[Can I watch?]

Absolutely! We're sort of on hold at the moment, although the players are still working out some character development and NPC stuff. One player had some personal issues crop up unexpectedly, and we're hoping she can resolve them and get back to us. If not, we'll probably proceed without her, once the GM (me) gets her ass in gear and posts some background and staging for the beginning...

But, yes, the RP is always open to readers, and once we get the RP actually going, it might even be interesting! Right now, we're still at the tweaking rules stage, because we're all seriously geeky... Once it begins, we'll start a new thread for the beginning, and it'll be fairly obvious that it's the actual RP. I can drop you a PM if you'd like to let you know when we get rolling!

::fluffs cushions on the comfy chair for Calanthee::

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale sank down on the bench and helped himself to a cigarette. "I don't regret us at all, verno'amin. I am exactly where I want to be, and I couldn't possibly be happier." He reached out and stroked Yuji's cheek. "I felt guilty. I thought I failed Sand somehow, that maybe I wasn't good enough at loving anyone. That was my biggest fear, because then I could fail you, and I couldn't have borne that."

Vale leaned forward, letting his forehead rest against Yuji's forehead. "All I want, now and forever, is to be yours. No second thoughts, no regrets. I just needed Sand to tell me that I hadn't hurt him, I suppose. Can you forgive a silly elf for worrying you?"

Vale opened his bond with Yuji fully, letting Yuji in as deeply as he cared to go, utterly open to his beloved husband. "I don't want to hide from you, and I don't want to be with anyone other than you. I am yours, and have been since that day you asked me to go to the bar with you."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand looked over at Satoshi, and he smiled as he felt his husband's plaintive request through their bond. He sent a wave of agreement and love back through the bond, and leaned over to give Yuji and then Vale a loving kiss.

"That was absolutely incredible, thank you both." Sand smiled as he managed to sit up, thoroughly enjoying the twinge in his ass, and stretched. "But I think I need to rest, and I would like to be at home when Ryuu wakes." He stood and walked over to Satoshi, managing a sassy swing to his hips as he sauntered over to claim his husband.

Sand reached out a hand to Satoshi, and pulled him into a gentle embrace. "Shall we go home, cormamin? As lovely a bower as this is, I would prefer to sleep in our bed tonight, and wake up to Ryuu's pouncing." Sand nuzzled Satoshi's hair, loving him utterly and proud to be his lawful husband. "Willow? Would you like to come with us? I can teleport us home to Eryn's house."

Willow smiled and stood. "I think I need to dress first."

Sand chuckled, and opened a closet, pulling out three soft robes. "I do not know about you, but this is as much effort as I can make. The temple staff will return our wedding finery in the morning." He helped Willow into her robe, and then did the same for Satoshi. Then he slipped his own robe on, and took both their hands and chanted softly in elven, and they vanished.

Vale curled into Yuji, utterly spent and thoroughly happy. "My husband... I love saying that." He giggled a little, and nuzzled Yuji's ear. "Going home sounds good, doesn't it? We can wake in our own bed, a'maelamin."

"This was perfect, this whole night." Yuji nibbled at Vale's tender lips, coaxing a wanton little moan from the elf. "And yes, I love knowing that you're legally my husband. This was perfect, just perfect."

"I need you to do one thing first, though." Vale turned his head a bit. "Will you unbraid my hair?"

Yuji's heart soared, and he carefully began to unbraid Vale's silky golden hair, collecting the beads in a small pile, He used his fingers to comb through Vale's hair, loving the way it flowed through his fingers. He could feel Vale's happiness as he completed this ritual, and that was enough for Yuji.

"Now will you do mine?" Yuji asked, and Vale carefully unbraided his hair, nibbling small kisses along Yuji's neck and shoulder. He shivered a little, the unweaving of Yuji's hair a symbol of the unweaving of any barriers between them. It really was symbolic by now, since Vale had long since opened his soul fully to Yuji, but the tradition made the elf feel like the wedding was properly completed. He knew it was silly, but Yuji had done it for him, and that made his heart swell with happiness.

Kissing Yuji one more time, Vale stood and fetched robes for them. "These are enough to go home in. I'll teleport us, and the youngsters, too, if they want." Vale turned to see if Kansas and Erion wanted to join them, and his heart skipped a beat as he watched Kansas deftly undoing Erion's wedding braids. It gave him a small shiver, seeing the love and devotion between them, as much as if they were truly wed already, and the years they would have to wait for Erion to be of age were just a formality. Erion unraveled the pattern that signified his link to Kansas with just as much reverence.

Vale walked over when they had finished, and handed them robes as well. "I'm going to teleport back to the house with Yuji. Do you want to come with us?"

Erion looked at Kansas, and the imp grinned back at him. "I think we'd like that," Erion said. Yuji joined them, and Vale teleported them back to the house, where they headed to their bedrooms.

Vale slid into bed with Yuji, curling up in Yuji's arms with a sigh of utter bliss. His green eyes were already slightly unfocused, reverie tugging at him, and Yuji kissed his elf tenderly as he gave in to the need to sleep, feeling Vale mold himself perfectly against him.

In their room, Kansas held out his arms to Erion, the lithe tanned body fitting against him as thought they were one seamless unit. Erion nibbled a last few kisses to the imp's plump lips, and they watched their soul lights coil tightly together above them, the soft glow reflected in their eyes as they drifted into a peaceful rest.

Sand finished unbraiding the intricate pattern that Satoshi had woven into his hair for his husband, kissing Satoshi tenderly before turning around so that Satoshi could unbraid his hair.

"I love you, my heart," Sand murmured, when Satoshi had finished. The elf turned back and gathered Satoshi into a gentle embrace, nibbling delicately on his pierced lower lip. "Let me show you."

Sand eased Satoshi onto his back, and moved between Satoshi's legs, pressing gentle kisses on Satoshi as he carefully eased himself into his husband, Sand's cock fitting perfectly into Satoshi's tight little ass. Than Sand opened his bond, letting Satoshi feel not only his vast love, but the incredible sensation of his cock being bathed in the tight heat of Satoshi's passage. Satoshi mewled, opening himself to Sand and allowing Sand to feel how good it felt to be filled by him, the gentle pressure on Satoshi's prostate just from Sand's cock resting within him sending sparks up his spine.

Sand gasped, almost overwhelmed by the love that flowed to him from Satoshi, and he began to move, withdrawing his cock slowly, and then languidly pressing back in until he was fully seated in Satoshi's sweet ass. Satoshi moaned, his strong legs wrapping around Sand's hips and the elf set a lazy pace, tender and sweet, coaxing small, blissful whimpers from Satoshi as his cock glided over Satoshi's prostate. It seemed to last an eternity, the gentle plundering almost hypnotic, and Satoshi wrapped his arms around Sand's back, feeling the strong lean muscle under the scars.

"You complete me, cormamin," Sand whispered as he continued to thrust his cock into Satoshi in that slow and loving fashion. "You have healed me, and made me whole again. I am blessed beyond all reckoning, my husband, my soul."

"You are my life," Satoshi replied. "You are my perfect other half, the rest of my soul come home at last."

Satoshi's cock trembled between their bellies as the friction pushed him closer and closer to the edge, the sweet stimulation of his prostate adding to the heat growing in his lower belly. Finally, Satoshi could hold off no longer, and he felt his balls draw up.

"Poldoramin," Satoshi moaned, and his cock gave a twitch as his cum spilled out, painting his belly and Sand's while his ass tightened around Sand's thick cock. Sand stiffened, his own sac tight, and the pressure of Satoshi's ass around his cock combined with the heat of Satoshi's cum on his belly had the elf erupting, filling Satoshi's ass again as Sand cried out, "Cormamin, melamin."

Shuddering with the last dregs of their orgasms, Sand and Satoshi collapsed in a boneless heap, their lips seeking each other as they reveled in the twinned sensations through their bond. Sand looked into those gorgeous brown eyes that he loved so well, seeing his love returned a thousandfold before Satoshi fell into a sated and happy sleep in Sand's strong arms. Sand watched him for a moment, before slipping into reverie with Satoshi's name on his lips.

[Week 22: 3-6-11]

Pen Name: BronxWench

Story link: http://games.adult-fanfiction.org/story.php?no=600086388

Type of fic: Flashfic

Rating: Adult+

Fandom: Dragon Age: Origins

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

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand felt a shiver course through his entire body when Yuji's tongue swiped across the head of his cock, and he clamped his teeth down on his lip hard enough to draw blood. He focused on the sight of Vale fucking Yuji, and then concentrated on the thought of Yuji fucking him. That made Sand shiver again, and Yuji's tongue took another swipe across the head of his cock.

