As Lilithe sat at her desk, the weight of her responsibilities pressing down upon her, she couldn't shake the nagging thoughts that tugged at the corners of her mind. Lucy's safety weighed heavily on her heart, the promise they had made to uncover the truth behind the attempts on her life haunting her every thought.
But duty called, as it often did for a queen burdened with the affairs of her kingdom. She forced her attention back to the stack of letters before her, each one representing a concern, a complaint, a plea for her guidance or intervention.
With a determined sigh, she picked up her pen once more, the scratches of ink against parchment a familiar melody in the quiet of her chambers. She focused on the words before her, the intricate details of land disputes and farming grievances blurring together as she poured over each missive.
She could take a break, she reasoned with herself, just a brief respite to seek out her friends, to offer whatever assistance she could in their quest for answers. But even as the thought crossed her mind, she knew it was futile. Lucy and the others were likely already combing the castle, searching for clues in the labyrinth of corridors and hidden passages.
Resigned to her duties, Lilithe pushed aside her concerns, her resolve strengthened by the weight of her crown. She couldn't afford distractions, not when the safety of her kingdom hung in the balance.
With renewed determination, she bent to her task, each stroke of her pen bringing her one step closer to completion. The letters piled up before her, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her people.
And though her heart ached with worry for her friends, she knew that her duty as queen came first. So she pushed on, her focus unyielding, her resolve unshakable, until at last, the final letter was signed, sealed, and ready to be dispatched.
With a weary sigh of satisfaction, Lilithe leaned back in her chair, the weight of her responsibilities momentarily lifted from her shoulders. She had done what needed to be done, and now she could only hope that Lucy and the others would uncover the truth before it was too late.
"Thank the heavens," she breathed a sigh of relief, "I thought that I wouldn't ever finish." Lilithe stood from her seat as she stretched as sitting in a chair gave her a stiff back from not being able to move
Lilithe walked down the corridors of her castle with her head held up high as she nodded in greeting as she passed servants, maids, and butlers. She had turned in all the papers that she'd read and signed regarding the complaints of her people that she was dealt with every other month. Rogue walked a bit behind her but her focus wasn't on him or what was going on.
"Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm just thinking about other things at the moment."
Instead she focused her energy on the thought of having Lucy back in her life. She had truly believed that she wouldn't ever see that same bright smile directed at her again. Yet, fate seemed to have a funny way of bringing them back together.
Glancing over her shoulder, she was surprised to be met with Rogue's gaze. Flushed, she turned away as she tried to ignore his soft chuckles from behind her. With a smile, she tried to mask her emotions since they were still around maids and servants that passed them in the corridors. It made her guilty to suspect her people of betrayal and possible traitors. But she knew that somebody was plotting her death and she needed to be cautious.
She had a duty to fulfill, her parents had saved her for a reason. Mostly her mother. Her Mother sacrificed her life for hers because a bigger force was in play. She was a mere pawn in this game that had been set up four hundred years ago.
It wasn't until Rogue had brushed up against her shoulder that she took notice they were already in the gardens. Where Lucy, Sting, and Bastien were smiling and laughing as they waited to start eating. Smiling softly, she took her seat at the end of the table and took notice they all snapped their attention to her.
"Good afternoon," she spoke. "I hope you all had a lovely day so far besides being arrested."
Lucy was the first to speak, "It was, we had actually just finished up our investigation of the castle when we were apprehended by Duke Cedric."
"Again, I do apologize for my Uncle's harsh treatment."
Sting brushed it off, "No need to apologize Lilithe."
"Lilithe, I was hoping that you would give us a list of your most trusted soldiers and those in your circle so we may find the leak in your security." Lucy was soft spoken and polite as she stared at the young Queen from her spot beside Sting
The Queen nodded, "I already have the list drawn up for you, I'll have Marian fetch it for you."
Pouring herself some tea, she took note that they had yet to touch the food that was placed before them. Instead they all stared at her in silent patience.
"Yes?"
Lucy hid her smile, but failed. "May we eat now?"
Embarrassed, she blushed. "Forgive me, but yes. Please dig in, I do hope our country's meat is as savory as our fruits are sweet and the vegetables are fresh."
