Date: Thu, 27 Apr 2017 23:23:54 -0400
From: Tripp Savidge <trippsavidge@gmail.com>
Subject: Dancing with the Dragon, Chapter 26: Wild Magic

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

Dancing with the Dragon: Chapter 26, Wild Magic, Copyright 2017 Tripp
Savidge. All rights are reserved. Do not duplicate or distribute in any
form without express permission of the author.


Dancing with the Dragon
Chapter 26: Wild Magic
by Tripp Savidge

"You better hurry, I don't think I can wait too long... Chris is just way
too delicious," Skye said as he looked over to see Garrett throw the last
bit of clothing aside. He turned back to Chris and inhaled deeply. He
smells so good, Skye thought as his dragon stirred to life. He's ours,
the other voice echoed in his head.

Chris gave a nervous laugh and buried his face into Skye's chest.

"I think you embarrassed our little kitten," Garret said as he climbed
onto the bed.

Skye smiled. This feels so right, my partner and 'our' sweet kitten
nestled between us. Skye leaned down and captured Chris's lips, savoring
the taste and feel. He opened himself up to Chris, who was feeling
overwhelmed, an internal battle raging between his lust and his fear. He
was thinking how anytime he was near Skye his body began to respond and
now the same thing was happening around Garrett. Chris had no doubts
about what he wanted, but what if he wasn't good enough?

Chris returned Skye's kiss, running his tongue along his bottom lip. Skye
responded with a growl, driving his tongue into Chris's accepting mouth
and pulling him in tightly. Skye could feel his dragon becoming
impatient.

Garrett gently pushed Chris's legs apart, spreading him wide so there was
room for him to lie between. He kissed from Chris's knees up his legs,
giving attention to the inner thighs as he watched Chris's manhood come
to life.

"Don't be nervous Chris, we're here to love you. Just lie back and
enjoy." Skye poured more passion into his kiss. He pulled back and looked
into Chris's violet eyes. "You are beautiful and we love you. This is not
a performance or a test. It's just us, together, enjoying each other."

"But I can't compete with the others. They are all so handsome, and
Dillon and Rilien, so pretty. Not to mention they are all experienced and
can take care of you so much better..."

"Chris, you are as attractive as any of them. Each of you is different
and that's a good thing. You don't have to compete. We love you for you.
Can't you feel that?"

"Just try to calm your thoughts and open yourself to our bond," Garrett
encouraged.

Chris gave a nervous laugh. "I can't calm anything while you're kissing
and teasing my balls with your tongue."

"Fine, I'll try to restrain myself - but not for long, just warning you."

Skye watched as Chris closed his eyes and he could sense him searching
for their bond. He decided to help a little and guided Chris while
letting his magic flow along their connection - making it stand out like
a beacon. Skye mentally reached out to Garrett to make sure Chris could
feel both of them. Skye wondered if Chris could feel their dragons as
well. Garrett's seemed to be as interested and intent on Chris as his
own.

"That's so weird..." Chris said.

"Bad?" Garrett asked.

"No, it's so... personal, to know what you're thinking..."

"And what are we thinking?" Garrett asked.

Chris turned to Skye and gave a bashful smile. "Skye wants me to have the
best sex ever - to let go, and enjoy myself. You..." Chris's face turned
bright red and he stumbled over his words. "You want to see if you two
can make... make me orgasm until... I can't shoot anymore. And... you...
uhm... want to see if my butt is as tight as it looks..."

"Yeah, that's what I'm thinking. But you left out the part about licking
your hot, sexy body from head to toe and having Skye's cock down your
throat at the same time."

"Garrett, you're going to scare him," Skye said.

Garrett snorted. "Babe, this bond is two-way. It's what he was hoping
would happen. Right Chris?"

"Yeah... though you're awfully big... Dillon helped me get ready and I've
been practicing with Willow but you are so much bigger."

"Don't worry Chris. I can make sure it feels really good and trust me it
will, even without my help. Garrett is the absolute best - top or
bottom," Skye said.

Christ turned those violet eyes back on Skye. "That's not what the others
said... they said you were."

"Don't let him fool you Chris. He's just modest - no doubts in my mind
who the best is. But we've been spending way too much time talking."
Garrett licked up the underside of Chris's shaft and gave him a smile.
"Oh yeah... gonna milk you dry kitten."

Skye leaned back down and captured Chris's moan with a kiss as his hands
began exploring.

Garrett took Chris's cock into his mouth and took him all the way to the
base as his hands roamed up and down Chris's slender form. He lifted
Chris's legs onto his shoulders and licked down his shaft to his balls
and then gave them some love before he licked farther and found the tiny
little rose bud, surrounded with a hint of dark silky hair. "You ready?"
Garrett asked.

