She stuttered a blushed innocently not wanting to admit she enjoyed such treatment so much. So Alynia had planned to make him wait, only because she knew that it would just be so much more fantastic when she returned. Oberron would let his passions and lust build up until he had the opportunity to take it all out on her at once. A pleasurable tremor went up her spine just at the thought.

But the way his hand gently kneaded her bottom made her rethink her choices. The option to cave into him was so tempting to her... maybe later tonight. Alynia wasn't sure as both sides had their pros and cons. She could tell Oberron was also entertaining himself with the same thoughts.

She laughed nervously as she allowed him to help her stand. "Get those thoughts out of your head.." she accused looking away from him shyly. Alynia could tell the thoughts running through his head were probably enough to make her steam up with embarressment. "Or at least save them for later." She muttered under her breath as her fingers softly laced together with his.

She listened with sparked interest, that terrible feeling like she knew where they were suppose to go to find Mezzo but at the same time no immediate land of location went to her mind. Alynia pondered over what he had told her, shortening the search perameters. "Hm, so certainly away from flowers." Alynia could only think of a fee flower fields the goblin would probably stay away from. "And if you say he's an outcast, he most likely didnt bother staying too close to his tribe."

Goblins liked dark places, and since Mezzo was a Reef Master it was still probably his nature to stay by atleast some body of water. The sea was rather a long way from here and Alynia suspected that Mezzo would also want to stay reasonably close to the castle. So she didn't think he was near the seashore, but there was a river close by. Guerrilla fighter hm? Then he must be somewhere thick with trees.

"I have an idea." Alynia remarked suddenly pulling him toward the trees. Now standing in the shade of the forest she stopped briefly trying to map out where she was. "This way..." She muttered tugging Oberron in one direction. The forest seemed darker than usual due to the fact it wasn't sunny outside. The ground was damp and the scent of fresh rain still lingered in her senses.

They stepped along the fallen pine and damp leaves until they began to hear the slight sound of running water. And after they past a if so thicker of trees they could see the river that they had walked along the first day of the king's freedom. Further down there was laughing and playful splashing, though the couple could not see from where they were standing, it was probably nixies at play. They rejoiced at the rain. The river was flowing quickly, and the water level had risen impressively. The ground was damp, and surrounding them were thick shadowy trees. There were no flowers, but there were plenty of mushrooms and moss due to the damp shadowy earth.

"I'm thinking somewhere along here." She remarked turning her head side to side. They weren't too far from the castle, if she stepped back and looked up, she could just see the tip of the tallest tower. Normally magical creatures would crowd around the river, it was a nice place to simply relax. But because the storm had cause many of them to retreat into their homes and the area they were no standing was a bit more covered with thick trees, it seemed it would be a quiet area for Mezzo to find a cave or something to stay in.

Alynia let of Oberron's hand taking steps further from the river toward the trees. She was wondering it there was some camouflaged den in the leaves. "Mezzo!" Alynia called out, after many years she had finally learned to pronounce that goblin's name. Since Alynia didnt really expect a response she shook her head walking back besides her husband. She took his hand in hers again and gave him a slight smile. "I have a feeling our goblin friend could be somewhere around here."

Her decision had been made, though Oberron figured she had up to the point of her departure to change her mind. Both rewards where sweet of course and it was all he could do to leave the choice up to her. Of course he wouldn't have minded a bit before and after and he smiled inwardly at that thought. His hands tightened on her hips intending to roll her over onto her back and to damn with the choices but he managed to control his passions for now, curious as to what she would settle on, on what he would have in store for her if she made him wait … ah, yes, the things he was looking forward to doing.

Oberron was aware that she like it too, she didn't have to vocalize after all this was Aegir and he could see into her mind easily enough so there wre no secrets that he couldn't find if he wanted to, he tended not to use this ability much during their interactions and thus tried to read her the old fashioned way.

He had enough contact with human minds to read them easily enough without his gifts now, his gifts made it so much easier though.

“You know I can't get such thoughts out of my head but for your sake I'll try to reserve them for later if we are ever to get out of this cave.” He smiled at her, dismissed the bed then kissed her, not that the absence of the bed was a real deterrant for them not doing anything nor did it really do much to dissuade them if they wanted to do something further but he was trying to behave here as their fingers interlaced with one another.

Aegir only had to point out some clues to her to get her on the right track as far as thinking went. She was ruling things out, amending her thoughts and this was far more rewarding than if he had just told her where to start looking. It help build up her self confidence if she felt that she could do this.

“Yes, no flowers ...” Oberron agreed though that was rather obvious. Mezzo could not go back to “his” tribe and was now a guerllia fighter, he was also operating on his own and thus had to get his intel some way. Yet would he remain in the shadow of the castle to assist them with such juicy information if he chanced upon it? He probably wouldn't like Puck who cast him out but he loved his queenie even if she were on Avalon as far as he had known.

But she lead him to the river, he could hear the nixies at play, frolicking and playing. Jessara, probably though they were too far away at the moment to be sure. He looked over the location, clearly it was dark enough, and the river would appeal to a Reef Master, not as grandoise as the ocean but a little reminder of days past.

He was silent though as Alynia walked offf and called to the goblin after stepping back to see the castle in the distance. The river was still some distance from the horrid Western patches of forest that the Rune Carver's resided in but close enough to their territory not to be too far of a trip, plus they were closer to the castle where goblins would only be seen here if part of a war party moving through or a lone goblin like Mezzo hiding out here.

But there was no response and she did not see anything camoflauged in the trees or along the river further in some cave.

