22 comments/ 18573 views/ 40 favorites Vampires and Lovers Ch. 07 By: Pelaam 7 Forest of Fear Pelaam© October 2009 Five heads turned as Seamus entered the living room. "We have a mission," he announced. "We will be travelling into the jungles of South America," Seamus added. "Where?" Delfin asked ingenuously. "I will show you, Petal," Seamus smiled. His Dryad knew nothing of the world outside of the forest in which he had been born and raised. "What do we know?" Gabriel asked pragmatically. "There have been some stories over the last several months of a strange presence in the jungle; something neither seen nor heard that the local tribe have named ch'in bida suwa, a literal translation would be 'silent life thief'. Trees died, sucked dry of their sap, then small animals, again sucked dry. They stopped finding bodies, but there are fewer living things around. The village has a Chief, but the real power lies with its Shaman, he is quite a powerful medicine man, but not a full-blood spell-caster. He is known and respected amongst our kind and has sent a call for help." "Because of a few dead plants and animals?" queried David, an elegant eyebrow arching in disbelief. "It's progressed beyond that I'm afraid," Seamus said looking over at the smaller blond. "A party of anthropology and archaeology students plus their teachers came to study. They wanted to examine village life and there was also a dig where the remains of a more ancient civilisation had been unearthed. The dig was a few miles from the village and the students came over weekly. One week they never came. The Shaman and some warriors went to find them." "And?" asked Wyl as Seamus hesitated. He instinctively huddled closer to Vincent, the older Vampire's arms holding him protectively to a broad chest. "Gone. Vanished. Disappeared without a trace," Seamus sighed. "Six students, two teachers and a member of the tribe sent to keep an eye of them. Nothing was found. No blood, no bodies. Nothing. Not even any disruption in the camp." "Why us?" asked Vincent. "Isn't there a Family closer that could go in?" "It was thought that a Dryad might have an advantage, an affinity with the jungle that might help shed some light on what happened," Seamus said looking apologetically at his young lover. "I'll do whatever I can, Seamus," Delfin said. He smiled reassuringly at the older man. "I'm grateful that it is felt I have a talent that can be useful." The smile melted Seamus' heart. He had expected to be the one offering assurances. "We need to start as soon as possible," Seamus sighed. **** Turning a slow pirouette Delfin looked around again at the jungle in which they walked. He was used to tall trees, but not like these or the riot of additional flora. Despite the heat and humidity, his body acclimatised without difficulty. He glanced at the others. The Vampires seemed unaffected by the environment however Gabriel looked hot. It seemed the Lycan would have preferred a cooler place. Delfin was unable to keep a smile of pleasure from his lips. He would live anywhere to be with his beloved Seamus, the Vampire was his home now. But this place was more to his taste than the forest of concrete and steel where he now lived. They were heading to the village and the Shaman, Kuyani, who waited for them. Delfin knew his life had changed drastically since becoming Seamus' Chosen, but he never realised just how immense the world truly was. His people interacted little with anyone or anything outside their own forest. To find there were so many humans and denizens of their own, more secretive, world had stunned the young Dryad. However, he was determined to do all he could to ensure his lover was proud of him and prove himself worthy in his new family's eyes. "You okay, Petal?" Seamus asked smiling at his Chosen. Everything was such a wonder to the Dryad that the Vampire found himself looking at even the smallest of things with new eyes. He laughed as he caught the lithe body and swung Delfin in his arms. "It's magnificent here. I never knew just how different it could be beyond my own forest." "There are many beautiful places, Petal," Seamus replied kissing his beloved nymph. "We will ensure you see them." "You seem unaffected by the heat, Delfin," Gabriel growled. "It doesn't seem to trouble me," the Dryad grinned. "Lucky you," Gabriel grumbled. "I'll find a way to cool you down later," David purred seductively. The feral grin from his mate made the blond shiver deliciously. "I'll hold you to that," Gabriel returned the purr, a much deeper sound vibrating from the Lycan's chest. **** Kuyani smiled as he saw the group heading to his village. He had been told they were a good Family both in terms of their bond between them and in dealing effectively with threats to the mortal world. He only wished he had something more to offer them in regards to what was happening in his jungle. He gave a wave of greeting to the group as Vincent and Seamus approached. "Thank you for coming," he said, his English accented but easily understandable. "I am Kuyani, Shaman of the Village. On behalf of our Chief, Wamani, I welcome you." "Permit me to introduce my Family," Seamus said. "This is Delfin, my Chosen, Vincent and Wyl, Gabriel and David. We are all Bonded pairs." "You are all most welcome here and I hope you will solve this mystery of ch'in bida suwa." Kuyani led them to the village. They were welcomed and then the villagers drifted away as if the danger was of no concern. "Aren't they concerned?" asked Gabriel. "They seem to have no interest." "They are concerned and frightened, my friend," Kuyani said sombrely. "However, they also have faith, in me, and in you, to find this silent killer and destroy it. For them, if they are needed to take up arms and fight, they will do so. Otherwise they will leave things in my hands and are content that I will care for them." "A great responsibility," Vincent observed. "No more so than you or Seamus caring for your Family," Kuyani smiled. "Although I would normally say that it is a far less dangerous undertaking." "Your jungle is beautiful," Delfin enthused. "It's so different from my own forest." "I'm glad you like it," Kuyani smiled. "I just wish I could show it to you under more favourable circumstances." "Is there any more you can tell us other than what was in the reports sent to us?" asked Seamus. "Mana. No, my friends," Kuyani shook his head. "There was a man many months ago," he added, his face suddenly thoughtful. "I felt bad magic about him, but he kept away from my people and I saw and felt nothing more. I thought he had left, but...perhaps not." "Do you feel anything, Wyl" asked Vincent. The brunette Vampire stood, closed his eyes, and performed a slow pirouette focusing on his power as a Sensitive to seek for any pocket of coldness. There was nothing he could pinpoint in that respect. However, there was something that felt out of place, but it was more of a vague sensation of unease than anything the young Vampire could define. "I'm sorry, Vincent," he said shaking his head. "Something doesn't seem quite right, but I can't feel any coldness that I can focus on." Rising to stand beside his Chosen, Vincent hugged the lithe frame and kissed him tenderly. "It's enough, my Own," he assured. "It tells us that Kuyani was right to be concerned enough to call for help." "Is there anything you can pick up, Petal?" asked Seamus. Delfin returned the reassuring smile from his mate and looked around at the tall trees. He picked one with a large bole and slipped inside. He tried to make contact with the ancient, living creature, but it was difficult. The tree had slept for many years and its responses were confused and difficult to understand. The Dryad wondered if he might have more success with a tree closer to the campsite. "This one is too deeply sleeping," Delfin said as he stepped back outside to join his family. "I might have more success with trees closer to where the humans vanished," he added. He smiled as Seamus enveloped him as lovingly as Vincent had Wyl, nestling happily in the strong arms. They began to head towards the village, however as they approached, Seamus smiled at Kuyani. "If you will excuse us for a while, we would like a little privacy for discussion and to patrol the vicinity of the village. We'll join you soon." "It is getting late to begin anything today," Kuyani said. "There is food for you," he said smiling at the Lycan "And we have gathered a selection of vegetables and berries for you," he added looking at the young Dryad. "I was told the rest of you may eat and drink but sparsely?" "We sometimes indulge," Seamus nodded. "We would be happy to participate if the village have made a special effort on our behalf." Kuyani beamed his pleasure. **** The three couples waited for him to vanish and exchanged knowing looks. "Everything feels safe here," Wyl said softly. "Good. I have a promise from my mate that I intend to collect," Gabriel rumbled, his eyes glittering. He extended his hand. Clasping it, the small blond flowed sinuously towards the big Lycan, his turquoise eyes fixed on the rapidly darkening ones of his lover. They moved away from the others and, as his hand was released, David smiled widely. "You may collect it if you can catch me," he purred. He feinted right and dived left, his feet swift and nimble as he ran into the dark jungle. David cried out laughingly when two hundred-plus pounds of aroused Lycan suddenly landed on top of him. His breath was stolen as a hot, wet mouth latched hungrily, powerfully, onto his own. He shuddered as his mate kissed him hard, almost bestially. He moaned as Gabriel's tongue thrust into his mouth to taste, to stroke, and to drive him wild with want. He gave up on any other thoughts but giving himself to his lover. Gabriel shuddered and growled at the delicious taste of the blond Vampire beneath him. He wanted this, needed this. David was his and his alone, and Gabriel was taking his mate now. He gave a feral grin at the sight of desire-darkened eyes. His mate wanted this as much as he did and it sent bolts of love and lust like lightening along his veins. He held the beautiful blond's head with one hand, kissing the beloved visage. The other expertly undid fastenings on the material that covered his lover's lower body. Then the hand slipped beneath the smaller man's underwear and gripped the hot, throbbing erection firmly in his hand, pulling and stroking. David moaned and bucked beneath his lover at the hot, knowing touch to his inflamed flesh. He writhed and twisted against the older man, wanting more of Gabriel's touch as he kissed back hungrily. He pulled the Lycan closer, his hips already thrusting up into the large fist that had wrapped around his length. He angled his throat to bare the fragile flesh to his dominant mate. The Lycan growled in approval at this submission, relishing the taste of his lover as he licked the marmoreal column offered so trustingly. He grinned widely to see that David had managed to kick off the sneakers he wore. The bigger male pulled the pants down his lover's lithe legs and then off altogether, casting them carelessly aside. His attention was then on the flimsy shirt David wore. However, before he could tear the delicate fabric, the blond was already shrugging out of it. "Need you