Blowing on her hot cup of green tea, she watched in amusement as both dragon slayers stacked their plates with food whereas Lucy took her time to grab much smaller portions for their own plates. Humming in content, she spent the better part of the lunch listening to them converse with one another. Catching movement in her peripheral, she stared down at the exceed that stared up at her with curiosity.
"Hello small one," she said, which managed to gather the other's attention. "What might your name be?"
"My name is Frosh"
"It's nice to meet you Frosh," she smiled. "I adore your frog suit."
This made the small green exceed smile, "Frosh thinks so too!"
Rogue had stopped eating. He watched from across the table at how the young Queen interacted with his companion. She smiled as she sipped tea while listening to how Frosh liked frogs and butterflies. It made him happy that his new found mate was getting along quite nicely with Frosh.
It wasn't until Marian, Lilithe's lady in waiting, came out with a small stack of mail. Taking the mail from her wordlessly, she smiled and thanked the older women who bowed and left. Frosh had taken the opportunity to sit on top of the table as she began munching on some apple pieces. Anna had sliced the slices into smaller pieces for the small exceed to eat.
Using the letter opener, Lilithe sliced open the first letter with a barely masked annoyance. The seal was enough to tell her who it came from. She breathed a soft sigh as she discovered it wasn't just a letter but a small packet of papers. Unfolding them, she quickly scanned the words from one of the aristocrats she was close with. By the time she finished, her irritation had only grown. She swiftly moved on to the next letter.
"Is everything alright?" Lucy asked, noticing Lilithe's demeanor.
"Just an annoyance," Lilithe replied, tossing the letter onto a silver tray. She continued rifling through her correspondence with a determined focus.
Lucy glanced at Bastien, who stood nearby, watching the queen with a thoughtful expression. "I take it that you will be joining Bastien at tonight's feast while I am detained," Lilithe continued, her tone laced with frustration.
"We will," Bastien finally spoke up, his voice calm and reassuring. "I have already made arrangements for Lady Lucy and her escort, Sting."
"Escort?" Sting asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.
"It's improper for a young woman to travel alone without an escort," Lucy explained, her tone matter-of-fact.
Sting's confusion shifted to understanding. "Ah, I see. Well, I suppose that makes sense."
Lilithe paused in her reading and looked up at Lucy and Sting. "It's more than just tradition," she said, her voice softer now. "In times like these, with the recent attempts on my life, we must be cautious. An escort ensures your safety, Lucy."
Lucy nodded, appreciating the concern behind Lilithe's words. "Thank you. I understand."
Lilithe gave a brief nod before returning to her letters. "These correspondences are becoming more troubling," she murmured, half to herself. "The aristocrats are growing restless, and their demands are becoming increasingly unreasonable."
Bastien stepped closer, his expression serious. "Is there anything we should be aware of?"
Lilithe sighed, setting aside another letter. "They are pushing for more influence, more power. Some of them are even hinting at wanting to dictate policies. It's as if they have forgotten who the monarch is."
Lucy placed a comforting hand on Lilithe's arm. "You have always been a strong and fair ruler. They must know that you will not be easily swayed."
Lilithe gave her a grateful smile. "Thank you, Lucy. Your support means a great deal to me." Lilithe returned to her letters, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "I will address these issues head-on. Tonight, while you attend the feast, I will be preparing for the ceremony. My focus must remain unwavering."
Lucy and Sting exchanged a glance, both understanding the gravity of the situation. "We will ensure everything goes smoothly at the feast," Lucy said confidently.
Rogue stepped into the room, his eyes immediately drawn to her. He had seen her in many attires, but tonight, she looked more ethereal than ever. The tight-fitting silk accentuated her every movement, making her appear almost like a divine being. He couldn't help but admire her, even as his instincts urged him to claim her..
"Lilithe," Rogue began, his voice betraying a hint of awe. "You are beautiful."
Lilithe turned to face him, a small, reassuring smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Rogue."
He nodded, trying to keep his composure. "Are you ready?."
She moved towards him, her steps graceful and purposeful. "Yes, I take it that you will accompany me?"
Rogue's eyes met hers, and for a moment, he saw a flicker of vulnerability. "This is when you will be your most vulnerable."
