As always all the characters but Kefira belong to Charlaine Harris. I'm just taking them out to play for a bit. Kefira is a new character of my own creation.

Thank you all for your tremendous support. I have been having so much fun sharing this adventure with you. I love all the feedback, suggestions and reviews so PLEASE keep them coming. Thanks to my fantastic hubby, and to my wonderful Beta Jade.

I also wanted to let you all know that I'm working on a story for The Age of Eric contest. Remember when he talked about his home and how it held so many great memories….well guess what you will get to share one of these staring our own Viking and a famous queen from the past. So stay tuned.

Without any further adieu, let's get on with the show.

Chapter 10

SPOV

I thought I heard Eric calling my name through the fog of sleep, but I knew I had to be dreaming, because we hadn't been together since the whole nightmare with the witch war. I sighed as I turned on my side, wrapping my arms around my pillow; I just wanted a few more minutes of sleep. Drifting, I was startled when cool lips pressed against mine. My eyes opened widely and were met by Eric's very amused gaze.

"Oh my love, you are so luscious and adorable when you first awake." He kissed my forehead and bending closer tenderly tugged on my bottom lip with his teeth. His fangs were fully extended and he scratched me gently, continuing to play with my lip. "You also taste so delicious and sweet, just like the purest honey." Eric growled wrapping me in his arms and capturing my lips; Moaning, I melted into his embrace.

Finally lifting my head from his, I found myself breathless. "What a fantastic way to wake up." My Viking chuckled as he gave my bottom lip a final lick. I was grinning like a fool and desire was hitting me in waves, some of it his, but I knew from my sudden temperature increase a lot of it was mine.

Sitting next to me he swept my hair behind my ear, nibbling on it. "Lover, I promise you I will gladly awaken you in this manner every morning." His tongue traced the top of my ear before he tugged on my lobe sending shivers down my spine and tickling me. I giggled and reached up to touch his cheek.

"You can wake me like this time any time you want." The laughter rumble low in his chest as our eyes met. "On this particular issue I will make certain you keep your word." He kissed me softy and stood, gently tugging my hand. "As much as I would like to do nothing more than to continue our conversation, there are important matters we must discuss. I'm sorry to rush you, but it is late and we have much to do."

I jumped out of bed still holding my Viking's hand. "Oh good grief, I can't believe I slept the day away! What time is it?" Dropping his hand I went to the dresser searching for clothes. Eric laughed and sat at the foot of the bed.

"Lover, we do have much to accomplish but don't become too anxious. It is barely eight and I have meetings at the club at ten, so we have ample time for our conversation as well as for dinner."

He continued watching me as I fussed over my new clothes. "Does this meeting have anything to do with the fairies that are attacking me?" He narrowed his gaze and anger swirled through the bond.

"Actually it does, but I would like to wait to discuss it during our evening meal." The I am in command voice was back with a vengeance (yesterday's word of the day). I bristled- turning to narrow my eyes in his direction.

"Oh really, and what if I don't want to talk about it later? What if I want to talk about it now? After all I am the one being stalked." I wasn't quite sure why I was getting so ticked, but damn I hated it when he got all bossy with me. Folding my arms over my chest I stared at him with brows raised, waiting for an answer. He must have felt my anger because he looked startled and swiftly stood facing me. His voice was firm as he took my face in his hands.

"Lover, I know you are not fond of obeying commands. However as I explained to you last night, we must trust each other. The conversation we need to have requires some time and I must have your full attention. I was not attempting to be 'bossy'; I was merely informing you of the best choice. Sookie, if you do not become less defensive with me, we will both be very irritated much of the time. Dear one, we must be pragmatic." He held my face between his large hands, waiting for a response, looking deeply into my eyes. Feeling sincerity and a little bit of irritation radiating from him, I knew I was being bull headed.

"Eric, I'm sorry I'm being stubborn. I do hate it when you get all bossy with me, but you're right I need to listen to you; after all you are the one with the most wars under your belt." I smiled as I tried to add a little bit of humor to the situation. Unfortunately it was lost on my Viking.

