by L C Taylor
“Wait. You’re saying I have magic that comes from the earth?” Emersyn ran her hand through her hair.
“Yes. You brought the flower back to life, right? And I am pretty sure you feel stronger or more at peace when you’re exposed to nature.”
Emersyn thought back to the other day when she’d fallen asleep in the garden. She’d never felt so relaxed or at peace in her life.
“I did finally fall asleep when I was in the garden. I felt a sense of calm.”
“That’s because your soul is in tune with the earth. You can manipulate the earth in ways no one else can. Emersyn, you can give life and take life when it is connected to the earth.”
“What do you mean – connected to the earth?”
“As long as it is touching the ground… you can breathe life into it or take life from it.”
Emersyn shook her head, it was so confusing. Why had her parents hidden this from her – why not tell her when she was a child.
“I know what you’re thinking, Emersyn.” Sarifena eyed her, “But it is the way of our ancestors. Your parents wouldn’t have told you until your enlightenment. Which happens to coincide with your twenty-first birthday. My guess is you are displaying early due to the trauma of losing your parents. Stress can cause our powers to spill out uncontrollably.”
“This is all so confusing. I mean… I was just a normal girl a few weeks ago – and now… wait,” Emersyn put her hands on her hips and cocked her head. “You said each kingdom was represented by an element. What are they?”
“Well, the Sapphire kingdom is the kingdom of water.”
“That explains all the lakes. So, you can what…” Emersyn spun her hand in the air, “control water?”
Sarifena smiled as she raised her hands. When she snapped her fingers tiny beads of water filled the air around Emersyn. Emersyn stood, mouth agape. Reaching out a finger, she poked a droplet.
“Holy shit.”
Sarifena snapped again, causing the water to fall to the ground.
“I can control all water. Even the tiny particles in the air.”
“Wow…” Emersyn plopped down in a chair, “Am I the only queen who was unaware of her abilities?”
“Yes. But like I said, it was supposed to be revealed at your enlightenment. Unfortunately, the death of your parents changed things. Typically, your mother would teach you to control your gift. I’m afraid I can show you how I do it, but your magic is foreign to me. All I can say is it is a feeling you have inside you. When you need something, you feel or think it and the magic does the rest. Does that make sense?”
“I think so. Can you tell me about the other queens?”
“First, tell me what you know about their kingdoms. I venture to say you can guess what their power is from that – as my kingdom is surrounded by water and yours is surrounded by lush forest and plant life.”
“Let’s see,” Emersyn paused for a moment, “Diamond Kingdom is always bright – does Queen Glass control the light?”
“That’s correct. She has the power to control the air and light. Seeing as those two things work together it makes sense.”
“And Queen Vermilion of the Ruby Kingdom… Her kingdom is known… shit, I don’t know what hers is known for. I mean,” Emersyn glanced at Sarifena, “It’s always hot there.”
“Correct. Queen Vermilion controls fire – thus the extreme heat in her kingdom. Have you ever noticed all the volcanoes on her land? Her energy has to go somewhere.”
“And Onyx Kingdom. The sun rarely shines there – I assume it because of Queen Nite?”
“Yes. She controls the darkness. She can bend the light to make you feel as though you are shrouded entirely in a black abyss. She tends to keep her land covered in overcast or darkness.”
“That leaves the Amethyst Kingdom. And I have to be honest I have no idea. Her land seems so normal – aside from the frequent storms. But since you control water and Queen Glass controls air… I don’t know.”
“Ahhhh… Queen Perse is the most interesting elemental there is. She controls lightning. And unfortunately because our magic is so deeply tied to our emotions… well, you can guess.”
“Damn… don’t piss Amalee off – got it. God, this is all so much.”
“I know. Look – after your coronation party we will get together and work on your magic. I think you need a few days to digest this news and your party is in three days. Just don’t freak out if something comes to life when you touch it… that’s normal – for you.” Sarifena smiled. “Now… let’s talk about that hunk of a guard you have.”