“Clever ...” Oberron said, he was grinning as she returned. “I would have checked the river first, close enough for forarys into the goblin territory, far enough to be somewhat safe and a reminder of an old home. No flowers here to irritate the senses either but you have choosen a place near Jessara's home. If indeed Mezzo is residing along the river somewhere she would know. Perhaps it was your intention to ask her all along, it is a rather long river as far as searching out a home for one person goes, a home that may be hidden. Shall we?” He held out a hand to her turning in the direction of the sound of those splashes.

Alynia smiled at the compliment, inwardly pleased with her selection as well as how well she had recalled the landscape of the area. Though Oberron was right, it was a pretty long river. Though Alynia had remembered the location of shadier section of the forest where she though Mezzo might have ran away to, she had forgotten that Jessara's home resided in this section of the river.

Daintily she placed her palm in Oberron's offered hand. She nodded in agreement. "I believe that would help." Alynia remarked as they walked along the river toward the sounds of the splashes. "Though I wouldn't know if Mezzo would need something as elaborate as a camouflaged home..." she suggested after some thought. "No one that I know of is after him, he was simply expelled from the castle. I'm sure some visible cave of hole in a tree would have been fine for him."

This optimistic view point made sense, and it would also make the search so much easier. Of course, it was a possibility his tribe would be hostile toward Mezzo, but Alynia was doubtful they would be as adament as to hunt him down. Still it would be nice to recieve a heading from Jessara if possible.

Alynia like admiring nixies from afar. She wasn't too sure about getting up front and close to them. They devilishly playful creatures. Mischevious and flirty, and even dangerous if they were smitten enough with you. Tending to forget that most cannot breathe underwater, it wasn't uncommon for them to drag sailors underwater only for them to drown.

Alynia had no personal dislike for nixies of course, but after reading so many stories and myths concerning them she couldn't help but feel cautious as the sound of splashing, and giggling drew closer and closer.

Alynia tilted her head with interested as they approached the edge of the river where the nixies were chasing eachother diving in and out of the current with unmatchable grace. It was amazing they had such dexterity when swimming even when the current seemed so strong. There were three of them, each with long wavy hair. One had auburn locks, another blonde, the final one with brown hair that looked even darker because her hair was wet. Alynia was pretty positive that Jessara was the blonde one. They each had an entrancing beauty about them, Alynia certainly didn't blame sailors for falling in love.

As they approached the edge of the river bank, it took a bit for the water sprites to notice them, but when they did they immediately stopped their game and bowed to their king and queen. Alynia flushed slightly , why did they have to be naked? Atleast nymphs had some leaves or bark, but nixies seemed to need nothing more save for their hair and the water around them. Alynia's hand squeezed Oberron's slightly tighter.

"Welcome back from Avalon your highnesses." Remarked the brunette with a singsong voice as they were allowed to raise their heads. "Yes yes, in celebration of your return take a swim with us your majesty! It is much nicer than in the water than up there." Giggled the redhead looking at Oberron with a rather flirty expression. Alynia wasn't sure if this girl was kidding or not. "Is there something we can help you with?" Jessara asked politely.

Alynia blinked, glad the blonde nixie brought the subject back on track. "We're looking for a blue skinned goblin, we were wondering if you might have seen him along the river."

"A blue skinned goblin?" Suddenly remarked the auburn haired nixie, Alynia's eyes blinked excitedly. "You've seen him?" And to this the nixie just giggled. "Maybe..." the girl teased in a melodious voice. "But I will only tell you if you both come into the water!" She declared playfully doing a back flip in the water before surfacing again. Alynia knew tat they wouldnt dare harm royalty, so that wasnt the concern... she looked at the current with a look of disbelief then peered helplessly at her husband.

“It may be concealed if he is working as a guerilla fighter now not wanted the goblins to find him. It all depends on how paranoid he is or how careful. I do not know him well enough to judge this, however.

He was uncertain of how much of an annoyance Mezzo was to the other goblins. If not much they wouldn't be after him so much but if he were then he might have taken to hiding as a precaution especially if they were placing an effort into finding them. When they first encountered Mezzo Oberron wouldn't think that the goblin would have been anything as an annoyance though there was a chance that they wanted to make an example out of him too and thus wer looking for him. It was a little tricky to gauge but he headed with her walking along the river banking as they moved towards the nixies.

Thus far they had no hardships with nixies or mermaids or aquatic creatures in general but that was perhaps they were land locked and the nixie's were the only aquatic creatures around that she was aware of. Oberron walked with her, probably aware of these concerns though he often knew her mind on most things.

“Yours are bigger,” Oberron whispered into her ear as he leaned forward. He was well aware of her self conscious act of squeezing his hand, that flare of jealousy perhaps? Concern that they would entice him away from her? That's what that hand tightening about his seemed to silently relay as he took in the three nixies.

Indeed the blong had been Jessara. Hadn't someone saved her recently? She was looking rather chiper though.

Oberron let Alynia run the show here. It had been her investigation after all and Oberron did not interfere with it so far. Suffice it to say that of the three Jessara had brought things back on target, though their was probably a good reason for that … yes, there had been having fun and having -fun- and long ago he and Jessara had -fun-. He eyed his wife thogh then the trio in the water.

“A moment.” Oberron guided his wife away from the trio. His violet eyes gazed over her as he attempted to gauge her reactions. He broke down the scnario in his head rather quickly. “You know what she's hoping for once we get into the water? Nixies are playful beings and will at least try ...” the thought broke off as he shook his head.

“There are other ways to locate Mezzo and we can exhaust them before returning her too, we are in no rush after all.” Oberron reflected on what he was saying. “Jessara will be more fcused than the other two, The two others are fairly young and nixies have a hbit of going after comely me.

