Dancing with the Dragon, Chosen

This is a work of fiction and contains scenes of explicit gay sex. Any resemblance to actual places, persons, or events is coincidental. If you are not of the legal age to read adult stories, or are uncomfortable with gay themes, please stop reading now and close this document.

Dancing with the Dragon: Chapter 45, Homecoming, Copyright 2019 Tripp Savidge. All rights are reserved. Do not duplicate or distribute in any form without express permission of the author.

Dancing with the Dragon Chapter 45: Homecoming by Tripp Savidge

• Scene 1 *

Skye gasped for air when Chaz released him from the kiss. He could still feel Chaz's warm hands on his neck as well as Corbin's body pressed tightly against his back.

"Thank the Father Dragon, you're back," Corbin whispered into Skye's neck as he planted kisses across his shoulders.

"Fuck, that was scary." Chaz's blue eyes seemed like they'd burn a hole in Skye's skull with their intensity. "You okay?"

"I guess."

"Okay, I've let everyone know you're back with us." River turned and closed his comm, and gave a low growl as he paced at the bottom of the bed. "Bro, we're going to need a plan. If that's what we're going to find when we go to Underhill, then we need to be prepared."

"Maybe Venci can research how to kill a Hell Hound?" Nik offered.

"We need to take more guys." River stopped and glared at Skye.

"What? I didn't say no. What makes you think I'd argue?" Skye asked.

"You always fucking argue!"

"Not when faced with Hell Hounds." Skye turned so he could sit up a little but didn't want to give up the proximity to Chaz and Corbin. He relaxed as they moved with him, wrapping around him from both sides.

"We got you," Corbin whispered.

"And I'm more than willing to accept the risk of going with you to Underhill," Chaz said.

"I'll talk to Mica in the morning. We can come up with recommendations. When you're at the mage hall tomorrow, maybe you can ask if there's a way to shield against these sendings. They seem to be getting stronger," River said. "Try to get some sleep; morning is going to get here before you know it."

"I will. I'm sorry for disturbing everyone," Skye said.

River stared at Skye for a minute before Skye felt the touch of his mind- voice. Fuck, Skye. I can't lose you. Promise me you'll be careful. And don't you even think about doing anything without me. Got it?

Got it. Love you, River.

Damn straight. Now take care of yourself . River turned and took Nik's hand, leading him from the room.

Skye slid down under the covers and closed his eyes. Opening his senses, he could feel Garrett's presence. Sorry.

Nothing to be sorry for, but you're wearing me out, Garrett sent.

I'll be okay. You need to sleep; tomorrow will be a long day. Corbin and Chaz are with me.

You sure?

I am, just get home soon. Need you...

Need you too, Skye. I love you.

Skye turned and buried his nose in Chaz's silky curls. Corbin wrapped his arm over them, and Skye wrapped his arm around Chaz's waist. He felt safe sandwiched between his wing-mates and felt sleep approaching. Only one more day until Garrett's home, Mistral.

• Scene 2 *

Skye held his breath, he stared at the row of clay pots and delicately reached out with his magic to the next one in the line. Okay, Mistral, let's think spark. Tiny little spark at the end of the wick. He was almost there...

Crack! Pop. The pot exploded.

"UGH!" Skye cried out, looking at the next pot with trepidation. So far he'd managed to light three and explode ten.

"You can do it, Skye. This time, don't hold your breath," the mage said.

"Hand fire is much easier," Skye grumbled. The glowing ball of magic had taken less than an hour to master. Fire on the other hand...

"Once you master the simple and delicate tasks, fireballs and larger fire weapons will be easy."

"Says you," Skye mumbled, managing to light the next pot. YES! Mistral. We did it.

'I could use my fire breath and light all of them at once,' Mistral snarked.

Yeah, and melt the wall along with them. We can do this.

Skye focused on the next pot when there was a loud explosion, shaking the walls and ground around them. Dust fell from the ceiling, and the lights flickered on and off. Skye looked around and held up his hands to the mage instructing him.

"Not me."

"No, that came from outside the room. Perhaps I should check." The mage who'd been coaching Skye stood and exited the room. Skye couldn't help being curious and peeked out the doorway. Whatever happened seemed to have created quite a ruckus. Mages were all running in one direction, and there was a lot of yelling.

Skye felt a tickle through his bonds and quickly stilled his mind. River?

Sorry. I didn't mean to. I think they're really pissed.

Skye leaned against the wall and closed his eyes so he could concentrate. River, what did you do?

He said to light the pot. Not my fault they all lit or that they were stupid enough to store the spare casks of oil in the next room. How was I supposed to know? River sounded quite put out.

Was anyone hurt?

I don't think so. But there is sort of a big hole in the wall. Uh-oh, I need to go. Master Mage Quanta is here, and he looks grumpy.

Let me know if you need me. Skye took a deep breath and shrugged. Well, Mistral, they wanted to train us. I'm sure it's not the first time someone's magic got out of hand.

Only a few minutes passed before Skye's trainer rejoined him.

"Everything okay?" Skye asked.

The mage rolled his eyes. "Seems your brother may be lacking finesse. It happens. That's why we train in these rooms. Ready to get started again?"

Skye stifled his groan but began again. It took until his stomach was growling, and Mistral was convinced they'd missed lunch before Skye had it down that he was successful in nine out of ten tries.

"Let's take a break. After you've eaten, Master Quanta will be working with you." The mage escorted Skye to an open garden area where lunches were set out on a table. Skye took one of the boxes and saw Rilien waving to him from one of the benches.

"Hey!" Skye said as he sat next to Rilien. "So, you always eat outside?"

"No, not usually. But they had to bring in people to make sure none of the walls were going to collapse, so I think they wanted us out of the way." Rilien carefully picked through his box, taking out what he liked.

Skye looked back toward the training rooms but didn't see River. Shit, I hope he's not in trouble. Should I reach out to him?

'He would let you know if there were a problem. His bond is quiet,' Mistral replied.

"You still with me? Everything go okay with your first day?" Rilien asked, eating a piece of fruit.

Skye picked up a sandwich and tried to figure out what it was, deciding it might be better not to know, he took a bite. "Okay, I guess. Frustrating."

"It always is when you're starting on something new. But you learned that detect poison spell with no problems. What did you try today?"

"He tested my shielding then had me do hand fire and well... we sort of tackled fire setting."

Rilien snickered. "Harder than it looks, right?"

"You're not kidding. I did get better but may have broken a lot of ceramic pots."

"We all do, though most of us don't blow out walls." Rilien tilted his chin back to the training rooms.

"You know that was River, right?"

"Mm-hm," Rilien agreed without looking up, picking pieces out of the sandwich in his box.

"Okay, don't leave me hanging. Did you hear something?"

"Just that he's got a lot of magic and may have anger issues and zero patience."

Skye burst out laughing. "Come on, Ril, you know River!"

Ril snickered. "Yeah, but it's not my place to tell them. More fun just to watch."

Skye laughed even harder and saw the smile spread across Ril's face. "Oh, God, you didn't set him up, did you?"

"Me? Of course not. But as a novice, it wasn't my place to tell them how to set up his training."

Skye reached over and pulled Ril into a hug. "Love you, dude. Though I am thinking you might have just a bit of evil lurking in that cute, curl covered head of yours."

"Nope, not me." Rilien paused and looked at Skye. "I'm glad you came."

"Me too. And while they may regret it, I think it's good for Nik and River too. I want all of our dragons to learn how to use their magic. I want us prepared for anything, and if we've got such an amazing tool, we should know how to use it."

"Right. You really think you can get Garrett here?"

"Oh, I have my ways."

Rilien blushed and poked Skye. "Don't abuse your power."

"Not abuse if it's for his own good. And if we survive, I think it will help River too."

Rilien looked back at the training rooms. "I agree. I was thinking..."

"Yeah?"

"Maybe I could look for spells or things you could do that would help in space or on a ship, since dragons hold their magic rather than pulling it like a mage. You'd always have at least some ability with you."

"That would be helpful, but I'd rather you focus on you and learning everything you can."

Rilien was quiet for a minute, packing up his box. "Master Quanta said I'm going to be very strong." Ril looked up and caught Skye's gaze. "I want to be as powerful as I can so that I can protect our wing. I may not be much for fighting, but if I can do magic..."

"Rilien, I just want you to be 'you.' To be happy. You will always be part of the wing; you don't have to earn it."

"I know that-" Chimes sounded interrupting Rilien. "That's the signal to return to the classrooms."

"Okay. You want to meet me at the front gate when it's time to leave?" Skye asked.

"Sure. Good luck, Skye." Rilien gave Skye a quick hug before heading back to the training rooms.

Skye assumed he was to return to the same room. He didn't have to wait long before Master Mage Quanta joined him.

"Hello, Skye. I understand you had a very good morning?"

"Well, I didn't take down the building. River's not in trouble, is he?"

Quanta rolled his eyes and sighed. "No, Skye, he's not in trouble. We've got to accept some of the blame, and starting out, every student makes mistakes. That's part of learning. We shouldn't have assumed River would be like other dragons."

"What does that mean?" Skye wasn't sure how River would be different.

"You and your brother are closer to mages than the typical dragon. You might not be pulling the magic from the flows, but you're pretty powerful on your own."

"Don't you mean River is?" Skye asked.

"No, both of you. Again, I should have known from those tests we did. Not a problem, we'll use the same precautions we do with mages. I think the work you've done with your mind powers has really helped. It usually takes at least a week before a novice can build a rudimentary shield. You and River put up master level shields without a thought. I think the training your psion gave you also helped you learn how to still your mind and focus."

"He's certainly drilled us enough. Though I think he's worked more with me than River."

Quanta laughed. "Yes, it shows. You wield your powers like a precision instrument, River uses the sledgehammer approach."

Skye couldn't help but think of Kwill's description of Rivers' mind powers - it wasn't too far off. "So... what are we going to work on?"

"I think we've had enough fire. Let's go back to variations on the hand fire and creating and dispelling light."

"Dispelling light?" Skye asked, wondering if that meant turning off switches.

"The absence of light. Darkness. Just like you can use your magic to create light, you can use it to absorb the light and make it dark."

"Oh." What do you think, Mistral? I guess that could come in handy.

• Scene 3 *

Skye sat on the steps enjoying the sunshine as he rubbed the stone on the pendant Quanta had given him. I really hope this works...

'The Master Mage thought it would. Besides, we only need it for a short while. We'll be going to Underhill the day after tomorrow,' Mistral said.

Doesn't mean the visions will stop.

"Skye!" Rilien called as he ran up and sat beside Skye. "You got done before me."

"Guess so. Shouldn't be too long before Nik and River join us."

"I didn't hear any more explosions. Do you think it went okay?" Rilien's eyes dropped to the pendant. "What's that?"

