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[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale returned the kiss, sweet and tender, his long fingers tangling in Satoshi's amethyst hair. "But you're so easy to love, mela en' coiamin. I'll never forget how you opened your heart to me when I first came here, or how you took my pain on yourself these past months. You saved me with that. You're incredible, and generous, and loving, and I've missed you, my sweet Satoshi."

Vale cupped Satoshi's face, letting his tongue swipe Satoshi's piercings, his own tongue stud clicking lightly against the bright metal. Satoshi moaned a little, Vale moving with that easy grace of his to slide his long body against Satoshi in the most tantalizing manner. Satoshi pressed himself against Vale, their pierced nipples sliding against each other, and Vale shivered in delight at the sensation. The elf ground his cock against Satoshi's cock, wanton and loving.

Vale let his kisses trail lower, careful not to leave any marks that would show, until his hot tongue found a pierced nipple. Vale laved it with great pleasure, nibbling and sucking before tugging the steel nipple ring until Satoshi's nipple was a hard little nub. Vale repeated his caress on the other nipple before kissing and nibbling his way down Satoshi's belly until he reached Satoshi's cock, already hard, precum beading at the tip.

Vale gave a wanton little moan and dragged his tongue over the head of Satoshi's cock, lapping up the precum with delight before letting his hot mouth engulf Satoshi's cock. Satoshi mewled and fisted his hands in Vale's hair as Vale teased the cleft underneath the head of Satoshi's cock with his tongue stud before flattening his tongue and sliding his mouth down the length of Satoshi's cock until his nose was buried in the soft curls of Satoshi's groin. Vale hummed a little as he swallowed hard, and Satoshi howled at the combined sensation of being squeezed by Vale's throat muscles while the vibration danced up his spine. Vale drew his lips back up, sucking hard enough to hollow his cheeks, and then dove back down to engulf Satoshi's cock once again.

Satoshi was writhing beneath Vale as Vale continued to suck Satoshi's cock, his bond wide open so Satoshi could feel how much Vale was enjoying making love to his husband. One of Vale's slim hands cupped Satoshi's balls, and the elf could feel them tighten as Satoshi mewled under the ministrations of Vale's talented mouth. Satoshi's hands tightened in Vale's hair, and he howled as he came, Vale pulling back a little so he could taste Satoshi's cum as his mouth was filled. Vale swallowed all but the last mouthful, and he rose up, pulling off Satoshi's cock with a soft little pop as he pressed his lips to Satoshi's lips, letting some of Satoshi's cum trickle into the imp's mouth. Satoshi moaned as he tasted himself on Vale's tongue, his thighs parting to allow Vale to slide between them.

Vale continued to kiss Satoshi, plundering his tight little mouth with loving kisses as Vale lined the head of his cock up with Satoshi's already loosened pucker. Vale had slicked his cock with a little lube already, and as he pressed forward, Satoshi's ass opened easily for him, letting Vale sink in to the root as Satoshi's muscular legs wrapped around Vale's hips.

Vale paused to give Satoshi a moment to adjust, and then he began a sweet, slow thrusting, pulling out almost all the way before sliding back into Satoshi's ass, making sure to glide across Satoshi's prostate. Satoshi was still riding the last of his orgasm, and he was deliciously tight around Vale as Vale kept up his languid strokes, nibbling on Satoshi's plump lips. Satoshi's hands slid through Vale's hair until he found Vale's ears, gently stroking the shell and tweaking the sensitive tips as Vale moaned in delight.

"Mela en' coiamin, love of my life," Vale murmured, his eyes filled with love for his gentle husband. "You're so worthy of love, so perfect." Vale leaned in to kiss Satoshi again, moaning a little as he felt the heat beginning to build in his belly.

Satoshi let his hands trail down Vale's back until they came to rest on the firm globes of Vale's ass, and Satoshi gripped tightly as Vale picked up his pace a bit, his balls heavy and tight. Satoshi's back arched slightly as he ground himself against Vale with each thrust, taking Vale in as deeply as he could, and Vale howled in pleasure as he felt himself dive even deeper into the heat of Satoshi's ass. It was too delightful, and Vale could not hold on any longer, his balls aching with the need to empty. Satoshi tightened his ass around Vale's cock deliberately, and Vale let out a glorious scream as his balls emptied in a powerful convulsion, filling Satoshi's sweet ass with his cum.

Vale's muscles were trembling as he lowered himself slowly, rolling to the side a little and wrapping his arms around Satoshi as he pressed in for a kiss.

"I love you, Vale," Satoshi murmured, his gorgeous eyes so dark and tender, and Vale smiled his most radiant smile, cradling Satoshi close to him as their hearts beat together.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand felt Yuji try to dominate the kiss, and he pushed back, just a little, before giving the faintest of sighs and letting Yuji win the small battle, his blue eyes bright with amusement as Yuji plundered his mouth. When Yuji finally let him up for air, Sand chuckled, running his hand through the black silk of Yuji's hair and teasing one of Yuji's ears gently.

"We do need to talk, do we not? But not tonight, my love," Sand murmured, his voice rich with desire. "Just know that in the end, when all is said and done, I do look to you as head of this combined family."

Yuji looked at the moon elf, still managing to look elegant even naked and with kiss-swollen lips, and he chuckled, "Do you, then?"

"Oh, yes," Sand drawled, his eyes glittering as he lay back, his thick cock already hard and eager, and he looked at Yuji with a blatant invitation in his eyes. "This family is something you crafted, from the bottomless love you have in your heart. I may push here and there, but I am well aware of the fact that you hold us together. I ask only two things of you."

Yuji moved to lean over Sand, his hand sliding into Sand's silken hair. Yuji's lips brushed against Sand's lips as he murmured, "Ask."

"As you are Vale's primary spouse, I am Satoshi's. Let us respect that between us." Sand arched very slightly, letting himself brush against Yuji. "The second thing I ask is that you do not mark me. I am not yours to claim in that manner."

"We might need to remind each other, every so often, while we get used to this, I think." Yuji tugged on Sand's hair, pulling the elf into a kiss. "And I won't mark you, if you will show me that same courtesy."

It was Sand's turn to chuckle, when they broke again to breathe. "Listen to us, circling so carefully around each other." He looked at Yuji with genuine love in his blue eyes. "Yuji, my love, I do not question the decisions you make for Vale, or Willow, or for Aika and Hikaru. I trust you completely, but I do not think I have remembered to quite say that."

Yuji looked at Sand, and smiled. "And I will defer to you when it comes to Satoshi and Ryuu, and the new baby. You have my trust as well, and I'm honored that you do look to me as the head of our combined family."

"Then I would suggest we seal our accord properly," Sand said, that wicked glitter back in his eyes. "I am in the mood to be taken, and taken hard, by you, my love."

Yuji smiled a wonderfully predatory smile, and pulled Sand into a demanding kiss, savoring the moon elf's eager mouth. Sand slid his long finger's into Yuji's hair, teasing his ears and thoroughly enjoying Yuji's groans as Yuji ground his cock against Sand's thigh. Yuji turned Sand over, gripping Sand's hips and pulling Sand so that his feet were on the floor, his legs spread to present his ass perfectly as Yuji stood behind him. Yuji took a moment to savor the sight of that pale ass, firm cheeks just waiting to be spread, and he reached for the lube.

Sand gave an eager growl as Yuji slicked a little lube over his cock, looking over his shoulder at Yuji as he leaned forward onto the bed. "Do not bother preparing me," Sand rasped. "I prefer the burn."

Yuji raised an eyebrow, but he gripped the pale globes of Sand's ass and spread them, positioning his cock at the rosy pucker. Yuji pressed forward, breaching Sand's ass and Sand moaned as he bucked backward into the intrusion, until Yuji was buried to the hilt in that inviting heat. Yuji was prepared to wait a moment for Sand to adjust, but the moon elf was have none of that.

"Move, please, my love," Sand said, his voice thick with desire. "Make me scream."

Yuji moaned a little, but he complied, withdrawing almost fully before slamming back into Sand's ass, hammering the elf's prostate and dragging a howl from Sand. Yuji watched the scarred back arch as Sand ground himself against Yuji, savoring the sensation of being taken so perfectly. Yuji set a punishing pace, and Sand howled again as his prostate was thoroughly plundered, Yuji's long musician's fingers wrapping around Sand's cock and stroking in time to the powerful thrusts.

Sand's back arched again, his precum dripping freely and coating Yuji's fingers as Yuji continued to plunder Sand's tight ass. Yuji could feel the heat building in his belly, the sight of Sand so eagerly taking his cock utterly delicious. For his part, Sand pressed back into every thrust, delighting in the feel of Yuji's cock churning within him, thick and entirely satisfying.

Yuji growled as his balls began to tighten, and he stroked Sand's cock harder, dragging another wanton howl from the moon elf as Sand's back arched even more, muscles rippling under the scarred skin. Another thrust, and Sand screamed as his balls drew up, and Sand came almost violently, thick white ropes of cum splattering across the bed covers as his ass clamped down around Yuji's cock. Yuji left out a howl of his own, his own balls emptying convulsively as he filled Sand's ass with the heat of his cum, grinding himself against the pale globes as Sand milked him dry.

Thoroughly sated, Sand leaned forward onto the bed, Yuji slumping on top of him as his muscles trembled with the aftershocks of his orgasm. Sand turned his head, twisting a little to let Yuji's lips find his lips, and Yuji lost himself in a fierce kiss as he eased his softening cock out of Sand's ass. Sand twisted in Yuji's arms, turning to face his husband.

"Amin mela lle, melamin," Sand murmured into the kiss, his blue eyes full of passion.

Yuji looked at his fellow alpha, thoroughly enjoying the feeling of equality between them, the feeling that they had reached an understanding that would satisfy them both. "Daisuki desu," Yuji replied, and Sand's delighted laughter rang out as he reached for Yuji to pull him into another kiss.

[Funny Typos]

His lust burning hotter by the minuet

The dance, it burns me, master.....

[Week 35: 6-5-11]

Pen Name: BronxWench

Story link: Royal Bastard

Review Replies: Review Replies

Type of fic: Flashfic

Rating: Adult+

Fandom: Games > Dragon Age: Origins

Warnings: Anal, AFFO, ChallengeFic, HJ, M/M, Oral

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion sauntered over to the bar, his slim hips swaying just enough to be intriguing without being overly provocative. The turquoise-eyed elf gave Erion a warm smile as the young elf approached, his pint of Evermead in his hand.

"I wanted to come and thank you for the drinks," Erion said, the faintest blush in his cheeks, and he smiled with utter sweetness. "You're very kind to make a visitor feel so welcome."

"I had wondered if you were merely visiting our fair city," the elf said, his voice was warm as his smile. "I am Haedrith, and I'm very pleased that you came over to talk."

Erion's smile brightened. "I'm Erion, and my betrothed is Kansas."

"Ah, betrothed, is it?" Haedrith said, and there was a hint of disappointment in his voice.

"Well, yes, until I reach my majority and can formally marry Kansas and my other husbands-to-be," Erion replied, watching the spark of interest flare back up in Haedrith's eyes. "Yuji and Satoshi are human, but Yuji has some elven blood, and he's the lord of his own House." Erion said this in a slightly breathless voice, his silver eyes wide.

"You're only betrothed to the humans of your party?" Haedrith asked, intrigued.

Erion giggled a little. "The moon elf, Sand, is my uncle, and I've always thought of Vale as another uncle, which sort of makes them unavailable." Erion gave a small sigh. "But anyway, I did want to thank you for the Evermead."

"It's my pleasure, really," Haedrith said. "So, tell me, what brought you to our fair city?"

"Oh, we were visiting Vale's family," Erion said brightly. "He's from Drelagara, actually, but we had to see Leuthilspar while we're here. I'm from Evereska myself."

Erion sipped his mead, darting out the tip of his pink tongue to catch a drop from the rim of the pint glass. Haedrith's breath hitched a little as he watched Erion lick the rim of his glass, and Erion shot him a look from under his thick lashes.

"So, what do you do here?" Erion asked with deceptive innocence.

Haedrith lifted his own pint of Evermead, the faintest tremble in his hand. His voice was slightly husky when he spoke. "I'm a librarian, actually. I keep the library at Tower Reilloch." He gave a slightly apologetic shrug. "Not a terribly exciting profession, I know."

Erion let his eyes widen in admiration. "Oh, but it is! My uncles are both mages, and Sand has such a passion for tomes and scrolls. I'm a student myself, so I spend a lot of time in libraries."

"A student?" Haedrith asked. "So young, then?"

Erion laughed, the sound bright even against the cacophony of the tavern. "I'm old enough, you know. I attend a sort of academy on the Prime where I live. Kansas and I both hope to eventually help children who don't have anyone to speak for them."

Haedrith looked relieved. "You're so intriguing, do you know that? You and Kansas both. That's a wonderful profession you're pursuing." He paused delicately. "And Kansas is how old?"

Erion laughed again, this time letting his silvery hair swing a bit around his shoulders. "Kansas is past the age of majority for a human, don't worry." Erion reached out and brushed a lock of hair off Haedrith's forehead. "You have the most gorgeous eyes."

It was Haedrith's turn to laugh. "Then I can assume my interest in you both is reciprocated?"

Erion lowered his voice to a throaty purr. "Oh, definitely. Shall we find a table and get to know each other a little bit better?" He turned his head and flashed Kansas a brilliant smile, and Kansas walked over to meet Erion and Haedrith at a small table away from the noise of the bar.

XXX

As Yuji plundered Satoshi's tight little mouth, Sand reached over to run his fingers through the gold and emerald silk of Vale's hair.

"I have missed you, anoramin," Sand admitted, his blue eyes heated as he gently traced the edge of a delicately pointed ear. "As hard as that might have been to tell from my surly manner of late."

Vale shivered a little as Sand stroked his ear, and shifted closer to lean into Sand. "Things should be calmer now, ithilamin, without all this drama from me. Eru's arse, I hate all this fuss because of me." Vale chuckled ruefully. "But I've missed you, too, istaramin, my wizard."

Sand's long, faintly scarred fingers wrapped around the back of Vale's head, and he tugged Vale into a kiss, Vale returning it with equal heat. "Gularamin, my sorcerer," Sand murmured when they finally broke apart. "You ensorceled me long ago, and the spell is as strong as ever."

Vale chuckled. "As I remember it, you dragged me off to bed. I was a tongue-tied fool, and didn't know how to tell you that I wanted you."

Sand looked over at Yuji and Satoshi, still wrapped in each other, mouths joined. "Well, then. Let me see about getting us a room, and I shall drag you off to bed again."

Sand walked over to the bartender, his hips moving with that sinuous grace that always drove Vale half-mad with desire, and this time was no different as Vale's cock hardened to an almost painful state of arousal. Vale knew his other spouses could feel his desire, as he could feel theirs, and that only added to his wanton mood. While Vale would always be Yuji's, first and foremost, he relished sleeping with his other spouses, and the thought of feeling Sand against him, in him, made Vale nearly moan aloud.

Satoshi did moan a little as Yuji buried his fingers in Satoshi's amethyst hair, and the love and joy that radiated from them gladdened Vale immensely. Satoshi had been Yuji's first love, and Vale knew that love had only deepened over time, a bond that Vale had never wanted to disrupt. Vale loved to see Yuji with Satoshi, and his own joy spilled over as he felt Yuji's pleasure.

Sand returned with a key and a wicked smile, holding his hand out to Vale. "Satoshi already arranged it. Come, anoramin. I want to taste every inch of you, and reacquaint myself with all the pleasures we both enjoy."

Vale rose, graceful and lithe, and slid into Sand's embrace with a familiar ease, fitting perfectly against his elven husband, and Vale ground his aching cock against Sand's thigh. Sand shifted slightly to rub his own bulging crotch over Vale's, his blue eyes dark with wild passion.

"Yuji, Satoshi, my beloveds," Sand said, waiting until they broke apart and looked at him, their lips kiss-swollen. "We have a room. Shall we make proper use of it?"

XXX

Erion watched as Haedrith took a drink of mead, tilting his head back so that Erion could get a good look at the long column of his throat. Under the table, Kansas pressed his thigh against Erion's thigh and gave Erion a slight nudge, approval and desire flowing through their bond. Haedrith was exactly what he claimed to be, and neither youngster sensed any darkness in the turquoise-eyed elf.

Erion leaned over and nuzzled that long throat, his lips trailing upward and along Haedrith's jaw until Erion was nibbling lightly up the sweep of Haedrith's elegant ear. Haedrith moaned a little, his hand sliding up to cup Erion's cheek as the young elf moved to plunder Haedrith's willing mouth. When they finally broke apart, Haedrith was slightly breathless, his eyes a little wide as he looked at Erion.

"Not too young at all," Haedrith murmured, letting his hand slide through Erion's silver hair. "If you want, we can get a room here, or we could go to my house, which is quite near."

Erion considered for a moment. Judging by the look of the other four, they would be getting a room in short order, since Yuji was busily plundering Satoshi's mouth and Sand was toying with Vale's hair with a graceful passion that Erion remembered well from his uncles' visits. Staying at the tavern meant he would have the rest of his family at hand, but he wanted this to be just for him and Kansas. Kansas did not seem disturbed by either option, and Erion let a wicked little smile curve his lips. "Take us home?"

Haedrith smiled in return and stood, and the three of them sauntered past the rest of their family as they left the tavern. Haedrith's house was only a few minutes' walk away, a small alabaster building with tall windows that promised plenty of morning light. Haedrith led them inside, and Erion felt him tremble a little.

"It's not terribly large or fancy," Haedrith said softly. "But it's a little quieter than the tavern, at least."

Erion laughed and pulled Haedrith into another kiss, loving the feel of the lithe older elf in his arms, Kansas wrapped around the back of Erion and grinding his cock into Erion's ass. Haedrith moaned again as Erion devoured his mouth, wanting to feel more of Haedrith, his cock sliding against Haedrith's bulging breeches.

"Bedroom," Haedrith gasped when Erion finally let him breathe, and he tugged Erion and Kansas into a comfortable-looking room with a huge bed and east-facing windows. Kansas and Erion exchanged delighted grins, and Erion unclasped his silver belt and let it drop, peeling off the heavy ankle-length tunic of his formal clothing with a sigh of relief, his nipples hard and dark against his tanned skin.