naked, too, lover," he purred as he lay back enticingly on the jungle floor. Too impatient, and almost too incoherent to think beyond getting inside the tight, beckoning heat of his mate's body, Gabriel rapidly pulled off his own clothes. He stood, rampantly erect, looming over his lover's diminutive form. His gaze raked possessively and proudly over the nude, pale Vampire lying passively and yet so wantonly. He knew that David matched him in strength and the Vampire's willing submission to him never failed to inflame the Lycan's desire, and soul-deep love, for his mate. He dropped to kneel between smooth, silken thighs. Hooking David's legs over his elbows, Gabriel stared avariciously at the tiny opening that already leaked its welcoming juices. His nostrils flared, absorbing the scent of arousal. He purred his approval and took David's mouth in a searing kiss. His fingers toyed at the periphery of furled flesh, spreading the slick, viscous fluid teasingly as David's body tried to take the fingers into his needy channel. David cried out and twisted to incite a much desired invasion where no one but his mate had ever been. He moaned approvingly as Gabriel moved settling more of his weight over him and kissed him thoroughly. However, his mate's weight made it more difficult to arch his back as the tantalising digits slipped inside him, moving in and out, stretching him. The fingers left him as did Gabriel's mouth; the Lycan moving hungry lips to nibble at dainty, peaked nipples, while his hand stroked David's engorged length. As the fingers returned, David welcomed them, hitching his hips, spreading his legs wider. As Gabriel brushed against his hidden nub, David's hips bucked and his head rocked back and forth on the jungle floor as desperate moans spilt from his kiss-swollen lips. A low, reverberating growl rent the air as Gabriel could wait no longer. He ensured his shaft was liberally coated with the pre-come that dripped copiously from the slit of his shaft, needing to slick his throbbing flesh. He flipped David onto his stomach, drawing his lover's hips up and back. The younger man's knees immediately spreading wide as he braced himself on his forearms. He gripped the silken cheeks, easing them apart, ready to slide into the tight sheath. "I love you," he growled raggedly. "I love you, too. Take me, my love," David replied, rotating his hips to incite Gabriel to join their bodies. David groaned Gabriel's name, digging his fingers into the dirt and vegetation of the jungle floor, as he felt himself filled. His body relaxed effortlessly around the invading flesh. He braced himself to accept rapid, hungry thrusts from the excited Lycan. He lifted his hips higher, wriggling against Gabriel in an effort to take him deeper. He was rewarded by the Lycan sliding a hand under his hips to enfold his erection and stroke firmly. With each pounding movement, wild, guttural sounds broke free of Gabriel's throat. He lunged down, tempering the snapping of his jaws at the last second to leave just a small, tell-tale bruise of his passion. It almost seemed that within the primal jungle, something within both Lycan and Vampire had been ignited; something primitive, dark and yet deliciously addictive. Despite which they remained making love, never once dissolving into mere mindless rutting, each trying to please the other. Recognising the signs in the smaller male, Gabriel was ready when his lover's orgasm hit. He listened with relish to the softly ululating wail that accompanied the smaller man's semen pulsing over his pumping hand. He growled gutturally at the scent of his lover's ejaculate. He felt the tight, hot channel convulse and tighten around him rhythmically. Shuddering hard, he gripped David's hip with one hand, pounding harder and faster, until finally he stilled his movement, his body shuddering as a hoarse, primal roar rent the air. As his orgasm erupted, his hips jerked frantically and he emptied his seed into David's willing body. Finally sated, Gabriel rolled to drape the languorous blond body over his still heaving chest. "Feed from me," he growled. He gave a soft sound of additional pleasure as sharp teeth pricked at his throat and he felt the sensation of his beloved mate accepting his offering. As a dainty tongue licked the tiny wounds closed, the Lycan wrapped his arms around the slender body as David nuzzled into the junction of neck and shoulder. "Love you, Gabriel," the Vampire said, giving a sigh of satiation. "I love you, angel." The Lycan glanced around. This would be a good place to sleep rather than within the village itself. His family would be close by. He smiled at his lover in his arms, his only slightly-softened shaft keeping them intimately joined. He was happy to remain just where he was until they needed to return to the village. **** Vincent selected a space within the thick roots of a large tree. He rapidly gathered leaves and moss to make it a little more comfortable and now the couple lay naked and entwined in one another's arms. "I love you, Vincent." "I love you, my precious Own," They kissed again. Their tongues slid and danced, their hands stroking and caressing, each showing with touch their love for the other. It was several minutes before Vincent spoke again. "Turn over, my love." The soft, throaty voice sent shivers of pleasure through his body. Wyl felt Vincent's erection slide smoothly along the crease between his cheeks and the moist, almost kiss-like caress of its head against his already freely-lubricating entrance. He wriggled back, pressing his cheeks against his lover. He felt the pressure increase erotically, the promise of being filled by his husband sending sweet shards of arousal through his already stimulated frame. He brushed his fingers along his thickening length only to have Vincent's bigger hand displace him. He leant back against the older man. Their loving had long since resumed its tenderness and Wyl's heart almost ached with love for Vincent. "I love you so much," he moaned softly. "I love you. I always have and always will, my Own, my Chosen. You feel so good." Vincent sucked gently on his mate's ear lobe and his fingers moved to tease Wyl's nipple, knowing it would send delicate tendrils of sensation down to his lover's groin. "So do you," Wyl groaned. His lover holding his hip, Wyl felt Vincent begin to press more forcefully against his entrance. Wyl pushed back, relaxing himself to accept his mate. The blunt head of Vincent's flesh pushed inside him to a groan from them both. Wyl released a sigh of joy and thrust back, taking more of his lover's hardness inside himself. He moaned Vincent's name, his breath coming in shallow pants. It felt good and then perfect as Vincent thrust a tiny bit further and came to rest, his heavy sac pressed up against the curve of Wyl's cheeks, his arm around Wyl's waist. "Oh, Vincent," Wyl breathed. "My love," the older Vampire murmured licking and nibbling at his Chosen's throat. He was simply content for the moment to enjoy the erotic rippling of his lover's sheath around his solid shaft. With a sigh Wyl relaxed even further. There was something tender as well as erotic in the way Vincent's long fingers cradled and caressed his intimate flesh. His lover's thumb gently stroked over the sensitive head, probing the slit to encourage pre-come. He watched enraptured as Vincent massaged his swelling flesh, teasing it to complete fullness. Wyl reached down and entwined his fingers with Vincent's, ensuring his dominant mate continued to control the movements. He felt almost dizzy with something far more profound than arousal and he knew Vincent felt it too. For the moment nothing else existed outside their joined bodies and the love they shared. The slow caresses continued as Vincent remained unmoving inside Wyl and it left the younger vampire incredibly aroused. He could feel the pleasure permeating his body, centring in the gentle touches to his rampantly-hard sex and radiating outwards, enveloping all in its path. His release was inexorably building, the orbs becoming high and hard in his sac and yet Vincent remained unmoving except for the slow, gentle motion of his hand. Wyl whimpered as he recognised the insistent throb in his achingly hard flesh. With a cry of fulfilment, his sex erupted white, wet heat which coated Vincent's still-stroking hand and Wyl's trembling stomach. The movements of his mate's hand only ceased when Wyl was fully drained and he had softened. Vampires and Lovers Ch. 07 Behind him, still buried deep in his Chosen's incendiary heat, Vincent sighed and pressed soft lips against the back of Wyl's neck. It had taken every ounce of control not to give in to the rhythmical massaging of his erection as Wyl's sheath had contracted and relaxed around him. His hand stroked over his lover's stomach and thighs before cradling Wyl's sensitive, satiated genitals. Only then did Vincent begin to move his hips in time to an ancient rhythm. With a soft sound of pleasure Wyl felt his body reacting to Vincent, becoming aroused once more. He moaned encouragingly as Vincent's lips and teeth worried at the juncture of his neck and shoulder, further increasing his excitement. His lover's hips were moving faster, hitting his sweet spot with every thrust. The insistent jolts brought Wyl closer to a second climax. He moaned, feeling behind the physical sensation, the soul-deep emotional connection that was even stronger since their recent ordeal. He closed his eyes and relaxed, giving full control willingly to Vincent. "I love you, Vincent. I love you so much," he whispered. When his climax came, it was in tandem with his lover. His own pleasure was enhanced by the eruption of Vincent's shaft. He whimpered as pulse after pulse of his mate's hot seed jetted deep inside him, filling him with Vincent's living essence. He heard the soft groan of his name as the older Vampire tenderly milked Wyl's organ of a second release and his channel contracted around his lover's unyielding flesh. "Feed from me," Wyl murmured, too satiated to consider trying to move. He gave a soft cry of delight as he felt the barest prick of sharp teeth against his throat and his lover's gentle suckling. "Love you," he sighed as he felt the soft tongue lave his skin. "I love you, my precious Own. I love you so very much. Are you comfortable here like this? Would you be happy sleeping here tonight? We can stay in the village if you'd rather," the blond vampire added. From his spot cradled against Vincent's body, Wyl gave consideration to the question. The jungle floor Vincent had selected was soft and they were comparatively sheltered. "Mmm, very," Wyl replied. He entwined his fingers with Vincent's as they lay across his waist. "Here would be a good place," he murmured. "I think Delfin will prefer to be outside. He doesn't have the opportunity like this back home." Vincent nuzzled at Wyl's neck contentedly. Despite the circumstances of the need for them to be there, at that moment he was utterly content as he lay still half hard and buried in the haven of his Chosen's body. There was no sense of danger and the scents surrounding him were sated Wyl and the clean, fresh scents of the jungle. He intended to savour moments like this to their fullest. **** Seamus knew that the other couples had found