Rooftop

AN: See-See-SeekRett? *warbly eyes* SeekRett?! *HUG* Oh SeekRett, I've missed you! And I don't know how to contact you, so I will leave a sappy message for you here for everyone to see! I had no idea you were *insert reason you had to leave our site* and I was SHOCKED! Shocked, I say! It sucks! Not only cause I wanna know what happens in your story, but also because I've missed your bubbly, lovey comments! :( It's not fair! I don't CARE if you're *insert reason you had to leave our site*! I don't care! And I'm so depressed right now because the copy of "Embracing Love: 5" that I managed to find online for a kinda affordable price, was eaten by my dog today. :( I came home to find that it had come in the mail today and before I even got to TOUCH it, he'd eaten it. I'll never be able to afford another copy! All the rest are WAY expensive online! Ah, anyway, I just miss you. Please make November come faster.

*sigh* Okay, for the rest of you, here is the second part I'd promised a couple days ago. Enjoy!




Roughly an hour later, Ethan was snuggled up into Fen's side, one strong arm wrapped tight around his shoulders, the both of them sitting side by side in a carriage. An extravagant, ornate carriage with a blanket over their laps and a pair of what appeared to be giant speckled bulldogs pulling it, guided by a driver and everything. A carriage, a blanket, the stars, and his mate. Romance at it's finest. Fen had even given him a single, vividly colored, flower.

Normally, Ethan would balk at such overly sappy gestures, what with the sickeningly cutesy way Fen was holding him close. The only thing missing was violin music, and Ethan wouldn't be surprised if it suddenly started playing. Yup, Ethan would usually sneer at cheesetastic displays. But...

Fuck it, he was enjoying it. He was eating it up! Everything single lovey-dovey part of it made him feel like his heart was going to explode. It was like heroin to a junkie, and Ethan needed another fix.

He sighed contentedly, grasping his mate's hand from where it was thrown over his shoulder and lifting it up for a soft kiss. “Fen...” He murmured, wrapping himself in the arm once more. “This is great.”

Fen chuckled, pulling him closer. “You always were the articulate one.”

Laughing at the teasing tone in the other's voice, Ethan poked his stomach. “Shush, you.” He didn't want anything to break the mood. The spell over them tonight. It was beautiful, and all he wanted was to enjoy it. They'd never been like this before. Sure, they'd been sweet with each other, and they never missed out on a chance to enjoy some loving pillow-talk, but due to limitations on Ethan's side, once Fen became his true self, they couldn't exactly go out on a date.

And come to think of it, whenever they were alone, which was all the time, they usually ended up having sex quite quickly. Hence why it had been so difficult to realize there'd be no more sex for a while. But...just because they couldn't mate, did that really mean their relationship changed in any way? Would it lessen their time together? Physically, it would change, yes, but the way they felt about each other wouldn't. Nor would how they interact, well, minus the sex.

...Maybe this whole collar thing wasn't all that bad, Ethan thought to himself as he glanced up to see Fen looking down at him with amusement. “What's so funny?”

Fen stared at him through low-lidded eyes, that everpresent smirk on his lovely mouth. “You.”

Ethan pursed his lips, lifting one brow. “What about me?”

“Listening to you think is as charming as ever. I block out most of it, but sometimes I let the wall slip and your mind seeps in. It's enchanting.” He dipped down to kiss Ethan quickly before pulling back and smiling wider. “You're enchanting.”

Was that a compliment? Or...something else? Ah, who cared anyway. Ethan liked the way Fen was looking at him right now, so he wasn't going to argue. His mate's face was close, eyes soft as they regarded him, those plump lips lightly curved with contentment. Yes, it was wonderful to be on the receiving end of that expression.

Though, Ethan didn't really know what Fen was thinking of at the moment. Most likely something to do with him, of course, but other than that vague assumption, Ethan was in the dark. He reached up and ran his fingers through the loose strands of black hair that had come free of their tie, letting it slide over his fingers. “What are you thinking about?”

“How pretty you look in this light.”

Ethan blushed, smiling to himself, but determined not to be deterred. “No, I mean, why can't I hear your thoughts? You say that you have to work to block mine, yet I don't hear yours even if I try.”

That gentle expression faltered for a moment, Fen's eyes widening quickly before returning to their previous serenity. “Perhaps...you are not capable of hearing my thoughts.”

“No, that's not it.” Ethan asserted, shaking his head. “Because I have heard them before. Little snippets here and there, like in your father's bedroom, when you were scared, and then before I bit you, I felt some of your emotions when you were distracted.”