Haedrith moaned again, pulling off his own tunic and dropping the maroon and gold garment as he gathered Erion against him, his own skin as tanned as Erion's. His fingers slid down Erion's flat belly to gently touch the sapphire belly ring, and Erion giggled at the touch. Erion let his own hands explore Haedrith's silky skin, warm and golden brown, and Erion ran his thumbs over Haedrith's brown nipples experimentally, delighted when Haedrith moaned again. Then Haedrith turned Erion around, his eyes wide as he took in the white tiger that prowled down Erion's back.

"Oh, this is magnificent," Haedrith breathed. He touched the tattoo with one finger, Erion shivering happily as Haedrith stroked Nim'Cath.

Kansas watched Erion explore, wanting to give his beloved little elf a chance to enjoy Haedrith by himself at first, and he took off his haori and folded it carefully before laying it on a chair. Just watching Erion slide himself against Haedrith was making Kansas's cock ache, and through their bond he could feel every bit of Erion's amazement and delight.

Haedrith tugged off his tall boots, and unlaced his breeches, letting Erion slide them down over his slim hips. Haedrith's cock sprang free, generous and eager, and Erion gave a wanton little whimper as he ground his own silk-covered cock against Haedrith's cock. Haedrith reached for the laces of Erion's trousers as the young elf kicked off his silk slippers, his arms twining around Haedrith's neck as Erion demanded another kiss. Haedrith's hands trembled a little as he slid Erion's trousers down and helped Erion step out of them, and Erion looked at him for a long moment.

"You're so beautiful," Haedrith murmured, his eyes dark turquoise as he looked at Erion.

Erion laughed happily. "So are you, sweet Haedrith." Erion looked at the older elf, gloriously naked, his skin tanned and silken, his burnished gold hair loose and hanging down his back. Erion slid into Haedrith's arms again, and they tumbled onto the bed, Erion nibbling kisses along Haedrith's jaw and down his neck until he reached one brown nipple. Erion's tongue lapped at the pebbled nub, his pearly teeth teasing it, and Haedrith moaned and arched into the assault, fingers tangled in Erion's silver hair.

Erion continued on to the other nipple, and then bit and licked his way across Haedrith's flat stomach until he reached Haedrith's eager cock in its nest of burnished gold. Erion looked up, his eyes dark with desire.

"In the box, there," Haedrith gasped, and Kansas quickly retrieved the vial of sweet oil and handed it to Erion. Erion licked delicately at the precum beading the head of Haedrith's cock, and slid his mouth slowly over the head as Haedrith gasped.

Kansas had finished undressing, folding his kimono and hakama properly and placing them with his haori. His tabi and geta were placed to the side, and wearing only his fundoshi, he curled up at the top of the bed to watch his little elf enjoy his treat. Kansas's cock was rock hard as he watched, and he moaned a little as Erion began to use his talented little mouth to unhinge Haedrith.

Erion teased the sensitive cleft under the head of Haedrith's cock, purring a little as he slowly slid his lips down Haedrith's length, his flattened tongue pressing firmly. Erion never even paused as Haedrith's cock hit the back of his throat. Erion just tilted his head and let Haedrith slide into his throat, still purring, and Haedrith howled a little as Erion swallowed hard. Erion stroked Haedrith's tight pucker with one oiled finger, breaching him as he swallowed, and Haedrith's back arched as Erion's finger slid across his prostate.

Haedrith loosened quickly, and Erion added a second finger, and a third as he slowly drew back off Haedrith's cock, tasting his precum as it dribbled freely. Haedrith tasted different from Kansas and Erion savored the taste on his tongue, his eyes dark with his desire. Even Yuji and Satoshi did not taste quite like this, and Erion decided it was quite nice, and dove in for another swallow as his fingers worked Haedrith's ass open.

"Please, saes," Haedrith moaned, feeling his belly tighten as Erion engulfed him again. Erion purred, making Haedrith moan and writhe helplessly, and then Erion swallowed hard, and Haedrith howled as he came, his cum pumping out into Erion's throat. Erion drew back a little, wanting to taste this as well, and he thrust his fingers into Haedrith's ass, making sure to press Haedrith's prostate. Haedrith bucked into Erion's fingers, his cum almost sweet as Erion drank him down.

Haedrith did not even have a chance to catch his breath before Erion rose and pressed his own cock against Haedrith's loosened pucker, breaching him and burying himself balls deep in that tight ass, and Haedrith howled again, his fingers clenching the bed covers as his back arched. Erion paused, giving Haedrith a chance to adjust, and then he withdrew and plunged back in, savoring the whimpers of pleasure as he fucked the sun elf.

Kansas moaned as he watched Erion play with Haedrith, the older elf howling as Erion hammered his prostate, Haedrith's cock hardening again as Erion ground it between their bellies. Haedrith's fingers brushed across Erion's sensitive nipples, and Erion let out a yelp of pure delight, which encouraged Haedrith to play with the little brown nubs even more.

Kansas could feel Erion's own approaching orgasm, and he palmed himself through his fundoshi, thoroughly enjoying the sight of his little elf completely unhinging Haedrith with his deep thrusts. Erion was wanton and beautiful like this, and Kansas sent a wave of love and heat through their bond.

Erion could feel his own balls getting tighter, and he growled a little as he began to thrust into Haedrith's ass a little faster. The older elf howled again, his back arching and Erion let out a wonderful scream as he felt Haedrith's ass tightening around his cock as Erion pounded his prostate relentlessly. Erion felt his balls release, and he came almost explosively, filling Haedrith's ass with cum, Kansas's moans mixing with his scream and Haedrith's howls.

XXX

The door to the room had barely closed when Yuji and Satoshi began to strip with indecent haste. Sand and Vale exchanged a quick glance, and they carefully folded discarded haori and hakama, the two men oblivious to anything other than their need for each other. Both elves stripped as well, watching their husbands as they crashed together in desperate longing, their utter familiarity with each other so clear and beautiful.

Vale slipped the tube of lube into Yuji's hand before turning to slide into Sand's arms, the two elves kissing with increasing heat as they watched Yuji push Satoshi's torso down onto the bed, slicking his cock with a little lube and then shoving a lubed finger into Satoshi's tight little ass, working him open quickly. Satoshi just howled and pushed back against Yuji's fingers, mewling a little as he opened easily, and Yuji withdrew his fingers and pressed his cock into that waiting ass, his fingers tight enough to bruise as he gripped Satoshi's hips. Satoshi howled again as Yuji buried himself to the hilt, growling a little as he sank into the tight heat, and Sand toyed idly with Vale's nipple rings as Yuji proceeded to fuck Satoshi into the mattress, hard and frantic in his need.

Yuji reached around Satoshi, gripping Satoshi's cock and stroking it almost roughly in time with his rapid thrusts. Satoshi howled, pushing back against Yuji's cock, his own cock dripping precum onto the bed. Yuji's long fingers tugged insistently, and Satoshi howled as he gave himself over to a powerful orgasm, Yuji knowing exactly how to get him off quickly, and Satoshi shivered as he painted the bed with thick white ropes of cum, his ass clenching around Yuji's cock. It did not take long before Yuji screamed and came explosively, filling Satoshi's sweet ass with an endless load of cum, all Yuji's muscles shivering with the intensity of his release. Yuji sank forward, collapsing to the bed and rolling to one side, still buried in Satoshi's ass as he wrapped his arms around his first love.

Vale moaned a little as Sand tugged his nipple rings, shifting to straddle Sand's lap as Sand leaned back against the head board of the bed, Vale's mouth seeking Sand's as he ground his ass down on Sand's thick cock. Sand ran his long fingers through Vale's thick hair, teasing the sweep of Vale's ears and stroking the tips with gentle pressure. Vale moaned into the kiss, the light caress maddening, and Sand chuckled, his mouth moving down to a spot on Vale's neck just behind one graceful ear. Sand bit down, worrying the flesh and sucking a dark mark into Vale's golden skin, claiming his elf as he had not done in some time.

Vale moaned again, writhing against Sand, sinuous and wanton, and Sand let his hands wander down the silken length of Vale's back to cup his firm ass. Sand reached for the night table, thinking to get the vial of oil that he knew would be there, but Vale stopped him, emerald eyes nearly black with heat.

"It's not necessary," Vale murmured, his lips brushing against Sand's ear. "I'm already prepared. I'm always prepared."

Sand shivered a little and Vale raised himself up to position his ass over Sand's thick cock, swaying a bit to smear Sand's precum over the pucker. Vale lowered himself, feeling Sand breach his ass, that thick cock filling him with familiar heat as Vale sank down until Sand's balls were brushing his ass. Sand growled at the tightness of Vale's ass, the lube-slick walls gripping his cock as Vale ground his hips in slow undulations, watching Sand's eyes darken even more. Vale leaned in to kiss Sand, pouring forth his love for his elven husband, the sweet familiarity of their lovemaking making both their hearts soar as they renewed their bond.

Vale moved with graceful languor, in no hurry to bring Sand to orgasm. Vale wanted to savor this, his arms wrapping around Sand, feeling the familiar scars under his fingers. He shifted his hands to run his fingers over the new tattoos grading Sand's upper arms, feeling slightly wistful as he stroked them. They were gorgeous, both of them, and clear reminders that Sand had bound himself to Satoshi soul to soul. Vale did not resent that in the slightest, having bound himself the same way to Yuji, and long before Sand had done so with Satoshi, but the tattoos gave it a finality that had not struck home before.

Vale shook off the momentary feeling, leaning in so that his cheek rested against Sand's cheek, their customary caress comforting in its familiarity. "We should do this more often, ithilamin. I really have missed you."

"Ten'oio, anoramin," Sand replied, rubbing his cheek gently against Vale's cheek. "Amin mela lle, vanima edhelamin, my beautiful elf."

Yuji and Satoshi had shifted, Satoshi turning to face Yuji, and Yuji nibbled tender kisses from Satoshi, teasing his pierced lip. The love that flowed between them was as familiar and comforting to them as it had always been, and Yuji wondered why they had let it go so long since they had made time for each other.

"It's been too long, my love," Yuji murmured between soft kisses, his love for this beautiful, gentle man with the huge heart just overwhelming him for a moment.

Satoshi just chuckled a little, grinding himself against Yuji with a slow and sensuous wriggle. "It's been a little crazy lately, and Vale needed you. I didn't mind, and besides, that insatiable wife of ours kept me busy."

Yuji's face lit up as he remembered. "When we get back to Neverwinter to pick up Hideko, you two are going to stop home and test, right?"

"Yes, but I'm sure she's pregnant," Satoshi grinned. "Our family is growing again."

"And it'll be your turn to be up all night," Yuji teased, loving Satoshi so deeply that he wondered how he could hold so much love. He turned his head for a moment, seeing Vale straddling Sand, the two elves moving together languidly, touching and nuzzling, and his heart soared to see them joined like that.

Satoshi groaned and laughed. "Fuck, Yuji, I'm not going to think about that now. Just shut up and kiss me."

Yuji complied happily, loving Satoshi's confidence, his new-found ease with himself. Yuji ground back against Satoshi, his cock already hard again. "Daisuki desu," he murmured into Satoshi's lips.

Satoshi giggled and rolled on his back, his thighs parting as Yuji rose up to kneel between them. Yuji lifted Satoshi's ass onto his thighs, looking down at his first love, just as beautiful as the day they had met. He could feel everything inside him, the events of the whole day, all falling into place. He had done what he needed to for his husband and his family, and it was all right and good. Vale was healed and happy once again, and that bitch could never harm him or anyone else.

Yuji's face lit up with all the joy and love he felt, and Satoshi's breath caught for a moment in his throat as he saw the Yuji he had fallen in love with, so long ago, a love that had never wavered despite their occasional fights. Satoshi moaned a little, and Yuji pressed his cock against Satoshi's ass. Satoshi looked up, his gorgeous eyes shining with his love for Yuji, and Yuji breached Satoshi's sweet ass, pressing in slowly this time, his cock gliding over Satoshi's prostate and sending waves of pleasure rolling over Satoshi.

Vale could feel Yuji's love and joy, and he rocked a little faster as he rode Sand's thick cock. Sand wrapped his long, faintly scarred fingers around Vale's cock, stroking it as he nuzzled Vale's ear, murmuring tender nonsense in elven as he felt the heat building in his belly. Vale was delicious and silken and as enchanting as he had been the first night they had loved, in the bedroom above Sand's shop. Vale's pierced nipples rubbed against Sand's chest as Vale leaned in to press his cheek to Sand's cheek, his face flushed with his arousal, and he moaned, low and sweet, as he came, spattering his chest and Sand's with white ropes of cum, his tight ass even tighter as it spasmed around Sand's cock. Sand growled deep in his throat as he followed Vale, his balls emptying as he filled Vale's ass with his cum as Vale ground down to milk him of every last drop.

Vale shuddered, subsiding into Sand's arms, his face buried in Sand's neck as he panted a little, feeling the last waves of his orgasm roll through him. Sand wrapped his arms around Vale, holding his beloved elf close, nuzzling the gold and emerald hair of his husband and breathing in the scent that was subtly and uniquely Vale.

"Diola lle, anoramin," Sand murmured. "Thank you, my sun, for making me remember just how much I love you."

Vale chuckled, still a little breathless. "Oh, ithilamin, I've never forgotten, and I never thought you did, either." He dipped that golden head and lapped some of his cum from Sand's chest, and Sand shivered in delight at the wanton sight, Vale's pink tongue hot against his skin.

Yuji wrapped his arms underneath Satoshi and pulled him upright, Satoshi's muscular legs wrapping around him as Yuji continued to thrust into his imp. Satoshi arched his back, and Yuji caught one of his steel nipple rings between his teeth, tugging on it as Satoshi howled in delight. Satoshi's ass was hot and tight, and Yuji growled as he felt Satoshi close around him tighter every time Yuji's cock slid over his prostate. Satoshi's cock was pressed between their flat, hard bellies, and Satoshi arched his back to increase the friction on his captive cock, his moans musical. One of Satoshi's hands found its way into Yuji's hair, stroking Yuji's sensitive ear and making Yuji howl a little. Yuji switched to the other nipple ring, nipping and sucking before tugging on the ring with his white teeth, and Satoshi writhed and howled in his turn, his cock throbbing and twitching as it was ground between them.

Satoshi let out a scream as his balls tightened almost painfully, his cock jumping as he came and some of his cum spattered his own chest and face. Yuji licked off some of the cum, feeling Satoshi's ass so tight around his cock, and it only took another thrust or two before Yuji howled and came, once again pouring his cum into Satoshi's tight ass. Satoshi sagged into Yuji's arms, spent for the moment, and Yuji eased Satoshi off his softening cock and onto the bed, lying beside Satoshi to cover his face in kisses.

XXX

"What did you think, isilmeamin? Did you like your first elf?" Kansas's voice was rough with lust, his eyes the most beautifully stormy grey.

Erion gave a breathless little laugh. "Oh, 'lokiamin, Haedrith is delicious. Come play with us."

Haedrith smiled up from where he lay beneath Erion. "Please play with us," he purred, his turquoise eyes bright with desire as he looked at Kansas, so pale and slender and beautiful.

Erion reached over and tugged at Kansas's fundoshi, freeing the end and unwinding it to reveal Kansas's substantial cock, and Haedrith's eyes widened in utter delight.

"Oh, Seldarine," Haedrith murmured. "You are a young god."

Erion began to giggle a little, giving Kansas a quick grin. "Do you think you're ready for both of us?"

Haedrith managed to tear his eyes away from Kansas, looking up at the silver-eyed beauty that still had his cock buried in Haedrith's ass.

"Seldarine help me, I hope so," Haedrith murmured, and held out his arms.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale was surprised when Ardiel and Danathor met them outside Caradur's house. Ardiel was in the formal robes of a priestess of Corellon, and Danathor was dressed in Court robes similar in style to Vale's robes.

"You are my brother," Ardiel said, taking Vale's free hand for a moment. "I'm not going to hide away like our mother did. You've done nothing to be ashamed of, toror'ai. You were the victim in all of this."

Ardiel turned to Yuji. "May Corellon himself guide your hand today, and bring justice upon the one who harmed your husband." She bowed formally to Yuji, her eyes full of warmth and admiration.

Danathor bowed to Yuji as well. "Thank you for the honor you do our House, my uncle."

Caradur held out his hand to Ardiel. "Let us proceed to the elfgate, child, and travel to Leuthilspar."

Vale twined his fingers through Yuji's cold fingers, his bond wide open and all his boundless love and strength flowing out to Yuji. Vale walked beside his husband with his head held high, his other husbands and family giving him even more strength to face what lay ahead. Vale had been in the forced reverie when Kidriel was seized and accused, and he had yet to face the one who had harmed him all those centuries ago. Still, he was ready, bolstered by the love that surrounded him, and by the peace within himself. As they walked, Vale deftly tugged his emerald collar out and settled it over the high collar of his tunic so that it was visible. He was who and what he was, and he was proud to wear that collar.

The small party emerged from the elfgate in Leuthilspar, and stepped out onto the main road, called the Diamond Road, its surface smooth and entirely made of crystals that gave it the appearance of being paved with diamonds. Kansas's eyes widened, and he gave Erion a sidelong glance, surprised to see that Erion was as dazzled as he was. The entire city of Leuthilspar was a feast for an artist's eye. Most of the buildings were alabaster or glass, with roofs made from crystals and gemstones, and the side roads off of the main road were paved in crystals and semi-precious stones of every imaginable hue.

They followed Ardiel down the Diamond Road until they reached the Hall of the Justicars, next to the Temple of the Seldarine. The three justicars that Yuji had met at Vale's healing were waiting, and two guards from the Temple stood on either side of Kidriel, who was dressed in a simple white linen shift, her hair pinned up to bare her long pale neck. A white linen cloth draped the wooden block, and a woven basket lined in white linen was placed in front of the block.

Yuji took a deep breath, his fingers tightening around Vale's fingers involuntarily. Whether by a trick of the light, or perhaps by the will of the gods themselves, Kidriel's face was bathed in light at the exact moment she looked at Vale with such utter hatred that all of Yuji's doubts melted away. Satoshi's words rang in his mind, and Yuji looked at her with the impartial gaze of an executioner ready to do his duty. His plain white cotton haori and his formal black kimono and hakama, with the snow white juban underneath, combined to give Yuji an air of stern authority as he stepped to the side of the block, Vale moving with his usual grace to stand behind Yuji.