their special places for making love and he wanted nothing more than to be just as close to Delfin. He lowered them to the floor, their lips met and parted, and Seamus' tongue was inside that deliciousness. They lay on soft leaves, arms and legs entwining, gentle moans falling from each man's lips. It didn't take Delfin long to get Seamus unclothed and his own light clothing vanished equally quickly. They rolled, laughing, kissing and exploring. Delfin broke the kiss and urged Seamus to carry him high into the overhead canopy of branches. He grinned triumphantly as he displayed the platform-like arrangement of thick branches that would allow them to sleep in the bough of the tree. "Many of the trees grow this way," he grinned with delight. "It's just perfect," he announced. Not wanting to wait a moment longer Seamus enfolded Delfin's lithe body and drew the Dryad to lie with him. Their passion grew, moans growing more desperate as their needs escalated. Delfin wound his legs around Seamus' waist, clinging with all his strength, bringing Seamus' shaft into contact with his weeping entrance. In reply Seamus gently began to prepare the young Dryad, kissing him softly, needily, as his fingers worked inside the dilating channel, encouraging the tight rosette to bloom. He smiled tenderly as the exquisite green eyes darkened to an almost midnight-hued, desire-induced shade. "I love you," Seamus whispered as he slid into the haven of his Chosen's velvet heat. For a moment, time froze. Each man gazed into the eyes of the other, seeing love reflected back, and they smiled. "I love you, Seamus," Delfin moaned as unyielding flesh possessed him. He clenched his muscles around it, relishing the groan from his older lover. Soon both were lost their rhythm, bodies moving easily, hungrily, urgently. Delfin's hands roamed over Seamus' body, lifting his hips to meet his lover's deep, slow thrusts. In response Seamus moved faster and harder. Delfin moaned appreciatively as his lover dropped his head and melded his lips to the Dryad's. The Vampire's tongue thrust deeply, matching the thrusting of his body. It was exquisite, it was ecstasy and both wanted to prolong the pleasure as much as possible. Despite their precarious perch, Seamus rolled their bodies so that his beautiful Dryad now straddled him. With a soft cry Delfin rose and fell to meet his lover's moves. He was always eager, excited, desperate to have as much of his mate in him as possible. As Seamus jabbed with his hips, Delfin slid up and down the Vampire's rigid rod. It seemed to the younger male as though Seamus wanted to crawl inside Delfin's skin. As their climax built, both men felt heat, arousal and need swirl around them. Dryad and Vampire each sought out the nipples of the other, caressing and tugging to exponentially increasing cries of impending climax. Delfin came hard, arching his back which forced his body harder onto rigid flesh. As his channel began to contract and relax he gave another cry of Seamus' name as his lover emptied himself deep into the Dryad. Seamus let his lover's body slump into his arms welcoming the weight of his satiated Dryad. The Vampire's fingers buried themselves in thick, lustrous hair as he kissed his lover tenderly. **** Reluctantly, Seamus roused his lover and they descended to the ground. Delfin, finding their discarded clothing, sighed his contentment. For him, this place was just another forest, hotter and more humid than the one of his childhood, but a place where he felt at home. He hoped they would find whatever threatened the peace and tranquillity quickly. He smiled as the other couples meandered slowly to join them. "It's beautiful here isn't it?" he asked Wyl. "Very," the lithe brunette replied. "Let's get back to the village," Seamus said. "They may be worrying." As they returned they were welcomed by the whole village who were gathered in a large circle to join in the meal prepared. As they ate, Seamus told a couple of tales which Kuyani translated and which held the villagers enthralled. The time passed quickly and pleasantly for all. The meal with the villagers concluded, and Vincent was the first to rise, wanting to lead his lover away from the small gathering of huts. He knew that none of his Family would wish to remain indoors when the jungle could provide places they could rest in comfortably, and have the privacy they desired. "There is a small river over there," Kuyani said, pointing to the east of the village. "We use it for washing and bathing. Please ensure you bath downstream," he added. "It is also our source of fresh water." "Thank you," Seamus said. "If you will excuse us," Gabriel said to Wamani and Kuyani. "We need to rest and ready ourselves for tomorrow." **** Bearing Kuyani's words in mind, as dawn began to paint the sky with the first brushstrokes of orange, Vincent and the others enjoyed an exhilarating swim in the river. Like the vampires, Delfin's skin began to instantly dry as he left the water. Laughter accompanied Gabriel bounding between David, Wyl and Delfin, shaking his furred body like a wolf, and showering the three young men with myriad droplets. Clean and refreshed, the Family headed to the village to meet up with Kuyani. The canopy of foliage above them provided shelter for the Vampires as the group began the trek to where the students and teachers had vanished. Although Wyl had never set foot in a jungle before he had at least seen it on TV and read about it in books, however, it was all a bright, new and exciting world to Delfin. Seamus and the others delighted in pointing out and explaining things to the two youngest of their group. They soon reached the camp and Wyl looked sadly around. It was like finding a land version of the 'Marie Celeste'. The camp looked as though its inhabitants would return at any moment. He gave a sad smile as Vincent drew him into a tight embrace. "We'll find out who is responsible for this and make sure they cannot do it again, love," Vincent promised. He kissed his lover tenderly as they resumed what proved to be a fruitless search of the camp. "Anything, Petal?" queried Seamus as his mate wandered in and out of the trees around the camp. "They are very drowsy, not used to really taking notice of what is going on," Delfin said with a frustrated sigh. "They are confused though. All I can understand is something that is part of the jungle and yet not is around and nothing is safe." "Yet another enigma," Gabriel growled. "I can find traces of their scents, but nothing leads away from here and no scent of anything else exists. "These look like large molehills," Wyl pointed out. He and David were standing and staring at a few raised mounds of earth. "It's as though they just vanished off the face of the Earth," David said, shaking his head. "It's a puzzle alright." The blond Vampire rose slowly into the air, examining the branches of the trees. Nothing seemed out of place there, nothing caught in the leaves, no broken branches that might indicate an aerial attack. He lowered himself back to the ground looking as frustrated as he felt. There was nothing indicated by Wyl's ability, nor Delfin's and they were as much without a clue to what had happened after several hours as when they had begun. "We're getting nowhere," Seamus sighed. "Let's return to the village and begin again tomorrow." As the Family began their walk back, no one noticed the foliage, just a few inches above ground level, part as if disturbed by some living entity before it returned to its original position. **** It was a far more sombre occasion in the village. The lack of success showing clearly on the men's faces as they returned to Kuyani's hut. "It is early days, my friends," Kuyani said reassuringly. "I have no doubts you will uncover the mystery." "Thank you for your faith," Seamus replied, giving a small smile. "I know good men when I see them," Kuyani countered. "As my village has faith in me, so I have faith in you. As and when you need me, or my people, we will be there for you." The group sat together, simply talking quietly, hoping that something one of them had seen might prove to be a clue. However, no one seemed to have found anything that looked or felt out of place or gave anyone undue cause for concern. "Walk with me?" Gabriel asked of his mate as he stood and held out his hand. "Of course," the blond replied. He gave a smile at the rest of his Family as they left the hut. Gabriel was silent as they walked hand-in-hand and David quietly regarded his mate from the corners of his eye. "What is it, my love?" he asked softly. "It doesn't make sense that the scent of the humans just disappeared," Gabriel growled. "I should have been able to track where they went." "Unless they were taken upwards," David suggested. "You want us to go back there?" he asked. "We see as well in the dark as in the day," Gabriel replied. "I'd like to try again; perhaps you could take me up into the trees and see if I can scent anything there." "Should we not let the others know?" the blond queried as Gabriel's step became longer and more determined. "We won't be gone that long," the Lycan replied. They quickly returned to the campsite. Gabriel reverted to his more wolf-like form, dropping to all-fours, his nose pressed closely to the ground searching out the strongest scents. As he did, David arose into the trees. The blond moved silently through the treetops using his own sense of smell to see if he could identify anything that did not belong there but shook his head after several fruitless minutes of circling around. He slowly descended, still focusing on the trees until his feet touched ground once more. "Nothing," he said. He frowned as no reply came from his mate. He suddenly realised that all was silent; no sounds of Gabriel or of the jungle were evident. "Gabriel?" he called softly wondering briefly if his mate was teasing him in some way, ready to pounce. "Gabriel?" he repeated, concern creeping into his voice. A soft rustle alerted him to the fact he was not alone. He moved instantly into a fighting stance, his body making the instant change in response to impending danger. The blond glanced around, ready to attack. He felt something touch his leg, but before he could take to the air, both legs were rapidly encircled by what seemed to be a scaled tentacle. Before he could raise a shout of alarm, a similar tentacle encircled his head thrusting into his mouth, cutting off any attempt at sound and another pinioned his arms to his sides. Struggling furiously but futilely, David was dragged along the floor for several yards by whatever held him captive. He had time enough to realise he was starting to be pulled into the ground before a succession of sharp, agonising stings penetrated his throat and chest. He felt his consciousness begin to waver. He tried to resist, but another couple of stings to his thighs and he was unconscious before he was fully dragged beneath the ground. A small molehill of earth was the only evidence of his passing. **** As Seamus awoke with an armful of warm, drowsy Dryad, he smiled and nuzzled the younger man's neck, licking and nibbling as Delfin giggled and writhed in his arms. Seamus had waited so long to have his Chosen, but, as he gazed into emerald eyes filled with love, he would not change a single