Skye pulled back from the kiss to let Chris speak.

"Yes... I think so..."

"I'm going to get you warmed up then Skye will slide his beautiful
manhood inside. When you get to the point where you don't ever want him
to stop, we'll switch." Garrett gave Skye a wink as he looked back to
Chris's sweet hole and began licking...

"OHHHHH MYYYYY!" Chris gasped.

"Told you he was good." Skye moved around to straddle Chris, placing his
crotch over Chris's face as he took over sucking on his dick.

Chris stuck out his tongue, catching the drip of pre-cum leaking from
Skye. "Mmmmm. You taste so good." He reached up and guided Skye's cock
into his mouth and began sucking, trying to get more. He'd started
craving the taste of both Skye and Garrett after their first intimate
encounter. Now he was determined to get as much as he could.

Skye pulled back and let out a growl. "Easy Chris. You suck any harder
and you're gonna suck my balls through my cock. Just enjoy. There's no
rush."

"Sorry," Chris said trying to temper his need for Skye's seed.

It wasn't long before Chris was moaning loudly around the man-flesh in
his mouth. Garrett had worked his tongue magic and then squeezed out some
of his own pre-cum and worked it into the tender opening.

"I think you better take him baby. I do any more and we're both gonna
lose it." Garrett gave a quick kiss to the twitching rose bud and then
stood - changing positions with Skye.

"Fuck you're big," Chris said taking the thick cock in his hand, his
fingers barely able to wrap around it and he let it rest in his hands
noting how heavy Garrett's cock felt.

"Better not let Pater hear you talking like that kitten," Garrett teased.

"What he doesn't already know you're hung like a centaur?"

It was Skye's turn to laugh. "No, no, Chris he knows Garrett's well-
endowed, but he does get rather testy if we curse. And just so you know,
Centaurs are way, way bigger."

"I think I've been insulted..." Garrett winked at Skye as he looked at
Chris's hard cock and licked it like it was candy.

"No love. I most definitely prefer yours," Skye whispered, leaning down
to give Garrett a kiss.

**I'm glad because I know there's no cock I'd rather have in my ass than
yours,** Garrett sent as he bobbed up and down on Chris's shaft.

Skye moved himself into position and teased Chris's hole with his fingers
to make sure he was ready. Chris's ass lips parted and allowed him to
slide his fingers in the hot tunnel. He looked down at Chris's legs
splayed wide, his cockhead penetrating Chris's most intimate of places
and felt the heat building. It was so hot, Chris's lean thighs had a
light dusting of dark hair and his balls were twitching as Garrett licked
and sucked at his shaft.

"OHHHHH!" Chris cried out.

Dragon juice does some amazing things. Skye thought to himself. Not only
was Chris well lubricated but his opening was relaxed and hyper-
sensitive. Skye smiled, he knew the effects well and had come to relish
the feeling. He paused after breaching the tight anal ring to make sure
Chris was still doing okay.

"Don't stop now!" Chris pleaded before trying to take Garrett back into
his mouth.

Skye snickered as he pushed into the tight hot ass. Chris felt amazing.
He began slowly, taking long deep thrusts, keeping his mind open to
Chris's thoughts. He couldn't really see his face since it was currently
buried under his mate's body. Skye wondered if Garrett's pre-cum had
begun to work its magic on Chris's throat.

**Oh yeah baby. He's got me all the way to the root,** Garrett sent.

Skye ran his hands up and down Garrett's back, moving the long braid to
the side so he could see the muscles as he fucked Chris. It was a
beautiful sight, watching his ass clench as Chris worked Garrett's cock.
Garrett's muscles felt warm and strong under Skye's hands and he knew
Garrett was giving Chris an incredible blowjob. Skye thought Garrett was
rather gifted on sucking cock.

Chris moaned around the thick dick in his mouth and was trying to move
his ass to get more of Skye while driving his cock deeper into Garrett's
mouth. His thoughts were all about pleasure and acceptance. Skye could
tell that he'd kept his connection to their bond and each passing moment
bolstered his confidence. Chris could feel their enjoyment and
appreciation of his body and knew without a doubt that they loved him and
wanted him.

**Love... I think he's ready and I'm afraid I'll blow if we don't switch
now,** Skye said.

**I'm really looking forward to this.** Garrett responded.

Skye pulled out and then knelt and licked the sweet opening. Chris begged
for him to put his cock back in.

"I think you're ready for Garrett now."

"PLEASE!"

Garrett and Skye swapped positions and Skye climbed over Chris and took a
moment to appreciate his lean body and the glorious treasure trail that
pointed right to his throbbing, dripping cock. Skye took it in his mouth
and savored the taste and smell. Wait, what the hell am I doing? I want
this in my ass, Skye thought.