“It is too bad though.”

Oberron grinned at her as he said that though he had to explained. “You would show them up … they want to play with your probably more so than if a man joined them but they're not too picky there they just like to enjoy themselves.”

Oberron was non plussed by all this though. It was a matter that he was placing in her court though for he had lacked the concerns that she had to such matters after all. Of course there were matters that he had explained to her though it was quiet obvious what the red head meant for them to come play.

Gripping his hand was a reflex, like biting her lip when she was aroused or nervous. When she was afraid, when she was worried, also when she was jealous she tended to want to hold Oberron just a bit closer. The king was certainly popular among his subjects, and this was something Alynia hadn’t really come to complete terms with yet. Especially among a culture where sex was casual, she couldn’t help but feel a bit uneasy when around such beautiful women who were all naked except for their hair which covered their ample chests.

As he leaned forward to whisper, it took a bit for Alynia to actually comprehend what he was saying. For a second she looked confused, what did he mean? But then it dawned upon her and as soon as she understood his intentions, Alynia’s face immediately burned a brilliant red blinking in realization and embarrassment. Fine, perhaps she was self consciously comparing herself to the nixies… but she didn’t think her husband would call her out on it. In a way Alynia was comforted, behind his teasing she knew he was telling her not to worry about it. Either way she was too flustered to speak. Thankfully she didn’t have to respond as the nixies swam toward them.

All three of the women were smiling, their eyes bright and curious as they bobbed up and down with the flow of the current. The brunette and redhead observed the pair with interest having never actually laid eyes on either the king or queen, but Jessara’s eyes refused to meet with Oberron’s. Alynia had not known of any past dealing between Jessara and her husband, and Jessara had only learned that Oberron remarried rather recently. Of course, the golden haired nixie had rejoiced upon hearing Sable’s fall because this meant that the king would be set free and the forest would regenerate once more. But secretly she had hoped that things would go back to the way they were before Sable’s reign. That perhaps Oberron might even return to her the way he used to. Unfortunately this did not end up being the case.

She wasn’t hurt for say when she discovered he had married. Disappointed perhaps was a more accurate word. Jessara was a nixie, she never loved of course, but she would readily admit she missed Oberron’s affection and his expert touch. The first time Jessara saw the queen, which was only a few years ago, she had mistaken her for a fey. But then she learned that Alynia was actually human and that Oberron was planning on being faithful to his marriage in the respect of human culture instead of the Fey. Jessara was surprised; this was practically unheard of within the kingdom especially from a king. He could have any number of women he wanted within the entire realm and he just settles for one? Jessara didn’t understand. Nevertheless, her smile remained gentle, pleasant, and undecipherable as she did her best to ignore the piercing violet of the king’s eyes.

Alynia had been paying attention to the teasing red head more than Jessara. The queen tilted her head in was a surprised as she didn’t know how to respond the nixie’s flirtatious invitation. She assumed that such words were more directed toward her husband than her. As she opened her lips to politely turn down the nixie’s request Oberron had requested a private word pulling her away so that the nixies could not hear.

Her eyes lit up with understanding as Oberron explained briefly. Good, it was not just her that had a feeling that the nixies had something else in mind besides a nice swim while talking. “I was hoping that there was an alternative as well…” Alynia admitted. “I’m not quite keen on sharing you.” She muttered shyly. The nixies will change their mind anyway if they had no choice but to come back after a while.

Alynia laughed. “I don’t blame them, after all it’s not your fault you’re devilishly handsome.” She teased rolling her eyes playfully. “Are you saying that they’d go after me too?” she commented surprised at his next words. “If that’s the case you might have some competition.” She joked shaking her head.

She smiled sweet up at her husband, she was glad he didn’t seem to want to take a swim. “Then let’s take a look around the area, we can ask them again if we really have to.” Alynia declared looking thoughtful. Quite truthfully, she preferred that they wouldn’t have to. Alynia held his hand a bit tighter, leaning in to give him a brief innocent kiss on the lips.

Oberron pass up an opportunity to tease her? You would think he'd find it to easy and get bored of it already but he hadn't. In fact he loved doing it, forcing her to react and finding her human sensiblities delightful.

Still, he had not wanted her dwelling on thoughts of jealousy or thinking that she couldn't compare when she did. Eros fired two gold arrows that day, not just one …

Now he was sort of in a tough position her, given the agreement he had made with her and the playful nature of the nixies. Still they were not as amorous as nymphs and should be able to behave themselves if he commanded it. They wouldn't like it of course, most people disliked taking orders but they would do it.

Still, the nixies did cut a good shape, of course there had been no comparisson with his wife but he was careful not to seem to interested in them at the same time and tried to keep most of his focus on Alynia though it was hard not imagining her naked in the water before him barely hidden and teasing in that playful manner.

He had taken her aside after the invite assuming that Alynia would decline it. They were not desparate yet to find Mezzo he was not hurt or in trouble as far as they knew but he had to inform her on a few things, she probably already knew from her studies though in case she was unaware of forget since their was little written on the nixies as a species that he would remind her of a few things.

Now he was a good read of character too, not just Alynia's mind but Jessara's. The lack of eye contact told him all he needed to know there. She was a nixie and probably either determining what he had seen in her queen or thinking back to the past and how things had been.

It had not really mattered which, he knew that she would not been hurt given the nature of the species and she would habor no ill will to Alynia. It was simple curios as to what he had seen in her and wanted to work that out if that were the case.

