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Dragon

By: Ashson



There was consternation in the town when smoke started rising from the Mountain. At night, the glow of fire could be seen, but there was nothing up there to burn. The matter was discussed, in private and in public. 

Finally a consensus was reached. It was the gods speaking. That put the responsibility on the shoulders of the Chief Priest. What was he going to do about this?

The Chief Priest considered and made a decision.

"I will retire to the temple and pray, and see if the gods will reveal their intentions."

So the Chief Priest and his acolyte retired to the temple and discussed this turn of events. They were worried men. If they couldn't resolve the issue the townspeople were quite capable of sending them to meet the gods personally to discuss it, and neither was really ready to meet the gods. 

A decision was reached and a plan was made. They would be resolute to face this challenge, even though it might cost the town dearly. Better the town face the cost than the priests.

The Chief Priest faced the town council to tell them the bad news and what they would have to do to resolve the issue.

"The gods are angry with the town. They say we have fallen from the path of righteousness, so they intend to punish us. They have sent a dragon, and it currently dwells on the Mountain, waiting for the right time to descend and destroy our town, ravaging the area and leaving none alive."

The Chief Priest paused, watching the dread that was overtaking the council. Now to throw them the thread of hope.

"However, the gods are just and merciful. As long as we sincerely repent and return to the ways of righteousness they will spare our town. To show our honest repentance there must be a sacrifice. It is with heavy heart I tell you what they demand.

They say a beautiful young woman, chaste and honourable, must be dressed in the finest silks that we can find. Her robes must then be adorned with chains of gold. On the day preceding the full moon she is to be taken up the mountain and fastened to a post and left there for the night.

If the sacrifice is acceptable the dragon will devour it and leave, troubling us no more."

This demand led to a lot of discussion around the council, but the Chief Priest had gauged his audience well. It was finally ruled that the sacrifice would be made. 

Obtaining the gold was simple. Everyone hated the money-lender. Now they could legitimately help themselves to his gold.

Silk robes were also easy. The mercantile had been overcharging for years. He could afford to lose some stock for the good of the town.

The beautiful young woman, chaste and honourable, was the sticking point. The obvious candidate was Violetta, beautiful, intelligent, a virgin, and reluctant to marry any of the locals. She was talking of going to the city where she might find a better class of companion. It was finally decided that if she was leaving anyway, did it really matter if it was to the city or to be eaten by a dragon? Leaving was leaving. So to Violetta went the honour.

On the day that the sacrifice was to be prepared and posted, a hero and his friend rode into the town. Redfire and Blackash, they called themselves. Observing the preparations being made, Redfire made enquiries as to what had befallen the town that such a sacrifice was required, and became very thoughtful on hearing the story. He and Blackash then had a discussion of the best ways to proceed.

I feel I should point out at this stage that Violetta had shown a very selfish streak when informed of her coming part in the ceremony. She had strongly indicated that it was not part of her long term plans to be eaten by a stray dragon, and suggest that some other victim should be found. Perhaps a nice fat priest. 

The suggestion was refused and Violetta was placed under close guard. No one wanted her to accidently get lost, leaving them to find another volunteer.

Now Violetta was prepared. She had been dressed in the finest silks. Not just a simple dress, but wrapped with layer after layer of silk. Every time the Mercer had protested, another bolt of silk was wrapped around her. 

Heavy chains of gold were draped over her. (The money-lender hadn't taken heed of the mercer's lesson and had tried protesting, resulting in so many gold chains that Violetta could barely walk. When she pointed out this fact she was advised she didn't have to. All she had to do was stand still and be eaten, so she should stop whining.)

With the coming of dusk the sacrificial offering was taken up the Mountain where, about half way up, a solid oak pole and been set firmly into the ground. Violetta was chained to the pole and the Chief Priest called down blessings upon her for her sacrifice to the town.

By unanimous decision the procession returned to town, leaving Violetta alone in solitary splendour. It had been suggested that a few witnesses might be a good idea, but when it was thoughtfully pointed out that the dragon might decide to eat the witnesses as well....

Violetta stood, waiting and cursing. She cursed the town, the town council, the chief priest, the dragon and the gods, and then started going through the town's people, one by one, cursing them heartily.

"For a chaste and honourable young lady, you certainly have a taste for low language," said a voice.

Startled, Violetta looked around to see a muscular young man, sitting on a horse. 

"Hi," he said. "I'm Redfire. I heard there's a little dragon problem and that you're the town's answer to it, so I thought I'd take some cards in the game."

Dismounting he strolled over to her. After examining the way she was bound, he nodded slightly and started unlooping the gold chains, dropping them at her feet. Once the chains were all undone he picked them up and stowed them in his saddle bags.

Returning, he examined the bolts of silk wrapped around Violetta, nodding approvingly at the quality. 

"Some good silk here," he pointed out. "That'll be worth a few bob in the market."

With that he started unwinding the bolts. It was surprising how little room silk took up once if had been tightly rolled. It was even more surprising to Violetta, and somewhat embarrassing, when Redfire removed all the silk, leaving her chained to the post naked.

The silk quickly joined the gold chains in Redfire's saddle bags. 

"You don't have to worry about any dragon descending on you. There aren't any. I killed the last one myself," he added mendaciously.

"However, you do need to worry about volcanos. You're currently standing on one and I suspect that it's working its way towards an eruption. You might like to tell the town council that."

Watching Redfire turn back towards his horse, it dawned on Violetta that he was just going to leave her there.

"Wait," she shrieked. "Are you just going to leave me here like this?"

Redfire stopped and looked back at her. Then took a closer look at her. He nodded and returned.

"Good point," he said.

To Violetta's consternation, Redfire undid the rope at his waist and dropped his trousers. She stared in shock at what he was offering her. She had seen a few cocks in her time, as men always seemed ready to offer them to her, but this was one of the largest she'd seen.

Violetta shook her head frantically. "No, thank you," she told him nervously. "I don't want it." 

Redfire laughed, amused. "I wasn't exactly going to ask," he pointed out, reaching out to take her breasts in his hands. "We hero's tend to just take what we want."

Violetta shrieked with outrage as Redfire started playing with her breasts. She tried to pull away, only to find this awkward to do when chained to a post.

She yelled at Redfire, demanding he stop immediately.

Redfire laughed again. "I've barely started," he told her. "Just relax."

Violetta could only watch in shock and horror as Redfire abruptly pushed his knee between her thighs, forcing them apart. She squirmed, feeling his erection suddenly pressed against her.

Then she screamed indignantly as Redfire pushed himself rudely into her.

"Damn it," she screamed at him. "You stop that right now. I'm a virgin, damn you."

Violetta felt Redfire give another firm push and felt a painful tearing. Over her scream she could hear Redfire's mocking voice.

"Sorry, love. You mean you were a virgin."

Violetta screamed and raged at Redfire, only to find herself ignored as Redfire kept pushing into her, filling her with his cock. All too soon she found he was plastered along the full length of her body, his cock all the way inside her.

"You bastard," she hissed bitterly at him, only to find he was laughing again, and then he was kissing her while his hands mauled her breasts, causing odd feeling in her body.

Quite content with the way things were progressing, Redfire prepared to start work on his new friend. She had been hot and tight when he entered, very tight actually, but now that he was in he could feel her loosening slightly, with moisture gathering around him.

Violetta felt Redfire starting to withdraw, then her senses and temper flared as he thrust back into her, causing her to scream in fury again. 

She found her cursing skills improving rapidly as Red fire repeatedly pulled away and then roughly rammed back into her. If pushed, she would have had to admit that she found the sensations intriguing, but she didn't want it and wouldn't admit it.

She twisted against that pounding cock. It was no longer hurting but what it was doing was profoundly disturbing. Against her will she could feel her body moving in counterpoint to Redfire's, going where he wanted her.

Redfire was quite happy. He was cockdeep in a lovely lass and she was responding. Noisily, he had to admit, but she was responding. He increased his tempo, laughing openly at her when he found Violetta matching him.

All good things must end, decided Redfire, and settled down to really hammer home to his climax. He came hard and fast, spilling deep inside Violetta, to the sound of another infuriated shriek. No wonder she'd been a virgin, he mused. That temper probably scared all the men away.

Redfire withdrew, patting the incensed young woman on the bottom as he did so.

Violetta glared at him. 

"Are you going to get these chains off me or not?" she demanded.

"Not," said Redfire regretfully. "I don't have the keys."

"Can't you do anything to help me?" she demanded.

"I just did," Redfire pointed out. "They can't sacrifice you as a virgin now, and you didn't even thank me."

Violetta was saved the trouble of responding to this by the sound of trotting. Blackash road into the clearing and hailed Redfire.

"You were spot on, Red," he called. "I saw the Chief Priest and his offsider sneaking out the back of the temple with a couple of packhorses. They were heading up here, probably to collect her and the loot."

Violetta stared at him astonished. "Do you mean that that old roué was planning to come up here and rescue me?" she demanded.

"More on the lines of rescuing the gold and silk, I think, with you as a bonus," said Redfire. "Where are they now?" he asked, turning to Blackash.

"When thieves fall out," quoted Blackash. "The young offsider slid a knife between the old man's ribs once we were out of town and dumped him in the river. I queried whether this was the right thing to do and he tried to knife me. He's now floating along after his master.

They did have her keys, though, so I assume that they intended to take her with them. I'll let her loose now."

"OK. You, Violetta, can then decide if you want to ride with us or back to town. If you're staying, don't stay too long or the dragon will erupt, and then it's goodbye town.

If you're planning on screwing her, Blackash, you'd better do it before you let her loose. Once loose, you'll probably have to chase her all over the mountain."

Violetta looked nervously at Blackash while he smiled and winked at her, keys dangling in his hand.

Dragon Age



This is very different for me. It is a celebrity story and I am writing from the guy's point of view. I have not written as a guy before this so, I hope you like it and I did it well. Please feel free to let me know how I did. As usual, I know there will be small things I missed here and there despite my best efforts. I create and edit it all entirely on my own. I believe it is still and enjoyable read and I trust you will still be entertained and aroused. Please-enjoy!

Dragon Age: An Erotic Tale

The following is based on the Dragon Age video game. 

Greetings and well met. My name is Garan de Grosbois. I come from a long line of traders. My family wanders the country of Ferelden and most of the other lands of Thedas. Many of my cousins are in Orlais, Antiva, and the Free Marches across the sea. Why, I even have family trading in Par Vollen with the Qunari. I live with my father, Francis. I never knew my mother but my father has said she passed away giving birth to me.

I do not, however, have any other family with magic; at least that I know of. My father later told me that my mother was a mage. Mages are not allowed to raise children so I was sent to live with my father. When it was discovered at a young age that I had the gift (or curse) of magic, my family did what was right and contacted the closest Chantry. I would also need to go to one of the Towers to be trained as a mage. Soon, a group of Templars arrived at our camp.

"We are looking for Garan," the leader of the Templars announced when they arrived. He was a ruddy skinned man with thick black hair and a thick mustache. He had a set of silvery armor and a mean looking sword. 

"My son is Garan, my father said, "We contacted the Chantry-as is right. We do want assurances that Garan will not be harmed."

The lead Templar stepped up. "I believe I remember you. Francis de Grosbois, am I right? You used to trade at the Circle of Magi on Lake Calenhad. I am Ser Bevick. I can assure you that no harm will come to your son from my men or any Templar. So long as he follows the rules of magic and obeys them, he can be safe as any possessing magic."

My dad then called me out from our wagon and presented me to the Templars. 

"Ser Bevik, this is my son. Take care, son. Be good and learn to control your abilities. We love you and think no less of you for being given this power by the Maker. You will do great things with it, I wager. Good bye, my son." My dad finished and I could see his eyes glistening with barely restrained tears.

"Good bye dad." Those were my last words to any in my family, or so I thought. 

I followed the Templars out of the camp and out of my old life. They were pleasant enough as we walked and I got to know of few of them. Some gave me ideas of what to expect. Apparently, the Circle of Magi I was going to was one of the more harmonious ones. The Templars got along with the Mages and the First Enchanter and Knight Commander had an understanding and trust. We eventually arrived at the tower that houses the Circle of Magi.

At the time, I was a lad of barely seven years old. My hair was a dirty blond, but starting to darken. My father had dark brown hair so I imagined I would grow up to have the same thick mahogany hair he did. My eyes were a really bright lively blue. I had my mother's eyes, I'm told. My build was thicker than most of the other students. I had grown up loading and unloading trade goods from wagons though, so I had some early muscles.

My time at the tower wasn't all bad. I did get to learn my abilities and the Mages guided me to reach for my potential. When I arrived I saw many pretty apprentices and students and one beautiful mage in particular, but she was several years older. After several years, I ended my earliest studies. I would soon be taken on as an apprentice. I was 13 now. I checked with some of the other apprentices and found out the mage I was so enamored with would soon be taking on her next apprentice. Her name was Wynne, and she was exquisite. Her hair was long and blonde back then, just starting to go white. She was probably forty-six years old, but I was young and she was my first crush. She had clear blue eyes. She had a sexy mature body and I had heard from some of the other guys that she had sought out attention now and then in her bedroom. I got so hard picturing her high breasts and long legs. I imagined it was me in her bedroom. Luckily, my blue apprentice robes hid the erection these thoughts gave me. She reminded me of several of the mothers in a traveling merchant caravan. I had found them so arousing with their soft womanly forms.

I did get to talk to her several times. She was so nice and very outgoing. She would be in the library with me and we would discuss my studies or different schools of magic. Most of the mages and apprentices never talked about life before the tower. Most didn't want to think about. Wynne wore the golden mage robes then. Her body was so firm and slender. The bodice of her robes cinched up under her breasts making them look so delicious; like firm melons. The back of the robes looked fantastic against her taut ass. I wanted to tear that robe off and see how amazing she looked naked. 

I learned she was a healer primarily. I studied as much as I could about healing with her and from several different tomes I discovered in the library. I made extra efforts to master the healing arts. When Wynne took her next apprentice, I was determined that it would be me. I wanted to get closer to her and maybe eventually I would get the invitation to share her bed. Unfortunately, healing did not seem to be my aptitude.

I hoped I would be selected as her apprentice, but I was selected as Lewellyn's apprentice instead. That turned out to be a mixed blessing. He quickly figured out my specialty. I was a Battle Mage. I excelled at deadly combat magic. The tower knew what they were doing by pairing me with him. He also favored high damage deadly spells and he taught me well. Under his tutelage, I became so skilled, fireballs and swirling vortexes of flame came to me so easy. I enhanced weapons with flame and ice. I could control a battlefield with so many of my abilities. The years went by and I concentrated on my studies. The magic at my command was dangerous and could easily cause trouble for a lesser mage.

Now as a man, of twenty-two I was still madly attracted to Wynne. Even at the age of 55, she was everything a woman should be, to my eyes. Her hair was shorter now and had gracefully gone white. Her body still retained its vitality and she was now even firmer and more arousing to my eyes. Her tit still sat high and firm. I imagined they were a perfect handful. I had gotten to know her more in my time as an apprentice and she had frequently remarked on my talents. More than once I had even caught her studying me. Again, I would be thankful for my robes and their ability to cover my erection.

I never shared her bed, but I had spent time with a couple of the female apprentices and a few of the female mages. One mage, Taliya, was a frequent lover. She was so beautiful and so seductive. Her body was long and lean. She has smooth alabaster skin against midnight black hair. She kept herself smelling delicious with scented oils and bathing creams. She taught me as well. I became a much better lover with her. She taught me the skills of orally satisfying a woman and pleasured me with her oral abilities as well. In the beginning, she would be tutoring me as my young hard cock would piston in and out of her tight cunt. After a while, those words of instruction became nothing but moans of ecstasy. She no longer needed to teach me and our nights were very arousing and satisfying indeed. I enjoyed her smooth legs wrapped around my waist as I thrust into her powerfully. I loved when she flipped her hair back as I held her hips and pummeled her backside. Unfortunately for her, I was still lusted for Wynne. We drifted apart with our studies. I later learned Taliya had become a Blood Mage and was eventually killed by the Templars. I did feel great regret. She always seemed like such a good person, perhaps if I had stayed with her, I could have kept her from straying into Blood Magic.

I can still remember the night that they selected me for my Harrowing. The war had been building to the south near Ostagar. Many of the mages, including Wynne left that same day to fight for the King's army. Darkspawn had been spotted and many were needed to join in the fight. It had been 15 years since the day I first set foot in the tower. The night that many of the senior mages left for Ostagar, I was awoken by a young Templar named Cullen. He escorted me to the Harrowing Chamber at the top of the tower. There, I would take my final test in my journey of becoming a full Mage. I passed my test and the following morning, I met Duncan of the Grey Wardens. 

"The First Enchanter tells me he is quite impressed with your skill." Duncan told me 

"I'm sure Irving is just being nice,' I responded.

"I hope not!" Duncan replied. "He tells me that your abilities are quite geared to battle. He said he wished he had chosen to test you for the Harrowing one day sooner. You would be invaluable fighting the darkspawn. One day had been the difference between fighting in the south and being stuck at the tower."

I frowned. "That is too bad. I would love to unleash my magic to its fullest on an enemy most deserving. I would love to continue talking but I can see my friend Jowan pacing outside your door. Obviously he wants to talk. Duncan, I hope you don't mind if I leave you for now."

"Of course I don't mind. Take your time. I'm sure we will have plenty of time to talk while I'm here. I will be recruiting for the Grey Wardens, but then I have to head south to meet with King's army. I do hope you stop back by. Someone with your impressive combat magic would be most welcome in the Grey Wardens. You would definitely have enough enemies to use your magic on with us." He chuckled at the thought. 

I went out to speak with Jowan. He had trouble and he wanted me to help him. I reluctantly agreed (after speaking the First Enchanter) and that led to a fiasco in the vault. It even got me into trouble with the Templars. One thing led to another and Duncan was forced into using the Right of Conscription to recruit me and save me from the Templars. I ended up a Grey Warden. I traveled to Ostagar and took part in the great battle against the growing 

darkspawn horde. Unfortunately we were betrayed by King Cailen's most trusted general and the battle claimed the lives of so many. My leader Duncan and good King Cailen were two claimed in the battle. Alistair, my fellow Grey Warden, survived with me and together we were struggling to rebuild an army to fight the deadly darkspawn and save Ferelden

Luckily, before the battle had begun, Duncan had Alistair and I scour the Kocari Wilds surrounding the fortress of Ostagar, to recover some old Grey Warden treaties. They obligated certain groups to help us during a blight; which is exactly what we were facing. Alistair and I still had these treaties with us and were determined to enlist the aid of these allies. Our first treaty was for the Circle of Magi and we traveled back to the tower and had another misadventure. Wynne had survived Ostagar as well. She had returned to the tower and was fighting to prevent an evil Mage, Uldred, from destroying the tower and the Circle of Magi forever. In the end, we saved the tower from the evil within and Wynne decided to accompany me in my quest to build our army. She had been traveling with my companions that I had acquired along the way and she was the one person I took with me everywhere. She was skilled as a healer and in our many run-ins with darkspawn and bandits and the like, she had become invaluable.

Now, Wynne and I were walking side by side along a steep snow-covered mountain path. We were on our way to Orzammar, the Dwarven Kingdom. We had a treaty with them as well. Unfortunately, Orzammar is deep in the Frostback Mountains and the road to it was slow going. Being a mage, it felt nice to have someone to talk to that understood the Arcane as I did. She and I had shared many conversations now, and I found as enchanting as ever. No pun intended. A bit ahead of us, we could hear Leliana's beautiful voice as well as Shale's rumbling tones. They were two of those companions I mentioned.

Leliana was a former Sister of the Chantry. She never took her vows though and wanted to help prevent the darkspawn invasion with us. I would not turn down any help and she was now a companion in my quest. She was an excellent rogue and a good shot with a bow. She was using a large well-made recurve bow that she had gotten from someone from her past.

Shale was a large powerful stone golem. I had purchased a control rod from my cousin Felix. He was on his way to the city of Denerim when we encountered him on the Imperial Highway. He didn't want the control rod on him, in case bandits mistook it for a gemstone and sold it to me (for free.) The control rod was for the golem down in the village of Honnleath. We had gone and woken the golem. The control had turned out to be broken and Shale now had free will. The golem still had chosen to accompany us on our quest to defeat the darkspawn also.

My thoughts drifted back to Wynne as she moved ahead of me. My eyes strayed down to Wynne's firm buttocks. For a woman her age, the time spent traveling and fighting did her body good. She was close to sixty now, but she still had a nice toned physique. The silken mage robes she wore did nothing to disguise that sexy ass of hers as she began walking ahead of me. 

"You should stay alert Garan" Wynne said. "There seems to be someone up ahead."

Her voice shook my out of my fantasies involving my cock and that firm ass under those robes. I quickly looked up 

and saw a small smirk on her lips. Had she caught me staring at her butt? I looked past her and saw Leliana drifting off to the side of the path with her bow drawn and an arrow nocked. Wynne let me pass her. I caught up to Shale. The golem was looking ahead of us a short distance on the path we were traveling.

"Someone is up ahead. It looks like they could be bandits. I could go up there and smash them all into paste if you would prefer." Shale said. 

I saw who the golem was referring to. Several men were dressed for battle, with their weapons drawn. Farther past them were a couple other men and a woman who was clearly a mage.

We began moving closer as a group, wary. A soon as they spotted us, they prepared for battle. Swords and shields came up and they began to advance on us. 

Too bad for them.

My magic was unleashed and I cast a fireball at the group. The blast when the fireball hit flung the men in all directions. Shale and Leliana began taking care of the men as I then concentrated on that damn mage up ahead. She was healing the men. I cast a spell at her and she froze. Once she couldn't cast to defend herself, she was an easy target for me. Her body exploded in a hail of blood as my "Walking Bomb" spell took care of her and, as planned; she infected the men close to her. They, in turn, exploded as well. My attention redirected, I saw Shale and Leliana had the fight just about finished. 

The fight taken care of, Wynne began casting a quick rejuvenation spell on our companions. 

Wynne said to me, "I doubt it was coincidence that they were on this path. They appeared to be waiting for us. We should remain alert for more trouble. Loghain (the traitorous General) has taken steps to stop us."

We traveled on and met no further incidents until we reached the great doors of Orzammar. An appointed messenger from General Loghain was arguing with the guards demanding entrance. I approached and asked for admittance.

"No one may enter until our throne is settled, "the gruff guard explained. " Our king has returned to the stone and a new king has not taken the crown."

"I have a treaty with Orzammar that promises their aid," I told him, handing over my documents.

"These are legitimate and must be addressed by our council. You may enter," the guard agreed, waving me past.

Loghain's messenger and I exchanged unpleasant, but brief, words before he and his entourage slinked away with my warning to Loghain that we were coming for him.

My companions set up a camp not far back down the trail in a wide, still grassy area. The halls of the city were grand, beautiful, enormous, but alien to me. After getting started on our tasks to secure the Dwarves' allegiance to our cause, I returned to the camp at night.

Alistair and I discussed our goals and I drifted over to Wynne. She looked stunning in the glow of our fire and the torchlight. 

She looked thoughtful, then asked, "What does being a Grey Warden mean to you."

"I don't know," I answered honestly, "does it have to mean something."

"You have been chosen for a great quest," she said. "That doesn't mean you need to neglect your own wishes and desires, so long as they don't overwhelm your mission." She looked at me meaningfully. "You know what I mean I believe."

With that she entered her tent, but did not close the flap. I stood there not sure what my next move was. Was that the invitation that I had been waiting for all these years? I peeked in just as she slid her robe form her shoulders and let it fall to pool in a silken heap at her feet. She looked over her shoulder at me and smiled. She was even more exquisite than my wildest dreams. In a trance, I entered her tent and closed the flap. The cool silver moonlight, the torches around camp and the large fire we had in the center of camp cast enough light inside the tent that I was able to clearly see this woman of my dreams.

Her skin was smooth and firm. Her breasts were larger than I figured and looked to be more than a handful. Her pussy had sparse hair covering it, and it still had a touch of blond in it. The lips were thin and delicate like a butterfly's wings. Her legs were long and toned with beautiful definition. Her tummy was tight and arms were just muscular enough that there was no sag. 

I moved to her and scooped into my arms. Our kiss was passionate and lustful. She proved to have a playful side as she nipped at my bottom lip. My hand came around from her back to gently tweak at her nipple, causing Wynne to moan softly. I pulled her into me tightly and she melted her body against mine. We kissed hungrily, exploring one another's mouth with our tongues.

I slid my hands up her body, and finally caressing her magnificent breasts; gently kneading the firm globes. I tugged on her hard nipples and she gasped quickly. She tugged my hair, pulling me deeply into a rough kiss, thrusting her tongue hotly into my mouth. I rolled the hard little points between my fingers as Wynne's kisses moved across my cheek to suck my earlobe.

I began working my way down her delicious form, sucking on her creamy skin. I sucked softly on her skin until I reached her chest. I traced my tongue along her firm mound until I reached her erect nipple, encircling it with my tongue. I gently bit the tender skin, pulling it with my teeth. She hissed in surprise and maybe just a bit of pain, but cooed pleasurably when I resumed licking the fleshy nub. I other hand was cupping the other glorious breast, fondling it lovingly.

Wynne moaned as my mouth sucked the other nipple in, "Oh yes, Garan. Suck it just like that baby."

Her breathing quickened; and she began undoing the sashes and ties that kept him in my robe. I felt her hands shuck the garment from my body and then they found my erect throbbing cock. Her warm hands gripped my shaft and she pumped lightly on it at first, getting a feel of the tool I had for her. She finally laid back in the cushions and blankets within the tent, pulling me down with her. My hand drifted down to brush her mature tight cunt. I smiled realizing that she was incredibly wet. I began kissing my way down her luscious body sucking on her soft tender skin. Wynne squirmed in delight and anticipation when I stopped right above her cunt, relishing in the musky scent of her aroused cunny. I then kissed her inner thigh and brushed my lips across the wet folds of her pussy as I moved to the other thigh. I slid my tongue along her clit as I had with her boobs, tracing a slow wet line around it.




Dragon Age: After the Fifth Blight



Disclaimer: All right, this story is not real. NOT REAL! Not to be read by anyone under the age of 18/21 yadda yadda yadda! I'd love to hear some feedback as per usual. Please feel free to leave me a comment in the COMMENT Box at the end of the page. You see those big empty stars too? Maybe bump those up to five full ones? We wouldn't want them to be empty now would we? All alone like that? You're not a monster are you? 

Also, please don't post this on any other site without my explicit permission. I've had to bring the hammer down on two thieves right as of writing and don't want to bring it down again. Don't forget to add me on one of the messengers too! Don't be afraid! I love chatting about celebs, story ideas or chatting in general and I like making new friends! 

Celebrity: Solona Amell (Female Grey Warden Mage) and Queen Anora

Codes: FF, Cons, Oral, 

Author's Note: Yeah, so with Dragon Age: Inquisition being delayed, I'm doing some video game smut. The Warden depicted is my own personal Solona and I like to think when she's not riding Zevran she's serving as Anora's mistress. There we go, hope you enjoy it!

Solona Amell walked down the long and almost empty hallways of the royal palace in Denerim. Her robes were now perfect and immaculate, her black hair had been restricted into the usual short hair style she had cut it to after Duncan had first recruited her and that nasty gash along the side of her face? With the help of healing magic and some poultices it was disappearing from her ebony skin. She had been all but stripped from the usual grey, blue and white uniform of the Grey Wardens and was dressed rather casually for the event she was marching to.

She had at least hoped to change into something more formal but the elven messenger had been quite sincere that Queen Anora needed to see the 'Hero of Ferelden' right away. The bath would have to wait. Solona frowned as she followed the elf down the corridor. The elf swiftly grabbed a hold of the door handle and it swung open with ease. Walking inside, Solona bit down on her bottom lip and did her best not to shoot a dirty glare at the messenger. She could have knocked on the door perfectly by herself.

Still, the moment had passed and Solona was allowed into the Queen's chambers. Solona walked to the middle of the room and cast a look around to find she was by herself. The elven messenger moved to close the door before popping her head back in the room briefly.

"Her Highness will be in briefly."

"Thank-" Solona started but the messenger had disappeared before she could even respond. Unsure of what to do, the young Warden mage stuck her thumbs into the waistband of her robes and walked over to the window, looking out into the royal courtyard. Her hazel eyes focused on the tall, silver armour clad man who had climbed onto a horse. The large round shield, long black hair and just as large long sword let Solona know that this was the 'Hero of River Dane'.

Teryn Loghain was no more.

Now, Loghain was simply a Grey Warden who had work to do at the request of The First Warden. A raven had arrived this morning, letting Loghain know that he was needed elsewhere and he would be able to rendezvous with some of his Ferelden allies later on. Loghain turned to look at Anora who had been nervously wringing her hands together as she said her goodbyes. In a brief, and somewhat rare, show of love and affection, Loghain took his daughter's head in his hands and pressed his lips to her skull, kissing her goodbye. 

Feeling like she was intruding, Solona turned and moved away from the window and into the main part of the room. Able to drink in just how the royal chambers had been arranged, her big brown eyes looked around. The first thing she noticed was the amount of velvet in the room. It looked very inviting and cozy. She brushed a hand along the top of one of the couches and a soft smile moved across her face. It reminded her of the night before her Harrowing. She had known that her test was coming up soon and her overactive mind had started to wonder what her life would be like after it. There was a part of her that had thought she might have been in a room like this. She would have been granted a council with King Cailan and Queen Anora for some strange reason and she would have impressed the royalty with her knowledge of Ferelden history and then she would have been allowed onto the war council, serving directly under King Cailan where she would have champion mage rights and eventually be granted Free Mage status. Of course, those were dreams made up of poppy and while she was effectively free of Chantry control now, she still wasn't free. Her reward for helping a friend had been a death sentence. Sure, it wasn't a tranquility curse nor was it the hangman's noose, this death sentence was in the form of her blood stream and the fact that sooner than she'd like to, she would have to go into the Deep Roads and kill as many Darkspawn as she could do before her time was up.

Maker, she hated those Blighted things.

Since Solona had left the Ferelden 'Circle of Magi', she had lost what little baby fat she had and her skin had tightened into hard muscle. Her mind was swirling with new spells and what felt like unlimited power danced through her fingers, during the Fifth Blight, Solona had grown into what a Grey Warden should be. She hadn't had much time to converse with her recruiter and former Commander, Duncan, about what was expected of her as a Grey Warden. 'You will guard them and they will hate you for it.' Duncan had said that to her when she had inquired about becoming a Warden and now Maker, did she know that truth. She had a long list of names in her pack, names of dwarves who would fall under the hammer deep inside of Orzammar to make a brand new army of golems to not only keep the dwarven city alive but to help aid her in defeating the Fifth Blight. Deciding to keep the 'Anvil of the Void' was also what had caused Solona to kill one of her travelling companions, Shale.She had missed the former dwarf during her travels and there was a part of her that had hoped that she would have seen just why Solona had to do it.

A Warden did what she must.

Shaking her head, Solona ran one of her hands through her short black hair and sighed softly. She still felt grubby. While it had been a day of rest for her, she had found herself getting into a playful magical sparring match with Alim Surana, one of her old classmates from back at the Circle. Now, her body was ready for a lay in the tub and for her to be by herself with her thoughts. She had all but disrobed when there had been a knock at the door and the elf had requested that she follow him.

Her body tensed when she heard the door behind her open up, turning on her heel Solona was greeted by the sight of Queen Anora. Relaxing, Solona smiled warmly as the Queen stepped in and closed the door behind her.

"Hello Solona, I trust I didn't find you at a bad time?" The Queen asked, her face was almost sickly sweet as the door shut with a clicking sound. While most of the door had been hidden by Anora's body, Solona could have sworn that she heard the door lock as well. Anora turned to face Solona and smiled again, walking into the room 

"Of course not your highness, I'm always ready to serve the crown." Solona replied politely, her arms folded behind her back, her chest exposed slightly as she waited for Anora to respond. The petite woman, smiled and nodded her head before wetting her pink lips slightly and turning to face the Warden.

"And what if this wasn't a matter of the crown?"

That made the mage's eyebrows arch, just what was the Queen implying? The Warden took a step backwards as Anora took two forward. The Queen's eyes were burning into Solona's soul and there was something about the way the blonde headed woman was looking at her that made the dark-skinned woman feel alive.

"Like what your highness?"

"Well... I never did find a way to thank you for saving my father. You never asked a boon of me."

"A boon? Riordan was right. We needed all the Warden's we could get and your father is a very strong and competent general. He'll serve the Warden's well." Solona responded, her thighs bumping against the large royal bed.

"Indeed. I know my... Betrothed... Was intent on you killing my father, yet you resisted. You deserve my thanks." Anora said with a smile, closing the gap finally so that the two women were face to face, breath mingling in the small gap between the two sets of lips. The way she had said betrothed when talking about Alistair had made Solona wonder what was up. Solona's big round eyes studied the Queen's face intently before she dared ask another question.

"Your highness-"

"Please, call me Anora."

"Ah... Very well. Anora? If you think so little of Alistair why did you agree to marry him?"

"Well... Ferelden is my home. I do not wish to see it fall into another Theirin man on the throne who would disappear with the first floozy that bats her eyelashes at them."

"Anora. Alistair is not his father. He would never-" He pleas of encouragement to her friend were silenced when Anora's extended her right index finger and pressed it against her own lips to ask Solona to stop silently.

"Do you know the proverb 'Only Ferelden women can birth strong sons and daughters' Lona my dear?"

"I do Anora." Solona responded, her eyes locked closely on Anora's as the Queen of Ferelden smiled softly and laid her hands flat on the shoulders of the Warden mage.

"Well, I just so happen to prefer Ferelden women in general."

Before Solona could respond, she had been pushed backwards, landing on the comfy mess of the royal bed. Sitting up, she was quickly silenced by Anora landing on her lap and taking the mage's face in her hands and pressing her lips against the dark-skinned beauty's. A soft moan escaped Anora's lips as she wriggled slightly on Solona's lap, the kiss deepening while the Warden mage was trapped beneath her in a simple, yet very pleasurable hold.

Moments passed before the Queen took her lips off of Solona's and smiled warmly. Her hands leaving the Warden's shoulders to come down and tug at the small set of string that was keeping Solona's chest covered. Solona was watching as Anora took complete control of the situation, it wasn't until her shirt was undone that she snapped back to her senses. Her strong hands came down and gripped hold of Anora's wrists, keeping the blonde woman in place.

"Your highness!" Solona spluttered, unsure of just what the Queen was doing to her.

"Call me Anora Lona." Anora reminded her before kissing against the Warden's cheek. "Unless you'd like to call me your Queen?" She added, a wink being cast towards the mage before trying to wriggle free of Solona's grasp.

"I just... I wasn't exactly expecting this your high- Anora."

"No? I've seen the way you stare at that little red-headed Orlesian. I've seen that look many a time, typically staring right back at me from my vanity. I want you Solona and I think you want me too."

"Maker... I'd be lying if I said you weren't a glamourous woman..."

"Then shut up and kiss me!" Anora almost fumed when Solona let go of her. The Queen shoved her lips against the Warden's again and this time the two embraced much more passionately. The dark skinned woman wrapped her arms around Anora's neck and kept her closer and closer as the Queen moved her hands down Solona's long, firm arms and back down to her chest. Anora squeezed Solona's breasts through the cloth covering her chest before tugging at the strings to further loosen it.

Moaning into Anora's kiss, Solona arched her back and helped the Queen shimmy her shirt off of her chest, leaving her upper torso completely exposed for Anora. The Queen smiled into the kiss as it broke, her teeth catching Solona's bottom lip between them and tugging on it softly before she whispered against her new lover.

"No small clothes today my dear Lona?"

"No bra. I was intending on taking a bath today. I was feeling very dirty."

"I do love it when you're dirty though. Makes you so much more... Delicious." Anora said with a grin, her lips kissing against the cheek and ear of Solona. "But what about your bottoms?" She asked, her fingers massaging Solona's chest idly.

"You'll have to find that out for yourself my dear." Solona cracked a bright smile towards her Queen before spreading her legs.

"Oh? I shall have to then."

Climbing off of the 'Hero of Ferelden, Anora ran her hands up her own body, her fingers resting in her blonde hair and loosening the buns. Her long sunshine blonde hair fell down and draped over her shoulders perfectly, framing the face of the Queen of Ferelden making her look even more ravishing. Ravishing to the point where Solona audibly gasped.

"You are painting perfect Anora. Truly beautiful."

Anora blushed and ran her fingers through the blonde tresses of hair before shaking her head. "I do believe you are the perfect one, my big, strong hero."

Anora slipped her fingers into the waistband of Solona's bottoms and slowly pulled them down her hips. Watching as the Warden mage lifted her hips up off of the bed so that they could slide past the curve of her round rear. Tugging them up and past her thighs, Anora discarded the cloth piece of clothing with ease, landing in a puddle next to the bed. With Solona only clad in her bottoms, Anora moved her head down and started to kiss her way along the ebony skin of Solona. Her lips reached Solona's pubic mound before her teeth caught themselves nibbling on its waist band. Her eyes locked onto Solona's and as if on cue, Solona lifted her hips up and Anora was able to slowly pull the now wet panties down Solona's long, toned legs.

Fishing them from her mouth, Anora ran the material through her fingers before dropping them off the side of the bed as well. Her mouth came down and her lips were pressed against Solona's navel, her tongue coming out to lick against the skin as her hands slid along the Warden mage's body and up onto her breasts. Each hand liberally squeezed the orbs before her right hand moved down towards her spread legs. Using her middle finger, Anora teased the wet lips of Solona before she dipped her finger inside of the Grey Warden.

Gasping in pleasure, Solona's hands grasped at the bed sheets underneath her body as she watched the blonde headed Queen taste her skin and probed inside of her. She then let out a short moan of bliss as Anora's finger curled inside of her, stroking at incredibly sensitive spots. The dark-skinned Warden let out a mewl of pleasure as her leg kicked awkwardly at the contact. The giggle from the Queen did nothing to stop the Warden from closing her eyes and moaning for more. Her legs became stiff as Anora pulled her finger from Solona's folds and tasted the Warden. Solona watched as Anora slowly pulled the digit from her mouth and licked her lips, obviously loving how she tasted.

"You taste just as good as you look my dear Lona." Anora said, a warm smile on the blonde woman's face.

"Ngh maybe you should taste it from the source then?" Solona asked, her eyes opening slightly so that she could look at her new-found lover.

"Patience my dear. I wish to enjoy myself."

"I thought this was my boon?"

"Are you not enjoying yourself?"

The silence was her answer, but Anora pressed on, her hands gliding along the inside of Solona's thigh.

"Lona my dear? Are you not enjoying yourself?

"Maker fucking preserve me. We both know the answer to that!"

"I don't. Why don't you tell me?" Anora asked, her lips pressing and sucking on Solona's neck as their chests brushed against each others briefly. Anora bent backwards, on her knees, and reached behind her, undoing the buckled on her regal uniform she slowly sashayed the clothing off of her body, rolling it down her body so she could strip herself down to only be clad in the expensive (much to her chagrin) Orlesian lacy, silky blue and white slip. "Are." A kiss landed against her neck this time. "You." Another kiss. "Enjoying." A lick against Solona's throat. "Yourself?" A final tug against Solona's earlobe made the Warden cry out in pleasure and nod her head in the affirmative.

"Maker! Yes Anora! I love it!"

A soft chuckle escaped Anora's mouth before she kissed Solona back and nodded her head. Her fingers tickled the inside of Solona's spread legs, stroking the skin in the way only a lover could know how. If the hero of Ferelden didn't know any better she could have sworn it was magic! Anora's middle finger pressed along Solona's wet folds and before the dark-skinned woman could say anything, two fingers were now inside of her and pressed deep inside to the knuckle. Anora's free hand was resting on Solona's waist, keeping her down against the mattress while her lips closed around the exposed and hard, pointy nipple of the Grey Warden. Sucking on the hard flesh, Anora teased the point as her fingers continued to push in and out of Solona.

The Warden mage writhed and wriggled on the spot as she watched her loved not only push two fingers inside her tight opening and also suck on her breast as well. Solona was in heaven. Pure and simple. Anora's soft hand on her side made her know that she was going to be fine, especially the way her nails lightly scratched against her skin as Anora moaned against her chest. The two fingers sliding in and out of her and striking at her sensitive spots made the Warden cry out in pleasure. Anora's name became a chant on her lips as her body started to buck and shake, each finger hitting a different, yet incredibly sensitive spot inside of her. 

"Anora! I'm so close!" As soon as those four words left Solona's mouth, she had regretted it. Anora pulled her fingers from Solona and licked them again, making the Warden mage cry out in a sweet and agonising whine. "Anora! I was going to cum!"

The Queen smiled and rearranged herself on the bed, reaching over to the bedside table and pulling one of the drawers open. Reaching in, Anora fumbled for the briefest of moments before pulling out a long black strip of silk.

A blindfold?

Solona wiped some sweat away from her brow and watched as her new lover smiled sweetly towards the Warden Mage. She waited and watched as the Queen threaded a hand through her long blonde hair before reaching down to press her lips against Solona's. The mage had previously never considered a female lover but as Anora kissed her and their tongues mingled, the young dark-skinned Warden wondered just what else she had missed out on.

Anora's tongue brushed against Solona's before she started to kiss her way over to Solona's ear, her teeth catch the earlobe of the Grey Warden with a soft, seductive whisper escaping her lungs. 

"Get on your hands and knees my lover."

Solona shivered at the contact, bit down on her bottom lip and nodded her head. Her hands threaded through her midnight black hair and moved away from her a little bit. Moving onto her hands and knees, Solona bit down on her bottom lip and looked over her shoulder towards where Anora was. The Queen of Ferelden moved to the top of the mage's body and pressed her lips against Solona's, kissing her hotly before pressing the silky fabric against the eyes of the 'Hero of Ferelden.'

"Anora?"

"I'm here my love. I'm not going anywhere."

The kiss against Solona's lips made the Warden feel better. Then the feeling of Anora's hands gliding against her skin made the Grey Warden purr under the sovereign touch. She felt her new lover's hands slide against the side of her body before gliding down her thin, muscled frame. Soft kisses landed against her skin while her finger nails left light scratches against the dark skin of the Warden. Anora's name was a whisper on Solona's lips as she kept her body rigid while Anora explored her body.




Dragon Age: After the Fifth Blight



The Queen's lips teased against the tight and toned body of the blight-queller and inch by inch, Anora made her way down Solona's body. Moving between her spread legs, Anora cast her tongue against every single part of Solona's body, tasting every bit of her skin as her ears perked up at the soft sounds escaping the 'Hero of Ferelden's' mouth. The smile on Anora's face made the licking and tasting all that much sweeter while her hands slid over her thighs. A swift smack landed on Solona's rear cheek making the Warden yelp with pleasure. Anora watched as her new mistress looked over her shoulder and to where she thought Anora was.

"Ohhhh! Do it again Anora..."

Anora giggled at the request before striking her other ass cheek. The strike was met with a soft kiss against the mark, making the Warden mage coo with pleasure. Anora brushed her tongue against the strike mark and then slowly brought her tongue back in. Her fingers explored the skin of her new lover as her tongue started to move down towards Solona's dripping wet core.

"I'm going to enjoy this my dear Lona." 

"You are?" Solona asked, her vision still obscured by the blindfold. Her head was turned towards the general direction of the Queen but her question was cut short by a long drawn out moan from the Warden mage. The Queen's tongue had slid inside of the 'Hero of Ferelden' and was tasting the arousal that was leaking in copious amounts from her. Anora's hands held onto the top of Solona's thighs, keeping the dark-skinned woman in place as she started to lick at her.

Solona was in bliss and she could feel the blush creeping across her face as Anora started to taste her. Maker, she felt truly divine and her tongue inside of her was hitting her better than a damned lyrium potion after her harrowing. The way Anora was touching her as well sent shivers down the Warden mage's spine. The fact that her eyes were temporarily blinded only made her excitement start to build inside of the young Warden. Her hands bunched at the bedsheets beneath her and sweat started to drip off of her brow, pooling beneath her as her orgasm started to build again.

Anora's hands were curled intensely around Solona's thighs and kept her new lover closer and closer to her and her probing tongue. The sounds of Anora licking at Solona filled the royal chambers and were only matched by Solona's cries of pleasure and the Queen's name on her lips. Anora dipped her tongue inside and curled it, hitting much more of the lovely spots inside of Solona, and then as the Warden mage's toes curled, Anora brushed her right index finger against the mage's clit and sent the poor woman into an orgasmic frenzy. Solona's back arched and she exploded, dousing the Queen's face in cum and then collapsing face first on the sheets, her head smacking against the duvet of the bed with a soft 'thump'. She continued to pant out Anora's name as the Queen continued to lick up some of the wet fluids dripping off of her.

Solona let out a slight giggle before lifting her head when Anora left her legs. The Queen's fingertips trailed along the skin of the Warden before gliding along her shoulder blades and up to the blindfold. Her finger found the knot and it was undone almost as quickly as it had been tied up. When Anora's eyes met hers, Solona's face softened and she moved up for a kiss. Her arms wrapped around Anora's waist and pulled her new lover down into a passionate embrace. Their arms became a tangled mess and their lips crashed against each others, Solona didn't mind the taste of her own arousal as she was busy with kissing her new lover.

"That was... Quite the thank you." Solona said, finally breaking the kissing.

"Only the best for the 'Hero of Ferelden' my dear Lona."

"I love it when you call me that." Solona said, her hands dancing along the pale skin of the Queen of Ferelden.

"Well... Perhaps I won't call you it any more? You may need to punish me for being such a neglectful lover?" Anora asked, her fingers cupping Solona's chin and kissing her forehead softly.

"And how should I punish you? A night in the stocks?"

"Only if you get to lock me up..." Anora responded and was quickly met with another deep kiss, Solona massaging her breasts through the fabric of the slip. Anora cooed with delight and wanted to strip the piece of clothing off of her so that her new lover could treat her the same to her as Anora had just done. However, their passionate moment was quickly ruined by a swift and special knock on the door.

"Your highness? A letter for the hero."

Anora sighed and looked down at the blight-queller. "Duty calls I suppose?" The Queen asked, pressing her lips against Solona's forehead as she nodded. "Just slide it under the door Orianna!"

As if on cue, the letter rolled under the door and landed just by the large round rug. Anora stepped off of the bed and scooped up the parchment, passing it to the Warden who was busy staring at the Queen. Solona took it from her and quickly read the letter over, her eyes steeling at what must have been her new orders.

"You're leaving Ferelden?" Anora asked, worry in her voice, scared of the fact that she might lose her latest mistress.Solona looked up at the Queen and smiled shaking her head.

"Not quite. Just leaving Denerim. I'm to go to the arling of Amaranthine to take over as Warden-Commander of an old Warden base called..." Solona looked at the letter before speaking again. "Vigil's Keep."

"Amaranthine isn't too far away... A three hour ride on horseback."

"Planning a visit are we your highness?" Solona teased, her legs spreading slightly as the letter was dropped to the floor.

"I may just be my dear Solona." Anora said with a wicked grin. "Oh dear, I said the wrong name! Whatever will the big, bad hero of Ferelden do to punish me!?"

"I can think of a few things..."

- END -



Dragon Age: First Knight



"All right. I guess I really don't know how to ask you this," Alistair said, approaching her. He was trembling and sweat stood out on his forehead.

"Ask me what?" she replied.

"Oh, how do I say this? You'd think it would be easier, but every time I'm around you, I feel as if my head's about to explode." He threw his hands in the air. "I-I can't think straight."

"That's very sweet," she said, smiling.

Courageously, he continued. "Here's the thing: being near you makes me crazy, but I can't imagine being without you." He paused. "Not ever. I don't know how to say this another way. I want to spend the night with you. Here, in the camp. Maybe this is too fast, I don't know, but... I know what I feel."

"You want to spend the night? Are you sure?"

"I wanted to wait for the perfect time, the perfect place... but when will it be perfect? If things were, we never would have met." He smiled. "We sort of... stumbled into each other, and despite this being the least perfect time, I still found myself falling for you in between all the fighting and everything else." He laughed nervously. "I really don't want to wait anymore. I've... I've never done this before. You know that. I want it to be with you... while we still have the chance. In case..."

Her heart fluttered wildly as she said, "No need to say anything else. I agree."

Closing his eyes, he leaned in to kiss her, gently resting his fingertips on the back of her head. The kiss started as a chaste meeting of lips, but it quickly became more fevered. Not wanting to go too far where the others could see, she broke the kiss, her hand on the back of his neck. Both of them were breathing hard. Alistair started to say something, but she held her finger to his lips, begging him silently not to speak.

She took his gauntleted hand and led him to the supply packs, looking for the rags he used to polish his armor. She recalled Wynne washing them and returning them to the packs. Quickly she found the rags, smelling mildly of soap. She thanked the Maker for Wynne and her cleanliness.

Rags in one hand and Alistair in the other, she led him to her tent, and together they relieved him of his armor. He needed little help with his metal barrier, but she helped to keep up his morale, lest his Templar upbringing cause him to decide this wasn't the right time and be unable to follow through. When he was stripped down to the clothing he wore to protect himself from armor bites, she took his hand again.

She crouched, lifting her robe above her knees one handed, entering the tent, with Alistair in tow. Once they were inside and the tent was closed, they knelt facing each other in the dimness, illuminated only by the soft light filtering through the tent from the central camp fire. She leaned in, finding his lips with her own, and brought her hands up under his shirt to the skin of his back. She opened her mouth to him as he explored her with his tongue, his seeking gentle and hesitant, as her hands cautiously explored the wide expanse of his back within the confines of his shirt. Keeping his mouth busy, she slowly removed his shirt, breaking the kiss only to lift his shirt over his head. His touch was light as a feather as he placed one hand on her shoulder, the other on the back of her neck. Tossing his shirt, she began to kiss him back, exploring his mouth with her tongue, while her hands slowly descended his neck, over his broad shoulders, down his strong back, to rest at his hips.

Alistair suddenly registered where her hands were, and broke off the kiss, blushing deeply and shyly removing her hands. Not discouraged, she used her hands to slowly lift up her robe, over her buttocks, above her navel, to the base of her full breasts. Alistair stared, his breath quickening. She continued, languidly exposing the thin linen and lace of her bra, and heard his breath catch. Encouraged, the robe was over her head and free of her arms in a flash.

He stared at her breasts, hands at his side. Alistair must have realized he was staring because he met her eyes and gave a shy smile. She smiled back gladly and slowly took his hands into her own and placed them on her hips, arching into him and rubbing his chest with her own, carefully avoiding contact with his hips. He groaned, utterly lost. He began kissing her again, his hands gripping her hips as though his life depended on his hold on her. She cautiously placed her hands back onto his hips as they kissed deeply, tongues dancing.

The kiss became so deep that they both had to come up for air. He touched his forehead to hers and she noticed he was trembling. How long he had been thus she didn't know, distracted by his mouth on hers. She needed to slow this down before his fever turned into frenzy.

Calmly and gently, she moved her hands from his hips, fingertips lightly skimming his washboard abdomen and resting on his chest. She could feel his heart galloping beneath her palms. She moved her hands to the space between his chest and arms, encircling him to lay her head against the wide muscle where his neck met his shoulder. He embraced her lovingly and held her to him, quieting. As he composed himself, she became more excited, his hard length pressed against her where their hips met.

Delicately she moved a small distance away from him. She kissed him lightly on the lips and slowly pulled him down to the furs that made her bed. They both stretched and lay facing each other, Alistair propped up on one elbow. He watched her curiously as she lay on her back, pushed her heels into the furs and raised her hips in the air. She removed her small clothes, revealing the light hair between her legs. Alistair, blushing anew, was enraptured as she sat up to reach both arms behind her back before slowly removing the lacy barrier from her breasts. She returned to her side facing him again, but this time she meticulously applied pressure to the shoulder he wasn't leaning on, guiding him to lie on his back.

When she had him flat against the furs, she began to kiss his chin, his neck, and down, kissing a trail to his navel. Breathing hard, he watched her, clearly uncertain what he was supposed to be doing while she ministered to him. Kissing back up to his neck, she put her weight into her legs, freeing her hands to skillfully untie his breeches.

Again, his hands came to block her advances. Carefully, he grasped her shoulders, pushing her into a sitting position away from him. Before she could become abashed, he removed his breeches and small clothes in one sweep. He then knelt before her, his manhood standing proudly before him, larger than any she had ever seen, one glistening tear adorning its purple head. On his hands and knees, he crawled toward her, forcing her to lean until her back touched the furs and her legs were spread before him. But he didn't stop there. His hands came to rest on either side of her shoulders, bracing himself as he wholly rested his hips against hers. She sucked in a breath as the fullness of him pressed into her belly. He gave a distinctly masculine chuckle despite his inexperience.

Turn about being fair play, she lifted her hips to his, grinding in a circular motion before lowering her buttocks back to the furs, causing his eyes to roll back and his fingers to grip the furs, his arm muscles bunching. He groaned again from deep in his chest. She moved, intending to guide him to her opening, but the moment her hand touched his erection, he sucked in a great breath, head going back making the tendons in his neck stand out as his whole body quaked. Recalling his innocence, she deftly moved him to her opening and pushed with her hips. As he slipped partway in, his whole body shuddered again, his breathing quick and hard. Shifting his hips he pulled away briefly, and as he entered her fully he came undone. A mixed gasp, groan, and sigh escaped his lips as his hips jerked spasmodically, his seed spilling into her in pulses. She pulled him to her just before he collapsed, his great strength abandoning him. He lay against her, shivering and panting as his first climax ran its course through him.

Recovering, he gave a nervous laugh while lifting himself off of her, not quite able to look her in the eyes. Before he could hide behind a joke or flee from her, she kissed him. Deepening the kiss desperately, she leaned him to the side, forcing him to roll onto his back, taking her with him. Soft, he slipped out from within her as she straddled his hips, kissing him for all she was worth. Thankfully, he kissed her back, tongue exploring all previously missed crevasses. She broke their kiss to lightly kiss along his cheek, to his neck, his shoulders. She used her hands to lift his right hand, calloused from years of sword work yet gentle, tempered by his kind heart. She kissed from his shoulder down his enormous biceps, his muscular forearm, to the inside of his steady wrist. His breath caught as she kissed from his wrist to the palm of his hand. Then she took the first finger of his hand and placed it between her lips, twirling her tongue and suckling the digit.

"Oh, Maker." His utterance was low and deep as if dragged from his very depths. She serenely removed his finger from her mouth, placing a small kiss upon the tip before smiling down at him. She had his attention now, no longer abashed and fearful but fascinated. Keeping a hold on his right hand, she reached for his left hand. She placed a kiss on the palm of his left hand before moving his hands to rest upon her ample breasts. Assigning one breast to each hand, she leaned back, bracing her arms on his well-built thighs.

He caught on quickly, losing his timidity and becoming bolder as the night went on. He kneaded her breasts eliciting a low moan from her. Alistair watched her, warmth in his eyes showing both his love for her and the fire rekindling in his blood. She felt his manhood growing beneath her, moving to press into her buttocks. Taking his cues from watching her, he began to play with her breasts, kneading them, cupping them to gauge their weight, learning their secrets. When he discovered her nipples, she nearly leapt off him from the inferno that swept through her.

When she jerked, he stilled, concern written on his face. Meeting her eyes, he took in her flushed face, parted lips and panting breath, and slowly gave a very predatory smile. He teased, brushed over, lightly pinched and rolled her nipples with his agile fingers, learning her body and how she responded to his touch. Her breath came in large gasps and pants as he enjoyed her female vanguard. Having too much of his play, she bent forward to partake his sensual and passionate mouth, but that didn't deter him. Being a quick study, he continued to attend to her nipples while kissing her thoroughly.

Breaking the kiss, she gently grasped his hands in her own and moved them to her hips. Then, shifting her weight to her heels, she raised herself up just enough to find his swollen manhood and guide him into her. Removing her hand, she slowly impaled herself on him, her eyes holding his as she took him to the hilt, feeling him press into her depths. Maker's breath, the way he filled her...

Using her hands atop his on her hips, she showed him how to guide her to ride him as she deliberately raised and lowered herself on his thick shaft. He watched her, mesmerized by her sinuous dance and swaying breasts. She increased her pace, quickly finding her pleasure until her climax exploded throughout her being, causing her movement to become jerky. Her whole body shuddered as she continued to ride out her pleasure, moaning his name between agitated breaths. When she was finally sated, she looked down at him and was caught off guard by the open wonderment of his expression. He leaned forward, brushing her lips with a gentle butterfly's kiss and shifted them both so that she sat in his lap, still within her, his knees making a V to hold her hips, her knees pressed to his sides under his arms. He raised his hands to both sides of her face, cupping her cheeks in his palms, and whispered so softly she almost didn't hear him, "Come undone for me again."

She chuckled breathlessly, smiling radiantly at him. Hands still cupping her face, he drew her tenderly to his lips, lightly kissing her forehead, each eyelid, each cheek, the tip of her nose. Sweetly, he touched his lips hers, breathing her in and, in doing so, affected her heart in a way no one ever had before.

Boldly, his hands caressed down her neck, grazing her breasts to reach around to her back, holding her to him. He began to slowly rock them both, sensually retreating from and pushing into her. She put her arms around his neck and did what she could to move harmoniously with him. Soon, they were both glistening with sweat, breathing in short gasps, working together to bring her to fruition. She felt herself clench as her second climax hit her, and Alistair felt it too, groaning as she writhed in his arms, her fingers digging into his massive shoulders. Never wavering in his thrusting and showing great restraint, he weathered her undoing before reaching his own, quietly crying out her name.

She remained in his lap after, devotedly holding him to her and he returned her embrace with the same devotion as their hearts and breathing slowed and their skin cooled. She knew after this night she would never be able to let him go, even if she had to move land and sky to keep him. The ominous thought caused her to shiver.

Alistair withdrew from her then to pull up the first layer of furs and guide her between them. Her shivering must have worried him. He joined her between the furs, aligning himself against her, his chest to her back, his spent manhood to her buttocks, his legs bent behind hers. He lifted her head gently to lie on his biceps, draping his other arm across her navel. She brought the hand of the arm pillowing her to her heart, entwining her fingers in his. He tightened his hold on her, squeezing her briefly, whispering, "I love you" into her ear before relaxing and enfolding her gently again.

They must have fallen asleep like that, for when she opened her eyes pre-dawn light permeated the canvas of her tent. Either Alistair was already awake or she had awoken him with her stirring, because she found him watching her as she rolled toward him. He smiled shyly at her. Well, that just wouldn't do after the night they had shared. She passionately kissed him good morning and his look changed from reserved to heated. Much better.

Wanting to touch and be close to him, she helped him dress. His manhood was awake and standing proudly, whether due to the dawn or her presence she wasn't sure, but he certainly made himself known through Alistair's smallclothes and breeches. He helped her dress in return, seeming to need the same closeness as she. Once they were dressed, they silently stole out of the tent into the dark chill of very early morning. After helping him don his armor, his usual cheery and joking self emerged. The donning of both sets of his armor was not lost on her.

He spoke quietly. "Hmm. You know, according to all the sisters at the monastery, I should have been struck by lightning by now."

She regarded him earnestly, a small smile playing on her lips. "Not for that performance."

"Meaning that it was so great that the Maker Himself has decided to spare me the usual punishment, right? Right? Aww." His voice was light with humor but his expression was touched by her compliment. "You do realize that the rest of our little party here is going to talk, right? They do that."

"First smart comment and I feed them to the darkspawn," she growled jokingly.

"See?" he said, smiling. "This is why I love you. So... what now? Where do we go from here?"

"We stay together, no matter what happens," she said in earnest.

"Right, I can handle that. I hope." He sighed. "Before we go, have I told you that I love you?" He grinned. "I did? Well, it won't kill you to hear it again, will it?"

"I love you, too," she said, returning his smile.

"See? Was that so hard?" He chuckled, moving away from her as their companions began stirring and the new morning continued to brighten the sky.



Dragon Age



She gasped and bucked her hips at me, "Oh my! Oh, thank you ever so much. That is marvelous!"

She shook involuntarily as I savored her pussy. This was a dream come true and I planned to enjoy as much of Wynne as I could while I could. I flicked my tongue back forth along her aroused clit quickly before moving down to suck the wet slit and then back up to tease the clit again. Her hands gripped my hair pulling me into her pussy tightly forcing my tongue deep into her warm womanhood. I sucked at licked her furiously. She tried to speak again, but only managed excited moans and cries of joy as she came hotly against my mouth. I sucked and savored her delicious quim as she exploded in orgasm.

Wynne was sucking in air, trying to recover from her climax. She caressed me as I moved back up her body and positioned my throbbing cock at her pussy soaking entrance. I slid in smoothly and deeply as she clutched my waist and wailed in ecstasy. She moaned loudly and bit her lower lip as I penetrated her, then gasped in pleasure as I slid my cock out and thrust it back in lovingly. I worked up a smooth rhythm, causing her body to shake and quiver as my shaft slid in and out of her silky wet folds. Wynne had me so turned on by how hot and wet she was that I was moaning and often and as loudly as she was. 

I felt my rod begin to tingle and the shocks of pleasure began racing through my body. I knew my climax was close at hand and I welcomed joinng with this lovely being I dreamt of for so long.

Wynne cried out, "Oh, Gods! Yes, I'm coming again, oh yes."

That was it for me. My balls tightened and my penis began throbbing as I pulsed my juices deep into her core. Our simultaneous orgasm was wondrous and I felt the most intense joy ever as my body released. We clutched each other tightly as waves of extreme pleasure roared through us. My mind was blank as I tried to remember my name. Wynne was in my arms and we had shared a bed, I could think no other thoughts.

After several minutes, I collapsed next to her and she rolled over to put her head on my shoulder. We looked into each other's eyes, smiling.

"Have you been thinking about this as long as I have," Wynne asked.

I grinned, "That depends. I have been thinking about it since the first time I saw you."

She blushed and said, "No, not that long I guess. You were only a child when I first saw you. But I have watched you over the years."

"I have watched you as well," I confessed.

"I know," she smiled as she stated, "I caught you many times. You weren't as discreet as you believed."

We chuckled together as her hands began stroking my body. 

"Something about you reminded me of my first love. I could tell, you would grow into a fine man," Wynne said as my cock began to respond to her touch once more.

I looked at her, "I never knew you had been in love. You never mentioned it. Even when we were at the tower."

"It is hard to talk about," she admitted, "But becoming intimate with you makes me want to not hold anything back."

She rolled over to sit up, crossed legs. Tugging me, I sat up with her also. I could tell it was important to her to get it out. Her body was gorgeous and I couldn't help but respond to her. She smiled as my cock rose but said nothing about it.

"Yes," she started, "I was in love. Being in the tower did not give many chances to meet attractive men. We had a trader that came from time to time and I would always make the time to see him and talk."

I started to get a bad feeling. This was not what I was wanting to hear.

"Francis was a nice man. One night when he stayed in the visitor quarters, I snuck into his room. We enjoyed a night of passion. I became with child."

My mind was swimming. I had a feeling she was talking about me. Wynne was my mother and did not know it. I had enjoyed a night of passion and a quite exciting experience, one that I had dreamed of for so long, with a woman that turned out to be my mother.

"As a mage, I am not allowed to raise a child. The trader got in trouble as well and told he could longer have business at the tower. When the child was born, he was sent to live with his father. I only had that first night with him," she finished. Her eyes were misty but the memory appeared to not hurt as much after all these years. She seemed to have made peace with that part of her life.

"Wynne," I croaked with a catch in my throat, "My father is Francis de GrosBois."

We looked at each other for several minutes. I watched the realization , the shock, the disbelief, all of it, play across her beautiful face.

"Oh Gods, what have we done," she whispered.

I moved to her, "I feel no regret. We love each other. Maybe more now than ever. This is not our fault. We could not know."

Her shocked face looked at me with wide eyes. Finally she spoke.

I'm your mother," she said, "You're the son I never knew. You are still attracted to me and aroused by me? How? I'm your mother. It's wrong."

I moved to kiss her again.

"I don't care about that. I fell in love with you and have been enamored and desired you for as long as I can remember. I still want you."

"Gods help me. I can't believe this. I still want you as a lover. I don't want to give you up either," she said tears flowing down her cheeks.

She pushed me down. I dropped back into the blankets. My cock was straight up in the air. Wynne smiled lasciviously. Tears were still wet on her face. I may have been her son, but I was also a man she was aroused by and attracted to. 

She swung a leg over me and grabbed my erect shaft. Still smiling, she slowly lowered her glorious body down. I felt her warmth envelop me as she impaled herself on my throbbing prick. The smile on her face quickly transformed into a mask of pleasure. Her eyes were shut tight and her mouth opened in an "O" as she moaned in delight. She began grinding down on my pole. Her tits bounced sexily as she drove her body up and down on my rod. My cock was rock hard as I slid in and out of her creamy quim. Every few thrusts of our bodies, she would twist her hips grinding my cock into her cunt.

She fisted her hands in her hair as she bounced on me emitting high pitched moans I did not expect. She was on another level of erotic pleasure, taking herself to peaks of climax again and again. Her tits thrust out to my seeking hands. I took them fondling roughly at the sexy mounds.

"Oh honey, I'm coming," she told me once more.

My body followed Wynne right along. My body tightened and thrust up into her luscious cunt. For a second time that night my body released. My seed squirted up into her sopping pussy as she flooded down onto my shaft. My cum 

squirted up into my mother!

We dropped back again pulling the blankets over us. We cuddled together.

"What now?" I asked when I could speak again.

"Now, you hold me all night. In the morning you save the world. And every night from now until then, you share my bed and make fantastic love to me. The rest we'll figure out later," Wynne said snuggling in close.

I could live with that. I drifted off to sleep holding the women of my dreams who happened to be my mother.



Dragon and Unicorn



Author's Note: The creatures in this story are referred to by generic names like Dragon, Unicorn and Uncle. They have real names of their own, but these names are nearly impossible for humans to pronounce and very difficult to transcribe into any human alphabet. It is therefore easier to keep all names in this story as generic names.

Dragon was sunning himself on the soft sand of the lake's beach, sprawled out to catch every ray. He was a medium size dragon, about as big as an average horse, covered with green scales and with a long, spiky tail. Dragons of his tribe were water dragons, so he had large webbed claws at the end of short, powerful legs.

He turned his head slightly and looked up the slope to the nearby grassy meadow. A white unicorn was grazing there, pale and shining in the sunlight with a hide the color of new cream that strawberries had soaked in for a few minutes. He watched with his dark green eyes, carefully observing every motion of the unicorn. The way the light gleamed off her golden horn and hooves, the way she tossed her baby-fine pale mane the color of midsummer's moonlight, the way her long tail swayed when she walked. When she finally turned her back to him, the dragon stirred, easing his serpentine body off the sand and moving along the slope up to the meadow, silent as a summer's breeze. He was careful, not letting her catch the tiniest hint of his motion. The unicorn didn't notice his approach, and soon he was right behind her. He reached out with a cruelly sharp dragon claw, slowly and carefully, slowly... 

Then gently stroked the unicorn's haunch and hind leg with his scaly knuckles, savoring the velvet perfection of her hide. The unicorn tossed her head, large golden eyes wide in surprise and turned her head back to look at the dragon.

"That wasn't funny, Dragon, you frightened me." Her voice was as pure as her cream colored hide. 

Dragon sighed, letting a tiny wisp of smoke escape his nostrils. "Sorry my love, I couldn't help myself, you are so beautiful, you know I can't resist you." 

"Oh Dragon, don't talk that way, you know that our love can never work." Unicorn sighed, a sound like the wind in distant trees.

Dragon moved along her until they were side-by-side. "There has to be a way, and I'll find it, no matter how long it takes." 

Dragon snaked out his forked tongue and ran it along her soft neck. She nuzzled his scaly hide, closing her eyes in pleasure. He ran a jagged fang along her ear and she shivered. 

"Dragon, stop, don't. We can't." 

"Unicorn, how can I stop when I can't resist your charms? You've cast some strong magic on me." He nuzzled her neck again. "Mmm, what kind of magic can enslave a dragon?"

"There's no magic, dear Dragon, it's just love."

"But Unicorn, love is the strongest magic of all." Dragon fell silent for a moment, not moving. "Strong magic. Strong magic, that's what we need."

"Strong magic? What are you talking about?"

"Strong magic so we can be together. Let's leave for the mountains to see the great Uncle Dragon, he's the oldest and wisest dragon living. He knows all about magic." 

"Can he help us?" Unicorn's ears perked up. "Can we leave right now?"

"In the morning. We'll want to pack a few things. I'll have to bring Uncle a trinket from my horde." Dragon squirmed a bit, trying to ease the stiffness of his erection. "Right now I need to cool off with a dip in the lake." 

Unicorn looked down between Dragon's legs. "Still hard? You can cool off in the lake, but what am I supposed to do about my wet hindquarters?" 

"Join me for a swim, my sweet." 

"I think that would just make things worse." She flicked her long tail at him. "Go on, cool off." 

Early the next morning, Dragon emerged from his hidden lakeside lair with a large mesh bag tied to his back between his dragon wings. Inside the bag, among other things, was a silver tankard set with large, polished garnets. Unicorn shook herself awake and trotted over to greet Dragon.

"Good morning dear one, what's in the bag?" Unicorn asked.

"Good morning, my love. It's just a trinket from my hoard as a gift for Uncle. If he likes it, then he'll help us find magic that will let us be together."

"Let's get going, how far is it to Uncle's lair?"

"He hides in the northern mountains, about three day's travel from here." Dragon indicated the direction with a flick of his head.

"Do you know the way?"

"It's been years, but I've been there once before. You set the pace and I'll fly just ahead to guide you." 

"There's plenty of grass along the valleys, but what about food for you?"

"Don't worry, there'll be plenty." Dragon leapt into the air and glided around in a circle, getting his bearings and waiting for Unicorn to begin walking. It took them about an hour to find a pace that was comfortable for both of them and the miles slipped by. When the sun was nearing the horizon, Unicorn signaled Dragon to stop and find a place to rest. There was plenty of grass along their track and a stand of trees provided concealment from anyone that might happen by. Dragon managed to find a small animal that made a decent snack for a dragon of his size. 

Next morning, Unicorn woke first and grazed for a while before waking Dragon. She wanted to build up her reserves for the rest of the journey. Two more days passed in a similar fashion before they came to the foothills of the mountains. 

"Hmm, this way, I think." Dragon waved a claw towards a cleft in the ridge. "Let me go ahead and check, I'll be back soon." He few off towards the mountain and circled around the slope a couple of times before he spotted the old dragon's cave about halfway up a canyon wall. Dragon sped back to Unicorn.

"I've found it." He called. "I've found his cave. We'll have our answer soon."

It took most of the next day for Unicorn to find a path up to the elder dragon's cave. A dragon's lair is usually reached by flying, not walking. Fortunately for them, the elder dragon had once suffered a wing injury many years ago that kept him from flying for a while. He had made sure that there was a narrow path up to his cave so that it could be reached by walking. Dragon went in first. 

"Uncle, are you here?" He called in the dragon language.

"Who's that? Who's there?" Boomed out the ancient dragon's voice.

"It's just me Uncle, I visited you many years ago. I've brought you a gift." Dragon passed the silver tankard to the elder dragon.

"Well, I remember you, young whippersnapper. Always wanting to go off and do something crazy. Well what crazy thing have you done now?" Uncle set the tankard on top of a mound of treasure. 

"I've fallen in love, Uncle."

"Well that's a crazy thing for a dragon to do, but not crazy enough to bring you here for my advice. Go on. What else?"

Dragon signaled for Unicorn to enter the cave. "Uncle, I've fallen in love with a unicorn."

"Now that's pretty crazy. This the little lady, here?" 

Dragon and Unicorn both nodded.

"Well, it's better for us dragons to stay with our own kind." Uncle thought a moment. "Hows about I tell you about my great-grand nice. Nice girl dragon, you'd like her. She lives by a lake down south a ways." Uncle mentioned a name in the dragon language.

"Uh, Uncle, I know that dragon. She's my mother." 

"Oh. Well I guess she must have raised you right, she was a cute little dragon some years ago. If she's your mother then I'll help you."

"Thank you Uncle."

"Well now, it's going to take some really strong magic for you two to stay together, let me tell you." Uncle coughed a couple of times and spit into the corner of his cave. 

"That's why we've come, Uncle. Can you tell us what sort of magic will help us?"

"Well, that's the hard part, isn't it?" Uncle sat back and scratched his chin, thinking. "Can't rightly say that I know any magic that will work, but I know someone who does. Don't know what he'll ask in return, though."

"Who is it? Please tell us." Unicorn piped up, using the dragon language.

"Well, there's this Wizard, see? He's kind of taken on dragons as a specialty. Does dragon healing and that sort of thing. Usually collects shed scales, claw trimmings and the occasional small vial of dragon's blood, that sort of thing. Probably sells the stuff to lesser magicians or tourists or something."

"Where can we find the Wizard?"

"Well, you just go up this canyon a ways and turn right into the valley where the waterfall flows down. You'll come to a tree that's been split in two by lightning, all burned and splintered, but the outer parts of it are still alive. It's got green branches growing out of burned ones. You can't miss it." Uncle coughed and spat again. "Just past the tree is another cave, that's where you'll find the Wizard. Stay clear of the Troll, he's got a nasty temper." 

"Thank you Uncle, we'll go see the Wizard right away." Dragon backed out of the cave right after Unicorn. 

"Now what?" She asked.

"We have to see the Wizard, no matter what he demands. I'll go first and fly to his cave. You follow carefully. If he looks dangerous I want you to run as fast as you can back down the mountain." 

"I won't leave you, Dragon."

"Please, if it's too dangerous then save yourself." Without waiting for a reply, he launched himself into the air and headed for the Wizard's cave, following Uncle's directions. He spotted the Wizard's cave easily and backwinged in for a landing just past the lightning-blasted tree. 

"Don't blow dust into my cave!" A deep human voice came from within, booming out from the darkness. It was followed a moment later by a tall man with a white beard, dressed in wizard's robes and a large, stained white apron. He wiped his hands on the apron, then produced a pointy wizard's hat from a concealed pocket and adjusted it on his head. 

"Don't be landing so close, you'll blow dust into my potions. Ah, yes. Another dragon with a problem that only a wizard can fix. What can I do for you?" The Wizard was fluent in dragon language. 

"Oh great and powerful Wizard, can you help me with a problem of love?" 

"Ha. Love potions don't always get you what you want. Why not try giving your lady dragon some gold from your hoard?" Wizard turned to go back into his cave, but caught sight of Unicorn coming up the trail. He watched her for a moment, then looked back at Dragon. Unicorn sauntered up to Dragon and after nuzzling his neck, stood next to him. Wizard scratched his beard.

"This is a joke, right? You two can't be serious." Wizard quit scratching his beard and folded his arms, waiting for an answer.

"We are serious, oh great and powerful Wizard. Can you help us?" Unicorn spoke in fluent dragon speech.

"Quit calling me that. Just Wizard will do for now. This will not only take powerful magic, but also terrible sacrifice. How much are you two willing to give up to remain together?" 

"Wizard, I would risk anything except her." Dragon drew himself up proudly.

"And I would risk everything except my lover's life." Unicorn responded.

"That's what I thought you would both say, but you must face trials and dangers together for the magic to work. The risk must be shared equally." 

"No Wizard, I won't ever risk losing my Unicorn." 

"Then you've already lost her." Wizard shook his head slowly.

"Dragon, we've already faced a long journey to get here. Our only chance is to heed the Wizard's words." She turned to the Wizard. "We will do what you say and face any danger, as long as we are together." 

"Then there's hope. You two must stay here for a few days while I research what magic will be needed." The Wizard pointed along the valley to a grassy meadow. "You can graze and hunt there. There is also a price for my services, above and beyond the dangers you must face."

Dragon nodded. "Name your price, Wizard."

"From you, Dragon, a few scales that you would shed normally; some clippings of your claws which will grow back soon and a pint of your blood, which you won't miss anyway." Wizard turned to Unicorn. "It's rare that any mage gets to see one of your kind. Unicorns are well known for having great magic concealed within them. For now, I will trim your hooves, mane, tail and horn and keep the trimmings. They will all grow back normally. As with your Dragon, I will also require a pint of your blood." 

"What else will you demand of us?" 

"It is likely that you will have to go on a quest, to bring me something with enough magical qualities to complete the spells. I will know more after my research. For now, let me get my tools and bottles and take my payment." The Wizard ducked back into his cave for a few moments.

"Dragon, this sounds dangerous." 

"If we can be together, it's worth it. For you I would face the fiercest knight that ever roamed the earth." Dragon had one more question for the returning Wizard. "What about the troll that Uncle told us about?"

"Troll? Oh, yes. There was a troll living in a cave about half a mile farther on, but he's been gone for years."

About noon on the fourth day, the Wizard stepped from the entrance of his cave and waved at the odd couple sunning themselves in his meadow. 

"I've got it!" He shouted at them.

"What have you got? Can you do the magic now? How soon can we be together?" Dragon and Unicorn were so excited that they were both talking at once. 

"I have the form of the spell and now I know where you can get the items to complete it." He opened the book that he carried and pointed at a page written in an arcane, indecipherable alphabet. "The Staff of Emagranon has gems with great value and power. All you two have to do is get the staff and bring it to me. Then I can complete the spell in just a day or two." 

"And just where do we find this magical staff of Emaah, Emmananga, Eh, er, staff of power?" 

"That's the hard part." Wizard turned a page and pointed at more squiggles. "There's an evil sorcerer that's gotten ahold of the staff and is using it to enslave other magical creatures. I think I've found his lair by divination. It's several leagues to the west of here, about four days journey for you two." 

"Tell us how to get there." 

Wizard started giving detailed directions, with much pointing and waving of hands, to the place where he thought the Sorcerer might be living. Dragon tried to take it all in and hoped that Unicorn was listening, too. They set out immediately, heading back down the mountain for the road along the foothills. 

One evening, about two days along their journey, just a few leagues beyond the well-marked crossroads Wizard had mentioned, they found a village of humans. Their frail-looking buildings lined the road and the well-tended crop fields spread across the flatlands beyond their town. Since he was in the air high above Unicorn, the villagers sighted Dragon first. Screaming in alarm, they grabbed everything that could be used as a weapon, no matter how crude. Tree branches, pitchforks, scythes and shovels were all pressed into service against the perceived threat. Mothers grabbed their children and dragged them indoors despite their pleas to see the dragon gliding above their rooftops. Dragon banked around and waved Unicorn away from the humans. Afraid that the humans might harm her, he led her off the road onto a smaller track through the forest and bypassing the village.

They rested in the thick woods only a few minutes travel from the village. Dragon left Unicorn in the trees and crept back to the villager's grain fields nearest to the forest. With a few swipes of his sharp claw he harvested several pounds of sweet oats for Unicorn. Before returning to her, he helped himself to a fat lamb from their flocks. He presented the grain, stalks and all to Unicorn back at their hideout. Unicorn was grateful for the high-energy food and set about threshing the grain from the stalks with her sharp hooves. Dragon stored the grain in a spare sack that he had in the carry bag strapped between his wings. 

A couple more days travel brought them to more cultivated fields. But the fieldworkers here weren't human. Large trolls were pulling heavy wagons along the lanes; dwarves were digging irrigation ditches and repairing stone walls; halflings scrambled into trees to prune or pluck fruit. None of them seemed pleased with their jobs and they went about their work listlessly. Dragon landed to talk with Unicorn.

"They don't look very enthused." Unicorn observed.

"I wouldn't be happy doing this kind of work, either." Dragon replied. "It looks very boring."

"No Dragon, the humans at the village looked content while they worked, at least until you frightened them. Besides, they didn't have overseers with whips making them work." 

"Oh." Dragon hadn't noticed the ogres with whips. "They seem to be taking things in that direction." Dragon pointed towards the hills.

"How can we sneak in? The ogres look suspicious of us." 

"How about we disguise ourselves?" Dragon reached over to a parked cart that was piled high with various kinds of bags and sacks. He grabbed a linked pair and set them across Unicorn's back like saddlebags. He took one more for himself, arranging it to cover the mesh bag strapped between his wings. They moved along the road, trudging slowly as if carrying heavy loads, keeping their heads down to look as dejected as the rest of the fieldworkers. 

"Have you noticed that there's no other dragons or unicorns?" Unicorn asked after a while. 

"There doesn't seem to be any really magic creatures around here. There's no fairies or genies or that sort of thing." 

"What can that mean?" 

"Perhaps the Sorcerer's magic isn't strong enough to affect our kind of creature."

"Let's hope that's true." Unicorn tossed her head towards a small castle perched on a hill ahead. It wasn't much more than a single tower surrounded by a curtain wall. "That's the first building we've seen that isn't a barracks or a storehouse. I think that's where we'll find the Sorcerer, it has a magic feel to it, and not a good feeling either." 

The castle itself was little more than a mediocre three-story round keep surrounded by thin curtain walls about ten feet high. There were twelve-foot high rounded projections at the corners instead of real towers. The castle's stones were roughly cut and jammed in place without much precision. The only part of the castle made with any craftsmanship was a long great hall. It overtopped the curtain wall on that side of the castle and stretched the full length of the courtyard. It was built of polished stone construction with several windows, a fine shingle roof and carved drain spouts. Unicorn confidently ambled through the gate followed by Dragon, both still pretending to carry their imaginary loads. Within the courtyard several servants of various magical races hurried about on numerous errands and chores. The great hall's large, carved oak door was left most of the way open so the servants could dash in or out as their duties required. Unicorn was the first to enter the great hall, followed closely by Dragon.

"Look at this place, talk about conspicuous display." Unicorn glanced around at the plush tapestries along the walls and the intricately carved furniture. 

"This place must have cost plenty." Dragon agreed. "And this must be our host."

He nodded towards a human in richly embroidered robes of costly fabric, seated at a large, carved table with a gnarled wooden staff at his side. The Sorcerer was sipping wine from a solid gold goblet, set with rubies and silver knotwork between the stones. He was studying a sheaf of papers covered with arcane symbols, similar to the ones in the Wizard's book. Servants of various kinds bustled about the hall on a variety of chores, making sure the Sorcerer was well supplied with wine and also that he wasn't disturbed. Dragon noticed that the top of the Sorcerer's staff was ornately carved and studded with dozens of colorful gems.




Dragon and Unicorn



Dragon quietly removed the bags they were carrying as a disguise and dropped them gently in the corner. "Now what do we do?" He whispered to Unicorn.

"I thought you had a plan." 

"You there!" A harsh voice interrupted the couple. "You, dragon, what's in those sacks?"  It was the Sorcerer and he was reaching for the staff. 

"Er, ah...well you see, sir... Uh..." Dragon's mind had suddenly gone blank just when he needed a cover story the most. He turned to face the Sorcerer. 

The Sorcerer raised his arms and spoke a few words in a harsh language that Dragon didn't understand. When nothing happened, he pointed the staff at Dragon. 

"You're not one of my slaves. I'll have to fix that." He began chanting in the same language as before, but louder and harsher. Dragon felt a strange tingle as the magic tried to control him.

"Run." He whispered to Unicorn and let a blast of fire loose at the Sorcerer. The evil mage changed his chant and the fire split to swirl around him harmlessly. 

Unicorn skidded across the polished wooden floor, trying to reach the door but finding her way blocked by the minions of the Sorcerer. She reared up, slashing out with her hooves but there were too many of them.

"Dragon!" She called out. 

Dragon spun around towards Unicorn, using his tail as a lash to knock the Sorcerer sprawling, skidding to a stop under his own table. Another blast of dragon fire chased the servants away from Unicorn, most of them making an escape out the door. Unicorn changed her mind about escaping and slammed the thick oak door shut, dropping the substantial wooden bar in place to prevent the escaping servants from bringing in any help. 

The Sorcerer recovered quickly and jumped out from under the table with a fierce expression on his face, made more terrible by the blood streaming from his damaged nose. He formed a ball of lightning in his hand and threw it at Dragon. It hit the scaly beast full on, paralyzing him for a moment and causing all of his nerves to ignite with pain. The Sorcerer hurled another ball of lightning at Dragon, then another in rapid succession. Unable to dodge them fully, they left trails of searing pain down his back and along his wings. His strength was draining rapidly. 

Unicorn was unaware of her lover's dangerous situation. She had herded the remaining servants into a pantry off the main hall, poking a few with the sharp point of her horn. She was busy blocking that door as well when she heard Dragon calling to her. She turned to see him snared in a web of solidified red fire streaming from the Sorcerer's hands and trapping the great beast like a fish in a net. Dragon struggled but was unable to break the magical bonds.

"Unicorn, use your magic! I can't last much longer." Dragon cried in desperation, using the unicorn language and hoping that the Sorcerer didn't understand it. 

The Sorcerer grinned, unable to understand unicorn speech but sensing the weakness of his opponent. Suddenly the chamber was flooded with a dazzling rainbow of light. The Sorcerer stopped, transfixed by the sight, mouth agape as if hypnotized. Unicorn stood with her head held high, the light emanating from her golden horn. It was almost too bright to look directly at her and she seemed to have grown in stature so that she nearly filled the large room. Dragon had never seen anything so beautiful, but he forced himself to look away. Moving slowly as if in a dream, he dragged himself out of the weakened magical net and over to the Sorcerer, flattening the evil mage with one swipe of his mighty claw. Unicorn staggered and the rainbow light went out.

Limping over to her, Dragon cried out. "Are you hurt? Unicorn, please don't be hurt." 

"No, no, I'm all right. It's just that it takes a lot out of me to call the rainbow, especially inside stone walls like this." She shook her head and nudged the Sorcerer's magic staff across the floor towards Dragon. "Is he dead?" 

"I don't know, I can't tell with humans. He might still be breathing." Dragon picked up the staff and put it in the bag on his back. As an afterthought, he grabbed the golden wine cup. "Let's get out of here quickly in case he recovers." 

Many of the Sorcerer's servants, escapees from the battle, were standing in a large semicircle around the door when Dragon and Unicorn emerged. None of them looked happy and many were clutching swords, clubs or makeshift weapons.

"There they are!" A voice in the crowd shouted. Dragon braced himself for another fight and prepared to blast fire once again. A cheer went up from the minions, startling the couple. Dragon backpedaled, bumping into Unicorn who shoved him back out the door. 

"What's going on?" 

"You've freed us from the Sorcerer's enslavement!" Someone shouted.

"The dragon shall be our new leader!" Came another shout.

"No, the unicorn will lead us!" Came a contradictory reply. "She cured my cough with her horn." 

"You cured him?" Dragon whispered.

"I didn't mean to, some unicorn magic just happens."

There was more shouting and the crowd started to turn angry, pushing, shoving and grappling with each other. Dragon watched in confusion, his mouth hanging open. There were cries of "Dragon!" "Unicorn!" "Ogre!" "Dwarf King!" As each party tried to advance their own opinion on who should lead the freed slaves. 

Unicorn tilted her head towards Dragon's ear. "Dragon, I don't like this, let's get out of here." 

Unicorn threaded through the angry crowd, careful not to draw any excess attention to herself. Subdued, Dragon followed in her wake, out the castle gate and down the road. The working creatures they had seen in the fields earlier were also turning angry, some of them attacking their Ogre overseers, others trampling crops, overturning carts and generally causing havoc in the Sorcerer's fields. Unicorn picked up her pace, anxious to get away from the rowdy workers. Dragon stayed on the ground with her until they were out of the Sorcerer's lands, hoping to intimidate anyone who got too close. Once past the last of the cultivated fields, he breathed a sigh of relief, letting some steam escape from his nose. Only then he allowed himself to take to the air to hurry their journey along. 

For the past few days Dragon had stayed low over the road to be closer to Unicorn. He was worried that her use of magic was somehow still affecting her. In his worry he had forgotten about the human village until they came to the edge of the planted fields. There was a crowd of people there, lining the road but well back from its edges. They were all standing silently with their makeshift weapons in their hands, an air of anticipation hanging over the crowd. Dragon looked up the road and to his horror saw a mounted Knight in full armor, lowering his lance for the charge. Without thinking, he dropped to the road and placed himself between the Knight and Unicorn. 

"Unicorn, run!" He shouted in the dragon language, not looking to see if she listened. "Hide yourself." 

As the Knight approached, he unleashed his major weapon of dragon's flame for the second time on this journey. As with the Sorcerer, the Knight was barely fazed by the blast of heat, flames licking around his shield and dancing across the armor of both horse and man. 

"Oh no, his armor's enchanted." Dragon cried as he leapt out of the path of the lance. His timing was off, probably still affected by the battle with the Sorcerer and the lance scraped down his right side. He had avoided the direct point of the lance, but the Knight still slammed into a major wing spar, tumbling Dragon sideways and spraining his wing. There were cheers from the assembled villagers. 

Dragon found that he couldn't completely fold or unfold his wing without severe pain. Robbed of flight, he half-folded his wings as best he could and turned to face the Knight once more. The Knight had wheeled his horse and was charging back at Dragon. Dragon avoided the lance and managed to get his claw on the Knight's shield, leaving deep scratches in its surface and causing the Knight to sway in his saddle. 

Dragon turned to face the next charge, trying desperately to think of a plan. The Knight came at him again and Dragon breathed fire once more. This time his target wasn't the heavily armored Knight or the armor on the upper part of the Knight's horse, it was the lightly protected legs of the horse that took the full blast of flame. The horse reared, breaking stride and spoiling the Knight's charge as the lance waved harmlessly in the air. Dragon took this chance to swipe at the horse with his tail, causing it to stumble even more. The Knight fought to control the horse and keep his seat. Dragon attempted to get off the road and hide in the fields while the Knight was distracted. 

The Knight stayed in his saddle and recovered too quickly for Dragon to escape. He came at him again. Dragon tried to fry the horse's legs once more and the horse shied away from the heat. The Knight brought his lance sideways and up, trying to slam the shaft down on Dragon's head. He caught Dragon on the snout, spoiling his aim and shutting off the fire. Dragon shook his head to clear it. The Knight was very strong for a human. They faced each other one more time along the hard-packed road. As the Knight charged, Dragon heard another set of hoofbeats behind him.

"Out of the way, Dragon." Unicorn warned him. He moved aside just as she flashed past him in a white blur. Her dangerous horn was leveled at the Knight and she was moving at full speed. She dodged the lance and came up under the Knight's shield with the point of her horn. Golden sparks leapt from her horn and the enchanted armor as Unicorn's horn tore into the Knight's breastplate. The Knight dropped his lance and clawed at the horn, trying to pry it out of his flesh and armor. Unicorn attempted to pull away from the Knight, backpedaling as quick as she could, but unable to get her horn free. When Unicorn didn't withdraw, the Knight reached for his sword. There was panic in Unicorn's golden eyes. 

Despite the pain of his badly sprained wing, Dragon threw himself into the air and straight at the Knight, curled into a ball. The sword was only halfway out of its scabbard when Dragon slammed into the Knight at full speed, freeing Unicorn's horn and throwing the Knight off his horse into the stone-lined ditch beside the road. There was a loud snap and the Knight quit moving. Dragon slowly uncurled himself and got up. The Knight lay very still, his head at a peculiar angle. His neck had been broken by one of the stones of the ditch. The crowd of villagers fell completely silent, all of them stunned by the sudden defeat of their champion. 

Dragon crawled back onto the road to where Unicorn was still standing. There was a little blood on her horn. 

"Dragon, I've never done anything like that. I've never killed anyone. Unicorn horns are supposed to heal, not harm." 

"You still haven't killed anyone, dear Unicorn. He broke his neck on one of the rocks. Besides, we wouldn't have been fighting him if he wasn't trying to kill us." Dragon picked up a small, golden-colored pebble off the road and stowed it in his pack. 

"What was that?"

"It's a bit of your horn, dear one. The tip must have broken off from the enchanted armor. I'll give it to Wizard as an extra payment." Dragon grimaced in pain. "I'll have to walk the rest of the way, my wing is too hurt to fly." 

Unicorn tried to heal him by touching her horn to the dislocated wing joint. It eased the pain somewhat, but Dragon found that he still couldn't fold or unfold his wing completely. It would have to be properly set. 

They turned and walked down the road, between the groups of silent villagers and past their simple houses. Dragon could have torched the entire village, but he was too tired and didn't believe in that sort of revenge. The passed the village without touching anything or even a backward glance and kept on going. 

They trudged on for several hours, both weary from the fight but unwilling to stop where the villagers might catch up with them. Dragon was hoping to get past the crossroads before they had to rest. Suddenly dragon stopped and cocked his head to one side, looking at a copse of trees just off the road. His ears were extended, trying to hear more of the sounds that had caught his attention. 

"What is it?" Unicorn whispered, recognizing his alert stance.

"There's someone hiding over there. Hear it?" 

Unicorn pricked up her ears. "It sounds like human speech." She headed off the road, towards the trees. 

"Unicorn, wait." Dragon whispered. "It might be a trap, I don't want us to be attacked again. You wait here and I'll see what it is."

"It's taken both of us to defeat the Sorcerer and the Knight. We should stay together." She continued walking silently through the tall grass. Dragon rolled his eyes, realizing that she was right and went along with her.

Moving as stealthy as they could, they managed to get close enough to hear what was being said and to glimpse the human couple through the tall grass. On a thick blanket spread in the shade of a large oak tree sat a human couple. One was a muscular young man, well dressed in a dark tunic and tights with a neatly trimmed mustache and light hair. He had unbuckled his sword-belt and set the weapon aside. The other was a young, shapely woman in a fine gown. Her long dark hair hung down her back, bound into a braid with a colorful ribbon. They had their arms wrapped around each other, often kissing while they spoke. 

"But my father won't want to give me to a landowner, even a noble if it's just a small holding. We could lose my dowry." The woman was saying. "Now that I'm of marriageable age, he wants me to marry some old, rich merchant, one of his business partners or something." 

"Dowry be hanged, I only want you." The young man emphasized his words with another kiss. "It doesn't matter about a dowry, I'm eighteen now, too. The lands are mine by right. Marry me and they're yours." 

"But your noble father won't let you marry a commoner, even a rich merchant's daughter." 

"He will if you carry my heir. He's desperate for a grandchild." He kissed her again, deeply, sliding his tongue between her soft, willing lips.

"What are they doing with their mouths?" Dragon whispered to Unicorn. 

"It's called kissing. It looks nice." Unicorn whispered back. "I wish we could do that."

They kept watching as the two humans spoke less and less and kissed more and more, noting how their hands roamed along their bodies. The man reached deeply under the woman's gown, causing her to roll her head back and moan. She eased his tunic off over his head, revealing a well muscled, hairy chest. He undid the drawstrings on the woman's gown, opening it enough for her to slip it over her head, revealing her firm young breasts, flat belly and slender legs. His boots and tights were quickly discarded and they both were naked for each other and, unknown to them, naked for Dragon and Unicorn. 

"She looks very pretty for a human." Dragon observed. 

"Hmm. Look at the way he touches her, kissing her breasts. Oh Dragon, if only we could..." 

"Soon, my love, when we get back to Wizard with the staff." Dragon found himself getting excited by watching the human lovers. He wondered if Unicorn were excited, too. "Ah. Look how she touches his cock, stroking it slowly and gently." 

"He quit kissing her breasts, why is he kissing her down there? She seems to enjoy it." 

The young man was lying sideways to the woman, his head between her legs. He had slid his tongue and fingers into her, gently coaxing her to a shuddering orgasm while she held his head with one hand. She had reached over and was stroking his hardness with the other hand. As she stopped shaking, he raised his head from her dark muff.

"I want you now." He whispered.

"Oh yes, I want you too, I want you inside me." She gasped. 

He lowered himself onto her as her hands gently guided him into her wet hole. They moved together, kissing and moaning while Dragon and Unicorn watched with rapt attention. First the young woman cried out with her second orgasm, followed quickly by the gasps of her lover as he filled her with his seed. The man collapsed against the woman, spent from his orgasm. They stayed that way for a while before either one stirred.

"That's very romantic," Unicorn whispered. "Humans mate face-to-face. They can look into each other's eyes and even kiss."

"Uh... Yeah. Very horny, uh, I mean romantic." Dragon gulped. 

Unicorn turned towards Dragon. Despite the bruising of the earlier battle, he was visibly aroused. Unicorn looked down at his hardness and sighed. 

"Oh Dragon, I wish we could. My hindquarters are wet, too. But we must have patience, my love." She rubbed her muzzle against his scaly neck, teasing the scales with her lips. Dragon sighed, a large dragon sigh with a bit of smoke. The humans heard him, sat up and looked around, the woman grabbing hurriedly at her clothes, the man going for his sword. The young woman spotted Unicorn first. 

"A unicorn, how beautiful!" She dropped her gown from in front of her perky breasts, grabbed the man's shoulder and pointed, causing him to drop his sword. "It's a sign, an omen. We're going to have a girl, chaste and beautiful. And... and she'll grow up so beautiful that she'll marry a handsome and rich prince." 

The young couple stared, fascinated by the appearance of one magical beast. Then Unicorn moved aside and Dragon was revealed to them.

"It's a dragon, too. A fierce, noble dragon." It was his turn to point as he draped his arm across her bare shoulders. "That means we're also going to have a son, a strong warrior son who will grow up as fierce as a dragon in battle." 

"But both at once?" The woman gasped as her hand flew to her mouth. "Oh my, this means that we're going to have twins!" 

The young man reached over and cupped her breast, teasing her rosy nipple with his thumb.

"Then we'd better make love again," He grinned, "just to be certain." 

"Let's get out of here before they make us stay as foster parents." Dragon whispered to Unicorn as he turned and headed back towards the road. 

They spent the night just past the crossroads, lying in a thicket of the common tall grass. Unicorn happily cropped the grasses and had a bit of the grain from Dragon's pack to help rejuvenate her. Dragon managed to catch a wolf, but it was rather stringy and didn't fill him up. He was too tired to hunt any more and curled up in an area that Unicorn had cleared. They both slept till well past noon and woke up stiff and sore. Unicorn tried to heal Dragon's wing again, but it still didn't go back into place.

"I think it's going to take a couple more days to get back than it did getting to the Sorcerer." Dragon lamented as they trudged along the road. "I can't move so fast right now." 

"Will a swim in a pond or lake help you to recover?" Unicorn asked. "I smell water ahead, lots of water." 

"You can smell that? I usually rely on sight to look for a lake or stream." Dragon flexed his sore wing. "A cool dip would be nice right now. If I'm lucky, I can catch some fish." 

"Come on, this way." Unicorn led the Dragon down a side trail and found a medium sized body of water, either a large pond or a small lake just a few hundred yards from the road. "See, I told you there was plenty of water here."

Dragon made a little happy noise in his throat, dropped his bag and dived into the lake. Flexing his wings, he managed to ease some of the stiffness before he dived again, this time going after the fish that he sensed lurking near the bottom. Unicorn watched him, happy that he was able to ease some of his pain. She took a drink from the lake herself, feeling rejuvenated by the cool waters. Finished with his swim, Dragon hauled himself far out of the lake and spread out on top of a slight rise, dozing while drying in the warm sun. Unicorn found herself falling into a half-conscious state as she grazed, working her way around the meadow to the sweeter grasses near the lake's edge. Soon Dragon began snoring softly. 




Dragon and Unicorn



There was movement in the taller grass. Unicorn snapped out of her stupor and turned to face the possible threat, leveling her horn in case she had to charge. It was a young man, barely into his teens, wearing an over-large breastplate as his only piece of armor. The breastplate had a hole in it, just the same size as a unicorn's horn. Unicorn gasped in recognition, this must be the Knight's Squire. She tried to turn away, but something held her rooted to the spot, some mysterious force wouldn't allow her to escape. She found herself moving towards the youth, mesmerized. 

"I've always heard that a Unicorn can only be captured by a virgin. I didn't think it was true, but now I'm glad you can't escape me, I'm still a virgin." The Squire slipped a rope around Unicorn's neck as he spoke, his voice was harsh for such a youth. "Where's the dragon?" 

Unicorn was unable to pull away or even speak, all she could do was make a loud, inarticulate whinny. Somehow Dragon heard her and stirred, forcing himself alert when he realized that Unicorn was in trouble. He reared up, ready to attack, but held off when he saw that the Squire was holding a sharp dagger to Unicorn's neck. 

"Don't come any closer, Dragon." The Squire warned. "You killed my Knight, now I want retribution. I've heard that dragons have plenty of gold. Bring me your gold, now!"

Dragon tried to think fast, still a bit groggy from his nap. The only thing he could think to do was to toss the bag of oats towards the Squire, making sure it landed several feet away from him. 

"There's your gold, now let the unicorn go." Dragon called in human speech. 

"That bag doesn't look heavy enough to be full of gold." The Squire sneered. "Besides, a dragon should have a larger hoard than that. You'll have to do better." 

"There's some gold in the bag, it's just hidden under the grain." Dragon tried to move closer but was waved back by the Squire. He stepped one pace back. "Go ahead and look in the bag if you don't believe me."

"Oh no, the second I move away from the unicorn, you'll try to kill me with dragon fire. Move back!" 

Dragon moved back farther away from the lake, up the slope of the rise where he had been napping earlier. A backward glance let him see that another bay of the lake was behind him. He moved back even farther, finally thinking of a plan. 

"Listen here, lad. A dragon doesn't carry his hoard around with him. I'll have to go back to my lair and get the rest of the gold. You wait here and I'll be back by tomorrow afternoon." Dragon kept backing slowly away, moving towards the rest of the lake as he spoke. 

"Make it quick, or the unicorn dies in two days." The Squire waved the dragon away. Once Dragon was out of earshot, he turned to Unicorn and whispered softly, almost gently in contrast to the anger and greed of his words. "Don't worry, I won't kill you. A live unicorn is worth more than its weight in gold.  I can show you at fairs and markets all over. Kings and rich folk will pay well just to see you. I'll be famous."

Dragon slipped noiselessly into the lake without the Squire seeing him. Staying underwater, he propelled himself along with gentle strokes of his long tail. He eased quietly into a position where he could see both Unicorn and the Squire through the lake's surface, but remained concealed under its dark waters. A water dragon can hold his breath for a very long time if necessary. He waited patiently, motionless until the Squire moved away from the tethered Unicorn and started to examine the bag of grain. As silently as he could, Dragon emerged from the lake and eased just a little closer to the Squire. Unable to find any treasure hidden in the oats, the Squire straightened up and turned to go back to Unicorn. He caught sight of Dragon as he turned but only had time for one anguished scream as Dragon's flame hit him full force. The magical breastplate alone wasn't enough to protect the Squire's entire body and the flame consumed him immediately. 

Dragon rushed over to Unicorn and severed the rope, flinging it off of her neck. She felt something wet fall against her side and realized that Dragon was weeping large tears. 

"What's wrong, Dragon? You saved me from the Squire." There was a tremor in her voice.

"But I nearly lost you because of my carelessness. I couldn't bear that. I can't even think of losing you."

"It's all right, Dragon. You saved me and we're still together and we have the magical staff." Unicorn nuzzled Dragon's ear. "Let's get out of this place. I want to get back to Wizard soon."

They left the remains of the Squire where he fell, next to the scorched bag of grain and traveled well into the night, letting the moon light their way. They stopped about midnight for a rest, only a few days travel from the mouth of Uncle's canyon. 

Dragon woke first from the throbbing of his injured wing. Unicorn was up soon after and they set off before the morning mists cleared. They put as many miles as possible behind them before evening, stopping only when they were completely exhausted. Two more days of grueling travel brought them back to Wizard's cave. 

Wizard looked at the two approaching his cave. The unlikely couple were dirty, sore and worn out from their journey and battles.

"Well, well, aren't you two the sorry sight." He sounded so cheery that Dragon wanted to swat him, but lacked the strength. 

"Wizard, we brought you the staff. Now can you help us?" Dragon pulled it from his pack and handed it over. Wizard hefted the staff, nodded gravely and then set it aside. 

"Let me take a look at both of you, first. You've both been hurt." Wizard carefully checked over his charges, applying a salve here or there, making them drink foul-tasting potions that seemed to ease their aches and pains, and finally setting Dragon's wing joint with one mighty tug while Dragon squawked loudly. Wizard tisked when he noticed the missing chunk of Unicorn's horn and used a special, lightly abrasive cloth to polish off the jagged edges. Dragon handed the small piece of horn to Wizard who accepted it with a slight bow. When the treatments were done to the Wizard's satisfaction, he finally retrieved the staff and disappeared into his cave, letting them sleep where they were.

In the middle of the night Dragon woke up startled, but unable to find the cause of his interrupted slumber. He looked around, confused for a moment before recognizing Wizard's meadow in the dark. There were strange lights shining from the Wizard's cave, along with occasional strange sounds. Dragon watched for a few moments. When nothing else happened, he set his head back down on the grass and squirmed a bit to get more comfortable.  

"Dragon? Are you awake?" Unicorn lifted her head from where she lay in the meadow.  

"Yes, my love, go back to sleep. We're safe, it's just Wizard's magic." 

They slept until late next afternoon, made drowsy by Wizard's healing potions, but both jumping up when Wizard appeared at the mouth of his cave. Wizard himself looked terrible, as if he hadn't slept all night. Actually he had only a short nap while waiting for the magical jewels to cool off. The lovers rushed over to him, eager for news, and hoping for success. Wizard calmed them with a gesture and produced two small velvet bags on long cords, which he proceeded to drape over each one's neck. 

"The magic has worked, and better than I hoped." Wizard's voice was strained from fatigue. "These are your magic gems, set into pendants which you will need to wear at the proper time. Gold for Unicorn and dark bronze for Dragon. Listen to me carefully! This is strong magic and won't work if it's misused." 

Wizard stabbed his finger at them for emphasis. Both Dragon and Unicorn jumped a bit at his words and gestures. A magician's pointing finger can be dangerous; they had found that out from their encounter with the Sorcerer. Wizard took a deep breath before continuing. 

"The bags are magically made and are to keep your gems safe when not using them. There are important instructions for the very first time you use them. Remember this: don't take them out in sunlight until you've used them for the first time. Don't even touch them until the time is right. The magic needs to be activated by the light of the full moon. On the night of the next full moon, wait until the moon is almost directly overhead and then take the gems out. Don't let the gems touch your skin until the moon is at its highest point. Only handle them by the chains until then.

"Is there any importance to the colors?" Dragon was curious.

"No that's just what I happened to have handy, but that's not important.  There's more that you need to remember. Don't ever wear the pendants during the dark of the moon. It can weaken their power. Once the gems are activated, you can wear them almost all the time except for the time of the new moon. Keep them in the bags when you're not wearing them, the bags will keep them magically protected. You must wear them during the full moon for the magic to work. Missing a full moon can weaken the magic. Do you understand this? Don't forget now." 

Dragon nodded his head solemnly and Unicorn gave a sort of curtsey, bowing her head. 

"There may be some discomfort, especially the first time you use the pendants, but it will pass quickly. Remember, don't take them out of the bags until the night of the full moon."

"That's almost a week away. We've waited so long, why do we have to wait any longer?" 

"That will give us time get back to our lake, your meadow and my dragon hoard. We've waited so long, we can stand to wait just a few more days." 

"Let's leave first thing in the morning." 

The next morning, they said goodbye to Wizard and headed down the mountain, avoiding Uncle's cave. They didn't wish to disturb the irascible old fellow and were eager to get back to their own territory before the full moon. The days on the road passed quickly in eager anticipation. At last the magic couple arrived at their lake and meadow with a full day and night to spare before the evening of the full moon. 

"Dragon?" Unicorn sounded confused. "Just what is it that these magic gems are supposed to do? I don't think Wizard explained that part to us." 

"Now that you mention it, he didn't say exactly what these gems will do to us." Dragon scratched his head. "I wonder what happens?" 

"You're not having doubts too, are you? Can we really trust Wizard's magic?" 

"Well he did heal us really quickly."

"Yes, but is he an expert in magic that... that does whatever it is that we need it to do?" 

"We just have to have trust in his ability, and in our love. Love can overcome many obstacles, and I do love you my dearest Unicorn." 

Unicorn wasn't quite satisfied, but realized that she only had to wait one more sunset until her dreams were realized or her nightmares confirmed. On the evening of the full moon, the two took the Wizard's bags to the top of the hill in Unicorn's meadow. They anxiously watched the sunset, almost squirming with impatience until the stars appeared and the moon rose into the night. They watched it slowly climb higher into the sky. 

"The Wizard said to wait until just before the full moon is directly overhead before putting on the jewels for the first time." He took the gems out of the bags. Both contained a polished moonstone, about an inch in diameter. The golden setting was carved like a unicorn's head, the mane circling the stone. The bronze pendant was shaped like a serpentine dragon coiled around the stone. He looped the gold chain over Unicorn's horn so she could drop it into place with a flick of her head. Dragon reared up and held his chain in both foreclaws. He craned his head up and squinted at the full moon, high in the sky. 

"It's nearly there, almost... almost... ah, now."

"Ready? Together, then." 

They both draped the chains over their necks at the same time. Just as the moon reached its apex, they both felt strange sensations, coursing out from the magic jewels and running all along their bodies. As if struck down by mighty weapons, they both fell to the ground and writhed as their muscles, bones and skin changed size and shape. It wasn't quite painful, but these strange sensations were hardly pleasant. Just at the point where neither could stand any more, they both blacked out.

Dragon came to and slowly sat up, blinking and trying to make sense of the new feelings and sensations. The grass under his bottom, the air against his skin without the benefit of scales, the difference in size and shape were all confusing him. He raised a foreclaw and looked at its new form, flexing it several times. It was a human hand, definitely a normal olive-skinned human hand in place of his large, webbed dragon claw. He turned his hand over and looked at the back. Well, maybe not quite normal, he thought to himself. Each fingernail was a miniature green dragon scale instead of a normal pink human nail. He slowly got to his feet and stood there, somewhat shaky. He ran his hands over the rest of his new human body exploring the new sensations as well as trying to figure out what he looked like. He discovered that his altered body was as well muscled and slender as his dragon's body without being muscle-bound. It was just as hairless as his dragon body had been, beardless with a completely smooth scalp and no pubic or body hair at all. He now possessed a straight nose and prominent ears and he figured that he stood at a respectable six feet even. He found one more reminder of his dragon self, his tongue was still forked. 

He turned around and saw Unicorn, also shaky on her feet, making the same exploration of her body. She was completely beautiful. He could tell even though her back was to him. Her human body was the same pale cream that her unicorn's body had been. Her long flowing hair was the first thing that caught his attention. It hung down to the middle of her round, shapely bottom and was the same pale shade of midsummer's moonlight as her mane. She tossed her head, just as she had when a unicorn and Dragon saw that, unlike a human, her hair growth extended down her neck and between her shoulder blades, just as a unicorn's mane would have. She sensed him watching somehow, in that magical way that unicorns have and turned to face him, an awed expression on her face. Her long hair swirled around her as she turned, first concealing, then revealing the rest of her new body to Dragon's sight. 

"Oh Dragon," There was awe in her voice as she spoke, "look at us, we've turned human." 

"Yes we have, and you are more beautiful than words can say." 

He looked her up and down. Her skin was flawless, from her perfect feet to the edge of her hairline it was all the same color. The color of new cream that strawberries had been soaking in for just a few minutes. Her full lips and high nipples were a slightly darker shade of pink, as if the strawberries had stayed for several hours instead of just minutes, or if a drop of red wine had accidentally dropped into the cream. Her eyes were the same deep golden color as before, now slightly almond shaped but very large and moist in the moonlight. They were set in a heart-shaped face that Helen of Troy would have envied. All that was left of her horn was a half-inch wide, ivory-colored birthmark in the center of her forehead that didn't detract from her beauty at all. Her figure was gently rounded and female, but not overly voluptuous. Her firm breasts were the perfect size to fit into a wine goblet, her aureoles perfectly proportioned to her breasts, the nipples perfect little projections from the textured surface of her aureoles. Her hips were gently rounded, but not overly wide to the point of being matronly. She retained enough of her unicorn's muscles to give her an athletic grace and had the appearance of a woman in her mid twenties. Her height was now about five feet six. 

Her beauty moved Dragon to the point of tears. He reached out to her, feeling something wet drip from his cheek onto his arm. Unicorn's eyes were also very moist and shining in the moonlight. Unable to restrain himself any longer, he grabbed her hands and pulled her towards him to hug her tightly. He buried his face in her hair, inhaling its scent reminiscent of the wildflowers in their lakeside meadow. 

"Dragon, not so tightly." Unicorn protested, giggling. She pulled away for a moment and looked into his eyes. "You still have the same green eyes, dragon eyes, so lovely." 

Unicorn leaned forward and caught his mouth with hers, the same way she had seen the human lovers do so many days ago. Dragon responded enthusiastically, opening his mouth and chasing her wide mare's tongue around with his forked appendage. Dragon felt another appendage of his begin to stir. He broke the kiss and stared into her eyes.

"Unicorn, I've waited so long, I want you." There was hunger in his dragon eyes. "I want you now."

"Oh yes," Unicorn sighed in reply. "But if you were as gallant as that human male, at least you'd spread a blanket for me against the cold ground." 

"I don't have a blanket or a even cloak. We both transformed without clothes." A worried expression briefly crossed his face.

"I was only teasing." Unicorn giggled as she pulled him down onto the soft grass. "Love me, love me gently like the human man did with his woman." 

Dragon knelt before the vision of loveliness reclining before him. He brought his mouth down on hers gently at first, but with increasing urgency. Unicorn ran her hands along his muscular back, caressing his neck and moving her hands down to trace along his cheeks. Dragon moved his mouth down to one of those perfect breasts, making Unicorn gasp in delight as he sucked her nipple fully into his mouth before applying his forked tongue to its sensitive surface. Unicorn arched her back, swiveling her hips and rubbing herself against Dragon's growing hardness. 

"Please..." she whispered, making her intentions known by the gentle pressure of her hand on the top of his smooth scalp. "Please..." She breathed again. Dragon eagerly followed her urgings, running his mouth down from her breasts, across her flat belly and into the tangle of her pale muff. He dipped his forked tongue into her, savoring the rich nectar he found there. She pulled him around closer so she could reach his sex. Sliding her hands easily along his hairless body, she caressed every inch that she could reach. 

Dragon could hear her breath quickening as he slid a finger into the depths of her wetness. His tongue found her clitoris and brought soft moans from her throat. A few more moments of stimulation with his tongue and fingers dragged a loud, musical squeal from her lips, her body shuddering with her orgasm. 

She opened her eyes slowly, still dazed by the power of her first human orgasm, yet wanting another. She grabbed Dragon by his hardness and guided him to the opening of her desire. He willingly complied with her unspoken directions, eager to sheath his hardness in her wet depths. 

"Oh Unicorn," he breathed as he entered her. "It's so wonderful, finally filling you." 

"Don't speak, kiss me, love me." She pressed her mouth against his lips.

He thrust gently, slowly, wanting the magic of their first coupling to last as long as possible. The firm pressure of her inner walls against his shaft soon had him moving faster and faster; building his excitement towards his climax and bringing her to orgasm a second time as his seed pumped into her. 

Spent, he collapsed against her, pinning her down with the weight of his human body. She held him close, feeling him soften within her, reluctant to let go. He could sense her slight discomfort with his weight, but was unable to move, still lost in the haze of the afterglow. Finally after several minutes had passed, he tried to roll off of her onto his back. However, she didn't let go. With her arms still firmly around him, she allowed herself to be carried along with his motion, winding up on top of him as he lay back. Dragon smiled up at his love as she propped her head up, elbow against his muscular chest. Her moonlight hair spilled across them both. Neither of them noticed the moon approaching the horizon. 




Dragon and Unicorn



"Dragon, that was wonderful. I never knew that humans had such a depth of feeling." Her smile widened. "How long until you're ready again?"

"Dear, Sweet Unicorn, I never thought you would be insatiable. That was beyond all description. No wonder love is the strongest magic of all." He paused for a moment, stroking her hair while taking assessment of his new, human body. "I'm not sure how long it takes a human to get ready again, but if you ask me again in a little while, I just might have an answer you'll like."

Unicorn giggled at that and they continued whispering sweet nothings to each other, still unmindful of the moon. By now its rim was just touching the tips of the hills on the western horizon. Dragon was the first to notice something wrong. His new body didn't feel right and had started to twitch in a strange manner. Unicorn lifted her head, worry evident in her golden eyes. 

"The moon!" She gasped. "It's setting. What did the Wizard say?"

"He said we only change during the full moon." Dragon's transformation was increasing in speed. "But I didn't think it would be over so quickly."

The moon continued its descent, setting below the horizon as the two lovers, Dragon and Unicorn, transformed into their previous bodies. Dragon lay back dazed, his huge wings spread out on the grassy meadow. Unicorn was perched on his scaly belly, her legs splayed out and hanging down his sides. She struggled for a moment, unable to get any footing to move and afraid of damaging Dragon's wings. Dragon had to help her down, gently lifting her in his claws. She stood completely still, her eyes fixed on the last sliver of the moon as it slipped below the hills. Then she began to quietly weep, large unicorn tears dropping on the grass.

Dragon righted himself and folded his wings properly. Noticing her tears, he was at her side in an instant. 

"Unicorn, what is it?" His voice was full of concern. "Did I hurt you? What's wrong?"

"No, no, I'm not hurt." She leaned against his strong, scaly side. 

"What is it? Unicorn, what's wrong?" 

She turned to look into Dragon's eyes, her golden ones shining with moisture.

"Oh Dragon, I just realized," she wailed, "it's going to be a whole month until the next full moon!"



Dragon Bait



Once upon a time in a land far away there lived a princess in a castle on a hill overlooking a quiet little village. In the forest beyond the village lived a great and terrible dragon. The villagers lived in fear of this dragon. They all knew the dragon would not be satisfied until he had fed on virgin flesh...

Madelyn walked the path with determination. Out of the village, through the fields and into the forest. She knew the location of the dragon's grove, everyone did. The one shepherdess who foolishly entered the grove last month stumbled into town with her clothes in shreds and terror in her eyes. She had immediately entered the abbey, dedicating herself to God saying that only divine intervention had allowed her to escape with her life. Madelyn thought the life of a nun to be almost as stultifying as the life of a princess. She knew the girl and thought that the veil would suit her well. However, it was too bad, she got away from the dragon. If he had taken her then at least her life would have served the village. As it was, Madelyn was the only one who was willing to face him. 

She loved her village. The people were honest, good and hard working. They were also uninspired, provincial and boring. All her excellent education was lost in the day-to-day routines of her life. Her skills wasted, her mind dull. 

She reached the edge of the Labyrinth at sunset. Black trees towered above her. Once she entered the Labyrinth there was no turning back. Her family would be furious with her and frightened for her. But Madelyn knew this was the right thing to do. She entered the Labyrinth. The path twisted and turned. This was no maze. There was no way she could get lost, no forks, no alternate paths; just one path that she walked further from her old life and towards the dragon. 

By the time she got to the centre the moon was high. She could see in the middle of the clearing a massive black marble slab on a platform surrounded by four white pillars carved in the shapes of a lion, an eagle, an ox and a winged man. That foolish shepherdess had come this far "by accident"? Not by any road. She was curious and got in over her head. Madelyn took a deep breath, wiped her palms on her skirt and entered the clearing. 

As soon as she stepped out of the Labyrinth, and into the moonlight, the forest went completely quiet; not an owl, not a cricket. She shivered with the power of the place. Madelyn made a conscious effort to breath as she peered into the trees hoping to get a bit of a warning as to the Dragon's approach. She heard a rustling of leaves off to the right. She whipped around to see... nothing there. She thought she saw a shadow pass between two trees, but perhaps it was only the wind moving the branches. Her fear was mounting. She thought of running, but realized that there really was no life to go back to. There! She was sure that was a sound. She spun around and there he was; right in front of her. She was frozen, hardly breathing, her eyes locked in his.

He was magnificent, gleaming, red gold with huge shimmering wings and a broad powerful chest. His eyes, an intriguing mix of green and gold, reached into her and made her feel like a butterfly caught on a pin. She was enraptured by his beauty and his power.

He licked his lips, his voice deep and full, "Hmm, what have we here?"

Madelyn struggled to find her voice. Her palms were wet and hot, her knees weak. "I've come to ransom the village." 

His gaze never left her face as he stepped closer.

"Have you now? How very interesting. You came willingly?"

She tried very hard not to step back. "Yes" her voice cracked. She could feel his breath on her face, hot, slightly sweet and smoky.

"Are you not afraid?" 

She clutched her skirt and held her head a little higher. "No, I'm not afraid." She lied.

The Dragon threw back his head and laughed out load. "Good, for I believe I will accept your offer." 

He came forward again. She closed her eyes and held her breath. His claws came down like lightening shredding her dress, scoring her flesh. She gasped in shock and pain. Claws in her hair brought her face close to his. Her eyes flew open in surprise as his mouth closed on hers. A kiss both gentle and passionate weakened her knees and poured heat into her belly. She had expected nothing but destruction, certainly not this! Her body responded to his power. Her hands came up and rested lightly on his chest. The kiss continued. She thought his skin felt so lovely, soft, smooth and warm. 

Then his hands were on her body claws digging into her ribs and into her ass as he pulled her close to him. She could feel his cock hard and straight against her belly. He let her mouth go and again held her with his gaze.

"Do you still give yourself freely to me?" he asked.

With his eyes on hers and his hands on her flesh, her body betrayed her and her resistance vanished. "Oh yes." She breathed.

"Good." He quickly ripped off the shredded remains of her clothing and gestured to the stone slab. "Over there." He directed.

She looked at the stone and felt a stab of panic. He gave her a slap on the ass.

"Now, Madelyn." 

She moved to obey, with just a fleeting thought as to how he knew her name. When she reached the stone she realized that it was just a bit higher than her hips. She contemplated how best to crawl onto it. There didn't seem to be any handholds... She felt his claws on her back pushing her down on her face, leaving her naked bottom fully exposed, her feet barely touching the ground on tiptoes. She couldn't move with his hand on her back. Her breath quickened as he ran his claws up the insides of her legs, slowly, deliberately spreading them. Claws dug into her ass as he continued to open her. Any shred of dignity evaporated as one claw slowly circled her anus and even more slowly traced around her labia. Her face burned with humiliation but her belly burned with excitement. 

He lifted her by the hips and tossed her face down on the slab. She realized the stone wasn't as flat as it had first seemed. There were minor irregularities in the surface. Her breasts rested in shallow hollows with a very rough patch at the bottom that brought her nipples out to hard points. There was a slight rise under her hips and her legs fell naturally open on either sides of a gentle swell. Just under her public bone there was a sharp rough spot. It made her pussy irritated and itchy. She tried to move away, but the claws came down on her back and her ass.

"Don't move, Madelyn"

She gasped as she felt his mouth on her ass licking, kissing, nibbling until he reached her sex. He licked her cunt slowly, leisurely, like he was enjoying ice cream. All the time his claws holding her ass open and pressing down on her hips, keeping her still. She groaned with pleasure. A low laugh came from the dragon as he added little bites to his licks. Small sharp pains punctuated the waves of pleasure in an exquisite mixture that threatened to overwhelm her. His tongue and teeth played her like a fine instrument. Each lick sent a wave of heat into her, probing, demanding, bestowing. Her first orgasm took her. She pressed her hips up into his claws as she cried out. He took a few final licks then sat back and watched the spasms continue to wrack her body in the aftershocks of her climax. 

She finally took a long shuddering breath and lay still. The dragon laughed again.

"Very good, Madelyn, very good."

He flipped her over on her back as he continued to caress her. She felt his hands, and claws, on her throat, her shoulders, her breasts. Delicious pain seared through her as his claws closed on her nipples. She arched her back and cried out. He lifted one of her legs and kissed the inside of her ankle. Little kisses and nibbles slowly up the inside of her leg. It tickled and shuddered. She giggled and tried to pull away. When he finally put her leg down he was between her legs he leaned over her and kissed her on the mouth while his cock pushed against her pussy. Her eyes flew open. Resistance flared and her body stiffened. He saw the fear in her eyes and stopped. He held her face gently and looked into her eyes.

"Don't worry. I'll take care of you, but I will have you." He waited for her surrender. Madelyn looked into his eyes and saw her doom and her salvation. She nodded and relaxed her legs. 

"Good girl." He whispered into her ear as his cock pressed against her pussy again. She was wet, very wet and very ready. Endless dreary days of stultifying routines had left her yearning to be awoken. He was definitely waking her! 

She gasped at the first penetration. Just the tip, but the sensation reached through her body. Inch by inch he worked his way in. She felt like she was being split apart. Surely her body couldn't take anymore. Yet more and more kept coming. He was taking his time and giving her hers. Finally, he reached her barrier. She lay under him impaled and open.

"You are mine now" he breathed and thrust the whole of his length into her. She arched her back with the exquisite agony of it. Waves of pleasure washed over her and through her. As it passed she realized he wasn't moving. She opened her eyes and saw him watching her face. He laughed. 

"Like that, did you?" He pulled back and thrust again. Again she cried out as the passion exploded within her. She rode the crest of the wave until it passed. She took a shuddering breath. As soon as she looked at him, he smiled and thrust again. 

Over and over he fed her the length of his cock in single thrusts and then waited until she recovered herself. Each thrust sent her higher and each time she recovered less of herself. Gradually his thrusts became faster and harder. Her orgasm building higher and higher. She lost all grip on herself. Her world was reduced to the fire in her belly and the thrusts of the Dragon.

After an eternity, he relented and let her catch her breath. He rolled over onto his back pulled her with him until she was straddling him, still impaled on his cock. She looked at him carefully. The dragon features seemed less pronounced. His eyes were still a swirling mix of green and gold, but what had looked like scales was really luscious thick hair. She thought his lips looked so soft she must taste them. She gently took his face in her hands and kissed him. She felt him freeze under her, his hands carefully supporting her ribs. She kissed him tenderly, slowly, all the while squeezing his cock with her vagina. She was pretty new at this but catching on quickly.

Finally he lifted her slightly and looked her in the eye. She felt the passion flare again as he whispered, "I had no idea...Kiss me again."

So she did. Another long kiss as she explored his mouth, his face, his throat. All the while punctuating her kisses with squeezes on his cock. She knew how big and powerful he was, so she squeezed as hard as she could, trying to give back some of what she had received. 

Suddenly he lifted up until they were both upright sitting astride each other. His wings, spread out behind him for balance, shimmered in the moonlight. His hands on her hips as he lifted her off his cock and slammed her back down again. The fire in her belly grew again lifting her higher. She felt like she was on a geyser. Her arms lifted up, hands in her hair as she rode him faster and harder. Her clit hitting hard against his pelvic bone with each downward thrust. Her passion climbing with his. His claws digging into her ribs painfully, but she didn't care. Her climax reaching its peak just as he arched his back and screamed his release. She met him at the height of their passion, the two became one as his wings exploded. They collapsed together onto the stone. Unconsciousness claiming them as the moon slowly set. 

Madelyn woke first as the dawn was just lighting the sky. She took a good look at what used to be a dragon. He was obviously human, but what a fine figure of a man! The claws were gone and so were the wings. But his chest was still as broad and powerful, his arms as strong. Then she noticed that he was looking at her. Her hair had lengthened almost to her knees, great shimmering cascades of red brown. Strangely, it seemed not to weigh a thing. As she went to gather it up she noticed her hands. Her nails were long. Long and red. Ah... so that's where his claws went. She started to giggle, then to laugh. He watched for a second then joined her laughter. They made love again that morning, gently this time, looking forward to many such mornings to come.

And, of course, they lived happily ever after.

Copyright 2003; Dolores Moth. All rights reserved. Content may not be copied or used in whole or part without written permission from the author. 