Fen blinked at him. “Before you bit me? You mean before we had a completed Bond?”

“Yeah.” Ethan nodded.

“Like when?”

“...Well...When we were at that fast food joint while we were still running, before our cabin, and I knew what food you wanted me to get you. And a few times at the cabin, I've known where you were just by...I can't really explain it, but by feeling where you were. I don't know...I just thought it was because we were so close.” He shrugged. “But yeah, I know because of that, that I am capable of doing the same things as you to me now that we're Bonded. But, I haven't been able to read anything. You're like a blank slate or something.”

Fen wasn't looking at him anymore, his eyes unfocused and vacant. Ethan snapped his fingers in front of his mate's face to get his attention back. “Hey! Answer the question.”

Fen blinked rapidly and turned back to him. “What? Oh, what did you ask?”

“Why can't I read your thoughts at all?”

After another moment of consideration, Fen tilted his head away. A sure sign of being aware that his answer wouldn't be a good one. Ethan tensed.

“Because I keep a wall up at all times. Unless...as you said, I become distracted. Then they falter, but other than that, I keep everything blocked away.”

“Why?” Ethan asked, crossing his arms somewhat petulantly. He didn't like that one bit. Fen was allowed to have complete access to his mind, but he wasn't to him? No. Not fair at all. “Is it because...you don't trust me?”

The other male looked trapped, and he shifted in their seat. “No...I do trust you. It's not about trust, Ethan.”

“But you don't want me to be able to see what you're thinking. If not all the time, then at least for certain times. Right?”

Fen shifted again. “...Yes.”

“Then what you're saying is that you don't think I should know certain things about you, or your past, or your thoughts.” Ethan watched the other sit in silence, and he jabbed Fen's thigh. “Right?”

The bump in Fen's throat bobbed as he hesitantly gulped. “...Yes.”

Ethan sat back, satisfied to be correct, but not happy about why he was. “I hate to break it to you, but that means you don't trust me.”

“But-!”

Ethan ignored his protests, staring over the edge of the carriage at the slowly passing ground. “You seem to think whatever deep dark secrets you have will be too much for me, and you judge my ability to handle them. You don't trust that I'll still...care about you.” He turned halfway, seeing Fen in his periphery. “You don't trust me.”

Two arms came up to wrap around Ethan's chest, pulling him over to lean into Fen again. “You're right.” The larger male muttered apologetically. “I haven't been open with you, mostly because I'm...afraid. You're right. I'm afraid your feelings might...change. But...” He used his hands to gently tilt Ethan's head up, their eyes meeting. “I promise you I will tell you eventually. Just not tonight. I don't want to have serious talks tonight. Let's just enjoy being with each other. Isn't that what you wanted? To be with each other?”

It was begrudgingly that Ethan nodded. Damn Fen. But it was true. He had said those exact words earlier. Not that he wanted to give the topic up so easily, but he really had been having a nice time, and he did want to go back to it. “...Yeah. I do.”

Visibly relieved, Fen hugged him harder. “Good. Me too. Are you hungry?”

The last time Ethan had eaten was with Pazu at that little cafe. And the only thing he'd eaten was sweets and some sort of melted chocolate drink. Not very healthy, nor very filling. So, yes, he was beginning to get quite hungry. “Yeah. Can we go somewhere and get food? I don't want to go back to the castle yet.”

Fen smirked at him. “Castle?”

“Well, I don't want to call it 'The Big Treehouse'.” Ethan snipped, sticking out his tongue.

With a small laugh, Fen glanced at him fondly. “Makes sense. And no,” He added, referring to Ethan's previous statement. “We don't have to go back. I actually was planning on going for a small picnic. Does that sound good?”

“Where?” Ethan asked, straining to see out through the trees. The path they were on was wide and flat, but on either side was only thick foliage. There weren't any discernible places to lay a blanket down that he could see.

But Fen gave him a wink. “Just wait.” His attention turned ahead once more.

Ethan mimicked him and stared ahead too, trying to be patient for whatever was coming up. Turns out he didn't have to wait very long at all.

The tree line opened up, bringing into view a huge clearing with sparkling amethyst grass. No. Wait. That wasn't grass...It was a lake! Ethan bolted up in his seat, flustered in an instant. It was gorgeous. The water was purplish and calm, sparkling in the starlight. Looking up was even more brilliant, because here, out in the woods with no electricity or bright lights for miles, the sky shined with billions of stars. Even the night sky back at the cabin couldn't compare, since there were neighboring towns and cities in various directions. Out here, in this world, there was nothing to contrast it's muted grandeur.