Sand concentrated all of his will not to shriek aloud at the sensation, his cock twitching helplessly. He had a sudden memory of Vale, sitting perfectly still, silent and utterly compliant, while he and Yuji dallied in front of him, and Sand's cheeks flushed with arousal at the image in his mind. The tips of his ears were rosy with lust, and his forehead was damp with sweat, but Sand remained silent and as still as he could manage. His breath was coming in short sharp bursts, but he did not cry out.

Yuji slid his mouth over Sand's cock, and the elf stopped breathing altogether for a moment. The sensation was so unbelievably good that Sand felt almost dizzy, and he focused his attention on the feel of Yuji's mouth, hot and wet, as it engulfed his cock to the root, Yuji's tongue pressing firmly against the underside. Yuji drew back up, and Sand's eyes fluttered closed again, his brain nearly shutting down as he fell into the sensation. Yuji swallowed Sand's cock again, and this time he swallowed a few times while Sand was deep in his throat, and it was the last straw for the elf. Sand felt his balls tighten, and Yuji drew back in time as Sand came, his hot cum filling Yuji's mouth.

Yuji swallowed most of it, but kept a mouthful, and moving up, he pressed his lips to Sand's mouth and let the cum trickle into the elf's mouth. Sand gusted a breath through his nostrils, and swallowed, his tongue plundering Yuji's mouth as he tasted himself on his husband. Yuji returned the kiss, watching the pleasure in Sand's eyes as the elf swiped his tongue across Yuji's lip when Yuji finally broke the kiss.

"Did you like your reward?" Yuji murmured, his lips close to Sand's lips. "I'm so proud of you for drinking it down like that. You're so perfect, love."

Sand looked up at Yuji, his eyes so dark with lust, and he gusted a small breath as Yuji brushed a few strands of hair from his forehead. Yuji looked at the moon elf, so very like him in temperment, and he knew how much effort it took for Sand to surrender like this. He leaned in and kissed Sand again, feeling him trembling a little with the aftereffects of his orgasm, and he slipped an arm around Sand's waist to help support him.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand's eyes lit up, and his own lips curved into an equally wicked grin. He folded his hands into his lap and licked his lips slowly, letting the tip of his tongue linger for a bit.

"I'd take that as a yes," Vale said, nibbling Yuji's ear from behind. He handed Yuji the bottle of Elverquisst, and reached for a pair of the ruby glasses. Sand watched from the corner of his eye as Yuji poured two glasses of the elven cordial and handed one to Vale.

Yuji reached out and fisted his hand in Sand's hair, tugging his head back as he took a sip of the Elverquisst and held it in his mouth. Then Yuji leaned down and kissed Sand, letting the Elverquisst trickle into Sand's mouth, the elf's eyes fluttering closed as he savored the taste of the cordial and the fierce thrust of Yuji's tongue. Sand very nearly moaned, but caught himself in time, relaxing in Yuji's grasp.

Yuji broke off the kiss, looking down at Sand, the elf's kiss swollen lips parted slightly. Yuji rose up on his knees, and, with his hand still fisted in Sand's hair, he brought the elf's mouth to his cock. "Show me what that talented mouth can do," Yuji growled. "But remember, not a sound."

Sand breathed in, his nostrils flaring slightly, and he licked his lips again as he looked at Yuji's cock, already hard and thick, and weeping precum. Sand lapped at the precum, savoring the taste, and then he wrapped his tongue around the head of Yuji's cock, swirling it across the whole head and flicking the cleft underneath with his tongue. Yuji growled again, this time with growing pleasure as Sand slid his wet lips forward until Yuji's cock was bumping the back of his throat. Sand paused for a moment, savoring the feel of having his mouth crammed full of cock. Then he relaxed his muscles, swallowing and feeling Yuji's cock slide down his throat.

Vale was sipping his Elverquisst and watching as Sand sucked Yuji's cock, the blond elf stroking his own cock lightly as his breath came a little quickly from excitement. Yuji turned his head to look at Vale, and Vale came closer, and went to his knees behind Yuji, pressing himself against his husband's back, letting Yuji feel his own hard cock as Vale rubbed it against the cleft of Yuji's ass.

Yuji could feel the heat beginning to pool in his groin, not close yet, but growing, and he wanted to spend as much time as he could buried balls-deep in Sand's tight ass. Yuji tugged on Sand's hair, pulling Sand's head off his cock with a soft pop. Sand looked up, his lips wet and glistening, and his blue eyes nearly black with lust. Yuji grinned wickedly and turned around to face Vale, pulling the blond elf into a fierce and demanding kiss. Vale kissed back just as fiercely, their tongues dueling for dominance, and Vale reached around to cup Yuji's ass and grind his cock into Yuji's groin.

"Oh, fuck, Yuji, you drive me wild," Vale moaned, his head falling back a little to allow Yuji to worry the tender flesh of his throat with sharp white teeth. Vale's fingers were buried in Yuji's silky hair, and Sand watched in silence as Vale nipped and sucked at Yuji's ears, making Yuji's cock jump a little against Vale's belly.

Sand's own cock was hard enough to ache, and it was almost impossible to sit still, his entire body nearly trembling with the need to be fucked. He drew in his breath sharply, his own teeth worrying his lip as he struggled not to moan aloud when Yuji's mouth dropped to Vale's nipple, licking and tugging on the gold and pearl jewelry while he twisted the other sharply, making Vale growl with pleasure. Sand was quite sure he was going to scream if something, anything, did not touch his cock, now.

Vale reached for a plant leaf and squeezed the sap on his fingers as Yuji continued to bite at Vale's tight little nipples. Vale reached around behind Yuji and began to tease his fingers through the cleft of Yuji's ass, circling the tight ring of muscle and teasing it. When Vale finally slid a slippery finger in past the muscle, Yuji moaned happily and Sand sucked in a harsh breath, his cock weeping.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale pulled Sand into a kiss, and then smiled at his husband, totally at peace. "I think I want to eat something," Vale murmured. "Are you hungry?"

Sand chuckled, his wicked chuckle that always sent a shiver down Vale's spine. "I am hungry, but not for food, I think. I do believe I want to continue celebrating our marriages." Sand was watching Kansas, his blue eyes gleaming as he admired the slender imp.

Vale started to laugh. "You're insatiable, do you know that?" Vale nipped Sand's ear lightly, and went over to the low table, selecting a small plate of fruit and pastries. Then Vale pulled a pile of pillows together, making an inviting nest, and curled up, his green eyes bright as he watched Sand approach Kansas. Kansas laughed happily at whatever Sand said to him, and pulled Sand into a searing kiss, grinding up against the moon elf. Satoshi embraced them both and turned to smile at Yuji, who was watching him with an open invitation in his eyes.

Vale felt someone settle into the nest of pillows, and turned his head to see Willow, her face radiant as she leaned into Vale.

"Hey, sweets," Willow said, resting her head on Vale's shoulder. "Some wedding, isn't it?"

Vale held a strawberry to Willow's lips, nuzzling her hair. "I'm enjoying it, lirimaer."

Willow bit into the strawberry, the juice staining her lips, and Vale leaned over to lick the juice away. Willow giggled, tugging on the golden hair that spilled over Vale's shoulders. "I don't think I'm ready for round two with you, sweets. I need a few minutes."

Erion came over with a plate of chocolates and more fruit, and flopped into Vale's pillow nest, resting his head on Vale's thigh with a contented sigh. "I think I like weddings," the young elf grinned, his silvery eyes bright. "Chocolates?" he offered, holding up the plate.

Willow leaned over and took one, planting an affectionate kiss on Erion's forehead. "Thanks, love. I see you're figuring out how things work with us."

Erion giggled. "I am, and I like it. Satoshi was amazing." He nibbled a chocolate as Vale chuckled.

"Satoshi is very amazing. All my spouses are." Vale leaned in to kiss Willow again, and Erion sat up and shifted so that he was leaning against Vale's other side. Vale threw an arm around Erion, and pulled him closer. "You're alright? I did ask that a few healing potions be stashed around just in case."

"I'm fine," Erion replied. He squirmed a little, getting comfortable against Vale. "I just hope Yuji will like me, too."

Both Vale and Willow burst out laughing. Erion looked at them and grinned impishly. "Well, you practically changed my swaddling cloths, Vale, and Sand is my uncle by blood. And no offense, Willow, but I'm not really interested in women as lovers, even if I do like women as friends."

"It's alright, sweets. Kansas is the same way, and I don't take offense." Willow snickered a little. "Besides, the rest of them are more than enough to handle."

Vale did not even bother to try to look offended. He just looked delighted. "And of course, the results of our love can keep you busy as well." He kissed Willow again, and she gave him a small shove.

