@DragonSong(((Continued from The Randy Peach - http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=19934.0 )))
The air was colder and Honou relaxed enough to flip his hood back up. Bane and Verik were a good team. They seemed to sense each other and they flew effortlessly. Honou slide closer and put both arms around Verik's waist gripping him firmly.
Up here it was easy to forget why they were here together and what they were doing. Absently he rested his head on the back of Verik's just letting the moment take over. Pure enjoyment and freedom. That is what it was like to fly.
Verik stiffened, surprised both by Honou's actions and by the fact that it didn't make him as uncomfortable as he would have expected. In fact, it was actually sort of nice. He relaxed slowly, letting his hand drift over Bane's neck to anchor himself.
"You done jobs like this before?" he asked, feeling like he should make conversation. He managed to twist slightly without nearly cracking their heads together this time.
His question stirred him from his thoughts. Honou straightened, "Yes, I have. I do these types of jobs often. I took the last few weeks off. My last one left me a bit...worn." He hesitated before saying the last word. It was about right. The last job he did left him in pretty bad shape. Healed now but the memory was still fresh.
"I use to be with an order but since the master's untimely death I find myself taking odd jobs here and there. What about you? What tasks the military have you doing?" Honou found it was rather an easy exchange between Verik and himself. He wasn't sure if he should be glad or worry.
Verik shrugged. "It's been pretty quiet the last year or so. Mostly training, border patrol, that kind of thing." He frowned slightly and added, "With the trouble in Connlaoth though it's looking more and more like some of us might be sent there."
Bane snorted a jet of smoke at this idea, a low growl building in his chest. Verik patted his shoulder absently. "Sorry about your boss," he said, glancing over his shoulder. He was no stranger to loss- he and Ilia had lost their parents at a young age, and he was a soldier. He'd seen his fair share of friends die on a battlefield. Something in Honou's tone suggested he'd been close to his ex-order's master.
"Ahhhh, yes the warring in Connlaoth." Honou knew it was a sore point with most. He for the most part tried to avoid all talk of it if he could. BUt Verik and Bane if they were deployed there had no choice in the matter. "I can only hope they end it sooner than later before they ravage all their lands and realize it was all for naught."
He chuckled at the dragons response.
The words of sympathy took him by surprise. Honou had not expected them. "Thank you."
It sounded so lame even to his ears but he wasn't sure how to reply. He tried not to think of it, of him. How he hadn't even known it happened. He lost so much but then so did many others what right did he have to still morn. "I still hurts." He stiffened. Now why did he add that? What the hell? "Uh, sorry, I didn't mean...it was a while ago..." He closed his mouth seemed the more he opened it the bigger fool he was becoming.
He closed his eyes and felt the familiar sting.
Verik twisted his torso around- Bane knew where he was going, he didn't need his direction. His heart twinged in sympathy and...something else. Something he pretended he couldn't name, shoving it from his mind with a firm You hardly know him!
Yet somehow he felt that he did. "He must have meant a lot to you," he said quietly. He was suddenly very conscious of how close his companion was and dropped his eyes, flushing lightly.
Honou swallowed hard. He was uncomfortable but not because of how close they were but because he felt he wished they were closer. He groaned inwardly. Work Honou...this is just another job...besides he is a military man, obviously a human, then why was his stomaching flip-flopping every time he looked back.
He wasn't in need of companionship. He had his needs seen to from time to time. He certainly didn't want or need any close ties anymore. That just lead to pain and heartache. He was through with that. Yet he found himself replying to the corporal. "Indeed he did. He helped me when I could have gone off in a very dark direction he pulled me out and showed me that there were other means and ways.
Honou would have said more but something held him back. For Burok was a lot older then he and many looked down upon them. Honou never cared for he loved the man and age mattered not especially for elves. Yet he hesitated, not wanting to alienate the dragon rider. He felt his breathing quicken when he notices his light flush. Did he really see it...or was he just pushing for more?
Honou looked down and notice his grip on the man waist which had him now mindful of how close they were. He tried to still himself but the man's green eyes lured him to look up again but he tried to fight it. They were here to do a job...he was just making more out of it. He'd been alone too long.
A realization struck Verik, and he had to bite his tongue to keep from blurting it out: You loved him.
He faced forward again, blushing in earnest now. Well. Now he felt like a jerk for dredging up painful memories. "Maybe we should land soon," he said abruptly, awkwardly. "Find a place to camp for the night. What do you say?"
Bane rumbled in agreement, but his eye flicked back to give his rider a scathing look. He knew what was going on, and he also knew Verik's habit of being awkward and gruff when he was feeling vulnerable. "Shut up," he muttered to the dragon, then forced himself to face Honou and ask, "What about you then? Ready to land?"
"Ready. Sure let's land. I could use a bite, foolishly I did not eat before we left." Some fresh rabbit perhaps or maybe fish it they landed near the river.
It felt better speaking of landing and safer topics. He braced himself and let them know he was ready one more time. "Okay ready when you are."
It had been a long time since he was on the back of a dragon so he was a bit tense but not from anything they had done just because he forgot what to expect. He was glad for the distraction though. Any more talk and he would probably be crying like a baby! What the hell had gotten into him? He was fine on his own. In fact was proud of his status of a recluse. Maybe he was hungry...yeah that was it. He need food.
Verik smiled. "Me neither. I'm starving." He really was. He hadn't noticed with how fast the past few hours had gone. "Bane, there," he said, indicating a clearing below them.
The dragon snorted and began his descent. "Bane can hunt for us when we're settled," Verik said as they spiraled closer and closer to the ground.
As he looked back to speak, his eyes caught in a small detail he hadn't noticed before- perhaps because Honou had kept his hood up earlier, or (more likely) because he'd been caught by those deep blue eyes. "Oh," he said, eyes widening slightly. "You're an elf." He blushed at how blunt and simple-minded that sounded, adding with an awkward fumble, "I, uh, I hadn't realized."
He looked instinctively at the spot he guided Bane towards. Bracing himself but it was probably needless as the dragon was effortless in his descent.
"That would be great." He noticed the dragon never waviered it was as steady a descent as he ever experienced. He actually loosened his grip feeling secure.
Honou chuckled. He couldn't help it. He said you're an elf as one would the sky is up. Soon his chuckle exploded into a laugh. He didn't mean for it to happen. Honou just couldn't help it. "Sorry!" He continued to chuckle. "It is fine. You say it like it is a disease."
Steadying himself and with a mirthful grin, "You're okay Verik."
"Oh, uh- I didn't mean anything by it, I just-" He flushed even more. "You're okay" wasn't exactly high praise, but for some reason it made him smile a bit. "Ah, thanks. You're not so bad yourself." He tried to sound pithy, but thought me might not have managed it quite right.
That idea was enforced by Bane's coughing dragon-chuckle as they landed. He scowled at his old friend and quickly dismounted.
Without thinking he reached up to help Honou down, gripping the other man's waist to steady him as he moved toward the ground.
He continued to chuckle. The more they talked the more Verik was making him lose his reserve. Before Honou could dismount the corporal was gripping his waist and helping him. He stiffened but quickly relaxed and landed cleanly on the ground.
"Thanks." He moved a step or two back. "This looks like a good stop." He sounded so stupid. What the hectic was wrong with him! "I have a few things, but no tent. Do you?"
He was beginning to feel a tightening in his stomach. He should be plotting his move to secure the shard yet her he was acting like a boy with a crush. He once again groaned to himself. He was never unsure what to do and yet he was now. "I'll go collect some wood...for the fire..." Yet he stood there. Almost as if he excpeted something to happen, what he did not even know.
"No, no tent. I usually just camp under Bane's wing... Which I now realize may be a bit of a tight squeeze for two people," he mumbled, rubbing his neck and looking away awkwardly.
"Oh, wood! Yes right, I'll, um, I'll help," he offered, scrambling for something to do. Gods, what was wrong with him? He was a soldier damnit, not some fumbling teenager! "Bane, you mind rustling up some food, old boy?" he said, more for something to say than to really make the request.
His dragon rolled his eyes at his lack of subtly but nodded, launching into the air with a single powerful leap and banking away to hunt.
Leaving the two men alone.
Maybe this wasn't such a good idea.
"Um...firewood?" Verik winced- well he was just all kinds of articulate today- gesturing toward the trees that surrounded them.
Honou smiled. Under the dragon's wing would be a tight squeeze. But he was used to sleeping under the stars. With Bane hitting the skies it was odd. They should just be working together and yet both of them seemed unsure. He sighed and walked over the corporal.
"Verik, listen..." He hesitated what did he want to say? You have beautiful eyes? Sexy lips? Ugh, that's real smooth Honou! He thought. Taking another deep breath he looked at the other man and shrugged. "I feel stupid. This should be so simple, right?" He didn't wait for an answer her kept going. "I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable. I don't normally work with others so I may just be out of practise. You have my permission to kick me if I act like an ass." He held his hand out in a way of greeting. "Let's start over, huh? I'm Honou, the elf you hire when you need something done...out of the ordinary. Now let's get us some wood for a nice roaring fire."
He smiled and nudged Verik forward. He hoped this would make it better. But those green eyes!
Verik took his hand with a grin. "Well met, Honou. I'm Verik, and you didn't do anything wrong, I'm just not really used to working with a partner either." He found he was a little reluctant to let go of his hand but managed.
He chuckled at the nudge and set off into the trees. "It's been pretty dry, so the wood should burn okay," he said, glancing back at his companion. Then a thought struck him and he swore slightly. "I don't suppose you brought along any flint? Travelling with a dragon and all I think I've rather lost the habit." He offered a sheepish smile. He knew he should be more prepared- he was a soldier as well as a dragonrider- but he hadn't exactly been given a lot of notice for this job.
It seemed to clear the air so to speak. "I have a flint! As I am not a dragonrider it is very essential." They didn't need to go far as fallen branches and twigs were laying about. Houno found himself looking at his partner.
He was now wondering if it was just that, they were both used to working alone. For a few minutes there he thought it might have been more. But that would only complicate what they had to do. Best to keep it light and get the job done.
"Tell me Verik, how did you get into it. You know riding?" He lowered his voice and smiled as he added one last question. "Do you have someone you leave behind when you have to go on assignments like this?" Now why did he ask that! What did he care if he had fifteen kids and two wives! Damnit! These humans though they had kids like it was a race.
Verik shrugged, he growing bundle of firewood clattering in his arms. "Dad was a rider, and it was all I ever wanted to be, I guess. Got put in training when I was twelve and paired up with Bane." He flushed slightly at the second question, shaking his head.
"Uh, no, I don't. I mean- I have a sister, and she's got three little ones, so sometimes it's hard to leave them." Why did he add that? That was more personal than he was used to sharing. He smiled slightly as he though of Ilia. "She's actually been nagging me to settle down these past few years. Thinks I'd be less reckless if I had someone to come home to."
He shrugged again. "I dunno. I'm just not the type to "settle down", I guess. Maybe for the right person, but I haven't met him yet." He snapped his mouth closed, cheeks heating. If he'd been misreading Honou, he may have just revealed something about himself he'd rather keep hidden.
He was loading up on the wood and their conversation was easy. If he'd only stop asking such personal ones. It was actually nice hearing him speak of his family. Perhaps if things had been different he too would have become a smithy or joined the military. One never knew...
"Ha, ha...yes a good friend of mine. She is nagged by her family as well. Shame really for she is talented and it would be a waste for her to "settle down" just to satisfy some notion that she should." He shrugged and Verik continued.
It was subtle. He almost missed it...or would have if he had not be really listening. He said he had not met him yet...him...not her. Now Honou knew from experience humans had more of a hang up than elves did about certain things.
Honou wrestled with himself. He had fought back the attraction he felt but now his body was screaming at him...he wasn't sure what he should do next. So he did what he thought was best. Looking at all the wood he collected, "looks like we have enough for a few days. What do you say we head back." He smiled but this time let his gaze linger. Would it be that bad? Maybe two or three nights. He was absolutely magnificent to look at...he wondered what...STOP! Just stop!
Softly as they walked back he let it go... "I had met that one once. He was perfect. Taken from me but I have his memory." He let what he said sink in. He felt the tightness again in his stomach.
He gave a soft, relieved sigh as Honou easily moved the conversation forward. Well, he'd heard elves were a bit more liberal in their thinking. And it wasn't that he'd ever really been mistreated for who he was attracted to, but he knew that sometimes it could lead to awkward misunderstandings- mostly on his part. Apparently women found him attractive, which often led to uncomfortable explanations. He began following the other man back to their rough campsite.
Then he said...that. Verik paused, looking at his companion's back. "The man you were talking about earlier?" he asked softly. He knew he shouldn't pry, but the question just sort of slipped out.
"Yes." His reply was soft almost as soft as his smile. It seemed he was miles away for a moment. Honou hadn't thought of him in this way for a very long time. It was as if Verik reminded him of the good wit Burok and not the sadness that overtook him when he was killed.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable." He stopped once they entered the clearing they were going to use and let the wood fall to the ground. He turned and looked at Verik. Inhaling sharply. The way he stood took his breath away. He tried to cover himself by clearing his throat. He wasn't ready to talk of Burok but also didn't want to seem cold. It was just being close to this man stirred things inside him that he had thought dead and buried as well.
"If you want later I let you in on my plans to obtain this shard from its burial place. It is held in a goblin's den. Disgusting creatures!" He shived and tried to adjust himself. What was wrong with him? Why could he not just talk casually with this man. Who had been nothing but cordial the entire time.
A little startled by the abrupt change in topic, Verik nevertheless went along easily enough. He wrinkled his nose. "I've actually never dealt with goblins before," he said, adding his firewood to the pile. He glanced around for a suitable place to sit and decided the grass was fine, thumping down rather gracelessly.
He looked up at Honou expectantly. "Sounds like at least one of us knows what we're dealing with," he said with a crooked smile. "Why don't you fill me in on that plan of yours while we wait for Bane to get back?" A sudden gust of air whistled through the trees and he shivered lightly. "And maybe make use of that flint while you're at it."
Grateful that the switch in topic wasn't going to be a big deal. Smiling as Verik flopped down he nodded and Honou went to work clearing a spot. He laid the wood so as to allow air to get at it. Next he removed his cape and pulled off his satchel. Laying the cape down he patted for Verik to use it if he wanted. He used his flint and with the small kindling and brush soon had a nice fire blazing.
"Well, let me show you now that we won't get a chill." He looked in his satchel and then remembered he gave the map to Verik. "Do you have the map?"
He looked up and once again was mesmerized by his eyes. Without knowing he was going to say it he blurted out, "do you know how beautiful you eyes are?" He smiled again and pushed some of his hair back.
"Yeah, it's right-" Verik twisted to extract the map from his belt. Then Honou spoke again and he froze, face going red. He simply stared at his companion, clutching the map in one hand with his mouth slightly open in surprise.
"I, um...that is, uh..." he muttered intelligently, berating himself mentally all the while. Just talk damnit, it's not that hard! "Th-thanks," he stammered out eventually.
That smile. It was captivating, maybe even more so than those deep blue eyes. Gods help him, his companion was bewitching... Suddenly he blurted out, "Are you magicking me?" He thought he'd heard something once about a kind of magic that could seduce people who looked on the user. And he was an elf, maybe he was using some sort of glamour without meaning to.
He found himself half hoping that was the case- it would certainly make things easier with this job. The other half desperately hoped he was wrong.
Well now this was an interesting question indeed.
"Most would say if you meet a dark elf clan the best you could hope for is to die quickly." Honou could only smile. But his eyes took on a somber look as he struggled with how best to explain his misunderstood people. Like all races there is good and bad. And a lot of gray. He stopped and looked around the forest. Slowly his smile faded as he began to tell him. He should know now less others told him and soured him with falsehoods. He'd rather Verik understand that he never used his sorcery to lure him or any other to his side.
"So I guess I should be giving you a little insight to my people. To hear humans and some other elves speak the falseness they do of the Dokkalfar how we dwell in caves deep underground and are thought to be as different from Light Elves in behavior and appearance. With our pale skin, freakish eyes, we have been mistaken for Drow many a time. The Dokkalfar have been thought of as bad or evil for far too long. It is true we are decedents of our more notorious cousins the Drow."
Honou closed his eyes needing a moment to collect himself. "My people tend to get caught up in our own mistruths. In all fairness we live by our own code of honor -- much like humans do. If you bargain fairly with us, it is possible over time we will grow to trust you. However, entering our family groups alone or without warning is a risky proposition unless you are quite powerful, and even then you may well find that entering was much easier than leaving. Female dark elves are universally attractive, beguiling men and women of other races easily. Their sexual capacity is legendary although their predilections and unwholesome appetites make such trysts difficult to survive. Still, humans, dwarfs, and elves are all fascinated with our kind. The males of my clan are just as alluring and can captive and use our charm but are built for fighting...for war. We also breed some of the most frightening sorcerers in all the realms."
He had more to say but for now it was all he could give Verik.
"If you wish for me to cast a spell I can..." As he spoke Honou came closer. He was right next to him in fact. He leaned in and wrapped his hand around the map Verik still held. "Let me show you why I know it is a goblin den." Just a few inches closer and their lips would have met. His breathing began to quicken again. Just...so...close....
Mind whirling with the flood of new information and his companion's sudden proximity, Verik felt his breath hitch. Focus, damnit, focus! "Alright," he sort of stammered out, releasing the map.
Common sense screamed at him to lean away, to but some distance between them, but his body seemed to have other ideas, holding him in place. "I- I think we may have a problem," he said, voice rather low and hoarse.
Clearing his throat, he tried to sound more in control and explained, "I mean, this job isn't exactly going to be easy, we're both going to need to be sharp if we wanna come out of this unscathed. On guard, focused. And-" He swallowed and admitted in a rush, "And that might be a bit difficult, because all I can think about right now is how much I want to kiss you."
His voice had dropped low again, face and neck flushed. Well, there it was. No taking it back now.
Honou nodded his assessment. Fully agreeing with the corporal. It appeared Verik felt the very same way he did. But to act upon it was this a wise course of action. Honestly the thought of kissing Verik had seemed to be his underlying factor. He wanted to kiss him. But if he did would he stop there? Well no he wouldn't.
Then what...they kiss which leads to more. Which leads to even more and then they enjoy themselves on an otherwise dangerous assignment. Once it was over no hard feelings. He wouldn't have to even lie to walk away. Once the job was done both of them would proceed with their lives and they wouldn't have to worry about hurting anyone.
Besides Verik had a point...if all the ma could do was think about kissing him then surely he would put them in danger. Honou reasoned well for they safety what is one kiss.
He did speak only smiled as he leaned in his lips touched Verik and he sighed. It was a soft kiss not evading or demanding just to explore. His hand left the map and drew Verik in closer placing one behind his head as he deepened the kiss. Honou's eyes were closed and he felt a burning desire overtaking him. Yet he held back not wanting to push or scare off Verik. Now that he came to reason with it he wanted the man and kissing him only made him want him more.
For a moment Verik froze, not actually expecting that reaction to his blurted truth. A hundred different reasons why this was a bad idea spun around his mind, demanding his attention.
Oh- to hell with it. He relaxed into the kiss, hesitantly reaching up to slide his fingers through Honou's hair. It had been a long time- longer than he was willing to admit- since he'd been close to someone like this, and damn it felt good. He gave a sort of hum of contentment, tilting his chin for a better angle.
Kissing was nice, but...well it had been a while, and it wasn't like Honou seemed exactly unwilling...
His brain seemed to suddenly catch up with him and he pulled away. Breathing a little ragged, he mumbled, "That was- uh...thanks." He glanced up and offered a small, slightly sheepish smile. "I just, um..." He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly and looked away. "If I don't stop now I'm not sure if I'll stop," he admitted, flushing. "And I'm not sure if that's maybe the best idea right now..."
He trailed off, eyeing Honou, waiting for a response.
Honou's breathing was also elevated. Had Verik not pulled back he wasn't so sure he would have. His eyes were hazy and when he spoke his voice a bit husky. "Yeah good point. " He slowly back up and gestured for the map.
Taking a deep breath he looked at the parchment in his hand. "Now that we got that out of the way I'll show you why I think as I do. Let me just pull out my notes though." He pulled his satchel out and he noticed his hands were a bit shaky. That was a nice kiss he mused. One he'd like to repeat.
He pulled out a small journal and as an after though a piece of charcoal to write with. He was glad for the distraction as he had to readjust himself. For the kiss they shared stirred up a few other emotions that would not been seen to at the moment. But for as fast as it had risen it was taking it's sweet ass time receding.
"Let me flip through. Parker had told me very little for I don't think he knew all the details. But he had an idea of where we would be headed and if my memory is right we are headed for a goblin den. Disgusting little bastards." He looked up quick. "Open that out by the fire and let me...ahhhh...here it is...yup...Goblins. Dammit!" He leaned closer to the map and his arm brushed Verik's oddly it just felt nice. "See my own crude map, I've been to this area before on another, ahhh, fishing expedition." His long finger pointed to his notes and then slide to the map. "I believe we will need to actually go into their den. Which I for one will not be looking forward too. But if we keep our wits about us." He winked at the reference from before. "We plan it just right we can waltz in and out and the little bastards will never even know we were there!" He tapped the small of Verik's back. He had meant it to be a friendly tap yet he lingered. Maybe a moment or two longer than he should. For some reason he thought how nice it had been.
Though he had been the one to voice it, Verik found he was strangely disappointed that Honou agreed with his sentiment. He was being ridiculous. Still, he managed to shift forward and listen to his companion's explanation in a professional manner, telling himself he didn't get goosebumps every time they accidentally brushed against each other.
He nodded along to Honou's voice, grinning at the other man's confidence. "Alright then," he said, looking up at him when he tapped his back. His smile slipped slightly as the touch lingered, that burning sensation building in his chest again. Whoa, boy. Calm down. "So you've- ahem-" he cleared his throat- "You've been to this area before?"
He hadn't realized he was leaning closer as he spoke. Just an inch or two further and-
There was a sudden gale and a shuddering thud as Bane came in to land, dropping a deer onto the ground in front of them. Verik jumped back as though he'd been burned, twisting to glare at his partner. "Bloody brilliant timing, old boy," he muttered.
The dragon coughed a laugh, and if his facial muscles could have pulled it off Verik was sure he'd have been smirking.
Honou held his breath. One small inch...closer...THUD! "WHAT THE!" He backed up like a frightened rabbit. Then he laughed. It started out as a chuckle and went into a full fit!
Served them right for not being aware of their surroundings. He let the laughter wash over him and reined himself back in slowly. His mind drifted as he looked at the very attractive corporal.
He'd asked for a kiss...okay he didn't actually ask...but hell Honou wanted to do it. He wanted to do more than just kiss him...Bane's timing was perfect. Like he had thought before one kiss leads to another and then another....
