A/N: Disclaimer: Refer back to Chapter 1.

WARNING: LEMONS, LANGUAGE, OOC

Chapter 9: Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow

Heat was pleased. With the return of Princess Junia, Sera had been livelier. He had also received word that the queen was allowed to see them as well.

He shook his head as he looked at the maps again. Gale had captured the leader of the Shankaran rebellion; their ex-general Raveeh. Naturally, Heat had been eager to meet him. A fellow general was always a worthy adversary…

It had just been a shame that he had already been bested. Heat couldn't help but grin at that. They had held Raveeh for the last two weeks…and still he refused to talk.

Well, that was because Serph had not authorized that they question him in a more "persuasive" manner.

He clenched his hard jaw in annoyance. They had already received word of a possible rebellion; that was how they came to know about the Shankaran group of rogues…But they had yet to come to a definite conclusion.

Gale had already deduced that the rebellious group had been formed fairly recently since it was only within that time span that skirmishes or plans of rebellion had surfaced.

Heat didn't really care; all that he wanted to do was to capture and kill the source of the rebels. That was why Raveeh was so important. He could lead them there. But he was resilient.

But still, it was a victory for Arkanadara and a morale boost for their troops to know that Gale had decimated the two hundred rebels.

Then, there was Gale's wedding. Strangely enough, he still didn't intend to marry Princess Junia. Heat could only wonder why.

He and Serph had yet to receive word upon his nuptials.

Well, Heat couldn't really be bothered; it was Gale's business. As he thought of Princess Junia, his mind again drifted again to the now proclaimed queen and her oaf of a bodyguard.

He still hadn't told Serph anything. And he was still gathering information. Sera had been no help to him at all. Well, he was going to have to ask her again that night.

And speaking of Sera…

He narrowed his eyes; he could sense that there was something bothering her. She had been too quiet the last few weeks. It seemed as if she had lost her energy.

It was probably his fault too.

He growled, 'It's not my fault. If she expects me to come to her and ask for an apology she can forget it.'

He cannot always be responsible by the way he treated her most especially when she provoked him. He was what he was. He was who he was.

He snarled, "She can't change me any more than a man can change the alignment of the cosmos." he spoke aloud to no one in particular.

That was the whole problem with Sera.

She still behaved like a child.

'When will she realize her place?' he asked himself angrily.

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sera waited within their chambers patiently. She forced her smile to remain on her face as it threatened to collapse altogether as she thought of Heat.

She wouldn't give up on them. That was what she had promised herself. Of course she wouldn't…

That was why she was waiting for him…She wanted to show him how much she loved him; the only way she knew how.

Her head snapped in attention as her aforesaid husband had entered the room. He raised a curious eyebrow as he saw her wearing her thin gown.

She was up to something, he wagered. It wasn't everyday that she would "dress-up" just for him.

"Sera, what are you doing?"

She smiled and walked up to him, tiptoeing and then kissing him chastely on the lips. She then took his hand in hers and grasped it tightly, "Come milord…I've prepared a bath for you…"

Heat wanted to smirk right there…

He wasn't even two minutes in the room and there she was insinuating that she would "comfort" him.

Wordless, he followed her.

He entered their private bathhouse and nodded in approval. There were lit candles around the large tub…The water was warm and steamy enough…

But still, he wanted to know what possessed her to do such a thing.

"Sera," he began but paused, stiffening a bit as he saw his wife slowly undressing herself right in front of him. Her thin robe fell on the floor in a messy and careless heap. Her silver eyes penetrated his red ones and she took a step closer to him and took his hand in hers, "I love you Heat…I just want to show you…"

She then pulled his face towards hers and there, in aching anticipation, their lips had met. Heat groaned as he felt her lips against his; soft and smooth…

His hands gripped her naked hips and had his hands encircle her tiny waist. He pressed her bare chest against his fully clothed one as he kissed her arduously, their tongues battling an eternal battle…with the end not in sight…

Sera whimpered and pulled away. She smiled meekly at him and there, undressed him slowly, her eyes never leaving his.

Heat had let her do what she wished…He stifled a groan as her smooth and gentle hands touched him everywhere…

She was indeed royalty…

She was beautiful…She was kind and considerate…

'She is mine.' he thought aggressively. Now, being in the state of complete undress, he took her in his arms firmly yet gently and carried her over to the tub.

He set her within the warm water and then joined her. Sera wadded over to where he was and there caressed his face gently, sighing a bit, "Do you…know how much I love you…?" she asked meekly and yet provocatively.

Heat didn't reply.

Sera sighed and closed her eyes before opening them once more, "I love you more than life itself…"

Still he did not reply.

Sera could feel her heart beginning to crack but still held her ground. She was here to improve her relationship with Heat. And that was what she was going to do.

She had asked him not too long ago about what he had felt towards her…And she painfully knew his answer well enough. That was why…she was all the more determined to change that answer.

'If I show him how much I love him…he'd love me too…!' she told herself; placing all of her hope within her words.

Not waiting for him to respond, she leaned in towards his face and kissed him. Her palms pressed themselves on his hard-muscled chest while his wrapped themselves around her waist, pulling her closer…

Their kiss became more demanding…harder…hungrier. Sera wanted to match his enthusiasm…She wanted to let him know that she was worthy of his love…She was worthy to be his wife…his lover…

Her hand then left his chest and there, slowly retreated and slid downwards, within the warm water…And there, she found his manhood. She took into her hand and grasped it firmly. Heat broke away from her and gave her a glaring look.

