Spirits of the Earth

[ @DragonSong ]

Deep breaths.

All he could hear was the ocean.

They were no where near the ocean and he'd never actually heard it, but his father had been there once and told him the sound of the wind in the trees kind of sounded like that. So, Red ducked his head down, had his eyes closed and waited to leave. It was Tradition. Carrying on the clan was a great honor and Red knew that he was only here because he had to be. All potential mates to the current female were put on display for choosing.

She would choose a few, use them for the next few weeks and then carry on. Sometimes there would be a child but... More often than not, there would be nothing, and things would carry on as normal until it happened again. Red was never chosen - he never wanted to be. This time though, he glanced to the hut. The designated hut for... Couples. Red took a deep breath, hating how his chest lurched and bile rose up his throat.

Of course he'd seen her. Minala. The Opal. The chosen to guide the words of Fire.

Red had guarded her door on more than one occasion.

It pained him because he knew that he would not be chosen. Still, when she exited the hut - he knew she had been making in comfortable, it was going to be her home for the next few weeks. There were very few of these huts, meant to promote fertility and strong children, promote... Red looked up and away, dwarfed by the other males. Most of them common colours. Reds, blues. There was a purple who looked buff and kind of scary. He'd be picked.

The Opal was desirable and he knew these males had spoken to her before.

Where as he had simply made  eye contact before quickly looking away. Even if he was chosen... Red stained the flesh by his scales, he wasn't even sure what to do anyway. So, he closed his eyes, listened to the ocean of trees and tried not to think about it. The sounds were drowned out until everything was over, things were chosen and he'd have to guard the hut and listen to... Eugh.

I'm going to be sick

It was ridiculous. She'd spent the last several hour straightening up the little hut and making it liveable for the next few weeks and, while she'd felt a little nervous, it was nothing like this. She'd even been a little excited.

Yes, this was what was expected of her. It was her duty. But it was also a chance, an opportunity she'd never had before to just...connect.

Okay, so she didn't really know how this whole thing was supposed to work. But she was confident she'd figure out. She'd choose her mate, and they'd spend these two weeks together, and maybe she'd have a youngling- and wouldn't that be new and interesting! But even if she didn't, she would at least have someone new to talk to, someone who wouldn't just drop his eyes and murmur her title respectfully at the end of every question or brief conversation.

So she'd been smiling a bit to herself when she stepped out of the hut, imagining what today could turn into. Then she'd seen all the prospective males lined up and suddenly she wanted to run and hide.

What was wrong with her? She was the Opal, damnit, she was used to pressure, duty, responsibility. Her eyes flickered over the males and she took a breath, trying to fortify herself, then stepped closer.

Her gaze was immediately drawn to the large purple, Amethyst. They'd spoken a few times and she gave him a small, friendly smile. He'd be a good choice. She knew everyone was expecting him to be her first pick. Her eyes flicked up and down the line again. Red, red, blue, red, blue, blue...

She didn't...feel anything. Perhaps it was naive, but she'd hoped there'd be...something. A scent, a tickle in her chest, just something to help her make her choice. She had to bite back a sigh as she padded cautiously down the line, ears flickering a bit nervously as her eyes flirted from one male to the next.

She reached the end of the line and turned to make her way back. Her heart was pounding nervously. She had to make a choice, she was taking too long- red blue red blue purple blue, just pick one!

Blue. Not a Sapphire, just...blue. She froze. Slowly, Minala stepped toward the little Ruby with sky blue eyes. She recognized him, knew he was a guard, but she didn't think they'd ever spoken before.

Something clicked into place and she smiled, flashing sharp teeth for a moment, and held out her hand to him. "Red, right? Come with me."

Wait what.

Red's eyes flicked to Minala.

His eyes were wide for a moment and he cast a glance over his shoulder to make sure that was indeed him. It felt like his heart was going to stock and he felt the looks he was getting, someone nudged his back to push him forward slightly and he took Minala's hand, palm to palm. What. What was going on.

"Um," Red blinked at her, mouth falling open after a moment before he just shook his head, mouth having gone dry. Was this happened? This was happening. Everything felt cold and he squeezed his eyes shut for a moment. It was fine. Everything would be fine, right? right. "Yes, of course, It's an honor."

An honor he wasn't really sure how to deal with.

They would... Connect... And then in a few days she'd choose a second. A few days after that, a third. The more variables the more likely she'd... Red was sick at the thought. He looked down at her hand in his, the rainbow scales on her arm such a contrast to his dark red and... He looked into her maroon eyes and could barely breath. A deep breath and he leaned in close to her before he remembered and pulled away.

Inappropriate to do that out here.

"I am... At your disposal," He said softly, nervous. No doubt he was trembling. He brought Minala's hand to his lips to press a kiss to the back of her hand before he let go and started towards the hut. Moving to stand at the door, waiting for His to proceed. No. Not His. Couldn't be His. Wasn't allowed to be His. Red ducked his head down, hands behind his back, waiting for guidance. This would be fine. Everything would be fine.

Oh no.

He seemed...surprised, certainly, and she couldn't say she hadn't expected that, but also nervous. Much more nervous than she would have expected. Minala just stared at him when he leaned toward her, not sure how to react. Was he going to-?

Then he stopped himself, kissed her hand instead, and she offered a smile. She let him pull away to move toward the hut and glanced back over her shoulder at the others.

She felt almost guilty, for some reason, and gave them all a smile and a nod before following her mate. Well, her first mate.

Oh by the Fire, this was really happening.

When she reached the door, she let her hand flick out to brush her fingers against the ruby's wrist. "It's okay," she murmured, low enough that only he would hear. "I'm...nervous too."

Was that why she'd chosen him? Because she was nervous? She honestly wasn't entirely sure herself, but she shook the thought from her head as she stepped into the hut, then turned to wait for Red expectantly.

A little twitch of his ears and his eyes found hers.

Red let himself smile a little, head tilted slightly. A deep breath and ...  Stepped into the hut. It was out in a woosh and he rolled his shoulders once the entrance was closed. Fire, his hear was pouding. He could feel it in his throat, his wrists. His head felt light and his chest felt heavy. Another deep breath and he looked to Minala.

"I..." He looked at the ceiling for a moment and then down at the ... Nest. Pillows and blankets and comfort for the ... Couple. "I've never been chosen before," He admitted softly, looking away, hand holding his wrist, "Um... Did you... Are you..." Red moved and carefully sat down beside the fabric of the wall, though not against it. "Did you want to talk?" It was easier than... That.

She sighed quietly and found a seat for herself in the nest she'd helped make, legs curled to one side and tail to the other. Her ears flickered and she offered Red a small smile. "We can talk," she said softly, head tilted to one side.

She took a breath. "I...was not expecting this, honestly." She'd chosen him on impulse, but she couldn't say she regretted the decision. A little awkwardly, she bit at her lip, notnreally sure what to say.

"Do you want to, um..." She gestured to the pillows and blankets around her. "It's more comfortable over here," she offered with another small smile.

Wasn't expecting... him?

Red got up quickly, moving towards Minala before he sat down beside her. At least he was still bigger than her. A breath was let out and he closed his eyes for a moment.

Minala chose him. That meant he... A quick glance to her bodu and he closed his eyes, taking in her scent. Even though he knew they wede just going to sit together awkwardly fkr the next few days at least he'd remember.   

"You're goijg to have lovely children," he said softly, tail curlinf around dor comfort, pressed tight againat hers  Red looked down and away for a moment before he started to lean in.

"Minala?" He looked to the entance of the hut and back to her, "did you pick me becauae you didn't want yoiung?" He supposed it would make sense. He'd be too embarrased to say they hadn't even tried.

A small smile curved her lips when he mentioned children and she found herself leaning into his shoulder slightly. Maybe this wouldn't be so nerve-wracking after all.

Then her eyes widened and she twisted her head to blink at him. Her tail twitched, then twined around his almost unconsciously. "Why would you think that?" she asked, startled and genuinely confused. "Of course I want children."

Well. She knew she had to have children, she'd never really thought about if she wanted them or not...but it would be nice, she thought, to have someone with her all the time, someone she could love and care for.

She shook her head, still staring at him with wide eyes. "Red..." Carefully, she raised her hand to lay her palm against his cheek. "Are you- did you think...?" She bit her lip and glanced down. "I know we've never really...talked much. But I- I just thought..."

The tail coiling felt nice. Red's eyes closed briefly and he soaked it in. For just a few moments he could bask in the fact that Minala chose him. Deep breaths. His blue eyes snapped to hers and he chewed on his lower lip.

A slight flinch at the touch and he looked away. "You chose me so you wouldn't..." he looked at the pile of blankets they were sitting on. A flush rose up his neck and he looked to the entrance of the hut again, "you wouldn't have to y'know. It's okay. I understand." He gave her a little hesitant smile and ducked his head down.

"At the very least we can talk right? I've always wanted to talk to you." But he was small and just a guard. When would she have ever had the time to talk to him?

Minala's eyes went even wider as she realized what he was getting at. Did he really think she'd done that?

Well, she supposed she couldn't expect him to know her better than that- Fire, none of them really did- but it still stung. Did he really think she'd shirk her duty like that?

But then her indignation faded as she looked at his face, the hesitant little smile before his eyes dropped. He really didn't think she could want him, didn't he.

"Red." She laid her hand against his cheek again, cradling his face in her palms to lift his head so she could meet his eyes. Beautiful blue eyes. She couldn't help imagining what a little one would look like with those eyes as her thumbs rubbed gently over the scales on his cheeks.

