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", "count": "23", "submission_left_submission_id": "952112", "submission_left_file_name": "1303871_Applepye_travels_16.rtf", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/1303/1303871_Applepye_travels_16.jpg", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/1303/1303871_Applepye_travels_16.jpg", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/1303/1303871_Applepye_travels_16.jpg", "submission_left_thumb_huge_x": "200", "submission_left_thumb_huge_y": "168", "submission_left_thumb_large_x": "200", "submission_left_thumb_large_y": "168", "submission_left_thumb_medium_x": "120", "submission_left_thumb_medium_y": "101", "submission_right_submission_id": "972376", "submission_right_file_name": "1332891_Applepye_travels_18.rtf", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/1332/1332891_Applepye_travels_18.jpg", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/1332/1332891_Applepye_travels_18.jpg", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/1332/1332891_Applepye_travels_18.jpg", "submission_right_thumb_huge_x": "200", "submission_right_thumb_huge_y": "200", "submission_right_thumb_large_x": "200", "submission_right_thumb_large_y": "200", "submission_right_thumb_medium_x": "120", "submission_right_thumb_medium_y": "120" } ], "description": "", "description_bbcode_parsed": "", "writing": "Although they had told Nalani that she would be walking, it wasn’t long before she was being carried up on Leo’s back. He couldn’t take her whining anymore. He used some extra cloth to make a sling and carried her as if she was a baby. \n\nPampered little princess. He had never met someone so weak in his life. How could someone born into the warrior class be so spoiled? He tried not to blame her. It was her upbringing, her culture. She was not a warrior. She was meant to unite two clans and breed warriors. Leo actually felt sorry for her. \n\nLeonardo was grateful for the strength of his shell and its ability to carry Nalani’s weight. Although it was uncomfortable, he could only imagine how unbearable it would have been for Usagi to carry her for so long. Usagi’s spine simply didn’t have as much support as Leo’s shell. \n\nShe had fallen asleep, which was a blessing. She had spent the majority of the time complaining. If she wasn’t complaining she was crying. Even little Umō was getting tired of it. The amount of noise Nalani made was dangerous, considering that there was someone sending men after her. \n\nFortunately, despite the strain of carrying Nalani and the lack of a decent sleep, Leo was able to keep his mind focused on the surrounding area. Using his ki Leo could sense when someone was approaching with plenty of time to hide before they got close. \n\nBecause of their extra burden and the seeming constant flow of bandits, they had to stop often. It was slow going but they were making progress. \n\nThere was plenty for them to eat, so long as you knew what you were looking for. Before coming to Usagi’s world, Leo had read several books on foraging and studied up on edible plants indigenous to Japan. He had found edible roots for them to chew on as they traveled or waited. They weren’t the best tasting things in the world but it was better than having a rumbling tummy. And, the chewing occupied the children’s mouths, keeping them quite. \n\nThere were also a few fruit and nut trees along the way. Leonardo had even had the forethought to bring a nutcracker with him in his supplies. It was a much neater way to get at the nut than smashing it with rocks. \n\nWater was also plentiful, given that it fell from the sky nearly every day. At least the storms were light summer rains and not full on thunderstorms. It didn’t do anything to improve anyone’s mood. \n\nAfter a few days Nalani fell silent. She looked miserable and disheveled, and she clutched her mother’s kimono to her chest like it was the most precious thing to her. \n\n“Maybe we should try capturing one of them,” Leo thought out loud as they were setting up for the night. Nalani curled up on the small blanket that had been padded with dead leaves and used her mother’s kimono as a pillow. The poor thing looked defeated. “I’m sure Lord Noriyuki would like to question them, find out why they were trying to capture Lady Nalani and who sent them.”\n\n“I’m sure you are right,” Usagi said with a sigh. “I have considered this myself. However, I believe that traveling with one of the bandits would only prove to be more difficult and slow us up even more. There’s no telling how many more are out there. It’s best to simply get Lady Nalani to Lord Noriyuki as soon as possible.” \n\nLeonardo nodded in agreement. “I understand.” Then he added, “Maybe we will get lucky and one will come our way when we are close to Lord Noriyuki’s home.”\n\nUsagi looked at Leo and smiled. “If that is the case then I will let you have the honors of capturing him.”\n\n“How much longer?” Nalani asked, staring off at nothing as her eyes filled with tears. “I’m hungry. I itch all over. I need a bath.”\n\n“We’ll be there soon,” Usagi soothed, running his hand over her tangled hair. \n\n“It will be nice to get off the road,” Umō agreed as she curled up with Jotaro and Kuroko. “I’m itchy too.”