"Shielding amulet Master Mage Quanta gave me. It's supposed to block the sendings. I can feel the magic inside, but otherwise, it looks like a pretty stone carved with glyphs."

"That's cool."

"As for River and Nik, I haven't heard a thing, including explosions. Quanta didn't seem as upset as I expected. He just dismissed it like you know 'shit happens.'"

"Good. They're usually more prepared and put wards and shields in place, so no one gets hurt. I think they underestimated your power."

"What? You knew?"

Rilien blushed. "Yeah, but I spend a lot more time with you. Your magic is much stronger than the other dragons. It almost feels... I don't know, like a node?"

"That doesn't tell me anything," Skye leaned back on his elbows enjoying the sun on his face.

"Magic on Draga is like water that collects in underground rivers. It flows and moves, and where two rivers cross, the magic is stronger and creates a node or well. When a mage draws power to do a spell, you're supposed to look for a node."

"Huh..."

"I suppose I could have said it feels like you have a deep well of power to draw on."

"Would have been simpler, dude."

"Lazy ass!" River called out as he and Nik came out the door behind Skye and Rilien.

"Slowpoke," Skye retorted. "Did you have to stay late for detention?"

"No, I was doing so well, the instructor wanted to continue."

Skye could feel the challenge in River's words. He knew River wasn't nearly as confident as he let on, and Skye wasn't about to burst his bubble.

"Not surprised. You've got an impressive dragon." Skye tried not to smile at River's look of shock or reveal that he could hear River's dragon preening in his brother's head.

"Are we ready to head home?" Nik asked.

"Sure, did your day go okay?" Skye asked.

"No buildings were destroyed or mages harmed. They had me working on shields."

"That will come in handy. Quanta said it usually takes a week or more for a new student to master and don't compare yourself to us since Kwill already taught us that." Skye didn't need to read minds to know Nik was disappointed in his progress.

"Sure took me longer than a couple of weeks," River muttered.

"Me too, and I bet the mages won't be nearly as evil in their training." Skye snickered when he saw River's eyes go wide and cheeks blush.

"Do I want to know?" Nik asked.

"NO!" Skye and River said at the same time.

Skye pointed at the transport and the waiting guards. It appeared that Gilian and Bryan were on duty for the ride back to the palace. The other man Skye didn't recognize, but from the sash, he guessed he was a mage. Hey, Mistral, wonder how Bryan and Gilian are getting along now or if they're pretending the sex didn't happen.

'How could they do that? It wasn't just once,' Mistral asked in a puzzled tone.

Skye snickered to himself and closed the distance.

"Your Majesties," the mage greeted with a deep bow. "I'll be with your escort back to the palace. I'm Cranston."

Skye climbed in the transport and took the seat beside Rilien. Bryan and Gilian were the last to enter. This transport felt more like an armored panel truck than the limo-air-cars he'd gotten used to. Skye glanced at Ril and wondered how he was doing. Rilien looked up and gave a weak smile taking Skye's hand.

"It's better with you here. I try not to think about it, and it helps having Cranston, but I doubt he could have stopped them either."

"There's no plan that's completely foolproof."

It didn't take long until they were going through the massive gates to enter the palace grounds. The main entrance was close to the wall, just a courtyard with a huge fountain and a circular drive separating it from the outside.

"Gentlemen, it's been a pleasure," Cranston said, opening the door.

They all climbed out and made their way to the main entrance. Usually the family entered through a side entrance that was hidden from public view. They had just entered the main hall when Skye heard someone approaching and saw Dillon.

"Hey, Dillon," Skye called out.

"Welcome back. Before you all go off in different directions, the Emperor and Prince Argos had to attend a function at one of the ambassador's homes, so they won't be here for dinner."

"What do you think, Nik. A night out? Maybe we can get a reservation at Pater's place," River said, pulling Nik into his arms.

"I can check for you," Dillon offered.

"Skye, are you going out also? If so, we'll need to call Mica and see if he can send more guards," Gilian asked.

"No, Garrett gets in really late tonight, so I think I'll see if the kitchen can make something up for me and stay in."

"He may still want a couple of us to stay with you in case you get another nightmare before Garrett's with you," Bryan said.

"Good point. Give me a second, and I'll check in with him." Gilian turned and walked off to the side.

"I'll be glad to check with the kitchen, but I'm sure they're planning something for all the others. I think it is only the Emperor and Prince Argos who will be out. If you don't need me for anything else, I'll ask and let you know."

"Thanks, Dillon."

Skye turned to find that River and Nik had already left. Bryan was still there doing a terrible job of looking nonchalant.

"Okay, spill. What's going on?" Skye asked.

"Nothing," Bryan responded, though behind him, Gilian stifled a cough.

"Come on, Bryan." Skye noticed Bryan seeming to become more nervous. "We need to go somewhere more private?"

"No. Just a little worried. Kuai is coming over since we need more guards," Bryan said, dropping his voice.

"And..."

"Tell him, Bryan. If you don't, he can suck it out of your head," Gilian said punching Bryan in the shoulder.

Well, at least they're not ignoring each other, Skye thought. "Gilian, I don't suck thoughts out of people's heads and try not to read them indiscriminately either. So why is Kuai's presence a problem? You're all wing-mates."

Gilian huffed and rolled her eyes. Skye guessed she didn't believe him.

"He was pretty clear about promising revenge," Bryan responded, not meeting Skye's eyes.

"That was forever ago. Why are you still worried?"

Now, Gilian was laughing. "Fine. He's worried because Kuai hasn't done anything, but he keeps reminding Bryan that 'it's coming.' He left a gift under Bryan's pillow last night."

Skye turned back to Bryan and raised an eyebrow, waiting.

"Um, he left a... large... sex toy with the note 'soon' attached to it."

Skye tried hard not to laugh but failed. "Sorry, sorry. I know this is freaking you out, but I think that's his intent. He's playing mind games." Skye paused a moment. "What kind of sex toy?"

"Um... a really large dildo?"

"You're not sure?" Skye asked.

"Oh, no. He's very sure," Gilian added, rolling in laughter.

"Come on, Bryan, let's go up to the rooms. I promise I'll protect you," Skye offered, putting his arm over Bryan's muscled shoulders. The four inches in height difference made it easy.

They didn't run into anyone else on their way to the family's private wing, and Gilian and Bryan took up positions outside his suite.

"I thought you guys weren't doing guard duty anymore?"

"We are until the palace guards show up. Don't worry, I'll tell you before we leave, and Mica said he wants two of us nearby regardless," Gilian said.

"Okay, but when the Imperial Guards get here, you can come in. I'm not doing anything, and it's a lot more comfortable. Besides, I like having you around." Skye gave them his best smile and stepped through the door Bryan held open for him.

Skye walked into the suite, ready to change into something comfortable and crash for a bit before it was time for dinner. He wanted to be well- rested for Garrett. He just got into the main room when he stopped, realizing someone was there.

"About time," Willow muttered, getting up from the couch.

"Willow? Is everything okay?" Skye asked. He looked at the nymph and couldn't help but notice that while he was wearing clothing, it did nothing to disguise how voluptuous he was. The soft fabric stretched across Willow's round muscles and curves.

"I'm tired of waiting. You need to do me now!"

"What? Do you? What are you talking about?"

"I want you to change me like you did Dillon." Willow gave his best glare and put his hands on his hips in challenge.

"Oh... I was intending to talk to you about that." Skye walked over to Willow and pushed him back down, so he was seated on the couch.

"We can talk first; then you're going to." Willow crossed his arms and pulled up his legs, crossing them underneath him as he sat. The glare, still prominent.

Skye fought to stay serious because Willow looked absolutely adorable. "Well, I guess you guys have already talked about it, but I wanted to explain things so you understood what you'd be getting yourself into."

"Mm-hm." Obviously, Willow wasn't budging.

"Even if I make this change, I can't guarantee that Jos is your match. Kleitos is working on it, but we aren't that far yet. You could end up going through all this then finding that there's another dragon-"

"Stop." Willow interrupted. "Jos is MY dragon. There is no other, and the sooner I can have his dragonlings, the sooner I can claim him. He is mine."

"Okaaaaay." Skye had no doubts about Willow's sincerity, but...

'Why are you fighting. We sense that Jos is his mate. They already show the signs, let's make it happen," Mistral said in Skye's mind.

"You do realize there are other risks. While Rilien's kidnapping didn't end up being because of Dillon, it is still a risk. A stunning nymph like you who could breed with any dragon would be considered priceless."

"I have the wing to protect me. Besides, how would they know?"

"From what we've seen, Willow, there are spies everywhere. I don't want anything to happen to you." Skye wasn't sure his warnings were doing anything to dissuade Willow.

"Jos is worth it. That's why we need to do it soon, so Jos and I can bond."

"Fine. But just remember I warned you. And it will still take several weeks for the changes, and you may get sick. But from what I've seen, the bond will happen if he's the right dragon - with or without any ceremonies-"

"YES!" Willow jumped up, punching his fist in the air before he started pulling off his clothes.

"You mean now?"

"Of course. You haven't fucked me in forever. I'm overdue."

"Shouldn't you talk to Jos first?" Skye asked.

"Why? I mean sure he'll be pissed that he doesn't get a turn, but that's okay."

"What about Mica and Fiske?"

"What? Do you think they want to join us?" Willow looked up with a confused expression as he removed the last of his clothing. "Fine with me."

"No, no. I mean I thought you had plans on making them jealous and..."

"Nah, Jos is my dragon. Besides, I can still have Mica and Fiske as long as I don't hog and let Jos have them too."

Skye had to pause and collect his thoughts - which also required closing his eyes. Willow was very distracting when naked. Mistral, I am so confused...

'He's a nymph and horny. Use your nose, he's pumping out pheromones like nobody's business. And what he's saying makes sense to me. While Jos and Willow are likely bond-mates, they both love sex, and both happen to love receiving. Willow is a nymph. Jos is a dragon. You don't expect them to not take other lovers.' Mistral's mind-voice conveyed how preposterous that would be. 'I think Willow is saying they've come to an understanding, and Willow knows to share the men with Jos.'

Oh, God. How did I end up here?

'Is that a question?'

Ugh. No, Mistral. Geez, he smells good, is it really warm in here?

"You know, this works better if you open your eyes and take your clothes off. I mean, I can work around it, but I think it would be better." Willow moved in close enough that Skye could feel the heat from his body.

Skye inhaled deeply - thinking to calm himself - and opened his eyes. As soon as Willow's scent hit him, he realized his mistake. Not to mention that a very thick and hard dick was right on eye level, and it was leaking.