Her tail curved a little tighter around his, the tip stroking his gently, and she smiled. "We can talk if you want," she murmured. "I- I'm glad you want to." And she really was. It was rare that she got a chance to just carry on a normal conversation with someone. "But that's not why I chose you. Not the only reason."

She let one hand drop to his leg, fingers splayed over his thigh. Her heartbeat picked up and she tried to ignore the heat rising in her face as her eyes dropped slightly. "If you- if you...don't want to, we can just...tell the others we tried." The thought stung. She'd never imagined the male she'd pick wouldn't want her. Well, honestly she couldn't imagine any male not wanting her, with the way they always treated her.

But she didn't want to make him uncomfortable. She bit her lip, glancing up at him through pale lashes.

It was rude to ask why.

Still. Red kept his head tucked down, eyes staring at the ground. His title. His name was spoken and he looked into her eyes, face smooshed slightly by her hands and... She was so lovely. The words almost fell on deaf ears before they perked up and forward, a visible change of his attention.

Then, a warm hand was on his thigh and he swallowed carefully because he knew if too much blood rushed away from his face he'd feel dizzy. "We... What?"

Right.

The reason they were in here.

"I don't think i'm... Very worthy of you," he admitted, looking at her hand on his leg while he slowly moved his hand to keep his groin covered. "I dont think they expect you to... y'know the first time you..." he motioned to her abdomen, flushing again and looking away. Everything would be fine. He sighed after a moment and looked to Minala.

"I dont even have a real name," his voice was soft, but he pressed his face into the palm that remained at his cheek, "Is it my eyes? I know I'm not as... Intimidating." Meaning, he was small and not nearly as genetically attractive.

Nala's eyes flicked down to watch the movement of his hand curiously before moving back to his face. "I think you're worthy of me," she said quietly, scooting just a bit closer. Her smile widened when he leaned into her hand. A small victory, but she would take it.

"You don't need a name," she added, a little softer. "I mean... I don't think having a name should mean you're any more or less worthy." She ducked her head to try to catch his gaze, smile still in place. "And yes, I like your eyes. I think they're lovely. But that's not the only reason I picked you."

Deciding to go out on a limb a bit, she pressed closer so she could rest her cheek on his shoulder, nuzzling gently into his neck. "I didn't- I didn't want someone more...intimidating." She frowned. Logically, she knew the bigger, stronger males were supposed to have a better chance of actually giving her children, and they'd be protective fathers.

But she wanted him. The little ruby with the sky blue eyes whose blushes made her smile. She slid her tail along his, curling and uncurling as she leaned into his side.

There 'ceremony' had started when dusk had started and aside from the candles in their little love den the area was dark and the night was quiet. Red sucked in a breath when she pressed close to him, closing his eyes for a moment before he slowly curled an arm over her shoulders.

"Are you tired?" He asked, breath short. His heart was hammering in his chest and no doubt she'd feel his pulse. "We could... sleep. It's... um... late."

She bit back a sigh. Yeah, she'd definitely made him uncomfortable. Pulling back, she gave him a smile and a small nod. "If you like."

It was rather late... And this was her first ceremony, perhaps no one expected her to...get right down to it the first night.

Her tail was still coiled around his and she extracted it carefully, curving it around her hip as she turned onto her side and snuggled into the nest of pillows and blankets. Her hand on his leg slid up to  circle her fingers around his wrist, pulling his arm over her waist as she urged him down with her.

They could at least sleep together, right? Her cheeks colored slightly around her scales and she gave him an almost questioning look as she snuggled closer.

By the time his turn ended he knew his lips would be chewed up. Gnawing upon them as he was. Red took a deep breath, following her lead. He watched her fingers move from his leg to his wrist and.. Deep breaths. All would be fine. A tremble ran through him and he swallowed audibly.

Silently instructed, Red slowly moved to tuck himself in behind Nala.

His hand moved to press against her flesh to hold her close. Thats what she wanted, right? His tail curled around to drape over their legs beside hers. Just a smidge up and he'd be able to touch her... Heat washed over his face again and he curled an elbow under his head and closed his eyes.

The candle would burn out on its own and...

"I'm sorry," he spoke into her hair, "I'm... Really nervous." His words were a soft admission and he couldnt slow his heartbeat against her back, "um.. Have nice dreams?" His voice was soft and he closed his eyes, sleep didnt visit him. Though he didnt move, because Nala wanted him there and who was he to deny her

The Opal smiled as she felt him settle in beside her. He still seemed tense, but it was a start. She could feel his breath tickle the back of her neck when he spoke and it sent a shiver up her spine, making her tail curl, then flick back to brush against his again.

She smiled, cuddling back against him. "It's okay, Red. We can just sleep tonight." She paused, then twisted her head to glance over her shoulder at him. "Do you, um..."

She wasn't sure how to ask the question that pressed against her lips and furrowed her brow. She'd been given her name when she was very young, she wasn't sure how... "Do you have...something else you like to be called?" She knew some of the guards had nicknames for each other, but they never used them around her.

It was a relief that she wasn't expecting him to... Perform.

Deep breaths.

Red closed his eyes, calmed his breathing and gave a little twitch when she snuggled in against him. His lower lip was between his teeth again. This was... Awkward. And nerve wracking and... Not terrible but not what he expected to do tonight. Still, Nala was curled up in his arms and he gently reached a hand up before... No. He tucked it against her stomach again.

"I... No." He said simply, "I'm just Red," his voice was soft, having never really considered a real name, having never done anything to deserve one. His eyes closed and he pressed his face to the back of Minala's neck, mouth against the top of her spine. "You smell nice," He said softly, taking deep breaths, "Different. In a good way."

"Red, then." She stiffened slightly when he pressed closer, then relaxed. Her eyes flickered down to the movement of his hand when it twitches up, then tucked against her stomach, but she didn't comment. Carefully, she reached up to pull her hair over her shoulder so it wasn't ticking his face as he nuzzled into her.

"I- thank you?" She chuckled quietly and impulsively took his hand on her belly and brought it up, nuzzling into his wrist to feel his pulse. "You do too," she murmured sleepily. Different, but nice. She'd never really been so close to someone before, not all cuddled up like this, and the way his scent wrapped around her was at once both exhilarating and soothing, in a strange way.

The moment her hand touched his, he squeezed his eyes shut and his breath picked up. Red's breath shuddered against Minala's neck and he swallowed carefully before... Was she nuzzling him? The heartbeat picked up and he swallowed carefully, eyes slowly opening up. Right. This was fine.

They were expected to do worse things.

Better things?

Red closed his eyes again and cleared his throat, trying to find a way to keep his wrist near her face 'cause she liked it there without smoothing his arm between her breasts. It was, of course, a lost cause, and he just lived with it. They were squishy and he wasn't really sure if he was being rude or not. Still... Nervous and hesitant, "Have good dreams, Minala," he whispered against her back, snuggling down to sleep. At least this felt nice, no matter how nerve wracking it was.

Minala smiled and let her eyes drift closed. "You too," she murmured, allowing herself to start to drift off. She kept herself as close to him as she could manage, pleased that he'd left his arm tucked around her body.

It didn't take long for her to fall asleep, despite the nervous little flutters her heart gave every so often when she felt his breath tickle against her neck. It was a nice enough feeling, but still it put her on edge a bit. Soon enough though, sleep claimed her.

By the time she woke, Minal found she'd twisted in Red's arms so her head was tucked up under his chin, her one arm draped loosely over his waist and her tail twined gently around his, leg hooked slightly over his hip. She blinked sleepily and yawned, twisting her head slightly to hide her face against his chest.

Red fell asleep a while after Minala did.

The dreams were odd and he was aware of where he was and just who was in his arms the whole time. The sleep wasn't restful and every move and hitched breath and just... Everything had his eyes opening. When she turned around in the middle of the night, Red's eyes snapped open and he thought that she... He waited. His breath in his chest, mouth closed, eyes open.

No. Just sleeping.

Now it was even harder.

Still, he begged for dawn and didn't move. Just curled his arms around the girl and tried to get comfortable. Eventually, he slept a little but... Soon enough she was moving and yawning and... Red's heart skipped a beat. Was she awake? Her pulse felt different. breathing was a little different. "Minala?" He whispered, daring to stroke his hand down her hair to rest at the small of her back, "Did you sleep well?" His voice was husky from disuse and being tired but... It was important.

"Mmm..." She smiled and nuzzled into his collar. "Mhm. You?" Minala tilted her head back slightly to see his face, letting her hand come to rest at his hip while the other moved to trace looping circles across his spine.

Then, because she was too tired to have a filter between thought and deed and because it was something she'd always been curious about, she leaned in to kiss the gem that rested in his collar. She'd pressed her fingers to her own plenty of times, but she'd always wanted to know what the touch of another felt like.

Almost lazily, she gave the pseudo-stone a broad swipe with her tongue.

Why was she so touchy?

Red was almost as red as his scales. Already he was having a hard time breathing with her hand on his hip and then she went to touch his back and... The kiss was ignorable. Easy enough to push it to the back of his head. "Was that your tongue?" He asked suddenly leaning back to look at her, heart picking up a beat. He shifted his hips away slightly, knowing he had a duty here and...

Too nervous.

Red knew he wasn't good enough but... He blinked at Minala and reached up to cover the gemlike cluster of scales at his collar bone. "Does it taste weird or something?"

"Mmm-mm." Minala shook her head as she blinked up at him. "Not really. Like...scales. But smoother on the tongue."

Another curious little lick before she subsided. Eyebrows raised, she wriggled up hips body a bit until her head was very slightly higher than his. "Did you wanna try?" she offered with a smile. It seemed only fair.

