The Staff of Power

by D E Boske

  “Takasha! Darian,” she exclaimed in nervous anticipation.

  “Find something you like?” he asked thickly.

  “Mhmmm,” she said, kissing him again. His hands were on her bottom, pulling her closer. She slid to her knees, taking his breeches with her. Darian threw his head back, running his fingers in her hair. Her lips teased him and he did not know how much more he could take. He wanted her. Needed her. And… There was a knock on her door.

  “Tynuviel, I know you’re in there. Why did you leave so fast? Can we talk please?” It was Tireniel.

  “Damn it!” Darian exclaimed heatedly.

  “Shh, I’ll tell him I can’t talk right now, else he’ll never leave. I’ll be right back.” She kissed his lips as she pulled her shirt back on. By the time she made it to the door, she was presentable.

  “Tireniel, this a bad time. I’m kinda’ busy right now. Can we talk later please?”

  “He’s in there, isn’t he? I want to talk to him. Worry not, I am not angry,” he asked, pushing past her to confront the Mage. To his astonishment, there was no one there.

  “Satisfied?” she asked, as she shoved him out the door. When she was back inside her bedroom, she called softly. “Darian! You can come out, he’s gone.” No one answered. She called again, “Darian!”

  Why had she bothered to answer the door? Idiot! She berated herself ruthlessly. He’d done it to her again. She just didn’t understand why. If he had no intention of going through with it, why come here at all? He had to know what she wanted and gods! He wanted it too. What was wrong with that? She flung herself on her bed and cried herself into Ru Nay’ Sha.

  It seemed even fate did not want them together. When he heard the knock on her door, he knew it would be Tireniel. What the hell else could go wrong? He was angry and frustrated. When she went to answer the door, he thought it best to leave before something worse would happen. He knew better anyway. Now was not the time or place. Not until he could make those changes in The Order and secure her safety.

  He cursed silently under his breath. He could not forget her lips. Her touch was gentle but equally demanding. She was nothing like Gayla, who satisfied his body, but not his mind nor his heart.

  He passed a hand through his growing hair. He liked it. Tynuviel seemed to like it, too. He decided he would let it grow. He walked back to his chambers, plopping down into a chair disinterestedly. He’d hurt her yet again. When she found him gone… why hadn’t he stayed? What had he been thinking? She certainly wanted him and he was eagerly taking what she offered. Until… damn Tireniel! Takasha! He did not want to admit it to himself but he was jealous of him. Jealous of what they shared. He just wished he could wipe away Tireniel’s touch on her.

  He summoned Sigorna. “What is it, master?” he said mockingly.

  “Did you notice anything out of place at the council meeting?”

  “Nay, though I did see plenty. The Monarch is sincere and he genuinely wants to help. Shaz was shocked. The elf with bronze colored hair despises you, utterly. The thief and the bard shared a look of relief when they found out you knew about the connection between Mortin and the Dark Mage.

  “That babe with the honey-colored hair, now that’s a fine piece of ass! Which by the way are you MAD? She was all over you. She wants you more than kids want candy. And here you are talking to me. What’s the matter with you? She’s got a sweet rack…”

  “Enough! You will not speak of her so.”

  “I hit a nerve, did I? Tsk!” he put a finger to his lips, his long curved black nail touching his nose. “You love her! This is great. This could be worth my time after all. Isn’t this against Order law? Why didn’t you do her? If you love her and she loves you, why not enjoy life’s simple pleasures?”

  “Because, if The Order finds out…” Darian hesitated.

  “They would demand her death,” Sigorna finished. “I thought the rules did not apply to you, Darian Brade. They have not in the past.”

  “This is different, Sigorna. I cannot risk her life. If anything were to happen to her because of me… I must find a way to be with her…” he trailed off as he remembered whom he was speaking to.

  After releasing the Falahari, he went to his tower. He ran himself a bath, sitting with his head back, eyes closed and arms spread out on the neck rest. He smelled her before she entered.

  “Gayla,” he murmured.

  “How’d you know? I was so quiet,” she said, laughter in her voice.