"Okay so now that I have lowered myself in your dragon's eyes I guess I should gut and clean the deer? Only right." He kneed and pulled a Bowie type dagger from his boot. He walked to the carcass and smiled up at the dragon. "Thank you Bane, your efforts are well received." He dragged the deer a ways away from the camp and he began to strip. Odd to some but gutting a deer is messy and he wasn't going to let ruin the only set of clothes he brought. Boots, beeches, tunic, you name it he was naked by the deer and began to hum something. It was a blessing of sorts, thanking the animal for the bounty it was giving to them. All things come into a full circle it was only right to thank the beast. As he worked he pondered this situation which seemed like it should be simple. They were two grown men. Attracted to one another. What was so wrong with acting on it? That was it when he went back he would just let it happen, no fighting it.
Bane gave another dragon's chuckle as Honou lugged the deer away, bronze eyes glinting with mischief. He gave his rider a meaningful look, settling onto the ground with a thud.
"Don't you look at me like that," Verik muttered. "We weren't doing anything!" He wasn't sure why but that expression put him in mind of the look Ilia would give him when they were children and she caught him doing something he knew he shouldn't be.
The dragon snorted, rolling his eyes as he let his head flop to the ground. Verik glowered at him. "I am a grown ass man," he said petulantly. "I think I'm allowed to make these decisions for myself."
Bane gave him an arch look that quite clearly said, Who's stopping you?.
Biting back a growl, Verik muttered, "Stupid, giant lizard," and got to his feet. "I'll go help him," he muttered walking off in the direction Honou had gone. It was better than sitting and letting his nervous energy build up.
He was so wrapped up in his thoughts he almost stumbled over Honou and the deer before he saw them. "Oh, sorry, I just came to-"
Then he actually saw Honou and his eyes went very, very round. "Sorry!" he yelped, whirling around, face burning. "I didn't- I mean- I'll just go back to camp now." He set off briskly, trying not to seem like he was running away.
Well that certainly hadn't helped his raging imagination.
Honou had been caught up in his work and thoughts. Did he even hear the footsteps?
"Wait! Uh...hold on...give me..." He was filthy. "Sorry, just I only brought the one set of clothes and didn't want to be a bloodied mess. Give me a minute."
He looked around for something to cover up in and he found nothing. Short of just letting himself hang out there was nothing he could do. "Uh, yeah I guess just give me a few more minutes. Unless you have a change of clothes yourself I'm not sure you wanna get messy?" He looked down and he groaned. This was awkward.
He watched the back of Verik. Wondering if he'd keep. It was so bad really. Sure he hadn't any clothing on, but it wasn't like he was just walking around camp. He was doing a messy job. If Verik didn't mind...Honou would have no problem with it. "Uh, you know it really doesn't bother me. I mean it isn't like either of us never seen another man naked. Sorry you happened upon it like you did." Yet he couldn't bring himself to ask him to stay. What does one do, hey I'd love it for you to watch me gut the deer in the nude? Stupid! Just stupid!
He had a point. Verik was letting one little kiss get to him. They could be adults about this, right? "Uh, here," he muttered, shrugging off his jacket and holding it in Honou's direction. He still couldn't quite look at him- not necessarily because he was embarrassed, more because it was very difficult to look at that bare chest and not think about-
He cut that train of thought short and mumbled, "Cover up a bit and I'll help you finish up here."
He took the jacket and put it on. "Thanks. I guess I didn't expect..." He shrugged. "I tend to travel very light. I hate to reek of animal guts as it tends to attract unwanted predators. " He realized he was talking but everything he said was obvious. Verik must think he's an idiot.
Clamping down on his mouth he was in the process of skinning the hide. "He it is quicker if you take one side." He went to the left and gave Verik some room. He was very conscious of his nakedness. He usually didn't care one way or the other. We all had "parts" he thought. He tried to focus on the task at hand. So much for not fighting it.
But once they got into a groove they worked well together. Honou was pleased. Normally partners slowed you down with Verik it was as if they knew what the other was going to do and could speed the process up. It was refreshing to work with someone who actually had a brain. Not to mention a sexy rear!
As the came closer to finishing the task he nudged Verik shoulder. "Thanks for helping and again this is not the way I envisioned you seeing me naked for the first time. Hopefully in the future it will be under better conditions." There he said it. He did want more. There was no reason why they shouldn't and it wouldn't interfere at all with their assignment, right? No...Honou was an adult as was Verik, they could enjoy each other when the need arose without it getting in the way. At least this was his reasoning.
Verik paused in his task. Then, carefully, not looking up, he said quietly, "What conditions did you have in mind?"
He realized he wanted more than kisses. He'd been right before, they both needed to stay on their guard- but surely that didn't mean they couldn't have a little fun, did it? Especially in a situation like this, when things were calm and they had a minute to breathe.
At least that was how he justified it. If he was being honest with himself, it was mostly because Honou was breathtaking, and easy to talk to, and...well it had been a while damnit!
His smile was pleasant when he turned to Verik. "Well..." He turned and tried to wipe his hands off but found nothing. He looked around and then shrugged. "I had hoped it be a little cleaner, we'd have eaten, and maybe just explore one another. I see no reason we shouldn't. It is obvious we are attracted to one another. Sure we have a job to do, but now while we aren't in dangerous way or anything, why shouldn't I kiss you if I want to? See what makes your green eyes sparkle? Find out what you like and don't?"
With each word he moved closer to Verik. Until his lips touched his. He kissed him slowly seeking entry. He would have brought his hands up but they were filthy. SO he just let it happen slowly besides this wasn't like they had too it was because they wanted too.
He backed away and he was a bit breathless. "Let me cleanup for I intended to use my hands when I kiss you next." He reluctantly moved away and gathered up what meat they could use. "I put my water over there I'll just be a minute." He headed off to the spot he left his clothing and water.
"O-okay," Verik mumbled, still a little dazed from the kiss, watching him walk away. A pretty good view, he had to admit.
He shook his head, sort of laughing at himself. This wasn't like him, jumping right into something like this. His romantic encounters tended to move much more slowly- sometimes stuttering if he was being honest. But really, what harm could it do?
He laughed again, softly. Ilia was always complaining he worked too much, never taking the time for a personal life, and somehow he seemed to have stumbled into a situation that combined the two.
He scrubbed up using a small piece of the deer's fur. Getting all the splatters of blood off him. If there was one thing he hated it was filth. Once cleaned and dressed he felt better, well not the dressed part he chuckled to himself.
It was an odd happenstance. He almost didn't take Parker up on the offer of work. He hadn't been sure he was into it but then he also was starting to get bored. So here he was. Funny...is all he thought.
As he approached Verik he was feeling better about having come clean. As h looked at the man his body reacted. "Let's cook these and eat?" He reached to take the flanks with them. As well as the hide. "Thanks for helping. You hunt? I do when I need to but much prefer training with my sword or reading a tome of my craft. I much prefer that then out hunting all night."
Speaking with Verik came naturally. Another pleasant surprise. "You know I worried at first taking on a partner. You never know what caliber man or elf you will get. Glad I didn't let my prejudices stand in the way this time." He let his free hand reach up and touch the side of Verik's cheek, it was a quick caress.
Verik allowed himself to lean into the touch for a moment, then straightened up, hefting his share of the meat and hide. "I'm glad too," he said with a crooked grin, beginning to walk back to their fire.
"I can use a bow, if that's what you mean by hunt. Usually Bane does it though, he likes the extra exercise." He looked at his companion sidelong and queried, "Your craft? You said something earlier about spells too..." He flushed slightly, remembering that. "So you can do magic then?"
They were near the fire now and Bane greeted them with a huff of smoke, eyes half closed in sleepy contentment.
They walked back and Honou found he was enjoying himself. Once they arrived back they set up the flanks to roast.
Bane was resting and he looked quite comfortable. The smoke from him made Honou chuckle. "They get so comfortable, don't they."
"I'll admit the bow isn't my strongest weapon. But I can throw a dagger like nobodies business. Just hunting to me is something I do cause I have too."
As they spoke the conversation turned to his magic. "I can do frost spells the best. Ice and spears of ice. I've been practicing the use for many years." He looked over at Verik. "Do you wield magic?"
He moved closer to the flames and turned the flanks more for something to do than anything. They probably should look at the map and figure where they should land and how he would get inside the domain. But...not yet he needed to eat first. Thinking was best done on a full stomach.
Verik shook his head. "Never had the gift for it," he said. "My niece does though, gets it from my brother-in-law."
His stomach growled lightly and he gave a sheepish smile. "Guess I was hungrier than I thought," he muttered, eyeing the venison and wondering when it would be done. He was seriously debating eating it half raw at this point.
To distract himself, he once again retrieved the map, spreading out on the ground between them. "So we can eat and plan," he explained
He looked up and nodded. "Perfect." He moved closer so he could review it too. "It shouldn't be too much longer now." Honou gestured toward the food. Settling down beside Verik he jumped back up and grabbed his journal. Setting back down near his companion he opened the little book to the area they were heading.
"So, this area here..." He points to a cleaning a few miles from the red spot... "This is where we should land. There is a cavern near there we can enter but first will need to make sure it is clear. The goblin only cares if we are going to steal his gold and will defend it most viciously." He looked to the side and winked.
"Your niece? Is your brother-in-law a Mage? I wouldn't say I am." He veered off the plan of attack so he could check the venison. He tested it and was glad it was done for he too was hungry.
"It's done. Want to let it cool over here and will finish?"
Verik smiled, nodding. "Sure." He settled back and let his eyes scan over the map again, learning Honou's plan. "I'm not sure if that's what you call it," he replied absently, "a mage. He can do some simple spells, mostly elemental stuff- he's good with wind, I think. Tali..." He smiled slightly, thinking of the girl. "She's all fire. Wants to be a dragonrider, but Ilia- my sister- won't hear of it. Says it's bad enough worrying after me."
He looked up and asked curiously, "What about you? Your family never hounds you for taking jobs like this?" All he really knew about the man was that he was unwed and had lost someone he loved. Other than that his personal life was a mystery.
"Ahh, he is like me I am not a Mage but know a few things." He chuckled by the way he spoke of his niece. "A dragonrider like her Uncle. Not bad for she has a good role model as for as I can tell."
Honou grimaced. Here it was the personal history part. Well sometimes you had to share. "I lost my parents when I was a boy. I grew up on the streets and it is where I met Burok. You are a military man but I will share this much anyway. I didn't always follow the straight line. I did a few things maybe I should not have. But after I met Burok everything changed, at least for a while." He hunched his shoulder not really a thing he liked to speak of. "But..." He smiled now, "I did have eight wonderful years with them. I've been told my father could craft a sword like no other."
He felt a bit self conscious after he went into it. Normally he didn't give so much detail.
Verik's heart clenched in sympathy. "I'm sorry," he said quietly, knowing the words were inadequate but unsure of what else he could say. Words had never been his strong point.
He hoped a gesture would do, reaching out to grip Honou's shoulder. "Look, I'm not..." He paused, then tried again, "I won't blame you for your past. I may be a soldier, but I've seen some of the things people have to do to get by." Softer, he added, "I can't imagine being on your own like that. Even after we lost our parents, I had Ilia." Realizing that may not have been the best thing to say he murmured another, "I'm sorry," and withdrew his hand.
He went quiet, hoping that was enough.
He felt a wave of relief wash over him when Verik said he wouldn't blame him for some of the things he had done. It was comforting but then Verik said something that twisted Honou's insides. He too lost his parents. He and his sister. But even having her it was still hard. He knew it.
"Thanks Verik. And I am sorry too, for your loss." He wished he hadn't withdrew his hand.
One of his greatest weaknesses was contact. It was a simple gesture from Verik but meant so much to him. As he withdrew his hand Honou grasped it brought it to his lips. "Verik, would it be wrong if I told you that I want you? Remember how you said a kiss was what you needed, wanted...well I want more. Normally it just comes to me but with you I feel hesitant. If we are going to do this assignment together I am not sure I can with knowing how much I desire you. Yes it is physical, I cannot promise more after our journey but I won't lie to you. I won't push if you say no then no it is."
Though he was startled by the sudden touch, what Honou said wasn't exactly surprising. They still hardly knew each other after all, and who knew what would happen after this job; it would be foolish to make promises that they may not want or be able to keep.
Verik smiled and answered with a kiss, quick and a little questioning. He pulled away slightly and murmured, "No strings, yeah? Just see what happens?"
He may have moved in for another kiss, but before he could Bane made a grumbling sound in his throat and flicked his tail at them. Verik chuckled, rolling his eyes as he stood and pulled Honou to his feet. "Perhaps we should find somewhere a little more quiet?" he suggested, arching an eyebrow.
Honou's eyes met his in silent agreement.
Bane made it known he wanted them to take it elsewhere and he let Verik pulling up. Nodding and giving a slight chuckle he kept his hand in Verik's.
He felt his heart beating a bit faster. With his free hand he ran it through his hair suddenly nervous. But when he looked at Verik it disappeared. "Let's see where it goes. Alas I think those eyes of yours could persuade someone to do just about anything." He stopped, then leaned in and kissed him.
Now his heart felt as if it was about to explode it beat so fast he wondered if Verik heard it.
He decided that Honou was probably the best kisser he'd ever encountered; loathe to break the contact, he only did so in short bursts to move them away from their campsite and prying dragon eyes.
His heart rate steady picked up until it was thundering against his ribs. A little hesitantly, he moved to kiss his companion's neck, pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to do so when he didn't have to bend over to reach his partner.
He chuckled softly and pulled back fractionally. "You know, I'm not used to being the shorter one," he admitted with a lopsided grin.
A rumble of pleasure escaped his lips at the feel of Verik's lips on his neck. He let his hands press at his lower back pulling him closer.
"Aye we are a tall clan my people." He smiled and reached for his waistband tugging to free his shirt from it. His breathing escalating quickly.
Honou can feel Verik's strong but warm and confident hands on him. They can see the goosebumps on Honou's arms. He begins to massage Verik's shoulders gently. He can feel Verik's lips kissing him softly on his neck and he shudders in delight.
"My ears...very...sensitive..." He said between kissing Verik's lips, jaw, and neck. His hand needed contact of his skin. With another low rumble of pleasure he stepped back and removed his top tossing it aside. The moon had risen now and cast them it is glow. He went to help Verik with his top but looked into his eyes first as if to ask his permission.
Verik twisted easily out of his shirt, not really caring what happened to it once it was off. With that barrier gone he surged forward, letting his hands run over Honou's chest and back- something he'd been wanting to do since he stumbled across him naked.
"Sensitive?" he repeated. It was meant to be teasing but his voice came out as more of a growl than anything else. He tilted his head to nip at the skin just behind Honou's ear, hands skimming down to grasp his hips.
Honou can feel the blood rush to his hardening manhood. He loses himself in the caresses of the other man. Verik is an intoxication mixture of gentleness and confidence. This gentleness in a way amplifies the powerful man and it has Honou's mind dancing with all they are going to do for each other. He begins to ach at the thoughts.
Then he feels Verik's gentle touch to his skin and it leaves him feeling like Verik has left scorch marks. Honou moans his name... "Verik...." And feels Verik's lips kissing his neck again. Leo's body is consumed in the sensations that are being elicited from him. Honou leans his head against Verik's shoulder as he ravishes his most sensitive ears. He tugs now at the waistband of his pants. Eager to have his boots off as well. Yet he cannot seem to stop kissing Verik. The more he tastes the more he wants.
Hearing his name escape Honou's lips in a moan set desire flaring hot and strong. He gave a low growl, practically attacking the other man's mouth while his hands fumbled with their remaining clothing.
Somehow, stumbling slightly, he managed to free himself of boots and pants, kicking them away somewhere into the darkness, still trailing kisses over Honou's neck and chest. "Gods..." he breathed, relishing the feeling of skin against skin, tugging almost petulantly at the other man's last article of clothing. "Why am I the only one naked?" he asked with an almost feral smile, breathless.
Good question why was he? Without wasting anymore time he freed his aching desire. He kissed Verik back hungry for the next one... He let his hands explore where they might then he paused and stepped back. Honou let his eyes fest on Verik magnificent body. He was a God. Strong and lean yet not overly so. Perfect. That was all he could think of before closing the gap between them again.
He let Verik do what he would as he did the same. It had been so long since he had an actual connection with the one he was with he forgotten just how wonderful it could be. Verik didn't disappoint.
He knew Verik most have felt his urgency but he could not hold back. Every touch and taste made him feel more alive than he had in years. He only could hope that he was giving as much as he was taking. It was only afterwards he tried so say something but words failed him. What could he say? Wrapped in each other's arms as they were for a moment he wished it didn't have to end. "Verik." He whispered and stroked the man's face softly. "If I only knew what to say...that was more than...you are..." He wasn't one to color words or situations yet he felt a connection there was no denying it but how did he explain it? "I can't really explain it...but this was beautiful." He leaned over Verik and gave him a long sensuous kiss hoping that would speak what he words couldn't.
Verik leaned eagerly into the kiss, arms tightening around the other man. "You're beautiful," he replied without thinking when they broke apart. Then his cheeks flushed slightly and he ducked his head, hiding his face in Honou's chest.
"Sorry. Gods, I'm really not good at this part..." he muttered. For a moment he lapsed into silence, then he offered a hesitant, "I know what you mean though. I just can't really-"
Words failed and he settled for a slightly awkward smile and a soft, "Thank you." He'd always been more comfortable with the physical aspect of relationships. This whole cuddling and talking thing had never been his strongest point, but for some reason here and now he wanted to try.
Honou chuckled. "No sorry necessary. I get it. This is usually the awkward part right?" He shrugged but for reasons of his own did not want to release Verik yet. So he just held him hoping he wouldn't mind. "I always wondered do I talk. If I do what do I say? The worst is when they want to talk and you don't. Yet right now I am content to just be here with you. I don't feel I need to cover the silence with speech. I guess that's a good thing." Honou leaned back and although the wind had picked up and a chill was settling on them but he didn't want it to end.
Suddenly his stomach began to protest its state of emptiness. He grinned and laughed. "I'd like to stay this way but unfortunately now another appetite is call in its demands." But instead of letting go he rolled over and lay atop Verik his hands on either side of his head as he leaned down for a slow kiss. One that left no doubt to his growing desire for the other man.
Verik groaned, arching up against him. Then he abruptly broke away with a breathless chuckle, turning his head so he wouldn't be tempted to continue the kiss.
Oh who the hell was he kidding? He was tempted.
"We really should eat something," he protested laughingly, though he kept his arms loosely around Honou's waist. "You know, we are on a job. Have to stay in peak condition and all that." Then he smirked lazily. "Though, I wouldn't be adverse to continuing this particular...discussion later..."
"Mmmm, yes a job. Peak condition..." He chuckled. "Yes we eat and continue this later." Honou rolled off Verik. Their clothing was strewn all around and he sat up trying to drag Verik with him.
What a day! He woke up thinking he'd be on a lone mission and now sat her with a man he seemed not to be able to keep his hands off of. A human. Yet he was different. Honou wasn't stupid. They had a connection it was why they were good together. But, by the Divines Verik was sexy.
His stomach protested again and he grinned. "Let's eat and discuss our little goblin issue. You hadn't ever been in one of their dens yet?" It was easy to talk with Verik, no competition it was a partnership. Something he's denied himself a long time.
Verik shook his head, gathering his clothes and dressing as quickly as he could. It was a little chilly without Honou pressed against him. "No, never had the occasion. They're not usually a big enough problem to call in a dragonrider, you know?"
He looked up with a grin and felt his heart jump into his throat. Gods the man was breathtaking, it somehow caught him by surprise every time he looked at him. He cleared his throat and stood, offering his hand to help Honoue to his feet. "Come on then, I think that venison is calling to me," he said with a crooked smile.
Honou gladly took his hand for the lift up as he finished putting his boots on. He was starting to like the way Verik smiled at him, a little crooked just just added to his overall sexiness. "Yeah, me too! I worked up quite an appetite." He grinned back with a wink.
"True enough. No need to waste the dragonriders on such a minimal task." He nodded as he spoke. Silently marveling how it wasn't awkward. In fact it made speaking to him easier. More comfortable if you could believe that. "They tend not to be in packs less than four I noticed. Unless something has befallen one. But when they hunt it is always in large groups. Safety in numbers rule I guess."
They were back at the camp each with a portion of the version in front of them. Honou stopped just as he was going to take a bite..."Uh do you pray? I mean it is good with me. I did before gutting it...so if you wanted I would."
"Hm?" Verik paused, looking at him. Then he admitted a little sheepishly, "Oh, uh- I usually forget if Ilia isn't around to hound me about it." He closed his eyes and bowed his head, reciting the simply prayer their father had often said before they sat down to a meal.
Looking back up at Honou he chuckled and said, "Thanks for reminding me." Without further ado he dug in. He'd been hungry since they'd set up camp, and though their little tryst had certainly distracted him from his empty stomach, it now returned with a vengeance.
"So you think we'll be dealing with a pack of these critters then?" he asked in between bites.
Honou nodded. Different cultures prayed at different times.
He too was hungry and as soon as the prayer was done he dug in. They ate just like everything else they did together...comfortably.
"I do. We are headed into the heart of their home." His voice grew serious. All kidding aside the goblins in numbers could be very difficult. It wasn't unheard of for them to bring down man or elf. "They tend to be like a pack of wolves. They do nothing alone. We just need to keep our wits about ourselves. And make sure we are quiet!
"This one will be waiting outside then," Verik muttered, jerking his head in Bane's direction. The dragon appeared to have fallen asleep, his massive form curled in a crescent around their fire. "Gods love him, but stealth isn't really one of his strengths."
A low grumble and a sharp flick of a tail hitting him in the back of the head informed him that Bane wasn't asleep after all. He yelped and twisted to glower at him. "What? Don't give me that, you know it's true."
The dragon grumbled again but subsided, huffing out a breath as he laid his head back on his paws and closed his eyes. Verik shook his head, looking back to Honou with a long-suffering expression, muttering, "Great stupid lizard."
Honou laughed at their antics. They made a great team.
"How long have you been together?" He gestured to the dragon and Verik. He wasn't all that knowledgeable and had never actually had the opportunity to learn.
He couldn't help but watch them. Verik had an easy way about him. One that spoke of a quiet strength. Maybe this is what attracted Honou. The fact that Verik wasn't overly boorish. It was as if he could adept to the dangerous situations they might encounter. He felt his stomach tighten again, he shook his head and chuckled. Verik was worried he casted a spell of sorts? He was beginning to think it was the other way around.
"Sixteen years," Verik replied with a smile. "Since I was twelve. He was still a hatchling when they gave him to me." He looked over at the dragon and shook his head, snorting, "No one told me how fast his breed grows, or how big they get. I'm pretty sure he's not even fully grown yet."
Fishing out the map again, he scooted closer to Honou and spread it out on the ground, trying to calculate how long it would take them to reach their destination. "If we leave at first light we should be there by early afternoon tomorrow," he said, looking up at his companion.
He had to resist the urge to close the now minuscule distance between them; it was like the elf had his own gravity, drawing him in. His heart sort of skipped a beat and he forced his eyes away, hoping that may help to cool his head somewhat.
It didn't.
"Sixteen!" He repeated with a smile. He must have been just a boy when they were paired.
