*Waves hello* I hope you'll take a moment to read this first A/N, if nothing else. It might answer some questions a lot of you seemed to have.

Based on many of the reviews, I'm thinking some of you have forgotten that Jacob isn't just a sick voyeur. The bedding ceremony was at King Charles' request. It was mentioned in chapter three, as well as chapter five. It's an actual ceremony that was used way back in the day to guarantee a marriage was consummated and that any children born of the marriage were legitimate. And as there is a throne at stake—dominion over Adwen—it is within Charles' rights to ask that witnesses be present, himself even. Charles chose Jacob to be present in his stead because he is trusted enough to lead Adwen's army into battles, so he's trusted enough in the king's eyes—to BE the king's eyes—to witness what would have future implications for his kingdom. Hope that clears up the question some of you had.

I also want to say thanks to all of you for your cheerleading over my lemon. It's not my favorite thing to write, so really, it means a lot. I heart you all! Xoxo It wasn't the first I've ever posted, just the first I ever wrote. Like I mentioned last week, it's been hanging around in my docs for a looong time. ;)

Thank you Fyrebyrd, 2brown-eyes, Gabby1017, and Ceceprincess1217 for prereading. And a huge thank you to jayhawkbb for editing. I'm practically burying her in words right now, and she's rocking her inner Wonder Woman to edit them as fast as she can while she's busy with her RL responsibilities. Huge hugs to all you lovely ladies!

Please remember, I like to fiddle and tweak, so all mistakes are my own.

Chapter 9

"We must be going soon. Our tent should be prepared by now. Do you feel well enough to walk to the camp?"

"I do not I rise from the bed, I will see how I feel. But truly, if I do not, do you plan to carry me all that way?" I ask with a laugh.

He merely smiles. "My wife, I would carry you all the way to Galon if you asked it of me. As your husband, it is now my job to do all that is in my power to care for you and make you happy." As he stares down at me, his gaze is full of respect, admiration, and dare I hope, affection?

"Then you are doing a fine job of fulfilling your husbandly duties." It is then that I hold the blankets tightly to my chest and sit up, wincing slightly as I do. He sits up quickly at my side, as if he can soothe my aches. "I am well. My body is just not accustomed to this kind of ... vigorous activity." I say this almost as a question, my nose scrunched.

He barks out a laugh. "Well, my wife, I hope it becomes accustomed quickly, because we will be partaking in that vigorous activity quite often." He searches the bed for his pants, quickly putting them on when he finds them. "I believe the Bishop and the others will need to return to inspect the bedding, but I hope to be away with you before then." He tentatively opens one of the curtains to see if we are alone. "I will see where our unwelcome guests have gone, and then I will be back to assist you." With a quick peck to my lips, he leaves.

I fall back to the mattress, reveling in its softness. This surely is a bed made for a queen.

A queen.

I am a married woman, joined with a man in line for the throne. I will one day be queen. It is a sobering thought. Everything I do will now be scrutinized by the people of Galon. As the third daughter, my actions were never given much thought, so this will be a new responsibility for me. I pray I have the strength and wisdom to prove myself to not only the people of Galon but also my husband. He is a good man, and I hope I can be the wife he needs by his side. My thoughts are interrupted by the curtains being drawn back.

"Come, my wife. Let us join our people outside the castle gates. I shall help you dress, if that is agreeable."

"Of course." He takes my hand and helps me from the bed. I try to bring the blanket with me, to cover myself, but he will not allow it.

"Isabella, you are my wife. I wish to see your naked body at every opportunity. Please do not hide it from me."

With my eyes shyly downcast, I let the blanket fall.

"Thank you," he whispers, tilting my chin up to place a chaste kiss upon my lips.

He looks around the room and spots what he is searching for. He takes a few steps away from me and retrieves my robe. As he holds it open, I turn around for him to assist me. As I do, my gaze lands on the red stain on the bed sheets, and I gasp.