  “I can smell you. I know your scent.”

  “Would you like some company?”

  “Sure,” he said, watching as she slipped out of her dress. She waded over to him, sitting in his lap.

  “What’s on your mind, Darian? You seem far away from here tonight.” She kissed his bare chest, running her hands over his smooth skin. “You really should cut your hair. It’s getting long now and it makes you look wild.”

  “I like it.”

  He put his right hand on the back of her neck, pulling her to him. He kissed her softly, tenderly. She wrapped her slim arms around his neck. Grinding her hips into his, her breath came in quick, sharp gasps. He held her waist loosely, giving her the control she so often desired.

  Guilt and remorse filled him, but until he could sort out his life and secure the safety of Tynuviel, Gayla would do nicely. She was so sensual, sexy, beautiful and oh so willing. She tossed her hair and dug her nails into his chest as he filled her need.

  Kyler and Nephraete walked hand in hand down the walkway to Galavad’s chambers. She looked out into the trees, the gentle breeze blew the leaves and she could smell them.

  Kaleika Bay was a beautiful place as well, but something about this forest paradise made her feel more at home. They reached the Monarch’s door and Dyvana knocked, letting him know he had visitors.

  The elven ruler opened the door. Upon seeing Kyler and Nephraete, he smiled warmly, ushering them inside.

  “Ah, my son. You have returned home at last.” The pride was evident in his eyes as he looked on Kyler. Tiriel came out of an adjoining room, her belly swollen.

  “Mother,” he hugged her tightly, but carefully.

  “Come, let us sit and talk,” she said, taking Nephraete’s hand. Once they were all seated with a glass of iced tea, Kyler spoke.

  “I wanted to tell you in person of my growing love for Nephraete. It happened so fast. I think before I even recognized the feelings myself. In the beginning, I felt so guilty. I thought it was too soon after Destiny. In a way, I still do. But I can’t remain alone forever. I had to move quickly. Competition, you know.” Tiriel reached across the table to grasp her son’s hand.

  “Those feelings are understandable. Takasha! Look what you’ve been through. You can’t feel guilty for falling in love. It happens without your consent sometimes. Your heart has a mind of its own. And Nephraete, you’re a beautiful girl. We’re very happy for you both. You make a perfect couple.” Tiriel’s smile was infectious.

  “Thank you. Though I am not sure how my father will feel about it. He sent Kryndale

  after me. What if he sends more? I do not wish to return to Kaleika Bay ever again!” Galavad smiled warmly at her and clasped her hand.

  “Remember my promise? You have my personal protection backed by the army of Kiri A’ Nouell. No harm will come to you.”

  “Thank you for your graciousness. Before my mother died, my father was very different. He was happy, but after… Well he began to distance himself from everyone. He usually tried to keep me locked inside my room. He became obsessed with my visions. That’s all he would talk about. He has no understanding of how it works because he never took the time to learn. Then he gave my hand to Kryndale without even asking me! I was so angry. That’s when I decided it was time to leave. At first, I hadn’t the faintest idea where to go. If not for Calisha… I would have perished many times over. It was his idea that we come here. I have to say I had my doubts. I was not altogether sure we would be welcome here.”

&
nbsp; “Why in Shenna’s name would you think that?” asked Tiriel.

  “Our people have been apart for so long I… I don’t know. I guess I was afraid of bad feelings.”

  “Nay, child. We harbor no ill will to our Kaleika Bay kin. How has Kryndale handled your relationship?” asked Galavad.

  “He was upset I know. I hurt him deeply, though that was never my intent. If my father would have talked to me, his pain could have been avoided.”

  “You care for him, don’t you?” asked Tiriel.

  “Yes, I do. We’ve been friends a long time and I don’t want our friendship to suffer.”

  “Kyler, do you think your relationship with Nephraete will damage Kryndale’s loyalty to Kiri A’ Nouell?” asked the Monarch.

  “Nay. Kryndale is a good elf. He is loyal in spite of his pain. I value his counsel and I am glad he is here.” Galavad looked to Tiriel and she turned to Nephraete.