But it wasn't out of anger; he was breathing in and out raggedly…She knew that it had something to do with her hand grasping his shaft.

Heat said nothing but he felt his blood rushing within his body with such fury that he felt as if he wanted to explode. And so, he grabbed his wife once more and dove for her neck, kissing the skin and then biting it roughly.

She tilted her head to the side and squeezed his manhood tighter. That caused him to groan and in turn, sink his teeth deeper into her neck, tearing the skin and drawing hot, sweet blood.

Sera squealed as he bit her but remained perfectly still. The hands that were wrapped around her waist now left it and traveled upwards, leaving electrifying and arousing touches in its wake…

And there, they settled on her ample breasts and massaged the perked peaks appreciatively…Sera, wanting to return the favor, stroked his manhood firmly, moving her hand up and down gently…

Heat growled; she was getting bold, was she?

He pulled away from her and there let their positions be reversed so that she was now the one pressed against the tub's edge, against the marble. She whimpered as her back made contact with the aforesaid marble but she said nothing.

Heat then leaned in closer to her and there dove for her voluptuous breasts, taking one erect nipple within his hungry mouth and starving tongue…

Sera grasped his head and pulled him closer to her as she moaned uncontrollably as his suckling intensified. His tongue licked and drew invisible pictures on her breast while his lips latched themselves on her skin, breaking a few small capillaries within…

She was burning up under his touches and she couldn't do a thing about it. His hand that massaged the other breast now traveled downwards once more and there found her core…her inner lips…the entrance to her sacred passage.

His fingers positioned themselves right by her entrance and there, slowly pushed in. Sera gritted her teeth at the sudden intrusion but then soon relaxed as she realized what they were…

They were a part of him after all…She would accept and grant entry only to those who were parts of him…

Heat withdrew from her chest and there let their eyes have a secret, wordless conversation of their own…

He could see how much she was resisting…She was resisting the call of undeniable pleasure as his fingers moved in fluidly within her rapidly, swiftly…

But he knew that her control would only be so much…

There…He saw it in her eyes…She was gone…she had fallen within the dark abyss of insane and unfathomable pleasure…

He smirked as she slumped forward. He caught her and there, had her arms wrap themselves around his neck. She complied. He then lifted her and motioned for her to cooperate. She understood and wrapped her long and creamy legs around his waist and hips.

He nodded at her and pushed against her, his stiff and engorged member pushing its way within her tight passage. Sera sucked in the cool but moist air and shut her eyes as she relished in the feel of him within her…

It had felt so right…

He had fit her so perfectly…

Couldn't Heat see that they were meant to be together…?

Without any other further thoughts, Heat moved within her quickly, his pace quickening as the seconds ticked by, fulfillment and pleasure the only things on his mind…

Sera clung to Heat tightly, desperately as he continued to pummel her without restraint. She had been afraid that if she didn't, she would've lost her balance and fall within the water.

The water around them churned and rocked violently as Heat rocked his body against hers in a tumultuous manner. Sera couldn't hold it in any longer…She had opened her mouth and there moaned, groaned and squealed to her heart's content.

"Heat…Heat…!" she whimpered over and over…

Heat growled as he heard his name pass through her lips so desperately…

His blood only boiled in outmost fury and his resolve strengthened…His body once more raged and screamed for fulfillment…Didn't she know that her voice, her cries were driving him to the pit of insanity…?

Couldn't she see that she was driving him mad…?

He went even faster within her…Faster and harder.

Sera sucked in the air roughly as she bucked her hips faster…harder, in hopes of meeting his thrusts…But to no avail. He was stronger than she…

Heat gritted his teeth; it was there on the horizon. Paradise had materialized…

'Just a bit…more…!' he thought, groaning and growling as he maintained his present speed and precision, all the more determined to remain where he was as her walls gripped his member tightly, refusing to let go.

"Sera…!" he growled.

And there…the two had reached nirvana.

Sera screamed while Heat groaned. The two were in suspended animation as the euphoria of their lovemaking had overwhelmed their senses. But like the very second that a drop of rain hit the floor, their moment was broken.

Sera fell on him and he caught her effortlessly, pulling out of her slowly.

He chuckled; she was completely exhausted…

He tightened his arms around her and there, carried her out of the tub.

Soon, the two were dried and fully clothed, now lying in bed, side by side. Sera turned to her left side and giggled as she was met by her husband's profile, his eyes on the ceiling with his arms folded behind his head.

"I hope…that you enjoyed that…" she whispered.

He shrugged his shoulders, "Aa…" he trailed off absentmindedly; no trace of affectionate or appreciative emotion in his voice or his countenance.

Sera was taken aback but like always…she didn't question. Her heart was breaking once more…but she still said nothing.

She was afraid now, more than ever…

Were her efforts futile…? If so, what was to become of them…?

'Heat…'

Heat looked at her from the corner of his eyes. She had turned to her side of the bed and had fallen asleep. He knew that she had felt hurt. But he had no choice. What did she want to hear from him?

Promises of idiotic love?

Phrases from poetry books?

'She's being stupid and naïve…' he thought sourly.