“Oh my god...” He couldn't even breathe, it was so beautiful. “It's amazing!” Ethan gripped the side of the carriage impatiently, mentally ordering it to come to a stop so he could get out and go closer. His silent plea was answered when Fen halted the driver, giving him a few coins and then patting Ethan's bottom encouragingly.

“Go on.” He urged, smiling broadly. “Enjoy.”

Didn't have to tell him twice, because with a cheer of joy, Ethan was bounding over the side and racing towards the water. It was so pretty! The purplish haze wasn't the water, but in fact a strange mist hovering mere inches over the crystalline liquid. And there was a heat radiating from it too. A wonderfully wet heat that made Ethan's skin prickle pleasantly.

A hesitant step forward, and he knelt down to dip his fingers in. It was warm! Enough to even say it was hot! Oh, a sudden urge to go swimming rose up inside him.

“Go ahead, love. I've got a blanket to dry yourself on after.”

Ethan glanced back to see Fen walking towards him, a folded up blanket in one hand and a basket in the other. Presumably filled with food.

“Fen, I don't mean to sound like I doubt your desire to stay away from here, but why wouldn't you want to? It's beautiful here! Everything is like it's right out of a painting or something!” Hes spun around in the crisp air, swinging his arms out like a child. A carefree grin made it's way onto his lips.

But his mate spread out the blanket on the ground and thudded down with a sigh upon it. “It's beautiful here, yes. In the circle of the Royal Forest, it is indeed a wondrous place to live.” Fen's eyes darkened. “But elsewhere, the nation suffers.”

The blanket was thick and comfortable as Ethan sat down, leaning back on his arms. “...Like in the Barren Flats?”

The reaction was immediate and alarmed. “How do you know about that place?”

“Because I heard you tell Asterac about growing up there, and then Pazu told me what it was.”

Shrewd eyes met his own. “Ah, I see you took full advantage of your tour-guide today.” Fen teased mildly with a slight smile.

“Gotta get my answers somewhere.” Ethan teased right back, sticking his tongue out playfully.

“...Touche, love.” Grunting as he stood, Fen extended his arm down. “Would you like to go swimming with me?”

“You want to go swimming too!” Ethan jumped up so fast, it made his head spin. “Yeah! Let's go!” He was stripping off his clothes as he went, kicking off his boots and pulling off his shirt, then reaching for his pants. But then he stopped short. He glanced at Fen anxiously. “I don't have a swimsuit. Should I...?” A quick scan of the area showed them to be alone, and he dropped his voice to a whisper, holding his hand to his mouth. “...Should I go in my underwear?”

{Go naked.} Fen suggested devilishly, undoing his own clothing. “I shall too.”

Ethan blushed immediately, but he couldn't deny the idea was appealing. The heat of the water compared to the chilly air would be delicious against his skin. Like an enormous hot tub. And there was no one around, no one that he could see anyway.

{Do not worry, love. No one will disturb us. We are alone here.} Supple black skin grew more and more visible by the second, then Fen was nude and standing there proudly, displaying every inch of himself to Ethan's hungry eyes.

Dear god, he'd never tire of his mate's perfect body. His mouth went dry at the sight of all that skin. If only...

Damn collar.

But he didn't have time to dwell on that. The water was waiting! He shooed Fen farther away. “You go over there so I can strip without hurting you.” There wasn't any movement though. “Shoo!”

Fen laughed at him then stepped up to the water, spreading out his wings and lifting up a few feet into the air. Ethan watched jealously as his mate hovered above the water like the mist, then spun into an arc and dove head-first into the water.

That was no fair at all, and Ethan raced over to join his mate, splashing in and whimpering at how nice it felt. Warm and clear water and a strange silky sand bottom to walk on. Fen surfaced noisily next to him and gave him a grin.

“It's nice, isn't it?” He asked, shifting to do back-strokes.

Ethan treaded water, watching how the other used his wings to help himself stay afloat. Very impressive. One would think it'd be difficult to float with such large appendages. Come to think of it, this was the first time he'd seen Fen actually swimming. Back home, they'd played in the shallow pond, but Fen had never gone past his waist.

“Do you like to swim?” Ethan asked, fascinated by the other's movement.

“Yes,” Fen sighed. “Very much so. Though I know what you're thinking. And no, most Luftleutians do not like to swim. Usually it's just children, and then people like me. But you're right to think it's a bit odd swimming with wings. We're people of flight, not people of water.” He splashed a little. “But I happen to enjoy it.”