Emersyn could feel her heart pumping against her chest at the mention of Drake.
“He’s mine.” Emersyn coughed, “I mean he’s my personal guard.”
“No… I believe you had it right the first time. Don’t be ashamed to want someone, Emersyn. The thing about being an elemental is we know when we find our perfect complement in life. And it sounds as though your magic calls out to him and him to you.”
“Yeah… he has a wall built between us, though.”
“You have all the power. If you want him, go get him. Until then…” Sarifena stood, “I should be getting back to my kingdom. The longer I am away, the more restless my people become. Until the killer is found, safety is top priority.”
“You’ll be coming to the party this weekend, right?”
“Of course. It’s a chance to let loose and hang out with the other queens. We tend to cause a ruckus when we are together… so be warned.” Sarifena laughed as she walked into the house, her guard close behind her. Emersyn stepped into the library and closed the doors. She wasn’t shocked to see Drake leaning against the massive windows.
“Were you watching me the whole time?”
“Of course, Emersyn. Your safety is my top priority.”
“Well, I’m going to speak with Baxter. Will you be escorting me there?”
“After you,” Drake pulled open the massive door and motioned for her to go ahead of him.
Emersyn brushed his arm as she walked past him. She could see him tense out of the corner of her eye, causing her to smirk. He wasn’t so unaffected by her after all.
Sarifena’s words came back to her…
You have all the power. If you want him, go get him.
Chapter 9
Drake bit the inside of his cheek to keep the groan from escaping his lips. Emersyn was not a typical queen. No – she did not dress like her mother at all. Instead of dresses and silks every day, Emersyn preferred jeans and t-shirts.
Today was no different. She was wearing a pair of painted on dark wash jeans and an off the shoulder blouse. She was closer to his height dressed in spiked heeled boots that stopped just above her knee.
Her hips swayed as she walked in front of him, making it nearly impossible for him not to stare. Her long black hair hung loose against her back. His fingers begged to tangle themselves in her tresses.
Emersyn knocked on the Constable’s door, “Constable Baxter?”
“Enter.” Baxter’s deep voice cut through the closed door. Emersyn pushed open the door and walked to the front of his desk. She braced her hands on the edge and leaned in to speak.
“I hear there is a combined party this weekend. Were you not going to discuss this with me?”
“Emersyn, please sit down.”
“I’d rather stand, thanks.”
Drake pulled a chair out and sat down. Crossing one leg over the other, he shook his head, “Emersyn, just sit down please.”
Glancing over her shoulder, “No.”
She waggled her butt in his face, bumping her hip on his knee, “Can you just give me the details, please.”
“Fine. It will be a combined coronation and birthday celebration. As you know, Commander Meyer will be your escort. In addition, Captain Hill will be escorting Ms. Rolfe as your guest. Every kingdom will be present as well as the people of Emerald Kingdom.
“Now… you will be required to dress formally – the dre
ss you wore for the private ceremony will be fine. Commander and the Captain will be in full uniform. All five of the other kingdoms have agreed to provide assistance with security. Did that answer Your Majesty’s question?” Baxter raised an eyebrow, a cocky smirk covered his face.
“Yes. Thank you. Now – any news on my parents killers?”
Baxter glanced at Drake, “Commander Meyer and Captain Hill are due to meet with me in an hour to provide an update. Is there anything you care to share now?”
“No, sir. We are still looking into several leads.”
“What leads?” Emersyn turned toward him.
“Nothing substantial, your Majesty.”
“Emersyn. I’ve asked you to call me Emersyn when it is just us. Same for you – Baxter.” She pointed at the Constable.
“As you wish, Emersyn. Now,” he stood. His chair scrapping against the wooden floor, “As I was saying. There are no new leads that are worth troubling you over. When we get information that is worthy, you’ll be one of the first to know. Shall I escort you to your quarters?”
“Actually, I’d like to go to the garden maze.”
“Fine. Constable,” Drake nodded, “I’ll see you in an hour.”