When would she come to understand the nature of their relationship? That it was akin to master and slave…?

It wasn't about appreciation, affection…or compatibility.

It had been about power; who wielded it and what he wanted. He wanted her; he would get her; anytime, anywhere. She need not prepare elaborate setups like the one she pulled at the bath.

That was something unnecessary.

'If I wanted her, I'd get her. I'd even fuck her in the middle of a field.' he thought arrogantly.

Besides, what did she think she was doing in there anyway? Was she trying to make him feel obliged to her? That he owed her for making him feel good?

'If that's so, then she's seriously misguided.' he told himself.

'I don't need to appreciate her. She is there to please me whenever I wish. That's all.'

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Another day had gone by for Sera…It was still early in the evening as the sun had just set. Heat was with the king and Gale.

Jenna had long returned and the three of them had been whole once more.

They had spoken to one another at every chance they had…

And she was happy for that.

But her happiness was only so much. She sighed and massaged her temples as she closed her eyes. Despite having her sisters with her, she felt as though she were incomplete.

Her heart stopped; her husband.

She had done everything so that she may please him. But no matter what she did, no matter what she said, he still continued to be the way he was; cold, irritable and explosive.

He would not let her near his heart…

'Did he even have one?' she thought with spite. She had thought that with her efforts and her total submissiveness as she had done the night prior, that he would begin to acknowledge her and even appreciate her.

But he did neither.

She had been feeling them drift farther and farther apart within each day…and time and time again, she would attempt to bridge that gap only to have her efforts in vain. Aside from her efforts for him to love her, she had been devising another plan…

She had been thinking about it for weeks…for days on end…but she always used to dismiss it, telling herself that it was unnecessary…

But she wondered now, was it really unnecessary?

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Argilla had been ecstatic for the past two weeks. It had been two whole weeks now since the return of Jenna. Serph had lifted his punishment from her and had now been allowed to see her sisters once more.

Jenna had been the one who had a lot to share.

Argilla could still remember her face as she told her story. Argilla could just see how her face shone and how her eyes brightened up as she spoke. She had told Sera and her about Shankara, about the marshlands and about the horses…

Argilla giggled; Jenna had always loved horses.

And then there had been Sera.

It was then, that as Argilla had thought about Sera that her smile faded. Her little sister was feeling something awful within her chest…She knew it but said nothing.

Argilla frowned as she recalled Sera's face. She still had that same face; there were no cuts or bruises on her…No…But it was something else that told Argilla that there was something wrong. Sera still wore her smile…

But Argilla wasn't fooled.

Her smile fooled no one; not even herself.

Flashback

"Sera." Argilla spoke calmly.

Sera looked at her with her gentle smile, "What is it Onee-sama?"

Jenna held her hand, "What's wrong?"

Argilla was smiling at that moment; utterly happy to know that their separation had not weakened their special bond with each other. As sisters, they had always been able to tell whenever one of them was unhappy or troubled.

Argilla knew that Sera was in trouble. She was just glad that Jenna saw it too.

Sera tilted her head to the side and looked from Jenna to Argilla, "Huh? There's nothing wrong Jenna…Argilla."

Argilla put a warm hand on her shoulder, "You do not fool either Jenna or myself Sera."

Jenna pulled herself closer to Sera, "You can trust us Sera."

Argilla traced the ebony strands of hair on Sera's forehead with all the gentleness that she could muster, "We would never stir you wrong…"

Sera smiled sadly at them, "I'm fine. Do not concern yourselves over me. I am as fine as would be expected."

She then proceeded to embrace both Argilla and Jenna, whispering into their ears, "I would always love you both Onee-sama…Jenna…You both had been wonderful sisters to me…I pray that we may never be separated."

End Flashback

She smiled then…But it wasn't genuine. But be that as it may, Argilla had her hands tied. She could not help a person who did not wish to be helped.

But that was not what disturbed her…It was Sera's last line. She had told both she and Jenna that they had been wonderful siblings to her…Why?

"Is she leaving somewhere?" Argilla asked herself, "Is that the reason why she was so secretive?"

'Well…I'm sure that she would come around. I do not want to impose anything on her. She knows that I'm always here…She could come to me anytime that she wants.' she told herself.

It had been the evening now…the dinner banquet just having been adjourned. Argilla sat at the table within their chamber, reading. That was when she decided to reminisce.

She sighed sadly. This was the first time that Sera had hidden something from her. And at that knowledge, a part of her felt offended.

'Didn't she trust me enough to help her?' she thought with disdain.

'Even if she didn't tell me…she could've told Jenna instead…' she trailed off.

Then, another thought popped into her head as she recalled the adjournment of their meeting. Her guard. Roland. Suddenly, she felt a lump in her throat.

She didn't know why…but whenever he was near, her heart would skip a beat…

'Do I find him attractive?' she asked herself, bewildered.

She felt her face burn. She blushed harder as she remembered her foolish behavior in front of him.

Flashback

She, Priya and he walked along the halls of the castle. It was the day after her coronation. She was now the official queen of Arkanadara and all of its colonies.

Argilla didn't care about all that though.

All that she was concerned about was her sisters. That was all.