Red swallowed thickly and quickly rolled away, sitting up.

"I can't do this," He panted, sitting with his knees up. Hands pressed to his face, "It's not you," He quickly said, "It's... It's an honor to be Chosen by you." Red closed his eyes and tucked his head between his knees, arms folded over his head, breath quick little pants "But... You have nothing to gain from me, I'm... I'm..." He breathed and took a deep breath, "Even if I did... Father your child..." He shook his head, "Maybe you should... Just go onto your second."

Oh.

Oh no.

Oh dear...

Minala sat up quickly and reached for him, then hesitated, biting st her lower lip. "I- Red..." She ducked her eyes, not sure what to do.

"Why?" she whispered after a moment. "What makes you so sure you wouldn't be a good father for my little ones?" She hugged herself gently, one hand tugging at a lock of multicolored hair.

A deep sigh and he turned to look at her, shifting and moving to look at her.

"Even if that did happen," He spread out his arms, giving his head a shake, "I..." A sigh and he let his hands fall to his sides, "I ... I already told you I was honored, Minala." Why did he feel so bad for making her feel bad? This was a foolish choice of hers! He'd... Only gone to the Choosing because he didn't... Want to look like he didn't want to go. Never in a million years did he think that... Red licked his lips and ducked his head down, eyes falling closed.

"I wouldn't be a terrible father. They'd just..." Red winced, "They'd just be... Really small."

Was that what was bothering him?

The Opal tilted her head and leaned into him cautiously, seeing how close she could get without making him freeze up. "Red...I don't care about that."

She ducked her head to try to meet his gaze, the tip of her tail flicking idly back and forth. "If...if you just don't want to mate with me, that's fine. But I- I don't care if our children would be small, or all Rubies, or- or whatever."

She sighed and looked at her knees, clicking her toes absently. "I wanted you, Red. I just felt...drawn to you. It felt important..."

There was no more freezing on his part.

Just slight disbelief.

Blue eyes turned to her and his ears drooped, his shoulders relaxed and he pressed his palm to his forehead before sighing. "I'm sorry," He hesitantly reached over to her shoulder to give it a squeeze, watching his hand as it trailed over her collar bone to thumb over the little gem-like bit nestled at the base of her throat.

It really was lovely. Unique. Like so many of them weren't. "When... Um..." He let his hand fall away, "When did you want to...?"

It was Minala's turn to tense, just a little, as his touch trailed over her skin. She blinked at him, a small shiver running through her.

No one had ever touched her so freely before. Even when she was the one to initiate contact, it was always brief and formal, polite.

She smiled, then blushed heavily. "Oh. W-well, I..." She winced at the stammer and ducked her eyes. "I mean...I suppose... Whenever you'd like?" She shrugged a little helplessly, totally at sea.

Oh great.

Red swallowed carefully and looked away after a moment, not sure what to do.

Was she afraid too? Not afraid. There was no fear here. Just... Nerves.

"You're..." He looked at her before flicking his eyes away, "You're the one that..." He looked to her abdomen, "I'm at your service?"

"W-well... I mean, yes but..." She swallowed again, cheeks very red around her scales. "I don't...know how to-"

She cut herself off, ducking her eyes again. Her ears pressed down and she glanced up at him through her lashes. "Um..." With a sharp breath, she leaned in and pressed a rather hurried kiss to his cheek, then froze, lips still hovering just over his skin.

Her hands clenched into fists, then relaxed, then clenched again as she tried to figure out what to do with them.

Red froze when she kissed him.

He turned to her, confusion in his eyes. His breath was soft and their lips were almost brushing they were so close to one another. "Don't know how to what?" He lifted a hand to cup her cheek, his thumb brushing over the shiny scales on her cheek. Red sighed and closed his eyes for a moment before pressing a gentle kiss to Minala's lips before he pulled away and smiled at her slightly, "There."

Deep breaths, "I am at your service, in all things," Red said, voice husky, "You don't need to be scared. You just need to talk to me."

Warmth seemed to spread through her from the contact and she blinked, a soft intake of breath caught in her throat. "Red..."

Slowly, she leaned into him again, letting her lips brush against his once, softly, then again.

She quite liked that.

Shifting around slightly so she was settled more comfortably beside him, Minala reached up to lay her palm against his cheek, her other hand coming to settle on his shoulder, and she kissed him again, letting the touch linger this time as she parted her lips slightly with a soft sigh.

A pleased hum rose up in her throat, quickly changing to a more solid purr as she tilted her head slightly into the contact, her ears flickering slightly and warmth spreading over her skin.

Red sighed after he pulled away and cleared his throat.

What now?

He'd never been Chosen but...  "Yes?" She'd said his name. Surely that meant there was a question or something. His hand rested on her leg and he looked down to it while his finger trailed along the scales on the outside of her thigh, marveling at how shiny they were. "You're beautiful" He said softly, looking up at her and giving a soft smile, "But you know that." A look at his own hands, the red, plain. "Um... We should... Get food," He looked to the entrance, flushed.

Dawn had been a while ago and no doubt First Meal had been served. Maybe the could find left overs. Or perhaps a meal was set aside for them - which was more likely, he recalled, considering what they were supposed to be doing.

Minala blinked, then smiled with a soft flush, ducking her eyes. "Thank you..."

She cleared her throat and nodded slightly at the suggestion of food. "Elder said she'd leave food for us," she said, getting to her feet. She held her hand out to him with a small smile. "Come on. We can...talk more, if you'd like?"

A hesitant look at her hand.

Red glanced away before swallowing, letting a heavy breath out like it weighed him down. This would be fine. Everything would be fine. Following Minala's lead he stood up, shoulders hunched slightly, his hair fell into his face and he cast his blue eyes at her. A gentle squeeze of her hand and another deep breath.

"Alright. I'd... Like to talk more, yeah," A flush. He really doubted ... That... Would happen. Not that he didn't want to, but the crushing ego. He wasn't good enough. Would never be good enough for such a unique Opal. It lingered. So, Red decided... The least he could do would be a friend.

She squeezed his hand back softly and gave him another soft smile, hoping it might ease a bit of the tension from his shoulders.

"Well...tell me about yourself," she urged quietly as she moved toward the door of the hut and slipped out, keeping her fingers intertwined with his so she tugged him along.

Red was tense as ever but... At least he was a little bit more at ease with her. Not completely. Still nervous about what he had to do. Still nervous he let Minala tug him along, though he found himself holding his breath more often than not.

"I... Am a guard," he said simply, looking at her, his eyes on her hair, enjoying the colour of it and the streaks of Not-White. "I was... An out of season baby. Which is why I'm small."

Minala tilted her head slightly as she listened to him, glancing back at his eyes every chance she got. "We're...close in age, aren't we?" she asked, tilting her head the other way. She couldn't remember his exact age, but she thought he might be closer to her than most of the other males.

She guided him through the little village toward their Fire, where she'd promised to meet the Elder for meals that would have been set aside for her and whichever male she chose. The scent of food caught her attention and she hummed in anticipation, giving Red's hand a little squeeze.

"What's your favorite thing to eat?"

The eyes.

The looks.

Red looked away quickly, doing his best not to pin his ears. What did they think of him? They knew he and Minala had been intimate. Or at least that's what they thought they knew. Red sucked in a breath and looked away for a moment, blowing it out carefully and closing his eyes. They hadn't of course. A few impulsive kisses and mostly... Nerves. He looked at their hands and he smiled slightly when she gave his a squeeze. That was sweet.

Why was Minala so nice to him?

He didn't deserve that.

He was gazing at her, watching the morning light glint off her beautiful scales before his eyes snapped to hers when she asked a question. "Apples," He said simply before he flushed, "I... Apples. They're... More rare and kind of seasonal," He cleared his throat, "And usually only come back with the traders." And rare fruit like that was usually rationed to maybe one a person. Of course unless someone didn't enjoy apples, then he was more than happy to take them.

Red looked away after a moment before he guided her to their assigned seat for the day - a place of honor to promote fertility and conception - and he took their rations, tied off in a large thick leaf before he handed Minala hers and opened his own. Despite their tribal ways, they did well with food. Of course, their meal was slightly different and he gave it a careful sniff.

A side eyed look to the Elder.

"They put..." he frowned at the food before taking a small bite. At least it tasted fine. Red leaned over to sniff Minala's. "Aphrodisiacs," He whispered to her, flushing. Had the Elder been listening to them not do it? They were mild enough that Red wasn't worried about any... Ill effects for his mental well being but he didn't want to look suspicious... Red ate his meal begrudgingly. They were supposed to... Another flush and he put the leaf aside and tucked his head down. Not enjoying the curious stares from the other tribesmen. And the long, long look from the amythest.

Minala settled herself easily into her place- it was exactly where she belonged, she knew her responsibilities, what was expected of her- and she kept her grip on Red's hand as long as she could manage, only releasing him to eat properly.

"Hm?" She sniffed at the food and realized he was right. "Oh. Well, anything to help, I guess." She smiled, shrugged, and continued eating, glancing over at him every now and then.

"So, apples. The sweet ones?" She crinkled her nose. "I only like the green ones, that are tart, you know?" Maybe it was a little innocuous, but she liked talking to him and wanted to get him to open up a little, keep the conversation going.

A quick glance around, smiling and nodding rather regally out of habit, and she suddenly stilled when the purple warrior caught her eyes. Something in his stare made her flush and flick her eyes away first- a rare occurrence for her.

"U-um..." She looked quickly to Red again. "Are you still hungry? I can probably ask if we can- ah, take a small ration back as a sort of snack..."