Dragon Boat



Ken and I had followed the Navy after his OCS and two short-hitch postings for him to Pensacola, Florida. His work as a flight controller was stable enough so it looked as though we might just be here awhile. I put my Journalism degree to use and found work with a small magazine and they seemed pretty happy to have me. So we were the typical duel income, no kids (and none wanted for now at least), nice house on the water, late to middish 20s yuppy puppies you hear about. With lots of laughs and love, I guess we were about as happy as we could get. Tom and Laura had been our neighbors for about four years ever since we moved back in 99. If there was a nicer couple, I don’t know ‘em. We literally met as we drove up in our Renta-truck. Tom was mowing the lawn and Laura was “digging in the dirt” as she calls gardening, but he turned off the mower and came over with his perfect white smile and introduced himself. Laura sort of glided over on the longest pair of legs in the world and the next thing we knew they just pitched in and spent the rest of the next two days unloading our truck with us. That was that, we were friends. Tom was a software designer for a local company and Laura was a nurse at the hospital here. Over the course of the next few years, we became about as close as friends can get. Yes, that way too and yes, I do love Laura as much as Tom but Ken and Tom are men’s men only although both of us girls have been sandwiched happily. 

But this story is about the boat. That boat! Holy Shit! THE BOAT! Tom’s Boat. Tom built this boat, see, for about three years in his garage. Well, what of it would fit. Said it was to honor his Viking heritage. I had to ask Laura, who looks like a Viking, what kind of boat he was building and she sort of ‘Haaarumphs’ with her arms crossed and recites in her best Tom imitation as follows: “The Dragon Boat is a 27 foot, 5 inch, deep hull, twin marine, blown v-8, catamaran, with electronics.” Then she looked at me and says, “And it costs as much as a small country.” Little did both of us know just how much we were going to enjoy the ‘electronics.’ Tom’s one fault was that he could be a bit of a techno nerd at times. Not that Ken thought this was a fault at all. Oh no, he willingly encouraged him. 

“We might be able to get the canopies fabricated from the Luftanzare Barkesea in Gestwertz for a heck of a lot better deal than here in the states. Lemme see what I can do on base.” Real help. 

Then, just when you’d think the thing is ready for the water, he up and spends another three whole months on some “Secret weapons development,” project he won’t tell any of us about involving computers and machining and boxes delivered with what looks like dashboards and upholstery. But finally the big day is here and he takes each of us for a ride.

I’m telling you, the “passenger” pod is pretty spartan. There is room to sort of stand with a little half-seat/cradle, and a helmet that has a radio in it. Tom puts the helmet on me and checks to make sure the radio is in place, then Laura takes one wrist and Ken takes the other and together they lower all “5’2” eyes of blue, Oh what those five feet can do,” 104 lbs soaking wet (and I want so much not to be for the next little while) into the pod. My helmet fits between the arms of this padded cradle thingy and I have to stretch tippy-toe to touch the floor while my pus is grinding against the saddle because the set-up is made for someone a bit taller than lil’-ole me. It’s made for Laura. 

Side story! One night not all that long after we had met, we all got ourselves snockered and I said, “So how long are them legs, anyhow?” Laura’s one vanity is her legs. Not that she doesn’t deserve to be vain about those things. My God you just never saw such a pair of legs. Any way she uses the old, “From my ass to the ground,” line and smuggy smiles and the next thing you know we got out the tape measure. She jumps up from the table and says, “Check out that inseam.”

“Nope,” I say because I’m smashed and because I’m feeling a little wicked and well, you know, ‘cause she’s really cute and maybe tonight the way things are going I can get a little. “Nope,” I say, “A true measurement should not have the shorts in the way.” 

There is this silence as Tom and Ken look at each other with this “Oh-Ho!” look, and then she leans over and plants a wet one right on my lips and unsnaps the button on her jeans shorts and peals out of ‘em. And the only thing under the shorts is blonde and there just ain’t much of that, lemme tell ya!

“Holy shit,” I whisper. “A real Blonde.” And she just smiles and turns around and bends over enough so I can see her lips are pink and tiny and I’m thinkin’ everyone can hear me get wet. I got to hold the tape against her clit. Thank you. Tom and Ken can hold it to the floor. From clit to carpet she’s 34 inches tall. Hang on, she’s only 5 foot 7 inches total! Do the math and that is an abnormal stretch of leg we got on this woman.

Oh yeah! To answer your question, we did.

Back to the main story. They closed the limo-dark canopy and I’m all, “This is NOT fun!” Then Tom is in his pod and I hear his voice on the radio saying, “Here we go, Randy!” 

And the most unbelievable roar blasts my back as those engines come to life. Must be something in my blood. Maybe my Mama was this 50’s bad girl in a motorcycle gang because I swear I go horny all over. Dragon Boat is barely moving out of the marina and Tom’s on the radio shouting, “What’s wrong, honey? You ok?” 

So do I tell him what the engine vibes through the saddlele are doing to my clit? Or that I have no choice but to grind against the thing? Oh hell, “Toooooommmmy, you got a gggooooooood boat!” I moan! 

He gets it and laughs and opens her up. What a ride!!! Twenty minutes of high-speed thrill and do I mean thrill. I came, (ha, I just got that!) back all 104 pounds soaking wet.

About a couple months after the launching, I noticed a trend. Every time Tom and Laura go for a ride, Laura comes back exhausted, and I’m thinking I know what is going on. I mean they gotta be going out to the key and doin’ it the way that thing gets a girl primed, but, wow, am I, like, so wrong. 

This one time right after they got back, Laura is hanging in the jacuzzi with a drink and I head over to “Sympathize.”

“So, how ya doin’? Jahavagudride?”

She sort of props open an eye and looks at me. “I don’t know whether I love that boat,” she takes a sip, “or I hate that boat.”

“Yer kidden, right?” I think this is a case of she ‘doth complain too much.’ She just wants me to be jealous of how much she’s getting. “I’d be thinking you’d be getting used to it by now.”

She sort of shakes her head and says, “There is no getting used to what he has in that thing!”

“Aw, give it a rest.” I splash her a little and laugh. “I felt the vibe, ‘Tis a powerful vibe! But with your legs, you don’t have to sit right on the saddle thingy like I had to.” I smiled a little wickedly, “Unless you want to.”

She shook her head again, but this time she looked me right in the eye. “Remember the electronics and such he had installed specially? Well, you didn’t get any of those used on you the time you went. He has the Dragon tricked up like the ‘New Orleans Specialty House of Constant Arousal.’ If he wants, he could make a dead woman cum and keep cumming!”

“Holy Shit! What’s he got in there?” I mean, now I got to KNOW!

“There’s vibes and probes and, and. . . I can’t describe it all. The computer has to be something NASA would kill for. I bet he’s solved the in-flight exercise problem!” She thought a minute. “For women anyway.”

“But, I mean, you can resist, right? Sex is 90 percent mental after all.”

“Lemme tell ya this,” she sighed and leaned back in the water. “By the time he gets things fired up, the 10 percent of your physical done over-rides the 90 percent of whatever mental you might have and the results are you are totally, 100 percent, had! Which is what I am right now. I couldn’t cum again no matter who it was.”

Couldn’t let a challenge like that just pass by. Nope, not me. I just had to see whether she had just a little somethin’, somethin’ left in her for lil’ ole me. She did. Even though she begged me so pretty please she was so had and so tired, I just had to make my Valkirie sing her cum song. She was too exhausted to fight anyway. She was so out of it, as she came for me she sort of whimpered in my arms. She has this dominatrix element to her personality and five inches and 15 pounds on me so I don’t get to take charge very often. This time I was going to have my way. After she came so pretty for me once, I stood in the jacuzzi straddling her head while I made her put her tongue to good use. Then, I got low in the water between her legs and returned the favor for her second cum. First time I made a woman cry from cumming. She was that had! So, I helped her to bed and called it a day. 

But when I was by myself in my room that night I found myself thinking (and I gotta admit not without a little fear on top of my excitement) “What kind of things does he have in that boat?”

The next day, Sunday, Laura was out for revenge and, damn it, I was ripe to be had. She came over early to announce that Tom had given her the keys to the boat.

“So, you want to go for a ride?” she taunts me right in front of Ken, and I know right off what she has in mind.

“Where you got in mind to go?” I say as we head for my room to change.

“I thought we’d take a run up to the yacht club for brunch,” she says slowly.

I’m already thinking, ‘Damn! Last time I was on that thing for less than a half-hour and popped off five cums! The club is about half that far away!’ But I jump to attention and salute, “Well, lemme change. What’s the dress for the day, Ma’am?” 

She says, “Bathing suit and that skirt thingy you got in Hawaii for on the grounds. The club is just the first stop. Afterward, we’ll head for the ladies’ only beach.”

Now it’s my turn to really gulp. I’m thinking all the way to my room to change, and the thoughts are like this; half hour to the club but the run from the club to the beach has to be about 40 minutes out. Add them together for the ride home. She’s really going to work me. But I am not about to back down. I decided to turn the tables a little. I finished undressing me and slink over to her. I put my arms around her neck and kissed her for all I was worth. Her hands and fingers were all over me; pinching nipples that were already hard for her and way up inside my very wet pussy. As I spread wide and arched for her I gasped, “Is that all you’ll do to me?”

She waited until I came and then I got what I thought was really on her mind. 

About two years ago a dominatrix personality of hers had surfaced, and four months ago she had proven to me I was a sub, well, her sub. That knowledge had the duel effect of scaring me and exciting me. That one session months ago had scared me enough so I vowed I’d do whatever she wanted and excited me so much that I still was happy to give myself to her! I just had to be careful, I told myself. Anyway, she had “that” look on her face now and I knew what “that” look meant. She made me kneel to ‘kiss’ her pus with my wrists crossed behind my back. When she finished she lifted my chin so I had to look her in the eyes and said, “That’s just the start. Orders for the day are as follow: You are to resist cumming with all your might all day long.” 

Holy Shit! The one thing I knew I could not do was just what she was ordering. Then, she reaches into her beach bag and pulled out her whip. Four feet long braided rawhide and I remembered only too well how it felt as it curled around my breasts and butt. “After all, you said sex is 90 percent mental.” She purred as she slowly dragged the braid across my quickly tightening nipples. I took in a ragged breath while the rough rawhide bumped its way over my stiff little nubs. She flipped it over my head and wrapped the whip around my bottom before pulling me in for the kiss I tremblingly gave. She released me and smiled at the effect her actions had on me. 

“Now,” she said as she picked out my tiniest coral thong, “get your suit on and let’s go.”

“Well, if she could say and do anything that would make me hornier . . .” I thought as I walked to the boat.

We got to the boat about 9ish and I was quickly helmeted and lowered into my pod, but the interior was now way different. Now, I slid face down into a cradle that was a thickly padded rest about three feet long designed to support my hips and shoulders which narrowed to ride comfortably between my breasts. The whole thing was slanted at a steep angle, a wide collar-like contraption with thick sides circled my waist. At first, my feet no longer touched the floor no matter how hard I pointed my toes, but she told me, “Spread wide and you’ll find two foot-rests.” Spread wide was right! I spread tippy-toe and darn near all the way to the edge of the cockpit (And what a lovely word that is, isn’t it?) before my feet found the rests. Not near enough to take all my weight off my pus where I was firmly held against a padded vertical pylon ‘seat’ that kept me from sliding any farther down. It wrapped around my entire pubic area and wedged itself deep between my butt cheeks. The whole cradle was upholstered with some shiny plastic material that gave only slightly. I put my arms into two rests on either side that had deep grooves. “Stay perfectly still, now.” Laura knelt by her open pod and I heard her flip a switch. The collar-like restraint around my waist slowly closed around me until I found myself held firmly in place. She flipped another switch and the arm rests closed around my forearms pinning me helpless. “Good, sweetie.” She purred as she rubbed my breasts. I remembered what she said about resisting cumming, so I fought the sensations streaming from my now hard nipples for all I was worth, but I couldn’t help moaning. The situation was just too much of a turn-on. “Oh sugar, there’s just not going to be much left of you if you start off like this,” she said as with a final tweak of my nipple she bid me a good ride and closed my pod.

I was alone. The situation, me helpless and my imagination on overdrive, made my breath echo harshly and turned-on inside the pod. Water lapping against the hull sounded like my pussy lips when I’m about as wet as I am right now. Holy Shit! What have I gotten myself into? I tried to adjust my pussy against the pylon and discovered a bump seemed to have grown in the ‘seat’ and was now positioned right against my swollen little pink clit. As I tried to adjust myself against it, I discovered rubbing myself against it seemed to be what it was there for and my breathing became harsher and deeper. My head went back and . . .

“Ready, sweetie? ” Laura’s voice made me jump and I squeeked a little. I heard her laugh. “Did you find one of the stimulators?” she asked. 

One? Holy Shit!

“It’s about fifteen minutes at 70 knots to the Yacht club. Remember, I order you to try your hardest not to cum!” 

Then the engines came to life and that bump began to vibrate and again, although this time I fought it with everything I had, I didn’t make it out of the marina. 

“So much for the power of 90 percent mental.” Laura’s laughter rang in my ears. 

“Sorry, Ma’am, I am trying!” I decided I was had, so I might as well enjoy it as she opened the throttles to the engines. “Oh, Oh, Oh my. Oh Holy Shit!”

I have never been a quiet cummer and the sounds of my orgasms filled our helmets. “I’m really going to enjoy today!” Laura shouted.

Then the dashboard sprang into pale blue life and Laura’s voice was in my ears. “The top read out is ‘Stim1’ for that bump you are enjoying. As I turn it on, you’ll notice two things, the read out shows ‘Vibe’ and ‘Rotate’ and you should be feeling the bump doing exactly that.” 

Did I ever feel exactly that! Holy Shit! The bump had a life all its own. Not only did the damn thing begin a vibration, but it vibrated in a harmonic with the boat’s engines. Sort of a ‘vroom, vrooom, vrooooom,’ repeating rhythm impossible to resist. The read-out also said it was pushing out about ½ inch and rotating about 10 times per minute around a 1 inch radius. Sounded right from my angle. I don’t know how many orgasms I had during that fifteen minutes. I do know it was the most wonderful boat ride I’ve ever experienced. 

I felt the cradle and arm restraints loosen as we pulled into the club marina, but even though it was off, that bump was still in control of me and I was shuddering cums for several minutes after I found myself free. She tied up to the dock and undid my canopy. I bet the smell of me was something else, but right then I didn’t care. I was still coming (Ha! Did it again!) down from what I had been through as she hoisted me up and let me sit for a moment.

“No wonder you are exhausted when you get home, Laura. That thing would get to anyone.”

She smiled, tied my pareau around my hips, and helped me to my feet. “Oh, you haven’t seen anything yet.” She whispered in my ear as we walked to the tables by the pool. “Nothing.”

“Holy Shit, girl,” I stuttered. “You win!” 

“Sugar, you forget yourself, don’t you?” She arched one brow at me and I knew. I knew that I had knelt in The Position for her and now I had to do whatever she wanted.

So with a big gulp of the Bloody Mary that I was pretty sure was all I was getting for brunch I said, “Not me. I’m ready for anything!”

“Good.” She purred.

Following my liquid brunch and polite chit chat with a couple members we knew, it was time for round two. Believe it or not, I was ready and eager and showed it, but Laura had a surprise for me.

“Got to make a pit stop first. Time to take off your thong because we can’t have anything in the way for the next set-up,” she said softly as we crossed the plush carpet of the lounge on our way to the rest rooms.

I stopped right there. “Hey, babe,” I said a little shocked. “This pareau is a little transparent in case you hadn’t noticed and my bouncin’ beautiful butt not to mention my pert and perfect pleasing pus are gonna be on display if I do that!”

She whirled on me and pinned me against the trophy case. My heart hammered because although we were alone I knew someone could come by any second. “That is a direct disobedience and I shall deal with it severely! You now have one dozen lashes coming to you. Get that thong off, or would you care to go for two dozen?”

I was as terrified as I was turned on! Before I knew what I was doing I reached under my pareau and peeled down the thong right there in the lounge. She took it from me, and with my heart in my throat I was led from the club to the boat right past several members who I know got a view. She sat me on the edge of my pod and lowered me into its depth. When my pareau rode up on the edge of the cradle she removed it and my bare little self was pressed firmly against the pylon seat. She fastened the helmet on my head and pulled off my top. “Those really are perfect.” she sighed as she cupped each of them while her thumb and first finger tweaked the nipples stiff.

She flipped the switches trapping me in place and started the first stimulator, “Just to give you a little something to do right now while I’m busy.” Then, with the canopy wide open and me, humping, writhing and totally visible to anyone on the dock, then she begins to get the boat ready to go. Do you have any idea how long it takes to gas up a monster like that? Check the oil and water and whatever the hell else she can find to do first? About forever, that’s how long! I’m telling you, never, never have I been so completely helpless and had in such a public way in my life. The funny thing is, I’m thinking I like it.

As Dragon Boat roared out of the breakwater and healed over for the run toward the beaches, I was just enjoying my second orgasm when Laura’s voice sounded into my helmet. “Time for you to learn another one of the electronic features aboard, Randy. Check the read-outs.” I immediately looked at the dash through my cum-hazed vision. ‘Stim 2’ was now lit. Next to it showed ‘Rotate ½ inch’ ‘Probe – Adv. 2 in. Ret. 0 in.’ and ‘lube 5 ml.’ I felt a circling thrusting as something wet was trying to enter me. Didn’t take long either as I sure didn’t need that lube. The ‘Probe’ read-out went to ‘Adv. 3 in. Ret. 0 in’ then ‘Adv. 4 in. Ret. 3 in Cycle 20/min.’ and I was getting fucked for sure to the rhythm of 3 inches in and out every three seconds. Another read-out showed ‘Width’ then ‘1 inch’ was quickly replaced by ‘2 inches’ and I knew I had something substantial inside me. My Ken is about 2 ½ inches thick so the present settings were fine with me. I came noisily and Laura laughed and asked if I could take having the setting upped. 




Dragon Boat



“Full speed ahead, Captain,” I shouted already beginning another orgasm. “Let ‘er rip!”

The read outs began to change and the sensations went from gentle to firm to well, you’ll see.

Laura explained how things worked even as things were, well, working very well.

“What Tom did is nearly amazing,” ‘Stim 2 -- Probe Adv. 5 in. Ret. 3 in, Cycle 35/min. Width 2 ½ ’ I had to agree even though at the moment my thoughts were, something like, ‘Unnnn, Oh, Ummmm, Ah!, Cummmminnnnngh!!!!!!’ She continued her lecture right over my noises, “The genius in his design is in the embedded pressure sensors.” Next to the ‘Stim 2’ display a new read out labled ‘Press’ came to life. Its readings were in mg/mm2. “That read-out tells you how hard the probe can push. It’s calibrated to my tastes, but we are going to let you choose how hard you like it. Ready, Randy? Say when!”

‘Probe’ went from ‘5 inches’ to ‘6’ then slowly up by ½ inch increments as the thing inside me pushed. “Hey,” I said as it dipped deeper and deeper, “I, Uh, Oh, Holy Shit!” I felt it make contact with the back of my vagina at 6 and ¾ inches and now it was definitely starting to make its presence felt. “Laura, Stop!” I gasped when the thing stretched me to my limit. The read-out pegged at 8 ½ inches, but I couldn’t make heads or tails of mg/mm2. Only that it seemed like way too many numbers to me.

She chuckled. “You are within a cat’s whisker of my own readings.” The pressure dropped away, but not all together. The read-out stopped at 6 inches deep, 2 inches of width. Plenty enough I thought. Then Laura’s cheerful voice came on the radio again, “Randy, stand by for width calibration.” and ‘Width’ went from ‘2 inches’ to ‘2 ½ inches’ then slowly up by ¼ inch increments until I screamed. Whether the screams were from pleasure or from pain is impossible for me to say to this day. But the read-out this time showed I could take 3 ¾ inches before the pressure made me holler uncle, or auntie in this case.

“Great,” came Laura’s happy chatter. “I’m bringing down the readings for a moment.” and the dash read ‘Stim 2 -- Probe Adv. 5 in. Ret. 0 in, Cycle 0/min. Width 1’ Still in me, but comfortable and not moving. Whew!

“There’s only one more calibration, Randy, Ready? Here goes!” And a new section on the dash read ‘Stim 3 -- Lube 5 ml-- Rotate ½ inch -- Probe, Adv. 1 in. Ret. 0 in, Cycle 0/min. Width ½ ’ “Feel it yet?” She asked?

I sure did. 

My eyes opened wide as a new probe worked its way into my bottom. The read-out for depth climbed to 3 inches, then 4 and 5 pretty quickly. I have always been a fool for anal and she knew it and I’m not going into how she knew right now. When she got the thing in 6 inches she upped the width to 1 ½ inches and started it going in and out by 3 inches on a pretty smooth 4 second cycle. “Ohhh, Laura,” I moaned, “That’s heavenly.” The ‘Press’ read-out came on and I knew what was coming. Me for one thing. I maxed out at ‘Stim 3 -- Probe Adv. 7 in. Ret. 5 in, Cycle 50/min. Width 3 ’ before the pressure made be scream “Stop!!”

“We’ve used up so much time on calibration, Randy, we’re already at the fort.” I felt the boat slow and the read-outs showed I was getting stroked slow and soft as we navigated the chop in the channel. The day was perfect for a run in the Gulf. Not a cloud, only the lowest of swells from the SW and not a breath of wind ruffled the clear and warm waters. We cleared the last of the channel buoys and Laura put her over to the West along Perdito Key. “What say we open this up a bit as we head for the beach? And now that we know what you can take, take this!!!”

She pushed all the throttles to the max. She let the three stimulators work me over at max too. It was like nothing I had experienced, heard of experiencing, dreamt of experiencing, or ever hoped to experience for the whole run. I came. I came again. And again. I went into multiples and went into multiple, multiples. I remember I passed out and came to already cumming again.

Finally, the beach was centered in my canopy view and the readouts were zeroed. I dimly heard Laura’s voice shouting, “Randy, dammit, answer me!” She sounded scared. 

“Wuzzat? Hmmm?”

“Randy, can you hear me?” Laura said?

“Ya. I’m ok, but Holy Shit!” I was so stunned and out of it. I found I could move my arms.

We had stopped about a mile offshore. I could see her out of her pod and moving fast to me across the deck before she opened my canopy. Took her only a second to remove my helmet and in another second I was kissing her. That is one powerful toy Tom has I thought. We got me out of the pod and on deck into her arms. As soon as she saw I was ok, her attitude changed, but I was gratified she had cared so much. “How many times did I conk out?” I asked. 

“Well,” she counted, “The first one was at about the 20 minute mark, the second came in just over 30 minutes and that big one was right about 40 minutes. I think you were out almost a minute.” She was sounding a little scared again so I took her hand.

“I’m ok now. Just couldn’t get my breath!” I took a deep breath. “Well, we did find out how much I could take!”

“Ya! A lot!” She smiled. “I pass out from that thing, too.” 

It was only a few minutes to the “Womyn only beach” and I spent them as the nude figure head. By the time we got close enough for me to suit up, I was feeling pretty good. We anchored in about 4 feet of water, swam ashore and as I lay with my tookis facing south, I was thinking the sun felt pretty good on my poor lil’ abused nether regions. 

Rolling over on my tummy, I opened my legs enough to let the sun get to my bottom. “How ‘bout lotion?” I asked her as I undid my top. She scissored her legs over me and began working coconut oil into my shoulders. Her hands reached my suit bottoms and I lifted my hips so she could pull them down enough to smooth the lotion under the strap. She slid the suit down way farther than was needed so the material between my legs was all the way loose. I didn’t object as her hands expertly smoothed lotion under the suit. When her fingers caressed and entered my very open little pussy and equally open little anus I arced up and gasped my pleasure. 

“Ah, Ah, Ahhh!” She warned. “This is one crowded beach and your perfect boobies are showing. Down on your tummy now and don’t move. Randy,” Her voice had that command quality, “I mean it! Not one movement or one noise at all.” She began to stroke my pus again. 

“But Ma’am, I just gotta move if you’re gonna do that!” I said as I rolled half over to face her. “And it is not a crowded beach! Let’s be real! There can’t be more than a hundred women on the whole mile! Look, the nearest people to us gotta be 50 yards off!”

She leaned very close to my ear. “That will be another dozen lashes.” I gasped and flipped quickly back down on my tummy and played dead. “Better. Now don’t move again, or we’ll add another dozen.” 

One hand continued to simulate smoothing lotion in case anyone was watching, but the other was very busy. Two fingers were well up inside my streaming wet pus. When I felt a finger enter my bottom, I knew my orgasm was close. It was everything I could do to play corpse. Wet was flowing out of me while she continued to pump me for all I was worth. I scanned the sunbathers near us, but nobody seemed to be paying attention and that was good as I was really close now. One, two, three firm pushes from her and I went over into cum land. The only sign from me was a deep breath and a tightening around her fingers. She chuckled.

“Ok, you may move now.” She said happily having established her complete control once again.

I rolled onto my side facing her but didn’t pull my suit back up or put my top back on. Just sort of draped my arm over my breasts artistically although I’m sure my little nipples peaked out every now and then, and I wanted her to notice. If she was going to have me right there on the beach, I was going to look had. One eyebrow went up and I asked, “So, what is it with the dom thing?” 

She shrugged, “I dunno. It’s just, like. . .”

“Like what?”

“Randy,” she bit her lip. “I am what I am and I like being in charge, but sometimes I do wonder. . . I mean, I don’t know where it comes from. No big thing, like, from the way I was raised or anything. I just know, well, remember that time a couple months ago?”

“Oh, yeah, I remember it real well.”

She smiled, “If you only knew how often I think of that night. The one scene I keep playing over and over is your body all stretched out by your wrists with your toes just above the carpet. The way you looked, remember.”

“I remember.” I took a deep breath. “I lie awake replaying it, too. The one thing that still amazes me is how hard the whole thing made me cum. Never happened like that before. Sort of scares me, y’know?”

“Ya, well, sort of.” She said. “Anyway, for me it was the control thing. Doing things like that to another person. Did you know when I put the bar between your ankles, I came?” 

I shook my head. “Was kind of busy. Tied up right then, so to speak.”

“Well, I did, and not a little one either, but I didn’t want it to show. There you were, completely open and vulnerable and I did it. It was like, wow! And then when I whipped and you were writhing around, I came again, but the big one, the really big one for me was that last whip stroke when you came.” She was looking right in my eyes. “I thought it was the best thing for me ever. Then after I let you down you surprised the hell outta me. I know, I made you lick me, that was, after all, the end point of the whole thing, you know, to do that and then to have you have to pleasure me. But you weren’t just going along. In spite of what I did to you, there you were working away like, like some famished gorgeous doll and I was the only food you had in a month.”

“Laura, that is the way it was for me. At that moment, it was like I couldn’t do enough to please you. You could have told me to do anything, or done anything to me and I’d have gone along just so as it made you cum.” She must have heard the ring of absolute truth in my voice, but until then, I never was able to put it into words.

We sat a moment digesting this and then she asked.

“So why are you a sub?” She asked.

“No good reason. Don’t think I haven’t tried to figure it out either! Maybe too many deadlines and responsibilities at work, or something. I just don’t know. I think it has something to do with someone else being in charge, maybe. Being helpless is a huge part of it. You mentioned when you put that bar between my ankles? That was the first time in my life I couldn’t close my legs and stop someone from having me there. Turn on for you? Shoulda got it from my angle!” I thought a minute, “Another major turn on for me is I don’t know what you are going to do. Like, I’m helpless and whatever happens is a total surprise and I have nothing to do with it. The cum from pain thing? Well, I was just so hot I would have cum from any touch, I think, but the whip. . . First it stung like hell, then, it kind of went right to my clit. But I don’t have a clue why it does that to me. The whole thing is just too new to me.”

“Well, same for me and the Dom thing.” She shook her head and took another breath, “Then, there’s Tom. Look, you know Tom does me like I just did you only a lot more, right.”

“Ya, I guessed.” I had a sudden insight. “Must be a helluva battle out there each week.”

Her head snapped around and her eyes fastened on mine. “You wanna explain, that?”

“I don’t think you give in, do you? I think each week he has to break you.” Beautiful blue eyes filling with tears let me know how right on the mark I was with that one. “That’s why you wanted me to fight it, isn’t it? So you could see yourself breaking?” 

She breathed in sharply and we sat in silence together for a long time while she held my hand and looked out over the Gulf. 

Finally, she kissed me and said, “Did you know the Dragon Boat has duel controls?”

“No, what do you mean, Ma’am?”

“I mean, I’m in a cradle just like yours and the electronics are slaved only I’m on the receiving set. I feel everything that happens to you. Remember when I told you your readings were within a cat’s whisker of my own?”

“Ya! More or less?”

“Some more, some less. My read-outs also show when you cum! Remember the pressure sensor? Tells me when your pussy goes into contractions. You can’t fake it!”

“Haven’t tried! How can you hold onto the boat with that going on?”

“That, my love, is part of the thrill for me.” She got thoughtful again. “Look, I don’t do you to get even with Tom or anything even remotely like that. I want you to know that. I just love having you under my control. Ok?”

I smiled and kissed her hard. “I think I know that, and I like being had by you. Once in a while, have at me and ‘damned be she who first cries hold, enough.’ But once in a while you gotta let me have things my way. Ok?” 

“Deal!” We shook on it.

“C’mon, then,” I told her getting up and dragging her hand. “It’s my turn!”

We waded out toward the boat hand in hand, and the water was heavenly. Perfectly clear, so clear you can see fish right through the waves. I saw her when we dove. Her body suspended in limitless blue between the parallels of the surface, a mirror above, and the rippled sand patterned bottom below. That image will stay with me forever I thought and it has. The nice thing about the ladies’ beach is that you can do the same thing all couples do in the water and nobody gets all weird about it. I had her top undone and those pointy boobs of hers in my hands in a second. She kissed me and wrapped her arms around my neck.

“I have been so horny listening to you,” she whispered urgently in my ear.

I turned her away from the beach and lifted those perfect cones free of the salty water. My mouth closed over the puffy pink nipples and my tongue stroked her. Woman is in her mid-twenties with the tits of a teen, fer cryin’ out loud! I broke off and dipped below the surface. My hands pealed off her suit. I always enjoyed the way she kept that one tiny triangle untanned. She said she was Danish and Swedish which explained the platinum blonde hair, but her grandfather had been a Creol, so when she tanned, she tanned! Dark, dark skin, with just the one triangle that was now revealed perfectly white, blonde and pink. She spread for me. I moved in. Lips sealed around lips. She tasted of salt sea. I clamped onto her and let my tongue circle her, then dip, and as my tongue parted her inner lips the taste of her more than overpowered the Gulf. Circle, then dip again before I had to come up for air. While I breathed, two of my fingers entered her and I felt a little of the comparatively cool water enter with me. She gasped as I caressed her g-spot and then I was under the water again. My mouth formed a seal around her clit. I gently sucked the little swollen nub between my teeth and slowly rocked my head back and forth letting the tender skin just graze across serrated enamel. I finished her with my fingers deep inside her circling the hard knob of her cervix, her mouth biting my neck, her body spasming with the intensity of her orgasm. Didn’t stop at one, either. We did her, and did her, and did her some more.

She swam to the boat and got the picnic pack when she was satiated, back on the beach however a question hung between us.

“Laura,” I tentatively began, “how far is it back home?”

“’Bout-a hour.” She didn’t look at me. 

“More or less than an hour?”

“More.”

“How soon are you planning to leave?” 

“Kind of depends on when you think you can take it.” She said as she placed her hand possessively on my back.

My heart began to hammer. Was she planning on giving me the full treatment all the way home? Was I supposed to give her permission to do me more?

We both knew what my answer would be, but I guess I had to say it out loud for her.

I looked into her eyes. “Guess we better think about going real soon then.” 

‘Stim1’ -- Adv ½ in ‘Vibe’ ‘Rotate’ ½ in Cycle 15/min

‘Stim 2 -- Probe Adv. 8 in. Ret. 4 in, Cycle 35/min, Width 2 ½ Vibe’

‘Stim 3 -- Probe Adv. 7 in. Ret. 3 in, Cycle 40/min, Width 2 Vibe, Lube 5 ml’

The read out showed all three stimulators were slowly creeping up toward extreme settings and I was well on my way to my first orgasm as the key passed by in a blur of spray. 

“Randy,” Laura called white sands and island pines swept past, “there’s one more feature about this boat you haven’t experienced yet.” A new area on the dash read-out now lit up, ‘Elec-mod,’ but I was very near my peak now and she had to wait a few minutes to go on.

“That sounded like a good one! Well, as I was saying, Tom put in something very similar to what is in a chiropractor’s office. It passes an electrical current through your muscles and causes them to clench and relax involuntarily. I helped him with this thing.” She sounded a little proud, actually. “Really, thinking of you, I was. Anyway, I can pass a current through any two of the stimulators and the computer can program random alterations so they fire off in ways you don’t expect. Well, here goes what I’m talking about.”

With that, I felt a tingling and then the strangest thing happened. I swear the muscles in my vagina began to pulse all on their own. Then my clit did a flip and I was riding something that was causing my entire nether region to twitch as though I was cumming. Didn’t take long for me to decide I liked it, and it took even less time for me to lose myself to the sensations.

“Oh, my, Ma’am! That’s the best yet!” I gasped as soon as I could gasp anything coherent.

“No, sweetie,” she corrected me. “The best is when everything works at once. Ready? Like this. Now!”

She was right. 

The ride home was totally different than the ones on the way to the club and the beach. She played me like a musical instrument. Correct that! Now I knew just six feet away in her own pod she was getting exactly the same as I was. Thanks to the feed-back feature I knew the instruments she was playing were us not just me. It might have been our talk on the beach, but there was no more a brutal making me cum for the sake of seeing how hard or how much or how many times. (I’m pretty sure Tom does her that way on a regular basis. With her personality, those sessions had to be fierce clashes of will and breaking.)

Now though, she was using the boat to make love to me, and if you don’t know the difference, I can’t begin to explain it to you. No, now she was using the whole boat, in control, curving speed combined with grace under power to ride me up to the very razor edge of orgasm and then to see how long she could hold me at that impossibly fine edge between the clouds and the rain. Hollywood has yet to dream up a thing like The Dragon Boat. Power and grace controlled. Now she left her radio on so I could hear her orgasms, too! She applied or withheld that current to make me sing my song the same way she pushed the throttles and twisted the wheel to make the three of us dance her tune. First the dance, graceful and light, curveting, dipping, soaring, then she would straighten out, push all throttles forward to the wall, give all of us a dose of max; pistons huge, throbbing, thrusting in and out at maximum cycles, engines and us forced wide open and screaming, all read-outs pegged, the world outside a blur. Minutes later, while engine and stimulator harmonics stroked us, we surged through perfectly reflective still water. Hushed, but no less effective, women and machine responding to one will.

I sang for her. I sang loud, I sang soft, I sang quick, and slow, and sad and the most joyful sex songs I’ve ever sang. And she sang with me. To this day, I wish I had a tape of the sex sounds we made that hour. She never gave me so much I passed out again, or so little I was allowed even the slightest rest, always cumming or swooping toward another. This was a pas de trois between women and machine; a product of the computer age, raw power, lust and love. And I was the center, centered. I saw a painting once of this Warrior woman riding a dragon with a princess held on the cradle before her. This is as close as I’ll ever come to that. Power not under my control, definitely between my legs throbbing, surging and always so very dangerous, reined in just back from sending me to hell but taking me to heaven instead by the will of Her. I sang my song and if there had been words they would have said, “I give you me! I am yours! I love you!” She sang her song and if there had been words the words were, “I take this gift! I cherish this gift! I love you!”




Dragon Boat



Then, and way too soon, the home dock was in view and the read outs were running slowly down toward zero. The radio must be off because she doesn’t answer. I hear myself crying, “No, No, No! More! Please, Oh Please!” And now the read-outs are dark. I watch her tying up to the dock and know my bonds are loose. The canopy opens and she takes my helmet off. Her arms are lifting me out and I’m standing on the dock holding her as she leads me toward her house. I’m exhausted. An understatement that. One of her hands holding my hands, her other hand on my bottom. At the end of the dock she stops and lifts my chin for a kiss. So soft, so sweet.

We break and she says,

“There’s still that matter of two dozen lashes.” 



Dragon Bride



Lord Ethan Nogard was watching engrossed as two women engaged in a delirious sexual encounter a few steps from him. He was secretly celebrating the death of his uncle, the King, in the battlefields of the north. His cousin, the first in line to sit on the throne, had been taken prisoner by the enemy and he most certainly was dead too. Lord Ethan's chances to become King increased dramatically. There was only one obstacle between him and the throne and he was planning to eliminate it soon. Jarrod, the Lord's personal advisor, stood beside him.

"How do you do it, Jarrod? How do you make them so docile and obedient? Is it magic?" 

"Not magic, my Lord. These women want to do this for you. They only needed a little convincing."

Drueta, the brunette, knelt of the bed with her face snuggled between Lia's ass-cheeks, suckling the blonde's clitoris with eagerness while the excitement heightened. Lia moaned at the warm feeling of her lover's tongue caressing her labia and her sensitive clitoris.

"Shove your hand in her pussy," Ethan commanded.

"Yes, my Lord."

Lia's heart jolted when she heard the Lord's command. She had never done that before but she would try anything to please her Master.

Drueta turned her hand into a fist and started pressing at the tight opening. She had no intention to be gentle but to maximize the sensations of the impending penetration. Jarrod had chosen her because of her ample expertise in the bedroom and she didn't want to disappoint him.

"Relax my darling. You are going to enjoy this," Drueta said softly to her lover.

"Yes... fuck me with your hand," Lia responded.

The combination of pleasure and pain was exhilarating as Lia felt the whole fist pushing into her clinched passage, expanding her pussy lips to the limit. When Drueta's entire hand was lodged inside the lubricated cavity, she began a slow pumping motion trying to go further in. Then she heard another command from her Lord. 

"Now push your other hand into her ass."

Drueta hesitated for a second, but then she pulled her hand from Lia's pussy, smeared with vaginal juices, and used this natural lubrication to ease her way into the blonde's tight, pulsating anus. At the same time, she shoved her other fist back into the Lia's cunt. She could almost touch one hand with the other as she churned them inside the twitching holes.

Lia grunted loudly upon feeling the tiny hole of her ass being penetrated by Drueta's fist. And the sensation escalated when she felt the second hand piercing into her pussy. After a couple of minutes, her body adjusted and the pain completely faded away. Her moans of pleasure echoed in the room, combined with the squishing sounds of Drueta's fists pumping her holes with determination. 

Lord Nogard was amazed and excited by the women's debauchery and he decided to join the action. "It is time for a little workout," he said, taking off his pants and approaching the bed. He was ready to fuck Drueta from behind. 

Jarrod reminded him that there were important duties to attend. The common people were restless since the King's death and there was uncertainty about whom should inherit the throne. And to make things worse, the enemy hordes were moving south towards the city.

"My Lord, don't forget that our enemy is approaching. Also, Princess Maya must be dealt with as soon as possible."

"Don't worry. This won't take long. My cousin's buyer won't be here until later today."

Jarrod insisted on the matter, failing to change the Lord's mind, "My informants tell me that the northern creatures are already reaching the farthest villages of our realm. They already killed the King so you know how dangerous they are."

Ethan grabbed Drueta's hips and buried his erect cock into the woman's warm, moistened pussy. Drueta, already burning with excitement, moaned with wanton pleasure.

"As the new King, I have the right to enjoy myself, don't you think, Jarrod?"

"Yes my Lord. When Princess Maya is gone, there will be no doubt that you are the rightful King."

After ten minutes of agitated fucking, Ethan was already on the brink of orgasm. Drueta was clasping her vaginal muscles around the Lord's cock, doing her best to pleasure him while she moved her fists in and out of Lia's holes. Lia was unable to think clearly from the blissful penetrations and just moaned in synchrony with Drueta's motions.

Ethan couldn't hold it any longer and came inside Drueta's pussy with a grunt. He retrieved his smeared phallus when he was done ejaculating. 

Drueta felt a few drops of sperm leaking from her pussy and she shivered at the possibility of getting pregnant with the new King's progeny. 

"It was good..." Ethan said, almost out of breath.

"Did I please you, my Lord?" Drueta asked, already knowing the answer.

A moment later, Drueta's attention focused on Lia as the blonde's pussy and ass clenched hard around her fists. Lia was reaching an orgasm. Drueta kept wiggling her arms inside of her friend's body until the trembling woman crumbled forward onto the bed. 

At that instant, an emissary entered the room and delivered an important message, "The slave trader has arrived, my Lord."

Lord Nogard pulled up his pants and proceeded to meet the visitor. The money he was going to obtain from selling the Princess to slavery would be more than enough to pay for an army and secure the throne for himself. Then he would deal with the northern creatures if they dare to attack the city.

"It is better if the slave trader doesn't see me, My Lord," Jarrod said, "I've heard that he doesn't like wizards very much. Please make sure that you get enough money to feed a large army. We will need it to defend the city. There is no point of being the King if there are no subjects to rule."

"This guy has been obsessed with my cousin since she came of age," Ethan responded, "When he heard that the King was dead, he contacted me immediately. I am going to make him pay a fortune for Maya."

As soon as the Lord left the room, the girls knelt in front of Jarrod, showing their devotion to him and exhibiting who was their true Master.

"Good girls. Are you ready for a real fucking?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes, Master." The women answered in unison.

*****

Princess Maya was being held captive in the dungeons beneath the royal castle. Her golden tiara was still attached to her blond hair while she was forced to wear a very sexy clothing that barely covered her breasts. Her slim, sexy body had to be visible to have a better effect on the slave trader.

A large troll, about two meters tall and carrying a fat belly, was blocking the door. Lord Nogard's orders were that the princess was not allowed to leave under any circumstances.

The princess was fully aware of her cousin's intentions to sell her and she also knew about the imminent invasion of the northern creatures. The news about the death of her father and brother had been too much for her and she had given up fighting. She had decided to sacrifice herself and let her cousin become King. At least he would be able to lead an army and defend the city from the monsters.

Anais, the princess' main escort, was trying to convince her otherwise, "My Princess, you can't let him do this to you. He has no right. You are the rightful heir to the throne."

"I know Anais, but the soldiers won't follow me, an inexperienced young woman, to battle against the invading creatures. This is the best decision for the sake of the people."

"But the people loves you. You know that any men would follow you anywhere. All you have to do is ask."

Anais had witnessed firsthand the effect that Princess Maya caused on males since she became a teenager. It was something unnatural, arising men libido to levels of insanity. Only her status of royalty had kept her safe all these years. Anais also was aware of the terrors that awaited Maya once she became the property of the slave trader. There was no way that she was going to let it happen and she had a plan.

*****

Drueta and Lia were always amazed to see Jarrod's cock enlarge at will. The wizard had the ability to make his phallus grow as long as he wanted and the slaves had learned it the hard way; nonetheless, they loved him for this. Drueta shyly touched the penis as it doubled in size.

"Don't just stare at it. Kiss it," Jarrod said.

Drueta was aware that her duty was more than a simple kiss. She extended her warm tongue, touching the tip, savoring the moment before swallowing the whole member. Lia still needed to learn from her friend's expertise and she moved to the side to have a better view.

The brunette opened her mouth wide and was barely able to pass the cock's head between her lips. Then, very slowly, she started to move forward, pushing the phallus down her throat. Her pussy was twitching incessantly and she almost climaxed when her nose was nearly touching Jarrod's belly.

"That's good my pet. You become better every day," Jarrod said with a smile of satisfaction.

Lia watched wide-eyed, looking at the base of the wizard's cock, then at Drueta's distended neck,  It must be reaching half way down to her belly!"  she thought.

Jarrod fucked Drueta's mouth for a while. Gagging sounds mixed with muffled moans as gobs of saliva dribbled to the floor. A few more minutes and he would make her cum; such was her joy of sucking his cock. But he had other plans...

"I will fuck your pussy now Lia. Are you lubricated enough?" Jarrod asked, looking at the slave.

"Yes, Master! My pussy is yearning for your cock," Lia responded with evident excitement.

Drueta moved to the side, a little disappointed that he didn't let her climax, but she knew that her moment would come. Jarrod had more than enough stamina for both of them.

Lia laid on the bed and spread her legs wide. Jarrod grabbed the slim woman's hips and lifted her body until her pussy was aligned with his cock. The massive phallus was even thicker than Drueta's fists and just seemed too big to fit.

But this was not Lia's first time and after a little pushing, his phallus penetrated her. The bewildered woman screamed in bliss as Jarrod entered her body, almost splitting her in half. Then he began ravishing her like a fuck toy.

"You love being my pet, don't you?" Jarred asked. But Lia was so overwhelmed, that she just grunted a couple of times trying to form words that never came out.

Drueta couldn't just sit there and watch. Her body was burning with arousal. She straddled Lia's head and pulled her friend's face to her crotch, "Please, let me join you Master. I can't wait any longer."

"I can see that you are hornier than usual," Jarrod said, allowing her the forwardness.

Lia's mind was a roller-coaster of bliss but she was always ready to suck Drueta's pussy. She acted almost by pure instinct, shoving her tongue as deep as she could while her head was trapped between her friend's thighs.

The brunette had gotten so excited giving her Master such a deep blow-job, that it only took her a couple of minutes to explode in climax. Her body jolted with uncontrollable spasms after waves of pleasure cursed from her pussy to her dazzled brain.

And Lia wasn't far behind. When Drueta's pussy gushed into her mouth, her own orgasm rippled through her body. Her vaginal muscles clamped her Master's cock repeatedly while her head thrashed violently between her friend's trembling legs.

When Drueta moved to the side, recovering from her orgasm, Jarrod let Lia's feeble body melt to the bed below. Then he spoke to the experienced woman, knowing that she was desperately craving for his cock, "You are next, my dear. Your body and mine will become one."

Drueta understood the meaning of this and her heart jolted with pure joy, "Yes, Master! I am ready!!"

Lia crawled out of way while Drueta knelt in front of her Master, facing away from him and offering her ass. Jarrod aimed his cock at her anus and pressed slightly, teasing the anxious girl before possessing her.

"Please do it Master. Push your cock inside of me until I am one with you."

Drueta opened her mouth wide, yet she remained silent, focused on the staggering feeling of the massive phallus stretching her rectum and pushing her insides to make way. The huge cock reached far within the girl's tight cavity and then it stopped. It was time for the real magic to take place.

"Now we shall become one," Jarrod said, spreading her hands.

A strange colorful energy began to emanate from Jarrod's fingers, surrounding Drueta's lower body. The woman trembled as her mind became empty of thought and her body began to loosen up. The brunette's pussy jerked continuously as if she was already climaxing.

"Oh my God! I wish it was me..." Lia thought. She also knew the meaning of 'becoming one'. 

Lia was staring attentively at her Drueta's face. Not because her eyes were completely rolled back but because her mouth was wide open, easing the way. Lia was waiting. The bond would be complete any second now. A moment later, Drueta's moaning turned into a guttural growl.

"I can hear it coming," Lia exclaimed with exhilaration.

A stream of transparent fluids preceded the large phallus as it emerged from Drueta's mouth! The brunette was in a state of trance, unaware of anything but the cock that filled every bit of her body and every corner of her mind. Now she was one with her Master and nothing could feel better than that.

Lia watched with amazement as her Master's cock dangled inches from her face, then she heard him say, "You will swallow my seed, Lia."

"Yes Master. Thank you for allowing me this pleasure," the blond responded.

The long, thick phallus projected further from Drueta's mouth and approached Lia's face. She licked the tip with pleasure, savoring the moment before swallowing it whole, just like Drueta did before.

Lia gagged briefly as the big appendage reached the back of her throat but then she leaned forward, begging her Master to push it deeper. Jarrod granted her wish and soon his cock had almost reached her stomach.

The wizard wasted no time and after teasing Lia for a couple of minutes, he discharged the first load of cum into her belly, filling her completely. Some of the sperm forced its way out between the crevices of Lia's stretched lips and the fat cock. But not all of it escaped and after a few more squirts, the blonde's lower abdomen was visibly enlarging from the huge amount of fluid being pumped inside.

Lia was on the brink of orgasm from the knowledge that it was her Master's seed that stuffed her so utterly.

When Jarrod was done ejaculating, he pulled his cock from Lia's body in one rough motion. The long rod passed swiftly between her lips and this triggered the blond's second climax. Her violent spasms caused the excess of sperm to erupt from her open mouth like a fountain.

As Jarrod's cock returned to its regular size, it passed all the way through Drueta's body until it finally came free and the woman, who had been in a non-stop climax since the cock first penetrated her, collapsed onto the bed. The trance was broken. The first coherent thought in Drueta's mind was a desire to do it again, "More... please give me more."

Meanwhile, the thick sperm was still spilling from Lia's mouth as she came down from her mind-blowing orgasm.

"Be a good friend and share it with Drueta," Jarrod commanded.

Lia nodded and then leaned over Drueta's face, letting her Master's semen spill into the brunette's welcoming mouth.

"Good girls. Entertain yourselves while I attend more important business," Jarrod said, getting dressed. Then he left the room.

*****

Anais was determined to help the Princess escape and she put her plan in motion. She grabbed Maya's hand. "Please come with me my Princess. Stand over here."

When Maya realized that they were walking towards the large troll, she objected, "What are you doing Anais? This guard is dangerous. He is a brute. He acts without thinking."

The guard saw them approaching and he lifted his hand saying, "Princess stays inside. Lord's orders."

Anais purposely placed Maya near the brute and in a matter of minutes the effect of the Princess closeness became evident. The guardian's cock enlarged to full erection.

The escort's plan couldn't be more simple. She stood right in front of the brute, grabbed her breasts and said, "Hello handsome, your name is Gork right? You know that we have been in here for a few days now and I miss the company of my man. Maybe you can help me with that. I can see that your cock is ready for me."

Gork looked down at the sexy woman with stupid grin on his face, "Eh?"

Maya was astounded by her escort's behavior. She knew that Anais was not a virgin but she wasn't a promiscuous woman. In fact, she had little experience regarding sex. Something very wrong was happening here, "Anais, what has gotten into you? Stop this!!"

Ignoring the Princess, Anais looked up at the guard with sensual eyes while she pulled her skirt down, "Since we will be in here for a while, why don't we have some fun. Just you and me. The Princess won't go anywhere."

The guard was boiling with excitement. Touching the Princess meant certain death but her escort Anais was a different story; she meant nothing to anybody. She was so pretty and she was offering herself to him. 

Maya worried that she was to blame for what was going on, Am I causing this? I know men get crazy around me but Anais too? This had never happened before.

Anais went down on her knees and gently caressed the brute's cock. The large member was pulsating between the girl's hands. Every touch of her trembling fingers sent waves of increasing pleasure to Gork's tiny brain.

"Anais is pretty... But Gork is on duty", the brute said, pushing his cock a bit forward.

Seeing the huge phallus up close, Anais had second thoughts, Gods! His cock is getting even bigger. I'm not sure I can pull this off... But I must! 

Maya begged her best friend to regain her senses, "Anais, don't do this. He is going to hurt you!"

After massaging his cock for a couple of minutes, Anais stood up and turned around. Then she sexily bent forward offering her slender body to the massive guardian. She was breathing heavily, mostly from fear than from excitement but she was not backing out. It was her responsibility to protect the Princess at all costs.

The brute was hesitant but his basic instincts were kicking in, "Gork will be punished if doing this... but Anais is pretty."

"I am here for you big boy. Fuck me!" Anais insisted.

"Please Anais, for the love of the Gods, let's get back in the cell," Maya said, grabbing her escort's arm.

At that moment, Gork reached out and touched Anais's buttocks. She was warm and tender. Not even in his dreams he would be able to fuck a woman so pretty and sexy. The tip of his phallus touched the warm pussy lips and his cock jerked with need. He had to fuck her. 

"Come on honey, don't make me wait," Anais said, hiding her fear.

Maya felt miserable, She is not listening to me. She is really doing this... and it is my fault.

Anais gasped and shuddered when she felt the brute's cock touching her sensitive labia. Her heart was beating fast and for some reason that she couldn't understand, her pussy twitched too. She was getting wet.

Unable to restrain himself, the brute grabbed Anais's hips and forcefully pulled her back, shoving his entire phallus into the woman's body. Anais grunted loudly from the deep penetration as her small cavity was stretched to the limit. Pleasure and pain battled in her brain, confusing her and making it hard to think coherently, but she had survived the first stroke and at this moment, it was the only thing that mattered.

He is in! He is inside me!  Anais yelled in her mind.

The brute moved the woman's entire body back and forth as he waved his hips in the opposite direction, pulling his cock out and shoving it back in with increasing toughness. Anais moaned and grunted with the motions as her breasts jiggled on her chest and her head bobbed wildly above her shoulders.




Dragon Bride



"Anais tight!" Gork exclaimed.

Princess Maya was astounded to see the huge creature fucking her friend so savagely. She could even see the outline of the brute's cock in Anais's belly. It bloated out every time the brute shoved his cock deep into her. Praise the Gods! He is going to kill her!

After several minutes of rough ravishing, Anais realized that the initial pain that assaulted her brain had vanished completely and the incredible fullness of her pussy felt good. Better yet, it felt wonderful. Her eyes rolled back frequently as the pleasurable sensation began to take over her mind and her body. For a moment, she forgot that she was doing this to save the Princess. She forgot that she was locked up in a dungeon. Her world was reduced to that spot between her legs and the massive rod that filled her so completely.

"I am going to cum. You are making me cum!" Anais exclaimed as she felt her arousal growing.

Maya's concerns about her friend's well being disappeared when she heard Anais's words. It was hard to believe her own ears but Anais was actually enjoying this brutal ravishing. Then, unexpectedly, the Princess felt her pussy tingle.

Anais reached down and frantically massaged her clit. She was right on the edge...

The escort screamed in bliss when the first contraction rattled her body. White light exploded in her brain. The dazzled woman jolted so hard that the brute's cock was dislodged from her pussy. Her body was completely out of her control when she plunged forward to the dirty ground.

Princess Maya had never witnessed such a lustful and violent orgasm. She was mesmerized watching her best friend shuddering in ecstasy and suddenly, her pussy tingled once more. She was getting excited too.

Anais was now on her hand and knees with her body still shuddering from her fading orgasm and feeling ashamed from climaxing under these circumstances. I can't believe he made me cum, she thought, And in front of the Princess! This is so embarrassing.

Maya kept watching wide-eyed and in silence. She was breathing heavier while her pussy moistened with unwanted desire. 

Gork didn't like that his cock wasn't sheltered within Anais's pussy anymore. He needed to feel her heat. He demanded more. "Gork is not finished. Come back!"

The brute was not waiting for Anais to get up. Instead, he jumped forward on top of the slim woman and shoved his cock back into her pussy. Anais's was still very sensitive and she moaned loudly from the unannounced penetration. The guardian placed one hand on the ground and the other under the woman's body, pulling her up against his massive frame while pumping his cock deep inside of her. The pressure of his hand against her belly made the thickness and length of his phallus even more evident to the baffled woman. Although, since her body had already adjusted to his size, the feeling of utter fullness was blissfully overwhelming.

As the troll fucked her with eagerness, Anais was quite certain that she was going to cum again, but then she saw something that brought her back to reality. The brute was no longer holding his spear. Instead, the weapon was flat on the ground while he supported his own weight with his extended hand. Without planning for it, her orgasm had given her the opportunity she needed.

Pushing away the immense pleasure that cluttered her mind, Anais thought about the best way to convince the brute to switch positions... "Hey handsome... would you like me to be on top? That way I will do all the work and you will just rest and enjoy."

Gork gladly went along with the idea. He was tired of standing all day and never before a woman had offered to do the work for him, "Gork always does the work. Now you do it. I like it."

"You will feel like a king," Anais said, glad that her plan was going well.

Maya wanted all of this to end and again pleaded to her friend, "Anais, please stop this madness."

As Gork laid flat on the ground, facing up, Anais stood on the his hips, straddling his cock. Then she started lowering her body. Princess Maya now had a perfect view of his massive erect phallus and Anais's petite pussy going down on it. It seemed impossible to fit his cock inside her slim body but she had already done it and she was going to do it again.

"He is so big..." Maya whispered, "I wonder how it feels."

The head of the phallus parted the escort's pussy lips and entered her cavity. Anais kept going down, letting her own weight help with the staggering penetration until her ass-cheeks rested on his crotch. Once again her belly bloated to fit him inside, showing Maya how deep his cock was. When the Princess saw the bulge going as high as Anais's chest, her pussy twitched again. It was so wrong... and so exciting.

"Gork is a king!" the brute yelled.

During the penetration, Anais remained silent except for muted grunting, but her facial expression said it all. The slim escort felt like the troll's cock was going to rip her apart, pushing her insides to make room and taking absolute possession of her body. She was going mad from this awkward, unexpected pleasure.

Anais placed her hands on the brute's rounded belly and started pushing her body up and down while waving her hips back and forth, stirring the creature's cock inside of her. Gork was growling and breathing heavily as he jutted his hips upward, trying to impale her even deeper. He was supposed to let her do all the work but his instincts made it impossible. 

The ravishing session continued for a good half hour. Anais and the brute moaned in unison, combined with the squelching sound of his fat cock pumping her drenched pussy, filling the dungeon with sensual noises. 

Princess Maya just stood nearby, watching everything, hearing everything and very confused about her own feelings. She should have been displeased by this and yet she couldn't look away.

At last, Gork moaned louder and grabbed Anais's thighs hard, pressing down on her while he buried his cock to the limit. Then he climaxed, ejaculating a large amount of semen inside of the astounded woman.

Anais felt the hot, thick fluid filling every crevice of her body and she climaxed ins response. Her body shuddered rapidly as her pussy twitched over and over around the massive phallus, squeezing every drop of semen out of his balls. She let her body melt forward on his chest while he was still discharging the last spurts of sperm. 

Gork was staring blissfully at the ceiling and didn't notice that Anais was reaching out and grabbing his spear. This was not an easy task considering that her orgasmic spasms had not yet completely receded.

Got it! she exclaimed in her mind as she gripped the weapon.

Anais lifted the spear, aimed at his heart and brought it down with all of her might. When the brute turned to look, it was too late. 

"Anais!! No!!" Princess Maya screamed, pleading her friend to stop. The punishment waiting for Anais if she killed the guard was unthinkable.

"Sorry brute. But the Princess' safety comes first!" Anais said with sadness in her voice.

A couple of minutes later, the brute was death. Anais had executed her plan perfectly.

"When they discover that I did this, your cousin is going to kill me," Anais said to the Princess, "My only chance to survive is escaping, but I am not going anywhere without you."

"But what about the people... The invading monsters are coming," Maya said, uncertain of what to do, "Most of the army is not back yet from the northern territories and my cousin needs the money he will get from selling me to..."

"... your cousin is evil and you know it," Anais interrupted, "He doesn't care about anything but himself. We will think of something to help the people. I promise you."

"You planned this all along, didn't you?" Maya said, knowing that she really didn't have an option.

Princess Maya was ready to sacrifice herself but she was not going to sacrifice Anais. And she was sure that Anais would never leave without her. Her only choice was to escape with her best friend.

"We should go to the forbidden valley. They'll never find us there," Maya said.

"Great! Let's go!" Anais responded excitedly.

The fate of the city was uncertain but Anais was right; her cousin Ethan was evil and there was no assurances that he would defend the people. There must be another way to save the city and Maya was going to find it.

****

It didn't take long before the guards realized that the Princess was gone. Lord Nogard was furious. He knew that without Maya, his goal of becoming King would be impossible to achieve. He needed to find her immediately!

"You are all idiots!! The slave trader is here and he wants to see her! Find her!! Now!!" The Lord yelled at the soldiers.

"Yes, my Lord. I have all my men already looking for her," the nervous captain responded.

****

Far North, the residents of the small villages were preparing to evacuate their homes and move to safety within the city walls.

"Hurry up Miri. We can no longer wait for your father. He will meet us at the city when he returns from battle..." Jana said to her daughter.

"Mom! They are here!!! The monsters are here!!!" Miri screamed, looking out the window. She had never seen such an ugly monster. It had a humanoid, bulky body with a long, reptile tail and a large head that resembled a cat-fish.

The two scouts of the northern creatures had arrived to the village finding no resistance at all. All the cottages looked empty. They had orders to capture humans and interrogate them to find the easiest passage into the city.

"Do you see anything?" The first scout asked.

"I think I heard something. I'll go inside," the other responded, looking at Jana's house.

The women heard the front door being forced open! There was no way to escape. Jana had to protect her daughter and she did the only thing that came to her mind.

"Get inside the closet and whatever happens, don't come out and don't make any noise. Hurry!" Jana said.

"Where are you going to hide?! Both of us won't fit in here!" Miri asked, scared out of her mind.

Heavy steps resounded outside the room, getting closer to the door.

Jana barely had time to walk around the bed, getting away from the closet and from her daughter. The door opened and Jana saw with terror as a monster walked in, looking straight at her. She had heard so many stories about these creatures since she was a little girl. She had pictured their ugliness in so many ways. But her imagination didn't come close to what was standing in front of her. A real, huge northern creature. And he could speak!

"I've found one! It's a female!" the scout said to his partner.

"Gods help me!" Jana screamed. She knew that occasionally these creatures captured women and their bodies were rarely found. She even saw a woman a long time ago that was supposedly pregnant with one of these monsters and later on, that woman disappeared. The men of the village said that the woman was cursed and Jana believed that they secretly killed her. She wondered if this was going to be her fate as well.

The creature jumped forward and grabbed Jana's body. Then he spoke to her... "Is there any other human in the house? Answer me!"

"No... no, I am alone. Please don't hurt me."

"We'll see. Don't move," the monster said, looking around the room.

The door of the closet was partially open and Miri watched terrified as the monster manhandled her mother. He's got her! The monster grabbed mom!

Without saying another word, the creature opened his circular mouth and extruded his tongue. It was a long, flexible tentacle that approached Jana's face. The woman looked at it in panic and tried to move away but his firm grasp made it impossible.

Gods! What is that?! Miri wondered from her hiding spot, looking partially at the tentacle.

The tongue was covered with a translucent toxin and the scout knew the effect it caused on humans. He just needed to shove it down her throat and she would become docile and easy to manipulate. Then he could ask her all the necessary questions.

Jana turned her face away as the slimy tentacle poked at her cheeks and lips. She felt a slight tingle on her skin as it got smeared with the toxin.

The scout tightened his grip on Jana's shoulders making her scream and he seized the moment to insert his tongue into her mouth. She tried to bite it down but the tentacle's leathery skin was unbreakable. It reached her throat and kept sinking down.

As the flexible appendage moved deeper into her body, Jana's mind started to spin in a whirlpool of confusion. She had a bittersweet taste in her mouth and her throat tickled badly.

The creature pulled her closer to his face, shoving his tongue even deeper. He could see her pupils dilating as the slime began to take effect.

Miri couldn't see what was happening but she could clearly hear her mother's gurgling sounds. She had to fight the urge to bolt out of the cabinet and help her. What is he doing to her? I can't see!

The other creature searched the rest of the house, confirming that it was empty and entered the room. By then, Jana had completely stopped struggling and looked up at the ceiling with unfocused eyes.

"It seems that this town is empty. This human is the only one left," the other scout said, "I can see that she is a mature female! She can be useful to us in many ways."

Miri heard the words of the second invader and a chill ran across her back. 

The second scout moved around Jana and her captor. He examined the woman's body and ripped her skirt off to look at her behind. This was the first human female he had seen up close, and he was looking for more points of entry into her body. He found two! "I'll pour more toxin into her. She will tell us everything we need to know." 

Within her foggy mind, Jana felt someone lifting her body from the ground but this didn't worry her. It was so much better to let herself be handled. The second creature extended his tongue, smearing her ass-cheeks and thighs.

This time, the viewing angle allowed Miri to see the monster's whole squirming tongue and she had to cover her mouth to stop herself from screaming.

Jana gargled as the creature pushed his tongue a little deeper down her esophagus. The other scout looked between the woman's legs trying to decide which hole would be better for penetration. He selected the closest one; Jana's anus. If my tongue doesn't fit, I'll try the other one.

Miri witnessed as the creature shoved his tongue forward and it disappeared into her mother's body. She never thought that something so long could fit inside of a woman without killing her. Jana led out a muffled moan from the deep penetration as her ass twitched several times around the appendage.

The long tongues squirmed inside Jana's body, pushing from both ends and almost meeting in the middle. The amount of toxin absorbed by her sensitive membranes soon started to saturate her bloodstream and accumulate in her brain.

Jana's altered mind became empty of any rational thoughts, replaced by a feeling of submission and satisfaction. Then, without any proper build-up or intensifying arousal, Jana reached a sudden, compelling orgasm. She twitched and squirmed within the creature's grip as her eyes rolled back from sheer pleasure.

Seeing this, the scout knew that her brain was full with toxins and she would cooperate. He forcefully withdrew his tongue from her throat and released her shoulders. Jana was still shuddering from her climax and oddly enough, this rough treatment prolonged it further.

The other creature followed suit and let Jana collapse to the floor. Then the questions started...

"How far is the city from here? What is the quickest way to get there? Answer slave!"

...but she couldn't even remember her name.

"We probably gave her too much," the other creature said, scratching his head.

The scouts realized that Jana was too doped to respond but they still needed answers, so they decided to wait. And what better way to spend time that creating offspring to expand the army.

"Lets impregnated her while some of the toxin wears off. Slave, open your body for me!"

Jana heard the words of her captor and moved solely by instinct. She stood up as best she could and leaned back against the bed. Her body was burning with need and her pussy was soaked with her own juices.

As soon as she spread her legs, the creature buried his large, erect phallus into her pussy with a single, forceful stroke. Jana screamed from the rough and deep penetration but she was so excited that the pleasure of being fucked easily overthrown the pain caused by the massive cock. 

From inside the closet, Miri couldn't believe what was happening. Her mother was being fucked by this horrifying monster and she was moaning in pleasure! She saw a slight moving mound on her mother's belly showing her how far inside was the creature's cock.

Mom is allowing them to fuck her! How can this be possible?, Miri wondered, truly confused.

With his phallus already fully erect, the other scout was not going to wait until his partner was done so he jumped on the bed and pulled Jana's head back until her mouth was aligned with his member. "Open your mouth slave!"

Miri screamed in her head, No! The other one too? Leave her alone! 

Jana felt the fat tip of the creature's phallus pushing at her lips and she opened wide. The scout shoved his cock down her throat, stretching her lips to the limit, yet Jana oblige, rolling her eyes from wanton bliss.

The creature started fucking her face with avidity, matching the pace of his partner, who fucked Jana's pussy as deep as possible. Neither of them have been with a female since the war started and they were not holding anything back. 

This was the advantage of being a scout. They could impregnate a few slaves before the arrival of their superiors, who always kept all the best females for themselves.

They creatures fucked Jana for a while. Slurping sounds coming from Jana's mouth and pussy, combined with moans and grunts from the three of them, echoed in the room. Miri remained quietly hiding in the closet, watching and hearing everything.

"Her belly is bulging with your phallus," one creature said.

"So is her throat. She is so flexible," the other responded.

They are being so rough... please don't hurt her. Miri pleaded in silence.

Suddenly, one of the creatures roared loudly and an instant later, a stream of white sperm erupted from Jana's pussy. He was climaxing! He pumped a huge amount of sperm into her body, ensuring impregnation. At the same time, Jana started shaking again from another powerful orgasm, squeezing his cock and milking it for all it was worth.

But the ravishing was far from over. The spent creature moved away and his partner turned Jana around, making her kneel over the bed. Then he shoved his phallus in her pussy and started pounding at her with all his might. He didn't care that her pussy was already soaked with cum. He was going to plant his own seed and make it a race to see which sperm would impregnate her first.

Gods! They are taking turns with her. When is this going to end? Miri thought, peeking through the closet's door.

Jana's mind was still submerged in a haze of chemicals and physical pleasure. The cock pumping her body felt better than anything she had felt before. There was not a single worry in her mind; nor any coherent thought to disrupt the perfect bliss than radiated from her pussy. She was in heaven and she wished to stay like this until the end of time.

"This female is very docile. She likes this," the spent creature said, with a tone of voice that sounded like laughter.

The creature started to accelerate his pace as he approached his climax and Jana moaned louder, also approaching her third orgasm. From inside the closet, Miri could only see part of her mother's body bouncing back and forth, in synchrony with the monster's grunts.




Dragon Bride



"She is tight, isn't she?"

"Yes. When we are done here, we should hide her and keep her for ourselves."

The creature announced his peak with a loud roar and the expected gush of semen was ejected from his cock, saturating Jana's pussy. Upon feeling the warm fluid filling her body again, Jana screamed, twitching within strong spasms. She was climaxing one more time.

Even when her body was lying limply on the bed, Jana still jolted sporadically as her orgasm refused to fade away. The creatures looked at her with disappointment. She was not ready to answer any questions yet. Her brain may be ruined for good. They started arguing...

"What now? She is helpless."

"Let's give her more time. I want to fuck her again."

"What if she can't take it and dies?"

"I don't care. I am going to fuck her again!"

Hearing the invaders' conversation, Miri decided that it was enough. She couldn't just hide like a coward and let them kill her mother. She had to do something... anything.

"Please stop! Leave my mother alone!" Miri screamed while jumping out of the closet.

"Heh?! Another one! Didn't you check the room?" one of the creature asked angrily.

"Umh... I didn't. The other female distracted me."

Miri knelt beside the bed, checking her mother's health. The scouts immediately noticed that she was a young adult, probably too young to provide useful information about the city's defenses but mature enough to breed. Her body was slim and healthy.

"Uhmm... She is good for breeding."

One of the creatures approached her and said, "We will leave your mother alone if you promise to do everything we say."

"I... I promise," Miri said with a trembling voice.

"Then you will swallow my tongue. Stand up!"

Miri stood up shivering with fear as the invader extruded his long, flexible tongue. Miri had witnessed how the creature shoved the tentacle deep into her mother's throat a moment ago and now it was her turn. "Gods help me... It is so long!!"

"Open your mouth, female!"

Miri opened her mouth hesitantly as the appendage approached her face. Her lips were quivering but she believed that there was no other way to save her mother. She took a deep breath. I can do this...

With a swift move, the creature pushed his tongue between Miri's lips, all the way to the back of her throat and then a little further. Miri gagged and cried a muffled yelp. She had to use all her will not to pull away.

The monster walked closer to her, shoving his tongue deeper into her body while the exuding toxin filtered through her inner membranes. Miri could clearly feel the tentacle moving down her esophagus until everything around her suddenly started to spin.

After only one minute, Miri's nipples hardened and swelled noticeably while her eyes began to roll back. She never realized that her mind was being taken by a cocktail of chemicals. A soft, almost inaudible moaning indicated that the process was on the right track. 

The creature waited until Miri's eyes were completely rolled back. She started to sway her hips slowly back and forth. Between her legs, Miri's pussy was dripping wet. She was ready.

"Don't overdo it or she will end up like the older one," the creature said to his partner.

With a loud slurping noise, the monster retracted his tongue and pulled it out of Miri's body. Her mind was now a haze of meaningless thoughts and erotic images. Her body was on fire but she didn't know what to do about it.

"Bring her over here. I'll put my cock in her little hole. This way we can fuck her at the same time."

When she heard the comment, Miri's heart jolted with concern and excitement. The creature grabbed her delicate hand and guided her around the bed. Something wild was going to happen but she couldn't quite understand what it was.

The scout in front of Miri lifted her body effortlessly and pushed her back until her ass-cheeks were snuggling the other creature's cock. Miri didn't present any kind of resistance. The image of her mother being savagely fucked by her captors was popping in her mind and the moans of unrestrained pleasure were still ringing in her ears. She had wondered how it felt and soon she was going to find out.

"Will it fit?" the creature asked his friend.

"Maybe. My tongue fit before in the other female but my cock is thicker."

Her daydreaming was interrupted when her body was viciously pulled down and the huge cock of the monster was buried in her ass until it wouldn't go any further. Miri screamed and clenched her ass from the sudden unexpected penetration but it was just an instinctive reaction as the pain was brief. The chemicals circulating her veins made sure of that.

Miri felt the fat phallus stretching her body insanely wide. She had fantasized about it so many times and now she was finally doing it. She was having sex. Except not in the right hole and not with a handsome man. But within her numbed mind, it didn't matter that it was a monster fucking her. She had a cock in her craving body and she wanted more.

The scout in front of Miri moved closer with his phallus fully erect and ready. He grabbed the young woman's left leg and lift it, pushing her hips a couple of centimeters back and the cock in her ass a little deeper. Miri moaned in utter bliss, not knowing that the best was yet to come.

"You wouldn't believe how tight she is," said the creature that fucked her ass.

The creature lifted her other leg as well, bearing her in the right position to receive his phallus... Then he shoved his cock without mercy until his pelvis smashed against Miri's. The astounded young woman grunted loudly as her body stiffened like a board, then she exploded in a mind-blowing orgasm. 

Miri's body shivered uncontrollably, pinned between the two massive bodies, as her climax wrecked her already broken mind. The creatures kept fucking her regardless of her orgasmic spasms. The tightness of her holes felt great and they would not stop until filling her with sperm.

The ravishing continued for a long time and Miri seemed to be trapped in a loop of orgasmic release. As soon as one climax ended, the next one was just a few minutes away. Her brain drifted between consciousness and blissful blankness and she was only able to keep up because of her youthful stamina.

On the bed, Jana was recovering from the rough ravishing. She felt dizzy and confused. It was difficult to focus her eyes, or even her thoughts. She could hear a woman's moaning and the distinctive squelching sounds of cock pumping pussy. This brought her attention to the fact that she felt horny as hell.

Jana stood up and saw the wild scene developing beside the bed. It was Miri! Two monsters were fucking her daughter at the same time. She wondered if it was a nightmare... or a wet dream. She touched Miri's arm to see if she was real. Then she grabbed her own breast. Jana's heart jolted and her pussy twitched. It was real!

Miri was oblivious to her mother's presence since was climaxing once again.

Jana stood there, transfixed by the outrageous scene. For a moment, the thought of stopping this insanity crossed her mind but her daughter's expression of absolute bliss made her reconsider. How could she deprive Miri from such pleasure? The toxin was making a mess of Jana's brain and at the end, she did nothing but watch. It must feel so good to have both cocks... but it is wrong... I am so horny.

Meanwhile, the creatures were hammering Miri's body at a frantic pace. They reached their peak at the same time and Jana heard the gurgling sounds of the sperm being ejaculated inside her daughter's holes. Then she saw the excess of the white fluid dripping to the floor.

Miri's entire body trembled from her last, overwhelming orgasm while her mother watched with envy. Every second she got more excited and willing to let the creatures fuck her again. She wanted both cocks at the same, just like Miri, and she would do anything to get them. She is coming so hard! I want it! I want to come like that too!

Moments later, Miri was on the ground, shuddering from her receding climax while the creatures finally realized that Jana had recovered her consciousness. It was time to get information... and maybe another ravishing session.

"You will tell us everything you know about the city walls and passages."

"Yes... I will tell you everything but please fuck me!" Jana responded, looking at his cock.

*****

On their way out of the castle, Princess Maya and Anais ran into another escort, Mildred. She had being born and raised in a village near the forbidden valley and she could provide great help to find the safest and fastest way to get there.

"How far is the forbidden valley?" Maya asked, after three hours of walking.

"We are almost at the narrow passage that leads into the valley," Mildred said, then she added, "Are you sure it is the right choice, my Princess? Whoever enters the valley, never comes out."

"We have no choice. The guards will kill us if they find us, but they'll never go into the valley," Anais responded.

There was still sunlight when they reached the passage but unfortunately, it was not going to be as easy as they thought. A small group of wild Catoblepas, prehistoric looking creatures, were blocking the way. Two large males and several smaller females. The wind was blowing from the west so the monsters were fully aware of the women's presence. 

"Are they dangerous?" Maya asked.

Mildred explained how dangerous the males could be, "If they feel threatened, the males will attack. They are very territorial and protective of their harem."

"I never thought they were so big!" Anais exclaimed.

The alluring smell of Princess Maya entered the creature's nostrils and the effect was immediate. Mildred noticed the fully erect phalli of the males and this brought back memories of her childhood. Her aunt had a couple of Catoblepas at her home and Mildred came to visit a few times every year. She remembered that even domesticated males had to be handled with caution. She also remembered a trick her aunt used to do to calm the creatures when they were overexcited. It was supposed to be a secret but she witnessed it more than once. This gave her an idea.

"I think I know how to distract them. When you see the chance, walk through the herd, then through the passage and I'll catch up with you later," Mildred said.

Mildred stood up, removed her skirt and started walking very slowly towards the creatures. Maya and Anais just looked at her with wide open eyes. 

"Why did she get naked?" Maya asked.

"I don't know. Mildred, be careful!" Anais yelled.

"Easy boy... I am here to help you," Mildred said softly as she approached the closest male.

Mildred just needed to get close enough so he could smell her and the rest would be easy. When she was five meters away, Mildred went down to her knees and started to crawl the rest of the way. When she was two meters away, she turned around and moved backwards toward the creature. Once he knows I am a female, I should be safe. If it worked for my aunt, it should work for me.

The large male smelled her scent and realized she was a willing female. He slowly started moving on top of her. It worked! 

Mildred clearly remembered her aunt's loud moaning and wild orgasms every time she had sex with a catoblepas. Her pussy always got soaked when she saw it but she was always too scared to sneak in and try it herself. Now, after all this time of wondering, she was going to find out how it feels. Her heart was beating fast and her pussy was twitching with anticipation.I can't believe I am finally going to do this.

The monster poked a few times between Mildred's legs until it found her pussy and moved forward. His large cock entered the woman's tight cavity, almost disappearing inside of her body. Mildred yelped as her hands and knees slipped a few centimeters across the ground from the brutal penetration.

Mildred's vision got blurry and bright spots lightened before her eyes as she felt the incredible power of the creature solely through his cock. She realized how insignificant she was beneath the massive bulk of meat and muscles and how she was completely at his mercy. For some reason, Mildred found this incredibly exciting and she tried to stay still, waiting for his next move.

Maya and Anais saw the large creature walk slowly over Mildred and then they heard a scream. Maya thought that the monster had stepped on her but Anais had a better idea of what was going on.

"Gods have mercy! He is going to crush her!" Maya said with anxiousness.

"I don't think so, my Princess. I can't see very well from this angle but I think he just shove his cock inside of her!" Anais said.

"He did?!" Maya asked, trying to get a better view.

Mildred could feel the large phallus stretching her guts so deeply that it was unbelievable. Her abdomen was bulging right at the spot where the head of the appendage was located. She started to understand why her aunt craved so much for the catoblepas's cock. 

The huge creature started to move it's rear end back and forth, pulling out his phallus more than twenty centimeters before shoving it back in every time. It showed a lot of agility for its size and Mildred was going berserk with the staggering penetrations. If the creature crushed her by accident, at least she would die in bliss.

The other male of the herd got closer to investigate what was happening.

The unlikely couple soon got into a rhythm. The creature pumped her pussy with great stamina and increasing speed, and Mildred did whatever she could to receive his cock as deep as possible and avoid being dragged forward. Her loud moans could be heard very clearly all the way to the hiding spot of Maya and Anais.

He is bigger than the troll. I wonder how it feels. Anais wondered in secret.

After more than fifteen minutes of vigorous ravishing, the catoblepas reached his peak and discharged his load of semen inside Mildred's petite body. Needles to say that he filled her tight cavity in a couple of seconds and the rest spilled to the ground.

Mildred not only could feel the warm fluid filling her guts but she could even hear it spurting within her belly. This sent her instantly over the edge. Her hips shivered in spasmodic convulsions as her pussy jerked over and over around the pulsating phallus. Her eyes turned completely white and her mouth opened in a silent, thrilling scream of bliss.

With her mind completely overwhelmed by absolute pleasure, Mildred didn't know how long her orgasm lasted but it didn't stop until the last drop of sperm was pumped into her body. And there was a huge amount of cum already spreading across the ground beneath them.

When the beast was finally done, it moved back and smelled Mildred's behind. Here feminine scent mixed with his sperm predicted a successful impregnation. The hot air blowing from his nose over her sensitive pussy lips made the woman shiver a little longer.

Mildred slowly regained her self-control. Her pussy was throbbing from the brutal ravishing but she had just experienced the best orgasm of her life. Having her head resting against the ground, she sensed the earth trembling and she knew that the other male was approaching. 

I have to take this one too... I must... she thought.

She turned over, facing up, and confirmed that he was almost on top of her. The whole situation was so weird. She would have never imagined that she was going to help the Princess this way. It was so unexpected and exciting. And she was more than ready to do it again.

"Calm down... It is your turn now," she whispered to the creature.

Mildred avoided the creature's heavy steps as he loomed over her, until the tip of his phallus was right above her pussy. These creatures are massive. I was so lucky that the other one didn't crush me.

Princess Maya and Anais watched with genuine concern as the second monster moved into position over Mildred. Anais estimated that this catoblepas should weight at least four tons.

"Gods! Now the other one is moving on top of her. Maybe we should help her. Forget about entering the valley."

"You know we can't. Mildred is so brave doing this for us."

They heard a loud squeal and they knew that the beast was penetrating her. Mildred lift her hips, allowing the tip of his phallus to enter her pussy. Her body had already adjusted because of her previous coupling and this time the pleasurable feeling was staggering. Again, an image of her aunt in total rapture while mating in her house popped in Mildred's mind. This felt so good, that if she had tried it before, she would have purchased some catoblepas for herself a long time ago.

"Oh, Gods! Yess! Push it deeper!"

As if reading her mind, the creature took one step forward, stabbing his phallus until it wouldn't go any further. Mildred's body was lifted completely off the ground, held up only by his long, thick cock. 

The astounded woman couldn't believe it. She could feel the power of his member in every cell of her body and in that moment she realized that no other cock would ever satisfy her like this. Mildred did whatever she could to anchor herself to the ground while the catoblepas started swinging his hips, fucking her with the same energy of his partner. Her belly bulged every time his phallus stabbed forward, pushing her resistance to the limit. She loved it.

The overwhelmed woman couldn't think of anything except the feeling that radiated from her stretched pussy. She would never admit it but her love for the Princess now came second after this.

Anais noticed that the creature was now completely devoted to his task of impregnating Mildred and the other male was looking the other way, grazing peacefully near the females. This was their chance to walk across the passage into the forbidden valley.

"Come on Princess. This is our chance," Anais said, extending her hand.

"What about Mildred? We can't leave her here."

"She said she will catch up with us. We can't let all her effort go to waste."

Maya knew that Anais was right. Mildred was doing this for her and the least she could do was to make the best of it.

As they walked beside the mating couple and moved into the passage, the Princess got a good look at the catoblepas up close. She felt a chill run along her spine from seeing the size of his huge phallus and how it made Mildred's body rock back and forth as if she was a rag doll. 

That beast's is huge! How can she take it?! Maya wondered.

"This way Princess," Anais said, urging Maya.

Mildred was unaware that her friends had already left. She felt her orgasm building within her loins and she knew that it going to be devastating. She longed for it. She started to relax her body. Let herself be taken at will by her massive lover. She was at the point of no return and she let her mind became empty... waiting to be seized by a burst of bliss.

And no more that one minuter later, she came! A blinding light exploded again behind her eyes as the most powerful climax of her life took control of her mind and soul. Her body strained in a series of orgasmic spasms so violent that threatened her sanity. 

The monster felt Mildred's pussy constricting his cock and this encouraged him reach his peak as well. A river of warm sperm erupted within the woman's loins, stuffing her to capacity before being ejected from her stretched pussy lips.

Mildred was unable to process the myriad of sensations that cluttered her brain; the mind-blowing bliss, the beast's gurgling sperm filling every crevice, his throbbing cock. It was all too much. The bewildered woman's world began to fade as she drifted into unconsciousness. She fought against it. She wanted to enjoy this a little longer... but she failed. It all had been too overwhelming for Mildred and as the creature stepped away, her limp body stayed behind, immobile, with a pool of cum leaking from her pussy and scattering between her legs.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 01



Prologue

Everything begins with pain. Many people believe beginnings start with other things, love, chaos, etc. the universal truth of beginnings is pain. This is not a negative or positive thing, pain is a catalyst, and it motivates every living thing into action and with action comes beginnings. The pain of unspoken love moves us to speak with the object of our desires. The pain of virginity abandoned for the hope of love opens the way for conception, the aches and pains of carrying a child motivate a mother to prepare for the birth, the pain of contractions initiates the push of birth and the slap on the ass forces our first breath.

At 3:15am on October 27th 1968 the slap came for me, the first breath and first lament of Michael Dane. I obviously have no recollection of this but that first breath, I can only imagine, was very sweet, and painful at the same time. Lungs accustomed to warm fluid now assaulted by the purified and sterilized air of the mercy hospital delivery room, yes, it must have been very sweet, and painful.

At the same instant I was growing accustomed to the wondrous sensation of air circulating through my lungs, ninety-nine heads raised to the sky, ninety-sets of pupils dilated as they looked sky ward, ninety-nine minds began the painful cycle of having questions with no answers and worrying what the future may hold. And in an ancient place, inhabited by an ancient creature an eye opened, a claw marked the stone floor and the painful process of awakening began.

What follows is the account of my life, a life filled with joy and sorrow, pleasure and pain, love and loss. For those of you interested I welcome you, it is my hope that by committing the story to paper, some may be moved by it, others will find some solace within it, and a few, just a few will be pained enough by their inactivity, inaction and insolence to take action and live a life filled with passion and be not afraid to face the pain life offers as signposts for the moments of beginning.

Chapter 1

Fittingly the funeral was held on a rainy day, it seems that rain lends itself to such solemn occasions, the sound of the rain turns into a lament for the pain of the living and the soaking rain provides a glimpse of the clammy chill of the grave.

Standing over the freshly dug grave Michael Dane had no words, no thoughts, only feelings, feelings of rage, feelings of pain, feelings of love and an overwhelming thirst for revenge. For thirty-eight years Michael's life had been...interesting, from the day he was born Michael had lead a unique life. Raised by his parents Carson and Linda he was brought up in a loving home with parents who adored him but didn't smother him, they gave him the tools he would need to explore life but gave no bias as to how those tools should be used. Michael didn't realize the uniqueness of this situation until middle school, when those first relationships form and you are let into other people's lives. Michael was amazed at the indifference that most parents showed to their children, amazed how few took the time to really know their kids and amazed at how truly unique his own situation was.

Michael had always been a solitary creature, wiser than his years, he spent many a night counseling his uncle (seven years his senior) on the definitions of romance, spent an equal amount of time with his uncles' love interests explaining the complexities and meanings of men's seemingly odd behavior and basically guiding those around him as he could, trying to help those that he loved and always wondering where his destiny would take him.

Destiny, it was a word that haunted Michael his whole life, having an overriding feeling of destiny can lead to a wonderful life full of adventure and attainment or it can lead to the life of a monster bending people till they break so you can attain your "destiny". To have a destiny meant not having control, and control was something Michael always had, be it control over his classmates, making sure that those he liked did well or stayed out of trouble. Or his parents whom he helped by keeping his true nature a secret. Or the stranger on the bus who needed to get off at the stop near the women's shelter and not the one near her home. Michael would always know the right thing to say at just the right time, to further his own needs yes, but more often than not to help another person find the missing choice that they were searching for. Knowledge and Control, Destiny and Chaos, these were the things that kept Michael always questioning, questioning his place in the world, questioning what he was meant to do, questioning how he would ever find happiness.

As it turns out, happiness found him...twice. The first time it was in 9th grade photography class, it started with a black Pony T-shirt. Every Friday Anna would wear the black pony; every Friday Michael would be distracted by the tight fitting shirt, the luminous blue eyes and the beautiful blond hair. Being shy but intelligent worked in Michael's favor, Anna was taken by his quiet demeanor, shy ways and the thrill she got when their shoulders accidentally touched several times during every class. On June 3rd 1983 they officially became Mike and Anna, sealing the deal with a date to see Return of the Jedi. That summer was one Michael would never forget and cherish as one of the simplest times of his life. Anna was his friend, they had built up a trust that grew quickly and solidified their relationship. Now, both Michael and Anna were virgins, however this is where the similarities on sexuality ended. Michael being ever the enquiring young man had spent the better part of the last 7 years reading and studying everything he could on the subject, from penthouse forum to the Joy of Sex, Michael was a true connoisseur at the ripe old age of 14 of all that was sex, he had read the Kama Sutra, studied the very...detailed views in hustler and had wondered about when he would have a chance to bring his considerable knowledge into practical use. Anna was the answer to that question. Raised in a loving but strict household Anna had no preconception about sex, either as a wondrous or an evil thing, seeing as how it was a subject both her parents did everything in their power to ignore. This left Michael with a tabula rosa to work with, and being who he was, he did not waste any space on the page.

In a period of three weeks Michael and Anna rounded the bases as it were, it was a whirlwind of passion, friendship and fun that got them to third base, at which time the whirlwind ended, the skies cleared and Michael and Anna decided that third base was a pretty good and safe place to be. Truth be told it was Michael who stopped them at third base, having a pregnant girlfriend at 14 was not on his list of things to experience, Anna was happy with his fingers and tongue, as he was with hers and the risks inherent with that slide into home base just did not balance with the gain. So for the next 3 years Michael and Anna explored the first three bases to an extent that most would find overwhelming, but the devil is in the details and over those three years Michael learned the devils' ways well, much to Anna's delight and the envy of all of her friends.

Monogamy was, in Michael's opinion, the one true way to get the most out of a relationship, sexual and otherwise. A theme that would follow his relationships through out his life was one of deep commitment and of not letting people get close easily. So throughout their sophomore and junior years Michael and Anna remained a stalwart figure of togetherness as their friends journeyed in and out of the relationships that mark most peoples teenage years. Things changed the summer before their senior year, Anna signed up for a 6-week exchange program in Colombia, a group of soon to be seniors would go down and stay with families who would send their children to live with them during the next school year. Michael was not upset by this trip, Anna loved him, he was going to spend six weeks in Atlanta with his uncle, everything was cool. There were a few letters from Anna, she was having a good time, it was interesting living in another culture, her Spanish was coming along well and she was making some new friends. Michael's summer passed quickly in Atlanta, with trips to Stone Mountain for the laser show and the scantily clad girls who always attended, late night walks talking about life, love and the future with his uncle and lazy afternoons spent lounging in the pool, it was a good summer. That changed the evening in the high school parking lot when Anna stepped off the bus, the look in her eye told him something was wrong, the smirk on Derek Ray's face as he passed by Michael gave him a feeling of dread. Dinner at Pizza Hut with Anna's parents was a strained affair, very polite but very odd.

The details came out in short bursts, walking around Anna's block, the humid Florida evening wrapping them in its sultry heat. Anna had been very home sick when she got to Bogota, Derek was staying with a family just next door, one thing lead to another, Anna broke off at this point but Michael pressed her, the devil is in the details after all. There were night time visits with Anna and Derek rounding the bases, stopping at third, just barely stopping it seemed, there were talks of when they would get home, being together, dumping Michael, then there was the last talk, the one where Anna told Derek she would never let him fuck her and Derek slapped Anna and called her a cock tease. At this point, it should be noted that Michael showed the restraint of a Benedictine monk, the anger was there, no rage was a better word, but Michael knew there was more and that it was important to get everything out in the open before deciding on a course of action. As it turn out Michael's assessment was correct, after the falling out with Derek, Anna had turned to Sergio, the son of the family she was living with, for comfort, once again Anna rounded the bases on a regular basis with Sergio, enjoying the thrill of the new and different and ending her summer with some interesting memories.

The shock of these revelations left Michael in uncharted territory, being a very solitary individual, he did not give his heart or friendship lightly, Anna's escapades had called into question everything he felt for her and everything he thought that they shared. Michael see sawed back and forth all weekend, trying to come to grips with betrayal, trying to answer the questions of love and commitment and forgiveness, in the end it was Anna that made the decision for him. On Sunday afternoon Michael went to Anna with the intention of breaking up with her, it was too hard, to painful to be with her knowing that she had willfully betrayed him, it took about ten seconds and two of his fingers sliding into her wet clinging hole with her head on his shoulder telling him he was the only one for her to change his mind. Mike and Anna would stay together, high school sweet hearts and sweetest couple around. Something plagued Michael however, Anna's act of betrayal was quickly forgiven, in the end this was a fairly easy leap to make, having a sexual partner means one less thing to deal with, walking past Derek every day was something else again. Michael felt in a word, rage. Every time he passed Derek in the halls or saw him at lunch an unyielding uncontrollable rage welled up that took everything in Michael's head to contain. This was a situation that just could not continue unresolved.

Michael had been a rather, well, chubby child, through 8th grade Michael was what you would call an uninspiring specimen and he had his share of personal demons to deal with because of this. That changed the summer of 82, thanks to a growth spurt that added 5 inches to his height and a better understanding of his own body he began to come into his own physically. By senior year Michael was pleased when he looked in the mirror, 6'2, 200lbs lean and muscular build, hazel eyes, long brownish/blond hair he was handsome, not gorgeous in a GQ kind of way but in a rugged healthy manner that lead many a young girl to wonder just what it was that Anna did to keep Michael so...attentive. So, dealing physically with the 170lb countenance of Derek would have been hardly challenging, however, physically punishing Derek did not appeal to Michael's personal sense of...justice. One of the few close friends that Michael had was Gary Warden, 6ft, short blond curly hair, a surfers body and attitude, Michael and Gary were as opposite as two people could be, Gary was the school ambassador, easily moving from jocks, to preps to the band and Latin club if you went to Europa High Gary new your name, always had a smile and hand shake ready for you. It was too Gary that Michael went for a simple request, "Gary, I need some cocaine" To say Gary was shocked would be the understatement of the decade, Michael, his best friend, his stalwart companion may as well have told him that aliens had landed in the quad and were asking for an audience with the queen of England. Looking at his friend, Gary thought of the many times Michael had bailed him out, the time with Tina and the abortion, the time with the cops and Andrea, the time with......... "Okay, well that's an interesting request compadre, forgive me if I'm well...surprised dude, that's not really like you" Gary was able to say and then waited patiently for his friend to answer. "Gary, best that you don't know the details, I need about an eighth of a key, as quickly as you can, how long for a price and delivery?" Michael told his friend with a slight grin on his face, it was enjoyable watching the expressions shift on Gary's face like a wheel on a slot machine. Hmmm, eighth of a key, Carlos, maybe martin yeah Martin would be the best choice. "Give me 2 days Ill have a price and time for you, is everything ok dude?" Gary was worried about his friend this kind of weight could cause serious problems, however this was Michael, never in trouble, always there when you needed him, he would help his friend.

Few people noticed when Derek Ray didn't show up to school one day, after a few days the story came out that Derek was a mid level drug dealer with ties to the Cali cartel, his parents were very disappointed when the SBPD rolled up in their front lawn and took Derek and his bottom dresser drawer away, Derek never came back to Europa High.

Aside from the interesting story of Derek, senior year passed in a blur, Michael applied to and was admitted to the University of Florida with architecture as his major, his parents were excited both about Michael's college admission and their soon to be had freedom. Anna knew that college was not for her, Anna had a pretty clear picture of what her future was and it entailed wifely duties, winters in Vail and raising Michael and hers children. Michael on the other hand was sure that if they were to be together forever then some time apart to grow into individuals would be needed. Before parting that August they did the deed, it was gentle and romantic, everything that Anna had hoped it would be, the act for Michael was a sweet goodbye for Anna, a memory of them she could cherish, for him it was an empty act devoid of the passion he knew lay out beyond the horizon of his current life.

The priest intoned the final verse of his prayer as Michael stepped forward towards the grave, two white roses in hand he stood there, balanced on the precipice, all of his love, anger, loneliness threaten to overwhelm him, pitch him forward onto the box that held his beloved Sasha and their unborn daughter. The tears flowed down his cheeks as he gently laid the roses on the mahogany lid of the casket, removing the small knife from his pocket he quickly cut a deep slash in his left palm, the blood, squeezed from the depths of his tightly clenched fist blended with his tears and fell on the roses, eliciting a gasp from those in attendance which Michael never heard, the only sound he heard was his heart beat, the only feeling in that heart was rage, rage against what had been stolen from him, rage that he would never hold Sasha again, rage that his unborn child would never know the beauty this life has to offer. It took three men to pull a screaming Michael off of the casket; it had simply been too much, even for him.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 03



"This poor bastard is never going to pull out of this," Cole said to Fred sitting next to him in the nondescript blue four door sedan.

It had been three weeks since the funeral; in that time Michael Dane's life had spiraled out of control. Cole had watched Michael loose his grip at the funeral; it had been downhill for him since that day.

Ian had told Cole to stay close to him, keep an eye on him and give him a few weeks to put together how to get Michael to England. Cole didn't know how much longer Michael was going to be able to hold it together.

.....................

"I can't do this anymore," Michael said to no one as he sat in his living room looking at the flashing red light on the answering machine.

His partner kept calling him, wanting to know what he could do to help, wondering when he would be coming back to work. 

Michael shook his head and walked into the kitchen; opening the refrigerator he was not surprised to find it empty.

Slumping into one of the chairs at the table littered with old mail, condolence cards and ancient Chinese food the tears began to flow again. It was hard to remember when he had been happy, when everyday was not just a swirling maelstrom of unyielding suffering.

His strength had left him, his will had left him, all he wanted now was to be with Sasha and their child, to hold them and forget the pain.

Walking up the stairs he passed by the nursery, it was done in neutral purples that would work for either a boy or a girl.

Sasha and he had decided to let the sex be a surprise, he knew now from the autopsy; that the child who should have lived and grown in this room was a girl. 

She would have been Sarah Nicole Dane, she would have been loved beyond reason, spoiled beyond belief and had a wonderful life. Wiping away fresh tears Michael closed the door to the nursery and turned to his and Sasha's' room.

Standing at the door memories assailed him like uncaring banshee, blind siding him with their emotional power and overwhelming him with their fury. Overcome by the force of their oppressive weight, Michael slid down the doorframe unable to maintain his fight against the ghosts of his past.

Holding his head in his hands, the tears for his dead daughter gave way to gut wrenching sobs for his wife, for his Sasha.

..................

At thirty-three and unmarried, Michael Dane was the main topic of the rumor mill at Dane/Mathews Design.

"He has to be gay," Marcia said to Gale over lunch in the break room.

"He is too good a catch not to have women all over him all the time, hell I tried to get near him but he was always just the cool professional," she continued to a smiling Gale.

Gale had been at DMD for 12 years, being the first hire and the oldest employee she had insights that the newer members of the staff didn't.

"I've known him for along time," Gale said between bites of her sandwich "he has always been a loner, always polite, always professional but also a very caring and concerned individual," she finished, not chiming in on Michael's sexual orientation.

Marcia was not convinced, no man had ever been able to resist her charms in the past, 'yes, definitely gay,' she thought to herself as she finished her lunch and left to go back to her office.

Gale just smiled as she finished and headed back to her desk between Michael's and Steve Mathew's offices.

DMD was known for two things, innovative architectural designs and an attention to detail in the execution of those designs that was the exception not the rule for architectural companies.

Michael's grandfather was an architect. Spending his school years on jobsites, watching his grandfather suffer over the smallest details and standing with him in front of finished buildings that had only existed on paper months before had instilled in Michael a deep love for architecture.

"The design of a building or a space within that building should speak to peoples souls Michael," his grandfather Adolph had said to him; while standing in front of the just completed Monroe building. His grandfather continuing "An architect is an artist, his palette is space and light, if you design spaces that invoke awe, light them so those within can view the space in context with the design intent, then you have conceived a work of art."

Michael was 18 getting ready to head off to college to study architecture at the University of Florida. This was the last and most enduring conversation he would have with his Grandfather; it would echo in his head throughout his school and professional years.

Michael was excited as he packed up his stuff into his 73 Pontiac Firebird and got ready to head off to college. There were the customary weeping exchanges with his parents and the promises to call as soon as he arrived.

The drive to Gainesville gave Michael a chance to think about what was to come and what was complete.

He had enjoyed his relationship with Anna, learned a great deal about the dynamics of being in a relationship and had a lot of good sex. The parting with Anna had been sweet, with promises of future reunions, a life spent together after they had grown into the people they would actually be.

Michael knew that future would never come about. Anna and he were too different to be together forever; Michael was constantly evolving, modifying himself into new incarnations. Anna would make a wonderful wife and mother some day, but that is all she would ever be; it was her fullest potential.

Driving north on 75 Michael thought of this new beginning.

Being on his own would be interesting. His parents had never been overbearing or strict, he had had more freedom to come and go as he pleased than any of his friends. But he was anxious to try life on his own, without the safety net of his parents waiting at home.

Going to school on a full scholarship and with the money in trust grandfather had left; he would not have to work.

However, Michael understood that work was good for the soul and expanded his ability to deal with others and life, so he had already applied for internships with three local architecture firms.

He had left a week early for school to get settled in the dorm and interview with the three firms.

Gainesville was a change from home; the rolling hills and ancient oak trees made Michael feel...enclosed, cocooned.

The dorm was your standard one room, 2 beds, 2 desks, and 2 closets. The bare white concrete walls were a bit depressing but that was easily fixed.

Going through the boxes he found that his life, while full did not entail acquiring a great many things.

His tassel from graduation, a few cassettes, Motley Crue, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Poison, his high school yearbook.

Were there so few things to remember the last eighteen years by? It didn't take long before everything was unpacked and he sat alone in the quiet dorm room, being that he was early, no one but the floor SA was there yet and none of the student facilities were open.

It was about 4pm, strolling out of Tolbert hall, located on the western edge of the campus proper, Michael decided to get his bearings.

Walking down Stadium Rd, the campus stretched out before him, on his left was Florida field, "The Swamp". Football was a big deal at UF, however team sports were never high on Michael's list so he did not think he would be going to many games.

Stadium Rd. slowly ambled downward towards the center of the campus, he passed the physics building, the bookstore, moved past the massive edifice of Turlington hall into the courtyard with the bell tower. 

Michael loved the campus, it was a pleasant mixture of old and new styles, with a scale that ranged from one-story structures like the bookstore to 5 story monolithic constructs like Turlington. Looking at his map he headed South East between the music building and the auditorium, rounding the corner he saw the architecture building and was disappointed. 

Like most modern buildings that tried to be hip this one failed miserably. The tall thin concrete columns holding up the glass walled studios above lacked any real imagination, the building had no soul. 'Ah well, not everyone can afford a Stubbins or Pei design,' Michael thought as he turned around, heading back to his dorm.

The next week moved quickly, the interviews had gone well for the internships and all three had extended him invitations. Michael was on his way out the door of his room for a meeting at TRX Architecture to accept their offer when the door opened and a walking luggage rack stepped into the room.

Dropping his bags, Steve Mathews looked up to see the smiling face of, he guessed, his roommate.

"Steve Mathews, glad to meet you," Steve said extending his hand.

Michael took the proffered hand, nice firm grip, not to soft not too strong, excellent.

"Michael, Michael Dane, looks like we are roommates," Michael said.

"Excellent, what are you studying, sorry about the amount of crap here, mom wanted to be sure everything I needed was close, she didn't need to buy out Burdines though." Steve smiled as he worked his way past the mound of luggage and looked around the room.

"Sorry, but I gotta run, have a meeting with an architecture company and I don't want to be late." Michael said as he moved towards the door. "Ill catch up with you later, we can eat dinner and get to know each other." He finished as he walked out the door.

TRX was a newer firm, only in business five years. The architect was Terrance Riggs, a thirty-year-old African American originally from Oklahoma City. Looking across the desk at Michael, Terrance thought he looked very familiar.

"Have we met before," he asked Michael looking over the resume again, "you seem so familiar, Dane, your not related to Adolph Dane are you?" Asked Terrance.

"Yes, Adolph was my grandfather," answered Michael, somewhat surprised that anyone outside of his hometown would know of his grandfather.

This brought an immediate smile to Terrance's face as he continued, " I met your grandfather several years ago at an AIA conference, we spent a few hours talking over dinner, he left a lasting impression, I enjoyed meeting him very much, how is he doing these days?"

A painful moment, a moment that comes in everyone's life, the moment you have to tell someone that a person you loved is dead.

"My grandfather died about a month ago," Michael stated, surprised by the emotions that this simple statement induced.

Terrance rose from his chair and moved around the desk. Placing a hand on Michael's shoulder he said in a conciliatory tone "I'm truly sorry to hear that, he had a unique vision of architecture and was, well, just a really nice man."

"Thank you, it means a lot to me that others new how, unique, my grandfather was," Michael replied with an honest smile that conveyed his true thanks.

The rest of the meeting went well, Michael would start his internship in two weeks, getting the first week of classes out of the way. They would meet again to discuss hours and duties prior to starting.

Michael felt good as he walked back to his dorm, it was close to 6pm and dusk was falling, bringing an amazing mix of pinks and reds to the sky, which contrasted in the most unusual way with the deep greens of the heavily treed campus. Michael walked up to his door, 'time to get to know the roomy he thought,' as he opened the door to Bon Jovi being played at an appropriately high level. 'Yeah this will work out well,' he thought as he closed the door behind.

............

Michael looked around him; his and Sasha's room was dark. Moonlight played through the windows and cast odd shadows on the things they touched.

'Too much, too much for anyone to handle, I can't go on this way,' Michael thought as he stood on wobbly legs. Reaching up into the closet he found the box. Pulling it down and laying it on the floor in front of him, he considered that within lies the end of his pain. The answer was in this box, Sasha was in this box, Sarah was in this box, it was an easy decision to make.

Opening the lid the blue steel reflected an inky light when the moonlight struck it. The six brass tips looked like gold in this light. The weight felt good in Michael's hands, it felt...right. Popping the chamber, one, then another, then all six of the golden cylinders found its mate. 

Spinning the carousel Michael smiled, knowing soon he would be home.

The black hole leered at him as he looked into its dark depths, the pain was too much, and he couldn't be alone anymore. A shaking finger moved to the arching metal that would send him home.

And, just like in the movies, in that instant, everything that mattered, all the love, all the pain, all the joy and sorrow spilled forth in his psyche. It was a whirlwind that began and ended with the same person, Sasha, the one person who defined him as a human. The first image was from 6 years ago, Sasha crossing the park in front of the DMD offices, the last, was Sasha lying on an embalming table, 6 weeks ago.

The metal arch felt good against his finger as the pressure built and the images flashed one last time.

Sasha, in a white silk dress, it moves against her body like a cloud, accentuating her hips, then shifting, pulling tight over her breast showing her breeze hardened nipple and then her belly, flat and firm. She is perfection.

The look in her beautiful green eyes as we share a glass of merlot and speak to each other of our lives, hopes and dreams.

The warm embrace of her womanhood grasping and enveloping me for the first time, warmth, strength, passion, serenity.

The light of the sunset setting fire to her hair, looking up at her and placing the ring on her finger. Pure joy.

The first tender kiss as husband and wife.

The positive pregnancy test laid on his pillow, wrapped in pink and blue ribbon.

Painting the nursery, purple, the color of power of magic.

The last tender kiss on cold lips; loss unbearable.

"Go in right now Cole," Ian screamed over the phone, "stop him!"

A brilliant flash, a feeling of peace, a feeling of oneness. 'Sasha, I'll see you soon,' Michael thought as he drifted away.

A talon stretched, finding purchase in the hard granite floor of the cave. Ancient eyes blazed with a power gained from millennia of life. The earth trembled as its passage towards the lake began.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 04



There is a clarity that comes at the moment of death, real or perceived, that people are just not ready to deal with. The white light, the tunnel, that's what everyone expects, the reality is far different.

............

Ian lay on the hard stone floor. The first things that came to him were the base senses, the cold, slowly creeping into his flesh where it met the stone, the throbbing behind his eyes and the general ache of someone who had undergone severe blunt force trauma. 

Then it was warmth, the warmth from fingers on his shoulder, running through his hair, gently shaking him as the fog finally lifted.

Millie found Ian lying on the ground unconscious. Rushing too him she called for Cedric. A groan then a moan then eyes opening, not focusing, fear.

"Ian what is it, what happened?" Millie asked a tad too frantically as Ian rose to a sitting position, feeling the bruise on his right shoulder from where he had fallen to the floor.

"I think Michael is dead," Ian said to no one in particular.

............

Cole looked down at the body, shaking his head.

"I knew it was all too much for him," Cole said to Fred standing next to him.

Cole had seen the flash just as he had gotten to the front door, the brilliant white burst that he had seen once to often could mean only one thing

"Better call 911 Fred, tell them there has been a suicide," Cole said as he reached for his own phone to call Ian and tell him the bad news.

Both men were surprised when they heard a very much alive Michael Dane say "911 won't be necessary, who the hell are you and why the fuck are you in my house."

............

Light and Dark. There was no neutral gray between them. One moment there was a blinding flash like the death gasp of a dying sun, the next, utter darkness.

You would expect a floating sensation something akin to riding a magic carpet. The actual experience was one of intense weight, as if the whole of the universe was now resting directly on your shoulders. The weight was overpowering, awe inspiring and desperately comforting all at the same time.

The darkness did not last long.

Again the expectation was pure white, pure gold something ethereal and otherworldly; so the overcast pall with the brownish hue was startling and comforting all at the same time.

"Michael," a single word, spoken with the tone, inflection and depth that could only come from one person.

"Sasha," Michael sighed.

"It's not time yet my love," Sasha's voice said from somewhere beyond Michael's perception, "you know you have a destiny, something that will complete you, when that is done we will be together"

Michael was struck by the absolute truth of it, there was no grieving, there was no sense of loss only an overwhelming feeling of love and finality.

"Why were you not part of my destiny Sasha, why is it I'm always to face these things alone," there was a bitterness to Michael's thoughts that seemed contrived, as if trying to talk his way out being caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

"You are never alone my love, you never have been and you never will be, we will always be with you, you carry us as you carry your own soul," Sasha said, sounding like a wave on the water, first near then far away. "And she is always with you, think back on your life and you know it is true, she walks next to you, she whispers in your ear, she sheppard's your soul, you are never alone my love. I will be here waiting when your time finally comes, now go, let the weight of this place lift from you and go back, she is there waiting for you, her long rest is at an end, find her and fulfill your destiny."

The scene shifted too quickly and fundamentally to be described, one minute being in touch on a level of such depth that you are...everything, the next an eye opening, trying to focus on the carpet below you, wondering what just happened, how the hell you missed and who the fuck is standing over you.

Cole reached down and helped Michael to his feet 'Sorry about that, we were driving by and saw the flash, the door was open," Cole said as he stepped back from Michael.

"It's not a problem, considering my life recently, having two good Samaritans wanting to help out is actually a nice change of pace." Michael replied as he sat down on the bed.

"Can we call someone for you, looks like your in kinda rough shape," Cole was looking for a way out of here quickly, this is not the low profile he liked to keep. 

"No, I think I'll be fine now," Michael said standing on shaky legs as he walked the men downstairs to the door.

"Glad everything is ok, sorry to bust in on you," Cole said as he turned and began walking across the street to his car.

Michael watched him go, Sasha's words echoing in his ears, 'it's time to start living again,' Michael thought as he closed the door, already making lists of things that needed to get done.

............

"Thank you Cole," Ian finished and hung up. He was stunned by the conversation he had just finished and poured himself a glass of Bruichladdich and then sat down on the couch.

"Michael's not dead," he said absently to Millie. She was relived but worried as well, things like this did not happen with Ian.

Ian thought about what had happened in the last hour, he was sure that the massive blast of physic energy emanated from Michael and was caused by his death.

Ian smiled and rose, walking over to Millie he took her in his arms and pulled her too him. His lips nuzzled her ear, "everything will be alright now, we need to get Michael here, this incident could only have been caused by one being," he said with a smile in his voice.

Ian loved the smell of Millie's hair as he held her close to him, he could feel her shiver, knowing that finding him must have been incredibly frightening for her. 

"I'm fine," he cooed into her ear "this incident was not directed at me, it just confirms what we have believed all these years, that Michael is the one."

Millie was relieved and she relaxed as Ian held her, soon their new life would start, soon it would just be them, living and loving for each other.

Ian let Millie go and walked towards his office. "If everything works out right, Michael should be here within the month," Ian said over his shoulder. 'Time to contact Oxford and get the ball rolling,' he thought as he picked up the phone and began to dial...

............

It had been two weeks since the attempt, which is what Michael called it in his head. Since then he had gotten back to some semblance of normalcy.

The house was under contract; due to close in a week, Michael had listed it for a ridiculously low price but knew it was important that it was gone.

"That's the last of it Mr. Dane," the mover said as he walked past him with the last 3 boxes.

'Moving on,' Michael thought as he glanced into the house one last time and then locked the door. The realtor would do the walkthrough with the buyers this afternoon and then it would just be signatures, a chapter closed, memories filed away for some future time when the loss was diminished and the need to remember the good times stronger.

Sliding behind the wheel of the GT3 he popped the clutch and lit the tires up as he accelerated down Maple St for the last time.

Michael walked into the DMD offices with the same sense of history hanging over his soul. So much of the last 12 years of his life were spent here, working on projects, joking around with Steve, planning their futures, making love to Sasha in his office during stolen lunch breaks. Could he come back here, did he want to?

"Good morning Gale," Michael said as he passed Gale's desk.

"Umm, good morning," a surprised Gale responded, watching Michael stride by in his standard uniform, faded jeans and a long sleeve button down shirt with sleeves rolled above his elbow.

'He looks thinner,' Gale thought to herself as she buzzed Steve to let him know that Michael had come into the office.

Michael closed the door behind him and slowly took in the office. It was him; from the pictures of Steve and himself in front of the sign going up all those years ago, to the most recent addition to the office, a casting of Sasha's pregnant belly with his hands on her, the room emanated...Michaelness.

Walking over to the desk and sitting down he was overwhelmed by the amount of mail. 'Well taking several weeks off will cause that,' he thought to himself as, with sword letter opener in hand, he dove in.

About half way through the stack Steve walked in and sat down across from him. 

"How's' it?" Steve asked in their familiar abbreviated language.

A shrug and a wane smile was the answer.

Steve watched his friend go through the mail for several minutes in silence, measuring what to say next to his best friend and partner.

"We received an offer on the company," Steve stated.

Michael was shocked, while DMD was a known and respected company; it was rare that an architectural company was purchased.

"Who is the offer from?" Michael asked.

"Interesting question," Steve responded starting the story.

"About a week ago an attorney showed up, I met with him, figuring that he needed an office built or renovated. Turns out that he represents an architectural group out of New York who are looking to acquire three to five offices through out the southeast. They had reviewed our work and clientele and thought we would be a good fit." Steve paused and took a drink from his ever-present bottle of water before continuing. "They would be looking to keep all the staff as is, bring in a few of their own people to head up the architectural and construction divisions. They asked that I stay on for 6 months to consult and smooth the way with the existing clients." Steve said with a wry grin on his face.

"Hmmm." Said Michael, "So you get the cushy consulting gig and I get kicked to the curb eh?" Michael stated, sharing his friends smile.

"Seems they are aware of your recent issues and thought it best to give you some space, they have a young architect already lined up to take your place buddy boy." Steve joked.

"So how much are they offering for our hopes, dreams and futures my friend?" Michael asked as he stood up and walked over to the mini fridge to grab a mountain dew while searching his back pocket for his Zippo."

"Sixteen million." Steve stated flatly, letting the number hang in the air.

Michael almost choked.

"You've got to be kidding me, there is no way DMD is worth that kind of money." Michael said dropping back into his chair and lighting up Marlboro Light.

"I know, but their reasoning on the price is sound," Steve said. "With the work we have done and the contacts that will continue to bring work for years to come, it's a number that takes all that into account."

Michael was stunned, "What do you think?" Michael asked, already having a good idea of the answer.

Steve's grin grew as he answered. "You know me hoss, I love the company and I love working with you, but it's an awful lot of money, enough to retire, I like the idea of being retired before 40. I've talked it over with Marsha and she seems to like the idea of me being around more, I'm sure that's just so I can take over some of the chores," he laughed. "I've never heard of an offer like this for a firm our size, I can't imagine it would come again. They would want non-compete clauses; some fairly stiff ones, no working east of the Mississippi for 10 years. For me that's no big deal, Marsha has wanted to move back home to Colorado for years and the kids love it out there too." Steve finished watching his friends face, getting no clue of what he was thinking.

Michael knew what his answer was as soon as Steve said he was for the idea; moving on; seemed to be the theme of the day.

"How soon do they want to move forward?" Michael said stubbing out his cigarette and pulling another one from the pack.

Things moved quickly over the next week. Michael packed up his office at DMD, took those boxes and added them to the few he had placed in long-term storage from the house. The DMD bon voyage party was bitter sweet, lots of good lucks and I'll miss you's.

The New York firm wanted to move quickly and less than a week after Michael first heard the offer the deal was closed and he was eight million richer. With that added to what was already in savings and the insurance from Sasha, money would never be an issue.

He had sold all the cars, except for the GT3, which was now in storage along with the rest of the things he couldn't bare to get rid of, and couldn't bare to have around.

Sitting at the gate waiting for the puddle jumper that would take him to Atlanta then on to New York and his final destination London, Valerie's phone call replayed in his head.

...............

Michael was just finishing packing his last box at the DMD offices two days ago when the call had come in.

"Mr. Dane I have a Valerie Smyth on the phone from Oxford University who would like to speak with you," Gale said over the intercom.

'Oxford, interesting,' Michael thought as he punched the speaker button on the phone and said, "Hello, this is Michael Dane."

Valerie was shocked when she actually heard Michael's voice for the first time. 

She had seen his picture and kept up on the latest goings on in Michael's world through her uncle Ian.

Adopted by Ian and Millie when she was 16 after her own parents, friends of Ian and Millie's, died in an automobile accident Valerie was treated as part of the family. She had gone to school and received her letters from Oxford, becoming a professor and serving on several of the schools committees, one being the visiting professor committee.

The call from Uncle Ian came a bit unexpectedly.

"Do you think you could arrange for a visiting professorship for Michael in the design department if I was to sponsor the position?" Ian asked Valerie that day about a month ago.

Thinking about it for a minute she responded, "Sure, I believe that the design department is 4 professors down for the coming term, Michael could easily fill in for any number of the design classes."

From there it was pretty simple, 3 committees and a review of his credentials and Michael was approved as a visiting professor of Design and Architecture.

The class schedule would be light for the term, only two classes per week, an Intro to Design class for first years and an advanced concepts class for final year students. Valerie was pleased to be able to help Uncle Ian out and hoped that Michael would be a good professor, which would help her own career a bit.

Michael's deep unaccented voice fairly vibrated through the phone as she caught herself before becoming overwhelmed.

"Mr. Dane," Valerie began, "My name is Valerie Smyth I'm a visiting professor coordinator at Oxford in England."

Michael chuckled to himself; her voice was mesmerizing with the wonderful English accent and formality of her tone.

"What can I do for you today Ms. Smyth?' Michael asked, sitting back in the chair that was almost not his anymore and lighting a cigarette.

"We have had several of our professors in the Design and Architecture school move on to other opportunities and in our search for fill in professors you have come to our attention. Your work on the Axis Tower in Jacksonville and the Nexus Center in Orlando reflect a great many of the design and spatial use doctrines that the program is currently highlighting. Would you be interested in coming to Oxford and teaching for a term?" Valerie finished, breathless but not because of the speech.

Michael thought the offer over.

"How long would I need to be in England for? Michael asked closing his eyes and taking a long drag off his cigarette, providing that wonderful grown up feeling that had got him hooked in the beginning.

"Our term starts in 3 weeks, we would ask that you come into town as soon as possible for orientation and to get settled prior to classes starting. The terms are 12 weeks so we would need you for just about the next 4 months." Valerie offered, a slight quaver in her voice.

Several things went through Michael's mind all at the same time. One, I have nothing better to do. Two, getting out of here for 4 months might be an excellent idea. Three, there is nothing holding me here.

"Can you FedEx me all the information Valerie? I would be happy to come Oxford," Michael said, satisfied with a decision for the first time in months.

Valerie sighed audibly, "Of course, I'll get everything out to you first thing in the morning. You should have your travel plans and directions by the following day, thank you so much and I look forward to meeting you."

Michael smiled and said "Goodbye Valerie, I look forward to meeting you as well."

It started waiting at the gate in NY, he had just 30min before his flight for London left and he wanted to get one more cigarette in before boarding.

Throughout his life there had been moments like this, one minute everything is normal, the next he felt like a static electric charge was building up throughout his body.

The sweat broke out immediately, one of those hot flash sweats that start at the top of your head, bathing your scalp in moisture hidden under your hair. In the past this had always presaged something big, no real bad or good connotations just...big.

Michael looked around the smoking lounge, no one seemed out of place, your standard 22nd century museum exhibit of "Smokers in a Glass Box".

The feeling intensified, stubbing out the Marlboro he walked out of the crowded booth, feeling a bit lighter once outside in the large atrium.

Striding back up to the gate he heard first class being boarded, he was glad, happy to leave the sensation behind.

As with all first class sections, the seats were larger than the rest of the planes and the smiles on the stew's faces were larger as well. Settling in he ordered a Jack & Coke, watching the other passengers file by. Nothing striking, just your average mix of tourists and businessmen either coming or going or transiting to a destination farther down the line.

The sensation came back 10 fold as the oriental woman stepped onto the plane.

Moisture soaked through Michael's shirt, sweat beaded on his forehead, his nuts felt like they were sitting in a peat bog.

And then there was the voice.

'She knows what you are Michael, she will kill you and everyone on this plane if you don't stop her.'

Michael was slipping into shock, too much too fast, tunnel vision, clammy palms, falling fast; and then she was there, with him, holding his soul in her...wait, the oriental woman. 

Black eyes, black hair, olive skin, two rows back and to his right, alright focus, no one in the seat next to her, one carry on between her legs, focusing on the plane, the starboard engine, no fear, no soul only...pure malevolence.

'Eliminate her Michael, focus on her, look deep inside, find the pulsing light, extinguish it.' The voice in his head was gone as quickly as it had come; only seconds had passed.

Closing his eyes he focused, he was picturing the top of her head; the black aura around her was like winter storm clouds roiling and rolling, controlled fury. He passed though the clouds, looking for something to lead the way; there it was, between her heart and her stomach, the pulsing maroon light, maroon wasn't the right color for this thing he thought in passing. Moving closer he reached out to it, he could not reach it, he felt sudden tension immediate pain, NO!!! his psyche growled and pushed through the pain and barriers, he held it for an instant this throbbing mass of dark energy, of evil life, and then, he snuffed it out.

The stewardess noticed the handsome man sitting in first class didn't look good, pale, sweating, eyes closed, hands gripping the arm rests in a death grip. 'Oh great, another hand holder,' she thought as she finished his making his drink and walked towards him.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 04



The immediate shift in his appearance startled her and she almost dropped the tray.

One instant he looked deathly ill, the next he was fairly radiant, almost glowing, slowly his eyes opened, they looked they looked...yellow, like an animals eyes, then the light shifted and she could see his eyes were dark brown. Shaking herself she stepped to him "Your drink sir."

Michael smiled at the Stew and took the drink, downing it in one deep chug, "another please," he said, not trusting his voice to say anything else.

............

It started as a low rumble, building to a raucous scream and then surpassing that, the roar echoed through the cavern that held the ancient underground lake, the water boiled from the shear magnitude of volume, the ancient caverns walls vibrated like tuning forks, anyone hearing it before their ear drums burst would have known the sound of pure animalistic joy, the birth welcome of evolution.

Ian was roused from his bed and sat stunned as the earthquake traveled through Nogardshire Castle. Never in 1100 years had an earthquake taken place in this region of the world. Ian smiled and turned to Millie, taking her in his arms and reveling in her body, the first trial was complete.

.........

HEADLINE: "Virgin Atlantic personnel reported that a passenger died on a flight from NY to London today, sources say the individual, who's identity is being kept confidential until family members can be notified, apparently passed on in her sleep during the flight. No autopsy is planned."

*

Thanks for reading, I appreciate any and all comments. 



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 05



Nicholas sat at his desk, the rain pounding against the medieval lead glass window. "Yin failed," he said to himself as he stood and walked over to the fire.

That night thirty-eight years ago came back to him, sitting in this room he felt the tremors, knew that something...life altering had just happened. Standing by the fire, warming his hands against the chill that always crept in through the ancient mortar of the keep, he wondered if the life to be altered or ended would be his.

For the first time in, well, longer than he cared to remember, Nicholas felt the cold clammy hand of fear grip his heart. It was a feeling he had almost forgotten, and now, standing alone with an unknown future looming over him like a tidal wave he was unsure, just for an instant, that the path he had chosen was the right one.

............

Ian pulled up the security video from Michael's flight again on the big plasma monitor. One minute Michael looks as though he is on deaths door, the next he is radiant, looking like one would envision a saint, glowing.

Ian sat back and regarded the frozen image, "How could they have known," he asked himself as he pushed a button on the computer and the perspective shifted to the oriental woman.

Yin Su-Trang, twenty-eight years old, an advertising consultant for Dentsu. The young woman seemed to have no family and was in New York for meetings with clients. She was scheduled to meet with four more clients in London the following day.

Ian's team was working on a deeper background check of Ms. Trang and had started looking at Dentsu, trying to determine who actually controlled the company.

Ian dialed the Swiss extension and waited for Hans to pick up. "Hello," Hans answered.

"Hans, its Ian, have you reviewed the data files from the flight that I forwarded you this morning?" Ian asked.

Hans Stremble sat back in his chair, looking out the large windows that provided a wondrous view of lake Lucerne, Hans was weary.

"Yes Ian, I have reviewed the vid's, it would seem that Mr. Dane was attacked by a chosen." Hans said heavily.

Ian was pleased, "what action do you intend to take?" Ian asked, doubtful that Hans would have the balls to do anything.

Hans sighed, "Ian, we are still in the process of evaluating all of the circumstances surrounding this incident, it is unclear as to the background of Ms. Trang, who she may have been working with or if Mr. Dane is the one who prompted the attack himself." Hans's answer was exactly what Ian was expecting.

"I appreciate your handling this situation in your usual fair and unbiased way, I look forward to any updates you can give me," Ian replied as he slammed the phone down.

'I hope Michael is the one,' Ian thought to himself, 'we have fallen into anarchy.' 

Ian stood and stretched, heading to the kitchen in search of Millie.

............

Nicolas was restless, Mr. Dane had been whisked away from the gate at Heathrow by MI-6 before anyone could get on the plane, and his whereabouts were, for the moment unknown.

Knowing that it would be several hours before his people would be able to track down Mr. Dane, Nicolas called for Heidi and Isabel.

The chrome and leather furniture gleamed in the late evening light, their modern forms made for an interesting contrast with the brown hued natural stone walls of the ancient fortress.

Nicolas gazed out the high windows, from the top floor of the Keep which he had been modifying for years to suit his needs. He had a commanding view of the valley, all was lush and green, the end of summer still not whispered by the winds, the land was at its zenith full of power and energy.

Watching the falcon drop from the sky into the forest below he reveled in the feeling of power this view gave of his adopted land.

Germany had changed; since the east and west had merged under one flag again the energy of the country had shifted once more.

Gone were the decades of surveillance and espionage, now the country grew and prospered as it once had, a whole living being throbbing with the lifeblood of an epic past and an unstoppable future.

Soon enough Germany would once again be the main player on the world stage. 

Soon enough, German industry and might would make the very foundations of the planet quake.

Nicolas's coal black eyes squinted into the setting sun, 'nothing will stop me,' he thought as he turned seeing Heidi and Isabel kneeling, awaiting his pleasure.

In all things, Nicolas liked to be the most powerful, this was true in business, all of his relationships and especially sexually.

There was no wife or significant other, Nicolas was too self-absorbed too share his life with anyone. Servants were the order of the day, everyday, when it came to Nicolas's interactions with the rest of humanity.

Heidi and Isabel sat quietly on the hard wood floor; another opportunity to gain Nicolas's favor, another opportunity to please him, today life was good.

Nicolas looked down at his two pets, while not his favorites and not at the bottom of the list of servants, what these two lacked in physical attributes they more than made up for in shear desire to please, whether that pleasure came from sex or punishment didn't seem to matter with these two.

"Heidi, please remove Isabel's clothing," Nicolas said, as he made himself comfortable, sinking into the lush confines of the rich Italian leather swathed couch.

No verbal response was required from Heidi, standing; pulled Isabel to her feet and slowly began unbuttoning the crushed silk Cavalli blouse. The fabric felt like butterfly wings as she slid her hand down Isabel's taught abdomen, trailing the now open buttons.