second of that wait. It was worth it all to have the beautiful nymph. "Good morning, my love," he murmured, nipping at the sensitive tip of Delfin's elegant, upswept ear. "Morning," Delfin purred as his husband's teeth worried at his sensitive eartips. It was almost easy to forget that they were not at home in the rooftop arboretum his mate had created for him. However, before they could become any more intimate, Vincent's concerned voice rose up from the base of their tree. "Seamus, Delfin, there's no sign of David or Gabriel. They never returned to the village last night and haven't been seen this morning." Unhesitatingly, Seamus wrapped an arm around Delfin and they were both standing next to Vincent in seconds. He stared into Vincent's concerned eyes. "Nothing?" he asked, grimacing at the shake of the other Vampire's head. "How can a Lycan and Vampire just vanish?" "They can't," Vincent growled. "They were taken, somehow." "Where is Wyl?" asked Delfin softly. "With Kuyani," Vincent replied. "A couple of his warriors are over there. If you're going to join Wyl, go with them. I can't think of anything that could have taken both a Lycan and a Vampire together, so I'm assuming they were separated somehow. I don't want anyone left alone." "A sensible precaution," Seamus nodded. "Let's all join Wyl and then decide on a plan of action." As they entered Kuyani's hut, Wyl moved to bury himself in his lover's arms. He could scarcely believe both David and Gabriel were missing. He eased away from Vincent's embrace knowing they had to devote themselves to locating their missing family. He managed a smile as Delfin came and clasped his hand, the gesture welcomed by the young Vampire. "Sorry to inform you that my warriors have found nothing," the Shaman said sadly. "They found no trace of David or Gabriel, no signs of any disturbance. They, like those who preceded them, seem to have just vanished from the face of the Earth." "And, like those that proceeded them, we will find them," Vincent growled. **** Despite the best efforts of everyone, as evening began to fall David and Gabriel remained missing. This time no one separated to sleep; the four men remained together. Seamus waited until he was certain his lover was asleep and then slipped from his Chosen's side to sit outside the hut where he could look out into the jungle or see inside where Delfin, Vincent and Wyl slept. Movement caught his eyes and he was unsurprised that Vincent silently made his way to sit beside him. "Something is hiding them," Vincent said, his voice too quiet for normal human ears. "We know they are not dead, but we cannot be sure they are still here." "True. But if not here, then where? There has to be something we missed. There must be some clue at the camp site. That was the first place that several went missing. We must have overlooked something." "At first light we go back there and go over every inch of that site and its surroundings," Vincent said determinedly. **** Seamus waited until Kuyani and his village had awoken and then returned to the campsite. As Vincent and Wyl scoured the ground inch-by-inch, Seamus rose up into the canopy of tree branches, accompanied by Delfin. Kuyani and his warriors began at the perimeter of the camp, edging outwards and everyone's attention was focused on finding something that might have hitherto been overlooked. As it headed towards midday, Seamus insisted Kuyani and his warriors return to the village to rest and eat before resuming the painstaking search. He looked over at Vincent and Wyl. The youngest Vampire was standing, his eyes closed as if lost in a world of his own. "Here, Vincent," Seamus heard Wyl's voice drift over. "Every time I focus on David and Gabriel I come back here." "Seamus." The sound of Delfin's voice had the blond Vampire turn as the Dryad emerged from the tree behind him. "This one is saying something about a cave." "We haven't come across a cave," Seamus said, his brow furrowing. "It's that way," Delfin pointed. "I can't judge how far." "It's worth investigating," said Vincent. 'We're getting nowhere in the camp. Nothing seems to make any sense." The group moved slowly, still trying to see, hear or feel something out of place. As they emerged into a small clearing, a large hillock became visible. A large boulder that was a quarter of the size of it was in front. Vincent looked at it, his eyes narrowing. "Does it look as promising to you as it does to me?" he heard Seamus ask beside him. "There has to be an entrance behind it. Kuyani's people may not have realised that behind this there could be a created doorway into the hillside," Vincent replied. "A perfect place for someone to be active and yet remain hidden. Wyl, love," he added turning to his Chosen. "Do you feel anything now?" Wyl concentrated hard. There was little anyone could do to help him develop his talent. It would strengthen with use. He face furrowed in a frown. There was something. "It's so faint," Wyl murmured. "But there is the slightest sensation." "Shielding of some kind?" Seamus asked. "No," Wyl replied abstractly, his eyes still closed as he searched for a way to explain the feeling. "As if there is little left, almost gone, just a thin thread remaining," Wyl answered. He looked apologetically at the others. "It's hard to find the right words," he sighed. Without hesitation, Vincent drew the lithe body into his arms. "Something lurks behind that rock," he said. "We know that because you can sense it. That alone is enough, Wyl. Don't ever apologise for the way your gift works." He kissed the now smiling lips. "Between us we should be able to move that rock," he added. "Once it's moved, Delfin, have your knives ready." Vampires and Lovers Ch. 07 "Yes, Vincent," the Dryad nodded, earning a smile of approval from Seamus who stood beside him. He watched as the three Vampires morphed, teeth and claws descending, and he reached without conscious thought for the knives he carried at his back. Between them, Vincent, Seamus and Wyl easily rolled the stone away. The stench of rotting flesh assailed them, Delfin giving a soft, distressed sound in response to the foul smell. He was grateful to his lover for the tight embrace and soft crooning assurances. He smiled into the aquamarine eyes he loved. "I'm alright now," he assured. "It was just a shock." "I'm sorry, Petal," Seamus said. "It seems that some kind of spell ensured even our senses of smell could not detect what was hidden behind the boulder. We're on the right track." "I'm ready," Delfin said determinedly. Seamus and Vincent went ahead, Delfin just behind them and Wyl last of all. They passed bones and dried corpses of small animals and then some larger ones as if whatever had killed them had progressed or grown in some indefinable and horrifying way. Seamus and Vincent examined the husks closely. They had been drained rather than eaten. They began to move forward again, their preternatural senses trying futilely to penetrate the suffocating darkness. The passageway led not inwards, but downwards in a spiral. Then it began to move in a straight line. They remained silent not knowing how long it would take to reach their destination or what it would bring. Occasionally tree roots penetrated through the tunnel they traversed, reaching downwards like clawed and grasping fingers. The tunnel was clearly not a natural occurrence. The walls had been smoothed to create a passageway down inside the earth. Wyl gave a slight shiver. Whatever vague chill he has sensed before had gained a little strength. Yet although he was certain they were headed towards it, it was still very weak. That was no reassurance to the young Vampire. Even if what he felt was faint, it did not follow that their unknown adversary was weak. It took something exceptionally dangerous to cause both a Lycan and Vampire to vanish without trace. The stench had not abated, but Wyl was becoming successful at tuning it out. Husks of bodies were a constant as they walked and Wyl wondered just how long their adversary had been killing and what its ultimate aim was. Human remains joined those of animal bodies and the group now knew the fate of the students and teachers. As light became visible in the darkness, the group moved with even greater caution. Noiselessly they headed toward the expanding pinprick of light. The four men stopped. Vincent and Seamus rose silently and eased forward to peer from the underside of the tunnel's roof to look inside the chamber that opened before them. **** Smothered sounds of grief and distress greeted the sight of David and Gabriel. Each man hung limply, their upper bodies wrapped in vines which also seemed to be supporting them above the ground. Similar, finer vines were wrapped around their throats. Neither man was conscious; their bodies so still that it would be easy to think that life had already left them. There was another body which hung next to them. One so wizened and withered that it was almost beyond belief it could still be alive, but the group's preternatural senses registered faint, if slightly erratic, life signs. Wyl smothered the cry that rose unbidden in his throat and clasped the hand that Delfin pressed into his, squeezing gently to reassure the young Dryad. He cast desperate eyes at Vincent who indicated they should wait a few seconds more. He gazed at the cavern before them. It was as created as the tunnel. There were trestle tables with various kinds of chemical apparatus set up, but it looked as if it had been unused for some time. Tubes and beakers held nothing but stains where unknown liquids had dried and a layer of dust covered everything. The only thing that looked thriving was a large, ugly plant. Its aerial roots were penetrating the cave walls growing from a body which had the appearance of an enormous rhizome. More of the kind of tendrils or vines that had been used to secure the prisoners extended from the plant's tuber-like body. Also rising from it were creepers that held smaller versions of the plant as if it was budding. Without knowing why, Wyl shuddered at the sight of it. "I can't detect any others hiding in there," Seamus whispered. "Let's go." Dropping to the floor Vincent and Seamus, followed by Wyl and Delfin, ran forward. Seamus headed to Gabriel and Wyl to David as something caught Vincent's eye and he faltered to a stop causing Delfin to also halt. "What is it?" the Dryad whispered, looking around. "Something moved," Vincent replied, his own voice almost sub-vocal. "Wyl, Seamus, look out!" he shouted, but too late. Thick vines, like scaled tentacles, snapped out from the body of the plant enveloping the two Vampires. It took only seconds for Vincent to realise that this was how David and Gabriel must have been caught as the vines wrapped around the others, rendering them helpless. "Seamus," Delfin shouted, taking a step forward. As he did he was shoved aside by Vincent as the blond vampire rose into the air. As the two men separated, a vine surged between them. "I think it reacts to sound or vibration," Vincent shouted. "I'll distract it while you find some tree roots and get out of here. We have to retreat for now or we'll all end up like David and Gabriel." Delfin wanted to argue, but as he looked up at Vincent's face, he saw the grief and despair. The blond had