Red shrugged. "Sweet. Tart. I just... Apples are my favourite," he said simply, casting a glance away. Did she want more information? Was now a bad time to warn her that he wasn't exactly... The most well versed in anything? Of course he noticed when Minala looked to the  purple warrior, his ears drooped slightly and his shoulders hunched forward. No doubt she'd be bearing that one children. She'd grow bored of him in a few days and then...

He'd be second.

Red looked up again, casting his blue eyes and the Amythest grinned widely up to the ears and nodded his head.

"I'm... No, thanks," He said softly, just wanting to go. If this being Chosen thing had one good side effect it was a mini vacation. Neither of them would be expected to do their duties and simply... Red flushed, and he smiled at her, "But if you want that, I'm sure it would be fine?" He looked to the fire, felt his chest grow with the warmth of it and ... He looked back to Minala.

"You... Um..." He nodded to her food, "If you feel funny, just let me know okay? There wasn't much in it. I.." he kept his voice very low and leaned in, "I think the Elder knows we... Y'know... Didn't."

"Oh, I'm fine." The Opal smiled and shook her head, referring both to the amount of food and what had been in it.

She cocked her head slightly and got to her feet, holding her hand out to him. Lowering her voice, she murmured, "You know, the easiest way to fix that is to..." She arched an eyebrow as her voice trailed off.

Another flush and he impulsively took her hand.

Red looked up at her before he glance away ans gave a nervous hiccup before he politely tucked her hand into his elbow and started back towards the tent. A few of the other makes gave a small cheer and Red ducked his head and pinned his ears back.


While not condoned it wasnt exactly frowned upon either. "I am at your service, " he whispered to her, casting a blue eyed glance her way, "you know that."

Minala sighed quietly, her own ears dropping a bit. "Red." She pulled him into the hut, closing the door gently behind them, then turned to face him, eyes soft and lips curved in a gentle smile. "I'm not going to force this on you. I don't want you to be...at my service. I want you to be with me because you want to."

After a moment of hesitation, she stepped toward him and laid her hands on his shoulders, rocking up onto her toes to kiss him gently. Her eyes flickered and she hummed softly. She really liked doing that, though she couldn't quite put her finger on why.

With a small sigh, she broke away from him and moved to settle herself in the nest of blankets and pillows, trailing her hand down his arm as she slipped passed him. "Come sit with me?"

Red didn't know how to explain himself.

Sighing he nodded once and sat down beside Minala. "I do want to be here," he sighed, "being with you is a great honor." His lips tingled from their kiss and he drew his index finger up her arm, over her shoulder and finally rested at the lovely cluster of opal scales at her throat.

"I just... " he flushed and looked away, " Don't really... Know." Red ducked his head down, looking away before he sighed and moved onto his knees, hands going to the fastening of the shorts he wore. "If you're impatient though... I... I'm willing to... To make a fool of myself in front of you."

A soft purr started in her throat and Minala leaned into his touch, tilting her head back slightly to offer more access to her throat.

She frowned when his eyes flickered away. She didn't like him being embarrassed, it made her feel...pushy. "Wait."

Her hands moved to his, stopping him from removing his clothes, and she ducked her head, tilting slightly in an effort to meet his eyes. "Red, I'm not impatient. If you want to wait, we can wait." She smiled. "I'll been in season for at least two weeks yet, it's alright. I- I don't want you to be uncomfortable."

She let her hands slide up to rest lightly on his hips, shifting a bit so she could settle herself more comfortably in front of him.

Red stared down at her, flushed.

"A...alright," his voice was soft and he looked away after a moment, shaking his head before he dropped it down. "I'm sorry, youre just.. wonderful. You're beautiful and..." Red looked away, head down to blush, "I want this to... be a nice memory for you and I just cant seem to do any of it right. I'm so sorry Minala."

Damnit if that didn't make her want to give him a proper hug and just tell him how wonderful she thought he was.

Well...what was stopping her?

"Red." She smiled and leaned up to wrap her arms around him, cheeks tinted lightly as she turned her face to press a few kisses along his neck. "Don't apologize. I- I'm so happy you've been trying to...make this nice for me." She pulled back to see his face, fingers stroking over his cheek. "You are lovely," she told him sincerely. "I couldn't ask for a sweeter, kinder mate."

She leaned in for a kiss, quick and soft. "And...I want this to be a...nice memory for you, too," she murmured as she pulled back with another small, almost shy smile. "So I want you to be...comfortable. I want you, Red, but only if you want me to."

She kissed him again, rather unable to help herself.

After the kiss, Red leaned back and licked his lips.

The idea of more just made his heart pound. He'd be no good. It'd be... Bad. It was nice to know that she hadn't chosen him out of pity. Perhaps one of the most sought after females in the tribe and... Red closed his eyes when she kissed him again.

The rest remained unanswered but he moved down to sit comfortably before he moved in such a way to hold Minala to his chest. No doubt she'd be able to feel his heart pound against her back. He kissed her shoulder and curled his arms around her, tucked between his legs. Idly he drew patterns on her knee while he just... Held her.

"Do you... Like the kissing?" He asked softly, head resting on her shoulder. They were supposed to be trying to make babies. But what went on in the tent was private. Which meant that they didn't have to.

The kiss to her shoulder brought an agreeable shiver down her spine and Nala nodded, settling herself against him comfortable. "Mhm. I like kissing you."

She wasn't sure if that was what he'd been asking, but it was an honest answer. Curled between his legs, she twisted slightly so she could kiss his nose, then trailed down to his collar, having to arch at an odd angle so his head could remain against her shoulder.

What could be done now?

Maybe it was being required to spend time together that made them do it. Red couldn't imagine anyone eagerly getting down to it. Despite being tribemates they barely knew one another!

Red moved a hand to fingercomb Minala's hair before he tipped her head back, pressing his tongue to her lips before deepening the kiss. His other hand moved to smooth down her front and he places it on her belly, before finally, he pulled away and looked at her. "I'm sorry, it was impulse."

His hands remained where they were and he turned  before he layed down, flat on his back, staring at the ceiling of the tent. "Tell me
.. About your child hood, I remember you... all... Rainbow and following the elder."

Another shiver trickled down her spine and Minala made a small noise in the back of her throat as she leaned into the kiss. Her breath hitched slightly when his hand moved to her belly, but then he was pulling away again.

She resisted the urge to pout- that wasn't dignified- and took a moment to collect herself a bit before she crawls over him, sprawling over his front and folding her arms over his chest so she could rest her head on them.

"My childhood?" She tilted her head as her tail curved up to brush lightly against the outside of his leg. She smiled at his description of her "all rainbow". "Well...that's really what I did," she chuckled. A small, thoughtful sort of frown creased her brows and she said slowly, "The first time I saw something in the Fire... I think I was nine? I didn't even know what was happening. I was just sitting on Elder's lap, and she was braiding my hair, I was just looking at the flames and then- then  I was watching the mountainside, I saw that ledge give way..."

She shivered and turned her face into her arms. "I was too afraid to say anything. I took too long," she murmured. It was something she'd never told anyone before, the guilt she felt about the death of a tribesman who had been out hunting when she was a child. She'd received a warning vision, but had been too confused and afraid to tell the Elder why she was acting so strangely.

Honestly, she wasn't even really sure why she was saying it now. Red had only asked about her childhood, surely he hadn't wanted to hear about this. She shook her head and lifted her face, forcing a small smile. "Sorry. That was..." She cleared her throat. "Wh-what about you?"

Red looked at her and his hand smoothed up and down her back.

The moment where she spaced out and spoke about her sight into the fire... His fingers trailed down her spine and he let one hand rest at her lower back above the base of her tail. "I'm sorry," he whispered, leaning to press a kiss to her forehead. Red did his best to ignore any.. urges... but with Minala so close, there was little he could do to hide any evidence of her being so near to him.

Red flushed and looked off to the side, thinking, "It was... Normal. I was trained to be a guard very young. I'm too small to be a warrior," he smiled at her slightly, "So guarding here was ... Best." He sighed and took a deep breath before he tried to calm himself, hands smoothing along her back.

"Minala," He breathed, giving a little shiver, "I mentioned it was an honor to be Chosen by you, right? and... I would try my best if... If we made a child, right?"

Minala sighed happily as his hand tried down her spine, pressing a little closer. For a brief moment she paused, starting to feel the way he reacted to her, and a blush dusted her cheeks.

Then she put it from her mind as snuggled closer. That was what was supposed to happen, right? No need to be embarrassed. At least that's what she kept telling herself.

She "hmm"ed quietly when he spoke of his childhood and let her cheek rest against her folded arms as she watched his face. Her dying blush flared up again at the mention of children and she smiled slightly, a pleased hum starting up in her throat.

"I know," she assured him, stroking his arm lightly. Her tail flicked our behind her, arching against his hand bwfore settling back. Her ears perked up a bit and she offered, "Do you...wanna try?"

Did she really just offee that? Red turned almost as bright as his scales and he quickly looked away. His hands moved to her hips and he sucked in a breath. The suggestion alone sent extra blood to his groin but...

"It's... Kind of..." Red's breath was short and he looked at Minala, "Do you?" Did she? The aphrodiacs hadn't smelled that potent. It was just supposed to get the mood up. Red took a deep breath and pushed it through her hair. This was for her. And... he supposed for himself. "If you're ready, I guess," he finally whispered, voice soft.

Nala's blush deepened and she ducked her eyes- his bashfulness felt almost contagious. "I- I do," she mumbled. "If...you want to."

The aphrodisiacs hadn't been they strong, but they did seem to be making her a little...fidgety.