“Why wouldn't they be interested in you? Though I do not think I have to worry about competition. Yes, a little cocky there,” he chuckled. “But no, you have already professed your desires there for only me … of course this is your search and you are doing well so far though there is still something that you could do here if you wanted. The nixies probably wouldn't like it but they'd get over it readily enough, they do not hold on to petty things.”

Her received that kiss. Then shook his head. “No that won't do ...”

He pushed her up against a tree, his hands on her hips as their lips intertwined together. His kiss was fierce, strong and intense bringing that same tingly feeling against her lips that sent a warmth through her body. His mouth lingered against hers, his tongue seeking admittance into her mouth though after a moment he pulled away. That should really get her thinking about her decision to wait or not until she returned.

“I don't like doing things half assed,” he said by way of an excuse as he pulled away from her. “Alright, let's get to looking around.”

"Hm, how arrogant." she laughed pretending to pout. "Well, lets keep looking by walking a bit further down the river..." She mused thoughtfully. She sighed with an slightly amused smile, "But I really mean it every time I say it." She reassured him easing herself just a bit closer to him. "Only you." Were the last words she said before that sweet short kiss. But that wasn't enough for the king.

She gasped sharply as he pushed her against the rough bark of a tree. He was capturing her lips in a passionate kiss that left her senses numb. Alynia couldn't help but let out a quiet moan of bliss as his tounge wandered past her lips. His hands locked firmly to her hips, pinning her bewtween him and the tree. Her hands dug into the wood, for she was taken by surprise and didnt have time to find where to put them.

He pulled away too soon, her expression was still blushing still surprised as she stared at him with wonder. She was still leaning against the tree for support and most certainly was reconsidering waiting until she was back from her mission to satisfy his wants. At first she was speechless. A warm sensation was spreading through her body.

She blinked as he spoke, "Oh- okay.." Alynia stuttered embarressed how such a kiss had affected her. She bit her lip... his confidence was certainly making it much harder for her patience.

She caught up to him as they returned to the river, only to bid the nixies a goodbye. It would be rude if they simple just left. "Awh." The redhead pouted very disappointed as Alynia declined thier offer. "Another time perhaps." The queen had reassured kindly. Jessara was a bit more difficult to read. She wasn't so sure if she had wanted Oberron to join her and her friends or not. Though she did notice the renewed blush on Alynia's cheeks. She could only assume what Oberron said or did to her. Fine, the nixie was jealous. But such emotions would pass. The three of them bowed again. "Good luck with your search." Jessara bidded them daring to finally look up at the king. "Yes yes, make sure you two come back soon!" Gleefully exclaimed the auburn haired girl.

Alynia's hand reached for Oberrons as soon as they were a distance away from the river. Her mind was still trying to wrap itself over such a kiss. "Damn you." She muttered inaudible under her breath. Why did he was to be so... Irresistibly attractive? Unconsciously such a decision she was to make had evolved in a small game for her. If she was willing to wait by the end of the night it was her inner victory, if Oberron convinced her otherwise then it would be his victory.

Alynia shook her head slightly trying to ignore such thoughts. "Where to look next?" She wondered changing the topic hopefully to distract herself atleast a little. Alynia eyes scanned the land around them as if hoping to find a hidden door handle, of cave. She was no longer sure how to find Mezzo without the nixies help, but prefrrably she didn't want to return there either. Alynia raised her gaze to peer at Oberron. She was biting her lip again.

Cocky? Well this was Oberron and when you were as powerful as he there were few people that you actually had to worry about so your self confidence was bound to be high. Yes, only he. He believed it because she was so appauled by things, that they went against her sensibilities though their were tines were he had eroded them, fighting against those concepts.

He syrprised her with that sudden kiss though. It was sweet, delicious as the taste of her lips lingered against his. He throbbed in his panties, semi hard with that closeness. He was not pressing the issue though letting that closeness linger against him. It was wild and stimulating to his senses as he loved this contact.

Still he managed to pull away from her leaving her something to consider later on that night, making her decision to wait harder. He was going to love her choice either way and nothing prevented him from considering having her both before and after too though he made it clear what would happen if she forced him to wait.

She like her “punishments” he could tell. She might not have admitted it but she did so this was interesting. He would end up finding how interested, how much she wanted to be “punished” if she were willing to pass him up tonight. He wouldn't be domineering throughout the day though he was going to make it difficult for her.

He pulled away from her, a sknowing smile on his lips as if to silently ask her if she was still sure of her decision then drew her closer to his side.

Oberron could see the look on her face, see the blush that had swept over her delicate features and knew that she was reconsidering things. He could see the thoughts forming in her eyes, could se how her beathing had hitched a little. He grinned at her, showing that she was not the only one that could be a tease. Oh, she knew she could get him to cave but he would make her yearn for it before he did so.

Those violet eyes had been full of want but also contained a bit of mirth to as if he were challenging her, to see if she in fact did manage to keep to her earlier decision.

She would join her in continuing on though it was clear from her hesitation too that she wouldn't have minded him continuing on here but if he did that they may have never had a chance in finding Mezzo. That and they were still fairly close to the nixies and probably would have an audience at least.

“If our travels take us back this way,” which he assumed would. He cast a glance at the red head. He liked red heads, so fair skinned, then imagined his wife with red hair but he could not envision it. No, he loved her the way she was and thus anything unusual was hard to imagine.

No doutbt Alynia was an easy read of course, sporting her blush and knowing that he had to have said or did something to her. Probabably said for they were not gone all that long but long enough for Oberron to be a little inventive in whatever he had did.