\n\n“Once we get to Lord Noriyuki we can all have a nice, long, warm bath,” Usagi promised. “I’m sure he will also be so grateful that he will give us a warm meal and a soft bed to sleep in for the night.”\n\n“That sounds nice,” Kuroko yawned. “I hear Lords grant boons to men who help them and they are bound by honor to do them.”\n\n“As long as the request is within reason,” Usagi said with a soft smile on his face. “Now go to sleep.”\n\nThe closer they got to Lord Noriyuki’s estate, the more men they came across. Due to the dwindling number of trees, it was getting difficult to hide from them all. Leonardo could see how much Usagi hated taking the children on such a dangerous mission. He worried about their safety. The fact of the matter was, no matter how good they were if Usagi and Leo were overwhelmed by numbers the children could be hurt or worse. That was Usagi’s greatest fear. \n\nIt took them over a week to travel through Lord Noriyuki’s land to his estate. When the walls came into view, Leonardo felt himself smile. The only problem with being so close to the walls was that there were more people around. Now it was harder to tell if someone who meant to do them harm was around, hiding among the field workers. \n\nPart of him hoped the assailants were out there. He desired to capture one so that they could get some answers. He wanted to know who was responsible for all of this misery. \n\n“I do not want Lord Noriyuki to see me like this,” Nalani said from her perch on Leo’s back. \n\n“You can run ahead with the children, Usagi,” Leo suggested after a moment of thought. “The young lord knows you and by the time I reach the gates with Lady Nalani you can make sure there are ladies waiting to assist her. We should be safe this close to the gates.”\n\n“Good idea,” Usagi nodded and reached down to pick up Umō. “Be careful, Leonardo. You will not be truly safe until you are within the gates.” He gestured to the boys to follow. “Let us hurry so Lord Noriyuki has time to prepare for Lady Nalani’s arrival.” The two boys trotted after Usagi to keep up. \n\nCarrying Nalani on his back, Leo kept alert to everyone around them, ‘looking’ with his ki for anyone who was moving towards them. He reached his ki out as far as he dared. If he put any more power into it, he would start to glow. The last thing he wanted to do was frighten the people out in the fields. \n\nLeo made his way towards the estate at a steady pace. He wanted to give Noriyuki and his estate plenty of time to prepare for his bride to be. He was nearing the gate when he noticed that one of the many, who were out in the fields, was walking towards them and they were close. He recognized the ‘feel’ of the man from before. He was definitely one who was searching for Nalani. \n\nLeonardo didn’t look towards the man nor did his step didn’t falter. He continued as if he didn’t sense anything. \n\nThe one stalking them was good, well trained. He tried to suppress his ki and moved casually across the fields behind them but Leo was better. He waited until the would be assailant was close enough to strike and then Leonardo’s sword was in his hand, out stretched behind him with the tip a hair’s breadth from the assailant’s face. \n\nNalani gasped as the sudden movement and Leonardo’s sword stayed in place as he turned slowly to meet their attacker. The man stayed frozen in place, his own sword quivering. “You are coming with me,” Leonardo stated, keeping his voice steady and low. His tone left no room for argument. “Cooperate and you will live long enough to answer any question Lord Noriyuki has. Refuse and you will lose your head before you take your first step.”\n\nThe sword dropped from the man’s hand and his eyes never left the tip of Leonardo’s blade. “Please don’t kill me, demon.”\n\nFor a moment, Leonardo was confused. His skills should not have come off as demonic. Impressive, yes, but not demonic. Then he realized that he was glowing. Great, he thought to himself. He shifted his gaze to the closest field workers and saw the fear on their faces. This was not his intention. \n\n“I am no demon,” Leo said, raising his voice so that it carried. “Simply trained in the ways of the mystic arts.” He gestured with his sword, which seemed to be also glowing. Leonardo would have been proud of the fact that he could extend his ki into his weapon if it weren’t for the situation. “Come, you lead the way through the gates.”\n\nLeonardo forced himself to relax so that he would stop glowing. Usagi’s world was proving to be more stressful that he had thought. Or maybe there was something about Usagi’s world that made it easier to access his powers within. With his sword at the bandit’s back, Leonardo followed him through the gates of Lord Noriyuki’s estate. \n\nThe ladies moved back with their hands covering their mouths as guards ran forward. As soon as the prisoner was secured, Leo put his sword away. “I believe he was with the group who attacked Lady Nalani’s caravan. I swear I’ve seen him searching for us in the woods a few times. Lord Noriyuki will probably have a few questions for him so make sure he stays alive.”\n\nThe guards nodded and led the bandit away, leaving Leonardo with the women sent to attend to Nalani.\n\nKneeling down, Leonardo gingerly lowered Nalani from his back. The ladies rushed around him to collect Nalani and whisked her away. They were most likely taking her to the baths. Leo felt a slight pang of envy at that. \n\n“Leonardo,” Usagi said as he walked briskly towards Leo. “What happened? The people are calling you a demon.”