She reached out, her fingers lightly brushing against his arm. "Your presence is a great comfort to me, Rogue."
He felt a surge of warmth at her touch, his dragon instincts purring at the contact. "I won't let anything happen to you," he promised.
Lilithe nodded, drawing strength from his words. She turned back to the mirror, her eyes reflecting the determination that burned within her. "It's time," she said softly.
Together, they made their way to the grand hall where the feast was to take place. The corridors were lined with guards and courtiers, all bowing as she passed. The anticipation in the air was palpable, the weight of the ritual pressing down on everyone present.
As they entered the hall, the assembled nobles and guests turned to look at her, their eyes widening at her ethereal appearance. Whispers of admiration and awe filled the room, but Lilithe remained focused, her gaze fixed on the ancient tree that stood at the center of the courtyard, visible through the open doors.
Rogue stayed close, his eyes scanning the room for any sign of danger. He could feel the tension radiating from Lilithe, though she hid it well. He admired her strength, her unwavering dedication to her duty.
Finally, as the moon rose high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the courtyard, Lilithe stood. The room fell silent, all eyes turning to her as she made her way to the ancient tree. The ethereal silk of her gown shimmered in the moonlight, making her appear almost ghostly.
She knelt before the tree, placing her hands on its rough bark, feeling the ancient magic thrumming beneath her fingertips. Closing her eyes, she began to pour her own magic into the tree, her body glowing with a soft, white light. The tree responded, its leaves rustling as if in gratitude.
Rogue watched from the shadows, his heart swelling with admiration and protectiveness. He knew she was vulnerable in this moment, but he also knew that she was the strongest person he had ever met. And he would protect her with his life.
As the ceremony continued, the light from Lilithe grew brighter, illuminating the entire courtyard. When it was done, Lilithe stood up, stumbling slightly, her body exhausted but her spirit unwavering. She felt her strength waning and, just as she was about to fall, Rogue was immediately at her side, his strong arms steadying her.
"Thank you," she whispered, leaning on him for support, feeling a mixture of relief and gratitude wash over her.
He nodded, his eyes filled with a mixture of concern and admiration. "Let's get you back inside," he said, guiding her towards the castle with gentle but firm hands.
As they walked, Rogue watched as all the nobles, who had taken to watching from the balcony where the feast was held, bowed deeply. Their respect for their queen was evident in their eyes, a silent acknowledgment of her strength and dedication.
Once they turned into an empty corridor, Rogue, sensing her growing fatigue, swept her into his arms with ease. He fell into his shadows and traveled to her room, taking great care in crossing her quarters and placing her gently in the plush chair by the fireplace.
"Thank you," Lilithe's tone was soft, her eyes tired yet warm as she smiled at him. "You have truly done so much for me."
"I gave my word that I would do everything and anything to ensure your safety and care," Rogue said, stepping back a bit, careful to maintain the proper boundary between them, though his heart ached to stay closer.
Her attention returned to the fire, its flickering shadows casting patterns across her face. His gaze drifted to the locket around her neck, catching the firelight, but it was the small cut on her neck that held his focus.
"Why are you staring at me like that?" Lilithe inquired, her voice betraying a hint of unease mixed with curiosity.
Rogue reached over, causing her to flinch slightly as he brushed his thumb over the cut. Her delicate hand wrapped around his wrist, drawing his gaze to hers. Beneath the surface, he detected a flicker of interest mingled with insecurity.
He cleared his throat. "The assassin managed to graze you. I only just noticed, and I deeply apologize for not acting sooner."
Understanding replaced Lilithe's previous apprehension as she smiled at him. "You saved my life, Rogue. I am deeply appreciative of what you have done for me. I owe you a great debt that can never be properly repaid."
As her grip on his wrist loosened, an electric tension filled the air between them. Rogue's hand lingered on her skin, tracing the smoothness of it, while his gaze trailed down to the thin, white silk dress she wore, revealing just enough to make his breath catch.
"Lilithe," his voice dropped, eliciting a soft whimper from her.
Lilithe felt a warmth spread through her veins, clouding her mind with desire. The longer she stared into Rogue's captivating red eyes, the more she felt herself falling under his spell. Her pulse quickened as his touch grazed her collarbone, sending shivers down her spine.