Serph had pulled back his punishments and she was once more free to do as she wished. That was why she, Priya and Roland were going to the gardens…

She had wanted to pick flowers. She walked through the familiar hill in which she sat on weeks prior and again plucked flowers from it. She didn't know why she was doing that though.

After all, she could have servant do this in her behalf…But for some reason, she herself desired to do this.

"I don't need a reason to like something." she said to herself.

"Is there something amiss Your Highness?"

Argilla stiffened at the voice. It was the low and gruff voice of her guard. She forced her body to turn around and there, she saw him. His eyes were looking at hers intently. She could feel her cheeks burn at that moment…

She then shook her head, remembering his question, "No. There's nothing wrong."

A few moments later, she found herself sitting on top of the hill again with Priya tending to her shade and fan…and Roland…well, he continued to be where he was; standing behind her.

She wanted to ignore him. Why? Because she didn't want to feel those feelings that were already swimming within her consciousness.

She willed herself to stay on that hill and forget all thoughts of him, but no, they were persistent. Wherever she looked, she saw only his face.

Growling in frustration, she got back on her feet and began to walk away. Her two companions immediately followed.

Argilla didn't know why she was angry…but one thing was for certain, she couldn't be outside feeling what she felt. It was forbidden. She had already married. She wasn't supposed to entertain such flights of fancy. Whatever it was she wanted to feel, she could do so at the comfort and privacy of Serph's chambers.

She wanted to laugh at that oxymoron.

She wanted to think about another man within her husband's room.

'No! Roland's not another man in my life! He…He's nothing!' she shouted at herself.

That was when she lost her footing…

She cursed herself and braced for impact but was surprised to find that she had not fallen. Blood rushed to her entire body as she felt heat all over her. Her eyes widened as she found herself on her feet once more. She turned and saw that it was Roland who had saved her from the fall.

His arms were wrapped around her waist and was looking intently at her, "Are you alright Highness?" he asked gently, releasing her from his hold.

Argilla nodded curtly, a faint tinge of pink adorning her cheek, "I'm fine. Thank you."

He nodded and took a step back, waiting for her to resume her walk. She did just that; feeling all the more confused and angry. His touch was…electrifying.

And that was the dangerous part of all…

She liked his touch.

End Flashback

She was too preoccupied within her thoughts that she failed to notice the silhouette within the room.

Serph looked at her back. She was huddled near the candle. She was in deep contemplation. He had been watching her the previous two weeks. He had been pleased that she did not protest even in the slightest after telling her that she would now be staying with him.

And every night, after he had finished his meetings with Heat and Gale, he would find her there, seated at the table, reading, waiting for him…

Waiting for him…?

Or passing time?

He preferred to think of it as the former rather than the latter.

Soundlessly walking up to her, he put both hands on both her shoulders and massaged them lovingly, before bending down and letting his lips dab her cheek.

She stiffened at his touch and he felt quite offended. She had still to get accustomed to his presence…Well, it wouldn't be long now…And when they had their firstborn, she would be more accepting of him.

Argilla's heart skipped a beat as she felt his hands on her shoulders and felt sweat forming on her temples as she felt his lips on her cheek. She had just been thinking of Roland and was close to being discovered.

Serph walked in front of her. Argilla, seeing him move, stood up and there, they met one another, their eyes meeting.

Serph took both her hands in his and looked within her pink eyes deeply, "I am to depart for Radhakrishna at first light."

Radhakrishna; the kingdom to the north.

Argilla felt relieved. He was leaving. Well, it would mean that she would have more time for herself. It would also mean that she wouldn't be having him pressuring her for copulation at night as he had been doing for the last two weeks.

She chose not to speak and merely looked away.

"I am to return in a week." he told her promptly.

Argilla still told him nothing. She may have done her duty as his wife and queen, but speaking to him within their private chambers was something that she considered trivial and unnecessary.

'After all, he's just after one thing anyway.' she mentally scoffed.

A week. A week without him…How blissful it would be.

Serph could see the disinterest within her whole countenance. He felt a slight sting within his chest at the knowledge that whatever words passed through his lips simply went in one ear and out the other.

Well, that was the only thing that he'd tell her anyway. The business that he was to have at Radhakrishna was none of her concern at any rate anyway.

He slowly pulled her to him, his fingers tugging at her face to meet his eyes. She followed the persuasive tug and peered within his deep and surreal silver eyes.

Argilla gulped; Serph was doing it again…He was seducing her with his alluring silver pools…

Serph saw the look of hesitation within her eyes and at the same time, entrancement. Ah…It was the same for all the women that he had ever had. It was the look of undeniable desire. But for his queen, it was always accompanied with hesitation.

He could see within her pink eyes the internal battle that eternally waged within her.

She wanted to be with him but at the same time, she didn't want to. He had been seeing it ever since they had first met at her dungeon cell. She had always been attracted to him, he knew that, but she always managed to escape his charms and be ever fortified with the concept of chastity.

She had continued to play this card even up to their wedding night wherein he had to force her to be his.

He had had enough of it though. He wanted to know what she really felt towards him.

"Argilla," he began, "why do you hesitate?"

Argilla blinked; what was he talking about?

Argilla raised an eyebrow at him while still looking at him coldly, "Hesitate sire?"

Serph was getting angry again; did she really dare insult his intelligence that much? He grasped her arms tight and pulled her closer to him, his eyes flashing dangerously at hers, "You know of what I speak."