\n\nLeo felt himself flush a little. “I might have glowed a little bit.”\n\nUsagi looked at his friend, raising a furry brow. “Glowed?”\n\n“I’ve told you about my mystic training.” Leonardo nodded. “I must be more tired than I had thought. When the man attacked…, I… it just happened on its own. I didn’t mean to.”\n\n“It should be alright,” Usagi said. “I have vouched for you. Technically you are a demon, however.” Leonardo must have made a face because Usagi started to laugh. “Well, you are. You are not from this world and were brought here by magic.” He turned and led Leo into the estate. “Come. Lord Noriyuki would like to see you.”\n\n“I look forward to seeing him again,” Leonardo said as he followed after Usagi. “I also look forward to a nice hot bath and a warm meal.”\n\n“In time,” Usagi said over his shoulder. “First we must formally present ourselves to Lord Noriyuki.”\n\n“Where are the children?” Leonardo wanted to know. \n\n“They are with some servants, getting baths, something to eat, and some rest,” Usagi answered. Once again Leonardo felt a slight pang on envy. \n\nFormalities were vastly important in Usagi’s culture. Even though they were battered and dirty they still had to present themselves. They had to bow, act as if they did not want to do anything more than to sleep, and ask of nothing unless they were offered a boon. \n\nSo they entered the room where Lord Noriyuki was waiting to receive them with Tomoe Ame by his side. They knelt on the floor in front of him and bowed deeply, touching their heads to the floor. \n\n“Usagi-san, my friend, please sit up,” Lord Noriyuki said from his elevated position. “You too, Leonardo-san. It is good to see you again. When Usagi-san visited with me last, he told me that you two remained friends. It is good that you were able to come here during your visit. I just wish that it was under better circumstances.” \n\nLeonardo sat up and looked at Lord Noriyuki. He had grown physically in the last few years but his eyes showed a maturity that surpassed his age. It wasn’t easy running a clan. Leonardo knew well the stress of having too many responsibilities at a young age. He was still a teen and yet had more on his plate than most people three times his age. \n\n“It is good to see you again as well, Lord Noriyuki,” Leonardo said with a slight bow. “Congratulations on your engagement. She is a lovely young lady.”\n\n“Yes.” Noriyuki blushed a little. “I met her once when I visited her father’s lands to arrange the alliance. I did not know that he would be offering me his daughter.” He cleared his throat and turned his attention to Usagi. “You seem to keep helping me, Usagi-san. Are you sure you don’t want to serve me as a retainer? A lord can never have too many warriors.”\n\nUsagi smiled but shook his head. “I cannot serve another lord, though your offer is tempting.”\n\nNoriyuki regarded Usagi for a moment before speaking. “You know you are worthy of the position. It was not your fault that Lord Mifune fell. You protected his honor.”\n\n“Thank you, Lord Noriyuki,” Usagi replied. “It is simply no longer something that I desire.”\n\n“Very well,” Noriyuki said and then his smile widened. “But I will not stop offering.” He took a deep breath and then looked at them both in turn. “For saving Lady Nalani I will grant you each a boon.”\n\n“Right now all that we desire is something warm to eat, a hot bath and a safe place to sleep,” Usagi said. \n\n“Of course,” Noriyuki said. “I had hoped that you would stay for the wedding, since there would not have been one without your help.”\n\n“You honor us with the invitation.” Usagi bowed, touching his head to the floor.\n\n“Then it is settled,” Noriyuki insisted. “You will stay at least through the wedding.” Once again a smile graced his handsome face. “Maybe you will see how good a place this is to live and decide to stay longer.”\n\nUsagi chuckled as he sat back up. “Anything is possible, I suppose.”\n\nBy the time Usagi and Leo were fed and done with their baths, the children were asleep in their own room. Attendants would care for them while they were here. As much as Leo loved them, it was good to get a break from them. They were in an estate surrounded by loyal guards. Leo was ready for a good night’s sleep. \n\n“I don’t believe that I have ever seen you glow,” Usagi stated as he turned down the sheets.\n\n“Would you like to?” Leo offered, removing his kimono. \n\nUsagi got up to stand in front of Leo and trailed his fingers along a scar in Leo’s plastron. “I would.”\n\n“Alright.” Leo looked into Usagi’s eyes and suddenly his exhaustion was forgotten. Releasing his ki, Leo extended it around the room and beyond. He could since the servants, the children, the guards, the prisoner, Lord Noriyuki and Lady Nalani. He knew where they each were within the estate. He could feel the power of the dragon build inside of him but without the pendant it could not be fully released. \n\nUsagi’s eyes went wide. “I had no idea that you possessed so much power.” He looked Leo over. “Some said that your sword was glowing as well.”\n\nLeo shrugged. “I don’t know if the sword was glowing or if it was simply a reflection.”