Dancing with the Dragon, Chosen

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

Dancing with the Dragon: CH 25, Lean Days End, Copyright 2017 Tripp Savidge. All rights are reserved. Do not duplicate or distribute in any form without express permission of the author.

Dancing with the Dragon Chapter 25: Lean Days End by Tripp Savidge

Skye's hand slid along Braden's warm skin and found the full round flesh of his pecs. His nipples already hard and swollen as Skye's fingers teased them. Skye liked how they felt between his fingers, large and firm - enough to grasp and milk. Even better was sucking them, almost like miniature dicks, but he'd save that for later. He ran his tongue across Braden's lips and savored the taste before he began to explore Braden's mouth. They kissed passionately as Skye managed to remove Braden's jacket and toss it aside.

Skye broke from the kiss and buried his face in Braden's neck. Braden moaned softly and he could feel Braden's lust building, fueling his own need. Oh God, what is wrong with me? Skye wondered as he pulled Braden tighter against him. He could feel Braden's hard cock through his pants, rubbing against his own.

Garrett... Skye reached out, pushing against Garrett's shielding. Skye could feel and sense Garrett lowering the barrier before he heard the response.

I'm here baby. The session is about to begin so I'll need to go soon.

Garrett, something's wrong. I can't think straight. I need you... I need you to fuck me now!

Fiske already messaged me that it came back. I am so sorry, I warned you that the lust and need would come back hard. You can't fight it - don't even try. Braden wants you Skye and Jos and Fiske are there, don't feel guilty. Let them take care of you. Then try to get back to the palace. I'll be home as soon as I can, but it will be a while, probably close to dinner. I'm so very sorry baby - Serat's starting, I've got to go.

Fuck! This is so unfair! Of all times for Garrett to have to be out of reach. Skye wasn't sure whether he wanted to scream or cry. He couldn't remember ever feeling this much need. He wanted Garrett so badly, wanted to devour his mate in passionate sex and never let go of him again. Slowly Skye came back to the moment, his dragon pushing at him to finish what he'd started with Braden. The dragon wanted to claim this man and Skye could feel Braden's heat and need as he became aware of voices.

"-are you sure you're okay with this Braden? He's coming off almost a full week of lean days. Once he starts..."

"It may be the only way he'll take me. No Fiske, I want this."

"Don't believe that for a second Braden. He wants you and if it doesn't happen now, it will eventually. Trust me," Fiske said.

Skye wasn't about to let Braden out of his arms. He kissed up his neck and captured the soft, full lips.

"Last chance Braden," Fiske said.

Skye let out a low grumbling growl as he slid his hands onto Braden's ass. Back off Fiske, he's mine, Skye's dragon sent to Fiske with clear warning. But you might as well get naked because I want you next.

Skye had Braden's pants unfastened and his hands slid inside to take a firm grip on the meaty ass, squeezing and pulling it tight against him as he ground himself into Braden's willing body. He was so caught up in his need he didn't see or notice Fiske gasp and drop to his knees before Jos pulled him out of the room. Skye struggled wondering whether he or his dragon was more in control. Part of him wanted to slow down, to think about what he was doing, but as he felt Braden's flesh and picked up on his thoughts, that restraining voice fell silent.

Skye ran his hands over Braden's body pulling and squeezing at his swollen nipples as he lowered himself to his knees, kissing his way down the pale smooth skin. Skye slid Braden's pants off his hips, allowing his swollen member to spring free and slide directly into his mouth.

"Oh Father Dragon..." Braden moaned.

Skye pushed Braden's pants down over his thick calves and sucked on the velvety cock, enjoying the sweet taste of Braden's pre-cum on his tongue. "You taste good Braden."

"You don't have to do this sir..."

"Oh but I want you Braden. Is there something you'd rather have me do?" Skye licked at the head of Braden's dick, swirling his tongue around the sensitive head as he looked up into Braden's eyes. Skye had already guessed what Braden was likely to want, given their first meeting and Braden's leaked fantasy - but he wanted him to put it in his own words or at least think it.

"I'd rather you fucked me. It's been so long."

"We can do both if you want..."

"No, I want you inside me. I love being fucked and you don't have to be gentle either."

Skye kissed up Braden's body stopping at his nipple to tease it before sucking it into his mouth. So satisfying to have something substantial enough he could roll in his mouth and stroke with his tongue. He pulled and nibbled gently with his teeth, eliciting more moans from his lover. When the nipple was hard and leaking, Skye savored the taste and sucked harder to get more of the sweet milk. He moved to the other tit and repeated the attention while he gently stroked Braden's cock.

When Skye reached Braden's lips, the return kiss was passionate and almost desperate. "Please sir, I want you."

Braden stripped off the rest of his clothing and moved to the floor, positioning himself on his hands and knees. He looked over his shoulder at Skye with pleading eyes.

Skye removed his own clothes and smiled as he picked up on Braden's thoughts - or well, more his admiration. Skye felt a little rush at knowing how attractive Braden found him and perhaps a little less guilty as Braden stared at Skye's cock already contemplating what it would feel like inside him.

Skye knelt behind Braden and pressed against his back letting his hands reach under and roam over the warm, soft skin. He kissed and licked at Braden's neck and then his shoulders, working his way down his back before he reached the prominent curve of Braden's ass. Skye sat back and admired the full round globes as he ran his hands over them, gently pushing them aside so he could see the smooth crack and the tiny pink rosebud. Braden definitely had the largest, fullest ass of any of Skye's men.

Braden made a small moan, lifting his ass a little higher and pushing back into Skye's hands.

Skye let out a low growl and licked down the crack before kissing and nibbling at Braden's little star. He teased and stroked with his tongue as Braden's moans grew louder and he ground himself into Skye's mouth. His opening was so tender and sweet.

"You like that?" Skye licked over one of the full round cheeks and bit it gently.

"Yes sir, please sir, you can fuck me now. You don't have to wait or be gentle."

Skye's dragon purred in contentment - they already knew that. He could feel Braden's need and given how his little dragon rosebud was already slick and quivering. He didn't need to rely on reading Braden's mind. Though it was somehow satisfying knowing that all Braden could form in his head was the thought of Skye penetrating him and filling him with his seed.

Skye tried to give Braden the best rimming he'd ever had, interspersing it with licking and sucking on his balls. Skye pulled Braden's cock back into his mouth and enjoyed the sweet taste of his pre-cum as he sucked and teased before letting it slap back. The ball sack was smooth and silky as he ran his tongue over it, gently prodding at one testicle, then the other. He carefully sucked them into his mouth one at a time and massaged them with his tongue. Skye gripped the cock again and pulled it back to his mouth. It was such a turn on to know how much he was affecting Braden. A steady stream was leaking from his slit and Skye licked it up greedily before returning to the now dripping dragon hole.

Skye thought that having a self-lubricating fuck hole was a great genetic adaptation and one that he could truly appreciate now that he had a dragon form. The only down side was the merciless teasing he got from Garrett. Garrett loved finding Skye's tight little hole, wet and ready when they were intimate and usually made some comment like 'I think someone really wants to be fucked.' Oh God Garrett, why couldn't you be here with me? If it can't be just you, at least you could share. Skye came back to the moment at the sound of Braden's pleas.

"Please Skye... if you don't want to fuck me then let one of your guards. I need a dick... please..."

"Oh no Braden, I'm not about to give up my chance. I just wanted to enjoy your body. Can't rush when you're working on a masterpiece."

The next sound Braden uttered was totally unhuman, a combination of growl and keening that made Skye's cock throb.

Skye pressed his body against Braden's back and kissed along his hairline and up to his ear as he positioned himself and began rubbing his dripping member up and down Braden's crack. "When we climax, I want to mark you Braden. Are you okay with that?"

"Father Dragon yes! Just fuck me NOW!"

Skye wrapped his arms around Braden and found the hard nipples again as his cock pressed against Braden's hole. He was just about to begin pushing in when Braden thrust himself back and took Skye balls deep in one stroke.

"Father Dragon!" Braden cried out as his body trembled.

Skye was trying to calm himself and not shoot. Braden's tunnel was so tight and hot, it was close to sending Skye over the edge. Then Braden's body began to clench and it was Skye's turn to gasp as he felt Braden's hot load shooting onto his arms. He reached down and stroked him through the orgasm, trying with everything he had to keep his own at bay.

Skye began thrusting in earnest as his partner started breathing again. "Now that we took the edge off, we can enjoy ourselves."

Braden whimpered in response and thrust back making Skye drive deeper and harder on each stroke. The sound of Skye's hips smacking against Braden's body seemed unusually loud.

He feels so good, Skye thought to himself. His fingers were slick with Braden's dragon milk as he stroked and pulled at his nipples. From what Skye could pick up, Braden was lost to his own lust and the sensations from his body. This was new for Skye - having a partner so caught up in the feeling of being fucked that there were no rational thoughts. Skye's dragon appreciated having a partner so focused on pleasure, who just enjoyed and reveled in the feeling of having a man inside him.

Braden cried out as an anal orgasm struck and he frantically forced himself roughly back and forth on Skye's cock. Flesh smacking against flesh. Damn, he likes it even rougher than Jerrick. Sure not going to object though... not when it feels this good and sure as shootin' there's no question he's enjoying it. Skye felt almost giddy picking up on Braden's emotions.