She winced as his arms grabbed her roughly and she leaned back, "I…I do not know of what you speak Serph!"

Serph leaned in closer and pulled her back, "Do not fool me Argilla. I know how you feel about me."

Argilla narrowed his eyes, "I feel nothing for you!" she hissed angrily.

"You…are a liar!" he thundered before roughly kissing her. She whimpered in his mouth and refused his tongue entry. Serph growled within her mouth and now grabbed her face, pressing his palms on her head roughly.

She squealed as he bit her lips, commanding her to grant him access within her sweet mouth. He backed her against the table and she whimpered as her waist hit the wooden side of the table.

Serph licked and sucked on the torn flesh of her lip and swallowed her sweet nectar that flowed that was her crimson blood. He chuckled against her mouth and slowly, he could feel her opening to him. He was right…

He could feel his manhood awaken at the sound of her low moan…

His hands made their way to her sari, and slowly peeled her gown off of her. Argilla's mental alarm bells went off within her mind, and screamed at her to fend him off.

'Why bother?' she internally grumbled, 'He'd just take me…'

Her thoughts of protest and doubt dissipated with the air as he suckled her neck, his lips massaging her soft skin. She threw her head back as pleasure overrode her sense of logic.

"S-serph…!" she squealed as he bit her jugular.

Taking advantage of her trance-like state, Serph guided her towards the wall and there, pressed her against it. Argilla moaned, surrendering for her desire towards this vile man whom she called husband and let him do away with her skirt…

Soon after, she was bare…She looked at him and saw that he was still clothed. Serph looked at her hungrily, and grabbed her hand, putting it on his chest, "Take it off." he commanded.

Her heart beat faster, and being lost in her lust, she did as she was told. She unfastened his cloak, letting it fall to the floor…Next came his gloves and then his shirt…

Soon, he too had borne his all to her. She looked at him, her eyes glazed with want for the flesh. Serph grinned at her; he had truly won her…

Not having anymore patience, he crashed his whole body against hers, pinning her against the cold wall. He wedged himself in between her legs, and suddenly kissed her. She responded to his kiss and soon, their tongues danced with each other's.

His hand went to her face to caress it affectionately, while the other fondled her breasts appreciatively. She groaned against his lips and he could feel electrical jolts traveling to his nether regions at hearing it…

He never ceased to be amazed at how incredibly soft and smooth her skin felt…He had been intimate with her every chance he got and not once did she disappoint him…

Traveling from her face, his hand came to caress now, her heated inner folds…Again, he wasn't disappointed as he felt her moist and ready for him…

His lips left hers and dove again for her neck, replenishing the number of his marks on her as the previous ones had began to fade and recede.

Argilla instinctively bucked her hips forward as his nimble, long and slender fingers dove within her inner lips, letting her essence drip excruciatingly along their limbs.

Her hands latched themselves around his neck and pulled him closer to her…

She panted and moaned uncontrollably as his fingers moved in and out of her, "Serph…! Serph…!"

Serph laughed maniacally; her moans were like music to his ears…

Argilla's body suddenly stiffened as she felt herself be lost in the throes of passion and heat. Serph pulled out his fingers and saw that it was drenched with her essence.

Argilla was ashamed of herself for giving into her body's desires…Serph saw the look of shame in her eyes and he immediately caressed her face and smiled at her, "There's no shame in wanting me Argilla…There's no shame…"

And with that he brought his fingers to his lips and suckled on it, swallowing her sweet nectar. He sighed in nothing but pleasure and closed his eyes as he felt her essence flow fluidly within his throat.

Argilla could only redden at his vulgar actions but nonetheless, said nothing.

Serph saw the embarrassment in her face as he withdrew his fingers from his mouth and he now brought them before her own lips, "Care for a taste?" he whispered seductively.

She shook her head.

He was insistent though and now brought his fingers right in front of her face, his eyes never leaving hers…Entranced by his eyes, she silently obeyed and took his fingers within her mouth, licking them and then gently suckling on them…

She was met by a curious taste…Serph moaned lowly as her mouth caressed his fingers while her tongue played with them…He could feel his chest and muscles tightening…He didn't know how much more of this he could take…He also saw the expression that his wife gave him. It was of curiosity.

He withdrew his fingers and saw that she had sucked them dry, "You like tasting yourself…?" he asked, grinning.

Argilla suddenly lost her interest as she heard his vulgar question. Her hand flew to his face in a form of a slap. Serph didn't know whether he would be angry…or amused.

She was still queen after all…She did not appreciate being lowered to a common whore with regards to things such as intimacy…That was something that he always forgot though…

He was brought back to their current situation as his manhood began to painfully protest at his procrastination. So, finally heeding the call of the flesh, he flipped her so that her chest faced the wall. Argilla's palms and her forehead were immediately forcibly pressed against the wall.

She squealed and had her eyes widened as she felt a large and thick intruder enter her tight yet wet passage from behind.

Serph took a deep breath as he relished on the tight feeling of her walls around his member…He immediately set a barrage of insanely fast thrusts within her.