He leans forward, speaking into my ear. "That is a sign of our vow to one another. I treasure it, knowing I am the only man to possess your body. I hold it sacred, and I will not forsake you. As you have given yourself to me, I have given myself to you. Only you. I will be faithful to you, Isabella. I know many men do not feel as I do, but you are my wife, and I will respect you ... respect the vows we have taken."

I turn to him and nearly knock him over with my embrace. He chuckles as he holds me.

"Thank you, Edward. Your words bring me great comfort." My words are muffled, spoken into his chest. "And I, too, will be faithful to you for the rest of my days."

"I should hope so." His eyes darken, though not with desire. No, I have not yet seen this look on his face. "The thought of another man touching you nearly drives me to madness. I fear I would run a man through with my sword for even looking at you too long. You are very precious to me." His hands cradle my face. "You are mine now, and I will protect and fight for what is mine." His kiss this time is demanding. He seems to have total control of my body, and it feels like clay in his hands. I completely surrender to him.

It does not take long for him to have me back on the bed, my robe on but open, all of me exposed. His lips cover mine, our tongues dance and slide against one another, and his hands seem to be everywhere. Without much warning, he enters me. I feel discomfort, but not the sharp, stinging pain of the first time we joined. And although he is careful, he is commanding. He has me at the edge of the bed, his feet planted firmly on the floor. Our hands are linked, our fingers laced together over my head as he moves over me. The position gives him leverage, and his thrusts are so much stronger and deeper. While still powerful, he is gentle in the way he moves in me, as if he knows there is lingering soreness from our first encounter. I hold tightly to his hands as he moves, breathing deeply and trying to focus on the way he makes me feel. It is pleasurable, but it is not the overwhelming, intense sensation I felt when his fingers touched me. Soon, Edward calls out my name against the skin of my neck. This time, though, the Isa of my name is merely a breath, and all I hear is Bella.

He collapses atop me, his breathing heavy, his heart pounding. I stroke my hands through his hair. It is damp with sweat, but soft under my fingertips.

"I fear we shall never leave this room." His voice comes from between my breasts, where his face is buried. He then looks up at me and smiles. "You truly are a gift. Thank you." He places a tender kiss to my lips before slowly withdrawing from me. "But now, we must make haste. I worry my men will come for me, thinking I have been taken captive." He straightens and offers me a hand to stand, helping me rise from the mattress.

"You? Taken captive?" I laugh as I close my robe over my nakedness. "Surely they know you can take care of yourself."

"You think I jest, but I do not. And I believe it would be Emmett to lead the search party. Let us dress, and quickly. I fear that if we do not, then I shall have you again"—he kisses me—"and again"—he kisses me once more—"and again."

"Yes, yes, I understand. You are insatiable, and I must protect myself from your advances." With my back turned as I walk away, I wave him off as if to dismiss him.

His playful nature comes out as he reaches for me and tickles my sides. We are both laughing, enjoying this lighter moment. Soon, we calm enough to attempt to dress, much to my amusement.

I asked Angela earlier to prepare a simple dress for my departure from Broadcove Castle, something with which I would not need her assistance. But for all its simplicity, Edward still has difficulty helping me dress, and it is not the laces he seems to struggle with. No, it is his inability to stay on task. His hands roam as he assists me, and I find it difficult to deny him. It takes several tries, but we finally manage.

As we exit the queen's rooms, we are, in fact, met by a very worried-looking Emmett. "I was beginning to worry you had been captured, cousin."

Edward and I look at one another and burst into laughter.

"This is no time to laugh. We all know you have enemies who would like nothing more than to see harm come to you and your new bride. What was I to think when you had been gone for hours?"

"You should think that I am enjoying my new bride."

Embarrassment heats my cheeks, and I stare down at my feet.

"Now, before we attract any more undue attention, could you please quietly lead us back to our camp? It is time for all of my men to see their new princess." With that, he kisses my hand and leads me through the corridors, down staircases, past the kitchens, and through a door that leads us outside into the courtyard.

My pace slows once we leave the castle. Perhaps my aches and soreness are more than I first thought. Edward notices, and he reaches down and sweeps me into his strong arms.