Her breath hitched. "Rogue, please..."
Meeting her gaze, Rogue's hand moved to cup her cheek, his touch tinged with urgency. His inner instincts wrestled with his restraint, urging him to let go and surrender to desire. But he fought against the primal urge, struggling to maintain control in her presence.
The way she looked at him stirred something primal within him, igniting a fiery passion. Her bitten lip and whispered pleas only fueled his desire further.
Fuck.
A knock at the door shattered the moment, causing both Lilithe and Rogue to snap out of their trance-like state. Blushing, Lilithe avoided Rogue's gaze as he withdrew his hand.
"Please come in," Lilithe called out, her eyes fixed on the floor.
Marian, the woman from earlier, entered the room with a cart, silently placing a large teapot and teacups on the table between them, along with a selection of pastries.
"Is there anything else, Miss?" Marian inquired respectfully.
"No, thank you, Marian. You're free for the rest of the night. I apologize for fetching you so late," Lilithe replied, offering her gratitude.
"I've known you since you were a baby. I'm accustomed to waking in the middle of the night. If there isn't anything else, I shall take my leave now," Marian said with a smile before leaving the room, taking the cart with her.
Alone once more, Lilithe and Rogue sat in almost complete silence, save for the crackling of the flames. Lilithe poured two cups of peppermint tea, handing one to Rogue without meeting his gaze. They both seemed unsure how to address the tension that had lingered between them.
"Will Sabertooth be participating in the Grand Magic Games this year?" Lilithe broke the silence, trying to steer the conversation to safer ground.
"Yes, they will be taking place at the end of the year," Rogue replied, taking a sip of his tea.
"I can't wait to see them once more," Lilithe added quietly, her gaze fixed on the dancing flames.
Rogue studied her silently, wondering if she felt the same loneliness he often did.
"Where is your Exceed, Frosh, if I remember correctly?" Lilithe inquired.
"Yes, I left her in my room," Rogue replied, keeping his responses brief.
"Since you're tasked with watching over me, why not bring her to my chambers?" the Queen suggested.
"I really shouldn't leave you alone—" Rogue began, but she interrupted.
"I'll be fine for a few minutes," she assured him. "If you will excuse me, I shall be ready for bed."
As Lilithe stood up, Rogue hesitated, feeling the weight of the unspoken emotions between them. But he nodded, understanding her need for privacy, and quietly left the room to fetch Frosh. As he walked through the dimly lit corridors, he couldn't shake the feeling that something profound had shifted between them.
The grand hall was still abuzz with the remnants of the night's festivities. Lucy and Sting moved through the corridors, the echoes of laughter and music still ringing in their ears. The feast had been a success, but the weight of the investigation hung heavy over them.
As they walked, Lucy glanced at Sting, his presence a comforting anchor in the swirl of her thoughts. His calm demeanor had always put her at ease, and tonight was no different. They had spent the evening mingling with nobles, gathering subtle hints and pieces of information, all while maintaining the facade of enjoyment.
The dimly lit corridor leading to their rooms seemed longer than usual. The silence between them was companionable, yet Lucy's mind was racing. The events of the past few days had left her feeling vulnerable, a sensation she wasn't accustomed to. Her memories had only recently returned, and with them came a flood of emotions she hadn't anticipated.
"Are you okay?" Sting's voice broke the silence, his concern evident.
Lucy managed a small smile. "Just tired, I guess. It's been a long day."
Sting nodded, understanding. "You handled it well. It's not easy, pretending everything is fine while we're dealing with so much."
They reached Lucy's room, and she hesitated at the door. The thought of being alone in the dark, quiet room filled her with a sense of dread she hadn't felt in years. She looked at Sting, his reassuring presence giving her the courage to voice her thoughts.
"Sting," she began softly, "would you... would you mind staying with me tonight? I know it's not proper, but I—"
Sting's expression softened, and he placed a hand on her shoulder. "Lucy, you don't have to explain. If you need me, I'm here."
Relief washed over her, and she opened the door, leading him inside. The room was spacious and elegantly decorated, but tonight it felt cold and unwelcoming. She walked to the window, looking out at the moonlit gardens below, trying to gather her thoughts.