She played briefly at the waistband of the silk pants Isabel wore and then slid them down, kneeling before her, a puddle of golden silk pooled around her feet. 

Rising again, Heidi turned Isabel away from her, sliding her fingers under the straps of the Lastraioli bra, the lace feeling rough and subtle at the same time. Slipping the clasp, the black lace fell revealing Isabel's ample breasts, capped with hard oversized nipples.

Slipping to her knees again, Heidi grasp the bands of the thong and slid it down over Isabel's well-defined mocha colored thighs. Remaining on her knees she could smell Isabel's desire, knew that her friend and lover was in need, she hoped Nicolas would not make her wait long to pleasure her beloved.

Isabel bit her lower lip; the sensuous nature of how sessions with Nicolas began always surprised her, considering how...depraved they could end up.

She was in love with Heidi, of all the girls in the group Heidi and she were the closest, they were always together and it always made a session that much more erotic when Heidi was involved.

Nicolas took in the scene, at almost 5'10 Isabel looked like a bronzed Amazon when compared with the diminutive Heidi.

At 4'8 Heidi was compact, waif like, no tits to speak of, sensitive pink nipples, her red hair and alabaster skin created a wonderful contrast to the darker tones of Isabel's muscled form.

"Isabel, come over here and kneel in front of me," Nicolas said, as he rose to stand over her.

Kneeling before Nicolas Isabel was scared, would it be pleasure or pain today, she wondered, her question was answered as the crop flew down cracking across her shoulders sending waves of pain down her spine and eliciting an ear piercing scream.

The scream was the key, even before its echoes died Nicolas was beginning to get hard. He loved to hear the vocalization of his power, the confirmation that he was making an impression.

Four more hits fell across Isabel's back; long livid welts began to rise in an X pattern across her back and shoulders.

Nicolas was breathing heavy; the exertion always got his blood boiling. "Heidi, strip me," Nicolas commanded.

Heidi fairly leapt over her prostrate friend and began removing Nicolas's clothing.

As the layers were stripped away Nicolas's body was revealed. Tight muscles rippled at the slight movements he made to accommodate Heidi's ministrations, his tanned skinned glowed red in the dying light of the day, the sparse body hair was an equal combination of black and gray.

Removing his pants Heidi stared at the half hard member hanging heavily between his legs. Foreskin intact, Nicolas came in at just a hair under 10 inches erect with a 4 inch girth, many a woman had thought they could not take this monster. Nicolas always proved them wrong, to their pleasure, or not, was not his concern.

Looking down at both Heidi and Isabel kneeling before him it was hard to choose which part of the buffet to enjoy next.

"Heidi, lay down, Isabel, squat over Heidi's face." As they slid into their appointed positions, Nicolas once again appreciated the contrasts represented in the two women, they showed well together.

"Now Heidi, I want you to use your tongue on Isabel, only your tongue, no lips, no teeth and only on her outer lips, no penetration and definitely not on her clit." Nicholas said as he lazily stroked his quickly hardening cock.

Heidi went to work immediately, her tongue snaking out, gently sliding over Isabel's large pussy lips, tasting her friend's excitement.

Her wet essence started to cascade out of her open hole down onto Heidi's waiting tongue, Isabel knew better than to drop any lower, disobeying Nicolas was not something one did more than one.

"Now Isabel, suck my cock, try to convince me that 5 lashes are all that will be required for you to remember your station," Nicolas said, knowing that however good she was, more lashes would definitely be required.

Isabel's hands slid up Nicolas's thighs towards his cock. With one hand cupping his golf ball size nuts her other delicately pulled back his foreskin, revealing the glistening head of his manhood.

Twirling her tongue in quick circles around his tip she moved the monster into her mouth, his heady musky scent and taste engulfing her as his manhood slid down her well-trained throat.

Nicolas gave a slight shudder as his dick slid into Isabel's mouth, the warm wet hole surrounding him like a moist silken glove, the tongue flexing to force more of his member into her tight throat. Looking down he could see the glistening shaft disappearing into her mouth. He smiled as he noticed the moisture forming in her eyes as his cock slid deeper, closing off her air supply. Her saliva dangled and dripped from the corners of her mouth, falling on Heidi's forehead.

Heidi's tongue moved faster on her friend, hoping to be able to give her an orgasm as she worked on Nicolas. Her tongue slid around Isabel's meaty lips then lower, teasing the tight pucker of her rosebud.

Isabel felt her friends tongue moving in frenzy on her pussy lips and asshole, she looked up into Nicolas's black eyes, pleading as his hands held her head in place, his cock deep in her throat.

Faster and faster he fucked her face, her eyes began to flutter and guttural moans emanated from deep in her throat as the combination of his thrusting, Heidi's tongue and lack of oxygen pushed her over the edge, her orgasm washed over her, wracking her body with quakes of pleasure as her oxygen deprived brain finally lost its battle and sent her into unconsciousness.

Isabel's body fell to the floor, covering her friends face with her gushing pussy. Nicolas let her fall, his hard cock popping out of her mouth as she fell in a heap at his feet.

Pulling Heidi from underneath the gasping form of Isabel he lay back on the hard wood floor and told her to mount him.

Squatting over Nicolas's athletic form, Heidi looked down as she grasped his turgid member, it glistened in the late afternoon sun from her friend's saliva, it looked like an ivory statue, waiting for her to sacrifice herself on.

Slowly, she slid down, his mass stretching her tiny opening, filling her like nothing else ever could.

The first three inches were pure pleasure, feeling as though every nerve ending in her body was singing, the second 3 inches stretched her pussy wide, his tip just brushing her cervix, the intensity increased.

The last three inches pushed her too her limits, never did she feel this full, her pussy screamed as it opened to accommodate the whole of him.

Nicolas smiled as Heidi's smile turned into a grimace, he knew she would take all of him and that in doing so she would bleed for the next few days, but this one, she never complained, never winced only grinned and moaned and orgasmed as cock stretched her cunt.

Nicolas saw Isabel stir. "Come behind Heidi, I want you to finger fuck her ass," he said, as Heidi's eyes glazed over as she increase the up and down motion on his cock.

Looking between them he watched as she slid up and down on him, pulling out just to the tip then slamming back down, imbedding his cock deep in her womb only to repeat it again and again.

Reaching up he took her nipples between his fingers, twisting them 180 degrees she screamed in pleasure and pain as her nipples turned to fire.

Isabel spit on her friends ass, watching it slide between her wide spread cheeks, licking two fingers she rubbed her friends asshole and then slid the digits inside her in on deft motion.

Nicolas could feel Heidi's cunt tighten as Isabel's fingers slid into her tight rear hole.

Soon he would not be able to hold back the inevitable.

Heidi felt Nicolas's dick expand inside her, between his cock and Isabel's fingers deep in her bowels she was slipping from one orgasm to the next, moving closer to a climax that would ultimately consume her.

Nicolas pulled Heidi down on top of him, arching his hips, his cock was a blur between her legs, Isabel added another finger to Heidi's stretched asshole and this sent them both over the edge.

Heidi screamed, her whole body shuddering as the orgasm slammed through her, she was like a rag doll as Nicolas grunted and rutted into her, at the last moment pulling out, his cock erupting in a torrent of white cum that coated Heidi's ass and Isabel as her hands moved to stroke out the seemingly never ending strings of semen.

Rising slowly Nicolas looked down on Heidi and Isabel, a mixture of disdain and boredom played across his features as he walked towards the door.

"Make sure you clean this place up before you go," he said over his shoulder, leaving the two sweating, panting women lying in a puddle of his cum.

Rising first, Isabel helped Heidi to her feet, finding towels they set about putting everything right, this had been a fairly tame session, no need to invoke Nicholas's ire by not cleaning up.

Once done, making sure that everything was back in order, Heidi and Isabel limped out of the room towards the dorms down stairs.

"We need to bandage your back hon," Heidi said to Isabel as they walked down the stairs.

Isabel smiled at her friend. "Nicolas must be very distracted by something, I think that's the first session I've ever been in where someone didn't leave bloodied," Isabel said, grateful for her and her friends good luck.

Nicolas wrapped the towel around him and walked into his private study.

This was a place no one but himself entered. The dark wooden shelves were lined with...mementos; the most prominent of these were the 11 glass jars, each with a preserved heart floating within. 

Trophies of his kills, for Nicolas it was not enough to defeat a rival, of course these rivals were all business people, men who, over the long years, had tried to stand in the way of this acquisition or that.

They thought they could best him, they were wrong, and their failure was displayed here, in this dark room, where Nicolas could relive their ultimate defeat and revel in his ultimate power.

Never in his life had he faced an equal foe, the Laws of the Chosen absolutely forbid direct confrontation, a fact that had vexed Nicolas for his entire reign. 

What he wouldn't give to have that fool Ian's heart among his collection.

This thought brought a wane smile to Nicholas's face, soon he thought, soon the Laws will be meaningless and my collection shall grow.

Turning to his computer he saw the emails from his agents, still no sign of Mr. Dane. 'So much the better,' Nicolas thought, it has been a long time...the hunt beckons.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 06



Chapter 6

"This is the captain," the voice coming over the intercom seemed stressed "ladies and gentlemen we are about to arrive at the gate, when we do I would ask that you all remain in your seats, there seems to be an electrical issue and we will need to reset the system. When we do this it will black out the cabin for approximately one minute. There is no need to be alarmed, please remain in your seats until the lights come back on." The captain finished.

Michael looked around the cabin, people seemed tense but not overtly so, the captain was a smart man, waiting till now to let people know of an issue.

It had been an illuminating flight for Michael, from the pain of the attack by the oriental woman to the understanding that something...different was in contact with him, had put him on edge for the entire flight.

There was no further contact from the other; it was the strangest feeling Michael had ever experienced. Several times throughout his life he had experienced a sense of de ja vu, a tickling feeling in the back of his head when a specific action was good or bad.

Following those gut instincts had kept him out of a great deal of trouble. Now it had changed, it was an actual sentient being speaking to him, guiding him, yes; it had been a hell of flight. ............

"Alpha Leader to Tango Leader do you copy," even the hushed tones reverberated around the tight space of the boarding ramp as it rolled up to the door of flight 969.

"Tango this is Alpha, over" the answer came back through the ear bud hidden within the black mask that covered the young Lieutenants face.

"Tango, insertion in 10, expect package to be delivered your location in 45, be ready for transport, out."

It had been four hours ago when Lieutenant Sims had gotten the flash message about a mission and rushed over to the CC to get the details.

Commander Longfield looked at the six men assembled in the briefing room, knowing before he started that they would not appreciate this little gem.

"Gentleman, at approximately 09:25 flight 969 from New York to London will arrive at Heathrow's gate 57. Upon arrival the plane will go dark, at that point Mr. Sim's squad will enter the aircraft, secure the passenger in seat 3 first class. You will escort this passenger out of the plane, down the emergency exit in the gate and hand him off to Mr. Patrick's squad for transport to local law enforcement at hangar 12." Upon finishing, Longfield looked up from his notes to see six disappointed men glaring back at him.

"Jesus Christ, since when do they call out two SAS special ops squads to grab one guy off an airplane, couldn't they have sent the bloody boy scouts?" Lt. Patrick snorted as the two teams sat in the Blackhawk on the way to Heathrow.

It rubbed them all the wrong way; operations like this were seen as a huge waste of time and personnel by those involved.

Most had seen heavy combat, all had years of training, provided by her majesty's government, to go out and be the mailed fist of the empire.

To be babysitters simply increased their tension, it was like sending a pit bull into a fight against a Chihuahua, not even worth doing.

Counting down in his head, Lt. Sims timed the docking perfectly.

Alistair popped the door of the jumbo jet just as the interior of the plane went dark.

Stepping in Sims instantly got a fix on the mark. 'Jeez, is this guy radioactive or what," thought Sims as he stepped the 4 paces over to the passenger.

Bending quickly he whispered, "We are here to get you off this plane, please move quickly."

Curling his hand around the mans bicep Sims was amazed at the feeling of raw power that was transmitted through the simple touch, 'this guy is like solid rock,' he thought to himself.

That feeling and the bright aura that surrounded this guy through the night vision goggles made Lt. Sims think twice about this being a waste of time.

Michael only thought for an instant before he stood to a crouch and moved out of the plane with his handler.

Had this happened yesterday he would never have gone this quietly, however, with no nagging warning from the other he was confident that there was no danger.

Thirty-two seconds after the door opened, Michael was handed over to another black clad man who hustled him into a waiting H1. It was all a bit surreal for Michael, but no more so than the rest of flight had been so he sat and waited to see what was next.

The gentleman in the suit introduced himself as Detective Arthur Collins, Scotland Yard.

"Mr. Dane, sorry about the quick exit from the plane, we had reason to believe there were problems on the flight and we wanted to make sure you, and several other passengers got off the plane as...expediently as possible," the detective said.

Michael was sitting in a small office inside a large hangar in the maintenance section of the airfield. Offered coffee or water they were treating him as though he was someone of interest, this puzzled him as he listened to the detective continue.

"We are not at liberty to disclose much of the story, however I can tell you that you are not under any type of suspicion. We have an interest in several passengers on the plane and wanted to ask you just a few questions prior to letting you go on your way." The detective said as he sat across the desk from Michael.

Taking out a pen and notebook he continued. "Did you notice anything strange during the flight?" the detective asked.

How to answer that question, Michael thought, making up his mind he said, "I don't really think so, the flight seemed like any other, I can't say that anything really caught my attention."

The questions continued for about a half an hour, it turns out that they had received several credible tips that terrorists had targeted this flight either to commandeer the plane or to try and gain entry into the UK.

Michael noted that during his interview several other passengers from other sections of the plane were brought to the hangar and questioned by other detectives.

In the end, while strange, Michael felt that it was just one more odd item in a trip filled with unique circumstances.

The detective thanked Michael for his help, apologized again and after retrieving his luggage from the plane called him a cab. It was a strange end to a very strange day.

Ian watched the video feeds of the extraction from the airplane as well as the video of Michael's interview. Even on the screen his aura seemed to be different, brighter with a purple hue that Ian had never seen before.

"He is on his way to the MacDonald Randolph, we have 3 teams watching him, the cab is tagged and special," the IM flashed up on Ian's screen.

"Excellent, keep a watch and let me know when he has checked in," Ian replied.

Switching off the computer Ian stood and headed for the stairs, 'I hope this doesn't cause problems for us down the road' Ian thought as he climbed the ancient English oak staircase looking forward to spending the evening in Millie's arms. ...............

Morning dawned gray as Michael rolled out of the large Queen Anne bed.

The MacDonald Randolph was an old world hotel. Built in the 1860's it had once been home to a Count, converted and updated over time, it had the air of English aristocracy that fit so many of Michael's notions of what 'English' meant.

Taking care of his morning rituals and dressing in a comfortable pair of black jeans a heavy wool turtleneck sweater and his well worn timberline boots he closed the heavy oak door to his room, setting out to see the sights.

His meeting with Ms. Smyth was not until late this afternoon, which gave him a chance to just wander around and take in the sights.

Lt. Sims sat in the lobby of the MacDonald waiting to see what Mr. Dane would be up to today.

After last nights escapade and the overwhelming feelings he had gotten when he touched Mr. Dane the Lt. had requested an emergency pass, his commander believing that he just needed a few days to get over the angst of another pointless mission.

There was something about Mr. Dane; something that just didn't make sense and Lt. Sims was going to find out exactly why that was.

Michael's watchers noticed the young SAS lieutenant enter the lobby and find an out of the way chair with an open view of the space.

"What do we have here," Nigel said to his partner John as he took a quick photo and emailed it off to get an id. Minutes later Nigel's PDA vibrated and the life history of Lt. Lawrence J. Sims popped up on the screen.

"Control this is five, it seems one of the SAS chaps from last night has taken an interest in our mark, please advise." Nigel finished, waiting for a response he turned another page in the hottest new release that he was reading, curious to see what would befall the main character, a young wizard, next.

Walking slowly down the stairs in the three-story central reception area Michael marveled at the restoration that had taken place only a few years before. The light beige wallpaper with the darker imprinted standards gave a feeling of warmth to the stone and timber walls of the hotel.

Stepping off the stairs he walked over to the large granite faced fireplace, knowing that this was probably the original he was entranced by the detailing of the granite façade, marveling in the attention to detail of the delicate filigree that would be almost impossible to replicate today.

The skies had started to clear as Michael left the building, walking fifty paces away and turning he was impressed by the gothic façade and the attention to detail that the renovators had accomplished.

'It's perfect,' he thought, turning and walking east he picked up Magdalene St. and headed towards the church of St. Mary the Virgin.

Ian's team was very unobtrusive, taking on the look of local shoppers, tourists and towns people, Michael never had a hint that his every move was being watched. Should anything or anyone threaten him he would be witness to a startling change in the picturesque scenery.

Lt. Sims moved quickly out of the hotel once Mr. Dane departed, putting on his sunglasses he moved to follow Mr. Dane, at that moment his beeper went off.

'Damn,' he thought to himself as he looked at the number and code that followed it.

Taking one last look at Mr. Dane's back as he walked away. Lt. Sims hailed a taxi, wondering about the coincidental timing of his "emergency" call back to base. .........

Ian thanked the general and hung up the phone.

"Millie please make a note to run a detailed check on Lt. Lawrence J Sims, he may be an excellent prospect for recruitment, mark that he may have some latent talents. .........

Michael found the church to be a somber place.

Its cool and shaded confines brought back memories of Sasha.

Sitting in a pew he looked towards the crucified form of Christ, marveling as always how one of the most powerful religions still used this image to call and hold the faithful.

As he rose to leave a young father approached him. "May I help you sir?" the man asked.

"I was just looking at the architecture, its my trade and whenever I travel I always start with the churches they seem to have the finest details and the best workmanship. It's interesting to see the variations of space and light used by the original designers to elicit that feeling of...heaven." Michael replied, hearing Sasha in his head telling him to stop with the geek archy talk.

The young father regarded the American, sensing something...different about him he asked, "Would you like to climb the tower, it offers a wonderful view of the city center and particularly the Radcliff Camera?"

Michael said he would and the father lead him to a corner of the church proper and showed him the stair up to the tower.

An older gentleman sitting near the back of the church typed out a text message to the rest of the team, 'subject moving up to top of tower'.

The view was magnificent, the day had cleared and the sun shown brightly on the honey colored stone and ivy covered walls of the city center as it lay before him.

The three tiered Radcliffe was a masterpiece, the proportions of the walls, the size and spacing of the windows the elegant dome at the top all blended together into a wonderfully complete building that Michael was simply mesmerized by.

The rest of the morning passed in a similar manner, Michael wandered around the city center, taking in the sights, occasionally snapping pictures of this detail or that.

Going back to his room, it struck him that he hadn't thought of Sasha for almost the entire morning. This brought out conflicting emotions, he knew that he had to move on but was also pained to think that she was slipping away from him.

Unlacing his boots he lay back on the newly made bed for a nap before meeting Ms. Smyth in a few hours, a new chapter in his life about to begin. ............

"Valerie, its Ian", the phone call was a bit unexpected.

"Just wanted to let you know that Michael got in safely last night, there was a bit of...drama on the flight, take it easy on him today will you."

Valerie could hear the smile in her uncles' voice. "I will make every attempt not to damage him too severely uncle," she replied.

"Dinner this weekend with you and Millie?" She asked

"Yes I think that would be wonderful, there are only a few weeks left until the festival and I know Millie would like your input on some of the final details" Ian replied.

Every year Ian hosted a harvest festival in Nogardshire, it was thought of as one of the best parties of the year and was always attended by a unique cross section of guests.

"That would be wonderful I'll be glad to help out, I'll ring you after my meeting, got to run, cheers." 

"Cheers Val, talk with you in a bit."

As Ian rang off Valerie looked at the clock on the wall for the hundredth time that day, only another half hour, 'I hope the man is prompt,' Valerie thought as she opened her laptop to check her email. ............

The phone woke Michael, startling him; he reflexively jumped up, taking a moment to register where he was.

Picking up the phone he thanked the front desk for the call. Stripping off his sweater he went into the bathroom; looking in the mirror he seemed no worse for wear from the interesting flight and the jet lag that he should be free of by tomorrow.

Washing his face then brushing his teeth he thought about the meeting this afternoon. 

Valerie had seemed very pleasant on the phone; eager to fill the vacant positions she had probably come off as overly nice.

'Probably seventy five years old,' Michael thought as he stepped to the closet and pulled out a fresh shirt.

Dressed, he grabbed his leather jacket and sunglasses and set off for his meeting.

The light knock on the door startled Valerie as she had been reading over Millie's email about the final details for the festival. 

"Come," she said absently, trying to finish the email.

Michael had walked from the hotel to the campus. He was almost late as the wonderful mixture of architectural styles and construction methods had him pausing at almost every building he passed on his way to Valerie's office.

The place suited him, 'I could be happy here,' he thought to himself as he knocked on the door, hearing a delightful "Come" he turned the knob and entered Valerie's office.

To say Valerie was stunned was an understatement. She looked up as she finished Millie's email and the visage she was faced with left her emotions in turmoil.

He had an easy stance, one that was both engaging and controlled. Dark close-cropped hair, a chiseled face with strong cheekbones and jaw line, luminous brown eyes that seemed to reach out and caress you when they were aimed your way.

Standing at about 6'2 Michael Dane was just about as close to perfect as Valerie had ever encountered. She had seen pictures of Michael before but none of them captured the...aura that surrounded him in person.

After stepping into the office Michael quietly closed the door and moved towards the desk, stopping he regarded the young woman sitting behind the desk.

The fair skin is what he was drawn to first, like porcelain she seemed to radiate a soft white light from her skin. Her auburn hair and blue eyes accentuated her amazing skin tone and as their eyes met it was as if a high-tension wire had dropped on the floor of the room, freezing them mid-action.

Both sat staring at the other for one long moment, it seemed to last an eternity for the two, but then Michael snapped out of his reverie, a deep and abiding pain lanced through his heart.

Backing towards the door Michael words were choked as he said, "Please, please excuse me I'm...I'm not feeling well," and then he was gone.

Valerie sat behind her desk, her heart beating like that of a rabbit who just escaped the fox.

'What was that,' she wondered as she stared at the closed door wondering how she could feel such loss because of an empty room and a door to soon closed.

Michael slumped against the wall outside the administration building; tears flowed freely from his eyes.

The pain and emptiness of Sasha's loss was again writhing through his soul.

Valerie had affected him just like Sasha had the first time he saw her, it was impossible that there could be two women with whom he could share this all-encompassing connection.

Sasha was the one, the only one to hold sway on his soul.

He stumbled away from the building, wracking sobs wrenching his body, he fell to the grass under a tree in the quad, he was slipping away again, just like the night back home, he didn't have the strength, he couldn't betray Sasha, the darkness overtook him.

The last thing he heard before unconsciousness took him was the other, her wails rising in symphony with his own, she shared his pain, knew his struggle and would try to lend her strength to his to help him through it and share her wisdom so he could finally put Sasha to rest and move on with the dance of life.

Valerie stood at her window, looking down on the quad.

She had seen the look in his amazing eyes, one instant content and passionate, the next filled with sorrow and pain.

She hugged herself, still feeling the loss of his departure, then she saw him, staggering away from the building, falling to the grass, she could hear his sobs, feel his pain as he crumpled to the grass.

She flew from the room, knowing only that she had to be at his side, had to help him get beyond whatever tragedy had poisoned his soul.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 07



Michael was standing in front of the DMD Offices, it was fall and Gainesville was cooling down.

Having just finished the biggest sales pitch of his life the adrenaline was still pumping through his system. Fishing out a cigarette he lit it and took a long pull, finally starting to get his nerves under control. Walking around the side of the building he thought about the project he and Steve had been working to get for the last six months.

The Equinox Center would be a multi-use commercial/residential building overlooking the intercoastal waterway just outside downtown Jacksonville.

At 350,000 sqft it was a major project that had some of the biggest architecture firms in the country submitting proposals to do the design/build. The process had been long, with untold hours and a good amount of expense involved, but it was now down to just two firms, DMD and PFVS out of Atlanta. 

Michael thought the meeting had gone very well. He hoped that his passion for the unique site and integration of so many dissimilar uses into a cohesive, overriding spatial plan had not come off as desperate or ass kissing. 

Steve came out of the office, walking the clients to their cars.

"Thank you again for the opportunity, we are looking forward to working with you," he said to the head of the development group.

As the car pulled away Steve ran to the side of the building, sure that is where he would find Michael.

"We got it," he said with a goofy lopsided grin on his face.

Michael pulled his best friend into a warm embrace.

"This is huge, it will really put us on the map in the Southeast," Michael said pulling away from his friend and taking another long pull off his cigarette.

They sat quietly for a few moments both contemplating the amount of work to come over the next three years, pleased that their passion and vision was being noticed and that their future prospects seemed bright.

When they had started out six years ago both of them had dreams of being rock star architects, jet setting around the planet pushing the cutting edge of design, building in remote and exotic locations.

As is so often the case, reality was a bit different from the dream, but both men were proud of what they had done with TRX after buying it from Terrance's widow.

They had paid Eloise double what the company was worth; they felt they owed it to Terrance after all he had done for them.

Pushing himself away from the fender of Michael's Porsche Speedster Steve said "gotta run, I want to tell Marsha in person."

Smiling to himself Michael wished his friend a good evening and watched him sprint to his truck and take off for home.

Home, Michael mused, not so much a place as a feeling; a feeling elicited by those you spend your life with.

DMD was his home and this left Michael feeling that a huge part of his life was missing. 

Flicking the cigarette away Michael strolled off towards the park hoping that the cool fall air on this sunny afternoon would help to blow away the feelings of lack in his personal life.

Walking down the tree-lined path he paused and turned for no good reason and that is when he saw her for the first time.

She was wearing a white silk dress, 'kind of an odd choice for fall,' he thought.

It moved against her body like a cloud, accentuating her hips, then shifting, pulling tight over her breast showing her breeze hardened nipple and then her belly, flat and firm.

'I must be dreaming,' he thought as he turned to follow her.

She is in a hurry, moving fast probably to get out of the cold; her long graceful strides show a power and precision that is alluring and frightening at the same time.

She sprints across the street and disappears into an office building, the last image of her, windblown hair, calf flexed in extension, arm outstretched to push the door before her, is burned into Michael's mind like an after image from a strobe light.

Finding a bench with a view of the door he waits, 'whomever she is I have to know her name,' he thinks, while pulling his leather jacket around him to stave off the increasing cold.

An hour and four cigarettes later Michael stands, 'she's coming,' he thinks.

Focusing on the door he waits, the anticipation and tension building.

And then she is there, pushing out through the door she looks pleased, there is a smile on her face as she fishes through her purse, pulling out her phone she looks up and down the street as she dials a number.

Glancing across the street she sees him, more appropriately she is affected by his presence. As their eyes meet, the phone falls from her hand shattering at her feet, an ominous portent reflecting the fundamental change her life has just taken.

She is lost in his eyes, the instant she met his gaze his face lit up like the sun, it felt as if she had been shocked, standing motionless she watches as he crosses the street, his features coming into better focus but her gaze never leaving his eyes.

Walking across the street it was pure luck that Michael was not hit by a car.

Not looking anywhere but in her eyes he was drawn closer too her.

The street seemed endless as the distance shrank and his tension increased, closer and closer to those dulcet depths until he was standing before her.

They stood for only a moment before shifting their gaze but it was a moment they would re-live a million times; it always replayed every time their eyes met during their brief but passionate time together.

Reaching out his hand he says "I'm Michael, Michael Dane."

Looking down at his strong rugged hand her attitude shifts. Taking his hand in both of hers she looks back up into his eyes, smiling she lifts up on her toes and kisses him gently on the cheek.

"Yes Michael, I know who you are, please let go and be happy." The world fades to black as Michael falls to the ground.

...............

"He just collapsed, move in, possible sniper, protocol five," Cal said as he began moving across the quad towards the downed man.

Six more of Ian's operatives moved out of their spots towards Michael as well.

Cal was about fifty feet from his mark when he saw Valerie Smyth come running out of the administration building.

"Hold," he whispered as he watched Valerie sprint over to Michael.

"Reset and keep a watch, six report in to base," Cal finished as he slowly moved back to his place among the people strolling through the quad.

Valerie went to her knees next to Michael's limp form, taking his head in her hands she gently started to talk to him.

"Michael, Michael wake up, its ok, your ok, please wake up your going to be fine," she heard him groan as her fingers played through his hair. 'Oh thank god' she thought never breaking her contact with him as he began to stir.

'Feels like home,' he thought.

As his focus began to return it all came crashing back to him, the vision of Sasha; Valerie; oh my god, she is here, I can feel her, her hands in my hair, her knees at my side, everywhere she touches lights up, just like... no not again, enough of this, its time to move on.

Slowly opening his eyes his internal struggle at last won, Sasha was at peace as was he. 

"Valerie, I'm so sorry, I don't know what came over me," Michael said as he got shakily to his feet.

Stumbling she was there taking his arm over her shoulder, steadying him, more contact, 'her hip against mine, her breast pushing softly into my side, oh god I just want to take her right here,' he thought.

'So strong, so much muscle,' she thought as her body pressed close to his as she steadied him; for the first time taking in his scent, musky with a hint of cloves, it was almost too overwhelming this assault on her senses.

She took deep breaths; steadying herself hoping he would not fall, as there was no way she could hope to lift him again.

'Enough of this', Michael thinks to himself.

'This is why I am here, she will be with me always,' a pain slides across his heart as he thinks this last, what he had always thought of Sasha.

Shaking his head he modifies his thought, 'she will be with me as long as she can.'

"I'm sorry Valerie, not a great first impression of your visiting professor I'm afraid, I must be a bit more jet lagged than I thought," Michael said straightening himself and pulling away from her.

Distance, disconnection it is something rarely noticed, but Valerie noticed it immediately.

As Michael pulled away from her, straightening as he spoke the parts of her body that were seconds ago in contact with his felt...wrong, cold as if they were not feeling fully unless connected to Michael.

'Oh god, he doesn't feel it, if he did he never would have pulled away from me, he is making polite conversation when all I want is for him to hold me and never let go,' she thought as she looked up into his eyes.

She was amazing, now that he had some perspective he realized his feelings for her were subtly different than those he had for Sasha.

Now he could feel the variations in his connection with Valerie. It was more energetic, livelier.

His love for Sasha had always felt comforting, like a favorite blanket that warmed you through childhood. Valerie was different, as if his connection to her was at a different vibration, the same song only played in a different key.

'I have to control myself, all I want to do is take her in my arms and never let go but this is not Sasha, she may not feel it or may not understand what she feels, I have to take it slowly,' he thought to himself as he gently took her hand in his.

"Can I walk you back to your office Valerie? If you have the time I think we can still have our discussion." Michael asked.

He took her hand in his and all of her fears evaporated, the connection ratcheted up in intensity again, she heard his voice, something about a discussion.

"Yes that would be wonderful, I'm glad your feeling better," she said lamely as he dropped her hand and moved his to the small of her back, occasionally touching her but always close, she could feel it even when his hand floated above her skin, not physically joined but connected nonetheless.

As they made their way back to Valerie's office Michael's mind was whirling.

'I'll need to take this very slowly, she is young probably 15 years younger than me, I'll have to be kind and polite; hopefully she will feel the connection eventually and then, well we will see,' his thoughts concluded as they reached Valerie's office.

"Go on in and sit down, I'll just be a moment," she told Michael as she spun, nearly running to the lady's room after he went into her office.

Michael looked around the office, trying to get a sense of the amazing young woman who worked here, looking for anything that could help him gain her trust and hopefully open her heart.

The office was neat and tidy, shelf lined walls contained books of every sort.

Looking over the titles Michael realized they were categorized, work, non-fiction and fiction. There were policy and procedure manuals, student orientation pamphlets, books on literature and science.

The fiction was a mixture of mystery and romances an eclectic selection of current authors and the classics, which showed a broad appreciation for the varying genres.

The many pictures around the room showed what looked to Michael's trained eye to be an 8th or 9th century castle, all of the photo's featured a very distinguished older man and a stunning woman he could only assume was his wife, in various locations around the grounds.

Michael picked up one large photo of the man and woman standing on what appeared to be a terrace, in the background was a beautifully manicured maze. 

Tracing his finger over the geometric patter of the maze he was once again awestruck by these amazing constructs.

Michael had studied the design of these garden maze's in college and was always amazed by the forethought and upkeep that must go into keeping one of them in shape.

"That's my Uncle Ian and his companion Millie," Valerie said, startling Michael from his reverie.

Valerie stood in the lady's room feeling flush and excited. Never had anyone elicited such strong emotions in her, as had this tall American with the weary soul.

Cursing herself for a stupid child she moved into a stall and reaching under her skirt and pulled off her panties. They were soaked, as if she had spent an hour in the gym.

"Crazy," she said aloud as she relieved herself then wondering what to do with the panties she quickly stuffed the small lace g-string into the trash bin "there's forty pound down the drain," she mused as she turned on the water, washing her hands and splashing water on her face, Valerie tried to compose herself.

'I can't just throw myself at him,' she thought 'but he has to know, he just has to know what I'm feeling, slow down Val, take it slowly, he has obviously been deeply hurt by something, spend some time see if he feels what you feel.'

Finishing up she looked at herself in the mirror 'you can do this, he is the one,' she thought, as she strode out of the room.

A slight breeze came through the open window near the door to her office, sliding through the thin silk of her skirt and playing over her still wet pussy it gave her a start and a grin as she opened her door.

Michael was standing by the window and Valerie couldn't help but notice how good his ass looked in his tight jeans. With a giggle in her voice she said, "That's my Uncle Ian and his companion Millie."

Michael turned and smiled "the property these were taken at is lovely, would you know where it is I would love to take a look at it. This maze in particular seems to be one of the most unique I have seen," Michael finished, his breath once again taken away by the sight of her.

Laughing, she answered, "that is Nogardshire Castle, it's about an hour from here, uncle Ian and Millie live there and I grew up playing in that maze."

She smiled at his confused look that suddenly turned to a realization that Ms. Valerie Smyth comes from a very interesting family.

The meeting passed too quickly for both of them.

Michael asked all the questions he could think of about schedule and course work.

Valerie explained to him that the course work was up to him; she gave him copies of the course outlines and informed him that it was up to him how he achieved the course goals. Classes would start in a week, Valerie gave Michael his professor credentials and passwords for the schools website along with his class roster for the two classes he would be teaching.

In the end it was Michael who brought the meeting to a close.

"Valerie" he started "I just want to say thank you for the opportunity and for putting up with my...ill health earlier. It has been a great pleasure meeting you and I hope as the term progresses we can see more of each other," Michael finished, letting his last statement hang in the air.

'I'd like to see more of you, in fact all of you,' Valerie thought blushing slightly.

"No worries about before; the plane ride between here and New York can sometimes seem like a shift in worlds along with the time. I hope to see more of you as well, it has been a pleasure," Valerie said, trying to regulate her breathing as her emotions jumped into overload as Michael's departure loomed.

Rising, Michael extended his hand. "I'm off, I think some rest would be best, I'm meeting with the real estate person you recommended in your email tomorrow morning first thing." Taking a chance he continued "Any chance that your free tomorrow, I would appreciate your suggestions on places to live close to the campus" Michael said a bit to quickly.

Smiling, Valerie answered, also a bit too quickly. "That would be lovely, I mean...I'd be glad to help out."

"Excellent, lets meet at the real estate office around 9:30am if we finish quickly we can have an early lunch?" Michael questioned. 

"That sounds very nice" Valerie said, smiling demurely as she reached out to take his offered hand.

When they touched it was a replay of earlier, heat and electricity; she watched in slow motion as, on the spur of the moment, he bent at the waist, bringing his lips to the back of her hand.

His lips touched her skin and it took everything in her not to pass out, it felt warm and moist as if his lips generated their own special kind of heat, like a 5th element that could, upon touch alone, light up your soul.

Her skin tasted salty and sweet at the same time and her fragrance reminded him of the orange blossoms back home. Their eyes met and held for an instant then with a smile he was gone, taking long strides out of her office and disappearing through the door.

Valerie sat in her chair looking at the picture he had been holding, seeing the maze, imagining walking through it with Michael at her side. She saw herself showing him the maze's hidden center and then showing him her own.

Michael stood in front of the administration building looking up to where he thought her window was.

'Can I really do this,' he wondered, suddenly feeling very conflicted.

The Other's voice resonated through his head, speaking in a loving but stern tone. 'Question this no further,' and then she was gone.

Shaking his head he walked through the quad heading back to his hotel, looking forward to the passing of the moon to when he could see his Valerie again.

Cal spoke to his team. "Looks as though he is heading back to the hotel, standard shadow deployment, six, call base with the details and confirm once he is back in the hotel."

Seven people made their way out of the quad, their attention focused on Michael, scanning the crowd he moved through, looking for threats, gauging possibilities. 

None noticed the slim woman with the violet eyes as she moved off in the opposite direction thumbing through her phone list she pushed the call button when the name Nicolas flashed on the screen.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 08



Nicolas reviewed the photographs for the third time since Selene had emailed them.

Pausing on the last one, showing Michael slumped on the ground. Nicolas gave a derisive laugh, 'is this all there is,' he thought as he rose from his desk and walked out onto the balcony.

For so many years Nicolas had worked to bring order to the world, his vision of an ordered, pure world was the driving factor in his life.

'Too much diversity, too much strife, the world needs to be convinced that there is another path, the one true path, my path,' Nicolas thought as he gazed at the setting sun.

Being this close to the end, of finally overthrowing the old guard, of becoming the one true leader of his kind filled Nicolas with a raw and powerful feeling of entitlement, simply knowing that his destiny was at hand.

Almost quivering with nervous energy his thoughts drifted back to another sunset one that would see him begin his journey to inherit the power that would put him on the path to achieve his destiny.

..................

The court of Peter I was lively in the summer of 1721, a tentative peace had been struck with the Swedes and Russia was an emerging European power. It was an amazing time in Russia, with the last 40 years seeing a true change from a medieval culture to a modern society.

Nicolas Ivan Partekov could not think of anywhere he would rather be than in the royal palace.

Working in the kitchens was not a very prestigious position, however this mattered little to Nicolas.

Born to peasants he had grown up with an insatiable drive to be someone, someone a damn site better than a beggar's son.

The squalid hovel Nicolas shared with his parents was cold; with no money for wood or good blankets, Nicolas was always cold.

The nights seemed to last forever to Nicolas, during the day he could at least go out, warm himself in a patch of sun in the city square and watch the world go by.

But here in the dark, that deep dark in the middle of the night that takes on a life of its own, pulling forth all manner of monsters and demons fully formed from its inky depths, Nicolas felt alone, and knew that the time had come to escape this dismal existence.

Yesterday had been his tenth birthday, there was no party, actually no mention of the day was made by either his mother or father. This had been the last straw, pushing him to leave, no matter what the consequences.

Taking the families only loaf of bread he left his parents hovel that night he set out to find his own path.

Being only ten years old his options were limited by his experience. Living in the city he had seen the great coaches and columns of soldiers as they came and went from the palace, and to the palace is where young Nicolas traveled to start his new life.

Standing by the servant's gate for days he was finally found by one of the cook's assistants and brought inside.

Finding a place was never hard for Nicolas, being highly intelligent and always seeming to be in the right place at the right time he soon found a permanent place in the palace kitchens.

First working the trash, he cleared the scraps that came back from the great banquets and late night meals; staying out of the way, watching how the palace worked, getting into the flow of the place.

And his life moved on, days turned into months, months turned into years and now nine years since walking through the servants gate he was getting yet another promotion.

"Nicolas," Mikhail called, "come over here."

Nicolas smiled and walked over, sitting down with Mikhail at the rough worktable in the center of the kitchen.

Nicolas liked Mikhail, of the three kitchen bosses, he was his favorite.

Nadia, the night boss was a real bitch, taking out her own frustrations at being 'wasted' fixing late night snacks for the aristocracy, she took pleasure in running the boys and girls ragged during her shift.

Paullina the morning boss was better, very strict, having everything running her way was the standard for her, as long as you did your job and stayed out of her way, Paullina would leave you alone.

Mikhail was the lead boss, on for the evening meals, in charge of the banquets; menu's and purchasing he met everyone with a smile, expected the best from you and made sure you were able to give your best.

"Jonathan has been taken to the dungeon, he was caught with three silver spoons under his mattress," Mikhail said, breaking a piece of bread in two, handing a half to Nicolas.

Nicolas' expression was appropriately shocked; however the smile he kept hidden belied his true knowledge and involvement with the spoons.

Jonathan was a nice person, everyone who met him would say so, and nice, as far as Nicolas was concerned, was a liability for those ahead of him.

Living at court for so long, Nicolas had had years to memorize the layout of the place, where to hide, how to get into this room or that. It had been nothing for him to slip into the storeroom and secret out the spoons one evening while on the night shift.

Living in the same barracks as Jonathon had only made the spoons' appearance under Jonathon's mattress that much easier. A careful word to the right maid, who could be counted on never to keep a secret, and Jonathon's downfall was assured.

Taking a bite of the bread Mikhail continued, "I'll need to fill his position as minor steward, now Nadia thinks that Colette should get the job."

'Not surprising,' Nicolas thought, as Colette is more times than not to be found with her pretty little head between Nadia's thick hairy thighs most evenings in the pantry. 

"However, after talking with Paullina she and I both feel that you would be a better choice for the job." Mikhail said.

"I appreciate the opportunity Mikhail, I won't let you down," Nicolas responded, taking a bite of his own bread contemplating how this new position would give him even better access and bring him one step closer to well...Mikhail's job.

"I know you won't Nicolas, now, here are the minor stewards keys, giving you access to all of the storerooms and ante rooms upstairs in the residence, there is a lot that goes into this job so you'll have to stay on your toes and learn quickly, you'll be at my side for the next week then its your ass for any screw ups." 

Mikhail was pleased with Nicolas' acceptance; he felt that if the lad kept his nose clean he might just get his job when he retired.

The next few months moved quickly, being the minor steward introduced Nicolas to a side of court life he had not been exposed to before.

In the past, most of his duties centered around the kitchen and the main dining hall of the palace. Now he ranged around the entire palace, which expanded his perspective and his goals further than ever.

While getting ready for the Tsar's coronation as Emperor of Russia many guests from all over Europe were coming to the palace for the festivities.

"You there, boy, come here," the strong heavily accented female voice called out from behind Nicolas. Turning he was faced with the most imposing trio he had ever encountered.

The most striking thing was their hair, Nicolas had heard stories of the Germanic people and their blond hair, the stories did not do the actual facts justice.

Standing before him were two blond goddesses, their long hair cascading down their backs and over their shoulders; it reminded Nicolas of the waterfall he had once seen while traveling in the country with the royal court.

Walking over to the trio, Nicolas came to a stop in front of the man standing between the two Nordic goddesses.

Nicolas' 6ft 2in height seemed dwarfed by the man who stood at least 4 inches taller than he.

Broad chested with chiseled features, Nicolas had never seen nor heard of his like. As he continued to regard the man their eyes locked and Nicolas' world stopped.

Blue as he imagined the great seas must be, a blue so deep and so brilliant that it grabbed his soul and wouldn't let go. Their eyes locked for what seemed to be an eternity, when in fact the glance only lasted seconds, seconds that laid Nicolas' soul open to the man who owned those eyes.

"Name?" The man asked as their eyes parted and Nicolas stood quivering from the sheer shock of the mans force of will.

"Nicholas," he stammered, looking at the floor not wanting to fall under the man's gaze again.

Hagen stood looking down at the boy shaking his head 'he has no clue as to who or what he is,' Hagen thought, he was surprised that after all these long centuries he should come across his heir in a foreign land working as a house boy.

'So much the better, a blank slate with which to work,' Hagen finished his thought as he regarded the boy once again.

"I am Hagen Adolph Renzhauser, ambassador of the Holy Roman Empire, my attendants are Helga and Ingrid. Our baggage needs to be moved to our rooms quickly boy, do not make us wait," Hans finished.

With a final glance at the boy, Hans and his entourage moved off following the page to their rooms.

Nicolas stood in the middle of the entrance hall, stunned by this new emotion that had not been part of his existence until this moment.

Fear. Blinding, incapacitating fear. The fear flowed through him, paralyzing Nicolas, never had he known fear, never had he been confronted with something or someone that he perceived to be stronger than himself.

Now he understood there were things in the world that, should their attention stay on him to long, could crush him like a bug without a backward glance.

As the fear subsided and Nicolas found his strength, he walked over to the entrance and found the ambassadors' things.

"Ivan, where is the ambassador staying?" Nicolas asked the young page who was greeting all of the arriving dignitaries.

"Ah, Nicolas, good to see you, can you believe the women with the ambassador, gods never have I seen such women," Ivan commented, turning to regard Nicolas.

'Strange, Nicolas does not look well' Ivan thought.

"They are in the east wing, third floor the last set of rooms overlooking the gardens.

Nodding, Nicolas picked up the three large cases and set off for the ambassador's rooms, not looking forward to being in his presence again.

..................

"Your majesty, Ambassador Hans Renzhauser has requested an immediate audience," the Tsar's steward said. He did not like to interrupt his liege with unscheduled appointments, but the ambassador had been very insistent, leaving the steward with little choice but to make the request.

Peter looked up from his desk, regarding his steward.

"Very well, bring him in," Peter said, thinking to himself that it must be of the utmost urgency as his steward never allowed for unscheduled meetings.

Hagen strode into the hall, taking in the high ceiling and guilt trimmed paintings; he was put off by the showy opulence of the room.

Peter rose from behind his desk. "Ambassador, it is a pleasure to meet you, what was so urgent that you required this meeting with no notice?" Peter asked as he looked at the imposing figure before him.

Hans did not waste any time, staring into the other mans eyes he placed the command into his mind, breaking the brief connection before he began to speak.

"Your highness, it is an honor and a privilege to meet with you, I bring greetings and good wishes from our people. I apologize for the need of this quick meeting, however during our travels we lost one of our valet's to a fever and fear we will not be able to securely return to our own lands after your coronation without a replacement," Hans spoke in broken Russian. The few advisors in the room had returned their attention to their work, allowing the King and the ambassador to complete their business in private.

"Ah, I understand, it can be a daunting trip from Germany to here, this time of year the weather can be quite capricious. I can recommend a young man who should be able to fill your needs quite nicely, he has been getting excellent reviews from the staff, he should be available to you within the hour. I will have his superiors notified and have his things packed to move to your rooms, the young man, Nicolas will be happy to provide you with any services you may require." Peter finished, sitting back behind his desk, the meeting to his mind complete.

"I thank you for your hospitality your majesty, I will leave you to your work." Hans said over his shoulder as he had already turned to leave the room.

"Steward, notify the appropriate staff that Nicolas is now in the sole employ of the ambassador," Peter said absently as he returned to his work, the meeting quickly slipping from his memory.

...............

Nicolas hefted the three cases beside the door and hesitated before knocking, unsure if he had the strength to face the ambassador again.

"Ah Nicolas, let me get the door for you," the deep voice from behind him startled Nicolas as he spun, knowing that he would be once again faced with the imposing figure of the ambassador.

Hagen slapped him on the shoulder as he moved past him and into the room. 

"Bring those in here Nicolas, put them anywhere you like," Hagen's' voice called out from within the room.

Squaring his shoulder Nicolas pulled the cases into his arms and walked into the room.

Nicolas had been in most of the guest rooms in the palace since his promotion. All were lavishly appointed with tapestries on the walls, the finest furniture and linens. This room was no different, dominated by an ornate four-poster bed with a small sitting area and writing desk, it was a comforting room meant to put guests at ease.

Placing the cases at the foot of the bed he turned to leave as Hagen spoke again. "Nicolas, please sit I would like to talk with you for a few moments."

Pausing to get his fight or flight response under control he answered without turning towards the man. "I'm sorry sir but with so many arriving for the coronation I really have to go, if the head steward finds me to be slacking I'll be punished severely," Nicolas responded walking towards the door.

The deep baritone of the Ambassadors laugh filled the room; Nicolas could feel it reverberating through him making him once again aware of the odd power that emanated from the man.

"Nicolas, I can guarantee you will not get into any trouble for staying, I have just come from a brief meeting with your liege, he has agreed that your services would be better used by me than the head steward," Hagen said still laughing.

Nicolas was frozen to the spot.

He was an indentured servant, his lord could give him to anyone he chose, but why this man, he had always performed well, perhaps Jonathon, no, there was no reason for this.

"I would not think to argue with you sir, however I will need to verify your statement with my superiors," Nicolas said as he fairly ran from the room.

Hagen chuckled as he watched the boy flee, Ingrid and Helga moved to his side, it was rare to see their master in such good spirits. Hagen's' smile continued as he placed an arm around his slaves and moved to the large bed thinking that this was turning into the most interesting of trips.

............

Nicolas ran back to the kitchens, everyone he passed noticed that he did not look well, ashen and sweating it was as if the devil himself was chasing him.

Panting as he entered the kitchen he was surprised to see the Tsar's Steward talking with Mikhail who had a look of disappointment and surprise on his face. When Mikhail saw Nicolas he waved him over.

"Nicolas," Mikhail began "it seems that this Ambassador Renzhauser has lost a valet to a fever on his journey here, he has requested a replacement," Mikhail paused looking sadly at the boy "the Tsar has given your services to him, you will gather your things and join his entourage immediately," Mikhail finished with a sad, inevitable tone in his voice.

Nicolas was stunned, this was the only home he had ever known, his life and future were here, how could this have happened to him. Nicolas broke down in tears for the first time in his life, weeping for his lost vision of the future, for the unknown that now faced him and from the fear he felt at being bound to this strange German.

Mikhail helped Nicolas to gather his few possessions.

"Think of this as an adventure Nicolas, this could be a great opportunity, you will see new lands, experience new things. A lot of opportunities you never thought possible could come your way from this," Mikhail said, trying to rally the boys' courage.

"We will see Mikhail, thank you for always being fair with me, I always appreciated your help and your council," Nicolas said to his former boss, pulling him into a quick embrace before striding out of the kitchen to face his new master and his new fate.

...............

Ingrid answered the door after Nicolas found the courage to knock.

Looking as beautiful and exotic as the first time he saw her, he was once again speechless in her presence. A coy smile crossed her lips as she laid a gentle hand on his shoulder pulling him into the room.

"Ah, Nicolas, so good to see you back so quickly," Hagen said as he rose from the bed.

Nicolas was shocked by his nakedness, he had seen other men naked during the staff's weekly baths at the river but never had he seen someone of Hagen's' size or strength.

His body looked like one of the statues in the galleries, all sculpted muscles, hard bulges from head to toe, he resembled an animal more than a human, something built to fight, to conquer to lead.

Nicholas's gaze was drawn between the man's legs, the appendage that swung there was, from Nicolas' limited knowledge, overtly large. He blushed as Hagen moved up to him and noticed where his eyes had fallen.

"No need to blush Nicolas, we feel the human body is a glorious thing to be admired and taken care of, not hidden away like some sacred relic," Hagen said as he sat down on the small couch, seemingly made miniscule by his size and presence.

"Sit," Hagen said, motioning to the chair across from him.

As he sat, Nicolas continued to stare at the man, now that he was closer he saw that his body was blemish free, not a scar not a pimple nothing marred the deep bronze of the perfect body across from him.

"Nicolas, as you know you are now mine," Hans began as he picked up a glass wine from the low table and took a drink.

"I have searched for someone like you for...a very long time. I want you to understand that I am not taking you on as a servant but as an apprentice. For the next few years you will live at my side, learning all that I have to teach and in the end I shall turn over to you a legacy that will grant your deepest wish, to be someone. There will be much pain during this time, there is no other way to teach you and I do not apologize for it, but it is important for you to know that the methods I will use are ultimately the only ones that will ingrain in you the ability to control your future power and destiny." Hagen finished.

He regarded Nicolas, it would be a long hard road for him, luckily he was young, his emotional and physical scars would heal quickly as he progressed from this simple peasant to a lord among kings.

Nicolas tasted the blood in his mouth before the pain of the strike registered in his brain.

One minute Hagen had been sitting across from him the next he was standing over him as he lie on the floor his right cheek exploding in a flash of pain, his teeth crushed into the flesh, drawing huge gouts of blood that threatened to choke him.

Looking up at the looming form of Hagen, Nicolas noticed with horror that the appendage between his legs had started to grow.

He began to crawl away as Hagen grabbed him and pulled him back towards him.

The next 24 hours were a blur for Nicolas, there was a great deal of pain and humiliation, he never realized the human body could take so much punishment and still continue to function.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 08



It had lasted until just before dark, Hagen had lifted him from the bed now fouled with all manner of bodily fluids and carried him outside to the balcony. 

Overlooking the gardens with the sun setting beyond the mountains in the distance Hagen placed a small vial to his lips and forced him to drink.

Every muscle in Nicolas' body tensed, the liquid fire moving quickly through his whole body, he could feel himself changing, healing, growing, in the back of his mind he heard a low growl, an ominous and wondrous sound full of power and fury.

Nicolas straightened, watching the sun set the sky on fire as he began to understand that one day he would cause a fire that would engulf the world, that he would hold the world in the palm of his hand.

............

Nicolas opened his eyes; it was rare these days that he would travel the well-worn paths of his memories back to the beginning.

The sun had disappeared below the horizon, night had fallen and the world moved on.

Nicolas slowly turned and went inside to his desk, dialing Selene's number she picked up before the first ring ended.

"I want you to handle Mr. Dane, I don't care how but I want it done quickly," Nicolas said, hanging up before a response could be offered.

Sitting back in his chair his heart beat faster, looking at the weak fool in the picture he wondered at how he could have ever been worried by one such as this. Soon there would be no one standing in his way, finally his destiny was at hand.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 09



It was late afternoon as Michael walked back to the hotel; his first meeting with Valerie had been a revelation.

The feelings Valerie elicited were disturbing and wonderful all at the same time. Michael knew that he needed to move on, that the feelings he had for Valerie were the real thing.

Sasha would want him to be happy, she would never want for him to be tormented by her memory, only to be comforted by it.

Understanding that what they had lives on in him, that his life was now an extension of hers. To waste any of it would be to minimize the gift she was while she was in his life.

Walking across the bridge over the Oxford canal he paused to watch a four-man scull slip gracefully over the gray water.

It was getting late; dusk was starting to fall over the city.

Michael wondered at the place, entranced by its energy, ancient soul and obvious place in a future that played out before him. Michael could not help to feel his attachments to this place growing faster than he thought possible.

The scull made the turn up the canal, disappearing from view and Michael continued his walk back to the hotel.

............

"I need to know what happened to Michael," Valerie spoke heatedly into the speakerphone.

Almost the instant Michael left her office Valerie was dialing up Aunt Millie's cell, she had to know the whole story.

"Valerie, calm down tell me what's going on," Millie said, surprised at Val's obvious agitation. 

"Something or someone really hurt Michael and I need to know what it was, I know that you and Uncle Ian have been keeping tabs on Michael for years now please just tell me what happened," Valerie's voice was getting more frantic by the second.

"Valerie, please calm down, I will tell you everything that I can about Michael but you have to calm down and tell me what happened first," Millie said as she keyed the speaker on her cell so Ian, who was lying in bed next to her, could hear the conversation as well.

Catching her breath and reigning herself in Valerie retold an abridged version of her meeting with Michael, his rush from her office, collapse and eventual return. She did not go into detail about her feelings about the man, only that he seemed damaged in some way and she wanted to help him in any way that she could.

Millie could not hide the smile from Ian as he nodded for her to tell Valerie of Michael's loss.

Ian and Valerie had both been on the conference call when the field team had called in about the possible sniper, both had seen the flash emailed photos of Valerie cradling Michael's head in her lap.

"Michael lost his wife about two months ago," Millie began. "It was very traumatic for him, his wife, Sasha, was pregnant with their first child when she was in a car accident, Sasha and the baby were both killed. It destroyed Michael, its one of the reasons we asked you to offer him the visiting professorship, we hoped that by getting him out of Gainesville, away from all the memories it would help him to recover."

Covering the microphone she asked Ian "Should I tell her about us buying the company to make sure he would take the job?"

Ian thought for only a moment before answering. "Yes, let her know that we are very concerned for Michael and want to help him any way we can, we hope that she feels the same and wouldn't mind spending a little extra time with him if she thinks it would help," he smiled as Millie's eyes squinted, giving him the 'your up to something' look.

Ian had seen the same pictures Millie had, however he saw a great deal more in them than she.

The photo of Valerie holding Michaels head in her lap clearly showed how their aura's merged when they were in contact with each other, this was a rare bond that few of their kind shared.

It was also in every photo ever taken of Michael and Sasha; the coincidence was just too much for Ian to resolve.

He wanted to see what would develop between the two, for some reason he thought it might be very important that the two of them were together.

"Now Val, I'm going to tell you something but you have to promise it will never get back to Michael," Millie said.

Valerie paused; her emotions had immediately gone into overdrive at the thought of lying to Michael.

"Then don't tell me Millie, if he asks me about something I will not lie to him." 

The conviction in her voice made Millie stifle a laugh, 'oh my' she thought 'poor Valerie has it bad,' Ian nodded, indicating she should continue anyway. 

"One of Ian's holding companies bought out Michael's architectural company, it was our way of ensuring he would accept your offer," Millie said, pausing to see what reaction Val would have to this news.

Valerie was shocked by this admission. "Why, why was it so important that Michael come to Oxford?" Her question hung in the air, Millie looked to Ian and he just shrugged.

Starting slowly, Millie continued "As you know we have been watching Michael's progress for quite some time, he is...a distant relative of Ian's, being in America he was quite a bit farther a field than others in the extended family so Ian has always paid a bit more attention to him. After the tragedy that befell his family we wanted to try and help him get over it and move on, so..." Millie trailed off and Valerie considered this new information.

'Part of the family, Ian's family, there's never been any mention of family, extended or otherwise, why now and dam it why him,' Valerie thought. She was confused and upset, unsure of where all this was heading.

"Alright, thank you for telling me these things, I'm not sure what I think about all this, and I'm not sure I like the idea of being used. However if you can think of anything I can do to help Michael please tell me, there is something about him that...." Now it was Valerie's turn to trail off.

"I'm meeting Michael tomorrow morning to help him look for a place to stay, I'll see you both in the afternoon I should be there by four," Valerie finished as she hung up the phone.

Ian and Millie simply smiled at each other, both understanding that finally Valerie may have found the one she had been waiting so long to discover.

Valerie sat staring at the phone, wondering what the involvement was between Ian and Michael.

She shook out her hair, picked up her purse and left the office heading for home.

Her thoughts centered on Michael and the amazing feelings he pulled from her soul. ...............

The hairs on the back of Michael's neck stood on end as he rounded the corner, again, like so many times in the past his "sixth sense" was telling him that something was about to happen.

Michael paused at the corner; the quickly gathering darkness threw odd shadows in every direction.

The hotel was just across the street, should he continue on or wait. The questions kept multiplying; Michael was never one to question himself or his actions.

The last few days had been harder on him than he thought and the strain was starting to show, cracking through his strong façade, he was in danger of loosing control.

'Pull yourself together,' he thought to himself as he proceeded across the street to the hotel.

Not ready to go to his room Michael walked through the lobby and out the back door.

The large back patio had been converted into a bar area with high tables around the patio railing overlooking the carefully manicured lawns. Finding a table, Michael sat under the shelter of the large umbrella that kept the now falling mist from soaking him through.

"What can I get you?" The pretty little barmaid asked as she sat in the seat opposite him.

"Whiskey please, neat" Michael replied.

She gave him a dazzling smile and moved off towards the bar. 'What is it with the women today,' he thought to himself. He was surprised when a feminine voice from behind him answered.

"Most women rarely encounter someone like you Mr. Dane, finding oneself in the presence of your ilk can be likened to seeing a UFO or Nessie," she spoke with a heavy German accent and Michael was shocked by her apparent ability to read his thoughts.

"I have a bit of a talent," she said as she seated herself across from him, "I can sometimes pick up peoples thoughts or emotions, it can be quite disconcerting at times."

She was, in a word, dangerous.

The waitress scowled when she saw the woman sitting with the handsome American.

"Can I get you something?" she asked the woman in a not so friendly tone. 

Smiling she answered, "I'll have the same as the gentleman," waving her hand at the waitress with a dismissive air.

"Now then Mr. Dane, my name is Selene and my...employer has given me the honor of taking care of you," Selene began, her tone of voice friendly, as if talking with an old friend.

"Now, I could have simply been done with you in front of the hotel, you stopped so conveniently at the corner it would have been simple, however, I thought it more appropriate to have a little chat first," Selene stopped as the waitress brought her drink. 

The waitress placed the drink in front of Selene not saying a word to the other woman; facing Michael she asked, "is there anything else I can do for you?" there was an offer hidden in her tone, however Michael just wanted her to leave, trying to be sure that whatever was about to happen that no innocents were hurt. 

"Nope, we should be fine for now, Ill give a yell if we need refills," he said. Another brilliant smile and she was gone.

Selene picked up her drink and downed it in one smooth swallow. The rain had increased from a simple mist; the sound of the drops hitting the umbrella formed a sort of cadence that reminded Michael of a funeral dirge.

"So, here we are then, I don't suppose you even know why I'm here, probably for the best that, I'll make it quick and painless you probably won't even feel a thing." Selene finished as her eyes went glassy.

Michael felt pressure, like someone was trying to close his head in a very large vise. It was similar to what had happened to him on the plane, this time however it was not nearly as strong.

Looking across the table at Selene he watched her concentration increase, he felt the pressure increase as well but it was nothing he could not handle.

It seemed that whatever had happened on the plane had rewired him a bit to automatically defend against this type of thing.

Finally the pressure built to a crescendo, Michael could feel the pressure build to its peak then fall away.

Selene was noticeably drawn, all of the color had washed out of her face, her eyes reflected nothing as they had gone to all pupil, opaque.

"I guess we will have to do this the old fashioned way," she said as she went to pull the trigger on the gun lying in her lap trained at Michael's chest.

"I don't think so,' Michael said flatly as her finger froze on the trigger.

For the first time fear played across her features as Michael regarded her with cold eyes.

"Now, lets start again, I'm Michael, your Selene, sent by someone obviously to kill me, I'd like to know why, you can tell me or I can look for myself, which would you prefer?"

In that instant, when Selene's subconscious registered that yes, this man would be able to see all her secrets her conditioning kicked in.

What the autopsy would show would be a massive stroke that killed her instantly.

The cause was interesting, a deep seated control in her mind that triggered a quick and deadly rise in her blood pressure, it was placed there while she slept one evening, after being thoroughly used by Nicolas, all of his field personnel had these little switches, just in case.

Michael watched as she seized, he was lucky that his control of her finger was stronger than whatever was naturally occurring in her body.

Her eyes held his for that instant of understanding, she knew she was done, she saw her life flash before her eyes then just as quickly as it began it was over, and she slumped over the table.

"Lady friend can't hold her liquor?" the waitress said after she walked over to the table, taking a bit too much pleasure in the ladies distress.

"I think you should call an ambulance it seems she had a seizure," Michael said finishing his drink and ordering another as he was sure he would have to be here for a while.

After the ambulance arrived and he had spoken to the constable he was dead tired, not even taking the time to undress he fell into his bed, his only thoughts of Valerie. ............

"I just can't sleep," Valerie said to no one in particular.

She had been pacing around her flat for the last three hours not being able to get Michael out of her mind.

The bottle of chardonnay had not helped; the Mozart had not helped, nothing seemed to dull the keen edge of him that held such tenacious purchase in her mind.

Walking back to her bathroom she thought a bath might be just the ticket.

Valerie turned on the water and began filling the big Victorian claw foot tub, 'perhaps a good soak will get me wound down enough to sleep,' she thought as the steam began to rise from the slowly filling tub.

Lighting the few candles in the room Valerie turned towards the large wall mirror opposite the tub.

Looking in the mirror Valerie absently began to undress, she regarded herself wondering at how the American with the flashing eyes saw her.

'I'm being a silly git, how could he even think of being with me,' she admonished herself for the umpteenth time.

Shaking out her long flaming red hair she unbuttoned her shirt and let it slide to the floor, unhooking her white silk bra it slid down her long elegant arms landing next to her shirt.

Her hand lazily traced from her throat to her navel, her pale skin dotted with freckles, her own green eyes looked back at her as she unbuttoned her skirt, pulling it and her panties off in one swift motion.

Standing naked in front of the mirror all the old insecurities came back, too short, 5'5, too red, her red hair with the streaks of auburn and blond were the envy of almost every woman she met. Too flat, at 35B her breasts were firm and taught, another envy item. Her flat belly led to her long elegant dancers legs, she saw giraffe legs. Shaking her head she turned off the water and stepped into the tub.

The warm water caressed her skin, enveloping her in a hot cocoon. Soon her mind started to stray, the heat finally burning off her apprehension she began to think of Michael again.

'Surprising how tall he was,' she thought 'and handsome don't forget handsome silly' she smiled 'and his lips, full not to big, expressive smile.'

She closed her eyes as she pictured his lips, his lips on hers, moist but not wet, his tongue slipping between them looking for hers, opening her mouth her own tongue touching his.

Her hand moves to her neck, her pulse beats insistently against her palm, slipping lower down between her breasts, she teases her large nipple, running slow circles around the sensitive tip. It hardens as her thumb joins in the dance now pulling, twisting, the pressure sending little jolts through her body.

The other hand joins the first, both nipples get the attention they crave, but its not her soft delicate fingers she feels, its his rougher, stronger fingers that are pinching and twisting her delicate tips, drawing out her passion, stoking the fire that builds in her loins.

A hand strays down to the bent knee exposed above the bubbles; gliding over the slick surface her skin feels hotter than the water.

Both hands on her thighs now, her legs spread wide one slipping over the edge of the tub, sloshing water and bubbles onto the white tile floor as her hands play over the warm muscular flesh. Hands hotter than the skin she touches move lower, one hand toys with the sparse red hairs at the top of her mons, the other lightly traces over the engorged flesh of her sex.

Pulling the large sensitive lips apart the water hits her tender center eliciting a moan filled with need. She pinches her nether lips, delighting in the pressure, savoring the tingling after effects of the slight pain.

Her wanting clit finally receives her attention. It is long almost a full inch; normally hidden by her think outer lips it is now hard and engorged, the center of her condensed universe of pleasure.

Slow circles around the stiff flesh bring the beginning of her orgasm, the gentle twists brings it closer, her fingers deftly pinching her hard clit push her over the edge.

The orgasm crashes into her, centered on her clit the pleasure moves through her body in waves, faster and faster they come, her wet center clasping for something to latch onto as her body quivers and shakes through the throws of her orgasm.

An image unbidden moves across her consciousness, an image of Michael covered in a light sheen of sweat, his body over hers, he is filling her, taking her, making her complete.

Her feelings of love and lust, pleasure and fear flash through her mind as the orgasm reaches its zenith and then begins to recede.

Lying panting in the bath, Valerie covers her eyes as the tears begin to flow. 'He could never want me, I'm too strange, my desires too twisted, those kind, haunted eyes could never look at me again if they knew the kinds of...perversions I dreamed of.'

Slipping from the bath Valerie pulled a towel around her; reveling in the feeling of warmth and comfort it gave her.

Her bare feet left tiny puddles on the floor as she made her way to her bed, sleep finally finding her.

Michael's smiling sad eyes the last thing that drifted through her consciousness before sleep took her. ...............

Michael arose early, before dawn. The events of the prior evening giving him pause, 'was this the right decision, should I have come here?' he thought as he stumbled to the bathroom.

And then the auburn highlights catching the mid afternoon sun fill his minds eye and he knows he is where he needs to be. Finishing his morning rituals he strides from the room, he can't wait to see her again.

Valerie is almost as early as he is to the agents office, he sees her as she turns the corner, her confident yet graceful stride showing more about her in this unguarded moment than weeks of talking with her could.

She is athletic, the strong calf muscles that flex with every step, displayed alluringly by her knee length leather skirt.

Her arms, lightly swinging in a balanced, controlled manner, the taper of her wrist, pale skin showing just a flash from under the long sleeve of her mocha colored wool sweater.

And then her eyes, playful yet alert, scanning the world around her, taking in everything and expressing her emotions like a beacon.

The smile that crosses her eyes when the child walks in front of her, the shock at the mother yelling at the young one, the surprise when the unseen car passes by, the child held close, the relief that everything is once again ok.

Then those scanning eyes land upon him, what is the expression that they reflect, wonder, lust, passion, fear, all of them play across the window of her eyes, as he rises to greet her the emotion that finds purchase is joy.

"Valerie," Michael stutters, his heart rate increasing at an unhealthy rate.

"I'm so glad you could come, I've been counting the hours," he says. 'Jesus Christ, pull yourself together its like your in a bad romance novel,' he thinks to himself.

"It's my pleasure Michael, I had nothing really going on this morning and I'm glad to help out." Her smile is guarded, hiding the turmoil that lies just below the surface.

'I could barely sleep, couldn't eat all I wanted was for the sun to rise so I could see you again, make sure that you were not some construct from a dream, vapor that I could not recapture,' she thought as she watched him take her hand.

"You look wonderful this morning," Michael said as he reached out instinctually and took her hand.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 09



It feels hot to his touch, a strange contrast to the cool breeze that continually makes itself known by blowing strands of her hair into her beautiful eyes.

Her laugh resonated in his ears making him swoon, they were connected by the touch, looking in each others eyes, neither wanting or needing to look away. The intensity of the touch faded giving way to the heat, a warm glow that began to slowly spread up his arm, he was lost in her, flying and falling all at the same time.

The heat traveled up her arm like stepping into a warm bath, fluidly rising up to her elbow. Her breath coming in shallow gasps wondering at the sheer intensity of the feeling.

"Hello, you must be Michael, oh and hello Valerie," Gladys said as she walked up to the couple holding out her hand.

Michael was pulled from his reverie and released Valerie's hand, replacing it with Gladys's. "Oh, hello, sorry, you must be Mrs. Wilkins" Michael said, his mind slowly clearing from the intensity of the touch.

'Oh my but what a man this is,' Gladys thought as she shook his hand and shifted to greet Valerie.

"Hello Valerie, surprised to see you this morning," Gladys said as she noted the flush in Valerie's cheeks and the warmth in her hand.

"I invited Valerie to come along and she was gracious enough to come out on this cool morning to help me find a place." 'Damn it,' he thought, 'said that too fast; need to get myself under control.'

Gladys smiled at him, "no trouble we can use all the help we can get, I looked over your email and what you said you were looking for, I've got several places that I think will definitely fill the bill, lets be off then."

The morning passed quickly; of the seven flats they looked at it was of course the last that Michael fell in love with.

A converted warehouse, the building had none of the architectural elements Michael so admired in many of the other period buildings they had seen.

But the light, the amazing light is what captured him.

Three stories with a garage it was situated East/West with the front facing Nelson Street the back to the Oxford Canal. It was close to the city center and would allow Michael to walk or ride a bike to class.

He had almost not gone in but Valerie had been insistent.

The entire morning Michael's critical architects eye had found small, insignificant to Valerie, things about the different flats that crossed them off the list.

Seeing his reaction to the exterior of the last, she was determined to have him find a place and talked him into seeing this last one.

"Michael, let's at least take a look, this neighborhood is really quiet and close to the school, give it a chance," Valerie said as she elbowed Michael in the ribs.

All morning it had been the same; small touches here and there, a hand on her shoulder, her arm against his, as if they both unconsciously needed the physical contact with the other.

"Ok, but renovations are really difficult to pull off successfully, especially ones that go from commercial to residential, I'll bet...." Valerie cut him off as she pulled him towards the front door.

The renovation was a revelation from what Michael had seen so far.

Entering the flat, Michael was struck by the light.

A three-story atrium with glass 2 stories up bathed the foyer in an ethereal gray light.

Climbing the stairs he encountered a wonderful high ceiling open space with the living room, dining room, one of the baths and a spare bedroom.

The living room overlooked the canal; there would be amazing sunsets through these windows, tinted dark to keep out the sun but with huge sliding panels that would open the room up onto the large canal front balcony.

Up the small staircase off the kitchen was the master bedroom, a loft really, open to the living room and windows below with its own large bathroom.

This was one of the things that really sealed the deal, all of the other places had small bathrooms, and this one had a large open shower with multiple heads and a Japanese soaking tub big enough for two.

Michael walked over to the railing of the loft, as he did he saw Valerie silhouetted against the light coming through the windows, it was magical, if his heart had not already been stolen, surely this vision would have sealed the deal.

She could feel his eye on her, she turned slowly looking up at him. She caught her breath seeing the passion that seemed to reverberate through his body as he looked at her.

They gazed at each other for what seemed like hours, Gladys broke it up.

"So Michael, what do you think of this one, it's a little pricey but seems to have most everything you were looking for," Gladys said.

Not taking his eyes off Valerie he answered, "Ill take it Gladys, everything I could ever hope for is right here," his smile almost caused Valerie to swoon after the words left his lips.

It was almost noon by the time all the paperwork was finished.

A six-month lease with an option for 6 more and the possibility to buy ensured Michael had all the time he could need. After the signing Michael and Valerie bid Gladys good day and walked from the office into the street.

"Would you like to have some lunch Valerie?" Michael asked hesitantly, why did he feel like a schoolboy around a cheerleader with her.

"Nothing would please me more, but...," she hesitated as she looked at her watch. "I've promised to visit my uncle this weekend and if I don't head out now I'll never make it in time," she said.

The crestfallen look on Michael's face was pleasing to Valerie, it seemed he might be interested after all.

"I understand," he said, his voice betraying his sorrow.

'I'm 15 years older than her, what am I thinking, she's just being nice, get hold of your self,' he thought.

"It's no problem, thanks so much for all your help today, I would have missed that last one if it weren't for you," he moved in front of her, bending he caught her scent, Chanel he thought and then his lips were on hers.

His passion flared, their lips joining, becoming one, then realizing what he was doing he stepped backed. Stammering out his apology he waited for chastisement with down turned eyes and amber cheeks.

She was floating, amazed at the passion such a small kiss could hold, catching her breath she told him "Michael you have nothing to apologize for", she patted his hand and was rewarded with another of his brilliant smiles.

I should be back around 3 on Sunday, perhaps I could come over and help with the unpacking?" she asked hopefully.

"Yes, that would be wonderful Valerie," he hugged her close to him, catching her scent again feeling her heat.

"I'll be sleeping there tonight and be there all weekend, ill cook you dinner," he said hopping he wasn't being to forward.

She smiled and hugged him back, "that sounds wonderful," she said.

The dreamy look in her eyes gave Michael a great deal of satisfaction as she turned and hurried away, he watched her as she turned the corner, disappearing from his view like a mist rolling in from the sea.

Shaking his head he looked around, now to find a furniture store, need to find a bed for the evening and a table for dinner, he smiled and strode off down the lane, happy for the first time in months.

............

Ian was not happy.

Sitting in his office at the estate he just finished the sitrep's from Michael's meeting with Selene.

"Two attempts in three days," he said to himself.

Picking up the phone he dialed Nigel's number.

"Increase the teams around Michael, if a mosquito lands on his arm I want to know how much blood he lost, do I make myself clear?" Ian asked hanging up the phone without waiting for a response.

'I hope we can keep him safe long enough for the change to take place,' Ian thought as he walked over to the window, looking out over the darkened maze he could have sworn he heard a deep roar from out beyond the low hills.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 10



The dappled afternoon light was distinctive outside the car window as Valerie drove down the tree-shrouded lane towards Nogardshire.

The light; she noticed it as it was diffuse, not the gray light of the so often leaden sky. This light glowed with the luminous texture of a pearl caught by the sunlight.

Michael Dane, the name danced across her thoughts, never far from the surface, never far from her own growing desire.

Looking up at the sky, that ethereal glow, Michael came to the forefront yet again on the drive to her uncles.

'It's absolutely crazy,' she thought to herself, 'he is so much older than me, we can't possibly share anything in common,' more trying to fool herself than convince herself.

During the house hunting this morning they must have commented at the same moment on this detail or that a hundred times.

A wistful sigh escaped her lips.

The sun had changed, back to the slate gray that is so common. Her vision and mind slipped back to the drive, Michael sitting comfortably to the back, still there, a warm spot in her soul, newly discovered.

Coming around the final bend, Nogardshire was revealed in all its glory.

Her breath, as always, taken away by the sheer beauty of the place. 

The hamlet of Nogardshire lay nestled between Little Rollright and Salford. An unassuming place it maintains it's old world charm, as if this little hamlet had been passed over by time.

It is always an interesting transition, no matter what worries may plague you, coming round the bend and descending the little dip into the shire always seems to provide a wonderful, even magical, lightening of the mind and spirit.

The drive through the village proper always brought back memories of Valerie's parents.

Duncan and Elizabeth Horner were wonderful parents. Valerie being their only child they dotted on her, providing for all of her needs and trying to ensure that she grew up knowing that she was, above all things, loved.

Valerie's early childhood memories are filled with trips to the shore, Christmas's spent with family and friends, a standard, if rare, happy childhood.

She was about ten years old when she first made this drive, her father had met Ian through some work they were doing together and that year the family was invited to the festival for the first time.

In the years that followed Valerie had not missed the event, always looking forward to it as a time of fun and ease, and a time to remember and thank her parents for all of the gifts they gave her.

Driving out of the town proper, she past the rolling hills that surround Nogardshire, bordered five miles beyond by the Cotswold Edge, the sheer cliffs of limestone escarpments, which provide the natural boundaries to the Cotswold's in this area.

Nogardshire was not one of the well-known "spots" in the Cotswold's where barristers and the new rich took second homes. Nogardshire always had an air of being...hidden...not just off the beaten path, but there and accessible for those who were...allowed.

Over the years Valerie had brought friends out for the festival or just a weekend in the country, while they always had a good time, Valerie always found it interesting that once the visits were over it was rare that her friends would bring them up or ask to come out again.

Continuing on towards the castle Valerie noted that the tents and pavilions were already being erected for the festival in two weeks.

Some of Valerie's fondest memories were from the festivals, the music and dancing, medieval tournaments, but most of all the wonderful sense of...belonging that always accompanied both the festival and the simple act of crossing the border into Nogardshire. 

Turning onto the wide drive Valerie was greeted with her first view of Nogardshire Castle. The castle was built not for show as so many later castles were; Nogardshire Castle was built for the sole purpose of providing protection and security for those who lived in and around it.

10 foot thick walls made of the local yellow limestone soaring 40ft in the air gave the castle an otherworldly feel, seeing it for the first time as a child Valerie felt like a fairy tale princess coming home to the keep with villainous scoundrels hot on her heals.

Situated on top of a rise in the valley, the castle could be seen for miles. When the sun hit the walls just right it glowed gold, offering a beacon and waypoint; providing the solid heart and soul of the area.

Across the old moat and under the looming portcullis the central courtyard had been converted to accommodate garages and allow access to the formal entry of the castle.

The scale of the courtyard always struck Valerie, whenever she thought of the word sanctuary, she thought of this spot, surrounded by the high walls, the time worn pavers placed over a millennia ago beneath her feet, she could not think of a safer place.

Parking her charcoal gray VXR8, Valerie stepped out into the late afternoon sun, stretching the kinks from her body after the drive.

"Valerie my dear," Ian said from the door.

Smiling, Valerie walked up the flagstone stairs and embraced her uncle. "It is good to see you Ian," Valerie said breaking the embrace and looking up into Ian's dark eyes, seeing a weariness there she had not encountered before.

"Millie is in the dining room, lets join her and you can tell us about your impressions of Michael," Ian said as he gently pulled her inside, not missing the deep blush that colored Valerie's cheeks.

............

Michael stood on the balcony overlooking the river, the sun was starting to set and it was an oddly clear evening, the day had been productive, the new digs were perfect and he felt...at home for the first time in months.

After leaving Valerie, a quick stop at the hotel to pick up his things and then to a local furniture store that had provided a new bed, a soft leather couch in muted chocolate tones and a small glass dining room table with two chairs.

The service surprised Michael, the store manager had delivery people onsite and everything was placed within two hours.

The local grocer had just the right bits, a few bottles of red wine, nice fresh steaks, red potatoes, fresh green beans and the various other bits and pieces needed to live in a place. 

'Knives and forks,' Michael thought as he watched two jays harass a hawk that had strayed too close to their nest.

Walking inside Michael grabbed a small pad and pen, starting the next list of things needed to fill out the houses cabinets and cupboards.

It was an exercise that Michael had not done in years. During college it was a no brainer, you ate out most of the time and when you did eat at home, it was whatever frozen thing was in the freezer.

Over the years Michael had acquired a taste for simple flavors and simple things, back in storage there was a good set of copper cookware that had seen a lot of duty.

Michael was the cook, Sasha never really had the desire for it and Michael looked at the process of cooking much as he did that of creating a building, strong foundations, simple structures with finishing details that provided.... magic.

Standing in the small but well-appointed kitchen, the fading afternoon light coming through the windows, a slide show flashed through his mind. Cooking for Sasha the first time, laughing with Steve while he cooked for an office party, grabbing a hot handle because he was distracted watching Sasha read a newspaper at the counter.

Good moments, and they did not cause him pain, in this moment of reverie it was a simple acknowledgement of good times had, and the possibility of others to come.

Grabbing the list and his worn leather jacket he made for the door. "That little shop across from the grocers should have some pots and pans, knives and forks, can't have Valerie eating steak with her hands," he mumbled to himself as he closed the door behind him.

............

Tera watched the mark through the high-powered lens of the Zeiss Victory Diascope.

"The mark is on the move," she said into the microphone built into the small earpiece she wore.

"Acknowledged, follow team has the mark," was the response that came back.

Tera sat back and stretched, watching the mark set up house keeping was not what she would call exciting duty. She had been a periphery watcher while the mark was staying at the hotel, now that he had found a place; Tera was assigned to operational surveillance, the much-hated stake out duty.

Rising from the chair by the window she walked back into the apartment. Situated across the Oxford canal and Roger Dundman Way, the apartment complex was perfectly placed to provide surveillance of the marks new digs.

Tera was a survivor, coming from a broken home she joined the army at 17, her military career spanned twenty years and 5 continents.

It was difficult in the beginning, her only desire was to serve, to fight, to be on the front lines, not a place the British Army was keen to place her at the time. 

However, through sheer force of will she was allowed into S.A.S. training, no doubt everyone thought she would fail quickly and that would shut her up, the opposite occurred and she excelled, graduating at the top of her class at Credenhill.

What followed were a few years of wandering. Her superiors did not have a clear idea of what to do with her so she was shuffled between teaching assignments within the SAS, SBS and SRR. It was during a stint on the personal security detail for the Queen that her career finally found its direction.

A rogue IRA cell had found a way into the grounds of Sandringham House and attempted to kidnap the queen.

The details were never made public, but the 6 members of the cell never left the grounds, all of them died at Tera's hand without a shot ever being fired. 

For her part in ensuring the safety of the quess, Tera was awarded the British Flying Cross and was given command of her own SAS unit.

From Afganistan to the Sudan, for fifteen years Tera went where the British government pointed, always performing whatever duty required with the cold precision that she became known for in the services, and also kept her at a distance from most everyone she knew.

Through out her military career Tera was approached by both men and women who had a desire to get to know her more intimately.

But, not for the sake of wanting, Tera had never found anyone worthy.

It sounded arrogant even to her, but there was no other way to put it. She had had her daliances, a girl has needs after all, both men and women held an allure for her and she resonated with each sex differently.

But still after 20 years of brief couplings with others and no luck finding...an equal...Tera had almost given up hope that there was someone out there....for her.

Retirement had come not at her request but by their demand.

Brought into the commanders office one day she was told in no uncertain terms that due to a shift in the powers that be she was being "advised" to retire, now that her 20 years were in.

It was a strange day for Tera, not knowing where she would be going next she wandered back to her quarters, adrift and unsure for the first time since a 17 year old girl took the oath and set her life on a path that would lead her to places she never imagined.

"It was Major-General Dalton," the voice from behind her was strong, deep with that unairing tone of someone use to command.

Tera turned slowly on the bar stool and appraised the man who was standing behind her. 5'8 early 60's close cropped gray hair, stocky build with a lean muscular frame, dark brown eyes set in a face that was chissled by time and action, yes definitely an operator. "Excuse me?" Tera queried the new arrival. 

"Forgive me, Nigel Covington, Dragon Security Services," he said with a warm smile that softened his face in a surprisingly striking way, immediately putting Tera at ease. 

"Tera Cole," she answered, taking the proffered hand and finding it warm and firm, just as a handshake should be.

"MG Dalton's son was to be lead on chained thunder, instead, you got the nod and the promotion afterwards," Nigel said, taking a seat next to Tera. 

"He saw you as a threat to young Anthony's carreer, pulled some strings to have you retire," Nigel offered, noting the strong handshake, not too strong but firm...self assured...just as it should be. "I have a proposition for you," Nigel said as he signalled the bartender...

Tera was brought out of her reverie by the squak in the ear bud "mark returning to roost, utensiles procured," the voice had a bit of sarcasm to it, but with 3 attempts on the mark in the last 2 days Tera thought there was nothing to be sarcastic about.

Tera took her place at the window and watched as the lights came on across the canal and the mark walked into view carrying two heavily loaded bags.

Tera looked down at her Breitling Airwolf noting the time at 8:37pm in her log.

'Another 3 ½ hours till end of shift,' she thought as she returned her attention to the apartment and the man it seemed someone was intent on killing.

............

Michael had a productive trip to the store, knives and forks, a four piece plate setting, some fresh daisies and a vase to give the place a bit of color.

After unpacking the new additions and getting the daisies in some water he stepped out onto the balcony and lit a cigarette, it was a rare clear evening and the stars were reflected in the calm waters of the canal below.

Standing there in the dark it felt as if he was the only person on the planet. The quiet was a deep quiet, the kind just before a storm comes or something else just as...energetic....begins.

Stubbing out the cigarette in the small plastic ash tray, Michael moved inside and walked up stairs to the bedroom, the day had been full and the jet lag was still pulling at his energy, a shower and bed was the order of the moment.

Stripping down and tossing his clothes on the floor of the closet he surveyed the blank walls of the loft.

'Need to find some pictures,' he thought to himself as he moved to the large open shower and turned the water on, surveying himself in the mirror he looked...tired...not weary, which had been the norm for last few months. Today it was simply tired from moving through the day, the day with Valerie.

She was never far from his thoughts today and now stepping under the warm spray she came back to him fully formed.

The scent of her hair, the texture of her lips on his, the electric current that passed through him whenever he touched her, hell her voice alone could make a monk turn sinner.

As Valerie in all her detail played through his mind, his body reacted as if she were there. His cock began to grow, filling with blood and need, he soaped his body, his hands replaced by her hands, the fingertips slipping over his warm skin were Valerie's.

He groaned as his hand found his hard cock, it had been....so long, this was the first time since Sasha's death that Michael's normally...active...sexual desires had become present again.

His hand lingered on his hardness, dualing visions of Valerie and Sasha battled in his head.

In the end Michael turned into the spray, letting the water run over his body, the soap washing off of him, swirrling down the drain as he hung his head letting the heat of the water work at the stresses the past, present and future placed on his shoulders.

Drying quickly and wrapping the towel around his waist he moved back down stairs and out to the balcony.

During his short time in the shower clouds had covered the stars, a wind had picked up and the air was heavy, rain was coming.

Lighting another cigarette he watched the gray tendrils of smoke disipate with each exhale, getting lost in the wind, 'lost,' he thought, been there....done that. 

Flicking the butt into the canal Michael went back inside and upstairs.

Hitting the lights, the towel slipped to the floor just before he droped on top of the bed. He fell into a deep dreamless sleep almost immediately, his last thought...the way Valeries auburn hair glowed in the sunlight.

..................

Tera watched as the mark turned out the lights, switching to her nightvision, she watched as he lay down on the bed and seemingly fell almost instantly asleep.

Watching the mark over the last half an hour had been....interesting....it had left Tera wet and....wondering.

"Goodnight Michael," she whispered into the darkness across the canal.

............

Millie and Ian lay in bed, the lights were off, with the clouds moving in earlier in the evening, the room was dark accept for the softly glowing embers of the dying fire under the mantle.

"Valerie seems quite taken with Michael," Ian said into the darkness, a tinge of sarcasm creeping into his voice.

"Quite taken, yes I would think that would sum up the tip of the iceberg of what Val feels for Michael," Millie answered barely containing her glee.

Dinner had gone well, Valerie had spent the bulk of the meal relating her meeting yesterday with Michael and their subsequent trip to find a suitable house that morning.

She was effusive and gay, telling the small details with such animation and energy that both Ian and Millie had a hard time containing their laughter at some points.

"He is an enigma, I find him to be warm, caring, open and at the same time withdrawn and.... forlorn, he must have loved his wife very much," Valerie said as the final plates were removed and the three of them walked into the library. 

"Michael has only been in love twice, a high school sweetheart and his wife, it seems he does not give his affections easily but when he does the depths of those affections run to his core," Ian observed as he poured them all a glass of Port.

"When do classes start?" Millie asked as she sat next to Ian on the large burgundy leather couch.

"Wednesday after next, the week before the festival. Michael will have his first intro class then and his first advanced class on Thursday. Two of the deans will be sitting on both so I am hoping he falls into the teacher roll fairly easily," Valerie responded, feeling the warmth of the port spread through her body as she seated herself on the hearth close to the fire.

"I don't think you have anything to worry about, Michael seems to fit in wherever he finds himself. You should ask him to come up for the festival, it would be a wonderful opportunity for us to finally meet him," Ian said as he emptied his glass and looked at Valerie expectantly.

Valerie was ecstatic at Ian's offer "I am having dinner with Michael tomorrow I will be sure to ask him," the lilt in her voice as she answered told Ian and Millie that yes, in fact Millie was...quite taken with Michael as they both shared a small smile over her enthusiasm.

"I worry a bit about the age difference," Millie said as she rolled over and laid her head on Ian's chest.

"That, I think, won't be a large concern, fifteen years is a good bit of difference but Michael is...young at heart and Val has a good head on her shoulders, I think it will be fine," Ian said as his hand absently played through Millie's hair.

They fell into an easy kiss their lips playing over the others in the way lovers who have moved through life together are want to do, that soft sensual knowing of each others touch, their feel and texture.

They slipped to sleep in each other's arms, comforted that Valerie may have finally found.... love.

............

Down the hall sleep did not come as easily to Valerie.

The evening with Ian and Millie had been wonderful, but now here in the dark she was consumed with thoughts of Michael. 'You will see him in a few hours, relax,' she thought to herself as she lay on the large canopy bed.

All afternoon Michael had been uppermost in her thoughts, it had only been two days and yet it seemed as if she had known him her whole life, and now that he was here, in her life, possibly interested in exploring a relationship with her, she flashed back through her brief history of relationships.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 10



Duncan McLeod had been her first love, a nice boy she met in her last year before Oxford, they had spent some wonderful times together and explored sex together, discovering the wonders and...hilarity that the pleasures of the flesh can offer. It was an easy, friendly thing, full of all the curiosity and nervousness one would expect for a first time affair. Duncan had gone off to America to study and after a few letters they had simply drifted apart. Valerie was always thankful that Duncan had been her first because of his gentle ways and easygoing nature.

Arthur on the other hand was the exact opposite. Meeting during her first year at Oxford, Arthur and she had a stormy, passionate relationship that only lasted three months. It was a fire that could not be maintained but burned brightly for the time it could. Arthur had taught Valerie about passion, and how the heat it generates can take us to places we never knew existed. It was an.... interesting second term at Oxford.

Steven.... ah Steven, the one who was not.... the one.

They met in business class, the last term of school, the attraction was mutual and it was only weeks after meeting that Valerie, against the advice of Millie moved in with Steven.

They were together for 18 months, Valerie was just sure that Steven and she were meant to be together.

Steven it seems had other plans, after graduation they stayed together for awhile. Valerie getting her position at Oxford, Steven getting an entry level position with the Bank of England. Everything seemed to be moving along nicely towards marriage, kids...a life.

Steven started coming home later and later, "work stuff" his excuse, and as his arrival moved deeper into the night it became more and more likely that he would come home drunk.

Then the night finally came where he did not come home. The next evening Steven showed up at five o clock already three sheets to the wind. Valerie cried, Steven yelled and an errant slap across Valerie's face ended their life together. 

Valerie moved out the next day and they have not spoken since.

'Three,' she thought, 'one more than Michael, such a tramp I am,' she smiled at her own ribbing of herself.

"It will be what it will," she said to the darkness as she finally felt sleep come to take her.

Her last thoughts were of Michael's lips, gently brushing the back of her hand, and the energy that simple...but oh so complex touch.... imparted.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 11



There comes a moment in everyone's life where action or inaction fall into a focus so clear and precise that there is no gray space between them.

For some it is a once in a lifetime occurrence, an instant frozen in time that they look back on as years put distance and wisdom between themselves and the moment and still, there were only two options, no gray.

For others, the calling of their lives dictates that there be very little gray at all, that many times over the days, weeks, months and years of their lives they are faced with the binary, 0 or 1, yes or no, act...or do not.

The latter is true of Tera

............

Tera keyed the microphone on the headset again. "Recon this is roost, do you copy my message, foxes in the henhouse, over," Sitting there at the window, feeling the sweat slowly slide down the small of her back, the skin raising in goose flesh as it passed, she knew, as she always did, that something bad was happening. And as always, she was right.

..................

The thing good so often forgets about evil, is that evil has no conscience. There is never a moment when true evil hesitates.

Good will take a winding path to its goal; evil prefers a straight line.

...............

Nicolas stared out the window of the Hawker 800X as it flew through the silent starless night.

The plane was headed for Paris; from there Nicolas would then travel to the coast and be taken on into England by boat. The British had...little tolerance for Nicolas.

It had taken a few hours to get operators into position to take down Mr. Dane. 

'The man is luckier than Midas,' Nicolas thought absently as the geography of central Europe passed beneath the jet as it moved through the thin air, taking Nicolas closer to his perceived destiny.

'Should never have sent the weak fools,' Nicolas thought to himself, mulling over the deaths of his acolytes.

'They had some talent but obviously I overestimated their abilities, ah well, better now than in a battle when I really needed them. It must be that old fool Ian, he has always been the strongest of the others, ah well, it's no matter, his mental protections of Mr. Dane will prove useless against a bullet."

The intercom buzzed, the pilot making the announcement that they would be landing in Paris in about 10 minutes.

"Good, a bit of cleaning up to do here and then Ian will understand what it means to get on my bad side," Nicolas said with a thin vicious smile on his lips, as the plane went into a steep turn heading towards Charles De Gaul.

...............

"Trouble," the word brought Tera from a deep sleep to fully awake in less time than it took the word to slip across her consciousness.

It was still dark out, perhaps just the briefest hint of the gray dawn beginning, but still.... night.

Tera had slept in her clothes; the long shift and constant need to be "on" had drained her.

Now sitting on the edge of the small bed lacing up her Haix Airpower boots she had never felt more energetic or felt more of need to be somewhere other than where she was.

"Nigel, it's Tera," she said into the phone, taking the stairs three at a time as she descended to the ground level of the four story building.

"Damn it, do you know what time it is," Nigel knew exactly what time it was, but it was his standard answer after midnight to allow the moment he would need to be fully...there.

"05:13 and something is wrong, check the team around the mark, I am on my way there now, eta 4 min, call me back," Tera snapped the phone shut and slid it into the pocket of her vest as she breached the side door of the small hotel the team was using as a base.

A light mist fell from the black sky as Tera turned the key and the engine of the Ducati 696 rumbled to life. Tera gunned the engine producing a squealing back tire and a front tire that was nowhere near the pavement.

After a controlled slide onto N. Hinksey Ln. she accelerated fast, the sound of the high revving Italian motor reverberating off the fronts of the darkened buildings; the sound following in her wake like a wave, heralding the brief passage of something...dangerous.

The ear bud crackled to life, "Tera, we can't raise anyone on the team," for the first time since she met him, Nigel sounded scared and this did nothing to assuage the feelings of foreboding that had consumed Tera since she was pulled from sleep only moments before.

"I am on my way, will be onsite in 2 min, send back up Nigel, lots of it, I think we may have lost the mark," Tera said as she closed the connection.

Lost the mark, it was rare that she said this phrase; losing was not something that Tera allowed. 'Hang on Michael,' she thought as she switched the ignition off and coasted into Roger Dudman Way.

...............

Michael stood at the window looking out at the deep black of the canal, the light is what had convinced his mind to lease this place, the canal is what had called to his heart. 

Michael turned from the window and grabbed his keys, stepping down the stairs in the dark and opening the door he was brought back to other mornings in the dark, walking out into her, having her envelope and welcome him into her opaque and forgiving arms. 

The love affair with the water started early. Michael's parent had a small boat and their home was located on a canal that fed out onto the intercostal waterway.

From his earliest recollections the water had always been his friend.

Whether it was swimming in the pool behind the house, learning to dive off the seawall of the canal or feeling the salty spray sting his face when his father would open up the throttle on their Donzi Criterion, Michael always felt at home in the water.

"Just a few more minutes," Michael thought to himself, it was late August, junior high had started a few weeks before and the water in the canal was just too warm and comforting to leave.

The sky was beginning to show the strong pinks and reds of another hot Florida morning as he treaded water in the canal before starting his final lap.

It had become his habit over the summer to swim four or five long laps of the canal in the early dawn, his parents didn't know, as they both got up later than he.

These times in the dark water always seemed to help him feel centered...connected and he was not looking forward to being off the water when, in a few months, the temperature would end this ritual.

Finishing his fifth lap of the canal, which was about 500 feet from one end to the mouth, which opened onto the natural canal beyond, he was not paying attention to anything other than his strokes and the feel of the water when he ran into...something.

Startled but not scared Michael stopped and reached out a tentative hand. The object felt like wet leather but warm to the touch, and then it moved. It was a soft motion, seemingly not caused by his touch but more the natural movement of whatever he had encountered.

'Alligator,' Michael thought as the adrenaline started to pump full force into his system. 

Looking around, the dock behind his house and the stairs down to the water were about 30ft away.

'Not fast enough,' he thought.

Then, in the growing pink light, he saw a reflection in the water; it was an eye that was looking at him with a curiosity that projected...intelligence.

The manatee moved slowly around Michael, its nose breaching the water now and then giving off a small spray as the 800lb animal breathed.

Michael breathed as well, manatee's are herbivores and not known for a propensity to drown small boys in canals.

Michael's hand played over the warm back of the creature as it moved in a slow circle but maintained a distance that would not break the connection. Closing his eyes Michael saw the animal with his fingertips. It was an odd sensation, sometimes smooth, a hard barnacle, the deep soft crater of a scar, probably from a propeller.

As the light increased the two stayed there, different creatures joined in an instant of communion.

And that is how Michael's mother found him, as she walked out of the house in her robe holding a warm cup of coffee, swimming in the canal with a manatee.

For Michael the moment was...evolutionary.

Finding and grasping the recognition that while not human, another animal could communicate feeling and emotion that could be recognized and appreciated by another.

The morning swims in the canal however, came to an end.

Michael's mother was furious, his father thought it amusing, which did not bode well for his sleeping arrangements in the near future. However there was a firm new rule in the household, no swimming in the canal.

It was a few weeks later as Michael turned onto his street and saw his grandfather's truck parked outside his house that the river once again became a refuge and a place of simple wonder.

"Michael, come out back," his father called as he closed the garage door and entered the kitchen. Looking out through the sliding glass doors at the rear of the house Michael could see his father and grandfather standing on the dock beyond the pool.

"Oh you should have seen her face, I didn't get laid for 2 weeks," Michael heard the whispered end to his fathers conversation with his grandfather.

"Your grandfather found something you may be interested in Michael," his father said as Michael moved between the two men to see what they were looking at.

There in the water was perhaps the most beautiful thing Michael had seen in his young life

If floated lightly on the water, close to the surface but appearing to hover just above it at the same time. One long oar was extended into the water, the other lay along the boats chine allowing for entry from the dock.

"It's called a single scull," his grandfather said, smiling at the look of wonder in his grandson's eyes.

"I told your grandfather about the...episode.... in the canal, he did a bit of searching and thought this might be a good middle ground between you and your mom," Michael's father said as he lightly put his hand on his shoulder.

"It's beautiful," Michael said as he moved down to the dock. His hand slipping over the smooth curved wood, feeling the boat more than seeing it.

"It will be fast, once you get the hang of it, your dad and I talked to your mom, she said as long as you're careful and TELL someone when you go out, you can use it as you will."

The smile on Michael's face took weeks to wear off.

Michael and Talon, the name he chose for the small craft and lovingly inscribed on her stern, became daily companions.

Early mornings were his favorite, an hour of rowing down the quiet canals, or a hard fast push out into the intercoastal. Every morning that he could, rain, shine, cold, heat, Michael and Talon could almost always be found on the river, discovering her mysteries and reveling in the connection with her.

...............

It was seeing the three-man scull the day before that had sealed the deal. 

Michael was looking forward to getting back on the water. He had rowed through college, always making time between the deadlines, headaches and his one other passion to find some peaceful moments on the water.

With graduation and starting his professional life the trips to the river had become more and more infrequent and then finally stopped. This would be a perfect opportunity to pick it back up again and hopefully find the peace and balance that being alone on the water had always provided him.

The water was a different creature here than what she was back in Florida all those years ago. 

At home the river could turn on you quickly, go from calm and serene to a beast that was trying to kill you in an instant.

Here she was more staid; still to be respected, but not as quickly changeable as her red headed sister back home. Yes the water here was different but a similar creature to that which seduced him all those years ago and her call today pulled him with just as much energy.

Stepping out the door Michael slipped his keys in his pocket and set off for an early morning run, making a mental note to ask Valerie if she knew of some place close by that he might be able to rent a scull.

............

Tera moved into the apartment taking a low stance the P226 held out in front of her in the classic assault posture.

Over turned chairs, a body by the window, the point of laser light coming from the small site attached to the underside of the Sig's barrel played over every corner. 

She checked the rest of the small apartment quickly, ensuring she was alone, and then moved over to the body.

By the growing light coming through the window she saw the small angry hole in the back of his head, smelled the blood that pooled on the windowsill, felt the sulfur from a recently discharged weapon sting her nose.

Removing the headset from Carl's still form she keyed the microphone, hoping that the rest of the team was still in place...static was her only response.

"Carl's dead, single tap to the back of the head, close range," Tera said after Nigel picked up.

"Still no response from the rest of the team, I have back up incoming but it is about 10min out, anything on the mark?" Nigel asked.

Moving quickly away from the apartment building, scanning her line of sight and whispering "No, did a quick thermal on his place, nothing, maybe they grabbed him, either way I'm heading over his way, keep me posted on back up," she huffed as she broke the connection and went into a low sprint across the bridge over the canal just south of the apartment building.

Michael turned onto the bridge at almost the same time that Tera did only he was jogging the opposite direction.

As the distance between them closed Michael noticed the woman sprinting towards him and he was immediately on guard, considering the incidents during the last few days he was more cautious than ever.

Tera saw him before he saw her, she straightened her back from the half crouch she had assumed and picked up speed.

"Man she is flying," Michael thought as he turned his head to look over his shoulder before moving into the street so she could pass. Having a bit more room between them seemed appropriate.

The glance over his shoulder revealed to him what Tera saw at the same moment.

Two men moved from the shadow of the buildings just off the bridge and raised weapons, Michael could not tell if they were aiming at him or at the woman who, upon looking back, had broken into a full run coming straight at him about waist height.

He reached out to her unconsciously, understanding in an instant her intent, as well as picking up the intent of the men behind him, she wanted only to protect him, they wanted only to see him dead

Reading her intentions again he didn't think her becoming a shield over his prone body in the middle of the bridge would be conducive to his or her longevity.

He gauged the time and distance, saw the muzzle flash from the roof of the building in front of him and acted without a second thought for himself.

'A quick tackle and shield, there are only two of them, I can get him down and take them out,' Tera thought as she straightened for the jump to take the mark down to the ground, her body becoming his armor...armor,' she fleetingly thought, and pictured her body armor in a heap on the other side of the bed.

'To late now,' she thought as she jumped, close enough now to see fear mixed with a steely determination in the eyes of the mark as he moved out of position, grabbing her around the waist and lunging over the railing of the bridge.

She replayed the last few seconds over in her mind as she fell towards the water wrapped in Michael's arms.

Shot, I've been shot, middle torso from the side, would have hit me in the spine if he hadn't...sniper on the roof behind me, damn it stupid mistake, he saw him, no, he saw the muzzle flash and did the only thing he could to try and.... two holes entry and exit, high velocity round probably.... must have missed bone or it would have stayed inside, entry and exit...oh god....

Michael felt the bullet cut through the flesh just under his left arm, the heat was amazing, he felt the blood start to flow down his side inside the shirt, he knew instinctively that he had been very very lucky, but also as the image and trajectory played through his head he knew that for him to be grazed there, it had to travel through the woman in his arms.

Michael pulled her closer to him, willing her not to die.

'He has been hit, in that instant when he dodged he did it to get the best angle he could for grabbing me and getting us off the bridge, is the bullet in him, how badly is he hurt, stupid fool he should have saved himself,' Tera thought.

The bullet entered Tera between the second and third rib on her right side, Michael's grab and turn had indeed spared her spine.

The bullet moved through Tera's body smoothly, missing both ribs, her lungs contracted, the bullet nicked but didn't pierce the right lung, the heartbeat was timed with the air filling her lungs, the bullet passed her heart mid beat, no touch, the left lung was punctured as the bullet passed through it and her rib. Had it not hit the rib it would have exited her and entered Michael's body mid torso penetrating his heart.

As it was the bullet was deflected by her rib, exiting Tera at an angle, only grazing Michael.

'He can't die,' Tera thought

'She won't die,' Michael willed

The cold water of the oxford canal swallowed them, each hanging onto the other.... hoping simply...for life

............

Valerie cried out at the sharp pain that flared under her arm "Michael!" she cried jumping from the bed and running towards the door.

Ian sat up looking around, the haze of sleep falling away quickly, grabbing the phone off the bedside table he dialed Nigel's number.

"Status," the tone of Ian's voice told Nigel volumes.

"Something happened, I am in route as we speak, I think we lost the team covering Michael, one of my operatives is onsite and assessing the situation, I'll call you back as soon as I know more, we are 4 minutes out," Nigel closed the connection, understanding that Ian would not be pleased that once again Michael was put in harms way.

"What is it," Millie asked, wrapping her arm around Ian's warm shoulder. "Michael is in danger..." Ian's response was cut short as Valeria burst into the room

"Michael's been shot," Valerie screamed just before she passed out and fell to the floor.

...............

The cold water shocked Michael and Tera when they hit it, sinking down into the depths; Michael struggled to orient himself towards the surface while maintaining his grip on the woman.

Tera felt Michael's grip tighten around her, she was slipping into unconsciousness until the cold water shocked her back to reality. She felt him swivel his body searching for the surface.

On instinct she let a few bubbles escape her nose and watched their direction, Michael was kicking them towards the surface.

The taste of blood was thick in her mouth, she new she would loose consciousness soon, 'let go,' she thought, 'save yourself Michael, let go of me.' 

In the dark recess of her mind, in that spot she guarded and seldom visited...Michael not letting her go was the only desire that existed.

Michael felt the weight in his arms change, she has lost consciousness he thought, 'damn,', just at that moment they broke the waters surface.

Suppressing a cough Michael pulled the woman's head up and laid it on his shoulder, looking around as he treaded water he was thankful for the brackish water, it had hid them in the growing morning light as the medium current pulled them down stream hopefully away from their assailants.

Michael checked his charge, she was breathing, 'good,' he thought as he made his way to the tree-lined bank of the canal just beyond the Hythe Bridge.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 11



Pulling them both onto the bank he saw the blood trickling from the woman's mouth and turned her on her side so she would not choke.

Looking at their surroundings he knew they were lucky, the combination of the current as well as the low gray light of the dawn had hidden them from further pursuit...for the moment.

Leaving his charge on the bank he climbed the berm and found himself looking at a vacant parking lot, 'won't be vacant for long,' ran through his mind as the light continued too grow. 'They will be here soon, not enough distance,' he cursed in his head as he made his way back down to the woman.

"Go," she said as he returned.

In her semi-conscious state she understood that they were on the riverbank and not far enough away from those who wished to kill them.

"Not likely, stay quiet we are in trouble and I have to figure a way out of this and get you to a hospital," he whispered while delicately moving the matted hair from her dark green eyes.

"No hospital, Nigel, call...," She faded in his arms. Looking her over he noticed the communication gear on her belt and the sidearm in the holster.

'Jesus, England is a bitch,' Michael mused as he found the base unit for the com and gave it a try, doubtful it would work because of the water.

"Hello, is anyone there," Michael keyed the channel closed and waited.

"Who is this," the tentative voice replied.

"My name is Michael, I'm with a woman who has been shot and needs medical attention, she asked that I not take her to a hospital, she mentioned someone named Nigel."

"I'm Nigel, where are you," there was a noticeable sense of relief in the others voice as Michael gave him their general location.

"Please stay where you are, we will be at your location in under two minutes and...thank you for helping Tera," Nigel closed the connection.

'Tera,' the name slid around in Michael consciousness looking for purchase. 

"Tera, its ok, Nigel is on his way," Michael whispered in her ear as his warm hand cupped her cheek. Through the pain and cold a small smile crossed her lips at his touch and the tenor of his voice when he said...Tera.

"We have located Michael and my operative, apparently she has been shot, Michael seems fine," Nigel said, the relief evident in his voice.

"Check him Nigel, under his left arm, I don't think it is life threatening but make sure our people check him out thoroughly, what's your cover story," Ian relaxed knowing that Michael would be with his people in moments.

"Local tactical team doing recon on suspected terrorists, it should be fairly easy to convince Michael of the story," Nigel responded, while wondering how the hell Ian would know the exact location of Michael's wound.

"That works, keep me updated," Ian hung up and turned to Valerie, "Michael is fine Val, don't worry, rest." he said to the girl lying on the bed.

She nodded, she already knew that Michael was fine, but that knowing bothered her as she lay on Ian's bed, looking out at the growing gray dawn, 'how can I know,' she thought, tears glistening in the corners of her eyes.

Michael heard the cars enter the parking lot before he saw them, two black Mercedes an S500 and an ML500, they pulled in going slow.

Michael stood and waved. The cars turned and moved to where he was propped against a tree, the adrenaline dump finally coming, making it hard for him to stay on his feet.

"She is down at the bank, I couldn't get her up here, I think I caught a ricochet," Michael said as he slumped, being caught by Nigel.

"Get her in the car and stabilized, you take a look at this one, under his left arm," Nigel barked orders and looked at the sun as it broke through the clouds bathing the little scene in a bright light that despite the circumstances brought a small smile to Nigel's face.

'Hell of a morning,' he thought getting back in the car as they drove off towards the safe house their two charges wounded but alive. 'Yes...hell of a morning'

............

"Hans, it's Ian, he has gone to far, have Nicolas call me, tell him to call me soon or I will come find him." Ian hung up the phone and finished off the glass of scotch, he placed the empty glass down on the antique desk with a trembling hand.

Hans sat stunned at his desk, a storm moved down off the mountain towards the lake behind him, lashing the calm water into a writhing sea of white caps, he had never heard such fury in Ian's voice...he hoped he would never hear it again.  



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 12



Michael laid his head back against the soft leather of the Mercedes seat, closing his eyes, trying to process the events of the past hour, hell the past few days.

'Where were you?' the question filtered through his thoughts not expecting an answer but also curious as to the whereabouts of.... whatever the hell it was.... that always seemed to make an appearance when his life was in mortal danger.

'I was with you, as I always am, however you seemed to have things well in hand so I remained a simple bystander.'

His eyes snapped open, the deep comforting voice in his head was still a shock when it showed up and this time was no exception. The desire to talk out loud to the strong yet kind female voice almost overpowered him.

'Well in hand, are you crazy we both got shot and Tera may not make it,' Michael tried to understand if he was conveying his emotions while talking with the voice in his head.

'Oh man, I'm thinking about if my emotions are being conveyed in my head...to the voice in my head,' he let out a loud grown and closed his eyes again.

'You were never in any danger; had the need arisen I would have intervened, as it was your natural abilities are becoming stronger every day so it was not necessary.'

'As for Tera, you healed her she will be fine.'

The statement hung in his head as he tried to comprehend what she had said. 

'What do you mean I healed her,' she chuckled softly with more than a hint of a growl and then was gone.

...............

Standing on the stone breakwater watching the horizon, Ian's long coat flapped around his legs, pushed by the ever-present icy wind coming off the North Sea.

The call had come in a little over 2 hours ago, Nicholas was his usual condescending self, informing Ian when and where he would be landing in England and then abruptly hanging up. 

Millie had not been happy when he told her where he was going.

"He has gone insane Ian, you don't know what he is capable of, just look at what he has tried to do to Michael," Millie said as she stood in front of him, faced flushed with anger and concern.

Ian pulled Millie into his arms, the smell of her hair was an intoxicating a mixture of cedar and citrus that conjured images he had no time to act upon.

"It will fine and I won't be going alone," he said bending and finding her lips warm and wet as they met his.

Even after all these years it was impossible for Ian to be close to Millie without his passions being enflamed.

So often it seems that people come together, stoke a passionate fire and then watch it slip away, this was not the case with Millie. Ian hoped that she understood exactly how important she was to him. Soon he would be able to make sure that she did.

Millie sighed as Ian broke their kiss wishing only for the time when they would be free to be bound only to each other, not ancient promises. Millie watched as Ian turned and headed out to the helipad, nervous, as she always was whenever Nicholas was involved.

Ian was not afraid of Nicholas, knowing that the man was more powerful than he was did not make any real difference. When Ian's time came it would, until then Ian would live his life as he always had...with hope.

Ian had met Nicholas face to face several times over the years for varying reasons. It was understood by both men that they were opposite poles of the same divining rod, it was a given that they hated each other, but there were times that required them to interact and this was one of those times.

The attacks on Michael had gone from subtle to iron fisted too quickly and there was too much of a chance for collateral damage to those both in his employ and those he loved to not stand face to face with the man to try and get a better understanding of why.

"Nigel are you in position," Ian asked into the air.

"Yes, I am in position along with two other operatives. We have you covered on three sides, there were two of the opposition in similar spots, we picked them out on infrared on the way in and have them sufficiently engaged as not to be an issue." Nigel answered from his position on the hill 1000 yards behind Ian.

"Well we shall see how it goes, the boat is incoming, just breached the horizon," Ian signed off looking at the small trawler now making it's way towards the harbor. 

'Welcome to England,' Ian thought as he made his way towards the sea dock to await Nicholas's arrival.

............

Michael looked down at Tera's sleeping form; the diffuse light from the draped window highlighted the dark almost black sheen of her hair against the cool white of the pillow.

Her eyes moved under their lids as she slept, 'what does she dream of,' Michael mused to himself as he turned and left the room, allowing the woman to rest and recover from the events of the morning.

Walking up the stairs to the small rooftop patio of the non-descript flat, the events of the morning played through his mind once again.

"I read their minds," he said to himself as he stepped out into the overcast late morning. Lighting a cigarette Michael closed his eyes and tried to come to grips with this new turn of events.

'I read their intentions, not really there thoughts,' this thought actually made him feel better. The invasive nature of being in someone else's mind did not sit well with him, not having the ability to.... filter ones thoughts, to be completely open, would be the very definition of naked.

Taking a long pull off the cigarette Michael rotated his head trying to relieve some of the tension in his neck.

'I need some activity, something physical, must remember to ask Valerie about someplace to get a scull,' he thought as he replayed the conversation with the doctor a few minutes ago.

The doctor had surprised him when he asked Tera's status.

"She is...healed," the doctor said, not quite understanding how the scans from the CT showed what they did but he had checked them twice.

"Both entry and exit wounds have healed to a point where they do not require stitches, as for internal injuries...she was very lucky that no major organs were impacted."

Shaking his head the doctor turned and started packing up his things. 'Damndest thing I have ever seen,' he thought to himself as he turned his attention to the portable CT.

Watching the iron gray clouds move across the sky the other's words flitted across his mind, 'you healed her.' 

Wishing he could blow it off as coincidence and understanding that he couldn't he flicked the cigarette into the wind, fingers rubbing his temples as he tried to process the shift from unbelievable to undeniable.

'Well whatever happened at least Tera is ok,' he thought as he fished into his jacket pocket for his phone, he needed to call Valerie.

...............

Tera's eyes opened fully as she saw Michael close the door behind him. She lay there, quietly adjusting to the light in the room, the feel of the sheets beneath her, centering herself, taking a moment to listen to the signals her body was giving her.

She knew that she should be dead, just as she knew that some how, some way Michael had saved her.

Her fingers played gingerly over the two bandages, one below her rib cage the one on the other side high between her two top ribs 'No stitches,' she shook her head on the pillow knowing that the wounds should have taken several stitches and a few weeks to heal.

Running her fingers through her hair she was focused on the feeling of being held...no...protected, by Michael in the river. It was a new sensation for her; she was use to and comfortable being the protector, the one in control. It would be awhile before she could make sense of that role being reversed, even for a little while.

She stretched cautiously, her muscles giving a bit of protest but nothing like they should have.

Being shot before she knew that every bone in her body should ache, the trauma of a gunshot wound affects the entire body and it takes days to get anywhere close to feeling normal again.

'I feel too good,' she thought as her sculpted muscular legs swung over the edge of the bed. Rising she pulled her arms up over her head, a slight pull at her sides where the bandages were, more from the bandages than the wounds beneath them. Walking over to the small bathroom she turned on the light, looking in the mirror.

Her close cropped cobalt hair was matted down, her strong angular face looked a bit tired, but her green eyes were lively, not what she expected.

Turning on the water, she took off the sports bra and panties, examining the bandages at her side. 'No blood stains,' she thought as her hand moved to her side and pulled one of the bandages away from her body.

Standing sideways her fingertips played over the small scar, staring at it in the mirror she did not understand what she saw.

"It's healed, its...healed," she said to her reflection.

The small puncture wound was a darker color than the rest of her mocha skin, a little rougher than the surrounding flesh but not tender or painful at all.

Shaking her head Tera pulled the other bandage off, finding the same thing underneath.

'Healed already, it makes no sense,' she thought looking in the mirror and shaking her head before stepping under the warm strong spray of the shower.

Details are everything in the teams, if you miss a detail it will get you killed.

As Tera rubbed the soap between her hands bringing up a thick lather she started replaying the jump and fall into the river as small detailed photographs playing across the screen of her mind.

'Searing pain of the shot ripping into her side

breath immediately compromised

lung probably, based on the entry and exit, would have torn right through it, filling with blood

loosing consciousness

Michael's arms around me

cold so very cold

the water

blackness

let me go.... don't let me go.... loosing consciousness just on the edge

then.... the warmth.'

Tera put her hand on the warm wet tile wall and closed her eyes trying to bring forth the feeling of warmth

'centered on the gun shot

a line following its path

an instant of heat then...easier to breath

pain subsiding.... Michael.... holding me.'

Tera's eyes opened slowly, the acknowledgement of the impossible finding purchase there.

"He healed me," she said to herself, shocked and more than a little intrigued by her discovery.

Her soapy hands played over her body, taking stock and making sure that everything was in order.

Her biceps ached a bit, her abdomen was a little tender as her fingertips played over the just defined muscles, her long athletic legs felt good, everything seemed to be shockingly.... ok.

Quickly finishing washing she turned off the water and stepped out, grabbing one of the large white towels from the shelf she slowly dried off her lithe muscular body.

A debt had been incurred today, one that she would give her life to repay.

She walked naked from the bathroom, her stride purposeful, at Michael's side she would stay. Wild horses could not drag her away from this unique and enigmatic man.

Looking out the window another thought came to her 'Woe be tide anyone who may wish him harm.'

Had anyone been looking at her in that moment they would have felt the pure menace radiating off of her, this was not a woman with which you wished to fuck.

..................

Nicholas felt Ian's presence long before the coast was in sight, shaking his head he moved towards the bow of the little trawler, interested to see just what Ian had on his mind.

"Why are you coming after Michael Dane," Ian said standing across from Nicolas on the windswept dock.

Nicholas looked beyond Ian, a blank expression played briefly over his features and then his focus returned and he stared into Ian's eye's.

"He is approaching ascension, it is much easier to deal with him before than after," Nicholas said matter of factly; his straightforward response took Ian by surprise.

"That is not the way it goes my friend, you don't have the luxury of taking out the opposition before the fight is balanced. How dare you presume to break traditions that have been observed for millennia," the venom in Ian's response was as evident as Nicholas's lack of interest.

"Rules not made by or agreed to by me, we have been at the whim of ancient edicts far too long and I for one will not be hamstringed by them any longer as I pursue my goals." Nicholas scoffed as he moved to push past Ian.

He was surprised by the immovableness of the man in front of him, his hand on Ian's shoulder felt as if it was grabbing an iron bar and it gave Nicholas a moments pause.

As soon as Nicholas had stepped onto the dock Ian had felt a presence join with him and provide it's strength to his own, the source could only be one thing, but that was...impossible.

He didn't budge when Nicholas tried to push past him; he stood like an ancient oak, barely noticing the pressure of the hand on his shoulder.

"Recognized by you or not," Ian said, fire dancing in his eyes as he stared at Nicholas "The rules exist, will you leave Michael alone?" Ian's question hung in the air the two men sizing each other up, Nicholas blinked first.

"How long?" Nicholas asked, removing his hand from Ian's shoulder.

"As long as it takes," Ian's response did not please the man standing in front of him.

There was a pause, the wind strengthening as it tore across the writhing dark gray water, battering the men as they stood before each other, the world seeming to take a deep breath.

"I'm going kill Michael, rest assured that is the eventual outcome," Nicolas finally said.

Ian presses a key on the phone lying within his coat pocket as Nicholas continued with a chuckle

"However, I will allow the course of events to unfold as they will, Michael will have no need to worry on my account until after he becomes," The chuckle fades and is replaced with a malice the likes of which Ian had never encountered. 

"Once he takes your place however...I shall feel his heart beat it's last within my palm," Nicholas finished and as he did, so did the energy of the moment...subsided.

"A wise choice Nicholas, best to let fate have her way with such things, you never know what may happen if we tempt her designs too often," Ian said gesturing absently towards Nicholas's chest.

Looking down Nicholas saw the three red dots centered on his chest, a moment later they disappeared and Nicholas laughed. "A pleasure to see you as always Ian, I look forward to enjoying a bit of the English countryside on my visit," he said walking around Ian without another word, striding off towards the car waiting for him on the quay.

Ian stood alone on the dock watching a squall line make it's way towards the shore. The dark clouds reflected his own chaotic feelings about this meeting and Michael's future.

..................

"I was so worried about you," Valerie's voice was breathless on the other end of the phone.

"I'm fine, got into the middle of some police operation with a terrorist cell, some soggy clothes is the worst of the damage," Michael said. 'No need to mention the bullet wound' he thought.

Valerie paused, trying to calm the rampant emotions coursing through her at hearing Michael's voice.

"I'm glad your ok Michael I have been worried about you, I was delayed here at my uncles and have been trying to get in touch with you too put off dinner, guess we will have to take a rain check on it," Valerie sighed a bit while saying this. All she wanted was to rush to Michael but uncle Ian had told her that she needed to stay at the castle until things were sorted out.

"I'm going to hold you to that rain check Valerie," Michael smiled in response "I've been thinking about you, when do you think you will be back into the city?" Michael was curious as to when he would be able to see her again.

"No more than a few days, I normally take the week before classes start off and then get back to it after, so I would think I should be back Friday or Saturday at the latest," Valerie answered. The idea of going almost a week without seeing Michael made her feel empty inside.

"Well, I look forward to dinner when you get back, if you don't mind may I call you through the week if I have any questions about the upcoming term and my classes," Michael asked. He was hopeful that he would be able to come up with at least 3 excuses to call her every day.

"Of course, call anytime for anything you may need," she said hastily, blushing at the implications of her innocent response.

"I should be able to go back to my place in a few hours, would you know of someplace close by where I could rent a scull," Michael asked, surprised that he remembered with everything that had gone on.

"You don't have to rent one, the Oxford boat house is about 2 kilometers from your place, just show your teaching credentials and they will give you whatever you need." Valerie responded.

The image of Michael shirtless pulling hard on the oars caused Valerie to catch her breath.

"Excellent, I'll be sure to track it down sometime in the next few days, I rowed a great deal in college and was hoping to get back onto the water. Perhaps sometime you would like to join me for a slow trip down the river?" Michael asked, enjoying the image of Valerie lying in the bow of a little river skiff, the sunlight dancing off her hair.

"Yes," her voice dropping to a low hungry tone "I think I would like that...very much," she answered.

There was a long pause as both of them got lost for a moment in their own visions of the other.

"I'll be sure to call often Valerie, I...miss you," Michael said.

With a soft sigh Valerie responded in kind "I miss you too Michael, I'll see you soon, ciao for now."

The conversation left them both wanting...

...............

Nigel hung up the phone; the conversation with Tera had been interesting.

All told it had been a bad day for the good guys. Six members of his team were dead, Tera was wounded and Michael was almost killed.

There was a bit of satisfaction placing the crosshairs of Sigarms R93 on Nicholas's chest but not enough to regain the day.

Talking with Ian on the way back from the meeting he was surprised that Nicholas had backed down.

"Oh, I don't think he has, we still need to be very vigilant, we have bought a bit of time and that is all, Nicholas is coming for Michael, we just put it off for the time being, I only hope it will be enough," Ian had said just before they landed back in Nogardshire.

Now riding back towards Oxford, Nigel had just gotten off the phone with Tera filling her in on what the cover story was for the operation and getting her version of the mornings action. He was surprised and pleased when she made an interesting request that fit well with the outcome of Ian's meeting with Nicholas.

"I understand we are a special op's team working with the locals, considering the amount of gunplay this morning, I would like to volunteer as Michael's bodyguard for the duration, we can simply say it is for security reasons till we are sure the whole cell has been rounded up." The tenor of her voice was not one of someone asking permission so much as it was one of stating a fact.

"Under the circumstances...that should be fine, I will speak with Michael when I get back. Get some rest now, you have had a long day," Nigel said as he hung up.

Nigel was pleased with the opportunity to keep one of his people close to Michael but also a little curious about Tera's insistence that it should be her guarding Michael.

Closing in on the Oxford safe house Nigel was wondering what he didn't know about the events of the morning and what their ramifications may be.

..................

Michael sat on the small bench looking out over the rooftops of Oxford.

He had seen Tera up and around, he was glad that she was not as hurt as he had assumed.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 12



Even as he thought it, the lie of it stung him.

Watching her moving around the flat, talking animatedly on the phone across a room, she seemed fine, hell she seemed way better than fine and this fact.... bothered him.

Not because he wished she were hurt, rather that he was more than simply relieved that she was ok.

He was pondering the nature of the duality of his feelings when she stepped through the small door onto the patio.

Staring at him for a moment, Tera looked at the ground as she spoke "I haven't had a chance to say thank you for this morning, what you did was amazingly brave," pausing while looking up into his eyes. Her features hardened just a bit as she continued "amazingly stupid as well Mr. Dane, you should never have tried to save me, I am trained in these types of things, it was fool hardy for you to take the actions you did. Now that I have lectured you, I really do appreciate you saving me." she finished. 

The look on her face conveyed a sense of need and things unsaid as she stood turning away from him to look out over the city in the slowly dying light of the day.

Michael rose and crossed to her side. "May I see where you were shot," Michael asked, his voice quiet, no sense of demanding more one of not being sure if he wanted her to say yes.

Reaching to the hem of her shirt Tera pulled it up on the side facing Michael.

He looked down at the small-discolored spot on her side, surprised at how it was almost not noticeable.

Without thinking his fingertips played softly over the small scar, causing Tera to catch her breath. He lingered for a moment, noticing the supple curve of her almost hidden breast beneath the shirt before the moment passed and she dropped the shirt back into place.