Emabarrasse? Not at all, though Oberron kept much of his attention on Alynia. He knew what dark thoughts might have taken hold in her mind if he had done other wise and he did not want that. Even if it was apparent that the nixies were attractive he had not needed her comparing herself with them. And hence why he did not take her against a tree back there too, he was restraining himself becausee of her decision but did not want it to get into her head subconsciously that he was envisioning one of the nixies instead of her. Not possible, but he had a handle on how humans tended to rationalize things.

But they said their good byes and they were soon under way again. “You didn't do it. I didn't expect it though.”

He hinted as they walked together. “You are queen, you could have merely commanded the nixie to speak. Of course the nixies probably have greater respect for you now since you did not do so ...”

Oberron turned his head, smiling at her. “And their hoping that you'll chance your mind and come back too. So how am I to compete with not one or two but three nixies?”

He could tell that she was still shaken up by that kiss and while he was grinning his violet eyes were scanning ahead of them as they walked on.

He gazed at her, so innocent looking, so vulnerable. “Well either direction is a start but we do not have to go far. Jessara's friend, I believe 'Berry is her name … short for Strawberry, there is a human joke there,” he chuckled a little then got back on topic. “Anyway she let it slip that she saw Mezzo. Or rather 'perhaps' saw him … could it be a lie? Not really, nixies are too playful to deceive or mislead one, especially when getting something out of this. So that perhaps is probably a yes and knowing that Mezzo is probably somewhere near the river within sight or was so let's keep looking around here for a bit in either direction. He wouldn't be too far from here if she saw him.”

Sure enough five minutes later Oberron was pointing out tracks. He was no Orion but he could read the basics in the print. “Their fresh and come and go from that cave over there. It looks as if the person has come to the river to catch some fish and collect water perhaps … look there, those stone in the river make it easy to cross from one side of the river to the other and there are tracks leading to the river bank so it might be likely that he's out hunting. Let's get a little bit closer so I can try to determine how fresh those tracks are.”

Alynia was at the same time disappointed and relieved that Oberron hadn't tried to pull anything more than stealing a kiss. Even though his lips had set her senses on fire, and as he pulled away her knees were quivering he was only teasing her.

He could have done so much worse... even when the nixies were just right there... And Oberron knew he could have. Even though she reluctantly enjoyed such adventures and risky locations, only a few short meters away were creatures that would more than enough understand the meaning of the irrepressible sounds that would've spilled from the queen's lips. Alynia shuddered slightly and reddened briefly at the thought.

The nixies seemed sad to see them go, it was not everyday one was approached by royalty. But Alynia was glad. She was feeling self conscious, as would any non Fey around the beautiful naked sprites. She shrugged at Oberron's explaination. "Even after this long, I am still barely used to my title." She sighed, shaking her head with a smile. "I'm terrible at giving orders." Alynia declared, there was truth in her words. She was just so used to being the one that obeys. Not to mention whenever she was with her husband, he had his own ways of teaching her humbleness and modesty.

Punishment, yes how she loved it when he took her with a strict controlling hand, it was difficult to explain how she loved to be at the mercy of someone she trusted. Alynia thumb unconsciously ran circles over the back of his hand. Alynia wasn't aware she was doing this as she was thinking again. What would her discipline be if she made her wait? What about if she just caved in right now?

Because her husband knew her so well, it was most likely very easy for Oberron to have a general idea of all these naughty musings filtering in and of of her otherwise angelic mind. She had such a imginative mind, as she pictured her husband doing this to her, and that to her aswell. He implied so much with just on of his mischievous grins, it drove her crazy.

Alynia laughed nervously at his next words. "My goodness, three nixies or you." She repeated as if she was having a difficult time deciding between the two. "Will I be in trouble if I select the nixies over my king?" Alynia joked lightly. Of course, no matter how many nixies there were, none of them could possibly make her feel the way Oberron made her feel.

"Berry..?" Alynia said with a tone of surprise. "Strange name, for even around here. But I guess it fits in..." She admitted patting her own hair while thinking of the nixie's
bold red locks. Most certainly she seemed more interested in Oberron than her, bt Alynia chose not to bring it up. "But yes, I think that you're right that she tipped that she had seen our friend. I don't know if she would have dared to try and lure us into he river without some legitimate bait." Alynia explained.

Surely soon enough, even as Alynia was distracted by even his light teasing, Oberron spotted tracks. "Wonderful!" Alynia mused happily. She didnt need her husband to tell her that they should get a closer look for she was holding onto his hand and already walking toward the indents in the muddy dirt. She leaned over, peering with interest at the footprints. They were small enough tone Mezzo's, but also small enough to be any gnomes or brownie's shoe aswell, though the latter was unlikely for which brownie would ever willing dirty thier shoes in dirt?

"They must be rather recent." Alynia reasoned. "If they hadnt been then the prints should have washed away during the storm. Besides, the way the water level has risen after the rain would make right now a rather ideal fishing time." She stood back up glancing over where indeed there was a way across the river. "Let's go." Alynia offered brightly feeling as if they were close to their goal.

Oh, yes he knew she was terrible at giving orders. He knew that from the bedroom when she tried to be domineering, often unsuccessful in following through. He smiled at her knowing full well this was the case as he considered her and how terrific it was when she tried, succeed or not he was always delighted, even when she failed to usurp command he got to have a little fun with her in the process.

Thus he had rightly assumed that she would not seek to do so now. She was hardly use to it, which wasn't a bad thing though he had wished that she was a little more assertive in his absence for people like Puck could be a bit domineering and take things over if she was not careful.