"I haven't been able to sleep well since I got here," Lucy admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Then she bitterly laughed, "not like my sleep was any better before, but the memories, the danger... it all feels overwhelming. I hate to admit it, but I'm scared."
Sting approached her, his presence a steadying force. "It's okay to be scared, Lucy. You've been through a lot. But you're not alone in this. We'll figure it out together."
As they stood there, holding each other, the unspoken bond between Lucy and Sting seemed to pulse with a newfound intensity. The warmth of Sting's embrace and the gentle strength of his arms around her offered Lucy a comfort she desperately needed. It was more than just solace; it was a connection that transcended words.
Sting guided her to the bed, and they sat down side by side. "Do you want to talk about it?" he asked gently.
Lucy took a deep breath, considering his question. "I think I just need to know that I'm not alone," she said finally. "The memories, they come back in waves, and sometimes it feels like I'm drowning. Especially since everything is different from what I remember."
He watched as she kicked off her shoes, standing as she moved to her vanity and immediately began to take off her jewelry. "Sting?"
"Yes?"
"Can you help with the corset?"
He swallowed, feeling that burning heat spark in him. Clearing his throat, he stood and slowly crossed the room, his hands shaking as he moved to the laces of her gown. His fingers brushed against her back, sending a shiver down her spine. As he began to undo the laces, he couldn't help but notice the way her skin felt under his touch, soft and warm.
Lucy closed her eyes, feeling a mixture of anticipation and desire. Sting's hands moved with deliberate slowness, his fingers lingering on each lace, savoring the moment. He could feel his pulse quicken, the heat between them almost palpable.
With each loosened lace, the tension grew, and when the final lace was undone, the corset gown fell to the floor, leaving Lucy standing in just her bra and panties. She turned slightly, catching his gaze, her cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and longing.
"I'll go change," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Sting nodded, unable to tear his eyes away from her. "Take your time," he managed to say, his voice thick with emotion.
As Lucy disappeared into the adjoining room to change, Sting sat back down on the edge of the bed, his mind racing. The sight of her standing there, so vulnerable and beautiful, had ignited a fire within him that was hard to control.
A few minutes later, Lucy returned, dressed in a simple nightgown. She crossed the room and slipped into bed beside Sting, the warmth of her body immediately soothing his restless thoughts. They settled into the bed, the covers providing a cocoon of warmth. Lucy rested her head on Sting's shoulder, finding solace in his steady presence. The room, which had felt so cold and unwelcoming, now felt like a haven.
As they lay there, the events of the day slowly began to fade, replaced by a sense of peace. Lucy closed her eyes, allowing herself to relax for the first time in days. Sting's even breathing and the sound of his heartbeat lulled her into a sense of security.
"Goodnight, Sting," she murmured, feeling sleep finally begin to claim her.
"Goodnight, Lucy," he replied softly, his hand gently stroking her hair. "Sweet dreams."
"Rogue...what happened?" Lilithe's voice was barely a whisper, laced with both curiosity and concern.
Rogue paused, not expecting her to bring up the topic. He wasn't sure how to explain it to her without causing alarm. Taking a long sip of his tea, he racked his brain for the right words, only to have his inner dragon laugh at him.
Tell her the truth, you fool.*
We just met.*
And?*
I'm not going to ruin this because of your filthy desires.*
We share those filthy desires. Do you forget that we are one and the same? I'm merely the dragon side of you.*
Go back to your cage.*
Tell her the truth.*
Rogue hesitated, grappling with the inner turmoil between his human and dragon sides. Taking a deep breath, he decided to be honest with Lilithe, despite his fears.
"I don't think I should tell you," he murmured, feeling the weight of his conflicting instincts.
Confusion clouded Lilithe's expression. "Why not? Don't I have a right to know, especially since you initiated it?" she questioned, a hint of frustration in her voice.
Anticipating her retreat, Rogue acted swiftly, dropping to his knees in front of her and trapping her with his body. She looked at him, bewildered by his sudden closeness.
"I'm afraid to tell you what happened because you might grow scared of me," he confessed, his gaze fixed on her necklace rather than meeting her eyes. "I don't want to change your opinion of me."