The Temple guards walked Kidriel to the block, and the first justicar stepped forward.

"Does the guilty one wish to speak?" the justicar asked, his voice grave.

Kidriel shot him a look of utter contempt, and knelt with exquisite grace to lay her head on the block.

Yuji drew Caradur's sword from its scabbard which had been tucked in his obi, the fine blade gleaming in the afternoon light. His right hand wrapped around it with perfect tension, exactly as he had practiced with Caradur.

"Do you have any words, my Lord Hayashi?" the justicar asked.

Yuji remained silent, his left hand joining his right hand around the hilt of the elven sword as he raised it to the ready position. The justicar nodded and stepped back, and all three bowed deeply to Yuji.

Yuji took a steadying breath, and brought the sword down in a perfect arc, the blade passing through Kidriel's neck smoothly to come to rest against the white linen covering the wooden block. A Temple guard stepped forward swiftly and lifted the basket, turning in a slow circle to display the severed head to the justicars, and to Vale and Yuji.

"By the will of the Seldarine, justice has been meted out," the justicar said, and again all three bowed deeply to Yuji and then to Vale.

Vale looked at Yuji, and Yuji collected himself quickly, lifting the elven sword from the block and stepping back. The second Temple guard stepped forward with a clean linen cloth, and helped Yuji to clean the blade. Yuji slid the sword back into its scabbard and tucked it into his obi, and then turned to Vale, who took Yuji's cold hand and poured forth his love and pride in a continuous wave.

"Thank you, a'maelamin," Vale murmured, and he leaned in to kiss Yuji, a chaste kiss that was belied by the heat in his green eyes. "You are my perfect husband, my lifemate, and I am so very proud to be yours."

As they left the forecourt of the Hall of Justicars, Caradur steered them down a side street. Yuji was too preoccupied to notice at first, still trying to sort out how it felt to have taken a life with his own hands. He had often felt angry enough to think he wanted to kill someone, but the reality was very different, and Yuji wondered if this would change him in some way. His somber thoughts filtered through his bond with Vale, and Vale pressed his hand a little tighter in sympathy.

"If it's any consolation, my love, you don't need to worry until it gets easy. As long as you're worrying if you did the right thing, you're fine." Vale's voice was soft enough that only Yuji heard him, and Yuji looked into Vale's beautiful eyes and saw nothing but love.

"We are here," Caradur announced, and Yuji looked up at a rather odd sign over a building that emitted a great deal of noise and the smell of fine whiskey. "This is the Green Sword, so named for the weapon that hangs behind the bar, which was reputed to have belonged to a green dragon. This tavern is loud and often rowdy, but the whiskey is superb, and after Morcaunen, I came here myself to steady my hand." The old elf looked at Yuji with great warmth and friendship. "Thank you, my friend. You brought honor to both our Houses today."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion took a deep breath as he sank into Kansas's nightmares, knowing how bad this was going to be. But this was Kansas, his Kansas, and nothing would deter him from doing whatever he could to help. Erion had meant what he said earlier. He was far stronger than he seemed, and despite being sheltered by loving parents and an adoring grandmother, Erion had also seen the darker side of life in Evereska.

Erion saw Kansas's soul-self and made his way to stand beside his beloved, watching as the Japanese men bullied Kansas's parents and then struck their dreadful bargain. Erion watched Katya, so still in her mother's arms, and Kansas, so small and helpless, as they walked down to the small boat. Erion watched as Katya was whisked away once they were on the larger boat, and he watched as Kansas was dragged off, fighting like a small wildcat, refusing to submit even as he was beaten, refusing his attacker even the smallest scream after that initial cry of pain.

"Kansas." Erion kept his voice soft and gentle, not yet touching his beloved even though he yearned to pull him away from the gruesome visions.

Kansas moaned, but did not respond, his eyes silvery in the shadows where they stood.

"I'm here, Kansas. I'm right beside you, 'lokiamin, where I'll always be," Erion said in that same gentle voice.

It was if Kansas did not even hear Erion, and the young elf's eyes widened slightly as he realized his mistake. Kansas was reliving the scene, not merely observing it. Kansas did not yet exist. He was still a small and frightened boy, beaten and alone.

Erion took a deep breath and reached into Kansas's memories, finding the place where Kansas still remembered his first language. This was one of the things Santhiel had shown him, something that was lost to most elves, but that the elves of Sildëyuir still remembered. Erion was not supposed to use this ability lightly, he knew, but this seemed the time.

"Vazily? Slushaĭ menya. Eto vospominaniya, a ne ryealʹnym." Erion waited a moment, seeing a small twitch in his beloved. "Eto bylo davno. Eto proshloe. Eto ne mozhet povreditʹ vam." Erion kept his words simple, talking to the frightened child, not his strong lover.

"Proshlogo?" Kansas whispered the word, turning his head to look at Erion.

Erion chanced returning to Japanese, keeping his voice very soft. "It's over, and you're safe."

Kansas's eyes narrowed a little, and his breath hitched. "Safe. It's never safe."

"I promise you, you're safe now. These are old memories, and they haunt your dreams. You need to leave them in the past, where they belong. Let me help you, Vazily." Erion held out a slim hand, pale in the shadows.

"That's not right." Kansas frowned in concentration. "That's not my name anymore." His voice was stronger, more certain, and even his posture was different as he drew himself up."

"No, it's not your name anymore. You left it behind." Erion let his hand fall back to his side, understanding that he should not push his beloved. Kansas gave him a look, his eyes too shadowed for Erion to read, and he turned away again to watch as Katya was brought up to the deck of the boat when they made port in Tokyo, still oddly sleepy. A tall woman in a severe black suit, not Japanese like the men, took Katya and gave the men two suitcases in return before getting into a large and luxurious silver car with the drowsy little girl.

"Katya?" Kansas's voice was a whimper, the grief of a child for his sister, and Erion's heart nearly broke. Mixed in with the child's grief was the knowledge of her fate, and Erion felt a sudden rage that his beloved should know such terrible truths while still so young.

"She fell asleep, and she did not wake." Erion knew what he said was true, the dreadful certainty giving his soft voice the ring of a death knell. "They gave her too much of the medicine, and her heart was too fragile. They never had a chance to hurt her."

Kansas shuddered, and some of the pain lifted from his handsome face.

Erion suppressed his rage and grief, knowing that Kansas did not need that from him, not now. Instead, Erion focused on the age-old love he had for Kansas, the soulmate he had sought for uncounted years, torn from him once and now found again. Erion watched with perfect stillness, but there was a subtle difference in Kansas. His posture did not crumble again and his eyes, while still pale, did not well with tears.

"Show me," Erion whispered. "Show me the past, so you can leave it behind." This time, when Erion extended his hand, Kansas's icy fingers gripped it tightly.

XXX

Slushaĭ menya. Eto vospominaniya, a ne ryealʹnym. – Listen to me. These are memories, not real.

Eto bylo davno. Eto proshloe. Eto ne mozhet povreditʹ vam. – This was long ago. It's the past. It can't hurt you now.

Proshlogo? – The past?

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

The market of Drelagara was much larger than the market of Evereska. The shops and stalls were all made of the same pure white marble as the rest of the city, and the market canopies were silk and held up by beautifully carved and decorated wooden poles. Merchandise was displayed with great attention to making the display pleasing to the eye, and there was color and music everywhere.

Dae and Maela took Ryuu and Aika to a small grassy area with what looked like a puppet theater. Instead of puppets, however, small magically created figures acted out stories, and Satoshi nearly exploded trying not to laugh at the expression on Sand's face when Aika screamed out that it was just like storytime at home.

Fortunately for Sand, Willow had been distracted by a display of delicate elven jewelry, and Sand hastened over to help her select an exquisite sapphire necklace to celebrate her newly pregnant status. Willow protested a bit, but Sand simply kissed her and paid for the necklace anyway. He also picked out a lovely bracelet for Aika, garnets because they suited her golden skin so well. Sand also chose a lovely rope of pearls of a delicate pink hue for Maela.

Caradur led Kansas and Erion to a small shop that had a dazzling array of artist's materials, and Kansas's eyes lit up. There were charcoals and chalks and paints in such a range of hues that it took his breath away, and Kansas immediately began to talk with the merchant, the two of them deep in conversation within moments. Erion just grinned and snuggled close to Kansas, content to see Kansas so happy and enthusiastic, even when Kansas tugged on a little of Erion's hair to explain his problem.

Caradur went back outside and insisted on taking Hikaru for a bit so that Vale and Yuji could shop. Vale led Yuji on a meandering path through the market before ducking into a small shop that had a rather amazing variety of toys well suited to their taste in play. Vale found some silk rope that felt so delicious against his skin that he had to have it, much to Yuji's amusement. Vale also chose a string of beads that looked like the most delicate and fragile glass, and Yuji protested until the merchant explained that they were theurglass, as sturdy as mithral and perfectly safe. Vale added some candles made of the finest beeswax, and headed for the dildoes with an enthusiasm that made Yuji laugh as he followed his wanton elf. Yuji chose one with a leather strap to hold it in place, and another that vibrated as it warmed, the vibrations increasing with the temperature. Vale's eyes went a little wide at that, but it was with interest, not apprehension. Yuji also found wrist and ankle restraints of soft leather, lined with velvet, with mithral rings and clasps, and Vale tried them on his wrists eagerly.

By the time everyone was done shopping, it was close to lunch, and Caradur suggested that they purchase food and eat in one of the parks. That idea was met with cheers, and so they wound up in a lovely little park, listening to an elf playing what looked like a lute. Satoshi was positively wide-eyed and Sand was quite sure that Satoshi would dive for his guitar the moment they got back to the house, seeing the look in Satoshi's eyes that meant he was composing in his head. Then Ryuu taught Hikaru to say 'mama' and the little half-elf practiced his new word happily as Ryuu and Aika screamed with laughter. When Ryuu calmed down, he solemnly promised Vale that the next word he would teach Hikaru would be 'chichi' and it was Vale's turn to laugh in delight. Yuji lay on the grass, his head in Vale's lap, and Vale fed him dalvasa. It was a wonderful lunch, and when Ryuu and Aika began to get droopy-eyed, Sand scooped up Ryuu and Yuji scooped up Aika, and they walked back to Caradur's house, Hikaru already fast asleep in Caradur's arms.

Erion and Kansas hung back a little, and Kansas explained to Erion that he wanted to try facing his nightmares, with Erion's help. Erion agreed enthusiastically, willing to do anything he could to help ease some of the pressure of those awful dreams that robbed his beloved of rest. Kansas's eyes were shadowed, and he looked a little drawn, and Erion's heart ached for him.

When they arrived home, there was a messenger from Leuthilspar waiting. The execution was set for the following day, late in the afternoon.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion wrapped his arms around Kansas, nudging Kansas's face up so he could press a sweet kiss to his betrothed lips.

"I love you, Kansas, and I'll never stop loving you, not for a second, not ever," Erion murmured. He was having a hard time keeping his kisses chaste enough for public, his fingers already tangling in Kansas's thick black and blue hair. "You were forgiven the instant it happened. I know it's been hard, 'lokiamin. You can barely sleep between the nightmares and the vision dreams, and even sharing reverie with me isn't helping enough."

Kansas looked up at Erion, his eyes still too pale for Erion's liking. "The nightmares will go away eventually. They always do. It's just this time of year. I was hoping that not being in Tokyo would help, but it doesn't."

Erion nibbled another kiss from Kansas's plump lips. "And then the visions, and what I knew about them." He nodded a little sadly. "Even if the dreams are just a warning about what's already happened, I'm scared, too, 'lokiamin. I can't bear thinking about that bastard hurting our angel."

Sand leaned over to press a kiss to Kansas's forehead. "Please know that I also forgave you instantly, my love. I do understand the pressures on you, perhaps more than even you realize." Sand trailed long, faintly scarred fingers along Kansas's jaw. "It is not easy, this gift of yours. It demands much, and gives little in return. Now that Vale is restored to himself, I will remind him to contact Adalon and speak to her about assisting you in mastering your gift. That may help, even if just a little."

Kansas sighed, feeling some of the weight lift off of him. At least his beloved little elf had forgiven him, and Sand as well.

"I just wish I could sleep, just a decent night's sleep," Kansas sighed. "I feel like my head is full of cotton half the time, I'm so fucking tired."

Erion held Kansas tighter. "I know, 'lokiamin. I wish there was more I could do."

Satoshi was curled up with Willow, Ryuu and Aika snuggled up on either side of them, and Vale had appropriated Hikaru when he came in, nuzzling his son happily.

Ryuu looked up at Satoshi with such an adorably pleading expression that Willow could not help but giggle. "Chichi, are we going to eat soon? I'm feeling starveded," Ryuu confided, and his tummy grumbled again for emphasis. "Borunzudoragon says I'm making more noise than him."

"I am starveded, too," Aika added, not wanting to be left out of this.

Willow looked at them both with a bright smile. "Dinner will be in a few moments, and there will be some of your favorites, too."

Ryuu brightened up at that, and snuggled in with Satoshi happily. "I'm going to eat eleven helpings."

"Oniisan is very hungry," Aika said, giggling.

On the other side of the table, Vale looked at the drawings, his green eyes widening, and Yuji felt such a mixed wave of emotions through their bond that he sat up, looking at the sketches as well.

"What is it, my angel?" Yuji asked, fearing a setback and hoping that it was not anything that serious.

"How did he know? He couldn't have met them." Vale's voice trailed off and he looked at Caradur.

Caradur trailed a finger on the edge of the paper with the sketch of the young elven warrior. "Cadrien," Caradur murmured, his blue eyes bright with tears. "A'mael utinuamin, my beloved son."

"Who is the other one?" Yuji asked Vale softly.

Vale turned his head to look at Yuji, his expression somber. "That is Morcaunen. Kansas captured him perfectly."

"As beautiful as his mother, but with such darkness in his soul," Caradur added.

Kansas looked up, his eyes a little wide when he saw Vale and Caradur looking at his sketches. Vale just smiled at Kansas, his green eyes full of gentle love, and made room on the couch for Kansas, who came over and curled up between Vale and Yuji.

"You know them," Vale said very gently. "When did you see them?"

Kansas looked at Vale somberly. "I saw him the day we arrived." Kansas pointed at Morcaunen. "He tried to attack you." Kansas looked at Caradur. "He's been following you around ever since, shouting all sorts of stuff at the family, and especially at Vale. He's angry, and he's crazy."

Caradur smiled sadly. "He was a sweet elfling, but the darkness must have always been in him. As much as we loved him, it was never enough. He resented Cadrien, and he resented Vale."

"He was there, too." Kansas pointed at the picture of Cadrien. "He was in a long grey cloak, and he was staying back, in the shadows. Later, I was napping, and he came to me and told me who he was." Kansas snuck another look at Caradur, his eyes still pale. "He loves you so much. He stays back and he watches over you."

Kansas reached out and turned the pages of his sketchbook until he came to an incomplete sketch, just pencil lines, and no color. It was a woman, just a bit of her cheek, and and one eye, her jawline sketched in along with part of her mouth, but it was easy to see that she was beautiful. Caradur's hand trembled as he touched the page reverently.

"Aniel, mela en' coiamin, vanima verne'amin. Amin mela lle, me'a'amin. Rato, rato amin yanwuva lle, melamin." Caradur looked at Kansas, the most beautiful smile on his lips. "That is my lady, my Aniel, the light of my life. I will be reunited with her soon enough, and we will spend eternity in Arvandor, in each other's arms."

The love in Caradur's voice made Kansas sob a little, and he touched Caradur's arm very lightly. "She watches over you, too. She loves you still, and she always will."

Caradur laid his hand over Kansas's hand and nodded. "Then tonight, when I take reverie, I will be sure to open my heart so that I may hear her voice. She sang like a nightingale, my Aniel. I would lay down my pen, and put aside my papers, and listen to her singing in the garden, and I would feel so very blessed to have found such a wife."

Dae cleared his throat very softly. "Deasar says that the meal is ready, and asks that you all come to the dining room."

"Then let us not keep him waiting," Caradur said. He led the way into the dining room, where a feast was spread out on a long table. The chef had prepared elven dishes as well as dishes that were as close to Japanese food as he could manage with local ingredients, and everyone's eyes lit up as Ryuu's stomach gave a huge rumble.

"Maybe twelve helpings," Ryuu said very quietly, and Satoshi had to bite his lip to keep from laughing.

Vale did laugh, his eyes sparkling, and Hikaru let out a small cry of excitement, his bright eyes fastening on Willow.

"Ra!" Hikaru giggled, and repeated himself. "Ra!"

"Yes, utinuamin, that's your atara," Vale agreed. "Doesn't she look especially beautiful tonight?"

Willow's eyes went wide as Hikaru patted Vale's cheek in delight. "Oh, sweets, his first word," she breathed, her face bright with love for her youngest. Beside her, Satoshi gave her a hug, remembering that she had the exact same reaction when Ryuu had called her mama for the first time.

Everyone took seats around the table, Dae hovering over Ryuu and making sure to fill his plate with all his favorite things, and Maela did the same for Aika, who insisted that Maela sit beside her. Vale held Hikaru, feeding the cheerful little half-elf all manner of tastes of things, while managing to do justice to his own meal. Deasar had remembered Vale's favorites as well, and Vale ate better than he had in a long time, which made Yuji's heart soar anew.

As they were eating, Caradur reached out his arms for Hikaru, and the little half-elf went to him with a happy giggle. Caradur cradled his great-nephew on his lap, his face radiant with happiness, and he looked over at Kansas.

"It occurs to me that you might wish to visit a particular merchant tomorrow. I will be glad to take you. He has all manner of artist's supplies, and perhaps there might be something there that will please you," Caradur offered. "If nothing else, it is always pleasant to wander around the market and see what is being offered."

"Oh, 'lokiamin, we should all go," Erion enthused. "I'll make sure you get some rest tonight, I promise."

Kansas nodded, his eyes almost back to their usual color. "I have been looking for some new colors." He smiled back at Caradur a little shyly. "Thank you. I'd like that."

Everyone began to talk about the market, and what kind of things they might find there. Ryuu was slightly disappointed to find out there were no dragons there, but he cheered up when Dae mentioned a magical show. It was the kind of meal they had not had in a while, and for the moment, all dark things were put aside and everyone just relaxed and enjoyed the evening.