As Braden slowed, Skye picked up the pace himself. He was close and wasn't about to lose it now. He drove himself in the full, soft ass harder and deeper than he'd ever taken a man before. Braden was moaning and panting and Skye knew if he could just keep going a bit longer, they'd both blow at the same time.

Skye cried out and thrust so hard he pushed Braden onto his stomach. He continued pummeling the ass right through his orgasm - enjoying how it squeezed and stroked him from Braden's own eruption.

"Wow..." Skye groaned as he lay on Braden and tried to catch his breath. His cock was still hard and throbbing and then it hit him. Shit, I forgot to give him my magic or mark him... where was my head...

"Don't pull out Skye. Please..." Braden pleaded in a hoarse voice.

Skye nuzzled into Braden's neck and held him tight. He felt Braden's ass give him a gentle squeeze and Skye started gently thrusting again. Wow... still so hard.

"Take me again Skye. You feel so amazing. I'll beg if you want me to."

"You don't need to beg when I can't think of anything I want more." Skye went slowly and tried to store every sensation. He wanted to remember and savor every inch of Braden's dragon hole, memorize each nub that rubbed against him, the feel of those large round globes against him, the smell of his skin, the feel of his back and hear those adorable sounds he was making.

Skye felt his dragon nudging him. Need to mark him this time, fill him and bind him. We owe him that at the very least. Skye agreed without reservation and called up his magic as he let the first tendrils slip into Braden, coaxing his magic to the surface. When he was satisfied, he kissed across Braden's shoulder then took the soft flesh in his mouth and bit down at the same moment he bottomed out in Braden's ass.

Braden's body stiffened for a moment and a small whine escaped his lips before his body began to tremble, the bite sending waves of pleasure through his body and bringing him close to another orgasm.

Skye licked at the skin and then moved so he could turn Braden's face to him and kissed those soft full lips. It was an awkward angle, but no less passionate and then he let the magic flow.

Braden's eyes began to glow and he started moaning and that was all it took to send him over the edge as he pumped out another load before his eyes rolled back and he went limp.

Skye gently laid Braden's head down and thrust a few more times before filling the dragon with another load. Skye lay still for a moment, just enjoying the feel of Braden underneath him. He pulled out and moved to his knees, looking down at the prone man and that ass that had given him so much pleasure. He ran his hands over him again then leaned in and kissed and licked the crack and sweet opening clean. Ohhhh Braden, that ass is going to be so popular. I think you are going to be really happy being part of my wing.

Skye held on to the sink after splashing water on his face and trying to get himself back under control. Alright Mr. Dragon, what are you doing to me now? Skye asked himself as he looked at the face staring back in the mirror. The overwhelming lust had abated for the moment, but he could still feel it like a shadow on the edges of his senses. Yeah, it was still him in the mirror but he could also see the changes. His eyes especially - they were glowing in a kaleidoscope of color. His skin had gradually taken on a darker golden color than he remembered and glowed like he was radioactive. Even his hair... still bright blond but... different.

"Skye?" a voice called from the other room.

"Time to face the music Skye," he said out loud to his reflection. He turned and stepped back into the office. Fiske was there, looking as beautiful and sexy as ever. His uniform highlighting the natural 'v' shape on his lean build and showing off his little bubble butt that Skye clearly remembered fondly. His thick dark hair just touched his shoulders. Just seeing it, Skye remembered how it felt between his fingers and the scent... so good. He had started wearing it down when he found out that's what Skye preferred and knew that Skye couldn't resist touching.

"Are you doing better Skye?" There was concern in his eyes and a little trepidation as well.

"As gorgeous as you are, I think your virtue is safe for a few minutes."

"Can we get you anything?"

Skye smiled as Fiske's thoughts swirled through his mind. He was both relieved and disappointed. Relieved because he could do his job and disappointed because he was really hoping Skye would take him like he'd threatened earlier. "If you keep standing there letting your cock swell in your pants where I can see, you'll need to get naked."

"Sorry sir."

"Don't be sorry, I like it. Just warning you. So how long do I have?"

"It depends. Given how many lean days you had... not long. Maybe time to get back to the palace. If we hurry."

"Where's Jos?"

"He's waiting for the other guards to show up," Fiske said.

"Other guards?"

"Prince Argos wants at least four guards with you. Said something about what he went through with Garrett taught him a lesson. All 'your' men are tied up but me and Jos so Devroe is sending backup."

Skye looked down at Braden still sprawled on the floor. Geez that man is so sexy. Skye thought feeling the strong need to run his hands over the plump ass again. There was still a notable glow to his skin but at least as far as Skye had seen, no movement yet.

"He's pretty hot," Fiske said noticing the direction of Skye's gaze.

The door opened and Jos stepped inside. "They're here."

"We can't just leave Braden like this. Fiske can you stay with him and make sure he gets home safely?"

"Skye, would you rather I stayed with him so Fiske can go with you?" Jos asked.

Skye gave a nervous laugh. "No, probably better if I put some distance between me and Fiske. My dragon's had way too much time to think about what to do with Fiske. I don't think I'd make it all the way to the palace."

"Well thanks for the confidence booster," Jos snorted.

"Doesn't mean you're safe. But Fiske has been in several times and I've already had time to start fantasizing. You on the other hand - fresh meat. Might be best if you don't walk in front of me. Seeing that muscled backside of yours and the way your cheeks move when you walk... yeah you'd be naked before we got far."

Jos blushed and shuffled his feet. "Thanks sir. You say the nicest things."

"I'll be glad to stay with Braden. Though I've got to be honest, I'm not sure if his 'honor' is any safer with me."

"I dare you to taste that sweet ass of his," Skye teased before he realized his dragon pushed the words of his mouth. Crap, I am totally out of control... He knew Fiske was already tempted and seriously lusting after the man but he was appalled he'd let his dragon push him. Fiske's reaction was probably even worse given the encounter earlier with Chaz.

Fiske looked back at Skye with a confused expression, then turned and knelt by Braden gently trailing his fingers over his pale ass. "So lush..." He leaned in and kissed one of the cheeks then slid his tongue down the crack. When he reached Braden's rosebud he let out a small moan. "Father Dragon Skye... that was cruel. I can taste you. He even smells like you."

Skye felt a stab of guilt. He hadn't meant to compel Fiske, but it felt like he had. I need to get out of here before I do more damage. Skye thought as he sensed the lust building in Fiske. "Take good care of him Fiske. I'll see you later - let me know when you're back. I'd like to know that Braden's safe and secure."

"Yes sir."

"Okay Jos, let's see if we can make it to the palace before I decide you're desert."

"We have a carriage waiting," Jos said holding the door open for him.

• Scene 2 *

Skye came back and finished the last few bites of his lunch. No question that being hungry was bad when other hungers were building. He'd managed to eat most of it when Dillon had first brought it to him. He was already a couple hours late eating and food helped... just not enough.

Dillon and Willow had both been waiting for him when he returned and when Dillon found out Skye hadn't eaten since breakfast he immediately went off and returned with a hearty meal. Willow and Dillon had both sat and watched him eat and by the time Skye had about finished, he found himself more interested in the two young men than in the food.

Skye glanced over at the bed as he folded the napkin and stood. Dillon and Willow were naked and spooned together - lost to the world. Skye pulled the covers over them and laid a gentle kiss on each. Their skin still glowed and both wore angelic smiles.

What have I done? Skye wondered as the guilt came back like a raging thunderstorm. Chaz, Braden, then Jos, and now both of you. Skye felt a surge of heat in his loins remembering the passionate sex with Jos in the carriage. He'd barely made it inside before it hit and he began ripping off Jos's uniform. Fortunately the other guards seemed to know what was going on and took over. Also a blessing that the royal carriage had privacy glass so no one could see in. They'd had to help Jos back to his room - sex drunk from Skye's seed and in no condition to stay on duty.

Skye stood and put some distance between himself and the bed. Just seeing Dillon and Willow was making his dragon restless. His dragon wanted him to pull the covers back and climb in bed with them, kiss them, touch them, and take them again. Skye adjusted himself, his raging boner struggling against its confines. Got to get out of here... can't take advantage of them when they're out... shit what is happening to me...

Skye moved to the vestibule and leaned against the door. He could feel the guards on the other side - strangers. Well not completely, he knew them by sight but they weren't 'his' guards. He tried thinking of who else he might find. Kleitos was at work, Nik and River were both at the temple, Christos was in class, Rilien was being tested. Skye paused and smiled. Wonder what they call their 'School of Witchcraft and Wizardry'? Both Taleel and Jerrick were out of pocket - maybe even off-planet. His remaining guards were all at the Academy. Garrett, I need you.

Skye opened the door and gave a nod to the four Imperial Guards. "Guys I need some air. I'm going to the gardens. Might even try shifting to see if that helps."

"Certainly sir, but if you do decide to shift, please let a couple of us shift first. That way if you decide to fly, we can stay with you."

Skye made it to the shore of the small lake and stood a moment watching the ripples on the water. It was a beautiful clear day - a little cool but more refreshing than cold. He looked back at the guards and felt his heart speed up. Oh no, can't let that happen. He thought to himself noticing one of them reminded him of Mica. His surfer dude, hot, sexy, blond Mica with gorgeous skin, beautiful muscles and that cock that felt so good inside him... Shit, shit, shit. I can't start seducing total strangers. "Guys I've got to shift."

"Certainly Prince Skye, just give us a moment." The guards immediately started stripping.