Argilla bent her body for a better position and Serph grabbed her hips as he moved from behind her, using that to intensify his thrusts…

The air grew ever stale from their wild dance. But all good things must come to an end. Serph thrust into her one last time, burying himself up to the hilt as he came. He felt her stiffen and there, he felt her essence mix with his…

No longer having the strength to hold herself up, she began to slide down the wall but he caught her with ready arms. He held her securely and she allowed him…

She immediately closed her eyes…weary and exhausted. A moment later, she found herself within the covers of their bed once more. She looked at him wearily and saw his face…She raised a weary eyebrow…It wasn't what she expected from a man such as he…

She had expected him to gloat about his conquest, any hint that he felt outmost pride of claiming her…Of proving her wrong…Of proving that she indeed desired him the way he did her…But she was proven wrong.

There wasn't anything of the sort within his eyes as he looked at her.

There was a quiet calm within his eyes…No malice, no pride…no arrogance…

He brought his hand to caress hers…and she didn't object. She closed her eyes and breathed in deeply. Now, she would admit to herself…that his touch was indeed…comforting.

Serph gazed at the woman, his wife…his queen. He really did want her to be happy. He really did. He just thought that it was best if she was happy with him near her. He smiled as she closed her eyes and drifted to sleep.

It was happening…And he believed that.

Soon…she would love him too. But be that as it may, love was not without consequence.

Within their world, loving a woman also entailed that the man control her. It wasn't that it was unfair; it was simply the way things were…

He knew that she had a problem with that concept though. She had always thought that she was her own person; that she was free.

"No one is ever free Argilla. No one. Not you; and not I." he told her sincerely.

Leaning down, he kissed her forehead and turned in for the night as well.

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"Leaving?" Jenna asked, her eyebrow raised.

Gale nodded, "Yes. The king and I are to depart for Radhakrishna at first light tomorrow."

Jenna thought for a moment, "You are there to strike a treaty?"

Gale smiled tightly, "I am not certain."

Jenna nodded, "Of course not. That's another reason for you to go; in order to see your would-be foe. After all, the kingdom of Radhakrishna is the only kingdom left free within our continent." she told him as-a-matter-of-factly.

Gale laughed at that; she made them sound so fickle and easy to read. No matter how true it was.

She was right. There was a big possibility that the kingdom of Radhakrishna would not accept their terms of a tribute…the way her father, the late king Gaius, did not.

And in that event, there would only be one course of action; impending war.

"When will you return milord?" she asked politely, her face still as stern as ever.

"In a week." Gale replied.

"…"

Jenna had never been good with words. What was she to say to him? Was she to tell him to…take care of himself?

'Of course he'd take care of himself. He's not a child but a man!' she seethed internally; mad at herself at even coming up with such a thought.

Or that she should tell him to return safely to her. Jenna blushed at that thought. No. It was too sappy; even for a girl to say.

And so, not knowing what to say, she merely nodded.

Gale stepped closer to her and took her hands in his before kissing the edges of her fingers. She blushed harder at the contact but still remained the ever stoic.

Gale slowly let go of her hands and took a step back, "Pleasant dreams Jenna."

She bowed politely and watched him leave.

'You should've said something.' a voice in her head yelled.

'Why should I?'

'Because that's how you feel.'

'…'

'You could have said to take care of himself you know?'

"I refuse to have this conversation with myself all over again." she spoke resolutely, shaking the ludicrous albeit truthful thoughts from her mind.

She was glad though. Gale had not prompted for the date of their wedding. Well, it was possible that he just wasn't telling her. But looking at it as it was, Gale had not pressured her into marriage.

He had not even mentioned it to her; not once.

She was glad. She had seen how Argilla and Sera had both changed as they were now both married. The two seemed less lively than usual. They seemed to have grown older a lot faster as well. At that moment, Sera seemed older than she was!

She shivered at the thought. It was a disturbing thought that your younger sister looked older than you. It just wasn't right.

Well, whatever it was, it still didn't change the fact that she was still unmarried. She smirked at that; she really wouldn't have it any other way.

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Roland had long retired for the night. The queen was within the king's chambers and hence, did not require his services. She was safest with the king…

King Shailendra was Arkanadara's finest and strongest warrior after all. His lips tugged downwards in displeasure at that thought.

Roland lay awake on his bed. He couldn't stop thinking about the queen.

'Queen Amadeus…' he trailed off, 'I wonder what her real name is…'

She had been proclaimed queen not too long ago. He wanted to smile as he saw her upon the throne. She looked so majestic…

He frowned.

Yes. But she was married to the king. He blinked; he shouldn't be having feelings for the queen. But he just did. He remembered the general's threat all too clearly; but for some reason, he did not fear him.

Besides, he didn't need the general to remind him of the consequences should his "allegations" be true. And they were.

He would never do anything to endanger the queen…

That was why he was going to keep whatever feelings he had for her within himself only. No soul should ever know; not even the queen herself.

The knowledge of his feelings would be disastrous for the queen. For himself, he did not care…It was all for her.

He sighed as he recalled their times together. He scoffed at that; they weren't even their times together. He was just her guard. He wasn't her friend or acquaintance. But even still, even if he watched her from afar, he couldn't help but fall under her spell.

She was a vibrant young woman who spoke her mind. She was brave and honorable. He chuckled a bit as he remembered having to drag her from the throne room and brought to her chambers…She had been too feisty.

He then frowned; but that kind of behavior had its ill rewards. She had been punished for that.