  “Would you help me bring out the snacks please?”

  “Of course,” said Nephraete, sensing the Monarch wanted a moment alone with his son. When the women were gone, he spoke.

  “I’m proud of you, son,” said the Monarch. “You’ve done well. Do you plan to marry her?”

  “Yes, but not right away. I want to take my time.”

  “Understood. There will be many broken hearts now that you’ve chosen Nephraete.”

  “Yes, well. I’m only one elf. I couldn’t possibly spread myself so thin.” They both chuckled at that.

  “Tell me, what are your friend’s intentions toward Tynuviel?”

  “We are working together on that. We’ve been to Mogan Dar to speak to the head of his order.”

  “What! Takasha, Kyler! That was not a wise move. It’s far too dangerous now.”

  “We needed information that only he could give. He told us that he could not find the origins of the rule that a Mage cannot fall in love. They seem to have twisted the laws and rules to fit their machinations.

  “I know he loves her and wants to be with her but… He’s hesitant to get involved right

  now because if The Order found out, the punishment for Tynuviel is death.”

  “What? Death? How can they demand such a thing?”

  “Because they have Breeders who bear the Mages’ children. No one else is to do this. But from what Darian found out, there is a Breeder there, Trembliss, who is the child of the first Shivvendar-elf union.”

  “Interesting,” the Monarch remarked thoughtfully. “I wonder if Kinistaya knows anything of this.”

  “I don’t know, but we should look into it. He’s asked Tynuviel for some time but whether or not she’ll grant his request…”

  “I ask because Tireniel came by and we spoke at great length. He’s asked for Tynuviel’s hand.” The Monarch watched carefully for his son’s reaction.

  “I know. He told me he would. I told Darian because it’s only right that he knows. What did you tell him?”

  “I gave him my blessing. Tireniel is a good elf. I think it’s wonderful that they’re in love.”

  “What about Darian? How do you feel about him?”

  “Kyler, I like Darian, you know I do. If he were to come to me and ask for her hand, I would grant it. But how long must she suffer? How long before it’s enough? Besides, ultimately, it’s Tynuviel’s choice, isn’t it?”

  “Yes, father.” The ladies returned with fresh fruit, cheese, bread and more iced tea.

  Later, Kyler and Nephraete walked slowly hand in hand down the pathway that would lead them to the waterfall. It was straight and even. Clear of debris. It was Kyler’s favorite place. He always came here when he was troubled. The rushing waters were relaxing, helping him to solve his problems.

  He wanted to share it with Nephraete. She looked so beautiful. She had pulled her hair into a ponytail except for her bangs. She wore his favorite dress, dark blue silk with a silver belt. Even though it came to her ankles, Kyler thought she looked stunningly sexy.

  They sat for a time, saying nothing, just listening to the water. They sat on the grass, surrounded by trees. The sun slanted down through the leaves, looking for all the world like stairways to the heavens. It was serenely beautiful. Its natural, hypnotic beauty lulled her. Everything was lush with life.

  “Do you think Darian will make his move before Tireniel?” Nephraete asked.

  “I don’t know. We’re working together to come up with something. Tireniel has already asked for her hand.”

  “What do you think Tynuviel will do?” she asked.

  “I’m not sure. There was a time when I’d have known. Now… after everything… I do

  not know.”

  “It’s not his fault. Sometimes I feel his pain and regret so sharply… that I weep.”

  “What? You’ve never mentioned this before.”

  “He loves her so much, yet does not want her hurt. The risks… those he is unwilling to take, no matter,” the seer said.

  “You know him pretty well, don’t you?” asked Kyler.

  “The bond… It gives me insight. Sometimes I feel what he’s feeling, but not often. He keeps himself closely guarded. I don’t think he likes anyone getting too near.”

  They sat for a time in comfortable silence. He turned to look at her. Her silvery hair shone in the bright sunlight. It was a romantic moment that the elf prince did not waste.

  “Nephraete…” Kyler breathed.