Skye turned away to look across the water. Seeing them naked would most definitely be a bad thing right now. Darius didn't pick guards who weren't attractive and Skye was barely holding it together as it was. He started undressing. Normally he would carefully fold his clothes and take care of where he left them. Not today. He stripped and threw the clothes carelessly on the bank. He'd already felt the magic as the guards shifted, now it was his turn. He felt another wave of heat just before he began to shift. He felt the guards' lust as they got a full view of his naked backside.

Skye closed his eyes and let the magic take him. He felt the tingle pass through his body, the wave of vertigo and then the overwhelming need to fly. He didn't even look back before he leaped into the air, unfolding his wings and marveling at the feel of the air as it lifted him higher and higher with each powerful stroke.

Skye could hear the other dragons following him but kept his eyes focused forward on the blue expanse. He saw the shadowy white images of the two moons in their crescent stage and focused on them as he climbed. It was exhilarating and freeing at the same time. The lust was still there but not nearly as overwhelming.

"Prince Skye... please slow down sir. We can't keep up," one of the pursuing dragons called.

He heard but didn't want to slow down, he wanted to go higher as quickly as his wings would carry him. The air was getting colder and the currents had changed. Skye slowed and flapped his wings, holding himself in place as he looked to the ground below. Holy shit! Didn't know I'd gone that high. He thought. Capital City looked so tiny - he could somewhat still see the buildings but anything more was too small to make out. He could also see the changes from the old city to the new, like a jagged line where the destruction had taken its toll so long ago. He spotted the guards flying toward him, dragons who looked more like tiny starlings from this distance.

He scanned the country side and felt pulled toward the rich rolling hills, the sparkling silver river - all so close to the city. He'd never realized. He flapped a few more times and then made up his mind. He tucked his head, drew his wings in and began his dive. Every so often he'd open his wings and adjust his course. The wind was rushing by him as he plummeted toward the forest below. This is better than the best roller coaster I ever rode!

He adjusted again to make sure he was coming in over the sparkling river. As it came closer he gently unfolded his wings and just as his claws dipped into the water he leveled out and flew along the river's course. His speed and size making a notable wake in his passing.

Skye glanced to the surrounding fields and saw herd animals lifting their heads as he passed. Some startled and ran, others just froze and stared. They were odd creatures, unlike anything he'd ever seen - larger than deer with strange racks and as green as the fields. He closed his eyes briefly sensing the life in the river, he opened and peered down as he sailed over the water. His dragon eyes could see into the depths - see the creatures swimming, completely oblivious to his passing.

Skye saw mountains in the distance and began to climb, enjoying the feel as his wings pushed the air beneath him, lifting him higher. Now he soared over the tree tops marveling at how much his senses picked up, the smells, the animals, the birds. There was so much life.

When he reached the first snow-capped peak, Skye circled enjoying the beautiful vista. The landscape was breathtaking and strangely the cold wasn't bothering him in the least. He flew and dove in and out of the ragged peaks, exploring and enjoying views you'd never get to see from the ground. Skye decided to take a momentary breather and landed on one of the precipices, enjoying the crunch of the snow beneath his claws. He scanned the horizon and saw a small black bird in the distance.

Odd... most of the birds have avoided me. That one looks like it's flying right to me. Skye thought as he watched the approach. A loud roar echoed down the valley below him. Somehow it sounded familiar and Skye reached out to see if he could sense anyone. He felt a comforting connection and smiled inside.

Taleel? Is that you? Skye sent tipping his head and looking at the bird with new interest.

Thank the Father Dragon. Are you okay?

Of course I'm okay. I was just flying. Skye watched as the bird slowly approached, gradually looking more and more like a dragon.

Wow... Skye thought, looking up as the black dragon back winged to land near him. Taleel was much smaller than the gold dragons he'd seen, more slender with much sharper features and without a doubt more scary. Like you'd put wings on a were-dagger.

Taleel took a moment to gain his footing as he slid on the snow.

"Damn it Skye. Don't ever do that again!" Taleel growled.

"What? What did I do?" Skye asked in confusion - still a little taken aback at how much deeper and more rumbly his voice was in dragon form.

"Where are your guards Skye? Do you have any idea where you are?"

Skye looked around and felt a little embarrassed. "Guess I lost them? But what did I do?"

"What if there were people out to kill you, watching for you to make a 'foolish' mistake and leave yourself unprotected. Skye you can't just fly off."

"They were with me, I swear."

"Do you even realize how far you've travelled?"

"No, I guess not. Hey... wait, how'd you get here? I thought you were on your way to space dock."

"I hadn't left yet. Devroe called me when the guards let him know they'd lost you. I may not be big, but I'm a hell of a lot faster than a gold. While I can't fly as far I can do circles around them for speed. I was the only one who could catch you."

"I'm not flying at the moment and I've been here a while, why didn't they catch up?"

"That's not the point. Besides when did you learn to fly so well?"

Skye was going to give a smart-ass response and then froze. Shit, that's the first time I flew outside of the palace grounds. How...

"It's okay Skye, don't panic. You may have hit the next stage. Just be careful would you? It may mean other abilities will show up you haven't had before." Taleel turned and looked at Skye.

Seeing those swirling grey eyes set in the rather foreboding black dragon head, with its horns, sharp barbs, whiskers, and deadly looking fangs made Skye pause. "Geez Taleel, you are friggin' terrifying in your dragon form. My dragon may not be impressed but human Skye is shaking."

"Sorry dragonling. But trust me, even in this form, I'm no match for you. And shit if you can't fly faster than any dragon I've ever seen. Your guards lost you after about ten minutes and that's when Devroe called me. It took me this long just to catch up."

"Sorry."

"You ready to head back?"

"Sure. Want me to lead?" Skye asked.

"I think I better lead. Do you have any idea how to get back?"

"I followed the river. I'm not that stupid," Skye grumbled.

Taleel leapt into the air and Skye followed watching as the lithe black dragon flew and circled back to make sure he was being followed. Skye watched Taleel trying to take in the magnificent and somewhat fearsome dragon. As he watched him fly ahead Skye saw a flash as something reflected. He looked closer and felt a wave of satisfaction from his dragon. There was a platinum scale, shining brightly right under that wicked tail. You're amazing Taleel.

Not going to get you out of trouble dragonling...

Maybe if I take advantage of you being naked when we land? I can think of some human parts I want to check on - you know make sure they still taste and feel as good as last time. Nothing damaged by the change and all.

Not likely Skye. There will be a whole crowd waiting when we get back.

Well then they'll just have to wait their turn. I don't doubt they'll all want you when they see how gorgeous you are naked but I'm claiming first dibbs.

Skye swooped and flew corkscrews around Taleel, teasing and egging him on.

Show off.

Eventually Skye gave up tormenting Taleel when he couldn't get a reaction. Instead he directed his attention to the countryside and enjoyed his time in the air. As they neared Capital City and it was just a small irregular discoloration on the otherwise green landscape Taleel began to climb.

What's up? Skye sent.

Safer if we go to a higher altitude and then drop once we're over the palace grounds. Hopefully anyone with a missile launcher won't see us. Also lets the guards meet up with us.

Well you're just a ray of sunshine aren't you?

Skye. It is dangerous. How many close calls do you need?

Skye had no trouble keeping up with Taleel, actually the opposite. He had to hold back so as not to quickly pass the black dragon. When they were near the airspace over the city, Skye saw the four gold dragons circling. What was worse was feeling the fear and agitation - coming off of them in waves.

Taleel let out a roar to alert the dragons of their approach. Got to say dragonling, being able to mind speak you makes this so much easier. Wish we could all do that.

Skye wondered why only bond-mates had the gift. He liked being able to mind speak with his wing, now if they could just do the same with each other... So far it seemed that Skye could mind-speak with almost anyone and they could respond. Those in his wing could also speak to him unprompted, or they could as long as he wasn't shielding.

Ready, we're going to do a controlled dive. Not quite straight down, try making circles like a corkscrew and then make sure you've back winged enough to slow down. Don't want you splatting in front of the family. They might take it out on yours truly.

Skye felt a little stab of resentment and then let it go. How could Taleel know he'd learned to dive? Last time he saw me in the air. I could barely fly straight. Two of the golds began the descent and then it was Skye's turn. He began grumbling to himself at how slow they were going but didn't think it would be appreciated if he passed them and got to ground first. Everyone already seemed to be rather pissed at him.

Finally, Skye was close enough to see people waiting for him on the ground, fortunately not a crowd, just a handful - but most of them were in the ivory and gold. He felt like he had rocks in his stomach. I didn't mean to cause a problem or upset everyone... okay be a big boy Skye. Do it and take your punishment... It was his turn to land and he made one last circle coming in over the small lake. He back winged and took a deep breath. As soon as his claw felt the ground, he pulled his wings around him like a cape and transformed. By the time his other foot touched down, it was human and he gracefully walked forward to face the music.

He'd only taken a few steps when Christos ran up to him and wrapped a heavy, long cloak around his shoulders.

That was freakin' awesome Skye. Where'd you learn to do that? Christos was overflowing with excitement.

Don't know Chris. Guess I'm in a shit load of trouble?

I don't know Skye. It certainly caused a panic but honestly I think they were more scared than angry.

Skye turned to watch Taleel land. He stood for a moment and shifted. Skye felt the smile spread across his face as his heart beat faster and his cock started to rise. Guess I can't avoid it after all... damn but that is a magnificent body. The sun glistened on Taleel's ebony skin giving shape to the dark muscles. But even better, his own manhood began rising as he walked toward Skye.