Skye groaned before his body moved forward, and his tongue extended, catching the drip off of Willow's cock. The flavor burst on his tongue. He couldn't help but lean forward again and wrap his lips around Willow's thick head.

As Skye pushed forward to take more of Willow, he felt Willow's hands unfastening the uniform and slipping it off his shoulders. Skye pulled back enough to help and then kicked off his shoes and quickly slid off the trousers as well.

"Much better," Willow said, combing his fingers into Skye's hair as he guided him back to his erection.

I forgot how good he tasted. Skye reached up and gripped Willow's full, round ass cheeks and moaned again.

'How could you forget? Nymphs are built for sex. Jos is a very lucky dragon,' Mistral said.

Skye forced himself to release Willow and looked up into the nymph's blue-green eyes. They were stunning, but no one could miss that they were not human. They were blue and green with stripes and sparkles of both. And his perfect, flawless skin, golden with a hint of green.

"You just gonna look?" Willow asked, wiggling his hips.

"You are beautiful, Willow, and deserve to be admired."

"I'd rather you fuck me."

"Go get on the bed. This might take a while?"

"Really? You promise? You can do me as many times as you want!" Willow ran and jumped on the bed, bouncing and laughing as he got on to his hands and knees, scooting around to watch Skye's approach.

When Skye got to the edge of the bed, he had to stop and enjoy the view. Willow picked up on Skye's perusal immediately, rolling onto his back and spreading his legs as he stretched and posed. His muscles were full and round like a ripe fruit. His pecs were bigger than some women's boobs he'd known, and the nipples made Skye's mouth water. "God, you are stunning."

"So are you... so, how does this work?"

"Huh?" Skye shook his head and tore his gaze away from the nipple he wanted to suck.

"How do you make the change? Do you just have to cum inside me, do you use your magic, what?"

Skye took a deep breath and thought back to what he'd pulled from the rogue psion's mind. The scholar Yavil had only skimmed the texts about Platinum Dragons, but it was enough to yield two important details: the change required his sperm and his magic. Yavil had assumed there was more information but hadn't taken time to translate the text in detail.

"I'm not completely sure?" Skye said hesitantly.

"Well, it worked on Dillon. You'll have to keep trying until it works," Willow said, lifting and spreading his legs.

Mistral, Skye mentally pleaded.

'Relax and enjoy him. Pretty sure all it took with Dillon was our desire to keep him and make him ours. So if we think it, the magic likely knows what to do.' Mistral's mental voice sounded confident enough Skye almost believed him.

Skye crawled onto the bed and up to Willow, passing the tempting offering and continuing up until he could claim Willow's sweet lips. As soon as their mouths came together, Willow opened to him, and Skye's tongue began exploring. Willow's arms and legs wrapped around Skye possessively as his tongue eagerly fought with Skye's.

"Mm. Every part of you is delicious," Skye murmured against Willow's lips.

"I was thinking the same about you," Willow giggled and rubbed himself against Skye. "You're shielding me out. I should feel more."

Skye realized Willow was right and opened himself up to their connection. He kissed over Willow's jaw and nibbled the skin behind his ear. "Better?"

"Mm-hm. But you know if we mind-talked, then we could use our mouths for better things." As Willow finished the words, he pushed Skye down toward his nipple.

Skye eagerly accepted the message, gripping the firm round pec while sucking on the hard nib. He had no problems admitting he had a nipple fetish, and Willow's were excellent. He moved to the other and then let his tongue curl around the bottom of Willow's pec before licking down the center of his abs, gradually making his way to the golden-green pubes. Skye buried his nose and inhaled.

Willow giggled and squirmed. "That tickles!"

He smells so good - fresh and woodsy like the forest.

'Given his arousal, we're also smelling his nymph pheromones. Which is making me wonder why we're taking so long to get to our dick in his hot ass.'

Skye internally snickered at Mistral's impatience. Soon my dragon, soon. Skye licked the thick root of Willow's cock before taking it his mouth and enjoying the velvety smoothness. Just like the rest of him, it was thick and ripe. Skye managed to get the entire thing in his throat. Experience with his mate paid off at times like this.

"Ohhhhhhh my," Willow cried out as his fingers dug into Skye's scalp.

Jos is a very lucky dragon, Skye whispered in Willow's mind.

Says you! Garrett is the lucky one. Wow you're good at that.

Skye released Willow with a pop and looked up into his eyes as he licked down the shaft and over Willow's balls on the way to his taint.

"Oh, yeah..." Willow lay back and closed his eyes, lifting his hips to give Skye better access.

Mm... such a tasty, sweet hole.

Willow moaned as Skye worked his tongue into Willow's tight pucker. Mistral, should I do the tongue thing?

'We certainly enjoy it when Garrett does it for us, and we do want to make this special for Willow.'

Skye pulled enough of his magic to do the partial shift, letting his tongue get thicker and longer so he could go farther into Willow's opening. He could feel the bead-like rings that circled the sweet tunnel at intervals. Skye couldn't stop the groan as the memory of those rings stroking him came back.

"Fuuuuuuck," Willow moaned, spreading his legs and pushing toward Skye.

Skye enjoyed opening up Willow's tight hole, and even more, the debauched sounds coming out of his mouth.

'He's more than ready,' Mistral hinted.

Skye knew that his dragon was getting impatient and gave a last swipe with his tongue before kissing back up Willow's body. When he recaptured the sweet lips of his nymph, Skye pushed his cock in the tight passage in one steady, firm thrust. He was very aware of each snug ring he passed on entering Willow. They squeezed and stroked, and he knew that even if he didn't move, Willows ass would milk him until he came.

Willow moaned into Skye's mouth as he was stuffed full. His legs spread even wider, and his arms reached down to grip Skye's ass and pull him deeper.

You feel incredible, Willow, Skye whispered into Willow's mind.

So do you. Your cock fills me so nice. Fuck me harder I want to feel you lose yourself in me.

Crap. Mistral that is not the challenge. I'm not going to last long. How does Jos stay sane?

'Best to pull the magic now, so we are ready. Let's make our nymph glow like the sun.'

Skye tried thinking of the grossest and most disgusting things he could imagine to slow down the building orgasm. But those rings, damn it, were too much. Before Skye lost control, he pulled his magic and began stimulating Willow while building up his power.

Skye felt Willow's grip tighten on his ass cheeks and pull them apart, exposing his hole. The thought of being taken while inside Willow was enough to break down the last thread of resistance. Just as he let himself get lost in how good Willow felt in his arms and wrapped around his dick, Willow cried out.

"YES!" Willow pulled Skye even deeper as his body shook in orgasm, his cock spewing shot after shot of hot cum between them. His ass clenched and squeezed, milking Skye past the point of return.

Skye silently pleaded for Mistral to help him as he pushed his magic into Willow with his release. He only had a vague understanding of what needed to happen, but it seemed his dragon and magic had it under control. As he filled Willow and focused his mind on bringing on the change, he could sense his power igniting the sperm cells, changing them, and giving them a new purpose.

Willow let out a slow moan and wrapped himself around Skye.

'Use your magic sight, Skye,' Mistral directed.

Skye did so, trying to become aware of the man in his arms and what was happening. He extended his other sight and was surprised when he found his cells spreading and multiplying as they altered the other cells around them. Mistral, it appears to be working.

'And now we can be sure of how to bring about the change.'

"Did it work?" Willow rasped as he finally released his grip on Skye's ass.

"I'm pretty sure it did." Skye kissed Willow and gently eased out of his body.

"Maybe we should try again to make sure." Willow rubbed up against Skye and wagged his eyebrows - his cock hard again.

"Mm. How about a shower, and we get dressed for dinner?"

"I'd rather try again. This is really important, Skye. I need Jos to be mine before some other nymph steals him."

Skye laughed as he climbed off the bed, extending a hand to Willow. "That's not likely. We don't even know any other male nymphs, and I'm pretty sure Jos has zero interest in the females."

"But..."

"Willow, I think it's safe to say that Jos wants you as badly as you want him and doesn't want anyone else. At least not as a mate or as much as he wants you."

"Really?" Willow's eyes went wide, and the smile spread on his face.

"Really. Come on glowing boy - let's get wet."

"Ooo, I like getting wet." Willow headed to the bath and looked over his shoulder as he put a little extra bounce in his step - just enough to make his ass bounce.

"Willow..." Skye sighed.

"Ah, come on, Skye! I know you like shower sex."

• Scene 4 *

Skye tucked the towel around his waist as he stepped back into the room and jumped a little when he saw Dillon.

"Sorry, didn't know you'd come in."

Dillon snickered as he turned from straightening the pillows out on the freshly made bed. "Really? I'm surprised. You're usually so attuned to your wing-mates. But... oh, that's right you probably couldn't hear me over the moaning and the 'oh, fuck, yes. Like that. Harder, oh pixie tits Skye, right there!' Yeah..."

Skye felt the heat rush to his face and tried to think of a good response.

"So, has Willow been spending time with Teak that we didn't know about?" Dillon walked back into the closet.

"Um, no, not that I know of. Are Bryan and Gilian still in the hall?" Skye followed Dillon into the closet, and it took a minute to spot the ginger elf. The closet was big after all - bigger than the whole second floor of the house he'd grown up in. Skye stopped to touch a jacket and lift it down from where it was hanging.

"Don't you dare get those out of place. And yes, they're still here. They didn't want to disturb you and Willow." Dillon scowled at him until he put the jacket back. "Dinner is still being served in the grand hall this evening. What would you like to wear?"

"How about one of those Earth-type suits you were showing me the other day?"

"Okay, do you have a preference on color. I had several of them tailored for you." Dillon turned around and looked over the counter height cabinet in the center, which had pull-out drawers for shoes and clothing that could be folded.

"Surprise me?" Skye said and was just about to pull out a drawer he knew had underwear when Dillon grabbed his hand.

"Ahem. That's my job." Dillon reached over and grabbed the towel pulling it away. "No wet towels in the closet."

"But..." Skye stood naked, glaring at Dillon and then realized Dillon was staring right back and smiling. But his gaze wasn't focused on Skye's eyes. "Hey!"

"Good to know Willow didn't use it all up." Dillon turned and started pulling out what Skye would be wearing to dinner.

Skye turned back to the bedroom, trying to figure out how he had lost the upper hand. His body was not helping matters since he was now hard again. He wasn't sure how that was even possible.

"Here you go." Dillon laid out a shimmery dark blue jacket and slacks and a white shirt on the bed.

"Underwear?" Skye turned to see Dillon smirking at him as he held up a very small pair of briefs.

Skye reached out to grab them, and Dillon's smile got bigger. "You need me to help?" His eyes trailed down Skye's body until he was clearly looking at Skye's challenge.

"What kind of help?" Willow called out as he walked in, not in the least concerned about being naked. "Ohhhhh. I know how to fix that. I'm very good at it too, Jos has that problem, like all the time."