\n\n“The only other man I know with this much power is evil,” Usagi stated. “Jei turns any blade he touches black, except for the Kusanagi. If he cuts you, it burns. If he stabs you, it feels like he is ripping your soul from your body. He has died several times but he manages to live on. He is a demon.”\n\n“What was so special about the Kusanagi?” Leo asked. \n\n“It was a holy sword,” Usagi answered, never taking his eyes off of Leo’s body. His fingers traced the glowing patterns of Leo’s ki. “Depending on who possesses the sword, it could be used to insure the Shogun’s rule or used to help the emperor usurp the Shogun and gain power. It could throw my country into another war.”\n\n“Where is it now?”\n\nUsagi smiled as he let out a soft chuckle. “Hiding in plain sight. I gave it to a trusted friend and he replaced the replica with the actual sword. No one else knows. It is not something that can be trusted in the hands of any man.”\n\n“That’s funny,” Leo laughed. “And quite clever.”\n\n“I have my moments,” Usagi smiled, looking into Leo’s eyes. \n\nLeaning in, Leo pressed in for a soft kiss and Usagi reciprocated. Desire quickly drowned out any thought of sleep. His whole body wanted to feel Usagi and Usagi seemed to want the same. They removed the remainder of their clothes as they made their way to the tatami. \n\nLeonardo lay on his carapace and gave Usagi full access to his tail, there was no hesitation. He preferred to submit to his friend. There was something liberating about relinquishing control to someone else.\n\nFor the first time, they were able to take their time. There was little chance that they would be interrupted so there was no need to rush through it, though there was a part of Leo that wanted too. The desire for release was almost overwhelming. \n\nSince Usagi was more experienced, he was able to maintain control and kept things slow. He kissed along Leo’s neck and across his collarbone. His soft fur tickled a little but, thanks to his senses being heightened, it was in an exciting way. Leonardo could no longer contain his erection. His penis emerged and his tip flared. \n\nWithout looking down, Usagi grabbed hold of Leo’s erection and stroked it softly. Leonardo moaned, bucking his hips in an attempt to get more friction. Usagi raised his head to look down at Leo and a knowing smile spread across his lips. “You are eager.”\n\nLeo nodded and his needy cock throbbed in Usagi’s hand. “It’s been a while,” Leo husked. “I want you.” The words ‘I love you’ rested on the tip of his tongue but he swallowed them down. He knew better than to say them. “I love the way you feel inside me,” he said instead, bringing his hands up to flutter his fingers along Usagi’s jawline. \n\nUsagi’s finger played inside of Leo’s flared tip, collecting the pre-cum as it oozed out. He then slid his slicked finger down Leo’s shaft collecting some of the natural lubricant before dipping inside. \n\nAs Usagi worked to prepare Leo’s entrance, Leo reached over to grab the lubricant. He collected some on his fingers and then got to work slicking Usagi’s emerging penis. The strong, pink appendage hardened in Leo’s hand and he was rewarded with a light moan from his friend and master. \n\nWith a deep groan, Usagi pulled his finger from Leo and moved on top of him. He kissed and nipped at Leo’s neck as he worked his cock inside. Leo lifted his hips, urging Usagi to continue and held tight to Usagi’s ass. \n\nSliding his hands up Usagi’s back, Leo pulled him down so that his cock could rub against Usagi’s stomach. The soft warmth felt amazing against his needy flesh. This kept his hands free to move over Usagi’s body. He loved to feel Usagi’s tight muscles flex and move under the fur with each thrust. \n\nNot wanting to announce to the whole estate what they were doing, Leonardo held his breath against his churrs. It was starting to make him feel a little light headed which strangely seemed to add to the bliss. \n\nLeonardo’s toes curled as he finished and his seed shot out, sticking to the fur on Usagi’s stomach. When the muscles in Usagi’s shoulders tightened, Leo knew that his friend was close. Using the muscles in his tail, Leo clamped down on Usagi and sent him over the edge. Usagi’s gasped and staggered in his movements. \n\nHe looked down at Leo who smiled back up at him. It was satisfying for Leo to know that his actions had caused such a reaction out of Usagi. It meant that he had learned a few things and was doing something right. \n\nUsagi’s rhythm slowed after he had emptied himself to enjoy the few lingering moments of pleasure before he had to pull out. After one last kiss, Usagi sat back on his feet to get his breathing back under control. \n\nLeo sat up and ran his fingers through the sticky fur on Usagi’s belly. “You didn’t stay clean for long.”\n\n“There is a wash basin over there,” Usagi replied as he stood up and made his way across the room. \n\nThrough drooping eyes, Leonardo watched as Usagi cleaned himself and brushed out his fur. Now that his needs had been met, exhaustion set back in. He hadn’t even noticed that he had lay back down and sleep quickly followed. \n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "Although they had told Nalani that she would be walking, it wasn’t long before she was being carried up on Leo’s back. He couldn’t take her whining anymore. He used some extra cloth to make a sling and carried her as if she was a baby.