"Nigel has requested that you have a bodyguard for the next few days till we can be sure we have rounded up the rest of the cell, I volunteered if that is ok with you," Tera said as Michael looked into her eyes trying to gauge the truth of the statement.

"That's not really necessary, I am pretty good at taking care of myself, I appreciate the offer but I really don't think I need protection," he said.

The thoughts of her staying with him only fueled his previous questions about the duality of his current feelings.

"It's not really a request Mr. Dane, due to the severity of the situation, we insist that you have a bodyguard till we are sure the situation is in hand," she said, taking a chance, hoping that a hard line would help him to see things her way.

Walking behind her, almost touching her back with his chest he bent his mouth to her ear, his throaty whisper caught her off guard. "You had no trouble calling me Michael in the river, lets dispense with the Mr. Dane. Grab what you need and let's go, there are steaks in my refrigerator that need to be cooked...roomy"

She spun and watched him as he went through the patio door, her whole body quivered at the thought of his breath on her neck, what was she going to do about these feelings. She shrugged and followed after him, she did after all have a body to protect.

Michael smiled as he walked down the steps, feeling good about taking a bit of control in what had become an out of control situation, his smile widened as he heard the door above him open and Tera follow him down the stairs.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 13



Chapter 13

What you hear is the sound of your own breathing, heavy from having an opponent who pushes your limits, light when confronting someone of less skill, or balanced and steady when evenly matched.

Michael was breathing heavily, his total focus on his opponent, his vision both obscured and enhanced by the limited view through the tightly woven mesh.

It was in a word, exhilarating.

There are few places in life where you feel purely alive. Here, watching his opponent feign left and try to come in underneath his guard, Michael snarled, enjoying the primal feeling of life as he swung the thin blade of the foil in a quick arc, deflecting the attack and readying for his own was one of those places.

Aside from rowing, the other activity that consumed Michael's attention during high school and college was fencing.

As with rowing it was something that got put to the side as work, schedule and life began to take up more and more time. It's sirens call remained with him however, every four years he would make a point to catch the US fencing team during the Olympics, he would slip away and watch matches at UF when he could.

It was one of those private activities that were singularly his, that would allow him to escape and find a focus not attainable in the rest of his hectic life.

............

Two days had passed since his early morning swim.

Sunday evening he, with Tera in tow, were allowed back into his home and he set about getting ready for the week, highly aware of Tera always being within close proximity, always watching him.

Class didn't start for another week, but he had a few afternoon meetings with other faculty coming up and he wanted to check out the boathouse Valerie had mentioned to see if he could get some oar time.

Sunday evening was uneventful, although there was a...tension that Michael could not put his finger on. Tera had brought a small duffle bag, installed a few makeshift alarms on the windows and doors while he made dinner.

It was interesting and a bit...disturbing having a roommate. Michael had not lived with anyone since Sasha was killed; having Tera there brought up memories and desires that he was unsure how to deal with.

They had talked some, not an ongoing conversation more sharing bits and pieces of their lives through dinner. He learned of her time in the service, her recent "retirement" and the new position on Nigel's detail.

She did not press him for details of his life, she had read the dossier on him, knew about the crash that killed his wife and child, understood that he was here trying to move on and start over from that painful moment in his life.

The evening wound down quickly, both of them exhausted after a long, energetic and confusing day.

...............

The hard press of the rounded tip of the foil on his shoulder brought a smile to his face, 'damn, not concentrating,' he thought as the referee called point.

Taking off his mask he looked across at the young man who had been his opponent and walked over to shake his hand.

"Thank you for the match, it has been a long time, I appreciate you indulging an old man," Michael said jovially.

"Old...right," John said thinking that this "old man" was one of the toughest opponents he had ever had and he was thankful that he was "rusty".

Michael turned and found Tera watching him with a small smile on her face.

For the last two hours she had watched as he systematically obliterated everyone thrown up against him. In eight 15-point matches he only lost the last one and that by 3 touches.

It was interesting watching him fence, she had of course seen fencing before, but it was not a top tier discipline in the teams so she had only a passing knowledge. Now that he had found the Oxford fencing club she wondered if he would still return to the boathouse they had found Monday morning.

............

Tera was surprised to hear Michael up and around that first morning after the incident on the bridge. It was early, about a half hour before dawn when she heard movement from the upstairs loft.

Rising and stretching the kinks out of her muscles she called up to him "kind of early isn't it."

With concern in his voice he replied "Sorry to wake you, I've never been one to sleep the morning away, I usually run first thing to get the blood pumping."

She watched as he came down the stairs, thin workout pants, cross trainers, she noted the muscles and thick but not...unruly hair of his chest as he pulled the sweatshirt down over his head.

"Let me change, I'll go with you," she said, walking towards the bathroom.

"Are you sure your up to it, maybe you should rest today," Michael said about to continue until he caught the icy look she gave him over her shoulder.

"Hopefully YOU will be able to keep up Mr. Dane," she growled as she closed the door.

Shaking his head, Michael smiled, thinking it was interesting living with someone...lethal.

The run had been easy for both of them, as both of them did not want to "wear out" the other. They ran silently, matching each other's pace, lost for awhile in the simple act of being a living being, running through the pre dawn.

Michael pulled up in front of a small building about 2 miles from his flat. "Valerie told me about this," he said to no one in particular.

Tera looked at the small building more closely, numerous oars hung from the buildings exterior walls, some intact, others halved, all with dates on them. Tera walked closer running her fingers over the smooth lacquered finish of one of the older looking oars noting the date as 1912 "Dartmouth Regatta".

"When you win a race you mount the winning oar on the boat house," Michael said.

Tera started a bit at his voice, he was close, she could feel the heat from his body just behind her as he looked over her shoulder.

"My friend Valerie told me about this place, I use to row in college and had hoped to find someplace to rent a scull," Michael said, his hand settling naturally on her shoulder as he looked closer at the oars.

While Michael was not consciously aware of the simple gesture he made while looking at the Harvard oar, the same was not true for Tera.

It wasn't so much the setting of his hand on her shoulder, it was a purely instinctual act on his part, it was the form this simple natural act took on that startled her.

It started low below her shoulder on her upper back, three fingertips making contact gently with her, sliding smoothly up, more of his fingers pressing into her, and then his palm coming to rest on top of her shoulder, and as a grand finale those three fingertips now resting lightly between her shoulder and collar bone gave a small squeeze when the operation was complete.

Tera simply stared at the oars not seeing them, thinking back she had trouble finding another moment where she felt so much from a simple...natural gesture.

Michael moved off, around the corner, Tera looked after him, feeling both his absence from her side and the loss of contact with him, she was...stunned by the void.

"Closed, damn," she heard him say as she walked around the corner to see him looking at a small sign on the door.

"They won't be open for a few weeks, not till after the term starts," he said to her, his hangdog look made her want to hug him, she fought the impulse.

They started their run again, another mile then back the way they had come, as they ran he told her about his first scull, of the manatee, of loving the water. By the time they returned to his flat she was even more intrigued by him than she had been and this confused and bothered her to no end.

The rest of the day had passed quickly, trips to the school, finding Michael's classrooms, getting his assigned faculty office, 'suspiciously close to Valerie's,' Michael thought with a grin.

Then dinner out at a small pub and back to the flat for an early slip. Well at least for Michael it was an early slip.

Tera had trouble winding down it, had been an odd day shadowing someone during a "normal" day. Use to more volatile environments hanging around Oxford with Michael left her in an unusually restless mood.

She had checked in with Nigel twice, he confirmed that there was a loose team of three staying in the background just in case but Nigel told her that, at least for a few weeks, Michael should not be in harms way.

Nigel had called Michael once telling him it would probably be a few weeks before they were sure all of the cell members were in hand and thanking him for allowing Tera to stay with him to ensure his safety.

Lying in the dark Tera thought of the other phone calls during the day.

Four times Michael had called Valerie.

Each time the conversations were short, seemingly routine questions about the school, the job, location of things, he had told her of the boathouse being closed, etc. Each time she could see the change in Michael, the softening of his demeanor, the easy smile afterwards, Valerie was, by Tera's estimation, a very lucky woman.

Tera drifted to sleep that night with her hand on her shoulder, her thoughts filled with the feeling of Michael's touch and how it would feel if his touch had real intention behind it.

............

The next morning was more of the same, an early morning run, back to the flat then off to the university.

"Would you mind doing me a favor," Michael asked as they stood in the large classroom where his first year intro class would be held.

'Hehe, if you only knew,' Tera thought to herself.

"Sure, what do you need," she answered.

Looking at him she knew that he was a young girls wet dream today.

Wearing a heavy corded white turtle neck sweater, sleeves pushed up, black jeans and boots, if he dressed like this the young women in his class would be distracted to a fault.

"I would like to give my introduction speech and a live critique would be great," he said moving down to the lectern.

"Go ahead teach," grinning with her answer.

She was surprised by his passion; over the next 30 minutes she learned of his grandfather, his love of buildings, his desire to make grand spaces that inspired people. He spoke eloquently about his favorite buildings, railed against a few he thought were overrated and gave an outline of what he hoped to impart during the term.

As he finished she found herself sorry it was over and hoped that she would be required to guard his body into the term to see what came next.

The soft applause startled her as she stood and turned in one smooth motion assessing for any possible threats.

What she found was a young man and woman standing at the back of the auditorium clapping lightly.

"I wish you had been here in my first year, I might have stuck with architecture," the young man said with a joking inflection.

Michael walked up to the couple smiling "Well, I'm sorry we missed the opportunity, I'm Michael Dane, I'll be teaching the intro course this year for first years, this is my friend Tera," Michael said motioning to the woman who was now at his side.

"I'm James this is my friend Catherine, we didn't mean to intrude but heard someone in here and wanted to see what was what," James said.

Michael was more interested in their clothing than their reason for being in the class. "Your fencers?" Michael asked with an enthusiasm that was not lost on any of them.

"Yes, we are both members of the universities' team, do you fence?" James asked.

"I use to, a lifetime ago, any chance there is free fencing sometime during the day that an old hack like me could come to?" Michael asked hopefully.

James smiled "Every morning from 6 till 8," he said giving Michael the information and wishing him well as he and his girlfriend left. Both were impressed with the yank and wondering if they could audit the class.

"We have some shopping to do," Michael said to Tera with a definitely happy tone.

It didn't take long to find the small shop on Sutton Ferry Ln. just off campus that supplied the needs of Oxford's fencers.

It was like all such stores that cater to a very limited clientele, small, well stocked, with employees who were passionate about the world they called home.

"Good day can I help you," the voice said before the door chime had finished its light melody.

The man must have been in his late 60's, healthy and stout for a man his age, he gave off an aura of subtle power that was not easy to miss.

"Good afternoon, I was hoping to look at some of your foils and gear, I am new in town and haven't fenced for years but am looking to get back into it," Michael said, walking over and shaking the mans hand.

"Excellent, I am sure we can help you, the foils are over there on the wall, jackets, gloves, masks at the back," the man said looking over Michael and Tera with more than a passing interest it seemed.

Tera stood back and watched as Michael moved over to the foils, taking his time looking them all over, occasionally taking one down to get the feel of it in his hand, spinning small circles in the air with others, two found their way onto the counter as he moved back to the racks containing the jackets.

While Michael had been busy with the Foils, Tera had been watching the shop owner. He had an odd look in his eye as he watched Michael and then went to the back of the store, disappearing through the office door muttering something to himself.

Turning back to Michael she was surprised to see him taking off his thick sweater as he slipped into a fencing jacket. He pulled the front zipper closed from his waist to his neck and fastened the collar then moved to the gloves, finding one that he liked he put that on as well.

The masks took a bit longer, but finally he placed one on his head, hiding his face behind the black mesh, moving and twisting in place she watched passively, understanding that he definitely understood what he was looking for.

After placing the new found pieces on the counter he picked out two pairs of black slacks that looked as if they would fit tight 'I wonder what his ass will look like in those,' Tera mused to herself before pulling herself back from the thought.

The last thing was a black oblong bag obviously made for fencing with a large wide bottom and thin top, which would accommodate the mask at the bottom while providing the height required for the swords.

Just as Michael picked up this last, the man came back from the office carrying a folder.

"Ah looks like you found everything you need," the proprietor said as he moved behind the counter.

"Yes you have a wonderful selection, everything is so much lighter than I remember must be new materials, I was really surprised by the masks, its almost like not wearing anything compared to the old ones," Michael spoke animatedly, obviously pleased to be in a new, yet fondly remembered environment.

A pensive look passed over the shop owners face and then resolved as if making a decision.

He hesitated only a moment before picking up the glove and saying "I have an embroidery machine in the back, if my memory serves you preferred purple thread for your inscription."

Michael was shocked it showed momentarily on his face and then shifted to a self deprecating smile "I didn't realize you were a fan of ancient history" Michael said looking at the shop keeper with a good natured gaze.

"Not so ancient," the shopkeeper replied "My name Sam Crofton, it's a pleasure to meet you," Sam said extending his hand.

"The pleasure is mine," Michael said taking the offered hand in a bit longer shake than the first.

"I saw you at the NCAA finals, I was a coach at the time and had brought over several fencers to watch the best the USA had to offer, I was surprised when you didn't go to the world championships or the Olympics," Sam said as he opened the folder he had been carrying and pulled out a magazine.

On the cover was a picture of a much younger Michael holding his foil and helmet in one hand, shaking hands with some official with the other; the caption read "The best fencer in the world?"

Tera was surprised to see that Michael actually blushed when he saw the magazine.

"That was a long time ago, other things were more important and I had to make a choice, I don't regret not pursing it further but I am excited to get back into it as a hobby," Michael said staring at the picture with a wistful far away look.

"Hobby," Sam snorted, "that's like Bill Gates saying he is going to start another software company as a hobby."

Michael blushed deeper as Sam offered him a pen. "Would you mind, I would love to hang this with the others," he asked as he took the glove and headed back toward the office again.

It was a surreal moment for Michael, a life left long ago came crashing into the now with a force that surprised him, for several moments he was lost in those times, all those matches, all that training, two individual sports that he had excelled at, was it the right choice to let them slip away...unanswerable questions...he was happy with his life choices, happy for those he had shared his life with.... happy that Valerie and Tera were now very present in his life.

Tera...her easy inclusion as necessary in his life now caused him to look up sharply into the eyes of the woman next to him.

The intensity of his gaze shocked Tera, just as she was about to say something, his eyes softened and he smiled his lopsided grin, a light blush passing over his cheeks as he turned back to the magazine and signed it.

To Sam, a kindred Spirit, Michael Dane.

Tera and Michael wandered around the store a bit more, he grabbed a few t-shirts she looked over the foils and gear with more attention, both lost for the moment in their own thoughts.

Sam returned and rang up the purchases, he thanked Michael for the autograph indicating that it would be hung on the wall behind him, which held various pictures, and magazine articles all signed by the fencers they were about.

Before sliding it into the bag Michael took the glove and looked at the inscription, his thumb played over the three embroidered lines, remembering the first glove he had them placed on.

"What is it," Tera asked in a low voice close to his side.

Sam noticeably leaned closer hopping to hear the response as well.

"Well..." Michael began cautiously, he was not one to share details like this as they could very easily be construed as egotistical or just plain strange, but it had been a long time, there could be no harm.

"My grandfathers family came to the US from Norway, one day when I was little I was playing in the attic and came across a bag full of stones. On the stones were symbols, when I asked my grandfather about them he told me they were runes, an ancient written language used by the Vikings. I always enjoyed their...mystical feel...so I learned a bit about them. When I started to fence I wanted something on my glove as a...focus...before a match, I chose to do it in runes so others wouldn't think I was being...egotistical." Michael finished, his thumb still playing over the threaded runes.

"And," Tera asked impatiently noting Sam was nearly leaning over the counter listening to Michael.

Laughing Michael continued, "The first line says HONOR, the second COURAGE, the last VICTORY." The blush was back on his cheeks in full force.

Sam let out a breath smiling, Tera looked at the lines and slashes in dark purple on the wrist of the glove wondering just how many times it was raised in victory.

Michael thanked Sam for all of his help promising to come back again and that perhaps sometime they could have a match.

Sam thanked him profusely for the autograph yet again and said he would be happy to watch Michael fence but he had no desire to face him across anything other than a countertop or perhaps a pint.

The walk back to flat had been quiet. Upon returning Michael called Valerie to tell her about his impromptu lecture and that he had met a few fencers that he may want to have a match or two with.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 13



Tera just smiled and shook her head wondering what the next morning would hold.

............

Michael was surprised at how quickly he had fallen back into his old passion...and form.

The early matches had been against intermediate opponents that allowed him to reacquaint himself with the flow of the movements. He found his speed and reflexes were not bad. And thanks to the morning runs he didn't run out of breath as he was afraid he would do.

The middle matches were challenging but only built on his confidence, he anticipated his opponent's moves as he always had, being one step ahead of them he was able to make the touches when it counted.

By the time his final match with Oxford's and England's current best came up he was starting to feel the strain but put up a good effort only losing by 3 touches.

As he took off his mask and went over to the young man to shake his hand he was surprised to hear applause.

Fencing is near and dear to the hearts of Oxford.

With a rich and storied history that spans centuries it is one of the most popular and well-followed sports at the school. Looking around now that his focus was back on the real world, the crowd of over 100, including Sam, shocked and embarrassed him.

Once Michael had handily beaten his first 3 opponents word spread quickly around the campus that something...interesting was going on at the fencing gymnasium.

He made a short bow and wave to the crowd and then moved off to the side towards Tera.

"I've never seen anything like that," she said as he unzipped his jacket and ran his hand through his wet hair "you were amazing."

"I was lucky," he responded.

Sam and another older man walked over to the pair.

"Michael this is Dean Rensingham, he is the faculty head of the fencing program," Sam said introducing the other man.

Michael pulled off his glove and shook the other man's hand.

"Any chance you might like to coach a bit for us," the dean asked sheepishly, knowing that someone of Michael's caliber could really help the team out with their upcoming tournament in France.

"Ah, well, I guess I could spend an hour or two with the younger fencers, give them a few pointers and such," Michael said looking over the man's shoulder hoping to find a way out.

"Excellent, well I know your new and just getting your feet wet, I'll give you a ring in a few weeks see if we can't set up something," the dean said as he turned to leave, thinking that Mr. Dane could teach his best a thing or two, to hell with the younger ones.

Sam said his goodbyes and Michael spent a few minutes talking with some of the fencers he had bouts with.

Tera watched his easy grace with these young men and women, talking and joking with them while at the same time showing them a different grip, demonstrating a revised stance, the man was a natural teacher and here on this floor he was in his element.

As he walked towards the locker room Tera's eyes followed him.... 'yes, definitely a very nice ass,' she thought as she watched him disappear behind the door.

Noticing with a silent scoff that more than a few pairs of female eyes were staring at the closed door Michael had just gone through, Tera walked over to one of the young men Michael had been talking to. After watching him she felt a fervent desire to learn this discipline, after getting the name of a man who could give her some lessons she hurried after Sam to secure some purchases of her own.

Michael replayed the matches in his head as he stood under the hot spray of the shower, it was wonderful to be fencing again.

Like rowing it enlivened him, made him more than he was, provided him with a connection to the moment that was a gift even if that gift was a fleeting one. 

Standing there in the thick fog of the steam, feeling the warm tiles under his feet, his hands splayed on the wet wall, images of his years on the boards slipping through his consciousness Sara's image came up fully formed and his breath caught and then a smile played over his lips. 

Where there were memories of fencing there were always memories of Sara as well.

Michael had been on the UF fencing team, they were a small close nit group, both the men's and women's teams trained together and there was a strong camaraderie between all of them.

Sara was the best women's fencer on the team, (she would go on to win gold medals in foil and saber at the 2000 and 2004 Olympics).

Where Michael's main talent was reading his opponents and making the most of what they were going to do next, Sara as a fencer was all about strength and motion.

To watch her was to see a force of nature who would dazzle her opponents with speed and skill and then, while distracted, she would go for the kill. Her attitude in fencing was reflected in her attitudes towards life and men.

Michael had been in a locker room shower much like this one the first time he was intimate with Sara. They were friendly, had a bit of a rivalry, as they were the absolute best of the group. These facts lead naturally to their gravitating to the other.

After a regional championship tournament where Michael had watched Sara destroy her opponent in the final, Michael went to his own final where he won 15 to 3 in less than 20 minutes.

Riding that high, he had gone into the locker room to shower, the adrenaline still pumping standing there under the spray breathing in the water he was startled by a hand on his shoulder, turning he found a very naked Sara staring up at him with a wicked smile on her face.

His shock turned to disbelief as she knelt in front of him, taking his cock in her hands, kneading it, rubbing it slowly between her palms, it hardened quickly under her attentions, she looked up into his eyes, her head cocking to the side she smiled.... a predatory smile.... and said "To the Victors.... go the spoils," and with that her tongue snaked out caressing the tip of him before she took his length between her lips and deep into her throat in one long swallow.

Reaching up, Michael grabbed the shower head to steady himself, Sara's muscular arms were wrapped around his thighs as her lips and tongue drew on him insistently, the heat of the steamy room only added to his own heat which was rapidly growing to the point of fusion.

Looking down, her close cropped red hair was wet, her body covered with those glistening drops of water that cling to a woman's body in a way that defies gravity but provides a kaleidoscope of miniature diamonds on a woman's skin whenever it is wet.

His balls rose as he got closer, he heard her low animal moan around his dick as she felt this and picked up her pace, she wanted him, she wanted to consume him, she would accept nothing less.

He was watching her, looking down as he came, her face twisted and at first he had an instant of regret, thinking he should have warned her, but then he understood as the arms that were gripping him tightened, and shuddered as an orgasm washed over her as his began.

She sucked hard withdrawing all of him but the tip from her mouth, this she suckled on, urging every drop from him while savoring the salty tang of his essence.

As his orgasm finally subsided, the mystery of this wonderful giving and connection slipping away, it was replaced with his own need, his own want of the victors' spoils.

Pulling her up, both hands behind her head he kissed her deep and hard, he tasted himself and that unique flavor that each woman has when tasted by a lovers kiss.

She was surprised but then clung to him, the kiss drawing out there under the unending warmth of the water pouring over them, his hands moved down her back, caressing her muscles, outlining them as they moved down to her firm ass. 

He parted her, fingers searching finding her tight wet center a finger then two slipped within her, she moaned around his tongue as he spread his fingers, opening her, getting her ready. She felt his renewed firmness between them, its insistent hard heat making his intentions plain.

He knelt this time, one of her legs hooking over his shoulder at the knee, his tongue finding her wet warm juices oozing from her nexus, she tasted like a woman in lust; lush, needy, wanting. Her clit was hard and long, his teeth grazed her sensitive center and she shuddered as another orgasm coursed through her, his teeth caressed her, holding her clit exposed pushing back the hood, his tongue danced circles around it, making her moan loudly as another orgasm threatened to take her. His fingers slid within her warm silken depths, his teeth and tongue and lips suckled on her pleasure point and she fell over the edge, this orgasm crashing over her eliciting a long low moan of a woman in the throes of wanton passion.

Michael felt the new moisture warm and slick wash over his fingers as Sara came again, his hard cock bobbed between his legs, his need would not be denied.

He stood and took her, kissing her deeply sharing her essence with her as she had shared his with him.

Then he was spinning her around bending her over, she grabbed onto the edge of the small half wall that divided the showers from the rest of the locker room and spread her legs, wanting nothing more than for him to be within her.

He paused only a moment, looking down at her muscular form bent before him, her pink center open like a flower beckoning to him, the thick steam lending an air of mystery and magic to the moment that was not lost on him.

He entered her in one long slow thrust; her tight cunt stretching around him to accommodate his width, from her core issued a moan of pure need and desire.

"Fuck me Michael, take me, hard," she gasped as she tightened her grip on the wall. Michael was happy to oblige.

They stayed joined for a long time, his deep fast strokes taking her from one orgasm to the next, she was amazed at the intensity of the coupling of the pure primalness of it, never had she dreamed of something this intense.

For Michael it was the quintessential moment of lust made manifest. An equal need being fulfilled by two people who found themselves in the same space in the right moment.

Being there with her, wrapped in the warm foggy embrace of the steam, nothing else mattered but the point of union, the joining that made them for this instant one being, with two hearts, two minds but one singular shared passion.

Michael grabbed Sara's hips and pulled her to him, burying himself within her, he felt her internal muscles ripple over the length of him, faster and faster as her orgasm built. He held her close as his own orgasm, fueled and fulfilled by the natural internal motions of a woman in the midst of a powerful orgasm pushed him beyond the brink.

Rope after rope erupted from him, bathing her vise like pussy in his essence, culminating the most intense sex either of them had ever had, or would have for many many years to come.

Michael was panting leaning up against the wall as Sara slowly disengaged and turned around, she bent and took his half hard member in her mouth, savoring the liquid heat and taste of their shared passion.

She kissed him lightly, her lips playing gently over his, their taste lingering long after her lips were gone.

Her hand moved behind his head, her mouth near his ear.

"To the victors" she whispered and then she was gone, disappearing into the mist like a nymph of old, leaving Michael wondering if anything would ever come close to this moment.

......

He was shocked from his reverie by Tera's voice, "Hurry up in there I'm hungry," her voice sounded playful as Michael turned off the water.

"I'll be out in a minute," he yelled, needing a few minutes to let his raging hard on subside.

Walking out of the locker room, bag slung over his shoulder, wet hair slicked back over his head Tera asked from beside him. "So what are you hungry for?"

Michael only smiled and slid his hand to the small of her back, "I'm sure we can think of...something," he said as they stepped from gymnasium into the bright light of the August morning.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 14



Valerie looked at the clock on the dashboard for the hundredth time in the last hour. No matter how often she looked it never seemed to move fast enough.

The week in Nogardshire had been good, and frustrating. In a rare occurrence both Ian and Millie were there and she kept herself busy with plans for the festival now only a week away.

The days had been full, she learned more about Michael, as Ian had given her his entire file on him.

Reading through it gave Valerie a deeper perspective on this unique man who had captured her heart in such a short time. The week away had given her a much-needed pause, learning to understand her own feelings from a neutral space, instead of one in the middle of the whirlwind.

"We will be up on Friday afternoon, I have spoken to Michael several times and he is looking forward to the festival," Valerie said to Ian, as she put her suitcase in the boot of her car getting ready to head back to Oxford.

"We are all looking forward to meeting him Valerie, be safe," he said as he pulled the young woman towards him giving her a warm hug before she slipped behind the wheel.

Valerie had been surprised at the level of detail in Ian's files. She had watched Michael graduate from high school, row in the single man scull at the NCAA finals, graduate from college, give a presentation on a proposed building, seen the love in his eyes as he and Sasha had wed.

It struck her as strange that Ian had quite this level of background on Michael, she could buy the whole "distant relative" bit, but that only went so far. When she had questioned Ian about it last night he was...evasive.

"This seems like a great deal of trouble to stay current on a distant relative Uncle," Valerie said as they sat in the drawing room after supper.

Ian paused, giving a meaningful look to Millie before responding.

"His branch of the family tree is interesting, he is the last of a very strong branch of that tree, as the..." Ian's pause caused Valerie to focus on him even more, noting the tension in his usually calm features. "...head of the family," he continued "I think it is my place to make sure that those in the line are watched so they can be helped if needed," Ian concluded taking a very large drink of his port.

One of the other things she was not sure of was this whole "terrorist" attack last weekend. She had read some of the reports from Ian's people, even watched the news to get some more information, she found it odd that it never showed up.

Ian and Millie both had seemed eager for her to stay, she didn't know if it was concern for her and Michael's budding relationship or simply the desire to visit after too long of an absence.

Either way it had been an enjoyable week, classes began tomorrow and she had a date with Michael this evening for dinner. It would be interesting to see if there was any difference between them with a little time past.

She knew on her side there was a difference; if she could make it through dinner without jumping his bones for an energetic shag she would be amazed.

Giggling to herself she thought back to the last bit of info on Michael Uncle Ian had given her.

It was a video of Michael fencing at Oxford. She knew about Michael's love of fencing as it was well documented in the files, but watching him do it, seeing the grace and power as he would go from perfectly still to a flurry of motion and then back to still again in two blinks of an eye was mesmerizing. Looking at him on the street she would never have guessed what power lay beneath his thick turtlenecks and tight blue jeans.

She quivered a bit at the thought and checked the clock once again.

......

Ian watched as Valerie's car drove through the high stone gate of the castle, the gray clouds had begun moving in early, it would be a cool afternoon leading up to a cold night, fall was here, a time to reap what had been sown.

Walking back into the castle he caught a glimpse of Millie, she smiled and made for the stairs, he was more than happy to follow her.

"Millie, do you think Valerie is up to knowing the truth, of opening herself to Michael, of being there for him, understanding the sacrifices she will need to make?" Ian asked as his hand played slowly over the smooth skin of her shoulder.

"I think she is stronger than you know," she began, shifting her body to its side facing the man she had loved and called partner, friend, and lover for all these years. Her hand moved to his chest, her knuckles playing over his muscles as she continued. 

"Living a life is difficult Ian, a normal everyday life, getting up, going to work, making sure you are a good person, it is a full time job. Throw in another person and some things get easier, some things harder, it is, as with all things in life, al about balance."

Her hand moved softly on him, caressing him in that slow sensuous manner of long time lovers, there is no hurry in these, just the acknowledgement and enjoyment of being and touching your other half.

"Valerie is a strong independent woman, she knows her own mind, has grown up around you, while not being included in everything, I think she will understand and embrace the truth of it once she knows," Millie said, moving her hand to her own hip as she regarded Ian's closed eyes and knitted brow.

"She is the child I never had, I am allowing her into a very dangerous world by accepting her affection for Michael," Ian said, lost in his own thoughts.

"Allowing?" Millie laughed, "There is nothing you could do or say that would alter the path she is on with Michael."

"Tera could change things for both of them," Ian sighed, wondering why Nigel had allowed her to stay with him.

Millie paused at this, thinking deeply about her own relationship with Ian.

They had chosen to live together, chosen to give the other themselves totally and alone. But the times were different then, simpler...probably not.... but more constrained by what was even thinkable let alone allowed.

Things were different today, would she share, if he asked?

"What will happen is up to them, Michael seems quite taken with Valerie, I don't think an hour went by all week that they weren't on the phone about some small this or that. And as for Tera...where she fits in is up to them and herself, why worry over that which you cannot control. Let it go, at least it will not be dull," Mille laughed, bringing Ian back to the moment.

"I love you," he whispered as he moved his lips to her neck, his body slipping next to hers.

.........

Nicolas stood at the window of the Grosvenor House suite looking down over St. Jame's, the dull gray sky made him yearn for the pristine clear air of the mountains.

"Ah well, soon enough," he said to himself as he turned from the frenetic city view and back to the laptop on the antique desk.

While he had assured that fool Ian that no harm would come to his precious Michael for a while, it did not mean he would'nt continue to keep tabs on him.

He watched the video of Michael fencing for the fifth time, impressed by his speed and skill, though he would never admit it to anyone, especially himself.

Nickolas had turned his attention to other things, having to be in this god forsaken country, he might as well find something to entertain himself with as Mr. Dane was, for the next few days atleast, out of reach.

"Dimitri, what is your status," Nickolas said into the headset of the encrypted satellite phone.

"We picked up the target about 20 minutes ago, we are keeping a loose pursuit until we get beyond the area you specified, we will call in after to receive the go ahead," Dimitri answered and then hung up.

Nicholas smiled and picked up his glass of whiskey, taking a long deep pull of the amber liquid, he thought this little diversion would be quite pleasant and serve many purposes...it was good when it was so.

............

Michael sat at the table surrounded by books and drawings. The week had passed quickly, he was looking forward to seeing Valerie tonight, but he was also concerned about his growing feelings for Tera.

What started off as something to be tolerated had quickly moved onto something more, at least for him.

After getting settled back into his new flat, orienting himself with the role of 'teacher' and finding that his love and proficiency level at fencing had stayed almost as they were two decades ago, he felt he was starting to relax into this new phase of his life.

The energetic variables in the equation were Valerie and Tera.

He had been immediately attracted to Valerie, her softness, her easy laugh, the light that danced behind her eyes when he touched her, it was a parallel to what he had seen and loved so much about Sasha.

And that concerned him, was he in falling in love with a supposed manifestation of Sasha or with the very real and corporeal Valerie.

This question plagued him as he moved through the week, he wrestled with it often but in the end came to the conclusion that yes, he was seeing her, yes there were similarities of feeling, but not of thought and action, she was Valerie, not a mannequin on which Sasha's memory was being laid.

Tera on the other hand was something totally...unexpected.

Living with her held surprises, he was amazed how she could be masculine and feminine in a balance that he had never encountered before. 

This morning had been a prime example. As had become their routine they ran the canal, starting well before dawn.

The runs always were done mostly in silence, this morning Tera had surprised him by asking a question not long after they left the flat.

"Would you like to be alone this evening with Valerie," Tera asked as they made their way through the light cool fog of the pre dawn, the only sound that of their feet hitting the pavement.

The question caught Michael completely off guard.

"Well...yes, I suppose that would be best," he answered, not sure where this was going.

"That's what I thought,' she said, speeding up her pace a bit, "I will go and do a debriefing with Nigel," she paused before continuing, "if Nigel believes there is still a continuing threat I will have him post some watchers around your place so I won't have to.... disturb...your evening," she finished, picking up the pace a bit more forcing Michael to catch up with her once again.

"I hadn't thought of you leaving," he said honestly.

They ran quietly for awhile, making the turn that would bring them back along the opposite side of the canal, their backs to the now rising sun as they ran to complete their circuitous route.

"I didn't say I was leaving, I just thought you may want a little privacy tonight is all, you didn't see my duffle packed by the door this morning did you?" she huffed, the pace they were setting was stronger than the other mornings, both were sweating heavily.

They had started the run about ½ a meter apart, now as they closed in on the flat, they were almost shoulder-to-shoulder. The proximity was not lost on either of them.

Standing in the kitchen, a half full bottle of orange juice upturned at his lips he watched as Tera stretched after the run. She had taken off the running suit she had been wearing, underneath was what she always wore, a sports bra and small skintight shorts.

Her arms extended over her head, causing her body to lengthen, her muscles pulled taught, the mocha colored skin of her low back glistened from their morning exertions.

He almost choked on the OJ as she turned quickly, finding him watching her, she gave him a perplexed look for a moment, something akin to a tiger in the zoo who becomes aware of the humans watching and wonders why his food is daring to stand so close.

The look passed from her face and it softened quickly, a sly smile crossed her lips as she walked past him, pulling the bra over her head just before she vanished down the hall towards her room.

And the day moved on as the others had.

Tera was interesting company and they talked on and off through out the day, he learned of her less than idyllic childhood, she of the loss of his wife and unborn child, they grew closer but there was always an edge to her, some part of her that was untouchable.

Michael wrote it off as her being a professional on a job, a job that entailed great risk and the need for action...possibly violent action at a moments notice.

Tera was sitting on the couch watching Michael prepare for his first lecture tomorrow. She was surprised at the commitment he had put into making sure the class would be both educational and entertaining.

"Architecture is forever," he had told her over dinner the night before.

He had been animatedly telling her of what he wanted to cover in the class and gotten lost in his almost spiritual zeal of the subject. Tera found his passion for the subject only stoked her passions for him.

She was disappointed when he realized his tangent and stopped, apologizing to her for ranting as he stood quickly grabbed their plates and moving into the kitchen. 

She shook her head noticing the pronounced wetness between her legs. 'Who would have thought Baroque revival architectural themes could be sexy,' she thought to herself as she moved to the kitchen to help with the dishes.

Now sitting there in the early afternoon, after running with him this morning, after asking him about the evening, him telling her that he hadn't thought of her leaving, she wondered if there was a chance, even a small chance that there could be more between the two of them.

This train of thought broke as she watched his animated, grinning face switch to a countenance of fear, the blood draining from his rugged features in the blink of an eye.

She was up and moving before her observation was complete.

............

'She is in danger Michael,' the voice in his head seemed calm but there was an...urgency that had not been there before.

'Where is she," he said both verbally and in his mind.

'Just go, I will lead you too her.'

.........

Tera's hand closed around Michael's wrist, it felt like grabbing a piece of hot iron, firm but still supple, her other hand went to his face caressing his cheek. "Michael," she said, in a worried tone that surprised her almost as much as his hand coming up and over hers where it lay on his face.

The steely look in his eyes almost scared her...almost.

"We have to go, now!" he said as he stood, grabbing her hand and running for the door.

All they had was her Ducati, it would have to do.

"You drive I'll tell you where to go," he said as he slid behind her on the skeletal frame of the powerful motorcycle, encircling her hips in a tight embrace.

The engine coughed to life and Tera eased the clutch, only slipping sideways a bit before the rear wheel found its traction on the wet road hooking up and pushing them forward at ever increasing speed.

Michael closed his eyes after telling Tera to head for the A44.

'What is going on,' he asked in his head, his tone was not happy.

'Someone has the intention of hurting Valerie, she may be able to get out of it herself, then again she may not, best that you are there,' the deep comforting voice replied.

'What is your name?' Michael asked, it was one of the questions that had been bothering him ever since their first communication, it would be easier if he had a frame of reference like a name for this...presence...when it was around.

Pauses in verbal conversations can be awkward; having one in a conversation in your own mind is simply...disturbing. Finally she replied.

'You may call me *Aoife,' the voice replied, as if in doing so it gave up a very sacred part of itself.

'Thank you Aoife for everything you have done for me,' Michael thought in the most heartfelt way he knew how.

Aoife was stunned by the power of his feelings when he said thank you to her. Rarely in her long life had she found humans to be capable of great depth of feeling, nothing akin to her own kind, for the first time since the great parting she felt that depth of feeling now. That great need and power of simple heartfelt truth, and the fact of it gave her pause, during the pause she honored all those of her kind who had given up their lives, hearts, souls and essences for the mere chance of someone...like Michael.

"She is close, tell her to head north at her earliest opportunity,' Aoife told Michael in an urgent but comforting tone.

"We need to get off this, head as close to north as you can as soon as you can," Michael's yelled instructions registered in Tera's head, which was already processing several things at once.

The turn off came up quickly and Tera had to lean the bike at a steeper angle than she would have liked to make it, she felt Michael hold her tighter at the apex of the turn and then relax as they powered on down the ramp.

Taking the northern most road to her right Tera accelerated smoothly as the terrain changed from multilane highway to rural back road.

She ran through the events in her head, the professional in her coming to center stage.

'I need to inform Nigel,' she thought as her hand slipped into her pocket and keyed the emergency call number. It was all she had to do, once it was received Nigel would track her and dispatch a backup team, back up for what she had no idea.

The road played out ahead of them and there was little traffic, the winding hilly road forced Tera to concentrate, every muscle in her body was tense, she knew something was waiting on this road and she mentally prepared herself for whatever that may be.

'She is a warrior,' Aoife's strong voice took on an almost sensual tone in her head.

He knew she was talking about Tera, no matter what other thoughts had flitted through his consciousness about the woman he now clung to, warrior was the foundation for all of them.

He felt the warmth where his chest met her back, his fingers played over the taught muscles of her abdomen as he hung on to her, she was rock hard, a warrior, ready to do battle, willingly so.

'Around the next bend, be ready and...be careful,' she said as her consciousness slipped from his and the scene around him took on a new and terrifying clarity.

"Around the next bend, be ready," he yelled to Tera as he reached out his thoughts as he had that day on the bridge to try to find the source of the danger.

Valerie was lost in thought, driving by memory when the black sedan passed her bringing her back to the present. "Shit," she said, shaking herself 'wouldn't do to get in a wreck now,' she thought.

As that thought finished her car was hit from behind, looking in the rearview mirror she saw another black sedan riding her bumper.

"What the hell!" she yelled as the car in front of her came to an abrupt stop, forcing her to throw the Vauxhall into a too tight swerve that brought her clear of the car in front of her but completely out of control.

Trying her best to correct the turn and bring the car back under control she over compensated, the road dropped out from beneath her as it went down a small hill and she felt the nauseating sensation of the car beginning to flip over.

As they crested the hill both Tera and Michael saw the car flip over. Tera took in the scene quickly, two black sedans, five people she could see, possibly more in the cars, the mark's car on its roof beyond both, three men running towards the flipped car.

Michael saw the three men running towards Valerie's car, with a flare of anger he reached out to the three men. Entering their minds he pictured blackboards where their consciousness was, and then quickly erased them.

Tera saw the three men slump to the ground, wondering what was going on as she pulled the bike to a stop behind the overturned car.

Leaping off the bike she went into a low crouch, moving behind the damaged rear bumper she surveyed the scene noting the ever-growing pool at her feet.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 14



"Get her out as fast as you can, there is too much petrol leaking from the tank, its going to explode," Tera yelled as she moved behind him to the front of the car bringing her Walther up scanning the other two cars.

............

"Michael," she sighed seeing his face appear at the shattered window next to her. 

"It's ok, I'm going to get you out of here," he said as he moved into the car through the window trying to find the release for the seat belt.

One of the sedans pulled away and accelerated out of sight, the two gunmen that took up positions behind the front and rear of the remaining black Mercedes commenced firing.

Upon hearing the gunfire and then an instant later feeling the white heat of a bullet passing too closely to his shoulder, Michael looked out the window and saw the other two men raising their rifles.

'Damn it!' he cursed in his head and reached out once again. It was harder this time, seeming to take much more energy, one of them he couldn't read at all the connection to the other was tenuous.

In that instant he could only think of saving Valerie and getting her and Tera out of there, one less person shooting at them would help achieve that goal. Drawing his strength he moved into the mans mind; again he conjured a blackboard and began to erase another's life.

.........

The man at the front of the car slumped over the hood, Tera concentrated on the last gunmen, taking a chance she moved quickly, slipping around the overturned car and running straight towards the gunman who had paused for just a moment to look over at his fallen comrade, it would be the last thing he saw.

He caught her movement out of the corner of his eye, moving fast straight at him, he brought his gun up in a slow arch, tracking her movement trying to get to a point he thought she would be at when the muzzle was level with her.

At the last moment Tera switched direction, making a quick turn towards the front of the car launching herself over it as she came within a few feet. She twisted in mid air; the gun in her hand spouting a small flame as the final round exited the barrel on its twirling trajectory towards the gunman's head.

He didn't even see her move, only seeing the flash from the front of the car. His body was slumped to the ground from the impact and he lay there on the side of the road, a small rivulet of blood sliding down his forehead and over his open unseeing eye from the angry black hole left by the passing of her bullet.

Tera landed on the hard pavement, rolled and was back up and moving towards the over turned car before the gunman's body hit the ground.

She saw the blue flames starting to show from the engine; she increased her speed yelling, "HURRY!"

.........

Michael found the catch and engaged it, Valerie's body slumped against him, he hurriedly pulled her to him and out of the car.

Valerie was coming around, she felt the pull of the seatbelt release, the firmness of Michael's chest as he pulled her too him and out of the car.

She opened her eyes as he picked her up and ran from the car. Glancing over she saw another woman; she should have known her name...familiar...police? She was running close behind Michael, her hand on his back. 

She heard and then felt the explosion, the heat washing over her. She found herself on the ground again, not pavement this time though, soft grass. She felt another body next to her, she saw the other woman looking at her.

They both looked up to see Michael above them.

He was shielding them from the explosion, crouched down between them and Valerie's flaming car, a look of pure concern, need and pain playing over his features.

Then, as they watched, Michael slowly rose, his eyes focusing on something behind them.

Both women followed his stare and found another gunman on the hill behind them.

.........

Tera tried to pull her gun out but it was empty and trapped beneath her from where Michael had grabbed her and thrown her in front of himself to shield her.

Valerie tried to scream but it caught in her throat as she glanced at Michael, meeting his calm gaze they connected for an instant and then she saw his gaze shift and give a look that matched her own to the woman lying next to her.

.........

'What is he doing?' Tera wondered and then she was lost for a split second as their eyes met and she fell into their warm brown depths, reveling in the before unknown understanding of pure love and care.

The moment ended and she watched mute as Michael moved.

.........

'No energy left or he is shielded, they will die unless...,' his move was automatic, pulling the last of his strength he leapt over the women at his feet, shielding them as the gunman pulled the trigger, the machine pistol spewing a stream of fiery death as Michael's body moved between it and the two women he now acknowledged...he loved.

As the bullets started to hit him his last thought was a penance 'Aoife.... I'm...sorry'

*

*The name Aoife comes from the Celtic origin. In Celtic The meaning of the name Aoife is: A great warrior woman of myth. Pronounced EE-fa 



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 15



Chapter 15

"Damn it," Nigel said under his breath. The thumping rotor noise of the Lynx Mk8 drowned out his words to the other 5 passengers of the helicopter as it moved smoothly 50 meters above the ground.

The explosion just over the hill surprised him and left him with a sense of dread. 

"Open the god damn door, deployment alpha, get us the fuck down there!" he yelled, as the tension grew exponentially in the cabin. All of them could see the flames and dark ominous smoke billowing up from just over the next rise.

Sims swung out the door, placing a foot on the landing skid bringing the Sig 556 up to firing position. The men behind him got into their ready positions, Nigel upfront next to the pilot flexed his hands a few times then slid the Desert Eagle from it's holster, hoping without reason that the scene that was about to be revealed would not hold...death for one of his charges.

.........

Tera looked over at Michael's slumped form as he lay on the ground, no movement, no sound, 'he is dead,' she thought to herself; a rage, unlike anything she had ever experienced threatened to engulf her, as her gaze shifted to the gunman on the berm behind them.

She tried to get up, pushing off from the ground but her right arm gave way beneath her, 'wrist broken,' slipped across her mind as she fell back towards the ground.

The gunman saw the movement, was raising his machine pistol again, Valerie was sobbing next to her on the ground, both of them devastated by the loss of Michael, both of them shocked by the sacrifice he made, giving up his own life to save theirs.

Tera slid a full clip from her back pocket, trying in vain to reload with only one useable hand, the killers gun almost level with them now, she screamed out in frustration, more upset about Michael's sacrifice than her own impending death.

Tera's scream was drowned out by the noise of rotor blades as, much to her surprise, a lynx crested the hill behind the assassin, looming up and hanging there like a black swathed angel of death.

............

Sims took in the scene in an instant, 5 down, 3 friendlies at 2 o'clock, one unfriendly at the top of the rise. It only took the blink of an eye for him to assess the situation. Three controlled shots spat from the 556's muzzle, all three hitting their target, turning the unfriendlies' head into a bloody pulp before he had a chance to pull the trigger of his own gun.

"Get us down there now!" Nigel yelled as the helicopter banked right and descended to the road.

............

"You are very impetuous," Aoife's voice resonated around him as he lay on what seemed to be cool damp moss.

Lifting himself up and looking around he was surprised to see a great cavern rising above him, stalactites hung from the ceiling, their milky tips barely visible in the dim light of the fires that burned in ancient iron braziers on the stony walls.

"Where am I," he said, looking down at his body. He was surprised to find himself naked, even more surprising were the seeping, livid bullet holes that moved in a broken pattern across his torso and legs.

"Are they safe?" he asked to the air, remembering the sight of Valerie and Tera beneath him on the grass, the gunman, his jump between them as the assassin's gun began firing.

'His first thoughts are of them,' she thought to herself, not surprising considering his depth of feeling for the two women, but still, 'He can see the bullet holes' she thought smiling.

"They are in good hands, you saved them," she said, watching from her high perch in the upper reaches of the cavern.

"I'm dead," he said to no one in particular as he gingerly fingered a bullet hole just below his left nipple.

"Not...exactly" was the chuckling response that echoed through the cavern.

............

Nigel jumped from the helicopter, his team running after him as they moved over to the women lying beside the road.

"Help Michael," Tera yelled, the pain in her arm forgotten as she crawled toward the fallen figure a meter away.

"Stay still!" Nigel barked at Tera as the rest of the team went to work forming up a loose perimeter around the three people on the ground. The medic moved to Valerie first.

"Are you hurt?" he asked bending down over the sobbing young woman. "I'm fine, a bit bruised, please please check Michael," she sobbed pointing towards his still form on the road.

"They weren't after Michael, Nigel, I didn't know what was going on, he just grabbed me and told me we had to go that she was in danger," Tera said to Nigel as she watched the medic move over to Michael's body.

"They were after her, he knew, somehow he knew and brought us right to her, there were two cars, one ran when the shooting started. Nigel, four of them just dropped dead, no shots no nothing, just dropped like marionettes with their strings cut." She paused shaking her head, the incessant throb of her wrist becoming more and more painful.

"It's ok Tera you did well, not to worry now just sit there we will get you fixed up and out of here in minute." Nigel said, noting the broken look in Tera's eyes as she watched the medic work over Michael's body.

"Sims," Nigel called, "check out that sedan over there, do a full sweep of it and the dead, see if there is anything we can use to track down who these animals belong too."

"Will do," Sims responded as he moved slowly and professionally over to the dead bodies. He found them clean, no ID, nothing but the Finish RK45 assault rifles and spent cartridges. Moving to the sedan he looked over the interiors, again...clean...no registration not even VIN numbers, slick and professional.

"I've got nothing on the hitters or the car Nigel, just RK45's and some spent rounds," Sims said moving back to Nigel while keeping his eyes always scanning the terrain. "Alright, grab the field kit, grab fingerprints and send them to HQ, maybe we will get lucky." Nigel said as he helped Tera to her feet.

Tera walked over to the now standing Valerie, putting her good arm around the other woman's shoulder. "He will be ok," she said in a brave voice that betrayed her own lack of conviction.

Valerie looked at the woman next to her, noting the lean face and dangerous eyes, behind which lingered a pain she knew was reflected in her own. "I hope so," Valerie said in a halting voice that held little in the way of...hope.

"He's stopped breathing!" yelled the man crouching over Michael, as he opened a large red case and began cutting Michaels shirt off.

Valerie slipped her arm around Tera and bent her head to the other woman's shoulder, the tears burning hot where they landed on Tera's bruised skin.

...............

"What do you mean not...exactly," Michael asked to the air as he stood up, noticing that he was actually on a small spit of rock jutting out of what appeared to be a large lake within the cavern.

His question was answered with another "Why did you apologize to me in your last instant, why were you not apologizing to your women for leaving them in such a fool hardy, if valiant, manner," Aoife's voice responded, bouncing off the cavern walls, giving the effect that she was everywhere, and no where, all at the same time.

Michael paused before responding, closing his eyes, stretching his body, arms above his head, he was surprised he didn't feel all that bad. Rolling his neck he wished he had a cigarette, then he spoke.

"You have...always been with me, not in the way you have over the last few weeks, but all my life, in those moments of...transition, you were there to help and guide me, you are the one who saved me when I was at my lowest, with the taste of gun oil in my mouth and a singular drive to end it all. While it would be easy to say it was coincidence that whatever...this is..." waving his arms in a long sweeping motion around him before continuing, "...there must be something in it for you, something you need or want me to do, I understand that and I am...sorry I won't be able to provide you with whatever it was you had intended," he finished, closing his eyes again, felling a bit drained, as if the mere act of speaking was using up a great deal of energy.

There was a long pause, the air in the cavern seemed to become heavy, compressing a bit, as if the whole of the place was sinking deeper into the earth. There were occasional splashes as bits of rock and debris fell into the shadowy abyss of the lake, Michael stood on the small island impassively, wondering what the afterlife would be like, wondering briefly if he would see Sasha again.

"You will see here again Michael" Aoife said as a massive gust of wind knocked Michael to his knees, he covered his eyes as it quickly receded.

"But not yet, to much to do, you are strong, you can survive much, and you are strongly lucky, which never hurts" the receding voice of Aoife called as the world went gray and then black, he was overwhelmed by the abyss, slipping into her inky embrace once again.

...............

"Clear!" yelled the medic as Michaels prone form jumped under the shock from the emergency defibrillator.

The pause seemed to last for hours "I've got a pulse, its weak and a bit thready but it's there, we need to get him to a hospital" the medic said as he finished bandaging the last of Michael wounds. He and another member of the team picked up the litter, carrying Michael to the waiting helicopter.

"Ladies, best we away," Nigel said, leading the two women towards the helicopter as it's rotor spun up for lift off.

The trip was uneventful; Michael moaned Valerie and Tera's names a few times, muffled by the oxygen mask over his face.

Valerie could not take her eyes off the bandages, there were six large, red stained triage bandages ranging from Michael's thighs up across his abdomen, chest and shoulder. His skin had a gray pallor to it that reminded Valerie of the corpses she had seen in the cadaver lab at Oxford.

She reached out and took his hand in hers, it was cold, clammy, but as soon as she slid it into hers it closed around her hand, even so close to death he comforted her, the tears began anew.

Tera was already holding Michael's other hand in her good one, the broken wrist now bandaged and in a sling across her chest.

She had been in battles, seen heroic actions taken, but this, it was such a personal thing, not grounded in duty or honor, but coming from a place of pure emotion...of love?

The question hung in Tera's mind as she felt the brief squeeze on her hand from Michaels, her eyes turned stormy, vengeance moving full force and unrestrained within her.

Next to the pilot Nigel keyed in a secure line on his headset and waited for Ian to pick up.

"Ian it's Nigel," he said, hoping that Valerie could not hear him.

"What's wrong, what's happened," Ian asked, instantly on his guard, sitting up and sliding to the edge of the bed, Millie following behind him, placing a gentle but supportive hand on the small of his back.

"It looks as though someone tried to grab Valerie," Nigel began, "Two teams in two cars, they rammed her, flipped the car, were going after her when...," Nigel paused, not really wanting to say the next, "...Michael and Tera showed up."

Millie felt Ian's muscles tense under her hand, looking at his face she saw pure rage settle over his countenance, it was an image she hopped to never see again. "What happened," Ian said slowly through gritted teeth, the knuckles on the hand holding the phone turning white.

"Tera and Michael took out five of the assailants, one got away in one of the cars...a sixth was killed by my team when we arrived at the site," Nigel said, pausing before he continued.

"AND!" Ian shouted into the phone receiver, scaring Millie so much that she jumped off the bed, scratching Ian's shoulder in the process.

"Michael was shot several times, he is alive and we are taking him to the hospital as we speak, it...doesn't look good. Valerie and Tera are banged up but will be fine, Michael saved them both, threw himself in front of them as the gunman fired," Nigel finished, waiting to see what Ian would do.

"Find out who did this Nigel, I want a name and a location within the hour, send a team here to the house, and locate Nicholas," Ian said and then threw the phone across the room into the fireplace.

"Too far, the son of a bitch has gone too far," Ian seethed as he stood up and strode into the bathroom, leaving Millie staring at his back, wondering just how much worse things would get, wondering for the first time if any of them actually had a future...at all.

..................

"His vital signs have stabilized but he has slipped into a coma," Dr. Brightman said.

Nigel shook his head looking at the young man covered in bandages that lay on the bed in front of him, "Do everything you can," Nigel said as he backed out of the room.

"We have a positive ID on one of the shooters," Sims said as he found Nigel leaning against the wall outside Michael's room.

Nigel looked up at the newest member of the Dragon Security team, sighing deeply he rose thinking 'I'm getting to old for this shit.' "What do you have?" he asked.

"One Anitol Travinkov, ex KGB thug, currently working for Dimitri Leska, head of one of the major factions of the Russian mafia." Sims said, pleased that he was able to use some of his S.A.S. contacts to not only grab the information fast but also be privy to the flash update from Interpol that said Leska was currently in the UK.

"Leska is in the UK sir, he arrived the middle of last week, passed through customs on a verified "diplomatic" passport, my sources say he is at the Russian embassy right now," Sims finished.

"Excellent work Sims, head back up to the chopper, the team is already there, the pilot knows where you are going, I'll be in touch," Nigel said as he turned away from Sims and started dialing his phone.

'Definitely more action than the teams,' Sims thought as he pushed open the stairway door taking the stairs three at a time towards the roof.

............

Tera stood in the small bathroom, looking at her bruised and battered body under the unflattering fluorescent lighting. She was banged up pretty good, her right shoulder had a livid black bruise almost completely covering it, her arm was in a sling, the wrist broken in 3 places. 'Damn fool,' she thought to herself 'what the hell was he thinking, shielding ME, getting between ME and a bullet, it's suppose to be the other way around...it's suppose to be...ME...in that bed not him.'

The hot tears streamed down her face, the sobs caught in the back of her throat as she replayed that instant, the look in his eyes just before he threw himself between the gunman and her...and Valerie.

Valerie was distraught, lying in one of the beds in the room beyond the door; someone from her family was on the way, a woman named Mille.

She had been sobbing uncontrollably since they got to the hospital, been unresponsive to the doctors. 'Post traumatic stress,' Tera thought, not thinking any less of the young woman because of it, few were trained or equipped to deal with incidents like this. Tera herself was, she had to admit, on the ragged edge.

Running her fingers through her damp hair Tera turned off the light and moved back to the room, walking over to the bed that held Valerie she sat down and put a hand on the young woman's quaking shoulder "It will be alright she said in, as soothing a voice as she was able, "he will be alright." Valerie moved just a bit closer to Tera, though she was still lost in her own well of pain, fear...and heart rending loss.

Tera looked over to the other bed, watching the rise and fall of Michael's chest, willing him to come back to them.

............

"It was a team run by Dimitri Leska," Nigel said as soon as Ian picked up the phone. "The team just left heading to you, they should be on site within 25 minutes."

"I will be ready, do we know where Dimitri is at the moment," Nigel asked as he pulled on his holster and grabbed his jacket before leaving the room.

"Looks like the Russian embassy, our sources say he arrived a little while ago, made a few quick phone calls then made arrangements to be on a Russian diplomatic flight leaving Heathrow in 2 hours, hold on a minute," Nigel said as he flashed over to the other incoming call.

"Leska will be leaving the embassy in 25 minutes, he will have a three car escort with 10 marine guards," the caller said and then hung up.

"He will be mobile in 25 minutes headed to the airport, where should we set up," Nigel asked switching back to Ian.

"On the plane, they will never expect it, switch the whole crew, Mr. Leska will never see mother Russian again." Ian said with an icy tone in his voice as he hung up.

Nigel looked at the phone in his hand, shaking his head in wonder at the changes only a few days can bring.

............

Dimitri was Russian mafia; the whole of the Russian mafia was controlled by the Maykov's, a faction of the Chosen.

They were today, as they had been for the last several hundred years, at Nicholas's feet, begging like dogs. Today they made a fatal error and Ian would teach them in the most expeditious way possible.

'Mother fucker!' Ian thought as he jumped into the helicopter the instant it landed on the pad behind Nogardshire Castle. "Heathrow airport, hangar 18," Ian said after putting on the headset lying in the seat next to the pilot.

Ian looked down at the castle as it dropped away and behind them, 'so many years, so many memories, so much blood,' he thought as he turned his attention to the five-man crew.

"Gentleman, my name is Ian Smyth, I own Dragon Security, all of you have exemplary records, are honorable, brave men. My intention today is simple, I am going to kill a man, he is the man who tried to kill my Niece, Mr. Dane and Ms. Cole, one of your team mates, earlier today. If any of you have an issue with what I am going to do, please stay behind at the hangar when we land," Ian finished and took off the headset, there was nothing more to say.

Sims looked around at the other four members of the team, the looks on their faces reflected his own feelings, they would walk at Ian's side no matter what the cost.

............

"Faster you fucking cunt, suck faster we are almost to the airport," Dimitri groaned at the blond head bobbing in his lap.

'What a fucking day,' he thought as his big paw of a hand moved to the back of the girls head forcing his cock to the back of her throat, he always liked the extra little "massage" her gag reflex gave the head of his dick by doing this.

"Fucking Nicholas, should have told me Dragon was involved," Dimitri said as his body tensed sending a large load down the little blonds throat.

Dimitri stepped out of the embassy limousine into the fading gray afternoon light; he walked at a brisk pace towards the waiting airplane. 'I will be glad to get home,' he thought as he climbed the metal stairs at the back of the plane. This trip had not gone as he had planned; now he was simply pleased to be getting out of England alive.

The job had been a simple grab, some plaything that Nicholas had wanted picked up and delivered, his boss Mr. Maykov had been only too happy to lend him Dimitri and a few of the boys for this little job.

"I don't want her hurt...too badly at least," Nicholas said at their one meeting.

"Simply grab her and bring her in, she is currently staying...in the countryside, once she gets a fair distance towards Oxford, grab her and bring her to me," Nicholas said as he poured Dimitri a large glass of IKON vodka. "I am very grateful to Mr. Maykov for providing your services on such short notice," Nicholas finished, while taking a deep swallow of his own drink, enjoying the slight burn of the vodka as it slid down his throat.

"It shouldn't be a problem, seems like a simple job, anything else I need to know before we head out?" Dimitri asked as he finished his drink.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 15



"No, you have all the particulars, just be sure you grab her in a deserted spot, we wouldn't want any...undue attention," Nicholas said smiling as Dimitri left the room.

'Undue attention,' Dimitri thought, 'fuck, would have preferred the locals as opposed to Dragon.'

It had started out an easy job, two teams, loose tail, close in. She had to get brave, flip the car, oh well still not a big deal, then the other two showed up. Dimitri had left quickly, no need to get caught up in the dirty work. He stopped about a kilometer away, watching the scene unfold.

"FUCK!" he spat as he watched three of his team drop to the ground; it wasn't supposed to go this way. Then his remaining men opened fire and it went down hill from there. There was a glimmer of hope when he saw Vasily move into position behind the three, he watched as he gunned down the man and then his heart dropped. A black lynx with the red dragon logo of Dragon Security crested the rise and Vasily dropped to the ground. Dimitri got back in his car and headed for London.

"You should have mentioned that Dragon Security was involved in this you fucker!" Dimitri yelled into the phone.

"Calm down Dimitri, I don't know what you mean, now tell me what happened," Nicholas said, not happy with the way the conversation was starting out.

"What happened, what happened, I'll tell you what happened, six of my men are dead. Almost at the moment we try to grab the girl two people show up and my men start dying, just when I think the situation may be salvageable a fucking Dragon Security helicopter pops up over the hill and kills my last man, what the fuck have you gotten myself...and Mr. Maykov involved in Nicholas?" Dimitri asked as he pressed the accelerator of the big Mercedes a bit harder.

Nicholas was quiet for a moment, it was suppose to be simple, yes he had intended to hurt Ian by taking Valerie, but...being caught in the act was...something different.

"Was anyone...hurt," Nicholas asked tentatively.

"The man who showed up on the motorcycle just after the crash, Vasily sprayed him with his machine pistol before he was taken out, I doubt he lived." Dimitri told him.

"Get out of town as quickly as you can Dimitri, if the man who was killed is whom I think it was, it is going to get messy very quickly." Nicholas said and then abruptly hung up.

Dimitri went up to the middle of the plane, flopping down in one of the oversized chairs, looking around he wondered where the stewardess was, he needed a drink.

The plane started to roll and Dimitri closed his eyes, 'yes, good to get home,' he thought.

...............

Ian and his team landed at Heathrow about twenty minutes before Dimitri. Ian had monitored the phone call between Dimitri and Nicholas and was, as you would expect, not pleased.

The crew of the Russian transport plane had been quietly "detained"; replaced with a flight crew from Dragon Security. Ian and the rest of the team were now in the cargo hold, waiting for the go signal from the pilots.

As the plane started to slowly move down the runway the call came "Alpha you are green," came the quick message through the headset. Ian and the others moved to the access panels and readied themselves.

The plane moved slowly away from the diplomatic hangars at Heathrow, Dimitri was lost in thought, about to get up and go looking for the stewardess, he needed a drink.

"Move, and you'll die just that much quicker," the deadly whisper sounded in his ear as he felt cold steel bite into his neck.

Dimitri's eyes snapped open, there were three men, one behind two in front, 'I can get out of this,' he thought fleetingly until the two men standing in front of him parted slightly and Ian came into view.

'I'm dead,' he thought as his life began to flash before his slowly closing eyes.

"Bravo this is alpha, we have the package, initiate next phase." Sims said into the microphone at his cheek.

The plane slowed to a stop before reaching the runway.

"Tower this flight RD223, we have a warning light on number two engine, we are going to taxi over to the maintenance hangars, over" the pilot said.

The response came quickly.

"Roger 223, you are clear to taxi to maintenance hangar 6, keep us updated, out," the controller said.

'It's not too outside of S.O.P.,' Cliff thought as he closed the mic and took RD223 off the big board in Heathrow's control tower. Anyway, Maggie would really appreciate the bigger diamond engagement ring he could buy with the extra 2k this one little job provided him.

Outside the hangar a maintenance crew drove up and 7 men got out and made their way to the plane, swiftly entering as the door came down.

Ian and the rest of the tactical team switched clothes with the maintenance team, taking the now drugged Dimitri out of the plane and driving off in the van.

Several hours after dark the other team quietly slipped into the shadows as flight RD223 finally taxied away from the hangar, getting clearance and taking off into the night.

The next morning's headline read, "Russian Diplomatic Flight Crashed in Inclement Weather, The search for survivors continues.

............

"Nicholas didn't tell me Ian, I swear, I didn't know, we never would have taken the contract had we known," Dimitri said.

He was currently tied to a chair in a hangar at Heathrow owned by one of Ian's numerous companies.

"Never the less, you did take the job, on English soil, without so much as a by your leave from either yourself or Mr. Maykov," Ian said through his tightly closed jaw.

The phone on the desk rang and Ian moved over to it, picking up the receiver, a few brief yes's and no's later he pushed a button on the phone and returned the handset to the cradle.

"Boris, Dimitri can hear you, please go ahead," Ian said, surprised that Dimitri could get any paler than he already was.

"Did Nicholas tell you that the target was...attached to Mr. Smyth?" the deeply accented and obviously angry voice said.

"NO SIR, I swear, he never said, but he knew, how could he not, and he was evasive as to where she was staying, had I known I never would have...you have to believe me!" Dimitri yelled towards the phone on the desk.

"And did you contact Dragon Security to tell them you were doing an operation in ENGLAND AS IS OUR WAY!" Boris screamed over the phone line.

"No sir...I didn't," Dimitri said, becoming a bit smaller in the chair after saying it, understanding that this was the last conversation he was likely to ever have.

"Ian," Boris started, a bit calmer but still with a noticeable tension in his voice, "please accept my apology for this fools...slight against you, Nicholas asked for a favor, he did not specify what...or...whom that favor involved. While we are not...friends...Ian, we have always followed those loose rules our kind live by. We would accept any request...within reason...you may have that would...balance the account between us." Boris finished, seething at Dimitri's foolishness and Nicholas' obvious lack of care for his family.

"We can talk about that another time Boris, as you say, we are not friends and don't agree on...well most things, but I will accept that while you were doing a...favor...for Nicholas your family did not wish to directly harm mine. I am sure we can come up with some satisfactory compensation..." Ian paused for a moment, casting a dark stare at Dimitri who immediately averted his eyes. Ian continued, "...of course that does not include Dimitri's life which of course is now...forfeit."

There was a long pause, Dimitri was a distant "cousin" of Maykov's, and his loss would cause issues, but not issues as consequential as Ian deciding that a war with Maykov would be a good idea.

"Of course. Dimitri was a valuable member of my family, but stupidity can not be tolerated, I give you his life and await your further request...good day Ian." Boris said quickly and closed the line.

Ian picked up his own phone and moved off to a corner away from the others, dialing Nigel's number.

"What is the status on Michael," Ian asked when Nigel picked up.

"He is holding on, his vitals have stabilized, his wounds are healing...well...incredibly rapidly, but he is still in a coma, the doctors are not exactly sure why, he lost a lot of blood." Nigel responded, it was hard hearing the pain in his oldest friends voice and he could not help but blame himself for some of that pain.

"And Nicholas?' Ian's voice turned to a hiss as he asked, "Where is he?"

Still at the Grovneors, though he has been out all day, our team has him heading to northern England, though most of his things are still at the Grovnors, we believe he will be back there, late tonight or tomorrow." Nigel answered.

Have two teams meet me at the Grovneors, we are on our way now,' Ian finished and closed the connection.

Turning towards Dimitri Ian's shadowed countenance was one that those in attendance would never forget, he walked from the shadows with a look of power and death that caused Dimitri to break into the wracking sobs of a person who knows that their doom...approaches.

.........

The cavern slowly came back into view, Michael was once again lying on the cool soft moss of the little island, there was a difference in the light, it was brighter, looking around he saw that up high in the ceiling, was an opening that let in sunlight.

Sitting up he looked around again, still alone.

"Aoife, are you here," he asked as his voice echoed off the walls.

"Yes, I am here, your time is almost up Michael, we have done everything we can, your wounds were...grave," she said, her deep voice was sensual with a good bit of sorrow thrown in for good measure.

"It is fine Aoife, I made the choice, I couldn't let anything happen to them if it was in my power," Michael said, lying back down looking at the piece of sky far above.

Aoife almost laughed but didn't. It is rare that a human, even one as...unique...as Michael faced his own demise with such an easy attitude, she decided it was time to let him off the hook.

"Michael, your not going to die, it was a close thing but your body is almost healed, you will be back...where you are suppose to be soon," she said.

Michael laid there calmly, watching the sky, it took a few moments before he answered her, "I am glad Aoife, I look forward to actually meeting you and, I need to have a talk with Tera and Valerie...I don't know how I am going to choose, I don't want either of them hurt," he finished as the cavern began to gray again, only this time he seemed to be rising, gently floating up towards the bright sky above.

"I am sure everything will be...just as it is suppose to be Michael, get some rest you have had a very long day," Aoife said as he felt her consciousness slip from his and his world fell into a warm comforting darkness.

............

"Please don't cry anymore," Michael said. His eyes had opened a moment ago, 'another hospital room, seeing too many of these lately,' he thought.

Looking around he saw Valerie curled up on the bed next to his, could hear her soft sobbing, the sound broke his heart.

Valerie heard something, it sounded familiar but she was so far away. "Valerie, please stop crying, I'm...ok," the voice said, it sounded like...Michael.

She turned her head, peaking out from behind the waterfall of hair covering her eyes, he was looking at her, his color was back, he was smiling, his eyes held need, pain, desire...love?

She bolted upright and moved to his bedside, he took her hand, pulling it to his lips he kissed it, in the soft flesh of her palm, his lips were dry, rough but oh the heat, the heat from them was something she never dreamed could exist.

"I thought, I thought....," she stuttered and then he pulled her down to him, his lips finding hers they shared this tender moment, this joining filled her heart, to know that he was here and he was...her's.

She pulled back from him, looking him over, he seemed healthy, his eyes sparkled as his hand moved the hair from her eyes and caressed her cheek. "I love you," he said, the tone and tenor of his voice, the meaning within it, struck her and she felt dizzy with it's impact.

"I...," Valerie faltered, Tera played through her mind, her courage wavered, but then rose to the challenge, ".... I love you too Michael," she said breathlessly, dropping her lips to his once more.

Tera walked into the room, expecting to find Valerie still lying on the bed crying, Michael still unconscious, it was not this scene that she found.

'He is alright,' was her first thought

"Kissing her, loves her, should have known, need to leave, should have known, damn it." As these thoughts came front and center the strength she had been keeping up both for her and for Valerie faltered and fell away.

A gasp escaped her lips, her hand rose to try and keep the wailing scream that threatened to follow.

Valerie stood up upon hearing the gasp, Michael looked over towards the door just as Tera moved to open it.

"Stop!" he said, the force behind his statement froze Tera for a moment.

"Tera," he said in a softer tone, holding his hand towards her.

Valerie stepped back from the bed but did not release Michael's hand; she would never release Michael willingly...again.

Tera moved slowly over to the bed, her eyes not meeting Michael's or Valerie's. She wanted to escape, to bury her feelings and move on, try to...cope.

Michael's other hand moved to hers, his fingertips caressing her wrist as his palm met hers.

"I love you Tera," he said, his statement filled with want and need, but given mater of factly, as if it was a simple, for gone conclusion.

Tera was stunned, "What about Valerie, it's not fair, I can't," the words came out of her mouth quickly with feeling and sorrow and need so powerful that Valerie found she was putting her other hand on Tera's shoulder, trying to give her some of the comfort she had been trying to give her since they arrived at the hospital.

Michael smiled at her, his hand slipping within the sling, resting lightly on her broken wrist, "I love Valerie too Tera," he said, feeling the heat build in his hand and then move from his skin...into hers.

Tera caught her breath; she looked down at him, searching for...what, confirmation, the core of a lie, the...truth. She found it in his eyes; he looked at her with passion, desire, power and love. And as his eyes moved from hers to Valerie's' she saw the same things, knew that Valerie was seeing and feeling the same thing as she was. He loved them both, what the hell did that mean....

Tera's hand flashed out and slapped him hard across the face; she stood there, as...or more shocked than Michael and Valerie were.

And then she was kissing him, her lips were pressed hard against his, their tongues moved together, there was a fiery passion that, a moment before, was a simple warm ember now roared forth with a power and fury that would not be contained.

The kiss was powerful but did not last long, she pulled back, noticing that Valerie's hand was still on her shoulder, she looked at the other woman, seeing the knowing smile in her eyes. Tera looked back at Michael, she almost became lost in his dark eyes and then shook herself, taking his hand in hers once again and stating in a tone no one who heard it would ever argue with. "I love you Michael"

............

There had been no word from Dimitri or Maykov, Nicholas was a bit relieved, but not surprised, Ian had always been such a weak fool, Nicholas gave himself a mental kick for even allowing a bit of worry to enter his consciousness over this meaningless little thing with Valerie.

'Maybe...next time,' Nicholas thought and chuckled to himself as he stepped out of the elevator into the suite, visions of making Valerie scream in his head.

Those visions fell away quickly as he turned on the light in the main room of the suite.

He stood there, transfixed for almost five minutes, not moving, barely breathing as he took in every detail, taking the time to immediately revise his impression of Ian and his thoughts of how dangerous he was to Nicholas's plans.

Dimitri's open, unseeing eyes stared back at Nicholas from atop the baby grand piano, the black lacquered surface shimmered under the small halogen spotlight above, giving the impression of a mirror like onyx pool, it's unseen depths holding unknowable terrors.

The blood pooled on the keys from the exposed, gaping neck lying upon them. Nicholas could see the blood dripping from deep gashes running from wrist to elbow on both arms.

Finally moving a bit closer there was bloodstained sheet music on the piano...it was Mozart's Requiem, opened to Sequence, part 1 Dies Irae. Nicholas's eyes played across the words, translating them in his head, 

'Day of wrath, day of anger will dissolve the world in ashes,  as foretold by David and the Sibyl.  Great trembling there will be when the Judge descends from heaven to examine all things closely.'

Finally shaking himself out of his stupor, pulling his eyes away from the sheet music Nicholas stepped slowly backwards fumbling for the elevator button.

Ian had been...thorough...in dispatching Dimitri, there was nothing but rage in the act, but a rage tempered by hatred so deep, its bottom could not be found.

By dealing with Dimitri in Nicholas's suite, Ian had sent a strong message.

Woe be tide those who venture into my garden...uninvited.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 16



Millie heard the helicopter as it swooped over the roof, coming in low to land at the pad outside.

She had only been back for about a half an hour herself.

.........

When Ian told her that Valerie was in an "accident" Millie called the airfield immediately.

The trip to the hospital had only taken about 20 minutes, upon arriving she was taken directly to Michael and Valerie.

"How are they doing," Millie asked quietly to the worried looking woman standing between the beds.

Tera looked up as the woman walked into the room.

"Michael is in a coma, Valerie is...lost, I think," Tera answered.

Millie walked over to Tera, putting a comforting arm around the young woman, surprised by the tenderness and pain she expressed for the people who lay on either side of her.

"My name is Millie, I'm Valerie's aunt, is there anything I can do for you," she asked.

"It has been a long day, I only met Michael about a week ago; Valerie...on a country road a few hours ago in the middle of a fire fight. Michael was...called to save her, he, he...," Tera paused; Millie could feel the tension in the young woman and pulled her a little closer.

"...saved us, jumped in front of us, took 7 bullets, shielded us," Tera stopped, hiding her face in her hands, trying to come to grips with being the saved instead of the savior.

"It will be alright," Millie told her, giving her a small hug before moving over to Valerie.

Sitting on the bed her hand moving to the coiled form of Valerie, Millie could feel the pain radiating off the young woman.

Bending over her, pulling her into her arms, gently rocking her she whispered in her ear.

"It will be alright Val, Michael will be fine, you be strong now, everything will be ok," she said to the young woman, feeling Valerie pull closer to her, Millie willed some of her own energy and strength be transferred to her.

After holding and comforting Valerie for sometime, Millie stood up and stretched, Tera took her place at Valerie's side as Millie walked over to Michael.

'Michael,' she thought, looking down at his pale face, a thousand images of it, from the past 20 years, flitting through her mind.

She reached out, gently caressing his cheek with the back of her fingers. Her eyes played over the red stained bandages across his torso.

'So much pain; was it best to bring you here, to start you on a road you have no choice but to follow, would it have been best to simply let life have it's way,' she thought.

Her eyes closed as her hand played lightly over his chest, she felt a brief warmth as her fingertips moved over the bandages. Yes he would recover.

She saw Nigel pass before the small window in the door. "Excuse me for a moment Tera," she said as she moved out of the room

"Ian will be heading back to the castle within the hour," Nigel said to her in the hallway.

"Thank you Nigel, I should stay here until Michael's status changes, Valerie is taking it very hard, I should be here for her," Millie said, accepting Nigel's warm hug.

"Best you are at the castle for Ian, it has been a very...hard evening for him," Nigel said to her in hushed tones.

Millie looked at her old friend, saw a shadow of deep concern in his normally calm cool blue eyes.

"I'll head back now, thank you Nigel, watch over Val, she is strong but...young, she is not use to this kind of thing," Millie said giving Nigel a brief hug and, with one last look through the window into the room at Valerie, she made for the stairs and the helicopter waiting above.

............

Pulling on her jacket Millie stepped into the cool evening, the sun had set about an hour ago; she was glad that Ian was home.

The floodlights illuminated the black helicopter as the rotor wound down.

The doors opened and men began to filter out. She saw Ian in the front seat, saw him looking over at the pilot then step out of the helicopter.

The men milled around, waiting for Ian.

"I thank you men for your help today, I know it was not something you were expecting when you signed on," Ian said with a sigh. His hands raised, fingers slowly sliding through his hair, he could feel the caked, dried blood break apart as his fingers slid through them.

"Please follow Paul," he said, gesturing to the pilot who just stepped out of the helicopter after finishing the shut down.

"We have a billet for a full squad, hot showers, clean clothes and hot meals, please stay here tonight and we will get you back to London tomorrow. Again...thank you." Ian finished as he turned, slowly walking towards the castle.

"Ok guys, follow me, lets get you cleaned up and debriefed, Nigel should be here within the hour," Paul said to the weary looking group as he motioned towards the low building to the right of the helipad.

Millie paused as she saw Ian turn from the men and start to walk in her direction. 

As he got closer she became more and more frightened.

While the man closing on her looked like Ian, the visage before her when he came to a stop was no one she had ever seen.

The look of pure anguish on his face broke her heart, the dried blood that was splattered over him from hair to boot provided a glimpse of him and his world she had never imagined.

Ian stared at Millie with flat lifeless eyes for a moment, the last vestiges of his rage and vengeance finally slipping away.

He blinked a few times, watching the play of light in her hair, the concerned look on her face.

He reached out a tentative hand; he watched it go, as it lifted from his side, it came into bright focus under the glare of the lights.

Caked with blood, the dark maroon slashes contrasting by the vivid white of his unblemished skin, Ian paused, not sure anyone would want to touch any part of him again.

Ian looked up, expecting to see Millie cringe away, he was ready to pull back his hand, apologize.

What he found was love and solace in her eyes, pain for what he had been through as he felt her hand slip within his.

Ian's eyes softened, his body released his last bit of energy as he slowly sunk to his knees, wrapping his arms around Millie, the tears flowing freely as he purged his guilt.

In that moment he understood; understood just what he faced, what would be required to win and knowing that he was simply...not equipped to do it.

They stayed there for some time, Millie simply holding Ian, allowing him the time and safety to purge the demons from his soul.

Ian finally pulled himself together. Slowly he rose, "I'm sorry," he said in a voice filled with emotion.

Millie placed her hand on his cheek, giving him a little smile.

"Come," she said taking his hand gently in hers, leading him into the house. 

"Let's get you cleaned up," she whispered as they slowly climbed the stairs.

............

Michael lay in the hospital bed; alone for the first time in what seemed like...forever. The small lamp on the table gave the room a soft muted glow.

Tera and Valerie had left a while ago; he almost had to throw them out.

"You need to go Valerie," Michael said to her as she stood by his bed.

"I feel ok, I'm probably just going to sleep for the next ten hours, I feel good, just tired. From what Nigel said this place is as secure as Fort Knox, I'm safe," he said, squeezing her hand as he finished.

Tera was standing on the other side of the bed, holding Michael's other hand. 

She did not look pleased about the thought of leaving.

He smiled at her and then looked down at her other hand, noting the sling was gone and only the bandage remained.

"Your wrist is better?" he asked with a small smile on his lips.

Tera glared at him "Yes Mr. Dane, my fucking wrist is fine," she responded, her voice held anger and gratitude in equal measure.

Her now mended hand slid over the sheet covering his chest, smoothing the wrinkles with a delicate but firm pressure, feeling the bandages below.

He felt the warmth of her hand, it caused his eyes close for a moment. He simply reveled in the unexpected touch.

"Tera," he said opening his eyes again "can you...stay with Valerie, make sure she gets home alright...watch over her," he finished.

Tera looked over at Valerie for an instant then back to Michael.

"Yes, I'll watch over her, if she is...ok with it," Tera said, watching Valerie out of the corner of her eye.

Valerie was...more than ok with it, and that in it's self bothered her.

She had appreciated Tera's presence on the road, in the helicopter, here in this room as she watched Michael's lifeless, unmoving form. She drew from the woman's seemingly limitless strength and had no desire to be parted from that just yet.

"I think that would be best, I don't want to be alone yet but...I could so use a shower," she smiled as she answered.

Each woman had bent down, placing a light kiss on each of his cheeks at almost the same moment. They were tentative, chaste things but imparted a depth of emotion that Michael definitely shared.

Now, lying alone in the room, he found he missed their company along with enjoying the solitude, it was an interesting dynamic.

Shaking his head he gingerly rose from the bed, his feet feeling the shock as they hit the cold floor.

"Fuck," he said as he stood, bouncing lightly from foot to foot, gauging if there would be any dizziness, he was surprised to find none.

He walked over to the bathroom and turned on the light, the image in the mirror surprised him.

He needed a shave, his hair was a wild mess but he looked...good...way better than he should have, he simply shook his head and grabbed the toothbrush, hopping to get the taste of copper and cotton out of his mouth.

'I feel too good,' he thought, finishing with his necessities and, with a last glance at his reflection in the mirror, walked back into his room.

He wished he could take a shower, but the doctor had told him that would have to wait till the morning, after he had looked at his wounds.

Spying his jacket on a chair he walked over feeling for the pack of cigarettes in the inside pocket, smiling he pulled it and his Zippo out.

Looking around he went to the window but it was a single pane of glass that didn't open.

Not relishing the idea of walking around in the damn hospital gown, he went to the closet finding a set of scrubs.

'Better than nothing," he thought taking off the gown and pulling the scrubs on gingerly over his bandaged wounds.

Outside he was confronted with one of Nigel's men.

"You shouldn't be out of bed," the man, probably in his late 40's, said to Michael.

"Just looking to grab a quick smoke, anyplace I may be able to do that," he asked in a plaintive voice showing the man the pack of cigarettes and lighter.

Shaking his head he answered, "end of the hall there is a balcony, be quick about it, a nurse finds you gone and it's my ass."

Michael thanked the man and made his way slowly down the corridor. Finding the door, he stepped out into the cool night, surprised to find himself in what appeared to be a busy downtown section of London.

The building was modern, probably built in the late 70's with a straight, lifeless concrete façade; he found he was on the 12th floor with another 6 above him.

Lighting the cigarette he took that first long pull, reveling in the feel of it in his lungs, trying to get his bearings and figure out where he was. He was surprised by a voice to his left.

"It's a private hospital in London, used for... special circumstances," the doctor said standing up from his chair in the shadows of the balcony and moving over to Michael's side.

"Finish your cigarette, when you are done we will go check your wounds, no sense waiting till the morning," he said as he left Michael alone on the balcony.

Watching the city move around him he felt calm for the first time all day.

Valerie and Tera played through his thoughts, both of them were so different, both elicited such strong emotions, he didn't know, couldn't fathom what was going to happen with them, he simply knew it was important that they be close to him, that they be...his.

The doctor had Michael lay back on the bed after shedding the scrubs.

"Let's see what we have," the doctor said starting with the bandages on Michael's legs.

Michael watched the doctors face, the expressions shifted quickly, from surprise, to astonishment, disbelief and finally, as he removed the last bandage on Michael's shoulder, resignation.

"As with your partner the young lady last weekend, you're healed," he simply stated.

He wished he could spirit this guy away to some lab and spend about 5 years poking him, but he knew...that would never happen.

"I have to say, I'm not really surprised," Michael said as he looked down at the new scars patterned across his legs and torso.

'We really need to talk,' he thought to Aoife as he thanked the doctor and moved into the bathroom for a much-needed shower.

As he stuck his head under the spray he was sure he heard the echo of a soft, deep, decidedly feminine chuckle.

The hot water felt good. Michael stood there as the strong spray washed over him, clearing away the dirt, grime and other sundry substances that had accumulated over the day.

Finding the small institutional bar of soap he brought up a strong lather and washed his body, his hands lingering over the just acquired scars, still tender but not painful.

He wondered over the changes. More than once in the last few weeks he felt he was surely loosing his mind.

What had, up until Sasha's death, been a relatively calm existence had suddenly turned into one that was dangerous, holding new perils around every corner.

Michael hated feeling as if he was out of control, and that was exactly how he felt right now.

Whoever "Aoife" was there was obviously an agenda there.

Nigel seemed to have good intentions but then he could not read the man, so his designs on Michael were unknown.

'Damn it, enough,' Michael thought as he rinsed the shampoo out of his hair.

"I've had enough of this," he said drying off and going back out to the room.

Retrieving the scrubs, his jacket and shoes he made for the door.

'Time to find a bit more...control,' he thought as he moved quietly down the hall flashing the guard his cigarette pack as he passed quickly down the corridor.

...............

"What the hell is going on," Valerie said in a strong voice the moment Tera slid behind the wheel and closed the door.

"What do you mean," Tera answered with some reserve, not sure where this was going.

As Tera pulled the Land Rover Sport away from the curb, accelerating smoothly into traffic, she waited for the young woman next to her to continue.

"Nigel works for my uncle, he has been around for as long as I can remember, but it seems Michael is now his full time job. I've heard stories of terrorist cells, random attacks, now I hear you were shot and saved by Michael last weekend. Your broken wrist is no longer broken and it seems that Mr. Dane is in love with both of us." Valerie said in a stream of fast words with no pauses.

Tera looked in the rear view mirror, merging onto the M40 towards Oxford.

"I work for Nigel, we were assigned to protect Mr. Dane, there was an...incident on his flight over and Nigel thought it best that we stay close. There was an attempt on Mr. Dane's life here, after he met with you and the security was increased. When Michael saved me last weekend...most of my team was killed, I was shot, the only thing he could think of was to protect me, I have never encountered anyone quite like him," Tera said, continuously scanning the mirrors for any sign of a tail.

"My uncle ordered Nigel to protect Michael?" Valerie asked.

"I honestly don't know, I don't think I have ever met or heard of your uncle from Nigel," Valerie answered, slipping over to the left lane just in case she needed to get off the motorway quickly.

Tera was quiet for a few moments before talking again.

"Why were you there today with Michael," she questioned.

"I have been...," Tera began, pausing and taking a deep breath before continuing, "...living with Michael in his flat for the past week, since the incident, Nigel said that it was necessary to keep a close watch on him, but I was drawn to do it, to try and keep Michael safe, even without Nigel's prompting," she finished.

"You love him." Valerie's statement hung in the air for only a moment before Tera responded.

"As much as you do," was Tera's response.

The women made the rest of the trip to Valerie's flat in silence. Neither wanting to go further down the road of their now stated feelings for the man who had become so important to both of them.

...............

Millie watched Ian sleep, it was a deep restful sleep, the kind you fall into when you simply have no reserves left.

Her fingertips slid over his strong chin as she placed a light kiss on his forehead before slipping from the bed.

She had taken him to their bedroom after he came back to the castle; he was quiet and tentative, still reeling from the realities of the day.

Millie had gently removed his blood stained clothing and then her own. Ushering him into the shower she lovingly bathed him, watching as the remnants of whatever had happened swirl down the drain in a gentle red tinged whirlpool.

They stayed in the shower a long time, simply touching each other, being there in the heat and warmth, loosing themselves in the steams warm and comforting embrace.

When all traces of the day were gone and both of their bodies were flushed pink from the warm water, Millie turned off the water and stepped from the shower. 

She returned in a moment with a large warm towel which she slowly and sensuously used to dry Ian's near immobile form.

Quickly drying herself she lead him to their bed.

The only light in the room was from the fireplace, it provided a muted orange glow that allowed her to see Ian as almost a simple silhouette, but a silhouette she would know...anywhere. The flickering light played over his body, giving flashes of skin, the curve of his shoulder, the slight bob of his Adams apple, all bits of him that she new so well.

She lay with him, her damp head resting on his chest, his arm across her shoulders pulling her too him, trying to get closer even though they were touching.

Millie's hand slipped over his body, felt the tension slowly leaving his thighs, heard his heartbeat begin to take on a softer calmer tempo.

Her hand played over his member, it was semi-hard and he moaned softly as her nails teased over its length.

He moved against her palm, she felt the heat rise, felt him harden in her embrace. His arm around her shoulder pulled her tighter against him, willing her closer to him. She heard his heart rate increase as her hand slowly began to travel over him, his cock now like silken steel in her hand, a bead of wetness forming at the tip which she slowly massaged with her thumb.

His breath caught as she slid down his body.

She pulled back the sheet covering them both as she went, exposing his body to her eyes.

She loved to look at him, the curve of his chest where it met his lightly muscled stomach, the slightly whiter skin below his belly button to the center of his need, which now lay pulsing in her hand.

Her hair left a damp trail from over his heart, down his abdomen, providing a heightened sensation of connection than if she had simply lifted her head.

Millie knew his need; it was not so much one of lust or love or passion, but one of simple connection and caring, a physical manifestation that he was...worthy. 

Millie was happy to provide such a small, but so very deep token of just how much he meant to her in this, his most vulnerable moment.

Gently her tongue replaced her thumb, just as another shimmering drop of his essence issued forth from the now throbbing tip of him.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 16



He tasted musky and masculine, as he always did. Millie loved the taste of him, almost, she thought, as much as he enjoyed the taste of her.

Her tongue played over the head of his cock, small slow circles, often dipping into his tip, teasing him, enticing more of his issue forth, which she savored.

He throbbed his need in her palm as her lips parted and she took half of him into her mouth, her wet tongue feeling the strong hardness of him, pulling it deeper into her. She moaned around him as a small stream of his precum was deposited right on her taste buds, sending shivers through her whole body.

Her hand gently massaged him, rolling him between her fingers as she started a slow deliberate cadence, taking him deep into her throat, pulling back slowly, encircling him with here lips as her tongue swirled and massaged around his constantly throbbing member.

He moaned softly as her hand gripped him firmly, her pace increasing as more and more of him slipped into her mouth, she could feel it building, the heat in his loins almost visible as he pulled within himself preparing for release.

She pulled everything but the tip of him from her mouth, her lips and tongue pulling at the head of him, her hand pumping his shaft, his fingers wound in her hair as his body tensed, going rigid beneath her as he came.

Millie greedily reveled in his spend, savoring the feeling of control and love and passion that this one simple act imparted...to both of them.

She kept him in her mouth and hands afterwards, as he slowly shrank under the loving attention of her tongue and fingers.

She rose and went into the bathroom, returning with a warm towel she gently wiped his glistening brow, and then his glistening manhood before snuggling in next to him, taking his head to her chest, wrapping one leg over his body as he whispered, "I love you," before slipping into a well-earned sleep.

She stayed with him, wrapped in that warm embrace, watching the fire dance across the room, thanking, as she often did, the universe or whomever may be listening to a woman's thoughts as she lies with her lover in her arms, for the opportunity and honor to be loved...and give it in return.

Grabbing on a long warm robe she quietly slipped out of the room. She knew that Nigel would still be in the castle and she had a few questions that needed answering before Ian awoke.

...............

Nigel sat at the low island in the kitchen. The only light in the room was that from the small spots above. They left small pools of light on the black granite top.

The room itself, cloaked in shadow, was part of the original kitchen from the castles earliest days. The original hearth anchored the room, its soot stained flagstones bore testament to its age and long use.

Copper pots and pans hung from racks on the ceiling, every once and awhile they would be caught by an errant breeze, many of which found their way through the castles walls, providing a brief chiming that took awhile to get use too.

Nigel was tracing the gray striations in the stone with his fingertip, drinking a glass of port, running through the events of the day and the report from Ian's team when Millie came in.

Walking over to the cabinet Millie retrieved a glass and sat down opposite Nigel. Reaching for the bottle she poured herself three fingers of the dark liquid, looking at the strained and tired features of one of her and Ian's oldest friends.

"How bad is it going to get," Millie asked before taking a long swallow of her drink, feeling its warmth spread through her.

"I honestly don't know," Nigel answered, finishing his own drink and reaching for the bottle.

"Ian lost control tonight, in a way that I have never seen him do in all the years I have known him. There have been reasons before Millie, many really outstanding reasons, hell we have seen so many atrocities, been witness to so much violence and depravity in our time," Ian sighed and took a long drink before continuing.

"But this, tonight, I never would have imagined Millie, never in a million years would I have thought Ian capable of such pure...rage. I don't know that he will be able to recover, and that scares me even more, because Nicholas is not one to turn the other cheek when so blatantly challenged," Nigel finished, staring towards the ancient hearth, hoping that his friend would, as he always had, be up to the coming challenges.

Millie finished her drink and rose, walking around the island to Nigel, placing her hand on his shoulder she said. "Don't worry Nigel, everything will work out, it always does, one way or the other, it always does."

Giving her friend a kiss on the cheek she walked slowly from the room, all of her thoughts focused on making sure that Ian was up to what lay ahead, and that Michael would be in a position to help, should their time...run out.

As she reached the top of the stairs she heard the distance burr of Nigel's cell phone from below.

...............

Tera and Valerie sat across from each other at Valerie's small dining room table.

Each had taken a long shower, letting the hot water sooth their aches, allowing the steam to envelope them, providing a space for each of them to simply...be. Trying to find a balance in what had become an imbalanced world.

Now, sitting there at the table, each of them holding a warm cup of tea, they were both aware of the tension that lay between them. Their energies and emotions bouncing off the other like flashing steel spheres in a pinball machine.

"We both love him," Valerie began "and he loves each of us. That was made pretty clear today, you don't risk your life the way he did, look at someone the way he does and not. The question is, what now, what do we do about it?" she finished, taking a big gulp of her tea, her eyes not looking up to meet Tera's.

Tera sat impassively, she felt the tension, knew that they had to do...something, but she had no idea what that something was.

"I don't want to make him choose," Tera said

"If it comes to that...I will step aside, I don't think any of us know exactly how to handle something like this, hell I wouldn't know how to handle Michael's feelings if you weren't involved," Tera said, the cup in her hand was rotating in small circles as her fingertips played with it, trying to release some of the nervous energy that continued to build within her.

"Have you been in love before Tera?" Valerie's question surprised her and she waited a long time before responding, watching the rain drops slide down Valerie's window from the light rain that had started a few minutes before.

"Valerie, I have never felt...anything, like I feel for Michael. It is such a strange sensation, I see him as an equal, a strong self assured person who can take care of himself, but at the same time he is so soft, so willing to give of himself. I have never been in love Valerie, what I feel for Michael is always what I hoped and dreamed it would be, and so much more that it scares me." Tera finished, her eyes closing to fight back the tears that threatened to spill forth.

Tera looked at the woman across from her, felt her words as she said them, remembered how strong she was at the hospital, how much of a comfort it was to have her there, near her.

She stood and moved around the table, bending down she took Tera's hands in hers, noticing the roughness of them, the calluses from many years of training and hardship, she also saw the softness in the woman's eyes.

"We will be there for him, in whatever way he wishes us to be, he loves us, there is little else at this point that I could hope for, we will simply be there for him...and each other," Valerie said as the woman in front of her broke, the tears sliding down over her smooth cheeks as she reached out and embraced her, feeling the simple connection with someone who understood, who felt what she did, who loved.

They stayed there like that for a long time, each drawing from the other, each feeling the others emotions, their embrace was broken by the sound of Tera's cell phone gently ringing in the other room.

Nigel's voice sounded tired when Tera answered her phone.

"Michael's missing," Nigel said.

Tera didn't hear any more, as she had already dropped the phone, yelling to Valerie to get dressed.

...............

Michael headed down the dimly lit street. It had been relatively easy getting out of the "hospital". It seems that the top 7 floors of the building held medical offices, the rest were standard commercial spaces.

He took an easy confident stride to the elevator on his floor, down to the lobby and threw a half interested nod at the security guard at the desk. Quick and easy.

At the corner he was able to hail a cab.

"Oxford," Michael said to the driver, pulling his wallet from his coat pocket.

"That's a fairly big fare mate," the driver said, looking over his shoulder at him.

"Will this cover it?" Michael asked, handing the driver three one hundred pound notes.

"Yep, will do," the driver said, flipping the switch on top of the cab and slowly pulling away from the curb.

Michael sat in the back of the cab, watching the city pass by.

He felt good, strong, the strangeness of that fact along with the rest of the things that had happened to him over the last few weeks rattled around in his head, none of them finding purchase.

He was lost in the swirl of emotions and memories, could he wrap himself around his reality, could he actually live a life filled with these kinds of days. Could any man.

He pulled the cell phone from his jacket; he stared at it for a long time. The passing lights reflecting off its glossy black face, he absently started scrolling through the names and numbers, not looking for anyone in particular, knowing that none of these names, the people he had lived and shared his life with in the past would be of any help.

He missed his parents and his grandfather, missed the easy conversations with Sasha about everything...and nothing at all.

For an instant he felt lost, felt as though he were totally alone in the world and then that instant passed.

Their faces drifted to him out of the light fog that shrouded the cab, Valerie's playful eyes and soft loving face, Tera's strong, set features, her wicked smile. 

So very different, yet eliciting such similar feelings. He shook his head, wanting to call Tera, to have her strength give him a foundation to work from. Wanting to call Valerie, to get simply lost in her soft and easy laughter, find comfort in the warmth she seemed to radiate.

The duality of them had a calming effect, he shifted back and forth between them, running the moments shared with each through his head, the early morning run's with Tera, the sound of her unexpected laugh when he told her of the manatee in the canal all those years ago.

The subtle sensual rise and fall of Valerie's ass as she had walked away from him that afternoon two weeks ago.

"Fuck," he sighed, bringing a quick glance in the rearview from the driver.

"Sorry," Michael said, motioning his pack of cigarettes to the driver, getting a brief nod of the head in return.

Lighting up and taking a deep drag Michael laid his head back on the seat, hoping that the dawn would bring some new clarity to a life that seemed to be on an unknown road, whose destination held both the promises of love, and the fear of it...as well.

When Michael looked up again they were pulling into Nelson Street, sitting up, shaking the sleep from his head he looked at the meter, $225.00.

"Keep the change," he said as he stepped out of the cab, stretching, glad to be back home, ready for another shower, something to eat and his own damn clothes.

The brief nap in the cab had revitalized him, he was anxious for the dawn. He let the questions slip from his mind, the first day of school was today, no classes, but a few meetings then his first class on Wednesday, he found he was looking forward to it.

As his first lecture started playing through his mind and he reached into his coat for his keys he was surprised to hear someone speak from the shadows.

"What the hell...," Valerie started.

"...do you think you are doing."? Tera finished.

'Uh oh," Michael thought, hopping the darkness would hide his delighted smile as he watched Tera and Valerie step from the shadows and move towards him. 

Each was hoping the same thing.... as he. 



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 17



"But you should, by definition, maximize your clients dollar per square foot. Wasting money on frills does not serve the client if that is not part of their design protocol," the young man stated.

Michael sighed, 'The intro class was so much easier,' he thought.

The twenty students in his master's level class looked up at him from their seats, waiting for a response.

The last three days had been a whirlwind. .........

Valerie and Tera had been none to happy with him early Monday morning as he stepped out of the cab in front of his flat.

What had followed was a surprisingly easy morning.

Michael had cooked them all breakfast, the first decent meal any of them had in almost 24 hours.

They talked easily about school starting that day, of Valerie's need to get an early start at the office. The innocuous chatter of people at ease in each other's company.

"I best be off," Valerie said as she stood from the table, taking her dishes into the kitchen.

"If you'll be on campus would you like to have lunch?" she asked over the sound of the water washing away the remnants of her breakfast from the plate.

"We would love to," Michael said, more than a little bit of a question in his answer as he glanced from Tera to Valerie.

"One or both, I'll be happy with either," Valerie said, as she walked back over to the table.

Her hands slid gently into Michael's hair on both sides of his head as she bent over, her lips finding his.

Michael was surprised by the passion of her kiss. Valerie's lips were soft and warm, parting as her tongue teased his in a seductive dance that ended far too quickly for Michaels taste.

"I'll see you later," Valerie said, looking into his eyes. Her statement laden with promise.

Turning she bent and gave Tera a kiss on her cheek.

Michael watched as a knowing smile passed between the two and then Valerie was grabbing her purse. Turning, she caught the keys Tera threw to her for the car Nigel had given her. The front door drifted closed behind her as she walked out into the gray dawn.

Michael sat looking towards the closed door for a moment, the after image of Valerie's auburn hair, the last bit of her to pass the threshold, burned into his memory.

Tera watched Michael as he stared at the door, smiling and shaking her head she rose and headed for the kitchen.

Rinsing off her plate she was watching as Michael's gaze moved from the door to her.

Smiling at him she said, "I'm going to get a few hours of sleep, when do you want to go to the University?"

"A few hours, it's only just after six, I feel like a run. What say we head over about elevenish?" he asked.

She stood there for a moment; he noticed her hands on either side of the sink, her long fingers splayed out on the cool umber shaded granite. The arch in her back, the way her eyes watched him, so very much like a predator sizing up her prey.

"That sounds good, do you want me to run with you before I hit the sack?" she asked.

"No, it should be fine, I got a ton of sleep yesterday and I need the exercise, with classes starting today I should be fine, you get some rest," he finished as she moved around the counter towards him.

Michael stood as Tera moved in close to him. "Be careful," she said in a soft, almost worried voice.

She looked up into his eyes from beneath her lids, in that moment she seemed young, vulnerable, he had never seen a look from her quite like it.

His hand slipped into her dark hair, his palm and fingers caressing her, he bent just a bit and kissed her.

Her lips were hot, wet, lush. Her body moved into his, forming to his chest as her hands wound around his waist.

Their kiss was short but passionate. As it broke she opened her eyes and he saw a dark, seething passion there, one he would be happy to become lost in.

Her arms released him as she stepped back. Her finger came up, pointing at him. "I mean it, be careful," she said.

Moving quickly he bent and kissed the tip of her finger, surprising her as his lips closed over it. His eyes locking with hers for an instant and then that lopsided grin of his and he was off, taking the stairs to the loft three at a time as he went to change.

Tera shook her head, breaking the spell, trying to get her breathing back to normal from the ragged cadence it had suddenly taken on.

She sat at the table, listening to him moving around above her, the flush of the toilet, him humming lightly to himself as he brushed his teeth, the little things that many people never noticed. Tera noticed them all.

He came down the stairs, again taking them three at a time.

He was wearing the thin running suit that he favored, warm against the wind but not bulky so as not to impede his movement.

Michael smiled at Tera for a moment then he was out the door.

Tera, much as Michael had done only moments before, simply stared at the closed door long after he gone.

Michael's run had two notable moments.

The first was turning the corner and seeing the wooden windows open at the rowing hut he and Tera had found last week.

There were several people milling around, moving sculls into the water at the small dock, rummaging through a large pile of oars.

Michael slowed and walked up to the door, peering inside he was comforted that boat houses such as these, no matter what side of the Atlantic they were on, never changed.

"Good morning," Michael said to the man with the clipboard who had a decidedly haggard look on his face.

"Morning, what can I do for you," the man asked, more than a little impatience in his voice.

Michael understood how it was, trying to get rowers organized and on the water was somewhat akin to herding a pack of 5th graders around an amusement park. An exercise in patience.

"Nothing pressing, I see your busy, I had heard faculty could use a scull now and then, saw you were open and wanted to introduce myself and get a bit of information," Michael said with an easy friendly tone.

"Sorry, first day back and getting everyone where they need to be is challenging, Anthony Timmons, I coach this motley crew," he said walking up to Michael and extending a hand.

"A pleasure, Michael Dane, I'm teaching a few architecture classes this term," Michael said shaking the mans hand.

"Dane, Dane...ahhh, University of Florida, you were good, I remember seeing a few of your races," Anthony said.

"I did a bit of rowing in college, was hoping to get a bit of oar time while I'm here, its been years," Michael said, a brief blush crossing his cheeks at being remembered yet again for something that was, for him, simply something that made him...him.

"I'm sure we can get you fixed up, mornings are usually crazy but the hour before dusk is usually pretty quiet, why don't you come back by one evening next week and we should be able to set you up, you rowed singles yes?" Anthony asked as he moved back into the hut.

"Yep, singles was my thing, I appreciate the help, I'll swing back round one evening next week, have a great day Anthony," Michael said as he turned, restarting his run along the canal.

The other thing that happened was a name popped into his head un-bidden as he turned heading back towards his flat.

He was thinking of Aoife at the time, replaying the visions he had had. The cavern, the ancient energy of the place, all of it had a surprising duality of feeling, as if it was real and...not, both at the same time.

The name that slid into his consciousness during his ruminations was Sirrush.

Michael shrugged as he picked up speed crossing the bridge just around the corner from his flat. The name falling to the back of his mind as the rest of the day's activities took its place.

The day had moved along easily. After his run Michael moved through his day, always conscious of either Tera, or Valerie, usually of both of them.

Lunch passed in a similar manner as breakfast had. Easy discussions, quiet laughter, the three of them getting more and more comfortable with the other.

"My uncle had a new car dropped off for me," Valerie said as lunch was concluding.

Reaching into her purse she grabbed a set of keys and laid them in front of Tera.

"You can have these back, it's parked over in the employee lot, don't want you guys to be stranded," Valerie said with a grin.

Tera smiled and took the keys, sliding them into her pocket.

"Thanks, my bike was destroyed, being so close to the explosion and all, it will be a few days before I can get it replaced," Tera said taking a last swallow of her coffee.

Michael watched the interplay between the two women, enjoying their easy conversation.

Thinking about it, Michael found that he was in need of transportation as well.

He always took great joy in driving, having a unique and eclectic mix of cars over the years. He missed the GT3 and found that he was looking forward to getting behind the wheel again.

His statement of this need brought about a surprising response from Valerie.

"I'm sure my uncle would be happy to help track down a car for you," Valerie said a little to quickly, eliciting a bit of a glare from Tera.

"Well, ummm..." Michael started, hesitating a bit at what seemed to him an odd remark. He continued, "...I appreciate the offer Valerie, but I think I can handle tracking something down."

There was an awkward silence at the table for a few moments. Valerie was kicking herself mentally for not keeping her wits. Tera was slightly amused as she looked over at the younger woman, seeing the blush in her cheeks and tension in her eyes.

It was Michael who broke the silence.

"I should be in good shape today, I have a few things to finish up this afternoon, but tomorrow looks to be fairly empty. I think I'll run into London tomorrow, poke around a bit see if I can come up with something," he said, as he laid his hand over Valerie's, trying to ease the worry that seemed to have come over her.

She smiled up at him, took his hand and gave it a brief kiss then was away, saying she had meetings the rest of the day, and asking if they would like to come to her flat for dinner.

"That sounds good," Tera and Michael both called to the young woman's back as she waved over her shoulder and disappeared into the building behind them.

Michael and Tera passed through the rest of the day easily, by the time late afternoon arrived Michael was starting to feel the effects of little sleep in the last twenty hours.

"What time are we suppose to be at Valerie's," Michael asked from his seat next to Tera.

"About an hour, long enough to get cleaned up and changed," she responded. 

Tera had watched him through the afternoon and knew that he was starting to become fatigued.

'Seven bullet wounds will do that to you,' she thought to herself as she pulled the Range Rover to a stop in front of the flat.

"I need a shower, then we can head out," Michael said wearily as he stepped from the car and walked towards the front door.

The shower revitalized Michael a bit, and less than an hour later they were knocking on Valerie's door.

Valerie opened the door, a brilliant smile playing over her lips as she greeted Michael and Tera, biding them inside.

Michael took in the small flat, neat and tidy, everything in its place, definitely a woman's home.

The smells coming from the kitchen elicited a rumble from Michael's stomach.

Blushing, he said, "smells good, do you need help with anything."

Valerie was a little surprised, none of her other boyfriends had ever cooked anything more than microwave popcorn or toast, usually burning both.

"Ummm...I guess if you would like to prep the salad, that would be great," Valerie said hesitantly.

Tera smiled and sat herself across from the little kitchen island.

She had been watching and enjoying Michael's cooking for more than a week. 

Tera was sure that Valerie was going to be as surprised as she had been, regarding Michael's ability in the kitchen.

Michael smiled and kissed Valerie on the cheek as he moved past her into the kitchen. Grabbing a knife from the block he found the vegetables and started in.

Valerie sat down next to Tera, expecting to see a bit of comedy before stepping in and finishing the salad prep herself.

"How was your afternoon Valerie," Michael asked, as he grabbed a red pepper and started cutting.

"It was good," Valerie began, her voice trailing off as she watched the knife become a blur in Michael's hand.

The pepper disappeared in a moment, then its green and yellow cousins followed suit.

Valerie sat with her mouth open watching Michael eviscerate the vegetables one after the other. His practiced moves showing a talent for knife work and his quick motions with the chopped, sliced and minced vegetables providing a glimpse of his overall love of cooking. You cannot move with the practiced ease he showed without loving it.

Michael finished with the small cherry tomatoes, halving and then halving again the last one, popping a quarter in his mouth as the rest were slid against the flat of the knife into the bowl with the rest of the veggies.

With a smile he looked over at Valerie and Tera.

"Next," he said brightly, eliciting a small round of applause from his audience.

Dinner passed quickly, the three of them talking off and on through out. All of them were a bit surprised that there was not a great deal of tension.

It seemed all of them felt, in this moment, that they were...attuning to each other, learning and embracing the dynamic that was still forming between them.

Michael stood up plate in hand, heading towards the kitchen.

"None of that now," Valerie said, intercepting him and taking his plate.

"We can clean up, you relax, it will only take a few minutes," Tera said from behind him.

Sighing, Michael knew that he was out numbered, a line from Sun-Tzu popping into his head.

'Better to retreat from a superior enemy than to fight and loose, not allowing the ability to fight another day when the odds are more even.'

Michael sat down on the couch, his thoughts drifting as he watched the two women, his two women, work at cleaning up the dishes. He felt a wave of contentment at the scene as his eyes slowly slipped closed.

"They are both strong, but in very different ways, you provide the fulcrum on which both balance," Aoife's voice resonated in a smooth, deep tenor.

"Good evening Aoife," Michael said as he stood, stretching towards the ceiling of the now familiar cavern.

"So, to what do I owe this little visit my mysterious vixen," Michael questioned with a wide smile on his face.

Aoife's long deep chuckle vibrated throughout the cavern, giving the sense of a small earthquake, or...one of those vibrating beds that Michael had gotten whiplash on once while on vacation with his parents.

"You seem to be in a good mood young one," Aoife began, her voice seemingly close.

Michael turned a 360 but did not see anything more than the flicker of shadows cast by the burning braziers along the walls.

"You were in a calm and centered space when you slipped to sleep on the woman's couch. I thought perhaps you and I could have a brief conversation while you rest. You must have many questions and I have been less than...forthcoming. Ask, I shall answer that which I can and is appropriate," Aoife finished, her voice trailing to whispered echo at the end.

Michael stood at the edge of the small island, contemplating what to ask. There were so many questions, so many things he wanted to know, felt he needed to know, but in that moment only one really stood out.

"Will Valerie, Tera and I be able to make...US...work, I don't want them to be hurt or make...sacrifices on my account?" he asked, wanting and not wanting the answer simultaneously.

"I provide you with the opportunity to ask anything, and you use it to ask of the women in your life and their safety," Aoife said, her eyes focusing yet again on this unique young man who held such promise.

"I cannot see the future, I don't know what will become of the relationship between the three of you. What I do know, is that asking the question, feeling as you do, is the first step to providing some balance for you all," she finished.

Michael thought of this for a moment, and then, surprising Aoife, he dove into the lake.

The water was crystal clear, and much much warmer than he expected.

Michael could see the reflection of the braziers easily through the waters shifting surface above him. Looking down was like looking into the primordial abyss, it could be that the bottom was just below his feet, or...not present at all.

He broke the surface, pulling in a lung full of air and then dove down again, slicing through the water, enjoying, as he always had, the feeling of freedom and power he felt in the water.

Aoife watched him, amused that he had chosen to take a swim during their visit. 

Regarding him, she was once again taken by his easy manner, his honest heart and his inherent strength of both character and will.

Walking up the slope of the island he emerged from the water, shaking his head like a dog before running his fingers through his hair, smoothing it back, exulting in the little burn his muscles produced from the swim. It was good to be alive.

"When will I actually meet you," Michael asked, looking around once again at the huge interior of the cavern.

"Soon I should think, the time comes when you will be...tested. Once complete you will know things you never dreamed, understand things you thought you already did, and be asked to make a choice you never thought you could," Aoife answered somewhat cryptically.

"All right, here is another one, who or what is Sirrush," Michael asked. The name coming back to his thoughts unbidden.

The cavern became still as his questions last echo's faded.

It seemed as if time had frozen, the ripples in the lake pausing mid motion, the flames in the braziers freezing mid flicker.

There was a sense of foreboding, as if the saying of the name was enough to throw the balance of the planet out of alignment.

The pause deepened

The only sound Michael heard was the beat of his own heart, it grew louder and louder as the seconds ticked by.

Time seemed to expand, like a rubber band being pulled taught from both ends.

Michael had the feeling of being caught at the Nexus point, wondering at the impending shock to come when the tension became to great and the inevitable counter to this silence...ensued.

There are sounds that you hear and cannot comprehend, the train like roar as a tornado passes just a bit too closely, the pounding of a breaking wave heard from beneath it, the all encompassing sensory input from within an avalanche.

All these palled in comparison to the sound that built to a frightening crescendo almost as quickly as it began.

Falling to his knees, barely able to keep his eyes open, Michael was astonished at the feeling of raw power and pure unadulterated hatred that bounced off the rock walls. It built and rolled over upon itself, feeding back and generating more and more power.

The flames in the braziers shot up over 30 feet, scorching the walls above them. 

The water of the lake seemingly boiled like a pot too long unwatched, now roiling with a self-generating heat.

The very air took on a weight and power that battered Michael, leaving him in the center of a maelstrom un-thought of or dreamed of before.

"Michael, Michael, MICHAEL, WAKE UP!" the mixture of both Tera's and Valerie's voices made their way through, finally, to his overworked nervous system.

Standing straight up, gasping for breath, every muscle tensed to the point of failure, the energy to maintain his position left him almost immediately.

With a wild, helpless look in his wide eye's he began to fall.

Tera and Valerie caught him before he did.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 17



Michael slumped against the women's arms, his breaths coming in ragged gasps, he felt his body covered in sweat, never had he experienced such an outpouring of emotion.

'Aoife,' he thought with a shudder. Tears sprang forth from his eyes, slipping down over his cheeks like miniature creeks swollen from a spring snow melt.

It is one thing to experience your own pain, rage, desire, etc. We all temper your own emotions within the boundaries of what we can handle.

Being exposed to another's; a rage and terror that felt ancient as the foundations of the world and as fresh and powerful as the birth of a new sun all in the same instant was an experience Michael was not, and never could be...prepared for.

The sensory overload still fresh in his mind he allowed Tera and Valerie to lower him back to the couch, his body trembling between them as they encircled him with their arms.

With a helpless look into Tera's eyes he slipped from consciousness falling towards her, his head resting on her shoulder, his hand twined around her waist in a grip that would not be loosed.

"My god what happened," Valerie said, the fear obvious in her voice.

For Tera it was a bit different. After years spent in combat, going through the hellish reality that it provides, Tera was well aware that there are terrors in the world that we are simply un-prepared to face.

She had seen Michael's look before, the realization that limits we thought impossible to endure, were found and stepped over with the ease of stepping off a curb.

She held him tightly in her arms, gently rocking him as Valerie got up to get a cold towel for his head, wondering at this odd turn of events, among so many others from the past several weeks.

"I'm sorry...I'm sorry," Michael murmured as he fought for consciousness.

Valerie had taken over for Tera, holding Michael so she could change her shirt; it was drenched in Michael's sweat and tears.

"Shhhhh, It's ok, your fine, you have nothing to be sorry for," Valerie said, misunderstanding who Michael was addressing.

His eyes slowly slid open, blinking a few times his vision cleared, he felt someone holding him, opening his eyes he saw Valerie looking at him with worried eyes.

The kiss shocked her, one moment he was coming awake, the next his arms were curled around her, he was clutching to her as if he was a drowning man in search of his last breath and then his lips were on hers.

Needy, pressing, burning, she tasted the salt as one of his tears breached the gap between their lips; she pulled him closer as the kiss broke and his forehead found her shoulder.

Tera walked back in the room to see Michael awake, clutching Valerie, his head resting at her neck.

She stood there for a moment, watching the way his body tensed and then relaxed, only to tense again, the heaving breaths, he was awake, he was dealing with whatever the nightmare had held.

She walked over to them, sitting down next to Michael. Valerie had a wild look in her eye, like a deer stuck in the headlights. Tera patted her friend's hand where it lay on Michaels shoulder.

Michael felt the shift in energies when Tera touched Valerie.

He slowly released his grip, turning slightly, eyes still closed, head downcast.

Then he felt her hand on his cheek, warm, strong...knowing.

He opened his eyes, looking up at her from under heavy lids. 'Tera,' he thought and then he was in her arms, pulling her too him, his lips, as they had with Valerie, seeking hers.

She was harder, stronger, more in control that Valerie was, different, not better or worse.

Her tongue slipped between his lips, their tongues meeting in a sensuous dance as they slid together.

Pulling back he looked into her eyes, her passions were stirred, she had a feral look as she regarded him.

Taking her face in his hands he watched her for a moment then with an intensity that surprised her he simply said, "I love you."

He turned from her, repeating this with Valerie, she being touched and awed by the intensity of it just as Tera had been.

Michael slipped back to the couch, eyes closed, one of their hands in each of his. ...............

Michael and Tera had spent the night at Valerie's.

Tuesday morning had dawned bright and cool. None of them had brought up the previous evening; none of them really knew what to say. Valerie and Tera assumed that when Michael could talk about it he would. 

Michael knew that when he had some fucking clue as to what had happened he would share it with his mates.

Mates; that descriptor for what he considered Valerie and Tera had come to him unbidden that morning, and now sitting in the cab on the way to London he let it play through his mind.

It was the proper term for what he felt for Valerie and Tera, they were more than lovers, although only a few kisses, which held the promise of depthless passions and pleasures, had passed between them.

More than friends, he would gladly give everything he was to protect them.

More than partners, the depth of feeling that flowed between them was something that defied description.

He shook his head, glad to be out and about, glad to have some time alone.

Valerie had a day full of meetings, Tera a mid-morning meeting with Nigel.

"Why don't you wait and I'll ride into London with you when I am done," Tera asked as she dried her hair with a towel that morning.

Michael watched her with a curious eye.

Behind her, Michael could see Valerie expertly blow drying her hair, with the occasional upside down dips to get not only the top but, he surmised, the much important bottom of her hair dry as well.

It was an interesting contrast watching the two of them get ready for their days in such disparate ways.

"No, I'd like to get going early so I can get back, I have an idea of what I'm looking for so it shouldn't take too long," Michael said as he took the towel from Tera's hand replacing it with a fresh cup of coffee.

She smiled at him, took a sip and then disappeared into Valerie's bedroom.

"How about dinner out tonight," he asked to both of them, as he got ready to head out the door.

"Sounds good, why don't we meet at Valerie's office then we can decide where from there," came Tera's response from the bedroom.

"I'll see you then," Michael said from close behind her, as his lips gently brushed her shoulder. "I love you," he said over his shoulder as he went to tell the same to Valerie.

Now almost to London, Michael was becoming more and more comfortable with his feelings for these two amazing and very different women.

He hoped that the conversation he was going to have with them tonight over dinner would go as well as he felt it would.

A small smile at the thought of the evening played over his lips as he stepped out of the cab in front of Stratstone of Mayfair.

Paying the cabbie, Michael's smile turned into a grin as he faced the dealership in front of him.

Cars had been Michael's one indulgence through the years.

From his first car, that cobalt blue Trans-Am, through corvettes, a Ferrari, two Porsches and a brief, albeit fiery, affair with a Lamborghini, Michael had always thrilled at the simple pleasure he derived from driving an automobile that was built to be...driven.

One of the cars he always wanted, but, for reasons of availability or garage space had not procured, was an Aston Martin.

Now standing in front of the high glass walls, looking over the sensuous lines of several examples of the marque's rich lineage, his heartbeat increased just a bit as he grabbed the door handle and stepped inside.

The purchase had gone much quicker than he had thought.

In the past Michael had spent an inordinate amount of time around the purchase of the various cars that had caught his fancy. Spending weeks on research and comparisons, looking for the best deal, trying to ensure that it was as close to "perfect" as could be.

The midnight blue DB9 Volante made all of those past purchases seem as simple warm ups, for the main event.

The lines are what grabbed him first, there is a sensual nature to the DB9, its curves are very similar to the curve of a womans hip, soft and lush.

Running a hand along her, starting at the front moving up over the hood, across the door frame to her tight, supple rear quarter, it is almost as if you can feel residual heat coming off her from the fires that formed her exquisite body.

Inside, surrounded by plush black leather that gripped at the outside of his thighs and exotic hardwoods that glistened in the noonday sun, it's as if it was made for only him, the fit is simply that...right.

The test drive was not really necessary but a joy nonetheless.

The salesman was a little taken aback as Michael threw the car into turns, accelerated hard from every stop and, while staying well within the cars limits, definitely put the spurs to her.

So often people bought cars to be looked at, loaded onto trailers and surrounded with plastic chains and DON'T TOUCH signs.

This was ridiculous in Michael's opinion.

Automobiles such as this were meant to be driven, meant to have scraped up rims and sidewalls, meant to have little chips on the rear quarter panels from rocks thrown up by the sheer power of the beast. For only in being driven are these works of art truly to be...appreciated.

The process was wrapped up in less than two hours.

With the top down and Bon Jovi playing on the stereo, Michael pointed the cars nose towards Oxford.

The throaty growl she gave him as he popped the clutch and slammed down the accelerator was reminiscent of a she wolf, finally emerging from her den, crying to her mate that she was ready for the hunt.

That bright afternoon returning to Oxford...the hunt was glorious. ............

"I would like to ask you both to move in with me," Michael said, causing the women's light chatter to come to a screeching halt.

They looked at him, noted the shy but confident look in his eye, understood that he was asking them to take a leap, a leap he had already decided he had to, and wanted, to take.

"I...just don't know," Valerie said honestly. She took a drink of her merlot, the deep earthy flavor helping to calm her now surging emotions.

"I want you both to understand," Michael paused, unable to contain his smile, offering it to both of them along with a look that conveyed volumes about his feelings for them, before he continued.

"I...am in love with both of you, I can't explain why, I don't know how it will work out, but I know in my heart that having you both with me, fills me with a joy I never knew or hoped existed."

Looking deeply into Valerie's eyes, taking her hand in his, his thumb playing over her palm he said, "Valerie, from the moment I met you there was a connection. I know that you felt it just as I did. That first afternoon, in your office, I was overcome by that connection. It was so familiar, I had only felt it with Sasha and finding it again with you was...overwhelming." Michael paused, taking a sip of his drink, eyes moving between the two women, tentatively he continued.

"I worried that I was imprinting what I felt for Sasha onto you. I kept questioning, making sure that what I felt was in the present, the now, not an after image of my love for her. Then, that day on the road, looking into your eyes as the realization that I may not see them again slammed into me, I knew, I simply knew that what I feel for you is yours...totally and completely. I love you Valerie Smyth," Michael finished, placing his hand lightly over hers on the table.

Turning to Tera, Michael's smile became a grin.

"And you, my warrior, my protector, your place in my heart was secured that morning on the bridge, when I felt your intentions, knowing that your one goal was to protect me."

"Then you were in my arms and my only thought was to protect you, to make sure you were safe. You who have seen so much, and come through it retaining the ability to love."

"My need for you is two fold, I need to be there for you, to protect you from those monsters that go bump in the night and creep towards us intent on our destruction. But also my love, I need you at my back, as much as I want and need to protect you, those wants and needs are balanced with my own desire and primal understanding that you can do the same for me. Tera Cole, I love you." Michael said, squeezing her hand as he finished.

Michael took a deep breath, both women were crying, he didn't understand exactly why but he knew there was more to say. Moving his eyes between the two of them, finding strength in their depths he smiled, starting again.

"I am...passionately in love with both of you. I don't know how it happened, and I honestly have no idea how to deal with it. I know that all of us are still...getting to know each other."

"We have said that there is love between us, but I wanted to tell you that...I want you both, equally. And I have absolutely no idea what to do with that. But I also wanted you both to know that I want nothing from either of you, aside from being close to me. The thought of either of you not being at my side just feels...wrong. I don't know how it will work, I do feel in my heart and soul that it is...right."

Michael took a deep breath, trying to get his racing heartbeat under control. Giving voice to his feelings, letting out all those emotions that had been swirling in his head and heart for the last few weeks, he was moved to continue, to lay it all out at these amazing women's feet.

"I want you both with a desire I had never known possible, but I don't want to hurt either of you. If the only way that I can have you with me, of not having to choose, is that our relationship remains...non-physical...I can live with that. It is more important to me that you are both simply there...than there...in my bed."

Michael let out a deep breath as he finished, it had taken more courage to allow his feelings to be given voice than it had to jump into the river with Tera, or save Valerie in the middle of the fire fight.

Michael sat there, a half smile on his face, hoping that they would accept, wondering what would happen if they did, knowing that something...magic...lay just over the horizon of an us that include both...of them.

Tera and Valerie were both crying openly, and Michael was getting the distinct impression that he had made a mistake.

"I'm...sorry," Michael whispered, feeling as if a truck had hit him.

The last thing he wanted to do was hurt them and it seemed as if that was exactly what he had done.

"Shut up Michael, just...shut up," Tera said with a smile, her eyes glistening, the look she gave him was filled with love and hope.

Her hand tightened around his, giving it a hard squeeze, trying to comfort him, reduce his own perceived worry.

"I love you," Tera said to him, slipping her gaze from him, looking over at Valerie.

"As do I Michael, with a depth I.... never imagined," said Valerie, her own hand playing over his.

They sat there like that, hands joined, happy lingering smiles shared between the three of them.

They understood that something had been wrought in this moment, tempered by their deep and abiding feelings for each other, none knowing what the outcome would be, but aware that for this moment, that was...ok.

The rest of the evening passed quickly, Tera and Valerie, after a trip to the ladies room decided that perhaps for this evening, it would be best if Tera stayed at Valerie's.

Michael was disappointed but understood that they would probably both need some time to think about how the three of them could structure a life.

Driving back to his flat, the top down, the light cool fog playing through the interior of the car as he slipped through the night, he felt relief. That he had told them, been true to himself, and made it clear to his two amazing women that they were loved. ............