He leaned in a bit to look at the map with him. "Early afternoon. Good that will give us a few hours to scout the area. It will be good if we could find out how many exist there are. Note them so we can plan for a worst case scenario." He looked up and sharply inhaled. Verik was so close he could feel his breath. He felt an instant reaction. He swallowed and the faint taste of Verik could still be sensed. He wanted more.
"Uh, so if we can...locate the lips...I mean...the...exists..." But any thought of retrieving the shard was lost. He leaned in and kissed him. He let himself melt into the other man's embrace. He was a bit more aggressive and demanded entrance into his mouth. Moan softly as he did.
When he reluctantly pulled away his voice was husky again, "If I don't stop kissing you now I won't for a while. Gods Verik...I want you...Again." He brought his lips back to Veriks and bite his lower lip and he traced the outline of his upper lip.
He knew he should pull away, should try to put them back on task. But he just couldn't. A sound that was some combination of a moan and a growl escaped him and grabbed at Honou's shoulders, pulling him tight against him.
"The feeling...is mutual," he rasped out between kisses, tangling his fingers in the other man's hair. He gave a breathless sort of chuckle and nuzzled his face into Honou's neck. "Gods, we're hopeless," he muttered, smiling against his skin before he tilted his head up to nip at his ear.
A shiver coursed through him. "Should we move away?" He whispered wantonly.
He didn't pull away though his hands tugging for the hem of his tunic. The way he tasted was addicting. He could no more pull away from Verik than not breath and it was a bit frightening.
"Yes we are...hopeless." The word came out as a sigh. The feeling Verik created within him were so intense he was consumed with him. Wanted more...needed more... His heart was pounding and he was aching to be closer to him, taste him again, and feel him all around. "I know... we... have... need... you... first...need..." He was frightened by it but could not turn away from it.
Verik nodded at the question, standing and bringing the other man with him, ushering him away from the now dying light of the fire.
He was inordinately pleased that he didn't seem to be the only one having trouble forming coherent sentences, gasping quietly at the feel on Honou's hands on him. This was ridiculous; he was a soldier, always in control. He'd never experienced anything quite like this wanton desire before.
And he found he didn't really care. The intensity and suddenness of his desire for the elf was a little shocking- bordering on frightening- but he didn't care. "This...may be the death of me," he panted, practically ripping at Honou's top in an attempt to remove it.
Honou followed, surprised he didn't run to the spot. Once they were at a more privet distance he was just as eager as Verik. Removing the clothes from his body. He began to pull more urgently at Verik's. He kissed the curve of his neck and worked his way down. Listing up the tunic to expose his chiseled features. He let his tongue drag across his chest as he slowly lowered himself to his knees. Tugging at Verik's waistband next.
"But just think what a great death it will be." He said as he kissed his abdomen and his hands slowly caressed him.
Stripping as quickly as he could, Verik moaned low in his throat as he arched back against a tree. "Gods, Honou..." His voice was low and hoarse, and he swallowed hard, trying to maintain some semblance of control. He clenched his fists so hard his nails bit into his palms.
When he couldn't take it anymore he dropped to his knees in front of the elf, grabbing him in a rough kiss and pushing him back onto the ground. This wasn't exactly usual for him- though he had by no means a submissive personality, he usually tried to be more gentle with a romantic partner.
With Honou it was like he couldn't help himself, all control forgotten. "That mouth of yours," he hissed, breaking away from his lips to trail kisses over his chest, "is driving me mad." He bit his shoulder lightly, hands trailing down to knead his hips.
It was like wild fire. Once started it ravages everything it comes into contact with. His heart was beating fiercely. For once it wasn't about what he wanted but how could he pleasure Verik. His hands dug into his partners shoulders as he arched himself into Verik.
The way they fit together just made it all the more gratifying. Wrapping his legs onto Verik's waist he could make coherent speech. He was riding so many emotions. Sighing with delight he eased himself onto Verik. "By all the divines..." He rocked slowly with him moaning and gripping onto Verik. "You...this feels so..." He was at a loss. Crazy with how he felt.
He could feel that level being reached quickly and he forced it back, he wasn't ready yet. His breathing ragged, moaning with every thrust. "Verik...oh...yes...don't stop...don't..." His voice a guttural mix of pleasure and desire. Holding back for as long as he could.
He let out a low, keening moan as his hips bucked forward, burying his face against Honou's neck. The coil of heat in his core grew tighter and tighter, his breath coming sharp and ragged against his partner's skin.
His hands wandered hungrily over the elf's body, searching out every inch of exposed skin. He dragged his nails lightly down Honou's ribs, biting the slope of smooth skin where his neck met his shoulder, murmuring his name over and over like a desperate prayer. "I can't...much longer," he rasped out, his whole body feeling like he was burning up from the inside out.
Every touch brought pleasure and when he heard Verik he too couldn't and was like everything faded. Why they were there, what they'd been tasked to do, it was just perfect for this moment.
Honou held Verik afterwards. Their embrace light. He had to let his breathing return to normal before he could speak. When he did it was still in a breathless whisper. "Verik...by the night I can't tell you how amazing that was." Easing his grip a little to allow Verik to get comfortable he shifted a little. "I know we have a lot to go over still but I need a minute. Amazing..." He repeated the word again for he was at a loss of what to say.
He looked into those beautiful green eyes and gently caressed his face. It was a soft gesture. Knowing what lay ahead of them yet wanting to extend the feeling of what they shared. He just wasn't ready to dissect it yet. Maybe afterwards. Maybe...
Verik sort of collapsed into the other man's embrace, closing his eyes and tilting his head into the touch. He waited a moment for his breathing to even out a bit, then said with his lopsided grin, "I've known you for less than a day, and I'm pretty sure you've already ruined me for any future sexual encounters."
He tried to sound joking but he wasn't really. He leaned forward to rest his forehead against Honou's, sighing contentedly. Eyes like the night sky stared back at him and something started to build in his chest, something that wasn't strictly physical, and that almost scared him.
Honou had felt something like this one time before but by the gods this felt different. What Verik said frightened him only because it was also true for himself. His heart beat faster but from emotion. He didn't want to hurt...but looking into those jeweled green eyes all fear was lost.
"Verik, I am not good with expressing myself. But, I won't push aside that this is different. This attraction is different. I don't know what happens next. We both have very different lives. I haven't told you all about me. I don't know if now is the right time...it just seems who ever I am close to leaves. I just don't know if I could do it again. So I avoid commitment. Yet now here we are, a few hours in and I am completely lost."
Verik's stomach flipped. He should be wary of this- and truthfully he was, a little- but more than that it just felt right to be lying there wrapped up in each other. "I-" He trailed off, unsure what to say, then tried again.
"I don't know what will happen when this is over- this job I mean. I wish I could make you some kind of promise, but I don't know if I could keep it." He sighed, closing his eyes and letting his head dropp onto Honou's shoulder. "Can't we just...be this, for a while?" he asked quietly.
If he was honest, he knew he already wanted more. But they really didn't know anything about each other. And... Well, Honou was an elf. He was mortal. Even if they did everything right, with the best intentions- he would still leave him alone, in the end.
And already he couldn't stand the idea of hurting him like that.
Verik was right. "Yes, let's be this for a while." And he thought to himself if by a while it happened to turn into a very long while.
"I have one bad weakness." He began to stroke Verik's side as he spoke. "It is sweets. I cannot say no." He began to chuckle at the confession. "Now you, tell me something...anything..."
Right now he was happy. It was where he wanted to be. They could lie here and just talk was so refreshing for a change he wanted to be with the person he was intimate with.
He smiled. "Sweets, huh?" he said, tilting his head back to look at him. "I'll remember that..."
Tell him something? "When I was thirteen I was infatuated with this boy- a few years older than me, also in training with the riders, Essyrni. He kissed me once and I realized I was really too young for that sort of thing. But he didn't want to take no for an answer... Anyway, I wound up telling Ilia and she beat his ass so hard he was afraid of me for the rest of training."
He'd never actually told anyone that story. He didn't like sharing the idea that he couldn't take care of himself- but he'd been young, and Ilia had not been about to let that slide. He'd certainly made up for it as an adult though, he had to admit.
Honou listened and then smiled. "Your sister huh! Well good for her, serves that idiot." He chuckled a little and added, "She sounds tough I should watch my hide huh." He liked that they were close and it had him intrigued. How did they stay so close? Did he live with them? Or at the barracks? How was he going to tell him everything about his past?
"Hey you know tomorrow we won't be going right in. Once we map the exits I want to also see if there are Whitecap mushrooms, we can mix it with some powders I have for a potent poison. Also any sturdy branches we'll make some darts. The poisoned darts will go a long way with taking out our little friends." It was nice talking strategy with Verik. It made their work that much more interesting. "Verik, what weapons are you talented in?"
"We're all trained with a bow, a sword, and an ax." He gave a wolfish grin. "I prefer the ax. But I can use any of them." Propping himself up on one elbow, he quirked an eyebrow at Honou, reaching out to brush some of the dark hair of his face. He let his hand linger against his skin.
"Knives and darts, huh? Should I start watching my back?" His lips twitched teasingly and he pressed a quick kiss to the hollow of Honou's throat. Pulling away a little reluctantly, he asked, "Will I mostly be covering you then?" He didn't love the idea of the elf leading the charge- it make his stomach clench nervously- but if it made sense strategically he knew better than to argue.
"The ax! Nice!" Honou closed his eyes and smiled at the gentle touch. It was just a simple gesture but it made his heart beat faster.
"Will you bring the bow in with us? It could be useful." He sifted and rested so he faced Verik. He kept one leg draped over him. "Well yeah." He got a little self conscious. "I am good with the knives and darts but better with my swords. I prefer duel, but my strength is really from my agility than actual force."
They seemed to have skills that would compliment each other. "I think it best when we enter to do so in the middle of the day. I know sounds crazy but hear me out. They have more watchmen at night then in the mid day. The guards who worked all night will be tired and deeply sleeping. Less guards for us makes it easier to slip in undetected."
Verik nodded slowly. "I'll defer to your expertise in this," he said, shifting slightly to bring them a little closer together. "Like I said, I've really never dealt with goblins before."
As they talked he trailed his hand down Honou's side to his hip, then let it rest there comfortably. It was amazing to him that something as intense as what they'd just shared could settle into...well, this. It wasn't as if the fire had cooled, exactly, more like it was sleeping in the embers.
He dragged his focus back to the task at hand and asked, "So once we're in, what's the plan?" He doubted the other man was just planning on wandering around goblin infested tunnels until they found what they were looking for.
The touch of Verik on his skin felt comforting. It felt right. He enjoyed the sensations it created. Verik was easy to talk with and had a sharp mind. It made their jobs easier when the partnership could be on such a high level of trust.
"I hope there is an entrance to the north for the map detail here seem to indicate it is on that side. I wish we knew what this shard looked like." He thought for a moment before continuing. "My hope is that they have no idea it is there and thus have no use for it. This way we head in the area it is supposed to be at, retrieve and back out. With luck undetected." He let his one hand trail along Verik's abdomen. The man had the most perfect body. Not too big but not too small. Toned and those legs were amazing. He pulled himself from his thoughts. "If there is a way in from the north the first thing we should look for is their cart tunnel. Goblins are notorious for burrowing. They don't frequent the cart tunnel much as it is used to haul debris. As long as the tunnel heads to the north we should be good. The tunnel will still be guarded by them and we will probably encounter their slaves...ah yeah....Verik. I know this will be hard but with the mission we're on we cannot deviate."
He slowed took a deep breath. "The slaves, some will be humans...elves...we cannot risk freeing them. It is hard I know but if we do that we risk our cover." He knew it sounded harsh. But, it was the truth. Freeing the goblin's slaves would only result in it being harder for them to escape.
Verik gritted his teeth, but he nodded. He'd grown up in Ketra, he was no stranger to slavery. Still...
After their parents died, it could have easily been him and Ilia on the market, if not for his joining the military.
But he knew Honou was right. His personal convictions couldn't get in the way of this job. "Right," he said, voice tight. He hadn't realized he was tensing until he realized he was digging his fingers into the elf's hip. He forced himself to relax, drawing his hand back with a muttered, "Sorry."
"No, Verik don't be. For all my past indiscretions I never fell into the slave trade, thank be the gods for that. It isn't easy to turn a blind eye to it, but for the sake of our safety it is best." He reached out for his hand and laced his fingers with Verik's. "I just didn't want you to think that I have no feeling for their situation I do, but I can't save everyone."
He let his thumb caress the inside of his wrist and tried to move past the unpleasantness that slavery was. Part of him was glad for Verik's reaction but he should have known it. He smiled at the thought.
"So we will pass by them but I think we can use it to our advantage too. Maybe act as a salve would by milling with them. My fear is that they have found the shard and it isn't buried where they think it is. Goblins are known to be hordes though so if they did find it they would have kept it. We would just need to figure out how much value they deemed it to be, but again without knowing what the damned shard looks like it is hard to figure the value. I am getting ahead of myself though. First step we get in, next find the tunnels, then find the spot where the nobles think it is and we go from there." He could only hope it would go so smooth.
He'd never for a moment thought Honou had been a slaver, but hearing it said aloud was reassuring, he had to admit. He sighed, bringing their interlocked hands up to rest between them.
"Alright. Solid plan." He gave a small, crooked smile. "And hey, if it all goes to shit we always have a dragon waiting as backup," he offered jokingly.
His eyes lit on the crescent marks his fingernails had left on Honou's hips and he winced slightly. "Really am sorry about that," he muttered, flushing a little from embarrassment. He twisted to press his lips quickly to the spot, looking up at the elf sidelong as he did so. Settling back down beside him, he murmured without thinking, "I never want to hurt you."
He rested his hand on the back of Verik's head, his kisses were causing the fire to burn again. His words caught Honou off guard and for a moment his walls were down and he leaned in kissing Verik softly. "Nor I you."
He hadn't been close to someone in so long it was a little overwhelming to think in a few hours how his...no their situations had changed. He meant it. He didn't want to hurt him ever. "Do you live anywhere else besides the barracks?" He asked trying to close the gap between them. "I'm not a vagrant you know. Over in Serendipity Riverlands I have a small place." He leaned in closer and trailed a few kisses down the curve of his neck. "It might be a tight fit for Bane though..." He chuckled.
Verik chuckled himself, arching into the touch. "No," he said softly in answer, "Sometimes Ilia will put us up for a night or two, but usually the barracks are just easier." Smiling, he mused, "The Riverlands, huh? I'm sure Bane could find a nice cave close by...he likes his space, when he can get it..."
It was nice to imagine, even if it was illogical, just for a moment. To pretend he had no responsibilities and could just pack up and leave, following Honou wherever he led.
"I bet he could. I mean I know we both might be pulled in direct directions once this is done. But I see no reason why we couldn't visit. I mean I'm not tied to the place. But my door is always open for you." His heart slammed against his chest. It was a nice thought. Them two sharing a space like now.
"Even if it is only a fortnight or two?" He let his lips reach Verik's and closed over them. "I tend to be a bit overly neat but other than that I am sure I am a good host. A huge comfortable bed...no one around for miles...what do you think?" He chuckled at himself. Begging Verik like a little kid begging an adult for something they really wanted.
"If you say yes...I'll...I'll...." He was stumped he didn't know what to bait him with. And so he laughed. "Well I'll do whatever you want me too....within reason that is." He added the last part with a raise of his eyebrow, but still laughing.
Verik laughed softly into another kiss. "No need for that," he murmured, trailing his lips along his jaw. "Of course I'd come visit." Then a wicked gleam entered his eyes and he rolled onto his back, pulling Honou on top of him.
"Though if you're offering," he said, one eyebrow quirking up and his lips twitching into a lopsided grin. "I could probably come up with a few things..." He hooked one leg over the other man's hip, reaching up to cup the back of his head and pulling him down for a searing kiss.
Honou inhaled sharply. He would never tire of his kisses. When Honou pulled his lips from Verik's they rested their heads together for a moment. Honou chuckles once more at Verik's suggestive look and can feel his chest rising and falling heavily.
They stay in the embrace for a few more moments Honou not wanting to rush a thing. He leans on one hand as his other one begins to roam over Verik's chest his mouth and tongue begin to tease his neck, chest and then each nipple. He slowly begins to move his body with Verik's as he moans with pleasure. His eyes our filled with desire as he comes back up and kisses Verik. His tongue meeting Verik's and it causes his to groan and move faster.
Verik kissed him hungrily, arching his back to press as much of his body against Honou's as possible. He gasped, closing his eyes and throwing his head back as a wave of pleasure ripped through him. "I...you...oh gods..." His voice trailed off into a groan and he rained kisses over the elf's neck and shoulders, dragging his nails down his back and wrapping his legs around his waist.
He was shocked by his feelings for this man. He need to calm down a bit. But he was aching to be closer. He wanted to feel himself inside him. Yet he also wanted to give Verik pleasure beyond anything he has yet experienced. Oddly he could even think with the way he felt. Yet for the first time it wasn't about what he was getting but what he was giving.
They kiss passionately. Honou's tongue enters Verik's mouth. He revels in the taste of Verik and sighs as he lets his body and soul melt into the other man. Their tongues slowly slide and circle each other's in a beautiful dance of desire and passion.
Never did Honou think passion could be so deep so quickly. Verik was so beautiful. So tender. He felt himself reaching his limit far too quickly but he just couldn't hold back. He whispered to Verik and then felt the world spin beneath them.
He was in shock by the intensity of it all. It seemed just to get better each time. What he thought would be fun was quickly building inside him. He kissed all over his lovers face. Eyes, nose, cheeks, and lips. Just soft gentle kisses. "Are you doing okay Verik?" He asks. "For I have never felt more alive myself. It keeps getting better. If that is possible."
Verik nodded, returning every kiss he could manage. "Okay?" he rasped when he could speak again, "Doing...a lot better...than okay." He smiled, cupping Honou's face between his hands, letting his thumbs stroke his cheeks.
He couldn't exactly say he had a plethora of experiences to compare this one to, but he'd been around. And Honou was right, somehow it just kept getting better- he'd never felt anything like it.
Honou slipped to his side. Resting his head against Verik's. He was alive inside yet he was beginning to feel that comfortable sleepiness creep in. "Mmmm." He murmured back. A small yawn escaped. "Should we head back closer to Bane?" But he was in no rush. Not wanting to break apart.
He looked at Verik and could not believe this man was his lover now. A few hours ago he was alone and thought that was completely okay now he was laying in the arms of someone who was increasingly become ingrained into him. Who was he trying to fool? Himself? No strings...yeah right. But he would worry about that when the time came. For now he just wanted to enjoy their time together.
Verik sighed contentedly, wrapping his arms tightly around the other man. "We probably should," he murmured reluctantly. Then he glanced down at them and added, "Though maybe we should clean up a bit first...And get some clothes on."
"I left my satchel by the fire." He looked around for something to use. He let go and sat up. Though he much rather had just stay in Verik's arms.
He leans over and give him a quick kiss before raising to his feet and looking about. He gathers his clothes. He keeps looking back at Verik as he does. He is scared by the intensity but excited as well. It had been a long time since he has felt this way. "Would it be so bad if I grabbed my satchel and came back? Or did you see any water nearby? You know to just jump in and wash off?" He brushed his fingers though his hair to keep them from his face.
Verik propped himself up on his elbows, openly watching. Honou moved with a grace that didn't exactly fit a man of his size, and it was beautiful to see.
At the question, he said, "I think there's a stream just a few yards that way." He jerked his head in the direction he could hear water flowing over rocks, getting to his feet. "Easier than using the water we brought. Shall we?" It was actually a pretty warm night, and a quick dip was sounding more and more appealing.
Nodding with a warm smile. "Com'on let's go than!" He reached his hand out for Verik to help him up.
"Do you like to swim? Hey..." He nudged Verik and looked at him with a quizzical expression. "Dose...um...can Bane swim?" He ridden a dragon, with a rider of course before but the two hardly spoke. So he didn't even ask anything, now he was curious.
As they walked to the water source he began to think about Bane and now had a slue of questions. "When he hunts, does he eat first and then get you something?" He had so many more questions but didn't want to bombard Verik.
The moonlight was bright giving them enough light to make it to the stream.
Verik laughed softly at Honou's curiosity, wading into the water. "Yeah, he can. He actually enjoys it quite a bit- I do too- but he doesn't get the chance often. Not many bodies of water are deep enough to let a dragon go for a swim."
He ducked his head under the water and continued answering questions when he surfaced again. "He usually gets himself something first, but he only needs to eat a big meal once or twice a week. Reptile thing, I think." He glanced back over his shoulder and gave a lopsided grin, heart skipping a beat at how amazing he looked in the moonlight. "Water's nice. You getting in?"
He listened as Verik spoke and noticed his voice grew a bit softer when he spoke of Bane. This made him smile.
He had meant to jump right in but watching Verik side tracked him and he actually colored a bit. "Yeah right now!" With that he did jump in. The water was nice..."Ahhh, this is nice!" He began to sink down and come back up. Every Time he looked at Verik his chest tightened. The way the water glistened off his body was breathtaking.
All at once he stood up and began to scoop the water almost and aimed it towards Verik. It had been so long since he let loose like this. The years just melted away as he laughed and just enjoyed himself. Splashing the water like his was a boy again.
"Oi!" Verik ducked away, laughing, and retaliated with a splash of his own. Eyes glinting wickedly, he submerged himself to his neck, then sprang back up, causing a mini wave to swamp the other man.
It was hard not to notice how good Honou looked soaking wet, but he thought he was managing okay. He backed up a few paces, sinking into a well practiced fighting stance, and waited for the next attack, grinning.
"Ahhhh! I see!" He laughed again and fell backwards submerging himself. As he came up he notice Verik stance and grinned wickedly back at him. "So you challenge me do you!" He said it in a heavily exaggerated voice. He turned and using his hands like paddles he began to just paddle the water in Verik's direction.
As he did he felt happier than he had in a very long time. He didn't even remember having this much fun with Burok. No, this was light hearted and just plain nonsense. He looked over at the green eyed warrior and realized with time he would soon be hopelessly his. He even could think that word but it was edging on his brain. It scard him sure but right now it was just so damn fun to goof off.
"You will pay Warrior Verik! Surrender and I will see you are fairly treated." He used the same exaggarated voice as before with a few bursts of laughter.
"Never!" Verik retorted with a mock growl. He returned fire- well, water- and ducked in under the other man's guard, reaching out to wrap his arms around him and pin his arms to his sides.
"I think you should be the one surrendering," he crowed. "Though I can't promise fair treatment." Feeling spontaneous and playful, he darted forward to kiss his nose. "Perhaps you could convince me otherwise. You fought bravely, after all," he laughed, eyes twinkling.
He guffed with heavy laughter as the water hit him. When he felt Verik's arms around him he only pretended to try to free himself. With his arms pinned and his laughter still prominent.
"Me surrender!" The kiss to his nose made him lean into Verik. Why is it any little contact made his pulse instantly quicken. "I think you will be please with me. I will surrender!" He laughed agian...I will but my bravery must be remembered your highness!"
Honou leaned into Verik. Seeking another kiss but this time for his lips.
"Mmmm..." Verik melted into the kiss, arms sliding up to wrap around Honou's shoulders. "They'll sing songs about your valiant battle for generations," he promised, grinning.