"Thank you, Willow, but I think we can just tuck things away, and I'll be fine."

"But really, Skye, I can-"

"No. Get dressed, so we're not late for dinner." Skye grabbed the tiny briefs and pulled them on then turned to pick up his pants. He didn't care that his dick was not in the least contained. He was not going to let either of them fix his problem.

"Did you say something to make Skye grumpy?" Willow asked.

"Not me. I think he's just testy since Garrett's not back yet."

"Okay." Willow got dressed and sat on the edge of the bed. "Dillon, do I look any different?"

"Not that I can see, why?"

"Willow." Skye's voice was tense as he tried to warn Willow to be discreet without saying anything.

"What? I just wondered if it showed yet?"

"What showed? Willow, did Skye... oh... you?" Dillon looked at Skye, the question clear in his eyes.

Skye sighed, knowing he'd already lost this round. "Yes, I started the change in Willow."

"That's great! Congratulations, Willow. Does Jos know?"

"Shit." Skye turned and looked at Dillon as his brain caught up. "I never..."

"We probably should tell him that he's mine now." Willow looked so adorably serious that Skye had to bite back his laugh.

"How about we tell him that we've initiated the change and let him know what 'might' happen."

"Sure, but just so we're clear. Jos is mine." Willow crossed his arms, and his lower lip stuck out.

Skye put his face in his hands and took a couple of breaths. He could hear Dillon snickering as he returned to the closet.

"Can you invite Jos over tomorrow night so we can talk?" Skye asked.

"He'll be here. He comes over every night after dinner, unless he had the day off, then he'd already have been here."

Mistral, give me strength. Skye tried not to think of what Pater would do if he found out Willow was sneaking Jos into his bed on a daily basis.

'I doubt he's sneaking, and I doubt even more that Prince Argos doesn't already know.'

Skye looked at Willow and sighed again. You're right. He's probably figured out some way to use it against me. Leverage in his next plot to make sure I play along.

"Why do you keep sighing, Skye? Are you leaking?"

"No, Willow, and if you wouldn't mind, tomorrow, we'll talk to Jos and explain all this." Skye waved his hand in the air as if gesturing to the room.

Willow looked a little confused. "But, Skye. Jos already knows all about sex, I've been teaching him. All we need to tell him is about him being mine now."

Skye swallowed the sigh that attempted to sneak out and just nodded. "Fine. I'll explain it to him."

Willow jumped up and wrapped his arms around Skye, hugging him tight. "You're the best!"

"Yeah, yeah. Go put on something a little dressier, and I'll see you at dinner."

"Got it." Willow bounced out of the room; the door made an ominous thud as it closed behind him.

Dillon burst into laughter.

"It's not funny."

"Oh, but it is. The expression on your face!"

"Maybe I should make you tell Jos," Skye said as he fastened the shirt, struggling with the long tab on the band collar.

"Here, let me help you. You'll do fine, and given how smitten Jos is with Willow, it won't be a hard conversation." Dillon fastened the collar and slid the gem-studded band into place. He picked up the jacket and held it for Skye to put on.

"I'm ready for Garrett to be home."

"We all are. You might be getting a little testy." Dillon pushed Skye over to the full-length mirror. "See, looks good."

Skye turned and had to agree. The suit might be Earth inspired, but it had subtle differences like the narrow lapels and glimmering blue fabric. He was also glad to have the band collar with the jeweled clasp instead of a tie. The pin wasn't big, only an inch wide and vertical-at the side of his neck, but the vibrant blue and white gems caught the light and made it much showier.

"You really think I'm testy?"

Dillon grunted and poked Skye. "Yes."

Skye looked up to see Dillon's reflection in the mirror as he stood behind Skye and had a flashback to the dream where he'd been pregnant. Dillon was strikingly pretty. You know, Mistral, we've got to find him the best mate ever. Not just some 'okay' dragon but one that'll make his jaw drop and his eyes bug out.

'All of our men are handsome, why are you worried about Dillon?'

"Are you talking with Mistral?" Dillon brushed across Skye's shoulders and adjusted the lapels.

"Yes. I was telling him that I have to find you the absolute best mate." Skye turned and pulled Dillon into a hug. "Can you make sure Bryan and Gilian get fed?"

"Already took care of it. I figured they could eat in here while you're at dinner."

See, Mistral. He deserves a hunky, blow-your-mind dragon.

"Skye, there's no rush. I can't imagine being any happier than I am when I'm with you and Garrett."

Skye kissed Dillon's brow. "And I can't imagine not having you with us."

"Good. You better head down. I hear it's a sensory feast tonight with several elven dishes."

Skye turned just before he got to the door. "Wait, I thought eating at an elven feast was bad for humans."

Dillon laughed. "The palace chefs are preparing it, and we aren't anywhere near Underhill. I think you're safe."

"I'm skeptical. Just make sure you point out anything I should skip."

• Scene 5 *

"I was hoping that Lady Telawynn would have joined us." Skye dropped onto the couch across from Bryan and Gilian. He'd changed into loungewear to be more comfortable for the evening.

"Does she usually dine with the family?" Gilian asked, surprised.

"She does when I'm there at least. She said I amuse her." Skye rolled his eyes, trying not to consider it an insult.

"I'm pretty sure she was visiting Theon and Thillean. I might have asked around to find out that they're preparing for your visit," Gilian said.

"But you're family and royalty. Why would you have to ask around? Wouldn't Lady Telawynn tell you?"

"I'd have to ask, and then I'd run the risk of giving her the chance to lecture me," Gilian said.

"Lady Telawynn wasn't as bad as Caladwen, but she did share her distaste for the way Gilian dressed and behaved," Dillon said, sitting beside Skye.

"Oh. Well, I think you're amazing," Skye said.

"Thank you." Gilian blushed and adjusted herself on the couch.

"Bryan, did Kuai do or say anything when he got here?" Skye asked.

"No." Bryan dragged the word out like he wasn't convinced.

"He made me deal with Kuai and Fiske and may have hid behind me. They escorted Nik and River this evening, but they'll be staying with you overnight," Gilian said.

"Oh, okay. So you guys are going back..."

"We're both staying at the barracks at the Academy. We don't all have the money Mica does to keep a posh flat that he rarely sets foot in." Bryan sounded a little jealous.

"He has given us all an open invitation to visit or hang out there. He's trying to get Arc adjusted to being part of the wing and wants us around as much as possible." Gilian poked Bryan in the ribs before continuing. "Several of the others have small places, but Mica's is big enough for most of us to be there without being on top of each other."

"Huh... I didn't know that. But now that I think about it, I don't know much about any of you outside of what we've done together. I'd like to know more about all of you."

Gilian rolled her eyes and groaned. "No. All you need to know about me is that I'm a badass, and I hate court politics and royal princes who think the world revolves around their man-parts."

Skye bit back the snicker and looked at Bryan.

"What? I love sex. That's the most important thing to know about me, oh... and I have an amazing ass," Bryan offered with a smile.

"I think there is more to you than that. Besides, you forgot about your sense of humor and this urge to play practical jokes that gets you into trouble." Skye wrapped his arm around Dillon and tucked him in closer.

"Um, yeah. Soooo... you wouldn't let him really hurt me, would you?" Bryan asked.

"Bryan, I don't think he would. But you know you could apologize or better yet, offer up that amazing ass of yours and Kuai might forgive you."

"Really? You think?" Bryan smiled and seemed to perk up remarkably.

"It's worth a try," Dillon said. "He is hot."

"Yeah..." Bryan seemed to retreat into his thoughts. Skye guessed he was plotting how to make his apology work, or he was thinking how good it would be to let Kuai fuck him.

"Do you know if Mica has decided who is going with us to Underhill?" Skye asked, looking at Gilian.

Gilian paled and looked away. "Uh..."

"What is it, Gilian? That's one of the guiltiest expressions I've seen on you."

"Nah, Skye. I've seen much guiltier," Dillon whispered. "Like the time she got caught with the gardener's son."

Skye's eyebrows went up, but he decided to just out wait Gilian.

'We could read her," Mistral suggested.

No, Mistral. We couldn't. She'll tell me when she is ready.

"Your mate's father may have pulled Mica in for a private meeting."

"Darius?" Skye asked in surprise. He knew Mica and the Emperor knew each other well, and once upon a time, quite intimately but...

"No, Prince Argos," Gilian added.

"Oh." Skye paused, and the ramifications hit him. "Oh, shit. Do you know what he said to Mica?"

"We don't, and Mica wouldn't tell us anything other than he wants 'all' of us prepared and ready to go at daybreak day after tomorrow. He'll tell us at that time who is going."

"Crap, that sounds so much like Pater. Do you know if they called in Teak?"

"I believe it included all of your guards as well as Teak, Venci, and Braden. He was very clear that Chris, Rilien, Willow, and Dillon were not to go," Gilian explained.

"You knew about this, Dillon?" Skye asked.

"Just that the four of us would not be included. Willow was put out, but Rilien and I were glad. Chris had already assumed Pater wouldn't let him go. Personally, I have no desire to go anywhere near the elven kingdom or Underhill."

"Hey, that's going to change. If we ever get things straightened out and get rid of the scary parts, I'd love to take you all there. It was truly magical."

"I saw some magical things in the throne room," Gilian teased, holding out her hands and doing an approximate measure of Skye's excitement.

That threw the room into laughter.

"You weren't supposed to be looking!" Skye said.

"You put it all out there in front of a girl, she's gonna look. Besides, everyone else has seen it. Huh... and felt it and-"

"Stop! You made your point." Skye crossed his arms and tried to glare, which failed completely when Dillon started kissing along his ear and down to his neck. Skye felt a mental nudge and opened up his sheilding.

Mm. I like feeling it. In my hand, my mouth, in my ass, Dillon mind- spoke.

Dillon quit. They're going to know what you're doing. They're bonded too.

"Geez, Dillon. We're all in the room here! And Skye, I'm well aware that my little brother is more familiar with parts of you than I am. Since he keeps telling me!" Gilian grabbed one of the small decorative pillows and threw it at her brother.

Dillon made no attempt at stealth as he slid his hand up Skye's thigh. I just thought she should know what a mistake she made when she chose the ceremonial bonding. I mean she could have had this inside her, and I know how good that feels. Dillon's hand squeezed Skye and did a slow caress.

"Wait, are we going to have sexy times?" Bryan asked, leaning forward with an excited grin on his face.

"No. We are not. You and I will be heading back as soon as the others return. And Dillon is not going to have any sexy times while I'm here." Gilian gave Dillon the look of death.

Skye knew that look; his grandmother was a pro and had directed it at him and River many times. He took Dillon's hand and brought it to his lips for a kiss. Skye wasn't about to let Gilian hurt Dillon.