Skye met him with an embrace and pushed the cloak off of his shoulders as he pulled Taleel closer, he wrapped his arms around Taleel's neck and lifted himself so his legs could wrap around the ripped body, Skye licked up Taleel's neck and nibbled at his ear as he whispered. "I want you to fuck me. Here. Now." Skye took one of Taleel's hands and brought it around to his ass, making sure Taleel could feel his opening and how wet he was.

"Skye..." Taleel rasped.

"So wet for you. I know you want me..." Skye licked along the pointed ear and slid his tongue in and swirled it as he squeezed his legs tighter pushing his erection against Taleel's.

"People watching..."

"I don't care. I need you inside me."

"Ahem," a deep voice sounded pulling Skye's attention away from Taleel.

Taleel helped Skye to the ground and lifted the cape and wrapped it around his shoulders.

"Taleel. If you could please keep him covered until you get him inside?"

"Yes Colonel."

"And you Prince Skye. Please try at least a little restraint. We all know what it's like going through the change, but my guards are only dragon. You keep flaunting your sexy little ass and letting every dragon know within a hundred yards that you're in heat will only bring trouble you'll regret tomorrow," Devroe said in his most serious voice.

"Yes sir."

"Take him to his room and make sure he gets some food. I'll have six guards with you and will stop by when Prince Argos and the Emperor are ready to see him."

"What?" Skye asked in confusion.

"Prince Argos already sent word that when the session ends they want to meet with you. I wouldn't want to be you right now dragonling. Good luck." Devroe turned to the guards who had been with him and scowled. "You four. My office now!"

• Scene 3 *

Skye couldn't help but feel like he was going to his execution. Devroe and Taleel were both subdued and not speaking. The six guards were equally somber and obviously trying to think about anything but 'him'. Physically he was feeling better, Christos brought a snack because Dillon, while no longer in Skye's bed, seemed to still be somewhat out of it. That made things a little less awkward when Skye got back to the room with Taleel and threw Taleel on the bed, stripped him, and well... Skye felt the blush. Can't believe I did that...

The guard opened the door and ushered them in to Darius's study. Skye felt every head turn to look at him. Then he spotted Garrett and all other thoughts flitted away. "Garrett."

Skye had time to remember how much he loved his mate and how beautiful he was before he felt those strong arms wrap around him and the soft full lips press against his own. I love you so much Garrett.

Love you too. Damn but you look stunning. Sorry about all this, but even I can't save you from Pater. It will be okay, just do what I always do - act contrite and remorseful and stare at the floor. That usually helps. Whatever you do, don't try to explain or make excuses.

Skye pulled back and looked into Garrett's dark eyes. He wanted to scream it out loud and let the whole universe know that Garrett was his. He settled for whispering it into Garrett's ear with a little extra mental stimulation of all of Garrett's nether regions. "Mine."

"Please sit down." Darius's voice was firm and commanding. "No. You two are staying."

Colonel Devroe and Taleel had stopped in their tracks, almost to the door.

"Your Majesty?" Devroe asked in response.

"You can sit or you can stand, but you will stay."

Skye seated himself next to Garrett and held his hand tightly. He watched nervously as Darius began pacing and Argos stood staring at him - and not in what Skye considered a 'good' way. His eyes showed flames and even across the room, Skye could feel the heat radiating.

"Skye Tomas Eklund! Of all the damned fool, stupid, and careless things to do!"

Skye startled at the outburst then cringed. He'd been well trained and knew that use of a full name always meant his grandmother was going for blood. At the moment he was just feeling lucky that she hadn't been trained by Pater - he wouldn't have made it through puberty.

"What were you thinking? Or were you thinking at all?" Argos continued.

Well... I was thinking that if I didn't shift and get out of here, like right away. I'd be the main feature in a good old gang-bang with guards I barely knew. Seemed like the best option to me... Okay so can't say that, stare at the floor - look guilty.

What? Garrett's shock came through very clearly.

Quit. Don't distract me. I'm looking sorrowful and guilty.

"Well?" Pater asked.

"I'm sorry Pater. I didn't mean to cause a problem. I just wanted to fly a bit."

"A bit? A bit? Hundreds of miles young man is not a bit!"

Skye looked up in surprise.

"What, you didn't realize? Taleel tell him," Pater said in exasperation.

"Skye you..." Taleel started before Argos interrupted.

"All the way to the mountains! Almost two hundred miles! Did you even know where you were going?"

"I..."

"Of course you didn't your brain was turned off!"

"My love, take a deep breath," Darius said coming up behind Argos and rubbing his shoulders.

"A very impressive flight son." Darius said and then as Argos began to stiffen, "but perhaps not a very wise choice."

Skye felt a little hope as the smile flitted across Darius's face and he felt the surge of pride.

"I'm sorry. I didn't realize that I 'could' fly that far."

"Darius, remind me to threaten Nik and River in advance. I barely survived the first three going through the change, I'm not sure I have the stamina," Argos said leaning back into Darius and pulling his arm around him.

"Oh come now my love. You love it."

"Not this I don't. Skye you could have been hurt or killed. You left your guards behind - you were alone. What if something had happened? I hate to say it but you're not safe."

"I'm sorry I thought they'd stay with me."

"They tried son. You've probably scared several years off of their lives. Losing the Prince and facing my mate can be scary," Darius said.

You're telling me. Skye thought. "I'm sorry I didn't know that not all dragons flew at the same speed. It was my first time really trying and I somewhat assumed that experienced dragons would fly way better than me."

Garrett squeezed Skye's hand in warning.

Pater gave Skye a serious glare but said nothing. It was Darius who broke the awkward silence.

"It was a surprise for everyone Skye. Guess now we know that platinums are as fast as a black dragon."

"No Your Majesty, faster. Skye flew circles around me without even getting winded. He reminded me numerous times that he had to coast so the 'old man' could keep up," Taleel said with a wink to Skye.

Guess you're lucky I like 'old men' in my bed, aren't you.

Taleel let out a snort drawing everyone's attention.

"Something else Taleel?" Darius asked.

"Just worried about giving Skye a swelled head. He needs to be cautious and I don't want him thinking he's safe."

My head isn't what you were causing to swell...

Skye! Garrett is right here. He knows what you're thinking, Taleel objected.

He does and he approves. He wants me to get you worked up enough he can sample that fine, muscled, bubble butt of yours.

"Gentlemen. Are we distracting you?" Argos accused.

"Sorry Your Majesty," Taleel said.

"Alright then, time for some changes. Skye you are responsible for making sure you stay 'with' your guards. Don't just rely on them to keep up. From now on you must have protective shielding or armor whenever you step outside these walls. No exceptions. Devroe can provide you with some options that will work even when you're in dragon form."

"He's still going to need to fly. That's not really negotiable and his dragon will rebel if we don't let him push himself. Remember how Garrett was?" Darius said.

"Don't remind me. Kleitos was worse but at least they couldn't outfly their guards," Pater added.

"Devroe, see if you can come up with some options. I'm not sure if we have any faster dragons than Taleel. Maybe we'll have to use the Falcon's. I'm not sure how fast Skye is but they should certainly be able to keep up. They could also dispatch any threats," Darius said.

"Yes Your Majesty. I'll investigate our options."

"Wait." Garrett interrupted. "Father, Pater, is no one else even a little concerned? Worried that Skye's flying skills changed so dramatically? Taleel, I wasn't there but from what you've described that level of skill doesn't sound possible for a dragon just coming into his change."

"You've got a point," Taleel said.

"I'll grant you that the skill leap is pretty dramatic, but you and your brothers had similar if less 'spectacular' leaps. It wasn't a gradual change, more like steps or plateaus. And we can all acknowledge that we don't know enough about platinums to speculate on what's 'normal'," Darius said.

Garrett ran his hand down Skye's leg and gave a gentle squeeze. "Should we expect other changes?"

Skye watched as Darius and Argos looked at each other for a few moments before Pater responded. "We have no idea. But caution may be advised. Remember when we were at the cabin on holiday and Kleitos came out of his lean days?"

Skye felt the heat build in Garrett and he let out a little squeak as Garrett squeezed his knee a little harder than intended.

Garrett gave a nervous cough. "Yeah, that was hard to forget..."

"No dear, I mean the fires."

"Oh, there was fire alright," Garrett said.

Darius sighed. "Pater and I weren't privy to 'that' reaction, but I know at some point I lost track of how many fires I had to put out. Every time he got angry, something would combust."

Garrett roared in laughter. "HA! I remember, you called him Pyro. And then there was that time Zo was picking on him and all Zo's clothes burst into flame and you threw him in the lake."

"Yes well you all gave us challenges at times," Pater added.

"We could have Tennat see if he can detect anything. I don't believe Kwill has returned from Caris," Darius offered.

"Why is he in Caris?" Skye asked.

"He didn't tell you? He's investigating the group that River's attacker belonged to. And while he was there he was going to see if he could find out more on those that attacked Taleel's brother and his mate."

"No, he told me he had to go away but not where or why," Skye said looking to Taleel for a reaction.

"Tennat has become too recognizable from his time in court. Kwill thought he would be less obvious," Darius said.

"Might be a good idea for Tennat to check him," Garrett said. "I really don't relish the idea of catching on fire."

I wouldn't, Skye said.

Garrett put his arm across Skye's shoulders and pulled him in. "It's okay Skye. The change brings on the unexpected. Think about your day. Could you have imagined ever willingly planning or consenting to what you did?"