He shook his head and laughed softly. "Gods, I haven't done something like this since I was a kid. Well-" He glanced down, remembering they were still unclothed- "not exactly like this but you get the idea. It's been years..."
A thought struck him and his brow furrowed slightly. How long ago was Honou's childhood? "Uh- I know this is kinda out of nowhere...but how how old are you?" He knew the elf must be older than he looked, but by how much?
"Will they... honors abound do they not." His voice softened. Every kiss... every touch... a gift.
"Yeah, me too. In fact if you asked a few of the people or elves I know they would not believe you. Say you or I was hitting the mist." By mist he meant the illegal drug none to be used by the dark elves.
"Ahhh now this will probably scare you a bit. By all accounts I am 275, but with our aging comparison being so much slower I am still considered quite young by my people. Does this bother you?" He stroked Verik's face. "I know it might take some getting used to." His eyes clouded for a bit. He couldn't deny that he was concerned by Verik's answer,
His jaw dropped. "Two hundred-" He'd been expecting a high number, but that caught him off guard.
Then he saw the worry clouding those hypnotic eyes and shook his head slowly. "No...no it doesn't bother me," he murmured. "But- Gods, Honou, I must seem like a child to you!" He felt suddenly a little insecure, dropping his gaze.
Honou felt the tension leave as Verik spoke. "Verik, no don't think that. Because I don't. Inside I am not too far off from you. I've just been here longer and able to make more mistakes is all." He tried to lighten the mood.
"It is different you know. We also take longer to mature. In fact to you I wouldn't have been an adult until I hit about 100. But we don't measure time like humans. So please don't think that way." He lifted Verik's face to his and smiled as he leaned in to kiss him softly. "Burok was human. I get it, but your years and experience reflect who you are. Just as mine does me. Please don't let this mar anything for I...I..." He hesitated and thought, he what? He wanted more than no strings?
"I don't know what it is all I know is that these last few hours with you has meant more to me than anything in a long, long time. I don't want it to end."
"Me neither," Verik agreed quietly, smiling. Still, that number nagged at the back of his mind.
Honou hadn't been an adult until he was a hundred years old. How long did elves even live? Much longer than humans, that was obvious.
Not wanting to think about that, he distracted himself by leaning in for a kiss, burying his fingers in Honou's hair. For now at least, it didn't matter.
He held tightly to Verik. For a moment he was worried and exhaled in relief into the kiss. His heart rate increased. He backed up a little and whispered into his ear. "You know your kisses are becoming addictive. Not that I'm complaining mind you." Honou dragged his hands down Verik's back and up again.
He was not sure how it happened. One minute they were on Bane the next he can't keep his hands off Verik. He actually liked speaking with him. They were able to talk which was so important. He didn't want to think about the task they'd been hired to do, well at least he'd been hired to do. Nor did he want to get too far ahead of himself. But he'd be lying if he didn't acknowledge that he could see them together past this assignment.
His chuckle became a soft moan as Honou's nails caught at his skin. "No complaints here," he said a little breathlessly.
This was not what he'd been expecting when he got up this morning. It's not like he'd been looking for this lately, it seemed to have just fallen into his lap.
Alright, so he didn't know what would happen after this job. He knew what he wanted to happen, but he'd think about that later. For now he'd just enjoy this closeness.
Honou kissed him further. It was a passionate, soft, and slow. He'd forgotten just has sweet a kiss like this could be. He deepened it. Trying to remove any space there was. But it wasn't demanding. His hands cupped Verik's face as he slowly pulled away. "Was it really just this morning I was dreading going on this assignment." It was more of a rhetorical question. "Imagine my surprise when I found out I was going to have a partner. I was less than pleased. Shows you what a fool I can be from time to time."
His voice was horse with unspoken emotion. He knew he had to pull away or they would never get to sleep. Besides they did have all night tomorrow as well to look forward to. "As much as I don't want this to end if we don't stop I won't be able to in a few minutes."
Verik made a frustrated sort of growl as Honou pulled away, quite unconsciously. He flushed when he realized the sound came from him and nodded, stepping back. "Yeah...we really should try to actually get some sleep," he agreed ruefully.
He climbed out of the water and made his way back to the spot where they'd left their clothes, saying over his shoulder, "You know, if my commander knew I was doing this on duty, he'd have my hide. I'm not exactly upholding the honor of the dragonriders over here." He smirked slightly.
Honou was just as frustrated to part. But followed Verik from the steam. "I never even considered that. I...I ..." He hesitated not sure how to respond. "You know Verik, I'd never reveal to anyone this is where it started." He would not want to be a reason to cause him dishonor.
He understood that Verik must be feeling like he was, this overpowering need to be with him. Was this the beginning? He didn't know but he was slowly growing to hope so...or no he was hoping so. He wanted more but just wasn't sure how it would all work. Military...why of all things...
Honou dressed and marveled at how magnificent Verik's body was. He stifled a groan and smiled. "Verik I'll go to my grave with our secret. But with this promise there will be many strings attached." He winked playfully.
Pulling his clothes on, Verik laughed. "It doesn't have to be a secret Honou, just maybe don't tell my captain if you ever meet her."
He stopped short, realizing that he was actually thinking about the possibility of Honou meeting other people in his life. What would Ilia think of him? He eyed the elf sidelong. She'd probably like him, his sense of humor was similar to hers.
"I think I can live with strings," he said with a small smile.
He laughed. "I think I am beginning to like strings." He smiled softly and lowered his lashes. This was unfamiliar territory for him. With Burok it was different he was young and had nothing to lose or so he thought.
"I'll keep it in mind when I meet them all." He notice they were beginning to speak of future endeavors but he didn't care. What started out as fun was quickly becoming something altogether different. But he liked it.
They walked back to the camp and noticed the fire was almost out. He grabbed a few pieces of wood and threw them on. He pulled his bedroll from his the side of his satchel and looked at Verik before laying it out. "Uh, next to each other?" He felt a bit embarrassed asking, now back by Bane he wasn't sure if it would be welcomed.
Verik smiled softly. It was a warm night, they didn't need Bane's wing for shelter. "Sure." He spread his own bedroll out and laid down, sighing contentedly as his body relaxed. He could hear the dragon breathing, a deep, soothing rhythm he'd practically grown up with.
Rolling onto his side, he cleared his throat a little awkwardly and said, "You know... It might get kinda cold when the fire dies down. If you wanted to, uh, conserve body heat, we could always share... Use the extra bedroll as a blanket."
Wow, Verik, subtle. Oh well, he'd said it. No taking at back now.
He grinned and raised his eye brows with a nod. "Sounds like a great idea." He didn't wait less Verik should change his mind. He quickly laid with him and tossed his bedroll over them. "Night Verik." He rolled onto his side and took Verik's arm and dropped it around his waist.
This was nice. He couldn't remember the last time he actually wanted to sleep and by that he meant rest next to another. Normally he would count how long he was expected to stay without seeming like an asshole before hightailing it out the door.
As he drifted to sleep he was smiling,
Verik couldn't help smiling as Honoue settled next to him, tightening his arm around his waist and letting his head rest in the curve of his neck and shoulder.
He thought the other man was asleep before him- his breathing evened out and he relaxed anyway. He began to drift off as well, when suddenly he felt Bane shift and glanced over at the dragon.
He'd woken up, and was eyeing them meaningfully. "Oh, shut up," Verik muttered, turning back into Honou and going to sleep.
He slept soundly through the night and was happy to find himself still wrapped in Verik's embrace. The cool and damp morning air settled over them. Yawning and trying not to wake Verik as he shifted. Slowly he turned to gaze upon his sleeping form.
He looked so beautiful. Honou felt his heart beating and the pulse increase thought out his body. Laying there under the bedroll with Verik was possibly one of the best things to happen to him in a long time.
He softly traced the outline of his face, his jaw, his eyes...he was beautiful.
Trained to wake at the slightest stimulation, Verik blinked his eyes open at the feeling of Honou caressing his face. His instinctive tension disappeared instantly and he smiled, shifting slightly to pull the other man against his chest.
"Hey, there," he said quietly. "How'd you sleep?"
"Good...sorry I woke you." He smiled lazily into his eyes.
He couldn't believe this man was in his life. What an amazing way to start their day warped in Verik's arms. He forgot everything at that moment and lost himself in Verik's embrace. He closed his eyes and sighed.
"Did you ever have someone you cared for. Like I did Burok?" He wanted to know even the littlest of details about him.
Verik gave a slightly startled laugh, "And good morning to you too," he said, bemused.
Then his smile faded slightly and he shook his head. "No...I thought I did, once. But then, I guess if I had to think about it then it wasn't..." He couldn't find the right words and shrugged. "He was in training with me, same year. We were really close, so one thing led to another and- anyway. It lasted a while, but then we both sort of realized it wasn't quite right, I guess."
He yawned, rolling over and pulling Honou so the other may lay half sprawled across him. Giving him a lopsided grin he teased, "Why? Afraid of a little competition?"
Honou loved those lopsided smiles Verik gave.
He loved the feel of Verik's muscular body against his. Then he laughed... "Yes! Damnit! I want you for myself!""
Once he said the words his eyes widened. Yes he just admitted he wanted Verik all to himself. Did he care? No! He didn't want to share him Honou wanted Verik to himself.
He smiled into Verik's eyes. "I mean that Verik. I don't want to share you." He looked down at Verik's chest. "I know I am not being fair but it would bother me. Yet I know I have no right to even ask you that."
His eyes widened slightly, but then a grin stretched across his face. "Didn't exactly peg you for the possessive type," he rumbled, voice low and playful. Then he reached up to cup Honou's face, smiling softening a bit at the edges.
"Just so you know, that goes both ways," he murmured. "Someone touches you, and I'm not gonna be held responsible for their injuries." The sentiment was real, but he was joking.
Mostly.
Honou growled his sentiment. "Verik I am yours for as long as we walk together. I am not like most of my kind." It thrilled him that Verik felt the same. "I wasn't a virtuous elf while I was roaming but now that we are together I just know you are the one I want to spend my time with. Give my body to...and once I have to
He courage probably much, much more.
He laid there looking into. Verik's eyes. His heart slamming and his palms wet. This man melted him.
Unable to help himself, Verik pulled him down to claim his mouth, hands roaming over his body. He trailed hungry kisses along his jaw, then moved to his neck.
"You know...we...really should...be leaving...soon," he murmured between kisses, but showed no intention of stopping. "Job...to do...and all..."
Honou matched his hunger. Kissing him passionately. "Yes and...the...faster...we...get...there... and...do...what...we...need...to...do...we...can...do...more...of...this...." Each word was punctuated with a deep kiss.
He was in no hurry to leave as he slowly grinded himself on Verik. "I know I should...stop..but...so into you..." Again more kissing and his hands began to find their way to his stomach trying to get to his skin.
"I want you Verik. Need you...but...should...." He was lost in the feeling this man brought out of him. He was falling hard for Verik.
Verik groaned, rolling his hips to match Honou's movements. He slid his hands under the other man's top, practically clawing at his skin an an effort to remove any space between them and kissing him with a ferocity that was almost primal. He knew they should stop, but it didn't look like that was going to happen any time soon-
Without warning, a green, scaly blur flashed in his peripheral vision and- before he had time to react- the bedroll was jerked out from under them, sending them tumbling across the ground. Instinctively he curled around Honou, though he knew the skid wasn't going to really hurt either of them.
He glowered up at Bane from where he'd landed- sort of half on top of the elf, one arm bearing most of his wait. The dragon stared back at him smugly, huffing out a pair of identical smoke rings. "By all the gods, Bane, I swear I am going to kill you..."
One moment they are in a heated kiss the next Verik is threatening to kill Bane...well a figure of speech but it was quite comical. Honou smiled as Verik's first reaction was to protect him. It was endearing.
Honou snorted and then started to laugh. Unfolding himself from Verik. Sure a little pent up frustration but that wasn't a big deal they had all day together. He unfolded himself as they got up.
"Well the big guy says it is time to go....so we shall heed his advice." He said with a chuckle still in his voice. Once he stood up and began to roll up the bedding he nodded at Bane. "My apologize fine sir."
Smiling but for no particular reason he attached his bedroll to his satchel, checked that the fire was out, helped clean up the site a bit and was ready. But as they worked he would steal glances at the corporal and smile.
In no time at all really Honou was ready to go.
Verik was used to breaking camp, so he was ready to leave pretty quickly.
Bane seemed to be amusing himself watching Honou, a dragon-ish smile pulling his lips back from his teeth. Verik noticed and chuckled. "He must like you," he said, reaching up to scratch the ridge above his eye as the dragon lowered his head, crooning. "He usually waits until he knows a person better before giving them such a hard time."
Bane gave a rumbling chuckle and slowly winked one eye at the elf. "You're still not off the hook for that stunt," Verik warned him. "I will get you back."
Bane shoved his nose into his chest, making him stumble, then grabbed his rider by the back of his tunic and lifted him up like a mother cat would a kitten, twisting his neck to drop him onto his back. "Oi, watch it!" Verik protested loudly, landing in a not particularly comfortable position.
The dragon turned his attention to Honou and Verik said quickly, "Unless you want the same treatment, I suggest you get up here now."
It was funny to see the was Bane and Verik acted with each other. At his advice Honou wasted no time and scrambled to mount the dragon.
They had tucked away the satchels but Honou wore his cape. He adjusted himself behind Verik but this time he didn't leave any space he tucked himself right in and held his waist. The warmth from Verik's body felt comforting.
"Ready. When we begin to get close to the site let's try to keep by a water source. It will be a sure way inside and an exit if things get hairy."
Verik nodded, trying to ignore how his heart gave an excited jump at the feeling of Honou's arms around him. "Got it."
Bane sprang into the sky without warning, forcing Verik to reach forward and grab a spike for support, one hand going to Honou's arm to make sure he held on. Also, it was nice just to touch him.
Oh, gods, he needed to focus. Fooling around on dragonback was not going to end well for anyone involved.
When Bane took off simultaneously his heart plummeted and his grip tightened. Honou smiled when he felt Verik checking to ensure he was secure. He scooted forward and pressed himself against Verik's strong back. He remembered what it looked like and how soft his skin was.
He squeezed his eyes shut and took a few deep breaths. This was not the time or place. Besides he was acting like a horney young boy. He was an adult!
But it was so nice to feel himself wrapped around Verik.
The were pretty high and he smiled thinking how different one day could make things. "Verik, would you...I mean later not right away...think you'd leave the military?"
The question caught him off guard and he tensed slightly. "I- leave?" He was silent for a long moment.
Would he? He'd always assumed he'd be with the dragonriders until either he was injured and could no longer serve or he wound up dead.
But...if he had someone in his life, someone else to think about...
He sighed. "I don't know," he admitted. "Maybe, some day." He glanced back at Honou. "It's just...this had been my life for sixteen years. I don't know what else I could do."
He tried to keep his face neutral. "Ah, yeah...I was just wondering, is all." He buried his face into his cloak. "You could always be a mercenary. Like myself. But, I was just thinking aloud."
But the more he thought about the more he wondered. If this went well. If they succeed.... He was getting ahead of himself. Hope lead to heartache. Best to do the job, get paid, and enjoy Verik now and when or if they could see each other. Besides he hated the military. Look what became of his brother. No....he pushed the thoughts away for now. "I was just asking seeing if you ever thought of doing something else. Like me I'd hoped to learn more on smithing like my father. Just hasn't happened yet." He tried to cover up his question. But he wasn't sure if Verik bought it.
Something wasn't quite right. Verik could hear it in his voice. He patted Bane's shoulder, letting the dragon know he'd be flying solo for a minute or two, and twisted to face Honou.
"What's the matter?" he asked, reaching up to touch his face. "You're hiding something."
"Uh...what? No...no...no I'm not." But even to his own voice it sounded hollow. How did Verik catch it.
He sighed and looked into Verik's eyes. It was now or never...well not never it would come out better to do so now and be done with it. He tried to hide the emotion in his voice he hated speaking about it.
"I hate the military. I'm sorry Verik but I do! I'd rather you'd been a thief or assassin. That I can respect, you do it because you want to not because you are ordered too." His breathing increased and to his disgust his eyes fucking watered! What was going on with him!
"The military took my brother, who later came back and murdered our family. Leaving me for dead too. But somehow I lived only to run into him again, the scars you see on my face were from him, as well as the one on my side. He also killed Burok! Oh and by the way you should know I am not popular with the military. If it wasn't for my skills at retrieving I am sure the nobles would have had me hung a long time ago."
Now that it was coming out he couldn't stop he just kept coming.
"I'm an assassin...a thief... And I am good... Burok taught me. He was not just my lover but my master. Verik..." He said his name as a plea...his hands gripped Verik and his eyes swelled with emotion he had locked up for way too long. As he sat on the back of Bane looking into Verik's eyes he realized he was falling in love with the human corporal...no...no...no...just sex! Just sex! He tried to repeat inwardly.
Verik was stunned. Even Bane's wings stalled for a moment as he listened in before he remembered somebody had to make sure they stayed in the air.
His first instinct surprised him- instead of focusing on the rather unsavory faacts Honou had revealed about himself, he wanted to comfort him. Losing your family to death was one thing, a tragedy he wasn't a stranger to. What the elf had gone through...he couldn't even imagine the kind of scars that left on a person.
"Honou..." He let the back of his hand brush over his cheek. "I'm sorry," he murmured, pressing a kiss to his forehead, then his cheek. "I'm so sorry." He wrapped his arms around his shoulders and let his cheek rest against his head.
But he couldn't just ignore everything else. He let out a heavy breath. "I said I won't judge you for your past," he said quietly, "I meant that. But I can't- I can't just leave. This is part of who I am." Please, please understand, he prayed silently.
He leaned into the embrace but his breathing didn't subside. He was sorry too. Sorry for all the things he'd done.
He noticed Bane had dipped and he knew the dragon heard too. "Sure, I know Verik. I didn't mean for you too give up who you are. I know it is kind of what saved you after you lost your parents. I'm sorry, Verik."
"I still want you to come visit me when you can. We will keep in touch after this and as soon as we can will be together again."
He smiled but it didn't reach his eyes. He was lost for right now. "I can't change who I am either Verik, it is how I live. I don't know any other way." He still fought to keep his emotions in check. This man has changed his entire outlook. "I don't want to let go, but I can't see this looking good for you. Especially if my brother finds out. I don't even know what rank he is. But my father was branded a traitor. He wasn't though I was young I learned through Burok he wasn't. But I fear us together may cause your officials to look poorly upon you."
He never let go of Verik. In a very small voice he added, "I can't seem to get you out of my mind and it is filtering to my heart."
Verik's heart sank. He didn't want we'll be together when we can. He just wanted we'll be together.
Gods, what was wrong with him? How had this all gotten so complicated so quickly?
"I don't want you to change," he murmured, tightening his embrace. Then he added fiercely, "And I'm not scared of your brother." He sighed and tilted his head to brush his lips against Honou's temple. "I'm not scared of my commanding officers, either. It's just..." He pulled back slightly to meet his eyes.
He couldn't think of the right words, so he just kissed him, hoping that would get his sentiment across.
Honou kissed Verik back. It was a hungry and needful. He felt lost. The kiss wasn't soft or gentle. It was raw...
When they parted he actually let out a sob. "Verik, I'm scared. Not ashamed to admit it. Not for myself. Remember how you said you never want to hurt me, well I don't want to hurt you. But I fear I will." His voice was husky, ladened with emotion. "We will figure it out. Just say that even if it is a lie. Tell me we will work something out. I just need to hear you say it. I'm not ready for us to be over when we are done with this. I want more."
His heart beat wildly as we looked into Verik's eyes. As Bane flew them. He was able to let go and tell this man everything. He didn't fear judgement... But now he felt something shift. He wanted Verik to be free of suspicion. Could he change for Verik? Live a straight life?
His heart clenched painfully and he peppered kisses over Honou's nose, cheeks, jaw. "We'll figure it out," he responded, fulfilling his request. He didn't even know if he was lying or not.
"I don't want to say goodbye to you," he murmured. That was raw truth. He wrapped his arms tighter around the other man's shoulders, burying his face against his neck.
"Yes...together....you and I will figure it out." His voice was hoarse with emotion.
He held Verik tightly. Grateful that Bane seemed to know where to go. His embrace with tight. He stroked the back of Verik's head and neck. "I don't either. I haven't felt this way in a long time."
Honou held him tightly not wanting to let go. He softly kissed the side of his face. "I don't know when it changed but it did Verik. What I thought was for fun is something deeper. I don't want us to leave this assignment and you forget all about me."
He was still emotionally charged but he didn't care. He wanted Verik and more then for physical pleasure. They worked well together and he made him feel again.
"As if I could forget you," Verik rumbled, holding Honou as close as he could
He wasn't quite sure when Bane had started banking into a descent but suddenly they were landing. He glanced around and saw the dragon looking back at them, scaly face crinkled in concern.
Verik sighed, knowing he was right. They need to figure this out before anything else could happen. If they tried to do this job in their current state they were both going to get themselves killed.
"Come on," he urged quietly, moving to dismount.
Honou felt relief when Verik said that. It meant at least to him he was feeling it too. Honou was not alone.
He nodded and dragged himself from the dragon. He quickly went into work mode. Work was safe. Bane placed them right by the flowing river. He had a flash of Verik the night before and shook his head. Get it together Honou!
"Look the river leads right into the base of the cavern." He slide his cloak from his shoulders and looked about. "Bane can you look to see if any are posted outside?" He spoke directly to the dragon. He wasn't ready for all this. It was supposed to be a job.
"Verik, let's set up right here. We have trees, the river, and a few boulders for cover. Bane put us in the perfect spot." He smiled at the dragon. "If you go south and mark all and anything that even hints of being an opening and I'll go north. This is where I am hoping the entrance still exist. But, Verik... Please be cautious. The south is the main entrance, they can be overwhelming in numbers, stealth is your weapon right now."
He laid his cloak down and looked for his satchel. "Wait, Bane! My satchel." He retrieved his satchel and pulled his journal out. He was doing anything he could to avoid talking about what they had discussed on Bane's back. He couldn't. Verik was too good for him...just sex. That's it. He had to get away from him. He was suffocating. But yet Verik said he didn't want to say goodbye. His had was spinning.
"Honou," Verik said quietly as the other man began to talk, suddenly all business.
He tried again as he began giving instructions to Bane, which the dragon nodded in acknowledgement of, though his eyes darted curiously between the two-leggers. "Honou."
Either he couldn't hear him in whatever mode of self he'd snapped into or he was deliberately ignoring him. "Honou!"
He grabbed the other man's shoulders, forcing him to meet his eyes. He was angry now, and nervous, and confused, and he knew he wasn't the only one. "Listen to me," he said, voice low and rough, "If we go in there like- like this, we're only going to end up getting ourselves killed."
He sighed, closing his eyes. "Just...talk to me, would you? Take a minute and just talk to me."
He heard Verik and plowed through. No...no...it was better this way.
He called him again. No...ignore him... Verik was just another soldier. No...ignore it... Work...work is safe. He was talking about north and south...rivers and whatnot.