“I did not think yoy would command them even though it was an option. I did not think it was in your character thus I did not even hint at it while we were back there. Locations that Mezzo can be at, you're fine with if I give you the right nudge. Really my dear you get most of the clues right and only need to be remind of things on occasion … but actual commanding is something out of your comfort zone that you're still working on.”

He grinned envisioning her with the riding crop she had so often used in their “fun” times and that grin told her where his mind was at that time.

Oberron had corrupted her with those impure thoughts that he could see in her eyes. He grinned, though he said nothing as he experienced all the signs that she exhibited. Yes, he was aware of how anxious she was with the motioning of her finger against the back of his hand. He had not called her on this cherishing that warm contact.

God, he wanted her … but he would wait and allow her to dictate matters, he had managed to keep himself in check for her sake though his violet eyes hinted at what he was going to do with her, whether they waited or not seemed to make no difference when she looked into those eyes.

“Trouble ...” he considered then grinned a little. “Perhaps I would have to punish you for seeking another or not adhering to what you have been saying all along about me being the only one for you but I do not think you would complain much about it though.”

He considered the matter in his head and while he did not truly mind for he was fey after all he did not wish to share her, not fully at least and only to the point where she had been comfortable with being shared.

“Perhaps I will tell you what the name truly means later on, though of course that is not the case here ...” he considered for a moment. Yes, perhaps later it was a little thing after all and she probably wouldn't see the humor in it. Still it was funny for the fey …

Oberron looked over the tracks, back tracked to the cave that showed signs of residence. A fire pit and bedroll. Down wind of the cave was a refuse pit and, well an equally smelly pit though they soon returned to the river. Oberron looked over the tracks as she ruled out brownie tracks.

“Mezzo or a small goblin any way. The refuse pit and pit for excrement are both down wind, Mezzo has better barings than most other goblins who would have probably not giving a second though about putting both in the cave for convience so chances are pretty good it's Mezzo. The tracks are older save for these here that lead to the river banking. We could probably pick them up on the other side of the river or we can just wait her until he comes back. By the freshness of those tracks we just missed him by an hour so if someone didn't need to sleep,” he grinned as he teased her good natured of course since neither had been in a rush here.

He doubted that his wife heard her as she was analyzing things for herself. She had little experience in following tracks or reading them but her deduction skills were spot on and she didn't need such skills that told her these thing so he helped her across the river hopping from one stone to the other. About half way across he considered pushing her in but chanced his mind as this would only serve to delay them further and he did not want her catching a cold. If that were the case he would not have minded keeping her from her assigned mission but he did not tell her this not wanting her to sabotauge her own efforts in hope of becoming ill. Thus he helped her across and easily picked up the tracks on the other side.

“Half hour, forty-five minutes and I think we'll find him.”

Alynia pouted at the mention of her "comfort zone". "I- cant help but be that way." The girl muttered shyly. She knew it was rather restrictive in terms of Fey. But it seemed that her husband never really minded. She looked up at him shyly, and she blushed and quickly looked away. He was grinning and it didn't take too much to guess what was running through his mind. 　

Commanding others, even though she was a queen, was very difficult. Even though she had been considere royalty for a few years now, eighteen years of her life before she had even met Oberron she was so used to staying quiet about what she wanted. He was very right, dominance was not at all her character. But at the same time this could be he reason he loved it so much when she tried.

The fact Alynia understood what he was thinking said more than enough of how she had progressed, even if it was minimal. She blinked innocently at her provoked threat even though a slight tremor went up her spine. She just loved the way the word "punishment" sounded when it was falling from his lips.

Alynia shook her head slightly, no she would not complain... But that didnt mean she'd want to admit it outright. Most of the time she never really gave him an excuse to administer punishment. She couldn't change that she was good and tended to follow rules more than not. At the same time it was delicious to pretend otherwise. And there was even sometimes when she was feeling particularly rebellious, provoking him just enough to get what she wanted.

As they walked they came upon a cave just barely big enough to walk in. Alynka smiled gleefully, it was unlikely it was coincidence that the modest furniture there was goblin sized. They followed the tracks back out. She was glad to be back outside, it had smelt pretty horrible in there... It seemed that Mezzo would have to once again have to learn to use the bath.

Alynia laughed at his accusation. "And I would've have had to sleep if you didn't..." She voice trailed off. "Oh you know what I mean.." She muttered.

The tracks stopped at a river, so the king lead her across a stepping stone path. As they were half way across, Alynia furrowed her eyebrows. "You better not be thinking of pushing me over." She squeaked as she almost lost her balance, but regained it by holding onto him a bit tighter. Thankfully she made it the other river bank without getting drenched. She steadied herself on solid land. "It's a good thing I didn't fall in." She pointed out. "I'm not wearing a bra, so I believe you have a pretty good idea of what I would look like if I got too wet." She told him with a grin. What a tease.

Her husband found the tracks again, they were much easier to follow on this side of the river. "Fabulous, forty five minutes isn't long at all."

He gazed at her as she turned her gaze aside loving the way she blushed. It was still odd, even for one as cultured as he Oberron found her out look strange, he could never really get his head wrapped around around why other races tended to be, well prudes. He chalked it up to a species thing and didn't really look too deeply into things though. He loved that strangeness though that he found in his wife, loved the way she blushed and how easily he could attack those sensibilities especially with how easy it was with the tamest of fey aspects.

While he understood that her resolve may have weakened on a few things it was never his aim to change her fully constant exposure did make her more receptive to the issues he brought up.

Oberron caught sight of her grin and found that it was inefectious indeed for he found himself grinning back in her before patting his hand against the back of hers.