Then, there was the time earlier that day itself…She had lost her balance and he had been the one to catch her. He felt warm though as he touched her. And at that moment, the world seemed to freeze…

The only people there were she and he.

And from the look within her eyes…

She probably felt it too.

"…"

He didn't know what to say. The part of him as a man wanted to speak with her and proclaim his feelings…But the other part of him, the soldier, refused to yield.

'No. I would not yield.' he promised himself, 'I would protect her honor.'

Knowing that she shared his feelings would be more than enough for him. He wasn't looking for a torrid romantic affair. She belonged to the king. She was a queen and he was her servant. They were miles apart.

The chances of them being together were one in a billion. He wasn't hoping for it either. But for her to reciprocate his feelings, even if in words only, would mean the world to him.

He had wanted to smile at that thought. But decided against it.

It had been too long since he last loved. The story with Queen Amadeus, just like his previous love affair, would result only in tragedy.

He had decided.

He would stop. He would stop to look at her the way he did. At that moment, a slight pang of pain erupted from within his chest.

Needless to say, it hurt.

He wasn't the type to look for things like love or that sort of thing. The way of the warrior was the path that he had always chosen…He did not believe in things such falling in love at the first glance either. No. Never.

Another pang of pain stung his heart.

He had been such a hypocrite.

Why?

'Because I fell in love with her the moment I saw her.'

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The night grew ever later as the hours progressed. Heat was asleep…She had been thinking about her plan for hours now…

At first she had been hesitant. She had said that she wouldn't give up on them. She had done everything that he had asked in the hopes of having him love her…But every time, it had been the same…

He would not take notice of her…and would sometimes hurt her when she refused his advances. And when she did do something to his liking, not a single word of appreciation or acknowledgement left his lips and eyes…

Where was the man that she had met before they married? The one that promised that no harm would befall her?

'He's gone…' Sera thought sadly.

They had made love a few hours ago and Sera couldn't help but sob. Made love? No. He took her without her consent…again.

She wanted him to love her…Not to use her. She wanted him to see her and not merely look at her…

Her refusal of him that night, a few hours ago was her final test. She wanted to know if there was even a small chance that he might be considerate of her feelings…But as he had forced her to be with him…she knew the result of her so-called test.

'If only I were stronger…like Jenna or Onee-sama…Maybe he'd…' she speculated.

"Onee-sama…" she trailed off suddenly. Her eyes became cold once more. She hadn't forgotten about that. At that moment, an unpleasant feeling wallowed within her chest. Was it really possible that Heat was trying to ruin her sister?

She couldn't believe it.

But…why else was he so interested in knowing what had transpired within their conversation? She forced her mind to recall the most previous events.

Flashback

Sera bowed politely and gracefully as Heat graced her presence, "Milord."

Heat rolled his eyes, "I told you Sera; titles mean nothing to me."

"I apologize…" she said meekly.

He scoffed but said nothing. The two were engulfed in a deafening silence. Sera, once more felt out of place. Her husband's aura felt as if he were displeased. And again, she was afraid that she might do something that might further his already raging irritation.

And so, she remained where she was, waiting for him to speak first. She did not wait in vain.

"I understand that you and your sisters had a rendezvous earlier, am I right?" he asked.

"Yes." she replied calmly.

"Have you noticed anything odd about her?" he asked.

"No."

"The guard. Where was he?"

"Outside."

"Did he speak to you or any of you three at all?"

"No."

"I see."

End Flashback

She blinked; she understood. Heat was smart and perceptive. Of course. He had seen it too. He had seen what she was had bore witness to.

'Roland is infatuated with Onee-sama…' she thought to herself, all the more sure, now that Heat was there to corroborate her claim.

So, she wasn't mistaken about Roland and her sister after all.

That was why he had wanted to know about Argilla and Roland. He wanted to know whether or not the queen was having an affair.

She frowned then, 'And if she were…? Would he turn her in?'

Her heart leapt at that nervously.

'He wouldn't! It would hurt me if he did!' she mentally screamed.

'But isn't that the reason why we're doing this in the first place? Because he's hurting us?' a voice interjected within her consciousness.

Sera felt tears threatening to spill once more, 'No…He wouldn't…Heat is a man of honor! He wouldn't disgrace my sister…!'

At that moment, she thought about altering her plans. If her speculation about Heat was true, then, Argilla would need her more than ever…But another nasty thought entered her mind, 'Jenna is stronger than me…She and Lord Gale seemed to be getting along quite well. She would be a better ally than myself…Heat could just use me to ruin her…No…I cannot remain here…'

'If only I were stronger!'

She began to sob…

'No! I have to be stronger!' she told herself firmly. Her soothing and gentle silver eyes now became cold and piercing as she gazed upon her husband's sleeping form. Heat had been drunk that night as he, Gale and the king had celebrated for some unknown reason…

Well, whatever the reason was…

'I'm sure it doesn't concern a stupid and worthless woman such as me!' she yelled within, her silver eyes flaring at his angelic sleeping face.

She suppressed an angry growl as she remembered his cruel words; they still hurt, yes, but now, more than ever, they angered her.

That was why she had made him drink again just before they retired for that night…She wanted to make sure that he was fully sedated before she would execute her plans…

Yes. Now, there was no doubt; not a shred of it. She had made up her mind.