It was only when Verik grabbed his shoulders and forced him to look at him and listen. He knew he was right. Talk to him...sounded so easy but could be?
A long low sigh escaped. He grabbed Verik and held him tightly. "Don't say that! Please don't you know I would never want to put you in harm's way."
He pulled back to look into Verik's eyes. "I am confused and I am never confused. I want you I. Ways I haven't wanted anyone in a long time but it scares me." He finally let it out. He actually was allowing himself to feel. "If you left me from natural causes I could handle that. It is the life cycle of things. But if you are taken like my family or Burok it would surely kill me too. I am afraid, not for the first time. Verik, I am a thief an assassin you hunt down my kind. How will this ever work?"
He noticed the tears and fought savagely to hold them back.
Verik returned the embrace, not really knowing what else to do. He was scared too, scared of how much he wanted Honou in his life, scared that it was something that just couldn't happen.
"I don't know," he murmured. "I don't know how it could work. I just know that I want it to." He kissed his cheek, his jaw, his neck. "Gods, Honou, I didn't think it was possible to need someone so much, so quickly."
He pulled back just enough to rest his forehead against the other man's, cupping his face in his hands. "But I'll tell you this," he whispered hoarsely, "If it's up to me, I'm not walking away. I won't leave you. I know I'm human, I know I'm a soldier, but I'm not leaving you." He gave a small, slightly pained smile and amended, "I don't think I can leave you."
Verik's green eyes seared him.
As his hands cupped his face and he finallyngave in to his emotion. He kissed Verik aggressively. "I want you in my life, I want to wake up and see your beautiful green eyes as many mornings as I can. I want to be someone you introduce to family and friends. By the gods I want you in my life. There I said Verik! I want you more than just for sex...I want you in my life." He actually started to cry.
He let go...for his mother and father...for Burok...and even his brother... "Just don't give up on me." He gasped out. How did this man break down his reserve?
"Shhh," Verik soothed, stroking his hand down his back. He'd never been particularly good with emotional displays, he never knew what to do or say; all he knew was that seeing Honou hurting caused a physical ache in his chest, and he'd give anything to see that smile again.
"Never," he murmured, hesitantly kissing him, wiping the tears away with his thumb. "What'd I just say? I'm not walking away, yeah? I'm not giving up." He kissed him again.
It eased him to hear Verik say that...not walking away.
He kissed him back. "Never." He repeated and kissed him back. It was a raw and painful kiss. Honou gripped Verik tightly and his hands roamed all,over Verik's body. "I am falling for you Verik. It scares me. But I want this...you...us."
His kiss grew less aggressive as his tongue invaded Verik's mouth. He would never get enough.
Between kissing he rasped out, "I won't let you go Verik. I want to sleep next to you, meet those you hold dear and introduce you to those I do. I want this more than I knew I did." He never stopped kissing Verik.
"Yes," Verik rumbled. He wanted the same thing, even knowing how hard it would be. He kissed him back fiercely, pressing Honou's body flush against his, biting at his bottom lip.
A part of him honestly thought he couldn't leave now even if he wanted to. The very idea made his chest constrict and his breath hitch unpleasantly. He growled low in his throat and trailed heated kisses as far down Honou's neck as his shirt allowed before returning to claim his mouth.
"Yes," he repeated fiercely. "Gods only know why, but I want this. I want you."
"Yes! Say it again Verik." But his mouth was claimed by the searing kiss which matched his desire.
He felt Verik's lips and felt as if the man was scorching every inch of skin he touched. "Verik..." He groaned. "I need you now. Fuck all the planning, now, here..." He ripped at Verik's clothes and dropped to his knees. Pulling at his waist band. "Please, I need you." It was raw, pure...he needed Verik.
His hands caressed the bulge in Verik's pants as his own twitched and throbbed. His dark blue eyes pleaded for Verik to release his hardened manhood to him.
Verik gave in with a groan, some part of him vaguely registering that somewhere along the line Bane had snuck away to give them privacy. He'd have to thank the dragon later.
The thought was quickly pushed out of his head by the feeling of Honou's hands on him. "Easy," he panted, trying to still the elf with a hand on his shoulder.
Then that magic touch came again and he bit back a moan, clenching his eyes shut while his chest heaved. He nodded desperately, slipping out of his clothes is what was becoming a practiced manner. "You...now," was all he managed to get out, bending and pulling Honou up by the shoulders to kiss him feverishly.
Honou follows Verik's lead and kisses his way up his lover's body. It is toned yet soft and he moans. "You are beautiful Verik."
It mattered not right now of their future, the assignment, or where they would be headed. All Honou knew at this moment was his overwhelming desire for Verik.
"I...oh...you...your...touch...so...." He lost himself. Dragging Verik down with him and taking his desire to on him...letting Verik do the same. It was only after the height of their passion that Honou could eve think of regaining his breathing. "Verik...you do things to me...inside me..."
Verik gave a decidedly breathless chuckle, laying beside him utterly spent. "I'll...ignore the innuendo there...shall I?" he teased quietly, reaching over to stroke Honou's face gently.
"I know what you mean," he murmured more seriously, kissing his shoulder, then his collar. "You." He kissed the hollow of his throat. "Make me." The side of his neck. "Insatiable." Finally, his mouth.
But that wasn't all of it. The sex was nothing short of mindblowing, but he could feel the connection they'd forged growing deeper every moment.
Honou smiled and then began to moan softly as he felt Verik's lips caressing him. Letting his hands slide down his incredibly sexy back he returned the kiss. When their lips separated he was breathless.
It was then that he remembered Bane. "I guess I will owe Bane one." He smiled and kissed Verik again. "I don't want this moment to end but what you said earlier. About how if we don't talk this out we won't make it out." He sighed and held Verik, he digressed in thought slightly wondering how someone so lean and toned could be so soft to the touch. He trailed his fingers over that skin he was addicted too.
"All I know is that I was wrong yesterday. No strings and just fun or enjoyment changed for me somewhere. I don't have the answers but then who does right?" He didn't wait for an answer as he kept on. "I just know that this, what we are starting or started...is worth it. I don't need to make it work, we already do."
He held Verik softly just enjoying the touch and their heartbeats. He realized what he just said was right. They already worked now he just needed to let it happen.
Verik nodded slowly. Yeah, "no strings" had sort of been chucked out of the equation some time ago. He couldn't say he was sorry about it.
"You know," he mused quietly, trailing his hands down Honou's sides, "I have a few weeks leave I've been meaning to take. Maybe- after this job... Maybe we can go to the Riverlands, like you said." He kissed him softly. "I know it's not a real solution, but it could give us time, yeah? To...figure things out?"
Because the elf was right; they did already work, it was just their very different lives that they needed to somehow shuffle into place.
Honou smiled and held him tighter. "And I do not have another job lined up after this one. I'd like that a lot Verik."
Although he could have very well stayed locked in Verik's embrace Honou reluctantly pulled away. "We should probably start searching the area. We have all night for this...and I also had another reason to be close to water..." He leaned over and kissed Verik softly. "I plan on making-love to you in it tonight."
He grinned wickedly to his partner as he chuckled. He felt better. Much better...with a clear mind. The answers would come and they could figure out what life they could build. A future. Shit that was exciting and scary.
Verik shivered, already anticipating. "Yeah, search the area. Right," he mumbled, trying to pull himself back to the task at hand.
He stood and offered a hand to pull Honou to his feet. "I think Bane went to check the cavern, like you told him." What had the elf said earlier? Oh, right?
"I'll go south, you go north?" he confirmed. He was loathe to part, but Honoue was right. They had all night.
And hopefully much longer than that.
Honou smiled at the reaction he too felt anticipation for the evening and days ahead. He reached for Verik's hand and smiled as he drew himself up...isn't that how this started. Verik offered him a help up on Bane.
"Yes, no matter what let's meet back in two hours here." Honou grabbed Verik's hand squeezed it and gave him a quick kiss. "Two hours."
He took off trotting northward.
"Two hours," Verik repeated as they broke away from each other. He paused a moment, worry starting to gnaw at him as he watched Honou go off alone.
Stop that! He's a grown man, he can take care of himself. He shook himself and began following the river south.
Honou trudged along the forest. He smiled inwardly. Verik was whole personality was infectious. He made Honou want to be a better man.
He moved slowly letting the brush be his cover. As he closed the distance between himself and the mountain base he noted some goblin activity. Good. Just as I thought only one guard at this one, so this was an option. He wrote down its general location. He moved silently along and found a pile of debris. Waste from their tunneling. Another positive sign. They were mining and that meant close by would be another entrance.
It wasn't too long before he found it. A roughed out opening where he watched the slaves empty barrels of stone, dirt, and whatnot. He mapped this out too. He witnessed a goblin hunting party returning with freshly killed deer, bear, and rabbit. That seemed odd...so much. Was a fest being planned? He wrote down all he could see and followed them as best he could. A few times the trailing goblin would stop and sniff the air but Honou was no stranger to these beasts. He kept low.
Before long they led him to the third entrance which was cleverly disguised. You'd pass it a hundred times and not notice the shift of the rock. He mapped this location too. He also noted not one guard stationed outside. But how many inside... He looked about and rubbed some of the brush over his body dragged up the dirt a bit and rubbed this on himself. He silently approached the opening, but he was exposed so he moved quickly. Pressing himself against the rock. He inched slowly forward his ears queued for any sound. Nothing...strange... He peeked in...his eyes had to adjust. He sniffed, nothing. What was going on? He slowly made his way inside the cavern.
He stilled his adrenalin. Tempered his breathing and sulk along hiding behind boulders where he could. No guards could they foolishly think the opening that well disguised? As good as it was you'd want some form of deterrent or alert.
That is when he saw it! Yes! They were preparing for a fest! Perfect!
He made his way back to the opening...shit! Goblins coming back in. Damnit! He crouched down and watched this hunting party with more fresh meats and this time fishes. Including some vegetation.
He held his breath as they passed squeaking and hissing amongst themselves. Their labored breathing sounded disgusting. Finally safe he edged out. He noticed the sun and raised his eyebrow. He didn't have a lot of time to get back he'd better hurry.
And he did not wanting to cause Verik to worry. He got back to their agreed spot a little later then planned but not much he called out for his partner. "Verik! You back yet?"
Verik was more the muscle than the stealth on a job, typically, but that didn't mean he couldn't move quietly when he had to. He managed to keep himself hidden as he approached what Honou had said was the goblin's main entrance.
He didn't know a lot about the little buggers, but he figured a head count would be useful information. His eyes also skated over the surrounding terrain, trying to plot out good observation points or escape roots- for the goblins and for himself and Honou, should it come to that.
Satisfied with his work, he began to make his way back to the spot where Bane had set them down. He glanced up, eyes searching the sky for a familiar silhouette and smiling slightly when he found it. The dragon landed moments before he returned himself and he held out a hand to stroke his neck.
"Well done, old boy," he murmured, patting his cheek. Bane crooned contentedly, back arching like a massive cat. Verik looked around. "Did you see Honou? He should be back by now..."
The dragon shook his head and he felt worry start to yawn in his chest. "Maybe fly up and look around? See if he's on his way back."
Bane nodded and took off, circling in an ever higher spiral. Verik worried at his lip. Should he go after him? What if he was hurt? What if he'd gotten himself captured, or-
Then he heard his voice and he let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. He moved around the rocks that had been hiding him from view, raising his hand to get the elf's attention.
Then, without thinking, he surged forward and wrapped his arms around him, suffocatingly tight. "You alright?" he asked roughly, pulling back to hold him at arms length.
"Verik! Oufff..." But he held tightly right back. "Yes...yes" He chuckled. "You worried?" It was endearing and Honou's voice softened. "No matter what I will always come home to you. Never doubt that."
He touch the inside of Verik's wrist. He locked eyes with those green ones and was lost.
"I have a lot to tell you about. The map? Oh wait... Where's Bane?" He looked around worried.
Upon coming into their camp he noticed how eager he was to see Verik. He couldn't wait to tell him everything he learned and to hear what Verik found out. His heart slammed against his ribcage as he looked into Verik's eyes.
In a soft voice he murmured. "By the Gods you are beautiful. You take my breath away."
"I wouldn't say worried, exactly," Verik mumbled, releasing him reluctantly and flushing. His heart jumped into his throat at Honou's words and he smiled, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.
"Oh, right, the map, here..." He pulled it out, answering, "Oh, he's just over us, I thought he might be able to spot you if you were in trouble."
Then his blush deepened as he handed the map over and he reached out to cup his cheek. He shook his head, chuckling softly. "I'm nothing special. You...you're perfect."
Which was of course when Bane came in to land, wasting no time in sticking his nose into his rider's back to shove him forward so he sort of stumbled against the elf.
Honou looked up as he took the map. He smiled as Verik seemed to blush and compliment him. Verik was not at all what he would have thought upon their first meeting. He was so much more. So much better than his narrow mind had first conjured. Yet it pleased him to no end that Verik had dispelled this misconception he had of military personnel.
That is when Bane nudged Verik and Honou laughing a little captured Verik in his arms. "You are special. Never say you are not. And I am so far from perfect it is scary but if you think it than it is something I will work towards." He leaned in and gently touched his lips to Verik. "I cannot wait to see that body of yours again...but plans first." But Honou continued to kiss Verik. After each one though he murmured... "Must work.. work... work..."
Verik smiled into the kiss, not feeling any real urgency to pull away. Finally though, he sighed and mumbled in agreement, "Yeah, work." He gave him a last kiss and stepped back, clearing his throat.
"So...what did you find?" Bane lowered his head over his rider's shoulder so he could better see the map.
Honou grinned at the dragon. "Here let me show you both." He pulled out his journal and then spread out the map. He checked his notes and his finger trailed along the map. "Here and here... These are two entrances and like I thought only one guard. But......."
He smiled at both checked his notes and trailed his finger along the edge..."Yes here. This spot is a sort of hidden entrance which was left unguarded. I even snuck in. That is why I am fithy." He sighed. "But that isn't all." He looked up at the dragon and then to Verik. "We stumbled upon them as they prepare for a fest. I think a wedding of sorts. If you could call it that. I was inside the cavern and snuck my way through the corridor and watched as fresh meats and fish, not to mention vegetation were all brought in."
He let his hand cover Verik's, "I think we are sitting in good position get in and out without being detected. But could I ask Bane to do something. I wanted to see if more parties are still out there hunting? Would he, would you? His aerial view could be an asset." He looked hopefully between them both.
The dragon nodded, lips pulling back into a toothy grin, and launched himself into the air.
Verik was still bent over the map. He looked up at Honou side-long and asked, trying to keep his voice even and free of worry, "You snuck in?"
Honou smiled at Bane as the dragon took off. This would be a huge advantage!
"Ahhh this is good! Very good. Why have I not acquired a dragon prior to this." He was oblivious to any of Verik's worry.
"I did! It was classic. I rubbed some brush over me and the dirt." He looked over still not catching on. "They can detect different scents so that is why I covered myself. It was a bit nerve getting at the end just as I was ready to leave a new hunting party entered and the little bastard kept sniffing. I held my breath and laid low."
He kept his hand on Verik's and let his fingers slide between his. "Looks like I could use a bath...wash my clothes...we should get a fire going." His voice was teasing. "Once I was them I have nothing to put on until they dry." He looked and noticed that Verik wasn't smiling.
Verik simply looked at him for a moment, then slipped his hand to the back of his head and crushed the other man to him for a rough kiss.
"Don't...scare me...like that...again," he growled between kisses, trailing his mouth down to Honou's neck and biting a little harder than was probably necessary. "Gods, you could have gotten yourself killed!"
He knew he was being ridiculous- Honou was over two hundred years old for gods' sakes, he obviously could take care of himself- but he couldn't seem to help it. He released him with a frustrated sigh and a slightly forced smile. "Go on, go wash off."
He was taken aback by the kiss and his own reaction. "I didn't..." He smiled at Verik's obvious concern over him. It was heartwarming.
"I can't promise I won't but I'll be more mindful. You're right of course." He didn't get up and Verik's smile didn't fool him this time.
"Verik, I won't have anything to change into." He smiled. "Come with me. You know I don't want you worring over me but I get it, if it was reversed I'd feel the same about you. But, come... Tell me what you discovered."
He put his hand over Verik's again then pulled away. "First fire wood...let's go look for wood." He looked down at himself and smirked. "Not that kind either." He teased. He just wanted to ease Verik's worry.
Verik rolled his eyes and chuckled. "Yeah, alright," he agreed, standing.
He began to explain what he'd found on his own reconnaissance mission as they searched for firewood. "There weren't as many goblins as I expected, though I'd guess that was because of what you said, about their feast. Probably four guards, a dozen or so others going in and out."
He hefted a larger branch, breaking it in two over his knee to make it more manageable. "There are a couple game trails leading away too, that may be useful if we need to make a quick getaway."
"Good! That's good to know." Honou was lean and toned but not anything like Verik and he admired how he broke the branch. It made his heart rate increases.
He tried to concentrate on collecting wood and getting a fire started. "What do you think? We good?" He indicated to the pile they acquired. He couldn't help it he approached Verik. He let his pile fall and grasped Verik's shoulders and kissed him. Letting his hands cup Verik's face. "You are beautiful Verik and I am amazed you want me, worry about me... I thank the gods you came into my life and for all intent purposes saved me."
Verik tossed his own pile of firewood aside, toeing the branches back in the direction they'd come from. Wrapping his arms around Honou's waist, he kissed him back slowly, unwilling to break the contact.
"Of course I worried," he murmured. "I don't know what I'd do if..." He didn't even want to think about it, claiming his mouth in another heated kiss.
"You know," he said after a moment, a little breathless, "Bane will be scouting for a while...and you really should wash off." He smirked. "Want some help with that?"
Honou kissed him back and inhaled his scent. "Goodness Verik you are intoxicating." His own arms wrapped tightly around Verik.
"Oh, will he?" He let his hand slowly go down and rub the object he wanted most. "But...what of a fire?" He was stalling but it was more for teasing. "I am filthy... very, very filthy Verik." He kissed him again. Let his tongue roam possively. "I want you Verik. In that water... right here... in my bed... in your bed..." He kissed him with each word as he tried to gain access to his skin.
Verik laughed, the sound rumbling in his chest as a delightful shudder ran through him. "Screw the fire," he hissed, nipping playfully at Honou's bottom lip.
"Well, the easiest place to get to on that list should be the water," he panted out, fingers digging possessively into the other man's hips. "Although...when this is over...a bed...may be in order..." He began guiding them toward the river as he spoke, raining kisses on his face and neck.
Honou smiled and began to untie the lace at his waist and tunic. "Wait my boots" He leaned down and untied his boots now. Once he removed them he let Verik led him...by the gods he would let Verik led him anywhere.
Fire, camp, anything and everything forgotten except Verik. "Help me Verik." He leaned against him and nipped Verik's neck. "You are beautiful, sexy, handsome...gods I am the luckiest elf. I still cannot believe you want me."
He kissed and touched and tugged at Verik's clothing as well as trying to tug his own off.
Verik groaned, returning every kiss and touch with equal fervor. He twisted out of his clothes, fumbling a little in his effort to maintain contact between them.
"How could I not?" The words were practically a growl. "Gods, how could anyone look at those eyes of yours and not want you?" He slid his hands up Honou's chest and wrapped his arms around his shoulders, taking another step back.
He stumbled into the water, gasping slightly at the sudden cool touch on his skin. His hands trailed down to press against the small of Honou's back, grinding their hips together. He moaned at the sensation and kissed him, raw and wanton.
Honnu smiled and kissed him back. He felt the same way for Verik. His need was overpowering. His kiss was intoxicating.
"Verik..." He whispered huskily as they entered the water. His warm touch and the cool lapping of the that water. It was overwhelming. Honou couldn't get enough of this man. He realized at this moment he loved Verik. Completely... he loved Verik and made him sudder with emotion.
Honou moved to take Verik all he wanted to do was make sure Verik was pleased... Give him the love he has buried for years.
After some initial fumbling, trying to figure out exactly how to do this in their current position, Verik found he liked the water.
A lot.
After, he sort of collapsed onto the bank, pulling Honou down with him. Breathing still ragged, he murmured, "That was...you're..." He laughed helplessly, pulling the other man against him. "Amazing," he finished quietly, nuzzling his face against Honou's neck.
It was amazing! It was passionate and rough...yet oddly tender. For the worlds Honou could not subside his feeling for this man. The more he got the more he wanted and leaning into the bank with him only made him realize he'd do anything for Verik. He understood why Verik was worried. It finally hit him.
"Verik you make me amazing... Listen..." He hesitated. For Gods he exposed his soulto this man it should be easy but it wasn,t.
"I get it... No I do. Just now I got why you worried. I mean I did before too." He ran his hand through his hair and chuckled nervously. "I get now. And you hav my word I will be more careful. I have a lot more to lose." He kissed Verik softly. "I want you to know that although I can't say what comes naturally to most I feel more for you than I do myself."
He hoped that Verik understood what he meant. He wasn't ready to say it...he just couldn't yet.
"Hm?" Verik looked up at him, still coming down from his high and trying to remember what he was talking about. Then it snapped into place. "Oh." He tightened his embrace, murmuring, "Thank you. But I'm sorry- I may have overreacted a bit," he admitted sheepishly.
Then he smiled. He'd never been great with words, but he gave it a go. "And I you," he said softly, pressing a soft kiss to the underside of his jaw. "I- I think I'm..." He couldn't quite say it. Maybe after this job, maybe when they were safe. "I'll do whatever it takes to stay with you after this," he said instead, quietly.
Maybe not everything he was feeling, but for now it would do.
"No! Don't say that... It makes me feel ggod knowing someone cares enough about my well being." He stroked Verik's beautiful face with his fingers. "Please." His eyes begged Verik. The fact that someone cared meant more than Honou cared to verbally express. He could only hope that Verik understood.
He understood. How could he not. Verik was a man used to being on his own. Doing what need to be done. Honou could sense what he felt mirrored his own and because they were similar it was hard to give all of yourself to another. Especially in Veriks situation. Being in the military meant that came first and Honou would have to understand."
Verik sighed, wishing he had the right words but unable to conjure them into being. He absentmindedly stroked his hand up and down Honou's side. "Promise me you'll be careful tomorrow," he said quietly, turning his face into the slope of his shoulder.
He laughed dryly and added, "I know you can handle yourself, it's not that I'm doubting you. Just...for my peace of mind, please promise me."
"I promise Verik."
How could he not? Looking into Verik's eyes he promised.
"I want you to promise me the same Verik."
As the cool water caressed their heated bodies Honou was sliently telling Verik he would be his. It wasn't hard! In factt Honou found it very easy to promise this to Verik for it seemed it was something he wanted to do.
Honou kissed him deeply. "I find there isn't anything you ask of me I can deny you Verik. It is scary and exciting."
He noticed Verik's caresses and moaned softly as he wrapped himself around the man. He colored softly as he continued to kiss him, "I can't seem to control myself where you are concerned."
Verik nodded, murmuring, "Of course. I promise."