Fully aware that they were going to have to do this the hard way Oberron realized that his wife would not have commanded Berry to come forth with the information, not if she wanted to look serious while doing it. Nor would she plead for he had got her out of the habit of begging for the most part with the notable exception of a few of their games. He did not mind though for he had nothing pressing to do as it were; they had already found the cave Mezzo was using as a home and in the worst case scenario they would fall back their and wait for the goblin to come to them.

Clearly by now he had figured her out in the way that he knew that the only time she misbehaved was to get his attention, to be punished. She was so transparent at times, and while she learned leasons about using exceptional amounts of salt … she was punished for that but not how she intended but he knew that she liked that as well. She may not have told him everything but sometimes it seemed that she did not have to tell him, which certainly made it easier for her without her having to profess to these things.

He knew that she wasn't going to admit to things, especially when they battled againt human “normal” concepts. He figured that he could get a confession out of her if he had wanted but to date Oberron had no need for her to confess. He was Aegir after all and thus he knew her mind.

Thus there was no need to embarrass her with such details, he tended to do things with a reason in mind, an aim. He may tease her to get her to accept some of the mundane concepts especially after hearing some rather extreme stuff too. He might even use illusions to dictate how receptive she was to certain elements when the really didn't matter. Sometimes she knew, others she did not though he tended to keep her on her toes rather than being boring and predictable in nature.

She had even surprised him a few times over the years, in fact it was easy in that he did not expect it out of her as anything than a low “risk” assessment. Thus when she did do something it was so infrequent that it went against type and often caught him unawares when it did come up.

While it was true that Aegir was Oberron he tried not to pry into her mind too much other than altering her perceptions as he generated all this for her giving her a fantastic world all hers to play in.

“Uh huh, I see how it is, just blame it all on the husband.” He grinned at her as he gazed up from the tracks he was analyzing, a grin on his features. “You know you liked it.”

“Oh, if I had remembered then I would have had … oh well, though we still have to cross to get back. I can just imagine how Mezzo will react seeing his queenie like that too.” He grinned, it was always tough to deternine when he was kidding to get a reaction out of her or when he was serious so she would just have to see about it when they were on the way back.

“That is a rather appealing image,” he kissed her again on the lips before urging her on after a long minute. Clearly she had him thinking of that if he wasn't before that was.

Forty-five minutes was not especially for a fey though it was more like thirty even with their occassional delays with Oberron pausing to kiss her or grope her as they moved on or even playful swats to the backside, all to make her choice tonight harder.

Even so they heard the clash of blades din out, screeches in goblin, someone was calling for this person and that to perform flanking actions. There were even high pitch screams and cries, something was definitely going on up ahead and Oberron already had the sword she fashioned for him with Charon's help in hand.

“Stay behind me until we access what we're dealing with.”

It looked much more hopeful toward them now that they had found where they assumed Mezzo was dwelling. Surely the blue goblin would have to return there sometime before night fell. And certainly as they walked the sky steadily seemed to be getting darker, though there was still enough light in the sky to see where they were going.

She sighed softly, pulling herself up to kiss him gently on the cheek. "Yes, you were magnificent, my king.' Alynia replied by moaning suggestively into one of his long ears. She pressed her body against him for a brief second before pulling away and slipping her hand inside one of his.

Alynia blinked as the walked to follow the tracks, she had most certainly forgotten that the would have to cross the same river back. Now she had really put the idea of pushing her into the river in his head. She sighed at her mistake pouting very slightly. "If you push me over? I'm dragging you with me." Alynia declared.

In the back of her head she knew it would still be much worse for her, there were certain contours of her body she would rather not have any wet fabric clinging to. Especially if Mezzo was going to be there.

"Don't picture it!" she whined playfully but her train of thought vanished as he suddenly turned around, using those heavenly lips against her own. She sighed into his lips as they captured her in a heart wrenching kiss. Alynia's eyes fluttered shut, but sooner than she would've liked he pulled away. She followed him as he beckoned her to move onward. She was rather quiet as her expression was thoughtful. Alynia was really thinking about later tonight and certainly, Oberron knew this too, he was in no way making this easier for her.

Even as they walked, occasionally he spun her around planting a deep and loving kiss upon her lips before continuing. His hand sometimes trailed down to her behind kneading her ass only for her to jump away embarressed. This did not stop Oberron. Infact her flustered expression might have urged him to continue. "Ah- s-stop!" She had told him as he had pinned quickly to a tree and massaged her breasts unashamed. Even as she her voice hold him to stop, he must have taken note how her hands did not try to push him away.

Alynia squeaked softly every time his hand gave her bottom a soft smack. She spun around, her face was a blushing mess and her expression was so adorably frustrated. But she knew she couldn't convince him to stop because she knew that Oberron knew she liked how playful he was. Alynia stepped a bit closer, her hands wandered up to the collar of his shirt. It looked as if she was going to kiss him. "Damn you.." she muttered quietly as she leaned closer."If your going to keep doing that, I'm not going to last much longer."

Alynia was just about to kiss him when they were interrupted by a high pitched war cry of some sort. The clashig of metal and against metal was suddenly noticeable. A battle, and most likely between goblins. Alynka hoped that Mezzo wasn't caught up in the middle of this. Oberron had acted quicker conjuring up the black and good blade she had crafted along with Charon what seemed like a lifetime ago.

Alynia tried to follow in suit as she closed her eyes to conjure up that slim silver rapier she sometimes used for fencing. The long piece of metal fell in her hands, but as quickly as it did it shattered like glass. Alynia sighed magic was really much much easier in Avalon. So instead she conjured up a small silver dagger, it was much easier to maintain. Even though she had a weapon she nodded in agreement to stay behind her husband. Together they slowly moved forward trying to see what was going on.