Elven translation:

Aniel, love of my life, my beautiful wife. I love you, my light. Soon, soon I will join you, my love.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand had been reading a tome from Caradur's library, a rare treatise on the nature of elementals, when the very hells seemed to break loose in the general direction of the room Kansas and Erion had appropriated. Sand put the tome down and hastened down the hall, slipping into the room entirely unnoticed, in time to see a chair sail through the large balcony window. Sand muttered a fast spell to confine the glass to the balcony, fearing that Willow or the children might be injured if they were in the garden below, and then he settled against a wall to watch, ready to intervene if it was necessary.

Erion fled onto the balcony, trying his best to keep distance between himself and Kansas, and Sand realized that Kansas did not recognize Erion at all in his fury. The moon elf readied a spell of holding, fully prepared to immobilize Kansas if it came to that, since Sand knew full well that Erion would not defend himself. Erion did not dare. Santhiel had trained his eldest son as harshly as he trained his Vale Guards, elves already past their majority, and Erion was more than a match for most of the younger Guards, even unarmed.

The sight of Erion sliding down against the balcony railing seemed to snap Kansas out of his blind rage, and Sand watched as Kansas hurried to console Erion. Sand listened as Kansas and Erion talked, and he felt the rage building in his own belly, a desire to find this Taka and rend him darkening Sand's eyes. With the strong will that made him such a deadly battlemage, Sand forced the rage into a small mental compartment and focused on the youngsters, both of them completely unaware of the blood dripping from Erion's foot.

As Kansas lifted Erion's face to kiss his betrothed with great tenderness, Sand stepped forward into the room, his eyes once again a clear blue.

"Either that chair was unforgivably rude, or you have discovered a new form of foreplay that is somewhat harder on the furnishings than is practical." Sand arched an elegant eyebrow at the two young men. "The blood loss alone would make it unpleasant."

Kansas looked startled, his eyes wide and pale, and Erion looked down at the small pool of blood under his foot.

"Am I bleeding?" Erion asked, lifting up his foot to look at the jagged piece of glass buried in the ball of his foot.

"Do not touch that," Sand snapped as Erion's hand shot up to pull the glass out. "Sometimes I do believe that Hikaru has more sense than you, aier. If you pull it out, the wound will bleed even more, and I would like to at least procure a healing potion rather than have to resort to sending for the clerics to deal with you. I am quite sure Santhiel covered basic wound care in his relentless training, so you should not be quite so surprised."

Sand addressed most of his comments to Erion, but despite his sharp words, his bond with Kansas radiated nothing but love and warmth, and Sand's eyes were full of his love for his nephew. Erion blushed at the reminder of his father's diligent training, and he let his hand fall away. Kansas stroked Erion's hair, giving Sand a glare, and Sand suppressed a smile, satisfied that he had deflected any residual anger to himself rather than Erion.

"Do not move," Sand warned, and went to the door, several anxious servants hovering nearby. "Would you be so kind as to fetch a minor healing potion, two clean cloths and a bottle of Saerloonian Glowfire?" Sand smiled warmly at the servants. "A minor mishap, and one which shall be remedied with all due haste." Sand closed the door gently and went to the bathroom to draw a basin of warm water, listening to Erion and Kansas once again.

"It really hurts, 'lokiamin. I didn't even feel it until Sand said something." Erion leaned into Kansas, looking for the comfort of touch, his heart hurting far worse than his foot.

Sand set the basin down, and looked at Kansas. "Please bring the chair back in from the balcony." Sand lifted Erion with surprising ease, and carried his nephew in to the room, settling him on the edge of the bed and placing a washing stool covered with a towel under Erion's foot. "Now, if you would sit with Erion, I will tidy things up a bit."

Sand murmured a cantrip, and the shards of glass and puddle of blood vanished. Another cantrip, and the balcony window was once again filled with glass, and the shredded curtains were whole.

"How much did you hear?" Kansas asked, his chin lifted stubbornly as he looked at Sand.

"Enough to understand why you flew into such a rage, and I will deny hearing anything should Kageoshi ask," Sand replied, his elegant eyebrow arching again. "Your love for your friend excuses much, Kansas, and I cannot say that I would not have done the same. I will assure you that Vale would have done far worse." Sand reached out to stroke Kansas's cheek, his love for the young man flowing outward.

A servant came in with the potion, cloths and wine, and Sand thanked him graciously. Sand unstopped the potion and handed it to Erion.

"The moment I remove the glass, I will press on your foot with a clean cloth and you must drink the potion at once," Sand instructed. "The glass is quite deep, and I fear this will be uncomfortable. Kansas, will you hold Erion quite still for me?"

Kansas wrapped his arms around Erion, pressing a kiss to his silvery hair and flooding Erion with love and comfort as Sand took a deep breath and then swiftly plucked the glass out of Erion's foot. Erion hissed a little, and turned pale, but he drank the potion immediately as Sand applied pressure to the wound until the potion had taken effect. Sand used the second cloth to wash away the blood and smiled at the youngsters.

"I recommend a nice long cuddle and a glass of this wine," Sand said gently, kissing them both on the forehead. He took the soiled cloths and the basin and left as quietly as he had come, pleased to see Kansas helping Erion get settled against the pillows and then snuggling up with his little elf.

XXX

Dae closed the front door gently, looking at the two parchment scrolls, and he sighed just a little. Ryuu looked up at him in concern.

"What's wrong, Dae?" Ryuu asked.

Dae smiled gently. "It's not so much that anything is wrong. I simply hope that it is right. These letters are for my Lord Caradur and my Lord Yuji. Shall we deliver them?"

Ryuu nodded, very serious. "I can give gifu his letter."

Dae handed the scroll addressed to Yuji to Ryuu, and they walked to Caradur's study first to deliver his letter. Then Dae walked upstairs with Ryuu, and Ryuu carefully opened the door to Yuji and Vale's room since it was quiet.

Vale was resting, his eyes open but unfocused, and Yuji was seated on the bed beside Vale, stroking Vale's golden hair. Yuji looked up and smiled at Ryuu, holding out his arms, and Ryuu scrambled up onto the bed and crawled into Yuji's lap for a quick cuddle.

"You have a letter, gifu," Ryuu said, handing Yuji the scroll with great seriousness.

"Thank you, my dragon," Yuji replied, hugging Ryuu and kissing his soft hair.

The scroll was in espruar, and Yuji looked at Dae with a wry smile. "Now I know how Vale felt when all he saw was kanji," Yuji chuckled.

"May I assist, my Lord?" Dae asked, bowing respectfully.

"When it's just you and Caradur, what do you call him?" Yuji asked.

Dae looked briefly nonplussed, and then smiled. "When it is just the two of us, we call each other by name," Dae admitted.

"I'd like it if you'd do that with me," Yuji requested. "I know that as the head of a House, that's my title, but I'm not used to it, and I feel like I'm pretending to be something I'm not."

"As you wish, then, Yuji," Dae said with his sweet smile. "I would be happy to translate the letter, if you like."

Yuji nodded and handed the scroll to Dae, who looked it over quickly and then began to read.

" 'To the most honored Yuji, Lord Hayashi, our kin from our cherished sister land of Evereska, our greetings. As was called for by the charges leveled against Kidriel, priestess currently in the service of Corellon Larethian, First of the Seldarine, our mages did question Kidriel under a truth spell, and found the charges against her to be worthy. The justicars were witness to the questioning, and Kidriel has been judged guilty of intent to commit kinslaying, and of intentionally causing harm to one of our People, your own husband and lifemate, Vale en Nosse Hayashi, noste a' Anorongil.' " Dae paused for a moment, taking a quick look at Yuji's face.

" 'As has been our law since before we came to these lands, there can be only one sentence. Kidriel will be executed in the forecourt of the Hall of the Justicars in our city of Leuthilspar. We offer to you, our cousin, the right of serving as executioner if this is your desire. Should you wish to decline, we shall offer this right to Caradur, Lord Anorongil, as blood kin to your husband,' " Dae read. " 'We offer you our most profound regrets that such cruelty and malice was visited against your good husband, and we grieve that justice was not delivered sooner. May the Seldarine bless you and guide your steps.' " Dae looked up at Yuji. "It is signed by the hand of Queen Amlauril Moonflower herself."

Dae rolled up the scroll and handed it back to Yuji. "My Lord is in his study, and the Queen's messenger awaits a response."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Caradur opened the door to his house, his face wreathed in a bright smile as he heard the merry laughter from the pool ringing out. He held the door wide so that Yuji could walk in easily, Vale still in his arms and nestled close. Willow heard them come in, and she walked out into the foyer with Hikaru in her arms. The little half-elf let out a happy shriek as soon as he saw his fathers, and Vale's head lifted off Yuji's shoulder, his smile radiant.

"Can you stand?" Yuji asked with tender concern.

Vale nodded. "I think so, at least long enough to hug our wife." Vale held out his arms, and with a small sob, Willow launched herself into his embrace, kissing him with great passion. Vale wrapped his arms around Willow and Hikaru both, returning the kiss with equal passion as Hikaru nuzzled Vale's hair.

"Oh, sweets, it's so good to have you back to your normal self," Willow murmured, her eyes damp as she hugged Vale tightly. "I love you so much."

"And I love you endlessly, lirimaer," Vale said, his eyes sparkling. He breathed in the spicy scent of Willow's favorite shampoo, and then turned his head to nuzzle Hikaru. "Hello, my sweet sochi-chan."

When Willow released Vale, he reached for Yuji, still feeling a little unsteady. "Can we walk to the pool? I want to see Ryuu and Aika."

Yuji's smile was as radiant as Vale's. "Of course, my love." He slipped his arm around Vale's waist and they walked to the pool, and Yuji was delighted to see Vale's eyes nearly back to their usual emerald green.

"Keifu!" Ryuu waved brightly, swimming over to the steps and hurrying over to Vale, Dae in close attendance. Vale knelt to hug his small dragon, laughing happily as Aika scrambled out to throw herself on him as well with a shriek of, "Tousan!"

Ryuu hugged Vale tightly, smoothing Vale's hair with one wet little hand. The Ryuu let go and stepped back, looking up at Caradur with approval. "You helped fix my keifu's heart. Thank you." He held out his hand in a very grown-up manner, and Caradur took Ryuu's hand and clasped it as he would an elven warrior, making Ryuu beam happily.

"Go swim, my little fishes," Vale laughed. "I need to rest a bit and change, but I'll be down for dinner." He kissed Ryuu and Aika, and then let Yuji help him up.

"There is plenty of time for you to rest, my nephew," Caradur said, reaching out to stroke Vale's hair tenderly.

Vale's eyes widened a little, and he smiled at Caradur. "I remember you doing that when I was a very small elfling, and came to swim in your pool." Yuji could feel the joy surging up in Vale's heart, as he turned to look at the gentle elven servant watching Ryuu. "Dae used to hover over me exactly like that."

"You never needed much watching, tura'nessa, young Master," Dae said with his sweet smile. "You were always a joy to us. You gave me this name, do you remember?"

"Because you said I was as bright as the sun, and I said you were my faithful shadow," Vale laughed. "I do remember."

Yuji watched Vale with so much joy that he felt like his heart could almost burst. This was his perfect Vale, his beloved elf, whole once again and full of endless love. Vale turned to Yuji, his brilliant emerald eyes sparkling.

"Let's go rest, a'maelamin. I want to nap in your arms." Vale leaned in and kissed Yuji with such deep love that Yuji was breathless when they broke apart.

When they got to the top of the stairs, a slightly disheveled pair of youngsters was waiting, eyes brimming with tears of happiness. Kansas moved first, grabbing Vale and hugging him tightly as he sobbed into Vale's shoulder.

"You're back, really back," Kansas moaned, hugging Vale as hard as he dared.

"I'll never leave you, alasse'amin," Vale said, his joy rolling off him in waves. "I love you, Kansas."

Erion flung himself into the embrace. "Uncle Vale," the young elf said, nuzzling in and managing to hug Vale and stroke Kansas at the same time.

"I love you, too, aier," Vale laughed, and he held the youngsters for a long moment, until Sand and Satoshi came out of their room.

"Anoramin," Sand breathed, and Vale went to Sand and kissed him fervently.

"Hello, ithilamin," Vale murmured, with a sweet and crooked grin. "Lost and found again, eh?"

"Let's try not to lose you again, shall we?" Sand replied, and his blue eyes were bright with tears as he stroked Vale's cheek.

Vale turned to Satoshi, holding out his arms. "Mela en' coiamin, my sweet Satoshi, how I love you. I couldn't have lasted without your help."

Satoshi fell into Vale's arms with a sob of pure joy. "After all you've done for me, I was glad to be there for you." He kissed Vale with sweet passion. "I love you."

Vale turned back to Yuji, exhausted but radiant, and Yuji led him into their room. The bed had been freshly made, the covers turned down invitingly, and the curtains were drawn so that the room was cool and dim. Yuji helped Vale out of his finery, and then he removed his own gorgeous hakama, folding it with careful reverence before putting it away with his kimono and haori and obi. Yuji slid into bed beside his beloved elf, both of them naked and Vale moaned with pure joy as he pressed himself against Yuji, stroking his husband's golden skin.

"I love this, Yuji, feeling us touching like this," Vale murmured, pressing a few soft kisses to Yuji's shoulder and neck. "I want more, but I'm so exhausted. I think I might even sleep."

"Not reverie?" Yuji asked, trailing kisses along Vale's jaw and down his throat. "I thought elves didn't sleep."

"We can sleep," Vale said, snuggling closer. "Sora does it. When I'm this tired, sleep feels better than reverie." Vale sighed happily and closed his eyes, breathing in the comforting scent of Yuji's soap and shampoo, and Yuji's own personal scent, a spicy, delicious fragrance that made Vale shiver a little with sheer pleasure.

It only took a few short minutes before Vale was asleep, and Yuji let himself fall asleep as well, a deep and refreshing slumber, their bond wide open between them.

XXX

Erion dragged Kansas back into their room, and headed out to the balcony to smoke a cigarette. Kansas flipped through his sketchbook, frowning as he looked through the rough sketches of the posse. Erion was torn, remembering how Kansas had mentioned that he was missing some huge piece of the puzzle. Erion knew exactly what was missing, but he was struggling with whether or not he should tell Kansas what he knew. Erion hated keeping a secret from his betrothed, but this was Kageoshi's secret, not Erion's, and the young elf could not help but feel like it would be the worst sort of betrayal to reveal it to Kansas.

Erion stubbed out his cigarette and went back into the room, opening the door and stopping a passing servant.

"I'd like some wine, please," Erion asked politely. "Berdruskan Dark, if that's possible. If not, maybe some quefirre or even talkana."

The servant looked mildly surprised, but nodded and disappeared. Erion wandered back inside, rubbing his hands along Kansas's back tenderly. Erion was shocked when Kansas shook him off irritably.

"Fuck, Erion," Kansas growled. "I'm trying to think."

"I'm sorry, 'lokiamin," Erion said contritely. He ran his hands through his silvery hair, restless and uneasy. Whatever it was that Kansas was seeing was just as disturbing to Erion, and he loathed feeling helpless and unable to fill in the blanks for Kansas.

Erion wandered back into the hall, and waited for the servant, who returned quickly, beaming as he presented Erion with a bottle and two goblets.

"Thank you," Erion said with a sweet smile, and he went back into his room and out onto the balcony, lighting another cigarette and looking at the bottle. The servant had found the Berdruskan Dark he had asked for, and Erion filled a goblet with the potent wine and tossed it back casually. He refilled his goblet and sipped the second drink, staring out blankly at the sky, his thoughts a jumble.

XXX

Sand looked at Satoshi, a gleam in his blue eyes. "Do you know what I would like to do, saiai? I would like to join our dragon in the pool."

Satoshi looked at Sand, and a beautiful smile lit his face. "What a perfect idea. You don't think anyone will laugh at me if I practice a bit, do you?"

"Of course not, cormamin," Sand said, stealing a nibbling kiss from Satoshi, his tongue teasing across Satoshi's lower lip.

They grabbed towels and hurried down to the pool, both men leaving their boxers on in deference to Aika. Ryuu was delighted to see his fathers, and screamed with joy when Satoshi walked down the steps into the pool, stopping when the water was nearly to his nipples.

"I have an idea, saiai." Sand lay back and let himself float, and gestured for Satoshi to lean across him a little. "Let yourself relax, and let your legs come up behind you, and then scissor them. You will not fall, as long as you hold on to me."

Satoshi's eyes grew wide, but he leaned over Sand's flat stomach, the faint web of scars silvery against Sand's pale skin. Satoshi let his legs come up, and he began to kick, hesitantly at first, and then with more vigor as he propelled himself across the pool.

Ryuu screamed with laughter, and begged Dae to do the same thing for him, and Dae complied with a happy laugh, and Satoshi and Ryuu decided to race across the pool on their elven floats. Aika watched them with huge eyes, deciding that they were impossibly silly, and Maela agreed. Maela and Aika did cheer quite vigorously, though, and Aika shrieked even louder than Ryuu when Ryuu won the race.

Satoshi practiced swimming on his own a bit, Sand always at his side and ready to catch Satoshi if he needed to, but the pool proved easier than the Pond for Satoshi, and he managed to get a decent distance without Sand's aid. Ryuu cheered his chichi on, being very grown up and not cannon-balling into the pool until Satoshi declared he had done enough practicing.

Sand and Satoshi curled up on a ledge in the shallow end, Sand's arm wrapped around his beloved husband as they watched Ryuu practice being a dolphin, or even a sea dragon. Dae's energy seemed inexhaustible, and Ryuu clearly adored his new playmate. Satoshi moved closer to Sand, feeling more relaxed and content than he had in a long time, his fingers dancing along Sand's arm as he watched Ryuu play.

XXX

Yuji woke, Vale still curled up against him, his emerald eyes closed as he slept. Through their bond, Yuji felt the sweet calm and boundless love that Vale had for him, and he returned that love endlessly as he watch his elf sleep like a golden angel. Through the curtains, Yuji could see the late afternoon sunlight, and he wondered how long he had actually slept. Yuji felt curiously refreshed, though, and thoroughly restored after the emotional roller coaster of the healing. Yuji decided he needed to ask Caradur if there was a way he could thank Nenian and Malana for what they had done for Vale.