"I want him so badly that I ache," Valerie said to Tera as they drove home.

Tera smiled, glancing at the woman's silhouette beside her, getting glimpses of her hair, the curve of her cheek as they passed under the streetlamps on the way back to Valerie's'.

Tera was a bit surprised, and please by Valerie's admission.

"I think we are both in the same position. We are in love with Michael, I know for me that is an emotion that comes from my heart, soul and definitely my body," Tera said, slipping a bit sideways in her seat so she could look at Valerie.

"Can we do this without jealousy, can we really have our cake and eat it too," Valerie asked with a quick glance at Tera.

"I don't know Valerie, in concept, I have no issues...sharing," Tera paused, wondering if she really wanted to say this next bit, but knowing that it was only right that everything be on the table.

Taking a deep breath she continued. "Valerie, I need you to know that my...desires...have never been limited only to...men. I am not asking for, nor do I expect any kind of response from you, I wanted you simply to know that it is a part of me. I don't want to hide anything from either of you if we are going to try and make a go of this." Tera finished, closing her eyes, very unsure of what the younger womans response would be.

After a brief pause it was Tera who asked the next question.

"Do you...find me...attractive," Valerie asked, her response shocking Tera.

She didn't answer her for a long time. When she did they were just pulling up in front of Valerie's flat.

"Yes, I find you very attractive Valerie," Tera answered as she opened the door and fairly leapt from the car.

Valerie smiled and shook her head, wondering how her life had become so very interesting.

She slipped from the car, walking behind Tera towards her flat, looking at the woman with a different perspective than she had only moments before. ...............

Michael's intro class on Wednesday had been fun. The seventy-five students were interested and engaged in the subject; their questions were intelligent and well thought out. It was an interesting and enlivening experience and Michael looked forward to next week's class.

"That went well," Valerie said as she walked down to him at the lectern. Both she and Tera had showed up just after the class started, along with a few other professors he did not know.

"Yes, I thought so to, we shall see how it goes," Michael answered as he slid his arm around her giving her a light kiss on the cheek.

"I missed you," he whispered to her as he released her and repeated the process with Tera.

The women smiled at him, the silence that extended between them was, surprisingly, not awkward, all of them noted this curious fact.

"Tera is going to come to the festival with us on Friday," Valerie said with a smile in Tera's direction.

"Excellent, I am really looking forward to seeing your uncles home, especially the maze," Michael said with an enthusiasm that had both women giggling.

Blushing, Michael asked about dinner that evening.

"I've got meetings till almost nine," Valerie said with more than a bit of angst.

Smiling, Michael said, "What time do you have a break, Tera and I will bring you something."

"About 7:30 at my office would be wonderful, I won't have any time through the rest of the day and I would love to see you both," Valerie said to both of them

"It's a date, I've got to run. Tera I'm going to a meeting that will be done in about an hour, I'll be in my office for awhile after if you want to come by," Michael said as he kissed both women and made for the door.

"I'll find you," Tera said to his retreating back as she and Valerie walked out after him.

The day was busy for all of them, Michael and Tera took Valerie dinner, they ate in her office, talking over their day, Michael wondering how his advanced class would go tomorrow.

"You'll be fine, just don't let them bully you," Valerie said with a smile as she looked at her watch and picked up her coat.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 17



"Tera, you bunking with me or at Michael's tonight," Valerie asked as she pulled on the Italian leather jacket and grabbed her briefcase.

"I'll hang out here and head home with you," Tera answered.

Michael was a little surprised, his offer of living together had not come up since dinner last night and this would be the second night he was alone at his flat.

He was not looking forward to the prospect of another restless night.

Tera saw the shadow cross Michael's face, she smiled, bent at the waist and gave him a scorching kiss, the intensity of which left them both breathing a little harder.

"We will see you in the morning for breakfast before your class," Tera said as her place was taken by Valerie, who gave Michael a long sensual...lingering kiss that did nothing to alleviate his breathlessness.

"Sleep well, we love you," Valerie whispered in his ear as she and Tera slipped from the office, leaving a very happy...and very frustrated Michael in their wake. ...............

"Why would you seek to create a design that was not beautiful as well as functional? I agree that the clients design criteria are the most important thing, but anyone can design a box. Clients come to architects because they want something that not only provides for their needs, but also surprises them. It is an architects job to provide for the need, but in a way that provides magic and interest from what could be a simple soulless...box," Michael answered.

The students were smart, very confident in what they knew, almost cocky. 

Michael remembered how it was, being just close enough to see the degree at the end of the tunnel, having just enough education to know the fundamentals, but not having any experience to temper your own perspective on the work.

By the end of class, Michael had made an impression on the students, he was looking forward to opening them up to a more artistic and free flowing view of the design process. All in all he was pleased with day.

As the students filtered out of the class, Mary Collins walked towards Michael.

Mary was twenty, got excellent grades and was very intrigued by this handsome yank.

Michael watched as Mary came towards him, dressed in a long camel leather skirt, black boot tips peaking out from underneath the hem. Her white silk blouse was fashionable but showed off her form very nicely.

Michael smiled as she stopped in front of him.

"Mr. Dane, I was wondering will you be doing any...tutoring during the term, I think there are some things I need to...work on," Mary said with a soft seductive lilt in her voice.

Michael missed the pass completely and began questioning Mary on what aspects of the class she thought she may need help with as he grabbed his blackberry to pull up his schedule.

The pass was not missed however by Valerie and Tera as they approached from behind young Mary.

Moving around her they both took up positions on either side of Michael.

Tera slid her arm around his waist as Valerie slid her hand into his hair, pulling his head to hers as she gave him a long sensuous kiss.

Tera mirrored the kiss a moment later.

Michael smiled at the women at his side, feeling, as he always did, that wonderful sense of...wholeness when they were near.

"Hello ladies, I missed you," he said, disengaging from Tera and turning back to his schedule.

"Perhaps Tuesday's at 11, I want to make sure you get the most out of the class," Michael asked Mary who, he noticed, had a strange look on her face.

Looking at the women on either side of her handsome new professor, Mary understood that while tempting, given the icy looks from the two older women, he was most definitely...off limits.

"Ummm.... I will check my schedule and get back with you," Mary said quickly as she beat a hasty retreat from the room.

Michael watched her go, a little surprised by her reaction.

Tera and Valerie shared a smile behind Michael's back.

"I'm done for the day, how about we head to Nogardshire this afternoon instead of waiting till tomorrow," Valerie asked.

"That sounds like a plan, I'll run home and pick up my stuff and pick you both up at Valerie's?" Michael asked the two of them.

"Yes, getting an early start on the weekend sounds just right," Tera answered.

"Excellent, I'll see you both in about an hour," Michael said as he kissed each of them on the cheek. He was eager to be close to them...and it showed.

Valerie and Tera were pleased with his enthusiasm as they walked to Valerie's car.

"Should we talk with him on the way up or wait till we get there," Tera asked Valerie.

Smiling, she put her hand on the older woman's thigh, giving it a little squeeze as she pulled away from the curve.

"I think we wait till we are there, once we start that conversation I would think we will need some...time to finish it," Valerie answered.

Tera and Valerie shared a conspiratal grin as they rode through the light early afternoon traffic, each creating their own constructs of the weekend to come.

Neither of them realizing the road they were truly traveling nor what their final destination would be. 



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 19



Authors Note: Chapter 18 was too dark for the site admin's, and I understand their decision. I looked over the chapter and it is what it is, trying to tone it down just didn't work so I am skipping it all together. If you would like a text copy just drop me a line and I will email you the chapter. Thanks for reading me.

Chapter 19

Michael was pleased with the way his first two classes had gone as he walked from campus towards his flat.

The afternoon was clear, the sun hung just beyond its zenith, the light haze of the morning having given way to a crystal afternoon with a light breeze. Fall was in the air and Michael was happy to be walking through it, he was also happy that he would have some time alone with his women.

Valerie and Tera's actions over the past few days had struck Michael as odd.

He had been with both of them off and on through out the last few days, either together or individually. Their conversations always flowed easily and there was never a sense of anything negative. However, there had been no mention of his stated desire that the three of them live together or his pronouncement of loving them both.

As the days crept by he was becoming more and more unsure about what the eventual outcome would be.

Turning the corner onto Nelson St. Michael was once again struck by this place that was quickly becoming a home.

He moved through the streets of Oxford like a local, being greeted every so often by a student or shopkeeper that he had met.

Michael had fallen in love with the tight streets, unique architectural styles and the ancient feel of the place.

Being so close to the water reminded him of home, crossing back and forth over the intracoastal, feeling the shift in the breeze and the scent of water that came with it.

Oxford felt comfortable, almost as if he belonged here or had been here before.

Having Tera and Valerie in his life only solidified that feeling of home.

Opening the door and walking inside he was excited about the weekend. The festival and exploring Nogardshire were interesting things that he looked forward to, but Michael was more interested in having some uninterrupted time with Valerie and Tera.

Walking up to the loft Michael looked around for anything he may have missed. 

The bed was unmade; it was one of his quirks, seeing no need to make a bed he was simply going to mess up again in a few hours.

Not finding anything else he needed, Michael grabbed his overnight bag and made for the garage, eager to pick up the women, eager for the drive to Nogardshire.

Michael had not had the opportunity, aside from the trip back from London, to have much time behind the wheel of the Aston and his heartbeat increased a bit as the garage door opened revealing his new beauty.

Dropping the top and stowing his bag in the boot he turned the key, savoring the throaty growl that issued forth as she awakened before settling down to a soft resonate burble, awaiting his pleasure.

Michael smiled as he pulled out of the garage. Heading to Valerie's his last few nights alone played through his head.

During those evenings sitting in the quiet loft, looking out over the canal, Michael had tried to contact Aoife with no success. He was still shaken by his last visit to the cavern, still questioned why the mention of a name would have such a startling impact on her.

His perception of Aoife had always been one of imminent control.

She did not seem to be a changeable creature; the overwhelming sense from her was that of affection and strength. She seemed immutable; to have that vision shaken in such an energetic fashion left Michael in a place of turmoil.

Through the days and nights since, his emotions had ranged from feelings of sorrow and emptiness to concern and wonder. There was such power in the visions, and such comfort in having her come unbidden into his mind.

The lack of her being there was noticed, as was the lack of Valerie and Tera.

Michael shook off his ruminations as he pulled up to Valerie's flat, laughing at the scene before him.

Tera was sitting on the steps that lead up to the flat, one small bag in front of her, she was looking over her shoulder, rolling her eyes at Valerie as the third piece of her luggage slipped from her grip and bounced down the stairs beside her.

It was an interesting snapshot of the difference between the two women.

"How long are we going for," Michael asked Tera as he got out of the car.

Laughing, Tera responded, "I suppose three bags worth of time."

Valerie scowled at both of them.

"I don't think everything will fit in that," Valerie said pointing towards Michael's car.

"We will manage," he answered popping the boot, placing Tera's bag next to his.

It was a tight fit but with two of Valerie's smaller bags in the boot, and the larger one on the seat next to Valerie in the back, the fifth army was ready to move out for Nogardshire.

Both women loved the convertible and the three of them were quickly lost to the simple joy of the wind in their hair and the sun on their faces as they drove out of Oxford. Each was enfolded and comforted by the beautiful day and being in the company of those that they loved.

Michael felt the proximity of Valerie's hand just before it slid lightly to rest upon his shoulder. The sparks flew, as they always did whenever either of the women touched him.

The energetic feel of them was one of the things that so surprised Michael. 

Alone he felt as if he was operating at a normal level, about 50% of capacity. Having Valerie or Tera around him, that notched the energy up, each of them providing another 25% to the energy of his life.

When either of them touched him...well, there is no good way to explain the vast amounts of energy, emotion, passion and love that were tapped when this occurred.

Michael thought of it in terms of the water.

Alone he was paddling down a serene creek.

Having them close, the creek became a deep fast moving river.

With a touch the river became swollen, and he rode the crest of a flood so powerful that it sometimes took everything in him not to be simply overcome by it. 

It always left him wondering what would happen when he gave up trying and let the flood simply...take him.

Valerie's fingertips played over his shoulder, it was a light, familiar touch, the type that so often go un-noticed, that get lost to whatever we are actually focused on.

This touch was not missed; Michael and Valerie both felt every nuance, luxuriating in the simple and complex emotions it elicited within each of them.

Tera sliding her hand on top of Michaels, as it rested on the gearshift, pushed the energy to a whole new level.

Michael and Valerie both felt the change, the volume increase as Tera's energy was added to their own.

Anyone who would have looked into the car in that instant would have seen three people sitting silently with huge grins on their faces.

The back roads that Valerie guided Michael to were just as one would expect. Rolling hills, green countryside, the quintessential drive in the country.

Michael enjoyed getting to know the car, feeling how she reacted in the tighter turns, pushing her a bit harder on the straight bits, feeling that subtle but oh so exhilarating feeling in the pit of your stomach as you add a G or two.

Tera watched Michael out of the corner of her eye. His expression shifting from concentrated, as he threw the car into a very tight turn, the hedgerow seemingly far to close to her as it flashed by, to giddy as he would jump on the accelerator and the car would surge ahead, the engine howling with seeming glee at the chance to stretch its legs.

Tera herself was content. In this moment, with the wind swirling around her under a cool fall sun, the two people in the world she felt the safest with, the alien feeling of contentment almost overwhelmed her.

Michael moved his hand, surprising Tera out of her moment of reverie. She felt the absence of him, and then felt the connection resume as his hand came to rest on her thigh. The heat and warmth of it surprising her, sending a delightful spark between her legs.

Michael's thumb commenced rubbing small circles on her thigh; it was distracting to a fault. She found her eyes closing, reveling in the conscious act of him caressing her, amazed at the passion such a simple touch could bring forth.

Michael was pleased when he glanced over and saw the easy look of happiness on Tera's face. He loved the firm feel of her under his hand. She had chosen a pair of khaki pants; the thin material did little to hide the heat and sensuous strength beneath it.

Valerie's lips close to his ear shifted Michael's focus from Tera's supple thigh to the warmth of her breath as she whispered, "I love you."

His heart raced a bit as both women smiled at him.

Valerie sat back, her hand slipping from Michael's shoulder, she watched as his hand continued to play over Tera's leg. She was glad the weekend was finally here, it was doubtful that either herself or Tera could hold out much longer, being at a distance from this amazing man had worn on both of them.

Valerie closed her eyes, enjoying the feeling of the sun on her face as the last two evenings with Tera drifted over the black screen of her closed eyes. 

............

Following Tera up the stairs that night, Valerie was full of conflicting emotions. 

The one emotion that was not conflicted at all was her love of Michael and her ever-growing love of the strong, seemingly sad, woman who had become almost as necessary as Michael had, to her vision of the way her life should be.

"I'm getting in the shower," Tera yelled as Valerie closed and locked the front door.

Hearing the water start she moved into the living room, set down her purse on the small coffee table as she fell to the couch, enjoying its well-worn embrace.

'He loves us,' Valerie thought as she slipped off her shoes and sat back closing her eyes.

Michael's pronouncement had not been surprising, Valerie had seen the way he looked at Tera, the way they gravitated towards each other. It was different than what she and Michael shared.

To Valerie, Michael was a warm comforting blanket, once cocooned within it anything was possible. She felt such love, such want, such a deep-seated need to be with him that it often times threatened to overwhelm her.

Much to Valerie's surprise and growing joy, Tera elicited much the same reaction within her.

She knew that she was in love with the woman but had no frame of reference for that.

Oh, she had the same normal fantasies as everyone else. But this was different, she felt for Tera, wanted Tera in a way that was totally alien and absolutely familiar all at the same time.

Valerie stood up from the couch, a small happy smile on her face as she walked down the hall towards the bathroom. 'In for a pence in for a pound,' she thought as she quietly opened the door.

............

"I can't do this," Tera said staring at her own reflection in the mirror. Swiveling her hips she reached into the shower, fumbling for a moment before finding the handle and turning the water on.

Michael's declaration of love had not come as a surprise. Tera knew the moment she saw Valerie and Michael together that there was something powerful between them.

Michael had said over the past few days that he loved her as well, hell; he had said he loved each of them in each other's presence often over the last few days.

But both, how does that work, how could it, how could anyone love two people differently but equally, there had to be a short end of the stick and Tera was resigned to getting that end.

"Valerie," Tera said into the growing steam that enveloped the small room.

It was a sigh more than a word. Said with the tone and inflection those of a religious ilk say amen.

There was a finality in this simple act of say Valerie's name, a wracking understanding that while strong, the feelings she shared with Michael were so very different than those between Valerie and he, and in this case, by Tera's estimation, different translated into less.

Stepping into the shower, the hot water just tolerable enough to stop her from turning it down, tears came to her unbidden. It was not a strong wracking thing; they were the tears of someone who feels unworthy of being loved, of being included.

Wrapped up in this place of quiet despair she didn't hear the bathroom door open.

............

The soft sobs of the woman behind the opaque shower curtain were barely audible over the sound of the water.

Valerie's heart contracted at the sound, knowing all too well the feelings that brought them forth. Valerie was amazed again at how two women, so different in age and history, could feel such dazzlingly mirrored emotions.

She looked at herself in the hazed mirror, regarding that foggy version of herself. 

It was true of most people that such a version was all anyone ever saw of themselves, or others.

So often we walk through the world unknowingly blindfolded by the persona we exhibit, never seeing, or allowing others to see, the true us.

Valerie's hand reached out, her palm crossing the wet surface of the mirror.

Her reflection changed, came into clearer focused. The tiny water drops, left by the passing of her hand, followed gravity's pull, streaking her countenance, once again blurring the details, the hidden depths of her true self.

Valerie pulled the sweater she was wearing over her head; the heat in the small space wrapped her now exposed skin in pleasant warmth. Unhooking her bra it joined the sweater on the floor. Tera's hands moved to her breasts, running beneath them, tracing the reddened outline left by a bra worn too long.

The skirt slid to the floor followed closely by her sensible "work" panties.

With a last lingering stare in the refogged mirror she pulled the shower curtain slowly aside.

Stepping into the shower, seeing the wet hunched back of the woman she had come to love, Valerie squared her shoulders. She would share her soul openly with those that she loved; there would be no pretense, no personas, only her, laid bare. She trusted that those who professed their love for her actually did, that she would be as safe as she felt she would be in her heart.

Valerie's hand moved out slowly to Tera's shoulder, the slight touch electric and comforting at the same time.

Valerie drew in a quick breath with the contact, her soul in that moment leaping into the abyss unarmed.

............

Tera started at Valerie's touch.

Turning quickly she saw the young woman standing there, her features clouded a bit by the steam.

She seemed ethereal in that moment and Tera blinked her eyes several times to be sure that it was not just a figment of her overactive and overheated imagination.

Valerie's hand reached back out, landing on Tera's shoulder. The touch resonated through both them.

Valerie felt Tera's strength in that touch.

Tera felt Valerie's depth of feeling and capacity to love.

They stood there for a while, neither speaking.

In this moment there was no real need for words, they were attuning to each other, turning a corner in their relationship but doing so side by side.

Each was simply reveling in this new dimension, each feeling the others simple proximity.

"Thank you," Valerie said softly, stepping closer to Tera. Their bodies still not touching but for Valerie's hand on Tera's shoulder.

"For what," Tera asked, feeling the energy between the two quicken as Valerie moved closer to her.

"For being honest with me, for telling me that you were attracted to women as well as men, that you found me attractive. It took a lot of courage to do that and I am very appreciative that you did," Valerie finished as she turned away from Tera, sliding by her to get under the water.

Tera backed off a bit, trying to become part of the wall in the small shower but was not able to avoid contact as Valerie slid by her.

Valerie's hip felt cool as it briefly touched hers.

Tera's nipples hardened at the contact with Valerie's back.

Some of Valerie's soft hair brushed her shoulder, leaving a tingling sensation as she passed by her and under the showers spray.

Tera watched the younger woman as her body began to glisten, coated with a warm sheen of water. She enjoyed the way the water played over her back, sliding down quickly only to slow at the rise of her ass before continuing its journey.

Turning around Valerie was pleased to see Tera watching her; she enjoyed the look of wonder and hunger that showed in the woman's eyes.

"You and I have a lot to talk about," Valerie began as she grabbed the soap and a washcloth, slowly rubbing them between her palms as she continued.

"We find ourselves in a strange situation, with Michael I mean, not the shower," she smiled.

"I love Michael, you love Michael and Michael loves us both. I know that the feelings he has for you are very different than those he has for me. The question is how do we deal with this given the fact that he doesn't want to choose."

Valerie started to wash her body, the soapy towel, lost in a sweet cinnamon foam of lather, slipped over her arms and shoulders as she continued.

"Michael said we could just be companions, that idea does not appeal to me, I don't want him in my life as a companion, well just as a companion. I have never felt anything close to what I feel for Michael with one exception," Valerie paused after saying this, lifting her foot to the edge of the tub the washcloth flowing over the curve of her thigh and knee. She smiled as she saw Tera following the washcloth, her gaze then moving up to her eyes.

Turning her back she raised the other leg and continued.

"I want Michael as lover, mate, friend, confidant and husband. It is my intention to give myself over totally to the love I feel," Valerie stopped and looked over her shoulder, Tera was looking in her eyes this time.

Valerie handed the soapy towel towards Tera, "wash my back?" she questioned.

Tera took the towel, her fingers slipping over Valerie's, lingering there, lost in the foam for a moment before the contact was broken.

Valerie turned towards the wall, her hands splayed on the wall.

Tera looked at the cloth in her hand and then knelt behind Valerie. Her fingers gently played over her ankle as she lifted Valerie's foot and began to slowly wash the back of her calf.

After letting out a breath held a bit too long Valerie continued.

"So, I don't want a platonic relationship with Michael. I would suspect that you desire something close to, if not exactly, what I want with Michael for yourself. That kind of leaves you and I in a unique position. We could be girls about it and force him choose, neither one of us wants him to do that, as I believe he wouldn't be able to stay away from whomever he didn't choose. I would hope that you and I can be women, that we can talk through this and come up with a solution that works for all of us," she stammered this last as Tera had chosen that moment to move very close to her, the feeling of her powerful hands behind the soft silky warmth of the soap as she massaged it into Valerie's shoulders made a pause mandatory.

Tera was listening closely to Valerie, as closely as she could while her hands moved over her supple skin.

Valerie's feel was very different than that of the other women she had been with. 

All of them had been military women, either in the teams or officer level, all of them had been in top physical form, their strength easily seen and felt.

Valerie was different. She was the first civilian woman that she had shared this proximity with and the differences were not lost on Tera's detail oriented mind. 

Valerie was soft, lush; her skin was smooth and flawless but did not have the hardness Tera was use too.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 19



Discovering Valerie in this very tactile way only heightened Tera's desire for her, but more than that, it presented a physical manifestation of the difference between them.

And it was those differences that she, and she suspected Valerie, both knew would present the solution to their current perceived predicament.

"That feels wonderful," Valerie said in a soft voice.

"Yes, it does," Tera, whispered in her ear, never taking her hands off Valeri's now well cleaned shoulders.

"You were saying," Tera said as she stepped back, her hands slipping lower on Valerie's back.

"I want 100% of the love Michael has to give me. I know that you want and deserve the same. I think the real question is can we both be okay loving and being loved by Michael."

"Not just understanding with our heads that he loves, wants and needs us both, but knowing it in our hearts and souls, acknowledging it as a fundamental truth. Are we capable of allowing ourselves to be loved by him, to watch him show that love to both of us, knowing that his expressions of love for both of us takes nothing away from either of us?" Valerie finished and turned, the water quickly washing away the soap that clung to every spot that Tera had touched, and those spots were numerous.

The women stared at each other; their heartbeats marked the time as it crept slowly forward in the warm cocoon that they shared.

With a smile, Valerie reached behind her and turned off the water as Tera pulled back the shower curtain.

Valerie stepped out, grabbing a towel off the rack and handed it to Tera as she took another for herself. Valerie opened the door to let some of the steam out of the room, both women were feeling overheated, the steam the least of the reasons.

"What about us," Tera asked as she efficiently dried herself off, years in the military showing through in this simple task which she completed expediently, a contrast to Valerie.

The rough but soft texture of the towel felt good on Valerie's skin as she slowly dried her arms and shoulders, watching Tera's economical motions from under her wet auburn bangs.

"Us, hmmm... there is a lot of room in that question, care to clarify a bit," Valerie said, her light teasing tone was not lost on Tera.

Wrapping the towel around her, Tera stood there in the tub for a minute, Valerie had moved on to drying her breasts and Tera was mesmerized by her movements for a moment. She recovered and moved passed Valerie out into the hallway, she was feeling a bit light headed; she only marginally blamed the steam.

Tera leaned against the wall in the dark hallway, watching as Valerie, who was turned away from her, bent over to dry her legs. Her eyes were drawn to Valerie's center, water still clinging to this most intimate spot. Blushing, Tera shook her head before giving voice to her own emotions.

"I have feelings for you, they are tied with Michael and what I feel for him, but there is also a large part of what I feel that is just about you, how I am when I'm around you. You are right of course, I want Michael in the worst way, the emotions that swirl around in my head and heart when he is close to me are like nothing I could have dreamed. My desire is for him, but I have an almost equal desire for you. If we are to be sisters I can live with that, but I want you to know that my feelings for you run much deeper than mere friendship," Tera finished, feeling more light headed than before she slipped to the floor, looking up, seeing apprehension pass across Valerie's eyes.

'I've gone to far,' Tera thought closing her eyes and shaking her head.

"Are you alright," Valerie said, from close by.

Tera opened her eyes and Valerie was there, crouched down in front of her, a look of concern playing over her features.

"I'm fine, and I'm sorry, I don't want to pressure you into anything Valerie, it's just...," Tera trailed off, closing her eyes, taking deep breaths trying to get her emotions under control.

Valerie was concerned but pressed on. "I don't feel pressured in the least," she said, sliding down the wall to sit next to Valerie before continuing.

"I've never been with a woman Tera. Oh sure I've had the normal fantasies everyone has. But I've never been in love with another woman, I have always been attracted to men, assumed they held sway over my hearts needs and my bodies desires. I can't say that is true anymore."

"For awhile I thought it was the fact that you saved my life that day on the road, you were so strong, so capable. Then later at the hospital you were there for me as well but with a different kind of strength, you supported me when I thought Michael was lost to us. I couldn't have made it through that day without you."

"Afterwards, as I got to know you, as I saw that you were important, hell, more than important, that you were loved by Michael, I thought the feelings I had for you came from that, wanting him to have whatever would make him happy."

"I wrestled with that, trying to find my own feelings, untangling them from what I felt for Michael, trying to see what my feelings about and for you were." Valerie's emotions came through in these statements.

Tera slipped her hand to her side, fingertips slowly passing over Valerie's palm, Tera intertwined her fingers with the other woman's.

The warmth and presence of Tera's hand in hers buoyed Valerie and she continued.

"Just as Michael loves and wants me differently, but just as passionately, than he wants you, my own feelings have mirrored that. I am in love with you Tera. I don't know what it means, I don't know how it happened, but it is there and I am very happy it is. I want us to be everything to each other, not just you or Michael, but everything for each of us, the three of us seem to complete a circuit, we are more together than the sum of our parts. If you will have me, I want to be everything I can be to Michael and to you. I hope that...," Valerie's sentence was cut short as Tera's lips gently landed on her own.

The kiss was soft, not long, not short. It held the promise of passion but so much more. It held the gentle caress of friendship, the easy laughter of sisterhood, the warm embrace...of home.

Standing, Valerie reached out with her hand, Tera's rose to meet it. Helping her wife off the floor Valerie slid an easy arm around Tera's waist as they walked slowly towards the bedroom. 

Both women were drained from the simple and complex act of being open, of being available, of being themselves.

Valerie and Tera spent that night in each other's arms.

Both slipped into pajamas, there was no desire for physical intimacy beyond wrapping themselves in each others arms and drifting into a contented sleep that would find them refreshed, with a very different perspective than they had when the sun had set the previous night.

"Tera, time to wake up," Valerie said. The room was gray, the dawn just breaking, shrouding the space in a soft opaque glow.

Tera stirred, her eyes opening slowly, taking a moment to focus as she clawed her way up from the warm depths of a contented sleep.

"Good morning," Tera sighed, her arms stretching up over her head, legs uncurling and flexing. She felt rested. She lay in the warmth created by the proximity of their bodies looking into Valerie's eyes, both women sharing a knowing moment.

"Thank you for last night," Tera said as she rolled over propping her head on her hand as her other reached out, gently moving some of Valerie's stray auburn tresses from in front of her eyes.

"No thanks are required, I haven't slept that well in years, you make me feel so very safe," Valerie said as she moved closer to Tera, her lips brushing lightly against the other womans, both of their eyes half closing at the gentle contact.

"We need to get moving, I have early meetings and you have someone's body to guard," Valerie said playfully as she slid out of bed and walked from the room.

"Michael," Tera said with a whisper and a smile as she too rose from the bed, ready for the day to begin.

..........

Wednesday passed quickly for Valerie. She had rescheduled several meetings, trying to free up Friday. It seemed important that they get to Nogardshire a bit early, the incoming call on her cell phone would only solidify that feeling.

"Good morning Val," Ian said, his voice full of energy.

"Ah, good morning uncle, I was just thinking about you," Valerie replied.

"Do you think you could make it up here on Thursday," Ian asked, the animation with which the request was made was not lost on Valerie.

"I was actually already working on that, I have pushed a few things back and forward, I was going to call you this afternoon and see if it would be alright if we came a day early. Michael is very eager to take a look around, I figured the extra day would provide some time and not cut into attending the festival," Valerie answered.

"Excellent, Millie and I are looking forward to seeing you and meeting Michael..." Ian paused, as if thinking if he wanted to say this next before continuing, "...and Tera, Nigel and Millie both say she is a very unique young woman, I am looking forward to meeting her as well." Ian finished.

"I think you will like her Uncle, I know that she means the world to Michael...and to me as well," Valerie said. The strength of her statement was not lost on Ian.

"How are you Val, I know the last two weeks have been hard with the accident and all, are you doing alright, is there anything I can do," Ian said.

Valerie smiled at the deep and abiding care with which Ian said this last.

"I'm good, hell, had I know that attempted kidnapping would leave me in the state I find myself I would have signed up for one long ago," Valerie laughed in answer.

Ian shared her laugh, hearing the truth of her current state in that simple, easy statement.

"I'll let you go, I'm glad you will be able to come up Thursday, I love you Val, be safe, see you soon," Ian finished.

"I love you too Ian, cheers," Valerie closed the phone, pleased that her instincts about going to Nogardshire early had been correct.

Lunch with Tera and Michael passed easily.

Valerie once again found herself absorbed within the proximity of the two of them, watching the interplay between them, aware of their interplay with her.

She gained the perspective that it was more of a fluid circle she was part of, not what you typically think of as a triangle. There were no sharp points or edges; the three of them simply flowed into the others when they were together.

She left lunch feeling energetic, looking forward to the rest of her day.

There was an interesting energy at the impromptu dinner in her office that evening.

The meetings had gone well that afternoon, initial feedback on Michael's performance was excellent, the teachers that had audited his first class were enthusiastic about his obvious passion for the material and they had high hopes that they may be able to lure him into accepting a full time position.

Valerie had laughed internally as visions of the full time positions she would like to lure Michael into flitted across her mind.

Sitting with Michael and Tera now, the last thing she wanted to do was leave, but the meeting could not be put off.

"Tera, you bunking with me or at Michael's tonight," Valerie asked as she pulled on the Italian leather jacket and grabbed her briefcase.

After a moments pause Tera answered.

"I'll hang out here and head home with you," Tera answered.

Valerie and Tera both noted the shadow that passed over Michael's face with that answer.

Valerie knew there was more that the women needed to delve into before the weekend and she was more than a little pleased at Michael's hang dog look. 

It was good to be wanted.

"He didn't look too pleased about being alone again," Valerie commented to Tera as they made their way across campus.

"No he didn't, but you and I...," Tera said with a pause, slipping her hand into Valerie's before continuing, "...have things to talk about. We covered a lot last night but there is more," Tera finished, giving Valerie's hand a little squeeze.

"Yes, there is more, and best that we work out as much as we can before we get to Nogardshire. I think the weekend holds things neither of us can guess," Valerie said as she turned to Tera, moving close to her, feeling the warmth radiating off her body even through the layers of clothes that separated them.

The only thing that touched were their lips, it started tentatively but then grew in passion, their desires laid bare under the white heat that the shared touch brought forth in them.

Stepping back from Tera, Valerie closed her eyes running a hand through her hair, trying to get some composure back. With a last long look in the other womans eyes Valerie said, "See you in about an hour," then spun on her heels and disappeared into the conference room.

As was becoming her habit, Tera simply stared at the closed door through which she has passed, enjoying the after image of their kiss, hoping it was a foreshadowing of more to come.

The ride back to Valerie's went quickly. This time of the evening Oxford was mostly sequestered behind its doors. The dark streets passed in a blur, both women silent, lost in their own thoughts.

Valerie was curled up on the couch, wrapped in an oversized terrycloth robe; she felt the tensions of the day slipping away.

Tera was in the shower now, Valerie had taken one first, making sure to lock the door, she did not know exactly what the evening held but she needed just a bit of time to find her own balance, to get ready for whatever was to come.

She thought she heard the door handle rattle once while under the spray, she could have been mistaken of course.

Tera came out of the bathroom, the contrast between the two women were highlighted in their choice of dress.

While Valerie had chosen the warmth of the robe, Tera had chosen an ensemble that was a bit more revealing.

The tight white shorts and black halter top exposed most of her athletic form. 

Tera paused for a moment, looking at Valerie then with a smile walked over and sat down on the couch next to her.

"So," Tera began, her hand coming to rest on top of Valerie's where it lay on the cushion.

"We established that we both love and want Michael, in the most spiritual and carnal ways imaginable. You have said that you are in love with me and that you want to be...everything to Michael as well as me. Valerie, I love you with a passion that is, as you said, matched only by the passion I feel for Michael."

"I want you, as my friend, lover, companion, confidant, sister and wife. I want to protect you, be there for you, to walk the road of life with both you and Michael by my side. No conditions, no compromises, just the three of us, complete and together...always," Tera finished, her fingers slipping between Valerie's, their tips squeezing into the soft flesh of her palm.

Valerie's hand reached out tentatively, cupping Tera's cheek in her palm. She looked into her eyes, feeling the connection between them strengthen with each passing heartbeat.

"How does this work," Valerie said, feeling the blush on her cheeks, all of the confidence she had built up about this moment seeming to evaporate like rain on hot street.

"However you want it to Valerie, I have no compass for this, sex has always been about fulfilling a need for me. Being loved, loving, imparting that...I'm just as much a virgin in this as you," Tera's response put Valerie at ease.

Valerie moved closer to Tera, untangling her hand she brought it to the small whitish scar on her calf.

"Where did you get this," Valerie whispered as her fingertip played over the slightly raised skin.

"Afghanistan, got grazed by a piece of shrapnel from a grenade," Tera answered as she shifted on the couch, moving away from Valerie for a moment as she lay back on the couch putting her legs across the other womans.

Tracing a line from Tera's calf her fingertip moved up to the sliver moon like scar under her knee.

"And this," Valerie asked.

"I was guarding the queen, an IRA splinter group wanted to kidnap her, I showed them the error of their ways. In the process the knee was broken and had to be replaced," Tera said, enjoying the feeling of Valerie's warm touch on the cool surface of the scar.

Valerie's hand moved further on, the long livid scar that ran from beneath Tera's shorts, across and between her thighs was striking in contrast to her mocha skin. It felt harder than the others. Valerie looked up at Tera, the question in her eyes.

"Tibet, we were evacuating monks from a temple that we had intelligence was to be destroyed. The opposition showed up sooner than we thought. One of the bad guys got around on my blindside, his tanto knife caught me off guard as I was fighting two others. That one almost killed me from loss of blood, the scar is so bad because it was field dressed, by the time we got back to base there was only so much the doctors could do," Tera's breath caught as she finished. 

Valerie's whole hand was running over the length of the scar, Tera's legs parted instinctually at the touch.

Valerie looked up and saw Tera's eyes glaze a bit as her hand moved over her thigh, noticed the way her legs parted slightly. Valerie was amazed at the heat the woman put off, the sensual dual nature of her soft skin crisscrossed by these memento's from years spent fighting for her life.

The small scar on Tera's shoulder was her fingertips next stop, this one seemed darker than the rest, the most healed, perhaps the oldest.

Eyes closed Tera spoke.

"Basic training, one of my fellow grunts didn't pull back his knife quite far enough during a close combat drill. The scar I gave him was a bit deeper and longer than mine," Valerie said, the mirth of her answer not easily missed.

Tera sat up, her hands reaching for the bottom of her shirt she slipped it over her head in one graceful movement, dropping it to the floor she settled back down to let Valerie continue her inventory.

There we three small puckered spots running from the top of her left breast to below her breast and the last at her abdomen. Two of Valerie's fingers traced the outline of the top one, then slid lower.

Valerie watched Tera's nipple harden as her fingers lingered on it for a moment before moving lower. When she reached the bottom one Tera spoke.

"Iraq, an insurgent let loose with his AK, it was the last thing he did. I was lucky, didn't hit anything important." Tera said, her voice hard with this explanation, her body tensing a bit. Valerie assumed there was much more to this story but she didn't press.

Valerie thought she had covered them all when she saw a small pink scar on Tera's side, her fingertips moved to it and she was shocked when she touched the smooth raised bump between Tera's ribs.

"Michael," Valerie said, a touch of awe in her voice.

"Yes, from the bridge, there is another one on the other side," Tera said.

Valerie's other hand moved to her friend's side, playing over the twin of the one already under her fingers.

"I can feel his...essence," Valerie said, gently massaging the two points, lost for a moment in Michael.

"It's like I carry a piece of him with me now. As if he gave me a bit of himself, everything that makes him unique, to save me." Tera said as she sat up.

Valerie was close now, she did not move her hands from Tera's side, she simply looked into her lovers eyes for a moment and then all of her pent up need and want broke over her like a dam giving way after holding back a roiling flood. 

There was nothing more now than to give into the primal energy of the moment and let it take her where it will.

Tera's lips burned against hers as they met. There was no turning away from this need.

Valerie's tongue slipped to Tera's, they met tentatively at first and then began to dance together.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 19



'So different,' she thought as she explored the unknown sensation of a womans soft tongue caressing her own.

It didn't have the strength or urgency of a mans, especially not Michaels. But it wasn't weak by any means. It was a waltz compared to a tango, both provided so much depth and synchronicity, but they were so very different from the other.

Tera's hands wound into Valerie's hair as their kiss deepened. Valerie's hands held onto Tera's sides, she could feel the womans muscles contort sinuously under her palms.

"I love you Valerie," Tera said as she broke the kiss and pulled back from her. Tera's hands moving within the folds of Valerie's robe, parting it, revealing her naked torso.

Valerie moaned as Tera's strong hands found her breasts.

Tera's hands were warm with a rough texture that she found quite erotic. Valerie could feel the calluses as they dragged over her delicate flesh. She caught her breath as they closed around her tits, pulling them tight, away from her body, her nipples hard and puckered yearning for attention.

Tera kissed her way from Valerie's cheek, down across her neck and collarbone, paused for a moment to take in the blush that had risen on Valerie's chest. She enjoyed the weight and feel of having Valerie in her hands before her lips and teeth found the hard points of her and tasted their flavor for the first time.

Valerie moaned as Tera's lips took her nipple. The volume of the moan increased as Tera's teeth gently but firmly pulled the sensitive flesh into her mouth. The moan lengthened and began to vibrate through her body as Tera's tongue swirled around the hard flesh trapped between her teeth.

Tera pulled back after a few moments, standing, she pulled Valerie with her. In one deft motion Tera pushed the robe off Valerie's shoulders and looked upon her naked form.

Tera was lost in the moment, a singular need filling her as she knelt before Valerie, taking her ankle gently in her hand and placing it on the coffee table, her lips sought out the source of their desire.

Valerie's hands moved to the back of Tera's head out of instinct, pulling her towards her sex.

She felt Tera's hands and arms slip around her thighs pulling her closer; Tera's arms feeling like supple hot iron bands as they encircled her.

Tera's lips burned as they touched Valerie's core. She was so wet; Tera's tongue snaked out, tasting her before slipping within her.

Valerie's orgasm came to her gently from this most intimate invasion as Tera's tongue continue to play over her, slipping in slow circles around her clit, Tera's lips and teeth pulling the tender bud from beneath its sheath.

"Ohhhhh Goooooood," Valerie cried out as her next orgasm washed over her, it's power building on itself as it began a chain of peaks that only seemed to go higher, taking Valerie to heights of sensation she had never known possible.

Tera's fingers slipping within Valerie's warm tight depths pushed her over the edge, this last orgasm seeming to break her apart, all the pieces of her consciousness glowing with a white-hot energy born from a passion undiscovered while holding the promise of depths unimagined.

Tera held Valerie as she quaked above her, knowing that she had taken her to the place she had hoped to. Removing her mouth from Valerie's wet center she gently laid the woman down on the couch, taking her in her arms she held Valerie as the aftershocks wracked her body.

With her eyes closed, Valerie felt as if she were floating, lost in place of passion so unique that she wished never to leave it.

As the power of the experience began to fade, become integrated into her consciousness, Valerie became aware of the strong warm arms that held her.

She felt Tera's warm sweet breath on her neck.

The coil of her arm across her waist

The heat of the thighs that surrounded and held her own, the wet warmth that lay at its zenith.

"I love you Tera," Valerie moaned as she shifted and kissed her.

Tera's lips felt flush, full, she could taste herself there, the truth of it brought another small flush of release to Valerie as she slowly broke the kiss and began to slide down Tera's body.

"You don't...," Tera's sentence was cut short as two of Valerie's fingers lightly landed on her lips, silencing her.

"Hush," Valerie whispered up at Tera, giving her a hungry look from half lidded eyes that would allow no argument.

Tera's nipple tasted salty and exotic on her tongue, her lips encased the sensitive nub, kissing and licking it, pulling it into her mouth as she sucked on it.

The pressure made Tera moan below her, Valerie enjoyed the sound.

With both of Tera's nipples receiving deep and long moan worthy attention, Valerie slipped lower. She traced the outline of Tera's abdominal muscles with her tongue, leaving a dark, if fleeting, trail to mark her passage.

Sliding from the couch she grasped the waistband of Tera's shorts and slowly pulled them free. Tera's legs went up as they were removed. Valerie held her legs like that for a moment, memorizing this first reveal of Tera's center before releasing her legs, feeling Tera's calves brush her shoulders as one foot went to the couch the other to the coffee table.

Tera was displayed before Valerie and she took her time with this first glimpse of her lover's landscape.

Tera's lithe sculpted thighs came to a V that held a vision that Valerie had never seen the like of.

Tera's large lips were parted slightly; there was no hair to obstruct Valerie's view. She could see the clear drops of her need moistening her, the hard tip of her desire was large as well, pulled out of the protective mocha folds that normally protected it. Tera's clit glistened with desire, demanding attention.

Valerie's fingers traced their way down Tera's thighs. With a delicate touch she parted her lips, revealing the pink center beneath them. Her fingers played over her lover's pussy, the heat here was greater than she could have imagined. 

Looking up she caught Tera's wide eyes, which were watching Valerie with a predatory gaze. She smiled and slowly slipped her finger inside, causing Tera to moan, her eyes to flutter shut.

She was wet and soft, her finger, squeezed as Tera's muscles flexed in response to the intrusion, felt as if it was bathed in warm oil within a satin sheath. She slowly withdrew her finger, pulling the wetness out of her lover, coating her lips and clit with it.

Tera groaned as Valerie's fingertip brushed over her clit. Seeing the tremors her light touch had provided, Valerie rolled Tera's clit between her thumb and forefinger.

Tera's fingers clenched the couch as waves of pleasure coursed through her body, building to an orgasm that left her panting, a light sheen of sweat breaking out across her body.

Valerie watched as Tera convulsed, seeing the play of her sinewy muscles beneath her glowing skin.

Tera's scent found her; it was strong, sweet, with a hint of an unknown spice that beckoned Valerie closer.

Valerie's tongue slipped between her own lips as she bent over, there was an electric moment as the tip of Valerie's tongue came in contact with Tera's skin. 

Sliding her tongue inside Tera's warm wetness, reveling in the multiple sensations of taste, touch and scent, Valerie was overcome by the contact. She lingered within the core of her partners need, lost in the contact, the communion, the intimate nature of their joining.

Tera's mewing moan broke Valerie's reverie. "Please, Valerie, Please," Tera intoned, her need becoming overpowering.

Using her fingers to spread Tera open, Valerie's tongue found Tera's exposed clit. Her first tenuous touches quickly morphed into strong, meaningful pulls as she sucked hard on the little appendage, pushing Tera over the edge.

Tera wailed above her, fingers twining into Valerie's hair, pulling her closer, longing for the contact to be extended.

Valerie cherished every moan and quiver, every drop of her lover's essence as it coated her tongue and lips.

As Tera's tremors lightened, Valerie moved up her body. Finding her lips, their tongues met, each tasting the other and the mixture of the two.

They lay in this lush sultry place, aware of the taste and scent and warmth that they had generated.

As Tera and Valerie slipped into a deep sleep within each other's arms, it was with the shared awareness that there was still someone missing in this, someone who would complete the circle.

.........

Valerie opened her eyes with a start, she hadn't realized how caught up in the memories she had been.

Looking towards the front seat she saw Tera turned and looking at her. Tera's eyes reflected a wanton passion, almost as if she had known what Valerie had been thinking off.

Shifting her eyes she caught the reflection of Michael's stare in the rear view mirror.

Even from behind his dark sunglasses she could feel his eyes on her, pure desire emanating from his depthless brown eyes.

The effect of Michael and Tera looking at her as if she were the last meal on earth and they were starving left Valerie with burning cheeks and panties that would definitely need to be changed.

Noticing the countryside Valerie sat up and placed her hand on Michael's shoulder.

"Take the next right," she said, enjoying touching him, almost as much as he enjoyed the feel of her hand on him.

He would have missed the turn if she had not mentioned it.

Now that he saw it he downshifted, noting that there was no sign, for either the town or street.

The ancient English oaks cast long shadows on the road as they passed beneath their reaching boughs, encasing them in a dappled, otherworldly light that Michael believed he had never encountered before.

'If only I could recreate this light,' he was thinking before his mind was taken over by the scene before him.

Rounding a curve, Nogardshire came into view below them for the first time. It's nameless energy enrapturing Michael for a moment before Aoife's voice resonated in his ears.

"Welcome young one," her rich deep voice comforted him as he gunned the engine, he was now impatient to see what answers or new mysteries would be uncovered in this ancient and powerful place that seemed to welcome him in some indiscernible yet palpable way.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 20



Chapter 20

Michael was startled to hear Aoife in his head after the past few days of silence.

'Are you alright,' Michael thought to her as he drove through the small hamlet. 

The town was a buzz of activity, shopkeepers were setting up stalls, teams of men and women were erecting large colorful tents. The air bristled with energy.

'I am fine young one; Sirrush is a name I have not heard for...a very long time. It's mention, coming so unexpectedly, brought back emotions that have lain dormant; I am sorry for scaring you,' Aoife responded, her tone once again taking on it's normal powerful, sensual tenor.

'You begin the end of your current journey Michael, this place holds secrets, history, a unique energy that once you are exposed to it will change you. Your view of the world, those around you, how you walk through your life, all these things will be tested in this place.'

'You may be fearful of the feelings that come forth in the next few days, all I can tell you is that in the end you will be more than you are now.'

'Enjoy your time here Michael, soon your questions will be answered,' Aoife said as her voice and presence faded from his mind.

"Are you alright," Tera asked, her hand coming to rest on his thigh. The contact brought him back to the moment.

Taking her hand in his, Michael brought it to his lips placing a light kiss on the back of her hand.

"I'm fine, how could I not be, you and Valerie are with me," Michael said, giving her a lopsided grin as he returned her hand to his thigh.

The town itself was like walking into a postcard. If you thought English country village this is the image that would be conjured.

Nogardshire proper was laid out in a half circle around the base of an escarpment that rose from the soft undulating hills.

The town had a compactness to its design that Michael found comforting. The black thatch and stone tile roofs provided a wonderful silhouette and scale as they drove down the meandering main street.

Many times Valerie would wave or say hello to someone as they made their way slowly through the town, she was always greeted with a smile and a wave in return.

"I've missed being here. I spent a great deal of my teen years here learning to ride horses, walking through the fields and forests outside of town. It was a wonderful place to grow up. Until the last few weeks it had been months since I had been here, no other place quite feels like Nogardshire," Valerie's obvious happiness about being in a place she loved was catching, both Michael and Tera had smiles on their faces as they listened to Valerie's happy tone.

Turning a corner the escarpment rose before them and once again Michael found his breath taken away.

The formidable battlements rose over the town from this vantage point. Michael was awe struck by the sheer power of the vision. Never had he encountered a place that held such an ability to capture ones feelings.

"Is that it," Michael asked Valerie in a hushed tone as they passed into a shadow cast by the imposing edifice.

"Yes, that's it, take the next left, it will lead us up to the house," Valerie responded. There was a gentle mirth in her voice from his tone, Michael's whispered question was filled with equal parts awe and wonder.

Turning onto the tree-shadowed lane, Michael was caught up in the simple ancient beauty that lay before him. Shifting into second he followed the path slowly, getting lost in the surreal perfection that lay ahead of him.

The lane was wide, bordered on each side by 3ft limestone walls.

Beyond the walls, ancient yews, beech and oaks lifted their branches in majestic arches that completely covered the 40ft expanse of road.

The path they traveled was covered in leaves of every hue and shade of autumn, it laid out like a chaotic quilt of umbers, oranges, reds and browns that shifted, swirled and cracked as the Aston made it's way through the sea of color.

The path wound it's way along the bottom edge of the plateau, the castle looming above. 

With a graceful curve it turned upward, still flanked on both sides by the sheltering branches of the ancient trees.

In a series of wide S-turns the lane snaked it's way up the side of the large hill. 

Michael understood the defensive nature this lane would have played in the castles design.

The curves only allowed for a specific speed, the width was probably two cart lengths. People coming to the castle would have been easily seen from above, providing defenders ample opportunity to prepare for an assault. It would also keep the flow of travelers and tradesman at an even pace, allowing everyone to be scrutinized before reaching the battlements.

The driveway narrowed after the last turn to the top, the castle wall loomed above them. With the top down they had the same perspective one coming here all those years ago would have. Solid, strong, a place that housed people who meant to keep what was theirs.

The men and women who built this place took pride in it, from its high thick walls that glowed in the late afternoon sunlight with a yellowish gold tone, to the delicate yet powerful gables and turrets which presented a vision of their strength and ingenuity.

Passing under the ancient portcullis, becoming wrapped in the place's energy and feel, Michael was a bit light headed as he pulled the car to a stop. His breathing was deep; he felt the weight and history of this place pulling at him.

"Hey, move it, I need to stretch my legs," Valerie said, her playful tone bringing Michael out of his reverie.

Stepping out of the car Michael held the door and moved the seat so Valerie could get out.

He watched as a bit of her calf was revealed from beneath her light beige leather skirt as she exited, taking his proffered hand.

Michael pulled her out of the car gently but with purpose. She moved easily into his arms as they entwined around her waist. He bent slightly and their lips met, softly at first and then the passion flared, their tongues dueling for a moment before the kiss concluded.

Valerie was a little surprised by Michael's display, there was something a bit different in it's feel, there was nothing tentative, it conveyed a sense of deep passion that left Valerie breathing a bit heavier as Michael released her from his arms and moved away.

Michael felt alive. It was as if this place had a special energy, that it stripped away any questions or doubt. Michael did not walk around the car to retrieve Tera; his stride was purposeful, like a man on his home turf, who knows he has no equal.

Opening the door, looking down at the wide-eyed mirth in Tera's eyes, his eyes held hers for a moment. They pierced her, the depth of strength and feeling that one look imparted sent shivers down Tera's spine as she slid her hand into Michaels waiting palm.

Michael pulled Tera from the car fast, a strong meaningful yank that brought her from her seat and into his arms in one fluid motion. He held her there next to him, eyes roaming over her features, she felt his hardness between them as his lips took hers. 

The kiss was lush and passionate, a contest of wills that swept both of them up in its power and volume. As the kiss broke, Michael slipped his arm around Tera's waist, stepped around the front of the car, pulling her along with him.

His other arm found Valerie's waist, he pulled the women close to him, his body tingling from the energy they provided. Looking from one to the other he was pleased to see the look of joy on the women's faces, happier in this moment than he had ever been.

"I love you," he said to both, pulling them closer, never wanting to let them go.

Michael, with his women sharing an intimate embrace, each with their heads buried in his neck, was the scene Millie and Ian found as they came out the door of the castle.

Millie and Ian's simultaneous laughter broke the three out of their embrace, but not each other's grasp.

As Millie and Ian walked towards the trio both noted that Michael kept the ladies close, his arm remaining around Tera's waist, Valerie's hand held in his.

Ian and Mille came to a stop in front of them, with a light squeeze of Michael's hand, Valerie moved forward and hugged Millie.

"It's good to see you," Valerie said, her aunt's strong embrace imparting both love and acceptance.

"They suit you," Millie whispered in Valerie's ear as the young woman pulled away from her with a slight blush to embrace her uncle.

"I've missed you, I'm so glad we are here, I love you Ian," Valerie's calm voice belied a bit of trepidation in it's delivery.

Ian smiled at Valerie, understanding the moment he saw the three entwined that something unique and powerful was being wrought between them.

"I love you Valerie, I am so very pleased you have finally found some happiness," Ian's tender tone touched Valerie and she hugged him a bit tighter in response.

Finally stepping back and turning towards Tera, she proceeded with the introductions.

"Tera Cole, I would like you to meet my uncle Ian. Ian, I am pleased to introduce you to Tera, my very dear friend," Valerie smiled through out the introduction, bringing forth grins from both Tera and Ian.

Stepping away from Michael she held out her hand towards Ian, who promptly ignored it and pulled her into a tight embrace.

"It is my pleasure Tera, thank you for everything you have done for both Val and Michael, it means more to me than I will ever be able to tell you," Ian said to her as he held her in a generous, giving hug.

"I will always be there for both of them, never worry on that," Tera responded, immediately feeling a kinship for the obviously powerful but kind-hearted man.

Tera turned to Millie and hugged her.

"It is good to see you again Millie."

"Likewise, and as with Ian thank you for standing beside both of them," Millie responded with a slight gesture towards Michael and Valerie.

"My pleasure," Tera answered with a predatory grin that was not lost on Millie.

Stepping forward Michael reached out his hand towards Ian. The older man seemed so familiar, the thought nagged at the back of Michael's head as Ian regarded him for a moment before offering his own hand.

Their hands met and the moment seemed to freeze, both men regarding the other, taking in the contact of their palms.

This was not a macho show of who blinks first. It was a meeting of equals, beings of the same heritage that even if they were strangers before, it would never be the case again.

"Hello Michael," the emotion in Ian's voice struck everyone, as his other hand covered the top of Michaels.

"It is a pleasure to have you here, Valerie speaks very passionately of you, I bid you welcome to Nogardshire castle," this last bit said with a formality and strength that both surprised and comforted Michael.

"Thank you for the welcome, Valerie has told me much about you and Millie," gesturing towards her as he continues, "Your home is...amazing, I don't think I have ever encountered a place that feels so uniquely complete. I look forward to the opportunity of looking around it and getting to know both you and Millie much better," Michael finished as he turned from Ian to wrap Millie in a warm congenial hug.

"I look forward to giving you the tour," Ian said as he moved between Valerie and Tera, leading them into the castle as Millie twined her arm around Michael before following them in.

Michael felt another subtle shift as he crossed the threshold and entered the castle.

As quickly as his energies had been enlivened when they had crossed the border into Nogardshire now it seemed the flow had reversed. It was not exactly a gentle change.

The feeling was one of having...tension placed on every inch of your body, like some unseen magnetic force was trying to gently pull the energy from his cells. 

The feeling was so odd that he paused just inside the door, leaning a bit on Millie for a moment before he became accustomed to this new feeling that now nagged at him.

"Are you alright," Millie asked as she felt his weight shift towards her. Looking up at him it seemed as if he had gone pale.

"I'm ok, I guess the day is just starting to catch up with me," he said with a weak smile.

"Let's get you something to eat, we have an early dinner planned," Millie said, hoping that Michael was up for what was to come.

He had been through so much in the last few months. Millie knew that the next few days would be a time of great change for him, she trusted that he was capable of taking the changes in stride.

"That sounds wonderful," Michael said, his voice a bit stronger as he became more accustomed to this new sensation.

The meal was simple, roast beef cooked to perfection, so tender it melted in your mouth, seasoned potatoes and fresh carrots rounding out the offerings. It was a simple hardy meal that felt perfectly right for the setting.

The dining room was a two-story affair, large oak beams exposed at the ceiling, rich dark wood paneling covering the walls. The large leaded glass windows obscured the scene beyond them just enough to provide views that took on a surreal tone.

"How are you finding living in Oxford," Ian asked Michael as he stood and walked over to the large sideboard pouring each of them a glass of Port.

"I feel more and more at home there every day," Michael said, standing and walking over to the window, his hand reaching out, fingertips playing over the lead frame which held the glass.

"It has been an interesting transition, I don't know if Valerie has told you but my wife was killed a few months ago. Her loss left me...damaged. I am very grateful to Valerie for offering me the teaching position, coming here, finding new...friends has done a lot to help me let go of the pain," Michael said as he turned and took the glass from Ian's hand.

Taking a deep drink he continued.

"I have found Oxford to be very familiar, though I have never been there, or any where in England before, I find that I am always turning a corner and seeing something new but with an overwhelming sense of familiarity. I love it here, it has quickly become home," Michael finished, draining his glass.

"We are aware of your loss, I can't imagine that kind of pain," Ian said placing his hand on Michael's shoulder, he continued.

"England is an interesting place full of history and a bit of magic, I'm glad that you are finding it to be a place that provides some solace," Ian finished as he refilled Michael's glass.

"Would you like a brief tour, I'm sure with your background you would like to get a look at the old place," Millie asked.

"That would be wonderful," Michael said looking over to Valerie and Tera.

"Millie, why don't you show Michael and Tera around a bit, I'll steal Valerie for a few moments. We can meet you on the back terrace in about a half hour," Ian asked in a smooth and comforting voice.

"Excellent, lets be off then," Millie said as she moved between Michael and Tera leading them from the room.

"How is he doing Valerie," Ian asked as the threesome left the dinning room.

"He seems to be doing all right," Valerie began. 

"The last few days he has seemed tense, there have been things going on between the three of us and that may be the reason, but I think there is something more."

"Today he has been in a great mood, but again, it shifts hot and cold, as if he is wrestling with something. When we got to Nogardshire he seemed deeply affected by the town," she finished, concern evident in her voice. 

Ian considered this; it was not unexpected that Michael would have a reaction to the place. He smiled and took Valerie's hand.

"He will be fine Val, Nogardshire has an impact on people, you know that first hand from your friends who have come out over the years. I am sure Michael will be fine once he adjusts. Lets go over a few final details of the festival and then we will track Michael and Tera down," Ian finished as Valerie stood up and walked towards the stairs heading for Ian's office. ...............

The highlight of the tour for Michael was the battlements. Stepping out of the heavy oak door, its ancient hinges not making a sound, Michael felt as if he was stepping into another age.

With the sun starting to dip below the horizon the three of them walked slowly around the rooftop battlements.

Images of battles and festivals, feasts and famines, ages of history played through his mind as the individual snapshots slid over the backdrop of the rolling English countryside.

"How big is this plateau," Michael asked as they stopped, looking out over the town below them.

From this vantage point he could pick out the different buildings they had passed on their way in, some by their black thatch roofs, others because they were rare 3-story structures which stood out in stark contrast to their one and two story neighbors.

"The plateau itself is about 30 acres, the castle and protected grounds take up about ten of those," Millie answered.

Michael stood silently, simply taking in the vista, trying to know the place, to settle into its rhythms.

Walking back down the stairs towards the terrace Michael felt his energy ebb, the feeling upon crossing the threshold came over him again only this time it was stronger.

Michael slumped against Tera and she caught his weight quickly.

"What's wrong," she asked him, worry playing across her eyes as she looked at his now pale face.

"Not sure, maybe just tired, perhaps it would be best if I laid down," Michael said weakly.

Millie had stopped and watched the little scene play out.

"Your rooms are just around the corner, follow me," she said moving off down the wood floored hallway; Tera and Michael following slowly behind her.

"I'll go get Valerie," Millie said as she backed out of the room once Tera had Michael inside.

Michael took a deep breath, trying to clear his head. He noticed the bathroom off to the side of the room. Slipping from Tera's grip he moved slowly towards it.

"Be back in a sec," he said weakly closing the door behind him.

Tera sat on the bed, Michael was obviously ill, seeing him in such a vulnerable state caused her protective instincts to kick in.

'I'll watch over you,' she thought to herself as the umber hues of the sunset filtered through the window.

Millie walked through the high French door and out onto the terrace where Ian and Valerie were talking.

Ian had told her that Michael may be affected by coming here but she was not prepared to see him get ill so quickly.

"Hello my dear, where are your charges," Ian asked as he saw Millie coming towards them.

"Michael seems to have taken ill, I took him and Tera to their rooms. Valerie they are in the west bedroom, you may want to check on them," Millie said moving close to Ian, wrapping her arm around his waist, huddling against the rapidly dropping temperature.

A look of concern crossed Valerie's face as she glanced at the two of them and then said, "yes I'll head up there now, I'll call if we need anything, thank you for taking care of him Millie."

As Valerie disappeared behind the slowly closing door to the terrace Millie turned to Ian.

"He didn't look good at all Ian, I'm worried for him," there was a depth of feeling in Millie's voice that came from both her honest care for the man she had watched grow up from afar and her concern that if Michael was not up to the challenge ahead, Ian would have to remain in his position and their own lives would become much more complex.

With a sigh Ian pulled Millie closer to him, enfolding her in a tight loving embrace.

"He is the one Millie, and more than up to the challenge, never fear, he will be fine, Valerie and Tera won't allow for anything else," he said with a chuckle that instantly calmed Millie as she returned his embrace. ............




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 20



"I feel strange," Michael said as he sat down on the plush leather love seat in the guest room.

Since the moment they had crossed into Nogardshire, Michael had felt something strange building within him.

Having Aoife back in his head, the sense of impending that washed over him upon first seeing the town, Michael was in a confused state.

Tera and Valerie both regarded him with worried expressions, he looked pale, all afternoon as they walked around the castle it seemed as if he became more and more fatigued.

"I'm scared," Michael said, his halting voice catching both women's breath as they moved as one to his side.

"It's as if the energy is being drained from my body, like this place filled me up and now is taking back that which it gave, only more," Michael whispered as he lay his head on Valerie's shoulder, her auburn hair wrapping him in a soft cocoon.

Slipping her arm around him she looked at Tera, her eyes asking that she do the same.

Together they helped him off the couch and onto the bed. His breathing was shallow and he had lost consciousness.

"Call your Uncle," the fear in Tera's voice evident as her palm slipped to Michael forehead. Covered in a light sheen of sweat it was cool to the touch, which only heightened Tera's concern.

Picking up the phone Valerie dialed a few numbers, in seconds she began to talk.

"Michael is ill Ian, we need to get him to a doctor..."

"Not necessary? You should come up and..."

"I don't understand..."

"But..."

"Yes I trust you..."

"All right Ian, I'll wait but not for too long," Valerie finished her side of the conversation and returned the phone to its receiver.

"Ian thought this might happen, he wouldn't explain further but said it was not something we should worry about. We should just stay with him so he is not alone when he awakens." Valerie told Tera.

The women slid to Michael's sides, arms draping over his chest and abdomen, their hands intertwining behind his head. Both women understanding in that moment just how important a fixture Michael had become in their lives, understanding the un-fillable hole that would be left if he were gone. ..........

Michael stood in the cavern once again.

Looking up there was no light coming from the roof, 'it must be night,' he thought to himself taking in the rest of the cavern.

There were changes since his last visit.

Large livid gouges were fresh along the walls, the normally clear water seemed clouded with a weak yellow tinge to it that resembled the color of the walls.

Only two of the braziers remained in their place, the spaces the others use to inhabit now only baring their tortured remains. Even the sand on which he stood felt different, pocked by indentions that had hard smooth stones at their centers. Bending down he picked up one of these stones, it's surface reflecting the light given off by the remaining braziers.

"Glass," he said in wonder at the globule of sand turned to glass by some type of intense heat. He had heard of lightning producing such things on beaches, he could not think of how they could be formed within a cave. As he pondered this Aoife spoke.

"I am sorry about my outburst the last time you were here and for my silence since," Aoife's strong achingly powerful voice resonated through the cavern and Michael's ears. Its power and sadness were overwhelming.

Michael sat down on the soft sand, the grains sticking to his body as he tried to clear his mind, soaking in both the space and her words; he made no comment waiting for her to continue.

"How did you know the name Sirrush, Michael," there was no accusation in her question, more a sense of foreboding at what his answer might mean.

"It came to me as I was running one morning, Tera and I run most mornings, she was unavailable and I was on my own."

"I had stopped to talk with the rowing coach, on my way back to the flat the name simply came into my head for an instant. In the moment, I thought it was odd but it happens sometimes."

"For as long as I can remember there are bits that float into my mind for no reason, they simply get filed away. Normally, weeks or months later, they come up again in the proper context."

"Last time I was here, you allowed for any question I wanted to ask, that name came back to the fore," Michael answered, noting that this conversation differed from ones in the past, it had an intensity that was unique, as if each word and statement had unknown weight and meaning.

A pause drew out, the silence broken by the occasional stone falling from whatever precarious position it held, finally loosing its battle with gravity, pulled from it's perch, to breach the smooth surface of the lake, it's passing from air to water providing a break in the stillness of the moment.

Finally Michael could stand it no longer.

"Who is Sirrush," Michael asked.

His question, as it reverberated off the walls, seemed to lessen the pressure in the space, breaking the spell the long pause had woven.

"I will explain everything as I can but now is not the time. You're not feeling well Michael, I want you not to worry over this, it is simply part of who you are."

"Nogardshire is a unique place, full of discoveries for you. Rest now, when you awaken in the morning things will be a bit clearer, you will have more questions, I will be here."

Aoife regarded him with her keen eyes; even here he looked different, paler, but also lean and strong. She could sense his worry for her, that his question had angered her. 'Always worried about everyone else,' she thought to herself with a chuckle.

"Thank you for your concern Michael, I feel it radiating from you. There is no need to worry for me, I am an ancient soul, who has seen and felt and lived much along the way, sometimes even I am overcome by the past when it invades the present."

"Be at ease, I am fine, rest now, I shall see you...soon," Aoife said, the caring inflection of her voice calming Michael as he slipped from the vision.

.....................

Michael stirred, eyes opening, the room cloaked in shadows.

Light from the low half moon filtered through the windows and Michael lay there for a while, processing this latest vision, trying to come to grips with it as well as the swinging pendulum of how he felt both physically and emotionally.

As his mind cleared and the fog of sleep finally slipped completely from him he noticed the warmth that bracketed him on both sides.

Sometime during the night both women had changed. From the feel of it Tera was in nothing more than panties due to the silky heat of her curved ass snuggled into his thigh.

She was on his left sleeping on her side, her warm form backed up against him, he felt the hardness of her muscles as they met his side. It was a comforting thing to have such strength so close to him.

On his right Valerie was draped over him.

Her leg intertwined with his, her arm over his chest, its soft supple feel bisecting his torso with a swath of warmth as it lay over him and continued across, her hand laying lightly on Tera's ribs.

The smile of contentment that came to his lips could not be seen, but awakening with two beautiful women on either side of him, it was hard not to smile.

Slowly Michael rose, slipping from Valerie's embrace, trying not to disturb the women who had watched over him.

Tera gave a slight groan as his warmth was removed from between the women; she slid backwards, searching for Michael's now missing form.

Michael watched by the soft light of the moon as the two women moved into the space he had left. They met in the middle of his lingering heat, Valerie sliding her arm around Tera with a little sigh, both women slipping back into a comfortable sleep.

Stepping into the bathroom and gently closing the door Michael turned on the light. His reflection in the mirror told the story of the last day.

His face looked a bit pale, a bit drawn, as if he had just started to recover from an illness. While he felt good, hell, he felt strong; he still looked like a man on the mend.

'Need a shower,' he thought, moving towards the modern walk-in shower, turning the dial to the cold side.

After taking care of his morning necessities he stripped completely and looked at himself in the full-length mirror again.

Tight muscles and pale skin greeted his eyes, the past few weeks with the running and fencing had taken off the bit of fat that had started to accumulate during the weeks following Sasha's death.

The stubble that rubbed coarsely over his palm as he watched the action in the mirror would need to be taken care of. Stretching his hands high over his head he tried to get some of the kinks out and then moved into the shower. The cold water was a shock, causing goose flesh to come up wherever the water hit.

The shower was a quick affair, going from ice cold to scalding hot.

It was a habit Michael had picked up in college, pulling all nighters in his architecture classes which slipped to early mornings for fencing or rowing practice, the alternating extremes always seemed to revitalize him, the case was the same this morning. 

Quietly drying off he grabbed a pair of jeans and a thick corded turtle neck sweater, slipping on his hiking boots his eyes lingered on the two sleeping forms nestled within each others arms on the bed. Michael walked over to the bed, pulling the thick comforter over the two women.

"I love you," he whispered as he quietly made his way out of the room.

The cold radiated from the stone floor as Michael walked towards the back of keep.

The quiet of the place was interesting, as it was not actually quiet.

There were the creaks of ancient wood beams settled in their places for centuries but still not, now or ever to be, completely seated, providing groaning testament to the stress placed on them by time and gravity.

The sound of Michael's footfalls as they landed echoed their own passing, as well as the passing of all those before.

The place shrouded Michael, enveloped him, gave him a sense of being not only in the here and now but also inhabiting the past of the place, finding glimpses and moments of time and action, snippets of those who had lived, loved and lost in this place each providing a bit of their own soul to it that now after the passage of so many years, so many emotions so many hopes and dreams those little bits had combined to give the place itself its own unique soul.

Stepping out onto the back terrace Michael found the scene surreal. Looking out over the close cropped tops of the maze, its geometric forms becoming more and more visible in the growing gray light of the dawn Michael was entranced, as he always was, when confronted with these wonders of design.

Lighting a cigarette and taking that first long pull of the day he was startled by a voice behind him.

"Good morning Michael, feeling better," Ian asked as he walked up to stand beside Michael.

Michael took another long pull on the cigarette, willing his heart rate back to a more normal range before answering.

"Good morning Ian, you startled me," Michael said.

"Sorry, I'm usually up early and enjoy watching the sunrise from here. Millie and I have traveled all over the world, seen the sunrise from almost every continent and I am still most taken with this one, I suppose that is one of the definitions of calling a place home," Ian responded, leaning over the black wrought iron railing.

"It's an amazing place," Michael began.

Yesterday he had not had much time to talk with Ian beyond the initial greeting and a few comments during dinner. Regardless, Michael felt an odd kinship with the man and was pleased to have the opportunity to get to know him a bit better.

"I don't feel right, something seems different since the moment I got here and it has me basically scared out of my wits."

"The last few months have been the hardest most trying emotional time of my entire life. Valerie's call was like a lifeline, something I could grab onto, to keep my head above water," Michael paused, taking a final pull on his cigarette, holding the smoke in his lungs, feeling that tiny bit of lightheadedness that always accompanied that first cigarette before continuing.

"Six weeks ago I put a gun to my head Ian, all I could find was despair heaped upon an unyielding grief."

"Today I have two amazing women in my life and," Michael paused again, rotating his neck, trying to relieve some of the tension that seemed to be rapidly building.

"...there are other odd things, things I have no frame of reference for, feelings that, if I heard them from someone else, would seem crazy but seem perfectly normal because they are mine," Michael sighed and pulled another cigarette from his pack.

The sun breached the horizon during the pause, there was a moment of gray and then the yellowish gold light of the sun bathed the plateau in a golden hued swath.

"You have been through a lot in the past few months," Ian began as he gestured for Michael to follow him. The two of them walking down the wide stairs from the terrace onto the rock path that lead away from the maze.

"I have done some checking on you Michael, I know about Sasha and your unborn child, know that you almost didn't make it through their loss."

"Valerie is very important to me so I had some friends check on you, make sure that she was not falling in with someone who would hurt her, I hope you understand," Ian said as they walked towards the battlements on the south side of the plateau.

"I do, it is understandable, Valerie has told me about how you and Millie adopted her after her parents died, I can't imagine what that must be like. I appreciate that she is dear to you and that you are looking out for her." Michael said as they reached the top of the stone wall that surrounded the castle grounds.

The town was alive below them. Michael was a little shocked by the amount of activity going on below them as people bustled around preparing for the first day of the festival.

Ian smiled as he noted Michael's surprise.

"The festival is a very old tradition here, everyone gets involved and looks forward to it every year. Many of the people down there are 8th and 9th generation. Many leave but most seem to find their way back here once their wanderlust has been satiated," Ian said as he turned and began walking along the top of the wall.

"I wouldn't worry too much about how you are feeling Michael, as you have said it's been a trying couple of months. You've gone through much and it may just be starting to catch up with you only now. Take the next few days, relax, don't fight the emotions and feelings that may come up. Look at them with a keen eye, learn where they come from and their meaning, you are welcome to stay as long as you wish, any friend of Valerie's and all...," Ian finished as they came to wider point on the wall top, it opened out into a large octagon perhaps 20 feet across.

Michael moved to the edge and surveyed the valley below as it stretched out before them. The rolling hills were taking on their winter colors, the lush greens of summer fading, being replaced by the sun baked tans of all fields in the fall, after giving up their bounty and now at rest before beginning the cycle again.

"Valerie never mentioned what you do," Michael asked turning from the landscape and regarding Ian in the now clear light of morning.

"I am CEO of consortium of companies. The board is made of members of other European families, together we buy companies, add to our portfolio and manage the wealth that each of us has been able to accumulate over the years."

"It is interesting work, with our holdings ranging from aerospace to energy to biotechnology and everything in between, it lends itself to a busy and interesting life." Ian said regarding Michael with a keen eye trying to judge his impression of what he had told him.

"It does sound...interesting, I would think it would be difficult to keep the other members of the board focused on what is best for the consortium instead of what is best for them," Michael commented, interested to learn more about Ian's life.

"Each member heads up an individual division which, historically, each of the represented families come from."

"For instance, our Japanese member has a long history in technology, so he oversees our technology holdings."

"Setting it up this way each member controls, to a point, industrial sectors that they have a history with. This allows everyone to not only stay with what they are comfortable with but also to focus on their own strengths, trusting the other members to do the same." Ian explained.

"Would I know the name of the consortium," Michael asked, curious about the size of the organization.

Ian smiled at Michael, enjoying the gentle thrust and parry of their conversation.

"Unlikely, as the consortium itself is privately owned, we don't show up on stock exchanges and the like, many of the companies we have an interest in are publicly traded but we like to stay behind the scenes as it were," Ian finished as they walked back towards the keep.

"Thank you for the walk Ian, I am glad we had a chance to talk, I hope we can do so again soon."

"I had better go wake up my girls, I wouldn't want them to worry if they wake up and I'm not there," Michael said extending his hand.

"It has been my pleasure Michael, I am sure we will have more time to talk as the days go by, go wake up Valerie and Tera, breakfast should be ready in about a half an hour," Ian said shaking Michael hand with a smile.

"See you in a few," Michael said as he turned and went through the French doors, feeling better and better with every moment that past.

Ian watched as Michael disappeared into the house, 'an amazing young man,' he thought as his cell phone gently began to ring at his side.

"Hello," Ian said answering the phone.

"We have lost track of Nicolas," Nigel's worried voice on the other end of the phone sent a chill down Ian's spine.

"Find him Nigel, find him quickly," Ian said as he hung up the phone staring out at the maze, a sense of unknown dread falling over his consciousness. .........

Nicholas walked across the tarmac with a smooth easy stride.

His few days in the country had left him revitalized, the time for worry and concern had passed, the future was his.

Stepping into the plane he smiled; before the weekend was out the world would be a very different place indeed.

"Lets get going," he snarled at the pilot.

"I have a festival to attend."

*

Author's Note: Just a quick thank you to all the readers who requested Ch. 19. I appreciate everyone's interest. I have a question up on my blog about the second book, if you have a chance drop by and take a look. As always thanks for reading me. VjaxM. 



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 21



Michael sat on the couch; Tera and Valerie still slept within each other's arms.

The morning had found him feeling better, there was still the nagging feeling of his energy being drained but was much more tolerable now.

Having Valerie and Tera close seemed to help balance the feelings he had been experiencing since arriving in Nogardshire the day before.

Watching them sleep, curled in each other's arms, it came to him that perhaps the reason neither of them had mentioned his offer to move in was due to the fact that they had found something together.

Michael shook his head, his fingers moving slowly through his hair, 'It's useless to guess, they will tell you when their ready,' he thought to himself.

They had kicked off the blankets since he left and happened upon Ian.

Valerie was closest to him, her auburn hair tousled and wild falling over her back. The white shirt she wore pulled up high, the soft curve of her thigh exposed almost to the point where her treasures were hidden.

Valerie's arm lay over Tera's bare shoulder. They were spooned together in what could only be called a lovers embrace.

Michael watched them, lost in the curve and motion and stillness in that open timeless instant.

Tera was the first to stir. Arms slipping over her head, she stretched like a great feline, muscles tensing and releasing trying to shake off the stillness of sleep. Her eyes slowly scanned the room, coming to rest on Michael's smiling face.

"Good morning," Michael said, his breath catching a bit as her full firm breasts capped with hard brown nipples came into view as she turned.

"Good morning to you," Tera's deep sultry whisper brought a flush to Michael's face as he watched her turn to her side facing Valerie, propping her head up on her hand.

Tera's fingertips moved lightly over Valerie's arm, Michael could see the muscle flex as the fingers traced their way from just above her elbows to land where their fingers intertwined as Valerie finally awoke.

"Good morning,"

Valerie said it with passion, in a hushed sensuous tone.

Her head moved from the pillow, Michael watched as if in slow motion as Valerie's head moved slightly towards Tera's.

Her hand moved from Tera's, sliding up Tera's arm, coming to rest behind her head as their lips met.

It was a soft sensual kiss. From Michael's vantage point, it projected love, desire, warmth, comfort and need all in an instant.

Tera returned the kiss, her eye's never leaving Michaels, mirroring the emotions that Michael found in the movements.

Valerie pulled back a bit, Michael assumed looking into Tera's eyes.

Her head began to turn first before the movement translated to the rest of her body.

Michael watched the little details, capturing them with a clarity that was almost frightening in its detail.

Hair moving across her back.

Torso twisting at the waist momentarily before the hips joined the motion.

Supple calves rubbing together as the intended turn reached them.

Then, as if time sped up her eyes were locked with his; Michael was lost for a moment in their depths.

"And good morning to you," Valerie said as her legs swung off the bed, parting for a moment providing a view Michael would not be able shake from his memory no matter how many years passed beyond this one.

Warm hands slid to his cheeks and then her lips were on his, warm and supple they only joined his for a moment before they were gone, only the lingering tingle of their promise remaining as Valerie turned, walking into the bathroom.

'Breathe, you have to breathe,' he thought to himself as his eyes shifted back to Tera.

She was exposed now from head to toe, only her small panties covering the junction between her legs hiding the barest fraction of her. Smiling she climbed out of bed and slid into his lap.

"How are you feeling," she asked, the concern palpable in her voice.

"Better, than yesterday..." sliding his hand over her bed warm thigh, her muscle tensing then rippling under his touch, "...now, better than five minutes ago," Michael's husky response brought a sparkle to Tera's eyes.

"I'm glad, we were worried about you," she said as her lips gently brushed his.

He reached for her, but she was already up and moving away towards the bathroom.

"When's breakfast, I'm starving," Tera said as she disappeared into the bathroom closing the door behind her.

Michael let out the breath he had been holding for what seemed the last ten minutes. He wasn't sure what that just was, but whatever it was, it worked for him. .........

Breakfast was a quick affair, Ian, Millie and Valerie all having last minute things to do. The festival was set to begin this evening with some kind of opening ceremony that all three were evasive about when asked.

After breakfast Michael and Tera were left to their own devices as the others went off to their tasks.

"Shall we take a walk?" Michael asked turning towards Tera and taking her hand after kissing Valerie on the cheek before she dashed off.

"That sounds like a plan," she said giving his hand a brief squeeze as they walked towards the door.

The day was gray, a moderate breeze blew from the north, it's bite moving through the two of them as they walked down the winding path towards the town.

"I love you," Michael said without turning, his thoughts moving and encompassing his surroundings and the woman at his side. 

The trees were almost bare, their leaves being blown by the ever-present wind. Michael felt the brief tug on his hand and he stopped, turning towards Tera.

"Why," she asked, her eyes held a searching, wanting need that surprised Michael. Her hand coiled tighter around his, as if asking the question had somehow cost her, that within the asking of this simple question lay untold depth and meaning.

Slipping his other hand into hers he faced her, taking in the tension of her jaw line, the way her body seemed to gravitate towards his but she restrained the impulse.

"I have loved three women in my life, love is not a term that I have ever been able to use loosely. The first was my wife; I didn't know that the eternal bond that she and I shared would be something that would be lost to me so quickly. After her loss I never thought I would love again," Michael paused, pulling Tera closer to him; she did not resist the pull and found herself pressed tightly to his warm chest. His lips, close to her ear, his breath warm, heating the skin in touched sent shivers through her body as he continued.

"Then there was Valerie and you. Valerie hit me like a ton of bricks, the moment I saw her I knew that there was something between us, something magical and ancient, similar to what I shared with Sasha. This caused me great pain, it was as if I was betraying her memory by the feelings I had for Valerie. After finally putting the wounds of Sasha's loss into perspective, I was able to see Valerie for who she was, not through a filter of what I felt for Sasha."

"That brings me to you, my warrior my valkyrie who, from the moment we met, has been trying to protect me at all costs, who offers me her love and desire with such heartfelt wonder that I find myself lost within it. Why do I love you Tera Cole, because you fill me with a desire the likes of which I have never known, you empower me to be more than I am. You accept me, flaws and all, you give me your strength willingly and when I touch you I simply know that you are...mine." Michael finished dropping his head slowly to her neck, reveling in the feeling of her warm supple flesh next to his.

Tera's breath was coming in deep gulps, she felt as if she had run a marathon. Michael's answer to her question completed a circuit within her heart and soul, she didn't just hear his words, his declaration of his feelings, she felt them, they radiated off him in waves that she felt as pure love, pure desire, pure intent.

Pulling her head back she looked into his eyes, the pure browns were interspersed now with red and gold flecks, as if a fire had been stoked behind them, a fire that burned just for her.

The kiss started before either of them realized it, one moment they were looking in each other's eyes, the next they were connected.

Their lips played over each others, Michaels tongue slid against Tera's, their bodies conformed to each other in an intimate and passionate display that simply swept them both up in the pure force of their connection.

"I love you, Michael," Tera said as the kiss finally broke and their heads fell to each other's shoulders.

"Thank you for loving me, you and Valerie mean everything to me, I can't imagine my life without either of you," Michael whispered as their bodies moved apart. 

They slowly continued their walk down the hill hand in hand, both feeling more loved than they ever had, both knowing that there was more to explore within the depth of this love and passion and need they felt.

For while this was a wondrous thing that was between them, both knew that it was incomplete, that only with Valerie joined to both of them, and them to her were they totally complete.

There was a profound silence between them as they turned the corner, a silence born of their growing bond, of their knowing that the other would always be there.

The town was bustling with shopkeepers and people making the final preparations for the festival.

The tight streets lined with small shops and homes gave off a feeling of impending as Michael and Tera walked down the cobblestone lane. It was as if something was building, unseen, but palpable in its energy.

"Michael, Tera," Valerie said, as the pair turned towards her, smiles lighting up both of their faces as Valerie jogged up behind them.

"I was looking for you," she said to both of them, returning the smiles that she was given.

Valerie placed light kisses on first Michael's lips and then Tera, both their heartbeats rose at the brief but warm connection.

Standing there between Valerie and Tera, Michael started to feel strange. The hairs on the back of his neck stood up, his heartbeat increased. It was as if something had turned a corner, shifted out of a shadow, was approaching with an ominous intent and there was nowhere to run from it's coming.

"What is it," Tera whispered, she had felt the tension slip around him like a snake coiling to strike. Looking at his face she gasped at the pale countenance she found there.

"Something is wrong, Tera, something is wrong," Michael said, his voice hoarse, as if each word took an immense amount of energy to bring forth.

Scanning the crowd, Tera kept Michael and Valerie behind her, back squarely between them. She could feel them both, Michael's body pulled tight like a bow string ready to loose it's arrow and Valerie's, tense like a cornered animal wondering which way to run.

Tera turned in a slow three sixty pulling the bodies of her mates along the arc. Her training kicked in and her focus narrowed and broadened at the same time.

The shopkeeper placing fresh bread on the stand just outside her shop, bits of flour dusted in her hair.

The lorry parked at the curb, an older man within, only his hands visible as they hefted the parcels down to the younger man who was distracted by the two women walking and laughing beside the truck.

The light changed as her vision shifted, a cloud covered the sun, subduing the light, creating new shadows and reflections.

The old Renault next to the antique shop seemed out of place, it took Tera a moment to register that it was parked directly against the building, almost touching it, not in an actual parking place with the drivers door unopenable because of the wall of the building.

A reflection in a puddle underneath the car caught her eye as she looked over the car again, and she saw the flashing red light reflected in its dark onyx face.

Tera began to move instinctively, her hand slipping away from behind her where it kept contact with Michael and Valerie.

Michael sensed the motion, felt more than saw that Tera was about to move off with a purpose, he could feel the kinetic energy building up within her form.

"Stop Her!" Aoife's voice echoed in his head and pulled his attention back to the moment.

"No!" Michael yelled as his hand snaked out and grabbed Tera's wrist, he pulled her back, swiveling her around, pushing both her and Valerie to the ground.

"Let....," Tera started.

And then the air simply became too thin to breath, her words cut off in an instant of pressure and sound.

There are stages to an explosion, Tera had experienced them before. People watch on television, the test explosions see the destruction, but being in the middle of it is something you never forget and hope you never experience again.

The concussion at the moment of ignition compresses the air around you, as the oxygen is sucked into the void to feed the destruction to come. There is a millisecond where you feel as if you will be pulled along with it, lending your own matter to the consuming fire to come.

At that point, just before you feel the laws of physics are about to be broken the process reverses itself as the potential of the device is given form in realty.

The pressure then pushes back, every inch of your body feels it, you are pushed beyond the well regimented pull that gravity has trained your muscles to react to, vast amounts of force are applied in such a totally complete way upon your body that you know this is what death must feel like.

And then the sound comes. A noise so loud and so deafening that you immediately loose the ability to comprehend it, it is simply something you must withstand.

The visual impact of being close to a large explosion varies based on the distance, type of explosion and surroundings. This one bathed the street in a striking white light that overloaded the optic nerve, bathing everything after the blast in a murky twilight.

Michael's first thoughts, lying on the ground, the air thick with an acrid smoke that burned his lungs was for the women beneath him.

He could feel their forms under his, understood logically that if he was coherent enough to think the thoughts then they should be alright, but there is always the primal fear of loss in such moments, of being too slow, of some random capricious act of the universe taking what is yours.

The bodies below him shifted under his weight, both trying to get their bearings, it was with an overwhelming sense of relief that Michael moved off them, shifting to the ground beside them, taking in the scene before him for the first time through tear and ash filled eyes.

A small crater had formed in the spot where the Renault had been only seconds before. The building that it was parked next to was mostly gone, flames licking out from the tattered remains of second story windows.

The lorry had been flipped over; through the slowly clearing smoke the arm of a man could be seen underneath the crushed cab of the vehicle. The man who was in the back was now hanging over the gate of the truck, his lifeless form covered in livid black scorch marks.

Michael stood and walked towards the carnage, hoping against hope to find someone that may have survived.

"You, can't," Tera said as she gently but firmly grabbed onto Michael's shoulder stopping his forward motion. He turned to her, registering in her eyes both relief and fear.

"But someone..." Michael started and then stopped as he turned towards the scene once again.

"Yes," Tera said as she moved closer to him, her arm slipping around his waist as Valerie's slipped around hers. "Someone did this on purpose, the why and the how may never be known, but yes, someone purposely placed a bomb among innocents, for the sole purpose of killing as many of them as they could," Tera finished, here tone hollow and deadly, the voice of someone who had, in the span of her life, taken the lives of such monsters, and in so doing took on a bit of their insanity as her own.

Pulling Tera to him, Michael buried her in his arms, feeling Valerie doing the same from behind her. It took a few moments but finally Tera let it go, her body untensed, she sagged against Michael's chest, black, silent tears running down here cheeks.

This is how Ian found the three as he came to the scene, fire trucks just behind.

"Are you three alright," an almost frantic Ian asked.

Pulling apart but not pulling away from each other the three shell-shocked people looked at him and nodded.

With a sigh Ian shook his head and moved off towards the scene, directing the emergency personnel towards the various areas affected by the explosion.

Millie took charge of the three walking wounded. Arriving with Ian she was all too aware of what this probably meant, knew that it was only the beginning.

"Come with me," Millie said as she walked behind the trio, placing a gentle hand on both Michael and Valerie's shoulders maneuvering them, with Tera in the middle, slowly to the waiting car.

"We need to get out of the way and let them work," she said as her charges numbly got into the car.

The short drive back to the castle passed in silence, all four of them lost for the moment in the internal struggles everyone goes through to make such horrific things as this part of who they are. .........

Nicholas watched the live feed on his laptop, the amount of destruction was a little less than he had hoped for, and that damn Mr. Dane was no where near as hurt as he had hoped.

But the look on Ian's face had been priceless, but then Nicholas always did have more than a passing appreciation for others suffering.

Happily for Nicholas, Ian was not one to disappoint.

"You can leave the area now," Nicholas said into the small microphone at his lips.

'Shows over for now,' he thought as he stood and stretched, looking forward too the upcoming festival more so than most who were to be in attendance. .........

Millie had sent the three of them into the castle without her, she wanted to get back to the scene and help in away should could, even if that was just to be there for Ian.

"I need to take a shower," Michael said absently, dropping his shirt on the floor before reaching the threshold.

Michael did not do powerless well, seeing instant and unwarranted death and destruction up close had rattled his normally calm and allowing demeanor.

Valerie was not far behind Michael, although the incident on the road had provided her with a bit more understanding of how cold and brutal the world could be.

Valerie and Tera stayed where they were for a few minutes, both women using the moment to regain some balance, to find their own peace with what had happened.

"Why are things like this happening so often now?" Valerie asked Tera as she sat down on the bed slowly unbuttoning her ash-covered shirt.

"Ever since Michael showed up in England it seems that violence has been following in his shadow," Valerie sighed dropping the shirt to the floor, her leg coming up to remove her boots.

"Something is going on, I think you Uncle and Millie know a lot more than they are telling us," Tera responded as she watched Valerie stand and remove her skirt.

"These things are hard on people, especially those not trained to deal with them, hell training only goes so far, some things are just too much for anyone to handle," Tera said with sigh as she turned away from Valerie, looking out the window, wondering how much more they could take before someone finally broke.

Valerie's hands slid around Tera's waist from behind, pulling her close, simply sharing the others space, letting her know that she was not alone.

Tera turned and hugged Valerie to her, grateful for the younger womans presence and warmth.

"Come on, Michael could probably use a hug as well," Valerie said pulling away from Tera, the look in her eye spoke volumes of the comment, it was a healing moment that Valerie wished all three of them to share.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 21



Stripping off her clothes, Tera followed Valerie towards the bathroom, the burden of the day still weighing heavily on her but still, just a bit lighter than it had. Such is the nature of having lovers to share such things with. ............

"There was nothing any of you could have done," Aoife's comforting tone did little to assuage Michael's feelings.

'That may be true, but it is still just wrong, and being witness to it, of being present and effected by it means that there is some accountability. I know that I couldn't do anything to stop it, that doesn't change the fact that it took a bit of my soul,' Michael thought in return as the warm water carried away the lingering physical signs of the explosion.

Michael watched as the grayish black water swirled around his feet, wondering at how much destruction and violence had found their way to his life in the last few weeks.

'It's me isn't it Aoife, there is something about me, something about me being here, you, all of it that is behind these things. There have been too many things for it to be mere coincidence, what is it, why am I here, what is to come,' Michael asked in his head, the water filling the space with a thick fog like steam that obscured everything. He could have been in a roman bath or his shower back home in Florida, it took on the ethereal feeling of being out of space and time, reflecting Michael's own frame of mind.

'The time will come soon Michael, you will know all the answers, have all the history, you'll be able to choose, one way or another, there is not much time left. I am sorry for the pain and violence, it is the nature of transitions that things become so. You have the strength and the will, both your own and that of those...who love you,' Aoife said as she receded from his mind.

Michael sighed, he was getting tired of "soon" being the answer to most of his questions.

Head rising into the warm stream of water, hands slowly moving through his hair, Michael heard the latch on the shower door click. Turning he watched as two forms entered the shower, their features obscured, turning them from flesh and blood into ephemeral shades that moved to his sides. He felt their hands encircle him, felt his universe shift as it always did, knew in that moment that no matter what may come next, they would face it together.

Michael was the first to exit the shower. None of them had spoken. They simply stood there and held each other, enveloped in a warm safe space for a brief moment. Simply reveling in each other's proximity, understanding that they were not now and never would be...alone.

He felt better as the towel traveled over his body, now looser from the tensions of the day, everything would work out, everything would be as it would.

Wrapping the towel around his waist he glanced back over his shoulder, a smile found it's way to his lips watching the two clouded forms move within the shower, it was a smile of comfort, the kind that come from knowing you do not face the future on your own.

The phone ringing by the bed brought Michael back to the moment. Moving over to the bed he picked up the receiver.

"Hello, this is Michael," he said.

It was a solemn Ian on the other end.

"How are the three of you," Ian asked, his tone that of a man who had been pushed to far beyond his limits.

"We are doing ok Ian, it took awhile for all of us to process but I think we are in good shape, is there anything we can help with?" Michael asked, wanting to try and help take some of the burden if he could.

"We have everything pretty much under control, I have people onsite working to find out what happened and who is responsible. It has hit the town very hard we are a tight nit group and something like this effects everyone." Ian said with emotion that was not lost on Michael.

"What will happen with the festival?" Michael asked, certain that it would be postponed or canceled.

"It will go on as scheduled, we have increased security and started sweeps of the area every 15 minutes, the festival needs to go on, it will go a long way to helping the town heal."

Michael thought about this, his first reaction had been to cancel, but that was a reaction based in fear, which was the intent of such actions to begin with.

He was impressed that Ian, who was much closer to the people in this town, understood that, finding the pure action within a circumstance that must have been profoundly emotional for him.

"I understand, it is the right choice to make, is there anything I can do to help," Michael asked.

"Simply be there this evening for the opening ceremony, it will take place about 8pm, Valerie knows where. I am sorry we didn't have a chance to talk more today, perhaps this evening or tomorrow, I'll see you this evening, take care of Valerie and Tera." Ian said as he hung up.

Michael sat on the bed watching the slowly fading light, wondering what it must be like to feel that kind of responsibility for so many people, not only to the people, but the place they live, its' history, and making sure that history is secure. .........

"Where is Nicholas," Ian asked Nigel, his voice dripping with venom and malice.

"It took us awhile to track him once he left England, he turned up in France but by the time our team was in a position to place eyes on, he had already left. Current whereabouts are still unknown, we believe he is back in the U.K," Nigel paused taking a long swallow of his Port before continuing.

"The team in France tracked him to a farmhouse, it was a smoldering ruin by the time they arrived, there were two bodies found in the rumble, initial data suggests they were tortured and murdered. We have been monitoring everything and called in a few favors with the Yard, I hope to have an update within the hour. Sweeper teams uncovered two more devices, one on the festival grounds, one...in a delivery for the castle." Nigel concluded. Eyes closed and fingers rubbing his temples he couldn't remember a longer more hectic few weeks.

"Find him Nigel, I don't care what it costs, find him, I made the mistake of letting him go once, I had hoped he would get the message, it appears I was wrong," Ian said as he stood from his desk and began to pace in front of the large stone fireplace.

For the last several days Ian had been plagued by nightmares, he now understood that the nightmare was real, that the time had come to stand in the face of the future and do what must be done to ensure that the promise it holds can be fully realized.

"Get some rest Nigel, I know you are doing everything you can, we won't go out for the ceremony for a few hours and we will all need to be at our sharpest. See if you can track down Millie for me and ask her to join me, get yourself something to eat and take as much of a break as you can. I think we will all need as much energy as possible to get through the next few days." Ian said placing a hand on his old friends shoulder.

"I'll find her for you, and everything will work out Ian, it always does," Nigel said as he stood and walked slowly towards the door, shoulders straightening, strides more purposeful with each that fell. ...............

"This is the best roast beef sandwich I have ever had," Michael said between mouthfuls.

Valerie and Tera smiled as they watched him eat, all of them were glad for the distraction a little food and conversation provided.

They had been hungry after the incident this morning. It took a bit of time but they all finally found their way to the kitchen which was abandoned as the cooks and servants who would normally be bustling about were all at the festival site preparing for the ceremony.

A quick inventory found fresh roast beef, aged Swiss cheese and a loaf of French bread. All that was missing was the wine.

Michael sat at the granite island, watching Tera and Valerie move about the room.

Valerie was at the refrigerator, she wore tight fitting riding pants that left very little to the imagination. More than once, both here and in the room, Valerie had turned to find him simply staring at her ass, the look of hunger in his eyes as he would finally look up and meet hers was thrilling and a bit scary all at the same time, she had never felt so wanted by anyone. Calf length leather boots, one of which was currently perpendicular to the floor as she reached into the refrigerator looking for something to drink, gave the impression of being painted on more than worn. They flexed and moved fluidly with the muscle beneath as Valerie closed the door and moved to sit across from Michael. As she sat, Michael once again became lost in the curves her white angora sweater highlighted.

She watched him as she took a sip of the orange juice she had found, once again pleased by his attention.

Tera watched the two of them, she smiled at Valerie's easy flirtations with Michael, his open and easy reactions to both of them filled her with passion, and hope that their future would hold the discovery of the depths of the feelings they have, up until now, only scratched the surface of. 

Tera walked towards Michael, the movement caught his eye and he swiveled in her direction.

The black jeans she wore did nothing to hide the muscular definition of her legs, she didn't move so much as stalk. There was a grace and power and intention to her movements, which gave her a sensually lethal aura that Michael found captivating.

Straddling him she sat on his lap, their eyes met for an instant and then she was kissing him, hands curling in his hair as their tongues battled. When she finally released him and took a long deep breath she did not know who had won that battle, actually, she didn't care.

The trio's energy was broken by a noise off towards the dining room. A moment later Millie and Ian appeared, they were both cloaked in shadow, their silhouettes visible but not the details, Ian was leaning into her, the murmur of their conversation made it's way towards the three but that was all, there was only the acknowledgement of sound no detail within it's cadence.

With a final hug Ian slipped from Millie's arms and disappeared into inky blackness beyond the doorway. Millie watched the space in the darkness where he had disappeared, a sense of foreboding engulfing her as their just finished conversation replayed through her mind.

Trying to shake off the melancholy, vowing to have the strength for what may be required, her back straightened as she finally turned from the doorway and approached the three of them who hurriedly looked away, caught, and knowing it, in a supremely human moment of voyeurism.

Michael noticed a bit of redness around the older womans eyes, undoubtedly this had been a hard day on her as well. Instinctually he rose and pulled her into a warm embrace, understanding that in this moment, a bit of comfort could and did, mean everything.

Millie did not pull away from Michael's embrace; she fell into it, feeling his heat and concern, finding the comfort within his arms that was his intention.

"Thank you," Millie whispered as she pulled away gently from him, her hand tracing down from his shoulder to his hand, which she held in a strong embrace.

"What can we do," Michael asked the sincerity of his words were reflected in his deep brown eyes.

Millie was caught in their depths for a moment, finding herself suffused by their depth and energy. Shaking herself she smiled broadly looking away from him.

"We can make for the festival and have a wonderful evening," Millie said, her smile genuine, but the shadow of fear that crossed her eyes not being missed by anyone.

The four of them walked from the kitchen, each lost within their own thoughts of the day and what the future may hold.

All of them knowing that the future rarely provides anything close to what our thoughts of it...may be.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 22



The open field had been transformed in the last few weeks. Standing on the stage, looking out over the field, Ian was caught up, as he always was, in the deep history of the place and this event.

For as far as the eye could see in the gathering blackness were the canvas tents, aligned in circles emanating out from the great bonfire at the festival grounds center. Other, smaller fires could be seen breaking through the inky darkness, allowing loose the shadows to dance and play within their glows reach.

'So many years,' Ian thought as the crowd gathered. 'So many moments, so many good and happy memories, so much history has passed through this single spot.'

Ian looked at those close to him, Millie, his stalwart companion, always there, always prepared to lend a hand when necessary. Always did she provide him the love and support that were so crucial to him down through the years. He smiled warmly at her, and it was returned, all of her love and need and desire communicated in the simplest but most meaningful of gestures.

Behind her, eyes searching the crowd and the darkness, Nigel, with his uncanny senses and piercing eyes, his strong right hand these many years. So much pain and violence, could anyone have asked for a better compatriot with which to meet the un-meetable? Ian thought not.

Valerie, Michael and Tera stood off to the side. Shifting his gaze from his companions to Michaels, he was hit for the first time with the truth of his life, that soon the future would come, and it would be in someone else's hands what path that future followed.

The thought brought both relief and sadness.

Relief that the burdens of leadership would no longer be his, that his time would be his own without the responsibilities that he had borne for so long. But there was also the sadness, that he had not done enough, that his stewardship was merely a placeholder.

He had done all that he could over the years to hold the line against the darkness, but had he truly done that, or had the loss of ground simply been to small to notice as the line moved inexorably in favor of the enemy.

Shaking his head Ian put such thoughts out of his mind, tonight was not a time for such ruminations, tonight was a time for helping the people of this place heal from the destruction the day had wrought. To provide hope in the midst of fear, to give strength and purpose in the face of what may be to come.

The scene before Ian took him then, the history, the power, the ultimate goodness of the place and people found purchase in his heart. The night seemed to pause, the fires to brighten; the air took on the electrical feeling of some great...impending as Ian began to speak.

"Exspectata Amicitia," Ian said, his voice, imbued with power and emotion, rolled out from the small stage over the hushed gathered crowds.

Michael was intrigued by the Latin greeting, something that harkened back to the roman influences over this small island so long ago.

"Another year has passed, as has been our custom for untold years, we gather during these few days to give thanks."

"Thanks for the bounty provided this year."

"Thanks for the people in our lives who share the road with us."

"Thanks for living in this place that provides so much. So much history, so much bounty, so much...hope for the future."

Ian paused, looking out at the shadowed faces of the crowd. There was a sense of expectation and serenity that came from the gathered multitude. It was the simple comfort that comes from maintaining and honoring the traditions of our ancestors.

"This year has seen Nogardshire continue to prosper. As it has been for centuries our little corner of the world has always been a place filled with a unique kind of magic. As I look out over the faces in crowd, I know them all. We are more than a community, we are friends, bound together by time and history and intention."

"So often people today do not see the person next to them. They walk through their lives wrapped in a cocoon of self-absorption, locked away from those that they see every day. This, for me, is the greatest gift of living in this amazing place, knowing that by taking the simple action of walking out my door and down the lane I will be confronted with someone I know, someone who I share a heritage with, and in so doing, we pass on that gift to those that will come after us."

As Ian said this his gaze shifted briefly to Michael, the men's eyes met for a moment, it gave Michael a sense of deep foreboding before Ian shifted his attention back to the gathered crowd.

"Often times when we speak of this place, we do so within the confined context of our shared past. We speak of the things going on outside this hamlet as if the outside world, its issues and problems, are not quite connected to this place."

"That changed today." Ian's hands moved up through his hair. He could feel the pain and fear coming off the crowd as they stood enfolded in the moment.

"Today, the outside world made its presence known to Nogardshire. And in so doing, added another page to our long history."

"We lost friends today, every single one of us lost someone that we knew, someone that we grew up with, cared for and loved."

"There are six of our clan who will never see the sunrise over the cliffs."

"Who won't feel the cool fall wind as it strips the brittle leaves from the oaks."

"Never again shall we find them laughing at ancient jokes within the pub."

"Mary and Camilla will not be able to brighten the center of town with their spring walks to the grocers."

"Claude will not see Malcolm get married and have children. He won't know the happiness of telling the old tales to his grandchildren."

"Malcolm will never know the enlivening joy of falling in love, the pride of watching his children grow, the comfort of years well spent living in this amazing place." 

"We won't be able to slip into the cool interior of Sean's place. To find him their behind the counter, listen to his latest escapade and find that odd treasure which he had such a knack for finding. All of us have something needful that Sean provided." 

"Sarah won't be starting Oxford in the spring. She will never tend to the children she wanted. Her long hoped for dashing young prince will have to find her on the other side."

Ian's tears sparkled in the firelight as they slid from his eyes. The weight of these losses, the useless suffering they caused weighed on him like nothing before. 

He felt his portion of regret, knowing that his actions were most likely to blame for this befalling his home. But from the pain he felt from this loss, from his part in it, sprang forth a rage that steeled his determination.

His eyes cleared, many would say afterwards that they glowed with their own fire, fueled by his rage and tempered with a howling fury for revenge.

"Those that we lost today are not truly lost. They live on, in every brick and thatch of this town, every grain of soil beneath our feet. Their voices and laughter carry on the wind. While we may not be able to reach out to them, protect them, watch them grow, watch them age, they are with us always. For we shall always remember them."

"They are tied to this day, this moment, which down through the centuries has become so much a part of us, our families and this town. Always they will be remembered, always will they live and breath and contribute to us, for we shall never forget them." 

The bonfire seemed to dim at this point, the wind that had been blowing, softly making its presence known, died. Ian looked out over the people before him, felt their energy shifting.

It filled him in that moment, the connection to them and this place, his heritage; all of it in that instance bringing his life and his own place within the great sea of eternity into clear focus.

With the fire in his eyes glowing white, ancient energy filling him, and hope for the future guiding his words, he continued.

"Cowardice and fear came to Nogardshire today."

"It crawled through the gutters and shadows, unwilling to show its face."

"It is the nature of those wretched, soulless beings that walk the earth not bound to anything but their own desires to fear and lash out at innocents."

"Within innocence lies that which they fear most, the simple truth that while others can find love, happiness and contentment, they know they never shall. They call it false, lies, and work against it at every turn. Only by trying to destroy it in others, can they hope to assuage its absence within themselves."

"A coward named Nicholas killed our friends today. He didn't have the courage to walk up to me like a man, to try and take back something which I took from him."

"He chose, like others of his clan have down through the centuries, to attack the helpless. He hopes to breed fear among us, he hopes to place the burden of their deaths on my shoulders."

Ian's breath could be seen in the shadowy light of the fire, a strong cloudy mist that brought forth the image of a bull standing in its corral awaiting the fool who would choose to step inside.

Michael was, as was everyone else, totally caught up in Ian's speech, it held a power and force and righteousness that none in attendance would ever forget.

Ian held everyone's attention, the sheer force of his will a palpable aura that enveloped the crowd as he continued.

"I have known this coward for many years, he and his kind have a long history of courting destruction instead of life. In the chaos of destruction they hope to find some ease from their own fear and self loathing."

"It never works, there is never enough destruction, death, loss or fear. There is no end to their suffering for they know nothing of creation, they know only to try to destroy that which they can never have."

"I have had the opportunity, over the years, to end Nicholas's pitiful life. With this latest act of senseless violence, I regret not doing so. However, the universe is a place of balance, for every enemy we vanquish, another steps up to fill their shoes."

"I am sorry that this has been visited upon you, it is no fault of yours, and in the end it is no fault of mine. A weak-minded coward who finds his home in the shadows and dark places of the world lashed out, trying to give meaning to his own empty life. I pity him, for he will never have what we do. A sense of community, a sense of history, a sense of shared purpose and the undeniable knowledge that we are worthy of all these good and noble things."

"In the ongoing legacy of those that have come before us."

"Absent friends never forgotten."

"The hope which the future holds."

"I declare the festival started, find joy my friends."

Ian stared out at the crowd, feeling as though a weight had been lifted off his shoulders.

For so long he had carried the burdens of generations on his back, not truly feeling up to the task. This moment changed that for him, he found a peace and ease within it that would carry him through whatever the future may hold.

The crowd remained hushed for a moment, letting Ian's final words drift on the restarted winds.

And then as one a great cry rose up from them, with one voice there issued forth a sound of pain and power, victory and loss, passion and balance. They had been healed a bit by Ian's words. Felt the power and wisdom within them.

He had given them back some of what had been stolen that day. All who were there knew they would never be the same, but looked on the future with the hope of those who believe that whatever may come they will be ready to face it.

Ian felt Millie as she moved to his side. Her arms wrapping around his chest, her body pressing into his from behind, felt the heat of her and her love all in an instant.

Turning he pulled her to him, noticing the slight shimmering of tears in her eyes before his lips found hers. It was a deep meaningful connection, imparting the depth of feeling he felt both for her and this place.

Mille formed herself to him, she felt his passions stir; understood that he had put down much of the burden he had been carrying all these years. In this simple cathartic act he had become more himself than he ever had been before.

Ian pulled away from her, holding her at arms length, looking deeply into her eyes, he felt her passions, knew her desires, wanted nothing more than to quench them, but understood it had to wait.

Leaning into her neck, his warm breath a shocking contrast on her cool skin, Ian's whispered declaration set every one of Millie's nerves on edge.

"Soon my love, soon we shall explore this new passion, find it's depths, and give new definition to the words meaning," he said as his lips gently slid over the delicate flesh of her neck and then retreated as Ian straightened and moved off into the crowd.

Millie stood there watching him go, seeming to give off a gentle but powerful aura of calm and power as he moved off through the crowd. He met all those in his way with a hug or kiss or a kind word, he gave back to them tenfold what they had always given him so easily; the peace of understanding that history shall remember them all.... well.

Michael watched as Ian moved off through the crowd of people. His words had stirred them, giving them some hope and lightening some of the burden they had taken on today.

Tera moved closer to him, he felt her warm subtle strength envelope him as her shoulder came in contact with his.

Valerie's hand, twined with his, shifted, he looked down and her eyes were still wet with tears from Ian's words. Bending his neck, Michael and Valerie shared a brief warm kiss before she moved off to talk with Millie.

"There is more to come," Tera said to Michael after Valerie was out of earshot.

"What do you mean?" Michael asked, lost for a moment as he looked into her eyes, their depths dancing with the reflections of the fire behind them.

"Nigel is here, it looks as though he has two full teams with him. They are moving through the crowd, checking the tents and stands, keeping up a very tight surveillance net. They must believe that there is a good chance for another attack." Tera finished as she folded herself into his arms.

The embrace had the undercurrent of comfort that both of them were looking for in that moment. Their world seemed to be racing towards some unseen abyss, both of them were grateful that they did not have to face it alone.

"Millie," Valerie said as she walked to her.

Turning, Millie smiled seeing Valerie, pulling her into a long hug.

"He did so well," Millie said as the women pulled apart and stood together within the growing crush of people making their way towards the traditional dinner being served on the other side of the great bonfire.

"Yes he did," Valerie answered, the pride in her Uncle easy to hear in the emotion her words carried. "They needed it after today, and I think he did as well. It will take time for this wound to heal but Ian did a wonderful job of starting that process."

"How are Michael and Tera doing," Millie asked as she scanned the crowd looking for Ian, catching a glimpse of him moving from one knot of people to the next.

"It has been a very long day, but they seem to be holding up well, better than I am I fear. They are both stronger than I when it comes to things like this, I don't know what I would do without them." Valerie said.

Millie noticed that Valerie was not looking at her anymore, her eyes had been drawn back to her partners who were holding each other in a what looked to be a tender, loving embrace.

"How are the three of you doing? It seems that you and Tera have developed a deep friendship, how does that work with you and Michael?" Millie asked, already having an idea of the answer but wanting to hear it from Valerie herself.

Valerie paused, hearing Millie's question brought a smile to her lips, one that she was grateful for considering the events of the day. It brightened her to know that love and joy were still possible, even on days such as this.

"Tera and I have become very close, Michael loves us both, we both love Michael and each other. I don't know how it will work out in the end, but I am confident we three shall be together, no matter what may come our way." Valerie answered, getting anxious to go back and be with her mates.

The look on Valerie's face was not lost on Millie. "Go on, go be with them, get some food and find Ian, I am sure he would like to talk with the three of you, probably introduce Michael and Tera to a few of the locals." Millie said as she gave Valerie a quick hug before shooing her off.

"I will get them and go see if we can find Ian," Valerie said, giving Millie a quick kiss on the cheek before moving off, quickly being swallowed by the crowd.

Turning around to look for Ian herself, Millie saw Nigel standing off to the side of the bonfire talking with two of his operatives. The grave look on his face increased Millie's tensions as she walked towards the trio.

"Keep a sharp eye, I want everything coming or going into this town looked at, the threat level is high. We have captured one of the opposition within our perimeter, there are probably more, stay focused." Nigel said as the two men with him moved off with quick determined strides.

"What's happened," Millie asked Nigel as she came up behind him.

Nigel looked tired, it had been a long day for everyone but it seemed to weigh on him especially heavy. Running his fingers through his silver gray close-cropped hair he sighed and responded.

"We found someone video tapping Ian's speech, sending it via wireless to a third party, we can't get an id on them and there are no records on this person. We believe she works for Nicholas," Nigel said closing his eyes and rubbing the bridge of his nose.

"If there is one there are probably more, I've got two teams active in the field but I'm not sure it's enough, if possible can you try and get Ian back to the castle, I have another two teams coming in first thing, but for tonight I just don't want to push our luck." Ian asked.

"I'll do everything I can, thank you for everything you've done Nigel, I know its been a hard day. Do you have someone keeping an eye on Michael, Valerie and Tera?" Millie asked.

"Yes, I have watchers close to them, you and Ian, but with the other devices we found this afternoon, they will do little against someone willing to sacrifice themselves and innocents to get who they are after." Nigel said, distracted by something coming over the com in his ear.

"I'll go find Ian, be safe Nigel," she said with a lingering look that was returned by Nigel, imparting the understanding that they would be all right.

Michael and his women had found there way to the feast. Each had been sampling the various dishes half-heartedly.

The day was catching up to all of them and even though Ian's speech had calmed everyone somewhat, the air was still thick with the weight of the day's events as well as the future it may portend.

"Michael," Ian shouted as he moved through the crowd towards the trio.

Turning, Michael was happy to see that Ian looked much better than he had earlier. It was as if a weight had been lifted from him; he hoped that the man's seeming calm was truly how he felt.

"Hello Ian, wonderful opening, I think it gave all of us a bit of perspective that was sorely needed." Michael said shaking the older mans hand.

"They are all good people, they deserve to know the truth," Ian said as he pulled Valerie into a quick hug and gave Tera's shoulder a comforting squeeze.

"There are a few people I would like you to meet Michael," Ian began before being cut off by Millie.

"Time enough for introductions tomorrow I would think," she said, coming up next to Ian, sliding her arm around his waist.

"It has been a long day, and all of us could do with a good nights rest, how about we go back to the castle, have a night cap and then turn in early. The rest of the weekend promises to be very busy," Millie said, sending a look Ian's way that held both the promise of what could be had with acceptance and the danger involved in refusing.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 22



"An excellent idea, as always I bow to your gentle and concerned nature my love," Ian said while performing a deep dramatic bow that had the four of them laughing as they made their way towards the Mercedes.

Sitting in the back seat, Michael felt the day crash in upon him. On both sides the heads of his loves lay on his shoulders, the three of them simply worn out from the emotions of the day.

Millie's hand played over Ian's thigh as he drove the short way back to the castle. Her kneading presence stoked Ian's already high passions. Looking over at her in the shaded dark of the car, he could see her own passions burning behind her beautiful eyes. In this moment all was well in the universe.

"I think I need to get these two, and myself, to bed," Michael said standing just inside the door of the castle, Valerie and Tera at his sides, the three of them looking simply done.

"Of course, we shall see you in the morning for breakfast," Millie said, giving them each a light kiss on the cheek. Ian nodded as Michael steered his charges up the stairs towards their room.

He watched them go, noting how Michael held Valerie gently but with subtle strength, took on her weight. On his other side Tera moved slowly, keeping pace with Michael and offering her own strength to his.

"Those three work well together," Ian said, turning to find Millie watching him, her eyes still holding a passionate fire which matched his own.

Ian moved towards her. As he did she moved away, backing down the hall towards the library. Ian smiled and picked up his pace.

With a light laugh Millie turned and sprinted away, Ian hard on her heals.

.........

Nicholas picked up the laptop and threw it across the room, it shattered into hundreds of jagged pieces which fell to the floor. The light from the room reflecting off their black and silver faces in a chaotic display.

He had watched Ian's little speech.

He was not pleased.

"Coward am I," Nicholas yelled into the empty room.

"We shall see who the coward is, who's life has no meaning," he said in a whisper, as a deathly calm settled over him.

He was not happy that Elise had been captured by that bastard Nigel. Nicholas cursed himself for sending her. She was too unique to be put in harms way yet but he had been caught up trying to get people on site.

Nigel and his whole damned Dragon Security were another group who would soon feel the fury of his wrath.

All of them needed to understand that his destiny, his vision of the future could not be averted with simpering speeches and words like coward being thrown his way.

"Soon Ian, soon you will know, soon your heart will beat it's last within my palm, your life blood falling to the dirt you so zealously cherish." An insane fire burned behind his eyes as he said this. Every muscle in his body was pulled taught, a light sheen of sweat glistened on his brow.

It took an immense amount of control for him to stay focused, to not simply move against that fool and his minions right now. Only the thought of seeing the life drain out Ian's eyes in front of everyone and everything he held dear held him in check.

Picking up the phone he pressed three numbers, the other line was picked up almost immediately.

"Send up Heidi and Isabel," Nicholas began, pausing for a moment, the rage seething through him. "Have the cleaning crew ready as well." Nicholas finished, slamming the phone back to the desk.

The person on the other end of the phone slowly put the receiver back in its cradle. He felt a momentary pull of sorrow and then shook it off as he rose stoically to go fetch the vessels of his master's rage.

......

Elise had a wild look in her eyes. The kind of look a trapped animal gets when it realizes there is no escape and that the imminent future may hold their demise.

Nigel watched the video camera feeds that came from one of the holding rooms at the barracks on the castle grounds.

She was young, maybe nineteen, likely a little bit younger.

Her gear was a little old; knock off's of some of the better U.S. and Asian stuff, probably from the former soviet republics. No identification, no nothing. She had said her name was Elise but that was it, not another peep.

"Sims, come to ops please," Nigel said into his com. He watched the young girl as she continued to pace around the room, looking for some way out.

Nigel didn't like mysteries; it was time to figure this one out.

Sims came into the room, looked briefly at the monitors then turned to Nigel.

"I want a full run on her Sims, fingerprints, blood, retina, DNA. If you can't find out who she is I want to know everyone she is related to and I want it done yesterday," Nigel said with a deadly serious tone that Sims had heard many times before. It was the tone of someone who knew that danger was around the next bend but did not know what form it would take.

"I'll grab a nurse and get started immediately," Sims said as he turned and moved from the room with purpose.

'This job just gets more and more interesting,' Sims thought as he headed towards the surgery to track down a nurse.

Nigel turned his attention back to the monitors; he wished they had been able to grab a few more of Nicholas's people.

He felt vulnerable, a feeling he hated with a passion.

The tech boys were working on the other devices they had found and disarmed, hopefully that would lead someplace. Nigel had the nagging feeling that he was missing something, that all the pieces were there he just couldn't seem to find the pattern.

Closing his eyes he sat down heavily on the old couch in the surveillance room, the exhaustion was something he could no longer ignore as he slipped into a fitful sleep plagued by nightmares that stayed just beyond his consciousness.

Inside the holding room a single tear silently slid down Elise's cheek. Her own internal struggle had been waged since she was captured. Her programming compelled her to carry out her final instructions.

That small-protected bit of Elise that she had hidden from them, wrapped up carefully and protected in a shadowed, safe corner of her mind warred against this.

She would not give up, not give that monster what he wanted. The struggle continued, the stalemate anything but static. .........

Tera and Valerie had gone into the bathroom as soon as they reached the room.

Michael stretched, pulling off his shirt, sitting down next to the French doors that opened onto the small balcony outside the room.

The evening was cool but it felt good on his bare skin as he slid off his shoes and socks.

Searching his jacket on the back of the chair he found his lighter and cigarettes. 

Lighting one he stood and walked out onto the balcony. A cool wind brushed around his body. Taking a deep pull on the cigarette he felt himself calming. He regarded the night sky, could still see the glow of the bonfire off in the distance.

"You need to rest Michael," Aoife's voice slid gently into his mind.

"Could you have stopped what happened today?" Michael asked. The question had been rolling around in his head since the incident happened.

"What I can and cannot do is...complicated to explain. In this instance, no I could not have stopped it. I didn't know about it or the intention behind it until you did." Aoife's response was not what he wanted to hear. Often it is so when we look for someone to blame.

"If I could have stopped it I would have, this town and those that live here are dear to me. Sometimes bad things happen, it has been a fundamental truth since the beginning of everything. I am sorry you had to go through it, but you did well. You were strong and gave that strength easily to those who needed it. Tomorrow will be another long day, your mates need your comfort tonight and all of you need to rest. Let go of your questions for now, the answers are coming." Aoife said as she gently slipped from Michael's mind.

Flicking the cigarette over the edge of the balcony he turned back into the room. 

Valerie was already in bed; the blankets folded down at an angle displaying one of her full round breasts. The pale skin topped by a large rose-colored nipple began a stirring in Michael's soul.

Tera was standing next to the bed as naked as the day she was born.

"Come on, you next," she said, a weary but happy smile on her lips.

"As you wish," Michael said, slipping off his jeans and sliding into bed next to Valerie.

Tera joined them a second later. The room was bathed in pale shadow as she turned off the light. Both women curling up to Michael's warmth.

They lay there like that for a while, Michael feeling the differences in their heat and form. He felt their heartbeats against his sides.

Valerie's a bit faster, but also softer than the hard insistence beat of Tera's. Soon they took on a similar cadence, the three of them falling into a similar rhythm. He felt the deep steady breaths from both of them on his chest as they slipped to sleep.

He was content in that moment as he slid into his own blissful oblivion. .........

Ian "caught" Millie and pulled her into his arms. There was a need and passion moving between the two of them that would not be denied.

Their lips met and they joined in this simple but intimate act. Lips pressing together with urgent desire, their tongues dueling as each of them began pulling off the others clothes.

Millie's shirt is simply ripped open, her breasts pulled from beneath her bra as Ian's lips part from hers and find her nipple warm and hard. His tongue and lips and teeth pulled at the hard tip.

Ian's hands slid up Millie's thighs, moving past the top of her stockings he found her sex uncovered. He smiled into the nipple between his lips at the discovery.

Millie's hands wound into Ian's hair as his fingers slid within her warm wet depths. Her legs began to quiver as his finger found her clit, rubbing insistent circles around the axis of her, causing waves of pleasure to course through her body.

Looking down she watched as he suckled her, saw the fire in his eyes, the light sheen of sweat that glistened on his brow. God's how she loved him, wanted him more in this moment than any other she could remember.

"Take me Ian, I need you inside me now," Millie moaned as her hands went to the side of his face, pulling him up from her tit so he could see her need as well as hear it.

Ian knew the look in her eye, it reflected the one in his own. In that moment he needed to be joined with her, to feel her surrounding him, encompassing him becoming lost within the energy they created when they were together.

Standing, Ian moved Millie towards the wall. His hands unbuckling and dropping his pants to the floor as he stepped out of them.

Millie's hand snaked down, finding him hard, the head of him moist with his own need.

Bending he slid his hand over her warm thigh, pulling it up, spreading her open as her back met the bookcase.

"Yes Ian, yes, take me my love, please," Millie sighed as she guided him toward her nexus.

Ian slid into her warm clinging depths in one long hard thrust. 

He held himself within her, feeling the muscles contract around him, open to accept him. Her warm heat cradled him in that moment of communion, as their bodies joined so did their hearts and souls.

There in the mixed fluid glow of both firelight and moonlight they became one, by intention, by need, by passion they gave themselves to each other and became something...more.

Ian moved within her. His cock slipping half way out from her depths before moving back within. His rhythm was smooth; the deep half strokes kept a constant pressure on Millie's g-spot. He felt her hot sheath contracting around him, urging him on.

The first orgasm had washed over her at his initial entry. It was almost always so. The feeling of him becoming seated within her, stretching her, filling that space within her that only he could always left her breathless and wanting more.

Ian's head fell to Millie's shoulder, his lips touching the heated skin at her neck. They slid wetly over the supple curves.

His need grew, his thrusts becoming longer. He pulled almost from within her and then slid back in fully, the length of him pulling her lips away from her body with each outward pull.

Millie moaned into Ian's neck as his thrusts became deeper, her clit, now engorged, being hammered each time he buried himself within her. The delightful fullness of him pulling forth yet another orgasm that she screamed through, as he pounded into her with his need, want and love for her.

Ian pulled Millie to him as he felt her hard contractions around him. Held her close, feeling the waves of passion crest and then subside a bit as he held her in his arms.

As they passed, he withdrew from her, turning her to the side and bending her over the arm of the sofa. In an instant he was within her again, his cock now slamming into her as she whimpered beneath him, her orgasms coming one after the next.

He looked down at the junction where they met and became one. He saw his hardness wet with her need and desire. Felt his balls make contact with her clit each time he thrust inside her. Heard the panting breath that issued forth from her as her ecstasy climbed towards its zenith.

Bending down across her back, his dick expanding within her as his own climax approached, his hand slid around, grasping her breast in a way that imparted both need and ownership, he said close to her ear. "I love you Millie, I always have and I always will."

Both of them let loose with wanton cries as he emptied himself into her writhing, clinging body. They moved together, a being of lust and love in equal portions, both finding their own release and the ultimate joining in this one shared moment of communion.

Lying naked in each other's arms, the last vestiges of clothing removed in favor of the warm quilt that found its home on the soft leather couch, they found a moment of contentment.

"What's going to happen Ian?" Millie asked as her fingertips played over his chest.

"Whatever it is Millie, know that I have and shall always love you, that you are the single most necessary thing in my life. I am blessed to have been given all of the years and moments that we have shared. No matter what the future holds Millie, know that my heart and soul has always been and always will be...yours." Ian said as he pulled her close to him, his eyes closing, finding peace in the joyous and treasured moment.

Ian was asleep almost as his last words left his lips, the events of the day, the power and energy of his need to help the people of Nogardshire get over it, his want and desire for Millie had left him exhausted.

Ian did not feel the warm tears that fell from Millie's eyes to land gently on his chest. He did not feel her softly trembling within his arms as the demons of the future played their nightmarish games within her head.

The future was to her now a dark place, filled with an uncertainty that gnawed at her heart and soul.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 23



Chapter 23

The first rays of sunlight, usually missed by most the morning after the festival opening, shown brightly upon Michael and Tera as they ran smoothly up the ancient lane making their way out of town.

Michael had risen early, the gray hued light of dawn just becoming visible and filtering into the room.

Lying on his back he stared up at the ornate 17th century ceiling. It's latticed woodwork and deep rich colors reflected its age as well as the craftsmanship which wrought it.