"Oh!" I gasp in surprise.

"Did you think my offer was in jest?" His lips come closer to my ear as he holds me against him. "I meant what I said. I would carry you anywhere you wish to go."

"Thank you, husband," I whisper. "I did not realize how sore I was."

"As I told you, you only need ask me." He kisses me, and we are again on our way.

The walk through the courtyard is quiet, but as we approach the outer gates, the sounds of a celebration echo in the night air. It is low at first but grows in volume as we get closer to the camp. Their revelry comes into sharper focus in the light of the many fires lit throughout the sprawling sea of tents. It seems that his men are quite enthusiastic about their new princess.

"It would appear that they have been celebrating without us. What say you? Shall we join them?"

"It would be an honor to celebrate with them."

As we step farther away from the gates and closer to the informal celebration, I notice the numbers of tents and men have been greatly reduced since the last time I gazed at his camp from my chambers. "Edward?"

"Yes?"

"I remember seeing many more men here just this morning from my window. Did my eyes deceive me?"

"No, my wife. After the ceremony was complete, many of them began the journey back to Galon. There is much to take with us, so I thought it wise to give them a head start. If they encounter any obstacles, they can clear the way for us. There are still nearly a hundred men to accompany us home."

As we enter the camp, the noise increases when the men catch sight of us. We are congratulated many times over, and it delights me to receive such a warm welcome. As we near the center of the camp, we are approached by Sir Garrett.

"My Lord, I trust that the private ceremony went as planned?" he asks with a knowing smirk.

Looking into my eyes, Edward answers. "I could not have planned it any better. It was perfect." He kisses me deeply, and I am lost in it, until the clearing of a throat reminds us where we are.

"Splendid. I spoke with Lord Emmett, Lord Jasper, and a few of the men. We have a suggestion, if I may be so bold?"

"Go on."

"It seems the celebrating is going a little longer than we had planned, and many of the men are more than into their cups. We thought it prudent to suggest postponing our departure by a day. It would give the men time to recuperate from tonight, as well as allow you to be at your leisure tomorrow. We could depart early the following morning."

Edward seems to think it over. Looking at me, then to Sir Garrett, he nods. "It is a sound idea. I want my men well rested and able to defend us if necessary. So yes, we shall depart morning after next—under one condition."

"Yes, My Lord?"

"We are not to be disturbed. Only in the matter of life and death shall anyone bother us tomorrow. If I shall be traveling with the lot of you for over a fortnight, I want my wife to myself—uninterrupted—for the entire day."

"Yes, of course My Lord." Sir Garrett grins and nods in agreement before turning and walking away.

The rest of the night we spend dancing and laughing, and the mead is once more passed around. I have a chance to meet and speak with several of his men. They all seem loyal to Edward, which warms my heart. I can see that they respect him, and they trust him to lead them into battle.

When the fires begin to wane and the revelry finally dies down, Edward leads me to the tent we are to share for the next several nights. It is larger than I imagined. As we approach, I can make out a few details in the dark. Where most of the men's tents are small, many of them round, Edward's is large and square, with an extended overhang on the front. Under this is a table along with a few chairs. I can picture Edward enjoying a meal here or strategizing an attack. As we pass the table, he leads me inside.

There is a post holding the center upright. From the top of the post, four large, wooden arms reach out to hold up the corners. Long curtains hang from two of the arms, for privacy I assume. On one side is a large pallet consisting of a few furs, many blankets, and several pillows. It looks comfortable, inviting. On the other side of the tent, there is a modestly-sized wardrobe as well as two trunks, one which I recognize as mine. I walk around, looking and reaching out to touch all I see.

"Will this suit you, my wife?" He is standing at the entrance of the tent, his arms crossed over his chest and a grin on his face, watching me.

"It more than suits me." I turn back to look at him. "I think this will be rather cozy."