Vale stirred a little, and Yuji looked at him tenderly, tracing the fine line of Vale's jaw with a long finger. Vale's chin lifted, and Yuji could see the wonderfully dark mark underneath, at his pulse point, an dhs finger traveled down to stroke that as well. That got a sweet little moan from Vale, and Vale's eyes fluttered open, a beautiful smile curving his lips.

Yuji leaned in and kissed Vale, those plump lips falling open to allow Yuji to plunder Vale's mouth as Vale's arms slid around Yuji's neck. Vale pressed his body against Yuji with a wriggle, grinding his cock against Yuji's cock, both of them hardening almost immediately at the contact. Vale moaned into the kiss, his slim fingers finding Yuji's ears and stroking the edge of the shell, and it was Yuji's turn to moan as his cock jumped from the sensation.

Yuji's lips traveled down until he was nipping at the tender flesh under Vale's jaw, working the silky skin and darkening the mark that Vale so loved to flaunt, Yuji's claim on his sweet elf. Vale arched, grinding against Yuji insistently, one long leg lifting to wrap around Yuji's hip, and Yuji let his hand slide down the curve of Vale's back and over the tender globe of his ass to tease at the tight little pucker. Vale howled a little, the sound pure music to Yuji's ears, and Vale pressed back against Yuji's finger, eager to be breached. Yuji's other hand toyed with the gold and pearl ring in Vale's nipple, and Vale howled again, wanton and utterly beautiful as he writhed against Yuji.

"Please, a'maelamin, just take me," Vale pleaded, his eyes hot with desire, and Yuji groaned, unable to resist any longer.

Yuji flipped Vale over, lifting his slim hips to bring Vale's knees underneath him, the sweet ass perfectly presented. Yuji gripped one pale globe in each hand firmly, spreading them to reveal the twitching pucker as Vale arched his back sinuously. Yuji knelt behind Vale, his cock aching to be buried in that tight little ass, precum dribbling from the slit as Yuji spat into his hand. Yuji smeared the precum and spit across the head of his cock, and pressed it against Vale's ass, and Vale moaned in anticipation, giving Yuji a smoldering look over his shoulder.

Yuji gripped Vale's hips tightly, and pressed the head of his cock past the tight ring, and Vale howled with pleasure as he was breached, trying to buck his hips backward to take more of Yuji's cock into his ass. Yuji chuckled and held Vale fast, not letting the elf move, and Vale responded with a wanton little wriggle, his golden mane sliding over his shoulders.

Yuji pressed forward, feeling the lube-slick ass surround his cock with incredible heat and tightness, and Yuji moaned as Vale howled again, pleasure pouring through his bond with Yuji. Vale tried again to buck backwards, whining a little as Yuji held him firmly. Yuji took pity on the squirming elf, and he pressed forward, burying his cock to the balls in the maddening heat of Vale's ass with a howl of his own.

Vale shrieked in ecstasy as he was breached fully, his ass filled with Yuji's thick cock, and Vale's back arched in pleasure as precum ran freely from his own aching cock. Yuji gave Vale a moment to adjust, and then he withdrew almost all the way, and slammed back in, hammering Vale's prostate and making Vale scream again. Yuji set up a vigorous pace, pounding Vale's ass and reddening the pale skin as Vale howled in delight, bucking back against Yuji's thrusts and impaling himself happily on Yuji's thick cock.

Yuji reached around and wrapped his long fingers around Vale's cock, stroking in time with his increasingly ragged thrusts. Vale screamed again, his ass tightening reflexively as his balls began to draw up, and Yuji's howl rang in Vale's ears as Yuji leaned forward to bite Vale's shoulder. That was all the elf could stand, and he came explosively, a stream of cum splattering the bed covers beneath him as his ass molded itself around Yuji's cock almost painfully tight.

Yuji howled again as his own balls emptied, and he filled Vale's hot ass with spurt after spurt of cum, the elf's scream of pleasure the most beautiful sound imaginable to Yuji. Yuji shivered as he was milked dry by that sweet ass, and he sank down onto Vale's back as the elf slowly sank down onto the bed, shuddering happily with the last waves of his orgasm.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Malana took up her position behind Nenian's shoulder, and laid her slim hand on the old elf's shoulder again, her eyes focusing on Vale.

"Good girl," Nenian murmured. "Now, let's see what's in here." His eyes narrowed in concentration. "What a mess this is. He broke the wall himself. Strong child, this one, very strong. Do you see that, my girl?"

"I do," Malana murmured, the faintest line creasing her smooth forehead. "Those are construct memories, totally false, and so bitter. Why so bitter?"

"Good question. Let's find out." Nenian hummed a little, and then hissed. "Well, bugger a balor, what's this, then?"

Yuji thought his heart would stop when Nenian hissed, and Caradur laid a hand on Yuji's arm.

"This one's real enough," Nenian murmured. "The whole night like that? It's a wonder the child wasn't barking mad after that."

"Look, there," Malana said. "That's... oh, Seldarine, is that what I think it is?" Her beautiful face paled slightly.

"Nasty business, this," Nenian growled. "Lend me your strength, girl. What a fucking mess."

Malana stiffened briefly, and then let out a slow breath as Nenian frowned. He clicked his tongue abstractedly, and his slim fingers pressed on Vale's temples firmly. Caradur took Yuji's hand and held it tightly, nearly as anxious as Yuji as they watched.

"There we go," Nenian said, sounding satisfied. "Fucking barbarian amateur. It's like opening wine with a warhammer."

Malana cleared her throat gently. "May I look?"

"By all means, girl. You can see what I did?" Nenian sounded pleased.

"Yes, I can, and nicely done as always," Malana replied. "We need to do something about that one, though."

"Oh, we will," Nenian said grimly. "Left her mark everywhere, and covered her tracks like an oliphaunt marching through the Queen's fucking roses."

Malana nodded slowly. "I can do the rest of this, Nenian. You need to deal with the bitch."

Nenian nodded, and Malana moved to the side of the reverie couch, her hands covering Nenian's hands. As Nenian pulled his hands away from Vale's face, Malana's hands replaced his, her touch deft and gentle.

Nenian looked over at Yuji and Caradur. "Give me a moment, and I'll explain." He crossed to the door and opened it, murmuring in elven.

Caradur looked at Yuji, his blue eyes wide. "Nenian is sending for the temple guard and the justicars," he translated. "Does this mean he knows who did this, or is he searching for evidence?"

Nenian returned, smiling that innocent smile again. "Ready to kill me yet?"

Yuji just growled a little, his eyes returning to Vale.

"Vale is going to be fine," Nenian said calmly. "The one who did this to him? No such assurances. Bear with me, because I'm too bloody old to say this all twice, so we'll wait for all the proper parties to show up." He looked over at Malana. "Any problems?"

Malana never took her eyes off Vale. "Just dealing with the false memories, and getting rid of the last remnants of that wall. I'm nearly finished."

Nenian nodded. "I'll check when you're done, before I bring him up a bit."

The temple guard arrived first, and Nenian scribbled a few words on a slip of parchment and handed it to them. The guards read it, their eyes widening slightly, but they nodded and left. The justicars came in shortly after the temple guard left.

"Eldest?" one justicar asked. He looked at his two companions.

"The temple guard is fetching your subject as we speak." Nenian offered up his beautiful childlike smile. "The victim is, of course, the patient on my reverie couch. I'd rather let him remain in reverie for this." It was more of a command than a request, and the justicars actually bowed slightly.

Caradur looked at Yuji and pressed his hand reassuringly. For his part, Yuji found himself eager to see the face of the person who had so hurt his beloved Vale. Yuji wondered if he would be able to restrain himself, and when he looked over at Caradur, he could see the same struggle in the older elf's eyes.

Malana remained utterly focused on Vale for the moment, her fingers rubbing small circles against Vale's temples. She looked perfectly serene as she worked, oblivious to the justicars behind her. She did not even respond when the temple guard returned, a sun elf woman gripped between them.

"What is the meaning of this?" the woman demanded, her eyes flashing. "I was at my devotions when these two seized me!"

"You are Kidriel, once priestess of Hanali Celanil?" Nenian asked, his eyes cold. He suddenly looked nothing like a mischievous child.

"You know I am!" Kidriel tossed her head defiantly.

"Then I charge you with intended kinslaying." Nenian let the power of his goddess flow through him, suddenly appearing larger and quite a bit more dangerous. "This elf here was brought to you when he was still an elfling, traumatized by violence and death, and you were charged with healing him. Instead, you sought to hide the fact that you permitted him access to the aina'melarim when he was still an elfling. You tore apart his memories, you burdened him with false memories, you buried all that was good and bright behind a wall, and if that wasn't enough, you laid a clever little trap. If he tried to reach those buried memories, if he broke your deliberately flimsy wall, he would fade."

Yuji fought to remain calm as he listened to the charges, spoken in English for his benefit. Caradur had thrown an arm around Yuji, more to restrain himself from leaping at the priestess, his blue eyes pure flames. Nenian turned to look at them.

"Before this elf's blood kin, and before his lifemate, I call for justice." Nenian beckoned to Yuji and Caradur. "Add your voices to mine."

Caradur spoke first, so that Yuji would know what he needed to say. "I am Caradur, Lord Anorongil, and this elf is my nephew. I call for justice by right of the blood we share."

Yuji stood tall and proud. "I am Yuji, Lord Hayashi, and this elf is my husband and lifemate. I call for justice by right of the bond we share."

"Then let the priestess Kidriel be questioned, and the truth known." The justicars bowed, and gestured for the temple guard to bring their prisoner.

"Fools!" Kidriel spat as they dragged her away. "I'll still win!"

Caradur and Yuji embraced, both men trembling with the emotion of the moment.

"What happens now?" Yuji asked.

It was Caradur who answered, his tone weary. "She will be questioned by the Queen's mages, who will place her under a truth geas. If the accusations are correct, and I have no doubt that they are, she will be sentenced as a kinslayer. There is only one penalty, and that is death." Caradur looked at Yuji. "It is likely that you will be offered the chance to carry out the execution yourself. It is traditional to behead the guilty party."

"I'm more than willing to behead that bitch," Yuji growled, looking at Vale as Malana worked on him.

Caradur nodded. "If you do not have a sword of your own, I will be pleased to offer you my personal sword."

Nenian had moved over to Vale's side again, and Malana let him take over for a moment as he checked her work. Nenian nodded and Malana smiled.

"Nenian will be bringing Vale out of the forced reverie now," Malana informed Yuji, who turned around, trembling a little.

"Can I go to him?" Yuji asked.

"Of course," Malana said with her sweet smile.

Yuji hurried over to Vale's side, lifting Vale's hand and looking at his beautiful, serene face. Vale's chest rose and fell with the slow, even breathing of deep reverie, and his fingers were warm in Yuji's hand.

Nenian frowned a little. "What's this, then?" His tone turned urgent. "Girl, I need you, now!"

Malana hurried over to place her hand on Nenian's shoulder, and her eyes widened. "How did we miss that?"

"Evil fucking bitch," Nenian growled. "Almost... almost... got it!" He looked up at Yuji. "If you have any way of reaching him, through your bond or otherwise, do it now!"

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

"I'm so afraid, Yuji." Vale reached out and touched Yuji's cheek very gently, his hand trembling. "I trust Ardiel, and I know she won't knowingly let me be hurt, but the priests, my love. One priest. It was just one priest." Vale drew a shuddering breath. "I don't want to think about it, but I keep picking at those tatters of memory, trying to make sense of it all."

"Don't try, my angel," Yuji murmured, his hands around Vale's slim waist. Vale leaned his head forward so that his forehead rested against Yuji's forehead.

"You really mean it," Vale said very softly. "I can feel the truth of it. Do you know that I love you as much? There aren't words, you're right, but can you feel it, even through everything else?"

"I've never doubted it, not for a second, my precious Vale." Yuji gave Vale a last chaste kiss. "Now let's go and see the healers."

All along the way to the temple, they were greeted with deep and respectful bows, and Caradur inclined his head regally, Yuji following his example. Once there, Ardiel led Vale, Yuji and Caradur down a hall and into a spacious room. There was a comfortable reverie couch and a beautifully inlaid wood table with some flasks, a basin, and a pile of snowy linen cloths. A wide, well cushioned couch was positioned to allow for a good view of the reverie couch. The back of the room had a workbench that looked a great deal like Sand's alchemical bench, and Yuji looked at Ardiel quizzically.

"Our high priest,Nenian, the Eldest among us, will be doing the actual healing. This is his private healing chamber. He's also very accomplished at making potions, and that's his workbench," Ardiel explained.

Vale gave a wan grin. "I wonder if they taste as bad as Sand's potions."

Yuji's breath hitched a little at Vale's small attempt at humor. He could feel the fear rolling off Vale in waves, and Vale's hand was clammy when Yuji grasped it firmly, and yet his beloved elf was trying to make jokes.

Ardiel looked at her brother oddly before continuing. "Yuji, you and Uncle Caradur can sit on the couch, and you'll be able to see and hear everything. Vale, you need to be on the reverie couch, lying down. Let's take off your coat and your belt and tunic so you'll be comfortable."

Vale let Ardiel take off his embroidered coat, and he fumbled with his belt of woven gold cords until Yuji gently moved Vale's nerveless fingers away and removed the belt. Yuji opened the gold clasp at Vale's throat, and eased the elegant tunic off, smoothing Vale's hair with a tender smile. Vale looked at Yuji, his eyes pale.

"Yuji, if something happens, if I don't seem to be responding, use this." Vale's fingers traced lightly over his collar, dancing along the circle of emeralds. "I will always hear you, but I might not be able to respond. Akira can. He's not bound by what the priest did to me. Don't ask me how I know this, but I do. It won't violate our contract."

Yuji's eyes filled with tears, and he was unable to speak for a moment. When he had regained his voice, he said softly, "It won't come to that, my love. But if it does, I will do whatever it takes to bring you back to me. I promise."

Vale nodded, and for a brief moment the love he had for Yuji utterly eclipsed the pain in his green eyes, making them shine like emeralds. Vale lifted his mouth to Yuji's for a tender kiss, and then he let Yuji ease him back on the reverie couch, his gold and pearl nipple rings gleaming against his pale golden skin.

"I have to leave, toror'ai. I won't be far, and Yuji and Uncle Caradur won't leave you." Ardiel looked into Vale's eyes, so like her own. "Trust Nenian, and his apprentice Malana. I love you, Vale, and I will see you when you are healed." Ardiel pressed a kiss to Vale's forehead, her golden hair spilling forward and blending with Vale's gold and emerald hair, and then she left quietly, closing the door behind her.

Vale turned his head, looking over at Yuji and Caradur, managing a small smile. The door opened, and his head whipped around to see who was entering.

A slight and grey haired moon elf walked in, dressed in the blue robes of Sehanine Moonbow. His blue eyes were slightly faded with age, but kind and wise, and his smile was the gentle, innocent smile of a child. A young sun elf followed him, also in Sehanine's robes, her thick hair plaited and hanging past her hips.

"Hello, child. I am Nenian, Eldest of this temple of the Seldarine. This is Malana, my chosen apprentice." The moon elf walked up to Vale, and laid a slim hand on his cheek. "You look like the Hells, child. Let's see what we can do about that, hm?"

"I look like the Hells?" Vale asked, somewhat startled. "Is this something new in healing? Insult the patient?"

"Nonsense," Nenian retorted. "If I was going to insult you, child, I'd have told you that you looked like something that was dragged out of the Abyss." He arched a greying eyebrow at Vale. "Now that we've gotten the pleasantries out of the way, let's see what the barbarians did to you."

Malana laid a hand on Nenian's shoulder as Nenian put both his hands on either side of Vale's face. As Nenian looked down at Vale, Malana turned to Yuji and Caradur.

"Nenian will place Vale in forced reverie, for Vale's own protection," Malana explained, speaking in English so that Yuji could understand her. "In this reverie, Vale will be unable to move. If Nenian trips a painful memory, or worse, Vale will not be able to harm himself."

"Harm himself?" Yuji asked, sitting forward. His hand was clenched on the arm of the couch so tightly that his knuckles shone white through the skin.

Malana looked at him with gentle sympathy. "We have seen a great many things, my master and I. There are many compulsions that can be placed deep in the mind, and the victim is helpless to stop themselves from carrying out the demands."

"What happens to them? These patients?" Yuji's voice was rough with anxiety as he watched Vale fall deeper and deeper into reverie, the lines of stress and pain fading away and leaving his beautiful face smooth and peaceful.

Nenian answered. "We cure them." He looked up, his faded blue eyes bright. "I only work on patients like this child here, patients that were deliberately damaged. I'm the best at this, and I've only lost one patient in over nine hundred years, so I'd say I know what I'm doing."

"Now would be the best time for any questions," Malana added. "Please ask anything that is on your mind."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Caradur took Yuji's hand and clasped it warmly. "I would like to know more, and to understand better this way of loving. But that can wait until we have seen Vale properly healed, and we have seen justice delivered to those who harmed him." Caradur's eyes were kind. "And I thank you for understanding that I needed to be the one to bring justice to my son. It is not an easy thing, but it was what as needed."

Caradur sent one of his servants to bring Ardiel from the temple, and he and Yuji went into the main hall where the rest of the family was, and where Vale waited. Caradur noticed one of his most trusted servants, Dae, hovering near Ryuu, and he smiled a little.

"I thank you all for your patience," Caradur said, his warm voice carrying easily through the room. "I have sent for Ardiel, Vale's sister and a priestess of Corellon here in Drelagara. Until she arrives, it would please me for you to make yourselves at home. If there is anything you require, I know my servants will be happy to assist. They are largely bored with only one elderly elf to care for, and why they stay is quite beyond me, although I love them all dearly."

"You are family, my Lord," Dae said. "Why would we leave?" The gentle elf moved closer to Ryuu, and offered him a wet scented cloth to wipe his fingers as he took the empty plate from Ryuu.

"Will you do me the honor of staying here while you are in Drelagara? I have more than enough room, and I would be happy for the company." Caradur looked at Yuji, who turned to Vale.

"What do you want to do, my love?" Yuji asked, stroking one pale cheek.