no more desire to leave his Chosen than Delfin did Seamus. Instead he nodded and raced for the tunnel. Although he could hear Vincent making noise and his own feet fell only lightly, Delfin could hear a vine slithering behind him. He gave a sob of relief as he saw thick roots in the tunnel's roof ahead and, with an agile leap, he dived into the tree. As he raced up towards the branches, Delfin shuddered as he heard the vine strike at the tree as if furious that its prey had escaped. He emerged in the topmost canopy and retraced his way between the trees until he could see the entrance to the cave. He waited, his body trembling, until with a cry of Vincent's name he ran to be enveloped in the older Vampire's arms and lifted away from the cave. He clutched tightly to Vincent, praying the older man would know what to do. **** At the sight of just two returning to his village, Kuyani was shocked. He issued orders to his warriors to be alert and on guard and gathered the women and children into one area for easier protection. He had no idea what could have so easily bested three Vampires and the Dryad and hoped that his powers would be enough to keep his people safe. "Do you need anything?" he asked as Vincent landed beside him, not relinquishing his grip on the trembling Nymph. "What happened?" "Our adversary is some kind of plant life," Vincent growled. "But nothing that has been grown naturally or behaves as such." "Neither Seamus nor Wyl could break free of its vines," Delfin added. "It had Gabriel and David, too." He took a deep breath to steady himself as he was released by the blond Vampire who began pacing. "There is nothing that occurs naturally in your world that could render both Vampires and Lycans helpless. Not without some kind of involvement from us," Vincent added. "We have to find some way to defeat this thing and rescue our family." "What can destroy such a creature?" asked Kuyani. He looked over at Vincent as the blond man seemed fascinated by the flames of the fire around which some of his warriors sat. "Fire?" he queried, looking hopeful. "Seamus said you were a Shaman, Kuyani," Vincent said, whirling around to face the other man. "Do you have any spell-caster abilities?" "I have some," Kuyani said slowly. "I have no way of determining how strong they are." "Would you be willing to accompany us and add your power to that of flame? Even if we can do no more at this time than free our family, we have to attempt it. A Vampire can exist for a long time if drained slowly and we have no idea how our blood might add to its power." "It is not intelligent," Delfin offered. "If it had been alert I would have felt it." "There was another prisoner there," Vincent said thoughtfully. "Perhaps he was more than he seemed. I have an idea, Kuyani." **** At first light, Vincent put his plan into operation. Throughout the latter part of the night he had transported a good number of Kuyani's warriors into the trees around the deserted camp site. He gave each of them a plentiful supply of rocks. These were to be thrown to the ground individually to imitate something moving around the campsite. This was his intended diversionary tactic as Delfin, Kuyani and he would enter the cavern below ground in an attempt to both rescue their family and destroy the unnatural plant. **** As Delfin made his way through the trees to enter the cavern the way he had left it the previous day, Vincent carried Kuyani and flew in through the cave entrance. Kuyani carried an unlit torch and Vincent could hear the Shaman chanting softly as they approached where their adversary waited. He slowed and, with infinite care, lowered Kuyani to the floor facing the plant. Kuyani glanced over at the unmoving bodies, connected to the creature by its tendrils and shuddered. He wondered if they were aware of what was happening and prayed they did not. The man closest to the plant did look vaguely familiar, but with such a shrunken, wizened face he could not be completely certain it was the same man. Nor could he feel the same power from the man, although something tingled at the periphery of his instincts. His eyes moved to the rhizome that looked so innocent and yet was clearly so deadly. He recognised the pods that heralded that the creature was producing more of its kind. He gave a shudder at the thought of dozens of the plants rooting themselves in his jungle. Nothing and no one would be safe if the plant was allowed to reproduce. "When Delfin starts slicing through the vines holding our family, I will fly them out," Vincent's voice from behind and above him had the Shaman turn his head. "As we do, use your flame and let us hope it's enough to at least buy us time to free everyone. Are you ready, Delfin?" he asked the Dryad in his arms. "I will start with David and Gabriel," Delfin said determinedly. As tempting as it was for the nymph to think firstly of Seamus, his friends had been in the creature's grip longest. As Vincent set him down, he pulled out his knives and then watched as Vincent morphed, the blond's teeth and claws extending as they readied to fight their adversary. He nodded to the Vampire and then to Kuyani and then moved. His knives effortlessly sliced through the vines holding David and Gabriel. Before their bodies could fall to the ground, Vincent had swooped in a fury of teeth and claws to carry them from the cavern. More tentacles snaked forward, blindly seeking the source of the attack. As they did, Kuyani murmured a few words and his torch blazed to life. He pointed it at the rhizome and the flames flew forward, enveloping the creature. The body of the plant began to glow as if trying to repulse the flame, but it seemed to be having the desire effect on the tendrils. They began to flop and writhe harmlessly on the ground as if all the plant was able to focus upon was protecting its main body and the vines with its pods. Leaving Kuyani to continue chanting the mantra to keep the flame blazing strongly, Delfin moved and sliced through the vines holding his husband and Wyl. He wished he could hold his lover but knew that such a luxury would have to wait. He gave an exclamation of disgust as a vine flopped over his foot. He slashed at the creeper angrily. Glancing back as he heard Vincent return, he was relieved at the sight of Seamus and Wyl being carried to safety. He then turned his attention to the last captive. The Dryad sliced through the tendrils and gave a cry of shock as the man's eyes opened. The mouth moved, but Delfin could not work out the words. Bending closer, he leant over the shrunken body. "Kill me." The voice was a dry as the rustle of dead leaves and the young Dryad went to jump back, but was held by a hand of deceptive strength. "It's using my magic to repel the flames. I can't destroy it myself and you won't unless you kill me. Do it. Let me finally die; please give me peace." Although it went against all of Delfin's natural instincts to kill someone in cold blood, the Dryad knew what had to be done. Mouthing an apology that he knew was unlikely to be heard; he brought his training to bear. In a single, swift thrust he buried his knife deep into the man's heart. The body jerked once before going limp. "The fire has broken though!" Kuyani's triumphant yell followed a second or two later and Delfin turned to see the Shaman's flames finally beginning to consume to body of the plant. The rhizome body and the pods were no longer able to resist and shrivelled under the Shaman's relentless onslaught. "Burn everything, Kuyani," Vincent said as he returned from leaving Wyl and Seamus with the still-unresponsive David and Gabriel. He watched with grim satisfaction as the plant burnt before his eyes. "There's little more you can do here, Delfin," he added, turning to the nymph. "Go back to our hut and try and get Seamus and Wyl to feed from you. As soon as I return with Kuyani, I will do the same for David and Gabriel." "Take care, Vincent," Delfin said, hugging the blond Vampire tightly. "I will not be satisfied until I have seen everything in here burnt to ashes," Vincent said to the Shaman. "Nor I," Kuyani agreed through gritted teeth. Finally the Shaman dropped his arms in exhaustion. As he stood, panting as if he had run for miles, he watched Vincent pick his way through the ashes. The Vampire's eyes flitted over everything as he stalked around the charred remnants of the laboratory. "Is it done?" he asked. "I believe so," Vincent replied. "But it will not hurt to check one more time." **** Delfin left his friends and ran rapidly to the tree roots through which he had escaped previously. Ascending to the branches, he sped from tree to tree until the village came into sight. Dropping downward, he leapt lithely to race into their hut. He stopped and stared at his family lying so lifeless and still. Although Vincent had suggested he start with his own husband, Delfin selflessly nipped at his wrist and pressed it to David's lips first. He gave a delighted smile as he saw the bruised, too-pale throat make the tiniest swallowing motion. He hoped it boded well. He moved to take the same care of Gabriel. Once done he gave a few seconds thought to the fact his Bonded friends lay side-by-side. He eased David closer to Gabriel and positioned them so that the slender blond now had his head on his mate's shoulder and his arm across the Lycan's chest. In his turn, Gabriel was moved so he had an arm draped over David's waist. "Good thinking, Delfin. Their closeness may help." "I wanted to take care of them first," Delfin said, as he turned, blushing at Vincent's words of praise. "Give me a hand with Seamus," Vincent said. "Once we have got him to feed you can settle with him. He and Wyl were in the creature's captivity the least and will hopefully revive quickly." Trying not to be overly anxious as he watched Vincent lift his wrist to Seamus' mouth, the young Dryad could not help but give a small, choked sound of relief when his lover accepted the offering. As soon as Vincent decided that Seamus had taken enough, he smiled at the Dryad and moved over to his own beloved Chosen. "I'll stay awake if you want to rest, Delfin," he offered as he watched the Dryad nestle against Seamus, the younger man's jade eyes reflecting exhaustion as well as anxiousness. "I'm sure the minute Seamus moves you'll be wide awake, and I can keep an eye on David and Gabriel. I'll wake you if I need you," he added, hoping the Nymph would take him up on his offer. "Thank you, Vincent," Delfin said around a barely concealed yawn. "I hope and pray they awaken soon." "Try to rest," the Vampire urged. He nipped at his wrist once more, urging his Chosen to take the offering. Although he felt some relief at seeing his mate swallow, the blond would not be happy until Wyl's eyes opened. Licking closed his small wounds, he began his solitary vigil. **** Time seemed to pass with interminable slowness for Vincent. Seconds felt like hours and hours like days as he watched and waited for some self-initiated movement that indicated Wyl was recovering. Each time the insidious thought that this might remain a permanent state for his lover and his family tried to raise its head, Vincent shoved it brutally aside. He could not, would not, accept that they were not going to fully recover. Eventually his unceasing