"You are such a mood killer!" Dillon said, glaring right back.

"Gilian, why don't you tell me what Dillon was like when you were growing up?" Skye asked, hoping to divert a sibling spat.

Gilian got a wicked gleam in her eye. "So..."

Almost two hours later, Skye's sides hurt, and he was having trouble breathing or seeing from laughing so hard. Nothing he learned was shocking or even all that different from what he'd expected. But he did come away thankful for his relationship with River. Gilian and Dillon were much more in the camp of co-existing while sitting back and watching the other screw up. Skye knew that in almost all of his harrowing experiences, and life adventures, River was right there with him.

A knock sounded at the door, and the guards leaned in to announce Kuai and Fiske.

"Hey! You keep River and Nik out of trouble?" Skye asked.

"Sure did and had an awesome dinner," Fiske said.

"I know that place is always good. Just sometime I'd like to go when I'm not in fear of my life," Skye said.

"Why would you be afraid in that restaurant? It's like the most secure place outside of the palace?" Gilian asked.

"Maybe because it's always been a meeting with Prince Argos that he wanted to have in private."

"Yeah, that would be scary," Bryan agreed.

"You guys can head out whenever you're ready. Fiske and I are ready to take care of the boss man," Kuai said, dropping down on the couch on the other side of Dillon. He smirked at Bryan and grabbed his own crotch suggestively.

"Thanks, we probably should go so we're ready for whatever tomorrow brings," Gilian said, obviously noting the interplay between Kuai and Bryan.

"Yup. See you later," Bryan called as he headed to the door.

Once they were gone, Skye leaned around Dillon and gave a playful smack to the back of Kuai's head. "You're mean."

"What did I do?" Kuai objected, trying for an innocent face.

"Kuai."

"I haven't done anything to him, though he deserves it for what he did to me."

"I don't know that I agree. I thanked him for sending you to me naked. That is how you ended up bonded if you remember?"

"It was embarrassing, and I'm pretty sure that was not his intent," Kuai objected.

"No, and we talked about that. Besides, I don't think Mica would be too happy if he found out and thought it was impacting Bryan's performance," Skye cautioned.

"Oh, he already knows. He's been watching." Fiske said.

"Well, shit." Kuai glared at Fiske. "And of course you know since you're always with him. Tell us, Fiske, what color undergarments is he wearing today?"

Fiske didn't look the least put out when he responded with a smug smile. "Mica's not wearing any today."

"Guys, back on topic," Skye interrupted while his head filled with images of Mica going commando.

'I'm thinking he didn't expect to spend time with us. That could be dangerous... for him,' Mistral whispered.

"Sorry," Fiske said.

"Kuai, maybe you could try and negotiate a truce with Bryan. I don't think you want Mica pissed at you," Dillon suggested.

Skye turned to look at Dillon and gave his leg a squeeze. He appreciated Dillon stepping in to help ease the tension, and it would have been awkward for Skye since he'd just suggested to Bryan that he apologize again.

"Skye, what's the plan for tonight?" Fiske asked.

"Plan?"

"We're supposed to stay, but at some point, Garrett will return, and I'm assuming you won't want an audience," Fiske explained.

"Ah, no man. Skye wants us to help him with welcome home sex. After this long, he can't do it by himself; he needs a team." Kuai's expression was serious as he made the declaration, but Skye could mentally hear the laughter in his head.

"Good, we aren't asking Garrett then. He's going to have to settle for me," Skye said.

"You guys could sleep in my room if you don't mind being snug. My bed isn't as big as theirs, but it would be easy to move in with me as soon as Garrett returned." Dillon glanced back and forth between Kuai and Fiske.

"Works for me, but I'm making no guarantees that my hands won't roam in my sleep." Fiske grinned and winked at Dillon.

"Hands? Oh, no, Dillon you gotta be sure because my dick is like an elf seeking missile. No way I'm spending the night in your bed without a clear understanding up front that we will be doing things." Kuai's left hand reached out and groped Dillon's crotch.

"I was hoping... but a proper elf would never assume." Dillon batted his eyes at Kuai.

Kuai and Fiske broke into laughter.

'Our wing-mates can't resist each other. It makes a dragon feel proud.'

Yes, Mistral, it is nice that they all get on so well. I'm glad Dillon is intimate with the others and not just me and Garrett.

"Who's up for some holo-vids since it's too early for bed?"

"Too early," Fiske scoffed. "We could help Skye practice so he's in top form for his mate. What to do you mean too early?"

Skye stood and crossed the short space to Fiske, carefully climbing into his lap with a knee on either side. He leaned down and captured Fiske's mouth as his hand gripped the back of his head, fingers in his hair.

"Mmmm," Fiske groaned into the kiss.

I enjoy being with you Fiske and another time I will take full advantage of your gorgeous body but I'm saving up my energy so I can make Garrett's return memorable, Skye said into Fiske's mind as he continued the kiss.

Guessing that our wing-mate won't be walking so well tomorrow. Far be it from me to get in the way of your revenge fuck.

Skye released Fiske's lips and slid his hands under his arms, giving a surprise tickle until Fiske was squirming and laughing under him. "That's right. Let it be a lesson to the rest of you. I am devious in my revenge."

"Come on, Kuai, let's pick some vid options. Like we didn't already know that Skye was devious. My Gram gram says it's the quiet ones you've got to watch." Dillon opened up his bio unit and began scrolling through the list of options.

• Scene 6 *

Skye startled awake and glanced around. He was sandwiched in between Kuai and Dillon, and Fiske had an arm over both. The room was dark, and it took a moment for Skye to realize what woke him.

'He's close!' Mistral whispered excitedly.

Skye closed his eyes and opened himself up to the bond with his mate. Yes, Garrett was close and getting closer by the minute. He wondered why he wasn't picking up images, and then as he felt Garrett become aware of him, he saw the inside of the tube car. Skye realized Garrett must have had his eyes closed before.

Hey beautiful, I'm almost there. We're just arriving at the palace station now.

I'll see you soon. I have plans for you when you get here, Skye sent.

Ha ha, do you now? Soon, babe.

Skye poked Dillon and Kuai. "Guys! He's almost here."

"Ugh," Fiske groaned as he sat up.

Skye pulled Dillon into him, and the elf wrapped himself around Skye, lying his head on Skye's shoulder as his leg wrapped around him. He had time to enjoy a few more minutes of snuggling before Garrett arrived.

"Better wake up, beautiful. You don't want to miss any of your time with Kuai and Fiske." Skye kissed the top of Dillon's head. Wakey, wakey. There are two hard dicks looking for you.

Dillon snickered and licked Skye's nipple. You sure you don't want us to stay? You could have four guys instead of just one.

Maybe once I break Garrett in again. I need to focus and you three are way too distracting.

Dillon sat up and kissed Skye, nipping his bottom lip as he pulled away. "Good. I'd hate to think I was invisible."

"Never. All three of you are stunning." Skye's head jerked to the side as his senses told him Garrett was there. The door opened, and the man of his dreams stepped in.

"What? You started the orgy without me? How could you?" Garrett laughed.

"Dream on, big boy. They're leaving," Skye said.

"Guess that's our cue," Fiske said as he climbed out of the bed and offered a hand to Dillon. He raised it to his lips and kissed Dillon's knuckles. "Lead on, sir. We are yours for the rest of the night."

"Don't wear them out, Dillon. They have to be at the Academy tomorrow."

Dillon rolled his eyes and sighed. "Fine. I'll be gentle." He paused and smirked. "This time."

Skye climbed out of bed and ran to Garrett, slamming into his arms and wrapping himself around his mate. Skye took Garrett's mouth in a growl. Mate.

Skye felt a shiver as Mistral seemed to exert his power almost to the point of taking control.

'We must claim our mate and remind him that he is ours! He must understand that we do not accept him leaving us like this. He will not do it again.' Mistral's mind-voice was as strong and demanding as Skye had ever heard.

They broke the kiss, and Skye looked up into Garrett's dark eyes. "Love, you kinda stink."

"Thanks, babe. Nice way to welcome me home," Garrett retorted.

"The kiss was the welcome home, now go take a shower so I can remind you what you left behind. I think you spent too long on the shuttle."

Garrett lifted his arm and sniffed. His face registered a scowl, and his nose scrunched up. "Okay, you may be right. Want to join me?" Garrett walked farther into the room and kicked off his boots before undressing.

"Of course." Skye carefully picked up the uniform and held it at arm's length before dropping it in a heap in the vestibule. Dillon can deal with that in the morning, Skye thought, not wanting the smell to contaminate anything else.

By the time he got into the shower, Garrett already had everything started and had his hair wrapped up on top of his head in one of the 'oh, so lovely' caps. You know, Mistral, I'm not sure the long hair is worth all the extra work. But Skye also knew it was a lost argument. Dragons had this concept that long hair was a sign of power and virility. Skye thought it got in the way of sex.

He quickly stripped and stepped in with Garrett. He pumped some gel in his hands and began washing Garrett's shoulders. Skye had made sure to put his shields in place - especially with Garrett - feeling his mate's sensations would end his plans quickly. He made sure he was still aware of Garrett's thoughts, but any physical feedback was blocked.

"Mm. I missed your touch," Garrett said.

Skye washed Garrett's back and arms, fascinated with the thick, corded muscles. Garrett's body was a work of art, and there wasn't an ounce of fat to be found, just lean hard muscle. Skye got to his ass and filled his hands with the soap to begin his work. He bypassed Garrett's full round globes because he knew that if he started, he wouldn't be able to stop himself. Instead, he worked down the thick thighs and calves, tickling the back of Garrett's knees for good measure.

"Ha ha! Stop! Tickling is not sexy," Garrett objected.

"It is from my vantage point. Makes your glutes tighten and flex, and your balls swing so nicely."

"You're evil."

"You probably knew that when you chose me. Turn around."

"But you didn't do my ass..."

Skye smacked Garrett's butt. "Turn. I'll come back to that." Skye stood and ran his hands down Garrett's neck and over his shoulders. "Damn, how could I forget how big you are?"

Garrett pulled Skye against him and thrust his hips, letting his cock rub over Skye's abs. "I'll remind you."

"Cheeky bastard. I was talking about your muscles." Skye soaped Garrett's pecs and tweaked his nipples, causing Garrett to lose focus and moan. "Did Jerrick and Taleel ignore these?"

"Maybe," Garrett whimpered as Skye pulled and tugged on the large nips.

Skye knew that not all of his wing shared his nipple fetish, but so far, his lovers all appreciated his attention and offered him their tits in sacrifice. He let the water rinse off the soap and took one into his mouth, sucking and teasing until Garrett gripped his shoulders and pressed into him. Skye moved to the other and gave it equal love. He pulled off, swiping it with his tongue before he pumped out more soap and began washing his mate again.

