Page 95 of A Brat's Tale
Still, knowing I still had thirty-three more was daunting, and the tears came early.
Crying during a spanking, or even a strapping is seldom about pain, but that day it was a little about the pain. The other part was thinking about how much I’d worried everyone, whose trust I’d broken, who I’d betrayed, and the boundaries I’d stepped over.
“Two. Thank you, sir.”
Alrik continued and while the pain never lessened, the cadence he set made the punishment feasible. I caught onto his rhythm and how he would pause long enough to let me collect myself. I learned that he’s a talented disciplinarian and couldn’t believe I was complimenting his work as I was still being worked on—but he’s that good.The breathing helped pull me through and I did begin to float away into the wonderful land of subspace. I know from working with Strobavik, a Dom or a Top could keep you out of that place if they so wanted to. Instead, Alrik helped me get there.
He established trust with me that day. He was within his rights to give me a lot more, he could have abused his authority, but he gave me only what he felt I’d earned, no more and no less. He also established a role; Alrik was not to be disobeyed and after that strapping, I knew it. “You’ve got four left Tristan, and these are going to the backs of your thighs.”
“No!Please. Please don’t.”
“Shhh,” he cooed. “You can take this. You are strong. You’ll feel better after.”
I calmed as much as I could, but my legs were shaking; I was worn out by that point.
“I’m going to do them quickly, so they’ll be done, but it will not be enjoyable.”
“Really?” I said, my cheekiness surprising even me. I think I heard Alrik laugh, but I’m still not sure. I know Corrik did.
“You do not have to count these. Brace yourself.”
There was no breathing through those, they just fucking hurt, but I realized immediately what a kindness it was to have them done and over with, in the way he had. I collapsed when he was done, I barely felt myself being released from the bench, but I heard the crowd going wild behind me. I looked to Corrik confused and sleepy-eyed. Honestly, I had expected jeers and taunts, not admiration, especially with the way Elves look upon humans. “They’re impressed my love, you took your punishment honorably. Plus you’re their hero, you brought their prince home.”
With an arm slung around Corrik’s neck for support, I looked at my adoring fans, smiling a lazy smile as I waved. “Okay, c’mon you. Let’s get you out of here,” Corrik said scooping me up bridal style.
Alrik stopped us. He grabbed my face into one of his meaty hands, turning my head to and fro, examining me; I was still a bit floaty and boy did my arse hurt. “You took that well, Tristan. Corrik, make sure he gets some salve on that. I’ll be by to check on him.”
Corrik brought me to our room and took good care of me. “You have an arse of Elven steel, my love,” he said. “And you need it.”
I passed out shortly after. When I woke, I knew I was in a different place, wrapped around a different Elf before I opened my eyes, still a bit groggy. “What you doing here, Alrik?”
“You know.”
I did.Elves.Especially dominant Elves. They are compelled to care for you after such an ordeal.
And then Alrik went back to the avoiding-me thing he does. I haven’t seen much of him since. My arse is almost fully healed.
“Come, Tristan. There’s somewhere I want to take you today,” Corrik says. He’s nervous.
“Don’t do something you’re not comfortable with, Cor.”
He shakes his head. “This isn’t about my comfort this time, it’sabout who you are. Unfortunately, there was only so much I could do. You might not be marrying my brother anymore, but you’ve made an impression on him and he’s become protective. The prophecy is still a concern.”
Great. Now I’ve got two of them.
We travel across the palace grounds on foot. Corrik was advised to get light exercise. He was told that it would help with his healing. We take our time, enjoying the sights I’m still getting to know. People recognize me though. They distinguish me as mate to their young prince. It’s cold here, so we have to bundle up. Normally, Corrik would rely on his Elven powers for some warmth, but because that has to go to his healing, he wears his large, white fur.
My fur is white mixed with bits of grey, and it matches my long, dark hair. I’ve got my sword, strapped to my back like Corrik does. Corrik’s sword is much larger of course, which means it’s a lot heavier. I complained about that, saying he should leave it until he’s well again. “Carrying it will help me get strong,” he said. There was no arguing with him.
The walk is a distance, and we bump into a familiar face. “Master Strobavik!” I’m surprised at how much my heart lifts.
“There he is, the extra naughty kitten.” He’s, of course, referring to my most recent disappearing act.
I can’t help but feel like dropping to my knees, it’s what I was trained to do for him.
“I think we have an appointment,” he adds.
I shiver. “We do?”