Valerie was curled around him on his right. Her hair splayed out like an auburn blanket on his chest, her leg over his, it's weight noticed for the sensual interplay between skin and muscle more than its weight. Her soft even breaths settled warmly on his skin, providing a unique contrast to the cool air of the stone walled room.

Tera stretched on his left, her body tensing, muscles shifting and pulling taught. She lay on her back, her leg covering his calf to shin, arm intertwined with his. 

Tera's body was a few degree's warmer than Valerie's, he felt the soothing effects of it wherever there bodies touched.

Michael lay still between them. It was oddly comforting to be surrounded by them, to be able to feel the subtle differences in their bodies, to simply let the sensations and energies that they provided wash over him.

"Good morning," Tera whispered.

She had shifted to her side, her hand lying gently on his abdomen. He could feel her eyes on him even thought the soft light of dawn precluded his looking into them.

"Good morning," he said with a smile.

Shifting he moved through the spare inches that separated them and found her lips. Warm and moist they joined with his in a soft intimate coupling that lasted only a second.

"I feel like a run, care to join me?" Michael asked as he smoothly began disentangling himself from Valerie.

"Yes, a run sounds just right," Tera responded, as she slid lithely out of bed.

Michael followed her, standing and stretching his arms over his head, he wondered at how good he felt.

Yesterday had been a chaotic day, hell the last two days had both held more than their share of strange bits. But now, in this instant he felt...good, better than he perhaps ever had. Just another strange part of a trip filled with odd feelings.

Tera stood before him, stretching out her own muscles, reveling in the simple act of feeling her body move. She watched as Michael's dark silhouette moved before her. The faint light obscured the details, but she watched with rapt attention as he moved his body, sloughing off the last kinks of sleep.

A hungry energy passed between them there in the darkness. It connected them, urging both to move towards the other, to loose themselves within its embrace.

Michael felt himself begin to stir, a low growl issuing from his throat as he rolled his neck, a smile once again on his lips.

Tera felt the familiar flush of moisture between her legs that always happened when she was close to Michael. She heard and felt the need coming from him.

'Soon,' she thought as her hand bridged the gap between them, lying lightly on his chest for a moment. She felt his heartbeat quicken at the touch. Smiled knowing that it was she who made it so.

Pulling back her hand she moved away from him, a shadow, one moment solid the next simply an after image of movement and empty space.

The light in the bathroom came on and the water began to softly run in the background as she got ready for the run.

Michael turned to the window. The light coming up quicker now, he could see the first pale pink streaks beating back the gray of dawn. He glanced to his side. Valerie slept curled in the spot he and Tera had just vacated. Snuggled into the warmth from their bodies that lingered after their departure.

"Your turn," Tera said breaking him from his reverie.

"I'll just be a sec," he said, turning and sliding by her, looking forward to meeting the dawn on the hoof.

............

Sims watched the sleeping girl on the monitors. It had been a long night.

She had not given them any trouble when he and the nurse went in to get the blood samples.

"Elise," he said softly under his breath.

The initial work up's had been sent out to London, he had also sent a complete set to his contacts up at Credenhill. It had meant calling in a favor or two but finding out as much as they could about this woman and who she worked for could be vitally important to heading off anything else they had planned.

"She is quite an enigma," Nigel's sleepy voice said from behind him.

Without turning Sims answered, "yes, there does seem to be something...unique about her. Hopefully we will get the intel back on her early, maybe having some knowledge about her will convince her to open up."

Nigel had slept fitfully in the security room, but at least sleep had come.

"Why don't you go get some coffee, it is probably going to be another long day." Nigel said as he walked towards the barracks to take a quick shower.

Sims looked at Elise one more time, noting how her breath came in quick shallow gulps.

'Odd for someone as they sleep,' he thought to himself as he left the room, hoping that his mates up north had been able to come up with some information on this strange young woman.

............

Michael and Tera set a steady pace down the lane from the castle. The morning was cool but not cold. The sun had finally banished the gray blanket of dawn and the world was now bathed in warm hues of umber and pink as they made their way through town.

Their pace slowed a bit as they passed the site of the explosion.

The antique shop was in ruins; yellow tape surrounded the ancient building, providing a grotesque boundary to the destruction which lay within its perimeter.

The truck had been removed. Deep gashes from its twisting somersault crisscrossed the ancient stone pavers, some of them being dislodged completely.

Michael's hand moved out from his side and found Tera's. He grasped it lightly as they jogged on, lending a bit of support, and taking some for himself.

In minutes they were beyond the town and picked up they're pace, following a well-traveled path off the main road that lead through a small stand of oaks towards the escarpment.

"Neither you or Valerie have mentioned moving in with me," Michael stated as they crested a small hill, coming out of the copse of trees as they ran on through an open meadow.

Tera looked at him out of the corner of her eye as they ran. She was actually surprised this hadn't come up sooner.

"We haven't been ignoring the offer Michael, we simply needed some time to work out how each of us felt about it. Valerie and I have talked about it, I am sure that sometime in the next few days the three of us will have a chance to sit down and figure something out." Tera said as she picked up the pace a bit, leaving Michael a few lengths back until he adjusted to her faster stride.

"Fair enough, as I said at dinner, I only want you to be happy, I hope you both can be...with me." He said, lengthening his own stride and pulling ahead of Tera.

Smiling she watched him for a moment, his long languid stride, the muscles in his legs stretching and compressing as he moved over the ground.

She had seen many men run, both for the simple joy of it as well as for their lives. 

Tera had never seen anyone move with grace and ease Michael did. It was as if he became part of the place. Like watching an animal on its home turf, confident, secure and most importantly, connected on many levels both to himself and his surroundings.

They pulled up at the base of the high escarpment.

Both were covered in a light sheen of sweat that even the cool north wind could not get the best of. Both were breathing deeply, enjoying the exertion of the run.

The path continued up the rocky side of the limestone wall. Winding its way like a pale serpent to the jagged top and the smooth plateau above.

"Shall we?" Michael asked with a smile, as he started up setting an even pace.

Tera followed behind him as they made their way up the path. The higher they went the smaller the path became until they were forced to stop running altogether and walk the final fifty feet to the top.

Cresting the edge they were treated to a wonderful view of the plain beyond. 

Rolling hills as far as the eye could see provided an interesting perspective of the places majestic size and scope.

"It's beautiful," Tera said as she slid her arm around Michaels, intertwining her fingers with his.

"It all seems so familiar," Michael said as he turned, pulling Tera along with him.

The town and castle could be seen in the distance. The morning was clear, the air crisp and bracing in a way that you only experience in the fall. Trees still held their fall colors here and there, dotting the landscape with a multitude of earth toned hues from browns and reds to mesmerizing golds and bronzes.

The castle broke the landscape. Sitting atop its defensible hill, it stood, a stalwart sentinel in the morning sun. The colorful tents of rich greens and purples laid out before it like a tapestry haphazardly thrown at its base.

The town was coming to life below them, cars and trucks moving out and through the tight lanes, bringing people from their homes, doted along the landscape, to the festival grounds.

It was a simple but powerful view. One that captured Michael for a few moments. His connection to the place deepening with each passing heartbeat.

"I love you," Michael said turning towards Tera and pulling her into a soft embrace.

He held her there, the world slowing for a moment, only the two of them and their love for each other present.

It was Michael who felt the shift first.

His grip on Tera tightened as he shifted her in his arms, his motion gently pushing her behind him as he turned.

It started as brief nudge against his consciousness, then quickly grew to a full-fledged assault, someone was trying to get into his mind.

By reflex his defenses kicked in, his mind cloaked in unseen mail. He willed it to surround Tera's consciousness as well as he completed his turn to meet whomever was the source.

"Forgive me for intruding," the man said. There was no accent noticeable, which in it's self was noticeable.

Tall, covered in a mud brown hiking cloak, the stranger could be 30 or 300.

There was an aura of feral danger coming off him in waves that was not missed by either Michael or Tera as they stood their ground in front of this unknown being.

There was a long pause; Michael noted how the man's hand flexed around his walking stick.

How his shoes were military style boots that glistened from the dew that clung to their slick surface.

That whatever his intention, there was not a positive intent behind it.

The moment broke as the stranger spoke again.

"I best be on my way, much to do, perhaps we shall meet again at the festival, good day to you both," he said with a slight bow and then he was gone, moving off with purposeful strides along the cliff face.

"We should get back," Tera said with a slight quiver in her voice as she pulled at Michael's hand, urging him towards the path.

"Yes, it is about time," Michael said. There was venom in Michael's words that Tera had not heard before.

As they started back down the path, Tera hoped she would never hear it again.

...............

"Going for a run with Tera, won't be long. Love you. M"

Valerie read the note with a smile, a picture forming in her head of her mates running through dawn that gave her comfort.

'Running this early, sheesh,' Valerie thought to herself as she stretched languidly within the warm confines of the bed.

She had slept wonderfully, slipping quickly into an enfolding sleep that found her refreshed as the bright morning light bathed the room in a golden glow.

Lying there she could feel and smell and sense her lovers.

The warmth that lingered where they had lain.

The scent of Michael, strong and masculine in the sheets.

Tera's deep musk joined and mingled with it.

The after images of their energies gently flowing around her.

Stretching, her legs parted widely under the heavy down comforter, moving from the latent warmth to the cold spots outside its range. Her hands slipping over her head, gently caressing the inlaid forms in the dark cherry headboard.

The events of the day yesterday played through her mind.

The explosion, the fear and pain, Ian's speech.

She allowed all of them to simply find their own spaces within her. Valerie found a balance within the memories, which allowed her to move beyond them, accepting the possibilities the new day held.

Valerie's hands slid from beneath the pillows. They lingered at her breasts, encircling them, feeling their weight. Fingertips found her nipples already hard, giving them a slight pinch she moaned softly envisioning the fingers were Michael's and Tera's.

Her hands slid lower, down over her warm thighs, the skin soft and supple as it traveled under her palms.

Valerie's fingertips found her center, gathering the moisture there that was almost a constant now, she playfully pulled herself open, giving her lips a gentle pinch as her warm pink center was opened to the air.

Another moan issued from her, this time a deeper more needy thing as her fingers played over clit, a drop of clear warm nectar slipped from within her folds, traveling slowly down her flesh to excite her rear.

The slow circles her fingers ran around her insistent tip brought forth the searched for sweet release.

Valerie's body moved fluidly under the blankets as the warm ripples of her pleasure made their way through her body.

Lying there afterwards, the glow of passion on her brow, she smiled at the easy release, hoping it was one of many the day may hold.

Slipping from the bed she stretched one more time and then the shower called, it promised to be an interesting day.

............

"Her name is Elise Capron," Sims began as he scanned through the email he just received from one of his mates back at Credenhill.

"Seemingly and orphan, 18 years old. The record is spotty at best. She shows up for the first time at age 12 in the government orphan's record. No parents named, nothing about where she came from or how she got into the system. She was shuffled around for a year, tried to get placed but her age was a factor. Final entry is from five years ago when social services transferred her to an orphanage in Cornwall." Sims shook his head as he finished, how could one young woman fall through so many cracks in the system.

"Well, it gives us a place to start. Give the information to one of our reference people and have them hit the ground in Cornwall see what they can dig up." Nigel said.

"Will do," Sims said with a pause before continuing.

"What are we going to do with her Nigel, she seems...not all there? I know she was working for the opposition but she seems different somehow."

"I'm not quite sure. We will hang onto her until after the festival then we can decide. Not to worry Sims we aren't going to hurt her. I get the same feeling as you do; there is something different about this young lady. Lets get a hound on the trail and see what breaks loose from the brush," Nigel finished.

Sims picked up the phone to relay the information back to London, he watched as Elise slowly and deliberately ate her breakfast, seemingly lost, but strangely compelling.

Nigel glanced once more at the monitor before heading out to the morning briefing, two more teams had arrived and it would be a busy day keeping track of everyone as the festivals activities got underway.

.........

Ian sat at his desk, the embers of a dying fire warming the hearth as he put the finishing touches to the letter he had started before dawn.

His evening with Millie had provided far more than physical release or the comforting closeness of his one true love.

It provided another step towards his destiny. Another piece of the puzzle put into place. The puzzle of a lifetime of struggle and doubt; now the grander picture clearer, only a few more pieces to place.

His signature, committed to paper with his usual classical flourish let lay another piece.

Rising, Ian turned and looked out the window of his study, the sun was low in the eastern sky. The day promised to be interesting, much to do, and little time to do it.

Placing the carefully folded letter into an envelope and writing a name on the front, Ian placed it within his safe and spun the dial.

His hand wistfully strayed to the plume of the old scribes pen that he favored, thoughts drifting to all the times he had used it. All of the signatures and notes that down through the years cataloged and marked his life.

Turning from the room he headed for the kitchen. 'Time for the day to begin,' he thought as he closed the door to his study.

"Ah, Michael, do you have a minute?" Ian asked as Michael and Tera came into the kitchen.

The run back from the escarpment had been quiet.

Both Michael and Tera had an odd sense of foreboding since encountering the stranger on the cliffs.

"I'll go shower up," Tera said, leaning in and giving Michael a quick kiss on the cheek before retreating for the back stairs, leaving the two men alone.

"You two are up and around early, I hope that yesterdays events haven't taken too much out of you all," Nigel said in an amiable tone as he fixed himself a cup of coffee.

Michael watched the mans easy practiced motions for a moment before answering.

"Actually I feel really good, better than I should actually. When we first got here it took me awhile to get used to the...feel of the place. But this morning I feel better than I think I ever had," Michael finished opening the refrigerator and grabbing the orange juice.

"Nogardshire is an interesting place, it effects some people more than others. How are Tera and Valerie holding up?" Nigel asked as he handed Michael a glass.

"Tera is doing well, we talked a bit on our run this morning, she seems to be fine. As for Valerie, I don't think there is too much that could keep her down for long." Michael said.

Ian regarded Michael for a moment, stretching out his senses, picking up Michaels overwhelming love for his niece and for Tera. There was also confusion, fear and an indirect sense of rage that surprised Ian.

"Hopefully today will be light and easy. There are tournaments and games, good food and laughter. It should help everyone to continue getting past yesterdays unpleasant events." Ian finished as he placed his coffee cup in the sink.

"I'm off, I will see you at the festival in a while," Ian said with a lingering look before heading out to start his day.

Michael sat for a moment in the empty kitchen. Unable to shake the feeling that something ominous was creeping this way, something which none of them could avoid.

Shaking off his ruminations on the future, he moved off towards the stairs. His ladies awaited, and he was more than happy to join them, loosing himself even if only for a moment within their soft and comforting souls.

............

The morning had moved along quickly.

After a quick shower Michael, Valerie and Tera decided to walk down to the festival grounds.

The light happy music was the first thing that pulled them into the energetic scene as it wafted lightly on the breeze.

The lutes and harps and drums provided an animated, fluid soundtrack as the day unfolded.

Most of those in attendance were dressed in period garb. There were peasants toiling away at the stands serving up food to the hungry masses.

Michael was surprised to see armor clad centurions making their way through the crowds. He remembered once again Ian's greeting "Welcome Friends" from the prior evening. It struck him as just a bit odd, but then he thought with a chuckle 'They are British after all.'




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 23



Valerie was greeted by almost everyone. There were hugs and waves as they made their way down the path to where the games were being held.

Michael noted that Tera was tense, her eyes always scanning the crowd, her body coiling with kinetic energy every time Valerie was stopped by someone.

"Relax," Michael whispered into Tera's ear as he walked beside her.

"No one she knows from here poses a threat. It's the strangers we need to keep an eye open for," he said, his hand slipping around her waist.

With a sigh she answered him.

"I know it's just hard to break the old patterns." Her body loosing a bit of tension as she felt his arm slip around her.

They walked on, both Tera and Michael noting a number of very intense young men with close cropped hair and dark glasses filtering in and out of the crowd.

Tera surmised that Nigel's other two teams were on site; this lessened her stress level even more as they pulled up in front of the archery range.

Four men were standing in a line, thatch filled targets about one hundred meters in front of them. Each held an English long bow. The golden tones of the Yew used to make these amazing bows glowed in the noonday sun as the archers prepared to loose their flight.

As was the custom, Ian was officiating and saw the trio come up to the railing at the side of the range. He walked over to them as the archer's nocked their last arrows.

"Care to take a shot or two Michael?" Ian asked in a jovial tone as he offered his hand to the younger man.

Michael laughed as he took Ian's hand.

"Not today. I think an English long bow is beyond my skill level," Michael answered as they watched the flight streak down the range.

"The damn things are huge," Michael commented as the archers returned to resting position, the tips of their bows extending over the heads of the men.

Ian stepped a few paces and retrieved one the tournament bows from the rack and handed it to Michael.

"Six feet six inches, the standard length agreed upon by most scholars," Ian said as Michael ran his hand along the smooth taught wood.

"It takes about four years to make them properly, there are a number of imitations out there that use newer materials or wet Yew to speed up the process. But these are as close as we can get to the ones uses in the thirteen hundreds." Ian said as he turned to sign the official note of the flight.

"Can I try one," Tera said, as she slipped the bow from Michael's grip.

Hefting its weight and testing the tension on the string she was impressed by the pull of the beast.

"Just over 100lbf, if your wondering about the pull strength," Ian commented as he moved aside letting Tera into the archery line.

Michael and Valerie watched as Tera slid off the light jacket she wore. Beneath was a simple tank top, which showed her toned and well-muscled arms.

Stretching for a moment Tera picked up the bow and again tested the draw.

Ian was impressed by the seeming ease with which she drew back the string, holding it steady for a few seconds before gently releasing its hold.

"Not many women shoot the English long," Nigel's voice from behind her startled her and she turned.

She found him smiling at her, taking a wicked pleasure in teasing his operative.

Tera un-tensed and placed a warm hand on his shoulder.

"It should be interesting, it's been a very long time since I shot one of these," she said.

The bow's themselves were works of art, lovingly crafted from native Yew, left to dry and age appropriately then formed into one of history's most feared weapons.

Walking over to the blocks Tera felt the weight of the bow in her hand, judged its balance and then struck a wide stance as she nocked the arrow.

The pull was as she remembered, holding it brought back one of those ancient lectures from S.A.S. school. The English long bow was made for distance, hundreds, in some cases thousands of archers would stand off from an opposing army at ranges around two hundred meters. When the order was given a deadly cloud would be loosed towards the enemy. Accuracy was not the key to their effectiveness; it was a range and numbers game.

Tera smoothly pulled back the arrow, the string pulling hard against her fingertips. The Yew groaning in protest as the pressure built.

Raising the bow as she pulled back she gauged the distance and wind. Setting the arrows trajectory at about thirty degrees Tera took a deep breath, steadying herself as the pull reached its maximum.

Releasing the three-foot arrow from the bow made a sound a kin to a sword slipping through the air close to your ear. She watched it's ballistic arc in her minds eye as the arrow flew to quickly to actually be seen.

The bow went slack in her hands as the motion was completed, her right arm a bit warmer than the left due to the exertion.

"In the yellow," the call came down from the other end of the range. It was accompanied by applause from the spectators.

"An excellent shot," Nigel said patting Tera on the back.

"Lucky, it's been a really long time," Tera responded handing the bow back to Ian.

"That shot should get you in the finals, I hope you'll come back by this afternoon and give it a try," Ian said, once again impressed by the young woman.

"Sounds like fun," Tera said as she slid her jacket back on.

Walking over to Michael and Valerie she was greeted with hugs and a long lingering kiss from Michael.

"Your just full of surprises," he whispered into her ear as he gave her a playful slap on the ass.

"You have no idea," the sensual tone of Tera's response left no doubts that she was not talking about martial skills.

With smiles on their faces the trio moved off into the crowd, eager to see what other things were going on at the festival.

"It was a really good shot," Ian said to Nigel as the next round of archers found their marks.

"Don't let her fool you, there was nothing lucky about it, I've rarely encountered anyone with as much innate skill as she has. She carries it easily though, there is a depth with her that seems to provide a great deal of balance to how she walks through life," Nigel said as he moved off towards Sims who had just come jogging up.

"What is it," Nigel asked, seeing the concerned look on the younger man's face.

"We think Nicholas is in the area. One of the hounds tracked him to an apartment in London, seems he left late last night. Some of the outlying sweeper teams have reported intermittent contact with an unknown figure. Damdest thing, one minute they have him and go to move in, the next instant he is gone. They find tracks but they just lead them in a circle." Sims answered.

Nigel mulled this over for a few seconds before turning back to Sims.

"Call in the sweeper teams, I want everyone here in the crowd ASAP, I have a bad feeling about this," Nigel told Sims who quickly moved off and began talking into his com.

"Nicholas may be in the area," Nigel told Ian as he watched the archers let loose with their arrows.

"I thought he might be, keep an eye on Millie and Michael, if he actually shows up your main concern, your only concern Nigel is to keep Michael out of harms way, he isn't ready for Nicholas, not yet." Ian said as he moved off to congratulate the winner of the round.

Nigel was more disturbed with the calm ease with which Ian took the news of Nicholas possibly being in the area than he was his quick response regarding Millie and Michael.

"I'm missing something," Nigel said to himself as he headed back to the castle to coordinate the added coverage. The nagging feeling that he was overlooking something still gnawing at his thoughts.

Sims saw Michael, Valerie and Tera as they walked towards the tournament grounds. Having a bit of an inspirational thought he jogged towards them calling out to Tera.

The trio turned just as Sims came to them.

"Sorry to bother you," Sims said as he saw the questioning look in Michael's eyes.

"Tera, I was wondering if I could borrow you for a bit, there is...something in the barracks I would really like your opinion on." Sims asked.

Looking briefly at Michael and Tera, noting the three watchers who had been shadowing them since they left the castle close by, Tera made up her mind quickly.

"Of course, happy to help out."

"I won't be long, you two stay on the grounds, no wandering off," Tera said to her mates, her tone carrying the subtle ring of sarcasm and the not so subtle tone of the worry behind the request.

"We'll be good mom," Valerie answered with a pout that made Tera smile.

"Don't be gone long," Michael said to her as he gave her a lingering kiss before letting her slide from his arms.

"The kiss still tingled on Tera's lips as she moved off with Sims.

Michael, slipping his arm around Valerie's waist steered them towards the large fenced area that held the jousting tournament.

He felt Tera's absence but was surprised to find that Valerie not only occupied her own space but also filled up some of the void left by Tera.

He had noticed the fluid nature of the feelings they each gave to him off and on this weekend whenever the three of them had been in close proximity. The level of energy and emotion seemed to be moving towards a place of equilibrium. When one was gone the other compensated. He hoped it was the same for them when he was not around. Michael would not wish for them to feel any loss at all, especially one that was of his doing.

Valerie stood next to Michael at the fence. She watched him for a time, studying his face as the varying expressions passed over it as he watched the matches. His face was expressive, 'he would suck at poker,' she thought to herself with a laugh.

He turned to her during a pause, his eyes roaming over her face, his eyes coming to meet hers. He watched her for a moment, then she felt his body tense as he pulled her to him, his neck bending, the vein there exposed she could see his heartbeat increase. Her eyes closed as his lips met hers. It was a sweet passionate dance as their lips slid over the other, his tongue gently tracing the line where her lips met until they parted and her own tongue slid next to his.

She was a bit breathless as he broke the kiss. His eyes now held a smoldering desire whose power caused her knees to quiver.

"I love you Valerie," Michael said as he cupped her cheek before turning his attention back to the riders in the ring.

There was a deep need imparted by the tone of his voice as he said this. It struck her that Tera and she had probably hurt him by not talking to him about living with him.

Tera had mentioned it this morning after she came back from her run. Michael had asked her about his offer of them moving in with him. She said it seemed he was bothered by their silence on the subject.

She realized in that moment, with the sound of his voice in her ears that he may have felt abandoned by them. And this was the last thing she wanted.

Valerie knew the conversation was one they had to have when they were all together but she still needed to try and assuage his perceived feeling, even if small, that they could choose anything but being with him.

Looking around she smiled and slid her hand into his.

"Come with me," she said, her tone allowing for no arguments as she pulled him towards the temporary stables.

.........

Tera glanced between the monitors and the file in her hands.

Sims had filled her in on the way back to the barracks about the young woman. 

Tera had assumed she was simply another operative, sent to deal with Michael as the other ones had been.

But now, seeing her, she felt differently. There was something unique about her that Tera could not put her finger on.

The young woman seemed to be an enigma. In this day and age someone not showing up on the radar for 12 years and then only to disappear again was just unheard of.

"Nothing but her name?" Tera asked Sims who was watching the monitors intently.

"Nope, just the first name. It was odd, like she wanted to say more but couldn't. I am pretty good at reading people and she just does not strike me as the terrorist type," Sims answered never taking his eyes off the young woman.

In less than a day he had become somewhat taken with the quiet woman and her haunted eyes.

"Let me see if I can get through," Tera said as she turned and walked towards the holding room.

Elise knew Tera was coming before the door even opened.

The war that had calmed to an understood stalemate ratcheted back up as she became aware of the latent force that moved towards her.

In this both the warring parties in her mind found a shared purpose as they both wished to get away from what was sure to come through the door.

A part of Elise knew such terror in that moment because she had not carried out her final order. The master would be furious with her.

The other part of Elise felt a cloying fear that this time he would finally break her, that the small part of her that was still...hers...would be finally lost in the face of his evil.

The scream surprised Tera as she opened the door.

The girl was huddled in the corner farthest from the door, curled into a tight ball. Tears streamed down her face, which was pulled tight in look of shear and utter panic.

"Shhhhh, it's alright, I'm not going to hurt you," Tera said in soft, soothing voice.

Elise was stunned by the womans presence, she was sure, absolutely positive that the master was going to come through the door. To encounter someone else who felt so similar left the girl in a state of wonder.

Sims had watched the monitors as Tera left; saw the young woman change almost the instant she started for the door.

He had found prisoners of war in such a state, strong able men who had been beaten down by such cruel acts that they had simply broken under the strain.

To see the same pain etched across this woman's face tore at his heart.

"My name is Tera, I'm not going to hurt you, no one here is going to hurt you," Tera said as she eased into the room and closed the door.

She sat Indian style across from Elise. Not getting to close, allowing the woman her space.

Elise reached out with her senses, trying to get an idea of who or what this woman was.

What she encountered was something so very different than what she had found the last time she did so that it took her a moment to really understand the truth of it.

She did not generate the feeling of the master. It was as if the echo of being close to it clung to her form. She immediately understood that Tera meant her no harm, that the truth of her words was reflected in her heart.

Just as this realization hit home and she relaxed just the slightest bit, the other side of her grabbed the opportunity.

Reaching for heavy end table Elise moved with surprising speed. Picking it up she threw it at the mirror along the back of the wall. The shattered jagged pieces falling to the floor.

Elise was still in motion, moving towards the shards on the floor, her intent coming to Tera in a wave of understanding as her own body moved to stop the young woman from reaching her goal.

......

Valerie pulled Michael into the shaded depths of the empty stables. With the tournament going on the space was cool and quiet.

Valerie moved to Michael, molding herself to his body. Her head lay against his chest, she could feel the heat emanating from his body as she began to speak.

"Michael, I want you to know that you mean the world to Tera and I. We have been a bit...stand offish the last few days but please do not take it personally. We both love you. I am amazed at how my feelings for you have grown and deepened over such a short time."

Valerie felt comforted as he wrapped his arms around her. He made her feel so safe, loved and wanted all in the same moment.

Looking up into his eyes, seeing the sparkling passion dancing within them she continued.

"Tera and I had some things to work out, we haven't forgotten what you asked, and we will discuss it when the time is right. Until then know that we are here and there is no place either of us would rather be."

Valerie's words were cut off as Michael leaned down and kissed her. It was a strong and gentle thing. Full of the passions and needs of his body, mind and soul.

They lingered there in the shadowed depths, their lips and bodies providing physical confirmation of the simple truth in their hearts. That they were both...loved.

Finally pulling away from Michael, her breath heavy as her hands lay flat on his chest Valerie said, "ok, ok, we better go find Tera"

Valerie knew that they had to find the right time and place to have their conversation. She didn't know about Tera but for her the waiting, while necessary, had strained her beyond the breaking point. If she didn't have Michael soon she might just go out of her mind.

She pulled a grinning Michael behind her as she made for the castle to track down her errant mate.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 24



Tera could see her own reflection in the jagged shard of the mirror Elise clutched in her hand. She noted for a moment how hard her face looked. There was an intensity there that surprised her, a harshness that she never would have suspected. It provided an interesting perspective on how others perceived her in such moments.

"Let it go," Tera said in a calm but hard tone, as she shifted her gaze to Elise's eyes. She found a wild feral energy within those blue depths that surprised her. Normally such zealous fervor was reserved for religious fanatics bent on joining whatever god they prayed too.

"No, no, must complete final duty, please just let me go," Elise said in a growling tone.

Tera could feel the young womans blood flowing from her palm. It oozed over her hand. The warm fluid slipping between the tightly clenched fingers which held Elise's wrist in an iron grip.

"You don't have to do this, someone is making you do it, fight it, fight it"

Tera's words came out in short clipped bursts as the women struggled. Tera could see the pain in Elises' eyes, knew that its source was not the shard of glass digging into her palm as much as whatever phantom held sway over her soul.

Sims burst into the room.

Moving quickly behind Elise his arms wrapped around her. His hands joining Tera's at her wrist.

Elise's eyes cleared and softened for a moment, she locked her gaze with Tera's.

"Please, it's ok, it's for the best...I'm...so tired of fighting him, just let it end..."

Elise's voice trailed off in a whisper as the softness faded from her eyes, replaced once again with the burning fury of overwhelming need.

Tera would always remember that soft lament, the pleading, broken quality of it, the way it touched her soul.

Sims shifted his weight, trying to get a better hold on the woman's wrist. He misjudged her strength.

Shifting the trio's balance he lost his grip and fell backwards, the girl and Tera falling hard to the floor, the jagged mirror trapped between them.

............

Valerie felt Michael's hand tense in hers.

The pressure, painful one moment and then gone the next as he broke into a dead run, heading for the castle.

"Michael!"

Valerie screamed as she started running after him. An immediate sense of foreboding cloaking her soul.

Nigel saw Michael and Valerie walking, noted the watchers behind them. And then Michael was off like a shot, bobbing and weaving through the heavy crowd heading towards the house.

Nigel keyed his com as he followed Michael, who was now trailed at some distance by Valerie and the watchers.

"Team 3 head to the main house, something is going on."

'I'm getting to old for this,' Ian thought as he ran.

Michael had felt the pain blossom in the pit of his stomach. It was a deep cloying thing that came over him with such speed and intensity that he was almost brought to his knees by it.

The crowd seemed bent on stopping him as he moved through them with as much speed as he could.

Finally getting free of the crowd Michael broke into a sprint as he gained the castle grounds. Running along the west side of the maze he reached out with his senses, trying to get a fix on Tera. He was surprised to find that there were two people he was picking up, one was Tera, she was under stress, her emotions a tight bundle of energy and exertion. The other person was oddly calm. He could sense pain, frustration and rage but also a sense of sweet resignation. It was as if the person was being torn down the middle, neither side having the strength or energy to overcome the emotions that whirled within them.

Michael angled away from the main house. Tera and whoever was in such turmoil were off to the right, within the low building on the other side of the maze.

Two men were at the entrance; they saw Michael coming and immediately went stiff, their eyes becoming hard as their hands moved towards the side arms at their waists.

Michael paid them no mind as he blew by them into the building, coming to a quick halt as he got his bearings before turning left, running down the long hallway. The last door on the right was open, he could hear a wailing cry as he grabbed the doorframe, using it to slow himself and pull him into the room.

Sims was standing over Tera, who had a young woman wrapped in her arms. Her eyes locked on his, he could see the pain and fear playing in their liquid depths.

"Michael,"

Tera's gasped acknowledgement of him brought him to his knees at her side.

"She is going to die Michael, please, help her, it was an accident, she doesn't want this," Tera said. The strain evident in her voice.

Elise's head turned, she looked up, her face ashen.

When she found his eyes, she tensed, her whole body becoming rigid.

"I'm sorry."

Her whispered words echoed in Michael's ears as her eyes slipped closed.

Michael pulled her limp form into his arms. He could feel the warmth of her blood as it oozed over his fingers as he placed his hand over the wound. The shard of mirror had slipped between her ribs, the crimson stain of its entry slowly spreading over her white shirt.

Michael closed his eyes and reached out to her, remembering the feeling of being connected with Tera in the river he sought and found the image of Elise's wound. The mirror had made a deep gash in one lung which was filling up with fluid, her heart was also compromised, the damage was extensive, Michael felt the life ebbing from her. He let the warm energy surround them, felt the power flow into him and through him. Opening the floodgates he let it wash over her, sending it towards her wounds, willing them to heal.

Michael tensed as he felt something else. A dark foreboding presence, malicious, malignant. He expanded his connection with her, linking with her mind. When he did Elise's eyes snapped open. Michael stared into her now opaque eyes as her arms came up, twining around his shoulders.

Tera and Sims both moved to separate the two.

"Don't."

Michael's single word, uttered in a soft but lethal tone stopped both of them in their tracks.

By this time Nigel, Valerie and the rest of the watchers had found their way into the room. All of them stood watching the two figures locked in what could be viewed either as an embrace or a struggle.

Michael was shocked to find the darkness that he did. It was as if something lived within this young woman. Had been spawned there. An entity of pure evil and malice.

"This one is mine," came a hissing voice that seemed familiar to Michael.

Michael concentrated, pouring more energy into his link with the young woman while trying to clarify what he was perceiving.

His vision solidified and he was horrified by what he found.

Before him was the wasted countenance of the young woman in his arms.

Her flesh, gray and withered hung loosely over her form. Her hair a matted greasy tangle. Her eyes nothing more than black holes looking at him from an almost skeletonised skull. Behind this monster another version of the young woman cowered. Her face pale but illuminated by a faint ivory glow. Never had Michael encountered anything that radiated such a feeling of pure fear.

"This one is mine."

The hissing voice was difficult to listen to; it had the tone and tenor of pure evil.

"Let it die."

"I won't do that," Michael said as he moved closer, trying to get to the young woman on the ground.

The thing moved into his path, a few inches separating them. Michael could feel the malevolence rolling off the entity. Its hand reached out, landing on his chest.

Pain shot through Michael at the creatures touch. Ribbons of agony coursed through him, his entire nervous system seemingly on overload. The creature grinned. "I thought you would be more of a challenge," it said as Michael struggled to maintain the connection.

Tera and Valerie both felt the pain as Michael's body tensed and a low moan escaped his lips. The women instinctually moved to him, placing their hands on his now sweating form.

Michael felt the shift immediately. The pain lessened and then began to disappear all together. Michael's eyes opened and locked with the creatures.

"Perhaps more of a challenge than you thought," his even tone and clear burning eyes made the creature step back, it's hand slipping from his chest breaking the connection.

Michael stepped around the thing, which now stood still, seemingly unable to move, and went to the young woman on the ground. He crouched down, gently moving the hair from in front of her eyes.

"Take my hand." Michael said simply.

Her head raised a bit, her unfocused eyes played over the contours of his face, glanced down at the hand he held out to her.

"But...the master will be angry."

Her whispered statement carried with it the weight of dread and fear long carried.

"It's ok, whomever the master is, can't hurt you anymore, just take my hand," Michael said with a reassuring smile.

"No!"

The creature had not moved from its spot but its scream caught both of them by surprise.

Fear washed over the young womans features. Michael shifted on his heels, moving between her and the thing.

"Don't pay it any mind, it's ok, I'll protect you."

He said it with a lopsided grin that she found funny and comforting in the same moment. Her hand raised and fell within his.

Both Michael and Elise gasped and opened their eyes at the same moment.

They both held the others gaze as the moment stretched out. No one in the room breathed.

She clutched herself too him.

"Thank you," Elise whispered into Michael ear as she trembled in his arms for a moment and then slipped into unconciousness.

"Sims, take her to the infirmary," Nigel said as Michael let her slip from his arms.

Michael was drained, he leaned back against Tera who was kneeling behind him. Her arms curled around him, it felt good, comforting.

"A hell of a day at the fair," Michael quipped, getting the hoped for laugh that lightened the mood in the room.

"Come on, lets get you out of here," Valerie said.

Holding out her hands Michael and Tera each took one, letting her help them to their feet.

"Who is she?"

Michael's question was directed towards Nigel.

After a long pause Nigel answered.

"Someone we thought to be involved with the trouble the other day, it seems we may have been mistaken."

Nigel's cautious answer spurred Michael further.

"She was involved, but not by her own choice, someone was controlling her, she had known so much pain and fear, take it easy with her, I don't think there is anything left to fear from her, please let me know if there is anything I can do."

Michael pulled Tera and Valerie to his sides as he finished. The trio moved out of the room heading for the castle.

Nigel watched them go, a wary look in his eye as he walked behind them towards the infirmary.

Sims was standing off to the side as the doctor looked her over.

"I want you to keep an eye on her Sims, stay close to her. We will keep her on the property until after the festival, but while she is here I want an eye on her at all times, and she sleeps in here, under guard." Nigel said in a low tone as he stood next to Sims.

"Not a problem, I'll keep an eye her."

Sims seemed distant, only half in the conversation.

Nigel shook his head as he left to go find Ian and fill him in.

............

Elise slowly opened her eyes. The room was bit blurry, the watery vision you have when just awakening. She took stock. Toes wiggled, fingers flexed, neck still worked, with a bit of an ache attached.

Her breath caught and she sat up in the bed. Her vision blurring and a sense of vertigo threatening to loosen her grip on consciousness. Pulling up the hem of the green scrubs shirt she found herself wearing. The fingers of her right hand gently playing over her stomach, there was a jagged ridge of cool flesh that ran about 4 inches between her belly button and sternum. Her fingers played over the scar, the fight coming back to her as if she watched it on video.

Elise remembered the fight, loosing control, having the other take over and attack that woman who was being so nice to her. Silent tears started rolling from her eyes blurring her vision once again.

"It's ok, no need to cry, your safe."

The voice startled her and she turned her head, dropping the shirt hem, her left hand coming up to clear her eyes.

She found kind worried eyes regarding her. It was the man who had brought her food over the last few days. 'What was his name,' Elise thought to herself.

"Sims?" she questioned. Continuing to look into his eyes, the fingers of her right hand still moving gently over the scar now hidden by her shirt.

Sims smiled a warm comforting smile.

"Yes, I'm Sims, you don't need to worry, everything will be ok, you're safe no one will hurt you." He said a bit too quickly.

"What happened, how long have I been unconscious, this...," she said motioning down with her eyes, "...should have killed me, but now it's healed, how long?"

A cloud came over Sims' eyes; he knew that she should be dead, at the very least in ICU for a few weeks recovering from the wound. He took a deep breath.

"Four hours, you were wounded four hours ago"

His voice was calm, soft, it helped take the edge off what she knew to be impossible, made it believable.

"Four hours." She said in a hoarse voice.

Sims stood and poured water from a pitcher by the table into a glass and handed it to her.

She took it gratefully, her fingers brushing his for a moment as he passed her the glass. His skin was warm, much warmer than she expected, and rough, the skin of a man who works with his hand.

She smiled at him gratefully from behind the glass as she took a long drink. The water feeling wonderful to her dry throat.

Diffuse sangria toned light spilled through the window in front of her. Evening was coming, it hadn't tightened its grip on the light but it was clear night would be arriving and it was heralded by this rich deep redness, which bathed the room in an ethereal glow.

Swinging her feet off the bed Elise stood. A small wobble brought Sims to her side, his hand gently curling around her forearm to steady her.

"Thank you," she said. Looking up into his clear blue eyes, feeling safe for the first time in...forever.

"It feels like I have been indoors for days." Elise said running her fingers through her hair.

"Any chance we could go for a walk, I would like to stretch my legs if that's allowed."

Her shy soft voice disarmed Sims. A smile curled his lips.

"Yes, I think we can manage a walk, lets get you properly kitted out and take a stroll." Sims' enthusiasm and energy were not lost on Elise as she watched him walk towards the lockers on the other end of the room.

'Four hours,' the number played through her head, how or more importantly who could have healed her this quickly.

The question lay unresolved as took the clothes from Sims and walked towards the bathroom. The answer would have to wait. For now the sunset beckoned.

...............

Tera and Valerie had taken Michael up to their room. He had been drained by the incident with Elise and slipped into a deep sleep almost as soon as they laid him on the bed. Each placing a light kiss on his cheek before they walked out onto the small balcony.

Mid afternoon had brought thick white clouds to the sky. They seemed to race each other on the wind as they passed over the castle, their reckless paths leading them to the horizon.

Valerie slipped her hand into Tera's as they looked out over rolling hills beyond the castle. Something was coming, building. Something that neither of them were prepared for or could give voice to, but both knew none the less that it approached.

Tera wrapped Valerie in her arms, pulling her close, feeling the warmth of her.

"Michael has been feeling a bit left out."

Valerie's statement did not surprise Tera as she turned from Valerie to lean on the balcony.

"I have been thinking about this the last few days," Tera said with a sigh. "You and I needed to work out some things and we have. But in doing so we left Michael a bit out of the loop. I know that something has happened to him since we have gotten here. He is...changing somehow."

Tera paused, her hand slipping into Valerie's before she continued.

"We met a strange man on the cliffs on our run this morning. I have seen Michael in some very stressful situations in the past few weeks. The reaction he had to this man was nothing short of lethal. I have never seen anyone so blatantly hold back the desire to kill someone. The power and speed with which it came over him was frightening."

Valerie squeezed Tera's hand tenderly, urging her to continue.

"And then just now with Elise, it was almost the exact opposite. I was touching him when he did...whatever it is he did.... to Elise. The feeling was one of infinite patience and kindness. He was the embodiment of care in that moment. He is swinging hard between two extremes. Since the moment we got here it seems as if he is fighting to find a balance between the two."

Tera sighed, slipping her hand from Valerie's. Closing her eyes she ran her fingers through her short hair.

"I think we need to complete our own circle Tera. We all love each other. Each of us has said it to the others many times. When it is said it is not a statement, it is, at least for me, a verbal recognition that I feel every time it is uttered. You and I have explored this deeper than either of us has with Michael. I think it is time we both took that final leap."

Valerie moved closer to Tera as she finished. Her arm slipping around Tera's waist.

"I've never wanted anyone the way I want him." There was a deep wanting need in Tera's voice that Valerie more than understood.

"But everything already feels so...intimate with him already. All I have to do is touch him, or have him kiss me. Those simple things produce deeper feelings in me than the best sex ever has."

Valerie pulled her a little closer.

"I know what you mean, I have been in love, lived with someone. What passes between Michael and I, you and I and the three of us together is more profoundly...right than anything I ever imagined."

Valerie looked into Tera's eyes for a moment then shifted her view back to the rolling plains beyond the castle grounds.

Tera pulled away from Valerie, pulling a wind whipped strand of auburn hair from her eyes.

"Let's just see how it goes. We know it's going to happen, probably best to simply allow it to happen as it will." Tera said as she moved out of Valerie's arms heading back into the bedroom.

"Or we could just jump him right now." Valerie laughed as she followed Tera inside. Both women glancing with a longing hunger at Michael's sleeping form as they settled in to simply watch him sleep.

............

"You're almost there Michael."

Aoife's strong sensual voice caused Michael's eyes to open.

"Almost where, where am I almost too?"

Michael stood on the sand in the cavern. There was an edge to his voice.

The incident with Elise had brought forth so many conflicting emotions within him that he didn't know where to start to try and sort them out.

"I just saved a girls life Aoife. I saved her physical life and her emotional life. I did this with no frame of reference, no understanding of how I was doing it. It is incredibly scary Aoife. What if I fucked up, what if I did the wrong thing, it felt so...invasive. As if I was raping that poor girl. I know my own intent was to save her but still, it was such an intimate thing, what right do I have, what if I did something wrong, I could have easily killed her."

Michael sighed and sat down, cradling his face in his hands.

Aoife regarded him for a long time. She saw the signs of stress on his body. Every one of his muscles was tense, as if a bolt of lightning that never ended was striking him.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 24



"Michael," Aoife began, her tone soft, her voice barely a whisper in his head.

"You near the end of this journey young one, soon your questions will be answered and new ones will take their place. I know it is frustrating for you, just a little more time." Her voice soothed him.

Michael felt a veil drop over him, some of the tension and stress leaving him as he lay back on the sand.

Looking up, the bright spot on the ceiling was dazzling against the black backdrop of the high cavern ceiling. It began to blur a bit as his eyes began to close, their lids heavy.

"Rest now Michael, I gift you a small boon, hopefully it will help you through what is to come."

Aoife's voice faded as he slipped into unconsciousness.

............

Michael stirred on the bed.

Sleep left him quickly but his eyes remained closed as he replayed the vision in his head. 'I'm getting tired of this,' he thought to himself as he stretched the kinks out of his muscles.

His clothes stuck to him, the sweat had dried on him from his exertions with Elise and he felt funky.

'A shower sounds wonderful.'

Dropping his feet to the floor he stood, arms above his head he stretched again, feeling much better than he had after dealing with Elise.

Preoccupied by his thoughts he absently slipped off his shoes and socks, stripped off his shirt and jeans. Stretching one more time, he padded naked towards the bathroom.

Valerie and Tera sat watching.

They had both seen him awaken and stretch. Watched, as he stood facing away from them, oblivious that they were in the room.

The two women had growing grins on their faces as Michael stood and stripped down. They stayed quiet, curious to see how long it would take him to notice their presence.

Tera watched his muscles flex as he stretched high, his lean calf and thigh muscles extending, showing their definition.

Valerie looked at the broad expanse of his back, the cuts and lines that defined his muscles.

Both women watched as he moved, his stride easy and confident. He carried himself with a lightness that neither had ever seen before.

Michael looked to the side just before reaching the bathroom. He turned towards the women, noting their large grins. He felt a blush come to his cheeks.

"Ah...sorry, I was wrapped up in my own head there."

"You have nothing to apologize for," Tera said, her tone having the ring of simple truth, and thick desire.

Michael stood there for a moment; it was an odd feeling being appraised in this way. He found he enjoyed the women's appraisal of him, enjoyed it in his head and other, more apparent locations.

"I'll just get showered up and we can go to the archery final," he said with a bit of a stammer, the blood suddenly leaving his brain for other areas.

Tera and Valerie watched through the angle of the door left open as Michael stepped into the shower. Both took the opportunity of the glass door closing to finally take a breath.

"Fuck."

Valerie's exclamation broke the tension in the room.

"Absolutely."

Tera's response brought a laugh from both women.

Michael showered quickly, thoughts of Valerie and Tera, his burning desire for them, his questions about how they would build a relationship between them rolling around in his mind.

'Just let it be as it will,' he thought to himself as he turned off the shower and grabbed a towel. Drying himself quickly and wrapping the towel around his waist he grabbed his toothbrush and brushed his teeth. He regarded himself in the mirror. He looked...different, older and yet not. The lines that were just starting to form on his face seemed lighter, less pronounced than they had been when he arrived just a few weeks ago.

The eyes that regarded him however, seemed ancient. As if they had seen more than his life's memories encompassed.

Michael shook off the feelings, trying to find some balance in what had become his very imbalanced life.

Tera and Valerie were sitting in the room talking animatedly about something as he entered.

"What time is the archery final?"

Michael asked as he grabbed a clean pair of jeans and a white turtleneck sweater.

"About twenty minutes, but we really don't have to go." Tera answered as she watched him dress.

"Nonsense, it will be fun, I'm looking forward to watching you shock and amaze a few of the locals."

Michael dropped the towel to the floor and pulled on his jeans then the shirt. Sitting on the bed he pulled on a pair of socks and started to lace his shoes.

"I'm starving, we should have a victory feast after you kick their asses."

His playful tone brought a smile to Valerie and Tera as they stood, wrapping their arms in his.

They walked out of the room arm in arm, all three of them feeling better.

............

Nigel paced in front of Ian's desk. The day had been far too energetic already and it was just a little over half done.

"We think Nicholas may be in the area."

The resigned tone of Nigel's statement let it be known that he believed the "may be" within it was a hope more than a fact.

"I wouldn't be surprised." Ian said evenly as he watched his friend pace.

"Things are now in motion that can't be stopped my old friend. We can try to prepare for them, be ready when they happen, but the path now is very narrow with few branches. That which should happen will happen. Fighting against it has as much chance of changing it as screaming at the rain does of stopping the deluge."

Ian smiled at Nigel as he finished arranging a few things on his desk and then stood.

"Come on, the archery finale is in a few minutes, let's see what Tera can do to the competition."

Nigel gave a weary smile to his friend as he followed him out of the study thinking it was going to be a very long afternoon.

............

Tera, as expected had crushed the competition.

Ian gave her a brief hug as he awarded her the prize for tournament champion, one of the long bows accompanied by an antique leather quiver and a bolt of handmade arrows.

"An impressive showing, I would hate to see what you could do if you had been practicing."

Ian's calm and jovial comment put Tera at ease. She had never liked competing; believing that her skills were honed for actual action, not pretend. But she had enjoyed this competition and was pleased that her winning did not seem to ruffle anyone's feathers.

Michael and Valerie wrapped her in a group hug as she walked off the field. She appreciated the activity and it was special that they both had been here to see her do something that she was basically a master at.

The archery award was the last one of the day. All of the others had been given out and now everyone milled around the central bonfire as it was lit for the nights activities. The day had cleared and the sunset burned with a ferocious red that heralded a calm evening.

Ian stood up on the small stage and addressed those that were gathered.

"The first day of the festival has been a rousing success. Tonight we will have the feast of the harvest and tomorrow we will conclude the events. I hope all of you will be able to attend the closing ceremony tomorrow evening. Now off with you all go eat and make merry."

This last was met boisterous approval and agreement as Ian stepped down from the stage and into Millie's arms.

"One down one to go," Millie said as she was wrapped in Ian's tight embrace.

"Yes, considering the circumstances today went better than I hoped." Ian commented before giving her a deep soulful kiss.

Millie smiled up at him as the kiss broke and arm in arm they walked over to where Michael and his women were standing.

Michael noticed Ian and Millie walking towards them as he looked up from Tera's beaming face. He was happy to see her relaxed, simply enjoying the moment.

He was about to greet Ian and Millie when there was a small tap on his shoulder.

He turned to find Elise, dressed in scrubs standing next to Sims. Her eyes looking up at him from behind half closed lids.

A wide smile came to Michael's lips as his hand went to her shoulder.

"I'm glad to see you up and around, how are you feeling?"

The honest concern in Michael's voice surprised Elise as she looked up and caught his eyes.

It all came rushing back to her in an instant. The internal struggle, him healing her, the way he had dealt with the other that had resided within her for so long. She had known he helped her before she looked into his eyes, but now all of the emotion came back, and with it the understanding of just what he had done for her.

"You, you...saved me."

Her voice was no more than a whisper as the force of it hit her. She leaned against Sims at her side and felt Michael's hand tighten its grip on her shoulder to steady her.

"Easy, it's ok." Michael said a bit startled by her reaction.

Sims held her for a moment, his arm slipping around her waist.

"I'm alright," Elise said with a grateful look to Sims as she stood up straight regaining her footing.

She regarded Michael for a long time, seemingly etching his face into her memory. But there was more too it than that, something deeper.

Taking his hand in both of hers she once again looked into his eyes.

"Thank you so much Michael, you will never know how much you helped me, you didn't just save my life, you saved my soul. I only hope that one day I can provide you with such an amazing gift."

Everyone who heard her was stunned by the power and conviction in her voice. It carried a weight that went far beyond a simple thank you.

Michael took his hand from her shoulder, bringing it down on top of hers as they cradled his other.

"I am glad I was there Elise, happy that I was able to help. If there is anything you need, ever, you just let me know."

His words, delivered with his crooked half smile put Elise and everyone else at ease.

"Take good care of her Sims." Michael said as he released her hands, slipping his arms around Tera and Valerie's waists.

"I intend to."

The tenor of his voice swirled with conviction, and something else that was given form in a glimmer in his eyes that Michael didn't miss.

With a last long look at Michael, Elise let Sims lead her off towards the banquet. The afterimage of having Michael in her mind, defeating the other, played through her thoughts as she walked through the growing darkness.

Michael watched her go, swallowed by the darkness. He was brought back to the moment as Valerie tightened her grip on his waist and addressed Ian.

"Is anyone on the grounds proper tonight?"

Ian thought for a moment before answering her.

"No, all the staff as well as security are here. They will be back up to the castle proper and their quarters but that won't be till late."

His answer was just what she wanted to hear.

"Come on you two, I feel like taking a stroll."

Valerie's voice held mischief and passion as she pulled Michael and Valerie along with her towards the castle.

A full moon was beginning to rise as the trio moved off into the growing shadows. 

The shadows holding both the promise and dangers inherent within all transitions.



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 25



Nicholas watched from the top of the cliff. 

The moon was just starting to rise beyond the distant horizon. The gentle wind that blew up and over the edge of the escarpment had the hem of the long cloak that he wore dancing at his feet.

He watched the bonfire being lit, watched as people moved off, heard the lilting sounds of ancient songs being played, their notes and melodies drifting on the breeze.

"Enjoy the evening Ian, enjoy these last few breaths of your life. Tomorrow you shall meet oblivion, you and everyone you care about."

His venom filled words were lost in the face of gust of wind as he turned and strode away from the edge. His heart burning for the hunt, for the kill, for his... ascension.

............

Michael, Valerie and Tera walked through the maze.

In the diffuse light of the full moon it took on a shadowy countenance, as if the air had been given form and weight as opposed to well-manicured hedges that defined the edges of their path.

"I had hoped to see this in the daylight," Michael chuckled as he followed Valerie with Tera behind him.

"Oh we will, I just thought it would be nice to take a stroll through in the evening."

Michael and Tera both noticed the chuckle in her voice as she said it, expertly navigating the twists and turns.

Rounding a final bend they found the center of the maze.

Numerous exits opened onto this central point of the maze. It was a large circle about 50ft across. The grass was soft and spongy under foot as Michael walked closer to the center.

Wrought iron torches arranged around the perimeter gave off a warm flickering light. Shadows danced across the grass leading to very center of the circle.

Michael's hand reached out, fingertips caressing the ancient stone edge of a large well top. Thick oak timbers framed the pulleys supports. He walked around its circumference, his hand never breaking contact with the stone. It felt ancient, powerful. It was as if this spot held some kind of energy that was at the same time frighteningly familiar, and as alien as he could imagine.

"The well was where the castle started."

Valerie's voice had a weighted tone. It was as if her voice was merely an ancient echo, recalled to this moment as they stood by the well.

"The castle grew up around the well. It dates from Roman times. When Ian's forebears found the well they thought it to be a good omen. Considering the plateaus defensive nature, having abundant water already here sealed the deal."

"I grew up playing around this well, the maze, the castle. It is, and always will be, my home. I have many fond memories wrapped around and within this place. 

"I would like to add some new ones."

Her last statement hung in the air. Her tone had turned husky at the last. Both Valerie and Michael turned towards her.

"I love you both, I want you both, I need you both," Valerie said as she walked slowly towards them. 

Firelight glittered off her auburn hair, giving it the look of liquid fire. The fire was not contained simply in her hair. Her eyes blazed with a passionate need that matched and eclipsed that which danced in her flowing tresses. Michael stood, transfixed, as she moved towards them. In that moment all of his questions, all of his concerns, everything that had been weighing on his soul regarding the three of them and making a life together, vanished.

"I love you."

Tera's warm breath caressed the flesh at his neck as she whispered this close to his ear.

"I want you."

Just the hint of the softness of her lips near his ear lobe as her hands slid around his waist.

"I need you."

Tera said this as she kissed his neck. Grabbing the hem of his shirt, she dragged it slowly up his torso, and over his head.

Valerie's hands went to his chest. Her fingertips flexing, he felt the bite of her nails felt on his muscles.

"I love Tera."

Valerie whispered before her lips found his, their soft warmth caressing him.

"I want Valerie."

Tera said as her hands slipped from behind him to entwine with Valerie's where they lay on his chest.

"I need Tera."

Valerie's voice was ragged as her tongue traced a warm wet line from his collarbone to his chin.

Michael's hands moved to Valerie. Sliding over her belly, up to her shoulders, where his fingers entwined with the smooth silk of her hair. His eyes burned as he looked at her.

In one motion he pulled her to him and roughly ripped open her shirt, its buttons falling to the cool grass at their feet.

He felt Tera's hands flex, holding Valerie's to his chest as their flesh met. His lips moved to hers their tongues battling in a dance filled with need and desire.

In this moment, here with them, in this place he felt complete. He felt whole in a way he had never imagined possible.

Tera's hands uncurled from Valerie's, moving down Michael's chest, feeling the hard edges of his muscles, appreciating the tone and feel and mass of him.

Her hands went to his waist, her lips on his neck. She tasted him, tasted the salt, the heat, the need in him as her hands undid the buttons of his jeans one by one.

Michael groaned into Valerie's mouth at the feel of Tera's lips on him, the heat of her hands at his waist.

His own hands released the tattered remnants of Tera's shirt. Michael's palms moved over her skin, his palms coming to rest on her full breasts still encased in black silk.

He had neither the time nor inclination to figure out the clasp.

Michael's fingertips slid underneath the top of her bra. With a quick downward push he released her full firm tits, the bra now holding them up a bit higher than normal but this worked for what Michael had in mind.

His lips left Valerie's and she gave a slight moan of protest that was immediately replaced by a louder moan of pleasure as his hands curled around her breasts, his lips and teeth finding her nipple. His fingertips dug into the soft flesh of her as his tongue explored the rough taut tip.

Tera and Valerie's eyes met as Michael bent down to Valerie's charms. They shared a look of passion and need and understanding before Valerie's eyes fluttered closed from Michael's teeth twisting the tender tip of her nipple.

Tera's hands flattened and slid into Michael's jeans along his hips. As they moved down so did his jeans. Soon the jeans were lying at his feet. 

Tera slid her body down Michaels. Her hands moving over his firm thighs, flexing calves. Kneeling behind him she slipped off his shoes and pulled his jeans away. She kissed the back of his thighs, his tight muscled ass. Dragged her tongue from his lower back up to his shoulder blades as she stood again.

Michael felt Tera's hands on him, felt his jeans slip down, his hardness spring forth from those tight confines. Tera's lips and tongue on his back elicited a long moan from deep in his chest as their passing marked her rise from his feet. The rough wool of her shirt, dragging across his back as she stood, provided a unique and erotic tactile balance to Valerie's warm exposed body before him.

Releasing Valerie's nipple his lips once again came to hers. It was a fast frantic kiss that left them both panting as he turned towards Tera.

His eyes softened as they met Tera's. Where Valerie burned for him and his touch, Tera smoldered.

Michael's hand went her waist. Sliding underneath her shirt he flattened his hands, fingers splayed, ensuring the most amount of contact. His motions were slow, deliberate.

Tera's head fell to Michael's shoulder as his hands moved over her. His touch gentle as he moved over her back, across her shoulders, slowly lifting the back of her shirt.

He moved away from her just an inch. The front of her shirt followed the slow rise of his hands on her back. As the shirt slid up, exposing her warm skin to the cool night air Michael's body immediately covered every inch that was exposed. His body reconnected with hers, like a sinuous wave that curled up her body from belly to breast as it was revealed from the shirts passing. 

She felt the connection of it, felt the warmth and rightness of Michael's body touching hers.

Tera closed her eyes as Michael pulled her shirt over her head. His chest melding to hers his hands traveling back down, the gentle gripping motion of his hands and palms feeling like a massage as they moved to her lower back and, without pause, slid into her slacks, his hands gripping her ass cheeks as his tongue played gently over her lips.

Valerie's hands were not idle.

One of her hands slid between her lovers, feeling both of their heartbeats as it came to rest between Tera's small firm breasts and Michaels sternum.

Her other hand slipped to Tera's waist. Michael felt where she was going and pulled away from Tera for a moment as Valerie's fingers slipped the button and lowered Tera's zipper.

Her fingertips grazed the soft flesh above Tera's sex as Michael's hands, from behind, lowered Tera's pants.

Valerie and Tera again shared a look as once again Michael knelt, this time slipping down Tera's body as he removed her pants. Both women had wanton smiles on their faces.

Tera found Valerie's almost predatory, the kind you would imagine a wolf would have coming across a lone deer in a shadowed glade.

The smile Valerie saw on her lovers face was almost spiritual. As if she were for the first time experiencing a level of joy and passion that was here to fore unknown to her experience.

Both of their appraisals were accurate.

As Michael knelt before Tera, his hands deftly removing her boots and pants. 

He was face to face with her center, and could not resist lingering for a moment.

His lips gently caressed the soft skin just above her sex, sending a tremor through her body. He coiled his arms around her thighs, steadying her and pulling her closer. His tongue danced over her flesh, tasting her. She moaned as her fingers wrapped in his hair pulling him closer.

With a gentle kiss just above her clit he turned to find Valerie still standing behind him.

His hands went up, in one deft motion he slipped the long skirt from her hips. It fell down her pale white thighs. 

He was now eye level with her auburn mound. In the constantly moving light of the torches the shifting shadows would provide quick glimpses.

The supple curve of her knee

Moisture was sparkling on the red hued hairs between her legs.

The ripple of pleasure that passed over her stomach as he moved closer to her.

The scent of her, driving his passion even higher.

With a need he had never known his hands slid up her body, he pulled her down to him.

Michael could feel the hot flesh of Tera's chest as she dropped and molded herself to his back. Her nipples were hard points of desire making the heat of her body seem cold in comparison.

Valerie's eyes found his, and then shifted, he knew she was looking at Tera.

He shifted his position, coming to his knees with his women on either side, their eyes burning with need.

Michael looked at them both, regarding them with a detached awareness. They were so different, but yet so complimentary. They both filled voids within his soul, which he had never known existed.

Kneeling there with them, laid bare before them, he knew with a frightening surety that his heart and soul belonged to both of them. All of their souls would now and forever more be entwined as one.

They were all touching, knees touched knees, shoulders touch shoulders, hearts touched hearts and need touched need.

In a voice laden with emotion, Michael began to speak as his hands found one of theirs.

"I have known great love.

"I have known great loss.

"I never knew what it was to be so utterly complete."

Turning his eyes to Valerie he regarded her for a long moment. Her pale skin glowed in the moonlight. Her eyes danced with passion. His heart beat faster simply looking at her.

"Valerie, from the moment I saw you, hell from the moment I heard your voice for the first time, I knew that there was something special, unique about you.

"I love you in a way that is unique unto you. You give me your love easily, and in doing so you allow me to provide my love to you easily in return. The love I have for you and receive from you is like a comforting blanket that keeps my heart and soul safe no matter what the world may throw our way."

Michael's eyes slipped from Valerie's. They shifted to Tera's warm gaze; she looked on him with utter trust and love.

"Tera, my warrior. Within you I found a love so unexpected that it took me some time to come to grips with how I feel for you. Your love is a closely guarded thing, as if it has been waiting, waiting for someone worthy of it, for someone who would care and guard it as you have. I am overwhelmed, honored, so very, very lucky that you have chosen me as its keeper.

"I love you, Tera, for your strength, your wisdom, and your wicked right hook. But most of all I love you for the ease with which you give me your love. I will spend my life protecting your love and making sure that you always, always know that it is returned tenfold."

All three of them were crying, all three of them understanding that here, within this shadowed ancient circle they were creating something, something that would last beyond this moment, and the next, something that would stretch out across time providing more than any of them had ever dared hope for.

Michael's hand disengaged from Valerie's coming up to her face. His thumb brushing lightly against her cheek wiping away a tear as it slipped from her eye. His fingers curled in her hair gently as their eyes met again.

"Valerie," he began his voice thick, laden with desire. His fingers twisting just a bit deeper into her hair.

"My want of you is boundless. I look at you and I see a woman who has but one equal.

"I see a woman that I want to posses, body mind and soul.

"I feel a raging passion so overwhelming that no matter how long we share the path, no matter how many times I find myself within your arms. It will never be enough to satiate my burning need for you to be... mine."

Michael's eyes burned into her as the last huskily whispered word left his lips.

Valerie's eyes closed, her body trembling as she felt the truth of his need at her very core.

Pulling his gaze from Valerie, Michael's eyes fell. He looked at the points where their bodies met, the variations of light and shadow that played across the junctures of contact. In this light, in this moment, their bodies seemed amorphous, as if they were more one being than three.

His eyes moved up across Tera's mocha colored skin. He saw the sheen across her belly as the muscles rippled seemingly from the passing of his gaze. Her chest rose and fell with a fast cadence. She was breathing heavily, her desire and love for him taking physical form. Her eyes were deep wells of emotion, love, want, need, swirling within them.

He smiled and gripped her hand in his more firmly as he began to speak.

"And you, Tara, you are the equal to Valerie.

"My want of you is no less powerful. The depth of which, I can find no end.

"You, my Valkyrie, fire my want to be possessed... to give myself over evenly, and equally. To become simply lost in my want. To float there, explore the depths of it. My want for you is an endless ache, an endless quest to have all of you, to find all of you, to know all of you."

The tears that would not stop falling from his eyes blurred Michael's vision. Never had he felt so open, so safe, so accepted, so loved.

Both Valerie and Tera moved closer to him, wrapping their arms around him. Kneeling there on the grass next to the ancient stones of the well that had born silent testament to so much down through the ages the three of them came closer became more.

Their cheeks met as they sat there, tears mingled, breaths synchronized. Without pulling away Michael began again. His voice taking on a low powerful tone.

"I need you both the same.

"I need you as I need the sun, as I need air.

"My need for you is... overwhelming at times. I know that what we are starting here is not normal. There are no rules for it. But my need for the both of you will not be denied.

"I love you both without reservation.

"I want you both with a passion so vast that it's edges lie beyond the horizon of my comprehension.

"I need you both with everything that I am.

"And I am so much more than I ever thought possible, when I am with the two of you.

"I ask you to be my partners, my friends, my lovers and my wives.

"I ask that you simply be mine, and allow me to be yours... always."

Michael took a breath.

He felt them now more than he saw them. His emotions had overridden all of his senses. He knelt there naked in the moonlight with the two most amazing, most important people in his life.

There was a tension surrounding them. An energetic vibration, as if a circuit had been opened and now the entire universe was pausing to see if that circuit would completed.

Tera moved her hand to his face, cupping his wet, fevered cheek. She smiled a small contented smile that reduced the building tension he felt.

"Michael, there is no one I would more gladly or gratefully give my heart and soul to than you," pausing she looked over to Valerie, placing her hand gently on the other woman's cheek. "Or you," she said to Valerie with warm comforting grin.

"You are both my heart and soul, I want nothing more than to be yours, and have you both as mine... always."

Michael closed the inches that separated them as his lips found hers.

They were warm, salty... welcoming. It was a coming home, made manifest with that kiss.

Valerie's hand slid to Michael's neck, her other going to Tera's.

"I never knew love could be so... expansive, so allowing, so... comforting, so... right."

"Tera, Michael... you two are my world. You are my sunrise and sunset. I never want to see another day dawn where either of you are not at my side, in my arms or wrapped around my soul. I want nothing more than to be yours and have you both as mine... always."

The world seemed to expand, to take a breath, as Valerie's last word faded on the wind.

The three of them stayed there curled in each other's arms.

There were no more words to be said.

Their hearts had been freely given.

Their souls had been freely shared.

Their bodies slid together, as the last piece of an eternal puzzle fell into place.

Michael's lips came to Valerie's in a hungry union. Lips and tongues moved together, fighting for supremacy.

Tera slipped between them, her lips finding the tip of Michael's hardness wet, wanting.

Her lips slipped over the head, her tongue swirling his salty precum and curling it back to her throat. She moaned at the heady taste of him as her hand slid to his shaft, mimicking the motions of her mouth.

She loved the taste of him, the feel of him. The flavor of his skin and seed and utter maleness brought a small tremble to her as pent up need and desire for him was released.

Michael's hands slid down Valerie's body. Their tongues continued to duel, neither willing to give ground to the other.

His fingers found her center. She was wet and open, her nectar flowed from her, coating her thighs with the evidence of her need.

Michael slipped two fingers within her in one long forceful thrust. She moaned and released his lips at the force of his penetration. She gasped as he began strong purposeful motions within her. Her lips bit into his shoulder as her passion built.

"You're mine," he growled into her ear as his thumb moved roughly over her sensitive clit.

"Body mind and soul Valerie, your mine and I'm yours."

His voice, hot and needful so close to her ear pushed her over the edge. She fell willingly into her orgasm. It washed over her, lighting up her body, she had no idea, no concept it could be like this. Her body quivered and shook as he continued to finger her, continued to take her. His body moved next to hers, she heard him moan and felt his head slide to her shoulder.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 25



Her eyes roamed down his body. She found his hard cock deep in Tera's throat.

The look of ecstasy in Tera's eyes reflected Valerie's ecstasy at having Michael here with them. To consummate what they had begun here in this place, in this moment was a gift she would always cherish.

Michael's fingers stopped within her. He held them deep within her grasping pussy. He was becoming overwhelmed by Tera's ministrations.

Valerie's hand went to Tera. She was laid out between them. Valerie could see the light sheen of sweat glistening across her back as her head bobbed over Michael's hardness.

Valerie slipped her hand between Tera's tight cheeks. Tera spread her legs wider at the touch.

Tera's pussy was soaked, much like her own as Valerie slid a finger within her warm clinging depths.

Tera moaned around Michael's dick and took all of him into her throat as Valerie began to slowly finger fuck her.

Michael's fingers slipped from within Valerie but lingered on her.

He cupped her sex, fingers moving, exploring, spreading and opening her.

Valerie slid the tip of one finger into Tera's tight upturned ass.

Tera hunched back, hungry for the contact, hungry for a release.

Michael's breath was coming in ragged gasps against Valerie's shoulder; she could sense he was close.

Valerie slid away from him, her lips coming to rest against Tera's where they met Michael's cock.

Tera smiled and slipped him from her mouth; guiding his hardness to her wife's waiting lips.

Valerie's eyes closed as the tip of him slipped between her lips. His taste was strong, masculine... perfect.

Her fingers moved faster within Tera as Valerie bathed Michael's cock with her tongue, spreading his seeping essence around and then pausing to kiss Tera deeply, sharing her bounty.

Michael looked down at the scene before him.

Valerie and Tera were taking turns working on him. He could tell the difference immediately as they changed.

Tera was strong, self-assured in how she did this, he could feel her strength, her desire to please as well as her own desires that she satiated by performing the act.

Her hands were gentle but firm on him. He moaned as her hand moved lower, cupping his balls, kneading them gently. She looked up at him for a moment; her eyes burning as Valerie released him from her lips and placed him back in Tera's mouth. Tera's eyes fell and closed as she took him again, her tongue teasing the slit as her fingers massaged him.

Valerie's fingers arched between Tera's legs. He watched as Valerie moved within her tight depths. The motions were delicate, teasing, wanting only to heighten the passion, prolong the joy the other woman felt.

Michael's hands moved down along Valerie's flanks, he gave her a gentle slap on the ass and she looked up at him surprised for a moment then a hungry smile spread across her lips as she splayed her legs for him.

His fingers slid within her again. She moaned and took his cock from Tera.

Valerie was more urgent and insistent than Tera.

She suckled hard on him, using only her lips and tongue and throat, her hand was curled around his thigh, pulling him deeper and deeper with every thrust.

He was approaching the point of no return. His stifled groan was heard, and understood by the women.

As Michael's fingers picked up speed within Valerie, so to did Valerie's fingers pick up speed in both of Tera's warm holes.

The three of them rushed towards their first shared orgasm.

The three of them lost themselves in that rush.

The three of them became one within it.

Michael's body tensed as Valerie's lips' suctioned onto the tip of him.

Tera felt his balls slide up, felt the veins distend.

Valerie pulled her mouth off of him just enough so that Tera's could join hers at the center of him.

He felt both tongues swirl

Felt Tera's gentle touch pumping him, urging him on.

Felt Valerie's pussy contract around his fingers as his orgasm over came him.

Rope after rope of his hot seed surged forth to their waiting lips.

Tera and Valerie both came as the first of his warm offering issued forth and landed on their lips and tongues.

They sucked and licked and writhed as their own orgasms were pushed higher and higher by his.

As the last of his spend drooled out from his hardness he bent and pulled both women up to their knees.

He kissed them both, first Valerie then Tera then back again. They shared his taste, their essence.

They reveled in the beginning of their union.

Michael pulled Tera close, he kissed her neck, his tongue tracing a line from her ear down to her nipple as he sucked it into his mouth.

Valerie's lips found Tera's. They kissed deeply, sharing once again Michael's quintessence; reveling in the wanton rightness they found themselves engulfed by.

Michael gently pushed Tera to the ground. Kissing his way from her tits down across her firm belly and finally coming to rest between her legs. His lips and tongue went to work. With shaking fingers he spread her open, slipped his tongue with her, tasted her, letting loose a long satisfied sigh of relief, like a man dying of thirst who finds an oasis in the middle of a dessert.

Another orgasm washed over Tera as Michaels tongue slipped within her. Tera pulled on Valerie, practically dragging her from beside them to straddle her face.

Valerie looked down at Tera who had a feral look in her eye as she slid her tongue into Valerie's weeping pussy, matching Michaels pace within her own.

Michael looked up.

Valerie was straddling Tera's face. She was facing away from him.

In the flickering torchlight he saw the ivory expanse of her back. The full lushness of her hips. The point where Tera's tongue entered her.

Michael moaned as he watched them. His lips clamping down on Tera's clit hard. Her yell was muffled as Valerie hips clamped down on her face, an orgasm washing over her.

Michaels tongue swirled over her clit. His lips held her clit taught, pulled away from her body giving his tongue more surface area to cover.

Her thighs clamped down around his ears. All he could hear was his own heartbeat as the massive orgasm caused Tera to seize around him.

Valerie felt Tera tense as she orgasmed, her lovers tongue slipping deep within her, Tera's arms wrapping Valerie's thighs in an iron grip. The combination pushed Valerie to another orgasm of her own.

As soon as Tera relaxed her grip on his head, Michael moved up her body in one smooth motion.

One instant he had been between her legs, the next his hard cock was sliding slowly into her in one long agonizing thrust.

She moaned into Valerie's pussy as Michael's dick bottomed out within her. She had never felt so full, so complete, so utterly content.

Michael shifted his weight, rotating his hips slightly as he pulled out of her. The muscles of her pussy contracting around him as he did so.

He set up a slow steady rhythm. One hand coming over Valerie's shoulder, twisting her nipple as he drove smoothly, relentlessly in and out of Tera.

Valerie stood and turned, her juices dripping from between her legs. She knelt next to Michael and Tera. Her hands went to both of them, exploring the junction where the two of them became one. She caressed Tera's clit, causing another orgasm to crash over her lover.

Her lips went to Michaels where they locked in a sensuous kiss. It was long, deep, sultry. The kind of kiss that curls your toes and makes your heart beat double.

When the kiss broke she moved down to Tera and shared the same kiss with her.

As Valerie's hands roamed over them Michael bent down and kissed Tera. It was a light gentle kiss that had their lips brushing over and over, the connection taking hold and then slipping away only to be found once again.

"You feel so good inside me, Michael," Tera whispered as her arms came around his broad shoulders, pulling him closer.

"I love you, Tera, with all my heart and soul. I never knew, I never thought... ah... cum for me, lover."

Michaels whispered words and his insistent thrusting did the job, she fell over the edge, the ecstasy taking her as her body shook. The low deep moan that issued forth from her was one of both pleasure and release. She had, finally, found the one she had waited for.

Tera quaked beneath him as the tremors and after shocks of her orgasm played out. He lifted from her, looking down on her he became lost in her happy satiated eyes for a moment, and then turned to Valerie who was smiling beside him.

He grabbed her and pulled her to him, they shared a quick deep kiss full of need and pent up desire.

Turning her around he placed her on her knees over Tera. He watched as Valerie lowered her head, kissing their lover tenderly.

Michael slipped into her pussy in one fast thrust. His hands grabbed her hips and pulled her back to him. He could feel the head of his cock bump into her cervix as he filled her.

She half moaned half screamed as he entered her.

Tera's arm came up, holding Valerie around her waist, keeping her in place, keeping her up. Tera's other hand slid down. Now she too found the junction of her lovers. Her fingers pinching Valerie's clit hard as Michael set up a fast pace. With each thrust he would pull all the way out so that only the head of him still remained within her, and then he would fill her again, pulling her back onto his hardness, impaling her on him.

He rode her hard as Tera kissed her, held her, toyed with her.

Finally he felt the pressure build, felt himself expand within her.

His thrusting became rampant. He was rutting, marking his territory, making her... his.

Valerie dangled on the edge of the abyss, held there by Michaels pounding member and her lover's strong arms.

With a bellow Michael slammed into her one last time, his cock expanding yet again as he came. He filled her tight passage with his seed; this pushed Valerie over the edge as she succumbed to her orgasm. She let it take her where it will, she was powerless in the face of his love, his passion, his need for her.

Michael held within her for a long time, his cock pulsing in time with her heart beat.

Finally, Tera slid from underneath Valerie, gently settling her on the grass. 

Michael pulled from within her warm clasping depths

Tera took his semi-hard cock in her mouth, the heat of her on him causing him to groan in pleasure. She cleaned his and Valerie's spend from his member and then straddle the prone form of her lover, her pussy resting on Valerie's warm upturned ass as she looked into Michael's eyes.

"I love you."

She said it as she kissed him, the touch of her lips was gentle, her tongue moving softly over his lips and teeth and tongue. She shared their combined flavor with him, as she held him close.

The three lovers lay there, entwined on the soft cool grass by the ancient well. 

Stars moved overhead, the moon maintained its course.

But for the three of them everything had changed.

Everything was now viewed through three sets of eyes

The three people who lay contentedly within each other's arms were now more than they ever dreamed possible. And, at least for this brief moment, this clear night under the stars and the moons glow; all any of them needed, was this simple and complex connection with those who were, finally, their mates.

*

Edited By TeNderLoin



Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 26



Michael's eyes opened slowly. The languorous pull of contented sleep not wanting to release its grip easily. Gray light spilled into the room from the open French doors beside the bed.

Morning had come, a bit later than the past few days.

The evening had held so much for all of them. It was an ending and a beginning. What ended was the tentative steps towards the edge of the abyss. The questioning wonder of finding new love. Finally releasing the worries and concerns of what may lay beyond the steady ledge of reason.

Together the three of them joined hands and leapt head long into the abyss. Michael had no question that the decision had been the right one. Having these two amazing women at his side was worth any risk, any price.

Looking down he found his bare chest covered in waves of auburn hair. It spilled over him as if a painter had tripped sending the bright hue twirling across him like a haphazard quilt.

Slipping his hand across the warm sheets he found the impression of where Tera had lain still held her warmth. Its signature now as recognizable to him as the cadence of his own heart.

Gently sliding from underneath Valerie's embrace, Michael sat at the edge of the bed. Last nights passions replaying in his head like a dream. Could anyone be this lucky, could anyone truly find two people so in tune, so in love, so right.

He smiled as he stood for he knew that the answer was a resounding yes. And he was the lucky bastard who had found it.

Tera was leaning against the balcony railing looking out over the rolling hills beyond the castle plateau. She wore a thin t-shirt and tight briefs that clung to the curves of her hips and ass.

Michael walked up behind her, arms slipping around her waist. She was still warm from the bed, even though the temperature had dropped outside since yesterday.

She sighed as his arms enfolded her. His lips placing a light kiss on the back of her neck before his chin landed softly on her shoulder.

"I love you."

His breath was warm as it passed her ear. She shivered from the desire that reared up at his simple statement.

"And I you. Good morning my love." Tera responded as she turned in his embrace. Her lips found his and they joined in a long sensuous kiss. It was obvious to Tera after a moment that the building desire she felt was mirrored in Michael.

"Didn't we tire you out last night," she said playfully as her hand gently passed over his arousal.

"There is no such thing as tired when you or Valerie are in my arms."

Tera swooned a bit at his overtly romantic and yet absolutely heartfelt response.

"Later, we need to get cleaned up and get going. We are running a bit late this morning," she laughed as she disengaged herself from his embrace and moved back into the room.

Michael turned and watched her go. He loved to watch Tera move, the thinly veiled strength of her. The way her toned body flexed as she walked. She carried herself in a manner that was simple, compact, precise. He also, of course just loved to watch her perfect ass.

Tera threw a pillow at Valerie as she passed on her way to the bathroom.

"Get up sleepy head, time to start the day, we're running late."

Valerie mumbled a response to Tera's words as she stretched under the covers. After a moment she was up, giving Michael a little wave and blowing him a kiss as she followed after Tera.

Michael turned back to the view before him with a contented smile.

Being with Valerie and Tera last night had been amazing. What amazed him the most was how...complete it had been. He had been satisfied not just physically by their union, but also mentally and emotionally.

Dark gray clouds formed mountains in the air as he watched them pass, blown by a strong north wind.

Last night, the three of them arm in arm, walked back to the castle. The moon lighting their way. They had laughed easy laughs, felt secure in the simple act of being together. This morning that feeling was only stronger. Michael wondered at it, and, taking a deep breath, allowed that it would simply continue.

A warm hand slid around his waist, grasping his cock.

"Your turn stud."

Michael turned and pulled Valerie into his arms. She was warm from the shower, hair still wet.

"Good morning Valerie, I love you." He said before kissing her.

Valerie sighed as the kiss broke.

"Good morning to you lover." She said as he let her slip from his arms to go dry her hair.

Michael watched as she towel dried her hair. Valerie was a lush vision, breasts swaying, hips rotating in an innocent but seductive oval as she moved the towel roughly over her hair. 

'I better shower or none of us will leave the room,' he thought to himself as he walked past his other mate, now standing in the doorway of the bathroom, water still running in sensuous rivulets down her body.

"Hurry up, I'm hungry," Tera said, giving his ass a slap as he passed by her and entered the bathroom.

All of them were laughing as they went about getting ready for the day. ............

Nicholas knew that Ian had set up a very strong security web around the festival. It would require a bit of effort to slip among them unseen.

However, a good hunter always knew more about its prey than the prey usually did. This worked in Nicolas's favor as he donned the stupid praetorian armor and ornamental helm that would hide his features. He would be almost invisible, yet noticed by everyone.

The van door opened and he stepped out.

The wind had picked up over night, the clouds building from the north. It would be a gray day.

'All the better,' Nicholas thought as he walked quickly down the curving path towards Nogardshire and his destiny. ............

Ian and Nigel walked slowly from the castle proper. The final day of the festival held a few more tournaments, many of the vendors would be judged on their work and the final gathering would take place at the central bonfire this evening before the feast.

Yesterday had gone well, Ian didn't know if this was a good thing or not.

"Are all of the security patrols in place?"

Ian's voice carried a worried note.

Looking over at his friend, Nigel regarded him for a moment before answering. He looked tired, as if something were weighing on him that he could not escape.

"We are in good shape, the teams know what to do, what to look for. We have this place locked up tight. I don't think a field mouse could get in here without us knowing about."

Nigel tried to sound confident but was only partially successful. He knew that they were well covered for normal circumstances. However, who they were dealing with, trying to keep out, was anything but normal.

"It will be as it should, the path is set now, the future...comes."

Ian's cryptic response made Nigel turn and face his old friend.

Ian was looking at him, a small smile on his lips.

"Thank you Nigel for always being there, for fighting the good fight. I could not have asked for a better friend than you have been down through our long years. Your job today is to protect Michael, Nigel. I know you're worried about me and what may happen if Nicholas shows up. There really is no question for me that he will, however fate is always around and capricious. Just promise me that you'll watch out for Michael, Valerie and Millie. No matter what happens don't let harm find them my old friend."

Ian was looking at Nigel as he said this. But he really wasn't seeing him. The distant look in Ian's eyes chilled Nigel as they walked on towards the tournament grounds in silence.

Ian was resolute. Today would herald the beginning of a new future, unseen and untested. But a future filled with hope. Could anyone truly ask for anything more. ............

Sims watched from the darkened surveillance room as Elise slept.

Yesterday had been a whirlwind. Luckily he was trained to ride such things, not be engulfed by them.

There was something about this woman, something that pulled Sims to her.

She was pretty but not gorgeous. The fact that Elise was younger than he never entered his mind. There was just some intangible connection that Sims could neither deny nor explain. All he knew for sure was that he wanted to keep her close to him, to protect her. He had never met anyone who seemed to need protecting more than she.

The light came on in the room, bringing Sims back from his ruminations.

Elise stirred in the darkened room, she felt comfortable, safe. This was a first for her in a very long time. So much of the past years were a blur for her. It was as if she had been present but blindfolded, only allowed to see bits and pieces from time to time around the edge of it.

'Sims is watching me.'

She thought as she stretched under the covers before slipping from the bed and turning the light on.

The thought of Sims watching her did not upset her in the least.

He had been her constant companion yesterday. This morning she felt reborn. As if the trials of the day before had cleansed her, allowing that with this sunrise she could start fresh, find a future filled with hope instead of lurking dread.

Elise pulled off the t-shirt she had been wearing to sleep in and let it drop to the floor.

In the surveillance room Sims blushed as he turned away from the monitor at being confronted by her naked form.

Although the glimpse had been momentary, it was an image he would always carry with him.

Long blond hair that fell across her shoulders like a golden waterfall as she pulled the shirt over her head.

The full swell of her breasts as they settled on her chest.

The slight ripples evident across her firm abdomen.

A wild blond triangle that harbored her sex.

Her hips flaring in a subtle curve down to firm thighs.

With a sigh, Sims turned back to the monitor in time to see Elise step out of the bathroom. Now dressed in jeans and sweater his attention was pulled to her pale blue eyes. He could think of nothing better in this moment that becoming lost within their depths.

"Sims, I'm hungry, come take me to breakfast."

Elise looked up into the camera, right at him, with a smile on her face as she made her demand in a playful voice.

Sims was still blushing as they walked out of the barracks towards the festival grounds.

............

The gray morning gave way to a dark afternoon.

Cobalt clouds roiled on the horizon as Michael, Tera and Valerie made their way to the finals of the sword competition.

This would be the final set of games. After this everyone would take a break for a few hours before the final banquet this evening.

There was a large crowd gathered around the sword ring. Michael found himself wedged between Tera and Valerie. He could not think of a place he would rather be.

"Michael," Nigel called from behind him.

Turning Michael slid his arm from around Tera and extended his hand to Nigel.

"Miserable weather but everyone seems to be having a good time. Come to watch the final few matches?"

Michael asked as he shook Nigel's hand.

"Yes, it's been pretty quiet all day. The other games are done. I wanted to come by and watch the final on this one."

Nigel was not being exactly honest. He had been shadowing the trio all day. As this was the final part of the tournament he used the opportunity to be close to Ian, as he would be handing out the prizes for the winners.

The four turned their attention back to the circle.

A man dressed as a roman soldier had been doing very well. Many of the locals who had won over the years found themselves touched by killing blows so quickly that the how of it barely registered. The man was damn good; everyone who had been watching figured he was a shoe in to win.

Nigel watched the match, curious about the man. He walked over to Ian after making sure his two men were close to Michael and his women.

"Who's the new chap?"

Nigel asked as he came up behind Ian.

"Not sure, but I've never seen his equal, he has only to beat Hamish there and that will be it."

Nigel could hear the admiration, and questions, in Ian's voice.

The fighter's stance was easy, not rigid like most who did this type of fighting. His motions were fluid and quick as a snake.

With a quick dodge and an overhand touch the final blow came and the stranger was victorious.

The crowd applauded as the victor shook his opponents hand glancing around at the crowd.

His eyes passed over Michael and in that moment Michael's body went cold.

Valerie and Tera both noticed the change immediately. They turned to look at him as he pulled Valerie into his arms quickly and kissed her before moving off dodging through the crowd towards Ian.

Ian gave Millie's had a little squeeze as he kissed her softly on the lips. It lingered for a moment, a brief transfer of warmth and emotion. Then he was moving away, a soft smile on his lips as he went to present the winner with his award.

Nigel glanced away from Ian as he kissed Millie. He noticed Michael moving towards them fast, his eyes beyond him, over his shoulder. A creeping dread passed over Nigel as he turned his head back to Ian. All he found was Millie, a single tear rolling down her cheek.

"Stay here."

Tera's firm tone took Valerie by surprise.

Tera motioned with her eyes to the watchers to stay close to Valerie as she moved off after Michael.

Nigel's gaze turned from Millie's as he began to step towards Ian's retreating back. Ian was almost shoulder-to-shoulder with the winner.

Ian watched the man as he came up in front of him. The familiarity he had sensed coalesced in a moment of crystal clarity.

"You old fool."

The voice was venomous as Nicholas took off the helmet, letting it drop to the ground.

"Your time has come old man. The days of hiding in the shadows are over. I am the herald of new era, one where our kind rule. You should have seen this coming Ian, you really should have been harder to deal with, I am a bit disappointed."

Ian smiled as he brought his hand up, grasping Nicholas firmly behind his neck. 

Nicholas' eyes went wide for a moment at the contact.

Ian saw the motion at Nicholas' belt. Saw the blurred black outline slip from its sheath in a small backwards arc.

"You're right Nicholas, my time has come. Now that the moment is here, I look forward to sharing it with you."

Ian's hand coiled around Nicholas' neck.

"Come on you coward, take what you believe to be your destiny, welcome the future that comes with your...victory."

Nicholas was given pause by the rage that burned behind Ian's coal black eyes.

And then they were connected.

Nicholas's arm flashed forward, the talon slid into Ian's flesh just under the sternum, as it did so Nicholas pulled up, lodging the point deep within Ian's heart.

Michael, about 3ft from Ian, stopped dead in his tracks.

The world contracted around him. It was as if the energy that had been building around him since he had come to Nogardshire had coalesced into a single overwhelming force. It struck him with the power of a freight train. 

Nigel had turned seeing Michael only steps away from Ian. Nigel grabbed him in an iron grip, holding him back from continuing on towards Ian.

"You can't, it's too late, you have to get out of here," Nigel said as he pushed Michael backwards towards Millie who was now weeping openly.

"Let go, you don't understand, I can save him."

Michael struggled against Nigel's grip.

'If I can get to him I can save him like all the others, why won't Nigel let me go goddamnit.' Michael's thoughts had a clear focus, he was not aware of anything other than his desire to get to Ian.

Nigel was close to him, whispering in his ear.

"I said it's too late, there is no power on earth that can save him."

Nigel's voice seemed to bring Michael back to the moment. Turning his head he found Millie being gathered up in Nigel's other arm, a team of men surrounding the three of them. Then Tera was at his side.

"We have to get out of here, Ian is gone, we have to go, now!"

Tera's tone would brook no argument.

Ian felt his life force begin to ebb the moment his heart was penetrated. His eyes locked with Nicholas's.

"You usher in the future today Nicholas, who would have thought you had the strength. You have always been reckless, now I understand. Enjoy what you have wrought this day; revel in this moment's victory. It will be, I believe, the last taste of it you shall ever get."

Ian's words trailed off as he slumped against Nicholas.

In the same instant, Michael screamed in agony, falling to the ground at Tera's feet.

Valerie's watchers had brought her over to Nigel's group as they made their way towards the castle.

Tera and Valerie both stopped. Valerie fell to her knees, grabbing Michael's head in her hands. Tera immediately dropped to a crouch over him. Pulling free her Glock, it moved in a deadly arc behind them, searching for a threat.

Millie looked down at Michael. A wail of anguish issuing forth from her as her eyes closed for a moment.

When they opened, the sadness that had been there only a moment before was gone.

In its place, stony eyed resolve.

"Nigel, get him up and out of here. Tera, Valerie, stay close to him."

Millie's clear strong voice galvanized everyone to action. Two of Nigel's men grabbed Michael. The group, with Nigel in the lead and Tera at the rear, gun drawn, made their way quickly towards the castle. .........

Nicholas slid the talon from Ian's chest. The body falling to the ground at his feet, a pool of blood spreading over the dry grass from under the lifeless body.

He looked around, dazed.

The people had all fled, Ian's lap dog Nigel and his bitch were nowhere to be seen.

'Makes no difference.'

The thought did nothing to quell his growing sense of panic.

'There was suppose to be more, it was suppose to be mine, how, how did the old fucker rob me of what's mine?'

The question ricochets around in his mind as he moved off towards the cliff in the distant.

Nicholas's preoccupation with his own greed left no room for the more pertinent question.

Who now held the power?

............

Michael stirred.

His body felt like it had been run over by a truck.

Every inch of him felt bruised, as if a group of very motivated martial artists had used him for a practice dummy.

He groaned opening his eyes.

The room was bathed in a pale light from the open balcony doors. He was still dressed, only his shoes were missing. Michael swung his feet painfully to the floor, his head coming to rest in his hands.

"Ian."

The name came out in a croaked growl as he stood quickly, immediately regretting it.

"He's gone."

The soft, strong voice from the corner of the room surprised Michael enough to make his battered body loose it's fight with gravity as he sat heavily back down on the bed.

"Millie, what happened, why did Nigel stop me, I could have..."

Michael's voice trailed off, even as he said it he knew there was no truth in his statement.

"It was his time Michael, don't blame yourself, there was nothing you could have done."

Millie stood and walked over to the balcony doors. She stood straight and proud. Millie would grieve for Ian in her own way, in her own time. For now she needed to be strong for Michael, for what must come next.

"Michael," Millie began, looking out towards the cliffs beyond the castle.

"I know that you did not get to know Ian well. But I want you to know that he thought very highly of you. Ian was very happy that Valerie had finally found someone to love. Someone who would take care of her."

"It will take everyone here quite some time to get over Ian's loss. He was a unique man, with a an encompassing spirit."

Millie paused. Michael regarded her.

Standing stoically in the doorway, the ebbing afternoon light playing through her hair, she had a countenance of someone utterly alone in the world.




Dragon Clans Bk. 01 Pt. 26



Michael stood on shaking legs and walked over to Millie.

His hands came to rest lightly on her shoulders.

No words passed between them. Millie was grateful for the simple and powerful connection of the touch. It imparted what she needed most in that moment. The physical acknowledgment that she was not truly alone.

Turning, Millie looked up into Michael's eyes. She could see the worry and honest concern he felt for her in their depths.

Placing her hand lightly on his cheek, Millie wordlessly thanked him for what he had given her.

I will be back in about twenty minutes. Why don't you freshen up? There is something you need to do.

Michael was surprised by Millie's words but simply nodded his assent as she walked slowly from the room. ............

Valerie had been crying since they got back to the castle.

Tera held her, rocking her in her arms as the household exploded with activity.

Nigel's men had set up a perimeter around the castle as soon as they had gotten back onto the castle grounds.

"Sims, get up to the main house, I need you," Nigel said into his com.

"On my way."

Sims, with Elise in tow, was already heading in that direction. He had seen the security details form up, heard the com chatter. He knew without asking that something dire had happened as he ran into the castle.

Nigel poured himself four fingers of port. Downing it in one swallow he poured himself another.

His friend was still out there, with that monster. Emptying the glass he turned as Sims came in the room.

"Grab four watchers and meet me out front, we need to go back to the tournament grounds."

Nigel's voice was harsh as he barked the order at Sims; it held the weight of seeing too much, of standing on the precipice of lost hope.

Turning to Millie as she came into the room, Nigel pulled her into a hug. She returned the embrace but it was a cold thing, bereft of any true feeling. She was as shell shocked as everyone else.

"Go get him Nigel, bring him home."

Millie's whispered words were numb as she turned away from Nigel walking over to Valerie.

"Stay here, I won't be long." Sims said as he gave Elise a light kiss on the cheek before turning and running from the room.

Elise looked around, people were moving everywhere.

Servants passed through the room providing drinks to whoever wanted them. Watchers stood by the doors and windows, their eyes sharp, always moving, scanning everyone who came or left.

Elise's eyes came to rest on the two women the older woman was now crouching next to as they sat on the low divan.

"Valerie, that's enough now, Michael is going to need you, need you to be strong, to be there for him."

Millie's tone wasn't harsh, but neither was it gentle. Stern was the best word for it.

Valerie looked over at Millie through tear-blurred eyes.

"But Ian, he's, he's...gone." Valerie moaned.

"Yes, Ian is dead Valerie, killed before our eyes with a swift and unforgiving brutality."

"The one who wields that brutality with such ease is still around, and his sights will now fall to Ian's heir."

The statement hung in the air between the women. At first Valerie thought that she would be considered heir, or perhaps Millie. The thought of this twisted man coming after her caused her breath to catch.

Upon hearing Millie's words everything finally fell into place for Tera.

"It's Michael, Michael is Ian's heir."

Tera's statement was uttered with no inflection of a question. It was a simple fact.

"What, how can that be, I know the Ian followed Michael as he grew up, but that was just keeping track of a far flung branch of the family tree......."

Valerie's words trailed off as the truth of it hit her.

"Michael is the heir, he doesn't know it yet but I am going to tell him in a few minutes. There are...things...that have to take place in a certain order; Michael will need you Valerie, and you Tera. It will not be easy for him. Valerie you have to pull yourself together."

Millie placed her hand on Valerie's. She understood her pain, Ian was like a father to her, but there would be time for grieving later, right now she had to pull herself together.

Walking up to Millie, Nigel put his hand on her shoulder.

"I'm going out to get him Millie, I'll be back, stay here."

Millie heard Nigel's words but there were other things she had to take care that were more important than worrying about her own safety.

Giving Valerie's hand a final squeeze, Millie stood and nodded to Nigel.

"Go get Ian, I'll be here when you get back."

Millie's stoic countenance shifted as she said this. A hint of the pain and loss showing through as she clutched Nigel's arm tightly.

With a swift comforting hug, Nigel moved off towards Sims who was waiting by the door.

"Stay here, both of you, I have to see to Michael."

Millie's brusque tone shook Tera a bit but she blew it off as the tension of the day.

Elise came over to stand by Tera and Valerie as she watched Sims leave with Nigel.

"It will be alright," Elise said to know one in particular.

Tera looked at the young woman. She seemed to be fully recovered from yesterday's dramatic events.

"I wish I had your confidence in that."

Valerie had pulled herself together and was now standing, looking around to see if anyone needed help with anything.

With a smile Elise focused on first Tera then Valerie.

"Michael will set things to right."

The truth of the statement was given fervent energy by the unwavering belief with which she provided it. ............

Sims and Nigel, surrounded by four watchers, made their way through the now deserted festival grounds. It had cleared out quickly, considering what had happened a few days before.

No one wanted to take a chance that there was more senseless violence to come.

Nigel replayed the moment in his head as they walked to the sword ring.

'If I had only been a few seconds quicker.' Nigel thought. He was doing what you never truly could do, trying to find the loopholes in history. Reconstruct an event the way you wish it played out instead of how it actually had.

They came to a stop just outside the ring. Ian's slumped body lay in the dirt at its center. A pool of crimson surrounded his body. The light was dying, in a few moments the night would be here and they would not be able to see a thing.

The men moved slowly towards the fallen form. The air was still, as if the spot was surrounded by some unseen buffer that kept the idle winds at bay.

Moving around the body, Nigel and three of the watchers gently raised Ian's body and started back to the castle. A watcher took up point, using his flashlight to mark the way. Sims brought up the rear, his eyes scanning the growing gloom for any threat, none would come. The threat had manifest already this day. It would take sometime for the next one to find focus and action.

From the cliff top Nicholas watched the little procession.

'This should feel more rewarding.'

Nicholas thought as he watched the body of his enemy removed from the field. It was not rewarding at all, and this bothered Nicholas.

It had not gone as he had supposed. The old fool just...died.

As the flickering of the flashlight faded in the distance below, Nicholas turned and walked off, the night swallowing him in its shadowy embrace.

............

Michael and Millie walked in silence along the edge of the maze. Torches anchored to the perimeter wall lighted the way. Seeing them brought back images of last night in the center of the maze. Brought the longing to be with Valerie and Tera.

"Where are we going?" Michael asked as they rounded a corner, coming to a stop in front of a small ancient crypt.

"There is so much you need to know Michael."

Millie began as she stepped close to him, taking his hand in hers.

"I know that these past months have been very difficult for you. The loss of Sasha, coming here, meeting Valerie and Tera. Never in your life have you been faced with so much change, so many things that were out of your control."

Michael was about to comment but was stilled by her fingertips on his lips.

"Yes, I know you have questions, more than you could possibly give voice to. Your answers are here Michael," she said, gesturing towards the crypt.

Removing an ancient skull key from her pocket she moved away from Michael.

He watched as she lit an iron torch from one fixed to the wall before moving to a door at the back of the structure.

Michael followed close behind her as she paused then slid the key into a keyhole that he never would have notice had she not revealed it.

The solid piece of granite swung smoothly on unseen hinges. The flickering light from the torch only illuminating just inside the doorway.

"What is this place?"

Michael's whispered question was almost lost on the wind that had suddenly come up, causing the fire to dance within the wrought iron hollow of the torch.

"This is where the answers begin Michael. They won't all be answered, they never truly are. But within lies some of the important ones, some you will be amazed by, others horrified by. All of them, the good and the bad will shape you, change you, place you on a path you could never have imagined. But one I believe you will find yourself happy, in the end, to be on."

Millie gave Michael's hand a reassuring squeeze before handing him the torch and motioning him to enter.

He held her eyes in the flickering firelight for a moment before stepping through door.

The small landing Michael found himself on was of rough-hewn rock. It dropped away to a winding set of stairs cut into the stone. He took a few tentative steps down. His shadow dancing on the coarse stone walls. Finding the stairs dry he increased his pace as they spiraled downwards into the earth.

The air was dry and still. He had imagined it would be damp, dank, the quintessential moist and moldy tomb. He was surprised by the dryness of the air as the stairs fell away before him.

Something tickled at the edge of his consciousness. It was not a warning; he felt no fear at all in this place. No this was more of a de ja vu, as if he had been here before but the memory of when and in what context eluded him.

Up ahead he saw another landing as the stairs finished their decent at an arched doorway. He paused before moving forward. His breath began to come in sharp full gulps that filled his lungs.

"It can't be, it simply can't be.'

Michael's thoughts swirled as he stepped through the archway, already knowing what he would find but still being startled to silence by the sight before him.

There below him, down another small flight of stairs, illuminated by ancient braziers fixed to the walls was small island, rising up from a still underground lake. The cavern rose up at the perimeter of the lake. It's ceiling lost in shadows.

Sitting down on the step Michael closed his eyes, trying to get his breathing under control.

"Am I asleep, am I dreaming, this can't be," Michael said. His tone carrying an edge of hysteria as his words quietly echoed off the stones.

A low deep sound came to his ears. Michael felt the low bass of it reverberate through him. Looking up he notice the smallest of ripples beginning to curl across the waters smooth ebony surface.

The sound grew louder, more pervasive. It was as if someone had struck a bass tuning fork and the sound was moving out from the point of impact, slowly building and reverberating back on itself.

Aoife's strong sensual voice echoed in his ears for the first time. It came with a weight and energy that was tenfold more powerful than he had encountered before.

"Young one."

Her words hung in his mind.

"Aoife."

Her name, whispered softly, echoed off the walls.

There was movement below him.

Before he could think, Michael was up and moving down the stairs to the small pier at their bottom. Looking around he searched for her, needing in that moment nothing more than to see her, to know that she was real. That his sanity had not at last slipped its finally footing and sent him careening into the oblivion of insanity.

The water moved and shifted at his feet.

Looking down he could see nothing but the black opaque plane of it.

And then it parted.

Flecks of gold under the onyx surface.

Then a form materializing from the flecks

A horn tip emerging from the water.

Golden scales sparkling in the fires' light.

Green eyes the color of emeralds in the noonday sun regarding him.

Reaching out his hand, the golden scales felt warm on his fingertips. Her head shuddered a bit at his touch.

"You're...beautiful."

His statement shocked her. Down through the ages they had always told her what she was rather than how they perceived her.

'Different from all before him,' she thought to herself, not for the first time.

"Thank you Michael, it has been a very very long time since anyone has paid me such a compliment."

Aoife's large eyes blinked as she regarded him for a moment before speaking again, her tone full of warmth and deep emotion.

"Welcome home."

With his hand slowly; gently moving over the strange landscape of her alien form, the realization of what she was sinking in. Aoife's simple greeting comforted him, and he felt the truth of being home more profoundly than he ever had...before.





Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 00



Book 2 - Prologue

Pain and Fear. Inexorably linked at opposite poles of an eternal figure eight.

All of us, no matter what path our lives take, find pain and fear along the way.

They can define how we live our lives or they can challenge us to actually live. 

The choice, as in all things, is ours.

People run from pain because they fear it. Believing that if they run far enough, dodge quickly enough, hide well enough, then pain will not touch their lives.

Those who define their life's path by the compass point of fear, who use fear as the driving force behind their life, never understand what it means to truly live.

And what is it that we fear, what incalculable force could make hiding away from life a better option than taking the rudder of own lives in our hands?

Pain of course.

None of us (well... mostly none of us) like pain. It is another common denominator of the universe, that pain is something to be avoided at all costs.

Why?

Our physical response to pain, mired in the primordial ooze of our creation, is what stokes the fires of our fears.

Our desire for one more breath, one more sunrise, one more beat of our heart, provides us with a natural aversion to pain 

Our ancestors needed the fear of pain to continue living. Our 'fight or flight' response is there for one reason, to keep us breathing. 

When, over the next ridge, you may find a pride of saber tooth tigers that you will have to battle with your bare hands, or a bear sleeping in what just this morning was your home; having a healthy fear of the world around you helped to keep you alive, and kept the forces of evolution moving forward.

The 'modern' world holds few such dire threats.

And yet, more so today than ever, most people find fear to be a heavier burden than any of our forbearers ever dreamed.

We are, on the whole, a rational society. We logically understand that a panther is not going to spring forth from the bushes and devour us on our morning jog to Buckstars to get our double mocha crapuccino. But fear makes the journey with us just the same.

What will the boss think of my proposal?

Will Sally say yes if I ask her out for dinner?

How will I make the mortgage payment?

Did she really cum three times, or was she just being kind.

Jimmy must be using drugs.

I really can't afford this vacation.

On and on it goes. These are the building blocks of desperation, and the foundation for the walls we build around ourselves out of fear.

Does anything we fear today carry the weight it truly should? How many of us face our imminent death from an unknown quarter, even once in the long stretch of our lives, let alone on a daily basis.

There are those of us who do.

Those men and women who wake up each morning, and put themselves in harms way by choice, are those who stand between us and the true horrors that still lurk in our world. In doing so, they free us up to fear our next car payment, the supposed slight of a lover, the impression we will make at the company picnic.

We cloak ourselves in the fear of living our lives. We see our lives not as magical gifts to be treasured, taken, emptied of every last drop of sustenance. Oh no. We see our lives as something to be endured, gotten through, to get even with.

The path of most people's lives, leaves a trail of unopened doors, behind which lay the magic of life never released because of our fear.

My life was easy in comparison to most... up until the summer I have described in the previous volume of my tale.

Easy isn't even the right word for it. Blessed is a better one.

By the end of that summer I thought I knew true pain.

The loss of Sasha.

The loss of my child.

The loss of my path.

These losses brought me pain the likes of which I had never known existed, let alone felt.

All that pain provided me with a new respect for fear.

As with everyone, I had felt fear in the past. But this new fear, brought on by actual loss, actual pain... this was fear on steroids.

I let it consume me for a time.

I almost let it take me.

My fear of death palled in comparison to the looming shadow of my fear of living. 

Aoife saved me that night on my knees, next to the bed Sasha and I had shared. She pressed an unseen pause button, which allowed me the opportunity to get a glimpse of my fear from a different perspective. It allowed me the opportunity to face, understand and finally make peace with my pain, instead of blindly running from it in fear.

I thought I understood fear and pain. How one fed off the other. The dynamic between the two.

That summer was the hardest of my life, up until that point.

Little did I know that it was merely the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

What follows is my true education in pain and fear. The lessons learned from them, and the opportunities lost because of them.

My desire is that by continuing this story someone will find a bit of solace, a bit of understanding, or perhaps a bit of hope.

As the bard has said, it was the best of times, it was the worst of times. Both are true of this time for me.

I invite you to pull up a chair, and to lay your pain and fear aside for a time.

Perhaps traveling through the coming fall and winter with me, pressing this particular pause button, will help you gain a different perspective on whatever pain and fear lurks faceless behind your own life's unopened doors.

Edited By TeNderLoin 



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 01



Chapter 1

The final soulful note of the bagpipe lingered in the air long after the piper's breath had left the instrument. Its full rich tone reverberated off the ancient stone monoliths, wrapping those few in attendance within its comforting and sorrowful embrace. 

A light rain swirled in the air, blown by the cool wind that gently caressed the emerald green plain. No one noticed the cool clammy feel of the morning. It could not compete with cloaking sorrow that enveloped those gathered to witness the last journey of a man who lived well. Whose absence would be felt by those who knew him.

"Ian was my friend for more years than I care to remember."

Nigel began as the final note from the bagpipe finally became lost in the breeze.

Standing before the entrance to the ancient burial mound, ringed by nine, thirty-foot slabs of time-weathered limestone, Nigel looked weary. His left arm, in a sling was crossed over his chest. His right hand gripped the handle of an oak cane that steadied him, required due to the cast on his right leg. His hand flexed on the cane, gripping it tightly, his knuckles turning white under the pressure as he continued.

"I have spent the better part of my life, the best part of my life, at Ian's side. Through good times and bad, through danger and joy we tried to do what we felt was right. Tried to make the world a better place."

"Ian left this world better than he found it. He was a man of numerous talents. His most endearing and important was his ability to bring joy to those around him."

"Across the world there are testaments to his desire to help humanity. They are too numerous and wide spread to even begin to list. Suffice it to say that wherever Ian went he tried to help those he encountered."

"My life and the lives of those who knew him will be smaller with his passing. For all of his accomplishments, on this day I simply mourn the loss of my friend."

Nigel looked down at Ian's body, covered by a white burial cloth. The silk shifted in the wind, the golden figure of a dragon emblazoned upon it moved as if it were about to take wing.

'How did it come to this mate,' Nigel thought as he slowly moved aside to stand a moment next to Millie.

Millie placed a light hand on Nigel's shoulder, giving him a brief kiss on the cheek before stepping to the moss covered granite door of the chamber.

She paused here, not looking at the white-cloaked form before her, but instead letting her eyes travel over the few people in attendance. Valerie was weeping softly as she stood next to Michael.

Ian's death, his sacrifice, had caused her so much pain. Millie's heart went out to her niece, but she knew that Michael and Tera would take care of her, that she would, with the passage of time, come to grips with the pain, understand the sacrifice her uncle had made.

Michael had his arm wrapped around Valerie's shoulder, holding her close to him. His gaze was fixed on the horizon. His strong rugged features seemed older. As if what he had gone through in the last few days had changed him. Becoming more intense, more focused, more comfortable in his own skin. He exuded a calm powerful presence that was the counter point to the pain she found in his eyes.

'So much for one person to take on,' Millie thought as she took a deep breath closing her eyes.

"Ian is the love of my life." Millie began.

"He encompasses the best most noble things about us as a race. I have seen Ian in the middle of crisis stop everything he was doing to comfort a child and help them find their mother."

"I have seen him laugh as he was caught in an unexpected rain storm."

"I have felt his tears flow hot against my skin when faced with a horror found too late to stop."

"Ian was my best friend, my lover, my confidant, my playmate, my foil. Never have I encountered a man so completely and utterly whole. I will carry him with me always and look forward to the moment that we will be reunited."

"Do not mourn his passing, it is not what he would want. Better that we should live our lives by his example. Ian always found the joy in every moment, every challenge. He lived his life with love and passion. If all of us who knew him do the same, then we shall, with every moment we refuse to let slip by unnoticed, honor him and keep his spirit alive."

Millie's hand came to gently rest upon Ian's forehead beneath the cloth. She stayed there for a long moment, which drew out as the wind began to pick up. Her countenance was one of stoic strength. Few noticed the way her hand trembled as it lay upon on her fallen one.

"I love you."

She whispered, the words caught and taken by the breeze as she took a step back and then walked to Valerie's side.

Valerie's sobs increased as she moved from Michael into Millie's arms. The women holding onto each other, feeling the others loss along with their own.

Michael shifted his head to place a light kiss on Tera's cheek as his hand slid within hers. They walked slowly towards the body, splitting up to stand at the back corners of the rough-hewn litter which held Ian's remains.

Nigel walked over to Valerie and Millie, lending his presence and strength to both as two older men detached themselves from the crowd, moving to the front of the litter.

A single note issued from the bagpipe, as the four bearers lifted their charge gently, and walked towards the dark rectangle before them. Michael looked down at the body, the silk moving like liquid between the breeze and the motion of the litter.

His eyes came to rest on the form of the golden dragon as they carried Ian into the earth to rest with those who had preceded him down through the ages.

As they penetrated the shadowy interior of the crypt, Michael found himself brought back to his moment of revelation a few days prior under the maze. ............... The smile on Michael's face faded a bit as his hand slipped from the golden scales.

'A psychotic break, that must be it', Michael thought as he stared into the depths of the emerald eyes that regarded him with a mixture of concern and happiness.

Sitting down hard on the cool stone at the edge of the lake Michael ran his fingers through his hair shaking his head.

'The funeral, it must have been at the funeral, I just lost it completely, I'm in a hospital ward somewhere in restraints.'

'I hope they are keeping me shaved, I hate beards,' he thought idly as he watched more of the being before him revealed as she rose from the water.

The long powerful neck.

Full broad chest that flared at what would be called shoulders to iridescent wings that stretched up towards the ceiling of the cavern.

Muscular arms at the side of the chest looking strong, powerful, the size of tree trunks ending it five lethal looking talons.

Receding towards the Island, Aoife climbed nimbly up onto the sandy bank. The water cascaded off of her. Her body glowed, shimmering in the dancing firelight of the torches as she turned. Regarding him, she lowered herself to the sand, curling her tail around her body as she did so.

They held each other's eyes for a long time. The air in the cavern motionless except for the slightest warm tendrils that reached Michael's face, gently caressing him, every time she exhaled.

"You have not gone crazy."

Aoife's statement reverberated around the chamber. Its tone was deep, comforting like a warm blanket on a cold morning.

"Easy for you to say, you're not the one seeing mythical creatures."

Michael's tone was not playful; it held a manic edge that gave Aoife pause before she continued.

"Most myths have their foundations in truth Michael."

"I am what I am. I have been so, since my birth, eight millennia ago. I cannot change my nature. I can change my form into many things. I can provide you an illusion that would be less shocking. I have done this in the past with those chosen to continue my line. They were not as strong as you, did not face the types of challenges you do.

"You are strong enough to understand this, Michael. Strong enough and open enough to allow for the potential of my truths. This is why you see me as I am, with no window dressing. Simply me as I have been for thousands of years. I understand that it is a shock for you. No matter what form I take, it is always a shock to the chosen once they understand who I am, and what their own lineage is."

Aoife paused.

Michael shifted uneasily under her gaze as he watched her across the once again placid surface of the water.

She was beautiful, regal, radiating an effortless power that begged the question what kind of power was actually contained within her should she find the need to place effort behind it.

"How is it possible?" Michael began as he straightened a bit, finally starting to get somewhat of a handle on the events that were unfolding.

"People would know. You are not exactly what I would call subtle. Over the past 100 years we have been everywhere, looked everywhere if there were dragons they would be known."

Michael was frustrated. While he maintained a healthy allowance that the world held many wonders, this was just a little much to take. A chuckle echoed around the cavern before Aoife answered.

"Michael, we are... due to our age, alone... sedentary creatures, now. Gone are the days when thousands of our kind roamed the earth. I lingered in my den for over three hundred years before coming back to this place."

"Once we came together in groups, had a society, struggled for power and honor and status as your kind does. But that time is long past."

"Today there are only nine of my kind left. The most powerful, or the wisest, or those with the most knowledge, are all that remains of the original nine dragon clans.

"Each clan gathered together when we finally accepted that the time of our dominance had passed. Being creatures born to great power... and the ego to match it... this acceptance took ages in coming. By the time of the great clan gatherings there was only a handful of each clan remaining."

"One was chosen to be the progenitor or liege of the clan. The selected received the ultimate gift, from the ultimate sacrifice of the others. We took in their ancient power and strength and knowledge. We became more than any of our kind before us. However, in doing so, we sacrificed any chance for the future of our race, alone."

"As far as I know, I will never cease to be. My form may change, there may come a time when nothing will rouse me to motion. But my life energy, my soul if you will, continues. It expands and grows through the ones we choose to be vessels for our power, moving us into a new age."

"The details are not important. We came together and made a decision. A decision that would ripple across the surface of eternity. Our race was done, but we did not wish to slip gently into the night. We made a pact, set down rules, chose ones from the new race that were strong. Ones who would carry on and proliferate our essence."

"The clan lieges spread out across the world, looking for those of your kind that meshed with their own beliefs and philosophies. This was four thousand years ago. Humanity was starting to create stable societies, work together, war together, learn and evolve together. Our hope was that all that we had been, all that we were, could be passed on. We hoped that we could continue, and be of some help to the race that would come to dominate the planet."

Aoife paused here. Unfurling her wings they stretched up and out over the lake.

Once again Michael was simply stunned by the sheer beauty and wonder of the creature before him.

The story sounded plausible, sounded as if it were truth. But then didn't psychotics believe their delusions to be truth with an unwavering vehemence?

Aoife growled and exhaled sharply in Michael's direction. He was caught off guard as the strong warm blast hit him, almost knocking him over.

"I grow weary of being thought an illusion," Aoife growled. Her emerald eyes flashing. With a sigh Michael stood up.

"I'm sorry Aoife, it is just very hard for me to take so much in." Michael said as he stretched his arms over his head. It had been a long day and it seemed there was little chance of it ending anytime soon.

Aoife's stance softened.

"I know young one, I am sorry as well, I have been waiting for you a very long time. The wait seems to have left me a bit impatient."

Aoife settled back to the sand as she continued her story.

"So, we all found humans that we would... sponsor. These first ones were given some of our spirit. In doing, they took on some of our traits."

"The chosen, as they have come to be called, were stronger, faster, smarter and longer lived than normal humans. Depending upon the clan, they also took on other of our abilities. To see the future or the past, look into others thoughts, manipulate the material world. The first of the chosen remained at the head of their human clans for many centuries. They traveled much, spreading the seeds of their unique gift."

"The leadership of a clan is not a right of birth, but a consequence of genetics. As the chosen traveled and had children the gift spread out from them. Most often it was dormant, or not strong enough to hear the call. But sometimes, usually once every three to four hundred years, one was born that was strong with the gift. I am sure one of the other clans, Ryujin's probably, could give you the statistics. Anyway, one would be born with the right talents, they would be...pulled to find one of my kind and become the new leader of the clan."

"What happens to the old clan leaders?" Michael asked. He had begun to pace on the small stone landing.

"They continue. Once one is chosen there is no going back. Understand, they are not immortal, just hardier than a normal human. Catastrophic injuries, explosions, prolonged submersion and... other things... can kill a chosen."

Aoife was about to continue but Michael started talking first.

"That man used something to kill Ian. The injury was dire but if what you say is true then he should have survived it. From the look of it he was dead almost instantly. So there must be some way, other than being thrown from the top of big Ben, to kill a chosen?"

Aoife shook her head slowly. He was quicker than any she had encountered before. Tapping a claw on one of the large boulders on the island she continued.

"There is another way. As I have told you there are nine dragon aspects that make up the clans. When the pact was made it was obvious that disputes would arise between the families we chose. The aspects themselves gravitated to sides best described as order and chaos. As is the case with most things in the universe a balance was struck."

"Four of the clans on one side, four on the other. Leaving one aspect not biased towards either. This clan became the sentinels of our kind. The watchers and in the end the judge when things came up that were un-resolvable through any other means."

"The eight of us agreed that this ninth house would be neutral. That they would be the final arbiters in disputes that concerned the two sides, be it between we dragons or the clan leaders we chose."

"To this ninth house was given a talon from each of the eight. Being part of us, it would have the power to destroy the gift in a leader, transferring that power to the neutral house until such time as it could be given to another of our line."

"This has only happened three times since the beginning of the pact. Twice on the side of order, once on the side of chaos. Each time, the ninth house called a gathering of the clans. Each time there was a consensus before the action was taken. And each time the clan matriarch or patriarch chose a successor prior to the action being taken. This ensured that the power was transferred to the next chosen as quickly as possible."

Aoife paused, her eyes closing as if the remembrance of such things took a great deal of energy to get through. Michael felt her worry and struggle, but also knew that this was important and that he needed to know the whole story. He waited, watching as she composed herself before continuing.

"Ian was wonderful leader of the clan. He always found himself to be somewhat lacking but it was not the case. Nicholas used my talon to kill Ian. His intention was not to just kill him, but to take his power, my power as his own."

"I have tried to reach out to the ninth clans matriarch with no success. You must understand that Nicholas having my talon can only mean that the ninth has been turned from its neutral stance. This imbalance is incredibly dangerous and something that none of my kind even considered to be possible."

Michael stood silently, letting the full understanding of what the implications would be sink in. Sitting on the edge of the stone wall once again, feet hanging over the water, he asked the next logical question.

"Why didn't this Nicholas get the power, if it truly was your talon shouldn't he have instantly received Ian's gifts?"

Aoife regarded Michael for a few seconds before lithely slipping into the lake making her way towards him. Her head broke the surface of the water at his feet, rising to where she was eye to eye with him. The emerald unblinking orbs captured him. He became lost within their ancient depths for a moment before she blinked and broke the spell.

"Ian had already passed on the majority of the gift to you. Since arriving in Nogardshire you have been feeling the effects of the transference. Ian did not accomplish this all at once. It was a gradual thing as he became more and more sure that Nicholas was coming for him. The last bit of the power, the key as it were, he returned to me this morning before his encounter with Nicholas."

Michael stood quickly, a heated rage washing over him as he now looked down at Aoife.

"You knew. YOU KNEW!"

Michael's yell reverberated off the cavern walls. It held a power and rage that seemed magnified by the surroundings.

Aoife did not answer immediately. She simply raised her eyelid in surprise at being yelled at. It was something that rarely occurred. It was just one more thing that set Michael apart from those that had come before him.

Raising her head up to his level once more, she continued.

"We are not pre-sentient Michael. We do not know what the future will hold any more than you do."

"With eight thousand years of experience are our guess's more accurate than yours? To be sure. However, until an event actually takes place there is always the opportunity for free will to intervene. It was Ian's wish that I did not. I know some of the reasons why, others were his alone. In any case, Ian has passed from this life. This leaves you as the heir to the throne as it were. As with all things, the choice is yours to accept the mantle or not.

Michael stood watching her for a long time. All of the ease and hope he had found last night with Tera and Valerie seemed to be evaporating around him.

Either he had gone insane and none of this was real. Or everything that Aoife had told him was the truth.

Neither option did much to alleviate the weight which he now felt squarely lay upon his shoulders.

"If all this is the truth, if I have fallen down the proverbial rabbit hole. What is next, what is expected of me, when do I have to decide?

Michael's question had an air of resignation that Aoife did not understand or particularly appreciate.

"This is a gift Michael, not a curse. Are there responsibilities that come with being a chosen? Yes there are. Just as there are responsibilities in living life or finding love, or any of the other myriad acts that make us answerable or responsible to others."

"No one lives a truly solitary life Michael. All of us interact with others; all of us take on their burdens as our own in some shape or form. Am I asking you to be a normal man? No, most definitely not. But I am also not asking you to be any closer to normal than you already are. You are unique Michael. You have been since the moment of your birth. Every sentient being is."




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 01



"Do you have abilities, potential, a destiny that others do not? Most assuredly. Does this make you inherently different from anyone else? Not in the least." 

"What I offer is yours by birth. It is not a gift or a curse. It is part of who you are, what makes you... you."

Aoife's eyes closed as she watched her words sink in. Michaels head raised a bit. Some of the light returned to his eyes. She sighed in relief upon seeing a small weary smile find it's way to his lips.

"How long?" Michael asked again. This time there was no anger or fear in the question. Simply the acceptance that the decision was his to make.

"Three days Michael. You will need to choose one way or the other before the moon rises three days hence. I know that you have a thousand questions. I am here Michael. Go, rest for a while. Let the understanding of this, of me, of who you are settle. When you are ready, return. I will answer any questions you have."

Michael slowly nodded his head. His remaining energy was quickly running out.

"Thank you for telling me Aoife, and thank you for always being there. The more I think back, the more times I find where your subtle hand guided my choices. Thank you for honoring me with your true form as well. It was shocking to say the least. But I am grateful for your trust. I will let you know as soon as I can."

Michael stood looking at Aoife for a long moment. Capturing her image in his mind before slowly turning and walking up the stairs toward the morning light which now glowed gray at the entrance far above. ...............

The interior of the crypt was lit by a single torch placed in the stone floor at the center of the room.

It took a moment for Michael's eyes to adjust to the shadowy interior.

As the details began to reveal themselves Michael began to count.

'12, 16, 18, 22'

Twenty-two spaces dug into the earth to hold the clan dead. Nine were covered with ornate capstones, each emblazoned with the richly detailed image of a dragon.

Some were simply the head, others the entire body. Some sitting, some standing, some with wings outstretched. All had been here so long that there was no way to tell by looking at them what order they had been placed.

All, that was, but the last. It lay on the floor beneath one of the niches. The white marble glowed in stark contrast to its gray counterparts. The image carved upon it was of a dragon in flight, wings caught eternally by the wind as it flew towards unknown shores. Two men emerged from the shadows to stand at the front of the litter. They began a low rhythmic chanting as, with a gentle touch, the men slowly slid Ian's body from the litter into the alcove. Their chanting increased in pitch and tempo the further the body drew into its final resting space. As Ian's shrouded head was laid softly on the limestone they held a long bass note that seemed to grow and gain energy as it echoed within the confines of the crypt.

As the note finally faded the men hefted the cap into place.

Tears came unbidden to Michael's eyes as they turned to leave Ian to his rest. Tera's hand slipping around his waist pulled him back from the brink of despair. Her energy gave him the strength and the will to move on.

Exiting the burial chamber Michael looked to the sky. The clouds had broken just a little. For a moment the sun shone down on the valley and it erupted in a brilliant green that took on an unreal hue under the light and rain that had preceded it.

Michael smiled as Valerie detached herself from Millie and came into his arms. He could do anything with them at his side. And he would move heaven and earth to make sure that they were always with him.

Millie smiled as she watched the three of them embrace. She found their ability to acknowledge the love and need and joy between them, even in the face of such tragedy, uplifting.

"We will need to get started, soon."

Nigel's words brought Millie back to the moment. With a soft squeeze of Nigel's hand, she nodded her head.

"I know, Nigel. Tomorrow will be soon enough. Tomorrow, they will be ready."

"Make the arrangements, we need to leave early. There is a long way to go and no time to do everything that needs to be done."

Nigel shook his head and moved off, dialing a number on his cell phone. 

'Time for one last trip,' he thought as the line connected and he started making the arrangements.

The break in the sky was filled by dark clouds, dropping the valley into pale grayness again. The shift causing Millie and Michael's eyes to find each other. The light was the same shade the morning after Ian's death. The first morning of Michael's new life. ...............

Millie had waited by the entrance throughout the night for Michael to return.

There was so much to do, and so little time to do it. 

'Ah well, we do as we must with that which we are given.' Millie thought to herself as she watched the moon slowly dip towards the horizon.

Nigel had come to her a few times bringing warm tea and a blanket for her. They sat silently outside the small building in the center of the maze, neither of them saying anything, simply comforted by the other's presence as they both processed their loss of Ian.

Just before dawn Nigel returned and sat next to her, wrapping his arm around her.

"I have made the calls. Our three friends understand and send their deepest condolences. They will also be ready when we tell them. I also began the arrangements. Day after tomorrow at mid-morning, we will hold the ceremony for Ian."

Nigel's words were hushed, as if saying them in a louder voice would make them truer.

"Thank you, Nigel. I appreciate you getting things arranged. It is going to be a very busy few days." Millie said as she leaned against Nigel's shoulder, the stress of the day finally threatening to overwhelm her.