vigil was rewarded. Wyl's eyelids fluttered and he made small movements as if trying to free himself from unseen bonds. Vincent made a sub vocal sob of relief and began to pepper Wyl's face with kisses. Then he pressed his lips to Wyl's ear. "Relax, my Own," he whispered. "You are free and safe in my arms. Rest a little more, gather your strength. Feed from me, love." He nipped his wrist and pressed it to Wyl's lips, elation coursing through him at the stronger reaction from the younger man. "Sleep, Wyl," he whispered kissing his lover's temple. "When you wake again you will be stronger." Once certain his mate was sleeping, Vincent rose silently. Delfin was sleeping, burrowed tightly against Seamus. Vincent knew that the older Vampire would be conserving his strength and letting the effects of whatever poison had incapacitated him fade before attempting to wake. Settling beside Gabriel and David, he nipped his wrist and let the Lycan and Vampire feed. Closing the small wounds, he made a slight change to the positions of his friends. He pulled David's shirt up so that Gabriel's hand touched smooth, pale skin and opened the Lycan's shirt to place the blond's hand over his mate's furred breast. He hoped the feel of each other would help them. Casting a last glance at Seamus and Gabriel, Vincent settled with his Chosen, opening his own shirt so that Wyl's head nestled in the crook of his neck and shoulder. He wrapped his arms tightly around the lithe frame and let himself drift a little. However, part of him remained alert and on guard. **** The low groan from Seamus had Vincent and Delfin awake and alert instantaneously. Vincent eased away from Wyl to kneel next to Seamus as Delfin leant over his slowly waking lover. "Seamus?" the Dryad whispered tremulously. "Feels like a horde of elephants trampled me," the vampire groaned, his voice husky. He forced open his eyes and saw the anxious look in his Chosen's verdant eyes. "I'm fine, Petal," he added. "I just need a little more time. How are the others?" he asked as he wrapped his arms around his lover. "Wyl has tried to wake but it was too soon," Vincent replied. "Nothing yet from David or Gabriel, although I think they fed a little more strongly." "Is it over?" Seamus asked, needing to know if the nightmare creature still existed. "It's over," Vincent asserted. "The thing was destroyed and I checked that lab thoroughly. Nothing remained." "It took strength from the other man," Delfin supplied, looking at his lover with tear-sheened eyes. "While he lived it drew power from him. I...I had to kill him. It was what he wanted," the Dryad added. "You did the right thing, Petal," Seamus assured seeing the worry in the young nymph's eyes. "Will you hold me while I rest a little more?" he added. Vampires and Lovers Ch. 07 "Of course," Delfin said, cradling the blond body close to his. Vincent nodded at Seamus and moved to check on David and Gabriel. He smiled knowingly as he glanced back at Delfin. Seamus had seamlessly ensured the Dryad's attention was fixed on his husband and not on the horrors of the lab. He checked his friends carefully. He was certain some of the bruising was healing and Gabriel seemed to have a little more colour. He let them feed once more, pleased to feel them participate more actively before resuming his place at Wyl's side. **** It was a few hours later, as Seamus was sitting up enjoying the feel of his lover's nimble fingers massaging his neck and shoulders, that he and Delfin heard a soft groan from Wyl. Vampire and Dryad immediately looked over towards the recumbent brunette. "Vincent?" Wyl was surprised at the hoarseness of his voice. He ached all over as if he had a bad dose of flu. He gave a smile as his lover's face appeared immediately. "How do you feel, love?" came the concerned voice. "Achy," Wyl admitted. "Just like me," Seamus said, moving into Wyl's line of vision. He grinned at the smile from the younger Vampire. "Welcome back." "Gabriel, David," Wyl said trying to look around and groaning as muscles protested their use. "Still unconscious but feeding more strongly," Vincent assured. "Delfin and I are going to take a short walk to help limber me up," Seamus said as he eased to his feet. A massage definitely helps with the aching muscles," the blond added. Vincent smiled at the backs of the couple as they ambled slowly out of the hut. He was quite certain they wanted privacy, rather than a simple walk. He leant over his mate and kissed Wyl tenderly. He was overjoyed to feel his lover's tongue slide into his mouth and their agile muscles entwined sensuously. "Would you like a massage while the others are gone?" he purred into Wyl's ear as the kiss ended. "Yes." Wyl's voice was a soft moan and he gazed up at his lover. "Please," he added. **** "I'm not up to flying yet, Petal," Seamus said as he walked with his beloved Dryad. "But I want to make love with you." Delfin' heart leapt with love, joy and relief at Seamus' declaration. He stopped and turned, pulling the Vampire close for a passionate kiss that the blond eagerly reciprocated. "Show me how much you want me," Delfin whispered between kisses. He allowed himself to be edged backwards, certain his husband had spotted somewhere safe and comfortable. Delfin loved the sensation of Seamus' weight on top of him, pressing him into the soft foliage the sharp-eyed Vampire had spotted. It was as reassuring as it was arousing. He felt as if he was melting from the heat of Seamus' passionate kisses, each a little longer, deeper, more demanding than the last. He eagerly opened his mouth to make way for Seamus' questing tongue. His slender fingers carded through the Vampire's hair as Seamus' kisses continued down his neck, sucking and nipping. He groaned needily as Seamus teased his sensitive nipples through his thin tunic. He moaned as Seamus unfastened his leggings and removed them. Then his thighs parted of their own volition as his lover's hand worked its way up his lower leg, moving with teasing-slowness past his knee. "Wait," Delfin urged and Seamus pulled back. His eyes darkened with desire as Delfin pulled off his tunic, leaving himself naked before his mate. "You need to get out of those clothes" Delfin whispered seductively. Seamus grinned, murmuring his assent as he stripped quickly. He still had residual aches, but he was unable to take his eyes off of Delfin's silken flesh laid out before him like a living banquet. Placing his hands on either side of Seamus' face, the Dryad drew his lover down for a long, slow kiss. "Make love to me," he said as they parted to gaze lovingly at one another. "I love you," Seamus said, kneeling completely bare above Delfin and stroking the nymph's long locks away from his face. Delfin spread his legs wider, breathing deeply as he felt Seamus' questing finger circle his most private area before gently pressing inside. The erotic sensation increased as Seamus added a second finger and Delfin elicited the purrs of desire that he knew sent his lover wild. A soft groan escaped Delfin's lips as Seamus twisted and scissored his fingers inside him in order to make his entry easier. As Delfin pulled his lover down for a long, lazy kiss, Seamus' fingers bent and pressed onto the sweet spot deep inside him. Delfin's body jerked helplessly and moans spilled from his lips. Determined to give his lover some pleasure, the Dryad began to massage Seamus' head, neck and shoulders, pleased to hear the Vampire's purrs of pleasure. Seamus kissed Delfin's perfect lips tenderly as his shaft gently nudged his lover's entrance. Smiling, he slowly pushed into the nymph's willing body. He felt Delfin inhale as the Dryad's body stretched to accommodate him, and the beatific smile told him more eloquently than words that his mate felt only pleasure. "Move" Delfin pleaded, shifting his hips to encourage his lover. As Seamus started a slow, steady rhythm, the Dryad was consumed by an almost overwhelming feeling of love and being loved equally in return. Seamus' long, thick shaft was hitting his pleasure centre with every thrust and Delfin knew that if he clenched his inner muscles then his lover occasionally moaned even louder than him. "I love you" Delfin gasped as Seamus played his body like a maestro. "Love you, Petal," Seamus husked as his thrusts became erratic. He grasped his lover's neglected shaft and stroked rapidly. His reward was a sweet cry of his name and his lover's crème pulsing over his hand and their heated bodies. Seamus rode out the initial clenching of the narrow straight and then held still, giving a shout of Delfin's name as he spilled his seed into his lover's still-quivering channel. The Vampire nuzzled at Delfin's throat as his lover came down from his orgasmic high. "Feed from me," Delfin murmured, tilting his head to ensure Seamus had all the access he needed. He hummed his pleasure as Seamus nipped and sucked at his throat. Then his hums became small mewls as Seamus licked down his body and suckled his sated flesh ensuring not a drop of his seed had been missed. Seamus then lay down beside Delfin, pulling his lover's naked body flush against his own. The two gazed into each other's eyes, Seamus' fingers idly gliding over Delfin's face and hair as the Dryad closed his eyes in contentment. "Rest a little, my Own," Seamus murmured. They could not stay away too long. Seamus was certain Vincent would appreciate some time alone with Wyl and David and Gabriel still needed to be cared for. He let his fingers caress Delfin's silken skin. He would be content to just lie for a few quiet, undisturbed moments alongside his precious Dryad. **** It was with a mixture of relief and anxiety that Vincent ceded to Seamus' insistence and ambled outside with Wyl leaning against him. As much as the older Vampire wanted time alone with his Chosen, he still felt he should be with Seamus and Delfin to help care for David and Gabriel. However Seamus had been vocally eloquent and Delfin had all but pushed him and a blushing Wyl out the door. He was grateful to have such a caring family supporting him. He nuzzled at Wyl's temple affectionately as he selected a secluded spot with a soft mound of foliage. "I want you," he husked. His hands were already unfastening Wyl's clothing to lay the younger Vampire naked on the leaves and moss. "I need you, Vincent," Wyl murmured as his lover stripped. His eyes shone with appreciation and anticipation as the muscular form of the older Vampire was revealed. He reached to be able to touch the lightly furred chest and lick the dusky-pink nubs into hardness. He arched his back and gasped with pleasure as Vincent's fingers wrapped around his eager erection. As Wyl gave a sensual shudder, Vincent nipped daintily at the large, dark areolae and peaked espresso nubs as he stroked languidly. He did not want to over-tax his still-recovering young mate. Lowering his mouth, Vincent licked the tip of the engorged shaft and then swirled his tongue slowly around the head to taste the pearlescent droplets of Wyl's desire. "Vincent," Wyl moaned as he writhed beneath his lover. Smiling at the passionate responses from his lover, Vincent took the smooth, slick penis deep into his mouth. He moved in a slow, steady rhythm while stroking his lover's sac with gentle fingers. He heard Wyl moan as Vincent's