Drake followed Emersyn out of the office. He could tell she was upset. “Emersyn,” Drake grabbed her elbow, “I promise if there was something you need to know right now, I’d tell you.”
“Whatever.” She pulled her arm free. “You don’t need to follow me. I’m just going to the garden in the center of the maze.”
“I think I’ll stick with you. Just to be sure it’s safe.”
“Jesus. I can take care of myself, Drake. Why don’t you go worry about who killed my parents?”
Drake shook his head as she stomped off into the library. He walked quickly to keep up, as she practically ran outside.
“Slow down, Emersyn.”
Emersyn all but ran through the maze, stopping at the bench to take off her shoes. She tossed them onto the ground and slipped off her socks. She buried her toes into the lush grass, closed her eyes, and inhaled the early spring air.
Drake stood at the edge of the bushes, admiring her body. He wanted to choke her and hug her all at the same time.
“I’m sorry, Drake.” Emersyn whispered into the air.
“For what?” Drake stepped from the shadows, coming to stop beside her.
“For being such a spoiled brat. I know you’re doing all you can to find out who did this to the kingdom. But…” she took a deep breath, “I just miss them so much. Everything has changed so fast and I feel so lost and alone.”
Drake wrapped an arm around her, tugging her against his chest, “You’re not alone. You have Cassie and the other queens.”
“It’s not the same. The other queens barely know me, and Cassie is my friend, but she can’t fill the hole in my heart. I miss having that kind of love.”
“Emersyn,” Drake growled, pulling her chin up to look into her eyes, “you can have that kind of love again.”
“With whom? You?” Emersyn blinked back tears. “You were pretty clear that you didn’t want a relationship with me. I get it. I’m young, my parents were murdered, and a now I’m queen. That’s a lot of baggage.”
Drake brushed a loose strand of hair from her face. He traced her cheek with the pad of his thumb, running it across her bottom lip.
“I didn’t say I didn’t want you, Emersyn. I said your safety needed to be my top priority. But damn if you make it hard not to take what I want.”
“What do you want?” Emersyn’s eyes went to his mouth. She watched as Drake wet his lips with his tongue.
Drake closed his eyes for a moment, as if trying to convince himself what he was about to do was wrong. Emersyn ran her hand up his arm and rested it on the back of his neck. Drake sighed, giving into his resolve and pressed his lips to hers.
His mouth was tender at first, his tongue tracing the outside of her lips begging for entry. Emersyn parted her mouth, letting his tongue in to explore. She pressed against him, moaning into the pressure of his mouth on hers. The kiss wasn’t anything that she expected. Her whole body warmed, causing a delicious ache between her legs. Drakes hands found their way to her hips, pulling her body flush to his. The rough feel of his palm snaked it’s way beneath her shirt as he deepened the kiss.
Finally breaking apart, Drake rested his forehead on hers, “Jesus…”
“That was…” Emersyn cut him off, “magical.”
Drake chuckled, lifting his head. It was then that he noticed the garden. There had been an explosion of flowers blooming all around them.
“Wow – Emersyn, look.” He spun her around, “Your magic did this.”
“Oh, damn. Sarifena said my magic was tied to my emotions. Guess making out with you caused this sudden burst of growth.”
“Does this mean you liked it?” Drake smiled.
“Clearly it means I liked it.” Emersyn grinned, pressing her head against his chest. “You know we can explore this attraction and you can still protect me.”
“Emersyn… don’t get me wrong – that kiss was…” Drake pulled out of her embrace and laced his fingers with hers, “more than I expected. But are you sure that’s a good idea?”
“Drake… I know my body hummed with pleasure just now. And seeing as I’ve never experienced that before.” She huffed, “I want more.”
“Jesus.” Drake smiled.
“Now… can you escort me to my quarters?”
“Yes… but I will leave you at the door with the night guard.”
“Humpf.” Emersyn grunted. She had been hoping he’d come into her room. “Fine.”