Not to mention she'd wanted him to begin with. He was her first pick for a reason, after all. She hesitated, then ducked her head and pressed a kiss to his collar, just below his gem-like cluster of scales.

Was his heart going to slip up his throat and out of his mouth with how heart it was beating?

Red swallowed again, eyes closed. It was fine. Everything would be fine. His fingers tangled in Nala's hair and he smoothed his hands over her shoulders and down her back, giving the small of her back a squeeze before he sat up and too a deep breath. "I... Um..." He cleared his throat, would this be okay? Was this fine?

"Okay," He said hesitantly, hands trembling, "Did you...?" He looked down at them, swallowed again, "Or should I..."

"I-I-"

Her cheeks were scarlet around her scales and she had to take another shaky breath. "I can...go first."

She sat back and reached around to unwind the long fabric that covered her breasts, determinedly not meeting Red's eyes as she slowly let it fall to the side. She shifted back a bit more and started to slide out of her skirt, finally glancing up at him.

She looked down again quickly, the tip of her tail flicking back and forth agitatedly as her blush deepened.

Whoa.

Red was just as red as his scales and he sucked in a little breath when her top was gone. Then her skirt and he just stared and flushed and looked away and he turned his head away and ducked it down and took a deep breath and ... "Um..." He cleared his throat and rose up onto his knees and undid his own cover. Deep breaths.

At least ol' junior was working. Eagerly, even. Red looked away before he shifted his tail and moved to kneel back down. "Um..." He swallowed, "Did the Elder explain how... This works?" Because he'd gotten the talk - once. Though the mechanics of it were pretty obvious.

Minala nodded, arms wrapped loosely around her waist as she peeked up at him.

Huh. So that's what that looked like.

"She...explained. Mostly." Still blushing, she tugged at her hair and chewed on her bottom lip. "She said there are...a few ways. But the basics are the same?"

Okay.

"So..." He flushed, "I've never done this before," He admitted, looking away, ears pinned down in... Shame? It wasn't like he ever really had a chance. He'd never been Chosen before. Never even ... Fooled around. Red took a deep breath and rearranged the pillows and blankets before he laid back and closed his eyes, hands at his sides. "Okay, I'm... Um..." He swallowed away and moved his hands to clasp at his belly, "I'm ready?"

Well. This was awkward.

Minala's stomach flipped nervously and she tried to joke, "Me neither..." Obviously. The entire tribe had been tracking her cycles, waiting for when the Opal would go into season.

She hadn't really expected Red to be anymore experienced- she knew some of the tribe messed about with each other out of season, but he didn't seem the type.

And all of this thinking was just a way to distract her from what was actually happening. Carefully, she took a breath and crawled over him, glancing down quickly before looking up at his face with another blush. "Okay." She leaned down to settle herself against him, slow and wary.

"O-oh!" That was interesting. She shifted her hips, rubbing against him again curiously- for a moment she actually forgot she was supposed to be interacting with another person, fascinated by the tingles that were sent zinging through her body. Then she remembered and froze, looking down at him with wide eyes. "That's...nice."

Nice? That was torture.

Red was red faced and his hands rested on her hips. Though... His eyes flew open and he looked at her, hesitantly reaching up to trace a thumb over her nipple. It was supposed to be a nice memory. A good first season.

Even if they didn't make a child - the chances were slim and no one expected them to - this could still be something nice. A little scary. Kind of embarassing, but nice. Still though, her just rubbing herself on him like that was torture. He felt harder than rocks!

"Nala," he whispered, "just... Do what feels natural? We have the rest of the day," though considering it was only mid-morning, they had until at least midday meal. Then some time. Then dusk meal. Then rinse and repeat.

Red could hold out. He'd have to if her just on his lap already felt so good.

Nala's eyes widened and she glanced down at his hand on her breast, then back up at him quickly. "Um..."

She let her hands rest against his chest and pressed in for a kiss, lips parted slightly against his. Slowly, she rocked her hips forward again.

"E-Elder said-!" Her voice was squeaky and loud in the small space. Minala paused to breathe, then tried again, "Elder said...sometimes slow is good. Better for...the first time."

Carefully, she trailed kisses down his neck to his collar and allowed her hands to wander down his body, one dipping between his hips curiously. "Hmm." The noise was unbidden as her fingers explored, offering a sort of control that helped her to relax somewhat.

Red had his eyes squeezed shut.

Not because he didn't enjoy how nice she looked. Or not because he didn't want to commit this to memory but because she was here and touching him and he would surely die if he opened his eyes to also watch. "T-take your time?" he whimpered, biting his lip and doing his best not to awkwardly breath. It was a failure, his breathing was erratic and he was bright red. Ears pinned back.

"Minala," He panted, opening an eye slightly, "Are you okay?"

She nodded slowly and tried to smile when she met his eyes. Eye. Whatever.

"I think...I want to try something. If that's okay?" She slid down his body to sit perched on his thighs, head cocked as she examined him curiously.

She rather missed the goodness of being pressed against him, but they could come back to that later. Carefully, she trailed her fingertips along his length, eyes flicking up to his face.

She wriggled on his lap. "I thought, um...if you want...we can sort of take turns? Learn a bit?" she offered quietly.

Red went tense.

His lower lip was bitten between his teeth and he sucked in a breath when Minala touched him. Oh no.  He hissed in a breath and he cracked an eye to look at her, moving to sit up but only getting to lean up on his elbows. "Learn?" He squeaked out, doing his best not to just... Make a terrible mistake. "Take turns?" Take turns doing what? "Take turns doing what? Making babies? What?"

She chuckled quietly, she couldn't help it. Yes, she felt awkward and a little embarrassed herself, but it was strangely comforting to know he wasn't exactly any better off than she was.

"No, I mean..." She circled her fingers around his wrist and shifted up his lap, guiding his hand hesitantly to her core. "You can touch me. Like this, before we...before we try to do anything else?"

"T-t-touch you?" Red squeaked as she was guiding his hand along and then he felt her and if the blood wasnt already mostly in his dick he probably would have fainted. That was right getting to the problem.

There his hand was, pressed agaisnt her.. her... Red swallowed and moved his hand, careful of his claws, making delicate little movements. He'd never bothered learning anything beyond 'sex makes babies' because he never thought he'd be Chosen.

Yet here he was. "I don't... What do I do?" His ears were back and his breath was short, though he moved his fingers against her curiously. He was supposed to be making her feel good, right? "Maybe we should ask Elder." But.. that...

Red pulled his hand away, looking for blood but.. no. "what... are you... leaking? Nala, are you okay?"

A shivery sort of moan rose up in her throat and Minala let her eyes flutter closed, her hips rocking forward gently against his touch. She hissed out a breath and her hands clenched at her sides- then he was pulling his hand away.

She whimpered quietly and blinked at him, trying to focus on what he was saying. "What- oh. N-no." She shook her head. She'd never been much for...self-exploration, as it were, but she at least knew most of the basics from lengthy, awkward conversations with the Elder.

So she knew that was normal. Or at least it should be, right?

"That's...fine. I'm fine." She wriggled around on his lap, wanting that delicious shivery feeling to come back. She whined quietly and bit her lip. "Please don't stop..."

This was it.

This was how he was going to die.

He looked at his hand and pressed his fingers together before he looked at her and then down at her womanhood. Nope. His eyes flicked back up. Those were breasts. Why did she have to be so naked?

Because the whole purpose of them being together was to hopefully make children. To carry on the line to tend to the Fire. Didn't make Red any less nervous! Carefully he reached for her again, fingers pressing to her. He dipped his fingers against her, deciding that her face was the best bet.

"Here?" He whispered, cheeks red while he explored, "Minala," his voice was husky and he focussed his attention on what made her shiver and shake. Those sermed like good things. Red was flushed, pulling her to him so he could press his cheek to her chest to look up at her. "I.. won't stop until you tell me to, okay?" That was reasonable right?  Right. If she liked it than everything was fine. Red could ignore the terrible throbbing in his head and gut. Minala was important.

"O-okay." Minala glanced down at him and smiled, her arms sliding to wrap around his shoulders. "Oh...th-there. That. Keep doing that," she breathed, wriggling around against him to give his fingers easier access.

A low groan rumbled through her chest and she curled around him. One hand slid from his back to his waist, then his hip, then curved around to slip between their bodies and touch him cautiously. "Is...this okay?"

She wanted to make him feel the way she did, to make him shiver the way his touch did. She smiled a little hazily and kissed his brow, then his nose. "You're so beautiful, Red."

It was kind of consuming, how much he wanted to simply touch her. Of course he was gentle with her, fingers working between her legs. Still, he explored further, his thumb rolling over her clit before he pushed a finger into her gently. "Fire," he panted, "is this normal?" He brethed against her chest. Mostly because he sure didnt know.

Then he felt her hand on him and and she said words and he closed his eyes and gave a little whimper and he squeezed her thigh in his free hand and gave a tense shudder. Red came with a high pitched whimper, flushed and panting though he continued to lazily touch Minala - she'd told him to keep doing it after all, working his fingers in and around her core.

"I'm sorry," he panted, turning his face away, shame burning up his neck.

"Oh!" Minala stifled a sharp cry as the pad of his thumb rolled against her and a shudder rippled through her whole body. Her hand stuttered along his length and her other arm clutched him a little tighter, her head bowing forward to rest her brow against his.

Then she felt him tremble against her and- oh. Ohhhh... She glanced down at her hand, fingers still curled around him gently.