They swam together for about half an hour, splashing and laughing like kids. Fen picked up Ethan several times and tossed him back into the water, ignoring his protests. Probably because he was giggling the whole time. They finally climbed out when Ethan began to get tired, slowly shuffling back onto shore. And then Fen did something amazingly innovative. He had Ethan, who was wondering how he was going to dry off, stand on the shore, then the larger male started to flap his immense wings, sending blast after blast of air over Ethan's slick skin, making him erupt into goose-bumps.

“Hey!” He laughed, shivering slightly.

The air was strong and steady, and in minutes, Ethan was completely dry, although a little frizzy. He dressed quickly, to ward off the chill. Fen dried himself by soaring up into the sky and whipping around a few times, swooping back down to land on the blanket. His hair was still a little damp, but the rest of him was dry.

“Go get dressed before you freeze.” Ethan chided, covertly glancing at his mate's ample loins.

“As you wish, love.” Came the cheeky reply, then Fen was standing and putting his clothes back on. Fully covered, he sat again, and kissed Ethan on the cheek. “Better?”

“Much. I feel all noodley after being in the water for so long.”

Exhausted, they collapsed as one onto the blanket, relaxed and satisfied. Fen sat up half-way to snag the basket beside them and open it up, revealing the food and drinks inside.

“That's not wine, is it?” Ethan winced when he saw the corked bottle. He wasn't big on alcohol.

“No, no. It's just nectar. Made from those berries of the shampoo you used this morning. It's delicious. You'll love it. And I'm sure you'll like the food I've brought.”

The drinks were poured, and Fen laid out there simple meal of sweet fruit and dried meat onto a small plate. There was also utensils in the basket, and Ethan speared an odd-shaped orange fruit. He ate it cautiously. “It is good!” He beamed, stabbing another piece with his fork.

They ate in comfortable silence, drinking their juice, which was also yummy and indeed smelled just like the shampoo he'd used earlier that day. Once they were done, Fen cleaned up their stuff and packed it all back into the basket, sighing as he lay back and raised his hands to prop behind his head and rest upon. Ethan lay beside him, curved into the spaces of his mate's body. All was good.

The soft sound of Fen's breathing soothed Ethan, and he languidly rocked his body closer to his mate's comforting heat. Together, they were quiet as gentle waves lapped up onto the shore, the slick, repetitive sounds a rhythm to the other faint music of the forest.

Small animals could be heard shuffling about in the brush behind their backs, along with the more definitive scrapes of larger beasts searching for supper.

“So you like talking to me now?” Fen's chest was warm and smooth under his palms, delightfully textured as always.

The larger male layered his own hand over Ethan's, taking a deep contented breath. “I always like talking to you.”

“No, I mean with your real voice.” He slid his cheek higher on his mate's broad chest, listening to the steady beat of the other's heart. “I mean, I know we only Bonded a couple days ago, but you stopped talking in my head so abruptly.”

“You miss it?” Fen breathed, lacing his fingers with Ethan's lazily.

“Well...” It had been nice to have Fen use that telepathic voice just for him. But it was also nice to hear his mate speak. “Yes and no. I do enjoy your voice though. It's very deep.”

“I am rather big.”

Ethan giggled at the flippant reply. “Yes, you are.” Though Ethan had seen taller Lufty's since they'd come here, Fen was still quite large. Actually, the only one taller than Fen that they'd met so far was Asterac, who had at least a couple inches on him.

The sound of movement had them hushing, and Ethan tensed, glancing over the height of his mate's chest to see over by the water, a couple hundred yards away, a pair of Luftleutians walking hand and hand. Thank god he'd gotten dressed. There was nothing worse than being caught naked in public.

“Is that a couple?” He asked quietly, not wanting to draw attention to themselves.

There was a subtle shift of Fen's head as he looked over. “Yes, I believe so. This is quite a popular spot for couples to come at night. One of the servant's at the royal house told me about it.”

Ethan gasped indignantly, slapping Fen with his hand. “You had me go skinny-dipping! What if we were seen?!”

Chuckling breathlessly, Fen half-heartedly avoided his attacks. “No one would have seen. And are you more worried about being seen naked, or someone seeing me naked?”

“...Both. I don't want anyone looking at me. Or you. No one can see you naked but me.” His fingers unconsciously dug into Fen's chest, though the other didn't seem to mind.

“Fine fine,” Fen snickered. “I'm yours forever. No one else's.”

That's right, Ethan thought stubbornly. His mate belonged to him. He wouldn't share with anybody. They both relaxed once more in the quiet of the forest. But Ethan's mind wandered. Yes, Fen was most definitely his, but...What if one-day...he wasn't?