"I do not understand this saying lover. Yes I have been in many wars and I do own many belts, but what does one have to do with the other?" He looked at me totally confused. It was so adorable I couldn't help reaching up and kissing him. His eyes widened in surprise, causing me to collapse in laughter. He watched me, his face puzzled, as I tried to calm down.

"Oh Honey, do you realize how adorable you are?" Reaching up I kissed him again this time licking his bottom lip.

He growled and gently put me at arms length. "Lover, no one has called me adorable, but if it makes you happy then I am pleased you find me so. However," pulling me closer he rested his forehead on mine. "We really must be leaving soon." He kissed my temple before easing out of our embrace. Taking a deep breath I turned back to find something to wear.

"Do I need to dress up tonight or can I go casual?" I glanced over my shoulder as I rummaged through my drawers. Eric hesitated for a second and then a wicked grin crossed his face. I felt excitement, lust and happiness swirl through the bond.

"Lover, are you asking my advice on your wardrobe? This seems like you are becoming comfortable in the role of my wife. It makes me very happy to know you perceive us in this manner." My heart skipped a beat at his statement and it thrilled me to know I had made him so happy with one little comment. I smiled back and shook my head.

"I'm glad it makes you happy and I guess we are a couple now so we need to start acting like one, huh?" I winked at him and his sapphire eyes darkened. The emotions that surged within the bond were so strong I gasped in surprise and stumbled, nearly collapsing on the floor. Eric caught me, holding me close to his chest. He looked down at me, catching my eyes with his, and it felt like his gaze burned into my very soul.

Min älskar, you continue to surprise and delight me. I love you more than I have loved anything and I will spend every moment devoted to your happiness." Eric's voice was rough and his accent was more pronounced. I wrapped my arms tightly around his waist.

"Honey, I love you too and I can't wait till this fairy drama is all over so we can talk about our …" I was interrupted as my lips were claimed by his. A few minutes later, he rested his forehead against mine, taking a deep measured breath as if trying to maintain control. I went to hug him tighter when he stepped away.

"Dear one, to hasten our departure I believe it is wise for me to wait for you in my office." Running a hand through his hair he smiled and just shook his head. "Will I never be able to get enough of you my love? You are such a temptress." I began to challenge his last comment until I notice he was wearing his sexy grin. I smiled back and felt warm and tingly all over. He started towards the door when I realized he hadn't given me an answer.

"Eric, you didn't tell me what kind of clothes I should wear. Should I dress up or go causal?" I bit my bottom lip thinking about my choices. I looked up as I heard a growl coming from my Viking. He shook his head.

"Lover, I prefer you wearing nothing at all." Winking at me he opened the door. "If you must be clothed, I personally prefer you in a dress, but whatever you wish to wear is fine for tonight. The choice is yours." I smiled and turned back to my clothes as the door closed behind him.

EPOV

I sped to my office still smiling from my recent interaction with my bonded. I joyfully anticipated waking with this woman for the rest of our long lives. If I had my way, which I usually did, we would never spend another night separated. Pondering on this thought my emotions flooded my mind, threatening to overwhelm me. I thought of Sookie and quickly blocked our bond. I realized this emotional overload would be far too much for my fragile bonded to control. I took a deep un-necessary breath and called to the kitchen for our evening meal. I instructed the staff to set it up in the library knowing how much Sookie appreciated the room, and I was hoping it would help her relax.

I decided the previous evening to discuss my battle plans with her. This was unfamiliar territory for me. I was use to being in control and I never explained myself. However, I was very sincere when I explained to my bonded that we had to learn to trust one another. I realized we would be making many adjustments and lack of trust could not be part of the equation. If our relationship was to flourish and grow, both of us were going to have to make a lot of adjustments.