"Never." Skye felt the wave of guilt and a touch of fear as he considered what might be coming next.

• Scene 4 *

"I'm never going to make it," Garrett moaned.

"Come on love. Dillon already brought breakfast and they said we had to be there promptly," Skye said.

"I should have insisted Taleel stay, or maybe dragged Dillon out of his room where he was hiding."

"He wasn't hiding. He was exhausted and I told you - I only wanted you. I think it was perfect."

"Father Dragon... my balls ache."

"You seemed to enjoy it in the moment..."

Garrett looked up at Skye from where he'd thrown himself on the bed after his shower. The look in Skye's eye and his focused attention on Garrett's manhood now standing at attention caused a groan. "Baby, no. Please... not again."

"What happened to 'Don't worry baby, I'm more than enough dragon for you'?" Skye teased.

"I was wrong. Really, really wrong. I admit it. And how can you be so damned chipper and full of energy?"

"Because I have the best mate in the whole universe. A mate who is an exceptional lover." Skye walked over to Garrett and gently laid a kiss on his already dripping cock, gently licking up the sweet fluid.

"At this rate I'm going to be a dead, dried up mate."

"Nope, see, still some juice left. We only did it... what... five, six times? The last doesn't count since you passed out - I had to do all the work myself. And you, my beautiful hunk, were definitely the best. Having all your hot seed inside me... so good, so satisfying. That's what I needed."

Skye finally coaxed Garrett into eating his breakfast and getting dressed. Today was the first day at the Academy and they were expected to dress accordingly. Certainly not showy, gray snug pants with a thin, sleeveless white shirt and a matching gray jacket with black trim at the sleeves and shoulders.

Skye admired how hot Garrett looked in his uniform and how nicely it displayed his ass and 'v' shaped torso. "Yours is the same as mine, shouldn't there be something that distinguishes that you're already a commander?"

"Not for the Academy. You are either a trainee or a trainer. They don't display rank otherwise. If the black striping is edged in silver it means trainer," Garrett explained.

All too soon they were walking up to the main entrance of the Academy. Skye briefly wondered if there was some universal rule that military buildings had to look drab and dark.

"Prince Skye, Prince Garrett. We'll be waiting here to escort you back to the palace at the end of the day. If you decide to stay in the barracks or your schedule changes, please message us so we can adjust," one of the Imperial Guards said as the four of them stepped back.

The Academy guards motioned them to use the palm scanners and then directed them through a security screening before they were permitted inside.

"Will I ever have my own guards while we're in training? Feels really strange having guards I don't know so close. Guess I got spoiled," Skye said.

"You'll likely have your own guards some of the time. It all depends on the assessments and how much additional training and what exercises they put us through. Obviously they can't work double shifts. But most of your guards have already been through the Academy so I'd think they just need some brushing up on specific skills."

"That makes sense. Wonder what they'll train me for?"

"You'll know soon enough. We're here."

"Prince Skye!" Several voices echoed as he was surrounded by friends. Skye hugged them as they came to him, almost quickly enough he wasn't recognizing them until they were in his arms. As they stood back, Skye got his bearings and noted that he had a circle of his men around him plus Nik and River.

"Good to see you bro. Thought you might blow us off," River teased.

"Nah... someone was just slow getting himself out of bed." Skye noted that while his long-standing guards were with him, Chaz was on the outside looking a little jealous.

"Chaz, get over here!" Skye called. "Guys I don't think all of you have met Chaz Blackclaw. One of the new guards. Well I guess we'll be doing some kind of introductions for everyone before too long. But I'm sure you can already tell this hot stud is already one of us."

"Prince Skye..." Chaz muttered in embarrassment.

"Don't sweat it dude, we're glad to have you in the wing," Mica said holding out a hand.

"Hell no Mica! That's not how you greet a wing-mate. I'm Corbin." Corbin pulled Chaz into a tight hug, grinding his crotch against Chaz's before the were-dagger knew what hit him. Corbin reached around grabbing Chaz's ass. "Thank you Skye. You bring us the best goodies."

"Uhm... thanks, I guess," Chaz sputtered before Mica came up and did the same.

"You've already met Jos and Fiske and this is Feired," Skye said trying to ease Chaz's obvious embarrassment and arousal.

"Time to start," a deep voice called out as the large door opened.

They entered into the room and were directed to take seats. The room was set up like a class room and several men stood at the front including Master Chen. And, as Garrett had noted, they all wore the gray uniforms with the silver and black banding.

"Today you begin a new adventure men. Only time will tell if you're all up to it." An older gentleman that Skye had never seen before was speaking. He reminded him more of a professor than a military type.

"Each of you has completed assessment so today we'll begin by advising you of your assignments. As you can guess you are not all at the same stage and Master Chen and your instructors have established a regimen specific to your own skill and aptitudes. This includes a secondary training on skills that you will be using while on board the Temero. And... before anyone asks. The newly named head of Galicon, Admiral Cocachet, has already reviewed and made changes to our plans. Actually kept us up most of the night until he was happy." The last coming out as a barely audible mutter. "For those of you who haven't heard, Vice- Admiral Bresel is no longer leading the Academy. That post is currently under review."

Skye turned to Garrett. You didn't tell me. That's good news right? And what does he mean secondary skills?

No idea on the secondary skills. But as the guy who made it happen, you should know Cocachet's a good thing. I can say the announcement went over very well in the Assembly, though I think Bresel was more than a little stunned. Father had spoken to him earlier but he still looked shell shocked when they officially announced to the Assembly that he'd been reassigned.

To where? Did they say?

Ground Forces Administration. They can all make nice about it but everyone knows he's been demoted and shoved in a corner where he can't hurt anyone.

"Once I have announced all the assignments, you will disperse to the team assigned. These are in no particular order: Garrett D'Or Drakken, given your prior training and experience you will only be required to participate in joint hand-to-hand and group training exercises. All required sessions will be added to your calendar. Your orientation to the Temero will be handled by Captain Nekko directly. For today you will be excused when we disperse."

Lucky bastard, Skye sent.

"Skye Eklund D'Or Drakken, you will complete supplemental basic training and equipment simulations. Your on-board training will be communications and medical. River Eklund, you will complete basic training and equipment simulations. Your on-board training will be tactical and weapons."

What is equipment simulations?

Usually that means you get to fly and drive things. Similar to what you and River were playing at on the Phoenix. They start out with simulators but eventually they make you use the real thing, Garrett answered as the instructor continued.

"Nikias D'Or Drakken, you will complete basic training and participate in joint hand-to-hand and group exercises. Your on-board training will be astrogation and engineering. Mica Kaber, you will participate in joint hand-to-hand and group training exercises. Your on-board training will be engineering and maintenance. We're hoping you inherited some of your family's skills."

What's that about?

The Kabers own one of the largest ship building operations. Mica is their youngest and he told me once he couldn't handle being a flunky for his brothers who were all well entrenched in the family business.

"Jos Trall, you will participate in joint hand-to-hand and group training exercises. Your on-board training will be ship's systems. Feired Fornay, you will participate in joint hand-to-hand and group training exercises. Your on-board training will be food services, I might add that Captain Nekko saw your file. He's hoping you can bring the culinary standards up a few notches. Fiske Abusson, you will participate in joint hand-to-hand and group training exercises. Your on-board training will be surveillance and data analysis. Quinn Corbin, equipment simulations, joint hand-to- hand, and group training exercises, your on-board training will be tactical and weapons."

Quinn? Why does he go by Corbin? Skye asked Garrett.

Pretty common especially for military. I don't know if Corbin's always been in the guard, maybe he started in one of the other units.

The instructor continued on, giving names and assignments. A few were interesting and Skye wondered about most of the guys' ship vocations but the longer he sat there the more aware he became of Garrett and the more he struggled to pay attention.

Chaz and Gilian were the only other members assigned to basic training. All of them were included in joint hand-to-hand training and group training exercises. Leesai and Bryan also got equipment simulation. Skye wondered about each of their secondary assignments and what they might tell about the person. He didn't know any of them well so it was just a teasing hint at this point. Gilian was assigned botany, Leesai and Chaz both got security, Kaui Lung was systems and programming, Greggory Wolf was assigned to geology and archeology, Bryan O'Dell got biology and anthropology and finally Jayce was assigned to medical. Though watching him across the room, Skye really thought he ought to be an entertainer, maybe an actor or a model... of course if they paired him with Mica or Corbin... damn but I'd pay to see that.

Hey, focus on your mate. Garrett prodded.

Sorry. But you are the one who said he had an awesome ass.

He does but you don't need to be thinking of it right now. You'll be miserable if you get yourself worked up before mid-morning and there's no relief in sight until at least after dinner.

"Those assigned to equipment simulation, please go with instructor Johns, basic training without equipment simulation, instructor Meckle, excluding Garrett. Anyone remaining with joint hand-to-hand with Master Chen. Good luck men."

• Scene 5 *

"Careful River, that container's off center," Skye said watching as the mech loader lifted the huge shipping crate out if his way.

"Got it. I'll set it down and get a better grip before I put it back," River responded.

Skye pulled his hand out of the gloves and massaged them a bit. He looked over the indicators in his cockpit before putting his hands back in and fidgeting a bit to wake his legs back up. Simulators were good but being in the real thing had given him a few surprises, like how his muscles cramped.