Vale looked into Yuji's perfect eyes, bolstered by the endless love of his husband, and then he turned to Caradur. "Thank you, Uncle. My memories of you were all wrong, it seems. I always thought you disliked me."

"Oh, Vale, never," Caradur replied, his eyes filling with tears. "You have been robbed of so much, and I am so very sorry that I did not know before now."

The last of Vale's careful facade fell away, and he swayed into Yuji's arms, trembling. "Then I am home?"

Yuji eased Vale onto a couch and sat beside him, holding him tightly as Caradur sank down on the other side of Vale.

"You are home," Caradur murmured, exchanging a worried look with Yuji.

Ardiel sat back, looking at Vale with a troubled expression. "There is nothing that I can do, at least not alone, toror'ai. But I do know who can help."

Vale looked at his sister, alarmed. "How do we know they can be trusted?" He reached for Yuji's hand and clung tightly to his husband.

"I don't think your sister would ask anyone who wasn't trustworthy, a'maelamin," Yuji said gently, stroking Vale's silky hair.

After being summoned by Caradur, Ardiel had rushed in, homing in on Vale and flinging her arms around her younger brother. Yuji would have recognized her as Vale's sister anywhere. Her hair was the same bright golden color and her eyes the same vivid green, and she moved with the same fluid grace. She had immediately begun to run her hands gently over Vale, her clerical skills as a healer taking the forefront over sisterly concern, and her expression had grown more dismayed as she had proceeded.

"I have a small confession to make," Ardiel said. "I was never happy with how Vale seemed after his healing, and I began to watch, at least at first. Over the years, I began to collect more information. Scribbled notes, interviews with other clerics, all little things that add up to a sum far greater than they should."

Caradur looked at her with keen interest. "And what did you conclude, child?"

"That a great deal is wrong about how Vale was healed. The trouble was that I did not have concrete proof, until now." Ardiel looked at the three men seated in front of her, and then at the rest of the family, clustered around anxiously. "I'm sorry, I've been horribly rude, haven't I?" Her rueful grin was so much like Vale's that Yuji nearly gasped.

Ardiel stood and smoothed her white and blue clerical robes. "I'm Ardiel, Vale's sister. I wish you were here for a happier reason, but I'm so glad to welcome Vale's family. He writes me regularly about all of you, and I feel like I know you all already." She took a deep breath. "But, what's important now is that I do know who we can go to, and if there's anyone here on Evermeet that can help, it's him."

"Who is this person?" Yuji asked, his arm around Vale's shoulders. Vale leaned into Yuji, his eyes a bit paler as he looked at his sister.

"All that matters is that it's another priest," Vale said softly, the fear seeping through his bond.

Yuji turned to press a kiss to Vale's lips tenderly. "And you won't be alone. I promised you I'd stay with you every second."

Ardiel nodded her agreement. "That's entirely appropriate, Yuji... Lord Hayashi." She blushed a little. "I'm sorry, what should I call you?"

Yuji actually chuckled. It was like speaking to a female version of Vale, sweet and slightly ditzy. "Well, since you're my sister in law, I think just Yuji is fine."

Ardiel smiled, relieved. "I'm horrible at protocol outside the temple. Anyway, I'd suggest we get to the temple as quickly as possible. I have no idea how Vale's hung on this long, but we need to correct what's been done to him."

"If you do not mind, I would like to come as well, Lord Hayashi." Caradur looked at Yuji seriously. "I trust I will not offend, but I would be able to translate any conversations in elven."

"Please call me Yuji. I think we both have Vale's best interests at heart, and I'd welcome your help." Yuji looked at the older elf and nodded. "I hadn't considered that possibility, Lord Anorongil."

"Then I am just Caradur, if you will." Caradur smiled encouragingly. "We will see to it that Vale is properly healed this time. I give you my word, even if I must take this matter to the Queen herself."

"I'm sorry," Vale said, his voice very soft. "I'm being so much trouble."

"Don't," Ardiel said quickly. "You've never been trouble, toror'ai. Corellon's grace, Vale, that's always been half the problem with you. You were always obedient and respectful and stayed in the background. It's about time you asked for a little attention."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Caradur bowed to Willow with grave formality, and reached out to touch Hikaru's cheek very gently. "I see much of you in him, my nephew, but I see his mother as well." He smiled at Willow, a surprisingly sweet smile that reminded her for a moment of Vale. "I am more than honored to welcome you to our House, Lady Willow."

Caradur greeted each of Vale's spouses in turn with great courtesy, his eyes widening fractionally when he bowed to Erion. "It is rare that we meet one of the elen'quessir in our lands. I would suggest that you be wary, young cousin. There are some among us whose quest for knowledge robs them of both sense and manners." He saw Kansas stiffen slightly, and he looked into those beautiful grey eyes. "I am not one of those, I assure you, but I am glad you are aware of the potential for misunderstandings."

When Ryuu greeted Caradur, his sweet pure voice ringing out, Caradur bowed to Ryuu with great courtesy. "I am Caradur, and I am very pleased to meet you." He looked at Ryuu most carefully. "I can see the elven in you, but I do believe it is moon elf blood, yes? And if I understand you correctly, I am Vale's uncle. His father was my brother." The sweet smile was back as Caradur spoke to Ryuu, and his blue eyes shone with warmth and genuine affection. "I am very happy that you have come here to see us, and I hope that you will stay here while you are in Drelagara. I have a very nice pool you may like, if you like to swim."

"Maybe after keifu is feeling better," Ryuu said. "You'll help him, too, just like gifu. Vale's heart is very sore."

Caradur took a deep breath as he turned back to Vale. "It is my thought that you walk the path you began so long ago, Vale, a path we sought to dissuade you from, but which seems to be favored by the very Seldarine themselves. This family of yours is unusual, but word travels between the homelands, and Hanali herself blessed your marriages."

"That's a mild term, 'sought to dissuade.' I recall a harsher reality." Vale's voice was firm, and Yuji knew what it was costing his husband to remain so calm.

Caradur looked briefly pained. "There were things which could not be spoken until you had reached your majority. I was not aware that you planned to leave on that very day, or I would have asked you to bide and listen. I ask that you listen now, nephew of mine. Time is no longer my ally, for I approach nine hundred years of age, and I believe that I alone hold some of the answers that you seek." As he spoke, Caradur had escorted them into a large and welcoming room, light-filled and airy, with comfortable seats and low tables with dishes of fruit and skewers of vegetables as well as perfectly grilled fish. There were also nuts and small sweet pastries, along with tea and wine and tui, and chilled fruit juices for the children.

Vale looked at his uncle for a long moment, and then nodded and handed Hikaru to Willow, kissing them both tenderly. "My husband remains with us." It was not a request, and Caradur nodded slowly.

"I believe that is wise, for much of what I will tell you will concern Lord Hayashi as well." Caradur led them into a small private garden, and they sat on marble benches, Vale and Yuji facing Caradur.

"Tell me what was in your heart, that you left your home so abruptly, utinu en' toror'amin, son of my brother." Caradur folded his hands on his lap, as a silent servant appeared with wine for them. They each took a goblet, and the servant left.

Vale took a small sip of the wine, savoring the fine flavor. He set his goblet down carefully on a small table. "There was nothing for me here, my Lord. My indiscretion led to the death of my parents, and my sister's husband made it clear I wasn't welcome in their home."

"You had a home here," Caradur said, his brow furrowing slightly.

"Did I? Morcaunen wouldn't agree with that." Vale's voice was flat, his beautiful face serene. "He made it abundantly clear when I did live here."

Caradur looked pained. "That I did not know, but he played his part in what occurred. In truth, the blame for most of what happened rests with him, and with me."

"How so?" Vale reached out and sought Yuji's hand, his fingers icy. Yuji wrapped the slender fingers in his own, sending forth love and reassurance through their bond.

"Will you permit an old elf to be blunt and perhaps overly frank?" Caradur managed a small smile. "Age should have a small privilege or two." He sipped his wine before continuing. "I was made aware of Morcaunen's taste for submission by the temple clerics, and I spoke with a particular aina'melar, a moon elf of extraordinary beauty and grace. He immediately acquiesced, and made himself unavailable to Morcaunen from that day on, and I gave the matter no more thought. Morcaunen was my heir, my eldest son, and there could be no blemish on his name. I acted in the interest of my House, and within the traditions of our people."

Vale nodded, his fingers trembling slightly in Yuji's hand. His face remained serene, a beautiful mask that showed nothing of what he was thinking, but Yuji could feel Vale's distress clearly through their bond, along with a deep hatred for his cousin.

"I did not know that Morcaunen had begun to monitor that particular aina'melar. I found out only after you left that Morcaunen had been the one to approach your father, to bring him the tale of your ongoing dalliance with Anadan." Caradur paused when Vale's head lifted slightly. "Yes, my nephew, I knew his name."

Vale made no reply, and Caradur continued. "Morcaunen encouraged your father to act, and your father did not have the sense to see the viper for what he was. Instead, your father allowed himself to act, most foolishly, when he should have come to me. Had he done so, I would have been able to avert a tragedy. Even after your father slew Anadan, had he come to me, there might still have been hope. But he did not. He flew to the arms of that harpy he wed."

Caradur took a deep drink of his wine, not bothering to disguise his agitation. "Our marriages were arranged, as is proper. I was blessed by the Seldarine with a wife whose beauty was surpassed only by her gentle nature. Your mother had desired a better marriage, into a noble House. Instead, Valeriel was wed to a second son, who had no hope of becoming lord of his House. Therefore, she pinned her hopes onto her children. When Ardiel was wed to a fellow priest, a second son, she was disappointed indeed. When you were born, her hopes were renewed, since you showed such promise. She was sure she could arrange to marry you to a noble House, for you were gifted and beautiful."

Caradur leaned forward a little. "That you were involved with Anadan was scandalous, and your mother counseled Ithion to dissuade Anadan, as I had done. Morcaunen intercepted your father, and fed Ithion such poison, told him such terrible things that he was unable to think rationally by the time he entered the room in the temple where you were, you and Anadan. Morcaunen actually counseled your father to kill you both, and to arrange the room to look as though Anadan had killed you and then himself. Such a dark and twisted creature, my son, and I cannot fathom how such a beast was fashioned, for we loved him dearly and gave him everything, save Anadan."

"You keep talking about your son in the past tense," Yuji said, and felt Vale tense slightly beside him. "I'm also curious as to how you learned what happened."

Caradur nodded. "Fair questions, and ones that I shall answer, my Lord Hayashi." He looked into his wine for a moment. "Morcaunen was found in your room after you left. He was pawing through the things you left behind, fondling the clothing before ripping it to shreds. The servants feared for his sanity, and summoned me. He was not insane, merely drunk, far drunker than mere wine could make him. He ranted about how you had escaped, and how he never would, and then he spoke of what he had done. He was... proud of how he had thwarted you, and his only regret was that you had lived. I questioned him, in the presence of my servants, and then I summoned my House guard. That is how I learned what had happened."

Caradur took another deep drink of his wine, and looked straight at Yuji when he resumed speaking. "I could not permit Morcaunen to become lord of this House after I pass to Arvandor, nor do I have another son left to name as my heir. My second son gave his life in battle, not fifty years ago. My heir is Danathor, Ardiel's son. He is a wise and honorable elf, and he will uphold the honor of our House admirably. As to Morcaunen, I had him brought before the justicars. His involvement in the death of Anadan, and his complicity in the deaths of Ithion and Valeriel, and his intent to see Vale dead, all these things earned him his fate. He was judged a kinslayer. As was my right and my obligation, I was the one to wield the sword that ended his life."

Vale's icy fingers twitched in Yuji's grasp, and Yuji lifted Vale's hand to his lips, pressing a kiss to his husband's cold knuckles. Vale turned his head, his serene mask falling away to reveal naked pain as he looked into Yuji's eyes, seeing the love there and seeking to draw the strength he needed from Yuji's endless love. Vale spoke without looking away from Yuji.

"Will you think ill of me, my Lord, if I say that I'm not displeased?" Vale's voice was bitter. "Morcaunen made it his particular duty to remind me that I'd forget myself sooner or later and return to the aina'melar to slake my perverted desires. He assured me that on that day, he would destroy me utterly. Were I not a mage, and far from defenseless, I think he would have done more than taunt. I took to locking the door to my room at night, so that I wouldn't rouse from reverie to find him watching me. I couldn't go to you, my Lord, since he told me that you'd relish an excuse to banish me from your House, and I had no reason to disbelieve him."

The grief in Caradur's eyes was enough of an answer for Yuji. "Oh, Vale, did I seem that cold to you? Perhaps I did. I am an old and proud elf, and you were so very withdrawn. When you arrived at my house, the healers had done what they could for you, or so I was told. It was so hard to reach you, and you did not seem to respond to me at all."

"They walled away my memories," Vale retorted, and his voice held anger and grief in equal proportions. "Nothing was resolved, nothing was fixed. They locked away what happened, and they stole my past. That was their answer, and that's why I was in such a daze when I was dumped on your doorstep."

"What are you talking about?" Caradur asked, his confusion honest. "That is not how such things should be treated. You lived through a horrifying event, and you should have been helped to understand what occurred. To wall away memories in an elfling is both foolish and dangerous!" Caradur was deeply agitated, his handsome face paling. "This needs to be investigated. I will send for Ardiel at once."

There was a brief flicker in Vale's eyes. "I'd like to see Ardiel again. I came back, twice, after I left, to see her." Vale did not add that he had waited until her husband was dead. The look in his uncle's eyes made it clear that Caradur had known, and had respected Vale's avoidance of his home even if he had not known why.

"In the meantime, please be welcome in this house, which is your home, yours and your family's," Caradur said, once again looking directly at Yuji. "I will tell you truly that it brings me joy to know that the laughter of children will echo in these too-quiet halls. Please ask for anything you desire from the servants." He stood slowly, as if the movement caused him pain. "If it is the task of my last days to make amends for what has been done, I will consider it proper and just."

Yuji helped Vale to stand, the elf moving nearly as stiffly as his uncle, and Yuji's heart ached for his gentle husband. Vale's beautiful green eyes were dull again, and his face a mask, but he kept his head held high as he walked back into the main hall to rejoin his family.

Yuji would have followed, but Caradur spoke. "Lord Hayashi."

Yuji turned and looked at the elf, a slight frown on his face. All he wanted was to go to Vale, to at least stand beside his beloved husband and be there if Vale needed him.

"Once again, I ask your indulgence for my frankness. You are his dominant partner?" Caradur met Yuji's gaze calmly, and when Yuji nodded, Caradur looked satisfied. "I have always thought that Anadan had the right of it. Vale is something rare and precious, and if you will accept my help, I will spare no effort to see that this is put right. I can see how deep and pure your love for Vale is, and I owe you more than I can ever repay for loving him so well."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

The elven ship was sleek and immaculate, the crew polite when they spoke, which was seldom. Sand explained that elven vessels sailing for Evermeet tended to sail an odd path, one that slipped between Planes to reduce the normal week-long voyage to a matter of hours. As soon as Neverwinter disappeared from sight behind them, the elven vessel seemed to steer for a fog bank, and for the next couple of hours, there was nothing to see. When the fog lifted, the vessel was cutting smoothly across deep blue water, heading for an island that was lush and covered with thick forests. They made port at the capital city of Leuthilspar, although the family did not remain there. Instead, they traveled by elfgate to Drelagara, the city where Vale had been born and raised.

The streets of Drelagara were busy, busier than those of Evereska, with elves walking through the market square, baskets of purchases on their arms and laughter on their lips. There were gardens, not as extensive as Evereska, but beautiful and lush, and then there were the musicians.

Almost every garden boasted a musician, playing a delicate lute-like instrument, or a small harp, or an exquisite silver flute. Elves and elflings alike gathered around the musicians, listening raptly as they coaxed haunting melodies forth. With so many different musicians, and so many different songs, it should have been a cacophony, but the songs blended seamlessly into a single symphony, and Satoshi's eyes widened as he heard the heartsong of Evermeet.

Vale wore the clothing of the Evermeet Court, elaborate and elegant, and to Yuji's eye he looked like an elven prince out of a storybook. He wore a knee length silk tunic with a high collar in a pale green silk, fastened at the throat with a gold clasp and belted around his narrow waist by a band of woven gold cords. His trousers were emerald silk, slim and elegant, and on his feet he wore thin doeskin boots that ended at the ankle, dyed emerald green to match his trousers perfectly. Over his tunic Vale wore a formal sleeveless coat with stiffened shoulders in a pale gold silk, embroidered with both the star of Nosse Anorongil and the six-petaled flower of Nosse Hayashi in gold thread. His hair was loose and glossy, and he wore a thin gold circlet on his brow.

Beside him, Yuji looked both elegant and severe in his formal garb, the black and white striped hakama perfectly pleated over the black silk kimono with its snowy juban underneath. Yuji's haori with its five gorgeous kamon drew looks and approving murmurs from the elves they passed. Willow walked on the other side of Vale in an elven gown of burnt gold, her pale skin and auburn hair perfectly set off by the intricate gown. Hikaru rode in Willow's arms, dressed in an emerald green silk kimono, his tiny obi pale gold silk to match Vale's coat. Aika, in her deep ruby silk gown, held on to Willow's hand, her tiny matching satin slippers peeking out as she walked along.

Sand was dressed in Evereskan finery, his breeches and tall glossy boots black, and his silk tunic sapphire blue with a mithral clasp holding the high collar shut. His ankle length wide sleeved robe was also sapphire blue silk, and worked with mithral thread with his own House symbol. His glossy black hair was loose as well, and his circlet was mithral and set with a single moonstone. Satoshi walked beside Sand, as elegant as Yuji in his formal hakama, and Ryuu was in his own kimono and hakama, although Ryuu did not wear haori like Satoshi.

Erion had chosen the garb of Sildëyuir, a ankle-length tunic slit up to his hips over tight trousers and soft slippers, all in a heavy silvery silk. The circlet on his brow was intricate, delicate bands of silver gracefully intertwined, and a belt woven from thin silver chains rested just above slim hips. Beside him, Kansas was the night to match Erion's moonlight, his formal garb suiting him perfectly, his eyes stormy grey as he took in the sights of Drelagara.

Caradur, Lord Anorongil, stood at the front door of his family's home, his deep golden hair clubbed back into a neat ponytail. His blue eyes surveyed Vale and Yuji as they approached, Vale's head high and proud. Caradur wore simple breeches and boots, and a thigh-length tunic, informal clothing of the type worn at home. He arched one brow as Vale stopped and bowed formally.