But his fingers were still moving and it still felt so good. Perhaps they shouldn't have...done that. They were supposed to be making babies. But, well- she couldn't find it in her to be all that upset about it.

"Shh." She tilted her head to kiss his cheek. "Don't apologize, Red, it's alright- Nng! Oh, please keep doing that, please please..." She took a breath and peppered a few more kisses down his neck. "It's alright," she repeated a little breathlessly as she shivered pleasantly against him. "It- it happens." She assumed.

With a small smile, she added, "It's not like this is the only chance we have." Her voice trailed off into a low moan and she let her head fall back, lips parted as she panted and wriggled on his lap, bucking her hips against his hand.

Red was flushed but... He felt a little less tense now. A little less worried. More embarrassed but ... It should be fine, right? He was entranced by her movements and he watched her curiously, while he worked his hand between her legs. Cautiously he pushed a second finger into her, hissing at how tight it felt, but he worked them in and out gently while his thumb moved along her clit. She was soaking wet and his gut clenched to know that he'd helped do that.

"Minala," He whispered, looking up at her. A thick swallow and he gently removed his hand from her, moving his hands to her waist and slowly turning so that she was laying on her side. Red pushed her onto her back, making sure to get her into the soft part of the pillow nest before he propped himself up beside her, his tail curling over hers and his hand moving down her body again before he resumed his earlier ministrations.

He ignored the fact he was covered in his own semen, or that he was just as hard as before. Red pressed a kiss to Minala's forehead, the tip of her nose, her lips. When he pushed his fingers into her again, he purred at how they glided in, his thumb went back to moving and he looked up at her before his mouth closed over one of her nipples.

A part of him was enjoying this.

Another part of him, the part that wasn't a good tribe member, felt a little wrong. This was an honor. Being with Minala was a blessing. They could have children... But it felt off. Forced. Still, he suckled at her breast eagerly and worked his hand between her thighs before he started to kiss down, shifting as he went. His tongue dipped into her navel and he removed his hand from her and pressed both to her thighs before he shifted himself, his shoulders at either knee. "Can I?" he asked, his cock throbbing eagerly but... He wanted to make her feel good, too. Needed to prove himself to her that as shy and as scary as all this was...

Red purred before he licked his lips and looked at her like he was starving. His hands smoothed up and down her thighs before he leaned forward to press a kiss to her belly, resting his chin on it and looking up at her.

Two fingers slid inside and she mewled desperately, lashes fluttering as she focused on his face. "Fire, that's..." She swallowed heavily and cupped his face in her hand, her clean hand, when he whispered her name.

"Red." She allowed him to turn her into the nest and shift their position, content to just breath and watch him as her belly fluttered and tightened, heat dancing in a crackling wave along her skin. She twined her tail around his eagerly, toes curling.

Minala returned his kisses happily, humming in the back of her throat, then gasped when he slipped his fingers inside again. Then his mouth was on her breast and she let her head fall back onto the pillows, her breathing ragged. "Red, oh Red..." Her hand moved to comb her fingers through his hair as he started kissing a trail down her body.

The coiling, fluttery feeling in her belly pulsed and she whimpered, wiggling a little under his attentions, back arching and relaxing again. She wanted...she wanted... She didn't know what she wanted, but she wanted something.

It took her a moment to properly register his question, but once she had she nodded eagerly. "Yes. Fire, yes, oh please, Red, please." She was burning up from the inside out and she just wanted him to keep touching her, kissing her, until she couldn't think or see straight.

Red froze.

Hovering above her, he moved his hands to her sides and pressed his cheek to her belly. A moment later he closed his eyes and finally he sucked in a deep breath and didn't move. Too much. Minala needed and wanted and he wanted to give her those things.

The haze lifted a little though and he just... Let himself remain, her knees on either side of his ribs. "I'm sorry," he breathed against her belly, "I... I have to go get air or something," he started to pull away. "You made a mistake, Im not a good male for you. You should have picked Amythyst,"  Red sat up on his heels, head down and eyes closed, "he'd... know"

Wait- what?

Minala blinked, breathing still rough and ragged, and pushed herself up on her elbows to stare at him.

Okay...

She needed a minute to remember how to think properly. Words. She needed to say words. "But-" No. "You want-" No quite.

With a sigh, she leaned back again and closed her eyes. Well. She supposed she'd have to just...think of something else until the need to tell him that he'd better damn well finish what they'd started faced. She was positively aching for touch now, but tried to force herself to ignore it.

"Okay," she whispered eventually. "We don't...have to do anything else for now, if you want." Slowly, she sat up as well. "But I chose you, Red. I didn't want Amethyst. I wanted you."

Red didn't understand.

He watched her, his blue eyes flicking about on her form. Everything she was was beautiful and he? The runt. Plain.nothing remarkable. The question of why was on his lips and he looked away, head down in shame. "I can't even please you! I don't know what I'm doing and I got us all messy!"

Red turned away, now quite naked and quite angry with himself. The basics were here in the hut for them. A basin of water and a few bits of fabric to wash themselves with. "Come here please," he said softly afrer cleaning himself off. Embarassing and awful. Red held out an arm and flushed.

"I want to please you, Nala. I just.." he let his head drop forward and he closed his eyes, "Im going to do somerhing wrong and you're going to to hate me, I know it."

Nala got quickly to her feet and cross to him when he asked. "Red, it's okay." She laid her hand on his shoulder. "I don't expect- I don't know what I'm doing either," she laughed quietly, trying to get at least a smile out of him.

She lowered her eyes and murmured, "I could never hate you. Not for something like this."

Red took the cloth and frustratedly started to clean minala off. It wss when he had the cloth hovering between her legs that he gave pause. He'd...  Felt good. Regardless if it was a little early ans embarassing.

Frustrated and a little angry now, at himseld, at his size... He could... Red looked at Minala for a long moment before his arm curled around her torso and his lips crashed into hers. His hand pressed to her belly for a moment. He wanted to father her children. He wanted to be an important part of her life.

"Just tell me to stop," he panted against her lips before he started to walk her backwards to the little nest. It was with little ceremony that his hand returned to her core. He pushed his tongue into her mouth when he pushed two of his fingers into her. He purred ar how wet she still was. That wss for.him. sort of.

Being frustrated was a good aphrodisiac before Red kisses at hee lips, ninbled at her chest. He worked her clit with his thumb and when his fingers were gliding in and out of her he dared to add another. "You're so small," he panted against her breast before taking a nipple into his mouth.

Not that he reslly knew what before small meant. Red didnt want her angry at him though and she'd seemed to want this so bad and he moved his hand faster and harder and he ignored the way he was grinding himself against her thigh. "Minala," he lifted his heas and pressed his lips to hers, "tell me what makes you happy," and he lifted himself up to watch her while he tried his best to help her do what he did accidentally.

Minala had to focus a lot of effort in not reacting to how sensitive she still was as he cleaned her off. She focused on breathing, just breathing, in and out, this was fine...

Then he was looking up at her, the cloth hovering between her legs, and she frowned slightly. "What-?"

Before she could finish the question he's jerked her against him and his mouth was on hers. She squealed, shocked frozen for a moment, then eagerly kissed him back. Her arms twined around his neck and she stumbled a bit as he moved them back toward the pillows and blankets.

But then his hand was back, fingers touching and slipping inside and oh Fire she felt his teeth on her skin and just wanted more. "Red," she panted, then moaned as he suckled at her breast. "Red- Fire, don't stop!"

She looked down at him, eyes hazy and lips parted as she drew panting breaths. Her legs had started to shake and her arms around his shoulder were as much for support as they were for contact. "You," she breathed. "You make me happy. Just- just keep doing that- ah! Mmn..." she leaned in for another kiss as shivers wracked her frame.

This felt better than before, better than anything she could have imagined. She could feel him grinding against her and whimpered, part of her thinking she should touch him too, but she could focus passed how his fingers were doing that thing and his tongue and the fluttery heat in her belly that coiled tighter and tighter and-

Minala's head fell back and she trembled gently as she came with a soft cry, Red's name caught somewhere in the middle of it. Her knees shook, then gave out as she collapsed against him, panting.

A strange sort if masculine pride welled in his chest when she twitched and whimpered and her knees buckled. Gently he kneeled down on the blanket nest, guiding Minala down.

Red didnt hover over her though. Instead he curled up behind her, nuzzling into her hair. His hands rested on her belly and thigh and he closed his eyes. "Sorry," her breathed against her hair, "I.. um..." he swallowed, squeezing his eyes shut.

"Was that nice?" He whispered.

"Yes." Minala slid her hand up to cover his on her belly and curled back against him. "Don't apologize for that, Red. That was...wonderful."

She felt more relaxed than she could ever remember feeling before and smiled a little sleepily. "Are you, um..." She twisted her head to look back at him over her shoulder. "Are you...okay?"

Red flushed and didn't meet her eyes. "I'm fine."

There was a simple little nod and he simply shimmied down to press his forehead to her back. Though his hands remained in place and his tail curled around their legs. Red hadn't meant to, but as soon as he was comfortable sleep grabbed him and he passed out, his face pressed to Minala's back and his arms wrapped around her waist.

Nala purred contentedly as he pressed closer to her back. Then she felt his breath even out and quirked an eyebrow. "Red?"

Was he asleep? "Red. Red?"

No response.

She chuckled quietly and lifted his hand to press a kiss to the back of it, then settled it back around her waist. Her tail curled with his and she closed her eyes, allowing herself to slip into unconsciousness.

Red woke a few hours later, still curled around Nala. They'd missed midday meal so a wrapped package had been pushed into the littlw hut. He looked at it and then at himself.

Right.

This was what he was supposed to do.

