they were extinguished.
Chapter 3: “Wild, Yet Civilized”
Days passed. The seamstress fashioned clothing to fit the elf’s strange physique. Lady Persephone approved only the simplest design of sleeveless robe, in a single color with matching slippers.
Prince Hayden fretted over this decision, since his mother and father would be returning soon, and he wanted to make a good first impression. But these were minor concerns. Slowly, he was becoming aware of what he had done. And what the implications were… He had taken an elf from among her people. Already, news of his acquisition was spreading throughout the kingdom. And he knew he would be required to explain his actions.
The prince took her with him wherever he went. And everywhere the elf went, people were moved to respect, adoration and some to outright worship. This annoyed him greatly. They have never treated me with such deference. Sure, they are respectful and sometimes even fearful in my presence… But he could tell it was different with the greater nymph. She did not command obedience, she expected it. The elf did not give orders, yet people strove to do her will.
He paused. I strive to do her will. What sorcery is this? And how does she maintain it? He felt a certain humility in her presence, an unspoken bidding to be respectful, a call to wisdom. She rebuked him and he was abased. She chided him and he was ashamed. And sometimes she gave an approving glance, and his heart would melt.
He desired to please her and she pleasured him… without complaint. He was never really comfortable with it and still felt as if he were being devoured. Then, why did I take her if I cannot enjoy it when she lavishes her affections on me? After the first few days, he considered returning the elf to her people; but could not force himself to let her go. She is my captive, and yet, she captivates me. He was bewildered by these feelings. The elf was terrifying and entrancing. The look in her slanted green eyes was enough to still his breath. It grew like a seed, taking root in the very depths of his heart.
But what are her feelings concerning me? He knew he must ask her, and trembled at the thought of it. He guessed that she disdained him. But to hear her say it would be more than he could bear. And so, Prince Hayden did not speak to her of these things, though he longed to.
And so, each day continued its relentless journey into night. And the evening came when his parents returned.
***
The royal carriage was approaching the palace and the servants were all assembled to greet the King and Queen of Androtopia. Soon, they could hear the clopping of horses out in the courtyard. Prince Hayden peered outside, as the carriage and its escort came to a halt near the front door. He had left Lady Persephone waiting in his chambers.
King Thaddeus and Queen Melanie entered, walking with poise and purpose.
Prince Hayden bowed respectfully. “Mother and father, you have returned. Welcome back.”
King Thaddeus was a large, strong and austere man with long, brown hair and a well-trimmed beard. “Hayden!” He clapped his son on the shoulder.
The youth smiled. “Hello, father.”
Queen Melanie was voluptuous, with long flowing hair and hazel eyes. She was dressed in the best fineries, and bore a serene smile on her face.
Prince Hayden stepped forward, kissing her on the cheek. “Hello, mother.”
She returned the kiss. “My dear son, how have you been?”
“I am well, mother. How was your journey?”
“Simply delightful; it has been a long time since we visited the old country.”
King Thaddeus frowned. “I think it will be a long time before we go back.”
Queen Melanie shook her head. “Your father was not impressed.”
Prince Hayden grew nervous. “Dinner will be served shortly.”
The queen turned to her husband. “Come, my dear. We must freshen up before we dine.”
Their son stood there, flustered. His parents had begun to walk away when he announced, “There is someone I want you to meet.”
King Thaddeus halted, muttering, “So the rumors are true.”
Prince Hayden grew concerned.
The father turned suddenly, beaming. He placed his hands on the youth’s shoulders, laughing. “My boy has wooed an elf, a greater nymph, even!” Hugging his son close, he patted him on the back. “I am looking forward to meeting her.”
His mother smiled at him. “We are so proud of you, Hayden.” She walked up to her son and hugged him, then kissed him on the forehead. “My son, with a greater nymph!” Releasing him, she turned to his father. “We must hasten to prepare for our guest.”
With that, the royal couple proceeded down the hall, with their servants following close behind.
Prince Hayden gave a heavy sigh. This was going to be a long dinner.
***
The king and queen were seated at the table, when Prince Hayden entered the room. “Mother, father, allow me to present Lady Persephone.” He gestured towards the doorway.
She entered the room, clad in a sleeveless green robe with matching slippers. The elf held her hands out to the sides, nodding respectfully. “Peace to you, king and queen of Androtopia. I am Persephone.”
They marveled at the creature before them. She was taller than a woman with a willowy form. Her features were sharp and her slanted green eyes gazed on them with an emerald glow. She was olive-skinned and beautiful with long, shiny black hair and piercing green eyes. Her steps were light and sure, as she proceeded towards the seat next to Prince Hayden.
Unexpectedly, both the king and the queen stood respectfully until she had sat down. Then, they seated themselves once more.
The prince let out a relieved sigh.
Servants entered and began serving the food.
A basin of water was brought out, and Lady Persephone washed her hands in it.
Queen Melanie stared curiously at this. She also noticed that the elf’s arms were bare. The queen wondered, What strange customs she has.
King Thaddeus watched as Lady Persephone ate, eyeing the unused utensils by her plate. He thought, Wild and yet civilized at the same time.
The elf continued to eat, unconcerned.
Prince Hayden chagrined, realizing his mother was asking a question.
“So, Lady Persephone, how did you meet our son?”
The elf looked over at the human woman. “He has not told you?”
Queen Melanie grew puzzled, shaking her head.
Prince Hayden was about to speak, when Lady Persephone informed, “Your son and several other men came upon myself and my little ones as we were bathing.”
The queen gasped.
King Thaddeus spit wine on the table.
The prince’s face grew flushed.
A servant hastened to clean up the splattered wine.
Lady Persephone continued, “He wished to take one of my little ones, but I determined that he would take me instead. And so I gave myself to him.”
King Thaddeus glowered at his son. “Hayden, after dinner we must talk.”