"Keep that up, sweets, and I'll be ready for that second round." Willow cuddled closer to Vale, content to snuggle a bit longer as she nibbled another chocolate and watched Sand and Kansas, and her beloved Yuji and Satoshi.

Sand had leaned into Kansas, his breath hot against the imp's ear as he murmured, "Do you think I have a chance of making love to a god?"

Kansas laughed happily, and tugged Sand into a searing kiss. He put his mouth up against Sand's ear as he replied, "I know this one god who thinks that's the best kind of worship."

"Mm, was he also a dragon?" Sand caught Kansas's lips in a equally heated kiss, his cock already hard as he let his fingers slide into Kansas's blue streaked hair. Kansas's arms were wrapped around Sand's neck, and Sand reached down, catching Kansas's legs just below his ass and lifting him up. Kansas wrapped his legs around Sand's slim hips and continued to kiss Sand as the elf carried his husband over to a free cushion. Sand sank down with Kansas still wrapped around him, delighting in the feel of the imp in his arms. The last time he had held Kansas, the imp had been bloody and broken, and now Kansas was whole and radiantly beautiful, and Sand sent a silent prayer of thanks to Hanali, who had smiled on his young husband and sent him the healing gift of his nephew.

"Oh, yes," Kansas giggled, still wrapped around Sand. "I'm pretty sure he was a dragon."

"I've had to fight dragons before, but I don't think I've ever made love to a dragon," Sand teased, nipping at Kansas's neck where it met his shoulder and making the imp mewl happily.

"That's because you don't make love to dragons," Kansas informed him, stormy grey eyes dancing with happiness. "Dragons fuck you."

Sand chuckled wickedly. "I stand corrected. Maybe I'll be lucky enough to be fucked by a dragon, then."

Kansas leaned in and nipped at Sand's lower lip, sucking on it a little. "I think that can be arranged." Kansas pushed Sand and urged him to lie back on the cushion, and Sand complied. The elf stretched a little, flaunting his flat, scar-webbed abdomen and arching his back suggestively, his cock pushing up against Kansas.

Kansas moaned at the feel of Sand's thick cock against his ass, and his moans got louder as Sand's hands slid up to toy with his nipples, rolling them between his fingers and tweaking until they had hardened into tight little peaks. Sand tugged Kansas, urging him to lean down, and he latched on to Kansas's mouth, the imp resting on Sand's chest as Sand let one hand drift down to caress the imp's sweet round ass. He broke off a handy leaf with his free hand, and squeezed a generous amount of sap on his fingers as he stroked the cleft between Kansas's ass cheeks, toying a little with the puckered ring of muscle before slipping one finger into Kansas's tight ass. Erion's attentions had loosened Kansas, but Sand knew he was much thicker than Erion, and he wanted to make sure Kansas was ready for him.

Kansas was moaning in delight as Sand breached him with slick fingers, pushing his ass down onto Sand's hand and grinding his cock against Sand's belly. Sand arched his back to increase the friction, and picked up the pace of his finger thrusts, watching Kansas's face flush a little with arousal and pleasure. Kansas wriggled his hips a bit, wanting more of Sand than just fingers, and he looked into Sand's blue eyes, his own stormy and gorgeous.

"I want you in me," Kansas moaned. "I want to feel the burn."

Sand brought his mouth up to Kansas's mouth, nibbling kiss swollen lips before swiping his tongue along Kansas's lower lip. "Then take what you want," Sand invited, and watched as Kansas's smile grew. Sand held Kansas's hips in his strong hands, and guided the imp until Sand's cock was pressing against Kansas's loosened muscle. Kansas gave Sand a slightly feral grin, and then impaled himself to the hilt on Sand's thick cock, screaming in delirious pleasure at the intrusion as he felt Sand's balls snug against his firm ass.

Sand waited while Kansas adjusted to his cock, resisting the urge to buck his hips into the maddening glorious heat of that tight ass, a moan escaping his lips. Kansas's eyes fluttered shut for a moment, the most beautiful smile on his lips as he opened up his bond and welcomed Sand in. Sand joined with Kansas readily, letting Kansas set the pace as the imp began to move, the gorgeous dragons on his thighs seeming to come alive as Kansas rose and fell on Sand's cock. To Sand's surprise, Kansas set a languid pace, drawing out his enjoyment of being filled so completely by Sand. Sand rocked his hips slightly, adjusting his angle to make sure he was gliding over Kansas's prostate, and the elf moaned with pleasure as Kansas howled his delight.

Sand reached out and wrapped slim fingers around Kansas's cock, stroking it firmly in the same languid tempo as Kansas was setting as he rode Sand's cock. Sand loved the feel of Kansas's cock in his hand, the heat and strength of the surprisingly impressive shaft making the elf moan again in appreciation. Sand's free hand crept up to tug and tweak Kansas's peaked nipples, and Kansas howled again as all the sensations combined into a ball of heat coiled low in his belly. Kansas felt his balls tighten, Sand's slow strokes bringing him to a dizzying height of anticipation, and when Kansas finally screamed and came, he felt like he was soaring on dragon's wings, his cum spurting in thick ropes to spatter Sand's face and chest as his ass clenched so tightly on Sand's cock that it almost hurt. Sand licked Kansas's cum from his lips as he gave in to his own orgasm, spilling into Kansas's convulsing passage and filling his ass with cum as he howled his surrender to Arvandor itself.

Kansas sagged forward, his muscles relaxing, and Sand caught him and cradled him to his chest, their hearts pounding into each other as Sand kissed the imp's sweat-damp forehead. "Kansas, my perfect dragon, how I love you," Sand murmured, letting his fierce love pour through their bond to bathe the imp.

Kansas finally caught his breath long enough to giggle a little. He licked a bit of his cum from Sand's chest, and looked up at the elf with a bright grin. "Now that's how you worship a dragon god," he snickered, and Sand began to laugh with him, loving Kansas with all his might.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand leaned over the tumble of bodies, and kissed Willow lingeringly before handing her one of the ruby glasses filled with Elverquisst. "For you, vanimaer," Sand murmured. Then he handed another glass to Yuji, giving him a searing kiss. "And for you, melamin." Sand chuckled as Vale emerged from the center of the huddle, his green eyes bright with desire as he looked at Sand.

"A restorative, anoramin?" Sand asked, his own eyes glittering as he looked at his elven husband appreciatively.

"Mm," Vale agreed, taking the ruby glass and rising to his feet, only slightly less graceful than usual. He leaned into Sand, his body molding fluidly against the moon elf, his lips seeking the sweep of Sand's ear. "Ithilamin," Vale moaned softly, one arm sliding around Sand's waist as he nibbled the tip of Sand's ear.

Sand tugged lightly, drawing Vale away to another thick cushion. Sand sat gracefully, and Vale joined him. The two elves sipped a moment, and then Vale leaned in for a kiss, opening his lips and letting Sand plunder his mouth. It was so familiar, so comfortable to let Sand take over, as he usually did, and Vale melted a little into Sand's arms.

Sand eased Vale back onto the cushion, his fingers toying idly with the rings through Vale's nipples as he continued to delve into the kiss, Vale's fingers sliding up to stroke Sand's ear and coaxing a moan from the moon elf. Sand's cock was hard already, pressing firmly against Vale's thigh as Sand shifted to nuzzle Vale's throat, licking the tender flesh before biting sharply, and Vale yelped with pleasure at the sting. His blue eyes glittering, Sand sucked where he had bitten until he drew blood, and then he laved the mark tenderly, admiring it for a moment before looking into Vale's green eyes.

"So beautiful, anoramin. How is it that I always forget how beautiful you are, hmm?" Sand brushed Vale's hair off his forehead tenderly.

"Ithilamin," Vale sighed. "I don't know what to say to that." He stroked Sand's cheek, a peculiar tightness in his throat. "I feel like I'm letting go here."

Sand smiled, his eyes filled with love. "We are letting go of the past, and embracing our futures. I wronged us both, anoramin. I bonded with you one-sided, and then drew you into that bond without thinking about what you needed." Sand leaned in and kissed Vale again, infinitely tender. "I cannot give you what you need, and we both know that. You need to offer yourself fully, to be utterly given over to your lifemate, and I cannot accept that gift. Yuji can, and he completes you perfectly."

"I feel like I failed you, though." Vale looked at Sand somberly.

"Failed me?" Sand chuckled a little. "Oh, anoramin, there is no failure here. You are something rare and precious, but I am not the one who can fully appreciate what you are. Just as I am what I am, and I have found completion with Satoshi. When we have found such perfect lifemates, how can you even think of failure?"

Vale sighed, pressing a little closer to Sand. "You're not disappointed, then?"

