Iron Crowned Chapter 19

It alsok awhile in the initiative place Kiyo, Jasmine, and I could re flip over to Tucson. We had to go to the stumper dry put level, of course, whither Shaya and the otherwises asked me comp everyowely sorts of questions rough what had happened and what I trea incontestabled to do. Kiyo and regular(a) Jasmine provided most of the answers for me because hvirtuosostly, I wasnt sure what I valued at one time. The to a greater extentover thing I had the real sense to do was ticktack hold of Jasmines key and unlock her chains. She st bed at her freed give winderingly, stroking her wrists. I much or less left the chains and key in the castle tho briefly reconside carmine and to a faultk them with me to the valet world.Shed never seen my house before and regarded it with approval as we entered. only was quiet, and the empty drive delegacy made me confident I wouldnt find Tim and Lara holed up in his bedroom again. Evidence of their love, however, was mum obviou s.Damn them, I verbalize, cautious picking a red lace bra eat up of the invest and tossing it d testify the h every last(predicate) toward Tims room. Im going to accommodate to sanitize this thing. Probably each other piece of furniture too.You cede Pop-Tarts Jasmine hadnt made it to the living room. Shed stop in the kitchen, opening every drawer and cupboard she could find. And Apple jacks Peanut yetter, ranch dressing, saltines I was surprised that remnanting one huffy her so such(prenominal), but after a couple years consume gentry intellectual nourishment, even the most planetary human cuisine was belike exciting.Oh she exclaimed. Can I have one of your Milky Ways?Sure. feature whatever you motive.Her eyeball were wide as she tore into the package, and both Kiyo and I watched her with pull a faces on our faces, like proud p bents on Christmas morning. Although they didnt sound sincere to me proficient now, Milky Ways were normally my buttdy bar of choice . From the way she was devour hers, Jasmine appeared to share that family trait. She completed her sugar rush with a can of vitamin C and then made herself at home on the couch. Watching her blow over eagerly for the remote rig, I decided it was best not to honorable mention the amorous activities that had likely occurred w present she sat.She flipped by dint of the channels in proceed amazement. It was change surface prime season entertainment and the emotions on her face were transparent as she stumbled across old and new shows alike.You want me to see if I can find anything that fits you? I asked. She might have slipped back easily to human behaviors, but she tranquillize wore a long, fall downing gentry-style gown.Sure, she said, not looking up from the screen.Kiyo followed me into my bedroom. You think shes safe out there? he asked. Alone?Yeah, I do actually. Jasmine and I werent the same size, but I found nearly drawstring shorts that would likely fit. I dont kn ow why but I relish like I can trust her.Be forethoughtful, he warned, rallyting on the beds edge. For all we know, she was happy to be captured and have Cassius throw himself at her.He didnt do anything. I found the gnomishest jersey I could her frame was more sl arrester than mine.So she says.I sighed and approach him. Kiyo, youve got to trust me. I cant explain it, but shes telling the truth. Is she going to turn into a normal teen and for draw off just about her plans to have storm Kings heir? Unlikely. that for now, shes in shock and not dangerous.If you think so. yet be feel forful, Eug. Youve been tricked by people youve trusted before.Surprise, surprise. A slam on Dorian. I crossed my fortification, holding the clothes to my bureau. Soon to be followed by a lecture on seizing the rowan cut down. Id been bracing myself since it all happened, but during the ensuing damage control, hed held back. I appreciated that but becalm dreaded the inevitable.Actually, he said, no.No? Id started to take a yard toward the doorway and froze.He laughed, though there wasnt much humor in it. No.But I just thought well, after last time You werent very happy most the toughie Land That small smile faded. No. And its not like Im happy about this. But the truth is, you did find a relatively bloodless way to end all of this. When we were out there, you asked me what other solution could fix things. I didnt have an answer. You did. Its not great but it didnt kill Katrice or those other people. It didnt get you captured. He shrugged. Not ideal, no, but break-dance than the alternatives.I leaned back against the wall, notwithstanding shocked at his reaction. If it casts you feel better, its not like I cute this either. I wanted to sneak in and out and get Jasmine.He nodded, but there was a sharp look in his eyes. And yet, you brought the crown. I hadnt mentioned that to him when we first set out to the Rowan Land.Her note said she didnt commit I had it I was hoping waving it around might do something to dish up us. He stayed quiet. Dont look at me like that You cant believe I be after to use it.I do believe you. He approached me and rested his hands on my shoulders. And Ill booster you in any way you need.Something inside my chest released, and I leaned into him, taking comfort in his warmth and the security he offered. Thank you. Im definitely going to need you.Kiyo pressed a embrace to my fore channel. Im here.I felt a small smile pull at my lips, though as with his preferably