Where had that come from? Old fears coming to rear their ugly heads? Losing loved ones? Or, what if instead, Fen lost him?

He burrowed into Fen's chest, hiding his face. “Fen?” His lips dragged across his mate's skin as he mumbled.

With a shiver, Fen murmured back. “What?”

“If...We were ever to be separated, or if...one of us were to die from natural causes...Would you...you know, move on?”

Fen sat up abruptly, dislodging him. “What?”

Where was this coming from? He wasn't really sure. Maybe it had to do with being in this place, with everyone dead set on them not being Bonded. What if there was a way to actually break it. Or if they found a way to kill Ethan, then...Would Fen move on? “If I had a heart attack, would you eventually find someone else?”

“That's a bit of a loaded question, don't you think?” Fen muttered, giving him a hard look.

Ethan's stomach dropped. “Would you?”

“No.”

“What?” Ethan gasped, not quite sure if he felt relieved or confused. “Why not?”

“What do you mean 'why not'? Do you want me to say I'd find someone else to Bond with?”

Ethan chewed on his lower lip, biting a little too hard. “...No. I just...What about all that stuff you said to me once? About my family wanting me to move on to new loved ones?”

Fen loomed over him, leaning on one arm, his face a mixture of pain and wrath. “You did not share a bed with your family. It isn't the same. Ethan, you-” Fen cut off with a ragged breath, shifting away. “Why did you ask me this? Did Pazu say something to you today? Did she...?”

“No!” Ethan moved up to kneel, shaking his head. “She didn't do anything. I just...I don't know. I was feeling happy...and we're in this place, but nobody wants me to be your mate...” He looked away, out over the water. “It made me wonder what would happen if we...got split up somehow or something...” His fingers picked at the grass on the side of the blanket. “If you'd ever fall for someone new.”

“Would you?” Fen demanded unexpectedly.

“What?”

“Would you find someone new? A new mate?” The other's voice wasn't hard anymore. Just dampened and bleak.

“...I asked you first.” Ethan stalled, not sure why his chest felt tight.

“And I already answered.”

“...But, it's true, isn't it? About moving on, about loved ones wanting you to move on?”

“Ethan,” Fen's fingers found their way under his chin, lifting him downcast face up and forcing him to meet wounded eyes. “No.” The larger male murmured, melancholy words full of thick promise. “When the day comes that your heart ever stops, and you no longer are with me, I will simply die too.” Solemn silver eyes gazed down at him, conveying nothing but truth. One of Fen's hands trailed up to graze gently along Ethan's jaw. “My heart will not be able to last even one day without you in my life. Nothing in this world or yours could I ever fear more than death's darkness in your sparkling eyes. The hint of laughter on your lips. The flush of your skin.” Lips came down to part across Ethan's mouth, tender and sweet and brief. “These are things I need to survive. Without them...There is no living anymore. There is no purpose or 'moving on'. There's no one else. In all my dreary life, from the moment I was born, you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. Without you, I would not be the man I am today. I would not be gentle, or kind, or have someone in my heart who makes me love. I love you, Ethan. And if you pass on before I do, then I can do nothing but join you.”

Ethan, who'd been holding his breath, suddenly gasped for air, his eyes swelling with hot tears. Everything in his chest constricted with his unspoken feelings to the point of overflowing, and he shuddered with his heart's demand to be heard. “Fen! I-I love you!” He cried, his lips trembling at the mild surprise flashing in the other's eyes. “I'm so sorry I could never say it, I'm so sorry I was stubborn and childish and stupid!” He rose up onto his knees, planting both palms firmly to Fen's pointed jaw. The tears spilled down, and he struggled to speak before talking became impossible. “I don't know why it was so hard, and I know it w-was cruel of me to keep it inside, but I need you to know, Fen, that I love you! I've n-never loved anyone as much as you!” He sobbed once, swallowing it and pushing on, ignoring how Fen sat up and blinked at him, mouth hung open. “And everything you said, me too! I couldn't go on! I wouldn't! I...I...” He shook, not resisting when strong arms enfolded him, drawing him in close to warmth and comfort. “...I-” A harsh hiccuping wail cut him off, and he clung to his mate, whimpering.

“Shh...” Fen whispered, rubbing down his back soothingly. “It's alright...Shh...Breathe, little love, breathe. Let's not bring about our demise so soon.” He joked weakly, hugging tighter. “Ah, Ethan...I knew you loved me, I did, but...” A deep sigh. “It's wonderful to hear you say it aloud.”