  “Yes, Kyler…?” she responded as she looked at him. Their lips met as he moved close to her. He eased her down on the soft grass. She could feel him through their clothes and it excited her. She touched him, stroking him softly. He broke contact and stood, helping her up. They made their way back to his chambers.

  Once there, he instructed the guards not to disturb him for anything and slid the bolt into place. The guards wisely kept their faces blank.

  He took Nephraete’s hand, putting his left arm around her. He kissed her softly, moving his hand to her bottom. She undid his shirt, letting it fall to the floor. His skin was smooth and warm to her lips.

  He removed his weapons belt, hanging it on a peg by the bed. He slid his hands up her thighs and she quivered in anticipation. He watched as the silky material slid off her tiny form to puddle around her feet. His lips quickly went to work as she unlaced his breeches. He guided her onto the bed, giving her what he knew she really wanted. She gasped in pleasure. She was so nervous, not sure what to expect. His lips sent shivers of delight through her and his long fingers stroked her soft skin.

  She wanted him badly but he knew she wasn’t ready or prepared for it. His tongue brought her to the brink of ecstasy and he withdrew before she was consumed by it. He rose up, bracing himself, penetrating her as her body shuddered. He could feel her stiffen but his strokes were deep and even. It wasn’t long before he felt the heat inside of her rise to the surface. He pushed her past the brink and she clutched him desperately. She could feel him tense and moments later, he groaned in pleasure.

  Afterward, he held her close, kissing her softly. “Are you okay?”

  “I’m fine,” she replied dreamily, the discomfort forgotten.

  They lay there for a while in each other’s arms. Finally, Kyler rose and drew them a

  bath. She rolled onto her belly, watching his every move.

  He took her by the hand, leading her to the bath. As they soaked, they kissed and touched, exploring each other. Kyler’s lips sent shivers through her body. His eyes pierced through her, passion clouded. She kissed him softly, then finished washing her hair.

  She stepped out of the bath, wrapping a big towel around her. She stood in front of the mirror, brushing her long silver hair.

  Kyler toweled off and then went to dress. They stepped into the corridor hand in hand. Kyler nodded at the guards. They let no emotion show on their faces, but that did not stop them from watching her as they walked away.

  Darian awoke in the morning, feeling refreshed. He washed and dressed, then woke Gayla.

 
“Oh Darian, you really should cut your hair. It’s getting so long now that it makes you look wildly unkempt.” He shrugged dismissively, not really caring what she thought.

  Soon after, he opened a gate and they stepped into his chambers in the elven homeland.

  “This is beautiful! I never imagined a place so lovely. Can we go for a walk please?” she pleaded.

  He smiled at her. “Sure. Let’s put our stuff away, and then we can go.”

  Minutes later, they were out in the hallway. Darian nodded at the guards posted outside his room. It seems Galavad was not taking any chances with their safety. He’d never posted guards outside Darian’s door before.

  “Good to see you again, Darian,” said Jevich.

  “You too Jevich, Tulani,” replied the Mage.

  “Darian, Tireniel’s asked for Tynuviel’s hand. What will you do?” asked Tulani in elvish so as not to offend the girl he was with now.

  Darian stopped. “He spoke to Galavad?” asked the Mage in elvish.

  “Aye, yesterday.”

  “I must work fast,” he replied absently.

  “You speak elvish? You understand what he said?” asked Gayla, astonished.

  “Yes,” he did not elaborate.

  She looked around in awe of her surroundings. The elves were skillful builders. They built their community high above the ground in the treetops.

  Long walkways connected the trees in the elven kingdom. Retractable stairways wound around the trees so that they could be removed should anyone get past the ancient magic.

  “Darian, how is this possible? Is it real? Are we really in the trees?” she asked

  breathlessly, in childlike wonder.

  “Yes, it’s real. Unique to say the least,” he said distractedly. His mind was on Tynuviel. He’d known Tireniel would ask for her hand. But this soon? He’d thought he had more time. Now… what was he to do? He could not lose her. Not now, after all they’d been through. They were so close now.