Sand smiled, radiant and beautiful. "No, my beloved sun, I am not disappointed. I rejoice that you have Yuji, and I rejoice that I have Satoshi, and I rejoice that we have found such a rare treasure as our family, where we can still love each other in the way that works best. We have lost nothing, and gained everything, you and I, and we have been greatly blessed."

Sand watched as the last of Vale's hesitation faded from his eyes. Vale smiled, then, his whole face lighting up.

"You're right, as usual. I hate it when you're always right, do you know that?" Vale laughed, and the joy in his laughter rang out loud enough that Yuji looked up from where he lay entwined with Willow, and he smiled to hear Vale's happiness. "I'm Yuji's, always and forever, and that's where I belong. Thank you, ithilamin, for convincing me to go to Tokyo and follow my heart. Thank you for knowing me better than I do myself."

"Mm," Sand purred. "And now that we have that settled, I intend to take you and celebrate our wedding, my delicious husband." Sand moved between Vale's legs, his blue eyes locked on Vale's wide green eyes as he nudged the head of his cock along the cleft of Vale's ass. "I want you hard, and I want you to scream."

Vale shivered a little, his legs wrapping around Sand's hips as he moaned wantonly, bucking a little to beg Sand to plunge his cock into his ass. Sand obliged, a single hard thrust that ended when his balls slammed into Vale's ass hard enough to sting, and Vale mewled with pleasure.

"Oh, fuck, Sand," Vale moaned. Vale's hands gripped Sand's hips, and he tried to pull Sand in even tighter.

Sand just chuckled wickedly, and withdrew slowly, pausing for a moment before slamming himself into Vale's ass again. Sand set a brutal pace, hard and fast, and Vale howled in ecstasy as Sand's thick cock pounded his prostate. Vale's own cock was hard again, dripping precum onto his own belly, and Vale mewled as he arched his back, straining to rub his cock against Sand's scarred stomach.

"Please, saes," Vale whimpered, his head whipping from side to side as Sand ploughed into him. Then Sand pulled out altogether, and Vale let out a shriek of outrage until Sand turned him over and pulled his ass into the air. Sand slammed back into Vale's ass, and reached around to grip Vale's cock, stroking it in time with his thrusts. Vale howled, shoving his hips back against Sand, the punishing thrusts driving him half mad with pleasure as his prostate was plundered. Vale's back arched as he felt his balls draw up, and he mewled, writhing helplessly under Sand's ministrations.

"Oh, Sand, oh fuck, I can't..." Vale gasped, and then he lost all words as white light exploded behind his eyes and he began to cum, hot jets spattering the cushion beneath him, his scream everything Sand had wanted it to be. Sand growled, sinking his teeth into Vale's back as he came, his cum almost hotter than Vale's tight ass as it gripped Sand's cock in a velvet fist and squeezed. Sand shuddered, thrusting a few more times as he emptied his balls, his cock bathed in heat. Finally, spent, he sank forward onto Vale's back. the sun elf collapsing bonelessly beneath him.

Sand eased himself carefully out of Vale's ass, the blond elf shivering a little at the loss, but a blissful smile on his face as his breathing slowed back to normal. Sand looked over, and smiled as he watched Satoshi at play with Kansas and Erion, love and utter contentment emanating from his wide open bond.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale curled up on one of the large thick cushions with Willow and Yuji, quickly grabbing a pile of pillows and creating a comfortable backrest for Willow.

"What are you doing, sweets?" Willow laughed, as Vale arranged the pillows.

"I'm making a throne for our Queen, of course," Vale replied, leaning in to capture Willow's lips in a searing kiss. "I've missed making love with you, lirlmaer."

Willow laughed again, as Yuji leaned in from her other side to kiss her as Vale turned his attention and deft fingers to the lacing of her gown. Vale nibbled at the pale, creamy skin of Willow's shoulders as he slid the gown down a little to reveal the tops of her arms and the swell of her breasts. It was Vale's turn to swoop in then, and he kissed the tops of Willow's breasts, nuzzling the soft skin as Yuji drew Vale's green formal robe off and laid it aside.

Vale turned to Yuji with a radiant smile, and he pulled Yuji to him and kissed him, moaning a little as Yuji untied the sash at his waist. Vale let his head fall back a little, his gold and green hair hanging freely, and Yuji undid the clasp at the neck of his tunic. With the long column of Vale's throat exposed, Yuji latched on to the tender flesh under his jaw, worrying the skin and biting a livid mark into the pale golden skin. Yuji lifted the tunic and eased it over Vale's head, taken aback to find that Vale was not wearing a long under tunic like Sand. Instead, Vale wore a pair of loose pants, almost like sleep pants, but these were a transparent golden silk. The gold and pearl nipple rings that Yuji had bought for him in Tokyo decorated his chest, and around his cock he wore a cock ring wrapped loosely for now. Yuji growled a little, his hands gripping the round firm cheeks of Vale's ass as he pulled him in to grind his cock against Vale's already erect cock.

"My turn," Vale murmured, pausing to turn and kiss Willow again, nibbling her lips and pressing a flurry of kisses across the swell of her breasts. Then he turned back to Yuji. easing the formal haori off his shoulders. Vale stole a kiss as he began to unlace Yuji's hakama, as surprised as Sand had been to find out that it was an undivided hakama.

"That's as wicked as my kilts were," Vale murmured, nibbling on Yuji's ear and chuckling when Yuji sucked in a sharp breath. He drew the heavy hakama off and carefully laid it aside before pulling off Yuji's tabi socks. Vale ran a hand along the smooth skin of his husband's legs, but stopped short of the edge of the kimono, making Yuji growl a little.

Vale unwound the obi that wrapped around Yuji's slim waist, his lips seeking Yuji's lip as Willow continued to watch her two husbands play a bit. They were both so beautiful, one Japanese, golden skinned and black haired, and the other elven, lithe and golden haired, but they moved with a similar grace, like sleek cats as they twined around each other. Vale's hands slid up once the obi was removed, and Yuji's gorgeous gold and green kimono had fallen open along with the snowy juban. The elf leaned in to nip his way from Yuji's jaw, down his throat and over to one nipple, laving it with his tongue before suckling it hard and teasing it with his sharp teeth. Vale switched his attention to the other nipple as Yuji reached up to tug sharply on Vale's nipple rings, making the elf moan wantonly, his cock twitching in his transparent silk pants. Yuji's own cock was peeking out from his fundoshi, and Vale mewled as he carefully removed Yuji's kimono and laid it reverently on the side, the juban following quickly.

Both men turned to face Willow, and she held out her arms as they both leaned in, taking turns kissing her and nuzzling her neck and breasts. Together, working perfectly in tandem, they eased her dress off, leaving her clad only in her wispy lace bra and panties.

"So beautiful," Vale murmured, running his tongue beneath the lace of Willow's bra to tease one nipple.

"Oh, Chippy," Yuji moaned, capturing Willow's mouth with his and plundering it thoroughly as Willow buried her hand in his silky black hair, the other stroking the golden head buried in her breasts.

Vale deftly opened her bra, freeing her lovely breasts, and he cupped them reverently, teasing the nipples with his thumbs. He eased Willow back onto the pile of pillows, and then hooked his thumbs in her panties, drawing them off as she raised her hips. Yuji tugged at Vale's sheer pants, sliding them over the elf's slim hips, and Willow deftly unwound Yuji's fundoshi, freeing his proud cock and stroking it lightly.

Vale gently parted Willow's legs, crouching on his knees between them and kissing her soft auburn curls, his pert ass raised in the air. Yuji groaned and ran his hands over those pale ass cheeks, gripping them and parting them to reveal the quivering ring of muscle between them. As Vale delicately parted the folds of Willow's pussy with his tongue, Yuji ran his own tongue along the cleft of Vale's ass, lightly circling the elf's asshole.

Vale's tongue teased Willow's clit, probing to find the hooded nub and wiggling to tease it. Willow moaned loudly and writhed as Vale laved her pussy with long, firm strokes of his tongue while sliding long fingers into her and thrusting gently as he licked and suckled her clit. Yuji let his own tongue press into Vale's ass, pushing past the tight ring of muscle and making Vale moan loudly as his hips bucked backwards, pressing himself more firmly onto that strong tongue.

Willow could feel the heat building in her belly, as Vale continued licking and suckling, his fingers thrusting faster, and she bucked her hips, grinding herself down onto the elf as she felt herself explode in a powerful orgasm, the muscles of her pussy clamping down on Vale's fingers almost tightly enough to hurt. Vale lapped harder, tasting Willow's sweet juices as she writhed beneath him, her scream of pleasure echoing in his sensitive ears delightfully.