Ethan shook harder, regret and shame mixing with an intense happiness so sharp, it threatened to take his breath away. Swallowing some of the sobs still catching in his throat, he whispered, “I'm so sorry for not saying it sooner.”

“Eh, that's alright.” Fen tutted back, resting his chin in the curve of Ethan's neck and shoulder. “I knew it was in your heart, but...I must admit, hearing you think it and hearing you say it are two different matters completely.”

A subtle wetness on Ethan's shoulder had him pulling back, gasping softly at the sight of Fen's eyes shiny and bright. “...Oh, Fen...you...” He brushed the tear tracks away with his fingers.

Laughing to himself, Fen smiled at him. “I seem to be reacting a bit stronger than I thought I would.”

“Are you...okay?” Ethan asked, worried he'd somehow said something wrong.

“Yes, my love. I am better than I have ever been in my life. I feel...buoyant.”

Ethan giggled, relieving the ache in his chest. “Me too.” It wasn't difficult at all to meet his mate's mouth with his own, carefully locking their lips together and reveling in the feel. The contact was light, not enough to incite any sexual tension, but deep enough to satisfy their need for each other. Ethan twined his arms around Fen's neck, pulling back to lay his head on the other's shoulder. “I love you.” He murmured softly, smiling to himself when the other made a pleased sound.

“And I love you back.” Fen replied tenderly, running both hands up and down Ethan's back and lifting one hand to bury his fingers in his blond hair. He caressed his scalp carefully, claws sending shivers down Ethan's spine. “Let me hold you for a bit.” Fen asked mildly, already shifting to lay back down.

A moment of tension, and Ethan's stomach tightened nervously. “But won't that...?”

“I just wish you hold you. Nothing more.” The larger male lulled, pulling Ethan across his chest to lay atop him. “I take comfort in feeling you close. I need that right now.”

Allowing himself to relax, Ethan let his head rest on Fen's broad chest, eyes slipping shut at the familiar, yet addictive, feel of Fen's skin. That soft velveteen fuzz that made his mate a giant teddy bear. One that Ethan would never tire of cuddling into.

The quiet euphony of the surrounding trees brought them both comfort, taking all the built-up anxiety and worry from the preceding days. Here, out here alone, nothing seemed to matter. Nothing could hurt them here, in their cocoon of solitude. Who needed a palace anyway? Who needed a king or a kingdom, or even a lonely cabin in the woods? It didn't matter where they were, as long as Ethan had Fen with him, he could face anything.

Somewhere in the distance, came the agitated call of some sort of bird, and Ethan tried to ignore that rueful sound, but it began to grow louder. It wasn't until the creature was practically upon them that he realized it wasn't a bird calling at all, but Pazu, calling for Fen. And him, it sounded like.

“Your highness?!” Came her voice, strained and out of breath. “Little Ethan?!” Then she was rushing through the trees, her wings half-unfolded and the feathers flustered.

With Fen's brow furrowing, they both sat up, and glanced at the troubled tour guide. “Pazu?” Ethan asked, rising to his feet. “What's wrong?”

At seeing them, she'd calmed somewhat, and to Ethan's query she held up her hand, leaning over and gasping for breath. “A...m-minute...Ethan...Catch...breath...”

Ethan blinked at her, turning to glance at Fen, who shrugged at him. Both turned back to Pazu, who straightened up with a deep, gasping rush of air. Her face was solemn.

“I'm terribly sorry to interrupt your date, your highness, but I'm afraid I was sent out to retrieve you.” She frowned unhappily at Ethan. “Both of you.”

Fen grumbled and stood, reaching for Ethan's hand and holding firm. “Why?” He asked suspiciously. “It's late. What could possibly be so important it couldn't wait til morning?”

Pazu shrugged, mouth falling into a frown. “I have no idea, your highness, but I was sent by your father directly.” Her voice quivered at the mention of the king.

Ethan was shocked. “They made you come all the way back here from the royal house?!” What an outrage! She must have had to fly back and hadn't she said it was a long journey by flight?

Pazu nodded. “I'm afraid so, yes. I will not be able to return with you. They've sent a new escort to bring you back. They were going to come and retrieve you here, but I asked to do it.” Her feet shuffled on the ground, awkward. “I didn't want strangers to...interrupt anything important...”

For that Ethan was grateful. An abrupt calling from sweet Pazu was much nicer than a troop of whoever's coming to 'retrieve' them. “Okay, so...we need to go?” He looked up to Fen for guidance. His mate was impassive.

“Yes, I think we do.” He tugged gently on Ethan's hand, prompting him to move. “Let's go. Pazu, if you would be so kind as to show us where our escorts are.”