Lilithe remained puzzled. "I'm not following, Rogue. I don't believe you would do something severe enough to push me away or change my view of you."
"I'm a dragon slayer," Rogue blurted out, unable to keep it inside any longer.
"I know. I've read your file," Lilithe replied matter-of-factly, surprising Rogue.
"My file?" he questioned, taken aback.
"Of course. Do you think I would let you around Lucy without knowing anything about you?" Lilithe retorted, her loyalty to her family evident in her words.
Rogue softened at her dedication to her family, realizing the depth of her commitment. "Dragon slayers share many similarities with dragons, including heightened senses and, as we grow stronger, more dragon-like appearances," he explained, attempting to ease her into the revelation. "We also share their traditions, qualities, and rituals."
Lilithe nodded, absorbing his words. "I've seen Natsu Dragneel, and his dragon side only seems to emerge during fights, and perhaps around Lucy," she remarked, prompting Rogue to continue.
"Natsu and Lucy's relationship is unique, as they are partners, best friends, and guildmates," Rogue elaborated. "Natsu exhibits a dragon's sense of protectiveness towards those he considers family and friends, but with Lucy, it's different. He would go to great lengths to protect her, even if it means crossing his own boundaries."
"Why is it different with Lucy?" Lilithe inquired, her curiosity piqued.
"It's only a theory, but I believe she is his mate," Rogue explained.
"Mate..." Lilithe repeated, the concept unfamiliar yet intriguing to her.
Rogue took a moment to collect his thoughts, recognizing the weight of their connection and the intricacies involved in explaining their unique bond.
"A mate, in the context of dragon slayers, is essentially the counterpart chosen by an innate instinct within us. It's not merely a romantic partner; it goes much deeper, entailing a connection that fulfills each other's life purpose," he conveyed, striving to convey the profound nature of their relationship.
Lilithe absorbed his words, grappling with the concept of a purpose tied to their existence. "Purpose of living?" she questioned, seeking a more detailed understanding.
"Our instincts drive us to protect and ensure the happiness of our chosen mate. It's an integral aspect of our nature, a primal urge that guides our actions," Rogue elaborated, hoping to provide clarity amidst the complexity of their connection.
Her confusion persisted, prompting her to address the implication she perceived. "I take it from where this conversation is going that I am your mate," she ventured, her tone carrying a mix of curiosity and uncertainty.
Rogue met her gaze with sincerity, "Yes, you are," confirming the unique bond that had been established between them.
As Lilithe grappled with the implications, she circled back to the events that transpired earlier. "What happened earlier..." she trailed off, her voice carrying a hint of unease.
Rogue braced himself for the challenging part of the conversation, recognizing the need for complete transparency. "Our inner dragons exert a significant influence over us. They guide and, at times, push us to act on our instincts," he began, choosing his words carefully to convey the intricacies of their connection.
He recounted the incident, detailing how his dragon had attempted to assert control, driven by the instinctual desire to mate. Lilithe listened intently, her expression a blend of surprise and apprehension.
"It serves as a test of our control, a demonstration that we can resist succumbing to our instincts and exercise restraint," Rogue continued, gauging her reaction.
Silence enveloped them, and Rogue anxiously awaited Lilithe's response, recognizing the weight of the revelation. To his surprise and relief, Lilithe's hand sought his on the armchair, a silent gesture of openness to further discourse. Encouraged by her gesture, Rogue continued to unravel the intricacies of their connection, stressing the importance of consent and mutual understanding.
"Our inner dragons act as a personified consciousness that we can talk to for advice. They are the being that chooses our mates for us without us even knowing until we meet them in person ourselves. Which explains why I had rushed to protect you from the assassin without a second thought."
"I see."
"What happened earlier was my dragon attempting to take control of my body in order to bed you immediately." Rogue saw that she had grown flushed at his rather polite way of saying a part of him wanted to fuck her. "It's a test that we are put through to demonstrate and prove to our inner dragons that we can control our instincts and the dragon side of us. If we fail to do so, it ends in us taking our mates, consent or not, before brutally killing them and then ourselves. As we are unable to live with the guilt of our actions."