A curious hand moved along Minala and Red quickly took it back. No. She should sleep. Gently he rolled over onto his back, untangling his arms from her. Red flushed, looking down at himself and cast a weary glance at Minala, she was asleep, right? His hand moved to his groin and he started to touch himself. It'd be better if he didn't bother Minala with this. There was time later and right now she was sleeping.

The gentle movements were enough to rouse Minala slightly and she yawned quietly, blinking her eyes open. Forgetting for a moment that the comfortable warmth at her back was in fact another person, she stretched and wriggled, making soft, sleepy noises in the back of her throat.

Then she remembered Red was wrapped around her and froze, blushing. "Oh. Sorry, I didn't-" She turned her head to look at him over her shoulder and saw. Her blush deepened. "Oh. Um..."

What did she do? Give him room? Offer to help. She hesitated, blinking owlishly at him, then took a deep breath and slid her hand down to join his cautiously, peeking up at his face through her lashes.

"...Sleep well?"

Red just gasped softly, his eyes popped open and he flushed deeply. His hands stilled and he swallowed thickly, his breath hitched and he just stared at her, mouth open slightly. "Y-yes..." He stuttered, looking down at her hand, "I'm sorry," He whispered eyes falling closed, "I didn't mean to wake you."

She smiled and reached her other hand up to cup his cheek, running her thumb under his eye. "That's alright," she assured him quietly.

She gave an experimental stroke with her hand, eyes on his face. "If you don't want me to do this, I can stop," she murmured. "I just...wanted to help."

Red closed his eyes and hummed when she pet his cheek and he tensed when she moved her hand. A sigh when she moved and he tried not to bite his lip, but he opened his eyes and swallowed, "It... Feels different when you do it," he admitted, flushed and shy. He cleared his throat and caught her wrist, "You don't have to do anything," his voice was soft and he impulsively leaned in to kiss her forehead before he moved her hand away and curled his arms around her to hold her close, his erection pressed between their bellies.

"Just... Stay." He sighed, eyes closed.

Nala hummed softly in contentment as he wrapped her up in an embrace, her palms pressed flat against his chest. "I can do that," she murmured, kissing his nose and smiling.

She tilted her head a bit at him, brow furrowed. "You sure you don't want me to help, though? Elder said sometimes...that hurts? If you leave it."

She wasn't really sure how that worked, but she didn't want him to be in pain.

Red tucked his head into her neck and sighed, eyes closed.

"It's embarrassing," He whispered, voice husky and he curled his tail over them, "it's okay, don't worry about it."

She frowned. "Why is it embarrassing?" It was just...what happened, wasn't it?

She didn't try to push him though, curving her tail up so she could brush the tip over the length of his. With a contented little murmur she nuzzled into his neck, taking a deep breath to let his scent calm her.

Were they really going to talk about this?

Red flushed and tilted his head to look at her, his member still throbbing between them. He swallowed thickly and buried his face farther into her neck before he rolled them over so she was on top of him.  "It just... Goes everywhere," He huffed out, still blushing. Alone in the middle of no where it wasn't a big deal, but he still felt hot shame from his little accident earlier and he turned his face away and he swallowed thickly, "Maybe we should get dressed. This... Wasn't an issue when we were dressed."

Which was also not the point of them being in here at all. They weren't supposed to be dressed. They were supposed to be making the next generation of Kulshedra to tend to the Fire but... Red squeezed his eyes shut and turned his head away, his hands resting on Minala's lower back.

Minala pouted a bit. She didn't want to get dressed, she wanted to-

Oh. Huh.

With a small sound, she sat back to sit perched on his thighs, head tilted as she looked down at him. "We can if you want," she sighed, obviously a little put out, but she smiled reassuringly.

"Y'know...it won't be an issue or a mess if you're...inside," she pointed out with an arched eyebrow.

Red flushed.

His eyes opened and he looked at the pretty Opal who he found to be a little bit demanding. He swallowed and at the suggestion even he shivered and he looked down at himself, eager as ever. "You said it would hurt," He whimpered, looking a little tortured at the idea, voice soft. His hands moved to her hips and his thumbs smoothed over her belly. The idea of her full of his child. All that time they'd be allowed to spend together. Red swallowed at the thought, be able to keep His Opal. Just for a little while with no repercussions.

"I'm... Ready if you are?" his voice lilted, afraid he'd be denied - even though she was being the pushy one.

Wait- what?

"Really?" She blinked at him, so used to him saying no that the affirmative took her by surprise. "A-are you sure?"

She couldn't deny the way her stomach flipped in a combination of nerves and excitement at the idea and she shifted a little higher up on his hips, glancing down and biting her lip before she flicked her eyes back up to his again.

Slowly, she took his hand and brought it to the fork of her legs, silently asking for touch. If he changed his mind- Fire, she supposed she'd just have to figure out how to look after herself.

Red shivered and he looked at his hand and was tempted to snatch it away in embarassment but... He remained and simply breathed, sitting up slightly and he moved his hand against her. A repeat of his earlier movements. "Minala," he breathed her name, sitting up to work her with his fingers, his thumb rolling over her clit before he pressed his cheek to her chest, mouth capturing her breast, "I just... Want this to be a good memory," He breathed. There were going to be many more seasons for her, maybe, hopefully, many more children.

Just one first season though and Red wanted to be remembered by her forever. And damnit he was off to a bad start. Or at least, a memorably bad one.

She kissed him, cupping his cheeks and tipping his face back so she could press her lips to his. "You have, Red," she whispered. "You are a good memory."

Her hips shifted forward to press her heat against the length of him and she whimpered quietly as a pulse of pleasure shot through her. "Fire, just- keep holding me?" she whispered.

Red bit down hard on his lip at the feel of her but he simply nodded and nuzzled against her neck, pressed a kiss to the cluster of scales. "Anything," He breathed against her, hand working her. If anything he wanted to drive her just the little bit crazy, just a little bit over eager. His arm curled around her back and he smoothed his hand up and down her lower back, petting the top of her tail. "Just tell me what you need," he kissed her neck, "Okay? I won't... It'll be fine."

Minala's breath hitched and she ground her hips against his again, shivering lightly. She mewled when he kisses her neck, hands clutching at his shoulders, back, hair, whatever she could reach. "I need...I-I need..."

Anther shiver and she ducked her head to claim his lips again. Her hips rocked forward, ground against him, rocked back again. Then she took a breath and reached down to guide him inside, a noise caught in her throat as her body stretch to accommodate him and she froze, clutching him to her while she trembled desperately.

"Need?" Red whispered against her lips, working her. His free hand moved to her hip, to guide her over him. "Anything," his voice was husky and he hitched when he felt her over him. Amazing. "Nala," he breathed against her neck, "ill give you anything you need."

"You," she breathed, lowering her head to press her brow to his. "I need you."

Slowly, painfully slowly, she allowed herself to lower along his length. There was some discomfort and she whined, clenching her eyes shut until it passed.

Then she pressed her hips flush to his and gave a sharp exhale, clutching at his shoulders. "Ohhh, Red." She tilted her head to kiss him feverishly.

"Fire," he panted against her neck, feeling tense everywhere. Nala was a tight fist around him and gavw an impulsive buck of his hips before stopping himself short. "Nala," he got out before she kissed him. His tongue moved to hers and he dipped a hand back between them.

His fingers moved against her - she'd previously had seemed to enjoy that - and he deepened the kiss. One hand rested on her hip and he gave another little eager movement. "You feel amazing," he panted, ducking his head to kiss her opal cluster of scales.

Another whine caught in her throat and Nala's whole body twitched as he bucked against her. Her kisses were frantic and a little clumsy as she wrapped her arms tight around his shoulders and just tried to remember how to breathe properly.

A task which was not helped by his fingers moving so deliciously against her, but she was hardly complaining. "S-so do you," she managed to gasp out as he kissed her opal, earning another pleasured whimper at the touch. "Fire, Red, that's..."

Cautiously, she moved her hips against his. Her eyelids fluttered and she moaned at the feeling, legs tightening around his hips and fingers digging into his shoulders, claws forgotten for a moment and pricking at his skin. "So good," she breathed, eyes hazy, and darted in for another kiss as she repeated the movement with her hips.

The pain from her claws kept him grounded. Kept the heat from being too much. After shifting slightly and getting a more steady position fot his legs and hims, he moved one hand to caress abd squeeze her breast and the other return to between her legs.

Red did everything he could not to buck up into her wet heat. Almost desperate for it. "Nala," he moaned again, working his fingers over her eagerly. "Do whatever you wish," he ground out, teeth clenched. Needing but too afraid to take.

Minala whimpered and bucked her hips again. As amazing as this felt, a slowly growing need for more had ignited in her chest, and she wrapped her arms around Red's shoulders as she kissed him again, fierce and hungry.

"Not just...about me," she gasped out when she managed to tear her lips from his. "Red, please, be with me." Her hips rocked into his once more and her lashes fluttered, a moan caught in her throat as she ducked her head to nuzzle against his neck and flick her tongue out over the ruby at the base of his throat.

It was just about her.

Red didnt have the heart to whimper that out though. Every word he wanted to say was second place to him wanting to please his mate. His hand moved through her hair to the back of her heas, the other hand resting on her hip.

"You're beautiful," he panted against her jaw, giving minute rolls of his hips. Red bit his lip and held her as close as he could, rocking his hips up in an easy rhythm.could he be with her in this? Already he had to swallow back moans, keep a tight a leash as possible on his pleasure lest it end too soon for His Opal.