He returned the kiss enthusiastically, then chuckled a little breathlessly. "Believe me, the feeling is entirely mutual," he admitted, smiling wryly as he wrapped his arms around Honou's waist.
Pressing an almost chaste kiss to his lips, he pulled away and murmured, "Talk to me. Tell me something I don't know about you."
Honou shifted and dunked his head under the water. He came up and scrubbed his face. "Something about myself..." His smile was relaxed. This was how it was supposed to be. Easy. Comfortable. And exciting all mixed together.
He chuckled and the thoughts running through his head. "When you visit you will see I am a bit on the tidy side. Even when I say I am going to ease up a bit I find I can't. Not sure where it comes from but I do know even as a young lad I was that way." He dunked under again and ran his fingers though his brown hair. "I look like my mother. Her hair, her eyes. My father though a master smithy was also a mage." He swam through the water and enjoyed the heat of the sun on his shoulders with the cool water.
"I am also a sucker for any wounded animal. Please don't judge. You will find at my house there are many critters. Only one lives indoors with me though when I am home. A raccoon. He was I guess abandoned, maybe its mother was killed who knows I was heading back and couldn't just leave it there. Like I said a sucker. So Fig has been with me for oh, about two years now...give or take. Pesky little runt but he keeps me company." He swam to Verik and leaned against the side and chuckled. "So here I am the bad assassin who saved wounded and stray animals." He laughed comfortably.
Verik chuckled softly, reaching out to trace his thumb over his cheek. "Somehow I'm not surprised," he said with a smile. "Bane took to you much more easily than he normally does. As for tidy..."
He shrugged, giving him a lopsided grin. "I'm a military man, Honou. I doubt any quirk of yours could surprise me in that regard." He threaded his fingers through the other man's hair. Without thinking, he murmured, "Your mother must have been quite beautiful."
Realizing he'd said that aloud, he flushed and glanced away, clearing his throat.
His pulse quickened at Verik's touch. Then that grin! That lopsided grin! It made his heart skip a beat. "He did." He smiled himself at the thought.
"She was." He leaned his head back and sighed. Then he tried to intercept Verik but missed. So he softly cupped his face and let his finger slide over Verik's lower lip. "Thank you." He murmured before leaning in kissing him gently. He lingered a moment savoring the taste. Before pulling away. But his breathing was noticeably accelerated. "I can also make a mean red wine. Just a little hobby of mine. Just check with me before you drink one for some are laced with some potions. Though I think it might be fun to see you in a state of drunkenness." Honou smirked as his hand slide to Verik's hips and tugged him closer.
Verik laughed. "Please. Wine is mother's milk to a soldier, I could drink you under a table," he boasted playfully, eyes glinting.
Then he quirked an eyebrow, shifting with a soft moan so Honou was settled more comfortably against him. "Potions, huh?" he muttered, eyes going slightly hazy. "What are earth are you planning to do with those?"
"Is that a challenge? If so I accept!" He laughed at Verik's playfulness. It was catchy.
"Well I am not in my line of business because I play fair Verik. Some potions are used to...err....shall I say enhance the effects the wine can have. At times I need to ensure some people or elves sleep soundly...A little wine in friendship and soon they are out and I am gone with the object or information I needed." His hands traveled from Verik's hips to his lower back. He kissed his shoulders and up the curve of his neck. "Sometime I am extremely deceitful... " He whispered now at Verik's ear, his own voice still playful but noticeably husky.
"I pretend interest if my victim is a lady and I have them cooing like a dove in no time. Meanwhile I never even kiss them but when they wake up in the compromised way they cannot fully remember if I did or didn't. I leave a note telling them how delicious our night was and though I had to leave I take with me the fondest of memories...So devious I am..." He finally made it up to Verik's lips. He kisses him hungrily and roughly pulls him in.
Verik growled, wrapping one arm tightly around his partner's hips and flipping them around so he now leaned over the elf, kissing him fiercely.
"If you're trying to make me jealous," he hissed out, smirking playfully but eyes burning with desire, "it is definitely working."
He wasn't entirely joking. Though he knew it wasn't logical, even hearing that much sent a jolt of possessiveness through him.
Oddly Honou liked the feeling of being handled in such a dominating way. Though by no means submissive it stirred something inside him and their kiss was by no means gentle. He arched himself into Verik.
"Me? Trying to make you jealous?" He mocked in an innocent tone. "Then you probably don't want to hear of the way Lady Rayas stroked her nails down my bare skin as she begged me to take her. How she kneeled for me...you don't want to hear that do you?" His voice was now purely devious. Wanting to elicit the savage from Verik.
He kept pulling away, just a little and then moved closer, stroking him with his body as his voice grew more urgent with lust. "Jealous? Mmmm, then telling you of my tryst with Lord Joc would not be something you'd care to know about? How he kept his wife from finding out. Yet couldn't get enough of my touch so he'd ride to my home and beg at my door for...err...entrance?" He chuckled but by now he was so overcome with his own need he would soon beg Verik.
Verik knew what he was doing, but the knowledge didn't stop the manipulation from working. He growled again, the sound reminiscent more of a noise Bane would make than anything human.
"Nails, huh?" he rumbled. "Like this?" He clawed at Honou's back, toeing the line of what could be considered gentle.
"Kneeled..." He left a trail of scorching kisses down Honou's chest and abdomen, going lower and lower- and then snapping back up to claim his mouth, smirking wickedly.
"But begging..." He tutted, eyes glinting. "I don't beg, Honou," he rasped out, hips bucking forward as he leaned down to kiss the junction of the elf's neck and shoulder.
Honou gasped as he clawed his way down and then kissed his way up. He even chuckled. His voice so hoarse now he didn't even recognize it. "No...begging...huh..." The blood was pounding and even though the water was cold he never felt so engorged before. He shuddered at Verik's kiss, his touch was like oil to a flame.
"Well it just so happens I don't mind begging. I've done my fair share of it for less than the pleasure this will bring. So tell me Verik..." His voice was thick with the raw emotion he felt. "Would it make you feel better if I begged? Make you forget the pleasures others found using my body if I begged you to let me use yours? Or do you plan on just taking it from me? Which will it be?" He groaned with need but knew he wouldn't able to last much longer. He craved Verik.
Verik gave a rasping chuckle, though he wasn't sure how much longer he could hold out with this game of theirs. "I would never take from you, Honou," he said softly.
And he meant it. He'd admit he was enjoying this savage playfulness, but he did mean it. Groaning, he bent to nip at Honou's neck, then moved to his ear, breathing hotly, "So tell me what you want..."
That was it. His ear was so sensitive with the energy from their teasing he was done. He roughly kissed Verik again and pulled back the look he gave was not to be mistaken. He turned and braced himself as he growled out. "Just take it. Take it."
He was burning with need that consumed him. He'd beg, pleaded, or do anything to feel Verik move with him. He leaned his head back and arched as he let Verik know without question exactly what he wanted.
He could remember ever wanting someone as much as he did Verik at this moment and the feel of him just sent him to another place. It was so pleasurable it surpassed anything he'd ever felt in his life before. He moaned at his touch...he felt whole with Verik.
Every kiss, every touch sent waves of fire through him. He moaned low in his throat, desperately trying to reach every inch of Honou's skin as they moved with each other.
"You...ah...gods, Honou...y-you..." He couldn't remember how to form words, all except one. He chanted the elf's name over and over as the tightness in his core built until it finally snapped.
"Honou," he breathed, collapsing next to him. "Oh gods, Honou." He wrapped his arms around him, tangling their legs together.
His breathing was heavy as he felt Verik's heat surround him. His arms, their legs everything tangled into one. He couldn't move for the pleasure he felt was so intense. It took him a bit to collect himself and make rational conversation.
"Verik...I...that..." He inhaled deeply. "That was by far the hottest...by all the gods...you are sexy!" He laughed and shifted to face Verik. "Something tells me I will be doing this again with you...and soon!" He flushed but it was hot! It was beautiful...sexy...fun...and HOT!
To know they could play and tease like that was so sexy. He took another look at Verik and chuckled again a bit embarrassed now from his wanton display. "That is if you enjoyed it too. I mean...I know I was being a bit...ahhh... not sure how to say what I mean but I think you know."
Verik laughed hoarsely. "Yeah, Honou. I think it's safe to say I enjoyed that," he rumbled, running his fingers through the elf's hair and his other hand up and down his back.
Coming down from the high of it, he flushed a bit as well. "I mean, uh...I don't usually do things like...that is, I've never...I don't want you to think..."
He gave up with an embarrassed groan, ducking his head to hide his face.
Honou laughed with him "Okay so let's just leave it at that. We liked it and more to come later." He laughed harder at Verik's discomfort for it matched his own.
Coming down a little but still chuckling a little he began to ask a few more questions of Verik. Some personal ones. "You don't have to answer me if you feel uncomfortable or you're not ready but where you ever with any women?" He didn't want to push but now that they were exchanging a bit more on themselves he wondered a little about what experiences Verik had; good, bad, all of them. For they made him the man he was.
Verik's face scrunched up. "I kissed a girl a few times when I was fifteen. I guess I thought...well, I'm not actually sure what I was thinking. Maybe that I should just give it a try." He winced. It wasn't his proudest memory.
"She, um- I think she really liked me. I felt so guilty about it I couldn't talk to her for almost two years." Then he gave a short laugh. "She sure showed me though- her name's Rina, she's my captain now. Takes every chance she can to tease me about that."
He looked at him curiously. "What about you, then? Besides fake seductions and whatnot?" He was still a little irked thinking about that, but he forced the irritation away.
"Oh does she now! Yes, she is one I must meet then. See what teasing and compare notes!" He barked with laughter at it. For experimenting is natural he'd thought. But the look when Verik told him said Verik wasn't happy with what he'd done at the time.
"Oh well...Me..." He thought over his past uh indirections. "Well first just so you know elves live longer but we take a long time to mature as well. But with that said I wasn't very picky in the beginning." He also made a face. "So yes I've been with a few females. Human included. But it always felt forced to me. Like it happened because like anything else you do it when it is needed. Like we eat when were hungry. I bedded who was available when the urge hit. But then I met another elf, Ari, he kissed me and at first I was confused because until that moment I never felt anything from a kiss. I'd always thought it was for the girl, you know." He stopped and looked at Verik. He'd tried to think if he told anyone else about Ari and he wasn't even sure he told Burok. He continued. "So there I was and he laughed at me. Asked if I ever kissed a man before, so I did what any young thief would. I lied. " He grimaced. "Well one thing led to another or I should say one kiss led to another, and before you know it we were in a room having sex. Later he said he could tell I'd never been with a man before. I never knew how to take that. But once I was with Ari anytime I was with another women I'd fantasy about him or another man I may have seen to finish the act. It was after a few times I just stopped being with them. It obviously wasn't what I wanted."
He stroked his face clueless that Verik felt any irritation. "I love the touch of your skin..." He added mid-sentence and a bit absently. "I was pretty much a male whore though I'd sleep with anyone. Not proud of that but it is the truth. Until I met Burok, he taught me to respect myself and my body and my mind. It wasn't easy but it sunk into this stone of a head I have." He looked over and let his hand fall into Verik's. "I hope this won't turn you off on me. I am a different elf since meeting Boruk. Even after he passed I never fell back into my old ways. Though I eventually did fulfill the need it was a lot more discriminant and for the right reasons." His hand tightened around Verik's for a moment.
Verik wasn't quite sure how to take this new information at first. He'd never thought of himself as particularly jealous or possessive before.
Looked like that was changing.
Still... "I've told you before," he said with a small smile, "I won't judge you on your past." Then he frowned a bit. "Though I have to say I wish you'd respected yourself a bit more. For your sake." He touched his cheek lightly. "You deserve more than that, Honou."
He hadn't realized he was tense. Until Verik spoke and he let out a breath of relief.
"I didn't think it for a long time. I hated the maker and everyone. I was a bitter young elf. I didn't understand nor did I know how to manifest my pain, my grief. Then I sank lower by selling my soul for petty thievery and all too soon parlaying that into assassins. But the more I did the more my hatred grew." Honou hesitated a moment. He looked at Verik he was shocked he was confiding him him so readily yet something told him Verik would understand in a way not many would. Verik was a different soul, not just because of their feelings, it was who Verik was.
"The more I did the more I hated myself. It was a vicious cycle. Soon I lost touch with everything. Sex, drinking, eating, forget friends I had none. For to me friends were liabilities. I think I was at my lowest point when I met Boruk. There was a job to do in the Hyoite and it fell into my hands. After that job word began to spread of my skill and ability to slip in and out almost unnoticed. The man I assassinated never even knew I entered. Boruk approached me and found a hateful but very lonely elf. Let's just say the best thing I did for myself was say yes to him. He gave me a whole new outlook for life. And had I not met and lost him I wouldn't now be here with you." Honou leaned in and kissed Verik softly.
Verik responded to the kiss, but pulled away more quickly than he would have liked. "I just..." he let out a heavy breath. "I just wish you didn't have to go through so much to end up here." He knew it was a pointless thing to say, it wasn't like either of them could change the past, but it was how he felt.
Then he murmured quietly, "Though, selfish as it may be- I am glad you ended up here."
"Me too." He gently touched Verik's hand. "And thanks for saying it. I know what you mean and let's just say it makes me feel closer to you letting all this out about myself."
He looked up and noticed the sun had shifted. Goodness the day was going by much faster than he wanted it too. "Ever notice how fast the time goes when you are with someone you care about?"
Honou moved and embrace Verik tenderly. Resting against the side of the river he pulled Verik so the man's back was resting on his chest. Honou dropped his head onto Verik shoulder and closed his eyes just letting the moment wash over them. Right at this moment there wasn't anywhere else Honou wished to be.
"Mm," he hummed in agreement, smiling and twisting his head to press a kiss to Honou's temple. His hand drifted down to the other man's leg, tracing light patterns on his thigh absently.
"I suppose we should actually set up camp soon," he murmured eventually. Then a thought struck him and he frowned. "Actually, I'm surprised Bane isn't back yet-"
No sooner had the words left his mouth when the dragon came screaming in for a landing in the river, swamping them both with the waves his bulk created.
Coughing and spluttering, Verik rolled his eyes heavenward. "Never mind."
He knew they should but damn it was nice to just hold Verik. When he spoke of Bane he lifted his head just as a wall of water crashed over them. He started to laugh and when Verik rolled his eyes Honou winked.
"I see someone likes to make a splash!" He grinned and splashed the dragon back! "HA, HA!!!" Honou knew he had NO chance at winning but the huge beast looked so pleased with himself he had to play back. After his splash he tried to scramble away.
Bane rumbled and scooped another wave of water at them, drenching them both. Verik rolled away, grinning. "Coward!" he accused laughingly as Honou made a hasty retreat.
Bane tossed back his head and gave a coughing laugh, then snaked his head out to block the elf's path, eyes glinting playfully.
He tried but the dragon blocked him and he heard Verik laughing behind him. What could he do?
So he turned and ran back into the water...before jumping in he shouted... "You want more I see!!! You have not conceded defeat!" His voice was filled with mirth and playful. He splashed as much water as he could at the huge beast while pretending to give him a funny grimacing look.
Verik joined the elf's attack, coming at Bane from the other side. The dragon looked back and forth between the two of them playfully, then bounded out of the water, sinking into a crouch and twitching his tail like a cat on the hunt.
Uh oh. Verik knew that look. Still laughing, he grabbed Honou around the waist with one arm and held onto a rocky outcropping from the bank with the other. "Brace yourself," he warned.
Bane jumped back into the water, fanning his wings forward to buffet them with a simultaneous blistering gale and swamping wave. Verik sputtered, still holding the rock for support, and exclaimed, "Alright, alright, you win!"
Chuckling, he looked at Honou. "You alright? He doesn't exactly understand was play nice means."
He was laughing so hard he didn't resist when Verik pulled them to the rock and the warning couldn't have come at a better moment. Honou joined in... "You win Bane...I concede to your power!" Still laughing and wiping water from his face.
"Never better Verik... Never better."
He bowed to Bane in a silly fashion and winked. "Now I will cover myself properly and and prepare our camp and you can regale us of the views from above." His clothing was strewn about and needed cleaning. But he had On my way! thing to cover up with.
"Closer to the rocks, you think?" He indicated for there set up.
"Yeah, looks good," Verik agreed, clambering out of the water, still grinning like an idiot. He gathered his clothes and dressed as quickly as he good, glad that they'd someone managed to avoid most of the soaking Bane had caused.
"Mind starting a fire?" he asked the dragon, indicating the pile of firewood with a jerk of his head. Bane nodded and spat fire, causing an instant, roaring blaze.
Honou rummaged through his pack and tied a cloth around his waist. "Now that is so much easier than a flint." He chuckled as he went back towards the water and scrubbed his clothing once satisfied they were clean enough he threw them over a rock close to the flames.
He pulled his bedroll and spread it out so they could sit. He looked up a Bane then at Verik, "You don't mind sleeping together again? It was restful..." He turned to Bane again, "I promise I'll be good too this time." But he smiled playfully.
Verik smiled. "Course I don't mind." Then he looked up at the dragon and arched his eyebrows. "And you can keep your opinions to yourself," he said.
Bane rumbled and shoved his nose into the man's back. Chuckling and scratching his scaly brow, Verik added, "Honestly I think he's just pleased I'm not alone. He's almost worse than Ilia sometimes."
This filled him with an immense amount of happiness. "It will be funny to see when Bane mets Fig, something tells me they will not be as close as you and I." He chuckled as he grabbed his journal and charcoal. Sitting down he shivered as the heat penetrated his body. It felt nice.
Honou wrote down the details from Verik's findings. He asked a question or two and wrote down Verik's reply. Looking up he smiled. "You know we still have some venison if you're hungry?"
He wanted to know what Bane had seen but there wasn't a rush at this point.
He shifted closer when Honou shivered, slipping his arm around his shoulder and tugging him against his side in an effort to warm him up. He was still mostly naked after all.
"I can imagine," he said, chuckling at the idea of Bane trying to befriend a raccoon. "And food sounds great. I think I worked up quite an appetite," he teased, smirking.
Behind them, Bane rolled his eyes and grumbled.
Honou enjoyed the embrace. "I should probably put my cape on but it seems like it would be awkward."
He chuckled again. He seemed to be doing that a lot lately. "Food! Yes perfect. It might appear I have as well!" He only laughed more at Bane's reaction. He got up and rummaged for the flanks they had left. He pierced the meat and placed it over the fire. "When we are home you will be treated to a real meal." He didn't even notice how he had said home and not my home or Verik's home, just home as if he saw them as being together.
He came back to Verik and sat closers to him. "I know he understands me but I don't understand him so to speak, can you find out what he saw?"
"Oh." Verik looked at the dragon, frowning. "You haven't been talking to him?"
Bane gave him a smug look.
"I swear, he's a massive, infuriating cat," Verik muttered, turning back to Honou. "Sorry about that. He's been playing around with you- if he puts a little effort into it he can speak telepathically. I can always hear him, but with everyone else he can either let you or not." Glowering at the dragon, he muttered, "Now quit being an ass."
I saw what looked like a mercenary group camped out in the pass a few miles east, Bane's low, gravelly voice echoed in both their minds. Seven of them. There may be a mage with them, I couldn't tell from so far away.
He lowered his head and huffed in Honou's direction, which Verik translated as the dragon's way of apologizing for messing around.
Honou minded himself between their exchange. He smirked a little though.
When the dragon spoke he wrote it down. This was interesting. "Thank you Bane." Something was going on with the goblins and this could be used to their advantage.
"I think we are striking at the perfect time! We should prepare for this, after we eat want to help me make a few darts? As for poison, I didn't really see anything along the way so I will have to keep my eyes open in the morning." He checked the venison and turned them.
You're welcome.
Verik rolled his eyes and groaned dramatically. "Great. Now that he's started talking to you he won't shut up. Hope you're ready for that."
Bane growled at him, but otherwise didn't retaliate.
"Sure. I've never made darts before, you'll have to teach me," he said, turning to Honou. The venison smelled amazing. Wow, he must have been hungrier than he thought.
"We need a few of those and you have a dagger? Not to worry I am sure I have an extra one." He had gestured to some of the thicker sticks when he was talking. "I prefer to make them, then get 'em from the bowyer."
He got up to put his journal away and the. picked up a few of the sticks. He pulled a dagger and brought the other one over as well. Placing the items between them he sat back down with a grin. "So I like them about six to ten inches, they're easier to handle, and I usually just widel the tip to a fine point. I then notch the back portion, this helps with trajectory." He picked up one the sticks and began.
But before he could really get in a grove the venison finished. "Looks like we can finally eat. I didn't realize how hungry I am."
Verik paused in his mimicry of Honou's carving to get them both some food. Absently he tossed a scrap of fattier meat in Bane's direction. The dragon caught it with a snap of massive jaws, a low thrumming sound rumbling in his chest, sort of reminiscent of a cat's purr.
"How do you plan to attack with these things?" he asked Honou, settling in to eat and nodding at the make-shift darts. "I mean, I'm assuming you have something more sophisticated in mind than running up and jabbing them into a goblin's neck."
For a minute he had an image of just what Verik said. It started with a chuckle and the more he thought about it the harder he laughed. Gasping out between gales of laughter. "Could...you...picture...it...me...running...like...a...crazed...elf...dart in hand...covered...in...blood..." He just shouted with laughter. It was great! No, better than great to be here like this with Verik. Laughing. This was what and how things should be.
When he sobered up and only a few errant chuckles burst out he began to explain. "I usually not even close to them. I'll throw them. I do aim for the neck, throat area, eyes, and places like that. I like to eliminate the scream factor. It is all about being stealth. I don't want them to know where the darts are coming from." He looked at Verik and smiled softly into those beautiful green eyes. "I only use them to if I am forced too. I know sounds crazy, but hear me out on this. We are going in to retrieve a shard, not assassinate the chieftain. So if there are many goblins falling to darts, swords, or arrows even their little minds will figure out someone is in their home. The less death toll the better chances we have of going undetected. Goblins aren't very smart but in their numbers they can quickly overcome us. The less commotion we make the better chance of success we have."
He began to eat and then remembered he had a treat in his satchel. He stood giving Verik the one minute signal. He shivered from his state of undress but quickly walked to his sack. He rummaged and brought out a small vial like bottle. He swallowed. "I forgot I brought this. Wine! Shall we?" He held it out for Verik.
He couldn't help laughing a little as well- the elf's mirth was contagious. When Honou sobered and began further explaining his plan, Verik nodded along, listening intently. It made sense. He may fight like a bit of a berserker, but he could appreciate the need for stealth in certain situations.
Then Honou brought out the wine, and he chuckled, reaching out to accepted it. "Are you propositioning me, sir?" he teased, eye twinkling. "I seem to recall you saying something about your wine not always being exactly trustworthy."
He couldn't help being a little concerned at the shiver, though. He shifted closer, trying to share his body heat.
"Would I proposition such a fine upstanding solider? Me?" He grinned. "Would it be better if I drank from it first? To prove I have no ulterior motives..." With a raised eyebrow and a mischievous grin he continued. "Yet...none just yet..."
"Thanks." He murmured when Verik came closer.