laughter, I didnt really find the office funny. I suppose if there is a silver lining here, perchance I can do a better reflect thought the Rowan Land than she did. Some sort of greater good.To my surprise, his hold on me stiffened, and he stepped back. The smile he offered me looked tight. Maybe.We went back out to Jasmine, who was liquid riveted to the TV. The only acknowledgment we got was when I handed her the clothes, and she examined th em. Whats The Clash mean?I ignored the affidavit and Kiyos obvious amusement at my pain. If you want to shower, everything youll need is in the bathroom. Towels, shampoo.That too got her attention. A shower oh, man. Ive lost showers.Will you two be ok? asked Kiyo, all signs of his rather discomfort gone. I need to take care of a few things.I nodded. Were fine. Will you be back in short?As soon as I can. He kissed me again, this time on my lips. I must have worn another pained manifestation because he cupped my chin, his brown eyes full of love and compassion. Its going to be okay, Eugenie. Everything will be okay.I nodded once more and watched wistfully as he left. I wanted his arms around me again, to hold me and let me escape this mess. A small part of me wouldnt have minded Dorians arms either. I sat beside Jasmine, whose attention was back on some frankness show.Hes hastenning off to Maiwenn, you know. Her gaze didnt move. Off to report on what happened.My impatience st arted to rise at her accusation, except I had a feeling she was right. charge if there was no more romance between them, he was life-timelessness devoted to her. The recent developments were going to rock the Otherworld, and shed want the story at once from him. I wondered how shed take it shed everlastingly feared my becoming like my father.Probably, I admitted. I rubbed my eyes. God, Im so exhausted. I feel like I could fall over.This time Jasmine turned to me. thither wasnt exactly sympathy in her face, but something astonishingly close. No shit. You just stole a kingdom and took it over.It sounds so loathsome when you phrase it that way.She shrugged and looked back at the TV. Youll probably do a better job. Her lyric echoed my earlier comment to Kiyo. You know, she added conversationally, everyone acts like our dad was such a bastard, like he just wanted more power. I mean, he did, but you know what Aeson told me? He said that Storm King was always talking about how he could do a better job too, that the other monarchs werent as good. He said he was doing the people a favor.I froze, unable to respond. That was why Kiyo had reacted the way he did earlier. Hed heard that about Storm Kings good intentions, I realized. Id expressed exactly the same view as my father.Jasmine didnt notice the effect of her words and instead jumped subjects in that easy, short-attention-span way of hers. Hey, do you think you could get Wil to come over? I want to see him.Sure, I murmured automatically. My mind was still lost in her earlier words. Sure.Wil was surprised to hear from me the abutting morning, more surprised still when I told him the reason I was calling. He said hed be over in five transactions.Jasmine had asked that he come alone after Id mentioned he now had a girlfriend. Still, shed been curious. Seriously? Whats she like?I thought back to my one meeting with Wils ladylove. Once Id banished the monsters living in their house, she hadnt shut up about conspiracy theories and assorted coverups. Exactly like him, Id replied to Jasmine.The reunion between familiar and sister was strange. They stood there awkwardly, both staring at each other and assessing all the ways theyd changed. and then, with no communication, they hugged each other. Jasmines face was filled with current emotion, and for once, Wil didnt seem like the crazy, paranoid guy he usually was. be you okay? he asked her, voice trembling. Ive missed you so much.Jasmine swallowed, and I was elegant sure there were tears in her eyes. I I missed you too. And it was the truth. Shed told me once she didnt care about this world or about the fractional brother whod raised her. But she did. This whole time, despite her Otherworldly plans for domination, shed always loved him.Things grew increasingly bizarre when it became obvious the two werent quite sure what to do with each other. Wil didnt chastise her for her absence, and at last, she simply asked if he wanted to hang out and watch TV. I think that was partly because it provided a concrete activity and partly because shed become obsessed with making up for lost TV time. I kept my distance but couldnt help a small, envious feeling as they sat on the couch. Jasmine leaned her head against her big brothers shoulder, and I became acutely aware of the emptiness in my own family life. I hadnt heard from my mom or Roland since getting the referral to Enrique. The closest I had to any familial connection was those goddamn kingdoms I ruled. Just as the Thorn Land had always called to me, the Rowan Land now did too, going away such an ache within me that I practically felt nauseous. Rurik had been right. I wouldnt be able to stay away.But first things first. Thinking of Enrique reminded me I was due for an update. Retreating to my bedroom, I dialed his repress and hoped he was up this early.Miss Markham, he said after just one ring. Caller ID left no surprises anymore. Always a delight.Im sure. What are you doing with the case right now? zip fastener.Nothing? I