Willow was still moaning through the last powerful surges of her orgasm when Vale rose up and pressed his weeping cock into her. her legs wrapping around his hips as he slid strong arms underneath her and gathered her up. Willow wound up straddling Vale's thighs as he sat back on his heels, and Yuji reached for a leaf of the odd lubricating plant and smeared the sap over the head of his cock before grabbing Vale's hips. Vale rose up a bit as Yuji pulled the elf back between his parted thighs and onto his waiting cock, moaning as Vale impaled himself on Yuji's cock in a fluid motion until he had fully engulfed Yuji.

Willow's legs wrapped around Yuji as Vale began to rock his hips forward and back, riding Yuji's cock as he thrust into Willow, the twinned sensation so intense that the elf moaned loudly and buried his face in Willow's neck. Willow leaned forward, and Yuji leaned over Vale's shoulder to kiss her, one arm around the elf's waist and the other buried in Willow's hair. Willow mewled into the kiss, already feeling another orgasm building as her clit was rubbed with every thrust of Vale's cock. and Yuji moaned as the tight heat of Vale's ass engulfed his aching cock. Willow slid a hand between Vale and herself, and tugged one nipple ring a little, making Vale groan wantonly, his head falling back on Yuji's other shoulder.

Willlow could not hold back any longer, and she gave in to another powerful orgasm, the tight muscles of her pussy clenching around Vale's cock.

"Oh, Eru," Vale howled, feeling his balls tighten painfully, and he exploded, shooting what felt like an endless load of cum into Willow. She screamed, and sank her teeth into Vale's shoulder, intensifying the elf's own pleasure. Yuji felt Vale's ass clamp down on his cock like a velvet vise, and he added his own howls to the mix as he pumped Vale's ass full of cum, grinding himself against Vale's ass.

"Fuck," Yuji moaned, feeling his muscles giving way, and he caught himself and Vale, supporting the elf until he could lower Willow backwards onto the pile of pillows. Then Vale sank forward, Yuji going with him, and they rolled carefully to the side of Willow. The three of them lay there, breath ragged and hearts pounding, their bonds wide open as they let themselves revel in their love.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand looked at Satoshi, tears running freely down his cheeks as he listened to the beautiful song, now complete and flawless. But even more moving were the lyrics, so very open and honest and full of such bright hope for their future together, and Sand had to fight the urge to sob, not wanting to break this delicate spell Satoshi had woven with the magic of his music. Satoshi's voice was as beautiful as the song, clear and pure and strong, and Sand was overwhelmed with love and gratitude for a gift like this song.

When Satoshi had finished, the last note hanging in the air like a bright jewel, Sand stood and carefully took Satoshi's guitar and placed it safely on the side. Then Sand kissed Satoshi, opening his bond completely so that Satoshi could see how every precious note had woven around his heart and soul. This was a gift beyond price, a treasure that Sand would put above mere gold or jewels, a piece of his beloved husband's heart given form. Golden light filled the grotto, Hanali's presence very close as she too delighted in the beauty of Satoshi's art, but Sand knew the song was his. He wondered if he would ever find the words to explain to Satoshi how much he would cherish this moment, how he would visit it in reverie and be renewed by it every time.

When the kiss finally ended, Sand cradled Satoshi face between his hands, his eyes brimming with love. "Amin harmuva onalle e' cormamin. Lle naa cormamin, ten'oio, lina en' fea'amin." The elven sounded like a prayer, and then Sand repeated himself in English. "I shall treasure your gift in my heart. You are my heart, forever, the song of my soul."

Satoshi made a small sound, and fell into Sand's arms, the two of them striving to touch each other, to feel the heat of skin against skin as they kissed so passionately that Sand felt like his heart would take wing. They were both slightly disheveled when that kiss ended, and Sand laughed ruefully. "We are as bad as Kansas and Erion, my heart. Perhaps we should go back and see if it is time to move to the wedding chamber, so I can properly thank you for such a perfect gift."

Satoshi was bright red, but his smile was the most beautiful thing Sand had ever seen, and his cheeks were wet with tears as well. Sand kissed them away tenderly, his own smile radiant, and then they returned to the dining hall, arms around each other's waists, their love a warm glow that enveloped them.

The others were gathering, preparing to go to the wedding chamber, and Sand and Satoshi were greeted with loving hugs and kisses as they joined the rest of their spouses. Hamalitia led the way, escorting them into a bower that had been prepared with large thick cushions on the grassy floor, silk pillows scattered everywhere, and the sweet smell of cloud roses perfuming the air. A low table was overflowing with trays of fresh fruit, delicate pastries and bowls of sumptuous chocolates, along with several bottles of Elverquisst and goblets carved from the purest rubies and adorned with mithral.

"May Hanali Celanil rejoice as you celebrate your wedding night, and may the bliss of this night be only a taste of the bliss that awaits you." Hamalitia bowed, and left, closing the doors behind her as the spouses looked at each other with love and anticipation.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Indril looked at Apollo, his own blue eyes dancing with interest. He dipped another berry in chocolate, and held it up for her to lick. "There is little to tell that might intrigue a lady such as yourself, whose sophistication makes me seem quite the provincial. I am much more interested in discussing how I might hope to bring a smile to your lovely face." Indril smiled and poured more wine for Apollo. "And as to kilts, well, my usual armor has a skirt of leather strips, so I think I might be well able to meet your requirements."

Wench in the meantime was delighted to spend a little time with D. He had been in near-constant attendance on Apollo during the vacation, and that was certainly Apollo's prerogative, to reserve one of her kilted men for her own exclusive use, and both T and K had been utterly delightful, but there was something so delicious about the tall and very handsome D that made Wench absolutely tingle. As he purred in her ear, his words charming as perfect, Wench's smile widened. Sand caught it from the corner of his eye, amused. He knew that look, and hoped D was feeling energetic.

"I can't imagine why Apollo wouldn't want to spend the night in your company, D. You're intelligent, charming, and oh, my dear, so very tall." Wench chuckled. "Perhaps we can take a walk later, and I can show you the Hanging Gardens. The night-blooming jasmine is absolutely intoxicating." Her dark eyes were alive with mischief, and her smile promised a very long night.

Sand looked up as Kansas and Erion wandered back into the dining hall, their clothing quite close to perfect and their eyes shining as they managed to mold themselves to each other while walking. Satoshi looked up as well, breaking out in a smile as he watched the two young lovers. They were circulating and trying to greet people that they knew, while angling for the buffet. Sand took the opportunity to steal a kiss, lingering over Satoshi's lower lip and nibbling his piercings. Satoshi giggled a little, but he was far too happy to even be embarrassed by Sand's attention.

"They were a little... impetuous," Sand murmured. "A pity we did not think to do the same." He nuzzled his face into Satoshi's hair. "I find I am extremely eager for this portion of the festivities to be over, so that we can withdraw to the wedding chamber. I want to make love to you, cormamin."

Satoshi looked at Sand, his brown eyes filled with love. He was not about to tell Sand the small surprise he had in store for his poldoramin.

Santhiel had managed to catch up to Kansas and Erion as they filled plates at the buffet. He listened for a moment as they chattered.

"You never answered me about the braids, isilmeamin," Kansas said, kissing the tip of Erion's ear and giggling as Erion shivered with excitement.

"I was thinking that we should wait until we go to the wedding chamber," Erion replied, his cheeks slightly pink under his tan. He shot Kansas a sidelong glance. "I don't want anyone else touching my braids, either. They're just for you, 'lokiamin, but I thought we could wait until we were with everyone else, like we were husbands, too." His cheeks got even darker, and he felt like a silly elfling for a moment, until he saw Kansas's smile.

"That's perfect. You're perfect," Kansas said, dipping in to steal another kiss from Erion's already swollen lips.

Santhiel cleared his throat a little, and Erion looked up at his father with a smile.

"Atar, wasn't it all wonderful?" Erion asked. He moved closer to Kansas as he smiled at his father.

Santhiel smiled back at the young lovers. "It was indeed, most wonderful. I think the part I found most arresting, however, were certain very lusty howls and screams from somewhere deep in the grottoes." His smile widened as Erion blushed a little, but offered an unrepentant grin. "It was a wonderful act of worship, but I don't think we need to alert all of Evereska to your devotions, hmm?"

"I'm sorry, Santhiel. We'll try to be quieter next time," Kansas said, although he did not look terribly sorry, either.