Skye double checked the manifesto to make sure he had the right container. Scanned the crate again and then picked up the large box and placed it on top. "Okay River, that one should go next."

"Done. Ready to put these babies back in the crib? My unit's already in yellow." "Shouldn't be, we need to let the foreman know. They either didn't dock it right or you've got a bad power unit." Skye looked over his readouts - nope, his was solidly in green. He maneuvered the large mech back to its dock, stepping in and making sure the clamps locked on. He hit the controls to enable the connectors, made sure they took and then began shut-down. He let out a sigh when he heard the metal clank of the hatch opening, then felt the odd sensation as the seat slid backward. Skye unbuckled and stretched out his arms and legs. He wasn't about to attempt the climb down until his own muscles were working.

"Come on slow-poke!" River called from below.

Skye stood and reached for the hand holds that would let him climb down from the mech. When he had both feet on the ground, he had a moment of wobble before his brain compensated. "Is it me or is it easier in the simulators?"

"Not you. Makes me wonder what the adjustments will be like when we're in the Falcons."

"We've got some time before they let us off the ground," Skye said with a laugh.

"That's right boys, 'cause as far as I'm concerned you're gonna work these docks for the rest of your lives." The foreman came up and gave them both a shit-eating grin.

"Promises, promises," River said rolling his eyes.

"Seriously if even a quarter of my guys were as good as you two... both naturals. Don't think I've ever been ahead of schedule. Those crates you organized today don't ship out for a full week."

"Glad we could help boss," Skye said putting a hand on the foreman's shoulder. "Hey, just wanted you to know Unit 4336, may have a bad power core. It was already in yellow when we shut down."

"That was Eklund's unit... I'll have maintenance check it out. Thanks." The foreman headed off in the other direction, already calling out to one of the men.

River put his arm around Skye as they walked across the subterranean warehouse docks. This was where fleet stored and organized the supplies for military operations and support in this sector. It also served as a makeshift training ground for hands-on mech training. Instructor Johns said they'd tackle the armor mechs next. Hopefully without live ammo, Skye thought to himself.

"Hey guys!" a voice shouted across the expanse.

Skye saw Leesai, Bryan, and Corbin waiting for them at the lifts.

"So is the foreman still threatening to keep you?" Corbin asked.

"Every day," River said.

"He tried it with Leesai too, but she gave him such a look I thought he'd piss himself," Corbin said with a burst of laughter.

"It wasn't funny," Leesai said in a dry tone, walking on to the lift.

"Oh it was Skye, so funny. She is so damned serious and when she gets an itch - fuck but she's scary. Glad she's on our team," Corbin whispered.

Skye smiled and tried not to let on. This was day five of training and so far so good. No new surprises or abilities that they'd uncovered. Tennat had given him a thorough once over but he hadn't been able to detect any other changes. Skye was still a little on edge, waiting for the other shoe to drop.

The lift was big enough to take a whole squad and seemed a little odd for their small group.

"You hear anything from Corey?" River asked.

"Not since what I told you."

"The 'Oh my God! You were right,' response where he said he owed you his first born and maybe more?"

"Yeah, that one. He deserves a happy ending and I'm glad it worked out."

"You can get all the details at the wedding," River said giving Skye a wink.

"Bonding. It's called a bonding here River."

"Whatever. Ronan and his group are performing. Pater even said he was putting up the newlyweds at the Palace. It's almost here, only four days!"

"You doing okay brother?" Skye asked.

"Yeah. Kleitos has been so sweet and he promised to distract me if I get antsy. Willow said he'd help too. I know it sounds like I'm being a baby but it's hard to sleep alone once you get used to having your mate. I've seen Nik a couple times from a distance but they're keeping us apart."

"Nah... I'm the same way. And it's better with another person to snuggle but no one is as good as your mate."

"Tell me. Of course you know brothers are a good second. If you know what I mean..." River gave Skye a nudge and a wink. "You've been going pretty hard on Garrett, you sure he doesn't need some backup?"

Skye gave River a punch in the arm in response. "He whining again?" Not that Skye didn't enjoy River's company but somehow it just seemed even more 'wrong' than usual when he was about to be bonded.

"Come on Skye, the guy looks exhausted. He may have mentioned at breakfast that he wasn't sure he'd survive.'

"He exaggerates, but maybe. So when it's your turn, I've found that being with Garrett satisfies the need like no one else. Not that you can't enjoy others. But they aren't quite enough to take away the lust. I'm somewhat surprised more dragons don't know that but I guess since usually they go through the change long before they're mated, they wouldn't know."

"Guess that means I need to prepare myself for Nik? He'll hit it long before I do."

"Yeah, you're right. He will."

"I'm not ashamed to admit I might need your help and I know damn well Nik won't object."

Skye grunted not wanting to commit. The thought made him squirm a bit, made worse by the obvious enthusiasm of his dragon.

"New adventure tomorrow Leesai, you ready?" Bryan teased.

"I am. Are you?" Leesai said in a dry tone.

Skye looked over at the others and smiled, glad for the distraction. "Careful Bryan, that means she'll have weapons to use on you."

"I don't need weapons," Leesai said.

"Corbin, you ever been in an armor mech?" Skye asked.

"A few times. Before I was accepted in the Imperial Guard, I served with Fleet on Draga Starport. We used a variant to do patrols on the docks."

"Were you there long?"

"No, just a year. Then they moved me to Imperial Guard at the Capitol Seat. I was there several years until Emperor Darius had me moved to his personal guard."

"How about you Bryan? You ever used an armor mech?"

"Nope."

"Then I hope you will show restraint and not injure us or yourself," Leesai said with a cold stare.

"Did I do something to you Tedurian? Why do you dislike me so much?" Bryan asked.

"Dislike would imply that I cared enough to have a sentiment. I feel nothing for you O'Dell, except apprehension that you might be sloppy or careless."

Well, this is not exactly stellar team building, Skye thought watching his future wing-mates snipe. Garrett had warned him that Felecians could be difficult, but he'd learned to trust his magic and since it had noticed both... Oh well I'll intercede if I need to.

"So you're familiar with the armor mechs Leesai?" Skye asked hoping to move the conversation along. They were almost out of the compound and then they'd go their separate, hopefully peaceful ways, until tomorrow.

"Yes. I am proficient in their operation but it has been a while. It will be good to refresh my skills."

Skye saw the Imperial Guards waiting for him on the other side of the gate. "Hey, we'll see you again tomorrow. Have a good night."

"Goodnight sir." Leesai said before turning sharply toward the gym.

"Awkward," River whispered.

"Have a good night Skye," Corbin said.

"Until tomorrow," Bryan added.

Bryan and Corbin both headed off to the Academy rec building, probably to get dinner. Skye was a little disappointed Corbin wasn't staying at the palace but all the guys with daily training had opted for the barracks.

• Scene 6 *

Skye felt Dillon's eyes on him as he changed. "How long do I have?"

"Emperor Darius was held up in Assembly so you've got at least an hour before dinner," Dillon said checking Skye's uniform to see if it needed to be laundered. He turned and stumbled for a moment catching himself with a hand on the chair.

"Hey... you okay."

"Just got a bit dizzy. I'm fine."

Skye looked at Dillon a little more closely. He didn't like the grimace on Dillon's face and decided to watch him more closely. "Have you heard from Rilien? I don't like him staying at the Mage Hall."

"We spoke this morning when I took some of his things over. He's nervous but said it was going well. They assured him he wouldn't have to live there once he was through with the testing."

"How much can they test him? It's been almost a week."

Dillon turned and gave him a smile. "He misses you too Skye."

"Thanks," Skye grumbled letting Dillon help him with some final adjustments.

Dillon's hand slid over Skye's ass and around to his inner thigh. "It's okay, I don't mind taking his turn."

Skye felt himself getting hard and a little warm. "Don't be cruel, you know Venci is supposed to stop by. I can't meet him all aroused and stuff." Skye was pleased how comfortable Dillon had become with him. The master - servant roles just didn't work for him and he liked the easy comradery that had developed.

"Why? I like you aroused," Dillon teased then he made an odd groan and clutched his stomach. A look of pain crossing his face.

"Shit Dillon, sit down," Skye said pushing Dillon into the chair as he knelt in front of him.

"Really Skye, it's nothing. Maybe I ate something."

"I'd rather be sure. Sit there for a minute and see if it passes. Do I need to take you to the infirmary?"

"Please Skye, it's nothing," Dillon pleaded.

Skye put his hand to Dillon's cheek and then leaned in and kissed him tenderly. "I'm not taking chances."

"At least let me rest in my own room. I don't want your new secretary thinking poorly of me."

"Alright, let me help you."

Skye made sure Dillon was situated and had just returned when the guard announced Venci Lopez's arrival.

"Prince Skye, I am honored," Venci said with a bow.

"Yeah, yeah, whatever. No one is looking you don't have to do that shit."

"As you wish sir. Thank you again for giving me this opportunity. I'm sorry we didn't have the chance to meet sooner."

"Not your fault. The Academy is pretty demanding... and strict. I didn't realize they'd start quite so early but, well... it is what it is. You and Braden getting on well?"

"Yes sir. We'll be a good team. We're helping Kwill on some research, as you'd suggested. Braden's also been doing some work for Serat and Garrett's kept us both pretty busy with all the assignments he's been given by Captain Nekko. Not sure how he expected Garrett to do it all on his own - or maybe he knew Garrett had help. When I have any breaks, I've also started some research on the new ship and what you might need."