They sat in silence for a long time as Rogue waited for her to digest the information he had given her. It was a lot of information and he didn't want her to feel like she was forced to be with him in fear. Rogue was about to distance himself before her hand fell over his that was on the armchair. Snapping his face to Lilithe, she kindly smiled at him. He took it as her way of giving him the green light to continue explaining.
"Our intendeds aren't forced to be with us if they choose not to as they can decline. Our dragons will try and find another companion that is suitable for us but statistically, it's a very low percentage of it happening. As we follow the courting ritual that takes place before the mating ritual that binds the two together until the end of time. I won't get into that until much later as I don't want to overwhelm you with all this information and have you feel like you have to."
"That's very kind of you, Rogue, as I'm just appreciative that you are taking the time to talk and explain to me the ways of your kind."
Lilithe's patience and compliance with him made the dragon side of him purr slightly as she was very open-minded. Not to mention how calm she was being at him telling her that she and he were connected with one another.
"Until we are properly mated, these moments will happen rather frequently as it's our dragon instincts needing to have our other half as quickly as possible. I don't want to scare you in the future as this will happen."
"What should I do in these moments? As it was like a spell was being cast over me. My mind had shut down and my body acted on its own."
"The safest thing to do is to just act on these instincts but if you don't want to then you shouldn't as I just want you to be comfortable and happy with whatever decision you decide to make."
She changed the topic as she could feel desire begin to creep up on her again. "How long do these courting rituals take place?"
"It's different for each of us as it all depends on the circumstances as well as the discussions and communication of each couple. They usually leave it up to their intendeds as it's their choice when they want to bind themselves as it's our instinct to do it immediately upon meeting them."
Humming in response, she flicked her gaze to the slowly dying fire before turning back to Rogue as she had been given all this material. She couldn't deny that she held attraction for him but she had pushed it away as she had other matters to think about like Lucy. Her duty was to protect and watch over Lucy and she couldn't become distracted by possible romantic interests.
Lilithe absorbed the information, her curiosity piqued by the unfamiliar customs of dragonkind. As the conversation transitioned to lighter topics, Rogue felt a profound sense of gratitude for Lilithe's patience and open-mindedness.
With her questions answered and concerns addressed, Lilithe turned to Rogue, seeking a clearer understanding of what this newfound connection meant. "So what does this mean?" she asked, her gaze searching his for guidance.
Rogue cleared his throat as he now got exposed at how to go about telling her what had happened as he did not want to make her afraid of him and his instincts.
"Lilithe, would you do me the honor of allowing me to court you?" Rogue's request sent a flush creeping up Lilithe's cheeks as he took her
"Mmm... Rogue," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, feeling the intensity of his gaze upon her.
Before he proceeded, Rogue demanded an answer, his voice dropping an octave, sending a shiver down Lilithe's spine. With a nervous swallow, she managed to reply, "Yes, you have my permission to court me as your mate."
Rogue's smirk in response only added to Lilithe's confusion, but before she could inquire further, he swiftly pulled her into his lap, eliciting a soft gasp from her lips. His arms enveloped her waist, drawing her close, their bodies pressed intimately together. Lilithe found herself entangled in his embrace, her slender fingers threading through his hair as he placed tender kisses on the corners of her mouth, gradually building the intensity.
As Rogue's lips met hers in a firm yet gentle kiss, Lilithe felt a surge of arousal coursing through her, her hands trembling with anticipation. Rogue nipped at her bottom lip in an attempt to soothe her, sensing her nervousness. He maintained the softness of his kisses, coaxing her to relax and surrender to the moment.
Their kiss deepened, tongues intertwining in a dance of desire, with the dragon's primal instincts battling against his restraint. Rogue's mind raced, his inner dragon urging him to claim her, to make her his, but he held back, determined to savor every moment. Lilithe's hands roamed over his back, feeling the taut muscles beneath his shirt, her body responding to his every touch.
Sensing the need to pause, Rogue reluctantly broke the kiss, leaving a trail of saliva lingering between them, his gaze fixed on Lilithe as she struggled to regain her composure. He couldn't ignore the effect she had on him, her innocence and happiness reflecting in her gaze, making his heart ache with longing.