"Heru Anorongil." Vale straightened and met his uncle's gaze unflinchingly. "I ask permission to enter, so that we may speak."

Caradur surveyed the family, and nodded. "You are all welcome within these walls." He turned to Vale and murmured, "Nae saian luume', it has been too long."

"It wasn't by my doing, heru en amin, my Lord." Vale's eyes flashed briefly. "But I thank you for welcoming my family."

Caradur's eyes widened slightly when he saw Hikaru, and Vale held out his hands to Willow, taking Hikaru and pulling her beside him.

"I present to you my husband and lifemate, Yuji, Lord Hayashi. Verno'amin, this is Caradur, Lord Anorongil, my uncle and head of this House." Vale watched as Caradur and Yuji exchanged the bows of equals. "I also present our wife, Willow, Lady Hayashi. I have three other spouses as well, and we have three children." Vale gestured to each in turn as he named them. "Mori Masato, also called Sand, en Nosse Iradil. Mori Satoshi en Nosse Iradil. Hayashi Tatsuya en Nosse Iradil. Tatsuya's betrothed, Erion en Nosse Iradil ar' Sulandorn. Our children, Mori Ryuu en Nosse Iradil, Aika en Nosse Hayashi, and Hikaru en Nosse Hayashi."

[Week 34: 5-29-11]

Pen Name: BronxWench

Story link: To Dust We Return

Review Replies: Review Replies

Type of fic: Flashfic

Rating: Adult+

Fandom: Games > Dragon Age: Origins

Warnings: Anal, AFFO, ChallengeFic, M/M

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale looked at Yuji with a smile. "I thought I would wear the hakama you bought for me, a'maelamin."

"You most certainly are not wearing that. While I enjoy such clothing myself, and wear it gladly, you are walking into an elven city, to petition elves for assistance." Sand's voice was sharp. "Are you Tel'Quessir? Or are you no longer one of the People?"

"Sand, this is between my husband and me," Yuji interjected, his own voice sharp. "Don't speak to Vale as though he's done something wrong."

Sand looked at Yuji, his expression shifting from irritation to contrition. "You are right, Yuji. My apologies to both you and to Vale for forgetting that you look to each other first, as do Satoshi and I." Sand bowed to them both. "I would like to explain myself, however, and offer my advice."

"I'm fine with advice," Yuji said, his own tone returning to normal. "And thank you for the apology."

"Vale should dress as who and what he is, a sun elf of a noble House. It will force their hand that way, whereas wearing hakama plays to their advantage." Sand spoke directly to Yuji. "The politics of Evermeet are subtle, and clothing can be as much a weapon as a sharp blade. If Vale arrives dressed to his station, he must be treated with appropriate courtesy."

"I understand," Yuji said with a nod. It was no different in Japan, and he appreciated Sand's concern for how Vale would be treated.

Sand turned to Vale. "I took the liberty, anoramin, of speaking to my tailor, and he has prepared Court robes for you. You are an elf of Evermeet, an archmage of no small power, a member of the governing Council of your guild, and husband to the founder of a noble elven House. These robes reflect that."

"I want the overcoat to bear the symbols of both Anorongil and Hayashi," Vale said firmly. "If I'm going to do this, I want it clear that I was born to Anorongil, a most respectable House, but I have chosen to live my life as Hayashi, in the noble House of my lifemate."

"As it should be," Sand agreed, "and as it will be done."

Vale gave Sand a sharp look. "I've never forgotten that I'm an elf, ithilamin. I appreciate what you've done, and you're right as far as Evermeet politics, but I don't appreciate being railroaded, or talked to like I'm incompetent. I'm damaged, I'll grant you that, but I'm not entirely incapable yet."

Yuji pulled Vale close, wrapping his arm around Vale and rubbing his back tenderly as he felt how stiff and tense the elf was. "No one thinks you're incompetent, my love. And you're not damaged, just hurt, and we're going to get you healed."

Vale sighed and relaxed into the loving touch. "I know, a'maelamin. I'm just eager to have this over and done with, so we can think about more important matters, like Willow and Satoshi's pregnancy, and Sora and Hawk's wedding." He gave Yuji a crooked little grin, but there was sorrow deep in those green eyes. "Maybe Willow and I can go to the tailor together tomorrow, and we can look for a dress for her as well?"

"I'd like that, sweets," Willow said, hurrying over to give Vale a kiss. "I want a gown that will look gorgeous when we all arrive in Evermeet."

"And Aika needs a new dress, and we can get Hikaru something as well, maybe a small kimono? I know he can't wear hakama yet, but he would look adorable in a kimono. Or should he wear a tunic and breeches?" Vale pulled Willow into the embrace, nuzzling into her hair.

"Vale, what makes you think getting you better isn't as important as anything else?" Willow chided him gently. "I like having a blond in my horde of husbands, you know. And I want another blond baby one day."

Yuji could feel Vale relaxing even more, their bond letting him feel Vale growing calmer, the sorrow retreating once again into the background. Yuji was concerned, however. Vale was starting to feel the strain, and Yuji worried that Vale would not be able to maintain his control over the memories that threatened to drown him.

"Did we bring any of that good whiskey?" Yuji asked, looking to lighten the mood further. Vale brightened immediately.

"I brought a couple of bottles, just in case, and some soda water for drinks as well." Vale looked pleased at his foresight, and Yuji gave him a beautiful smile.

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's have a drink to celebrate House Hayashi and new beginnings." Yuji and Vale got the whiskey and glasses, and Taren brought ice, and the mood picked up once again as everyone began to chatter at once.

Much later, Yuji and Vale went upstairs, Vale seeming more tired than Yuji would have expected. They washed up and brushed their teeth, and Yuji brushed Vale's hair, knowing how it soothed Vale when he did that. Truthfully, Yuji enjoyed as much as Vale did, and he let his fingers trail through the silken tresses. There were shadows under Vale's eyes, and when Yuji led him to their bed, he eased Vale back and slid in beside him, pulling up the covers. Vale gave him a grateful look and a wan little smile, but he felt tense and a little stiff to Yuji.

Yuji wrapped his arms around Vale. "You need to rest, my love. Before you know it, we'll be in Evermeet."

Vale shifted slightly, turning to face Yuji. "It's funny, now that it's nearly time to leave, I'm terrified."

Yuji stroked Vale's cheek tenderly, his perfect eyes filled with love and concern. "Why terrified?"

"There's so much that can go wrong. What if my uncle rejects me publicly? I don't really care about myself, but that's a slander on you, and I can't bear that." Vale sighed a little. "And the priests."

"I thought the priests were the ones that could help you," Yuji said, puzzled.

Vale nuzzled his cheek into Yuji's hand with another sigh. "They are, but for some reason, I'm scared to death about facing them. There's something, I can't quite piece it together. It's not even a whole memory, just tatters of something. Just promise me that you'll stay with me when I see them."

"Of course I will," Yuji said firmly. "I won't leave you for a moment."

Vale looked calmer, and he nestled in closer to Yuji, the tension leaving his muscles, and Yuji pressed a loving kiss to Vale's forehead. He held his elf close as Vale's breathing evened out and Vale slipped into reverie, and Yuji let himself sleep, keeping his bond open should Vale need him.

It was quite late when Vale sat up, his eyes still blurred with reverie, and his voice a pitiful moan. "Amin uuma merna rin. Saes, uuma karna'amin." Vale shivered as Yuji sat upright and wrapped his arms around the elf. "Saes, leneema'amin quell. Amin milya telaa' sina nwalma."

"Vale? My love, what's wrong?" Yuji was not quite following the elven, but Vale's sorrowful tone told him all he needed to know. "Talk to me, my Vale."

Vale turned his head, his eyes focusing suddenly, and he shuddered as he let his head fall against Yuji's chest. "Uuma lemba'amin. Amin gorga." Vale's eyes were bright with unshed tears.

Yuji debated going for Sand in hopes of understanding Vale's whispered elven, but he did not want to leave Vale in such a state. Instead, he tilted Vale's face up slightly, looking into the elf's eyes. "I don't understand, Vale. What did you say?"

Vale blinked, a single tear tracking down his pale cheek. "Don't leave me. I'm afraid." Vale's breath hitched a little. "Did I say anything else?"

Yuji nodded, and with his musician's ear, he repeated back the elven words that Vale had spoken, not entirely surprised when Vale looked stricken. "What does that mean, my love?"

"The first part means, 'I don't want to remember. Please, don't make me.' I think I was talking to a priest, but I can't be sure." Vale looked at Yuji, another tear sliding down his cheek. "The second part means, 'Please, permit me to fade. I long for an end to this torment.' That's what I asked the healer when I was first brought to the temple. I remember that. It's one of the shreds that didn't make sense."

Yuji felt his heart leap in terror, and he cradled Vale's face between his hands. "Do you still long for that?"

"No!" Vale wrapped his own slim hands around Yuji's, his voice urgent. "Please, a'maelamin, believe me, I don't want to fade! What I want are answers, and for this to be fixed, so that I can live the rest of my days with you, loving you, and being able to be yours completely."

Yuji smiled in relief, his own voice trembling a little. "Then that's what we'll do, my sweet Vale. We'll get our answers, and we'll fix this, if I have to tear that temple apart with my bare hands to get it done." The naked relief on Vale's face nearly broke Yuji's heart, and he pulled Vale close, kissing him with all the endless love he felt for his elf. "I won't leave you for a minute, I promise you."

"Thank you," Vale murmured, and he clung to Yuji tightly for a moment before pulling back a little to look at Yuji. "I think I can return to reverie. I'll be able to rest, I'm sure of it."

Yuji eased Vale back onto the pillows, and pulled Vale into his arms, spooning himself tightly against his elven husband. Vale made a small contented noise, and he settled back into reverie after only a few minutes of being held, but Yuji lay awake for quite some time before falling into a light slumber.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion kissed Kansas very gently, his lips feather light against Kansas's lips. "The first moment I knew I was in love with you? That first kiss, do you remember? I was so surprised, and you thought I was upset, but it was because for the first time in my life, everything fell into place, and I was home. My soul was home."

Kansas's eyes went perfectly round, and he pulled Erion in for a tight hug, a tiny sob escaping his lips.

"And then we spent the night, wrapped in each others' arms, just kissing, and well, messing up our sleep pants," Erion giggled. "But waking up next to you? That was so perfect. I plan on waking up next to you for the rest of my life, if you don't mind."

"I think we can arrange for that to happen," Kansas agreed, his voice a little husky.

"Now, let's see about getting you some restful sleep," Erion murmured, stealing another sweet kiss. "Just hang on tight to me through our band, and follow me."

Erion called up one of his favorite memories, the first time they had made love in the maze in front of the statue of Hanali Celanil, the goddess blessing their union as Erion gave Kansas his virginity. "You can experience it, 'lokiamin. Just let yourself join with your dream-self."

Kansas kissed Erion gently, his eyes closing as he followed Erion into that night when their souls had fused irrevocably, when they knew they were lifemates. Erion sank fully into his reverie, feeling Kansas with him, joined in his memories, all the darkness held at bay by those tender moments.

XXX

Vale was in the kitchen when Satoshi wandered down with Sand, the two of them yawning hugely but with deliriously happy smiles on their faces. Vale looked at the fresh tattoos on Sand's upper arms, Sand having eschewed anything more than sleep pants as usual, and he smiled in appreciation.

"You two look incredibly pleased with yourselves," Vale said. "I like the new look, ithilamin." Vale returned to cutting something, deft nd precise, and Satoshi's eyes lit up.

"You brought kaki?" Satoshi exclaimed, reaching in to steal a piece and moaning happily as he savored it.

Sand looked at Satoshi and smiled at his husband's delight, sneaking in a quick kiss to taste the sweet juice on his lips. Taren shook her head at both of them, laughing as she handed them tea.

"I thought Willow would enjoy it, and I want Hikaru to try it as well. I like him to try new things," Vale explained. He lifted his head, listening, and his smile widened. "I think I hear our wife now." Hikaru let out a chortle of agreement, and Vale stooped to scoop him off the floor, offering him a tiny piece of kaki.

Willow wandered into the kitchen, Taren holding out a cup of tea, and she froze, looking at the platter of neatly sliced kaki. "Oh, fuck," she mumbled, and turned and fled, one hand over her mouth as she raced for the nearest bathroom.

Sand watched Willow in alarm, and Satoshi's face was a picture of dismay. Vale looked at Satoshi and began to laugh.

"Congratulations, mela en' coiamin," Vale grinned. "I do believe you're going to be a father again."

Satoshi turned to look at Vale, his eyes going nearly round. "You really think she's pregnant?"

Vale gestured at the platter of sliced fruit. "The kaki, my love, doesn't lie." Hikaru looked up and giggled as Vale fed him another small piece, his face beatific.

Taren looked at the cup of tea in her hand, and then at the expression of mixed elation and exasperation on Satoshi's face, and went back to her sweet rolls, shaking her head at the oddities of her adopted family.

Sand pulled Satoshi into a delighted kiss as Yuji walked in, raising an eyebrow and pouring himself some tea.

"Anyone care to tell me what's going on?" Yuji asked, going over to kiss Vale and then Hikaru.

Sand looked up, his blue eyes bright. "Willow is pregnant."

Yuji looked around, not seeing their wife. Taren brought over a tray of fresh sweet rolls, still hot from the oven, and smiled at Yuji.

"It's the kaki," Taren said with a perfectly straight face. "If you'll excuse me, I'll go and see if Willow needs a hand."

"I need to sit down a moment," Satoshi said, his eyes still wide. He looked at the platter of kaki, and he grew pale. "Suddenly, I don't feel so good."

"What is it, saiai?" Sand asked, instantly concerned. "Perhaps the rothe last night did not agree with you?"

Satoshi shook his head, and Taren swooped in to move the platter of fruit away from Satoshi, who gave her a grateful look. "You think it's possible to have the same symptoms as your wife?"

Yuji had to turn away and pour himself more tea while he struggled to keep from bursting into a fit of giggles. He put the kaki into a covered dsh and tucked away in Eryn's cool cabinet, and then turned around, only the twinkling of his eyes betraying his vast amusement.

Willow came back in and Yuji poured her a fresh cup of tea as she found a seat at the table, Taren right behind her. "Sorry, sweets," Willow said to Vale. "You went to the trouble of bringing that for me, and I can't even look at it."

Kansas and Erion sauntered in at that exact moment. "Can't look at what?" Kansas asked, yawning a little. He had slept deeply and well, Erion sharing warm and peaceful memories with him all night until dawn had called to them both, and then they had crawled back into bed to kiss and cuddle and drowse a bit longer.

"Don't even say it," Willow groaned, and Kansas's eyes widened as he caught on.

"Hey, that's wonderful news!" Kansas hugged Willow happily, and then turned to his very puzzled elf. "Willow's pregnant!"

"Oh," Erion said. "Oh!" His eyes lit up and he hugged Willow as well. "That's marvelous!" Then his eyes glittered with a spot of mischief as he looked around with sweet innocence. "So, who's the lucky father?"

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand cradled Satoshi in his arms, kissing his beautiful husband tenderly. "Close your eyes and rest a bit, cormamin. You were so perfect, so wonderfully wanton, saiai."

Satoshi's eyes fluttered closed for a few moments, but then he opened them again, reaching up to touch Sand's cheek. "Finish playing, poldoramin. I want to watch."

Sand's smile was radiant as he kissed Satoshi again, and reached for Kua, pulling him into a kiss. "Well then, my lovely playmate, we must entertain my husband."

Satoshi curled up on a pile of pillows and watched as Sand and Kua twined around each other, locked in a passionate kiss. Sand's fingers trailed through Kua's long hair, brushing it aside so that Sand could trail his tongue along the edge of one gracefully pointed ear. When Sand began to suckle the tip, Kua arched his back and ground himself against Sand, his cock hardening as Sand ran his hands down Kua's back to cup his firm ass. Kua moaned into the kiss, his long fingers toying with Sand's nipples, teasing them until they were hard pebbles against the pale skin.

Sand broke the kiss, looking into Kua's dark grey eyes, and he guided Kua onto his knees, positioning the other elf so that his head was near Satoshi. Kua moaned again, and claimed Satoshi's mouth in a tender kiss as Sand moved behind him, bending down to lap at Kua's pucker, tasting Satoshi's cum as he thrust his tongue into the loosened muscle. Kua pressed his ass back, impaling himself on Sand's thrusting tongue as he broke his kiss with Satoshi to snatch a shuddering breath.

Sand gave Kua's ass a last lingering swipe with his tongue, the stud making Kua shudder deliciously, and Sand moved with languid grace to press his thick cock against the twitching pucker. As Sand pressed the head of his cock into Kua, the other elf bucked his hips, sheathing Sand in a single fluid motion, his eyes fluttering as he was filled by Sand's thick cock. Sand withdrew, and then pressed back in, the ring in his cock rubbing against Kua's prostate in a way the elf had never experienced, and Kua moaned in a delirium of pleasure. Sand struck up a slow and sensuous pace, reaching around Kua to pull him upright so that he could toy with a tight little nipple as he fucked the tattooed elf. Kua leaned his head back on Sand's shoulder, turning his face so that Sand could plunder his mouth as they moved with sinuous grace against each other.

Satoshi moaned a little as he watched Sand and Kua play, Sand's deft fingers finding Kua's cock and stroking it firmly. Through their bond, Satoshi could feel the heat coiling in Sand's belly, and he wondered how Sand could keep from exploding as he drove Kua wild with his pierced cock. Kua's cock was dripping precum as Sand stroked it, and the tattooed elf shuddered as his balls tightened and drew up, Sand's hand moving faster. With a ragged howl, Kua let go, his cum painting thick ropes across his own chest as Sand guided his cock, and then Sand growled and came, Kua's sweet tight ass clamping almost painfully around his thick cock.