"Thanks. No correspondence or meeting requests."

"The usual fan mail, designers who want you to wear their clothes or use their products. You've received two official requests that require your attention: one from Captain Nekko, and an invitation from Queen Caladwen requesting you to attend the Moon Festival."

"Did either of them give specifics?"

"Captain Nekko's message just said 'introductory meeting'. The invitation from Queen Caladwen was quite formal, the Moon Festival is a big deal in the fae court. They celebrate with a grand feast and entertainment. It's held on the night when Draga's two moons align."

"Isn't there some cautionary tale about not going to the fae court or eating their food?" Skye asked.

Venci laughed. "So legend would have you believe. It was an Earth practice before the exodus when they were trying to keep their existence a secret. Those who found them weren't actually hurt, just never allowed to leave for fear they might lead others back. Given that only the very attractive were ever allowed close, I believe they fared fairly well."

"But I thought elves disdained breeding with humans?"

"They do. But I assure you that they had ways to prevent pregnancy and they have nothing against the act, they just don't want children to come from it."

"Was the invitation for me and Garrett?"

"It wasn't that precise and was addressed to Prince Skye."

"Can you please follow up and make sure I can take Garrett. If I can't then I'm declining. No way I'm going into that viper's den without my mate."

"Certainly sir." Venci said with a knowing smile.

"I'm sorry I don't have more time for you. I know I'm not giving you and Braden much right now, but according to Prince Argos that's temporary. He was adamant that we needed both of you."

"We'll be fine sir. Your current situation is both unusual and temporary. Is there anything you need from me, anything you'd like me to attend to?"

"Not that I know of. Enjoy the break if you get one. You don't need to stay at the office, just keep alert for communications and have some fun while you can. Same for Braden. If I need you, I'll contact you or message you."

"Any other... uhm services I could provide?" Venci asked with his eyes clearly focused on Skye's crotch.

Skye gave a nervous laugh. "Not today but don't worry, your time will come."

"I hope so, I sure hope so," Venci said in a low whisper.

Skye laughed out loud. His hearing was good enough he didn't need to pick up on Venci's thoughts to catch the words. "Thank you Venci. I appreciate you being willing to stop by the palace. My schedule makes it tough to get to the Capitol Seat."

Venci stood and gave another bow. "My pleasure prince Skye."

"No bowing."

How about if I got down on my knees, that's what I really want. Venci thought strongly enough that Skye picked it up easily.

Skye walked with Venci to the door and held it open. "Be careful what you wish for Venci."

Skye looked in on Dillon to make sure he was doing better. "Stay and rest. There are more than enough servers without you hovering."

"I don't hover," Dillon objected.

Skye left him in peace and joined the family for the nightly seven course spectacle. Dinner was amazing as it always was, but it seemed odd without Nik and Rilien. Pater and Darius both seemed to be distracted and Skye couldn't help but assume he was the cause.

Christos caught his eye and tapped his temple.

You could just mentally call to me Chris.

Oh, I thought you had to... never mind. Can I stay with you tonight? Chris asked.

Skye looked around and found everyone caught up in their own conversations. Is there a reason?

Willow wants to spend the night with Jos. Rilien's not here... I know you still feel guilty about it so if you and Garrett don't want me, we don't 'have' to do anything. But I'd like to...

Go ahead baby, you know you want to. Though don't even bother lying to yourself that you won't take him up on the offer.

Garrett! I shouldn't...

Shouldn't, why? He's one of yours and he adores you. I'm sure knowing your lean days are over and that you've been with others is making him a little envious that he's not getting his share.

Skye turned back to Chris. Sure Christos. If you get there before us, look in on Dillon. He wasn't feeling well.

"May I be excused Pater?" Christos asked.

"And I?" Willow added folding his napkin.

"Certainly," Pater responded.

Christos came around and leaned down to kiss Skye's cheek. "Glad you're home Skye."

Willow and Christos left and Skye felt the change as Darius and Pater turned almost immediately to look at him.

"What?"

"Convenient that they bowed out early," Darius said. "We needed to talk to you two anyway. Master Quanta sent word that he needs you to come to the temple."

"Is something wrong Father?" Garrett asked putting his hand over Skye's.

"Hopefully not. He believes he's found a way to remove the spell from Zopyros. He wants Skye to be there so he can check whether or not they are successful."

"Tonight?"

"Yes son. With your training we thought it best to do it in the evening. We don't want to draw any undue attention," Pater explained.

Garrett and Skye made their way to the temple and found Seatha waiting for them.

"Good evening, Prince Skye, Prince Garrett. Thank you for coming. Master Quanta and his men are already preparing."

"Is there anything we need to do?" Skye asked.

"I think you, Prince Garrett, and I are mostly observers until they are finished."

The circular stairs down to the cells felt darker and more ominous than they had in the daytime. Skye was even more aware of the weight of the heavy stone walls, and wondered how many had made this journey, and how many never came back. Garrett had already told them there were dark periods in Draga's past, times when the dragon priests and wizards did terrible things to their enemies. Things even worse than the medical experiments that brought the other were-creatures into being.

The modern lighting did nothing to dispel Skye's imagination as they walked down the hallway past the heavy barred doors to either side. He began to wonder if they still kept prisoners in the cells. Somehow he couldn't chase the thought away that Zo wasn't the only one in this dark place.

A door stood open and Seatha ushered them in. The same room where they'd examined Zo before. A fairly large room with a vaulted stone ceiling and heavy columns, just as dark and foreboding as the rest of what he could only describe as a dungeon. Zo was lying on a large stone table in the center of the room. A draping cloth covered his body and he appeared, at least from this distance to be asleep. Four men, including Master Quanta moved about him, setting out candles and marking sigils on the floor.

"Welcome Skye, Garrett. We're almost finished setting everything up," Master Quanta said as he seemed to finish marking the elaborate geometric pattern around the table.

"Where do you want us Master Quanta?" Garrett asked.

"If you and Skye would stand against the wall with Seatha, that would be perfect. You should be able to see what we're doing but it will keep you outside the warding. It is safer that way."

"Garrett, I don't know why but this is giving me serious creeps," Skye said.

"You're probably feeling the magic. It feels like spider webs on your skin. Or at least that's what I get. If you're more sensitive to magic, you might be getting more. I expect those wardings are pretty strong, and each of those runes or sigils they've marked carries power. Personally I don't even want to look at them - almost like they make me a little dizzy."

Skye turned to look at the markings. Runes was a good word. He could imagine them on some ancient stone tablet or carved on a temple wall. They didn't make him dizzy and he had no trouble looking at them but the faint blue glow made him a little nervous. He hadn't been around much magic and still had trouble accepting that it was real.

"Is Zo sleeping?" Skye asked as he turned to the High Priest.

"Sedated. I assure you he is well. We're not sure what kind of reaction he'd have to the magic so we thought it best."

"Gentlemen. We are ready. Whatever happens, do not cross the warding. I don't care if it seems like we're all about to die. Don't cross that line. Do I have your agreement?" Master Quanta looked at each of them in turn, waiting for a nod or response.

"Good. I don't know what you will see so I can't really prepare you. The magic spell that we believe was used on Zopyros is 'dark magic', evil in nature and meant to pervert and corrupt. It is likely to fight back."

"Is there anything you want us to do Master Quanta?" Seatha asked.

"No. You can only observe. If anything goes truly wrong, two of my wizards will remain on the outside of the warding to deal with it. Garrett, do you or Skye see or sense anything of the magic?"

"I can see the runes and the wardings glowing - a luminescent blue. I can feel the magic, like it's building but held back. Unlike Garrett, it doesn't make me uncomfortable or make me want to look away," Skye said.

"I can feel it like an itch and as Skye said, I don't really want to look at any of the markings," Garrett added.

"Interesting," Quanta said with a tip of his head. "Well, it's time for us to begin. Let's hope for the best."

Skye watched as two of Quanta's men stepped outside the geometric markings on the floor, careful not to smudge or disturb the lines. Then Quanta and the remaining mage took up positions, Quanta at Zo's head and the other wizard at this feet. Quanta raised his hands, palm upward and the markings came to life and the candles flared. What had been a slight glow, now blazed a brilliant white. Not just the perimeter marked on the floor but each rune as well. Skye could feel the thrum of magic in the air and he could sense the barrier that surrounded the wizards and Zo.

As they watched, the markings dimmed somewhat and Quanta began to chant, words or sounds that seemed familiar but the harder Skye tried to listen the more elusive they became. Zo's body lurched and the second mage began a chant in descant to Quanta's.

A dark, vile cloud started to seep from Zo's mouth. It curled and plumed like a noxious gas, black and opaque with sickly green swirls. Quanta's voice rose and now rather than chanting, he was speaking but still the words made no sense. The gas moved to the wizard at Zo's feet and seemed to wrap around him like a python. The wizard gasped and grew pale, he tried speaking but all that came out were gasps. The black cloud curled around his face and the wizard shook and began vomiting.

Quanta's voice became more determined and the black form left the other wizard and moved toward him but stopped just short of making contact. Small flashes of light illuminated in the black cloud, and with each flash the black form diminished. Zo began to thrash as the substance sought to return. Skye wasn't sure how but it seemed that the way was blocked. The cloud swirled angrily, the green and black billowing like a raging storm cloud.

