Page 43 of Tristan
“You’re mistaking the word submissive for weak. Believe me, there are no weak submissives.You can be a strong, terrifying Warlord and have a submissive streak a mountainside wide.”
“But I’m terrible at obeying your orders,” I say. He’s had to spank me more than the one time at the inn.
“That’s because you’re also brat,” he says, smiling in a fond way.“Submissive doesn’t always mean being good at obeying myorders—it’s the need for them at all. It’s about structure and the need for consequences.”
Okay, that last part might resonate.Is this … is this what my father was talking to the king about? “I’ve never desired to be punished,” I say, narrowing my eyes and crossing my arms.
“I didn’t say you desire it. I said youneedit—there is a difference.”
Okay, yeah.I might get that too.
“It’s my job to keep this balance between you and me. As theDominantor theTop, I provide the rules and the consequences—that’s what will keep us both grounded. This is how we Elves honor one another in our relationships.”
“What do you get out of this deal? What does a Dominant or top desire?”
“Control, possession, worship—we crave these things. You will need some training for some of this. Other aspects, the non-sexual, everyday ones, already come naturally to you.”
I shiver.That sounds dark and kinda delicious if I’m being honest. “What kind of training?”
His eyes sparkle.“You’ll see.You’ll like it, D’orhai.”
“Corrik, I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be stubborn—thatI get from my father. I wish I was more agreeable, like my papa.”
“You’re young D’orhai and have yet to grow into the man your papa is, you’re more like him than you realize. Your stubborn streak will get you in trouble, but I will like that as much as I will be irritated by it. Besides, I have no issues spanking your naughty bottom.”
The thrill I get when he says that.It inspires mischief in me. I want to pour my glass of wine on his head and see if I can race away in time.
“I know that look already.” He sighs.“You’re trouble, Tristan Cyredanthem.”
Weird.My name without the Kanes is just weird.I sip my wine instead, attempting to appear lofty.“You haven’t a clue, my thorny rose.”
It’s far from an endearment but it still has him beaming and his ears dancing with joy.With shocking speed, he’s over top of me and I back into the chair. His teeth shine as his lips curl above them. He takes the glass from my hand and sets it down.“I will subdue you, dragon prince.”
He scoops me up as I whack him and complain but I also curl into him, ready to be subdued.
CHAPTER 11
Hours later, I stare out at the endless sea. I’m thinking. Dominant. Top. Submissive. Brat.I’ve been avoiding a label.I’m not sure any fit other than: I am Tristan Kanes, lover of mischief, commander of armies.
I already know I obey Corrik—that goes without saying. Aside from it being part of our vows, I’m used to that kind of a relationship anyway, Papa always obeyed Father. But what of the other things I’m learning?
“Penny for your thoughts young Warlord?”
I turn to scowl at Diekin. “Do not call me that. I’m not Warlord.” We have this same argument over and over.
“You are. It is in your blood whether Corrik wants to let it out or not.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Why do you think he sends me to babysit you when you can clearly take care of yourself?”
“I’m unfamiliar with every danger—you said so yourself.”
“Yes, but that’s not the point—no warrior can know all danger. I was merely pointing out that perhaps you require help withsomedangers. I did not mean to imply you could not face danger. Now answer the question.”
“How am I to know? That damn Elf won’t tell me anything.Learn by experience,” I mock.
Diekin laughs. “Infuriating, isn’t it? Most Cyredanthems are that way. Fine. I will tell you since you insist on being difficult. He knows of the dragon in your blood, but has others surround you to protect you so you won’t have to use it. He does not want you to fight, Kathir.”