"You didn't have to stop," Garrett complained.

"There is more of you to wash. I'm not allowing a smelly mate into my bed."

"It's my bed too."

Skye knelt and began washing Garrett's legs and everywhere around his crotch. "Seems to me... you left, and that's like giving up your rights. I think I get to decide who shares my bed, and I prefer men who smell good."

"Yeah?" Garrett asked in a smug voice as he watched Skye get closer to his junk.

"Yeah." Skye wrapped his soapy hand around Garrett's shaft and stroked him while his other hand worked around it, making sure he didn't miss a spot. He moved down and gently massaged Garrett's balls, then slid his hand between the muscled thighs to clean his taint. "Hm. Someone is hard."

"Shit, Skye. Of course I'm hard, your hands are all over me, and you're stroking my dick!"

"No. I was washing you. There's a difference. Okay, turn around, and I'll finish up."

"Do I get a happy ending to this?" Garrett turned and looked over his shoulder, his eyes dark with lust.

"Grandma used to tell River and me that a clean boy is a happy boy, so I guess yes."

Garrett let out a low growl. "What the fuck is up with you?" he muttered.

Skye snickered to himself. Paybacks my love, paybacks. Skye knelt again and lathered the dark golden globes of Garrett's ass. They were warm and firm, and he slid his soapy fingers down Garrett's crack brushing over his hole as he moved down to clean his taint from this side.

"Are you being cruel on purpose?" Garrett braced his hands on the wall, spreading his legs to give Skye better access.

"Of course not." Skye got a little more soap and squeezed the cheeks, gently spreading them so he could see Garrett's dragon hole. Ah, there's my sweet prize. Skye gently ran his fingers over and around the already swollen ass lips. Even with the soap, he could feel Garrett's slick building. When he was satisfied that the outside was clean, he stood and grabbed the cleaning wand.

"Huh?" Garrett looked over his shoulder as Skye turned on the ultrasonic vibration on the wand and got it wet.

"Just getting you ready, love." Skye pressed the vibrating wand to Garrett's opening and slowly slid it inside his mate. From the vibration, water, and the slick Garrett's ass produced, the wand slid in easily. When Skye had it nice and deep, he pressed the button.

"Father Dragon," Garrett moaned as his insides got a powerful spray making him feel full while the vibration teased his nubs, letting the water get in all the crevices.

"Nice and clean," Skye whispered in Garrett's ear as he twisted and slid the wand in and out just a fraction. The wand was one of those inventions Skye thought sounded terrible, but the first time he'd experienced it, he'd almost cum from the pleasure. After he found out the spray was PH balanced and made just for this purpose, he used it almost daily.

"Fuck, Skye..."

Skye carefully withdrew the wand, remembering to set it on the clean cycle as it shut down, and he returned it to the holder. He got to his knees and kissed Garrett's ass cheek before spreading him again and burying his face in the warm cleft. He extended his tongue and licked over the tender opening. Mm, clean and fresh Mistral but not as slick as before.

'A few minutes of pleasure and our mate will be wet for us again, I'm sure.'

Skye resumed licking and sucking at Garrett's dragon hole, and as Mistral had predicted, it didn't take long before he was dripping and open for Skye. He extended his tongue and began working Garrett's hole, letting the nubs tease and play with his tongue as he went deeper. Skye had come to enjoy this activity with all his lovers, but none tasted as good as Garrett or gave him the amount of pleasure and satisfaction that his bond-mate did.

"Skye..." Garrett moaned, bending over farther and pressing his ass into Skye's face.

Skye slid a hand between Garrett's legs and gave his cock a slow, steady pull. A couple more and he could feel Garrett tremble with his first anal orgasm. He returned his hands to Garrett's ass and spread him, letting his thumbs stretch the edges of Garrett's opening. Before sliding one in and out of the hungry opening.

"Such a pretty dragon hole. Did you let Taleel and Jerrick use it?"

"What? Um... fuck. Just Taleel."

"Yeah, did he pound you with his big, dark dragon dick. Fill you up and make you cum?"

"Yeeessssss... But he wasn't as good as you."

Skye grew his tongue and pressed his thumbs in farther. When he pulled back, he gave a smack to Garrett's ass cheek. "That's because you are mine. This ass, your cock, every inch of your body belongs to me. I'll share, but your dragon knows he's mine, doesn't he?"

"Yes. Yes. All yours, please, Skye."

Skye stood and grabbed Garrett's neck, pulling him into a rough kiss. "Finish and join me in the bedroom." Skye stepped out, grabbed a towel, and left Garrett still stunned and standing under the sprays.

Skye turned down the bed and adjusted the lights. Mistral was agitated enough that Skye felt a little jumpy. His dragon was adamant that they had to take Garrett and remind him of his place as their mate. Skye could feel that the need came from that other part of him, the raw power of his dragon and bone-deep knowledge of how a wing operated. Especially one led by a "Father Dragon."

"I'm so glad to be home. I can't wait to get inside you, baby," Garrett said as he sauntered back into the room.

"Well, you're going to. Get on the bed, Garrett. On your hands and knees."

"You okay?" Garrett asked hesitantly as he climbed onto the bed.

"Much better now that my mate is home," Skye said as he climbed on the bed behind Garrett. Skye gripped Garrett's hips and licked down his ass. He licked across the swollen lips and let out a rumbling growl. "You are so wet for me. Do you get this wet for the others?" Skye slid two fingers into Garrett's ass, caressing and stroking the sensitive inner walls.

"Nnn...no. Just you."

"Mm, just me huh? So your dragon knows who his mate is and who should be inside him?" Skye replaced his fingers with his tongue and speared inside Garrett, growing it with his shift, so his tongue slid in deep, filling his mate and teasing his nubs.

"Yessss. Rett knows. He wants you to fuck us. Please, Skye."

"And does Rett know that you should never have left your mate?" Skye asked, reaching around to stroke Garrett's dripping cock while his tongue slid in and out.

"Yesss... he was so angry with me."

"You should listen to your dragon, Garrett. He knows." Skye pulled back and stroked his own cock. He was almost painfully hard and already dripping pre-cum. He put it to Garrett's opening and pushed in.

"Father Dragon!" Garrett cried out, pushing back to get Skye all the way in.

Skye built up a steady rhythm and then reached down to grab Garrett's arm, pulling it behind his back and causing him to fall forward onto the mattress. He grabbed the other arm and pulled it behind Garrett's back as well, holding his wrists locked in place as he pounded his mate into the mattress. Garrett might have been larger than Skye by size, but there was no question that Skye was stronger.

Garrett's dragon hole felt amazing, Skye wanted to slow down to enjoy how good his mate felt wrapped around his dick, but Mistral wouldn't let him. He'd never pounded Garrett so roughly before and would have felt guilty if Garrett hadn't been grunting and groaning and meeting Skye's thrusts. The muscled ass felt amazing against his body.

Garrett spread his legs a little and settled onto the bed, panting into the pillows as Skye pounded his ass.

Skye felt Mistral nudging him to pull his magic. He gathered his power as he also began using his telekinetic power to take his man over the edge. He figured that with everything he was doing to Garrett, right now, it would feel like a half-dozen men were using him. His nipples, his balls, and cock, while hands roamed over his body. Garrett's tunnel clamped tight around Skye as his body trembled, and he got his second anal orgasm of the night.

"That's it, love. Let go. Mistral and I will take care of you."

"Fuuuucckkk," Garrett cried into the pillow.

Skye used his powers to reach into Garrett and pull his magic, adding it to his own. Their bond thrummed and vibrated. Skye was so close and looking down at the muscled golden stud pinned beneath him was so hot, Skye felt his hold slipping.

'Now!' Mistral shouted in his mind.

Skye let out an unexpected guttural roar that echoed off the walls. Garrett's ass clenched in response, and he let out his own growl. Skye leaned forward, pressing himself against Garrett's back as his cock drove even deeper. Skye felt like the world was spinning and that he'd lost control. The growl coming from him sounded so strange, and when he tasted Garrett's flesh and blood in his mouth, something broke. He came hard and fast, shooting jet after jet of his seed into Garrett's welcoming ass. Their combined magic burned bright as it filled both of them until it felt like every nerve was on fire.

Skye slowly came back to himself, still buried in Garrett's ass. From what he picked up, Garrett was still somewhat stunned and not fully conscious. Skye licked at the shoulder he'd bitten and worried a bit at how clear the teeth marks were. I hope that doesn't scar.

'We're his mate. It won't scar. He already bears our mark.'

But I drew blood, Skye thought in dismay at the thought of anything marring Garrett's beautiful body.

'Dragons have a remarkable ability to heal. Quit worrying. Let's take him again.' Mistral gave Skye a mental image of what he wanted to do next.

Skye withdrew and scooted down until he was between Garrett's spread legs. He pushed the ass cheeks apart and swiped his tongue over Garrett's swollen lips. Dragons quickly absorbed their lover's spend, so there was only a hint of Skye's cum remaining. He carefully licked up what remained and flipped Garrett over.

The dead weight let him know his mate was still out of it. He sat back on his heels and took a moment to admire how handsome Garrett was. His golden skin had a sheen of sweat that, combined with the glow, made him look like a god. Skye still couldn't believe that such a stud belonged to him. He gripped Garrett's legs and spread them wide so he could fit between them. He climbed over top and began at Garrett's chest, licking up the vestiges of Garrett's cream. Given the amount of spooge on his body, it had been an impressive load. Skye carefully licked up every drop until finally reaching Garrett's cock.

Skye gripped the base of the thick shaft and squeezed out the last few drips of dragon seed. He licked it up and then took Garrett into his mouth and began to suck. He felt a great sense of accomplishment as his mate quickly swelled and stiffened in his mouth.

"Skye?" Garrett groaned. "Are you trying to kill me?"

Skye licked up the shaft and gave it a playful squeeze. "Never heard of death by blowjob. Why would you think I'm trying to kill you? I'm just collecting my due, getting my fill of your exquisite dragon seed that's been denied to me for far too long. I shouldn't have to go without my mate so I need to make up for lost time."

Garrett propped himself on his elbows, looking down at Skye. "That was intense. Not that I'm objecting in the least." Garrett tipped Skye's face up so he could catch his gaze. "You can take me like that any time you'd like."

"Oh, I plan to." Skye sucked Garrett back into the root and lifted Garrett's legs until he was bent in half. Downside to being so muscled was that Garrett wasn't as flexible as Skye, but it still brought his dragon hole up where Skye wanted it.

"What?" Garrett instinctively wrapped his arms around his knees and spread himself wider.