Nigel held her tightly in the pre-dawn as she wrestled with consciousness. Both of their hearts had been broken on this day that seemed would never come to an end.

Michael stepped out into the early morning light. It was a gray morning. Thick clouds hung close to the earth, as if a shroud had been pulled over the world. Michael thought it fitting, considering the events of yesterday.

"Michael," Millie said as she walked over to him from where she had been sitting. 

Nigel had left just a few moments before, to check on the increased security measures.

"Hello, Millie," Michael said, the fatigue evident in his voice.

"I know you are exhausted but there is one more thing we need to do before we can both get some rest."

Looping her arm in his they walked slowly through the twisting hedges of the maze making their way back to the castle.

Entering through a side door, Michael and Millie encountered only two security guards as they made their way up an ornate wooden staircase towards one of the castle's towers.

The heavy oak door opened soundlessly as Millie and Michael entered Ian's study.

Millie paused. All of the moments here with Ian came rushing back to her.

A crisis solved around Ian's desk.

The naps taken on the soft worn leather couch.

Making love in front of the fireplace.

Watching Michael grow from a boy to a man.

She had shared so much with Ian in this space. 

Closing her eyes she could feel his presence.

His arms around her waist as he kissed her hello after a trip.

His lips on her nipple as they made love.

The sound of his laughter, as he played with Valerie.

The loss of him suddenly became overwhelming and Millie gently slumped against Michael, who was walking slowly into the room at her side.

Michael pulled Millie into his arms. Angling towards the couch he sat her gently in the soft confines of the supple leather. Looking around he found a crystal decanter on a side table. 

Walking over to it, he poured three fingers of fiery amber liquid into a glass and handed it to Millie.

She looked up at the proffered glass as Michael's strong hand came gently to her shoulder.

"Drink this. I can't imagine how you are still moving after everything that has happened. Is there anyone I can call to help, you really need to get some rest."

Michael's words were a comfort as he knelt before her, the concern showing in his eyes.

"I'll be fine, Michael, thank you." Millie said as she took a small sip of the whiskey.

"Please," Millie said motioning towards the large desk in front of the large rose window. "In the top center drawer of the desk there is a small stack of letters. Please bring them to me." Michael could see the strains of the past twenty-four hours quickly catching up to Millie as he turned from her and walked to the desk.

It was an ornate beast. Made from a gleaming reddish/black wood that Michael couldn't place, it was the focal point of the room. Almost double the size of a traditional desk it sat on large claw feet. It felt more like the bridge of a ship than a simple desk to work at. As if from behind it you could command legions. He wondered as he slid the chair from its place and opened the drawer what tales this thing would tell if it could.

The small stack of envelopes was the only thing in the drawer. Michael lifted them out gingerly, surprised to see his name on the top one. 

Walking back to Millie he placed the small stack in her outstretched hand.

"Thank you." Millie said as she slid the top envelope away from the others and handed it back to Michael.

"Ian wrote these yesterday morning. He knew that something was coming, that he would not have the time he had hoped for to explain things. Ian did not want it to be this way, he so wanted to pass on what he knew, to help you down the path you now find yourself on."

Millie paused, her throat closing up with the emotions that buffeted her like waves in an angry sea. She was grateful for Michael's hand as it took her own, giving her the strength to continue in a halting voice.

"It was not to be. Nicholas made sure of that. I know you have been through a lot Michael. Don't be overwhelmed. It will get easier, more real. 

For now, stay here, read what Ian wrote. I will find you later today and answer whatever questions I can."

Millie rose slowly. She gave Michael a weak hug before walking slowly from the room. Michael hoped she would be able to rest.

Pouring a drink... which he downed in one gulp, and then refilled... he looked at the envelope in his hand. His name, in formal flowing script was written across its face. It looked like a wound on the pale beige parchment. Sitting in the overstuffed leather chair by the cold fireplace he broke the ornate wax seal and began to read.

Michael,

I will dispense with the pleasantries of how sorry I am that I am not able to help you through your transition. Nor will I try to persuade you in your decision. As it always has been, the decision to become a Chosen lies with the intended, and with none other.

It is strange to be writing this. For so many years, since the day you were born, I have watched you grow into the man who now stands at a precipice.

Your old life lies behind you. By simply turning from the edge, by retracing a few steps back, you can continue forward on that path as if none of this has happened.

Or, you can close your eyes and, with a single step, abandon yourself to the void of the unknown.

It will not be a pain free fall, Michael. All I can promise you is that you will land on your feet. The landscape of your life will change in ways you cannot imagine should you take this leap, and allow Aoife to mark you as the chosen of the clan.

Millie is there... at least it is my great hope that she is. She knows much, Michael. Listen to her. Ask her the questions you have. Between her and Aoife you can get a pretty clear picture of what is to come, what is expected of you, and what your responsibilities will be.

Note I said a 'pretty clear' picture. There are no absolutes, Michael. Everything can change in the blink of an eye, as you well know. And most things usually do just that, change while your not looking.

You will learn things in the next few days that will make your blood run cold, things that will enrage you beyond anything you could have imagined. You will find new heights of joy. All of these and the myriad of emotions in between will be your 'part and parcel', should you choose to step into this particular abyss.

When faced with the same choice, I agonized over it until the very last moment. In the end the siren's call of an undiscovered life pushed me over that edge. I have never regretted it for a moment.

There is so much more I would like to tell you. So many other little things... details and tricks learned over more than three hundred years that could help you with what is to come. But that is simply not to be.

You can trust Millie and Nigel. They have been my companions and friends through most of my long life. Millie will explain it to you. But keep your eyes open, Michael. Each of the chosen find ones to accompany them on the journey. You have found two already. Keep Valerie and Tera close, Michael. Loving and being loved makes facing the possibility of eternity much more palatable.

Watch over Millie for me. She gave up so much, choosing to live her life at my side. Please protect her, and let her know that I shall love her... always.

Live well, Michael,

Ian

Michael held the letter loosely in his hand. His eyes closed as he let Ian's words sink in.

The hope of psychosis slipped further away as the reality of his life and the choice that he had to make crystallized.

He needed to see Valerie and Tera, needed to feel their all too human heat next to him.

Standing to go find his mates the concussion from an explosion nearby sent him sprawling to the floor. The stained glass window behind Ian's desk fractured under the pressure, showering him with a stinging mist of color. It was replaced by thick black smoke that engulfed the room.

Michael coughed as he crawled towards the door.

'Nicholas.' 

The name flamed to the front of his mind. He had taken Ian, wanting Aoife's power. It seemed that yesterday had not provided Nicholas with enough blood.

Making his way out of the room and rising. Michael took the stairs two at a time. Valerie and Tera the only things in his now focused and wrath filled mind. 

*

Edited By TeNderLoin



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 02



Chapter 2

"We will need to be leaving tomorrow." Millie said as she walked up to stand next to Michael. The ceremony for Ian had just ended, those few in attendance had left only Michael, Valerie, Tera and Millie remained.

Valerie was standing at the entrance to the burial mound, Tera at her side, as she said a final goodbye to her Uncle.

"I haven't made my decision yet."

Millie was surprised by his response but instead of commenting she simply stood with him. They watched silently as dark clouds roiled in the sky, a precursor to a coming deluge that was more a matter of when than if.

Shaking his head, Michael cast a sideways glance at Millie.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't add to the burdens you already have concerning this, especially not today. The last three days have turned my life upside down. I swing from easy acknowledgement to absolute denial on what seems a minute by minute basis." Michael said, giving Millie's arm a light squeeze.

"I understand Michael. Nothing in your past could have prepared you for the revelations of the past few days. As we have talked, the choice is yours, there is always free will." Millie's straightforward manor put Michael at ease.

Movement in the direction of the crypt caught his eye as Valerie and Tera made their way toward him.

"I'll be going to see Aoife again once I get Valerie and Tera settled. I have to talk with them...try and explain this. Try and find a way to convey the meaning and danger involved in taking up the mantle. I can't ask them to follow this path with me unless they understand and knowingly commit." Michael's tone was lifeless as he turned from Millie. A forced smile finding its way to his lips as his women approached.

"They will surprise you Michael." Millie whispered before Tera and Valerie came within earshot.

"Ready?" Michael asked as he pulled Valerie into a tight embrace.

Smiling up at him through clear but puffy eyes she nodded as the four of them fell into step. They followed the well-worn path out of the valley back toward the castle. Behind them the clouds finally gave up their struggle to contain the rain. It fell in thick gray sheets, the crypt and stone monoliths that stood silent sentinel to it, lost to the growing storm.

Their pace was quick returning to the castle. The walk passed in silence as they each found themselves lost to their own thoughts.

' A kings burial.' Tera thought. She had been moved by the simple yet powerful ceremony that released Ian to the ages. 'Would that I could hope to be treated as honorably when my time comes.' Tera thought half wistfully, half with the tone of a prayer.

Michael walked with heavy steps. His decision made, talking with Valerie and Tera was merely a formality. This bothered him. He took neither of them lightly, loved and cared for them with a passion so deep that it sometimes took his breath away. However, in this there could be no turning back. No moving away from the path laid before him. He felt the rightness of it to his very core. He believed that taking up the mantle of the clan would cost him one if not both of the women he loved so deeply.

Valerie felt Michael's hand squeeze hers just a bit more tightly. She looked at his face and was surprised to find fear and resignation there. Michael was the bravest man she had ever encountered. To see him burdened by such things shook Valerie to her core. Michael loved and lived without limits, it was his natural state. She worried for what could weigh so heavily upon him.

Valerie missed Ian's presence, his easy wit and quiet strength. Now, walking between Michael and Tera, she also understood that the ceremony had provided closure for her feelings of loss. Yes Ian was gone, but she was not alone, never would she be again. And this fact filled her with peace that provided an easy flow to her steps as she walked toward the future with those that she loved.

Millie walked alone, a few steps ahead of Michael and the girls. Rounding the bend she sighed seeing the castle come into view. Once Michael took leadership of the clan Ian would truly be at peace. With that, Millie could move forward, helping and guiding Michael along the path that was now set.

Picking up her pace as they entered the grounds of the castle proper she smiled as a break in the clouds allowed warm sunlight to bathe the old pathway to the house.

"I love you Ian," she whispered as the easy warmth enveloped her for a moment, almost capturing the feeling of Ian's arms around her. Turning she smiled at the three lovers.

"I am going to rest for a bit. Michael, if you could find me this afternoon there are several things we need to discuss." Millie said giving Michael a meaningful look before turning and disappearing inside the castle.

Michael moved in front of Valerie and Tera, his free hand finding Tera's. "Lets go upstairs, there are some things I need to talk with you both about." Michael said with a sorrowful look in his eye that both Valerie and Tera noted as he turned and lead them through the side entrance.

In the shadowed entryway Michael looked up the stairs before him. He could still smell the stench left from the attack yesterday morning, eyes closing of their own volition he found himself back in that moment, the fear of losing his lovers overwhelming in both that instant, and in this moment.

...............

Choking black smoke met Michael as he reached the ground floor. Disoriented, he groped along the wall in a crouch holding his shirt over his face. Turning a corner he found himself in the kitchen.

The smoke was not as bad, although the explosion had knocked many things off the numerous shelves, giving the place a surreal feel, as if the world had been tilted on its axis. Gaining his bearings he ran toward the back of the house. His thoughts whirling, a maelstrom of fear for Valerie and Tera and rage against Nicholas, who was undoubtedly behind this latest attack.

Michael ran into the room, finding it in turmoil. Shattered glass from the windows and French doors littered the floor, flames could be seen dancing through the jagged holes left behind. He didn't see Valerie or Tera his fear left him as his rage against those who would harm them consumed him. Stalking toward the shattered windows he looked to find those who had beckoned their own destruction.

Valerie and Tera had come downstairs about fifteen minutes before. The women had spent a restless night without Michael and had awoken early with the intention of tracking down their wayward mate. They were just saying hello to Elise when the attack began.

Valerie, Tera and Elise were knocked to the ground by the first blast as the time hardened foundations shook under the explosion.

"Stay low, both of you. Try to get out of this room." Tera said as she pulled her P226 from the small of her back, moving fast toward the now shattered glass doors that lead to the terrace.

"Everyone stay down!" Nigel yelled to those in the room.

Keying his com he began barking orders. "Team Two and Three set up a perimeter at the back. Team One split up take a side and sweep the rest of the exterior. Team Four stay here, if the opposition makes it through you're the last line. Now GO!"

The first explosion had hit just as Nigel and Sims made their way into the castle for breakfast. Nigel had left Millie only moments before, stopping by the barracks to get a situation report from Sims. Nigel had found Sims and Elise in her room. A stern look from Nigel ended their conversation.

"Why don't you go over to the main house, I'll meet you there in a few minutes." Sims said with a smile to Elise then followed Nigel to the control room.

Sims had broken into a low fast run as soon as the explosion shook the castle. With cautious intention he moved into the large room at the back of the house. Debris littered the area from the force of the recent detonation.

"Elise!" Sims yelled as he ran into the room. Visibility was low. Sims dropped to a low crouch hearing a moan from the back of the room he made his way toward it.

Keying his com Sims looked over the bleeding body of a Team One member.

"Nigel we need a medic, I've got a man down near the explosion, looks like the blast caught him in the face and torso." Sims said as his eyes scanned the room.

"Understood, they are on the way, E.T.A. 3 minutes." Nigel's voice crackled in response.

Finding the mans med kit Sims cracked it open, retrieved a pain surret and injected it into his thigh.

"Stay low and stay put, medics are en route." Sims said in the mans ear as he quickly moved toward the shattered opening at the back of the house.

"Sims!" Tera said in a low controlled voice as she saw him emerge from the smoky interior of the room.

Seeing Tera, Sims made his way over to her, eyes always scanning, on the look out both for threats and Elise.

"Valerie and Elise are at my seven behind the couch. Get them out of here. Now!"

Tera's voice was deathly calm but carried a weight that would not be ignored.

"Will do. We have one wounded and down in the corner, medics on the way, no sign of the opposition." Sims said giving Tera a quick pat on the shoulder before moving back into the room to find Elise.

Tera was just about to move onto the terrace when a strong hand grabbed her bicep. Turning as she brought the gun around to confront her attacker she froze as her eyes locked with Michael's.

In all her years working with some of the most skilled and dangerous people on the planet, in some of the most stressful situations, Tera had never encountered a pair of eyes like those that were now locked with hers. They were almost completely black with the vaguest golden hues that seemed to swirl with an unearthly speed. They were the eyes of chaos, eyes that would lead unerringly to the source of their cause and then, extinguish it without mercy.

"Where's Valerie," Michael almost growled.

Relaxing a bit Tera answered.

"She is towards the back shielded by the couch, I just sent Sims to get her and Elise out of here."

Michael nodded.

Releasing his grip on her arm he stepped through newly formed hole in the wall before Tera could stop him. Shaking her head, fist tightening around the cool butt of her gun she followed him through the breech.

Nigel came into the room with the medics. Assessing the situation he signaled the location of the downed man. As the medics took off in the direction he indicated, simultaneously he saw Sims leading two women out of the room to the front of the house and Michael, follow closely by Tera, running onto the terrace.

"Dammit!" Nigel swore as he followed them, pulling his Desert Eagle from the holster. 'Won't this day ever end,' he thought moving to catch up with the pair.

"This is Holmes, I'm on the roof. Looks like a 5 man team to the rear at the edge of the terrace, they are using the hedges for cover. I saw two with heavy weapons. Team One has completed perimeter sweep, no other unfriendlies encountered." The situation report made Nigel feel a little better as he weighed the odds and the contingencies before keying his own com.

"Team Four send two men out to the terrace, provide cover for Tera, Michael and myself. Team One, leave one man at the front, the rest split around the sides of the house in a wide arc.  I want you behind them. When you are in position let me know and we will catch them in a crossfire. Holmes, what assets do you have?" Nigel asked on the run as he moved through the debris toward Michael and Tera who had taken up a covered position behind the now fallen stone fountain in the center of the terrace.

"I have the standard load out with two extra mags and flash bangs for the heavy." Holmes reported.

'Good,' Ian thought as he came up behind Michael and Tera.

"Holmes, load the flash, Team One when you are in position I want a controlled burst over their heads, as soon as that happens Holmes drop the flash behind them. Team Four as soon as the flash goes we move in. One hold your position to pick up any stragglers, I want prisoners people. Everyone copy?"

Tera had turned upon hearing the voice behind her. Eyeing Nigel she returned to scanning the area at the edge of the terrace.

"This is Holmes, Copy. Team Four, Copy. Team One, Copy. Copy, burst in twenty...Mark!"

"Michael stay down and out of the way!" Nigel said, his tone one that would brook no argument.

Michael did not acknowledge his statement. As the fire from Team One began Michael closed his eyes for a moment. In the next he was up and running toward the maze. Blood the only thing on his mind.

"Hold Fire!" Nigel yelled into his com as Michael flashed toward the tight group of men in front of the maze.

"Michael!" Tera screamed as she darted from cover in hot pursuit.

Michael saw the group of men, felt the rage shift to a blinding fury that ached for release.

In one glorious instant he released his rage and fury, reveled in its deadly intention. Gave himself over to extinguishing the chaos.

Tera watched as the five men dropped to the ground. Their screams welling forth from the spot where they lay. It rolled over and out enveloping the terrace and the maze in the sound of pure agony.

Tera stopped, Nigel a few steps behind her.

Neither could comprehend exactly what had happened.

The moment drew out..10 seconds...20 seconds...30 seconds...

Michael stood at the edge of the terrace. His chest heaving as he took in great gulps of air. The understanding of what he had wrought began to crystallize in that newly discovered place where his ancient lineage awakened within him.

He was about to fall to his knees, Tera had already started moving toward him when, with a speed none who saw could process, he was in motion again, moving with the surety and purpose of an arrow loosed from it's bow. The burst of motion ended with Michael between Nigel and the previously hidden sixth member of the opposition assault team.

The first shot hit Nigel in the leg.

The second found Michael's shoulder, shielding the shot that would have taken Nigel in the throat.

The third bullet passed through Nigel's arm as he fell.

The fourth was marked by a livid black hole through the center of the sixth mans forehead. Exactly where Tera had placed it.

"God Dammit. Medic!" Tera yelled as both Team Four and Team One moved onto the terrace forming a tight perimeter around the now kneeling men.

"What the hell were you thinking?" Nigel huffed as he looked at Michael.

"That I was being a bit reckless." Michael said with a lopsided grin.

Shaking his head Nigel lay back on the grass, thankful that while there were injuries, they could have been much much...much worse. 

"If you ever fucking do something like that again Michael I will..." Tera's words were cut off as Michael pulled her to him, locking his lips on hers in a kiss that was both needy and giving in the same moment. Tera moaned into his mouth, feeling the endorphins in her system begin to loosen their hold.

The medic exited the house sprinting toward the two wounded men.

Thinking the action was over, everyone was startled as an explosion echoed from the cavernous interior of the castle.

Tera stood, looking toward the house before glancing back to Michael. She didn't find him. All she saw was the blur of his back as he ran into the house. However, only a single step separated them as they disappeared into the smoldering hole at the back of the castle.

"Go after them!" Nigel yelled as Team Four bolted to provide backup.

............

Sims found Elise and Valerie crouched behind the remains of the overturned couch.

Pulling Elise to him in a quick embrace, he was amazed that such a simple action could provide such a sense of calm and assurance.

"Are you both alright?" Sims whispered to the two women as he looked around the immediate area.

"Yes, we're OK, where are Michael and Tera?" Valerie asked.

"Outside. We need to get out of here. Stay low and stay close."

Sims gave Elise's hand a squeeze and moved off low and quick toward the back of the room, the women close behind.

Smoke filled the hallway as they ran quickly through the gray haze making their way through the kitchen to the dinning room.

Pausing Sims surveyed the scene. The room was fairly intact. A few paintings had been knocked from the wall but the damage in here was slight, the smoke and fire from the battle behind them had not reached this far.

"You need to go back for Michael and Tera," Valerie said. She was almost frantic that her mates had rushed head long into the battle. 'They should be here, we should be together.' she thought.

Sims saw the manic look in Valerie's eyes, understood that she was going into shock.

Grabbing her by the shoulders Sims looked her in the eye while he pulled her close, giving her no choice but to meet his gaze.

"They are doing what they need to Valerie. Tera is the best I have ever seen. And Michael...well Michael is unique. Keep it together, you can't afford to lose it right now."

As the words left Sims' lips another explosion rocked the foundations of the castle. Moving quickly, Sims pushed Valerie and Elise under the heavy oak dining table. Peering over the edge, looking to the front entrance of the room he saw dark forms moving through the gray ash filled air.

Keying his com, Sims whispered into the air, his Walther held at arms length, hands curled around the butt, finger quivering over the trigger.

"Anyone toward the front of the castle,? I have opposition advancing on my position in the dinning room."

"Sims, Team One already on the way to your location from the rear."

"This is Holmes, moving to position to cover front, hold."

"Dammit, another opposition team converging on the front of the house, I see three men holding a perimeter position, possibly three or more unfriendlies already inside. They blew the front door."

"Holmes, do you have a clear line on the perimeter team?"

"Yes."

"Burn them on Sims' command. Stay in position to clean up any who get out of the house."

As Sims was about to move Michael and Tera came to his side, crouched low behind the table.

"What do we have?" Tera asked, her gun joining Sims' as they moved like lethal snakes over the top of the table, aching to strike.

"Three men, possibly more, they blew the front door." Sims said, grateful that backup had arrived.

Glancing behind him Sims noticed three members of Team One take up position along the back wall. Catching their eyes a swift set of hand motions directed them to split up to flanking positions around the edges of the table and for one to remain by the door to keep a secure retreat point.

Michael found Valerie underneath the table. With a quick motion he pulled her to him and kissed her. It was hard and fast, full of passion and energy that overwhelmed her as it drew out and then broke as quickly as it had begun.

"Stay here, Tera and Sims will take care of this." Valerie said to Michael as he began to pull away from her.

"It's alright Valerie, Michael will fine, he needs to do this, it is not in his nature to stand back while those he cares about are in danger." The response from Elise next to her surprised Valerie. It also calmed her as the tranquil ease of her words lent a profound truthfulness to the statement.

Michael stood, starting to walk around the table with a deliberate ease. Tera grabbed him by the arm before he had taken two steps, pulling him down to her side.

"Not this time."

Tera's tone left no room for argument. However, it still took several seconds for the feral glow in Michael's eyes to recede.

"You two stay here." Sims said in a low voice to Tera and Michael before keying his com. 

"Team One on my signal we go," he said raising three fingers over his shoulder where Team One could see them.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 02



The fingers slowly disappeared into a fist. Sims whispered to Holmes, "Burn them." The men moved with practiced speed and precision out of the dining room into the smoke filled fog left by the explosion.

Shots rang out almost immediately from both inside and outside the castle. Michael ducked down below the table, hands entwining with both Valerie and Elise. Tera scanned the opening, ready to deal swift death to any foe that finds their way to her sights.

Sims took up the middle position as the three walked deliberately into the next room. The finger hovering over the trigger of the Walther twitched, the next instant 9mm of lead found itself embedded in the forehead of one the attackers. Sims fired again as the men around him found and dispatched targets of their own.

Everything was still, the smell of cordite was thick from the thin blue smoke that hung in the air as the three scanned the room looking for other threats.

"Clear."

"Clear."

"Holmes?" Sims questioned in a quiet voice.

"Clear."

Sims sighed in relief, the tension slowly falling from him as he turned and walked back into the dining room.

"Secure the perimeter, have four more teams called up, I want the town locked down." Nigel said through the com, his voice hollow as the day finally overcame his considerable reserves.

"Are you alright?"

The concern was thick in Michael's voice as he helped Valerie from beneath the table.

She came into his arms, her whole body shaking as the effects of her adrenaline surge began to waver. She began sobbing quietly against his chest, his arms wrapped around her protectively.

Tera watched as Sims bent down and gently helped Elise to her feet and then into his arm. The girl was calm. This surprised Tera. Such situations usually sent those not trained for them into shock. Elise smiled as Sims hugged her to him, the two standing motionless in the middle of the room.

"Michael."

He was surprised to hear Millie's voice and turned without releasing Valerie.

"Why don't you take Valerie and Tera upstairs, let me begin to sort this out."

Michael nodded and with a look toward Tera the three walked slowly from the room. Valerie held gently between Michael and Tera as they made for the stairs.

................

Michael awoke to the sounds of muffled banging coming from below. Groaning he turned his head, finding Tera and Valerie wrapped in each others arms.

The three of them had showered quickly and collapsed into the bed after this mornings attack. Ian's death the day before, his long night with Aoife, this mornings action had drained everyone's last ounce of strength.  They had all fallen to deep restful sleep.

He watched them for a while. The way Valerie would lightly moan when Tera's arm shifted its position around her. How Tera would pull her closer when she did.

Reluctantly, Michael slid quietly from the warm confines of the bed. His body ached from the strains he had placed upon it. Making his way to the bathroom he brushed his teeth. Looking in the mirror he was surprised that he looked none the worse for wear, perhaps around the eyes, they seemed darker - more intense than he had noticed before. He pushed the thought aside as he finished his necessities. After pulling on a heavy sweater, jeans and tying his shoes he quietly left the room in search of some food; he had not eaten anything in almost 24 hours and was famished.

Michael was surprised as he stepped into the kitchen to find it neat and tidy. Mrs. Colridge, the cook, was standing at the large refrigerator seemingly inventorying the contents.

"Hello." Michael said as he walked to the coffee pot, grateful that it was full.

"Ah, hello lad. Can I get you something?" She asked.

"I don't want to be a bother." Michael said. His eyes had a lost look to them that Mrs. Colridge recognized as she opened a cabinet and retrieved a large mug for his coffee.

"Thanks," Michael said as he gratefully took the cup and filled it.

"Lunch will be in about an hour." She said before returning to her work.

Michael made his way through the damaged back room. All of the furniture, destroyed by the explosion or the fire had been removed. Masons were already at work chipping away at the gaping holes in the stone walls to give them a smooth edge prior to repair.

Stepping through what had been the doorway he found more workers outside repairing damage to the flagstones of the terrace. Walking to the edge, looking out over the maze, his eyes drawn to the small crypt at the far end he stopped. The revelations learned there coming back full force. Looking down he saw a deep scarlet stain on the flags; he had stopped where he and Nigel had been shot just this morning.

His hand moved to his shoulder. He remembered the pain of it, the searing heat as the bullet, meant for Nigel, had burned its way through his flesh. Now, nothing remained of the wound aside from a small scar he had noticed in the mirror.

Shaking his head, Michael walked a few steps to the edge of the terrace. Sitting down he fished out a crumpled pack of cigarettes from his pocket. Retrieving the last one he lit it with his chrome Zippo, enjoying the sensation as the smoke filled his lungs.

"That will kill you, you know."

Millie's voice from behind him was playful, but carried a forced undercurrent that Michael understood.

"My wife use to tell me that all the time. I think I have other things now higher on the list of things that may kill me."

Michael's tone was balanced as he said this, holding both sadness and resignation.

"How are Valerie and Tera?" Millie asked as she sat next to him.

"Tera is holding up well, Valerie will take a bit more time to get there. Ian's death and the attack this morning have been very hard on her."

"Valerie is a strong young woman, she will be fine. More so because she has you and Tera."

"There are things we need to discuss Michael. Would you like to do it here or inside?"

Millie offered no third option of waiting until later.

"Here is fine." Michael said, weariness finding it's way back into his voice.

Millie studied Michael for a moment before beginning.

"Taking up leadership of the clan is voluntary Michael. It is not something you have to do, the choice is yours. Ian wanted to explain the details but.... well, it is now up to me."

"Being Ian's heir means taking on a number of responsibilities. First is that of leader of the four clans. There is our clan based from Nogardshire, we oversee Great Britain, parts of Europe and the Americas. The others are based in Japan, India and Australia. Together the four clans manage – jointly - corporations all over the world. Ian was the final decision maker and was at least somewhat involved in all major business decisions concerning the clans. Each has their own niche, each has their own singular power base. Their foundations are laid from the same unique lineage as our own."

"It will be necessary for you to travel to each of them. With them you will learn different parts of your own lineage, learn what your heritage means, the duty and responsibilities that come with it."

Michael interrupted Millie before she continued.

"If I choose to accept, when would I need to go?"

"As soon as possible. Ian will be laid to rest tomorrow. We should get started as soon after that as we can."

Michael nodded his head in answer. As the silence drew out Millie continued.

"There are those that oppose us, obviously," Millie said with a sweep of her hand at the destruction surrounding them.

"They are the same as us, only they work toward and thrive upon chaos. To control the path the world takes for their own ends.  They care nothing for humanity as a whole only for what it can provide them."

"The clans have been at war, both hot and cold, since the beginning. Each side trying to gain a foothold, an edge against the inherent balance the universe demands."

"For thousands of years our kind has influenced the history of the planet. Sometimes the battles go to us, sometimes the others. The war continues, but in the end there has always been a balance."

"With Nicholas' actions, things have changed. In the past the clans have worked in concert toward similar goals or, in counter to moves the other side was making. These were almost always decided and agreed upon by all."

"It seems that Nicholas has stepped outside these undefined lines. It was Ian's belief that he was looking for complete control of all the clans. It seems that we underestimated his fervor in this and have paid the highest of prices for our ignorance and lack of forethought."

Michael looked over at Millie as this last was said with a mixture of venom and sadness. He did not speak but simply placed his arm around her shoulder. After a moment to compose herself she continued, grateful for Michael's show of support.

"You have spoken to Aoife, you have a brief idea of where you come from, why you have been chosen to take Ian's place. There is more that she will need to tell you and it is her place, not mine, to do so."

"If you have questions about interacting with the other clans, the business holdings, those types of things, please do not hesitate to ask me. I will do everything I can to help ease your transition."

Michael looked at Millie, noted her drawn pale look.

"Why don't you go and get some sleep. I'm sure that you didn't get much rest last night while you were waiting for me while I was with Aoife. I'm going to grab something to eat then take a walk in the maze."

Michael said as he stood, offering his hand to Millie.

"I think you are probably right, I do need some more sleep. It's hard though, nightmares seem to be stalking me."

Michael merely nodded and once again placed his arm around her shoulder as they walked back into the castle.

Lunch was hearty and filling, a roast beef sandwich with chips. Michael enjoyed the simple fare and was grateful for the brief respite from his whirling thoughts. Valerie and Tera came down just as Michael was finishing up.

"Good afternoon." He said, giving Tera a light kiss and then pulling Valerie into a deep strong hug.

"How long have you been up?" Valerie's voice betrayed how fragile she still was.

"About an hour and a half. After you've eaten, you two may want to find Millie. I think having you close would mean a great deal to her."

Tera nodded to Michael over Valerie's shoulder, letting him know that she understood it would be just as meaningful for Valerie.

"I am going to take a walk, I'll catch up with you both in a few hours." Michael said as he hugged Valerie tight and gave a quick squeeze to Tera's hand as he left them to their afternoon. He wanted nothing more than to stay with them but he knew that more answers were needed, and there was only one being that could provide them.

The torch was still lit in its holder on the wall as he entered the shadowed confines of the crypt. Walking slowly down the rough-hewn steps her voice reached him as he gained the small landing.

"Hello young one. You did well in the battle." Her voice was strong and comforting, like a warm blanket that enveloped you, protected you from the worries of the waking world.

"I have some questions," Michael said as he placed the torch in the iron holder and sat at the edge of the lake.

"I supposed that you would." Aoife replied as she glided to a soft landing on the small island at the center of the underground lake.

The question that had been eating at him almost from the instant he left her last came to the fore.

"Must I face this alone?"

The resignation in his voice almost broke her heart as he uttered his question. He was afraid of being alone again, of losing that which he had just rediscovered was possible.

"The mantle is yours Michael. There is no other who can take on the responsibilities of leading the clan."

Michael's head dropped.

"However, that does not mean that you must meet those responsibilities alone. Each clan liege can, with those who make the choice to do so, enhance a few of those he chooses as companions. The number varies depending upon the strength of the leader. Ian chose two companions long ago, gave them what gifts he could after they understood what he was asking. They agreed to stand with him, to help him with the burdens of leadership as they could. You will have the same opportunity, as all of your line have down through the ages."

Michael looked up, even across the distance Aoife could see the spark of hope in his eyes.

"Then Valerie and Tera, they could...." Michael's question trailed off as the true ramifications of what Aoife had said sunk in.

"Yes, Valerie and Tera could choose to undergo their own change. But they would have to be told what it entails. It is...permanent. There are things to be lost as well as gained in making the choice to be bound to you."

"What do they have to know?" Michael asked, his hope toned down from its earlier level.

"It is the force of your love and feeling for someone that makes the choice possible. You...imbue them with a piece of your unique power. This will prolong their life, help them to heal if wounded, keep them safe from disease. It will enhance whatever inherent skills they possess. But it also binds them to you in a very fundamental way. Their feelings for you will be multiplied. You will become as necessary to them as air."

"Ian was strong, he could have chosen several to be his companions along the path. In the end, there were only two that he ever gave this gift and burden to."

"Nigel and Millie." It was more of a statement than a question as Michael uttered the names.

"Yes. Both have been at his side almost from the beginning."

Michael thought on this for many minutes.

On the one hand he was exuberant with the knowledge that taking Ian's place would not preclude a life with Valerie and Tera. On the other he was worried about the cost of such a decision to the women. He had vowed to keep them at his side always, to face whatever life threw at them together. They had made the same vow to him. But this went beyond that vow, it was something irrevocable. Even though that was how he felt about his own vow to them, he was unsure, faced with the truth of what his life could be, that Valerie and Tera would find the same true for them. Perhaps Millie would be willing to talk with them, as she had lived the life he would be asking them to join him in.

Returning his attention to the Aoife, Michael asked the next logical question.

"What about children?"

Michael's question hung in the air. Its echo reverberating off the stone walls of the cavern. It was a few moments after it finally faded that Aoife responded.

"Children among the chosen are very very rare. It has happened over the years. But only a handful of times. These children are normal, as our essence is not something that manifests simply from the coupling of one of the chosen. Clan lieges normally adopt and raise children many times throughout their lives."

Michael was thoughtful considering this.

"I can see the need for full disclosure." He finally said.

"Understand Michael, it is not something that can simply be done to a person. They play an active role in the change. They have to willingly take a part of you for it to be successful."

"Is there any danger involved?"

"Not that I know of. It is a straightforward thing that once agreed to and initiated takes less than a day. I have not heard of any ill effects caused by it."

Michael was thoughtful as he stood reaching for the torch.

"Thank you for the answers Aoife, I have until tomorrow at sunset to decide correct?"

"Yes, anytime between now and then. But No Longer." Aoife cautioned.

Michael nodded his head absently as his footfalls sounded heavily on the stairs toward the surface.

Aoife once again wondered at Michael's depth of feeling as the light from the torch faded, replaced by the dull gray light from the ancient well head above. His caring could be a strength that would make him more than any who had come before him. Or it could be a fatal weakness that could lead to the ruin of all. For herself and the multitude that unknowingly relied upon him, she hoped the former rather than the latter was true.

The sun had already started its slow decent into the west as Michael stepped from the crypt. Broken clouds raced across the sky pushed by harsh wind from the south. He identified with the clouds being taken on a journey not of their choosing or desire. His own life in the last months had been the same, he felt pushed by unseen and uncontrollable forces toward a decision that was truly not a choice at all.

The rest of the afternoon passed quickly. Michael shared his time between Tera, Valerie and Millie.

As evening fell with the ceremony for Ian and his own choice looming the next day Michael had fallen into a restless sleep unable to keep the demons of the past and the phantoms of the future at bay.

................

The fireplace, lit by the servants while they were at the ceremony, gave the room a cloying warmth that bothered Michael as he entered bedroom.

Crossing the room, Michael opened the French doors onto the balcony, the cool air was bracing as he turned to see Valerie and Tera seated on the bed watching him intently.

Shrugging off his jacket he regarded them for a moment, taking in each one last time before starting what was sure to be their final conversation.

"Some things have been put into motion since Ian's death that both of you need to be aware of." Michael said as he began to slowly pace in front of them, his eyes down, not meeting theirs.

Pausing, he replayed this conversation in his head as he had a hundred times over the last two days. There was no good way to say it, so he chose the most direct route.

"I am to take Ian's place. This means a major change in my life, doing so places certain responsibilities on my shoulders that I cannot or would not hide from the two of you."

Valerie and Tera had both known this was coming. They had talked about it after Millie had confirmed their suspicions that Michael was, in fact, Ian's heir. They had decided it was best to let Michael start this conversation on his own terms.

"Why you?" Tera asked. Just as the understanding of it had when Millie told them, his pronouncement had filled her with dread. She understood what kind of responsibility and danger came with the wealth and power Michael was being asked to assume.

"The answer to that question is complicated. I'll do my best to answer it."

"As you both know, I have displayed some...abilities over the past few weeks. My being chosen to take over leadership of the clan is tied to that. They are something I was born with, although they have only manifested recently. It is a trait shared by Ian and others. Having these abilities means that I carry a bless'd curse which makes me the only one to take Ian's place."

"There are others out there like me. Other families scattered across the world who share similar gifts, who lead other clans. Taking on the mantle places a bull's eye on my back. Just as Ian was a great humanitarian, just as the families who swore fealty to him strive for order and peace, there are others who do not share those goals. Their goal is chaos, to bend the will of humanity to their wants and needs, caring nothing for the cost."

"By filling Ian's vacant place, it will make enemies of those who are responsible for Ian's death. I will always be in danger."

"The attack yesterday morning came after Millie and I were back in the castle. I was undoubtedly their intended target."

"By accepting leadership, I offer my life as payment for doing so. Over the past two days I have been consumed by this decision. It feels right to me. Being who I am I do not know how I could not accept. The one thing that has shifted the balance back and forth with more weight than anything else is the two of you."




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 02



Michael paused. For the first time looking up and into the faces of the women he loved. He expected to find fear, sadness or anger. He was surprised that none of these emotions were present in the faces that looked back at him.

Valerie had a small smile on her lips, as if she had a delightful secret that she was bursting to share.

Tera was the picture of firm determination. She never seemed stronger or more lethal than in that moment.

"You thought we would leave you?"

Valerie's question was not meant to be answered.

Shaking her head she rose and walked to him. Pulling him into her arms she held him close and was surprised to feel him shaking from the emotions he had been keeping pent up for the last few days.

"Shh, I'm never leaving your side Michael, nothing could part me from you. I am a little disappointed that you would think anything could." Her tone was gentle and soothing.

Tera's however, was not.

"Goddamn you!" Tera said in a low dangerous voice as she walked toward them.

"Did you actually think that putting yourself in harms way, in doing exactly what I would expect you to do in such a situation would be something that would make me love you less? I will kick your ass if you ever act this stupid again." Tera's statement ended as she took Michael's face in her hands giving him a hard deep kiss that left no question of her feelings.

Stepping back from them, keeping a hand in each of theirs a smile of relief found its way to his lips. They loved him unconditionally, they would always be with him. Within this simple acknowledgement he found the final bit of strength he needed to grasp this wonderous future that had been placed before him. The shadow that had fallen over his heart lifted at their assurance that the three of them would always be one.

"There is more." Michael said, leaning in to give each of them a light kiss before pulling away and starting his pacing once again.

"This will seem...odd, but I need for you both just to listen, please don't think I'm crazy." Michael said with the briefest of smiles before continuing.

"I have vowed to you both that I will keep you at my side always. If you do chose to stay with me, it will mean two things."

"First, our lives, barring anything catastrophic will be somewhat longer than normal."

"How much longer?" Valerie asked.

"Significantly longer, exactly how long I have no way of knowing but it will be measured in centuries instead of decades." Michael paused for a moment letting this first revelation sink in before continuing on to the next, he feared the ramifications of the next far more than the previous.

"Also, should you choose to stay at my side for however long the universe allows; it is be almost certain that we will never have children."

Valerie let out a little gasp as the words left his lips.

She had always wanted children and the fact that this was now probably not going to happen gave her pause.

The pause was only momentary.

"I can live with almost certain. There are other options should it never happen." Valerie said with a catch in her voice.

"Are you sure Valerie? I wouldn't want you to miss out on being a mother." Michael asked as he pulled her into a tight hug.

"I won't have to miss being a mother if that is what we choose." Valerie said with finality.

Michael looked over to Tera. She simply smiled and nodded to him. Her small gesture conveying acceptance of this condition as well.

Regarding the two amazing women before him he wondered, not for the first time, how he had ever gotten so lucky to have such as they in his life.

Both women noticed the lopsided grin that found it's way to Michael's lips as he looked at them. Remembering fondly how much Sasha 'loved' surprise trips, he was a bit reticent in telling his lovers the last of his revelations.

"We are leaving in the morning. There are three other clan leaders that I need to meet, we will be gone for several months. Valerie, I don't expect you to put your life on hold for this, and I don't know what to do about teaching at the school. I had wanted to delay but it is impossible to do so."

"Oxford has been around for hundreds of years, it will get by without us for a few months. However, is there any way we could delay for one day? It would be best if we could go in person tomorrow to make the arrangements for our being gone." Valerie said as she got a focused look in her eye, the lists of things to do beginning to form.

"I could use the day as well." Tera offered, but was not forthcoming with any details.

"It may be possible to wait an extra day. I'll need to talk with Millie this afternoon about it."

Valerie came quickly into Michael's arms.

"I love you Michael," she said as she kissed him passionately before pulling away and walking toward the desk. "I need to get started." She said absently over her shoulder before sitting down and picking up the phone.

Tera came to his side. Her hip bumping into his.

"I need to go talk with Nigel and Sims. I love you, I'll see you in bit." Tera's kiss was just as passionate and meaningful as Valerie's and then she was gone, striding from the room with purposeful steps.

Michael stepped out onto the balcony. The clouds we low and heavy. Their gray forms moved fluidly under the power of the wind.

Michael turned from the view, walking past Valerie he gave her shoulder a light squeeze as he passed her.

Now that the decision was final there was no need to wait any longer. Taking the stairs two at a time stairs Michael now rushed to meet his new life head on. Almost running from the castle toward the maze Michael felt good for the first time in days. Traveling this path yesterday had been a perilous thing, full of doubt. His talks with Aoife and Millie the day before had provided few answers and more questions as he had learned more about what being leader of the clan entailed.

Michael was surprised...and not, to find Millie waiting for him at the crypt.

"You have made your decision then?" Millie stated this as a question but in her heart she already knew the answer.

Michael's brief nod was all the confirmation she needed.

Her hand, landing gently on his cheek she placed a light kiss on the other before walking back toward the castle, leaving him to his destiny.

Stepping onto the landing Michael called out with his mind for Aoife.

"Hello young one," her voice came clear and strong from the shadowy heights of the cavern.

"I am ready Aoife." Michael said as she descended, wings whipping up whitecaps across the placid surface of the water.

"As I knew you would be Michael."

Her voice was a soft whisper in his head as her claws found purchase on the stone before him, her wings enveloping him within their warm golden confines.



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 03



Chapter 3

Time seemed to stand still as Aoife embraced Michael. Standing there, wrapped in a golden leathery cocoon, Michael was tense, his muscles flexing, ready to endure what was to come.

Aoife felt the tension coming off Michael in waves.

"Be calm Michael, there is nothing painful in this. It will be a sensation the likes of which you have never known, but it does not cause pain."

Aoife's calm, safe tone reassured Michael. He relaxed into her embrace, still pensive but resolute with his decision and more open because of her reassurance.

As he relaxed Michael took in the sensation of being so close to Aoife. Her scent spicy and warm, as if walking through some exotic tropical market within which the humidity and raucous smells mingled together to form a musk that was almost a physical presence.

Then there was her heat. It radiated from her like a furnace. Not so hot to be intolerable but several degrees higher than the surrounding air. Enshrouding him in a warmth that ebbed and flowed around him as her chest rose and fell with each deep breath she took.

Reaching out a tentative hand, Michael gently touched the wings that surrounded him.

A small shudder rolled through and over Aoife at the touch.

Her skin was warm but surprisingly soft, it reminded Michael of the supple heat and texture of sun warmed leather.

Michael closed his eyes, relaxing into this moment of change and discovery.

"Good young one, that is good, relax. It is a simple thing that we do, simple but meaningful. You know me on a genetic level already Michael. You carry my essence within you. I am going to open myself to you now, we will share a connection deeper than lovers, deeper than mother and child. All of my experience, love, pain, fear, loss, joy will mingle with your own, as yours shall mingle with me. We will become more than we are in this moment. You will have my memories, as well as all those who came before you. It is a solemn and ancient sharing, a gift of unaccountable worth, for us both."

Aoife's words faded in Michael's mind as her soul, her essence, her energy and light engulfed his mind.

The images and feelings began to flash by at enormous speed. Michael immediately tensed, sensing bits and pieces of knowledge but having no perspective of the whole. He cried out both physically and mentally at the loss of those pieces he could not perceive as they came too quickly.

"Shhh, once the knowledge is given Michael, once it is a part of you, then you will assimilate it, nothing is being lost, all of it is yours. It resides within you, waiting until it is needed or summoned." Aoife comforted him once again as the transfer continued.

On and on it went, centuries of history, an ancient life given freely, born and made new once again in the sharing.

Tears streamed down Michaels face at the onslaught of emotion. The spectrum of feeling playing across his heart only to repeat again, over and over. Michael slowly slipped to his knees, Aoife's wings providing gentle support as he bowed under the weight of the responsibility he was being gifted. For that is what it was, a gift of such magnitude, encompassing millennia of experience Michael had no choice but to simply allow it all to flow into him. And in that moment of releasing the need to understand, of simply allowing it to happen, he was overcome by a comforting calm and yet the process still continued, Aoife's life becoming his life, as his becoming hers.

The rich tapestry of her life and his unfolding for each of them. Demanding that they live and breath and understand each of their evolutionary moments.

The warmth of a mothers wings embracing him...

Fear crystallized in the moment of first flight before the wind captured and held her in its cool embrace...

Rage from the betrayal of an ancient lover whose name...slipped by too quickly...but the after image of it's passing burned....

Unimaginable pain as talons rip through flesh...

Depthless loss as your kind wither and fade from the face of the world...

Joy unbounded found communing with a new race...

Untold deaths....

Untold births...

The unfolding and flowering of a new race...

All of it, everything in her long history played out for him, through him, became him.

For Aoife the impact was even greater.

While her life encompassed much of known history, it's length also subdued the emotions. Where her long life was punctuated by moments of great pain and promise, the experience of Michael's short frenetic life took Aoife's very breath away.

Simple joy as bright paper is ripped away to reveal the treasures of childhood...

The soft brush of lips, the warm moist sensual heat of newly discovered connection...

Adrenaline coursing as a hand moves over a wild creature born of another realm in the early dawn...

Excited congratulations for the first big bid awarded...

Overwhelming comfort waking up in a warm bed, a lover curled around you...

Unending anguish trying to pry open a casket lid for one last look at love...

So much pain, so much passion, so much life lived in such a short time. Aoife wept along with Michael as their lives intertwined, mixed and became something so much more than they were before.

Time passed slowly on the small stone landing beneath Nogardshire Castle. The world moved on above, people loved and lost, found joy and sorrow. But at the same moment, time had stopped below their feet as an ancient life and a compact life became something very unique.

"How do you feel Michael?"

Aoife's voice was gentle as she slowly pulled her wings up and away to set lightly on her back.

"I feel...whole Aoife."

Michael stood, arms stretching above his head, muscles slowly loosening from the tension of becoming.

"You have lived an amazing life my friend. Thank you for the gift of your memories and wisdom. I was so afraid to take this on Aoife, so fearful that I would not be up to the challenge. But I understand now."

"I know that I have already accepted, but I want to reaffirm that to you Aoife. I vow to do what is best for the clan, to stop those who try to create a world filled with chaos and pain."

Michael's voice was quiet as he spoke to Aoife. There was no need for great volume between them now. For as he spoke, his passion and commitment to her and to the clan were also effortlessly communicated.

"It will take you some time Michael, to understand the gifts that come with being a chosen, the responsibilities. Do not rush, time may be short, but there is time enough to learn. Give yourself the time Michael, rely on those close to you for support and guidance as you grow into your new place in the world."

"Will you stay here, now that I have become?" Michael asked, as he looked up into her golden eyes. His fear of the answer mirrored back to her from his own eyes.

Aoife shifted on the stone for a moment and then took flight. Completing a lazy circle around the cavern she came to a light landing on the island before answering him.

"I will stay here for a time Michael. Always you and I shall be close. Our physical proximity will always be shifting, as it was with Ian and those who came before him. But we are now linked in a deeper more tangible way than any physical interaction could bind us. I will always be with you Michael."

Her words eased him. The idea of losing her, of not having that which he shared with her now was something simply intolerable to consider.

Aoife regarded him for a long moment before what passed for a laugh escaped her mouth.

"Go now young one, the die is cast. Walk into the world for the first time as a chosen, find your mates, begin your journey. You have but to call and I shall be there for you." Her excitement was contagious.

With a last long look at her golden countenance Michael turned and sprinted up the stairs. Eager, as she had said, to begin.

............

"Michael went into the crypt, Ian's legacy is assured." Millie said to Nigel. She sat down across from him, the barracks now his make shift command center.

Nigel sat back in his chair. A look of relief passing over his face. Focusing on Millie he stood up. He looked tired as he came limping around the desk to stand next to her. They had shared so much, lived such an uncommon life all thanks to the fates bringing them into Ian's life.

"And what of us Millie, where do you and I figure into this now that Ian is gone and the torch has passed?" There was resignation in his tone that Millie had never heard from Nigel before. Millie's hand moved to his where it lay on her shoulder. She didn't know what to tell her oldest friend about their future. So much of their lives had been lived on the run, putting out this or that fire. Now that their magnetic north had left them here, she had the same question as he. What now for us?

Before she could speak they were interrupted.

"What I hope the future will hold is that both of you choose to stay close, I have much to learn and understand, you two are...uniquely qualified to help me with that." Michael's tone was honest and strong, this, coupled with his lopsided grin put them both at ease.

"We need to put off the trip a day. Valerie and I need to go to Oxford tomorrow to tie up our loose ends. Tera has some things to take care of as well."

Nigel and Millie both smiled inwardly at his easy but forceful tone. There was no question in his inflection, he was not asking if they could, he was simply stating that's the way it is. It was both a happy and sorrowful moment for the pair. With one sentence Michael had replaced Ian as leader of the clan.

"Of course. That will actually work out better for me, give me more time to plan the itinerary, put assets in place." Nigel said. He had been sweating leaving in the morning with so much of the planning still up in the air.

"I'll want to spend some time with both of you this evening and tomorrow. There is a lot I need to be brought up to speed on and I am afraid we will have no where near the time needed." Michael said as he turned making for the door. Before getting two steps he stopped and turned back.

"Nigel, I would like Sims and Elise to come with us, wherever the hell it is we are going. Do you see any problems with that?"

Nigel thought for a moment. Sims would be no issue, he had planned on having him accompany them. Nigel hadn't counted on Elise.

"Sims is not a problem, he was going anyway. As for Elise, I'm not sure if..." Nigel trailed off as Michael interrupted him.

"Get Elise a passport and whatever other documents she'll need. I will talk to Sims and then Elise. I don't think there will be a problem, let me handle it." Michael said.

He had already turned and started walking away before finishing his sentence. Moving on to the next thing on his list.

Nigel and Millie smiled as they watched him walk away.

"So much like Ian," they both said, regarding each other with smiles as they turned back to the desk to work on the travel plans.

Michael took the stairs two at a time to the second floor. He couldn't remember feeling more energetic, feeling so good.

Walking through the door to his room Michael came up short as he found a tearful Tera lying on the bed.

Every muscle in Michael's body coiled like a snake ready to strike at seeing one of his mates in such a state.

"What happened, whats wrong?" Michael almost growled as he crossed the room and scooped Tera into his arms.

.........

The cool afternoon air felt good as Tera ran down the old cart path. Billowy white clouds paced her as Tera's long purposeful gait carried her across the low hills to the south of the castle.

Valerie had jumped into planning mode as soon as Michael left, leaving Tera to her own devices. Michael's revelations about who he was and what it meant for all of them still hadn't sunk in. She needed some time alone to come to grips with what those changes would mean and find a balance with them.

'Spending eternity with Michael and Valerie, there are worse fates.' Tera thought as she ran hard into an ancient stand of oaks, following the time worn path deeper into their shadowed depths.

Tera's life had always been something defined by moments of action and moments of waiting until the next action was required. There was never any great thought or energy put toward the long term of her life. A home, a family, growing old with someone.

'Well, at least I don't have to worry about the growing old part now,' Tera chuckled to herself.

The path she was on widened, opening onto a small glade set at the middle of the copse of oaks. Dappled light filtered in through breaks in the trees providing a calming balm to Tera's whirling emotions.

Breaking from her run, Tera walked around slowly, hands on her hips as the pace she had been setting finally caught up with her. Taking deep gulps of air she moved toward the single stone at the center of the glade.

The stone was out of place, a rough hewn boulder of black obsidian that had no place in the heart of the English countryside. Tera was surprised to find a small bubbling pool at it's base, a natural spring that she was pleased to find as she had forgotten to bring water with her.

Dipping her hands into the cool liquid she brought them to her face, enjoying the cold against her heated skin. Dipping her hands in again she brought the water to her lips, taking a deep drink. The water was almost ice cold and sweet, it made her feel instantly refreshed and calm.

Moving to the side of the small pool Tera sat down with her back to the stone. As she had been taught in moments of turmoil, when balance and clarity eluded her, she crossed her legs, lay her hands on her knees and closed her eyes. Turning off her mental switches she opened her other senses, hoping to define her place in the grand scheme of a universe that had just been turned upside down.

The scents were what came to her first. The sweetness of the water balanced by the earthy damp of moss. These mingled with the dry bark of the trees, carried by the gentle breeze that that now caressed her skin. The feeling of the hard stone at her back, the tip of something that ran much deeper whose long journey over eons from below was followed by the water.

Tera's breath caught the flavor of the breeze, the bitterness of wheat and oat spore brought forth on the wind from the now fallow fields after the harvest. The salty taste of her own sweat, the remembered flavor of Michaels lips, of Valerie's flesh.

Her senses deepened, her connection to the land and the sky, the wood and wind carrying her beyond the shaded glade. The castle, it's foundations rooted in the same stone that lay hard against her spine. The fields holding the after image of countless centuries of their gifts given and the promise of bounty yet to be to sewn and reaped.

Tera had taken such journeys before.

The rocky promontory in South Africa before the roiling power of Cape of Good Hope after a bloody ambush which left three of her six member team dead. Finding the connection with the unbridled power of the sea an experience that would strengthen her own force of will.

A mist shrouded plateau in the Himalayas shown to her by the monks she had been sent to rescue from extremists. The simple vastness of the place and connecting to it had provided her with a unique compass for navigating her own limitless internal landscape.

Sitting within the canopy of a south American rain forest, the battle not yet joined in which she would take the lives of guerrillas hoping to kidnap students from the only school within 200 miles. Tera found and connected with the wellspring of life, felt it's throbbing presence, was engulfed by it and therein found the overwhelming power and presence and wonder of her own life.

Down through the years, in places often never trod by another living soul, Tera found her own connection to life. Found the balance of being a creature of the universe. Found the comfort of being connected to the world within which she walked.

As she began the process of pulling back into herself, of releasing the sensory connection to the world around her. Something new pulled at her consciousness. 

Never before in this state had something made it's presence felt. Always it had been a floating open allowing that whatever is...simply is. Following the tendril of emotion she felt the subtle change in her awareness. She felt her emotions begin to build, break through the calm plane of her balanced mind.

Rage, untenable, endless rage washed over Tera. She felt every ounce of it, felt it consume her, she was afraid that it would simply be too much for her to handle, that its end would only come with hers.

As quickly as it came it was replaced by sorrow so deep and abiding that it was as if no other emotion had ever or could ever exist. Tears poured from her sightless eyes as she sat in the glade, its quiet shattered by wail of untold and unrelenting sadness.

A barren wasteland of nothingness swept away the sorrow, leaving a void within which Tera could find no compass point, no star, no light with which to chart a course across it's expanse. Never in her life had she felt so completely alone and hopeless.

Images came with the next tumult of emotions.

A hand placing a phone back on its cradle.

Lips lifting to a smile on a face which wore the the freshly cut lines of new emotions fought and bested.

The flash of an Asian woman, her body slumping in a seat.

Valerie's auburn hair caught for a moment by the sun in such a way that it glowed as if afire.

The curve of her own thigh as a hand lovingly traced its form.

Love

Joy

Completion

Ecstasy

Fear

All of them mixed and melded into one common emotion that encompassed and surpassed them all.

New tears sprang forth as Tera pulled back to her body, her essence, her soul finding foundational purchase once again within living vibrant heart of her.

Her hands covered her eyes as the tears continued unabated. It had been Michael she had touched.

His loss of Sasha

His Rage

His Sorrow

His emptiness

A new path found, a new reason for living, for loving, for moving forward.

He killed to protect himself out of instinct.

He loved her and Valerie with such overwhelming passion.

Desired them with such forceful intent.

Needs them as he needs air and sun.

Rising, Tera started off in a dead run for the castle. Her only thought to find him, to try and make him understand that everything he felt for her and for Valerie was returned ten fold. That he was not alone in his love, his desire and his desperate need to be with them.

She knew the night of their joining that he loved her. But in the instant she shared his emotions, unencumbered by the trappings of body and mind, that his love was so far beyond what she had ever conceived.

And in this understanding she found her own true love for him and for Valerie. 

Found the undiscovered fathoms of emotion that now made her complete because they were now part of her.

...

"I couldn't....couldn't find you."

Tera said as she lept from the bed and into Michael's arms.

Confused, Michael simply held her. This was not like Tera, something must be terribly wrong.

"What is it Tera, has someone done something to hurt you? Tell me what's happened."

Michael's own emotions were kicking in. Before the change he was very protective of his family, that trait had only increased with his ascension.

She could feel his muscles tensing around her, hear the cadence of his heart jump with every passing second.

Pulling back from him Tera looked into his eyes. What she found there was a seething rage wishing to be unleashed, and it was for her. This power, this energy, thirsted to be loosed against whatever it was that had caused her the harm he perceived.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 03



Her hands slipped to his face.

'Was his jaw line harder now, more defined? Did his eyes always have those golden flecks that danced in the light, can he possibly be mine.'

Her thoughts raced in that instant. Tera only knew the true answer to the last of her questions, the only one of them that really mattered.

Pulling him to her their lips met in a heated union. Michael was startled, the shift from perceived threat to intense passion left him switching gears for a moment while Tera was already redlining and about shift to the next gear.

Tera's hands moved between them, her hands curling into his jeans just above his rapidly swelling cock. With one quick powerful movement she pulled, two buttons losing their battle with the physics of force and tension, clattered to the wood floor below. Tera's hands loosed the now ruined waist of his jeans and claimed their prize, wrapping around his hardening member as her tongue dueled with his.

"You're okay? No one hurt you?" Michael gasped as he broke their heated kiss, his fingers grasping the front of her shirt at the neck and in a swift move tearing it down the middle.

"I'm fine, better than fine, you love me Michael, I knew it before, now I feel it and it's....amazing, wonderful. Take me, god Michael take me." Tera's husky whisper inflamed Michael and as she pulled his shirt off he moved her back toward the bed as his hands slid her running shorts down and over her hips.

Tera moaned into his mouth as his hand found her center, two long fingers slipping easily into her pussy. A cry of need escaped between their lips as her thighs hit the edge of the bed.

With a firm but gentle shove Michael pushed Tera down on her back. Pulling her legs straight up he slid the remains of her shorts off. His lips and tongue found her calve. She tasted of salt and honey, her flavor pushed his ardor higher as her questing fingers found the tip of him. She was pulling him forward, needing to feel him inside her, to be joined with her physically as she was now and forever would be joined with his heart and soul.

Michael let out a long moan as Tera guided his throbbing maleness to the entrance of her pussy. She did not immediately place him within her. She lingered with him there a moment, playing the hard but spongy head of him over her lips, in tight circles around her clit. A small orgasm washed over her at the sensation and then she was simply taken by him, no longer capable of conscious action, only able to simply be and feel and experience the glorious connection.

Michael slid within her in one long stroke. Seating himself within her depths he paused, the sensitive nexus of him nestled under her cervix. Her muscles rippled around him, causing him to throb and grow harder, though how he had no idea. 

As if in slow motion he pulled from her, feeling every millimeter of the passage as if it took an age, as if he could become lost in any of them but still amazed by the heightening of experience held within the next.

When only head of him remained within her he paused once more, reveling in the simple act of taking the moment, of taking her, of what was to come.

His thrusts were hard and needy. Full deep strokes that claimed her as his, eliciting a string of endless moans from both of them that grew in volume and power.

"Fuck me Michael, take me, fill me...." Tera moaned as his movements became more frantic, his need now overwhelming.

His teeth bit into her calve as his long fingers encircled her ankles above his head.

"Oh God!!!!" Tera yelled as this last tactile claiming of her pushed her over the edge into an orgasm unrivaled in her experience.

Tera's clutching spasming cunt pushed Michael over the edge as well. With a deep wailing cry and one final thrust that buried him within her they joined there in that moment of bliss. Her grasping muscles pulling forth his orgasm, his throbbing heat, so deep within her, feeding and fanning the flames of her own release.

The volume of his spend was enormous, quickly flooding Tera's quivering channel and spilling out of her at the point of their union. They clung to each other as they rode the waves of bliss. Tera's legs parting and Michael coming to rest on her chest. His lips and teeth finding her diamond hard nipples. Their breaths and heartbeats matching in ragged unison as they basked in the joy that can only be found in such joinings of body of mind of soul.

Winding her fingers into his hair as he lay upon her, Tera whispered..

"Tell me of Sasha Michael, introduce me to the other woman who lives in your heart."

Michael started at the mention of her name, but his tension quickly fled as all of the passion and love and need of his former love came to him.

"Sasha was..."

By the time Michael finished telling Tera about the first love of his life they were both weeping silent tears. Michael, overwhelmed by vocalizing the story of her. Tera honored to be counted in such company.

"I love you." Tera said with a smile as they slowly sat up, the deep russet hews of dusk now enveloping the room.

Michael pulled her to him, chest to chest, warm skin on warm skin.

"I love you too Tera, always."

She touched his face as she smiled at his statement.

"We should get cleaned up for dinner." she said slipping from his arms and walking to the bathroom.

Michael watched her walk away, marveling once again at his fortune of finding such women as she and Valerie. ...

Valerie was the last one to show up for dinner.

Michael and Tera had sagged into their chairs, a happy satiated aura around them both as she came in.

Taking one look at her lovers Valerie's lips parted in large knowing smile.

"Hard day?" She asked, kissing first Michael then Tera. She was unable to banish the smile as she gently touched each of their faces before sitting down on the other side of Michael.

Michael and Tera simply smiled sheepishly as they all began to eat.

After dinner the three of them joined Nigel and Millie in the library. It was getting late, but Michael needed answers.

"It's been a whirlwind for all of us since Ian's death. I feel...a bit overwhelmed by the amount of responsibility that is now mine and I don't have a clue as to where to start."

Michael shifted on the couch between Valerie and Tera, his need to know about his role, his duties, what was expected of him, made him antsy. He was not one to go into any situation behind the curve.

"I really need a thorough outline of everything, who I can trust, who our allies are, who are the opposition, what resources do we have..." Michael's voice trailed off as he was a bit overwhelmed by the volume of things he didn't know.

Michael's tone calmed as he sat on the soft leather couch, Valerie and Tera snuggled within his outstretched arms.

"We have already started putting together information on all of those things and more. I know that this has all come at you rather fast. You don't have to worry Michael, we will make sure that by the time we land at our first destination you have all the information you need." 

Millie was standing by one of the tall windows looking out into the night.

"I will put together a summary of the clan holdings and what oversight is required of them. I had planned on having it ready before we leave so you can review it on the flight."

Michael smiled at Millie before he answered.

"Thank you Millie, I appreciate you and Nigel both agreeing to stay. I don't know what I would do without either of you."

Valerie squeezed his thigh lightly. Looking down into her eyes he saw the fatigue there and knew it was time to head to bed.

"I will have something similar for you, outlining a brief history of the other clans, what their strengths and weakness are and their current status."

Nigel had moved over to Millie, his good arm gently wrapping around her waist.

"Excellent Nigel," Michael said as he stood walking over to the older man. Michael had been so caught up making his decision to take on the mantle of clan leader he had forgotten the wounds Nigel had taken.

Closing his eyes, Michael placed his hand on Nigel's shoulder.

Nigel felt a sense of vertigo and Millie stiffened ready to support him if he fell.

The moment passed quickly.

Michael gave Nigel's shoulder a small pat as he stepped back from him.

"You should feel much better in the morning."

Nigel had seen what Michael was capable of. He had no doubt that the cane and sling would not be needed with the coming of the dawn.

Offering a hand to his women he pulled them to their feet.

"I'll see you both in the morning." Michael said to Nigel and Millie over his shoulder as he guided Tera and Valerie upstairs.

Sleep did not find Michael as quickly as he hoped it would. The day had held revelations and they did not slip easily to the background to make way for rest.

Tera was spooned at his back, one leg over his, her arm draped across both he and Valerie.

Valerie lay in front of him, her warm body pushed back into his, his own arm over her, fingers intertwined with Tera's. They had both fallen asleep quickly leaving him to ponder thoughts that only come in the deep dark of night.

'How do I give the gift to my ladies?' Michael thought to Aoife.

'You already know young one, ask yourself the question and the answer will make itself known. It will be good practice for you to find this answer yourself.'

Aiofe's voice receded from his mind almost as quickly as it had come.

Thinking for a moment Michael addressed the question to himself and was surprised when the answer simply popped into his head. It did not present itself as a new thought, more like something that had been merely forgotten and then remembered.

'That seems easy,' Michael thought as he pulled Valerie a bit closer, tightened his grip on Tera's hand. Knowing what making Tera and Valerie truly his would entail finally flipped the switch in his head. Sleep wrapped him in it's gentle embrace. ...

Valerie watched Michael out of the corner of her eye as he relished the drive back to Oxford.

The previous evening had been a quiet thing. A simple dinner with Millie and Nigel followed, a brief meeting where Michael had asked for more information about his new responsibilities and an easy fall into sleep.

Now, with the cool wind blowing her hair as Michael steered the car down the winding two lane road, she had a chance to simply relax and take comfort in this rare moment of peace in what had been a hectic and heartbreaking week.

At Michael's urging, they had opted for the back roads instead of the highway. With all of the travel that was starting tomorrow she could not fault him for taking an extra hour to enjoy the ride.

She had made all the necessary appointments for both of them yesterday. He only had one around noon, she had six, the first starting in just over a half an hour.

The Dean had not been pleased that Michael and Valerie were taking an emergency sabbatical. She was just about to quit yesterday over the phone but Millie took the handset from her, had a short but heated conversation with the Dean and then handed it back.

Whatever Millie had said did the trick, there were no more issues about them leaving. Everyone was overtly helpful with whatever she needed.

As they pulled into the faculty parking lot and Michael raised the top she was still overwhelmed that he was hers.

For so long she had wondered when...or if...she would find the one. Now she had so much more. Not only was he hers, she also had been gifted a sister, a wife, a lover and best friend in Tera. She wondered if anyone could possibly be as lucky. As the thought drifted through her mind its twin and opposite made itself known as well. Could anyone understand or endure the pain she had been through, and the possible pain to come by feeling so completely and utterly mated to two other people.

Michael noticed her warring emotions as her bottom lip curled under her teeth. 

His lips found her cheek, it seemed over warm to her wind chilled flesh and moved into his touch like a moth to a flame.

"I love you."

His statement immediately followed by a deep warm kiss that projected the range of emotions he felt for her.

"And I you." she said as the kiss broke with a smile.

"I'm going to go to my office, see if anything needs my attention, pull up my lesson plan for whomever they find to replace me."

Michael was disappointed that his teaching tenure was cut off at one week. But he knew there was nothing for it and held onto the hope that when things were back to normal he would have the chance again.

"I'll be in my office meeting with the Deans 'til about 2pm then we can go by my place and be off back to Nogardshire before dark."

Valerie watched as Michael walked off toward his office, enjoying the simple pleasure of watching his languid grace as he strode across the quad.

"Valerie."

The Dean of Students called and she was once again focused on the tasks of the day.

"Dean Carter, lets head to my office and get your quarterly reports sorted." Valerie said falling into step at the older mans side. She was ready to get this day over with, ready for whatever came next.

Michael sat behind his tidy desk and looked out the open window.

The building across the quad was over 500 years old. Built originally as a stable, it was now a science building. Numerous additions and changes had been made to it over the centuries. Conduit snaked up its sides like a roiling nest of snakes looking for a meal. Satellite dishes of all shapes and sizes broke the classic, elegant lines of the roof tiles. But still, the original beauty remained, timeless, lasting, grounded in the past yet still functional after five centuries. An architect could only hope for such things from the buildings he designed.

A few emails from students were quickly answered. Another, from his replacement requesting an outline of the courses was replied to. The few personal items, a picture of Sasha in the Porsche parked on the beach at sunrise. The artist commune design study from school. His grandfathers weathered drafting kit. All gently ensconced in one box. Michael sighed looking at the box, finding it troubling. It had after all only been a few weeks before that he was emptying these things out of another.

Locking his office Michael carried his things down to the car and placed them in the back seat. He wondered if what Valerie wanted to bring would fit.

'Probably should have borrowed the Range Rover.' Michael thought with a smile as he looked at his watch.

"Three hours....time enough." Michael said to the wind before getting in his car and heading over to his house.

The flat was just as he had left it but seemed different now. Looking around he remembered the happiness of buying things to occupy the space, how he looked forward to placing the bits and pieces within it that would make it a home, make it his.

For such a short time this place had a wealth of memories.

Allowing himself to release Sasha.

Finding and falling in love with Tera and Valerie.

The moments of quiet solitude watching the dark water pass under a clear moonless sky.

Now the place seemed empty. As if the hope of the place had been moved, shifted in whole to someplace else. Perhaps it was the castle. He was in love with it and the town. It felt like home in a way no other ever could. He had noticed on the drive that if he reached for it he could feel Nogardshire and its comforting embrace.

What Michael found interesting was that it did not elicit a longing to be there, or to get back to it. So often we are pulled toward a place to be able to access the comfort of it. In this case it was as if he took the place with him, manifest by his inherent ability to situate himself toward what was now his home.

Michael moved through the flat, gathering a few things into the box he had brought in. A few more pictures, his telephone book, the small sandstone lamp he had purchased on a trip to Dubai which a friend at the college had confirmed was actually about four thousand years old, just as the street vendor had said.

A small duffel bag was filled with his remaining clothes, an extra pair of shoes and the last few bits of him that remained in the flat.

Picking up the phone he dialed the number for the real estate agent who had helped him find the flat.

"Good morning Gladys, this is Michael Dane."

The conversation moved along quickly. Gladys would be able to have someone check on the flat while he was gone, would pick up the key he was to leave under the mat. One more thing crossed off the list.

Michael slung his fencing bag over his shoulder, picked up the duffel and box while taking one last look around the flat before stepping out the door into the quickly graying morning.

...

He had been lucky.

The team had just started their workout in the Salle and were more than happy to work him into their line.

It was a bit surreal being back in a Salle doing forms. The motions came easy enough, as they should considering how often he had done them over the years. There was a sense of peace in such things, letting your body simply do as it knows to, melding the physical with the mental in a way that brings a wonderful sense of peace and balance.

The workout had been strenuous but exhilirating.

Sparring with the young men and women, feeling the adrenaline rush of combat, the desire to win, to best them, to test and push himself. All of it he relished as he always had. He wondered at his ability to give this up for so long, and how quickly Tera could come up to a competitive level.

"Thank you very much, I really needed that."

Michael was talking to his last opponent. A young woman named Ashleigh who was in her third year and had been on the team for the past two.

"It was my pleasure Mr. Dane. It's not often we get to fence someone with your level of experience."

Ashleigh mused briefly on what it would be like to test his experience in other areas as she looked up at him with half hooded eyes.

"You're very good, you need to attack a bit stronger, when you come close inside you need to drop your left arm some to protect your ribs." Michael coached. While his hand traced down her ribs with a strong motion just to the side of her breast indicating her vulnerable spot.

"I need to go, thank you again for the match, have a wonderful day."

Michael's foil tip rose above his head and then fell to the side in a quick movement, saluting the young woman as he turned and walked to the men's locker room.

He left Ashleigh as he did so many women, with wonderful erotic thoughts dancing through their heads with him as the main event.

...

"You showered?"

Valerie asked, once again embraced by the warm leather cocoon of Michael's car.

"I finished up early and went over to the Salle. Got to work out with the team. It was a nice way to spend a few hours but put me a little behind. I didn't have a chance to dry my hair." Michael said giving her a lopsided grin.

Valerie's hand came to rest on his thigh. She enjoyed the feel of his muscles as they flexed ever so slightly as his foot raised and lowered on the accelerator. She watched the ever darkening sky through the windshield as they drove through town to her flat.

Valarie's day had gone much easier than she thought it would. Expecting to be held over in every one of her meetings the opposite turned out to be true. Each went smoothly with the various Deans and department heads already having completed most of what she wanted to review.

Aside from a few fires that had to be put out with visiting professors for the next term all of them had been gracious and helpful, very much out of character for people who were notoriously hard to deal with on the best of days. She would have to ask Millie just what she had said to the Dean yesterday.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 03



The building clouds finally lost their battle of containment. Opening up and letting loose a torrent. Michael drove carefully through the tumult as he navigated the sometimes tight streets of Oxford toward Valerie's.

For her part, Valerie loved the rain. Which, when you have been born and raised in the British Isles is a very good thing.

She had many fond memories of reading before a warm fireplace while the rain beat out a steady cadence on the slate of the roof. Being caught unawares in a spring storm and getting soaked to the bone in an instant on too many occasions.

Valerie smiled to herself as she looked out the window, knowing that once again, the lovely British weather would give her dry cleaner a bit more work.

"Where is your umbrella?"

As Michael pulled onto her street Valerie peered around the interior of the car as the question was asked.

"Ummm..."

"You yanks, always thinking it will be sunny and mild no matter where you go."

Valerie laughed, playfully slapping his arm.

"Not to worry, I have one in the flat we can take." Valerie said as Michael brought the car to a stop in front of her building.

Looking at the deluge outside Michael thought it would be too little too late.

They opened their doors at the same time, sprinting up the steps to Valerie's un-canopied door. Where she immediately dropped her keys which were caught in a veritable Niagara falls of water pouring off the high pitched roof above.

A moment spent running back down the stairs in chase of the wayward keys was enough to ensure both of them were thoroughly soaked through by the time key finally met lock.

Stepping into the small vestibule beyond, both of them looked like drown rats. Michael shook out his hair like a great woolly St. Bernard bringing a gleeful laugh from Valerie.

Her laugh faded quickly as she looked into Michael's eyes.

He was looking at her with an intensity that made her take a halting step back. It was a look of pure desire. She was shocked at just how quickly the change had come over him. He had been laughing non-stop since her keys had taken the fall and the subsequent ride down the steps.

Now he looked at her not with an easy jovial stare but with a burning need that fired her own senses to shift gears almost as quickly as his had.

Michael had watched her run from the car, the rain almost immediately drenching her silk blouse making it translucent. The black calf-length skirt was not much better and didn't have a dry spot left following the trip back down the front stairs. While he laughed outwardly at the comical display of her chasing after her keys caught in the impromptu miniature rapid, he also was taken by the way her body moved under the clinging cloth that no longer left much to the imagination.

He stood close to her as she wrestled the key into the lock, the heat of her body easily felt over the mere inches that separated them. Her heat stoking the fires of his own desire.

Michael took a step toward her and in one fluid motion scooped her into his arms. Recklessly taking the stairs two at a time he carried Valerie up to her door, only pausing long enough for her to understand what he needed and unlock it. With a push of his boot the door swung open as he carried her across the threshold. A well placed heel closed it behind them.

He stood for a moment in her small entryway. Looking into her eyes he found himself become lost in them as he often did. Her auburn hair matted against her head, shirt plastered to her body, her hard nipples demanding against his chest. His lips moved to hers, he shared her warmth and gave her his, placing her gently back on her feet.

Valerie's breath came in deep pulls as the kiss broke. Michael's hands moved to her shirt. She expected him to simply rip it from her and was surprised when he didn't.

Instead, Michael's fingers traced the V at her neck gently. The warmth of his fingertips leaving a heated trail in their wake. His eyes were locked on hers, as if he was two different beings in one body. His eyes portraying love and need and desire no words ever could while his fingertips traced and marked her skin, giving form and action to his physical need of her.

A soft moan escaped her lips as his fingers slipped between the buttons of her shirt. He did not open them, merely content to touch and experience what the confining opening would allow.

His fingers teased her breast bone running small circles down its length. Then he widened the circles exploring the boundary of the wet bra which confined her. His fingers slipping within this next layer, the warm flesh of her breast quivering under his gentle but insistent touch.

He teased the place where breast became nipple, causing it to harden in painful need and bringing Valerie closer to him, trapping his roving fingers between them as she tasted his lips.

"I love you Valerie, always I shall, you are......."

Valerie silenced him with a kiss. A simple acknowledgment of all he wished to say but had no need to, for she already knew.

Pulling him backwards, lips still joined, they made their way to her bedroom.

The room was muted gray, the curtains drawn, only the palest light suffused the room, transforming the lovers into silhouettes of soft passion, wraiths of need.

Valerie stopped her backward motion as her calves came in contact with her bed. With a gentle push she created a gap between them and let her hands trail to his waist. Fingers slipping under the hem of his shirt she looked down, wanting to see him revealed in the half-waking half-dream light as she pulled the thick wool sweater over his stomach, revealed his chest and finally over his head to see his wet spiky hair once again.

She moaned as his hands slowly began unbuttoning her shirt from the bottom. His fingertips playing over the flesh as it was slowly revealed. When the shirt was open his hands cupped her full breasts and unsnapped her bra. Her tits fell heavily into his hands as he took them both, palms flattening them to her chest as he moved to her, his skin to hers, the motion causing her to fall backwards legs wrapping around his waist.

Michael looked down at her.

Auburn hair splayed and matted on the comforter.

Breasts stark white, moving slowly up and down with each breath she took.

The small ripples that coursed over her stomach as the muscles tensed and released.

The way her nostrils flared as her breaths deepened.

Her eyes moving over him with a glorious need.

Closing his hands around first one then the other of her ankles he slipped off her knee length boots exposing her thighs but only for a passing glimpse. The tight skirt she wore, now soaked through, clung to her legs tenaciously, providing only a grudging flash of skin.

Sliding his hands under her, Michael found the zipper at the base of her spine and pulled it down, his fingers slipping inside the skirt, rubbing softly over the flesh and then her panties as they were uncovered.

Bringing his hands back, he teased over her belly with his fingernails causing her to squirm just a bit before easing beneath the skirt and pulling its wet folds off her hips and down her thighs. It dropped to the wood floor with a satisfying plop that brought a grin to Michael's face.

The sound of the skirt hitting the floor reminded Valerie that she was wearing a pair of "granny" panties, and she blushed red for a moment at the thought of Michael seeing her in her in such a common bit.

The thought passed as Michael stood before her, kicked off his shoes and in one deft motion pulled his water logged jeans which joined her skirt.

Michael lay next to her on the bed. His eyes roaming over her alabaster skin. Noting, even in the pale light, how a blush came to her neck and breasts and thighs. He tasted her then, taking her nipple in his mouth, lips pulling it gently away from her body, tongue swirling around its tip. She moaned and brought her hands to his head, willing him up to kiss her, to feel her tongue against his, to have it move against hers as it did on her nipple.

Michaels hands moved to Valerie's panties as his lips joined hers. He pulled them off and discarded them as his fingers began to explore her. Michael found her wet and open. Slipping first one then a second finger easily into her she moaned into his mouth at their passage. His thumb lay flat against her clit, applying pressure but no movement as he continued to explore her mouth with his tongue, revel in the taste of her.

Valerie needed more, needed to be closer to him, needed to feel his skin on hers, taste his need.

Gently her hands caressed down his face, across his chin to Michael's shoulders where she pushed him, turned him, aimed him toward her desired goal.

Michael understood almost immediately what Valerie desired and was more than happy to oblige her need and take it on as his own.

Sliding down her body, Michaels chin came to rest on the lush red patch of hair between her legs. Moving his leg over her prone body he straddled her as Valerie's scent reached him.

Valerie snaked her fingers around his hardness as it hovered and bobbed above her. Extending her tongue she swiped the clear drop of fluid from the tip of him, savoring the brief taste of what she hungered for.

Pulling his hard cock to her lips she lavished that most sensitive part of him with gentle wet kisses before taking him in her mouth.

Michael moaned as Valerie took his cock in her mouth. Enraptured by the warm wet sensation of her lips surrounding him, her tongue teasing the length of him.

Parting her lips, his own tongue explored her center, tasting her, entering her, kissing her, overwhelmed by the feelings of his own need and hers he found it hard to know where to concentrate his efforts.

Pulling his tongue from her warmth he took her clit between his lips. The gentle suction he applied brought her hips off the bed seeking more of the erotic contact. Michael fingers moved into her as his tongue encircled her clit where his teeth had it trapped, pulled away from her body.

Valerie moaned around Michael's dick as the first small orgasm crested the horizon of her arousal. Her tongue moved over and around the sensitive ridge at his tip, and then she took him deeper. Long suckling pulls caused his cock to expand in her mouth, the head of him tickling the back of her throat as her hand began stroking him earnest.

Both of the lovers began to move faster as the first orgasm for Valerie washed over her, the first of a quickly increasing number that would soon leave her overwhelmed by their number and force.

Michael sawed two fingers then three into her depths. The muscles constricting around the invading digits, seeming to pull them deeper with every contraction. His teeth bit down harder on her clit, causing her hips to roll forcefully as he fought to keep her sensitive pearl within his control. Her juices were flowing freely over his fingers as her thighs moved together, telegraphing the coming of her final cataclysmic release.

Valerie shifted her position so she could take more of him down her throat. She felt her own building ecstasy coming to its apex and wanted to reach that peak with him. Her hand pumped him hard, urging him toward his own release. She tasted the salty evidence that he was close. Pulling most of him out of her mouth she locked her lips around head of his cock, she suckled like a starving child awaiting the warm sustenance that she would not be denied.

Michael called Valerie's name as his climax over came him. His teeth bit hard onto her clit, his own lips suctioning it as she was doing to him. Fingers delved deeper into her spasming depths tapping the sensitive coil of nerves within her and sending her over the edge as he did.

She drank deeply the first and second offerings that shot from him but found more overwhelming. Pulling his throbbing member from her lips she savored the taste of him as rope after rope of his hot spend arched and landed on her chest and belly. Their heat magnifying her orgasm, the taste of him in her mouth, the feel of his body writhing above her bringing her a euphoric high at being able to so thoroughly please him.

Michael fell into the sensations as he came hard, his body erupting, losing its battle of restraint as Valerie's amazing need and desire and want of him pushed him over the edge. Grabbing her thighs he could do nothing but hold on, his mouth trapped over her pussy which spasmed non-stop around his fingers.

They lay there in the deep gray, the rain playing out an unknown symphony on rooftop and window pane, feeling safe, feeling complete, feeling loved. ...

The rain had eventually lifted. Michael and Valerie spending a gentle hour wrapped within each other, neither feeling the least bit guilty for seizing the opportunity to just be.

Michael pulled his sweater and jeans from the dryer as Valerie finished packing the last few things she wanted to take.

"How long do you think we will be gone?"

Valerie asked watching Michael pull his jeans on, smiling at the way he tucked his penis into their tight confines while avoiding the dryer warmed metal buttons.

"Millie didn't really know. It could be as little as a few weeks or extend out to a few months. I have a lot to learn and very short window in which to do so."

Valerie had already turned off the radiator in the old flat and it was becoming chilly fast, he was grateful for the warmth of the sweater as he sat pulling on his socks and boots.

"As long as you and Tera are with me, then wherever I am is home."

He said this so naturally, so...offhandedly that it took Valerie's breath away. That it would seem so obvious, so simple to him that the statement would flow so naturally from him further embedded in her heart just how much she meant to him. 

She straddled him on the couch. His hands instinctively wrapping around her waist as she gave him a scorching kiss. Smiling she moved quickly off his lap, just avoiding his now grasping hands.

"None of that now, we need to be off."

Their playful banter continued as they loaded the car with the sun slowly beginning to set in the west.

Valerie folded herself into the passenger seat and grabbed her phone.

"I need to check my emails." she said with a smile, the thumb on her right hand turning into a blur as she began navigating her way through mobile cyberspace.

Her right hand moved to his thigh as the car turned over, the engine burbling, ready to be on its way.

Michael enjoyed the feeling of Valerie's hand on his thigh, its gentle pressure and presence, both comforting and enlivening in the same instant.

Dropping the accelerator Michael brought the car around the on ramp to the freeway in a slow manageable slide. He was anxious to get back to the castle, anxious to see Tera, to hear her voice, to add her necessary energy to theirs.

The day had been good, the last two actually. It was a nice pause, the deep held breath before the plunge. Tomorrow another transition would begin for him, another page would turn in his own evolutionary tale. As the sun set the promise of the next chapter brought a smile to his face.

...

"Base this is Alpha. Subject leaving the city on the A40 appears to be returning to NS."

"Understood Alpha, continue loose surveillance, don't lose them but don't be overt. Check in when you confirm destination. The situation is fluid, be ready to intervene as needed. Preparations are underway for tomorrow. Base out."

Sims watched the tail lights as they receded quickly in front of him, he wasn't worried, the other two teams were ahead and they had Mr. Dane boxed.

After what he had done for Elise he was bound and determined that Michael would continue to breathe and stay above room temperature. He didn't know what Michael was capable of, or how he fit into his life. But he knew for damn sure that somehow he did indeed fit.

"Alpha, this is Epsilon, we have another car trailing the subject, they are keeping pace and attempting to overtake, wait...rear passenger has pulled a...."

The static from the radio faded into the background as Sims down shifted and accelerated up the emergency lane toward Michael's Aston Martin.

Sims could see Epsilon's car careening off down the embankment as fiery plumes of gunfire spat from the car just ahead causing one of the Aston's taillights to wink out.

"Dammit," Sims yelled as he swerved hard.

"Time to earn my paycheck......."



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 04



Valerie screamed as Michael swerved the car into the right hand lane, dropping into third gear and accelerating hard he watched the headlights of the Mercedes fade somewhat in the rear view mirror.

He had not sensed the deadly intent coming from the quickly closing Mercedes but was simply moved by a gut instinct and had taken action. The bullet meant for the driver side window smashed more or less harmlessly into the rear taillight.

Michael moved through traffic smoothly, luckily the flow of cars on the A40 was light and he was able to gather speed quickly, hoping that his pursuer would not be able to match his pace.

After slipping around an older Opel and getting back into the far right lane, Michael reached out to try and take a more active roll in foiling his pursuers. He was surprised by what he found.

Focusing on the ever present dark shape of the car now trying to catch up to him was not hard. However, when he reached into the cabin with his mind he found nothing but an empty hole.

'They are being shielded.'

Aoife's voice sounded soothingly in his head.

'The type of shield is very effective but it is a two way street. While you can't influence them neither can their master.'

And then she was gone leaving Michael perturbed at her Yoda-like habit of popping in, providing a snippet of advice, and then disappearing to let him decipher the riddle. .

Another shot rang out from behind causing Michael to grope for a new option out of this mess.

The offramp was coming up for Barnard Gate. Expanding his consciousness again he reached out to the drivers in front and behind them, sending them subtle nudges to stay out of the way or move in directions he wished. The passing thought of simply having one or more of them slam into the Mercedes crossed his mind, but left just as quickly when the understanding how blatantly evil this would be.

He was startled to find a familiar mind trailing the Mercedes. With a small smile Michael swerved his car to the left as the car that was just there hit the brakes. Reaching out with his mind, Michael hoped Sims was up to what he had in mind.

'Sims, now don't freak out.'

"I'm going crazy." Sims said to no one in particular as he dodged between two cars trying to catch and stop the Mercedes before it got a good line on Michael.

'No, actually you're not going crazy; you're two cars behind the Mercedes and....ahhh, there is another of your operatives in the green Vauxhall 4 cars up, good. I don't have time to explain this, just listen.'

Michael's voice laid out a down and dirty scenario that Sims was both totally against and very impressed with all at the same time.

"Sigma this is Alpha, we are coming up on the Barnard Gate exit, this is what I need you to do."

Sims talked quickly while slowing his pursuit just enough to keep pace with the Mercedes but not overtake it.

He would know in two minutes whether Michael's plan had worked or if he had just played a part in his death.

"In about thirty seconds I'm going to do something very dangerous Valerie. I need you to stay calm."

Michael's eyes never left the road as he spoke to Valerie. Easing off the accelerator just a touch allowed the Mercedes to close the distance rapidly.

Michael watched as a car up ahead decelerated fast and made the left turn onto the offramp. 'That would be the other of Sims' crew.' Michael thought to himself as he scanned the mirrors one more time, hoping that his desperate ploy would work.

Sims had moved up behind the Mercedes that was now less than a car length behind Michael.

"Base this is Alpha, situation DIRE, repeat situation DIRE."

"Copy Alpha, have your location locked, what assets are required?"

"Subject is going to attempt a snatch and grab, Epsilon is damaged about ten clicks behind my position. We need a doc, minders and sweepers."

"Understood Alpha, dispatching requested personnel now, ETA....ten minutes to both you and Epsilon."

"Subject, Val, Sigma and I are the only friendlies, any other possible targets should be considered hostile."

"Support on the way, good luck Alpha."

Michael slowed more than he needed to for the three lane dash to the offramp taking the Mercedes driver by surprise.

Beginning his turn early and hard, Michael was already starting his controlled slide when the front bumper of the Mercedes hit his rear quarter panel quickening the rate of his rotation just as he had hoped.

The Mercedes had to struggle with the turn to have any hope of making the offramp.

Sims watched as Michael's Aston was hit and began it's spin. Anyone watching would have assumed that, at the apex of the spin, the car would lose all traction and flip. This is what Sims and more importantly the driver of the Mercedes had thought.

As soon as the spin started Michael's hand was like iron on the gear shift. Turning his head, the already small rear window seemed minuscule as he looked through it, trying to gauge speed, distance and the nuances of the road, knowing that his timing had to be perfect. Turning first into the slide he applied power, slowing their rearward momentum, then just as the front end of the car aligned with the Mercedes he pushed the wheel hard over in the other direction, dropping down a gear and driving the accelerator the the floor. The horsepower and torque abated the spin and left the two cars careening toward the offramp nose to nose.

Sims only had an instant to react, hoping that Michael would be able to get the timing right.

As soon as the spin stopped Michael slipped the car into neutral.

The oncoming Mercedes' front-end nudged his own, but the loss of speed in the spin and not having an opposite force meeting it made the impact far less jarring.

Still looking out the rear window Michael shifted into reverse and hoped Sims and his cohort were going to be able to get the timing right.

Sims nudged down on the accelerator pushing the Mercedes before him for a moment before its driver planted the accelerator hard intending to ram Michael's car. The Mercedes surged forward away from his own bumper, he was sure that Michael was about to be pounded.

Michael never took his eyes from the rear window, trusting, with fair amounts of hoping and intention thrown in, that Sims' partner was where he needed to be.

A second later as they exited the offramp, crossed over the darkened street and bounced over the retaining berm the Mercedes disappeared in a blur of light and shrieking steel.

Sigma's car, going about fifty miles per hour, hit the Mercedes a broadsides almost perfectly.

The Mercedes flipped over 3 times coming to rest on its side where it continued to rock gently for almost a minute.

Sims and his teammate were stopped and out of their cars in an instant, Sigma covering the Mercedes with his Sig556, Sims running over to Michael's ruined Aston.

"Are you alright Valerie?"

Michael had been completely focused on the drive, of getting the other car where he needed it to be. Now that the action was over, Valerie's safety jumped back to the fore of his mind, he began almost instantly deriding himself for going on the offense when the act placed Valerie in harms way.

"I'm....fine, but maybe next time...Tera should drive, you and I don't seem to be having the best of luck."

Valerie's voice was stressed but also easy. Michael was relieved that she had taken the last 3 minutes so well.

"Are you two alright?" Sims called through the shattered windscreen.

"Oh, just perfect." 

Michael quipped as he manhandled the door open and walked around the car to extricate Valerie.

Sims breathed a sigh of relief then turned back to the crushed Mercedes just as he heard the distinct sound of a Blackhawk coming in hot from the west.

"Any movement?"

"None, a few moans so it sounds like we have prisoners."

"Good work on this Clark, it could have been much much worse."

"Base this is Alpha. All clear, all assets in good health, two opposition in need of EMS, you're clear to land fifty meters southeast of my position."

"Roger Alpha, we will be on the ground in thirty seconds, good work."

Beneath the noise of the helicopter landing the muffled thump of first one then another gunshot echoed from the crumpled confines of the Mercedes. Sims wasn't surprised, but he cursed just the same. ...

Tera was livid in the helicopter on the way back to the castle.

She had been in the command center when Sims' action contact came through and was the first person on the chopper.

'He did it again! I told him, I told him not to fucking do things like this and yet here we are, more battered iron and dead bodies.'

As Michael, Valerie and Sims climbed into the helicopter, Tera's thoughts on the evenings action was transmitted very well to Michael through her body language and eyes. Which, had they been lethal weapons, would have left a smoldering pile of ash in his seat.

Talking to her in this moment was pointless so he turned his attention to Sims who was sitting across from him next to Tera. He was noticeably leaning away from the woman at his side. Like Michael he was not looking forward to the moment Tera found enough self-control to simply tear them each a new asshole, instead of sending them both to the infirmary as would be the case if they got into it now.

"What will happen to my car?" Michael yelled across to Sims.

Pleased for the distraction Sims smiled and answered.

"Dragon Security has an in-house body shop where all of our vehicles are maintained and repaired. The Aston is already on a flatbed headed there. They do amazing work, I'm sure it will be better than new when you get it back."

Sims' knowing grin caused a similar one to appear on Michael's face.

"I look forward to seeing their shop when we get back."

Michael noticed the intense glares from both Tera and Valerie.

Sims just smiled shaking his head.

'Poor bastard won't have any ass left when those two are done with him.' Sims thought.

Noticing his smile, Tera leaned over close to his face. A happy malice emanating from her eyes as she spoke.

"I'm sure Elise will be thrilled to hear of your own fun this evening Sims."

Tera's wicked grin as she sat back in her seat put an end to the conversations on the way home.

...

The tactical debriefing for the incident on the A40 had just ended, it was just past midnight and everyone was beat.

All of them were due to leave for Heathrow in less than 8 hours. Nigel, Millie, Sims and Elise would be traveling with Michael and his women, another contingent would be traveling separately with the gear. The evenings action had put most everyone behind schedule and on edge.

Everyone that is accept Michael, whose pointed questions and easy manner during the meeting had both enraged and surprised Tera. His sometimes dark humor regarding his luck and self-deprecating charm had won him many smiles and nods from the gathered operatives. She however was just overwhelmed by fear. Fear of losing him, fear of him being in harms way, fear of not being there to save him when his luck finally ran out.

Walking back to the castle, she was about to explode when he pulled up short and turned on her.

"I will not be controlled by fear Tera. I have been down that road, as you well know and I will never revisit it. You have got to find a balance with this. I need you and Valerie both in so many ways, but it is not your job to be a martyr. We have chosen a dangerous life my love, it is an intrinsic part of who we are now. I will be in danger, it will be part and parcel of daily life for the foreseeable future. Get over it. I won't run, I won't cower, I will fight."

Michael delivered the statement with firm resolution. It was not delivered as a reprimand or a dressing down. But a simple statement of fact.

Tera would have preferred to be yelled at.

Valerie wrapped her arm around Tera's waist as they watched Michael walk off toward the castle.

"He is going to get himself killed," Tera whispered, fighting back the tears.

Valerie hugged her lover closer.

"He isn't that easy to kill Tera, you have to let him be who he is, with no judgment, no preconceptions. We're his, he is ours, for better or worse. I think better wins that balancing act in spades."

Tera nodded and straightened, heading off in pursuit of Michael with Valerie at her side. She wondered laughingly to herself when she had become such a girl.

The trio shared a long hot shower together and then curled into each others arms.

'There can be no better feeling than this.'

Michael sighed with the thought, letting the stress of the day, and those to come, slip away as he reveled in the simple joy of being so close to those that he loved. As was her way Valerie had kissed his neck, whispered I love you and fallen quickly to sleep.

He lay on his side, Valerie's body was snuggled close to his back. One arm around his waist, the other slid under the pillow, laying lightly under Tera's shoulder. Michael could feel the warm rise of her breasts against his back, the soft itch of her sex on the back of his thigh. It was comforting to feel her heat so close to him, to have the full tactile sensation of her body wrapped around him. 

Michaels arm lay over Tera where she had it trapped under her arm. His finger tips ran light circles between her breasts. Her body was was hard against his chest, one of her legs splayed back over his at the ankles. She cooed at his gentle caress.

"You were reckless today."

Tera's soft statement brought a smile to Michaels lips.

"Yes, I was."

His lips were close to her ear, she could feel his breath brush across the soft fine hairs on the back of her neck as he nuzzled her.

With a sigh Tera wound her hand in his, stopping the gentle motions across her skin which would soon lead to other more energetic motions.

"I love you Michael."

The words were filled with emotion as she squeezed his hand gently.

Michael lay there in the dark, soon Tera's breaths deepened, matching the rhythm and cadence of Valerie's behind him. As sleep finally overtook him he was happy to lay down the weight of the day, finding comfort in the arms of those he loved. ...

Dawn came earlier than any of them wanted.

Michael was the first one up and around. After a quick shower, Michael dressed and then made sure that Valerie was actually awake and coherent. While Tera showered, Michael grabbed their bags and turned to his mussed red headed paramour.

"I'm heading down to grab some coffee, we have about an hour, so you know, please rush, I know it's not nearly enough time."

Michael dodged the pillow but took a shoe to the back as he made a hasty escape from the room.

Taking up what had become his morning spot on the steps leading down to the maze he sipped his coffee and was enjoying his first cigarette of the day when he sensed Sims and Elise approaching.

"Good morning to you both." Michael said as he turned to look at the approaching pair.

"Good morning Michael," Elise said. Her easy jovial tone a stark contrast to most he had heard since last evenings action. Michael chalked it up to her unique perspective on the present and the future.

He could sense she was excited about the coming trip. Michael was as well, but it also held an equal measure of that simple and base fear inherent to all who walk willingly into the unknown.

"Have you ever fired a gun?" Sims asked sitting down next to Michael, his own cup of coffee placed at his side on the gray flagstones as he fished a cigarette from his pack.

"A few times. Guns were never really my thing, I preferred to dance with someone up close. Skill to skill with a saber or foil as opposed to an impersonal piece of lead.

Sims nodded as he lit his cigarette. "Come with me," Sims mumbled around his smoke as he retrieved his coffee cup and stood.

Michael smiled and followed suit. Elise just shook her head and followed behind trying to stay out of the overwhelming fog of testosterone that had suddenly blanketed the air.

From the balcony, Tera watched the trio walk toward the barracks. She had an idea of what Sims was up to. Valerie was still lazing about in bed. Placing a gentle kiss on her forehead she quickly pulled on her jeans and a shirt, interested to see how Michael was going to take what she thought was coming.

Michael followed Sims into the barracks. Making a right, away from the offices and medical facilities, they walked down a long corridor to the large steel door at the end. Sims keyed in a pass code, the lock clicked open.

Opening the door, Sims motioned for Michael and Elise to enter.

Door closing behind him, Sims flipped the light switch.

Along the walls hung all manner of firearms, from handguns to assault rifles. It seemed to Michael that the displays held every modern firearm available.

"This is the small armory, the main one back at headquarters is about four times this size but we should be able to find you both something suitable."

Sims was pleased to be in his element, after the incident last night it felt good to be acting pro-actively instead of reactively.

"I don't want to carry a gun." Elise said.

She had stepped backwards, now flush with the wall she looked a bit pale, obviously very uncomfortable in the room.

Michael and Sims both walked over to her.

"It's just for protection love, we would never expect you to need, or ask you to use it. But we can't know what situations you will be in, I would feel better if you had some protection."

Sims said softly wrapping an arm around her waist, pulling her close.

Michael agreed.

"Sims is right Elise. I have very little knowledge of guns and never really wanted any more. But things change and we must be able to adapt to them. It's not an issue for Tera. Perhaps you and Valerie could work with her. She may be able to allay your fears even more than we can."

Elise was surprised by Michael's willingness to carry a gun.

"You are the most gentle, selfless person I have ever known Michael, how could you willingly carry gun with the intent to hurt someone?"

Michael moved back a step, closing his eye's, concentrating on his mates.

'Tera, Valerie, I could use some help.' Michael reached out to his lovers with his mind.

'I will be in the armory in one minute, I saw you head that way with Sims.' Tera's thinking her response back to Michael was natural, as if they had been talking with their minds for years. Valerie was a little more taken aback.

'What time is it, where are you, whats wrong, hey this is cool...and weird.'

'I'm in the armory with Sims and Elise, Valerie please head over this way as soon as you can.'

She answered in the affirmative. Michael broke the connection as Tera came into the room.

"Good morning everyone." Tera's tone was light as she walked to Michael and gave him a brief kiss before turning to Sims.

"Getting everyone armed are we?" There was a smile in her voice as she regarded Sims with an upturned eyebrow.

"I figured since we were leaving today it would be prudent."

Sims liked Tera but also found her more than a little hard to read.

"I agree, why don't you work with Michael, I'll take Elise and Valerie when she gets here." Tera said as she moved off to gather Elise and take her over to the other side of the room.

Michael was smiling at Sims as they turned to walk over to the racks.

"She can be...daunting." Michael laughed.

Sims only nodded and started pulling guns from the shelves.

The process of finding the right weapon was relatively straightforward with Michael. After looking over about ten different 9mm and .45acp options he pulled out a Beretta, a Sig and a SW to try.

Sims, opening an ammo case, loosed the clips from each and began loading the weapons, giving Michael a crash course on each ones operation and subtleties.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 04



Across the room Tera was not having as easy a time with Elise. Sensing Valerie enter the room, Tera felt relieved..

'Maybe she will have better luck.' Tera thought as she waved Valerie over.

"Both Sims and myself think it would be best if everyone was at least somewhat knowledgeable about and carried a gun." Tera said, her impatience with Elise showing through.

Valerie was thoughtful for a moment before giving a slight nod to Tera.

" I agree, with everything that has happened over the past few weeks I think it's a good idea."

Elise was taken aback once again by another vote in favor of the guns.

"It doesn't make any sense, I'll never want to use a gun, there is absolutely no reason for me to get comfortable or become knowledgeable about them."

Tera shook her head and turned away from the pair, trying to reign in her anger at Elise's inability to see the practicality of this.

Valerie had been around guns for years. True most were hunting weapons, but she had no base aversion to them. And after everything that had happened she was more than happy to be somewhat prepared for whatever situation may come up next.

Valerie placed a gentle hand on Elise's shoulder. Looking her in the eye for a long moment before speaking.

"I understand that you don't want to do this Elise. But what I need for you to do is...pull back your perspective a bit, try and look at carrying a gun differently."

Valerie paused, looking around the room her eyes came to rest on Michael and Sims. As she was looking at him Michael turned his head slowly, a smile coming to his lips as his eyes met hers for a moment before turning back to Sims' lesson.

Turning back to Elise, a thin smile found its way to her lips, she believed she had found an example that would push Elise to a place of understanding.

"Sims has just shielded you with his body, taking a bullet in the shoulder. He is laying at your feet, you can see the blood from his wound pooling out from underneath him, he is helpless and the man who shot him is walking forward, gun drawn aiming at his head."

"What are you going to do Elise?"

Valerie had said this rather loudly. The room became very still. All of them, including Valerie herself, somewhat surprised that she had used such a graphic example.

Elise stood unmoving, she seemed to be holding her breath. Her eyes shifted over Valerie's shoulder. Elise's eyes found Sims', she found in their depths the different perspective Valerie was aiming for.

A tentative hand reached out to the table, it passed over several of the guns that Tera had been showing her. She hovered over one for a moment and then, with purpose, her palm coiled around the butt and a finger slid over the trigger as she raised it slowly.

Looking into Valerie eyes her voice was low but full of power.

"Well, I would...kill him."

Everyone took a breath as Elise spoke. She noticed the smile on Sims' face as she did so.

No one seemed to notice that she said nothing of using a gun. ...

Over the next hour Sims and Tera worked with the others to get them comfortable with their choices and give them an opportunity to learn the basics they might need in a fight.

Their lesson ended with Nigel's arrival. He had been looking for them for about 15 minutes before finally tracking them all to the armory.

"We have five minutes 'till wheels up."

Giving Sims and Tera an appreciative nod he continued.

"Sims, get their new gear stowed for travel. Elise, why don't you give him a hand. You three get your gear down to the helipad. We need to get moving."

Nigel's tone was forceful but held no anger.

"Will do." Sims said as he gathered up the trio's new weapons and headed over to the empty cases stacked at the back of the room.

"We will grab our stuff and head out." Michael said pulling Tera and Valerie close as they headed up the stairs followed by Nigel.

Elise had hung back, watching Sims unload the guns and place them in a foam lined case.

He felt her behind him before she spoke.

"I'm sorry for being such a pain before Sims, its just..."

"I understand Elise, a lot of people have issues when it comes to guns. For me it is a natural thing, it's part of what I do."

Elise placed her head on his shoulder.

"Thank you for understanding."

Sims leaned his head against hers for a moment before straightening to finish his packing.

"Come on lets get your stuff." Sims said taking her hand and leading her out of the armory.

Both of them carried their own questions and fears as they climbed the stairs. They each gave the others hand a gentle squeeze, and with that small pressure, both had their fears eased, at least a little.

...

Michael sat in the comfortable chair of the Gulfstream V. They had just lifted off, the plane was climbing fast while turning into a hard bank to orient them on their path east.

The airport had been a surreal thing. Nothing like he had experienced in this post 9/11 world. There were no worries for security check-ins or baggage checks. The helicopter had dropped them 100 yards away from the waiting plane. Most of their baggage had been brought ahead of time. Within a few minutes they were all safely ensconced within the plush confines of the Gulfstream and taxing down the runway.

Tera, Sims and Nigel had sequestered themselves in a booth near the front of the plane, reviewing the security measures for their first destination. Michael had never been to Japan and was very pleased when Millie had finally told him that was where they were headed first.

After spending a few minutes with Nigel and another few minutes chatting animatedly with Valerie and Elise, Millie had finally settled in the seat across from Michael.

"Japan is our first stop."

Millie sounded tired. Michael didn't know where she found the energy to keep going.

As if reading his mind, Millie smiled a secretive smile.

"I'll have plenty of time to rest when we get to Japan. There won't be much for me to do once the introductions are made. Don't worry about me Michael, I'll be fine. My life with Ian was one full of travel and stress, fun and tension, I know when to say when."

"I'm looking forward to seeing Japan. I take it the clan involved oversees most of the region?"

"Yes, you will be meeting Onji Matsuda. He has been clan leader for just over a hundred years. An interesting man, and an interesting clan. I will be interested to find out your opinions once you get to know him."

Michael thought that there was more to her statement than she let on but he let it go... for now.

"Here is the breakdown on the combined Clan holdings. The overview of the corporation which you are now CEO of is made up of the holdings of all the individual Clans. There is also an brief history for Matsuda's as well as our clan. If you find you need more information please let me know and I will get it for you."

Millie patted his leg lightly as she got up and walked back to the booth near the front of the plane, sliding into the soft leather chair next to Nigel.

Michael looked down at the folders in has lap.

'Time enough for those later.'

His thoughts drifted. The slow gentle throb of the engines and the passing landscape below lulled Michael into a comfortable half-waking half-sleeping fog.

...

Another plane ride, another time, overlaid on Michael's consciousness. Junior year of college, spring time. His friend Steve in the seat next to him as the Rocky's came into view on the horizon through the window.

"It will be good to get some R&R."

Steve was excited, they were flying to Colorado to meet Marsha's parents. Steve and Marsha had met at the beginning of Junior year, she was an interior design major who took a few classes with both of them. Their relationship had blossomed quickly and Michael was pleased that his friend seemed to have found the love of his life.

While Steve's happiness was important to Michael, it also shined a glaring spotlight on his own seeming inability to maintain a relationship.

It was not for a lack of trying nor a lack of willing companions. It just always seemed that something didn't quite fit and Michael's relationships would fall apart. The odd part was that when the romantic aspects did fall apart their friendships seemed to deepen. Most of Michael's close friends fell into the category of old girlfriends which, after watching Steve through the first two years of college, seemed the exception not the rule.

Marsha was from Boulder and her parents had been more than happy to fly them out for spring break, anxious to meet the young man who had apparently stolen their daughters heart.

Michael listened while Steve and Marsha talked back and forth next to him, amused by how free wheeling Steve had been reigned in by the diminutive red head.

"You'll love Mom and Dad, I know that you're worried, but you shouldn't be. Everything will be fine."

Marsha had been reassuring Steve for the last few weeks, ever since her parents had made the offer. It was a constant topic of conversation between the two friends as well.

Marsha rose and walked toward the restroom. Steve took the opportunity to once again question his friend.

"Do you really think this is a good idea, it still seems kind of sudden."

Michael shook his head and turned to his friend, a small, somewhat tired smile on his lips.

"Steve look, you guys are perfect for each other. For the past two years I've watched you move through the bulk of available women in both the architecture and contractor schools. You had a good time and were never anything but honest with all of them. Marsha is unique, from that first day of class it has been different. I know you're scared about how you feel about her, but fuck man, you're in love. And more importantly - you are loved in return. I don't give a shit about how old you are, how quick it seems. Love, attraction, passion, these are the things that make life worth living. My parents have been on a 20 year honeymoon with no end in sight. For as long as I can remember they have always been overtly in love with each other. From sitting next to each other reading the paper, fingers idly playing over each others hands to incessant grab assing at any and all functions, they love each other every minute. You and Marsha are the same way, you can both be dead tired after pulling an all niter but still you gravitate to each other, always reaching out to the other, always aware of where the other is and longing for each other when you're not. Face it, she is the one. For better and worse you two fit together. Don't yell at the rain man, close your eyes and enjoy the deluge."

Michael's voice trailed off as Marsha returned. He looked at his friend who was contemplating him with serious eyes. He nodded to Michael before turning to Marsha, wrapping her in his arms as she sat and planting a scorching kiss on her.

"I have to leave you two alone more often." Marsha gasped as the kiss broke. 

Michael smiled at the flush of red which colored her cheeks as it was balanced by a swirling passion that danced in the depths of her eyes.

' Ah amore.' Michael thought, turning his attention back to the ever growing presence of the mountains through the window. 'When will it be my turn' he wondered.

...

"A penny for your thoughts."

Elise's lilting voice brought Michael back to the present as she sat next to him.

"I thought you didn't have to pay for them, aren't I an open book where that is concerned."

Michael's tone was gentle and playful. He liked Elise, she was a sweet young woman. He was pleased that she and Sims were hitting it off.

"Unfortuneately, that ability comes and goes as it will. It is rare for the ordinary day to day occurrences that I perceive. It's the big, mostly bad things that make themselves all to present sometimes."

Michael placed his hand over hers. He felt her sadness but had no idea what he could do for her other than provide a bit of comfort.

"It seems you and Sims are getting on well, be sure to tell me if he steps out of line and needs to be put in his place." Michael said with a grin.

Elise smiled and patted his hand as she stood.

"Don't worry on that Michael, Sims will never hurt me...or you for that matter. You have plenty of other more pressing things to focus on."

As was her cryptic way, she said no more and walked forward, sliding into the booth next to Sims. Michael smiled as his arm automatically found it's way around her neck in a comfortable embrace.

Tera was engrossed with Nigel. Millie and Valerie were still huddled close having an animated conversation. With a sigh Michael picked up the folder he had set aside earlier. Taking a last look out of the window, the clouds below a blanket of impenetrable white in stark contrast to the vibrant blue of the sky.

'We could be anywhere, going anywhere.'

The thought was fleeting as he opened the thick folder. The information was broken into sections covering clan history, clan holdings and an overview of the Ryujin clan. Michael pulled out the overview of the Japanese clan.

With a last look out the window he knew they weren't going just anyplace, they were traveling a well defined road to an unknown future. Michael began to read, feelings of excitement and dread battling for control as he learned another small part of what it meant to be...him.

...

Overview: Clan Ryujin

Current Clan Leader: Onji Matsuda

Clan Home: Niigita, 350km north of Tokyo

Clan Specialties: Heavy industry, Electronics, Historian of the Clans

Clan Ryujin is currently under the leadership of Onji Matsuda who ascended in the year 1901. The clan aspect is that of Ryujin, known historically as the Dragon God of the Sea.

The clan has a long history of being a stalwart supporter of Clan Aoife. Clan Ryujin has always been a trusted and candid advisor to Clan Aoife and all of the aligned clans.

In the roll of the corporation, Ryujin lends the significant attributes of cutting edge electronic design across all areas from commercial, retail to communication and defense. Heavy industries include automobile, marine, farming and heavy industry applications.

WWII: This was a dark period in the clan history. Matsuda was outmaneuvered by both the German and Italian clans who's allegiance lies with Clan Sirrush. 

Michael was surprised to see the name Sirrush. Though in the instant it took him to acknowledge his surprise it had already begun to fade. Seeing the name in this context felt right. He had heard the name once, a whisper in his mind while running one morning along the Oxford canal. When he had mentioned the name to Aoife, her response was to say the least violent.

Aoife's soft voice, coming across as a bit humble penetrated his thoughts.

'I am sorry about that incident Michael, I know you have questions, they will all be answered, let the journey unfold as it will.'

Michael fought the urge to try calling forth the information, he could feel it tickling just outside of his consciousness. Lying within that vast wellspring of knowledge he had gained from his union with Aoife. He fought back the urge, placing his trust in Aoife and her desire that he let the journey and the information come as it will.

Running his fingers through his hair and taking a few deep breaths, Michael began to read once again.

Through a subtle, long term plan that began just after WWI ended, they were able to imprison Matsuda, killing his most trusted advisors. With Matsuda out of the way, they were able to place advisors close to the Japanese royal family who then counseled the emperor towards joining the axis powers.

Onji Matsuda was rescued by clan chief Ian Smyth just prior to the Japanese surrender. After the war, Matsuda worked diligently to ensure that the new japan would never be in a position to have her destiny decided by another outside party.

Over the past fifty years, Matsuda has worked tirelessly toward his shared passions for a free and self sufficient Japan and the betterment of those who follow Clan Aoife.

"He is much more interesting in person."

Michael looked up from the brief as Millie took the seat next to him.

"Onji is a dear man and was always a good friend to Ian. He has a great deal of pride for his homeland but never doubt that his first loyalty is to the clans."

"It's a lot to take in Millie, at times I think I have a clear perspective on what's going on, the path I need to follow, then other times I feel so out of my depth that I can't see the light from normal."

Millie placed her hand on Michael's arm. She could see the stress building in him. She knew that Aoife would step in if necessary, but that this was also part of the journey to truly becoming the clan liege. The weight of the world quite literally did fall on his shoulders.

"It will get easier. As you meet the other three clans, integrate their perspectives and strengths with those you already possess, you will find the balance Michael. I know that time is short, but there is enough time. It will not be as bad as it may seem sometimes. With leadership comes responsibility. But there is also great satisfaction and joy. Tera and Val will help so much. Nigel and I are here to walk at your side as well. Sims and Tera too play some roll in what is to come, though what rolls they will be still remain to be seen."

Michael's hand came to rest on Millie's, he appreciated her ability to put complex issues into a straight forward idea.

"I like Sims a great deal. Though I haven't known him long I trust him, which is unique. I have had few close friends, fewer still were the ones that I had a level of trust that was anywhere close to that I have with Sims."

"Elise is an enigma. Sharing what I did with her was a very intimate thing, I know that I feel a need to protect her, that having her around is important, but I couldn't tell you why. From the looks of it she won't need protecting, I think Sims has volunteered for that job."

Michael and Millie looked over to Sims as he sat with Nigel and Tera. Elise had walked behind him, her hands coming lightly to rest on his shoulders. The way he leaned back into her ever so slightly was a clear indicator of what his feelings were concerning the young woman.

"You have a strong base of support Michael. That will only grow as you meet the other clans. Breathe, it will be all right."

With a warm squeeze of his hand Millie left, walking over to take the seat next to Nigel.

"I'm in the mood for a nap."

Michael turned to find Valerie standing behind his chair looking down at him with a smile.

Closing the dossier in his lap he rose and stretched. It had been an hectic evening and morning, with no real hope of a break to come.

"Sounds good to me."

Michael glanced over to Tera. He found her watching Valerie and himself. With a smile and motion of his head toward the rear stateroom Michael watched the grin spread across Tera's face as she nodded before turning to Nigel and excusing herself.

"We're taking a break are we?" Tera's tone was playful but underneath he could hear her own weariness.

"Lets take the break while we can."

Michael slid an arm around the waist of each woman, enjoying the feel of them at his side as they walked to the back of the plane. Thoughts of dragons and enemies blessedly absent for the moment. ...

The gentle knock on the door roused Tera from sleep in an instant.

She knew that it meant they were about an hour from landing and it was time to rejoin the real world.

Tera stretched, looking beside her she was once again captivated by the sight of her lovers. Michael lay on his back, his chest rising and falling with a gentle cadence. Valerie lay next to him, her hair covering part of his chest in a soft crimson wave. Her arm and a leg were draped over him, the embrace struck Tera as so very natural.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 04



Michael eyes flicked open and found hers.

"How long 'till we land?"

Michael's voice was soft, his hand came up from behind Valerie to caress her shoulder.

"About an hour."

Michael nodded and slid gently from beneath Valerie. Standing he stretched his arms over his head. Coming down they encircled Tera.

"I love you."

His breath was warm on her neck as he embraced her. Pulling her tightly to him, Tera melted into his arms.

He was warm, she could smell his unique sent, musky and masculine with just the briefest hint of Valerie's sweet lavender thrown in from where she had lain on him.

"Are you scared Michael?"

She felt him stiffen at the question and then, almost as quickly, relax.

"I am, but not of meeting the other clan heads or even of being clan leader. I'm afraid of failing, afraid of the frightening cost if I am not up to the challenge."

Pulling away from him she looked up into his eyes, a hand coming to rest on his cheek.

"Not to worry my love, I have yet to see you meet a challenge that was your equal."

Sliding her other hand between his legs she found him hard. This gave her a secret inner smile as she knew her proximity was its cause.

Giving him a squeeze she laughed.

"I think you will be UP, to whatever challenge may come along."

Michael could not help but laugh at her double entandre. Pulling her into a long deep kiss he was once again reminded of how lucky he was to have such women in his life.

"Thats enough of that you two, I don't think we have the time. More's the pity."

Valerie was standing now, shaking her raven hair, it settled around her shoulders as she turned and opened the small blind on the window.

"I can see the coast."

Tera and Michael joined her, their heads filling the small window.

The sun was just breaking the horizon, the emerald green coastline barely visible in the distance below.

"We need to get ready."

Tera followed Valerie toward the small en-suite bathroom, leaving Michael to watch the island grow slowly larger on the horizon.

'Another step on the path Michael.'

Aoife's warm sensual voice echoed in his mind. He was grateful for her companionship and the trust she had put in him. He was determined not to let her, or those that he loved down. Challenges would come, but as Tera so aptly pointed out, he would be up them.



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 05



Blood was pooling in Nicholas' palm, slowly running in rivulets down his wrist and across the wooden tabletop. He sat in an excellent reproduction of a Louis XXI chair while the elegant period table was slowly stained crimson.

Peter Styverson's lifeless body lay at his feet. His chest rendered open with a fist-sized hole just under the sternum, his heart dropped haphazardly on the floor before his open, sightless eyes.

Once again Michael had slipped through Nicholas' fingers, once again a subordinate had not been up to what should have been the simple task of killing Michael Dane.

Rising, Nicholas stretched, walked over to the table he picked up the phone.

""What is his location now?"

"They just left Heathrow, flight plan shows Tokyo as the final destination."

"Onji, damn. All right, get everything packed we leave for Singapore at the earliest opportunity."

Nicholas slammed the phone onto its cradle.

"I should have killed you when I had the chance Onji, sealed you in concrete and dumped you in the Sea of Japan."

Nicholas paced around the room. He had no fear of Onji or of Michael meeting with him. It was simply another inconvenience, which he had little time for.

Nicholas had been psychotic after the death of Ian. To be so close to his goal, of uniting the greatest powers of chaos and order only to have nothing happen was far worse than underestimating the outcome and losing the battle. He was sure the old fool would abide by the ancient rites, take Michael himself to the other clan leaders before giving him the throne. Ian had always been one for pomp and circumstance, just like the rest of his pathetic countryman.

Once Nicholas had recovered his senses he understood that Ian hadn't given Michael the power, that Michael was not yet ascended. Ian had simply given it back to that winged golden whore of his.

He sent in a strike force, it should have been enough to take out Ian's security. But that damn Nigel and a larger than expected contingent of Dragon Security personnel had foiled that plan.

And then it happened. As always, when one ascends the ripples of power that such an unholy union creates fanned out, marked only by those just as damned as the newly made chosen.

"You should have refused Michael, you should have packed your bags and went home." Nicholas snarled. There was no sorrow or actual feeling behind Nicholas' words. They were the solitary ramblings of man consumed by his thirst for power and pain.

The ringing phone broke Nicholas from his ruminations. Walking over to the phone, hand outstretched to grab the receiver, he froze in mid-stride.

Vision blurring, pain searing through his body, a scream started deep in his throat, a wail of pure torment the likes of which few have ever uttered and taken another breath behind. Nicholas convulsed as if being electrocuted for a moment before dropping to the floor, his scream cut short in the physical world as his body gave out against the onslaught of suffering that enfolded him in a straitjacket of agony.

His spirit was not as fortunate as his body.

The shrieking wail of pain and terror continued as that dark, malevolent core of consciousness that encapsulated all that was Nicholas was pulled to a new and most decidedly unwelcome destination.

"MASTER, PLEASE..."

Nicholas' cry echoed around the rocky promontory that he now found himself kneeling upon.

Not for the first time, his knees and elbows flared with white-hot pain as they were pulled across the rough stone of the cliff toward its edge.

The gray sky roiled with clouds releasing icy rain that soaked through cloth and skin and bone, wrapping him in a shroud of clammy cloying pain.

From below the edge of the cliff a rumbling akin to thunder began. It cascaded up and over the cliff, buffeting Nicholas like the wind of a thousand hurricanes. The rumbling clarified and gained a rhythm, the rhythm of laughter. Sick and demented in cadence and intent, Nicholas cowered under its power.

"You Dare Beg Mercy of ME? Foolish child, how is that you are the last of my great line, how is it that one so incompetent could carry my essence within them?"

The earth moved under Nicholas, the rain picking up in intensity, the wind now augmented by some unseen force. Unseen but not unknown. Nicholas knew that wind, tinged with the stench of sulfur and death, it meant that his master wished to look him in the eye.

Nicholas bent his head to the hard wet stone. His forehead pressed so hard against it that deep gouges appeared, blood tinting the rainwater that coursed over his head crimson as it fell to the rough black stone below.

"Look at me."

Sirrush's venomous hiss caused Nicholas' head to snap up. His eyes locking with those of his master. He was, as always, lost the moment he gazed into their swirling obsidian depths. Now paralyzed like a rat before a cobra, Nicholas could do nothing but stare.

The stark reality of Sirrush's form would have caused even the strongest of people to simply let slip their hold on reality. His enormous black body, covered with glittering scales looked as though it was made of black ice. The intermittent flashes of lightning reflected across their wet surface like deep scars that shone for an instant only to be swallowed by the inky blackness the next.

Onyx teeth the length of short swords curled haphazardly out of his mouth. Small pools of poisonous ichor pooling below them, he stood sneering at his groveling minion.

Sirrush's voice was low and dangerous as he spoke to Nicholas.

"How many times Nicholas? How many opportunities did you lose to end her line? End her arrogance? End my own pain at her very existence? Was it six or seven? Your failures mount up so quickly that it is hard for me to keep count. Why have I been cursed for almost three centuries with such a loathsome acolyte as you? What deity must I suckle and subjugate myself to that I may finally be rid of you?"

Sirrush shuffled closer to Nicholas' prone form. He could feel the earth tremble with each grating step his master took.

"Ian is no more my lord, I bathed my flesh in his blood, tasted his coppery essence in my throat. Michael is lucky, he will not escape me. Soon our place as rulers will be assured. The planet will weep to its very foundations at our coming."

Nicholas had recovered somewhat, knowing that only by standing up to his master could he hope to avoid further more degrading and painful punishment.

"Our place, our coming."

An ebon claw flashed out, tearing a deep livid gash diagonally from Nicholas' neck to his lower back. Nicholas' screams were drowned out by Sirrush's roar of anger.

"Never dare place yourself at my side fool. Under my claw, begging for scraps from my table, like the foolish peasant you were born to be. That is your station, never forget that."

Nicholas could no longer keep to his knees. Blood coursed out of the long gaping wound to his back as he toppled over, curling into a fetal like repose.

"For ... forgive me ... master."

Nicholas had no more strength to speak; he felt his life force ebbing away in the face of his masters' wrath. He felt his masters hot bile drip slowly onto his cheek. Looking up he found ancient fangs only inches from his face. He did not pull back, he held his place as best he could as his master spoke one last time.

"Kill him Nicholas, rip his heart from his chest, feel the last pulse of humanity's hope beat its last against your palm. When this is done, perhaps forgiveness I shall deign to provide. Until then, understand that I shall accept no more mistakes, no more missed opportunities. Your eternal soul dangles over an endless abyss Nicholas, do not force me to cut the tenuous thread which sustains you."

Nicholas could hear rock fracture as Sirrush beat his wings, lifting off from the cliff. His battered body was rocked by the force of the wind beating down on him, giving his masters bulk purchase in the air. He did not look up to watch as Sirrush circled above him, did not see his master power through the air like a great shadowed demon toward the ruins farther up the hillside. He did not have to. This place was seared into his memory. Branded there so many centuries ago. For now he simply wailed as the pain from his masters poisoned talons seared through his body, understanding that soon enough they would be burnt away, leaving a new scar, a new reminder of what it meant to serve instead of lead.

In a croaking voice that broke with every syllable Nicholas spat out his own curse at his lord.

"Soon you old villain, soon you will know this same pain and a thousand times more. Over an age, or hundred ages you shall come to know pain and subservience. A thousand damnations I owe you, I shall repay them ... tenfold."

Nicholas slipped into unconsciousness. His soul temporarily trapped between the dreaming hell of Sirrush's creation and his true physical form. He wandered here, where memories are tangible and have fangs of there own.

...

The bellowing call of Hans' deep tenor rolled through the apartment like a crashing wave.

Nicholas opened and then quickly closed his eyes when he realized that the sun was still up. It had been four years since Nicholas had seen Hans.

After leaving the farm in the south of France where his training had begun, Nicholas and Hans traveled north again. Through France and Belgium until finally passing into Germany.

Nicholas was struck by just how different the places and people seemed as they had traveled. He made mention of it to Hans as they passed through the black forest about a days ride from their final destination, Berlin.

"The people of Germany seem much ... harsher ... than those we encountered in France or Belgium. Even the Russians that I knew were seemingly more open than these tight lipped Norse."

"My people are ... stoic Nicholas. Life has not been easy for my country. We stand it seems always at a crossroads. But you will never find a more loyal people. And don't let their stolid veneer fool you. We are a people of great appetites. We do not shy away from what must be done, both as a nation and as individuals. If there is something we want, something that intrigues us we shall go to great lengths to pursue it."