“Of course, your highness.” She bowed, regret evident in every movement. Upon straightening back up, she sigh shortly and sadly. “I am sorry for this.”

“It's alright.” Fen assured. “You are under orders and I do not fault you for following them.”

If she was grateful for the praise, it did not show on Pazu's face. Only the sadness remained, til she turned resolutely and marched off to the tree line, her back straight and stiff.

Ethan kept hold of Fen's hand, feeling confused and worried. “Fen,” He whispered, nearly skipping to keep up with the other's long strides. “Do you know what's going on?”

“No.” Came the curt reply. “But I don't like it one bit. If it has anything to do with today's meetings...” Silver eyes swiveled down to gaze at him. “Whatever happens, Ethan, do not let go off my hand. As long as we are together, we will be fine.”

Ethan tightened his grip. “Yes.” He agreed, nodding. It was true. As long as they were together, facing the same enemy, they would be fine. They would be safe. They would be united. No matter what.

At the end of the path they were traveling on, was a small party of men in guard uniform. Thankfully, Gevi was nowhere in sight. There were also long-limbed creatures with saddles on their backs. Nothing like horses, the animals were still impressive. Wide, short necks and narrow, flat backs, they resembled nothing Ethan could compare them too. At most, he could say he was reminded of coyotes...but with the heads of a hammerhead shark. Kinda. It would have frightened him if not for Fen's reassuring grip and strong presence as he helped Ethan climb onto one, then climb on right behind him.

Nothing was said by the guardsmen, and Fen said nothing to them. As they started to ride, the creatures stride steady and smooth, the guards formed a loose circle around them with their own mounts, keeping Ethan and Fen trapped in the middle. Every minute that passed made Ethan more anxious, his stomach rolling in knots and lurching each time they came to a curve in the road. The animals were swift though, and the high-up royal house came into view much quicker than he would have liked.

Ethan dismounted shakily, leaning into Fen's side. The hand holding his became a vice around his fingers, and Fen looked at him strangely.

{Whatever happens, my love, do not let go of my hand. We will make it thought whatever they have planned.}

Ethan hoped that was true.

They came to the ramp, but Fen suddenly took hold of Ethan, hooking strong arms under his knees and behind his back, then unfolded his wings and began to beat them swiftly in the air. Oh god, they were going to fly. Ethan's heart beat quickened, and he clung to his mate's neck, exhilarated and frightened all at once. Not that he thought he'd be dropped, but all it took was one false flap, and they'd be splattered on the ground.

They lifted into the air, and Ethan snapped his eyes shut, opting to burrow his face into Fen's neck instead of watching the Earth fall away. A chorus of wing-beats joined Fen's and Ethan knew the guards were following dutifully behind.

It was certainly much quicker than the ramp, and they were landing smoothly on the first walkway in moments. Fen let Ethan back down to his feet, but before they could even get their barrings, the unmistakable voice of the Private Secretary interrupted the quiet.

“Your highness. Little Ethan.” Asterac bowed briefly in greeting, standing up straight after to reveal a pinched expression. “Please, if you'll follow me, the king has requested both of your presence immediately in the grand hall.”

That did not sound good. No, not at all. Ethan spared a glance to his mate's face and saw an equally worried expression as was his own. Asterac turned without preamble and disappeared into the darkened arches of the main building, his quick steps sounding rain.

Fen's hand squeezed Ethan's once, then they were off too, both followed by the guards, who's steps were much more ominous than the Secretary's. It was thunder rolling behind them, distant and soft. Please let whatever this was, but just some sort of joke. Some sort of psuedo-serious meeting where more whining and glaring will take place. But Ethan didn't think it was going to be.

All too soon, the winding hallways came to an end, and Ethan stood beside his mate before a huge doorway. Inside, there was a long stretch of carpet leading to a throne. And on that mighty seat, was the King. Crumpled in on himself, as only someone of old age can do, his tired face was set on them, ripened gaze piercing into them.

“Come.” Asterac beckoned, leading them into the room, where Ethan huddled closer to the strength of his mate as they walked.

The walls were lined with soldiers, all standing straight and silent. Gevi was at the king's side, leisurely leaning on the back of the throne, and if Ethan had any hope of this ending well, that hope died at the expression on that white Luftleutian's face.

Pure, unfiltered, sadistic glee.

“My son...” Came the creaky voice of the king as they came to a halt in front of him. “I am sorry it has come to this.”