Skye kissed up Garrett's abs and chest before capturing his mouth. Skye positioned himself and was soon sliding back into heaven. Garrett was as slick and ready as ever as Skye began slowly moving.

Garrett moaned, pulling away from the kiss as his eyes rolled back in his head.

"You and your dragon need to remember, you are mine."

Garrett made some incoherent sounds as Skye reached out with his powers again. A sound in the room drew his attention, and he turned to see Kuai and Fiske, leaving Dillon's room and headed to the door.

Everything okay? Skye sent to Fiske and Kuai.

It's fine, ignore us. We just need to check on something. Go back to your mate, Fiske mentally responded before stepping out of sight.

Skye gripped Garret more tightly and pushed in deep, refocusing his attention on what else he could do to his mate. Oh, Garrett, your balls are going to ache tomorrow. I am going to get every drop of your dragon seed before I'm done.

'As it should be. Can you feel his dragon? He's submitted to us and knows his place.'

Mm, yes, Mistral. I think we need to have a long talk with Rett.

• Scene 7 *

Skye pulled on the uniform, looking around the room as he sensed something was off. Dillon was nowhere in sight, but he'd obviously been there since his clothing was set out. At least there had been no vision last night. Garrett hadn't woken yet, and while he looked extremely tempting, Skye resisted.

'He's ours. We don't have to resist,' Mistral argued.

Yes, we do. As many times as I took him and from the number of orgasms I milked out of him, he needs his rest. Pretty sure he's got nothing left to give us until he recharges. Besides, we have to be at the Academy. We didn't get the day off like Garrett.

'He doesn't have to do much, just let us take that delicious ass again.' Mistral's lust hadn't been sated, even with all they'd done.

Skye thought maybe he should talk to Kleitos. He was still learning how to manage sharing with another entity in his head. Even knowing it was still "him" didn't change the sense that they were sometimes separate and not always working together. What did Gregg call it? Duality?

Skye finished getting dressed and kissed Garrett's brow. He opened the door to step out, wondering what had happened to Kuai and Fiske. He stopped as his eyes met with not two, but four guards outside his door.

"Good morning, Your Majesty," one of the guards greeted.

"Good morning." Skye thought about asking why there were four of them but knew it was pointless. They did what they were told and often didn't get explanations. He pondered what might be going on as they made their way to the breakfast room. Even as they drew near, it sounded much more boisterous than usual.

The guards opened the door, and as soon as Skye stepped in, the room went silent, and all heads turned to him.

"Uh... Good morning," Skye said hesitantly, feeling the thick tension in the room. A quick scan let him know that not only were the Emperor and Prince Argos present but almost everyone else, including Lady Telawynn and Mica.

Skye stood at his seat looking at Dillon in question as the elf pulled out his chair. Dillon shrugged and set a cup of tea in front of Skye.

"Okay, the silence is killing me. Can someone tell me what is going on?" Skye didn't miss the glances everyone was giving each other. He was tempted to drop his shields and pick someone.

"Sit down, dear," Nancy said.

"Okay, I'm sitting."

"There was an incident late last night." Darius's expression was serious and very focused on Skye as he began. "A number of creatures tried to breach the palace's perimeter. It set off the magical wards and alerted the guards. When they responded, they discovered that Hell Hounds were trying to get through at the main gates. Obviously, we are well protected, but it was... concerning."

"Hell Hounds?" Skye clarified. He had been really hoping they were fictional and existed only in his nightmares.

"Yes, Skye." Lady Telawynn's deep gravelly voice startled Skye as he wasn't expecting her to join in. "I did not see the leader of the hunt nor any of the houndsmen. Just the dogs."

"And we're sure they were Hell Hounds?"

"Yes, I'm sure. There was definitely fae magic involved." Lady Telawynn's voice was like a purr, even when delivering unpleasant news.

"Was anyone hurt?" Skye asked.

"No. The guards knew not to engage, and it was clear the hounds couldn't get past the shields. They pulled everyone behind the perimeter. The magic was strong enough, the wards warned us they they were coming."

"Well, shit... sorry. I mean that's bad, right?" Skye looked at the food the server placed in front of him and realized he didn't have much appetite.

"Time will tell. You are planning to go to Underhill tomorrow, yes?" Lady Telawynn asked.

"That was my plan. I thought Garrett needed a day to recover. Do you all think I need to go sooner?"

"No. You need to be prepared, and everything is set for tomorrow. The palace will be the safest place for you to be tonight. You should be safe from the hunt during daylight hours," Darius said.

"And you're sure everyone is okay?"

"They are. Master Mage Quanta said he gave you something to protect you from the sendings. When we spoke with him, he suggested that they may have upped their games since they couldn't reach you. We also thought it was a good sign that it wasn't the full Wild Hunt, just the hounds," Prince Argos explained.

"Yeah, because they're not scary," Skye scoffed.

"Oh, I didn't say that, son. Just trying to keep things in perspective. Now, eat your breakfast. You'll need your energy, and tonight we'll talk about your visit to Underhill."

Skye picked up his flatware and decided to eat what he was given, even if he didn't taste a thing.

"Skye, we will do everything we can to help you and make sure your visit is successful. I've worked with Regent Thillean and King Theon to pull the best warriors to accompany you. We'll also be sending one of our mages as well. They are familiar with Underhill and may have insights that will help." Lady Telawynn was obviously giving him encouragement.

"Thank you," Skye responded. The worried looks everyone was giving him did not help him think positive thoughts. Everyone returned to their meal and resumed quiet conversations. Skye looked around and caught Kleitos's eye.

Hey.

I'm sorry, Skye. You okay? Kleitos thought back.

Not really. Do you have a minute after breakfast? I have a question before I head to the Academy.

For you, anytime.

Skye eventually finished and pushed back from the table. Many of the others had already left. Kleitos stood and followed him out of the breakfast room.

"I'll walk with you to the tube," Kleitos said. "What's up?"

Skye glanced at the guards following him and decided that mind-speaking would be more prudent. Have you ever had conflicts with your dragon?

I guess... We don't always agree or have the same priorities, but my dragon is me, so it's... I don't know more like arguing with yourself?

How does your dragon feel about me? Skye paused and turned to Kleitos.

Other than the obvious of thinking you're sex on legs? He's a bit intimidated by your power.

Does he see me as different than other dragons? Skye asked.

Kleitos laughed out loud, causing the guards to glance their way. Oh, yes. But not sure if it's what you're thinking. He's always pushing me to put us in your path with the hopes you'll have sex with us again. I assure you he doesn't do that with any other dragons. He is also very clear that he considers you...I'm trying to think of the right word. The leader? The alpha, the one who is in charge of the wing. Why do you ask? What happened?

When Garrett returned, Mistral was adamant that we take a dominant role and when we were... um... doing things he took over and bit Garrett.

Kleitos's eyes went wide, and he stopped. You mean, like a shifter marking?

Yeah, I guess. Mistral said it won't leave a mark, but it sent a message to Garrett's dragon. He's very miffed with me for talking about it with you.

Kleitos was quiet with his thoughts for a minute. They stepped into the grav-lift, and Skye held his breath as usual. The idea of stepping into a column of light with nothing to support him and hope it was working was just a bit much to overcome.

May I ask? Was Garrett being bossy or perhaps not showing respect to your dragon?

Not really. I mean, we were pissed at him for leaving us. Mates don't do that, you know. But otherwise, nothing but his usual self.

Kleitos was silent for a minute, but since Skye was mind-speaking he was aware that Kleitos was talking with his dragon.

Ormarr thinks it's obvious that Garrett needed to be put in his place. He wasn't acknowledging that you and your dragon, are in charge. He was acting like a misbehaving dragonling.

But I'm not in charge. I don't even know how to be a dragon, and I'm certainly not about to give orders.

Kleitos stepped out onto the platform and gripped Skye's arms pulling him with him. He held Skye and looked into his eyes. Whether you believe it or not, whether you're ready or equipped, you 'are' our wing leader. Our dragons inherently know this. Garrett's should have. I love my brother but sometimes he gets lost in his head. Ormarr thinks you should let your dragon take the lead where Garrett is concerned and if you do, everything will work out.

Skye was skeptical and was pretty sure from Kleitos's laugh that his face conveyed that even if his mind-voice did not. You're sure?

Kleitos hugged Skye nodding to the waiting guards. "I am very sure."

Skye climbed into the tube car and sat. Only when they pulled away did he wonder if Nik and River had already left for the Academy.

'I told you I was right.' Mistral's mental voice clearly indicated how he felt about Skye not trusting him.

This is all so new, Mistral. I don't want to mess anything up with Garrett. I love him more than... gosh... anything. I don't think I was cut out to be... what did River call it? A top? You need to be strong and confident for that. So not me...

'Oh, but we are. You just don't see it yet. But you will, Skye, you will,' Mistral assured him.

• Scene 8 *

Skye felt almost numb as he walked down the corridors oblivious to the splendor and magnificence of the palace around him. He'd made it through the day without causing any disasters or having the instructors take note of how distracted he was.

He was also a little disappointed that none of his personal guards were with him for the trip back to the palace. He'd gotten word that they'd all been pulled away to prepare for tomorrow. There wasn't anything wrong with the guys with him, but he didn't know them, and they weren't his.

He stepped into the chapel and looked around. He didn't see Ian or the other priests, so made his way back to the prayer room. He'd decided that lighting a candle and making a plea for success was in order. He also wanted to do it before he saw Garrett again. Stalling, no, not him.

"Prince Skye?" Ian's voice sounded behind Skye, startling him and making him scream just a little. "Sorry."

"It's okay, I'm just a little on edge," Skye admitted. He stood and turned to see Ian, a worried look on his face. "Maybe I should be asking if you're okay?"

"Uh... could we talk." Ian glanced around. "Privately?"

"Sure, can we use your room again?" Skye asked.

"They're all in use at the moment. Would you mind using a confessional? I know you're not confessing or anything, but they are soundproof and ..."

"That's fine." Skye put his arm over Ian's shoulders and walked with him to the opposite side where the confessionals were located. He noticed the texture of Ian's black robes and was caught up in his own head, wondering what it would feel like to run his hands over...

"Skye?"

Skye looked up and realized they were standing in front of the confessional. Geez, Mistral, I'm really out of it. He waited, but his dragon didn't respond. Skye sighed. Mistral had been giving him the silent treatment all day.

"Are you sure this is okay?" Ian asked.

"Yeah." Skye stepped in and pulled the door closed, sitting on the built- in bench. He looked around at the cubicle. It was paneled in dark wood but had an illuminated ceiling. The "window" to the side looked like tightly woven metal scrollwork. You couldn't really see well, but he could tell Ian was on the other side. He looked around and noticed a carved sliding panel at waist height.