Pampered little princess. He had never met someone so weak in his life. How could someone born into the warrior class be so spoiled? He tried not to blame her. It was her upbringing, her culture. She was not a warrior. She was meant to unite two clans and breed warriors. Leo actually felt sorry for her.

Leonardo was grateful for the strength of his shell and its ability to carry Nalani’s weight. Although it was uncomfortable, he could only imagine how unbearable it would have been for Usagi to carry her for so long. Usagi’s spine simply didn’t have as much support as Leo’s shell.

She had fallen asleep, which was a blessing. She had spent the majority of the time complaining. If she wasn’t complaining she was crying. Even little Umō was getting tired of it. The amount of noise Nalani made was dangerous, considering that there was someone sending men after her.

Fortunately, despite the strain of carrying Nalani and the lack of a decent sleep, Leo was able to keep his mind focused on the surrounding area. Using his ki Leo could sense when someone was approaching with plenty of time to hide before they got close.

Because of their extra burden and the seeming constant flow of bandits, they had to stop often. It was slow going but they were making progress.

There was plenty for them to eat, so long as you knew what you were looking for. Before coming to Usagi’s world, Leo had read several books on foraging and studied up on edible plants indigenous to Japan. He had found edible roots for them to chew on as they traveled or waited. They weren’t the best tasting things in the world but it was better than having a rumbling tummy. And, the chewing occupied the children’s mouths, keeping them quite.

There were also a few fruit and nut trees along the way. Leonardo had even had the forethought to bring a nutcracker with him in his supplies. It was a much neater way to get at the nut than smashing it with rocks.

Water was also plentiful, given that it fell from the sky nearly every day. At least the storms were light summer rains and not full on thunderstorms. It didn’t do anything to improve anyone’s mood.

After a few days Nalani fell silent. She looked miserable and disheveled, and she clutched her mother’s kimono to her chest like it was the most precious thing to her.

“Maybe we should try capturing one of them,” Leo thought out loud as they were setting up for the night. Nalani curled up on the small blanket that had been padded with dead leaves and used her mother’s kimono as a pillow. The poor thing looked defeated. “I’m sure Lord Noriyuki would like to question them, find out why they were trying to capture Lady Nalani and who sent them.”

“I’m sure you are right,” Usagi said with a sigh. “I have considered this myself. However, I believe that traveling with one of the bandits would only prove to be more difficult and slow us up even more. There’s no telling how many more are out there. It’s best to simply get Lady Nalani to Lord Noriyuki as soon as possible.”  

Leonardo nodded in agreement. “I understand.” Then he added, “Maybe we will get lucky and one will come our way when we are close to Lord Noriyuki’s home.”

Usagi looked at Leo and smiled. “If that is the case then I will let you have the honors of capturing him.”

“How much longer?” Nalani asked, staring off at nothing as her eyes filled with tears. “I’m hungry. I itch all over. I need a bath.”

“We’ll be there soon,” Usagi soothed, running his hand over her tangled hair.

“It will be nice to get off the road,” Umō agreed as she curled up with Jotaro and Kuroko. “I’m itchy too.”

“Once we get to Lord Noriyuki we can all have a nice, long, warm bath,” Usagi promised. “I’m sure he will also be so grateful that he will give us a warm meal and a soft bed to sleep in for the night.”

“That sounds nice,” Kuroko yawned. “I hear Lords grant boons to men who help them and they are bound by honor to do them.”