She carefully got off the bed and went to her private closet. There…in the midst of all the gowns and saris, laid a package.

It was a package that she had been hiding for the last few days…She opened the box and there, were the robes of a peasant. She had seen it lying around outside the castle and had told her servant to fetch it.

She looked at the hideous piece of clothing and with less disgust and more fortitude, donned in on herself. She then took the candle and match within the box. She slowly made her way towards her husband and looked at him sadly, her eyes beginning to brim with tears…

"H-Heat…" she whispered in the dark, her voice cracking as she reached out to touch his face for the last time with her trembling fingers.

"I love you…"

Her tears suddenly cascaded down her cheeks. She didn't want to do this; she didn't want to leave him…But as the days progressed, she had felt that they had drifted farther and farther apart.

He had less and less time for her…and when he was finally with her, he looked to her only for his physical pleasure and erotic gratification. He didn't care for her opinions or thoughts…He simply wanted…

'A doll…' she thought sadly, 'I'm not a doll Heat…'

Caressing his face one last time, she leaned down and kissed him chastely on his lips.

"Goodbye Heat…" she uttered sadly.

Wiping her tears away, she made her way towards their chamber doors to slowly pull it open. She took a deep breath and pulled with all her might. She cursed herself as she found herself unable to fully open it, but only partially.

She squeezed herself through the narrow passage and closed the doors again. Once it was done, she made her way through the deserted hallways. She lighted the candle and set to be on her way. Throughout the previous days, she had taken it upon herself to memorize the castle's layout; finding the easiest way to the exits.

But it wasn't the exits that she was aiming to go to. She was aiming to reach the servants' quarters. The castle and its exits were always guarded. If she was to leave the castle, she needed to pass herself off as a slave…or a servant.

And to do that, she needed to be at the servants' quarters. She had learnt that the servants awoke long before sunrise. Thus, the nobles would not see her…

Sera suddenly stopped. She looked back. She hesitated. If she were to succeed in her plan, she would probably never see her sisters again…and worse, she would never be with Heat again…

But then, she narrowed her eyes, "I'm doing this for you…I want to be stronger. I'm tired of being taken for granted. I want…you to see me…" she whispered.

It was tearing her apart to do this to him…and to her sisters…But there was no other alternative. She needed to be by herself; she needed to be stronger. She didn't know exactly where she was to go…but as sure as the sun would rise the next day, she did not wish to remain within the castle.

Heat…he was killing her, little by little, with each given day. She couldn't hold it in any longer. She needed to leave. There was no way that she could live with a man she loved who did not love her in return…

She would find a way to be stronger; to be more like her sisters. And perhaps, one day, she would return.

Feeling her resolve be reinforced, she once more resumed her silent navigation of the castle. Her heart stopped as she heard footsteps. She looked around and saw a niche on the wall.

She quickly made her way towards it and hid, putting the candle out.

The footsteps got louder and the louder they got, Sera's heart thumped even faster. She held her breath as the footsteps neared still. She looked in front of her. A vase.

It would have to do.

Suddenly it stopped. Sera prayed that she wouldn't be discovered…

Then a moment later, the footsteps resumed and went farther and farther away. When she couldn't hear them anymore, Sera left the niche and again navigated the halls.

"Finally!" she whispered happily as she reached the servants' quarters a few minutes later.

She made for the handle of the door when a hand clamped on her mouth, while another hand grabbed her waist.

Her heart stopped; had she been found out?!

"Well, well, well…" her captor's voice drawled; a guard.

"Isn't it a bit late to be wandering these halls…?" he drawled again as his hands meandered throughout her body. Sera's body stiffened as he touched her in her sacred places. She wanted to cry right there…

"I've just been looking for a woman…And it would seem that my prayers were answered eh?"

Sera let her tears fall as his tongue licked her earlobe. She screamed within his palm and struggled.

A moment later, the man was off her. He had his neck snapped.

She gasped, "Heat?!"

'No…it's not…' she thought with a bit if disappointment.

She backed away as she saw the silhouette; her savior. She had thought that it was Heat…

But it wasn't; it was a man in a frightening mask. A man with a pale-white mask with narrow slits for eyes and streaks across it with it having the same color as his eyes; sapphire.

"What?" the masked man asked; confused.

Sera stiffened, "Thank you." She bowed.

But something struck Sera as odd…This man had just killed a castle guard. Her eyes widened as she put two and two together.

"You are not of Arkanadara's soldiers…" she softly spoke.

The man did not reply.

Sera saw this as her chance, "Take me with you. Please, take me with you!" she cried as she wept at his feet. The man looked at her, and shoved her away, "Don't make me kill you woman!" he hissed.

Sera didn't relent, "Please…If you don't I'll scream!"

The man narrowed his sapphire blue eyes at her, "You'd be dead before you could." With that, he began to walk away.

"Please! I'm trying to escape this place! I've been kept against my will!" she desperately hissed.

He stopped and turned to look at her once more, "You…you're not a servant. You're a slave."

Sera nodded, "Yes."

Well, it was a half-truth. In a manner of speaking, she was a slave…

"Who is your master?"

"Arkanadara's general." Sera said sadly, her voice no louder than a gentle whisper.

The man nodded and took her hand, "Come. We'll be spotted if we do not leave immediately."

Sera smiled and took his hand. The two vanished into the shadows.

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