“Come to what?” Fen replied icily, holding tighter to Ethan's hand and tugging him close. “If you harm one single hair on his head, I swear I'll-”

“The human will not be harmed. I am not a man of cruelty, even though you seem to think otherwise, Urure.”

The human? Hey, way to make a man feel welcome, Ethan thought begrudgingly, frowning at the elderly monarch. Then he almost fainted when those silver eyes came to rest on him.

“Human, you can understand me, yes?”

Fen nearly growled. “His name is Ethan. If you're going to address my Bonded, give him the dignity of responding to his proper name.”

Almost impatiently, the king waved his hand at Fen. “You won't let me use your proper name, so why should he be any different, son?”

“Because I refuse my name.” Came Fen's steely answer.

A moment of tense silence between them, matching silver eyes meeting each other angrily.

Then the king looked away. “Fine.” His gaze returned to Ethan. “I asked if you understood me, Ethan. Through your Bond with my son?” The king's tone wasn't mean or cold, but it was indifferent.

And Ethan shivered when it addressed him. But he nodded.

“You may speak, Ethan. Asterac will translate the words to me.”

As he said that, Asterac came up behind him and placed his hands on the king's shoulder. Those vivid purple eyes slid shut and Asterac became rigid.

“Ethan,” The king spoke again, folding his hands together in front of him. “I would like to know if you are aware of how my son came to be in your life.”

What? Where did that come from? Ethan blinked, shifting to look up at Fen in question. But the other had gone still again, his eyes wide.

“You can't-!” He began, before his voice cut off with a strangled gurgle.

“Do not interrupt me.” The king ordered hoarsely. “You have lost the chance for talking. I gave you the opportunity this afternoon, to figure out how to fix this mistake, but you refused any ounce of my aid. So now, I will take matters into my own hands.” Then that powerful voice wilted, taking on a sadder tinge. “You've left me with no other way, my son. I am sorry I have to take such drastic measures.” Then he looked to Ethan once more. “Well? Do you know how he met you?”

No, actually. He didn't. Ethan still didn't know how Fen had come to find him. He'd never really thought about it. Hadn't Fen just...sorta...wandered upon him? Then he remembered the king was waiting for an answer. “No, your...m-majesty.” What did one call a king anyway? “I don't know how.”

“Then I am going to tell you.”

Fen seemed to tremble beside him, and there was an almost pained groan from the other male. Ethan realized the king had put a hold on him again, preventing him from speaking.

“Unless...” He continued, gesturing to his son. “You would like to tell him yourself, Urure.”

With a quick gasp, Fen's body went loose, and he dropped down to one knee before Ethan, taking his skinny arms in both hands. {Ethan, do not listen to him!}

What was going on? Ethan blinked at his mate, glancing between him and the king. “I don't understand. What's the big deal? Why...?”

“Urure, if you do not tell him right now, I will have Gevi show him. Either the little one hears it from you, or a stranger. But he will be told. Choose.”

Something was happening. Something big. Gevi's cruel face became even more jubilant, those cold eyes lighting up. But Ethan was in the dark. Fen was still on his knees in front of him, that sweet face contorted with worry and tears forming in those eyes.

“Fen...” He murmured softly, hesitantly. “What's wrong?”

A strangled sob, and then Fen was pulling him close, lifting his hands from Ethan's arms to rest on the sides of his head. {I...am...so so sorry. I will tell you. I will tell you everything.} His mate twisted his head back and glared at his father. “I will be the one who tells him, but you do not come near us. Not at all. If anyone touches us while I'm showing him how it happened, then I will kill them. Do you understand me?”

With a tenderness conflicting with the words just spoken, Fen returned his gaze to Ethan, close to breaking down. If not for being so confused and worried about what was going on, Ethan would have felt more concern.

{My love...I will show you what they are talking about. But I will also show you everything leading up to it. Everything. I am going to bring you into my memories, because I want you to understand...} Fen stifled a sob, his lower lip trembling. {I want you to understand that what happened...I did not mean for any of it to happen. I want you to know why it did. And how it did. You will be me in my memories, and you may be confused when it comes to the memories concerning you, but relax. If you fight, then you may be forced out and it will hurt. Wait until I bring you out of them myself. And Ethan,} Fen's face was distraught. {Please remember that I love you.}

He would have returned the words, but there was a strange pressure in his forehead, between his brows, then everything went dark and Ethan was falling away from himself into the void.

TO BE CONTINUED


AN: Okay, so that was the LONG chapter that had to be broken up for my other main site, so I had broken it into 2 here. Hope you enjoyed them. Next chapter: We delve into Fen's memories~!

Reviews keep me motivated! I want to know what YOU like!