Kua moaned and sagged a little, and Sand eased himself out of Kua's ass, helping him down onto the mattress. Sand leaned forward over Kua, his tongue swiping up a long ribbon of cum from Kua's chest, making the other elf shiver in exhausted delight. Sand kissed Kua tenderly, easing him over next to Satoshi, and then Sand curled up on the other side of Satoshi, pulling the bed covers over the three of them as they settled into a nap, thoroughly sated.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Kua writhed deliciously under Satoshi's dual assault on his cock and his ass, his hands gripped in the bed covers. Sand teased Satoshi's eager little ass open with swipes of his tongue stud, and thrust his tongue past the tight pucker as Satoshi pushed back. It did not take much tongue-fucking for Satoshi to be ready for Sand's cock, and Sand slicked his thick cock with a generous amount of oil as he gave Satoshi's ass a few last swipes of his tongue. Satoshi mewled a little when Sand straightened, his strong hands wrapping around Satoshi's hips.

"Cormamin, Kua is ready for you to enter him. Fill him with your cock, and give him what he needs," Sand urged. Kua opened his arms to Satoshi, his grey eyes near black with desire, and Satoshi moaned as he released Kua's cock from his tight little mouth with a soft pop. Satoshi rubbed his cock with a little of the sweet oil, and he hooked his arms under Kua's knees, drawing them up and back as he positioned his cock at the elf's loosened pucker.

"Please," Kua murmured, his voice hoarse with longing. "Take me, beautiful one."

Satoshi moaned as he sank his cock into Kua's hot ass, the elf bucking to encourage Satoshi to bury himself fully. As Satoshi's balls came to rest against the firm globes of Kua's ass, Sand pressed the head of his cock into Satoshi's sweet ass, and Satoshi howled as Sand slid forward, easing himself in until his cock was fully sheathed in Satoshi's ass. Sand paused for a moment to let Satoshi adjust to him, leaning forward to nip at Satoshi's shoulder as Satoshi panted for a moment.

"Move, please, poldoramin," Satoshi managed, bucking his hips a little. As Sand pulled back, Satoshi withdrew a little from Kua's ass, and slammed back in when Sand thrust himself into Satoshi's ass. Kua howled even louder than Satoshi had, his cock jumping as Satoshi rammed his prostate dead on.

Sand set the rhythm, steady and not too fast, wanting to enjoy having his beloved Satoshi in the middle between him and Kua, fucking and being fucked. Satoshi was moaning almost non-stop, and through their bond, Sand shared his pleasure at the twinned sensations. Kua pulled Satoshi's mouth to his, plundering that tight little cavern with abandon as he nibbled at Satoshi's pierced lower lip between delirious kisses.

Sand wrapped one arm around Satoshi's waist, supporting himself that way while his other hand found Kua's weeping cock. Kua's fingers had drifted back to Satoshi's pierced nipples, and Kua twisted and tugged as Sand fisted his cock and began to stroke. It was all Kua could take, and after only a few firm strokes, Kua howled and arched his back, his cum painting his chest and Satoshi's chest, as well as Sand's hand.

Kua's ass tightened around Satoshi's cock, and the heat that was coiled in Satoshi's belly erupted as Satoshi came, spurt after spurt of cum filling Kua's ass as the elf writhed and howled. Sand licked Kua's cum off his hand as Satoshi's ass gripped him like a velvet vise, Satoshi's screams of pleasure sending a shiver up Sand's spine. Sand thrust a final time, burying his cock to the balls in Satoshi's spasming ass, and then he came as well, painting Satoshi's hot little passage with his searing cum.

Sand let himself fall to one side as he eased down, his thick cock still buried in Satoshi's ass as Satoshi shivered in his arms. Kua rolled with Satoshi as Satoshi released Kua's legs, and Kua threw his top leg over Satoshi to keep the imp's cock buried in his ass. Kua cradled Satoshi from the front while Sand held him from behind, both elves kissing and stroking the shuddering imp as he slowly relaxed. They lay like that for several minutes, Satoshi tracing the vines along Kua's chest while Kua toyed with Satoshi's nipple rings and nibbled at his lower lip. Sand nibbled on Satoshi's neck where it met his shoulder, lapping at the dark mark that Sand made sure to renew regularly.

Finally, with a mewl of regret, Kua untangled himself, letting Satoshi's cock slide out of his ass. Kua got off the bed and walked, naked and graceful, to his kitchen to make another tray of the grilled meat skewers. Kua brought in ale and fruit as well, and he poured the ale for Satoshi and kissed him as he gave him the tall mug. Kua handed Sand a mug as well, and poured for himself, drinking deeply before offering around the tray of skewers.

"I think we will need to restore ourselves before we can continue," Kua said, looking at Sand and Satoshi with a beautiful smile. "If you wish to stay and play some more, that is."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Kua finally broke the kiss, breathless, his eyes shining as he looked at Satoshi. "Oh, you are incredibly arousing, beautiful one." He stroked Satoshi's cheek softly, and nibbled another kiss. "So sweet, and so very delicious."

Satoshi blushed a little at the compliments, but his eyes were heated as he looked at Kua, and then at Sand, whose eyes were dark with desire.

"Oh, cormamin, that was beautiful to watch," Sand said huskily. "Kua, let us finish my tattoo quickly, shall we?" He reached over and pulled Kua down for a kiss, lingering over the elf's lips as Satoshi moaned.

Kua handed Sand another mild healing potion and began on the color work of the tattoo, his fingers deft and sure as the treehouse came alive under his nimble needles. Kua paused every so often to let Satoshi lap a little more blood from Sand's arm, watching as both Satoshi and Sand grew more aroused with each lick. When Kua was done with the basic color work, he handed Sand another potion, and leaned in to kiss Satoshi again, exploring Satoshi's piercings with his tongue. He sat back, his grey eyes smoky with desire.

"These are so intriguing," Kua said, running a thin finger over Satoshi's piercings. "They are for decoration, yes?"

"Mostly, yes," Satoshi agreed, his cheeks a little pink. He was not sure how to explain to this elf that they were also a focus when he was anxious.

"And your tongue!" Kua exclaimed, turning back to mix the colors for the detailing and shading. "You have a wonderful piercing through your tongue!"

"So do I," Sand remarked.

"Ah, I noticed that," Kua replied. "It must be marvelous when you love each other."

"Oh, it is," Sand chuckled. "Satoshi introduced me to the pleasures of that, and I decided that I wanted to be able to return the pleasure, as it were." Sand stretched a little, his muscles moving sinuously, his gorgeous ass making Satoshi want to rip off his jeans.

Kua noticed Satoshi's growing arousal, and knelt to kiss Satoshi sweetly, purring a little as his tongue danced over Satoshi's pierced tongue. "I hope to feel that elsewhere, later, if you are so inclined." He reached behind himself and presented a ripe strawberry to Satoshi, feeding it to him and delicately licking a drop of juice from Satoshi's lips.

Kua finished the details and shading, and Satoshi lapped at the last few trickles of blood with a wanton little moan. Kua smiled as he finished cleaning up, dropping his mithral needles into a cleaning solution and washing his color trays. He handed Sand a final mild potion once Satoshi was done licking at the blood, and once Sand had kissed the blood from Satoshi's lips. Then he tilted his head, looking at the beautiful sight of the two husbands kissing. Kua wandered back into his living area, and came back with a fresh pitcher of crisp cool ale, pouring for all of them.

Sand had moved from the bench and was curled up on the floor with Satoshi straddling his lap, and he looked at Kua over Satoshi's shoulder. Kua knelt behind Satoshi, sliding his arms around Satoshi and kissing Sand over Satoshi's shoulder. Satoshi turned his head and nuzzled Kua's gracefully pointed ear, feeling the elf shudder in delight. As Kua's long fingers moved up Satoshi's chest, he felt Satoshi's nipple rings and he moaned a little into Sand's mouth. Satoshi arched his back a little, pressing the steel nipple rings against Kua's fingers, and the elf tugged one experimentally.

Satoshi moaned, his head falling back against Kua's shoulder as Kua toyed with his nipple rings. "Please," Satoshi whispered, not even sure if it was Sand or Kua that he was asking, and not really caring. "Fuck me, please..."

Sand chuckled, and Kua stood and took Satoshi's hand, leading him into the apartment behind his shop. The sitting area was small and had only a pair of small couches and a low table, and there was a door that led into a much larger bedroom. Kua had opted for a very large, low bed, with ample room for two elves and a slender human, and Sand nuzzled up to Satoshi from behind.

"Cormamin," Sand purred. He was already unfastening his jeans, sliding them down and discarding his boxers just as quickly, his cock thick and erect, and Satoshi moaned at the sight of his husband, naked and newly tattooed, with Satoshi's koi swimming beneath Sand's moon on one arm, and the sweet little treehouse on the other. Satoshi turned to see Kua also undressing, opening the high collar of his tunic and peeling it over his head to reveal an astonishing sight. Kua's entire body was tattooed, and as the elf peeled off his breeches, Satoshi looked at the intricate array of vines and flowers of every imaginable hue that grew from his ankles and twined around his long legs to cover his torso and arms. Even Kua's proudly erect cock was tattooed, and on the front of his right shoulder was a dove so lifelike that Satoshi expected it to take wing at any moment. Kua turned, revealing that the pattern covered his pert ass and back as well.

"This was my master's work. Do you like it?" Kua asked.

"It's incredible," Satoshi murmured, reaching out to stroke the silky skin.

Kua stepped forward, sliding himself into Satoshi's arms and diving into another one of his passionate kisses, his hard cock rubbing against Satoshi. Sand stepped behind Satoshi, pressing his thick cock against Satoshi's ass, and Satoshi's eyes fluttered closed for a moment as he alternated between grinding his ass back against Sand and pressing forward into Kua. Sand was tugging Satoshi's hoodie off, and Satoshi moaned again, already nearly beyond words, the two elves rubbing against him and the taste of Sand's blood still lingering on his tongue. Sand reached around Satoshi to open his cargoes, and then tugged Satoshi's t-shirt up and off, and Kua's long fingers skated lightly along Satoshi's sides.

Satoshi froze, feeling those cool fingers moving over his scars, and he bit back a sob as he wriggled free to dart into a corner. Sand followed quickly, pulling Satoshi into his arms and kissing his amethyst hair. "It's alright, cormamin, I have you. They are part of what makes you who you are, and who I love more each day." Sand turned his head to look at Kua, who had an expression of worry on his face.

"Did I offend, beautiful one? Satoshi, I did not mean to cause you distress," Kua said.

"It is alright," Sand said gently. "My husband is worried about his scars. They are still so new for him, and it is not easy for him to show them."

"Oh, Satoshi," Kua said, his voice sweet and loving. "I had not even noticed them, beautiful man. But Sand is right. Scars make us who we are, and they show that we have endured and triumphed, and we are all the more beautiful for it." Kua took Satoshi's hand and ran it along the dove on his shoulder. Beneath the gorgeous color and shading was a texture Satoshi recognized immediately as scar tissue. "I was gathering plants for my colors, and I heard screams. A lone orc was bearing down on a young elven mother and her babe. I threw myself between them, and he savaged my flesh with his teeth. I managed to slip my dagger between his ribs, and I lived to tell my tale, as did the mother and babe. It was a good day."

Satoshi trembled a little, his fingers tracing the dove. He looked deeply into Kua's grey eyes, and all Satoshi saw was desire and admiration. Kua leaned in, his lips teasing over Satoshi's lips, and Satoshi moaned a little as his lips parted to let the elf kiss him. Sand was behind Satoshi again, his mouth busily worrying the back of Satoshi's shoulder, and his hands back to tugging at Satoshi's cargoes, slipping them down and palming Satoshi's aching cock through his boxers. Satoshi moaned into Kua's mouth, and the elf reached out to toy with Satoshi's nipple rings again, slowly bringing Satoshi back up to a fever pitch of desire.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand growled as he pounded Satoshi's ass, sinking his cock into the delicious heat and slamming Satoshi's prostate with every thrust, the ring through his cock making Satoshi howl into his arm. Through their bond, Sand could feel just how much Satoshi wanted and needed this, and Sand responded by sharing how perfect Satoshi's ass felt as it surrounded Sand's cock, tight and hot and eager.

Sand reached down and pulled Satoshi upright, one arm snaking around Satoshi's chest to twist his steel nipple rings and the other arm around Satoshi's waist, holding him steady as Sand continued to take Satoshi hard and fast. It only took a few thrusts for Sand to reach the point where he could no longer hold back, and he growled again as his balls emptied themselves convulsively, filling Satoshi's ass with a prodigious load of cum. Satoshi muffled his scream as best he could against his arm as he felt Sand's cum fill him, and Sand put his mouth next to Satoshi's ear, his breath hot.

"Do not come yet," Sand ordered. He eased his cock out of Satoshi's ass and gripped Satoshi's hips, pushing him until he stood, and turning Satoshi around to face him. Sand pushed Satoshi's hand away from his cock and slid his lips over the head, using his tongue stud to explore the cleft under the head. Satoshi moaned loudly, his hands fisted in Sand's hair and his muscular legs trembling as Sand swallowed his cock to the root, relaxing his throat to take Satoshi in fully. Sand made a purring noise, and Satoshi's moans increased in volume as the vibrations shot straight up from his cock to his spine. Sand swallowed hard a couple of times, and Satoshi's balls drew up as he came, spilling his load of cum down Sand's throat.

Sand drank Satoshi's cum eagerly, drawing back a little on Satoshi's cock to savor the taste of his beloved husband on his tongue as Satoshi trembled and mewled, his face flushed and gorgeous to the elf. Sand held the last mouthful of cum, not swallowing, and he released Satoshi's cock and stood with fluid grace, claiming Satoshi's mouth and letting Satoshi's cum roll off his plundering tongue to fill the imp's eager mouth. Sand continued to kiss Satoshi, his hands sliding into Satoshi's gorgeous amethyst hair as Satoshi pressed himself against Sand.

When they finally broke for air, Sand's blue eyes were nearly black with his desire for his wanton little husband, and Satoshi had to grab Sand's shoulders to support his trembling legs.

'We are not yet done, cormamin," Sand promised in a sultry growl. "I think I shall do the other arm as well, and then perhaps we can persuade our lovely artist to play with us."

Satoshi looked at Sand, his eyes wide. "You want to ask him to join us?"

"Do you mind?" Sand asked, as he helped Satoshi pull up his boxers and cargoes. Sand leaned in to swipe his tongue across Satoshi's lower lip, nibbling at the piercings and making Satoshi moan a little.

"No," Satoshi said, and Sand's smile grew at the boldness of his beautiful husband. "I want him to fuck me, and I want you to fuck me, and I want us both to fuck him."

"Then we shall plunder our pretty new friend together." Sand pulled up his own jeans with a wicked chuckle. He slid back onto the bench with sinuous grace, knowing full well that Satoshi was watching every wriggle of his hips as he settled himself comfortably on the bench.

The artist walked back in, his eyes warming as he looked at Satoshi, and then at Sand, sprawled invitingly on the bench. "What shall we do now, my friends?" he asked, his voice husky with lust, and Satoshi bit back a moan as his cock began to twitch in his cargoes.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

The elf waved a negligent hand. "Please feel free to smoke. It does not bother me in the least." He flashed Satoshi an understanding look. "The outline will be completed momentarily on the first piece of art. We can take a small break then, if you wish a few moments in private with your husband."

Sand shot Satoshi a look, his blue eyes nearly black with desire. Satoshi was perching on the edge of the chair, smoking a cigarette and trying to look completely nonchalant as he rocked his hips a little, seeking some sort of friction, any sort of friction against his ass. Sand bit back a moan as he watched his beautifully wanton husband, his own cock rock hard beneath him and aching.

"I think that might be a good idea," Sand managed, and Satoshi's eyes locked on the artist's dexterous fingers as the mithral needles flew along Sand's pale skin. The artist gave a satisfied nod, and stood after laying down the needle.

"I think I shall go and contemplate how I wish to approach the color," the elf said. "If you will excuse me?" He slipped out into the back garden, closing the door behind him.

Sand moaned as Satoshi all but launched himself out of the chair, the trickles of blood on Sand's arm acting like a magnet. Carefully avoiding the tattoo itself, Satoshi licked the pale skin clean of blood as Sand raised his hips to fumble with the zipper of his jeans, tugging them past his hips impatiently along with his silk boxers.

"Cormamin, I need you, now," Sand rasped, and he shifted to slide his legs off the bench, the pale globes of his ass perfectly presented.

Satoshi moaned loudly, opening his own cargoes and freeing his throbbing cock as he fumbled for the tube of lube in hs pocket. He slicked the head of his cock quickly with a small amount of the lube, and pressed the head of his cock against Sand's ass, breaching the tight pucker and sinking his cock into the waiting heat of his husband. Sand hissed in pleasure, his back arching, his raven hair spilling down his pale skin as he pressed back to take all of Satoshi's cock into his ass.

"Take me hard," Sand said, looking over his shoulder with a smoldering gaze.

Satoshi obliged, withdrawing almost all the way, and then slamming back into Sand's ass, his cock ramming Sand's prostate hard. Sand bit back a scream of pleasure, his back arching even more, and Satoshi grabbed Sand's slim hips to hold the elf steady as he pounded his willing husband into the bench relentlessly. Sand pushed back into every thrust, wanting to be plundered, to be thoroughly owned by his beautiful, wanton Satoshi.

"Oh, fuck, Masato, you're so fucking tight," Satoshi moaned, leaning forward as he brushed Sand's silky hair away from the nape of his neck, biting and sucking a livid mark into Sand's skin as Sand ground his ass into Satoshi's groin. Satoshi could not stand it a moment longer, his balls aching as they emptied, filling Sand's ass with searing hot cum. It was all Satoshi could do not to scream loud enough to be heard in Eryn's house, and he buried his face in Sand's shoulder as he shuddered and spilled. Sand growled with pleasure, arching like a cat to press himself against his shivering husband, all but purring his satisfaction at being taken.

Satoshi withdrew his cock from Sand's ass with a mewl, amazed that Sand had not come as well. Sand looked over his shoulder, those blue eyes filled with heat.

"Later, cormamin. I still have the color left on this tattoo, and then there is the second one." Sand chuckled wickedly as Satoshi whimpered, and he turned as he stood, pulling Satoshi in to plunder that tight little mouth hungrily. "Let us see how many times we can pleasure each other, shall we?" He swiped a trickle of blood from his arm onto his fingertip, sliding his finger into Satoshi's mouth. Sand adjusted his clothing quickly, and stretched out on the bench, waiting for the artist to return, and Satoshi lit another cigarette with shaking hands as he sat back down, trembling with anticipation.