"Could I ask a favor, Kansas? Since you are now my son-in-law, I'd be very happy if you were to call me atar as well." Santhiel smiled at the imp, his eyes filled with warmth.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion ground back against Kansas, fumbling until he found out how to untie the fundoshi, and he tossed it aside, rubbing against Kansas's now freed cock eagerly. Erion's cock was weeping already, and he moaned, sliding down Kansas's body and leaving a trail of kisses as he worked his way down to crouch between the imp's parted thighs. Erion stroked the tattoos reverently, the colors vibrant against Kansas's pale skin, and Erion paused to nuzzle each thigh, murmuring softly, "We'll protect him together."

Then Erion sucked on his fingers, wetting them thoroughly, and Kansas moaned at the sight of the elf suckling those slim digits. Erion leaned forward, silvery hair spilling over Kansas's belly as he lapped at the head of Kansas's cock, his tongue probing the slit while one wet finger dipped under Kansas's balls to stroke the tight muscle of his asshole. As Erion lowered his mouth over the entire head of Kansas's cock, he pressed his finger into Kansas's ass, and Kansas bucked a little, trying to drive himself further onto the question finger while urging Erion's hot mouth to continue sliding down his aching cock.

Erion worked his way down Kansas's cock until it hit the back of his throat, and then he drew back, sucking hard enough to hollow his cheeks as he went. Kansas moaned loudly, his fingers tangled in Erion's hair as Erion pushed a second spit-slicked finger into his ass, thrusting a little and hooking them to rub against Kansas's prostate. Kansas howled, the touch sending sparks of white light exploding behind his eyes, and he pushed down onto those fingers, moaning as Erion began to scissor them, stretching the tight muscle as he slid his mouth back down over Kansas's cock. This time, when Kansas bumped the back of Erion's throat, the elf relaxed his throat and engulfed Kansas to the root, moaning happily as he swallowed. At the same time, he pressed on Kansas's prostate again, and Kansas screamed as he gave in to his orgasm, his balls emptying as he came in explosive spurts. Erion drew back a little, drinking down Kansas's cum eagerly, and licking his cock clean of every drop.

Erion reared up, and withdrew his fingers from Kansas's ass, smearing his own precom over the head of his cock. Much to Kansas's surprise, he leaned over and snapped a thick leaf off a nearby plant, rubbing the slippery sap over his cock. Then Erion pressed his cock against Kansas's twitching asshole, and looked Kansas in the eyes, letting his love pour forth.

"Are you ready, 'lokiamin?" Erion asked.

"Yes, do it," Kansas begged, "Let me feel you in me, isilmeamin. Make love to me."

Erion did not need further urging as he pressed the head of his cock past the tight ring of muscle, the sheer inviting heat of Kansas's ass making him want to plunge straight in. Erion mewled, but forced himself to enter slowly, sliding his cock steadily into the bewitching heat until he was fully buried in Kansas's ass. He began to thrust, slowly at first, and then picking up speed as he felt his own balls begin to tighten. He was pounding Kansas's prostate, and Erion watched as Kansas's cock began to harden again. Kansas bucked his hips, encouraging Erion as his fingers tweaked the elf's sensitive nipples, and Erion screamed at the top of his lungs as he came, feeling like he would never stop, bathing Kansas's ass in liquid heat as he emptied himself in that sweet ass.

Spent, Erion let himself fall forward onto Kansas's chest, shuddering as the last few waves of pleasure coursed through him. He kissed Kansas, nipping on his lower lip a little, and whimpering happily as his breathing slowed to a more normal rate.

"My turn, my beautiful love," Kansas murmured into the silvery hair. "I'm going to make love to you, and make you scream so loud that they hear you in Neverwinter."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion flung himself back into Kansas's arms and clung to him. "Hold me, Kansas. Don't you ever be afraid to hold me. You never need to ask first, never, not even if we're mad at each other." He kissed Kansas almost frantically. "Besides, I won't be afraid anymore. They'll know that I could never hurt you, and that I'm going to spend my entire life loving you."

Erion carefully undid his sash and laid it aside. "I remember this place. I remember the first time we came here together." He pulled off his doeskin boots, feeling the soft grass underfoot, and he sighed a little and pulled Kansas into a burning kiss. "I want to make love again, right here, where we did the first time. My first time." He opened the neck of his long tunic, and stood up, stretching as he pulled the tunic over his head, leaving him standing there in nothing more than the sheer linen under tunic. Erion's small dark nipples showed clearly through the linen, as did his erect cock, and Kansas sucked in a shaky breath as he looked at the beautiful elf. Erion walked over to stand in front of Kansas, his eyes bright with love. "My first time was with you, and my last time will be with you, 'lokiamin, my forever love."

Kansas reached out and gathered up the hem of the linen tunic, slowly lifting it up to pull it over Erion's head, trembling a little as Erion arched his back in open invitation. The elf was tanned and gloriously wanton as he held out his hands to Kansas.

"This time is just for us," Erion said. "We can play with the others later, but I want this for us."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Wench hugged Hideko happily. "I'm so happy to meet you in person at last! Tell me, have I driven your father utterly insane yet, or have I managed to merely irritate him beyond reason?" She laughed, not displeased by either prospect, and let Hideko lead her and Apollo to seats quite near the high table. She was as amused as Apollo when Kansas grabbed Erion's hand, and the newly engaged pair disappeared into the maze of grottoes and nooks, looking flushed and eager.

"We should pay our respects as well, Indril." Wench took Indril's arm and waited until Apollo was done greeting everyone before bowing respectfully and then smiling widely. "Thank you all so much for letting us be a part of this day. You all look so beautiful, and the vows were the most gorgeous I've ever heard. I can't tell you how very happy I am for all of you. I wasn't sure what would be an appropriate gift, but since I understand you have a new house back home in Tokyo, I've left instructions with a master furniture maker that was recommended highly to me to make you something that you need -- a new dining set, or new living room furniture, whatever you'd like. I understand he does traditional furniture as well as Western style."

Wench waved off the inevitable protests, and offered her own insistence that it was nothing, having been well coached by Hideko in how to get them to accept her gift. Once they had finally given in, Wench hugged Willow hard. "Be happy, love," she murmured. "They're all perfect in their own way." Then she and Indril wandered back to their seats to enjoy the bountiful food and the delicious elven wines.

Erion lost himself in the feel of Kansas against him, his lips parted as Kansas dove into a demanding kiss. The elf moaned happily as Kansas plundered his mouth, and he returned the kiss with equal fervor, so hungry for his beloved soulmate. He could see the soul lights twining tighter than ever above them, and his heart soared, until he felt that odd gaze again, and shivered a little.

"Isilmeamin? What's wrong?" Kansas asked, looking searchingly into Erion's eyes. Kansas's hands flew up to cup Erion's face, his own eyes reflecting love and concern.

"I saw them," Erion murmured, his eyes wide. "The dragons, the ones on your thighs? When you were making your vows to Sand, I saw them." Erion paused for a moment, not quite sure how to continue. But this was Kansas, his soulmate, his own dragon, and Erion was not about to keep secrets. "They saw me, too, and I'm not sure they like me, 'lokiamin. In fact, they scared me, a little. Pulling some shadow around me helped, but I can't do that all the time. Can we... can I meet them, and maybe try and let them know I won't hurt you?"

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Wench hugged Apollo back, her own lashes suspiciously damp. "You look as radiant as ever, Apollo! Oh, and I agree, I just love weddings, and to have fourteen weddings and an engagement? What a day!" She stretched up on her tiptoes for a kiss from D. "And you're as handsome as ever, D."

The silver-haired elf bowed over Apollo's hand, pale blue eyes twinkling. "My Lady Apollo, how wonderful to meet you. Wench has spoken of you so often and with such great affection that I almost feel I know you. I am the Warden Commander Indril, technically Arl of Amaranthine despite my protests."

Wench laughed. "He is also formerly known as the Rake of Fereldan, having scored nearly as many notches on his bedpost as the number of darkspawn he's slaughtered."

"You would not have it any other way, my dearest Wench." The graceful tattoos that decorated his face did nothing to mask Indril's amusement. "Since her former playmates are now well and truly married off, I do hope to see you again, my Lady Apollo, perhaps at the next vacation? I do believe my Zevran and I would enjoy that a great deal."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion shivered a tiny bit, not entirely understanding all of what Kansas had meant in his vows to Sand, but seeing those dragons as clearly as his uncle did. The dragons were bound to Kansas, and he controlled their chains, but the feral look on their faces chilled Erion. He knew they were aware of his gaze, but they refused to acknowledge him, and Erion drew on his own mixed blood to pull a little shadow around himself, his eyes very silvery. Erion dared a glance at Santhiel, but his father had been distracted for a moment by Falon, and Erion nearly sagged in relief. He pushed the dragons to the back of his mind for now and turned his attention back to Hamalitia, but he knew he would have to make some sort of peace with them soon.