Feeling his warmth was comforting. "I guess now from the sound of it all. We should enter through that one entrance which is unguarded. We can follow it through and adjust our direction as needed." He ate as he spoke and shared the wine. Which had a nice warming sensation. "From all appearances it shouldn't be too far off from that spot. We can blend with slaves we come across. Some may even aide us." He made a tight face at the mention of slaves. "Remember, we can't save them. I'd like too but that isn't what this is about. I don't have the resources it would take. As much as I hate it, I have to watch out for you and I." He reached for Verik's hand. Just needed the comfort it provided.
Verik squeezed his hand, pursing his lips. "I know," he murmured, leaning over to press a quick kiss to his temple. He took a rather larger than was appropriate swallow of wine.
"Something about me," he said abruptly. "Ilia and I- we were a few seconds away from the slave markets when I joined the military. I know you hate it...but it really did save me, Honou. Not just me, my sister." He gave a heavy sigh, dropping his head onto the other man's shoulder.
Then he straightened up again, clearing his throat. "So the plan is, get in, get out, draw as little attention as possible. Bane can wait outside for us. If those mercenaries decide to come after us, they'll have to deal with him."
He nodded then spoke up. "Yes, I hope we are in and out." But his mind was on what he had said of his sister and himself. He didn't want to press but this was an important part of who he was. As much as he loathed the military he had to admit it helped shape Verik into the man he was...so was he holding a grudge? Maybe but this was something he hoped to learn more about.
Speaking in a lower tone. "I believe you mentioned it, yes. Verik, were you given a choice by them?" He shook his head in a negative connotation. "That isn't what I meant. I am not sure how to ask this. But, did they come to you or you to them?"
A little confused by the question, Verik replied, "Sort of...both, I guess. I told you my father was a rider, so I knew his captain. After our parents died, he offered me a position in training. He also said he could try to get me a job as an apprentice somewhere, but- I wanted to be a soldier. I wanted to be like my dad, I guess."
He shrugged, a little embarrassed that he'd admitted that.
He nodded as he spoke how he had told Honou of his father and the elf remembered it. He couldn't help but smile. Hadn't he wanted the same thing?
"I know before I lost my dad I wanted to be a smithy. I used to tinker at his feet and every new commission he received I would watch him create it. He liked to use a journal, guess that is why I do." He shrugged too and then he laid down. He pushed the darts to the side and placed his head in Verik's lap as he laid on his back.
"I don't know much about the whole process though like he did. But, than again my dad probably didn't know how to sneak into goblin dens like his son." He winked up at Verik. "Wait till you see inside it tomorrow. They are bit on the smelly side but that is a byproduct of their skin. I mean I wouldn't call them dirty but they are gross." He gave on of the shudders you give when you cannot stand the thought of something.
Verik smiled slightly as Honou spoke of his father. He was a little surprised, but pleasantly so, when he laid his head in his lap. He shifted, letting his arm lay across the elf's chest.
He wrinkled his nose at the description of the goblin's den. "Wonderful," he muttered. Bane snorted in agreement.
Dragons have a very astute sense of smell, he grumbled, curling himself in a crescent around them and the fire.
Honou chuckled. He could help it. Between Bane and Verik they kept a smile on his face, and it was like nothing he'd thought he would have again.
It struck him as Bane curled around them and he laying in Verik's lap, this wasn't so very different then when he was a boy and his mother would read to them and his dad made himself comfortable near her. He'd forgotten those memories.
Verik's soft touch on his chest. This was way more than will work it out. His breathing began to increase as he came to terms with the strength of his feelings for Verik. It was scary to think how much he cared for the man but he did. What did Burok always say, if it is worth it then fight for it, make it happen. Yes, Verik was worth fighting for.
His breathing relaxed as he closed his eyes. "Mmm, I know it isn't late but it feels so nice right now. I can almost forget why we are here."
Smiling, Verik bent to place a soft kiss on his lips. "I know what you mean," he murmured, letting their foreheads rest together.
Bane grumbled at them, rolling his eyes, but Verik ignored him. Letting his hand trail gently over Honou's skin, he let out a contented sigh and leaned back. "Do you like kids?" he asked suddenly. Then, realizing how that must sound, he flushed and hurried to add, "I mean, Ilia's- I was thinking you should meet them."
He smiled as Bane grumbled. Yes, this was absolutely perfect.
The feel of Verik's touch made his skin tingle. He loved it. In fact was kind of lost in the moment so when Verik asked his question all of Honou's guards were down. He answered in a relaxed and almost lazy way. "Mmmm, I do. I would like to meet them." He smiled, tongue in cheek. "Oh, here I was thinking you were asking me if we could start a family." He shrugged. "I am sure there are a few kids like ourselves that could use a good home. But, I'm will to wait until you're ready." He held his chuckle in.
But deep down he knew he did want those things and he wanted it with Verik.
Verik's blush deepened and he grumbled a little, more on principle than anything else. He couldn't deny the idea had appeal though. Maybe someday...
"I think you'll like Ilia," he said, trying to distract himself. "I know she'll like you. You both seem to share a love of torturing me." Be bent to kiss his cheek, mock frowning.
"Torture? Me? Why Verik whatever do you mean?" He reached up and caressed Verik's cheek. "No changing the subject though." His smile was light as he teased the Corporal. "You don't get off that easy." Then he laughed.
"Let me get this right... Verik, the strong military corporal gets tortured by his sister and lover. Now that will set the tongues wagging at the taverns." He liked how Verik's skin would blush softly something he would have never guessed. The man who walked through that tavern door the other day Honou foolishly lumped in with the lot of 'em. He was counting his lucky stars now.
"You will say nothing," he growled playfully, wrapping his arms around Honou and pulling him more completely into his lap, trapping him against his chest.
Then his expression softened slightly. "Lover, huh?" he said softly, lips quirking up on one corner. "You know, I've never actually had someone I thought I could really call that before." He kissed him softly, murmuring, "I think I like it."
"Good you better." Honou didn't hold any resistance.
Honou continued to lightly caress him. The taste of wine still clung to his lips and it was blissful. He tried to deepen the kiss but in the positon he was in did not allow him too.
"Come lay down." He urged Verik.
He looked into those magnificent green eyes with his own dark blue ones and for a moment it was like nothing else was around them. He felt as if he could hear and feel Verik's heart beating. It was like nothing he'd ever felt before and he was losing himself to the military man. Yes this would come to an end once the obtained the shard tomorrow but then they had other things to look forward to. So it wasn't the end.
"You're still mostly naked," Verik pointed out, chuckling. "Shouldn't you get some more clothes on?" He laid down as he spoke anyway, pulling the elf with him.
Loathed though he was to suggest actually putting clothes on the other man, he knew it would get pretty chilly with the wind from the river at night. He wrapped his arms around Honou little more securely, hoping to keep him warm.
"Mmm, seems I am. I would, but mine are still damp." He didn't check them so he had no way of knowing if they were or not but this was a good a reason as any to remain with a little clothes on as possible.
"I guess we'll need to conserve body heat again like last night. Where's your bed roll?" Was it an excuse, yes. Did he care, no not at all. With Verik wrapped around him he did think he'd needed to worry. And he wasn't going to mention his cloak!
Verik chuckled and fetched his bedroll, spreading it out and laying down on it before taking Honou in his arms again. "Any warmer?" he asked queitly, bringing his mouth close to the elf's ear and running his hand down his back.
"Mmmm, yeah."
He was. Verik was exactly What he needed in his life. The warmth of Verik, the fire, and the rumble of Bane. All music to his ears.
Feeling Verik's hand made him sigh. "I swear you do things to me that...well it's scary but I like it. I truly never thought this would happen to me again." He reached behind him and caressed Verik's side.
"I never thought it would happen to me at all," Verik admitted. He shifted so he lay directly behind Honou, wrapping his arms around him to pull his back against his chest. "I guess I always assumed I'd be one of those soldiers who never had a real life, would end up dying young or something."
He shrugged. "Well, relatively young, anyway. I'm not quite sure what the cutoff is." He kissed the back of Honou's neck, letting one hand trail over his ribs to rest at his hip.
"Well how old are you?" His voice was getting sleepy but he leaned into Verik and with a smile asked, "cause I just wanna know how much time I have with you." He chuckled and then yawned.
"Why the heck am I so tired? You'd think I'd snuck into a goblin den of something." He couldn't help but tease Verik. "Does Bane get to tease you too? I think he should be allowed."
His hand softly covered Verik's. "I should probably go to sleep...hmmm...or we could talk more. I like to talk. At least to you...not to many others. What does your sister look like? You? Green eyes?"
"Whoa, slow down," Verik chuckled. Absently tracing patterns on the other man's skin, he tried to answer as many of his questions as he could. "I'm twenty-eight, and if I have any say in it you'll be stuck with me for a good long while." He dipped his head to kiss his cheek, then continued.
"Bane's been with since I was twelve, and he's an ass, so yes he teases me." The dragon grumbled at him sleepily but otherwise made no protest. "And Ilia...yeah, she looks like me. She's four years older, but people used to think we were twins when we were younger. Still do, sometimes."
"I was only asking your age to determine if you would die young." He grinned wickedly. "But you need not worry as your way past that now." His voice was full of mirth even though he was half asleep.
"Ilia has your green eyes too? Lovely. What of your niece? The one who wants to be a dragon rider. Forgive me but I do not remember her name."
He scooted closer to him. Eyes half closed and drifting in and out. "This is nice Verik."
"Oi!" Verik slapped at his hip playfully, laughing. "Watch it, Mister Over-Two-Hundred." He hummed contentedly in the back of his throat as he shifted closer though, agreeing, "It is nice."
He resumed his pattern-tracing over Honou's skin. "Tali? She's got blue eyes, somehow, I think from her dad's side. Other than that she looks like her mother- so I guess she looks like me." He yawned, resting his head on Honou's shoulder. "Mika, her little sister, looks just like my brother-in-law. Dark chestnut sort of hair, big brown eyes, she's a little sweetheart. Then there's the youngest, Verrin." He yawned again. "He's the only one who ended up with green eyes, but I think he mostly looks like Joran..."
He chuckled but it was a lazy one. He was truly at peace.
Though he didn't comment much he had listened and liked the way Verik's voice softened when he spoke of his family. Would it really be too much to think that they would have that?
He fell asleep with to sounds of Bane and Verik's rhythmic breathing.
Verik hadn't even realized he'd fallen asleep until Bane gently nudged him awake very early the next morning. He groaned and sent to bat the dragon away, then realized he couldn't because his arms were locked around Honou.
It was so comfortable, so right, that even though he knew they needed to get up he couldn't make himself do it. "Five more minutes," he mumbled, burying his face against the elf's shoulder and tightening his arms around him.
Honou's conscious heard the murmurs but he was wrapped in this wonderful cocoon and he silently agree with Verik, five more minutes.
His eyes half open he whispered, "Morning." Then he shifted a little trying to turn. Once he was realigned he smiled softly and began to trace the outline of Verik's face, neck, and chest.
"How about another five more?" He draped his leg over Verik's and pulled him in for a soft kiss.
"Mhm..." Verik hummed in agreement, shivering slightly at the light touches and leaning into the kiss.
"You know, I could get used to waking up like this," he murmured as he pulled away slowly, smiling.
Behind them, Bane snorted and rolled his eyes heavenward. I think I'm going to be sick.
Honou nodded in agreement. This mission could be over fast enough now for him. Once they finished hopefully Verik could take his leave and they could spend sometime figuring out how to blend their lives.
"Yeah, me too Verik."
Upon hearing Bane he snorted with laughter. Sitting up a bit on his elbow, his hair tousled from sleep, and a serene smile he addressed the dragon. "We sicken you do we... Well just wait young man! You will not escape my sickening display of affection either." He winked at the great beast playfully. "I did not forget yesterday...just bidding my time..." He laughed again. It was a nice way to start ones day.
Bane rumbled a chuckle and rolled his eyes, nudging them again to get them moving. "Alright, alright," Verik laughed, getting to his feet and stretching.
He kicked some dirt onto the embers of the fire and set about packing up camp, stealing glances at Honou as he did so. Smiling crookedly, he couldn't resist leaning over to press a quick kiss to his lips. "I swear," he muttered, "I'm never going to do anything productive again with you around."
Honou followed suit and stretched. His clothing fully dried he dressed and kept smiling back as Verik would look over from time to time.
"I guess that leaves me to do all work... just so long as I get to keep you around it is a fair trade." He kissed him back.
They worked well together. Not that there was much to clean up. He collected the darts they made. He hesitated a moment and shook his head. "I don't think I'll need to search for any herbs. I don't want any reaction from the toxins to escape. Let's set up now so Bane can take our stuff. We will head off by foot." As he spoke he secured his daggers, the darts, and swords. For this mission he was putting them on his back verses his hips, slower to draw but made moving easier.
Verik nodded, following the elf's lead. Slinging bow and quiver over his shoulder, he glanced back and forth between his ax and sword, thinking he should only take one, for maneuverability's sake.
He settled on the ax, strapping it across his back. "Here, old boy," he grunted, slinging his pack over Bane's back and reaching for Honou's to do the same. "Watch out for yourself," he told the dragon, patting his neck.
He wasn't really worried, but Bane was family to him. It was sort of his obligation. The dragon crooned softly and nuzzled his chest in response and he smiled, scratching the ridge above his brow.
Honou gave them their time.
He himself was now trying to get his mindset into the task at hand. He took a few calming breaths, said a silent prey to the maker, and readied himself.
His journal tucked into his boot. His armor festooned with his tools of the trade so to speak. After a few moments he walked to Bane and stroked the beast's neck. "I promise I will bring him back to you my friend." His voice was level and strong.
"Okay, ready Verik?" He asked as he began to head in the direction of the opening.
You'd better, Bane responded, nuzzling the elf's shoulder gently. Springing into the air, he bade them farewell with, Look out for each other.
Verik's lips twitched. No problems there. He turned and set off after Honou, clapping a hand to his shoulder briefly as he fell into step beside him.
With the touch of Verik's hand he smiled at him. For a moment he worried briefly but expelled it. They were a good team, something just told him they were.
"I'm not sure you are gonna like this part but..." He made a face, "...we will need to cover ourselves with some dirt, mud, whatever. Disguise our scent. I know they have slaves but it doesn't hurt in case we run into an area without any around. Best for precaution." He pulled gently at Verik's arm and kneeling down he began to rub some of the dirt through his hair, on his face, neck, over his armor. He pulled some brush and did the same. "Nothing like getting dirty huh!" He smiled trying o lighten the mood. Not that it was heavy but like himself he was sure Verik was running through scenarios in his head.
Once satisfied both were sufficiently covered they moved forward.
They were approaching the opening and as they did Honou signaled for Verik to get down low as they used the edge of the forest for cover. Pulling his journal from his boot he double checked their course. Eventually he came to a stop and using his hands he pointed to the opening. He then whispered, "Over there is where we will enter. Let's just wait to be sure it is safe, then I'll head over and make sure it is clear for you to join me." He looked into Verik eyes and softly squeezed his hand.
Verik nodded, squeezing his hand in return. "Be careful," he rumbled.
He had faith in his partner's abilities, but he couldn't loosen the knot of worry in his chest.
((OOC: Hope you don't think it is too OP but no worries Verik will get his turn to kill a few LOL))
Honou waited a few minutes his ears twitching. Feeling it safe he slinked across the path and pressed his slander form to the rock. He inched closer to the opening and slipped two darts from his side holder. He sniffed and slowly entered the cavern. He could smell the lingering scent of the goblin so he quickly took cover behind some outcropped boulders. This was odd only two goblins and one was half asleep.
He kept his breathing low. Something was going on he just felt it. Too many odd coincidences.
Honou decided to take the two now before Verik arrived. It would allow his partner to enter easier. He slowly approached the two as he did he tucked the darts away, best to use the dagger and his hands. Before the two lazy goblins knew what was happening Honou twisted the neck of one while his dagger flew through the air and landed in the others neck, cutting of its screech. Walking over he retrieved his dagger and searched the two bodies. A nice vial of something, he'd hold on to that. Their weapons were not of high crafting but for use in here he'd put them aside, the daggers, oh yeah, that was being kept. Once done he stood and made ready for Verik.
He picked the bodies up and brought them over to the rock outcropping and dropped them behind it. Honou exited and signaled for Verik to join him. He slipped back inside his ears ever listening for any approaching goblins.
((OOC: totally fine!))
Once he got the signal Verik entered the cave in a flash.
"You alright?" he asked immediately, keeping his voice low. Honou didn't seem to be hurt- gods he hadn't realized how stressful this was actually going to be. He took a breath to calm himself, forcing his mind into soldier-mode.
Honou winked. "What? You doubt my prowess?" He also kept his voice low but it had a little teasing to it.
"So, there were two, I disposed of them behind the boulders over there and here is their weapons. Not of high craft but if we wanted to use them we could take 'em along." He shurrged as he continued in a whisper. "I also took a vial, see." He pulled it out and uncorked it. Taking a cautious sniff he replace the cork and offered it over to Veril if he wanted to check it out. "Also, a dagger. Do you need one? I can tell this was made by either a human of elf."
He continued to listen for any noise or indication of noise headed their way. He looked at Verik and then moved towards the tunnel, it was dark indicating no foot traffic. He looked and nodded at the torch on the wall. Returning to Verik's side he added, "We should take the torch. It is dark, good thing is no foot traffic."
Verik accepted the dagger warily; he'd never actually used one before, not in real combat, but it couldn't hurt to have it. Just in case.
He took the torch. "I'm following your lead here," he said, voice quiet but lighthearted. He often found a key aspect of surviving combat was believing you would. Perhaps this wasn't the most dangerous mission he'd ever been on, but it never hurt to stay on your guard.
Honou nodded and put his hand on Verik's shoulder, squeezing it softly.
The tunnel was dark but with the light of the torch made traveling a bit easier. They would need to keep it quiet, yet still move quickly. From the map it indicated that the shard would be in the northern portion. To his estimate this is the way they were heading.
Ears twitching they silently made their way along uninterrupted. That is until the mouth of the tunnel opened wide. There was the recognizable chatter of goblins. Honou looked at Verik and indicated for him to douse the torch. When they got to the mouth and peered around it, there was a group of them about six total and they looked to be dragging a sack filled with ordinate candelabras. What was going on was all Honou could think.
He looked back at Verik and whispered, "Shall we follow them?"
Verik smothered the torch at Honou's signal and crept up with him to the mouth of the cave, eyes straining against the darkness.
He nodded slowly at the question, loathe to even voice the idea but knowing that tactically it made sense. "Should one of us fail them while the other goes on?" He'd probably be the one following the goblins, in that case. Honou seemed to be more adept at what they were doing.
That didn't mean he liked the idea of splitting up any better.
Honou hadn't thought of that? Should they split?
He went to say something but two of the last goblins stopped and began to sniff the air. Their chitter became agitated as they now all came to a stop abandoning the sack. Honou pulled his dagger out and looked at Verik.
The goblins began to come their way. He gave a nod to Verik; he felt comfortable knowing they could take six. He had a dagger which once thrown would leave five. Verik seemed more than capable of finishing them off with a swing of his ax. The only thing was to do it and fast so not to draw attention.
The goblins were breathing heavy so they could tell it would be any moment their presences will be known. It was just a matter of timing.
Well. Seemed that decision had been made for them.
Verik nodded in turn to Honou, drawing his ax and sinking into a crouch. They were coming closer...closer...
He sprang up silently and swung, feeling the blade of the ax meet resistance as he took out two of them at once.
Honou flung the dagger hitting his target. Now three left.
With the suddenness of Verik's strike and Honou's dagger the goblins left hadn't time to really call for reinforcements. The rest shouldn't be too difficult.
The three came charging two at Verik and one towards Honou. Time for the sword he thought as Honou pulled it from his back.
Verik dodged a goblin's clumsy attack and swung his ax again, taking its head off. He kicked out and caught the other in the chest, sending it slamming back against the rock where it slumped, unconscious. He finished it off with another swing.
He whirled to see how Honou was faring, blood and adrenaline racing from combat.
Honou's charged back with his sword drawn. He succeed in cutting the goblin's midsection. He immediately turned and smiled as he saw Verik's eyes. They were practically glowing with the remnants of the battle.
He sighed seeing no physical damage. He didn't anticipate how stressful it feeling for Verik would make him.
"I guess it is pointless to move the bodies?" With all the blood that he did not want to borther cleaning ue he only walked over to retrieve his dagger and wiped it off." He stood and went back to Verik's side. "Let's stay together?" He walked over to the sack a good score for a theft! But too heavy to lug around.
He took one of the torches the goblins had been carrying that still had flame and headed further down the tunnel.
Verik nodded. "Yeah, I'm not letting you out of my sight," he muttered as he followed after Honou, wiping blood off the blade of his ax.
There was no chance of them splitting up now. Even that small altercation had been stressful enough, he might actually make a stupid mistake and get himself seriously hurt if he went off on his own and was too busy worrying about the elf to pay attention.
"Good, let's get ourselves a shard." He winked.
They edged along and all the while Honou could not believe how empty it was. Though he was glad for it he just didn't expect it.
The cavern was quite large. There were three quadrants a working area where the slaves mined. A spacious open arena type one and last for lack of a better term the goblins living area. Usually tunnels would be bustling with activity. Yet as they moved closer to the arena area there were a few ledges which afford them a view of below.
The sight that beheld them was a massive amount of activity. Goblins preparing for a fest and it appeared the very thing they came to retrieve was on a stage of sorts being guarded. It appeared the goblins had found it and worshiped it like a god. They made an ordinate stand and it looked as if the shard was glowing, a fait light could be seen from it. Which every time a goblin was close to it made the squeal with delight.
Honou's eyes couldn't believe the sight before him... "Now what!" Without realizing he'd spoken aloud until the words were out he looked at Verik.
Verik was just as confused as his partner. But he was nothing is not adaptable.
"We need to clear them out of here," he muttered, thinking quickly. "Empty the cave so we can grab the shard and split. Some kind of distraction..."
The vague beginnings of an idea struck him and he arched an eyebrow, looking at Honou questioningly. "Bane? A dragon pounding down your front door is bound to get anyone's attention."
Honou looked back raising his eyebrows with a smile.
Whispering to Verik his agreement. "Let's get out of here regroup with Bane."
He began to think about the idea. This could work. Bane goes to the main entrance and they sneak in, they know the way. This was a great idea. He looked back at Verik and nudged him. Just a quick soft bump of affection. Even though they were headed out he still dind't want to run into any of the critters if they could help it.
Verik grinned a bit, sort of pleased with himself if he was being honest. He followed Honou warily though, alert for any approaching goblins.
As they made their way out, he reached for Bane's mind with his. While he had never quite fully understood the technicalities of it, it seemed that though Bane could speak to anyone he wanted telepathically, Verik was the only one who could reach out to him in turn.
Change of plans, meet us a little ways off from the back entrance. He felt the dragon's acknowledgement and murmured to Honou, "He'll be waiting for us."
How did he know? Honou looked at Verik questioningly. "Uh, how does he know and how do you know where to meet him?"