“As long as the request is within reason,” Usagi said with a soft smile on his face. “Now go to sleep.”

The closer they got to Lord Noriyuki’s estate, the more men they came across. Due to the dwindling number of trees, it was getting difficult to hide from them all. Leonardo could see how much Usagi hated taking the children on such a dangerous mission. He worried about their safety. The fact of the matter was, no matter how good they were if Usagi and Leo were overwhelmed by numbers the children could be hurt or worse. That was Usagi’s greatest fear.

It took them over a week to travel through Lord Noriyuki’s land to his estate. When the walls came into view, Leonardo felt himself smile. The only problem with being so close to the walls was that there were more people around. Now it was harder to tell if someone who meant to do them harm was around, hiding among the field workers.

Part of him hoped the assailants were out there. He desired to capture one so that they could get some answers. He wanted to know who was responsible for all of this misery.  

“I do not want Lord Noriyuki to see me like this,” Nalani said from her perch on Leo’s back.

“You can run ahead with the children, Usagi,” Leo suggested after a moment of thought. “The young lord knows you and by the time I reach the gates with Lady Nalani you can make sure there are ladies waiting to assist her. We should be safe this close to the gates.”

“Good idea,” Usagi nodded and reached down to pick up Umō. “Be careful, Leonardo. You will not be truly safe until you are within the gates.” He gestured to the boys to follow. “Let us hurry so Lord Noriyuki has time to prepare for Lady Nalani’s arrival.” The two boys trotted after Usagi to keep up.

Carrying Nalani on his back, Leo kept alert to everyone around them, ‘looking’ with his ki for anyone who was moving towards them. He reached his ki out as far as he dared. If he put any more power into it, he would start to glow. The last thing he wanted to do was frighten the people out in the fields.

Leo made his way towards the estate at a steady pace. He wanted to give Noriyuki and his estate plenty of time to prepare for his bride to be. He was nearing the gate when he noticed that one of the many, who were out in the fields, was walking towards them and they were close. He recognized the ‘feel’ of the man from before. He was definitely one who was searching for Nalani.

Leonardo didn’t look towards the man nor did his step didn’t falter. He continued as if he didn’t sense anything.

The one stalking them was good, well trained. He tried to suppress his ki and moved casually across the fields behind them but Leo was better. He waited until the would be assailant was close enough to strike and then Leonardo’s sword was in his hand, out stretched behind him with the tip a hair’s breadth from the assailant’s face.

Nalani gasped as the sudden movement and Leonardo’s sword stayed in place as he turned slowly to meet their attacker. The man stayed frozen in place, his own sword quivering. “You are coming with me,” Leonardo stated, keeping his voice steady and low. His tone left no room for argument. “Cooperate and you will live long enough to answer any question Lord Noriyuki has. Refuse and you will lose your head before you take your first step.”

The sword dropped from the man’s hand and his eyes never left the tip of Leonardo’s blade. “Please don’t kill me, demon.”

For a moment, Leonardo was confused. His skills should not have come off as demonic. Impressive, yes, but not demonic. Then he realized that he was glowing. Great, he thought to himself. He shifted his gaze to the closest field workers and saw the fear on their faces. This was not his intention.

“I am no demon,” Leo said, raising his voice so that it carried. “Simply trained in the ways of the mystic arts.” He gestured with his sword, which seemed to be also glowing. Leonardo would have been proud of the fact that he could extend his ki into his weapon if it weren’t for the situation. “Come, you lead the way through the gates.”

Leonardo forced himself to relax so that he would stop glowing. Usagi’s world was proving to be more stressful that he had thought. Or maybe there was something about Usagi’s world that made it easier to access his powers within. With his sword at the bandit’s back, Leonardo followed him through the gates of Lord Noriyuki’s estate.

The ladies moved back with their hands covering their mouths as guards ran forward. As soon as the prisoner was secured, Leo put his sword away. “I believe he was with the group who attacked Lady Nalani’s caravan. I swear I’ve seen him searching for us in the woods a few times. Lord Noriyuki will probably have a few questions for him so make sure he stays alive.”

The guards nodded and led the bandit away, leaving Leonardo with the women sent to attend to Nalani.

Kneeling down, Leonardo gingerly lowered Nalani from his back. The ladies rushed around him to collect Nalani and whisked her away. They were most likely taking her to the baths. Leo felt a slight pang of envy at that.

“Leonardo,” Usagi said as he walked briskly towards Leo. “What happened? The people are calling you a demon.”

Leo felt himself flush a little. “I might have glowed a little bit.”