Quanta brought his hands forward as if reaching out to the gaseous form. It pulled away but the flashing lights increased and soon they were so bright that Skye had to avert his eyes. When the light dimmed and he looked back, the cloud was gone. Quanta was leaning over Zo, his arms braced on the table, his eyes closed and his chest rising and falling as if he couldn't catch his breath.

The other wizard inside the warding had collapsed to the floor. Skye reached over and took Garrett's hand. They watched and waited in silence until Quanta looked over to them and gave a weak but triumphant smile. The warding flared brightly and then began fading until it was dark.

"Give me a few minutes," Quanta said in a rasp.

The other mages moved to their collapsed colleague and began checking him over. They stretched him out, removing him from the warding and then brought wet cloths and began wiping his face.

"Will he be okay?" Skye asked.

"He's breathing and I can't find any damage. So I'd say yes, he should be fine after a bit of rest," one of the wizards said.

"Skye if you could please join me? It should be safe now. Please check to see if you see any remnants of the dark worm you noticed before," Quanta said.

Skye pulled Garrett with him to the table and looked down at Zo. He looked feverish but still appeared to be unconscious. Skye reached out with his mind and began at Zo's head, searching, exploring, looking for any signs of irregularities, foreign or otherwise.

Garrett had placed a hand on his shoulder and Skye shared with him as he searched. I don't see anything, nothing feels wrong or unusual beyond the drugs of the sedative. Garrett do you sense anything I'm missing?

No Skye, but this is new for me. I'm not sure what he's supposed to feel like.

"I'm not finding anything beyond the sedative Master Quanta."

"That's good. Hopefully that means we were successful. I may ask you to check him again in a day or two, just to make sure."

"So what does this mean?" Garrett asked.

"That we were able to break the spell and remove the curse. Unfortunately, we can't undo all the damage that's already been done. But in time, he should be able to heal," Quanta said.

"Do you know what type of spell it was?" Skye asked.

"Best description would be a 'possession'. The spell was a type of curse meant to bring out anger and hate, corrupt the host, feeding their dark side and their most selfish desires. It would be like a little voice on their shoulder, whispering evil and temptation at every turn. This was not cast recently. I would venture many years, given how deeply entrenched it was."

"Probably not long after his change then. That's when he started acting differently," Garrett said putting a hand to his brother's still form.

"It may still be a long path back, but at least we don't have an evil curse fighting against us."

"No, just a corrupted dragon," Garrett said with a sigh.

"True, but there is hope and I assure you Prince Garrett, we have the very best working to bring him back," Seatha said coming up and placing his hand on top of Garrett's.

• Scene 7 *

"I promise I'll make this quick," Garrett said pulling Skye into a kiss before he stepped back. "They'll want to know what happened."

Skye watched as Garrett headed off to find his parents. He gave a nod to the guards and walked on, once they entered the family wing Skye noted the doors and paused in front of Christos's room, considering whether or not he wanted to knock. Skye took a deep breath and moved on. If Christos is meant to be with me tonight, he'll be there. The guards opened the door to his room and did a quick check, turning the lights back on low once they'd finished.

The bed was already folded down for the night but otherwise the room was still and empty. The guards stepped back into the hall and when the door closed, the sound echoed making Skye feel even more alone. Garrett won't be long... This just can't be real, Skye thought as he peered through the drapes. Magic is real. What I saw wasn't CGI or special effects, there really was something evil inside Zo. The warding and spells were real. Skye went over it again and again. He struggled with which bothered him more, the presence of magic, that there was true evil and it could take a form, or that he saw and felt the magic more than Garrett.

Does that mean I truly do have magic like Quanta thinks? Skye startled as he heard laughter and turned to look back into the room. He realized he was shielding so tightly that even Garrett was just the faintest of whispers. Skye lowered his shields a bit and walked to the door to Dillon's room. He listened a moment to hear the voices and with his shields relaxed he felt Dillon and Christos like a warm caress. He gently knocked.

"Come," a voice called.

Skye stepped in and saw Christos and Dillon on the bed laughing and carrying on, a holograph of Rilien shimmered at the foot of the bed.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt."

"Please, come in Skye. Rilien was just telling us about his day," Dillon said moving to make space for Skye.

"Hey Rilien. You doing okay?"

"Yeah. They promised me I'm almost done. I want to come home."

"I miss you too," Skye said and felt a bit surprised that after such a short time, Rilien could call this home.

"They even make me sleep in a bed all by myself. No one to snuggle or keep me warm, no one to..."

Christos and Dillon both burst into laughter making it impossible for Skye to catch the last few words.

"Don't worry Ril, when you come back Dillon and I will keep you warm," Chris teased. "We'll let Skye take care of those 'other things'."

Dillon and Chris burst into a new round of laughter and Skye could see Rilien's blush of embarrassment.

"Well... I better go now. I'll let you know tomorrow if they tell me when I can leave. G'night guys."

"Good night Ril, we love ya," Dillon said.

The hologram flashed out and both Dillon and Christos turned their eyes to Skye.

"You okay Skye? You seem upset," Chris asked.

"Master Quanta removed the curse on Zopyros tonight. I found it... disturbing."

"Where's Garrett?" Dillon asked.

"He went to tell his parents what happened. They'll want to know Quantas thinks they were successful. He'll be along shortly. Are you feeling better Dillon?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. Quit worrying."

"I'm going to go get ready for bed. See you in the morning," Skye said.

"Whoa, wait for me," Chris said. He gave Dillon a kiss and a hug before jumping off of the bed. "Well come on... I can help you."

Skye couldn't help but become aroused as Christos enthusiastically helped him undress. Every time he tried to do something for himself, Chris would take his hand and move it away, often bringing it to his lips to kiss it.

"Let me. It's like opening a gift." Christos carefully took Skye's clothing and hung it in the closet, returning to remove the next layer. "I sometimes envy Dillon... getting to see you like this every day. Though he did admit that it almost always makes him want you... I can sure see why."

Skye blushed and felt his dragon beginning to stir again. He knew he had that effect on Dillon, but wondered if Dillon realized it did the same to him. He looked at Chris, taking in the subtle changes. Each day he looked healthier and more beautiful. His hair no longer looked as ragged, nor did he look starved - a little too slender still, but in his own way... perfect. Skye took a deep breath and could smell Chris's scent and his arousal.

Chris looked up as he knelt in front of Skye, carefully removing Skye's pants. The purple eyes pulled Skye in and he felt the last bit of hesitance melt away. His dragon, fully awake and purring in satisfaction - he is ours. The voice said, echoing in his head.

Skye knew it was true - in so many ways - not just because of the magic, the mark, and the binding. Christos loved him unconditionally. Skye could feel it in every fiber and knew the worst thing he could ever do to Chris was push him away or deny him. Skye had to accept the painful reality that it would hurt him as much as it would Chris.

The sound of the door drew his attention and he felt the wave of love and comforting presence as his mate entered.

"Looks like I'm just in time." Garrett approached and took Chris's hand, bringing it to his lips as Chris stood. Then Garrett pulled Chris into a full kiss, lifting him into his arms and letting Chris wrap his legs around him.

Skye crawled onto the bed and was quickly joined by Chris, pressing his body against Skye and kissing him like a starving man.

"Hold up. Give me a second," Garrett grumbled as he stripped and threw his clothes carelessly to the floor. "No fair starting without me!"

End Chapter 25 | Glossary of Imperial Guards included below

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Special shout out of thanks to David S. and Duane B. for being beta readers and editors so I could get this out faster!

Please check out my other stories on Nifty: Tyler's Adventures and Troy's Adventures under 'High School', The LAB under 'Science Fiction / Fantasy' and My Heart Belongs to Daddy under 'Incest' (though it does not contain incest.)

Skye's Imperial Guard:

• Bryan O'Dell, gold dragon, 5'10", body builder, red hair, pale complexion, and emerald green eyes

• Chaz Blackclaw, were-dagger, 6'1", Ranger - athletic build, medium complexion, shoulder-length dark brown, wavy hair, chiseled face with dark brows and lashes, a neatly trimmed beard and striking blue eyes

• Feired Fornay, silver dragon, 5' 11", slender swimmer's build, pale complexion, silver-white shoulder-length, straight hair, pale blue eyes

• Fiske Abusson, gold dragon, 6', lean muscled swimmer's build, warm gold skin, slender hips, thick, straight shoulder-length brown hair, blue eyes,

• Gilian, elf, Ranger, 5'4", slender athletic build, long, rich brown hair and brilliant green eyes

• Greggory Wolf, werewolf, 6', muscled athletic build, short dark beard, dark hair and pale green eyes

• Jayce Roberts, gold dragon, 5'10", pretty, ripped athletic build, notable 'v' torso, curly shoulder-length, golden brown hair, brown eyes with gold starburst

• Jos Trall, gold dragon, 5'9", body builder, red-gold hair, skin more bronze than gold, blue eyes

• Kuai Lung, Chinese gold dragon, Asian in appearance, 5'6", ripped, slender build, black shoulder length hair, large dark eyes and a pretty face

• Leesai Tedurian, Felecian, female 6'6", muscled and ripped, skin is a deep golden brown and has a mane of light brown hair, yellow cat's eyes, a little larger and set farther apart, cheekbones more pronounced than a human's , has a tail

• Mica Kaber, gold dragon, 6'2", lean athletic build, shoulder-plus length, blond hair, blue eyes, Skye refers to him as his "surfer dude"

• Quinn Corbin, gold dragon, 5'11", muscled athletic build, dark brown, short-cropped brown hair, dark brown eyes