She hd been teasing him of course, she knew that he wnted her and there was not much in keeping him from taking her here and now if he was not interested in seeing how she would decide later on tonight. It w beginning to grow darker, he could see the swirl of colors in the heavens though he hd not been too worried even as they approached the Western portion of the forest for he ws not worried about a few goblins. Alynia could handle herself against such a meager threat now and thus there was little he had to worry about in regard to defending her from attack since she was capable of defending herself better now.

He stopped for a second and grinned. “Yes, because I'm sure Mezzo wouldn't mind looking at the contours of erection.” He took her hand and set it over him so se could feel. He then took her grasp from him and chuckled a little. “I think Mezzo would be too distracted staring at you to even notice.”

After a moment he grinned at her. “Too lte.” He nswered about thinking about it for he had alredy thought it over about three times before she spoke. Would, or would he not push her in? That was still up in the air.

But they walked on in relative silence, Oberron knowing that she was churning things over in her head. Clearly he was not making this easy for her but he did not interupt the process of her thoughts either as she contemplated the matter fully.

Her protests were feeble of course, there was no pushing him away though he could see how fluster she was becoming and so he could not resist himself from stealing those small kisses and gropes when he could. They were brief but they were numerous too as he sought to befuddle her mind as much as possible.

But he grinned at her confession to him as she moved in close. His hands settled on her hips as he gazed into her brown eyes. “Perhaps I don't wnt you to hold out … perhaps that is my intent or perhaps I want to make things very difficult for you.”

There was no question about it a battle was going on with goblins. There were screams, and curses in that high pitched language. She could hear someone cursing to flank him and that this was but one person!

As they had advanced forward after Alynia's false start they came upon a fierce melee. Mezzo sported a cut that lacerated his left arm and looked painful. His left leg looked as if it had been knicked but there were half a dozen dead goblins on the ground and a war party of goblins pressing in on Mezzo. Pog ws one of them, the larger goblin barking out his orders with his large battle axe in hand as another dozen or so goblins though Mezzo had his back pressed to a tree minimizing the numbers that could get at them.

Mezzo had his back to them though it had to be him for how many blue skinned goblins were likely to be here?

The goblins were too busy with their fight to even notice the pair as they came up on the melee.

“Go to Mezzo's left, he is vulnerable on that flank and needs some help there.”

"Wha- wai-!" she stuttered and gasped out as he took her hand, running it over his hardness. Alynia squeaked and blushed hard. Her expression was both bemused and surprised. She bit nervously on the bottom of her lip. Had she really been that teasing toward him? Alynia gulped and looked away very flustered. She couldnt help but laughed at the compliment. "I think he'd still notice." Alynia muttered. Given her husbands impressive size, she believed it would be rather difficult to miss especially when he was wet.

"I don't like how easily you can do this to me." She told with a defeated sigh him as his hands found a place at her slim waist. "If that is your intent.. your doing a very good job." Alynia admitted with a slight smile on her lips. She was almost about to give in, she really was. But not yet. The idea of denying him for those three days was still so tempting, the punishment or rather the reward afterward sounded even more so.

Her eyes went wide with shock at the loud yelling. Her head snapped in that direction and for a quick second she held tightly onto Oberron. Then they moved onward, the air was had the suspense of battle.

Her mind was working tirelessly translating Goblin, which really wasn't all too hard. At a young age, Alynia had discovered she had a bit of a knack for languages. A loud, Goblin voice seemed to be commandin quite a few goblins. "Attack on his right!" "He's open on this side!" "You idiots not there!" The bellowing voice was screetching.

Suddenly, with a sword in his hand and a dagger in hers, they emerged onto the scene. The goblins were too preoccupied to take notice. Alynia gasped softly, raising her free hand to stiffle the quiet sound. There was Mezzo right in front of them, injured and with his back pressed against the tree.

She had a pained expression, even though there were a good amount of fallen goblins it was clear Mezzo if not outmatched was atleast out numbered. How underhand to send so many of them against just one goblin! She observed Pog, who seemed to be directing from in the middle lines. Not in immediate danger, but he clearly couldn't pull himself away from the midst of battle that blood thirsty creature.

She was snapped back to her senses upon hearing Oberron's words. Alynia looked more closely and certainly he was right, there was a nasty wound on his left arm, it seemed his left leg was hurt as well. Alynia nodded, she didnt like battle, but if it was for protecting a friend she wanted to help. Besides, she was confident she could handle a few goblins with just the dagger.

She gave Oberron a quick kiss before quietly making her way to Mezzo's left side. She wondered if her husband aas going to join the fight. Alynia stopped a few trees behind where the blue goblin fought on. Peering our from behind the tree she had a good point of view of the violence.

Alynia decided back up was a better idea for her right now. She concentrated on Mezzo's wounded arm and muttered an incantation. A transparent shield seemed to span over the length of the cut. It would do nothing to heal the injury, she had to touch him to do that, but certainly it would alleviate the pain just a little bit.

Mezzo's performance suddenly imrpoved as she watched him for a brief second deflect a few more blows. Then her eyes wandered, surveying the battle field selecting a target. An enemy goblin who appeared to be a pretty aggressive fighter. Then she let out a breath, and closer her eyes. A moment later of intense concentration there was a soft thud besides her as a crude spear seemed to have appeared out of thin air. She opened her eyes. The goblin who she had selected was staring at its open hands confused. Where had his weapon gone, but before the poor thing could comprehend what had happened, Mezzo made quick work with his lowered guard. She winced at the action, but she let out a breath selecting another target.