fingers tangled in his mate's pubic curls, teasing and tugging. Vincent's eyes were dark with more than just desire, as he stared up at Wyl while he made magic with his hands, lips and tongue. Wyl began to thrust up into the hot, wet haven of Vincent's mouth, speeding up as Vincent teased the sensitive flesh gently with his teeth. His fingers continued to manipulate the precious orbs in Wyl's sac and a shudder rocked the brunette from head to toe as he let out a groan of pleasure. Vincent circled Wyl's entrance with a finger, humming as he continued to suck upon his lover. Whimpering needily, Wyl writhed under the masterful ministrations of Vincent's tongue and fingers. His body instinctively tried to move towards the digit that circled his entrance so teasingly, in the attempt to entice Vincent into pressing inside him. Gently, Vincent pushed into Wyl's body, sucking on the quivering shaft demandingly, wanting the younger man to come for him. His heart soared at the sound of bliss that fell from Wyl's lips as his finger slid into his lover's body, the slender hips arching upwards in need. The brunette hair flying as Wyl's head tossed from side to side, the liquid chocolate orbs had closed and his lover whimpered softly. Vincent pushed his finger all the way in and stroked the one spot that he knew would make Wyl fly apart. As Vincent rubbed over his lover's sweet spot, Wyl cried out his name and his sweet nectar pulsed freely into Vincent's demanding maw. Swallowing the torrent greedily, Vincent took every drop of Wyl's come. As he drank the final few drops, he eased his finger from Wyl's body and moved up to hold the young man. Lying beside him, he wrapped his strong arms around the still-trembling body and murmured quietly as Wyl nestled closely against him. "I love you, Wyl." Wyl reached and caressed the face of the man he loved with all his heart and soul. "I love you," Wyl husked as he nuzzled ay Vincent's neck. "Feed from me, my Own," Vincent urged, offering his throat to the younger Vampire. He clutched the lithe form close to his chest as he felt the delicate prink of sharp teeth and the soft sucking that followed. They made no immediate move to separate even after Wyl licked closed the small wounds to Vincent's throat. Although he could feel his lover's erection pressing solidly into him, Wyl knew that the feeling of love, safety and intimacy that they currently shared was what Vincent needed. Finally Vincent rolled onto his back and took Wyl with him, easing the younger man to lie on top of his broader frame. He kissed his lover's addictive lips, lingering softly. His tongue tangled with Wyl's and he groaned deep in the base of his throat, trying to pull the young man even closer to him. His fingers curled into the lush, mahogany tresses, to then traverse Wyl's back massaging, stroking and gripping. "Make love with me," Wyl begged. With a sound of longing and desire, Vincent ground his hips against Wyl's holding the lithe form tightly against his body. Their erections began to rub against each other in an ancient dance of sweet, aching ecstasy. Vincent growled low in his chest, wanting to prolong the moment and ran his hands down smooth skin until he could cup taut globes. He urged Wyl's legs to straddle his body and began a light teasing of the downy declivity. Writhing on top of his mate's body, Wyl nuzzled at the dusting of fur on Vincent's chest and then began to nibble and suck at each irresistible nipple. His hands caressed Vincent's face, neck and shoulders as his hips pushed back to incite the blond's teasing digit to enter him. He groaned with pleasure as Vincent's fingers slid inside him. Vincent rolled their bodies and knelt between Wyl's widespread legs, lifting his lover's hips to rest on his muscular thighs. "Are you ready, my love?" he asked. "Yes," Wyl moaned. The sensation of Vincent's erection pressing against his intimate entrance made him shiver in ecstasy. Wrapping his legs around Vincent's hips, he hitched his pelvis towards the rampant flesh as if trying to impale himself. Pressing against his lover's slick portal, Vincent slowly, gently, inexorably entered Wyl. He watched avidly as the brunette's face reflected his joy at being filled by the older man. The tightness of Wyl's passage made him groan with his own pleasure. As he sank in the last inch, Vincent ensured he was effortlessly positioned to give the most pleasure and then rotated his hips. The dulcet cry of his name from his lover's kiss-swollen lips told him his aim was true. Wyl's head began to thrash rhythmically to the tempo of Vincent's thrusts. The older Vampire was enraptured by the sight of his Chosen, lost in the pleasure he was giving. A triumphant smile lit over Vincent's features. He pulled his hips back and pushed against that sweet spot again, using his greater strength to pull Wyl into every thrust. Incoherent groans left Wyl's throat as Vincent thrust into him. He arched his back and tightened the grip of his legs around Vincent, digging his heels rhythmically into the solid gluteus muscles of the bigger man, urging a faster pace. He used his hips and legs to meet each movement of his mate with one of his own to increase their mutual enjoyment. Heat, like molten flames, raced through his veins and yet a still-greater heat burned at his groin. As if reading his mind, Vincent reached for his neglected erection and stroked it at the same pulse-pounding pace. Wyl smiled as Vincent shifted so that their lips could meld together and their tongues entwine sensually. "Very close, so close, love," Wyl murmured as their kiss ended. His muscles were tight and quivering and he felt as if he was about to erupt from his bliss. "Then come for me," Vincent whispered huskily. He thrust hard and relished the cry of his name as Wyl poured his crème between them, his body almost convulsing with the force of his release. The feel of the clenching channel, the scent of his mate's release and the sight of Wyl's face glowing with his ecstasy were too potent a combination for Vincent to resist. With a primal bellow, he filled Wyl with his seed, his hips snapping in a staccato beat. Finally Vincent wrapped his arms around his young lover, holding him and stroking his flanks as Wyl came down from his euphoric high. Carefully he manoeuvred them, still intimately joined, so that Wyl could rest draped over his chest. "Love you," Wyl murmured, his breath like the touch of a butterfly's wing against Vincent's chest. 'I love you, my Own," Vincent replied, hugging the lithe form. He smiled, nuzzling his lover affectionately as he felt Wyl's body go completely lax against him. As soon as his body slipped from its haven, he would carry his sleeping mate back to the rest of the Family. He did not want to be away from the others too long. In addition, he wanted both of them to be there when David and Gabriel woke. **** At the pained groan in a familiar voice, Wyl's eyes flew open. He quickly realised that he and Vincent were spooned together in their hut. He gave a grateful smile to his lover for carrying him back without waking him, and then scurried forward as everyone gathered around the slowly moving form of David. "David can you hear me?" he asked, leaning over Gabriel's still unmoving frame and peering anxiously at David's face. "I ache like I've been pounded by a jack hammer," David husked. A turquoise eye cracked open to look at the anxious faces gathered around. Although he felt almost too exhausted to make the effort, the blond managed a smile to help reassure his Family that he really was starting to recover. He glanced at his mate, moving fractionally. A low growl emanated from Gabriel's chest and the bigger male's arm clasped tightly around David's slender waist. "I don't think he's out of it fully," David whispered. "He's probably just using scent to recognise familiar things. He must have thought I was going to move," he added smiling affectionately at his mate and snuggling back against the broad, furred chest. "In that case we'll leave you to rest a while longer," murmured Seamus as he shuffled back to leave the couple in peace. As Wyl attempted to do the same, Gabriel's other arm swung to pin him against the Lycan's side as another growl of disapproval had Seamus and Delfin turning to see what was wrong. Wyl tried to look back at Vincent but was kept tight at Gabriel's side as a louder rumble of displeasure was heard. "I think he feels the need to keep his pack safe, Wyl," Seamus grinned. "You were close enough for him to recognise your scent." "Fine by me," Vincent nodded. Without disturbing the Lycan's hold on his Chosen, Vincent spooned tightly behind the lithe form of his mate. He grinned at the huff of contentment from Gabriel as he sensed all was well. "We'll keep watch," Seamus said, settling comfortably to lie with his head in Delfin's lap. "I will keep watch," Delfin asserted. "You need rest, too." Seamus' jade orbs gazed up lovingly into the verdant eyes of his lover and he smiled as slender fingers tenderly caressed his face. "I love you, Delfin," he whispered. "I love you," the Dryad smiled. "Now rest, my love," he added solicitously as he massaged Seamus' temples. "There is nothing for you to worry about. I can rest later." Seamus glanced over at the others. David was already sleeping again as was Wyl. He caught Vincent's eye and smiled at his friend, receiving a nod in response. He let his eyes drift close, knowing that Vincent would remain alert should Delfin need him. He gave a soft sigh. He knew David was well and it seemed Gabriel would be fine, too. He let the gentle caresses of his lover ease him into sleep. It had been close, but they had triumphed. **** It did not take long for Gabriel and David to become more active, their recuperative powers defeating the waning venom in their system. As grateful as they all were for the hospitality shown by Kuyani and the care of their Family, the couple voiced their desire to return home rather than recuperate for any length of time in the village. Once safely home, the three couples hugged and then separated. Seamus and Delfin opted to relax for a while in their rooftop garden, Seamus wanting to pamper his beloved nymph. Vincent and Wyl settled in the living room, content to simply be together in comfort and safety. David and Gabriel retired to their room. Slowly, reverently, the powerful Lycan began to denude his beautiful, blond mate. His large hands tenderly caressed each patch of smooth, naked skin, his lips following until he was kneeling, still fully dressed, in front of David. His tongue lapped at the drops of desire that welled at the head of David's erect shaft. This time the low, rumbling growl was one of passion and possession. Slowly he rose, licking at his mate as he did. Stepping back, Gabriel rapidly stripped, flexing his furred, muscled body. He purposely displayed his powerful physique to arouse his smaller mate, smiling at the way David almost vibrated with barely-restrained fervour as Gabriel teased and tantalised. The Lycan returned his proprietary gaze to his husband and kissed him almost feverishly, thrusting his tongue in and out of the younger man's mouth. In return he felt David slip his arms around his neck and his lover sucked his tongue sensually. Vampires and Lovers Ch. 07 