exclaimed. Irritation rose within me. I wasnt paying him to sit around, especially after hed gotten so close.Nope, he said cheerfully. Its out of my hands. I found what I unavoidable, proved that Deanna Jones didnt buy the gun. From what I hear, the police are searching Cal Joness house right now and questioning him. Far be it from me to get in the way of the fine men in blue.Finally, some good news well, at least as the cases progress went. It wouldnt be easy on Deanna to learn the truth about her save. And women, I said. There are probably women in blue there too.If you say so.Thanks, Enrique. I really appreciate it. I honestly didnt think it could be done.Dont get all emotional, he said in that brisk way of his. At least not until you see the bill.We disconnected. Attitude or no, Enrique had been a good call on Rolands part which once again brought about the sorrow over the turn in my parental family. Well. Nothing to do for it at the moment, not with all my other problems. And anyway, I had a loose end that could now be wrapped up.Taking out my wand, I unlikeable my eyes and cast a minor summoning spell, calling to Deanna. I had no control over her but shed responded to my call before specially since she was always on edge listening for it. After several minutes and no results, I gave up and sadly suspected she wasnt coming because she already knew the truth. As eager as shed been to get answers, it wouldnt have surprised me if shed been succeeding(a) Enrique around while he worked. She might have discovered for herself what her husband had done. If so, I hoped shed now move on to the Underworld and seek peace, preferably than staying restless and sad in this world. There was enough suffering here already.I tried as hard as I could the next couple days to stay away from the Otherworld. Wil visited off and on, and Jasmine and I began doing mundane yet enjoyable activities, like seeing mov ies and shopping for clothes for her. Tim and Lara lots appeared, still in the throes of their love, and Kiyo giveed with reports about the Otherworld, reassuring me that my kingdoms control of the Rowan Land was progressing smoothly. And at night, he came to my bed, and I found the return of our fierce finish up life went a long way toward taking my mind off my laundry list of problems.But finally, I had to give in. The call to my lands was too strong, and even Kiyo admitted that with my new and fragile hold on the Rowan Land, I needed to visit and connect with it to reinforce our bond. By that point, I needed no urging. My own system was telling me as much. I still felt weak and drained, my dreams haunted by cacti and cherry trees.I took Jasmine with me. Our relationship wasnt quite sound enough yet for me to leave her alone. She drew the cable at going to the Rowan Land, however, insisting she would stay in the Thorn Land until my return. I had no problem with that, knowing she was secure there. Kiyo was still going with me, and Shaya caught us before we could leave.Theres a few things you should probably know, she said uneasily. Her nervousness was likely due to the fact that I hated universe inconvenience oneselfd with the day-to-day running of a kingdom in this case, kingdoms. Something about the fear in her eyes told me she also knew I wouldnt like what she had to say.I sighed. Go ahead.I Ive heard from King Dorian a number of times.Kiyo shifted uncomfortably beside me, and I felt that familiar prickle of anger run down my spine. All the memories of Dorians lying and betrayal came back to me. It stung all the worse because in the end, hed gotten exactly what he wanted the Iron overstep had done its job. He probably wanted me to take still more lands.Whats he want? I demanded. The wars over. Were no longer in a partnership.Well, thats just it. Since you are were allies in the war, he says he deserves some of the spoils of your victory.He wha t? My fury increased. He doesnt deserve anything. I was the one who won and used the crown.She nodded, still looking like she wished she could be anywhere else. Yes but he argues that he was the one who direct you to get the crown. And that his armies lost as many lives as yours.That last point silenced me. His soldiers had fought with mine. His peoples families mourned those casualties as much as mine and for what? To fight against a slight that had nothing to do with them, not really. I didnt owe Dorian anything, of that I was certain, but I was indebted to his subjects.When I didnt respond, Shaya continued. Some of his people are also serving hold the Rowan Land.Oh, are they? Of course Dorian would have swooped in. I never asked for that.She shook her head. Nonetheless, you need it. Many are still having trouble accepting your rule. Theres a lot of seething resentment. No violence has scattered out yet but thats largely because of the sizable presence Rurik sent to keep con trol. Dorians helping with that.Id meditated with the Thorn Land as soon as Id arrived, making me feel a little better, but the pressure and continued political complications were already draining me. I wasnt meant for this. Whats he want? fractional the kingdom?No. Trade. Tribute. The Rowan Land is a huge food producer, and he wants part of that.That doesnt sound so bad, I said tentatively.Im conjecture he wants it at low, low prices, said Kiyo, speaking up for the first time.Shaya nodded. He does. And hes entitled to it to a certain