Hamalitia caught Eryn's eye and nodded, and Eryn and Sora escorted the children up to the altar as Hamalitia gestured for the new spouses to rejoin her. Sora brought Ryuu to stand with Satoshi, and then handed Aika to Yuji, while Eryn passed Hikaru to Vale. Aika was wearing a miniature of her mother's dress, but in a deeper green, and Sora had made Ryuu his own kimono to match Satoshi's, and hakama that she and Mist had painstakingly pleated. Hikaru wore a tiny version of the formal high-necked tunic that Vale wore, his green eyes wide in his small face as he reached for Vale's braid.

Eryn held Sora's hand tightly as they returned to their seats. "They all look so perfect, don't they? Did you ever think we'd see this/"

Sora chuckled a little, the slightly goofy laugh that Yuji had inherited. "I didn't think I'd even see my Yuji and my Satoshi again, so this is all special to me." She giggled again. "Didn't think I'd be a great great grandmother, either, but they both surprised me."

Hamalitia raised her hands over the gathered family. "The love here among all of you is the best possible offering to Hanali Celanil, and She has made her blessings known throughout these many marriages. I ask for one last blessing for you all, this unique and marvelous expression of love's beauty and strength."

The golden light that had bathed the altar grew and the very air began to shimmer. Aika laughed in delight and held up her hand, looking at Yuji with dancing eyes, and Ryuu snuggled between Satoshi and Sand, his eyes bright with happiness. Even Hikaru gave a tiny gurgle of laughter, releasing Vale's braid to touch the light.

"Let us all go and feast, and make merry, and celebrate this joyous day!" Hamalitia flung her hands up, a laugh of pure joy pealing forth as she basked in the glow of her goddess. A few priestesses opened a set of doors, and the smells of a marvelous feast wafted into the chapel as everyone began to move to the dining hall.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Hamalitia then called Vale up with Satoshi. Vale took Satoshi's hands and looked into his gorgeous brown eyes.

Satoshi placed his ring on Vale's finger. "Vale, my love, mela en' coiamin, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come."

Vale slid his ring onto Satoshi's finger. "Satoshi, my love, mela en' coiamin, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come."

Vale kissed Satoshi tenderly, nibbling lightly on his pierced lower lip, his green eyes brimming with love as their hands were joined.

"Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia looped the cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends." Hamalitia smiled, and waited as Kansas joined Vale at the altar.

Kansas carefully placed his ring on Vale's finger. "Vale, my love, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come."

Vale slid his ring onto Kansas's finger. "Kansas, my love, alasse'amin, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come."

Their kiss was infinitely tender, and Vale cupped Kansas's face gently before joining hands with him.

"Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia looped the cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends." Hamalitia smiled, and Sand joined Vale at the altar.

Sand looked at Vale, his blue eyes tender. "Vale, anoramin, my sweet love, I will always love you until time itself ends. I would have been pleased to end my days with you had I not found the one who completes me. Never doubt that, and never doubt that what we have is real. Amin mela lle, ten'oio." He slid a wide golden ring onto Vale's right forefinger, and pressed a loving kiss on his elven spouse.

Vale's green eyes were wide, and bright with tears. "Sand, ithilamin, my first love, you taught me how to open my heart, and how to lose myself in someone else. I think part of me will always regret that we could not have been enough for each other, but without your encouragement and permission, I would never have dared to reach for my soul's mate. Amin mela lle, ten'oio." Vale slipped a golden band onto Sand's right forefinger, and then he leaned in to kiss Sand, melting a little into his arms as Sand returned the kiss with surprising passion. Then they stepped back a little, hands joined tightly, and turned to the priestess.

"Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia looped the cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends."

Hamalitia held out her arms. "Hayashi Yuji en Nosse Anorongil and Mori Masato, Sand en Nosse Iradil, stand before me."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

It was Vale's turn to join Willow at the altar, and his smile was radiant as he took her hands in his.

"Willow, mother of my son, lirimaer, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come." Vale slid the platinum band onto Willow's finger and paused.

Willow placed her ring on Vale's finger. "Vale, my love, father of my son, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come."

Vale leaned in and kissed Willow lingeringly, as Hamalitia said, "Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia looped the cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends."

The golden light of Hanali's blessing was continuous now, as Sand walked up to join Willow at the altar.

"Willow, my love, vanimaer, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come." Sand placed his ring on her finger for the first time, his eyes shining with joy.

"Sand, my love, I give you my laughter, my loyalty and my love. I give you these things without limit, and as the circle symbolizes infinity, so shall this ring symbolize the infinite love between us on this, our wedding day, and on every day to come." Willow slid her white gold ring onto Sand's finger.

Hamalitia smiled and said, "Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia looped the cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends."

Sand caught Willow up in a kiss, and then escorted her from the altar. Hamalitia held out her arms again.

"Hayashi Yuji en Nosse Anorongill and Mori Satoshi en Nosse Iradil, stand before me." Hamalitia waited in the golden glow.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion looked at Kansas, his eyes shining. "I accept with all my heart, because you already have my soul." As soon as Kansas finished sliding the ring onto Erion's finger, the silver-haired elf flung his arms around Kansas and kissed him with fierce passion amid a shower of golden light so bright that Hamalitia almost expected Hanali herself to appear.

Hamalitia raised her hands over Erion and Kansas. "The promise is made and accepted, in the sight of Hanali, and witnessed by all here. Be thou blessed, and return hence when it is thy time to wed."

There was not a chance of getting Erion and Kansas to release each other's hands, and they walked off, their souls as tightly entwined as their fingers.

"Once again, let us turn our hearts to the weddings yet to be made. Hayashi Yuji en Nosse Anorongil and Hayashi Willow, stand before me." Hamalitia turned the warmth of her smile on them.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Indril surreptitiously dashed a tear from his eyes as he watched the two young men exchange their vows of betrothal. After all they had been through together, he was sure he could petition Alistair... King Allistair to allow him and Zevran to marry. He was startled out of his thoughts by a not-so-gentle elbow to the ribs, and he looked to see Wench offering him a linen hankie.

"Ma serannas, thank you," Indril murmured. Wench chuckled softly, her own hankie being put to good use.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Sand laughed, a bright rich laugh that carried all the joy in the world in it. "With everything I am, I accept, my heart." Tears of happiness were running down his cheeks, and he had never looked more radiant as Satoshi slid the ring onto his finger. "Your beautiful song, cormamin. Will you play it for me later, and sing the words to me?"

Satoshi nodded, and pulled Sand in for a passionate kiss, a kiss that was returned as eagerly as it was given. Hamalitia waited until they had finally separated, and joined their hands.

"Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia the golden cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends." She looked up as a shower of golden light blessed Sand and Satoshi as well, her heart soaring at the marvelous love before her.

Once more, Hamalitia held out her hands. "We also are celebrating a vow of betrothal today, and therefore I ask Hayashi Tatsuya en Nosse Iradil and Erion en Nosse Iradil ar' Sulandorn to stand before me."

Erion all but ran to stand before Hamalitia, Kansas just a quick to arrive. Before Hamalitia could say anything, Kansas took Erion's hands in his, stepped a little closer, and then swooped in and captured Erion in a kiss, the young elf tilting his face up eagerly. Hamalitia cleared her throat gently, her tone warm. "We generally wait until after the vows to kiss, my dearest ones."

Completely unabashed, Kansas gave Erion's lips one last nibble before stepping back a bit. Erion gave Kansas a look of utter adoration, and then smiled his beautiful smile.

"Everyone has always thought that the blue ring around my eyes was because my mother has blue eyes. I've always known better. I've always known that it was the mark of my soulmate, and all I had to do was wait until he found me. It is the blue of my soulmate, and the silver of my soul, always together in my eyes. You are my blue dragon, and I am your moonbeam, and I pledge myself to you until I am old enough to marry you, because in my eyes our souls are already joined." Erion slid the delicate sapphire and diamond band onto Kansas's finger. "Will you accept my pledge, 'lokiaimin?"

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Indril leaved over a bit to murmur in Wench's ear, "Perhaps I should bring Zevran here, eh?" He grinned at her, pale blue eyes bright in his tanned face, his elaborate facial tattoos a darker blue.

"Didn't dear Zev give you a ring already?" Wench countered. "Evereska's survived a great deal, but it might not survive Zevran Arainai, or you, for that matter, my dear Rake of Fereldan." She kissed Indril lightly on the lips. "Now hush, I want to hear the lovely vows and get teary-eyed."

Indril chuckled and pulled Wench closer, listening with her, profoundly moved although he would never have admitted it willingly.

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Vale's smile could have outshone the sun itself. "I accept," he whispered, his eyes locked on Yuji's eyes, tears brimming. He felt Yuji slide the ring into place, and his entire world fell into place.