"Minala," his teeth grazed at her neck and he gave little nibbles, not breaking skin. "Can i keep you?" He whined againat her flesh, barely audible, hands moving to her hips before he laid down more to move into hwe more fluidly. Red faced and eager, Red was determined to be with her, in any form.

Also he wanted to make her cry out. A deep angry primal place jn his gut that wanted the tribe to know that he'd at least pleased her.

Fire crackled through her skin and Minala gasped as he finally began to move against her. A soft whimper slipped from her lips and she let her head fall back as his teeth and lips sought her neck, offering more of her throat to the touch.

Can I keep you?

A soft cry burst from her as they shifted and suddenly they were connecting deeply, easily. Her nails dragged down his spine and her back arched, legs hooked over his hips to hold him closer as she rocked to meet him.

Something in his voice, in the almost silent question itself, sent a zing of power and sensation down her spine like nothing she'd ever felt. Nala turned her head to catch his lips in a near bruising kiss, one hand cupping the nape of his neck while the other gripped his hip for an anchor.

"If- if you'll be mine," she breathed against his lips, "I could be yours..."

Another rock of their hips nearly brought her to the edge and she tore her mouth from his to cry out, eyes slamming shut and claws scratching at his skin as her fingers flexed and clenched.

Red pressed his hands to her hips to encourage her movements. His breath was heavy, sweat was beaded on his forehead. Her claws sent shivers down his spine.

"I'll be yours," he panted against her neck, whimpering. "Nala," her name was a chant. The pleasure beyond anything he could have fathomed. His claws pinched into her skin. A few more frantic thrusts up into her, he smashed his lips to hers and came with a moan.

Holding her to him tightly, he pulsed within her, holding her to him so he could nuzzle at her throat. A content purring rumbling his chest while he stroked his hands up and down her back.

Minala gave another sharp cry as she came with him, trembling in his arms. Her spine arched and her head tipped back, then she suddenly went boneless, sinking against him and letting her brow come to rest on his shoulder.

"Red," she murmured almost dazedly, smiling and tilting her head to the side so he could nuzzle her throat. His purring sent a wonderful virbrarion through her body that started where their chests were pressed together and she sighed contentedly.

Almost lazily, she twisted slightly to feather a few kisses along his jaw, finally allowing her grip on him to relax so she could stroke her hands over his shoulders and back. "That was..." She shook her head as she pulled back a bit to smile at him wonderingly. "Amazing."

She leaned in for another kiss, soft and slow.

Her smile just made him blush more.

Red swallowed thickly, mouth dry and heart thumping heavily.

When she leaned in for kisses, he closed his eyes, leaning into it while breathing heavily through his nose.

Now he was just tired again.

His hands smoothed up and down her back, fingers gliding along her spine before he nuzzled into the kiss and moving down, tucking his forehead to her where her neck met her shoulder and he just breathed.  "That was..." he started, she'd said amazing, "Something." he finished pulling away before his hands moved to her cheeks to cup her face.

"Are you okay?" he whispered, looking concerned, "Do you want me to go now?"

"I am so much better than okay," Nala assured him quickly. But just as quickly she was frowning, tightening her grip on him slightly when he asked if she wanted him to leave.

"What? I- No. Please, Red. Stay?" Feeling suddenly incredibly awkward, she flushed and ducked her eyes. "I mean...if you want to go, you can. I won't stop you." She took a breath. "But I'd...like it. If you stayed."

Red paused smiling slightly and looked away, bashful.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, moving a hand to brush a thumb under her eye, "I didn't mean it like that. I ... Well, I did..." He nuzzled against her neck before he started to move to lay down, shifting so he was on his back and she was still seated atop of him. " I just..." his eyes were closed and he sighed, "I'll stay," he whispered, opening his eyes and smoothing his hands up and down her sides, drawing his finger tips over her belly.

"As long as you want me to," He whispered, flushed and eyes falling closed again, "Nap with me?" He whispered, opening his arms and breathing deeply.

Her frown eased slightly and she let herself settle over him, legs and tails intertwined as she rested her head against his chest.

She still didn't entirely understand his stammerings, but she decided to leave it be for the moment.

"...Thank you," she murmured after a few quiet breaths. Already she was sleepy. "For this. For- that. Everything." She nuzzled into his shoulder a bit as she closed her eyes.

Fingers gently moved up and down her back, he nuzzled against her ear and held her close. Red didn't want to move. He knew that doing this, cuddling and being close was a recipe for disaster but... At least while it was cooking it would taste good.

Red gathered her against his chest and tucked her tight against him. A soft sound left his lips and he pressed them to her ear. Still inside her, Red didn't want to leave, instead he cuddled her against his chest, hands smoothing up and down her back again while he took one of the furrs and pulled it over her.

"Anything for you," he whispered, eyes falling closed. "Just let me know. Or don't," He smirked, "Just roll me over. Or start moving. I am yours until you're done with me."

Minala blinked, and a slow grin spread across her face. "Was that humour?" she teased, walking her fingers over his shoulder to his collar before placing a small nip on the edge of his jaw. "I love your smile," she added, more genuinely.

She didn't feel much like moving, though she thought she probably needed to recuperate before they gave it another go. A soft purr rumbled in her chest and she kissed the hollow of his throat, then the side of his neck.

"Should we sleep?" she mused sort of distractedly. "Or we could talk some more, if you like."

The compliment had his cheeks turn almost as bright red as his scales. Red looked at Minala before he went serious and looked away. They already whispered sweet nothings of being kept. And keeping. Red leaned over and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"We could talk until we fall asleep," he said softly, voice a purr before he nuzzled into her hair. It was sinking in, though slowly, how blessed he was to be chosen by her. And he prayed to the fire to bless them with life. His hand moved to stroke at her hip.

"I hope we made life," he whispered into her hair. That would mean more time with her. A child together. A blessed member of the tribe. Of course, the chances were slim. "Tell me... Did you know me? Before you Chose me?"

"Me too." She sighed and melted against him, pleased by the tingling vibrations his purrs sent through her body and reciprocating enthusiastically. "I hope so..."

She purses her lips at his question and tilted her head back to see his face. "Well. Sort of. A little. I knew your face, your name. You used to guard my door when we were younger, do you remember?"

Flushing a bit, she dropped her eyes. "I...wanted to talk to you, back then. But I was scared. The Elder had just discovered my Firesight, and I thought- everyone was treating me different. I didn't want you to be afraid to talk back..."

Red smiled shyly. A silly thing to do now that they'd... Doing it. He closed his eyes and his hand continued with the sweet movements of his hand against her side. He blinked at her, eyes bright with the smile on his face before he did his best to snuggle in closer.

It was selfish of him to want more, but... He wanted to pretend, just for not. Just for a little while.

"Of course I remember," He whispered, "You're hardly forgettable. All... Pretty and shiny." Red chuckled and pressed a kiss to her forehead, "Do you know who you're going to Choose next?" He whispered, knowing that they'd only have a few days together until she chose her next mate.

Nala purred, quietly thrilled. Perhaps it had been a bit of a silly question, but his response made her toes curl and had her chest feeling all warm and fuzzy, tail wrapping around to stroke his leg. The little kiss to her forehead had her purring louder and she snuggled into him.

Then she froze. “Who...next?”

Everything felt wrong, quite suddenly. She wanted to cry.

“I-um...” she licked her lips and clenched her eyes shut. “I hadn’t really...thought about it.”

She didn’t want to think about it. She wanted to curl up with Red and talk and laugh and make love until her season was over, then- then...

Then she was fed to keep going. She wanted to see him during the day, out with the rest of the tribe, wanted to be able to talk with him and smile, and maybe he could hold her again like he was now. Was that really so impossible?

It was easy to sense the difference. A moment again she was relaxed and loose and now she was tense and worried. Red shifted, nuzzling against her neck and he sighed, turning to look at the ceiling of the tent.

"You intend to keep me the whole season?" He asked with mild surprise. Didn't she want big strong babies? Which Red was not. As much as he wanted to take care of her during a pregnancy, he knew that he wasn't ideal. He knew that there were bigger stronger males out there that would be more than happy... "I'd be... okay with that. It's... A little odd but," Red shrugged and snuggled up against her tighter, moving so his knees were tucked behind hers and he could gently press kisses and nuzzle against her neck.

"Remember," He said softly, "I'm here for you. Not for them."

Minala's breath hitched and she went very still in his arms- not exactly tense the way she had been, just...waiting. "Would you...be alright with that? Really?" she whispered, afraid to turn her head and see his face.

She pressed back against the curve of his body and purred quietly as he nuzzled into her neck. "I'd really, really like that." Her voice was soft and she turned her face into their little nest, blushing.

Red's hand smoothed down Minala's front, caressing her stomach and snuggling against her back, a content purr in his throat.  "It'd be my honour," He whispered against her neck, a happy trill and an exciting wriggling of his ears. A nibble against her shoulder and he kissed down her arm.

"What did you want to do for the rest of today?" He said softly, looking up at the ceiling of the tent, enjoying how the light filtered in to cast a gentle low on them. "I think they left food out," He smiled, nuzzling against her neck and moving his hands up and down her front. "I don't want to move," He admitted, "I want to stay like this forever."

What did she want to do?

Well, she could certainly think of a few things...

No, focus, Nala! That's not what he meant. Still, it was rather hard to focus on other things when he nibbled at her shoulder and peppered kisses along her skin.

She smiled and snuggled back against him. "I don't really wanna move either," she admitted with a chuckle. "But we should eat. C'mon." Reluctantly, she pulled out of his arms to sit up, then quickly twisted so she could drop a soft kiss on his lips, grinning.