I sighed running my hand through my hair. I was very old to make changes, and I knew it was going to be quite challenging. I realized though that my bonded was worth more than any sacrifices or modifications I would be required to make. She was quickly becoming my entire world and my most valued treasure. I smiled remembering the vision of her waking in my bed. I felt desire surge through me and suddenly my jeans were even tighter. Growling in frustration I took a deep breath, one of the many new habits I have developed of late. I shook my head as a wry grin overtook my lips. It was amazing how this beautiful creature impacted my every action; my every thought. Pausing I heard the bedroom door open and without hesitation hastened to her side.

Taking both her hands, I let my eyes feast on her. "You are a vision; I knew you would look lovely in this dress. It reminded me of your eyes the moment I saw it." I was smiling so broadly I felt that I must appear as a grinning fool, but I did not care in this moment. Laughing she twirled, modeling her new dress.

"Eric I love all my new clothes, did you really pick them out? I thought most men hated shopping." Standing in front of me, she cocked her head to the side, waiting for my response.

"I chose much of your wardrobe, including this one. I did receive some small assistance from Pam." She looked at me with the most beautiful smile, her eyes sparkling

"I'm really surprised but I'm also very flattered that you'd spend your time picking out clothes for me." Startling me, she pulled my face down to hers and placed a soft kiss on my lips. I felt her breath as she spoke softly. "Honey, thank you so much for my new clothes, I really love them and it means so much that you took your time to shop for me. No one has ever done that, except Gran." Tears flooded her eyes, threatening to spill over.

"Min älskar, I enjoy pleasing you and this is just the first of many ways I will care for you." Kissing her forehead, I stood to my full height. "I have had dinner set up for us in the library as I know how much you appreciate the room." Sweeping her into my arms, I flew us downstairs. I set her down on the sofa as dinner was wheeled in. We sat quietly as the maid served and then left, closing the door behind her. Taking a drink of my Royalty Blend I nodded for Sookie to begin her dinner.

"Lover, please eat while I tell you my plan for our battle against the fae." Sookie nodded and started eating. "Last night I called one of the best investigators in the country as well as two of the best trackers. The trackers will be investigating around your home and land. I am confident they will pick up the fairy's scent. The investigator will be using other means to pursue leads and track the attacking fae. I will be meeting with them tonight." Pausing I waited for my bonded's onslaught of questions.

"Eric, I have a million and one things goin' through my head, but the question I want answered the most is about the meeting. Can I sit in on it? After all it is about me." I had already anticipated this question, and had resolved the situation in what I believed was an equitable solution; satisfying both our needs.

"Sookie, I expected you to make this request and if you are willing to follow some strict guidelines you may attend." She looked up startled and then smiled. "Honey I'm surprised that you are willing to do this, but I think I see what you're doing and I appreciate you meeting me half way. Now what are the rules?" She continued with her meal, never taking her gaze from mine.

"It is actually very simple. You may attend the meetings, but you must not speak or ask any questions. There are no exceptions. If for some reason you need to bring something to my attention you may excuse yourself to speak with Pam and she will give me the information. Sookie, you must strictly adhere to this protocol otherwise it will weaken my status. The stronger my position, the better I can protect you. Do you understand?" She nodded in agreement as her beautiful blue eyes grew even larger, anxiety and fear invading the bond. Before she realized what was happening, I pulled her onto my lap, wrapping my arms tightly around her, and sent comfort and love.

"Dear one, you have nothing to fear. I promise you will be safe." I kissed the top of her head while stroking her arm in comfort.

"Eric, I trust you, but it really scares me to know that you are in danger." Her bottom lip quivered as she tried to fight back her tears. I caressed her face, my thumb finally reaching her quivering lip.

"Min älskar, look at me." Her eyes locked on mine and for a moment all thoughts left me. Recovering myself, I cupped her chin placing a soft kiss on her lips.

"Nothing will harm either of us, lover. I am a thousand years old and I have had much experience in the art of war. I will succeed in our mission. So please, do not worry about me. I do not like it when you are scared or unhappy. Have faith, little one, have faith." Kissing her softly once more, I gave her a smile and rubbed her nose with mine. "Have you finished with your dinner, lover? We must be leaving soon." She sighed and started sliding off my lap.