Suddenly, Gabriel swept David into his arms and carried him to their bed. He lay the smaller man down and straddled him. He trailed his fingers teasingly down the Vampire's biceps and forearms and then caught his wrists. Lifting David's arms, Gabriel positioned them over his lover's head to pinion him down even more. He held the blond's wrists with one hand and glided the other between their bodies, down the smooth chest of his mate, over the flat, toned abdomen and began to rim the small indent. Gabriel stared down at David with eyes full of love and desire, his pupils so dilated that they almost hid the blue, and murmured huskily. "I love you so much." "I love you, Gabriel. Always," David vowed. Gabriel nibbled David's ear and nipped at the lobe, sending shivers through his lover's supine body. He released the grip on his mate's wrists and began to stroke David's erection. He felt his lover's fingers grip powerfully at his shoulders as David's hips were unable to follow the enticing rhythm. The Lycan nipped his way down his mate's smooth chest and reached a plump, ripe nipple. The pink bud silently beckoned and, taking it carefully between his teeth, he tugged, matching the rhythm of his strokes. He then sucked and licked the little nub, making it diamond hard under his expert ministrations. Releasing the aching nubbin, Gabriel placed a row of open-mouth kisses to the other, inhaling his lover's scent deeply. Small hands petted restlessly at his furred chest, down his flanks and back up to his shoulders as David made soft, sweet sounds of pleasure. Reaching the other nipple the Lycan bit a little harder making his mate cry out in pleasure. "Gabriel, yes!" Gabriel smiled wolfishly and blew on the tingling nub. He slid his thumb around the crown of David's erect flesh and along the slit, spreading the copious pre-come. His smile widened as David tried to buck against the teasing digit. Moaning non-verbal encouragements to his husband, David ran his hands down Gabriel's spine and cupped the bigger male's solid buttocks, trying to urge Gabriel to do more. His lips were covered by his lover's as the Lycan growled and abandoned the blond's throbbing nipples. He opened his mouth, eagerly welcoming the slick invader that slid sensually along his own tongue. Sliding gracefully down David's body, Gabriel peppered kisses, licks and nips in his wake. Reaching his destination, he laved the almost hairless sac, feeling how high and hard the precious orbs it contained had become. Slowly he drew his tongue from root to tip and suckled the crown of David's penis, insistently probing at the slit. Finally he enveloped the rigid flesh into the warm moistness of his mouth and swallowed around the aching organ. The blond Vampire arched his back, lifting them both, crying Gabriel's name. "Oh, Gabriel, please," begged David, framing his lover's head with his hands, desperate not to dictate the pace. He loved the way the Lycan could play his body like a virtuoso. Giving a soft rumble of appreciation as David's sweet taste filled his mouth Gabriel relaxed his throat muscles and took his lover's length into his mouth. He started to make love with mouth, tongue and hands. The hard, pulsing flesh was sucked slowly, licked sensuously, the Lycan rolling his tongue around the head, dipping the tip of his tongue into the slit. His hands caressed his lover's sac, squeezing the orbs together and apart and rolling them in his palm. As he approached his zenith, David's hips began to thrust upward almost frantically. Gabriel kept perfect pace, knowing how close the smaller man was. Finally David gave one last thrust, harder and deeper, into his lover's mouth. He arched his neck, his body shaking, as his milky juices pulsed down Gabriel's throat. "Gabriel," he moaned as he rode out the waves of pleasure. Gabriel milked the last of David's seed from the flesh in his mouth until the blond began to come down from his orgasmic high. He let David's softened penis slip free and licked the depleted organ. Satisfied, Gabriel stretched over the sated blond to place a soft kiss on the parted lips. He offered no resistance as David wrapped his arms around them and rolled so that he could straddle Gabriel's hips. Instinctively thrusting upward, Gabriel cupped his mate's toned cheeks and began to rhythmically squeeze and release his lover's buttocks. "Want you, Gabriel. Want you in me," David moaned as he began to rotate his hips wantonly. He whimpered as Gabriel stroked his thighs and slipped his fingers over his belly. One hand began to toy with his already highly-stimulated nipples as the other began a deliberate stroke on his rapidly reviving sex. Releasing the nipple he had been erotically torturing, Gabriel reached behind his mate and let his fingers glide between David's buttocks. It was no surprise that his beautiful blond's hidden opening was already dilated and slick. He circled its perimeter, watching as turquoise eyes shut and David focused on the tantalising sensation. Using just his index finger, Gabriel began to press forward and both men groaned as the smaller man's body welcomed the desired intruder. Not wanting to rush, intending to savour every second making love, Gabriel thrust gently in and out of the slick channel. After a few movements, Gabriel pressed a second finger inside and David unthinkingly pushed back, taking more inside him. Not taking his eyes off his mate, Gabriel pushed a third finger to join the others and curled them to stroke across David's sweet spot. "Now, Gabriel, take me now," David begged, his eyes opening as Gabriel pressed the spot that electrified him. Using one hand to spread David's cheeks, Gabriel reached between his thighs with the other and began to fist his throbbing, damson-hued penis. He stroked a couple of times, smearing his copious pre-come over his aching shaft. "Now, angel," he growled. Rising up onto his knees, David felt his mate slide the head of his long, thick flesh between his splayed buttocks. He whimpered needily as the bigger male teased his waiting, eager opening. He positioned himself as Gabriel directed and then began to lower himself slowly onto rampant hardness. As the head of his lover's penis finally penetrated him, David cried out in pure bliss. The blond waited as he allowed his body to relax and then slid down in one sinuous slither. He took the whole length of Gabriel's penis inside him and sat flush on the bigger man's densely furred groin. David smiled down at the Lycan, relishing the sensation of being filled and so intimately joined with the man he loved more than his own life. He reached out a hand to touch himself, but his hand was batted away. "Mine," Gabriel rasped. "Yours, all yours, love," David affirmed on a moan as Gabriel used one hand to stroke his reawakening shaft and the other to fondle his ball sac. As Gabriel's talented hands stroked and caressed, David arched his back and began to rise and fall on the solid rod of flesh, impaling himself over and over. Whimpers and soft sounds of bliss permeated the air, meeting and melding with Gabriel's growls and whines of increasing ecstasy. Watching the pale, lithe body giving and taking pleasure in equal measure, Gabriel came close to losing his self-control. He watched entranced as slender fingers grazed over the peaked nipples on which he had so recently fed. His tongue slid over his lips as if re-tasting the flavour of David's flesh. His lover's eyes were closed and the Lycan cupped his mate's balls with his left hand, massaging them while quickening his strokes on David's solid shaft, milking his beautiful lover. Seeing his mate like this was becoming too much for Gabriel. David's slender body rising and falling his muscles taut and hard, perfect, pink nipples erect and contrasting with the smooth, ivory skin of the Vampire's chest were too erotic and arousing for him to restrain himself any longer. As David rose up, keeping just the head of Gabriel's penis inside him, Gabriel reached to grip his lover's hips. As the blond began to rise and fall with increasing fervour, Gabriel's shaft effortlessly rubbed his mate's sweet spot. To increase their pleasure and bring them to their completion, Gabriel began to thrust powerfully upwards as David descended, causing his lover to cry out. Their love-making became wild, frantic, almost bestial, a reaffirmation of their life and love and their soul-deep bonding sang for the sheer joy of their love and passion. With a wail of Gabriel's name, David came hard. His lover's large paw a blur on his shaft as the Lycan milked him masterfully. His ivory cream poured over Gabriel's hand to contrast against the big male's darkly furred chest. His internal muscles were contacting and spasming around Gabriel's penis as he rode out wave after wave of bliss. As David's face took on a beatific glow in the throes of his release, Gabriel clasped his lover's slender hips more tightly and thrust up harder and faster. The sight, sounds, scent and sensation combined with the relentless flex and relax of his mate's channel became overwhelming. Gabriel reached his crescendo and his hot seed pulsed deep inside David's welcoming body. Satiated, David fell forward onto Gabriel's chest, his hands reaching to hold his lover. "Love you, Gabriel," he gasped, nuzzling at the Lycan's throat. "Love you too, David," Gabriel husked. "Feed from me, angel," he added. He gave a sigh of contentment as sharp teeth pricked daintily at his throat. He had hated being too weak and debilitated to let his beloved feed from him when he had finally awakened in the hut. The delicate tongue against his heated skin indicated David had finished. Careful to remain in the haven of his lover's body, the Lycan rolled so he could gaze adoringly at his diminutive mate. Smiling at his husband, David drew the Lycan down for a long, deep kiss. Their tongues met and melded before retreating once more and as they broke apart David sighed happily. He reached to tenderly caress Gabriel's face. "Love you," he repeated. "And I you," Gabriel vowed, his right hand cupping the exquisite face of his mate. "Feed from me," David whispered, offering the marmoreal column of fragile flesh to the dominant male. Gabriel's tongue slid out to lick at his suddenly dry lips at David willingly bared his throat for him. He nipped carefully, swallowing the red elixir that tasted of strength, fidelity and love to him. He purred his satiation as he lapped closed the tiny wounds. Finally he felt complete, whole. He mated his lips with David's, sweeping his tongue proprietarily into the smaller man's willing mouth. He felt his body tighten once more, his still-hard shaft sliding back and forth in the tight channel slick with his semen. "Insatiable," David moaned, arching his back to rub his own growing arousal against Gabriel's furred body. "Only for you, my angel," Gabriel purred. His smile tender, the Lycan began to move with more purpose, reawakening both arousals fully. This time he would take things slowly and worship David's body as his mate deserved. They had vanquished their adversary, were home safe and Gabriel intended to make love with his beloved angel repeatedly. Sentient thought evaporated under the heat of passion and soon only the sounds of passion and love could be heard. All that mattered.