He stalks toward me, once again wrapping me in his arms. Kissing my neck, he growls in my ear. "Cozy indeed. We do not have to leave this tent for more than a day, my dear. I intend to take full advantage of having no interruptions, but tonight ..." He sighs. "Tonight we will sleep. You are still uncomfortable from—"

I pull back and look up into his eyes, suddenly worried he is displeased with me, thinking I am unable or unwilling to perform my wifely duties. "No, I am well. If you wish to—"

He silences me with a kiss, holding me tightly but gently, before pulling away and resting his forehead to mine. "I had to carry you to camp, Isabella," he whispers. "I know you are uncomfortable, and I would be a monster to ask more of you this night." He pulls back to meet my gaze. "You will come to learn I would have you several times a day, but your body needs a rest."

I open my mouth to speak, but he places a finger to my lips.

"I plan to have you again before we leave Adwen, but I cannot do that knowing it is causing you pain. And I have already had you twice. We will have all of tomorrow to lie abed and explore each other, but for tonight, what say you and I see just how warm and cozy that bed is?"

I am nearly speechless at his concern for my well-being. "I would like nothing more," I whisper.

After securing the flaps of the tent, we help rid each other of our clothing. It is warmer inside the tent than I imagined it would be, so I do not protest when he removes mine completely, not even leaving me in my shift. He picks me up and carries me to the bed. Turned on his side, he holds me close. My head rests against his shoulder, just under his chin, and his hands move over the skin of my back in a soothing pattern. I relish the attention, and soon my eyes flutter closed.

Our breathing slows, and sleep creeps in on us, my eyes growing heavy. He rolls to his back, bringing me with him, and my head rests on his chest. The warmth of the furs is enough to keep the chill of the night at bay.

He holds me impossibly closer and brings the blankets and furs higher to almost completely cover us. Kissing the top of my head, he murmurs, "Sleep, my wife."

And I drift off as I listen to the soothing sound of my husband's beating heart.

The midday sun has warmed the tent quite nicely. I roll over and stretch out my arms and legs, working out the soreness from yesterday's vigorous activities.

Edward's voice is deep, heavy with sleep when he speaks. "What a beautiful sight to wake to. Good morning, wife." I look over and see he is on his side, propped on one elbow, his head resting in his hand as he watches me. He reaches out to stroke my naked breast, causing my breath to hitch. "Yes, quite beautiful."

"Good morning, husband." I roll back to his open arms, nuzzling into his chest. "Edward?" I keep my face hidden against him. I have an embarrassing question to ask, but I must ask it, as I will be with him like this for many days before we arrive in Galon.

"Yes, Isabella?"

My embarrassment nearly steals my voice, and my question comes out in a near whisper. "Am I to find a tree, or is there a chamber pot in the tent?"

This makes him laugh, a deep, hearty chuckle escaping. "Ah, my outspoken wife. I was wondering when you would make an appearance. Yes, my dear, one has been brought into the tent. It is on the other side of that curtain," he says, pointing to the corner. "I thought you may want some privacy. If you would like, I can ask that some hot water be brought in so we can wash as well."

"Oh, yes, that sounds wonderful. I feel a bit ..." I scrunch my nose, thinking of the word I want to use. He may appreciate my outspokenness, but I do not think my husband would like it if I were to complain that I am sticky.

"Yes, my wife, I feel a bit that way as well. I will ask for the water to be brought once you are safely hidden from any prying eyes." He places a kiss to the top of my head once more before I wiggle away from him and wrap myself in a blanket as I disappear behind the curtain.

As I do my business, I can hear him speak to one of his men—I believe it is Alec—about bringing us water with which to bathe. I then hear Alec answer him.

"Should I bring the tub, my lord? It may help soothe her sore cun—" His words are cut off abruptly, a strangled gasping sound escaping Alec.

"If you know what is good for you, you will not finish that sentence. Bring the water as I instructed, and keep your mouth shut."

No more is said, and I quickly finish tending to my business. Soon, I hear new voices—Garrett and Michael, I believe.

When I know they have left, I emerge from behind the curtain. What I see before me is a welcome surprise. A large tub has been brought in for us. The water is steaming in the cool morning air.