"Something happened when we... um... bonded," Ian began, pulling Skye out of his observations.

"Like what?" Skye asked.

"I'm not sure if it is normal or to be expected. I mean, the whole thing was kind of different but this... this is just."

"I can't help if you don't tell me."

"Well, one thing that happened is that my bond with Nels changed," Ian said.

"How?"

"It's so much stronger now. I'm always aware of him, and sometimes I can see what he's seeing or feel what he's feeling. It's happening more and more often. He's getting the same from me. That never happened before, I mean we could speak mind-to-mind but now..."

Skye thought about it a moment and remembered strengthening the bond and pouring his power into the strands that connected the bond-mates. He hadn't really thought about what it would do. "I think I did that. Strengthened the bond between you and Nels. What you described is what I share with Garrett, and while I've been told its rare, it's normal for dragons."

"Thank God. I thought we were losing it. Okay, the other thing is when you bonded me, and we were doing things..."

"Yeah." Skye was beginning to think it would be easier to read Ian's mind.

"Nels felt it. He felt everything. He had to excuse himself from work and hide in the lavatory until we were done. He orgasmed from what we did without ever touching himself." Ian's tone made it clear that he didn't expect Skye to believe him.

"Me again. I have had that effect on wing-mates on occasion if I don't shield."

"But Nels isn't a wing-mate."

"I was getting to that, the stronger bond you have means that unless you shield each other out, you will sense what your mate is doing. That happens to Garrett and me all the time."

"Shield?" Ian asked.

"I'll have the guys explain and help you learn. Once Kwill is back, he's a great teacher, but they can at least get you through the basics." Skye heard Ian let out a sigh of relief and could feel the change in the priest's emotions.

"Thank you. This is so different."

Skye couldn't resist the curiosity any longer and reached down to slide the panel. He smiled as he saw the opening between his cubicle and Ian's.

"Ian, I want you to help me with something. I'm really in need of some priestly healing would you mind putting your most gorgeous male member through the opening?"

"Are you serious?" Ian asked.

"Very." Skye knelt on the floor, pleased there was enough room to be comfortable. His mouth started to water as soon as he saw Ian's hardness appear before his eyes. He stuck out his tongue and licked across the head. "Thank you, Ian. This is what I needed."

"Oh, God." Ian's hips thrust forward as Skye took him into his mouth.

Skye released Ian for a moment. "And tell Nels, thank you. Maybe you should also warn him that he needs to find an out of the way place to sit for a few."

Skye took Ian back into his mouth, burying his nose in Ian's dark pubes. He sucked and licked losing himself in his wing-mate.

End Chapter 45 | (Characters included below)

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Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed the story. Comments, questions, and feedback are welcome at trippsavidge@gmail.com. Please note, you can join the Google Group "Dancing with the Dragon" to receive notifications for when new chapters post as well as bonus scenes and Q&As. You can request to join through Google Groups or send me an email, and I will invite you.

Thanks to the volunteer beta readers/editors who helped with this chapter: Grant, Mark, Matthew, Mike, Rich, and Scott.

The Family:

• Argos D' Or Drakken, human, Prince, bond-mate to Darius, 'Pater' of Garrett, Zopyros, Kleitos, & Nikias. Adoptive father of Christos. Born on Earth - Greece. Has some characteristics and magic of a red dragon but not a dragon form. Artist.

• Christos D' Or Drakken, were-panther, Prince (without rights of succession), adopted son of Darius and Argos. Born on Draga. Student. A member of Skye's wing.

• Claudius D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, without royal rank, brother of Darius. Executed for Treason.

• Darius D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, Emperor, Father of Garrett, Zopyros, Kleitos, and Nikias, Adoptive father of Christos and bond-mated to Argos.

• Garrett D' Or Drakken, gold dragon (Rett), Prince, oldest son of Darius/Argos, heir apparent to the Empire, bond-mate to Skye Tomas Eklund. Commander within Galicon. A member of Skye's wing.

• Kleitos D' Or Drakken, [KLEE-tos] gold dragon (Ormarr), Prince, third son of Darius/Argos. Medic. A member of Skye's wing.

• Nikias D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, Prince, fourth son of Darius/Argos, bond-mate to River Markus Eklund. Student. A member of Skye's wing. Temero: Astrogation and Engineering

• River Markus Eklund D'Or Drakken, platinum dragon. Prince, bond-mate to Nikias. Born human on Earth - U.S.A. Student. A member of Skye's wing. Temero: Tactical and Weapons

• Skye Tomas Eklund D'Or Drakken, platinum dragon (Mistral), Prince, bond-mate to Garrett. Born human on Earth - U.S.A. Temero: Communications and Medical

• Tiev D' Or Drakken, blue dragon, partner of Claudius. Executed for Treason.

• Zopyros D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, currently without royal rank, second son of Darius/Argos. Medic specializing in non-dragon/magical species. Being held by the priesthood in penance for crimes against the Royal family.

• Charlie Eklund, human, grandfather of Skye and River, married to Nancy. Born on Earth - U.S.A.

• Nancy Eklund, human, grandmother of Skye and River, married to Charlie. Born on Earth - U.S.A.

• Rilien Eklund, (formerly Rilien Meadowdove), Elf, 5'6" often described as delicate and pretty with fair skin, ash-blond hair, and green eyes. He has a slender, fit build. Rilien has magical ability and is expected to become a mage. His father was a high elf mage, his mother was a meadow elf married to Tiberius Meadowdove. Skye's ward and a member of his wing.

• Willow Eklund, Nymph, 5'10" muscular and voluptuous, large dark nipples, with golden green skin, blue and green eyes, and greenish blond hair. Skye's ward and member of his wing.

Skye's Wing: (excluding family relations)

• Arcturus, bear-shifter, 6'7", black curly hair with a thick beard, dark brown eyes and fair complexion. Notable body hair on a thick muscled body. Unusually well-endowed. New to the wing and position and placement is not yet decided. Living with Mica temporarily. Has a younger half- brother Charlie.

• Beckus "Beck," psion, 4'7" (138.4 cm), blue skin, blue eyes, and white hair. Bonded as a pair with River and also a member of Skye's wing. Son of Kwill.

• Braden Thomas, Ensign, gold dragon, 5'10" robust, dark blond hair, round face, pale gold skin, light blue eyes - Personal Assistant to Prince Skye and Prince Garrett. Member of Skye's wing. Previously served in HealthCorps.

• Bryan O'Dell, gold dragon, 5'10", bodybuilder, red hair, pale complexion, and emerald green eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Biology and Anthropology

• Chaz Blackclaw, were-dagger, 6'1", Ranger - athletic build, medium complexion, shoulder-length dark brown, wavy hair, chiseled face with dark brows and lashes, a neatly trimmed beard and striking blue eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Security

• Corey Armstrong, human. College mate of Skye from earth. 5'11", fit, athletic build, dark tan, brown hair, brown eyes. Former Prince Consort to King Tertian of Pembra. Bonded to Ronan D'Or Talon, a gold dragon. Member of Skye's wing.

• Dillon, Elf, 5'9" slender and fit with auburn hair and green eyes. Grandson of the former Queen Caladwen and brother of Gilian. Serve's as Skye and Garrett's valet but is treated more like family. Biologically changed by Skye's magic - enabling him to bond and carry a dragonling. A member of Skye's wing.

• Lord Eluf Sorenson - formerly human, Vampire King. 6'2", lean, fit build with white blond hair and blue eyes. Dark ivory skin. Distant ancestor of Skye and River. Due to bonding with Skye must feed on dragon blood. Member of Skye's wing.

• Feired Fornay, silver dragon, 5' 11", slender swimmer's build, pale complexion, silver-white shoulder-length, straight hair, pale blue eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Food Services

• Fiske Abusson, gold dragon, 6', lean muscled swimmer's build, warm gold skin, slender hips, thick, straight shoulder-length brown hair, blue eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Surveillance and Data Analysis

• Gilian, elf, Ranger, 5'4", slender athletic build, long, rich brown hair and brilliant green eyes. Sister of Dillon and granddaughter of the former Queen Caladwen. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Botany

• Greggory Wolf, werewolf, 6', muscled athletic build, short dark beard, dark hair, and pale green eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Geology and Archeology

• Ian Cornell, human, 5'11", human bond-mate, Priest at the palace, stocky athletic build, pale skin, dark hair, bright blue eyes, perpetual five o'clock shadow. Bonded to the gold dragon Nelson "Nels"

• Jayce Roberts, gold dragon, 5'10", pretty, ripped athletic build, notable 'v' torso, curly shoulder-length, golden brown hair, brown eyes with gold starburst. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Medical

• Jerrick Lopez, copper dragon, long auburn braids, 6'1", ripped, swimmers build, copper skin, dark brown eyes. Part of Protectorate Patrol and a medic. Member of Skye's wing.

• Jos Trall, gold dragon, 5'9", bodybuilder, red-gold hair, skin more bronze than gold, blue eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Ship's Systems

• Kuai Lung, Chinese gold dragon, Asian in appearance, 5'6", ripped, slender build, black shoulder length hair, large dark eyes, and a pretty face. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Ship's Systems and Programming

• Kwill, psion, 4'8" (143.5 cm), blue skin, black hair, bonded partner with Skye. Member of Skye's wing.

• Leesai Tedurian, [LEE-say] Felecian, female 6'6", muscled and ripped, skin is a deep golden brown and has a mane of light brown hair, yellow cat's eyes, a little larger and set farther apart, cheekbones more pronounced than a human's, has a tail. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Security

• Mica Kaber, gold dragon, 6'2", lean athletic build, shoulder-plus length, blond hair, blue eyes, Skye refers to him as his "surfer dude." Leader of Skye's guard and member of his wing. Temero: Engineering and Maintenance

• Quinn Corbin, gold dragon, 5'11", muscled athletic build, short-cropped dark brown hair, dark brown eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Tactical and Weapons

• Taleel Del Nuit - General, black dragon, 6'3", ebony skin, pointed ears, silver/mercury colored eyes, shiny, straight black hair often worn in a top knot with ponytail. Bodybuilder physique. Part of Protectorate Patrol and decorated General in Ground Forces. Member of Skye's wing.

• Teak Swallowfly, fairy, with a human form 5'11", large colorful wings that become a tattoo when he shifts to human. Athletic build, golden brown, curly hair to his shoulders, bright blue eyes, rich, warm brown skin. Former thief and spy and noted hacker. Now works with Pater's agents on clandestine research and spying for Skye. Member of Skye's wing.

• Venci Lopez, [VEN-see] Copper dragon, lean, slender build, auburn pompadour, copper skin, dark brown eyes. Senior Personal Assistant to Prince Skye and Prince Garrett. Member of Skye's wing.