"The French as a people are weak, you will find yourself one or two in your travels who are worth knowing, but as a whole they are a people bereft of honor. They are most content when left to pursue whatever indulgence suits their fancy at the time. You never need worry about facing a Frenchman in fight, give them a two minute head start and never shall they trouble you again."

Interestingly enough, Nicholas held this statement to be true until the late 1800's when a Frenchman through valor and sheer force of will came within a hairs breath of ending Nicholas' life. Never again would he discount a Frenchman's courage or desire.

"The Russians, now they as people have great strength, but they see themselves as beneath the other powers of Europe. Of course the Royal's looked to elevate their people but it is an impossible task when the bulk of a countries people are little more than beasts of burden. You can yolk that strength in the future Nicholas, use it for your own ends."

"As for the rest, well I shall let you decide as you meet them. It is time for your formal education to begin. When we get to Berlin you will be enrolled in the university. Reading, writing, mathematics, music, art and military history will be your courses of study. I expect you to take your studies very seriously Nicholas. You know the consequences if you should do less than your best, and if your best should be less than perfection."

Nicholas shuddered at the remembrance of his time in the barn learning the lessons of pain and truth. He had no doubts that he would apply himself to whatever task Hans gave him.

Now, four years later Nicholas was a different person. He had excelled in his studies at the university of Berlin. Over the last four years he had come to call Berlin home. He was mesmerized by the diversity offered to those of means, which, thanks to Hans he definitely was.

Nicholas had been set up in his own apartment just a few minutes walk from the university. That coupled with a generous monthly allowance drawn from a local banking establishment, he was soon known in all of the right social circles.

Nicholas was scheduled to graduate the next day, his studies completed. He had wondered what would come next and when Hans would make an appearance. It seemed today was the day.

Throwing his feet over the edge of the bed, the cold wood of the floor a striking counter to the warmth of his bed, Nicholas, with squinty eyes pulled on a pair of breaches before turning to his bedmate.

Elizabeth was British, the daughter of gentrified lord in the highlands of Scotland her pale skin and flaming red hair had drawn Nicholas to her like a moth to a flame. It took very little time for Lizzy, as he liked to call her, to fall on her back and spread her legs and give up her maidenhead to the handsome young man.

Giving the exposed alabaster cheek of her ass a quick slap, his whispered admonition was given with grave sincerity.

"Stay quiet, and stay here, Lizzy."

She had turned to yell at him for the slap, upon seeing the stern look in his eye she thought better of it and simply nodded, pulling the blankets up over her exposed flesh and head.

Nicholas strode from the room, closing the door behind him before calling out.

"Welcome, Hans, it has been too long."

He was unprepared for the attack, even if he had been so, it would have mattered little. The rage Hans was in was something akin to a force of nature. The beating lasted only a moment before Nicholas found himself looking up at Hans from the floor as his vision tunneled. His last glimpse before darkness took him was of Hans opening the door to his bedroom.

Cold water splashed over his body, shocking him back to consciousness. On instinct he rose to a crouch looking around like a feral cat trying to find their prey. His body tensed and froze as he found Hans standing behind a chair. The chair holding a bound and beaten Lizzy.

Nicholas' scream was primal as he leapt toward Hans, his intent to kill him clearly reflected in his eyes and actions.

"STOP."

Hans' yell would have gone unheeded had not a knife appeared at Lizzy throat in the instant it was given.

"You have learned nothing these past four years. I blame myself, I should have taken a more active roll. I thought the lesson had been learned those years ago on the farm, it seems I was gravely mistaken.

Fingers curling in Lizzy's tangled and matted hair, Hans pulled her head back. Closer now, Nicholas could see that one of her eyes was closed completely, the other soon to follow. Livid welts covered every inch of her exposed skin, which was coated in a thin sheen of sweat and blood, vomit and urine.

"You have feelings for this." Hans punctuated the statement with a quick slap to the girls face eliciting a soulful moan from the half conscious Lizzy.

"The wolf does not feel for the sheep Nicholas, it does not lay with them simply for the pleasure of it, it feels nothing in it's soul for it other than as a means to feed its hunger."

"I could have made you watch, could have had your eyelids pulled tight so you could witness her degradation. However, this I think a much more meaningful lesson, one that will hopefully last longer than your previous one."

In a flash Hans moved from behind Lizzy to behind Nicholas. In the next instant the six-inch stiletto found its way to Nicholas' palm.

Nicholas could feel her warm breath on his cheek as Hans pushed them both forward, hand coiled around his own like an iron strap. Her eye flared open and she looked at him. Or, more accurately, looked through him. As he watched the light in her eyes burn bright and then begin to dim, Nicholas felt her warm blood course around his hand, which held the dagger firmly in her chest. Through the blade he could feel the tremulous last beats of her heart around the cold steel, which throbbed dimly in his hand.

"Sheep Nicholas, that is all they are. Here to provide sustenance, be it of body, mind or soul, but nothing more than that. We are better than them in every way, never forget that."

Hans' voice echoed in his ears as Lizzy's eye froze open, its stare now fixed in eternity and seared into Nicholas' make up. Those eyes would visit him in his nightmares for centuries to come. In that moment he knew only blinding rage at Hans for having the audacity to take something that was his.

Pulling the dagger free of Lizzy, Nicholas jerked from Hans' grasp. Whirling he faced his mentor, his eyes burning red with rage.

"You think your ready pup? Ready to take on the mantle, ready to best me. Be sure Nicholas, you will only get one chance, and the road you are about to step on has only one end, your death or mine. I suggest you be very certain of your destination."

Hans' words were calm. Metered and measured in such a way that they sent up danger signals immediately inside Nicholas' psyche.

'I can't win today.'

With the thought came the understanding and feeling of it as well.

Nicholas dropped the dagger to the floor, turning away from Hans who stood tense watching him. Nicholas' gaze fell briefly on Lizzy's lifeless form as he walked emotionless to the balcony. A blood red sunset met his gaze, fitting for both the end of this day, and the beginning of his lessons to come.

...

Nicholas had not spoken a word to Hans since the events of the prior day. Where once Nicholas had feared and held a modicum of respect for him, now there was only contempt, the desire for his slow and painful death. But now was not the time, so Nicholas tolerated his presence, understanding that the righteous old bastards' time would come.

For the years in between now and that moment when Nicholas looked into Hans' cold sightless eyes, he would wait, he would be patient, he would learn.

On the carriage ride to Nicholas' graduation ceremony he broke his silence with Hans.

"So what is next Hans? Now that this part of my training is complete, what new lessons are there to be learned?"

Hans smiled a wicked smile before answering.

"How to kill Nicholas, how to kill is the next lesson."

Hans' words echoed in Nicholas' mind as the graduation ceremony progressed. Those getting top honors were put off till last, meaning that Nicholas was the final graduate to receive his awards. Standing on the small stage as the faculty fawned over him, the image of sheep came strong to his mind. 'Perhaps Hans isn't all wrong about them.'

His thought was tinged by the memory of Lizzy's eyes looking through him in their last gaze. Walking off the stage to be greeted by his classmates the thought thankfully fled for the moment.

Two days later Hans and Nicholas rode hard heading north into the Alps. Hans had not been forth coming about where or with whom his next training would take place. Nicholas knew better than to waste his breath asking. He had packed his clothing into two bags that would be slung over the back of his horse and stepped out his front door. Riding away from Berlin he had no great sorrow in the leaving of it. He was more focused, more intent on what lay ahead, and the goal that lay at its conclusion.

...

"Ah, new meat for the grinder."

Carl Schroeder looked at the dark haired boy. He was surprised that he found no fear in the young mans eyes. Most of the young men who found their way to his little band of mercenaries were as jumpy as a cat in a room full of rockers.

"Herr Schroeder, it is good to see you again my old friend."

'Friend, hmm, interesting that he would call me such. Not long ago we were at each others throats, only chance saved one of us from dieing at the others hand.'




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 05



Schroeder brushed off these thoughts as the men shook hands.

"So what do you have for me Hans, some fresh entertainment for the boys?"

Nicholas did not like the man's tone or the inference of his statement, but kept quiet. One of the lessons he had learned well, was that it was often best to only speak or question when absolutely necessary.

"No, no, nothing like that, at least not with this one. For Nicholas here I am hoping you will take him on as an apprentice. He needs an understanding of what it means to kill, to spill the blood of an enemy, to order men to take life and to sacrifice theirs if need be. I can think of no one more qualified to educate the lad on how real war is waged and won."

It was not faint praise coming from Hans and Carl new it. There were a handful of men in his position, who had lived their lives by the sword and gun, weaned on the smell of blood and ash. They would have been warlords a few centuries ago. But this was a more civilized age. Men such as Carl were now forced to lend their skills to those rich enough to pay for them, but wielding great political power instead of brute strength.

Hans was an enigma of the time who did both. He had the ear of powerful people in almost every royal court in Europe, but would also be hard to best by any two or three great warriors. His desire for Carl to train Nicholas was strange, but he kept his questions to himself. He would have better luck getting answers from the boy than his mentor.

"It would be an honor Hans. To train someone for you would be one of the great accomplishments of my life. What are my restrictions?"

"You have none, aside from in four years he lives and has been trained. Beyond that, I trust that you and your men will give Nicholas ... a unique education."

Carl raised an eyebrow but said nothing. His men, mostly made up of barbarous thugs could make the strongest of men wish for death. It was yet another interesting facet of Hans request.

"Come with me Nicholas, we shall spend a few moments together and then I will be off."

Hans' tone was gruff, that of father too long delayed by prattling children.

"Thank for your this, Carl, I now owe you a debt ... and I always repay them. Don't hesitate to call on me if I can be of any assistance to you in the future. Until we meet again."

Turning, Hans and Nicholas walked off toward their horses leaving a bewildered Carl in their wake.

"Remember your lessons Nicholas, the next four years will be the hardest you have ever known. You will learn the intimacy of death during this time. Find the detachment that comes through causing it times innumerable. Remember Nicholas, they are the sheep, and you are the wolf. It is the truth of your life, the sooner you embrace that fact, and the sooner you can try to take that which is your birthright. You must realize it will not be handed over easily. Everything in life must be taken. To be given something requires no work, no action, no intention, it is meaningless to receive, it is meaningless to give, the only things in life that are truly yours, are those that you take by your own hand."

Nicholas watched in silence as Hans gained his saddle and with a quick kick of his heels was away, swallowed by the darkness of the forest that surrounded him.

...

Nicholas coughed, his body aching as it always did after his master summoned him so abruptly.

Groping around he found the table and used it to pull himself up. Taking deep gasping breaths Nicholas tried to center himself. The toll of being ripped across such distances is great, both physically and emotionally. No matter that it had happened hundreds of times over the centuries, each was still its own unique lesson in pain and submission.

Nicholas sat heavily in the chair, pulling the phone closer he smashed the speaker button and dialed a number. It was answered immediately.

"Yes Sir?"

"Darion, bring me a bottle of red wine and start a shower, we need to get moving."

"Right away, Sir."

Nicholas, closing the line stood, stretching his arms up over his head. The ache from the meeting would last several days. No matter what he did it was always the case.

Stripping his sweat soaked shirt, he dropped it at his feet as he walked over to the balcony and opened the door. The cold night air and light rain felt good on his heated skin as he surveyed the city below.

His fingertips played gently across the top of the newly formed scar at his neck, it was numb, as such scars are always were. Standing there on the balcony he moved his hands over the various scars that he could reach. Each a reminder of some transgression, real or imagined. Each devoid of feeling, each one tearing away another piece of his living essence, each diminishing him.

London moved below him, it's energy and vitality the antithesis of what Nicholas' own view of what the world should be.

"I will enjoy taking my vengeance on this place. Enjoy watching it burn."

Nicholas' words were lost on the wind as he heard Darion come into the suite.

"I'm out here."

Darion, dressed in his perennial gray Seville row suit placed an open bottle of on the table before walking to stand at Nicholas' side.

'So many nights like this one lately.' Darion thought as he watched the city undulate in its nightly orgy of motion and sound.

The early years had been different. Nicholas had found Darion in the west end, being a bartender, looking impeccable, waiting to find Mr. Right. That had been Darion twenty years ago until the fateful night Nicholas had walked into his life.

Now all these years later he couldn't seem to remember what had so appealed to him about pledging himself to the enigmatic man in black jeans and turtle neck.

Yes, he was built like a Greek god, had an accent that anyone would kill for, but there was an emptiness behind his eyes that Darion found overtly intriguing. He was just sure that his own unique qualities would be just the thing to relight the fire behind those eyes, and once lit, living in their reflection would give Darion the sense of completion he hungered for.

What he had gotten was far more. Nicholas had offered him a job, personal valet. Darion jumped at the chance. Many a night those first years had been spent curled in his bed, the frightening understanding of the world in which he now lived, almost too much to bear. But he had survived. Years and years of thankless labor, so many gallons of blood cleaned up, the bodies of those used up by Nicholas stacked like cord wood in the corners of his mind.

There was never any hope of escape; it was no longer even a thought that entered Darion's mind. Once your footprint is ingrained in the bloody sand of hell, there is no stepping back through the door.

Nicholas' attention on him broke him from his mussing.

"Is the shower ready?"

"As if you needed to ask."

Darion answered without meeting Nicholas' gaze.

"I'm going to shower then sleep for two hours, wake me and have everything prepared for our departure."

Darion nodded as Nicholas turned, disappearing into the suite. He was pleased, noticing the bottle of wine gone meant that Nicholas actually would sleep for a few hours, giving him time to complete his tasks.

Nicholas was hard to live with and impossible to satisfy, but the die had been cast long ago, there was nothing left for Darion to do, but stay the path and see where it finally ended.

Pulling out his phone he kept an ear to the interior of the suite as he made his calls, arranging for their trip westward, their trip toward his master's newest nemesis.

...

London's' quiet early morning streets were banked in fog as the sleek black Mercedes pulled out of the underground garage of the Claridge.

"We'll be flying out of a small field in Coventry. It will take us about an hour to arrive. I've contacted Lo-Chan, he will meet us in Singapore and bring a contingent of personnel to meet our needs. When I told him that we would be going against Onji he didn't ask about payment."

Lo-Chan was notorious for charging for long distance phone calls; the fact that he himself was going to meet Nicholas and bring some of his elite with him meant there was a score to settle between himself and Onji.

"Why the enmity between Lo-Chan and Onji? The last briefing I had showed that their little rivalry had cooled over the last decade or so. Everything was pretty calm."

Nicholas made it a point to keep tabs on all the families, not just those aligned with him. He was a firm believer in keeping his friends close and his enemies closer.

"There was an ... incident ... with a young woman Lo-Chan was training. Turns out the great-grandmother was a lover of Onji's. When he found out he sent a team into Mainland China and extracted her without Lo-Chan's permission. The young woman in question has been staying in Onji's compound ever since."

"I would think that the opportunity to intervene on Onji's home turf, taking back what he perceives to be his is the impetus for Lo-Chan's eagerness."

Nicholas thought about that for a long moment. Lo-Chan was over five centuries old, he had seen China move from warlords to emperors to its current communist regime. He had been the power behind all of them; finally choosing communism and its inherent bureaucracy and corruption as the best way to keep the country under his iron, if invisible, grip. To think that he was eager to openly fight another of the chosen families over a single woman gave Nicholas serious pause.

"What is the name of Lo-Chan's second? That young man he chose, what was it, twenty years ago to be his eventual successor."

Darion gave an unseen shudder in the front seat before answering.

"Bin-Fong."

"That's it, Bin-Fong. See if you can get me a secure line to him as soon as we are in the air. Lo-Chan's aberrant behavior because of a woman is a cause for concern. I would like Bin's take on it."

Darion merely nodded into the review mirror, not looking forward to having to speak with the scum that would one day take control of one of the most populous and nationalistic nations on earth.

...

They had been in the air almost an hour before Darion came back to Nicholas' private office, knocking lightly on the door.

"Come."

The small blinds had been pulled down over the windows, only dim recessed lights illuminated the small room. It took Darion's eyes a moment to adjust, when they did he was not startled by what he found.

"Well?"

Nicholas was too involved with the ministrations of the young blond stewardess between his legs to put forth a wordier question.

"Bin-Fong is on line 2."

"Ah, excellent."

Nicholas gave the young woman a none to soft kick in the chest as he straightened himself.

"Leave."

Darion knew that he was included in the order as he helped the woman to her feet and guided her from the room.

"Bin, it has been too long."

Half a world away, Bin-Fong Tran's face twisted at the easy familiarity of this European fool.

He had met Nicholas several times, and each meeting had left him less and less impressed with the supposed leader of their clans.

'Chan is incompetent for allowing this ... boor ... to keep his supposed title.'

His thoughts calmed as he found his balance, falling back on his teachings to place everyone in perspective and not allowing personal feelings to get in the way of grander designs.

"Nicholas, it is good to hear from you, to what do I owe the honor?"

"I was hoping you could do me a favor and fill in a few missing details regarding your Chan and Onji."

There was a long pause, the dead air resonated between the two receivers over the vast distance between them and the satellite that was relaying their call.

"Chang lost something that is now in Onji's possession. This loss has clouded his judgment somewhat as to what is ... appropriate."

'Nicholas is going after Onji and Chan has agreed to help, not surprising that Chan has not told me this, he is well aware of my feelings regarding that little slut.'

Bin-Fong's mind was moving fast as he waited for Nicholas to continue.

"Do you believe that Chan's ability to make decisions has been compromised because of this?"

It was a loaded question, both negative and positive answers could have dire consequences to Bin if word got back to Chan.

Bin weighted the dangers and rewards quickly, things were now in motion that could speed up his timetable dramatically and provide the option of not only dealing with Chan but Nicholas as well.

"Chan has a long history of taking right actions that may seem odd in the moment they are made. It is not for me to say one-way or the other. However, for the ... good of our clans ... I would be honored to monitor Chan and let you know of any truly dangerous actions he may plan to take."

'Oh yes, I have to keep a much closer eye on this one.' Nicholas thought, unable to keep the small wicked grin from his lips, a small nod of respect for a somewhat kindred soul.

"Bin I would be very grateful if you would do just that. I am on my way to Singapore right now, we should be landing in about ten hours. Why don't you see what you can uncover and then we can meet in person to discuss the future."

"I would appreciate any of your time Nicholas. I look forward to meeting with you sometime in the next few days. Please do not hesitate to let me know if any further information comes your way, as well. Together we can insure that nothing or no one stands in the way of our clans' bright futures."

"I shall see you soon, Bin."

Nicholas stared at the handset for a time before pushing the intercom button.

"Darion, send her back in, and make sure we aren't disturbed."

"Yes, Sir."

Darion had given the young woman a stiff drink upon leaving Nicholas' office. He knew all to well that she would be summoned back.

He hoped the small amount of Rohypnol that he had placed in her drink would be enough for her to forget what was to come.

'If only forgetting was as easy for us all.' Darion thought walking back toward the front of the plane, trying hard to ignore the ever rising screams that followed him.

Edited By TeNderLoin



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 06



An early frost had turned the Japanese landscape coppery brown as the Kawasaki BK117 helicopter sped over the low mountains heading out of Tokyo. The land was rugged, but held an inherent mystery that Michael found intriguing. It was a stark contrast to the emerald greens and deep browns that Michael had just left behind in England.

Three helicopters now wound their way northwest from Tokyo toward Sado Island in the Niigata Prefecture. A few of Onji's people had met them when they had landed.

"Nigel-San, Millie-San! It is good to see you both, again," said Katsimoto, Onji's lieutenant and heir as he greeted them on the tarmac while performing a deep bow.

"We were all very saddened to hear of Ian's death, he was a good man and a venerable leader for the clans, he will be greatly missed."

Returning the bow Millie answered Katsimoto in a soft, emotional tone.

"We thank you Katsimoto-San. Ian always loved coming here, he thought of it as his second home. Your master has always been one of our most trusted allies and friends, we are honored to be able to introduce you and Onji-San to the next leader of our clan."

Stepping to the side, Millie gestured for Michael to come up.

"Katsimoto-San, it is my honor to present Mr. Michael Dan, Liege of Clan Aoife."

Michael had noted that Millie's bow to Katsimoto was of equal depth to the one Katsimoto had given her, having a small idea of how such things went, Michael made sure to bow just a bit lower than Katsimoto, offering the man, for now, a higher status than himself.

Katsimoto regarded the American for a moment after the introductions had been made. Tall and broad chested, a face that showed the beginnings of laugh lines around the eyes, a kind face that, under the proper circumstance could, he thought, display the spectrum of emotions at a glance. In a word, Michael seemed to him: formidable.

Stepping closer Katsimoto extended his hand.

"Mr. Dane, it is a pleasure to meet you, I only wish the circumstances were different."

Michael felt the subtle pressure of the handshake, understood what the hardened calluses on his hand, ones that matched his own, meant.

"I am honored by your welcome, Ian was taken much too soon for any of our tastes, it is my deepest wish that in time and with the help of yourself and your Clan, I may hope to one day be a fitting replacement."

Katsimoto let slip a slight smile as the handshake broke. 'Yes, he will do.'

"Come, Onji-San is anxious to see you all, there is much to discuss and little time."

-----

Waves pounded relentlessly against the craggy windswept cliffs below Sotokaifu point. The north China Sea seemingly waging war against this northern tip of Sado Island.

Onji stood stoically on the ancient ramparts of his clans ancestral home, the waves eroding the powerful cliffs slowly, over millennia, just as the future eroded away the past behind him.

He felt the minute changes in power, felt them shift and swell for a moment before realigning into their steady cadence, the heartbeat of the power which lay within the chosen.

"Michael has landed, his feet tread across the earth, here."

Onji's quiet statement was lost to the wind which howled up and over the cliff beneath the citadel.

"Onji-San."

Turning away from the battle of rock and water which played out endlessly beneath him, he regarded Sin-Cho.

Her stance was one of quiet contemplation, strong but open. Her ebon black hair flowed down from her face in gentle waves of onyx silk. At five foot two she was considered tall ... but that, just as the hair and her emerald green eyes, were traits that the young woman shared with her long passed matriarch. A wistful, somewhat sad smile played over his lips as he regarded her. Sin had seen it often since that day several months ago when this stranger had showed up in the night and spirited her away from that monster Chan.

"Yes?"

Onji's one word answer as he turned and walked back toward the castle was common. He was not one for conversation or for doing anything without the utmost economy. She had never known anyone whose action in both word and deed were more compact but also conveyed such deep meaning.

Falling into stride beside him she answered.

"Katsimoto-San called, he has picked up the visitors and shall be returning within the hour."

Onji nodded his head slightly and continued into the castle.

As they walked the long halls of the castle heading toward the helipad on the opposite side of the compound, Sin was intrigued to finally meet the man that had caused so much activity here at the castle over the past few days.

-----

Three helicopters stood abreast on the sprawling lawn before Sado Castle, their turbines winding down, the low-slung propellers gently freewheeling to a stop.

Michael, Tera and Valerie stepped out of the middle chopper, following Katsimoto. They were flanked by Sims and Elise.

Michael felt a subtle jolt upon placing his feet back on the earth. As if he had, for an instant, been out of sync with the place. The feeling passed almost as soon as it began. Michael shook off the odd feeling, and took in what he deemed the masterpiece before him.

The castle stood in the foreground. It was graceful in its minimalist architecture. The delicate but solid nature of the main tower, and the way it looked perfectly natural surrounded by the obviously well planned gardens, gave Michael a tranquil feeling. Pulling Valerie and Tera closer to him, they looked at him to find a happy grin on his face.

"It's beautiful."

His almost reverent tone did not surprise either of them. Both had had several experiences with Michael's fascination with architecture that moved him.

So caught up in the rich details of the place was he, that he was startled back to the moment, when he found Millie in front of him.

"Michael, I would like you to meet Onji Matsuda."

The man before him looked to be in his mid fifties, close cropped steel gray hair, a sturdy frame, a quiet demeanor that belied a depth of emotion.

Michael bowed deeply, upon straightening he found Onji standing closer with his hand outstretched.

"It is good to finally meet you Michael-San. Ian kept me updated on your progress. It is a great shame that it was not his destiny to see you take his place. He always knew that you would be a formidable leader of the clans."

Michael took the offered hand. At the contact there was a gentle acknowledgement of one another's power. Onji's energy felt fluid, it ebbed and flowed like the tides, containing the potential for both serenity and chaos. It was very different than his own fiery energy form, born of Aoife's ancient blood.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Onji-San, It is my hope and intention to wear the mantle Ian has passed on with honor. I look forward to our clans working together to meet the trials that are to come."

Michael broke the handshake and gave Onji another bow.

"Come, we will get you settled into your rooms."

Onji motioned to his people to collect everyone's bags from the helicopters as he turned, walking toward the castle with Michael at his side.

"Your home is amazing, Onji-San. My chosen profession is architecture, and I don't think I have ever seen a more cohesive mixture of styles from so many different eras."

Enjoying the rare opportunity to share the details of his clans' home, Onji fell right into it's telling.

"Sado Island has a unique history. This fortress was built surrounding an earlier temple complex in the early 16th century, during the Azuchi-Momoyama period."

Onji spoke as they made their way to the gracefully angled stonework base of the wall which rose thirty feet before the striking white wood walls started their climb toward the sky.

"The island was a place of banishment for those of various dynasties, who had fallen out of favor, but were too important or too cowardly to find an honorable death. Starting in the 8th century, with the poet Asomi Oyu whose lyrical criticisms of the emperor were frowned upon, through the early 17th century, a banishment to Sado was just one step above death."

"The governorship was not the most prized posting. However, over the centuries, those who lived here made small additions. For as long as the histories go back, our clan has lived and thrived in what can be a paradise, or a hell, here in our little corner of the world. Surrounded on all sides by the sea, our clan has grown and prospered with the eternal ebb and flow that imbues this place with it's own special energy."

Michael noted the quiet reverence with which Onji spoke of his home, he remembered Ian taking on a similar tone whenever he spoke of Nogardshire.

"I look forward to exploring the mysteries it holds, Onji-San."

The older man nodded as they entered the fortress. Onji also looked forward to Michael becoming intimately familiar with this unique place. Now that he had met the man he knew without a doubt that Ian had chosen well, and wisely.

------

"Onji has the same quiet but powerful demeanor as Ian."

Tera commented as they unpacked their bags in the room Onji had provided.

Facing the inside of the fortress courtyard, the long wide balcony under the slopping pagoda style roof provided a spectacular view of the Heian era temple that lay at the heart of the compound.

"Onji and Ian were good friends for as long as I can remember. We came and spent a summer here a year after my parents died. Onji has always been quiet, but when he speaks it always seems to carry a weight to it."

Michael listened to Tera and Valerie chat as he stood at the balcony reveling in the elegant simple lines of this tranquil place.

'You feel his naturally calm nature.'

Michael smiled as Aoife's smoky sensual voice entered his consciousness.

'Ryujin has always been the calm one of us, the thinker. His passions run deep but getting to those depths takes time and patience. A tactician at heart with a love of carefully laid plans that may take decades or centuries to see fruition. He is also the keeper of our kinds greatest treasure, our history, and our art. The souls of our forebears reside within his gentle but powerful aspect. The transition from the great race that we were, to the power behind the thrones that we are now, was easiest for him. His council is always well considered and I find time spent with him to be the most calming of balms.'

Michael felt a slight shift, as if the wind had changed direction, and found a warm thermal of air to blow lightly against his skin.

'I thank you for your kind assessment matriarch, I find your company and council to be equally comforting and considered.'

This new voice was very different than Aoife's, it had cool comfort that offered ease, with an understanding that said ease could easily and expediently change to something far more dire, should the need arise.

'It is a pleasure to meet you young one, I am Ryujin, patriarch of this place and my clan. Long have both my own clan and the others watched your progress. I am intrigued to see what twists life surely has in store for you.'

Michael could feel Aoife's consciousness tickling at the back of his mind, there was a playful warning there as to how to deal with Ryujin but he could not discern her exact intent. He smiled to himself, not surprised that another test had begun so soon.

'Life has a way of finding the chinks in everyone's armor. I am sure that whatever the future may hold, I will be the better for whatever experiences the universe deems necessary to supply.'

Ryujin's deep chuckle was something that Michael felt physically, as if a deep tremor passed through his body.

'Enjoy your time here Michael, soon you and I shall meet to share what insights life has provided to us, I find myself looking forward to it.'

'As do I Ryujin.'

Michael's final words faded as he felt Ryujin recede from his mind. With a gentle brush of her warm consciousness, Aoife too took her leave as well.

Valerie's hand curling around his waist brought Michael back from his internal dialog.

"Come on, we don't want to be late for dinner."

With a smile he pulled her too him, giving her a scorching kiss that left Valerie breathing heavily as it broke.

Gathering Tera to his other side, he walked through the open Shoji door. Michael looking forward to whatever the future might hold.

------

Katsimoto sat at the security desk reviewing the latest intel with Nigel, when Sin-Cho entered the room. Nigel noted the slight smile that came to Katsimoto's face as he saw her.

"I am sorry to interrupt, Katsimoto-San, I did not know you were busy."

Sin-Cho turned to leave as Nigel regarded Katsimoto with a knowing look.

"That's not necessary, we were just finishing up."

Nigel stood up, stretching his back which had a good size kink in it after the time spent on the plane.

"I think a walk before dinner is in order."

Katsimoto and Sin-Cho both gave Nigel a small bow as he left the room.

"So what do you think of him?"

Sin-Cho moved closer to Katsimoto, her hand coming to rest lightly on his shoulder.

Katsimoto smiled before placing a gentle kiss on her lips.

"Michael is unique, very different from Ian. Where Ian's chi was subtly strong, Michaels is very ... present. You cannot miss the fact that there is something dangerously powerful residing within him. I get the sense that he is still trying to find balance, but that is part of the nature of his visit."

Katsimoto knew that Onji had told Sin-Cho very little about the true power of the clan. Her rescue from Lo-Chan was explained as a debt of honor borne by the clan in the name of his grandfather.

Sin-Cho placed her arms around Katsimoto's neck, pulling him close while burying her head in his neck. The last few months had been a whirlwind. Being rescued by Onji and Katsimoto had provided her with a new lease on life. She was wary of anything or anyone who could shake her newfound peace.

Sensing her trepidation, Katsimoto wound his hands into her long silk like hair and pulled her closer.

"Not to worry little one, the universe was born in chaos, it is its natural state, we strive to understand that which cannot be understood. Life works out the way it will, we can only do our best, uphold our honor and find the joys as they come along the path we travel."

From that first night in the dark, when Katsimoto had found her in the locked and guarded room that Lo-Chan kept her in. He always had a way to calm her, to make her fear recede. She had never known anyone who she trusted or, in the secret part of her soul, loved ... more.

"We should go, dinner will be starting soon, Onji requested that we both attend."

With another gentle kiss Katsimoto uncurled the young woman from his neck and with a reassuring arm around her waist, lead her from the room. Both of them were reveling in his gentle but strong hand upon her.

-------

"Sado is famous for our Saké."

Katsimoto smiled as he filled first Onji's then Michael's small cups.

"The estate is amazing, I had a chance to take a walk around this afternoon. When you are looking for it you can see where the additions were made over the centuries but they were done with such subtlety and care that the whole becomes more than its parts."

Michael had enjoyed his hour walk around the grounds, the ancient wood beams holding up delicate tile roofs, the large open rooms that were laid out symmetrically, defined by their tatami size.

The dinning room was large but sedate, a traditional low table with cushions on the tatami mats made eating a seemingly more intimate event.

Valerie sat to Michaels left Tera on his right. Nigel and Millie flanked Onji while Katsimoto, Sin-Cho, Sims and Elise rounded out the dinner guests.

"Heard you had a bit of trouble with Lo-Chan."

Nigel's low comment to Onji was overheard by all at the table. Michael noted that Sin-Cho tensed at it and that Katsimoto's hand disappeared under the table, obviously in a show of comfort to the young woman.

Wanting to change the subject, as it was obviously something which caused his host stress, Michael asked about the clan's business interests.

"Millie provided me with a brief summary of your clans holdings, I found it interesting that you have a fairly large defense division."

Onji regarded Michael for a moment, pleased at this change of subject. With a brief nod of recognition to Michael he responded.

"After the war Japan was almost totally demilitarized as part of the peace settlement. It was a very hard transition for many, so used to a militaristic nationalist ethos. Those ways went underground. Ways were found around the rules, as they always are. We focused on small arms, personal security technology, and next generation non-lethal weapons."

"It is difficult for a culture as ancient as ours to have something so defining stripped away. It is an impossibility actually, the martial spirit lived on and today is on the rise again, thankfully without expansionist tendencies. Japan is at a pivotal point in its long history, we are an economic power but that power is also coveted by those to the west of us. As all people must, we must be ever vigilant to ensure our continued safety and prosperity."

Michael could hear and see the obvious love Onji had for his country and her people. Michael wondered if Onji's ties to the clans and his love of Japan ever were at odds.

'A question for another day, ' Michael thought as dinner was served.

------

"There is something going on between Katsimoto and Sin-Cho."

Tera commented to Michael and Valerie who were still in the over sized shower as she dried her legs. From behind the opaque glass Michael answered as his hands roamed freely over Valerie's soap slick curves.

"I would think they are lovers, but there is more too it than that. Katsimoto is very protective of her and she pulls heavily on his strength to bolster her own. There is a story there but I think it comes with a lot of stress for them and for Onji."

"When Nigel brought up the incident in China the three of them visibly tensed. If they want us to know then they will tell us, no use in trying to pry it out of them."

Michael kissed Valerie neck as he stepped out of the shower.

Grabbing Tera's towel he spun her around and started drying her back.

"I will at least ask Nigel what he knows, the more information we have the better able we will be to avoid asking the wrong questions later."

Tera's eyes closed as Michael drew the towel over her shoulders, down the small of her back to her ass.

Michael noted how Tera tensed as he lowered the towel. It had been a few days since any of them had the opportunity to indulge and their passions were running a bit high.

Stepping back Michael ran the towel quickly over his own body before leaving the bathroom.

Crossing the four tatami mats on the floor he stood naked on the balcony. A cool breeze prickling his skin as he looked out over the fortress' courtyard. The central fixture within it, was a reflecting pool in front of the old temple. Rectangular in shape it captured the dark silhouettes of the angled fortress roof on the other side of the courtyard, back lit by an almost full moon.

Michael reached out with his senses, not looking for anything in particular but curious as to what such an ancient place would hold, what shadows of former warlords and exiles would still permeate the indelible oiled oak and stone that made up the deep foundations of the place.

Warm hands curling around his waist brought Michael prematurely back from quiet contemplations.

"Come to bed Michael."

Valerie's whispered statement was sealed with warm lips at his neck.

"Now."

Tera's more urgent command was accompanied by the nip of her teeth on his shoulder.

Michael allowed his mates to pull him to the low bed on the floor, content in that moment to simply add his own fleeting signature to the aura that surrounded the fortress.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 06



In another room on the opposite side of the estate, Sin-Cho lay wrapped in Katsimoto's arms. Another nightmare had awoken her.

"Will they never end, Katsimoto? Will I always be plagued by the memories?"

Katsimoto felt the young woman's fear, and pain, and shame, as she wept against his chest. For the thousandth time Katsimoto wished he could reverse time, and save Sin from demons that he feared would forever plague her.

------

The dawn was a mere whisper on the horizon as Michael awakened. Valerie and Tera had done their level best to bring him to a point of abject exhaustion the evening before. Now, in the cool darkness, Michael lay between his two mates. Valerie was curled into the crook of his shoulder, her hair lying like tangled silk across his chest. Tera lay on the other side face down, head tilted toward him, his hand held within hers under her body.

As comfortable as Michael felt, the impending dawn beckoned him to leave his warm cocoon, and begin his day.

Pulling gently away from Tera and rolling softly from Valerie he stood. Stretching his arms up, he got the minor kinks out of his body. The kinks were more from Tera and Valerie's acrobatics the evening before, than anything to do with the bed.

With a smile Michael padded to the bathroom to take care of his morning necessities, and grab some clothes.

Sliding the traditional rice paper door closed, wearing sweat pants and shirt with his old sneakers, Michael left in search of a cup of coffee.

The compound, for all its historic significance, was not locked within the medieval era of its construction. Diffuse lighting at the floors and ceiling illuminated the hallways, sometimes reflecting off of and at other spots back lighting the finely detailed rice paper walls. It put off the aura of a cloister locked in its own separate universe, untouched by the goings on of the outside world.

'If only such a place actually existed.'

Michael's wayward thought brought an unexpected response.

"Life, the universe, time ... all of these things are dictated by each of us individually. There is no constant to them, only the ever shifting perspective of those who perceive them to be so."

'Good morning, Ryujin.'

Michael's thoughts went out to the ancient sea dragon in much the same way as they did with Aoife. With Ryujin, however, there seemed to be more of a pull to them, than with his own crimson matriarch.

"Those that are to lead have always felt this difference. You are the ones who share a common bond with all the aspects that make up the greater clan. Attuned to Aoife you are in a very distinct way, it will be different with me and the others you will commune with."

'That seems logical. However, it is difficult when dealing with Aoife ... or you, Ryujin ... always to be logical. Even with the facts that I know ... what I have seen, touched, heard, and felt ... giving proof and hard evidence to the facts ... I find that the interactions always take on a much more ethereal quality than pure fact can accommodate.'

"In the early era of your kind, Michael, when humanity was just beginning to assert itself as the next power on this planet, humans who would encounter our kind viewed us as gods. They had no frame of reference, no science, no history, no collective belief system that would give explanation to our design."

"Your perspective on interacting with our kind is born from every movie, story, myth, legend and tale about us. For you to interact, to ... have faith in your destiny ... requires you to view us as having a mystical component. This will pass, with time."

Michael pondered this as he reached first floor, the hall turning from delicate wood and rice paper constructs to the solid stone foundation that held up the fortress.

'I see your point, Ryujin. I thank you for the insight, it gives me a clearer perspective.'

"I am pleased to provide such Michael."

Michael found himself at a crossroads, left deeper into the fortress proper or right to the early predawn mountains.

Turning toward the exit, and the call of the sunrise, coffee was forgotten as Michael once again let his thoughts loose, pulled into the tide of Ryujin's consciousness.

'When will we meet, Ryujin? How does one know the proper time for such things?'

Ryujin's deep laugh ebbed and flowed through Michael's mind, as he was hit by a cool breeze upon stepping into the pale blue black of the coming day.

"As with most things, probably when you least expect it."

And with that Michael felt Ryujin recede from his consciousness, he found it not quite as abrupt as when Aoife did the same.

"Like a light switch and a dimmer switch." Michael whispered as he took in his surroundings trying to decide the best path for a run.

Cliffs and the gentle rumble of the sea called from the west. To the east, a stone path lead off on a winding course into the dark quiet forest and up the mountain.

Tightening his laces he set off at a gentle pace toward the winding path. The quiet seemed to be the order of the day.

From a high rampart Onji watched as Michael ran down the path and into the forest.

"Interesting that he did not choose the cliffs."

His words were both spoken and thought with purpose. Ryujin's response almost immediate.

"Had he chosen the cliffs, the same statement would be true."

Onji nodded his head before turning back into his office. Nicholas has landed in Singapore and he needed to meet with Nigel and Katsimoto to get their take on this development.

-------

Tera's muscles burned with the exertion her opponent had forced her to put forth in the simple sparing match.

Awakening to find Michael gone and Valerie still at least an hour from waking, she had slipped quietly from the bed her mind on a workout.

The open-air dojo was deserted when she entered. On the west side of the compound it was cooled by the ever-present ocean winds. The sound of waves continuously beating upon the cliff side far below provided a unique background cadence as Tera began her katas.

The low light and her intense concentration on the forms found her for an instant startled by the gentle "good morning Tera-San." that Katsimoto offered.

Breaking from her kata, Tera slowly turned to regard the young man.

Late twenties, dressed only in traditional gi pants, his dark hair tied in a long ponytail that draped over his left shoulder stood out in relief against his pale skin. He gave her a medium bow as her eyes found his.

"Good morning Katsimoto-San, I hope I am not intruding by using this space, it is a very focusing place to work."

"You are not intruding at all Tera, and please just Katsimoto is fine when we are alone, I am not quite as formal as the honorable Onji-San. Yes this is a special place, it has been used for martial training, meditative training and healing for many centuries, it has a special energy that I quite enjoy. Would you mind if I joined you for my own morning exercise.?"

Tera regarded him for a moment before answering. He had slowly walked closer to her as he spoke. Now with closer proximity she saw that his upper body was well defined and muscular, not bulky but lithe and hard, the body of one who takes particular care of their instrument.

"I would be honored to share the space with you."

Her answer was noted with a short nod and small smile and Katsimoto moved off a few yards and closing his eyes began running through his own katas.

With a final glance at her companion Tera fell back into the focus of the movements and soon became lost in them.

The sun made itself known by illuminating the dojo pavilion, casting a pale orange light over well worn wheat colored mats and fire red columns that held up the arched tiled roof. Tera drank half of her water, before pouring the other half over her head. Completing what she felt had been one of her most rigorous and finely performed workouts, she wondered at the reason why this place would bring out such a clarity of focus in something she had done hundreds of times.

As if reading her thoughts, Katsimoto, just finished his own forms, spoke.

"This place has a unique effect on ones chi. It allows us to be far more balanced, more ... focused, than normal. One of the things I miss most when traveling are my mornings started here, where water meets rock, wind meets sky."

"It is most amazing, I haven't ever been so consumed by the forms, truly felt that as I moved from one to the next that each was a fluid part of a completed whole motion."

Katsimoto was surprised by Tera's insight considering this was her first interaction with the dojo. It had taken many months before he himself had come to the same realization.

"It is even more profound when sparring, when the opposing chi's move and flow in response to another's. Would you honor me with a brief match?"

Katsimoto's request was given while bowing deeply at the waist, revealing that the request was one asked from a place of honor and equality.

Matching Katsimoto's bow Tera's responded.

"The honor, Katsimoto-San, would be mine."

They had started slowly. Circling one another, getting a feeling for the others motion and timing.

Tera was not surprised when Katsimoto made the first move.

The low sweeping kick aimed at her shins was perfectly executed with a speed and agility that Tera had never witnessed.

Nevertheless, as Tera's focus intensified the motion seemed to slow to a crawl.

Jumping up and spinning at the same time, Katsimoto's kick met only air as it moved through the space where Tera had been but a moment before. Seemingly hanging in the air for a moment Tera watched as Katsimoto completed the 360' arc of his kick before almost instantaneously striking up and out with his right arm, hand extended for a strike to where he anticipated she would now be. Tera watched the muscles and tendons of his arm flex, the compression of his abdominals as they prepared to release their core strength into the strike.

Katsimoto had missed the forward momentum in Tera's jump, reading it as being straight up, his strike intended for her kidneys as she twisted in mid air.

Tera landed deep inside his defenses, extended as he was, left arm tucked behind his body for balance he could only smile as he felt her fingertips gently close over his throat.

They stood for a moment before parting, a small bow as they readied themselves again, before each unleashed their personal storms of fists and feet and knee to test the other.

After a half an hour of give and take sparing, neither gaining or losing ground, it was Katsimoto who finally bowed deeply and stepped off the mat.

"It has been an honor Tera-San, Nigel had told me that your skill was keen, I had no idea what an understatement that was."

Taking deep gulping breaths, Tera could only smile and nod for a few moments as she toweled the sweat from her body. Once she regained herself, she sat next to Katsimoto.

"It was a pleasure Katsimoto-San, that is probably the best workout I have ever had, I have never met or seen your equal."

"As you know, it takes a lifetime to become proficient, and the process never stops, you have an innate ability to focus that I sorely lack."

The two sat in companionable silence as the sun rose behind them, the ethereal gray of the dawn giving way to the light of the new day just born.

Both noticed Nigel coming from the fortress toward them, both knew that the look on his face did not bode well for the chance of another easy dawn anytime soon.

"Nicholas is on the move! We need to get briefed."

Tera & Katsimoto rose and followed Nigel back to the fortress, each giving the other a brief bow as they left the confines of the dojo, understanding that such practice, while good for body, mind and spirit came with the price of violence, when necessary. 

-----

Michael set an even pace as he wound his way through the barely clear path up the gentle slope of the mountain. The elevation was much higher than he was use to and he found the slower modulated pace helped him to compensate.

A low mist hung just above his head as the Japanese Beech trees towered above him, their tops lost to its gray haze. It gave the impression of running through a low tunnel with no sense of time or destination.

Rounding a group of large stone outcroppings about thirty minutes into his run he found a quiet stone lined pool within a break in the trees. A shear granite wall blocked his way further up as it rose into the mist and out of site. Steam rose from the placid surface as Michael sat at its edge to catch his breath before starting back to the fortress.

The moments stretched, time seemed to pause. Michael dipped his hand into the water of the pond, surprised to find it almost uncomfortably warm.

"A hot spring." Michael said into the heavy baffled silence that surrounded this spot. A good measure of glee communicated with the statement.

Standing he stripped down quickly and gingerly waded into the warm water. Sitting on a smooth stone near the middle of the pool, Michael closed his eyes, letting the warmth envelope him in it's silky cocoon. His senses became more focused, he smelled the sulfur and other minerals that laced the vapors rising from the natural bath. He could feel the gentle current from below as the water was forced up from the earth, heated by her warmth. Dipping his head below the water he could taste the primal elements that joined to make this spot a haven of warmth.

His peaceful introspections were interrupted by a light musical voice from very close by.

"I thank you for treading gently within what is mine stranger. Perhaps you could tell me how you came to this sacred spot without direction."

Michael looked around the small clearing, only seeing the closely knit perimeter formed by the trees.

Body tensing, his senses now focusing on what friend, or foe may have been placed in his path this day, Michael measured his words as he answered.

"I happened upon it quite by accident, it is not my intention to trespass, I will be glad to move along. My time comes anyway."

Michael moved to rise but found his motion stopped by a light hand placed on his shoulder.

Turning slowly, Michael was shocked to find an ancient woman of at least 90 standing in the pool behind him. While age had left its mark, her body still held the wistful signs of deep beauty now a mere whisper laid over the truth of time.

Her short black hair was wet, slicked back over her head, small breasts hung low on her chest, nipples almost touching the water where it met her rib cage. While her skin was wrinkled, it did not have the weathered look so often prevalent in those of her years.

With a gentle bow Michael took a step back from her, wishing to have a bit of distance between him and his new bathing companion. He could still feel the chill tendrils on his shoulder where her fingers had softly lain.

Her chin dropped slightly as he moved away from her, dark almond eyes regarded him for some time before she spoke again.

"This place is unique, it draws those to it who would be tested in some way. The waters have a way of calming the nerves, releasing tensions, making those within it's waters desire to be truthful."

She moved a half a step closer to him, her breasts gently swaying from the motion. Now that his mind had cleared from the shock of her arrival he reached out with his senses to get a better idea of who or what he was confronted with.

Her gentle laugh echoed around the glade as he reached out and found nothing.

"An interesting one you are, none who have found their way here before have had blood-born gifts. Only the gifts imparted by their benefactors. Neither type hold sway in this circle, here only the heart matters, and what truth lies within it."

As her words faded she moved with a fluid grace at a speed that was impossible yet brought her up against Michael in less than the blink of an eye with no turbulence marring the surface of the water at her passing.

Her hand laid itself gently in the center of his chest, her eyes focused on his.

She felt his heartbeats climb at her touch and then almost immediately fall back into a gentle cadence.

"I am no judge, I am no jury, and I am surly no executioner young man. I am simply a truth-seeker, one who can define the true intentions of a person's heart. I can hinder or help as I am moved to, I am the neutral constant, the fulcrum on which some balances are maintained."

They stood that way for many moments, her hand held gently on his chest her eyes searching his for whatever truths she may find of interest.

Michael stood stoically, he had briefly reached out for Aoife but knew that it was pointless in this place. Before him was something older than even the ancient race he now championed. This was something primordial that had seen ages un-counted pass.

With a gentle sigh her hand finally fell from him to her side, fingers now traced chaotic patterns languidly along the surface of the water.

"Truth is never black and white, it is a consistent gray that changes hue and form when our individual perspective is overlaid upon it. Your truth is, like so many, a balance of joy and pain."

Sinking into the water she moved away from him to the other edge of the pond. She kept her body submerged, only her head above the vaporous plane where water met air.

"The perspective that will define your truth lays at the end of a long journey my friend. Along the way you will pick up pieces that when joined as one at the end of this journey will make you who you will finally be. The journey, as all such do, has a price. No one travels the road of truth, free. Don't fight the payment of what is due. Even if the price seems high, in the end it will all balance out."

She slipped below the water, causing not a ripple.

As Michael stood to leave the pond, perplexed more than anything at this strange encounter, he was startled when she rose next to him. Her ancient bony hands curled around his.

"Go to the cliffs, tomorrow morning, Michael ... at low tide. The path is becoming more twisted with every beat of your heart. You have no time to linger."

With that she disappeared once again, the steam seeming to rise in great clouds for a moment. Then it cleared, leaving nothing but the placid surface of the pond in its wake.

Shaking his head to clear it, he was surprised by a weight around his wrist. Looking down he found a black leather band around it with a simple opalescent shell threaded through it. Turning it over, it had no tie. The tightness of it left little but cutting, as the way to remove it. The thought of removing it never crossed his mind, though, as he got dressed. With a last glance at the pool, he started a brisk jog back the way he had come.

He thought he heard a musical laugh echo through the trees as he ran.

He found great comfort in that thought.

------

"Nicholas landed in Singapore about three hours ago."

The room was quiet, waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Nigel, Tera and Katsimoto sat at the end of the medium sized conference table. One of Onji's planning rooms had been pressed into service for the impromptu tactical briefing.

Noting that he had everyone's attention, Onji continued.

"He was met at the airport by Bin-Fong, Lo-Chan's second in command. They entered a waiting limousine together with Nicholas' personal valet following in another car. They went to the Four Seasons where Nicholas got a suite of rooms. Bin-Fong returned to Lo-Chan's mountain estate."

"Over the past two days, Lo-Chan has moved as many as fifty of his people from his personal stronghold in the Hebei province, to the area in and around Singapore."

"With the amount of men, Nicholas' arrival and Michael being here, I don't believe any of this is coincidence. I believe that Lo-Chan is planning to attack this fortress within the next forty-eight hours. His goal is to reclaim something which he believes to be his. Nicholas' goal is to disrupt Michael's ascension and possibly to kill him. If history can teach us anything, Nicholas is undoubtedly using Bin-Fong to gain information on Lo-Chan with the eventual hope of toppling him, taking the Feilong power and clan for himself."




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 06



The three sat stunned at the speed with which Nicholas had moved. Nigel and Tera believed that with the death of Ian and Nicolas' inability to wrest the power of clan Aoife from him, that he would have taken more time and would have had a much subtler plan in mind.

Onji interpreted their looks, answering their unspoken questions.

"Nicholas may have designs that I do not see. Often over the centuries he has taken action that has confounded all logic and reason. I believe Lo-Chan was planning to move against my clan prior to Michael beginning the path of ascension. Nicholas may simply be taking advantage of a situation not of his making, but useful towards his ends."

"Why would Lo-Chan even think of mounting an assault on you. I am aware that down through the years clan Ryujin and clan Feilong have often been at odds, often coming into direct conflict. But, as far as I am aware, the two of you have been at stalemate for several decades."

Onji was silent after Nigel's question.

Tera noticed the subtle interplay between Onji and Katsimoto. It looked as though whatever secret had caused the heightening of tensions between Onji and Lo-Chan was to be revealed. A brief nod from Onji to Katsimoto clinched it.

As Onji sat, taking a sip from the teacup before him, Katsimoto rose, addressing Tera and Nigel.

Seeming to center himself Katsimoto let the tale unfold.

"As you know, children among the chosen are amazingly rare. Even prior to ascension, for one who carries the ability to be a chosen it is scarcely heard of."

"Almost four hundred years ago, roughly a year before Onji-San ascended and became clan leader, he was married, his wife bore him a daughter. Now this is not unheard of, however Onji-San was unaware of the child's birth. His wife being captured by Chinese slavers prior to beginning to show her pregnancy, she was presumed dead."

Onji looked up at Katsimoto for a long moment, holding his hand up to request that he pause before Onji himself continued the story.

"As centuries pass memories of such things dim but never fully fade. I had been fishing, not too far from this fortress The raiding party had come in early morning, after the fishermen had gone to sea but before most of the others had awakened. It was brutal ... men, old women, young boys, butchered or impaled, every female from one to sixty was shackled and taken to their ship."

'They were ... beyond the horizon by the time we returned and found the slaughter. All we could do was bury our dead and mourn our lost."

It was obvious that this moment, which had occurred many centuries ago, weighed on Onji as if it were only yesterday.

With a wave of his hand and a slight bow from Katsimoto, the story continued.

"Thirty years ago, Onji-San took a local widow as a lover. She had no children or family. She had been living in the village, where she mended nets and was the local seamstress. Onji-San and she spent a few happy years together before the unheard of happened. At almost fifty Mianga had become pregnant."

Onji-San using his unique clan abilities confirmed that the child was in fact his. While bringing him great joy and surprising happiness, Ryujin also found something else while searching for this newly formed life's' parentage. Another, far removed, that also held Onji-San's essence, but much diluted."

At this point Onji stood. With a small bow Katsimoto returned to his seat between Nigel and Tera.

"After much searching of ancient records of births and deaths ... papers of ownership, and such ... I found that my wife had a child after being abducted by the slavers."

"The child was a girl and was subsequently sold off to a brothel in what is now Beijing. The Madame of this establishment raised her. From the meager records of the time, it seems she may have become dear to her. In any event upon the Madame's death, the child ... my child ... inherited the brothel."

"Down through the centuries the business thrived. It was passed down through each generation up until the last."

"Lo-Chan took over the brothel from my heir. The heir had a daughter before she died, several years ago. That girl is Sin-Cho."

The room was quiet as Onji sat down hard in his seat, as if the telling of it had taken the last of his energy. Katsimoto stood to finish the tale.

"We only learned the final pieces of the heredity about six months ago. When we did, and discovered that the girl was being held by Lo-Chan, the decision was made to liberate her."

"With a small force including myself and Onji-San, we penetrated Lo-Chan's compound. We were met with ... far greater resistance than we had expected."

There was a tremor of pain in Katsimoto's voice that both Nigel and Tera picked up on. It was born of the lingering sorrow felt by those who lead men to their death. Both had uttered its like, before.

Nigel broke in at this pause.

"Onji, you should have called us, Ian, myself, hell all of Dragon Security would have been at your side, if you had only asked."

The frustration in Nigel's voice was clear.

Onji gave his old friend a nod.

"I know this Nigel-San, but this was something that I and Katsimoto ... our clan ... needed to take care of. Yes, we suffered loses, but honor was served. Sin-Cho was freed from her captivity. She is now safe, here, with her clan."

"If I may say Onji-San, safe is a relative term with these new movements by Lo-Chan."

Tera's comment brought the three men in the room, who had been lost in the story and their own thoughts, back to the realities of the moment.

"You are of course correct, Tera-San. We must prepare for what seems to be an imminent attack on the clan, both ours and yours."

Onji's eyes had gone steel cold, their strength buoyed and supported the others.

"I've got some calls to make. Tera, Katsimoto, please do a quick and dirty Sitrep on the fortress. Find the weak spots and needs. We will meet again in two hours."

With a bow to Onji, Nigel pulled out his phone, dialing as he left the room.

"What kind of force do you think Lo-Chan will send against us?"

Onji turned and looked out the window, below, waves crashed against the cliff face as they had always done, their power undeniable even in the face of the stoic cliffs that rose from the very depths of the earth.

"One that will test us to our very limits ... and beyond."

Tera felt a shudder pass through her body at Onji's words. It was as if the reaper himself had casually glided over her grave.

------

Michael broke from the trees at a dead run.

As he had made his way down the mountain, his meeting with the ancient crone still fresh in his mind, a growing sense of foreboding had begun to plague his every step.

The further he got from the grove, the closer he came to the fortress, the stronger the feeling became until, by the time he reached the thinning boundary of trees that circled the fortress promontory he was in a fast sprint.

Michael didn't know if he was running away from something, or running toward it.

But of one thing he was sure, that the malignant presence of a murderous evil was slouching its way slowly toward him. And that this time ... he would be ready to meet it eye to eye!

*

Edited By TeNderLoin



Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 07



Ch. 7

The memory bloomed vivid for Michael as he raced into the fortress.

Nicholas standing over Ian's body.

Blood dripping slowly down the dagger's point, leaving a muddy crimson stain in the sand.

Cold dead eyes locking with his for an instant before Michael was dragged away.

'I could have saved him.'

The thought had haunted Michael ever since that afternoon. Watching Ian's life essence slip away while Nigel and Sims had pulled him back from the carnage.

He understood the reasons, understood that he was not ready to face Nicholas or to save Ian that day.

But knowing such things rarely makes the cold truth of failure sit any better.

Michael pulled up quickly and dropped into a half crouch sensing someone coming around the corner. On edge, Michael's instincts took over, he felt Aoife's fiery energy surge forward ready to meet whatever challenge may be ahead.

Sims barely had time to block Michael's low strike to his abdomen as he rounded the corner on his way to meet up with Nigel.

"What the fuck mate!"

Sims' body relaxed with the realization that it was Michael who had thrown the punch.

"Sims...sorry...I didn't know it was you, I thought..."

'You should be more mindful Michael, rushing in blindly is a sure way to meet that which you are unprepared for.'

Michael acknowledged the wisdom of Aoife's words as she receded.

"Sorry Sims, I was distracted, it won't happen again."

"No worries, but damn, I'm glad it was me and not someone else, that strike would have been lethal if it connected."

Sims was more than a little surprised at the amount of raw force that was behind Michael's intended blow as he rubbed his burning forearm.

Shaking off his rash behavior Michael looked at Sims for a moment then with nod started off again.

"Wait, where are you going." Sims called after Michael.

"I have to find Nigel, something is coming, it could be Nicholas or someone else but it has its sights most definitely set on us, we have to get out of here."

Jogging to catch up to Michael, Sims stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.

"We know, Lo-Chan is on the move and headed our way, intel says sometime in the next few days. He is coming for Sin-Cho there is history between Onji and Lo-Chan. Seems Sin-Cho is a distant relation of Onji's, Lo-Chan held her hostage on the mainland. A few months ago Onji put together an op and rescued her. It seems Lo-Chan is coming to settle the score."

As Michael took in this new information, he felt a wave of memories wash over him. 

Ryujin, through the bond, gave Michael the memories of Onji, Sin-Cho and Katsimodo.

Onji finding out that Sin-Cho was of his blood...

Sin-Cho's utter despair at being held by Lo-Chan...

Katsimodo's flash of knowing to his soul with one look at Sin-Cho's terrified face that she was meant to be at his side.

It passed in an instant, but Michael felt all of it, each shard like emotion burned into him, became part of him, gave him the understanding and more importantly the necessary clarity to find his balance.

"What about Nicholas?" Michael's face was grim as he waited for the response he was sure would be coming.

"He flew into Singapore just this morning. We are waiting on updated data to see if that is his final destination or not."

A cold menace slipped over Michael with confirmation of what he already knew, that Nicholas was close. Lo-Chan may be coming to settle a score with Onji but Nicholas' intent was different, one that included his death and all those that he loved.

"Sims, stay close to Tera and Valerie, I don't know when I'll be back, keep them safe for me."

Michael hadn't finished the sentence before he was sprinting back toward the entrance. The cliffs called and there was no more time to wait.

-vVv-

"Have you seen Michael?" Nigel was none to pleased with having all of this forced upon him, he hated being on the defensive and that was exactly what Nicholas and Lo-Chan had done.

"I just left him, he came running into the Keep like a bat out of hell, tried to grab my spine through my belly button before he realized it was me. Told me to stay close to Tera and Valerie then ran off again."

Nigel's eyes blazed, he needed Michael to prepare what defense they could.

"Well go find the daft..."

Millie's soft hand on his shoulder cut off his sentence.

"Michael is doing what he needs to do Nigel. Now, what can we do?"

Nigel knew she was right, that the whole purpose of this trip was so that Michael could ascend and truly challenge Nicholas. It didn't put him at ease. Nicholas was ruthless and in that regard Lo-Chan was his equal. If they both came Nigel doubted that anything or anyone could stand in their way.

' I just wish I had some clue as to what Nicholas was planning.' Nigel never liked being on the defensive, offense was always a better play to make.

Millie's light squeeze on his shoulder made him stand a little straighter. They had been through dire situations in the past, this was just another in that long line. Always the three of them had come out on top. Ian was gone, but there were new forces on the board, powerful players that while not hardened by time and trial, they were strong and resilient none-the-less.

With a reassuring squeeze to Millie's hand Nigel turned to the job, as he always had.

"Sims I want minders for Millie and Valerie then track down Tera and both of you get back here asap, we have work to do."

-vVv-

The meeting with Bin-Fong had been enlightening.

It seemed that Lo-Chan's normally logical mind was a bit clouded where Onji and the woman Sin-Cho were concerned.

"Darion, do we have any information on this Sin-Cho?"

They had met with Bin-Fong for only a few minutes at the private terminal, he had given them a brief run down of what had occurred between his clan and Onji's over the past few months. It was out of character that Lo-Chan or Onji would take direct action against the other.

Darion rifled through a few files before finding the one he was looking for.

"The information is sparse, seems she spent her early years in a brothel in Beijing, a few years ago she came to the attention of Lo-Chan. He basically kidnapped her and had held her prisoner in one of his mountain strongholds. That is until a few months ago when Onji and his right hand Katsimodo staged a raid on the facility. There were..."

Darion paused and looked up at Nicholas, shock showing on his face.

"Well?" Nicholas was growing more impatient by the moment.

Darion composed himself and continued.

"It seems Onji brought a contingent of a hundred men, the only ones who left alive were Onji, Katsimodo and the girl."

Nicholas looked at Darion for a moment, it was not uncommon, at least in the past, for clan against clan battles to leave many more casualties in its wake.

"It isn't a huge number Darion, in the past clans would loose ten times that amount." Nicholas didn't understand Darion's surprise.

"Well yes, but it seems there were approximately thirty-five of Lo-Chan's forces guarding the compound...and neither Lo-Chan nor Bin-Fong were there when the attack came."

Nicholas let the information sink in.

A hundred of Onji's men, most assuredly well trained and led by Onji himself and his right hand were basically decimated by thirty-five on the opposite side without a chosen leading them.

It sent a shudder through Nicholas. He knew he was missing something and that was a feeling he loathed. As they pulled up to the gated entrance to Lo-Chan's compound in the mountains overlooking Singapore Nicholas was bound and determined that he would know what that missing piece was even if he had to wring Lo-Chan's neck to get it.

It was a cold and calculating Nicholas that walked into Lo-Chan's spacious office overlooking the valley below.

"Lo-Chan." Nicholas said with a nod. He was in no mood for pleasantries and got right to the point. He had a creeping suspicion of what Lo-Chan had done. If he was right then Lo-Chan may have crossed a line that Nicholas could not allow. His body tensed, as he cut to the chase and asked Lo-Chan.

"How many men do you plan on taking when we attack Onji?"

Lo-Chan regarded Nicholas with a wary eye. He understood now that somehow Nicholas had gotten a hint of what he was working on.

'Damn Bin-Fong to the seven hells.' Lo-Chan thought briefly before answering.

"Considering the forces Onji currently has at his stronghold and at his disposal I have brought roughly twenty operatives for our trip to Japan."

"Twenty Men!"

Nicholas was enraged.

"I fly half way around the world to help you deal with your oldest enemy and you insult me by bringing only twenty men. Onji could destroy them with a thought you fool!"

Lo-Chan walked away from Nicholas, sitting quietly behind his desk, wondering not for the first time how this dilettante had ever been chosen in the first place. Maintaining his calm demeanor Lo-Chan spread his fingers out on the desk regarding the livid expression on Nicholas' face for some time before finally speaking.

"Much has changed since last we met Nicholas. Gone are the days when there was a need for massive armies made up of cannon fodder when facing a chosen. Clan Tengshe has been busy these last decades, working to understand the nature of the gifts bestowed upon those of us who have been chosen. We have been trying to unlock the keys to that gift so they may be passed on, in part, to those required to face such conflicts."

Nicholas felt the words hang in the air. A growing dread finding purchase in his mind as the full spectrum of consequences to what Lo-Chan implied blossomed in his psyche.

Lo-Chan leaned back in his chair, putting as much distance as he could between himself and Nicholas without fleeing the room as Nicholas's burning fury changed to ice cold menace. It took a moment for Lo-Chan to break away from Nicholas' frosty stare and collect himself once more.

"What...have...you...done?" Nicholas' words seemed to steal heat from the air.

"Only what evolution requires of all of us Nicholas, to push the envelope to see the edge of the abyss, to find it and then move beyond it."

Lo-Chan stood, turning his back to Nicholas as he looked out over the verdant valley and Singapore beyond. A light fog enveloped the dense primordial forest along the mountainside as it fell away to the teeming city below.

"We started with my blood, my genetics to see if we could isolate what factors determine who will become chosen. It took years before any headway was made. Finally, with the genetic markers and keys found we could unlocked the mysteries, start to look for others who at least held a hint of the magic."

Lo-Chan turned back to Nicholas, hoping that he had calmed some. Nothing was further than the truth.

As Lo-Chan had explained what he had been doing Nicholas' rage only grew.

He should have seen it coming, should have been more prepared for this eventuality. He had thought of it himself when genetic testing had first started in the mid sixties. But the idea of dissecting the gift, of purposefully providing it to simple mortals, even for his own ends had been so shockingly abhorrent that he put the thought out of his mind almost immediately.

He should have known that others of his kind would not have the same fundamental understanding of how foolhardy it was to dilute their gift.

With nothing but Nicholas' continued stare forthcoming Lo-Chan continued.

"For the past twenty-five years every child in China has been genetically tested at birth for a myriad of genetic characteristics. With the samples cataloged and stored it is easy then for us to pick and choose any that show even the slightest signs of having the ancient markers in their genes."

"When one is identified they are procured and brought to one of several compounds throughout China. They are evaluated, taught and monitored twenty-four hours a day for six years. After gaining that baseline we then move forward, choosing what specialty they are most apt to fill."

"None are given the full gifts obviously. We play to the individuals strengths. If their gifts manifest in a physical way then they are trained as foot soldiers. Stronger and faster than any normal human we augment their natural gifts with drug regimes that enhance their strength and reflexes further. Including a mild psychotropic as well as subliminal sleep training we make sure the dogs leashes are firmly held by us."

Lo-Chan had ceased to be totally in the now. Nicholas saw that his eyes wandered as he related the details of his life's work. This was a man with wide dark dreams of power and control. 'This litany about his bastard creations may be the last words he utters if I can't get him under control.' Nicholas's thoughts became more controlled, understanding that Lo-Chan was far more dangerous than he believed. He watched Lo-Chan with a wary eye as he continued.

"The ones with more...esoteric abilities are trained longer. Keeping control of these individuals has always proven to be much more of a challenge. It has only been in the last five years that we felt they were ready for work in the field. Each is highly specialized, their abilities ranging from creeping into someones consciousness to hurling one ton boulders with their mind."

Lo-Chan's voices trailed off as he came fully back to the present. Locking his stare with Nicholas's he continued.

"The twenty I have brought are the absolute best, fifteen warriors and five with...other gifts. They will be more than enough for my purpose, and yours." 

Nicholas' voice was mere whisper as he finally spoke.

"And what does Tengshe think about this Lo-Chan?"

Lo-Chan was silent for some time, contemplating his answer.

"She is...unaware of most of the details."

Nicholas was across the desk with his hands at Lo-Chan's throat in an instant.

"And how can that be?"

Nicholas hissed out the statement with such ichor that for a moment Lo-Chan believed his death to be imminent, but looking into Nicholas' eyes Lo-Chan saw not only rage but also something else, buried deep beneath the swirling emotions so often seen from his rival, there in the dark recesses of thought that are so closely guarded they rarely see the light of day Lo-Chan saw...hope.

-vVv-

A fog had come up, shrouding the hills in a dense mist. Michael moved through it like a great cat, muscles tensing as he felt his way quickly over the uneven ground.

Nicholas was coming once again, trying to take what was his, to hurt those that meant everything too him. "It will not turn out the same way this time," Michael fairly growled as he followed the growing cacophony of the waves hitting the cliffs.

The cliff face came up quick, Michael pulled up short looking down over the face to the sea below. Closing his eyes he searched for a direction to take, a blind man seeking the light. 

'There is a small path just to your right, follow it until you find the cave, I await you.' Ryujin's voice echoed in his mind as he turned, finding the path and made his way down. The path was well worn, as if hundreds had used it often over the long centuries, making the same pilgrimage as he.

The cliff wall became wetter the further he descended, the spray from the waves soaking into his clothes. Near the base of the cliff the rough hewn stairs ended at a massive cave opening into the stone. Carved from millennium of waves beating relentlessly at this soft spot in the earths armor, its jagged thirty meter high opening a black void holding the promise and fear that all such voids do.

Michael paused before it, the waves rolling into the cave lower down the face, another moment of transition at hand Michael wondered if he was up to what lay ahead. Pushing his fears aside, the faces of Valerie and Tera taking their place his will hardened, none would take what was his. Michael stepped purposefully into the darkness to find whatever edge he could to ensure their survival.

-vVv-

Nicholas held Lo-Chan's gaze like a viper freezing its prey before the strike. Lo-Chan took a deep breath, as deep as possible with Nicholas' fingers wrapped around his throat.

"How?" Nicholas ground out once again as he released just enough of the pressure to allow Lo-Chan to speak.

Filling his lungs a few times to get the oxygen circulating to his brain again, Lo-Chan understood Nicholas' wonder.

Since the time of the great transference each clan leader had been linked to their sire. Once one was chosen and became, the link was made and had always been inescapable. Lo-Chan's research over the many long years had revealed that the Chosen on the other side of the table experienced their link very differently than those on his side. For them it was a natural extension of themselves, a joining of equals that enhanced both.

For Lo-Chan and his kind it was far different. Always it was a struggle of wills, one trying to dominate the other. 

The sires usually won.

If you lived long enough, had enough energy, possessed enough inner strength, you could shroud the bond, dim what the sires see for a time. But it was always short and never complete.

Lo-Chan understood better than most the glimmer of hope that had flashed deep in Nicholas' eye.

"We can, I trust, talk of this openly?"

Lo-Chan's question was only prudent. The sires, while not friendly, did interact, what one knew the others would as well in due time.

"Yes you fool, would I have asked if it were not." Nicholas' words were clipped, the strain of holding Lo-Chan coupled with blocking his sire evident on his face.

"Early in our work I had my scientists break down the genetic markers of all the chosen we could, looking for the markers to make better soldiers. That was what I presented to Tengshe, she agreed that this line of study could bear fruit."

"However, aside from identifying those with the potential to be chosen it also provided a unique look at what a chosen was from a genetic standpoint. One of the first things we found was the genetic characteristics that allow the sire bond to take place."

Nicholas released Lo-Chan and took a step back. His face was still a hard mask but Lo-Chan understood that he had sparked the mans interest enough for his rage to cool a bit.

He sat back in his chair, adjusting his shirt collar before continuing.

"Everything that makes us chosen is locked in our DNA. All the things we can do, our long lives, our abilities, its all tied to the joining. Back to when the first ones gave whichever long lost ancestor the original gift and bound our kinds together."

"Finding the genetic key for the bond allowed us to make a type of...vaccine. It does not destroy the bond, it gives the user control over it, without the sire ever being the wiser."

Lo-Chan sat back, watching Nicholas, wondering what was going through his mind.

It was lucky for Lo-Chan that the lacked this ability. Seeing into Nicholas's mind in that moment would have been a life ending mistake.

Nicholas let the understanding of what the man said sink in.

An end to the constant pressure.

The constant pain.

The constant disease that was his sire.

Over the years Nicholas had found a modicum of control. It had been hard won and not without its own price. It could only be maintained for short periods within which he indulged himself in the quiet, a singular state where he could plan and fantasize about his sire finally understanding who the true master was.

And now Lo-Chan had laid a key to his prison at his feet.

"I want it Lo-Chan, I want it right now."

Nicholas' words were just above a whisper, the menace in them was almost a physical thing that traversed the distance between them, coiling around Lo-Chan's' soul.

"Of course Nicholas, give me a few moments and it shall be yours." Lo-Chan said with an unsteady smile.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 07



"Be careful Lo-Chan, while you may have a brief opportunity at this moment in which you believe you have me where you want me, I can assure you the truth is far far different."

Lo-Chan simply nodded as he picked up his phone, unsure if this course would not ultimately lead to ruin, not just his own, but the other Chosen and all of humanity as well.

-vVv-

"It looks as though Nicholas and Lo-Chan will be coming any time with about twenty operatives."

Nigel was cautiously optimistic since he had received word of a group of Lo-Chan's men being flown into his compound in Singapore. Twenty he could deal with. His fear had been waves of hundreds of men and women, brainwashed and sent with the single purpose of wearing them down. Twenty he could deal with.

"Bravo team arrived this morning Sims, twenty bodies and gear, I want you to take charge of them. Onji has brought in forty of his people as well so we should be in good shape when the fight does come."

Sims nodded as he looked over the plans for the castle.

"We'll want patrols on all sides, heavier toward and in the close forest perimeter, lighter on the cliff side. If they come at us from the ocean side it will be from the air. I'll start a rotating watch with shared teams of ours and Onji's men with the rest setting up the defense gear at the castle."

Nigel regarded the map and the locations Sims was pointing out for the defensive emplacements.

"Make sure you put some motion detectors down on the cliff face, it wouldn't be the first time that an un-scaleable cliff face was used as an effective penetration point."

"Break the teams up two to one, two of Onji's men with one of ours, that will give us twenty teams. Lets have ten teams on perimeter security and ten on defense."

"Will do Nigel." Sims said as he gave Elise a quick hug and left to pull together the teams.

Elise had been quiet through Nigel and Sims' discussion, but now she was starting to feel like a third wheel and wanted to help.

"Is there an infirmary or medical supplies on site, I had a bit of medical training, I could help if there are any wounded." Elise's' hopeful tone brought a smile to Nigel.

"That would be very helpful Elise, we have one medic, Carly Taggert, she should be down with the equipment in the main hall, introduce yourself I'm sure she will be glad for the help."

Elise gave a bright smile as she turned and headed for the main hall.

"Lo-Chan would not send only 20 men if there was not something unique about them Nigel-San."

Onji turned away from the window where he had been watching his men form up and get their instructions.

"It may not be as bad as you think Onji, he may be under the impression that we are in such a weak and unprepared position that he need not bring a larger force."

Nigel's statement was not delivered with a great deal of conviction.

"Let us hope for all our sakes you are correct."

Nigel didn't see the worried look on Onji's face as he left the room to check on the preparations. Onji held his tongue, knowing that his own fears would only unsteady his old friend.

Walking over to his desk Onji sat down heavily, the weight of his many years walking the planet, of fighting the good fight beginning to bear heavily on his shoulders.

The fight that was to come filled him with dread. It was an unseen cloying darkness that floated just beyond his grasp. There was something different in the feel of this battle, something that laid its cold clammy hand over his heart and could not be loosed.

Memories of the debacle when they had freed Sin-Cho rose up, causing him once again to mourn the loss of so many of his finest. He had never fully understood how Lo-Chan had been able to defeat his forces so totally, his intelligence indicated that there were only thirty or so people guarding the compound. But that couldn't have been the case, perhaps if Lo-Chan had been there then it might have been a worry but he was half a world away when they had attacked. It was another unknown that haunted both his waking and sleeping consciousness.

Shaking off his worry and reaching for his inner center Onji straightened and picked up the phone, calling the security office.

"Have Katsimodo..." Onji paused, wondering if the errant thought that crossed his mind was that or something more before continuing. "...and Sin-Cho come to my office immediately.

Onji turned from the desk, looking over at the ancient rice paper glyph hanging on the wall. The symbol was simple, but its meaning profound. From chaos the future is born.

He felt sure that chaos was coming to his doorstep, his hope was that from it would be born something that could combat the darkness he felt closing in around them.

Katsimodo and Sin-Cho came into the office, their obvious joy at being together soothing somewhat his rising uneasiness.

"I need you both to watch over our guests. Katsimodo, if you will please liaise with Nigel and his man Sims. We need to put together integrated teams with our personnel and Nigel's men who have just arrived."

Onji noted how Sin-Cho stayed close to Katsimodo, how she always seemed to have some part of her body in contact with his. It brought a small smile to his face knowing they had formed such a deep connection.

"No problem, all of our men should be here within the hour. I will meet with Nigel, Sims and Tera to see how they want everything deployed."

Onji looked weary, Katsimodo had never seen his friend and mentor in such a state.

Onji noticed Katsimodo's concern but could offer little in the way of explanation. He did his best to bolster their spirits.

"With Nigel's team and our men we are in a strong position, just make sure everyone stays sharp, I'm not sure what Lo-Chan has up his sleeve. We need to be ready for anything."

Standing and turning back toward the window, Onji's words had a hint of melancholy.

"Stay close to each other, love each other. You never know what fate has in store for you. Sometimes the greatest of tragedies can hold the seeds of your greatest achievements. Michael is the harbinger of a new era for our kind, though he is young and new to this life I sense in him great potential. No matter what happens in the days to come watch over him, be a guide or friend to him as needed. The road ahead of him is filled with twists and turns, it will be a great help to him to have those around him be able to navigate the future."

Onji turned and smiled at the two young lovers, hope kindled anew at the reality of their bond.

Katsimodo was on edge as he left the office. Onji was rarely worried, it was his nature to always have planned many moves ahead. Katsimodo held Sin-Cho's hand a little tighter as they walked down the long corridor a sense of impending lay heavily on his heart.

-vVv-

"How did you cope with the strangeness of all this Millie?"

Valerie had found Millie in a small rock garden along the wall of the Keep while she had been out for her run. With Tera tied up in the coming defense and Michael off doing his morning run she had found herself at loose ends.

Millie looked at the young woman, who was as close to a daughter as she would ever get, with deep fondness. It was the one small regret she had from choosing the life she had with Ian.

She, better than anyone, understood what Valerie was asking.

"Every life has challenges Val, every relationship has them as well. When Ian and I met we were both very young, younger than you or Tera or Michael. We were brought up in a different world, the times were harsher then but also simpler. We fell in love in a whirlwind of passion and need, I knew almost from the moment I met him that I was destined to be at his side. Of course I had no idea what that meant at the time."

Valerie watched as Millie got a far away look in her eye as if for that moment she was somewhere else or more accurately sometime else.

Millie shook off the impending flood of emotions. Taking Valerie's hand she tried to think of what words of wisdom would have helped at the start of hers and Ian's long journey.

"The best advice I can give you Val is to love them both with your whole heart. Don't hold anything back. The relationship you find yourselves in is something very unique, it is by its very nature magic. Trying to live an ordinary life when none of you come close to ordinary is just not possible. Hold Michael and Tera close, be everything you can be to them and take everything from them they are willing to give. You never know when the last morning you will see them shall dawn."

Valerie folded her arms around Millie as the tears finally came.

Deep wracking sobs tore through Millie as she wept in Valerie's' arms. Ian was gone, her other half, her reason had slipped away from her, become lost in the writhing eddies and currents of infinity.

She hadn't had the time she wanted. Although they shared centuries, it still seemed too short, too finite. Millie had told Ian a hundred thousand times that she loved him, showed him in the most subtle and overt ways that he held her heart. And yet, every gesture, every whispered endearment seemed to break and scatter on the wind as the full force of his loss finally broke through her soul.

'This is what love does, what it is at its most pure.' Valerie thought as she cradled Millie. 'No evil, no deed, no word or action can cause such heights of joy or depths of pain.'

"I learned how to love from you and Ian. Watching the two of you together, the easy comfort, the shared joys and the halved sorrows."

"What you and Ian forged over lifetimes Millie does not diminish with his passing. It lives on in your heart and soul, in the memories of everyone over the long years who have seen the two of you together, experienced through you what true love can be."

I won't say that I understand your pain Millie, I can only hope that however many years lay before me and Tera and Michael that we can experience something close to what you and Ian share."

They sat holding each other for some time before Millie finally roused herself.

Driving back the weight of Ian's loss, his memory, her deep unabiding ache for him, she knew she needed to get a grip. There was more to be done, those to be shepherded before she would, as Ian had, pass beyond into the last great mystery. She did not fear it now, for she knew there would be a warm smile and comforting arms to greet her.

"Come on, lets go find Nigel and Tera, there must be something you and I can do to help the cause." Millie spoke the words with fire but Valerie saw that the fire never reached her eyes. Sighing she followed Millie towards the keep proper, worry creasing her brow.

-vVv-

'Freedom.'

The word had a new power to it as he rolled the word around in his head watching the sunset over the lush valley below Lo-Chan's mountain fortress. For centuries there had been no peace, no escape from Sirrush's constant intrusion into his thoughts.

Yes, after decades of trying Nicholas could shield a few of his thoughts, his deepest darkest secrets. But aside from that there had been no escape, no respite from his lieges' machinations. That was now not the case.

Lo-Chan's formula had taken effect almost immediately. Nicholas had been amazed at the completeness of the change within his mind. He now held two spaces in his thoughts. One the everyday workings and what he wanted Sirrush to see. And the rest, ah, the rest was a nearly limitless expanse of space and quiet where Nicholas could work in peace, setting his own goals, whether they coincided with what Sirrush wanted was now a moot point.

Nicholas came out of his reverie as Lo-Chan joined him on the balcony.

"You are pleased with the result?"

Lo-Chan's voice was low, well modulated, not giving a hint of the intent behind the question, though Nicholas already knew what he was looking for.

Turning to look at the man, Nicholas, for the first time in centuries, felt gratitude to another.

"It performed as you said it would Lo-Chan."

Nicholas let the power of his new found freedom into the response which brought a small smile to Lo-Chan's lips as he changed the subject.

"Good, then we can move ahead."

"Transportation has been arranged, we will be leaving tomorrow at dusk and should be at Onji's compound around 3am. I have surveillance teams on the ground giving real time intel."

With his new found control and Michael's death coming with the following dawn Nicholas found he was in a rare good mood.

"You have done well with this Lo-Chan, I had my doubts but you have proven yourself to be an ally of the clans. You and I shall build a new world together."

Nicholas paused to look at Lo-Chan, saw the shadow in his eyes.

"Something troubles you Lo-Chan, your worried about a world in which I am the sole arbiter. That is...understandable. You need not worry, my plans do not include watching over the whole of the planet, you will be my right hand, ruling half of the globe answering only to me."

He watched Lo-Chan relax some, he had guessed correctly that the man was worried about his place in a world where the other side was no more. But Nicholas still had concerns. Lo-Chan had always kept his plans very close, was the least forthcoming of all the allied clans. Now, when Nicholas's goals were so close he would have to keep Lo-Chan very close.

"I will need full disclosure on the rest of your work Lo-Chan, while the boon you have discovered because of it brings me much, it also gravely concerns me, dolling out our gifts to simple humans could bring ruin to our kind. I will want to be kept in the loop from here on out. Our survival and dominance is my only concern. Your work, while providing benefits could also foreshadow the end of our kind, and I will not let that happen."

Lo-Chan had known it was coming, it was why he worked so hard for all those years keeping his work secret from all of the other chosen. Nicholas was right of course, if left unchecked his work could get out of control very quickly, changing the balance of power that had been held by their kind for all these many millennium.

However, Lo-Chan kept his own council on many things, Nicholas' sudden forbearance would be used to his advantage, his own plans for the future would not be sublimated to Nicholas' or anyone for that matter.

"Of course Nicholas, it is good to know that you and I have a clear understanding of what the future holds, and who will hold that future in their hands."

Nicholas let a smile cross his lips but didn't turn to Lo-Chan or offer an opinion on the statement, choosing instead to change the subject.

"Why the sudden interest in taking the fight directly to Onji's door Lo-Chan? I thought that you two had come to a truce of a kind years ago?"

Out of the corner of his eye Nicholas saw Lo-Chan stiffen.

"Onji and I have a long standing feud, recently there has been some...movement on that front."

The air was still between them for a moment and then the choice was made.

"I have arrangements to make for the operation, I will see you tomorrow evening Nicholas."

With that Lo-Chan walked away leaving Nicholas alone to watch the suns final flare before the world was shrouded in nights dark cloak.

'I'll have to pay special attention to this women, if Lo-Chan covets her so much then there might be something there to peak my interest as well.' Nicolas thought as he turned to hunt down Darion and find his own entertainment for the evening.

-vVv-

Katsimodo was tired as he made his way back to his room.

Nigel's team was extremely professional, after working with them all afternoon to integrate them with their forces he felt better about what the next days would hold.

He had seen Sin-Cho off and on throughout the day, a smile always accompanied the sightings. Love was a new emotion for him.

For so long his life was about the clan, about training, about making sure he was prepared and ready when he was called upon.

Things had changed since that night those many months ago when he and Onji had walked into a seeming ambush. That they were able to rescue Sin-Cho had been a minor miracle, but then those had become more common as he learned the true nature of the world. 

Sin-Cho had added another dimension to his life, it gave him a new perspective on what life could be, of how truly important what Onji and Michael and the rest of the chosen were fighting for.

She wasn't in their rooms when he returned. It wasn't unusual. Many a night she didn't return to their room, opting instead to stay in the room Onji provided for her on the other side of the keep.

He missed her but knew that she still needed her own space, that living in captivity had scarred her deeply and that those scars would never truly heal.

Stripping down he started the shower and took care of his necessities.

Stepping under the scalding water felt good on his tired muscles. He rested his head against the white tiles of the shower, letting the water sooth his body and mind.

The depth of his weariness was evident in that he never heard the door to the bathroom open.

Didn't sense the motion in the room.

His body tensed when finally his senses registered that he was not alone in the large open shower but by then it was too late.

Gentle kisses landed across his shoulder blades as he felt Sin-Cho's body mold to his.

The sharp points of her breasts pressing themselves into his back.

The heat of her lips as they left a burning trail across his skin far hotter than the water.

Her silky mound rubbing lightly against his flanks.

"I wasn't sure I would see you tonight."

His voice was quiet but thick with emotion, it brought a smile to Sin-Cho's lips.

"I would be no place else tonight, who knows what tomorrow may bring." She whispered in his ear as her hands wrapped around his waist holding on to him tightly.

Just as the emotion of love was new to Katsimodo the same was true for her.

Katsimodo turned, pulling her into his arms. His hands slid over her wet warm skin his need pressing into her between them.

Their lips met as they joined. Tongues languidly dueling as she coiled her leg around his waist allowing his entry. Neither were in the mood for the slow building passion they usually pulled forth. Here on the precipice of whatever the immediate future held they simply needed to be joined, to feel the connection between them.

Katsimodo slid easily into her warm depths. A feeling of peace washing over him as he moved slowly, spreading her open inch by inch, feeling her stretch to accommodate him.

It was so different being with Sin-Cho than the handful of other women he had known before her. She completed him, made him more than he was and in this one simple but all meaning act that was truer than any other time he shared with her.

Sin-Cho moaned into Katsimodo's neck as his hardness filled her. She loved this moment the most, where the two of them became one.

"Please."

Her voice was husky and full of passion as he fully seated himself within her.

She clasped her muscles tightly, locking him briefly there at her center, becoming one animal joined in the purest form of union.

Sin-Cho groaned as he gently reversed his motion, his length pulling out of her, the warm center of her feeling empty for a moment before he filled her again before repeating the wonderful motion.

Slowly at first and then faster and faster still his body moved into her. Sin-Cho could not stand and wrapped her other leg around Katsimodo's waist, trusting him to hold her, to keep her safe, to take her to that place he so often had.

Sin-Cho felt light in his arms, as he swung her around bracing her back against wall. His focus was their joining, of reaching that place where they would, for the briefest of moments, cease to be individuals and become an all encompassing one.




Dragon Clans Bk. 02 Pt. 07



"I love you." Sin-Cho's hushed words pushed Katsimodo over the edge, he would never tire of her sweet voice saying those words as she fell into the abyss with him.

Their moans reached a crescendo as they both found their release. The water falling over their bodies as Katsimodo lowered them both to the floor keeping Sin-Cho wrapped in his protective embrace.

"I will always love you Sin, every moment of every day from now until the passing of the world you will be mine and I yours."

She cooed in response, looking into his eyes, finding the answers to all the mysteries of the universe in those dark pools.

They rose slowly, bodies quivering and unsteady from the power of their passion both spent and inflamed by their joining.

Katsimodo tenderly dried Sin-Cho, the soft cool cotton feeling good against her heated skin. She trembled slightly under his touch.

"What is it?" He could not keep the worried tone from his voice.

"I worry about what is to come, that we could fail."

Katsimodo pulled her into his arms again. He could sense her fear, knew it for what it was because it was mirrored in his own soul.

"We can only control this moment Sin, we can only live it to its fullest. Will tomorrow bring something different, of course, but I will be there with you my love, and together I can see nothing that could part us or cause harm to those we love and protect."

She held him tightly, hoping that he was right.

But she had seen Lo-Chan's vengeance up close, felt the burning heat of his rage. 

She could not quell the growing ember of doubt that lived within her heart that nothing or no one could truly stand in its presence...and survive.

-vVv-

Night had fallen, but from the depths of the cave Michael had no idea that the day had slipped away.

The path was easy to follow, the cavern had maintained its height as it wound its way into the cliff face.

The sea was his constant companion. It made the journey along with him. Always at his left it was somewhat comforting as he walked blindly on in the dark, hearing the gentle echo it made as the water continued its endless siege on the rock.

The darkness did not hamper Michael's progress. As he moved deeper into the earth he felt closer and closer to his goal. He was being pulled by an ancient need, the need to seek out the truth of his life, to find and complete a destiny that still flashed on periphery of his consciousness.

He was calm as he turned the last corner, his eyes blind for a moment as light flared up ahead.

"Welcome Michael." Ryujin's deep voice echoed through the chamber.

Michael was comforted by the voice as he stepped into the light to face another piece of his destiny.



Dragon Clans Pt. 02



"I waited too long," Ian said to no one in particular. Pacing around the room Ian was very aware that his inaction had caused Michael undo pain.

The sun had set hours ago, and the fatigue showed as Ian pulled up the video one more time before turning in.

It showed the pain and suffering of a man bereft of hope.

How many of us could hope to begin to understand the pain of this kind of loss? 

How many of us could come through with our sanity and humanity intact?

Ian closed down his computer and walked slowly from the room.

The castle, built in the 8th century, was part of the legacy.

If you were called this is where you lived, the castle and the surrounding grounds had been the home of the chosen for the last eleven centuries.

Each step that Ian took was a step another had taken before him; each step was an echo of one that would come. The past, present and future lived in the halls of Nogardshire Castle. If a place could have a soul then surely this was that place.

Closing the heavy oak door Ian slumped against the frame. Time was finally beginning to catch up with him. Ian looked in the mirror across the room and could hardly recognize himself.

Always athletic and energetic, Ian Norris Smyth, the Lord of Nogardshire had lived an interesting life.

Born to Colin and Margaret Smyth, Ian's childhood was as good as could be expected during that time in England.

Colin was a hard working blacksmith, Margaret worked as a midwife; together the three of them lived in a 2 bedroom flat on Woodlea Rd just south of Clissold Park.

Ian grew up knowing what it was to be loved. Knowing that hard work and sacrifice were required to keep a steady path and make ones way in the world. Those lessons were as true then as they were today.

The cognac had a satisfying warmth going down as Ian absently admired the unique Baccarat crystal decanter of the 'Black Pearl' Louis XIII. Limited to only 786 carafes it was a unique gift that Ian appreciated more that he could ever tell Millicent.

He wished Millie were here now.

Times like these were always easier when she was at his side. Someone to talk with, someone to hold, someone who knew him and the burdens he bore.

She would be back from Istanbul tomorrow and he would fill her in, until then it was just he and Louis.

As rain lashed at the windows, Ian settled into the chair by the fire, hoping its warmth would drive away the cold clammy hand that had grabbed his heart as he watched Michael screaming over the coffin of his family. ...............

"My Lord" Cedric said for the third time as he shook his masters shoulder.

The sun had been up for quite some time and Ms. Millicent would be home in less than an hour, 'his lordship would want to be presentable when she arrived,' Cedric thought.

Ian stirred, his dreams had been convoluted, images of the past; battles waged on mist laden fields, a journey by ship across an azure sea. Meaningless and yet, at the same time...feeling...familiar.

Cedric smiled down at Ian as the last vestiges of sleep let loose their hold and his eyes opened.

"Oh god, its you Cedric, what time is it?" Ian asked as he rose slowly from the chair, his muscles screaming in protest at being held for too long in the same position.

"Almost 8am," Cedric replied as he opened the curtains and let the diffuse light from the overcast day spill into the room.

It was a quintessential Lords room.

Dark cherry paneling covered the walls, high arched windows let in the eastern light. An oversize canopy bed dominated the center of the room across from the massive stone fireplace.

"Could you bring me some coffee and a muffin please?" Ian asked Cedric as he moved into the bathroom.

"Of course sir" replied Cedric, closing the door as he left the room.

The hot water felt good, easing the tension out of Ian's muscles and reviving his spirit.

'Michael will survive,' he thought as he lathered his body.

'It will be a tough few weeks but in the end he is a survivor and will put this loss into perspective. Coming out the other side of his grief a stronger person,' Ian reflected as he rinsed off and stepped from the shower.

The stone floor was cold, a shock from the steaming shower, toweling off he looked at himself in the mirror.

'Not too bad for the number of years put on the old body,' he thought, reaching for his Acqua Di Parma shaving gel he looked over his body as he lathered his face.

At 6'1 Ian was tall for an Englishman, dark close-cropped hair with just a hint of gray, a lean silhouette that still had a fairly well defined musculature for a man of his years.

Finishing his morning ritual, Ian stepped into his closet. Pulling on a Stefano Rici button down with his favorite pair of faded Levis and his Bragano loafers he felt normal once again.

Cedric had left his coffee and he absently sipped at it, replaying the funeral in his mind once again. "Michael will be fine," he said to the air as he strode from the room looking forward to feeling Millie in his arms.

Ian stood next to the helipad as the Eurocopter Calibri EC120B circled and came to a light stop 20ft away.

And in the next moment she was there, stepping out of the passenger door, Millie waved to the pilot as she walked over to Ian.

'God its been to long,' she thought as she had to contain her first impulse to run into his arms.

When she finally reached him they fell into an easy embrace.

She could smell the Acqua Di Parma Colonia, feel his heart beating next to hers, 'gods why did she go on this trip, two weeks was too long not to be at his side,' she thought as she pulled him closer.

Ian felt better the moment Millie was in his arms, how many times had they been in just this pose, one or the other of them coming home.

The separations were starting to wear on both of them.

A lifetime spent hopping around the globe tending to various problems was the status quo. Now she was back and all he wanted to do was get lost in her deep brown eyes, revel in suppleness of her thighs, feel the caress of her tongue battling with his.

But he would have to tell her of the incident first, he was already going to catch hell for not telling her a week ago when it happened, he felt it best to wait and tell her in person.

Sitting in the grand salon overlooking the maze Millie could sense that something was wrong. It had been two weeks and she was aching for Ian but he had insisted on a chat, that could only mean something had happened with Michael.

"Last Thursday Sasha was hit by a drunk driver" Ian began.

The blood drained from Millie's tanned face as he continued.

"She was medivac'd to Shands Hospital and underwent emergency surgery, they tried for hours to save her and the baby, but in the end her injuries were just too severe and she died on the operating table," Ian's statement hung in the air.

For almost twenty years she and Ian had followed Michaels progress, watching his life from afar. They would rejoice at his accomplishments and commiserate with him when life didn't go as planned.

"How is he holding up?" Millie asked in a wavering voice.

"Not well," Ian responded, shaking his head, running his hand through his hair.

"He handled the accident and the arrangements well, he was a pillar of strength for Sasha's parents," Ian said, with more than a little pride in his voice.

"That is until the funeral," Ian continued as he pulled up the video on his laptop and spun it so Millie could watch it.

Millie sat silently for a few moments after the video ended, she had never seen anyone in as much pain as Michael and she wondered what the ramifications would be.

"Who caused the accident?" Millie asked as she wiped a tear that slid slowly down her cheek.

"My people are checking on the individual involved, it seems random, the man was driving on a suspended license and was going to court in three days on another drunk driving charge. I should have Cole's full report latter this afternoon but I believe it is just a random accident." Ian said as he moved over to sit next to Millie.

Millie was a mass of conflicting feelings, on one side she felt such sorrow for Michael and his loss, on the other she felt an un-abating rage against the fool who had caused this much pain.

Ian pulled Millie close to him and held her, she began to cry and her tears brought forth his own.

Though they had never met Michael in person he was a large part of their lives and to have him going through so much pain pierced them to their souls.

As they clung together, purging their sorrow the tears began to subside, still holding each other Ian's lips found Millie's

Their passion sprang forth with a fury neither was expecting, those first tentative kisses quickly built to a passionate dual between their tongues for supremacy. 

Their sorrow was channeled into their love and passion for each other, within its fire nothing could survive but love and hope.

Ian's lips traveled down Millie's neck, gently biting the taught muscles, eliciting a low moan from Millie and starting her juices flowing. His teeth lingered at her neck, pulling insistently on her delicate flesh enflaming her passions.

Ian's hands found her breasts; tearing off the light silk shirt and bra his fingers twisted her nipples.

Millie caught her breath as Ian's hand began to roam over her body; the heat from his hands on her breasts drove her passion to a higher level.

"Gods Ian, please hurry I need you inside me," she moaned as Ian slid off the couch to kneel in front of her.

Ian spread her legs, looking up at her supple breasts, wondering at the passion he felt for this amazing woman.

His hands traveled up her stocking clad thighs, feeling the heat rise as he approached her silk clad center.

In one pull her shredded panties fell away, he was assaulted by the scent of her desire, the need in her body language.

His head slid between her thighs, the silk made his journey effortless and tickled his ears as his lips and tongue sought out her sweet nexus.

Millie grabbed Ian's head and pulled him to her.

His lips danced over her lips, taking them into his mouth he pulled and stretched them. Spreading them with his fingers he found her hard core and took it between his teeth.

Millie gasped as her first orgasm washed over her, tightening her muscular thighs around his head.

Ian's tongue danced over Millie's captive clit, keeping up the pressure with his teeth giving his tongue an easy target.

Over and over his tongue swirled around her clit, the pulsing motions of his teeth kept her passion rising, orgasm after orgasm wracked her body. Millie cried as the passion took her, wave after wave of bliss rolled over her body, the orgasms taking her beyond herself, merging with the universe and becoming a being of pure feeling and emotion.

Ian's need could be ignored no longer.

In one swift motion he rose, kicking off the loafers and throwing off his pants he knelt again between Millis thighs.

Millie lay their panting; a light sheen of sweat coated her body as she began to come back to herself. Looking down she watched as Ian's rigid member throbbed at her entrance, a drop of precum falling from its tip, feeling like molten lava when it struck her engorged clit.

Rubbing the head of his cock over her wet nether lips, he savored the anticipation; knowing that in a moment he would be inside her liquid heat.

He played his dick over her clit once more and then entered her in one long slow thrust.

No matter how many times he entered her they both believed it felt just like the first time, full of wonder, excitement and unyielding passion.

His thrusts were deep and urgent, he stretched her, as he always did and she screamed in pleasure as he thrust into her, making them one.

Ian caught one of Millie's nipples between his lips and bit down hard, the dueling sensations pushed Millie into another orgasm.

His thrusts became frantic, feeling as if he didn't get further into her, his soul would be lost, faster and faster they moved together, her rising to meet him, Ian thrusting deeper and deeper within her.

Their moans echoed in unison and soon they were both pushed over the edge, floating in the warm embrace of their shared orgasm they clung to each other, enjoying the moment of oneness, understanding that they were and always would be...one.

Lying on top of Millie Ian felt better than he had in weeks, it was too long away from her, too many things had happened. Without her at his side he was incomplete.

Millie's hands moved over the muscles of Ian's back, sliding over his sweat slick skin she could not imagine feeling happier or more complete than at this moment.

Naked and hand in hand Millie and Ian walked up the stairs to Ian's room, a hot shower and hot fire were the order for the evening.

Half way up the stairs Ian pulled Millie to him, their lips meeting in a sensuous loving kiss that imparted the deep commitment and understanding between them.

"Tomorrow I'll put things in motion to get Michael here, if he passes the trials you and I need never be parted again," Ian whispered in Millie's ear as he held her close.

"If he is ready then he will step into your place, but whatever happens Ian we will be here for him." Millie replied into the nape of his neck.

Parting, they shared a long look, seeing in the other that part of them that made each of them...complete.

Climbing the rest of the stairs they understood that for them and Michael the future was unfolding faster than any of them might have hoped.



Dragon Dance



"Hold. Help me up, I . . ." Li was wheezing from the climb up the lower reaches of Paradise Mountain—Tien Tang Shan—with little faith that he could climb as far up the challenging path as the parting stones. He had reached out for the arm folds of Junjie's scarlet-red silk robe, but the youth skittered away from him, farther up the rising stone path, anxious to reach his destination, focused on his own goal.

Li almost slipped and went down on the moist, moss-covered stepping stones, but his young servant, Zhong, was there right behind him and placed a strong hand under the arm of the man he called his revered teacher, and gently supported him while his master took another shuffling step of ascent.

"I have you, Hsien Sheng," Zhong murmured. "I shall not let you fall."

Off course Zhong wouldn't let his master fall. That went without saying. In fact, most of what Zhong did for Li went without acknowledgment.

"Where . . . Where are you, Junjie?" Li cried out, looking frantically up the path, not wanting to lose sight for the one he loved deeply too soon. Tien Tang Shan and the monks of the Yung Yuan Hsi Lo monastery would be snatching Junjie from Li soon enough. Li wanted to savor these last precious moments with him.

"Are you coming, Lao Jen? Are you coming or not, Old Man," Junjie called down from just beyond the bend up there in the densely packed pine forest they had entered. "If you can't keep up, I will move on ahead. Can you see the monastery, Old Man? They told me it was covered in gold. He told me that it was worthy of my service."

"I come as I am able, Junjie," Li called out. "If I have not caught up, wait for me at the parting stones. I cannot go farther than that by monastery decree. But I must have a proper parting." The last came out in almost a moan.

But there was no answer. Junjie had already gone ahead.

Li began to shudder, his whole world coming down around him. He looked up the mountain, trying to pick out the accursed monastery, but unable to do so through the tops of the pine trees and the swirling blanket of misty clouds sitting upon the summit of Tien Tang Shan. That evil company of men who had lured his beloved Junjie—well named, both handsome and an outstanding example of ripened youth—who had lured him with their honeyed words of how coddled and honored he'd be if he joined them at the Eternal Joy monastery.

"Here, lean on me, Hsien Sheng," the servant Zhong whispered to him. "We can move faster if I take your weight upon me."

And without a word, Li let Zhong put a strong arm under his and lift him and thus shuffle at a quicker and more steady pace up the ever-sharpening angle of ascent.

This was not meant to be, Li was agonizing as Zhong, resolute and steady on the slippery stepping stones, carried him up the steep path. Junjie had come to him young. Li had been training and cultivating him for several years, preparing the young man to be the perfect consort. Everything that Li possessed—which was considerable—had been dedicated to making Junjie his when he came of age. And now that he had done so, those brazen monks from the Yung Yuan Hsi Lo monastery had slithered down their mountain and taken it all away.

Nothing had been spared for Junjie. He had been given everything Li had to offer. But with just a few honeyed words from a strong, handsome monk in black brocade about how happy and revered Junjie would be in the golden temple on the mountain, Junjie's head had been turned. From that point, Junjie didn't even see Li when he looked his way. All he saw was all he had been promised if he gave himself to the monastery.

Li, supported in the strong arms of Zhong, reached the parting stones, a small stone terrace, surrounded by stone benches, bordered by lacy-leafed maple trees sighing in the breeze floating up from the base of the Tien Tang Shan. A stone path led up farther from here, straight up for a few feet and then taking a sharp turn to the right and disappearing behind closely planted pine trees. The mists of the early morning dipped down at this point to make a low ceiling to the small stone terrace. Beyond this point no one was sanctioned to go who was not initiated in—or about to be initiated into—the Eternal Joy monastery.

Li gave a little gasp of exhaustion and a low cry of consternation as Zhong settled him down on one of the stone benches. Junjie wasn't here. There wasn't even a hint of his scarlet robes disappearing up the path beyond the parting stones as the boundary terrace came into sight. He hadn't waited, even to say farewell to his benefactor, the one who worshipped him, Li, the wealthy merchant prince of Kueilin. The headstrong Junjie had just forged ahead to his initiation into the monastery. After this Li would not see him for years, if ever.

Li sank down on the stone bench. Zhong crouched nearby, ready to lend any aid to his master that he was asked to provide. Li sobbed openly, unashamedly, letting all of his grief pour out of him. He had given Junjie everything, everything in preparation for the day when Junjie would come into his bed and become his. And Junjie had taken. He had wanted to be wanted and to look delectable and to dress expensively and immaculately—and he'd been coquettish with Li. He had never said that he had anything in mind other than what Li had in mind. When Li had stroked and kissed and fondled him, Junjie had let him do so. When Li had spoken of what they would do when Junjie was fully manned, Junjie had smiled indulgently.

And now Junjie was fully manned and he had answered the call of the Yung Yuan Hsi Lo monks at their very whisper of interest—and he could not even wait at the parting stones to say good-bye to the one who loved him so dearly and who had done so much for him.

Li's blubbering was reduced to sighs punctuated with occasional sobs. His loyal servant Zhong crouched nearby, every fiber of his being focused on his master—the man whom he loved above all others and would serve faithfully no matter what was asked of him. The cold of the morning mists cut to Zhong's bones—he wasn't warmly robed as both Li and Junjie were—There was only one layer of thin cotton in his robe—but he remained there, poised, heedless of the cool breeze, ready to help his master in any way he was needed.

As Li grew silent, he heard it. The sound of lilting music, not just the breeze playing through the leaves of the pines and the lacey-leafed maples, but a haunting tune on some sort of flute. It was coming from farther up the mountainside, beyond the partying stone, the barrier mere mortals were not supposed to breach.

Li struggled to his feet and shuffled toward the pathway leading up from the parting stone terrace.

"What is it, Hsien Sheng?" Zhong asked in a low, throaty voice. "I hear music. Is that what you hear? Do you intend to mount the Tien Tang Shan farther. We are not permitted . . . oh, here, give me your arm. If you wish to climb farther, I was support you. I'll take you wherever you want to go."

Li gave no indication that he even heard Zhong, but he leant on the young man's arm quickly enough regardless and let the strong, well-muscled, well-formed servant carry more than support him on the upward, steeper climb into the mists of the morning.

They had almost reached another, larger stone terrace, nearly fully shrouded in clumps of white, wispy clouds, when they distinctly heard the flute playing—and the low beat of a drum—and also heard the rustling and slapping of many sets of bare feet, scurry across a parallel pathway around the near summit of the mountain that intersected with the upward path at this stone terrace.

Li and Zhong instinctively drew back and crouched down into the dewy patch of ferns within a thickly planted copse of pine, where they could see up to the stone terrace but, with luck, could not be seen. Legend had it that no one who journeyed beyond the parting stones who was not of the monastery or being initiated into it returned to the valley alive. So, intoxicated and driven Li and loyal-to-the-death Zhong had continued their upward journey with great fear and trembling.

As they crouched, Li had to rub his eyes between looking three times to his right along the parallel path leading into the stone terrace. How could this possibly be, he asked himself. What was a brightly colored, undulating, long-tailed dragon doing up here near the summit of the Tien Tang Shan.

It was wending its way, slithering along with the motion of a ship upon a stormy sea, through the forest of pines, never seen in whole but in bits and pieces between the closely set trees of the pine copse. The dragon was snorting, and its undulating progress was what was being accompanied by the low drum beat and the playing of the flute. The dragon was twisting and turning and advancing upon the stone terrace in rhythm to the drum and flute.

And there was the beat of feet, many bare feet, and the humming of men—an almost human dragon. A sight to behold, one that Li thought no one from the valley below, in the markets of Kueilin, would believe should he live to tell of what he saw and heard.

And when the dragon entered into the stone terrace and made a quick turn to the right, up the path toward the summit of the Tien Tang Shan, Li realized what it was. Nothing more than one of the ceremonial dragons that wended the streets of Kueilin marking the Chinese New Year. A long, shiny-cloth costume, in brilliant yellows and blues and greens and white, slung over the bodies of many men, undulating around and twisting and turning through the streets of Kueilin, and, in this case, around the summit of the Tien Tang Shan, and now up, up, up toward the Yung Yuan Hsi Lo monastery that now, as the mists above them began to be burned off by the morning sun, Li could see what was perched at the very apex of the mountain. White marble columns rising from pavilion platforms to high-peaked roofs covered with fish-scale shaped golden tiles that gleamed in the bright sunshine there at the top of the world above the clouds separating the world of the monks from the common valley dwellers.

And there, suspended from chain links high above his head, his cheek pressed into a marble column at the edge of one of the pavilion platforms, the rich folds of the scarlet silk robe Li had given him lapping at his feet, hung Li's protégé and erstwhile lover. Junjie—naked and magnificent of body against the pristine backing of the mountaintop temple.

Shocked at the sight of his shackled love, Li rose up onto his feet in the bed of ferns and opened his mouth to cry out to Junjie. He was stopped, however, by the tug on his sleeve by his servant, Zhong. Li remembered where he was and that it was death to be discovered there, and what he had started to call out to Junjie stuck in his throat and came out as no more than a low gurgle.

Those of the dancing dragon did not hear Li's cut-off exclamation or see him rise in the fern patch. They were turning their attention upward now, upward toward the new initiate, the handsome, desirable Junjie.

Li collapsed back down into the bed of ferns and watched, in frustration and horror, as the undulating dragon, powered by a myriad of beefy, well-muscled, naked thighs wound and wove its way up the last flight of stone stairs to the base of the Eternal Joy monastery platforms, weaving its way, like an inevitable wave toward the ripe youth chained to the monastery pillar.

Li let out a low, guttural moan as the dragon head reached Junjie and reared up, revealing the naked body of the lead monk under the dragon covering as he embraced the shackled Junjie from behind with one arm and wrapped the other around Junjie's belly, pulling Junjie's hips back in presentation to a hard, thick, ready cock.

Li nearly fainted back into Zhong's arms with a sob, as he helplessly watched the first thrusting entrance of the initiation ceremony by the lead monk under the dancing dragon pelt between the thrust-back, plump buttocks cheeks of Junjie, the one who Li had been cultivating and saving for himself.

The merchant prince shuddered as Junjie lifted his head and howled up into the heavens as he was taken for the first time in his initiation into the Eternal Joy monastery.

Spent within a short time, the lead monk, his head and upper torso still inside the dragon head, shook that head from side to side in obvious approval and ecstasy, pulled his spent yang chu out of Junjie, and wove around to the side of him to provide place for the second set of legs under the dragon cloak to approach and the dragon cloth lift to reveal yet another young, vigorous, ready monk, who mounted Junjie like a dog for the second taking. There were no fewer than seven more sets of legs covered by the dancing dragon, pounding up and down on the platform terrace, shuffling noisily to the sound of the drum and flute, anxiously waiting for their turn in the initiation of the new monk convert.

Li found that he had collapsed back into Zhong's arms. He was sobbing and shivering as he watched his whole world—all of his well-laid plans—being devoured by the lustful dragon. Junjie was screaming out over the heightened sound of the flute and drum, but he must have been drugged or very well convinced that this was the life he wanted, because his cries were ones of joy and passion and encouragement—a lust for male attention that he'd never revealed to Li. His body writhed against the pillar as, one after another, the monks under the dragon covering approached him from the rear, revealed their well-toned and wanting bodies under the dragon cloak, lifted his hips in strong hands, and set his pelvis down on their eager, engorged cocks. With a howl of victory, each succeeding monk thrust a hard yang chu inside Junjie's now gaping, flowing hole, and fucked him to their utter satiation.

Zhong was humming and rocking his master like a baby, doing all he could to sooth and calm the man he worshipped and had served since a child but who had never so much as taken a glance at him, who had only had eyes for Junjie.

As Li watched Junjie being taken time and time again, lustily, by strong, young, vigorous monks, writhing away under the undulating dancing dragon, who, when spent, continued on, dancing and weaving, as the dragon slowly wound its way around the swaying body of the fully taken Junjie, Li became aware that he himself was aroused. His yang chu, his cock, was hard and throbbing. And he became aware, as he lay there in Zhong's lap, being rocked and listening to Zhong's low, soothing humming, that Zhong's yang chu was hard too.

For the first time in years, Li became aware of his servant Zhong. He turned his face to Zhong to discover, to his amazement, that he no longer was the small boy who had scurried around delivering and fetching. He had grown into a young man. And a beautiful, well-formed, heavily muscled young man as well.

Why, he was every bit as handsome and alluring as Junjie was.

And certainly just as ripe and much more willing than Junjie had ever proven to be. His yang chu was standing straight up, proud and thick and long. And his thin robe had fallen away from his chest, which was massive and hard and his nipples stood out, puckered and rock hard. And Zhong was giving Li that look of total loyalty and wanting and submission.

Without even knowing he had done it, Li took Zhong's lips in his and kissed him deeply. In just the way he had imagined he would be doing with Junjie. Junjie had let Li kiss him before, but nothing as deep and breathtaking as this. And nothing as sweet tasting.

Li rolled to one side in the bed of ferns and scrabbled at his sash and opened his robe off of his body. Zhong knelt in front of his master and took Li's yang chu deep into his mouth and made love to the master's cock, as Li looked back up to the monastery platform. Junjie was a mere rag doll now, exhausted and flopping around as yet another dragon-covered monk pumped his plump buttocks cheeks up and down an angry-red, curved cock.

Li could view this with a sense of detachment now. He had been so attentive to Junjie, and dreamed so much of his own taking of Junjie, that he hadn't seen the real prize under his eyes. Junjie had permitted Li to play the flute game with his yang chu from time to time—but only briefly. What he had gotten from Junjie—indeed, anything that he could hope ever to get from Junjie—paled at the symphony Zhong was playing on his own cock.

At length Li could take no more; with every ounce of strength he had, he lifted Zhong up and set him down in his lap, facing him, on his throbbing cock. Li sighed and Zhong groaned, as the warm, moist tightness of Zhong descended slowly on Li's throbbing love tool. And then Li was crying softly to himself in joy and fulfilled desire as Zhong gathered his masters face into his chest, where Li sucked on Zhong's hard nubs, while Zhong used his strong calf and thigh muscles to ascend and descend on Li's cock, sending the merchant prince into ever greater waves of paradise.

When Li and Zhong were both spent, they turned their attention toward the monastery pavilions. Zhong was still skewered in Li's lap, both men enjoying the ebbing of Li's manhood deep inside Zhong, both savoring how they had moved as one and come as one, master and servant, but equal as lovers.

The dancing dragon was gone now, and Junjie was being unshackled by one of the monks, a hulking brute with a still-commanding cock jutting up and out of the center of him. The monk turned Junjie, who just hung there, whimpering but with a big smile on his face, to his back against the pillar, lifted his torso with big beefy hands under his thighs, spread his legs and turned his pelvis up, and thrust his bulging cock up into him in a swift, deep piercing. Junjie moaned and the monk grunted and groaned as he moved Junjie's back up and down on the pillar by the power of his pistoning cock.

Both Li and Zhong felt life returning to the center of Li at the observation of Junjie's renewed taking, something that no longer bothered Li in the least, and Zhong turned in Li's lap facing away from him and once more began rising and falling on Li's rejuvenated yang chu, while Li kissed him in the hollow of his neck, thumbed his hard nipples with one hand, and pumped on his young, hard cock with the other hand.

When all were finished this time, the monk left Junjie in a heap on the silken scarlet robe Li had provided him from what was now a long-ago and fading past.

"Do you want me to go and see if Junjie wants to come back, Hsien Sheng?" Zhong asked in a low whisper. "Ask him whether he already has had enough of the world of the monks and wishes to come home?"

Li turned Zhong's face to his and looked deeply in his young servants eyes. Yes, he could see that Zhong would do even that for him. He even would bring Junjie back into their lives and recede again into the shadows, being willing to forget that they had ever had this coupling, if it would please Li. How blind Li had been. The love Li thought he had been bestowing on Junjie and was offering him was nothing like the love that Zhong had been giving Li all along.

"No, I think not, little one," Li murmured. "Junjie made his choice. Probably much longer ago than I ever realized. His bed is made. Leave him. Help me back down the mountain and into my—no, into our—bed."

The look Zhong gave Li was worth ten thousand looks Junjie had ever given him. Nary a sound reached the panting, moaning heap on the monastery platform as the two figures retreated into the morning mists beyond the fern bed in the pine copse and moved as one down from Paradise Mountain to their own future of paradise in the valley below. 



Dragon Fly



Brandon wondered what had happened to his sex life.

A little over a year ago, he got married to Lauren. After 6 months of living together and incredibly passionate sex, he had thought that it would continue that way after marriage. But things had gone down hill after the honeymoon. From twice a night, they were down to four or five times a week and never with the excitement or passion they had previously known. 

Tonight Lauren was just not interested in making love. She said it was late and she had an important meeting tomorrow and had to get in early to work to prepare for the meeting.

Perhaps it was the burden of work and careers that had taken the edge off of their relationship. She was looking at another promotion and her department was expanding. Brandon was busy at work with a new project and sometimes worked late. But he always made time to be with Lauren and missed the deep emotional connection they used to share.

They had talked about kids and had decided in a few years they would both like to have two children, a boy and a girl. But first they had to be secure in their careers with enough money to afford a nice house so they could raise their kids properly. Not that they would ever be rich, but they did want a few of the nicer things in life. And who knows, Brandon secretly bought a few lottery tickets occasionally and was hoping for a winner.

As they lay in bed, Lauren turned on the TV to watch the late night local news. Tonights lead story was a jewelry store robbery that was foiled by an unknown hero. Brandon tried a joke about the word "jewelry" was so 1980's and how the proper term was "bling" and that in 10 years there wouldn't be any more jewelry stores, only bling stores. Lauren hushed him and said be quiet, she wanted to hear the news.

Evidently, the unknown hero had restrained one robber but three others had escaped. No loot was missing. Police were questioning the captured robber.

Brandon noticed how intently Lauren had followed the story and commented about how the unknown hero had done excellent work in preventing the robbery and capturing one of the robbers. Lauren got a look of disgust on her face and said the police would get nothing from the captured henchman since all henchmen are stupid and that the mastermind of the robbery was already planning his next move.

After watching the weather and seeing that no rain was forecast for tomorrow, Lauren had a change of heart and decided tonight was a good night for sex. Brandon was pleasantly surprised to find that not only did they make love but there was a bit of a spark for a change.

The city had changed in the past 5 years. Too many criminals, not enough police. At first, neighborhood watch type organizations like the Guardian Angels sprang up. But these organizations were ineffective. This was followed by "heroes", mostly young men in their late teens or early twenties. They patrolled the streets looking to stop crime while dressed in their superhero costumes. Last night's jewelry store robbery was prevented by a new hero called "The Badger" who took credit for it in a late night phone call to the local TV station.

Lauren was correct. The newspapers the next day wrote about the previous night's jewelry robbery and said the captured robber was unable to provide the police with any substantial information. The only thing he told them was that "Diamond Dennis" planned the robbery but he had no idea where to find "Diamond Dennis" or even a description of him. That meant no plea bargain and 5 years in the big house for the captured robber.

Lauren was late getting home. She had gone to the gym for a strenuous workout. Although she had been going to the gym an hour a day every day before they got married, Brandon had noticed a drop in her workout routine. Lately, she was only going to the gym 2 or 3 times a week and not continuing her karate lessons or jin jitsu workouts. Not that she needed any more lessons since she was already a black belt in karate. But tonight, she had been at the gym for 2 hours and was still sweating when she got home. After a shower for Lauren and a late night light dinner, it was time to call it a night.

The late night news was more of the same. Murders, robberies, mayhem. But one story captured Lauren's complete attention. A jewelry store was robbed by three unknown assailants who escaped with a big haul. After last night's failed jewelry store robbery, police suspected "Diamond Dennis" and his gang.

Lauren's face was serious. She asked Brandon if he remembered a hero called "Dragon Fly"? Brandon said "Of course. Dragon Fly was a great hero and stopped a lot of crime. But no one has heard anything from Dragon Fly for over a year now. Everyone says he retired."

"She retired" said Lauren. "She wanted to get married and have a family and decided to give up the life of fighting crime".

Brandon slowly came to a realization. "You? You're Dragon Fly? No way! I don't believe it!"

Lauren said nothing but just went to the spare bedroom closet that was being used as a storage space. Brandon heard noises of things being moved around. 

Lauren returned to bedroom with a large box. She opened the box and pulled out a black and green body suit. He noticed a design of a dragon fly on the front of the body suit. Lauren pulled out the dragon fly mask and held it over her face. "Now what do you think?"

Brandon was shocked and horrified. But he was also a little bit excited. He suggested she put the suit on and see if it still fit and was undamaged by over a year in storage.

As she quickly got into the suit, Brandon marveled at her exquisite body. So lithe and athletic, so firm and toned. The mask was strangely intoxicating, hiding features but leaving the eyes uncovered to see.

Brandon said "Show me some of the moves you used on bad guys" as he got up out of the bed. Lauren said "Come at me big boy."

Brandon was a big guy. He had wrestled some in high school and was in pretty good shape. He figured there was no way a woman could take him, even if she was a black belt in karate.

Brandon went in for a takedown. Lauren easily sidestepped the attack and grabbed Brandon's hand and twisted his thumb which brought him to his knees and completely immobilized him. After a few seconds, when the pain subsided, she let him up and said "come on, you can do better than that".

Brandon came at her again. Before he knew what had happened, he was flat on his back, pinned, and Lauren was holding his arms down. She let go of his arms, lifted her mask over her face and said "how was that?"

Brandon reached up and pulled her face to his. The passion he felt in the kiss was incredible. He was already completely erect and as hard as he had ever been and all he could say was "mask on, suit off".

Lauren needed no additional urging. She was out of the suit and on the bed before Brandon even took two steps towards the bed.

Brandon began his usual routine of a kiss while massaging Lauren's breasts but Lauren would have none of that. She pushed him on his back and reached down and felt his rock hard penis. Lauren quickly mounted him and slid his penis into her. She was already wet and ready. Brandon knew he would not last long.

He reached for her breasts as she rocked back and forth on top of him. As he gently massaged her breasts, she said "touch me like you mean it". He grabbed the rock hard nipples and gave them a tug. Lauren squeeled and began moving up and down, in and out, faster and faster.

Brandon never reached orgasm when Lauren was on top. It was one way to make sure he did not come until she did. Usually, he would be on top for a few minutes to get things started and then have her ride him until she came. Then he would get on top of her again and go until he had an orgasm. Sometimes she would have a second orgasm but not usually.

Tonight was different. Lauren responded to the new ministrations eagerly and was aware of her own peak building within the depths of her mind and body. She knew only that she was going to new heights! Then it hit her and she felt her body quicken and the additional lubrication and her senses more keenly attuned to her sensations! Her mind succumbed totally to the wonderful sensations that she felt within her.

They moved in perfect union, coordinated by common thoughts as they looked into each other's eyes. Time was no longer relative; it may have been a millisecond or an eternity, as they reveled in each other. It was the culmination of years of experience as they shared thoughts and feelings through eyes and body language.

There were no thoughts of the past or of the future; only the striving for new sensations as they sought to please their partner. As the sensations increased, so did the physical exertion and the very violence of their action which only stimulated more exertions. They worked in silence, communicating through their body motions alone. 

As Lauren was felt another surge of euphoria, she felt Brandon come inside her with an intensity he had never known.

As they lay together in the peace of orgasmic bliss, Lauren rolled over and pointed to her arm where she had a scar. It was the only imperfection on an otherwise perfect body. She said "remember how I told you this scar was from a shooting accident by my cousin when I was a child? It wasn't. This was done by Diamond Dennis 2 years ago. I have to go after him."

There were no more secrets between them and the magic was back.



Dragon Fuck



Casandra struggled against the ropes that held her to the pole. She looked around. The villagers had left her alone on the hill, stripped naked and waiting for the dragon. It happened a couple of days ago. A dragon came and terrorized the village, burning everything in sight. The villagers came to the conclusion that a virgin girl had to be offered to make it stop. They chose Casandra. She had kicked and struggled, but even her own family had agreed that she should go. So there she was, waiting for the dragon. She heard the sound of flapping wings and looked to see the dragon descending.

She screamed as the dragon grabbed the pole and took her with it. She lost consciousness but when she woke up she was on the floor of a large cave. She looked up and saw the dragon staring at her.

"Go ahead and eat me." She sobbed. "Get it over with."

"I'm not going to eat you." The dragon said, it's voice deep and rumbling. She looked up at the dragon in confusion. The dragon picked her up in it's claw and sniffed between her legs. Casandra shrieked and tried to move away, but the dragons thumb pinned her in it's palm. He stuck his tongue out and licked her small, undefiled pussy. She shuddered, both in revulsion and pleasure. The dragon had little barbs on it's tongue that tugged at her pussy in a pleasing way. The tongue pushed it's tip into her and she screamed, arching her back as the barbs tugged on her. The tongue went in farther, the barbs helping it go in deeper. She screamed again as her cherry was popped, blood tingling on the dragons taste buds. The dragon pulled out. He spat, he didn't like the blood. He looked at her. She lay gasping on his paw. He grabbed his large member and began to jerk off.

He had imagined being with a human girl for centuries, and now was his chance. He held her over his large dick as he pumped, feeling the orgasm coming. He roared as his cum spurted up and covered Casandra's lower half. She cried out as she felt his hot semen burst onto her. The dragon turned her so she got a spurt full in the face. Her mouth was open and she got a full taste of it. She spat it out at first, but then began to lick it off. The scent and smell was exquisite.

She looked at the dragon. It carried her over to a large bowl of water and dunked her in, rinsing off the cum. She sputtered and wiped the water from her eyes. She stared up at the dragon in adoration. She loved the feeling of this, the cum on her body felt like it rejuvenated her. She watched as the dragon opened it's mouth and put her on it's large tongue. She rubbed her pussy against the burs on it's tongue, moaning in pleasure. Then she felt the roof of his mouth close on her.

"NO!" She cried out. She felt the tongue flex and the throat of the dragon squeeze around her legs. She tried to hold onto the tongue, but was pushed down more. She screamed but was cut off as the throat covered her head. She struggled, then felt her feet go into open air. She kicked as he went further down until she was held up only by her hands in his throat. She looked down and saw only darkness. What was down there? She whimpered as her hands went free and she dropped down. The dragon had promised it wouldn't eat her. She hit solid ground. She moved around and found there was only enough room for her to spread her legs out. She could stand up, but she couldn't walk around. She hugged herself, feeling claustrophobic. Then she felt the stomach flex again, her feet went into a hole and she was swallowed again. She moved around, her body being bent into uncomfortable positions as she slid down the intestines. She felt her feet go free again, gravity bringing them down. She was on her back. She flopped out, covered in slime. She looked up at the dragon. "You promised you wouldn't eat me!"

"I didn't. I have two stomachs, one for digestion, and the other for putting humans in for latter." She gasped. So that is where the legends came from. The dragon's large body was over her. She spread her legs, expecting to be fucked. She wasn't disappointed. The dragon brought his large cock down near her and tried to push in. She screamed. Only the large head could fit in, and the dragon grabbed his cock again. He jerked off, waving Casandra around on the end of it like a finger puppet. She grunted and groaned as she felt the cock pulse, then she nearly lost consciousness as all his sperm slammed into her. Her pussy was blocked an the sperm couldn't go anywhere. She screamed as her belly grew, afraid she would burst. The dragon pulled out and the rest of his cum spurted over her. She lay on the ground, covered in sperm and not moving. She was alive, but she wouldn't be up for fucking for a long time.