"Ya I'm done. Let's get going, because the sooner we get started the sooner we will get this over with." She reached down taking my hand and tugging. "Come on Honey, let's go." Standing I shook my head and complied.

Breandon's headquarters in the fairy realm

"My Prince, I have news" Kefira sensuously bowed to Breandon and smiled. Soon she would be sharing his kingdom; after the death of Niall. Thinking of the current prince brought an unsavory taste to her mouth and she grimaced. Her emerald green eyes met his. Yes indeed she would enjoy being his Princess and ruling at his side. Kefira had always known she was destined for great things. What did it matter that she had helped destiny a bit? She blinked rapidly as Breandon called her name.

"Kefira, it is a pleasure to have you home again. I hope you are bringing me good news?" His eyes raked over her body in appreciation. She was definitely a beauty, even among the other fae. Her brilliant auburn hair and green eyes brought her to your attention immediately. If that weren't enough her body was long, but not lacking in curves.

He knew from first hand experience that she was lusciously curvy underneath the clothing she wore. Not that those particular garments usually left much to the imagination. He turned toward her desire coursing through his body. Perhaps they would have time for a private greeting later. As if she read his mind she acknowledged him with a tilt of her lovely face.

"I am afraid, my Prince, the mission has ended in failure. I have punished the ones responsible and have realized that I must take control of the situation; if your plan is to come to fruition. I have a strategy that is guaranteed to be successful." Breandon motioned her closer.

"Let us discuss this in private, as there are spies everywhere." He offered his arm. "I can not wait to hear your plan to seize Sookie, the abomination Niall calls great-granddaughter. She will be a great weapon to bring about his downfall and eventual death. Of course we will also be rid of one more half breed. Come Kefira, we have much to discuss."

His hand trailed over her breast as if by accident. "Yes my Prince." Their gazes locked as they disappeared with a small pop.

Nearly purring with contentment, Kefira stretched her lithe nude body against the silk sheets. Caressing herself with them in a very feline-like motion, A smile appeared on her lips as she spoke aloud to herself. "I knew Breandon would appreciate my plan as well as he appreciates my body." Arching her back and sitting up, thoughts were racing through her mind. She was positive that her idea would work to capture the half breed, Sookie.

Kefira had explained to Breandon she had been gathering information from her human spy at Fangtasia and although it seemed almost impossible she had decided to use her very rare powers to achieve the prize. She was not foolish enough to approach the Viking. She planned on approaching his second in command, Pamela. She would not be an easy one to manipulate, but with some fairy magic Kefira knew she would soon be a part of Sookie's inner circle. She just had to be patient and wait for an opportune time to abduct the half breed and then she would be the Princess of Faerie and Breandon's bride.

She thought of Breandon and the intimacy which had occurred a few minutes earlier and felt herself getting aroused once again. Kefira had been attracted to him from the moment she met him. He was surrounded by an aura of power she had never experienced and it drew her to him like a moth to a flame. He found her alluring and they took full pleasure of each other. Both soon became consumed with the other and it was a short time later he tested her loyalty.

The assignment given to her was actually part of a plan to kill the half breed. It was during a time in which Sookie's vampire lover, Bill was being held captive. The girl had rescued him, which Kefira grudgingly admitted was an act of bravery she hadn't expected. While trying to remove the vampire from the trunk Kefira had helped a female shifter push Sookie into the trunk of the rescue vehicle. Breandon was sure the starving vampire would drain her.

He had only wanted her death at that point. It was much later that he realized how much Niall cared for her; making her an invaluable pawn. The unexpected problem came in the form of one very large Viking. They had not been aware that his interest ran deeper than anyone realized.

Kefira shook her head, mumbling to herself. "It is of no consequence because Viking or no Viking; I will be successful if I have to take down half the vampires in Fangtasia." She stood and walked to the vanity in the bathroom. Picking up a brush she pulled her hair up in a French twist. "I will never underestimate my opponent again and I'm counting on them underestimating me." She smiled at her reflection knowingly, then with a small pop she traveled to her home in preparation for the evenings mission.