"I thought you might enjoy a bath, my wife."

"How ever did you have this ready so quickly? You only just asked for water."

He stands confidently, crossing his arms across his chest and quirking an eyebrow at me. "I knew you would enjoy a bath, and I asked my men to be sure to have enough water heated to fill the tub when the sun rose."

"Oh." I stand, unsure of myself.

"Is it to your liking?"

"Of course. This is lovely. Thank you." I do not make a move to get in, though. I am feeling a bit shy in the light of day.

"Are you not going to get in?" He chuckles, and his eyes are filled with mirth.

"I am sorry, husband." I move slowly to remove the blanket as Edward steps closer to me, reaching to help me.

"Do not be sorry, Isabella. There is no reason to feel ashamed or shy in front of me."

The blanket falls to the ground, exposing my nakedness. Edward gently grabs hold of me, his hands encircling my waist, his fingers nearly touching. I feel so small, so delicate in his large hands.

"I am not ashamed," I say softly. "Perhaps just a bit unsure of myself. This is all still very new to me."

His mouth moves to my neck, kissing the skin there. His words are no more than a whisper. "Yes, I know, but there is no reason to feel unsure. I am a fortunate man to call you my wife." I relax in his hold as his hands begin to roam. "May I join you in your bath?"

My eyes widen. "My Lord?"

He looks pointedly at me, as if I should know better.

"I mean, Edward. You wish to bathe with me?"

"Yes, I do. I think the warm water would serve us both well. So, what do you say? May I join you?"

I am unable to deny him anything. "Of course, my husband."

He moves to remove the robe he was wearing, untying the belt at his waist, and I look away in embarrassment. But he will not allow it. He grasps my chin to look at him.

"Isabella, do you not wish to look upon your own husband?" There is amusement in his tone.

"I have never seen a man that way." I almost cannot hear my own voice. My eyes are focused on his naked chest. The same chest I saw in the firelight last night and again this morning as I woke. The strong muscles, the soft hair that is sprinkled upon it have my full attention.

"Isabella, please look at me."

I shift my gaze to his eyes.

"Are you frightened? I have already opened your body with mine. There is nothing more to fear. The difficult part is over." His hands cradle the back of my neck as his thumbs caress my jaw.

I reach up to hold onto his wrists. "I do not believe it is fear. Perhaps it is. I do not know." I squeeze my eyes shut in embarrassment. His kiss to my forehead is gentle, reassuring.

"Allow me to assist you, my wife." Like his kiss, his voice is soft and tender.

With a nod, I open my eyes and release his wrists. He takes my hand and leads me to the bath. I step into it and sink down into the water. I cannot help but give a contented sigh as the warm water surrounds me. It is then that I feel Edward step into the water, settling himself behind me, and as he wraps his arms around me, I'm filled with a contentment I've never known.

A/N: Next up ... on the road to Galon. Anyone have any guesses on what's next for these two?

If you're in my Sunshine Fics group on Facebook, I'll be posting some extra pics this week of Edward's tent and how I envision the camp to look. Stop by and take a peek!

And now time for some recs!

Lover of the Light by vampbirch is one of my all-time-favorite teen pregnancy fics. I saw it mentioned over the weekend on Facebook, and I had to dive back in for a re-read. It has all the feels. I flove this one. Summary: "There's this new girl in town. I call her Brightside. Emmett likes her, but he says she smells like trees. I think she smells good, like lavender... anyway, I think she's going to have my baby." A story about a boy who made a mistake. Or two. AU-AH

dóttir by cupcakeriot is a vikingella story, and according to the author, inspired by How to Train Your Dragon. Like so many WIPs, I'm a few chapters behind with this one, but it had me hooked from the start. Summary: The Norns work in mysterious ways. What starts with a strike of lightning and an orphaned dragon egg will end up reshaping the future of the Vikings - and the Chieftain's daughter - forever.

And remember, for exclusive weekly teasers and pics, be sure to check out my Facebook group, Sunshine Fics! 'See' you all soon!

Lots of love

~Sunshine