extent. But his current demands are extreme enough that it could endanger the Rowan Lands economy. Maybe thats not an issue. It all depends on what you want for them.I thought about the refugees at the gates. What did I want for those people? I wanted them to prosper. I wanted things to return to normal. Can you negotiate with him to something in the middle? I asked Shaya.Most likely.Then do it.She bowed her head in acknowledgment, and I knew thats w hat shed already know had to be done. She was simply giving me my dues as queen, going done the motions and reminding everyone that ultimately, I still held the authority around here.When Kiyo and I finally made it to the Rowan Land, I felt the lands relief and welcome. Its energy burned into mine, strengthening me. At the castle, we truism little sign of the Rowan military but big bucks of mine and Dorians. They were stationed everywhere, keeping the order Shaya had told me about. They bowed low when they saw me, their actions reverberate by the kingdoms citizens. Only, Katrices subjects didnt bow out of respect and deference. There was fear in their eyes, confusion in some, and an obvious show among a few that their actions were forced.Rurik was still in residence, personally overseeing the occupation. I felt secure in his control and listened as he explained what needed to be done next. I dumb it only a little better than the economics Shaya had pushed on me, the important point being Id need a governing body here soon. Picking that staff would be a problem. Shaya was one in a million, but even she couldnt be in two places at once. see my dismay, Rurik hesitantly added that Dorian had offered to provide people for the job. My expression at those words gave Rurik all the answer he needed.The Rowan Lands energy continued to flow into me when I set out to have my meditation session with it. The personality of the connection was similar to what I had with the Thorn Land, but the kingdoms feel was alone different. The Thorn Land was harsh filled with life, yes, but life that fought fiercely against the elements for survival. The Rowan Land was softer, its life bursting forth easily and radiating through its many trees and plants.Eugenie, said Kiyo, following me out to a small garden behind the castle. Look.I paused and glanced behind me. Where Id walked, flowers had blossomed, small red ones scattered throughout the grassy path. I knelt down, inhaling their heady scent. Whys it happening?Youre its ruler. Youre giving the land life and energy.I thought about how being here had made me feel marginally better. Its strengthening me too but this doesnt happen in the Thorn Land. I dont have that affable of effect.Dont you? he teased, a mischievous smile on his face. You make it rain.A memory came to me of when the Thorn Land had floundered in drought. While connecting with the land, Id had sex with Kiyo, and the energy from that union had empowered the kingdom, interruption the dry spell and sending much-needed rain that made the people and plants flourish.I smiled back at him. Looks like we dont have to worry about that today. This land doesnt need as much help.He slipped an arm around my waist and pulled me to him, voice husky. But imagine the results if we did. Extra credit.Leaning down, he brought his lips to mine, his applauder pushing into my mouth with a rough passion. I felt my body answer, and for a moment, the offer was tempting. I pictured what it would be like to make love among all this greenery, here in the sunshine. Would a bed of red flowers fill the ground below us? Again I kind of wanted to find out, but I also wasnt comfortable in this kingdom yet. I didnt want to risk discovery of my sex life, even if it wouldnt be a big deal to the gentry. Reluctantly, I pulled away from him. other time.After a few more protests, he let me be. I sat on the ground while he waited, closing my eyes and opening myself to the world around me. We are one, I assured the land. I am here. I felt its answer, felt warmth spread through me and lost track of time. When I finished, I was startled at how utmost the sun had moved across the sky. Kiyo sat on the ground cross-legged, looking at ease as he watched me.Crap, I said, jumping up. Im sorry. I didnt mean to make you wait so long.He stood as well. Its no problem. You needed it. You both needed it. I knew he was right. I was more energized, and the land felt st rong and content.After another check with Rurik, Kiyo and I headed back to the Thorn Land. Here, he parted from me, again to take care of a few things. He assured me hed be back in Tucson as soon as he could, but I saw the look Jasmine gave me when she overheard. I could guess her thoughts more reports to Maiwenn.Jasmine was impatient to go to Tucson, but before leaving, I impulsively set out alone to where Id communed earlier with the Thorn Land. It had been on a distant part of the grounds, one of my favorite(a) places, in the shade of a mesquite tree. Its perfume rivaled that of the Rowan flowers, and around it stood cacti in all shapes and sizes, some of them small and squat and some tallish and foreboding like sentries.Almost all of them were blooming.A chill ran down my spine as I stared at the flowers on the cacti. They formed a brilliantly colored perimeter, right around where Id been meditating, the petals in all shapes and sizes. The flowers were beautiful. Exquisite.And none of them had been there earlier.