As Lilithe grinned at him, her expression filled with warmth and innocence, Rogue felt his resolve waver. He knew he had to stop her from looking at him like that, lest he lose control and act on his primal urges. He couldn't afford to let his desire cloud his judgment, not when their budding relationship hung in the balance.
If Lilithe continued to gaze at him with such innocence and happiness, Rogue feared he would succumb to temptation and do something he would regret. It wasn't that he would regret pleasing the beautiful princess in his lap; rather, he would regret allowing his desire to dictate his actions, instead of taking the time to properly court her, to understand her, and to cherish her as she deserved.
With a deep breath, Rogue steeled himself, determined to maintain his self-control and proceed with caution. He longed to show Lilithe the world she desired to know, to give her everything she wanted, but he knew he had to take it slow, to earn her trust and respect before taking the final step to make her his own.
"That was my first kiss," she admitted softly, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
Rogue smiled, his touch gentle as he brushed a stray ribbon from her hair. "I hope it was everything you imagined," he murmured, his gaze drifting to the heart-shaped locket adorning her neck.
Curious, Lilithe guided his hand to the necklace, watching as he traced the engraving with his thumb. "It's a very beautiful necklace. Who gave it to you?" he inquired, sensing the weight of her emotions.
Lilithe hesitated, her voice catching in her throat as she revealed the painful truth. "My parents gave it to me as a birthday gift... the day they were killed," she confessed, her eyes welling with tears.
Without a word, Rogue enveloped her in a comforting embrace, offering solace in his arms. Overwhelmed by emotions, Lilithe allowed herself to surrender to the vulnerability of the moment, finding solace in the warmth of Rogue's embrace.
Feeling the depth of her pain, Rogue held her tighter, his heart breaking for the sorrow she carried. "I'm so sorry, Lilithe," he whispered, his voice filled with compassion. "You've been so strong."
Lilithe clung to him, the scent of his skin and the steady beat of his heart providing a sense of security she hadn't felt in a long time. "Thank you," she whispered, her tears soaking into his shirt. "For being here."
Rogue stroked her hair, his hand gentle and reassuring. "I'll always be here for you," he vowed, his voice firm with conviction. "You're not alone anymore."
Lilithe pulled back slightly, looking up at him with tear-filled eyes. "It's just… hard sometimes. The memories," she admitted, her voice trembling.
Rogue cupped her face, his thumb gently wiping away her tears. "I understand," he said softly. "But you don't have to face them alone. We'll get through this together."
Touched by his words, Lilithe nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Together," she echoed, a small smile forming on her lips.
The moment of vulnerability and shared pain deepened their connection, forging a bond that was stronger than before. As the fire crackled softly in the background, they sat in silence, finding comfort in each other's presence.
Rogue, determined to lighten the mood, gently tilted her chin up, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Now, about that kiss," he said, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Was it everything you imagined?"
Lilithe's cheeks flushed again, but she couldn't help but smile. "It was… better," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Rogue's smile widened, a spark of desire flaring in his eyes. "Good," he murmured, leaning in to capture her lips once more, this time with a renewed sense of purpose and passion.
Their lips met in a fervent kiss, the intensity of their emotions fueling their desire. Rogue's hands roamed over Lilithe's back, pulling her closer, while Lilithe's fingers tangled in his hair, her body responding eagerly to his touch.
The fire in the hearth mirrored the heat between them, casting a warm glow over their entwined forms. As their kiss deepened, Rogue's dragon instincts roared within him, urging him to claim her, but he resisted, determined to savor every moment.
Lilithe's breath hitched as Rogue's lips trailed down her neck, his touch sending shivers down her spine. "Rogue," she whispered, her voice a mix of desire and uncertainty.
He paused, pulling back to look into her eyes. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.
Lilithe nodded, her eyes shining with trust. "Yes," she replied softly. "I just… I've never felt like this before."
Rogue smiled, his heart swelling with affection. "Neither have I," he admitted, his voice tender. "But I promise, I'll take care of you."
With that, he leaned in once more, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both passionate and gentle, a promise of the love and care he intended to give her.
As the night wore on, the fire slowly died down, but the heat between Rogue and Lilithe remained. They talked and laughed, their bond forming.