"Before Hanali Celanil, and before all of these witnesses, let this marriage be made." Hamalitia took a slender golden cord and placed Vale's hand in Yuji's hand and looped the cord around their joined hands. "Be thou blessed all of thy days, and in Arvandor to come, until time itself ends." She looked up as a shower of golden light fell across Yuji and Vale as their lips met in a tender kiss, Hanali's hand upon them both.

Hamalitia extended her arms. "Mori Satoshi en Nosse Iradil, and Mori Masato, Sand en Nosse Iradil, stand before me."

Sand walked forward, his robes swaying gracefully and his blue eyes seeming to glow with happiness. He waited for Satoshi, so beautiful in his rich purple kimono, to stand before Hamalitia as well, his eyes taking in the intricate braiding in Satoshi's hair. "Oh, my heart," he whispered. Sand picked up the gorgeous braided ring from the tray and turned to face Satoshi, his voice as clear as a bell throughout the temple.

"I can promise you that I will fail you as magnificently as possible, and I will make you want to throttle me, and I will make you scream with passion, and I will love you until time stops. You are my life, and I will add to my promise this as well. When your life ends, I will follow you, for this world would be empty without you, and there would be no joy for me until we meet again in the afterlife. Will you accept my promise, and my bond as your lifemate, our souls as one?" Sand slid the ring halfway onto Satoshi's left ring finger. "Amin mela lle, cormamin, ten'oio."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Hamalitia looked out at the gathering. It seemed like half of Evereska had turned out to see Eryn's family expand, and her smile grew even brighter. She could feel a certain warmth to the air that had always signaled that Hanali was taking a personal interest in the proceedings. Of course, with the intricacies of the bonds being witnessed here today, it was no surprise to Hamalitia. Such a web of love and lovers was bound to catch Lady Goldenheart's eye.

The crowd, like the wedding participants themselves, was not entirely elven, and that made Hamalitia smile even more. She loved to see her goddess receive the reverence of non-elves as well as elves, for love was too precious a thing not to be shared widely. She noticed the human woman called Wench, who had actually been to Evereska once before. Wench was accompanied, as usual, by an elf, but this elf was not from Toril at all. He did, however, have the most gorgeous facial tattoos, and Hamalitia wondered if Wench would not mind allowing her to explore those a little further at the feast after the wedding. But that was for later, and there were weddings to be conducted.

Hamalitia stepped forward, her ankle-length hair following her like a cloak. "Oh, my dearest ones, what a truly blessed day this is. We are gathered to celebrate a most unique marriage, a marriage that binds six people together in love and respect. Two of these marriage are lifebonds, an even more blessed thing, for how often do we find the one who truly is our partner in both body and soul?"

Hamalitia paused for a moment, her eyes lighting on a radiant human woman in a breathtaking gown and elegant jewels, who was with a very tall human man with hair that hung below his waist. He was dressed most fetchingly in a skirted attire that revealed and highlighted long, well-muscled legs. Gathering herself, Hamalitia returned her attention to the ceremony, and the very eager participants.

"As is proper, let us begin by joining the first lifebonded pair, by the laws of Evereska and in the sight of Hanali Celanil." Hamalitia extended her arms. "Hayashi Yuji en Nosse Anorongil, and Vale en Nosse Anorongil, also called Hayashi Akira, stand before me."

Vale felt his heart soar as he walked forward, his eyes fixed on the gorgeously clad form of Yuji. The priest held out a tray, and Vale picked up the ring he had placed on Yuji's finger once before, his voice strong and firm as he opened his bond and let his love flow outward.

"Yuji, the last thing I expected when I went on that vacation was to fall in love, but from the moment I looked into your eyes, sitting next to you at the piano, I was lost to something that was so right, so perfect. My heart yearned for you, and I knew then and there that I would never be complete without you." Vale smiled, even though his eyes were glittering with unshed tears. "When you told me that you loved me, I thought I would shatter. It was a dream, and one I thought had to end. But I can't face life without you, and so I'm here, and I offer you all that I am, my heart, my soul, my life. You complete me, and make me whole, and for as long as you want me, I am yours, if you will have me." Vale slipped his ring on Yuji's left ring finger, his smile incandescent. "I am yours."

[Sandcastles and Fireworks]

Erion looked almost mutinous as he followed Sand and Vale into the room assigned to them to prepare. Sand lifted his nephew's chin, staring into the tear-filled eyes, and he stroked his cheek gently.

"Do not look so distraught, aier." Sand smiled gently. "You are going to announce your betrothal to all of Evereska. That is cause to be happy, and you need to have your hair properly braided, as befits a bridegroom, and dress in your formal robes. Sit, and let me braid your hair." Sand began to weave a long braid at each of Erion's temples, weaving in mithral and sapphire beads into the silver locks. Vale was already weaving his first set of braids, using gold and emerald beads.

"What if Kansas changes his mind again?" Erion asked, fidgeting a little. "What if he decides that this is a bad idea?"

"Do you honestly think that is possible? The two of you could barely be parted to dress." Sand pressed a fond kiss to the top of Erion's head. "The moon rises and sets in your eyes for him, never doubt that."

Erion sighed, but subsided a bit, and Vale stroked his cheek affectionately. "Sand is right, you know. There's nothing to worry about."

Sand was already on the second set of braids for Erion, bringing them from his temples to the back of his head and joining them into one braid. Vale opened the wardrobe and pulled out a sheer linen under tunic for Erion, snowy white and nearly transparent. As Erion began to dress, Sand finished Vale's second set of braids, and then let Vale help him with his own second braids, using diamond and amethyst beads that glowed against his raven hair.

Erion reached for the long high-necked tunic that went over his sheer tunic. His was woven from cloth of silver, and his sash and outer robe were a deep, rich blue. He slipped soft doeskin boots on his feet, and turned to look at Sand, hesitant.

Sand smiled, his eyes filled with love for his nephew. "You look radiant, aier."

Vale sighed a little as Sand reached into the wardrobe for his own linen under tunic, and then handed Vale a pair of loose pants in transparent golden silk. Vale looked at him, startled.

"I thought I was wearing --" Vale stopped, and flung himself into Sand's arms, holding his husband tightly.

"It is just the pants, anoramin. Do not overreact," Sand said, but he held Vale tightly, stroking his golden skin. "The rest of your wedding garb is quite sedate, I assure you."

"Thank you, ithilamin," Vale murmured, and pulled Sand into a lingering kiss, his green eyes brimming. "I'm sorry for being such an idiot."

"You are not an idiot, my love." Sand returned Vale's kiss. "I love you, do you know that?"

"I know," Vale replied, stroking Sand's cheek and smiling at his elven husband. "We were almost enough for each other, weren't we?"

Sand smiled back. "Had we not found our lifemates on that vacation, I would have been content to end my days at your side. Never doubt that, or our love."

The two older elves dressed quickly. Sand's high-necked tunic was a very pale pearly grey, and Vale's was a thicker golden silk that shimmered as he moved. Sand donned a sash and an outer robe of deep purple, and Vale quickly tied his emerald green sash and slipped on his robe.

"You're both so beautiful," Erion sighed, looking at Sand and Vale. "Like the sun and the moon together."

There was a knock on the door, and Eryn came in, tears springing to her eyes as she looked at her son and her grandson, and her son in law, all of them looking impossibly handsome and elegant in their robes.

"Oh, you look like elflords, the three of you," Eryn said. She was holding a small jewel casket, and she set it down and opened it carefully. She lifted out a mithral and amethyst circlet, and set it on Sand's head. A mithral and sapphire circlet followed for Erion, and Vale's was gold and emerald. "There you are, as befits such noble elves. You are beautiful, all of you, and the love in your eyes is brighter than the stars. My blessings on you all, this day and every day."

Eryn embraced each elf in turn, wiping away a tear of pure happiness. Sand held her hands for a long moment.

"Did you ever think this day would come, atara?" Sand teased.

"No, I did not, and now so many new members of our family, and the little ones," Eryn laughed. "We have been blessed indeed."

"Then shall we join our husbands?" Sand gestured for Vale to precede him, and then followed behind him, Erion in the rear as they walked into the main section of the temple.

Hamalitia, senior priestess of Hanali Celanil, waited for them at the front of the central chapel in the Fountainheart of Shimmering Gold. As befitting one who served Lady Goldenheart, she was wearing robes of cloth-of-gold, her black hair unbound and unbraided, and hanging to her heels. A priest stood behind her, near a table that held several small trays with their wedding rings and engagement rings resting on golden velvet.

The three elven men lined up on one side of the golden altar, their eyes bright as they awaited their spouses.