Usagi looked at his friend, raising a furry brow. “Glowed?”

“I’ve told you about my mystic training.” Leonardo nodded. “I must be more tired than I had thought. When the man attacked…, I… it just happened on its own. I didn’t mean to.”

“It should be alright,” Usagi said. “I have vouched for you. Technically you are a demon, however.” Leonardo must have made a face because Usagi started to laugh. “Well, you are. You are not from this world and were brought here by magic.” He turned and led Leo into the estate. “Come. Lord Noriyuki would like to see you.”

“I look forward to seeing him again,” Leonardo said as he followed after Usagi. “I also look forward to a nice hot bath and a warm meal.”

“In time,” Usagi said over his shoulder. “First we must formally present ourselves to Lord Noriyuki.”

“Where are the children?” Leonardo wanted to know.

“They are with some servants, getting baths, something to eat, and some rest,” Usagi answered. Once again Leonardo felt a slight pang on envy.

Formalities were vastly important in Usagi’s culture. Even though they were battered and dirty they still had to present themselves. They had to bow, act as if they did not want to do anything more than to sleep, and ask of nothing unless they were offered a boon.

So they entered the room where Lord Noriyuki was waiting to receive them with Tomoe Ame by his side. They knelt on the floor in front of him and bowed deeply, touching their heads to the floor.

“Usagi-san, my friend, please sit up,” Lord Noriyuki said from his elevated position. “You too, Leonardo-san. It is good to see you again. When Usagi-san visited with me last, he told me that you two remained friends. It is good that you were able to come here during your visit. I just wish that it was under better circumstances.”

Leonardo sat up and looked at Lord Noriyuki. He had grown physically in the last few years but his eyes showed a maturity that surpassed his age. It wasn’t easy running a clan. Leonardo knew well the stress of having too many responsibilities at a young age. He was still a teen and yet had more on his plate than most people three times his age.

“It is good to see you again as well, Lord Noriyuki,” Leonardo said with a slight bow. “Congratulations on your engagement. She is a lovely young lady.”

“Yes.” Noriyuki blushed a little. “I met her once when I visited her father’s lands to arrange the alliance. I did not know that he would be offering me his daughter.” He cleared his throat and turned his attention to Usagi. “You seem to keep helping me, Usagi-san. Are you sure you don’t want to serve me as a retainer? A lord can never have too many warriors.”

Usagi smiled but shook his head. “I cannot serve another lord, though your offer is tempting.”

Noriyuki regarded Usagi for a moment before speaking. “You know you are worthy of the position. It was not your fault that Lord Mifune fell. You protected his honor.”

“Thank you, Lord Noriyuki,” Usagi replied. “It is simply no longer something that I desire.”

“Very well,” Noriyuki said and then his smile widened. “But I will not stop offering.” He took a deep breath and then looked at them both in turn. “For saving Lady Nalani I will grant you each a boon.”

“Right now all that we desire is something warm to eat, a hot bath and a safe place to sleep,” Usagi said.

“Of course,” Noriyuki said. “I had hoped that you would stay for the wedding, since there would not have been one without your help.”

“You honor us with the invitation.” Usagi bowed, touching his head to the floor.

“Then it is settled,” Noriyuki insisted. “You will stay at least through the wedding.” Once again a smile graced his handsome face. “Maybe you will see how good a place this is to live and decide to stay longer.”

Usagi chuckled as he sat back up. “Anything is possible, I suppose.”

By the time Usagi and Leo were fed and done with their baths, the children were asleep in their own room. Attendants would care for them while they were here. As much as Leo loved them, it was good to get a break from them. They were in an estate surrounded by loyal guards. Leo was ready for a good night’s sleep.

“I don’t believe that I have ever seen you glow,” Usagi stated as he turned down the sheets.

“Would you like to?” Leo offered, removing his kimono.

Usagi got up to stand in front of Leo and trailed his fingers along a scar in Leo’s plastron. “I would.”

“Alright.” Leo looked into Usagi’s eyes and suddenly his exhaustion was forgotten. Releasing his ki, Leo extended it around the room and beyond. He could since the servants, the children, the guards, the prisoner, Lord Noriyuki and Lady Nalani. He knew where they each were within the estate. He could feel the power of the dragon build inside of him but without the pendant it could not be fully released.

Usagi’s eyes went wide. “I had no idea that you possessed so much power.” He looked Leo over. “Some said that your sword was glowing as well.”

Leo shrugged. “I don’t know if the sword was glowing or if it was simply a reflection.”