Emersyn closed the door and rested her head against the wood. Her heart was still doing flip-flops from the kiss. Her emotions were all over the place and she didn’t know how to calm them.
She was so angry about her parents murder, yet, beneath the rage, she felt desire.
And that scared the hell out of her.
Chapter 10
Emersyn stood staring at her reflection in her mirror. Staring back was a stranger. No longer the daughter of the king and queen…
No.
Now she was the queen. Her long black hair was pulled to the side, draped over her shoulder, and pinned. Her makeup was flawless. The green silk dress wrapped her body like a glove. Emersyn blinked. The unfamiliar girl blinked back.
“Are you ready?” Cassie stepped beside her.
“God, Cassie…” Emersyn glanced at her friends reflection. “You look amazing.”
Cassie was dressed in a royal blue satin dress. It hugged her curves, showing of her luscious figure. Her blonde hair was piled loosely on her head. Her bright blue eyes stared back.
“Thanks… you look like a real queen.”
Emersyn looked back at herself, “I wish my mom were here to see this.” She fought back tears, “My dad should be the one escorting me to the coronation ball.”
“It sucks they aren’t here, but…” Cassie gave her friend a smile, “at least your escort is hot as hell.”
“God, Cassie. I can’t even begin to tell you what he does to me. I shouldn’t have these feelings for a man when I should be mourning my parents.”
Cassie placed her hand on Emersyn’s shoulder, “Emersyn… your mom and dad would want you happy. It’s ok to feel something other than sadness. You know that, right?”
“It doesn’t make it any easier, Cassie.” Emersyn took a deep breath, “Help me with my crown?”
Cassie scooped the platinum ring from her dressing table. The emeralds sparkled and shined against Emersyn’s jet-black hair. Cassie pinned it to her hair, “It looks amazing on you.”
Emersyn gave herself one last glance in the mirror, “I guess it’s time.”
Cassie was interrupted with a knock on the door. The sound of Drake caused Emersyn’s breathing to speed up.
“Emersyn, Cassie? Can we come in?”
Cassie rolled her eyes, “Here we go.”
> She pulled the door open to reveal Drake and Alex. They were both decked out in their full guard uniforms. Emersyn’s breath caught as Drake stepped toward her.
“Emersyn… you look,” he grabbed her hand, spinning her in place. “Beautiful.”
“You look mighty fine yourself. And you,” Emersyn glanced toward Alex, “Captain Hill, don’t look too shabby yourself.”
“Thank you, Emersyn. Cassie…” Alex moved to stand in front of her, “You are stunning in that dress. May I escort you to the party?” He held out his elbow.
“I suppose you’ll make me look good.” She smiled as she looped her arm with his, “Emersyn, we’ll meet you there.”
Cassie tugged Alex out of the room, leaving Emersyn and Drake alone for a moment.
“I suppose we should go too.” Emersyn started toward the door but was stopped when Drake pushed it shut.
“Not yet,” He spun her to him, pushing her back into the door. “There is no way I can stand by your side all night with out tasting your lips again.”
Drake dove in, pressing his lips against hers. His hand snaked around her butt, pulling her body against his. Time stopped and the room vanished. In that moment it was just him and her. Emersyn moaned, her body tingling with fire.
Drake pulled away, breaking the kiss. “Now we can go.” He pulled the door open and took her by the hand.
Emersyn was still flush from the heat they shared as he walked her down the hall. She didn’t speak, her heart was beating to hard for words.
They stopped just outside the grand ballroom, “Are you ready, my queen?”
Emersyn finally looked at Drake, standing on her tip toes she pressed a chaste kiss to his lips, “Let’s do this.”
He eased open the door and stepped through, tugging her beside him. Cocking his elbow, he slid her hand thru the crook and stood at attention. Nodding toward Baxter who was waiting for them, the room fell under a hush.
“Ladies and gentleman,” Baxter cleared his throat, “It is my honor to introduce to you, Emersyn Virid, The Emerald Queen.”