He knew a little about dragons not enough to understand the bond between dragon and rider. Though he asked they didn't stop or slow their pace.
"It's sorta complicated," Verik muttered. "You know how when he talks to you it's like its in your head, not your ears? Well, I can do the same thing to him, and over long distances if I put some effort into it. As far as I know I'm the only one who can, even though he can talk to whoever he pleases-"
Scurrying footsteps. His eyes widened slightly. Without a sound, he grabbed Honou's shoulder and shoved him into a shallow crevice in the rock, pressing as close as he could and hiding them from sight as a few goblins moved past. He didn't even dare to breathe.
Honou was impressed with this. Maybe he should do some research and learn more about Verik's and Bane's connection. It was interesting and he was sure there was a few tomes on it, possibly the old Mage Holi would have a few. He'd have too......
Mid thought he was interrupted by Verik's garb and shove as he pressed against him in some rock crevice. At first he was going to laugh and tell him if he wanted a kiss he only needed to ask. But it was cut off by the sudden realization of the goblins passing had him not utter a word and he leaned into Verik.
Verik let out a breath as he heard the footsteps die away, moving away from Honou just far enough to peer searchingly into the darkness.
"Looks like they're gone," he whispered, turning back to the elf. He then realized how close they were pressed together and what an inappropriate time it was for his body to be reacting to it the way it was. He stepped back sharply, muttering, "Sorry about that."
"I'm not, get back." He pulled Verik back and pressed his lips to his. "You were great in there." He stroked his hand to his face bring his head to Verik's. "So are you still sorry?"
It felt good to touch Verik. He hadn't realized how stressful it was going to be having Verik in there with him. He knew his job and was confident in Verik's skill but by the Gods he hated the thought of anything happening to him. Yet he was a skilled dragonrider so really it was unfounded his worry, yet he couldn't help it. Holding him just felt better.
He smirked a bit. "Less so," he admitted, pressing a quick kiss to his lips before pulling them both away from the rock and moving back down the tunnel. He let his hand linger on Honou's longer than was strictly necessary, brushing his thumb over his skin before he let go.
The sooner they got out of here the better.
"I know we need to get out of here." He let Verik led him back out. He actually couldn't wait to tell him about his idea. Bane would prove to be a valuable asset to them.
They headed back to the opening and checked to be sure it was clear to leave.
Once they crossed the path and made it into the forest Honou finally began to relax. This was turning out to be a stressful mission. "I'll follow you to Bane?" He asked as the set to get moving now that they were out of the goblin den.
Verik nodded and led them a little further into the trees. He knew Bane was coming a few seconds before the dragon circled once overhead and came in to land. The dragon stalked forward, sniffing them both in concern and snorting when he found them unharmed.
What happened? He looked back and forth between them.
"Well, the goblins have the shard," Verik started to explain. "It looked like they were...worshiping it or something." He glanced at Honou with a raised eyebrow for confirmation. Maybe the one who was more familiar with the little pests would be able to shed some light on the situation.
Honou followed and was relieved upon seeing Bane.
"Verik is correct, I too believe they are worshiping the damn thing. They are odd critters if they take a notion something is powerful it will be a prized possession. With these nobles looking for it you can bet that the shard is powerful, or why pay gold to retrieve it, right."
"It appears they seemed to have gathered for a fest centered around this shard. We came across their arena, in which they were preparing for something big to happen. The guest of honor looked to be the shard.
"We can't..." He gestured to Verik and himself. "...take on a whole cavern of goblins we'd be overwhelmed by their sheer numbers. So Verik came up with an idea...." He trailed off and looked at his partner. Thinking that he should be the one to tell him of his idea.
"We need a distraction," Verik took over. "If you can draw them away- attack the front entrance or something-"
Bane snorted and jerked his head into a nod. He got the idea. Roar, claw at the rocks, rain fire from the sky, that sort of thing?
Verik grinned. "Exactly. Then Honou and I can get in, get the shard, and get out. I'll signal you when we're in the clear." He turned to the elf, waiting for a confirmation, or if he had any other ideas.
Honou grinned! "Exactly! They would come running to defend their home and probably leave the shard with only a handful of guards."
He noted the sun was beginning to set they'd been in there a while. "Shall we go now or wait for the sun to rise once more?"
There were advantages for both options and he would be up for either.
Verik shrugged. "An attacking dragon at sunset has a certain dramatic flare," he said with a crooked smile. "But you know goblins better than I do- do we have a better chance in daylight?"
Honou smiled. "I'd say that is just about right! So by the looks of it not too much longer." He looked at Bane and then Verik. "How about we go back in and get to the arena. Then you contact Bane?" He stopped, Honou had been looking towards the area he and Verik just came by now but at his idea he wasn't sure if that could be done so he looked back at Verik questioningly.
"Can you both communicate from that far inside?"
Bane gave the distance a calculating look then snorted, nodding. Verik shrugged. "Shouldn't be too difficult," he said, nodding to himself. The dragon dipped his head in agreement and took to the air. He'd circle above until he got his rider's signal.
Verik gave a quick grin, throwing the elf a mock salute and saying, "Lead the way, Sir."
Honou grinded and winked. He did a sort of skip and lead the way to the cavern opening. They weren't very far so they made it back in no time at all. Once at their destination he indicated for Verik to stay close by. He wasn't too concerned of guards but still entered with caution.
It didn't take them long to retrace their steps. Still they walked slow and steady. Both ready should they happen upon any goblins.
The turn to the arena was just up ahead when Honou stopped. In a low whisper, "once you reach him well wait for the bulk of the critters to leave. Those who stay behind to guard the shard...well... I'll take one with my dagger and then we crash land so to speak? How does that sound?"
Verik grinned viciously. "Got it." He closed his eyes and reached out to Bane.
Moments later, the very stones seemed to shake with the echoing roar outside. He winced and glanced at Honou. "That enough of a distraction you think?"
Honou grinned and shook his head yes. Lowering his voice but not actually whispering he gestured to the commotion down below. The goblins were running towards the exit. Only six remained at the shard.
He didn't wait more than he needed to once the last goblin left his dagger flew into the head of one of the goblins standing guard. He looked at Verik... "NOW!"
Without waiting he looked around for something to use as a few arrows were hurled their way. He tried to doge them but one struck his lower leg and he grunted. No time for that as he worked his way down the side. Another landing way too close as another grazed his arm. He jumped and hit the ground. His leg with the arrow pulsated with pain. Damn! Poison! He grimaced and just pulled his sword. Into the frenzy he went. He could hear Verik and he knew he wasn't alone.
At Honou's signal Verik leaped into the fray, ax swinging in a silver blur. An arrow grazed his cheek and he winced, but he quickly ended the offending archer.
Two more goblins swiftly fell under his blade and he whirled to see how the elf was faring. His eyes immediately fell on the arrow in his leg and he cursed under his breath, darting forward to swing at another of the attacking goblins.
The little bastard jumped away, chittering, and Verik pressed the knife Honou had given him into the elf's hand. "Stay back and throw this. I can handle the rest."
Honou felt like he was going to retch. His stomach tightened and beads of sweat formed on his upper lip. He nodded and in a slightly horse voice he said Thanks. Thinking he should have taken out the archer!
He watched as Verik took care of the goblins. He could still feel Bane's roars rumbling through the cavern as some rocks began to fall. He looked up and noticed the rough wooden structure was shaking with the vibrations. He noticed one little bastard coming around with a dart pole and he instinctively threw the knife Verik gave him. Hitting his mark. But he noticed his had was shaking.
"Grab the shard... He began to cast a frost spell and closed the tunnel entrance he goblins had left from. Next he created a sort of bridge so they could climb back up from where they came. He just needed to hold it together until they got out. He was sweating a bit more now. He'd need shay berries to expel the poison.
Verik snatched the shard and rushed back to Honou's side, looping his arm around his waist to take his weight. "Come on, we've gotta move."
He didn't like the way the elf was breathing heavily, or the color his skin had turned. "Can you make it out?" he asked, fighting to keep the panic from his voice as he started dragging them up the icy bridge. "Nice trick by the way," he added, trying to coax out a smile.
Honou smiled grimly as he watched Verik take the shard. It was also a relief to feel his arm encircle his waist. "Yeah...lead." He clenched his teeth and leaned on Verik.
"Yeah, just keep moving I'll tag along." He hated leaning on Verik but he needed to. Damn goblin! "Damnit! I should have noticed the goblin archer...shit your cheek too!" He could see where the arrow graze Verik and he cursed his haste he should have scoped the area and hit the archer!
When he realized what Verik said he chuckled shallowly from the pain. "Thanks, I'll teach you how. It's easy." He tried to grin but it was tight and he was beginning to shake. His theft chattered. He stammered "sorry!"
"Shit!" Verik paused at the top of the bridge, lowering the elf to the floor. He ripped the fabric of his pants to look at the wound. "Hold on, this is gonna hurt," he warned, then grabbed the arrow by the shaft and yanked it out.
He immediately placed his hand over the wound, trying to stop the flow of blood. "Honou? Talk to me, ok? Stay with me." If he lost consciousness Verik wasn't sure he could get them both out of the caverns.
He didn't even notice the flesh under his hand begin to stitch itself back back together as he clutched the sharp in his other hand.
At those famous last words Honou gripped the dirt and clenched his teeth even more. "Yeah..." It was more of a grunt then a word...then he felt an intense hot flash of searing pain. Verik pulled the poison tip from his lower leg and he could feel the burn of the serrated arrow being removed.
Honou's eyes rolled back as his breathing was coming in short painful gasps. A small grunt. When Verik's voice penetrated his painful haze. He didn't notice the healing either. Just Verik's voice which he attributed to why the pain seemed to almost vanish.
"I'm here...I'm here Verik. By the Gods thank you. It feels...well the pain is almost subsided. Damn that hurt." He gave a nervous chuckle and went to get up. "We better keep going, just tie that on and I think I'll be okay to get moving." He gave a long exhale. By the Gods he was beginning to feel better just having that damn arrow out. He still had no idea what was going on.
Verik let out a relieved breath. "Yeah, hold on." He tore a strip of cloth off his tunic and made to tie the wound up.
Then he froze. "Uh, Honou, you didn't tell me you could heal..." He pulled the elf to his feet, beginning to move them both back down the tunnel.
"What? No..." He stammered. "I can't...what...wow." He blinked and stood gingerly on the leg but Verik wasn't kidding. It didn't hurt.
"We'll figure it out later let's get out of here!" He went to follow Verik, "Thanks Verik." He reached out and touched Verik's shoulder as he hurried to follow. He was eager to escape this place.
"No need to be quiet anymore! Let's run!" He nudged Verik. Not even caring if they ran into a pack of the little critters.
Verik nodded and took off running. His mind was whirling with confusion but he pushed it away. They didn't have time.
He could see the light at the end of the tunnel. Literally. Not bothering to keep his voice in his head, he called out to Bane: "Meet us, quick! We need to get out of here."
The boulders were beginning to crack rock was falling. Honou didn't care how or what healed him he was just glad for it. They ran with Verik guiding them and rocks crashing down.
He could see the exit and he pushed ahead dodging the falling debris. He couldn't hear any chatter from the goblins which he was taking as a good sign. By the gods why did it seem longer to get out then getting inside!
Then Verik called aloud to Bane and Honou had renewed vigor! "Yes, the exit right ahead! I am right behind you Verik! What those rocks!" He waved to the right as sweat trickled and burned his eye.
Verik dodged the falling cavern ceiling and grabbed Honou's arm, more or less throwing him out into the open before diving after him.
"You alright?" he panted, glancing back over his shoulder to see the entrance they'd just escape through collapse into a pile of rubble. Well. That was bloody good timing.
As if responding to that thought, Bane came clattering in for a landing, sniffing at them in concern; his eyes narrowed and he growled at the scent of blood.
Verik waved him off. "We're fine. Somehow. Here, let's just get out of-"
"I wouldn't move if I were you."
He froze and twisted to see a rather unsavory looking group of people waiting a little ways down the incline, weapons at the ready. The mercenary group. Great, just great.
Bane growled, raising his hackles, and a man who must have been a mage shouted something in a langue Verik didn't understand. The dragon gave a sharp cry of pain and shock, shaking his head back and forth. I-I can't see! For perhaps the first time since they'd been paired together, he sounded scared.
Verik growled, scrambling to his feet and planting himself in front of Bane and Honou protectively.
He was propelled out of the cavern and came to land on his hands and knees.
Everything was happening so fast now when moments before it was like time had stopped. He began to get up. "Yeah, I'm goo..." He was cut off as the cavern came crashing done and covered the opening. Bane came about then and relief spread through him. He was eager to get this shard delivered and sleep in an actual bed tonight.
"I'm good. How about...?" Again cut off.
"I wouldn't move if I were you."
Honou looked over from where the voice came. This was not good. Nope! Not good at all! He had little choice but to do as instructed. Then Bane gave a sharp cry as a man shouted something Honou couldn't understand. A shiver of fear ran though him. The mage was powerful! Verik stepped in front of the dragon and himself. This was good. Honou pulled a dart and had it in his sleeve as one of the mercenaries approached. Without waiting or alerting Verik he threw the dart at the mage.
It was quick. It lodged into the eye of the mage bring momentary shock and shearing pain to him. Honou shouted. "NOW VERIK! KILL HIM!" Honou drew both his swords and whirled missing a critical strike from the one who approached. The battled back and forth. Honou felt a surge of powerful adrenaline rushing through him.
He wasn't powerful like Verik or this man but what he lacked in power he made up for in agility and finesse. He was fast...faster than the man he was paired against and after deftly blocking a few strikes Houno forced his back to the boulders when he was able to get him against it he allowed for one more hit. Blocking that he held the man in place and used his other sword to cut the belly of the man. He didn't wait once the man fell to his knees he lifted him by the hair and sliced his throat.
He immediately looked for Verik...and Bane...
He didn't need anymore encouragement than that. This man had hurt Bane. His ax came come with a sickening crunch and the mage crumpled.
Behind him, he heard Bane give a small noise of relief. Apparently the spell had died with its caster. Thank gods.
The enraged dragon leaped forward, claws flashing and breath flaming. The mercenaries never stood a chance. They must have been counting on their mage to disable the dragon. Verik turned, scanning the area for Honou-
Sharp pain in his side. He cried out instinctively and twisted to see one of the men had dodged Bane's attack- mostly, he was still bleeding heavily and burns were apparent on his skin. The mercenary pulled the knife from his side with a grin and pain exploded through him.
He growled and swung his ax, easily separating his attacker's head from his body. Then he sank to his knees, one hand covering the wound in his side as he panted, pain causing his vision to blur.
Verik was on his knees. "VERIK!!!" Honou scream and ran to his side. He tried to push his hand away but could. His whole body was shaking. Blood seeped out.
He was worried. Very worried. "Verik!"
His hands covered Verik's, "Lean on me. Bane!" He called the dragon over. "Come on Verik, stay awake. Open your eyes! Damnit...stay with me Verik...stay with Bane!"
As he spoke the shard in Verik's satchel glowed brightly. It's light poured out and Honou looked over at it. He made sure Verik's hand was held tightly against his wound. He pressed harder and his breathing increased. "Please work." He whispered.
The wound began to close. He watched .
Still feeling hazily, Verik tried to focus through the pain at the sound of Honou's voice, then Bane's concerned rumbling.
"M'fine...jus' a scratch..." he mumbled, leaning heavily on the elf. He glanced down. Gods that was a lot of blood. Was that all his? This wasn't good. He was a soldier. He'd seen men die from less.
Then, suddenly, the pain faded. He blinked, staring as his flesh stitched itself back together. "How...?" He looked up at Honou, vision clearing, thank gods. Slowly, he removed his hand from his side, half expecting the wound to suddenly reopen. "Did you...?" He trailed off, looking at the elf.
speechless for a moment. What was going on? He looked at Verik's satchel it glowing subsided.
"No, no I have no knowledge of healing what so ever." He looked up at Verik. "The shard it was glowing. I held your hand to your wound, that's all I did."
He looked at Bane and back at Verik. He was overcome with relief and without thinking he pulled Verik close and kissed him. At first it was soft but quickly became very heated. He just needed the contact the feel of Verik. He hadn't realized how much it had scared him. When he pulled away he rested his head against Verik's his voice was a little shaky. "I can't tell you why or how all I know is that you're here and not bleeding. For now this is good enough."
The contact was more than welcome and he leaned into the kiss gratefully. His arms came up around Honou in an almost uncomfortably tight embrace. "I'm here," he murmured when they broke apart, letting one hand stroke up and down his back. "You're here."
That was more to assure himself than anything. He let his hands wander, checking for injury and simply enjoying the sensation of touch. "Bane, you alright?" he asked when he was satisfied his partner had no serious injuries, looking to the dragon but not willing to let the elf go just yet.
Bane nodded, relief in his bronze eyes. Verik sighed, some of the tension leaving him, and turned his head to press another quick kiss to Honou's lips before forcing himself to his feet. "Come on," he said quietly. "We'll figure this weirdness out later. For now let's just get out of here."
Honou didn't need to hear that twice. He too didn't want to break contact but for the sake of getting out before anyone or thing showed up he let go.
He looked over at Bane and pat his side. "You sure you're okay." He was concerned because he'd only heard of Mages doing what he saw happen to Bane. "Did you understand the Mage who was casting?"
Honou was curious for if a Mage that powerful could do what he did was there something that Verik and he could learn to break the spell? Another mystery that could figure out later.
"You have everything?" He asked Verik as he picked his swords back up and wiped them clean.
Verik nodded, looking around warily as he slung his ax over his back, adjusting his satchel. "Yeah, I'm ready to but this place behind us," he said wryly.
He gave Bane's nose a scratch as he walked to the dragon's side, preparing to mount. Then he paused.
"One moment, I forgot something." Without warning he grabbed Honou buy the waist and jerked him closer for a quick, fierce kiss. He broke away and gave him a crooked smile. "There. Ready."
Leaping up onto the dragon's back, he reached down to help the elf mount. Thank gods he's alright. They're both alright.
Honou went to look around to help when Verik grabbed him and planted the kiss making him smile. "Mmmm." Not the most profound thing to say but it was all he could articulate at the moment.
With Verik's help he settled in behind Him and reached around his waist leaning into him. He slid his hands over the gash in his tunic as he realized how close he'd come to losing Verik. A small part of his brain began its chant tell him to separate himself once they were back in town. If he stayed it would be that much harder later to end it. Best to just cut it off. But the smarter part told him it was worth everything. He closed his eyes and whispered. "Words cannot express how I feel that you are alright. That Bane is alright."
Bane jumped into the air and set a course for Ketra. Verik twisted, wrapping his arms around Honou in turn. "I-" He didn't know what he was trying to say, turning to nuzzle into the elf's neck.
"Thought I might lose you both for a second back there," he admitted quietly, not realizing that he'd started to shake. "I'm so- I can't-" He cleared his throat and tightened his arms, voice trailing off.
The dragon sent a wave of wordless comfort in his direction, a thrumming sound echoing in his great, barreled chest.
He pushed away his doubts and fears. Holding Verik for he felt the same way. The dragon's comforting of his rider wasn't lost on Honou he felt the rumbling.
"I know. It is an awful feeling and I sorry I didn't take out that archer first. But you. All that blood." He shook his head not sure what to say. He'd seen people die with less of a wound. That was something he truly didn't want to think about.
"The shard. I think that did it. Probably why the goblins worshiped it." He was beginning to wonder what the nobles planed on doing with it.
Verik pulled back a bit, trying to pull himself together. "Wasn't your fault," he said briskly. Then his brow furrowed in confusion.
"What exactly is that thing?" he muttered, eyes going to the satchel where the shard was tucked away. He shook his head. "I mean, I can almost understand how you could heal me with it- but I've never had magic! I don't understand..."
With a heavy exhale, he said, "I think I have a few choice questions for our employer." Bane growled in agreement.
Shaking his head in agreement, "I'd like to know more about it. Do you think we should head to La,marri? All those old mages..." He paused as he thought it over for a second. "...I mean before we return to Ketra?"
He wasn't sure if Verik could just whisk off. This was his duty not an option? Or was it. "I don't want to get you in trouble with the commanding officers. But, if you could it would be helpful to understand what we are holding. I don't trust the noble Buron enough to just hand this thing over."
No matter what he wanted to understand what they were dealing with.
Verik turned the idea over in his head a few times. Eventually, he muttered, "It's just one more day... We don't have to tell anyone where we went."
He couldn't deny that he felt a little guilty about it, but he agreed with Honou. He didn't trust their employer as far as he could throw him. Not if he'd witheld such evidently important information about their target.
Rina was the one who'd recommended him for this job. Maybe he could explain things to her later, after an official report.
Leaning over Bane's neck, he said, "You heard the man. Change course."
The dragon snorted in satisfaction and tilted slightly into the wind.
"Thanks, I know it couldn't be easy to just do this for me. I will use my discretion as well leaving this out of all m correspondence regarding this detour." Honou reach for Verik's face and slide his hand down the side tenderly.
"Bane the mage I was thinking of lives on the Northeast section of the town. Her name is Daion, if she cannot help us I am sure she can point us in the right direction."
He smiled Daion would be able to tell how he felt about Verik and he knew she would be pleased. Say he was living again and not just existing.
Bane snorted in affirmation. Verik closed his eyes and briefly leaned into Honou's touch, leaning back with a sigh. "It'll be about an hour of flying," he said over his shoulder.
Twisting to looks back at the elf, a allowed a smile to tug at his lips. He was relaxing a bit now, and he reached up to touch Honou's face. "Sorry about earlier. I'm glad you're alright."
"Sorry...you don't need to be sorry for anything." He smiled and held tighter. "I am glad as well. I would have been...forget it. I think you know the feeling. I am just glad we are all okay."
Honou became all choked up with his emotions. Not sure if he communicated correctly his feelings. He would have been lost if anything happened to Verik. It was scary and exciting. He wanted to hold him, touch him, but there was so much to do and he didn't want to keep him away from Ketra longer then necessary.
Verik nodded, finally allowing himself to fully relax. He did understand.
Not that you two aren't as adorable as spring-addled hatchlings, but we're approaching La'marri.
Rolling his eyes at the dragon, Verik leaned over his side a bit to watch the ground speed by below them. That had gone quicker than he was expecting. "Northeast side of town you said? Maybe set down a mile or two away, old boy, no need to scare people."
Bane snorted in agreement and banked into a descent.
Honou couldn't believe the time they made. He'd have to get himself a dragon! Well, it was a thought anyway.
"Yes, northeast." He watched as Verik and Bane worked together to bring them down.
He leaned closer as they approached. "Would you want to stop to get something at the inn? I have to admit hunger is starting to take over my rational thought processes."
If he remembered correctly they could grab a bite to eat along the way.
Verik nodded eagerly as Bane touched down. He leaped easily to the ground, amazed at how easily his body was moving so soon after a healing, magical or otherwise.
"Yeah, I need to eat," he agreed with a small smile. He looked around, familiarizing himself with the area. He'd never been to La'marri, or anywhere near it really.
(((Story continues in the following thread: http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=20007.new#new )))