“The only other man I know with this much power is evil,” Usagi stated. “Jei turns any blade he touches black, except for the Kusanagi. If he cuts you, it burns. If he stabs you, it feels like he is ripping your soul from your body. He has died several times but he manages to live on. He is a demon.”

“What was so special about the Kusanagi?” Leo asked.

“It was a holy sword,” Usagi answered, never taking his eyes off of Leo’s body. His fingers traced the glowing patterns of Leo’s ki. “Depending on who possesses the sword, it could be used to insure the Shogun’s rule or used to help the emperor usurp the Shogun and gain power. It could throw my country into another war.”

“Where is it now?”

Usagi smiled as he let out a soft chuckle. “Hiding in plain sight. I gave it to a trusted friend and he replaced the replica with the actual sword. No one else knows. It is not something that can be trusted in the hands of any man.”

“That’s funny,” Leo laughed. “And quite clever.”

“I have my moments,” Usagi smiled, looking into Leo’s eyes.

Leaning in, Leo pressed in for a soft kiss and Usagi reciprocated. Desire quickly drowned out any thought of sleep. His whole body wanted to feel Usagi and Usagi seemed to want the same. They removed the remainder of their clothes as they made their way to the tatami.

Leonardo lay on his carapace and gave Usagi full access to his tail, there was no hesitation. He preferred to submit to his friend. There was something liberating about relinquishing control to someone else.

For the first time, they were able to take their time. There was little chance that they would be interrupted so there was no need to rush through it, though there was a part of Leo that wanted too. The desire for release was almost overwhelming.

Since Usagi was more experienced, he was able to maintain control and kept things slow. He kissed along Leo’s neck and across his collarbone. His soft fur tickled a little but, thanks to his senses being heightened, it was in an exciting way. Leonardo could no longer contain his erection. His penis emerged and his tip flared.

Without looking down, Usagi grabbed hold of Leo’s erection and stroked it softly. Leonardo moaned, bucking his hips in an attempt to get more friction. Usagi raised his head to look down at Leo and a knowing smile spread across his lips. “You are eager.”

Leo nodded and his needy cock throbbed in Usagi’s hand. “It’s been a while,” Leo husked. “I want you.” The words ‘I love you’ rested on the tip of his tongue but he swallowed them down. He knew better than to say them. “I love the way you feel inside me,” he said instead, bringing his hands up to flutter his fingers along Usagi’s jawline.

Usagi’s finger played inside of Leo’s flared tip, collecting the pre-cum as it oozed out. He then slid his slicked finger down Leo’s shaft collecting some of the natural lubricant before dipping inside.

As Usagi worked to prepare Leo’s entrance, Leo reached over to grab the lubricant. He collected some on his fingers and then got to work slicking Usagi’s emerging penis. The strong, pink appendage hardened in Leo’s hand and he was rewarded with a light moan from his friend and master.

With a deep groan, Usagi pulled his finger from Leo and moved on top of him. He kissed and nipped at Leo’s neck as he worked his cock inside. Leo lifted his hips, urging Usagi to continue and held tight to Usagi’s ass.

Sliding his hands up Usagi’s back, Leo pulled him down so that his cock could rub against Usagi’s stomach. The soft warmth felt amazing against his needy flesh. This kept his hands free to move over Usagi’s body. He loved to feel Usagi’s tight muscles flex and move under the fur with each thrust.

Not wanting to announce to the whole estate what they were doing, Leonardo held his breath against his churrs. It was starting to make him feel a little light headed which strangely seemed to add to the bliss.

Leonardo’s toes curled as he finished and his seed shot out, sticking to the fur on Usagi’s stomach. When the muscles in Usagi’s shoulders tightened, Leo knew that his friend was close. Using the muscles in his tail, Leo clamped down on Usagi and sent him over the edge. Usagi’s gasped and staggered in his movements.

He looked down at Leo who smiled back up at him. It was satisfying for Leo to know that his actions had caused such a reaction out of Usagi. It meant that he had learned a few things and was doing something right.

Usagi’s rhythm slowed after he had emptied himself to enjoy the few lingering moments of pleasure before he had to pull out. After one last kiss, Usagi sat back on his feet to get his breathing back under control.

Leo sat up and ran his fingers through the sticky fur on Usagi’s belly. “You didn’t stay clean for long.”

“There is a wash basin over there,” Usagi replied as he stood up and made his way across the room.

Through drooping eyes, Leonardo watched as Usagi cleaned himself and brushed out his fur. Now that his needs had been met, exhaustion set back in. He hadn’t even noticed that he had lay back down and sleep quickly followed.
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