"What?" Chris objected.

"Shhhhhh. I have something better." Skye turned around and let Garrett
help him get in position. Skye felt Garrett's arms wrap around him as he
kissed up his neck and let his breath tease Skye's ear.

**I'll push into him as I lower you. Just relax and let me guide you,**
Garrett coached.

Chris let out a cry and lifted his body as he felt the simultaneous
penetration and enveloping from Skye's hole.

Skye let Garrett guide him and as he felt Chris slide inside, he focused
on Chris's thoughts and what his body was feeling. Skye reached out with
his mind to let his magic relax Chris's entrance and give a gentle rub to
his prostate but found his magic getting away from him. It was too much,
too fast. Skye tried to pull it back but there was so much power. Skye's
dragon was pushing him, wanting to totally claim and own Chris's body.
Skye tried to restrain himself and his magic but rather than a gentle
massage, he battered Chris's insides like a good long and hard fuck and
within seconds he'd not only opened him up but had given him an
overwhelming desire for more.

"FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! HARDER!" Chris's eyes went wide and he cried out in
euphoric pleasure - pulling Garrett's cock in as deep as he could take
it. He lifted his hips and exploded deep inside Skye's ass, pumping
volley after volley of his seed.

Feeling Chris's hot jiz in his ass pushed Skye to the edge with his own
orgasm began building. His magic was still spiraling out of control and
knew he'd pulled Garrett into his lust. Skye rode Chris's manhood like he
was possessed. He pulled Garrett's arms around him and guided his hands
to his cock - enjoying the slick feel as Garrett stroked him to a mind
blowing eruption.

Skye carefully stood letting Chris slide out and then turned so he could
lick him clean. Chris reached up and moved Skye over top of him so he
could return the favor, sucking not only Skye's cock clean but doing a
very thorough felching on his ass.

Garrett withdrew as well having dumped his load inside Chris and crawled
up to kiss him and help him on Skye's bottom. "Tasty isn't he? Though I
gotta say your cream makes him more like a dessert," Garrett said.

Chris and Garrett kissed sharing the sweet jiz mixed with the taste of
Skye. Meanwhile Skye had moved to worshiping Garrett's cock and licking
him just as clean.

"I feel empty... could you do me again Skye. Then when Garrett recovers
he can fuck me again too. That was so amazing," Chris said.

"What a filthy little mouth you have little brother. I think that's a
great idea, just tell us how you want it and we'll take care of you,"
Garrett said as he nibbled down Chris's neck and teased his nipples.
"Your sweet little hole was even better than I'd imagined. Thought you'd
want to know."

"I want you both to fuck me until I have trouble walking tomorrow. I want
so much cum pumped up my ass and in my throat I'll be able to taste you
all week."

Skye gave a nervous laugh. **Garrett, I'm so sorry... I don't know what
happened. This is my fault - the magic, it got away and now...**

Garrett sat up and pulled Skye into a kiss. **Quit worrying. You know as
well as I do that he wanted this before we ever started. All the magic
did was knock out the fear and get his body ready to take it. What? You
don't want to do exactly what he asked for?**

Skye turned and looked at the sexy young man. His body oozed seduction,
he was stretching and showing off his lean form, the hair on his chest,
the hard nipples, the curve of his Adonis belt and that dark trail
leading to his hard, perfect cock. Even his eyes, dark with lust and
need. There was something so primal about Chris that called to Skye's
dragon. He fed a hunger Skye hadn't even realized he had.

Skye woke to Garrett's gentle kiss. "Time to wake up sleeping beauty. I'm
going to get showered."

Skye snuggled back into Chris, burying his face into his neck and
enjoying his scent. He also enjoyed how his cock nestled tightly between
Chris's ass cheeks. Skye felt a wave of lust return and his dragon
stirred. Oh come on, I think we did more than enough - even to satisfy
you, Skye scolded his dragon. Never, can't you feel how perfectly he fits
against us, don't you remember how good it felt to be inside him and how
much he enjoyed it... why not do it again. We know it's what he would
want... Skye's dragon responded.

"It would feel better if you were inside," Chris's sleepy voice muttered.

Skye leaned over Chris and rolled him onto his back so he could kiss him.
"Mmmm. You are so right. But then... I'm not sure I'd stop."

"Sounds good to me," Chris said with a smile.

"Hey you two. Skye you need to get moving. You need time to eat before we
head out." Garrett said as he stepped back into the room wrapped in his
towel.

"Oooooo... he's so sexy. Maybe we should get him to join us," Chris
teased.

Garrett pulled Skye off of the bed and gave him a smack on the butt as he
pushed him toward the bath. "You are a troublemaker." Garrett dropped the
towel and climbed onto the bed lying his body on top of Chris.

"Awwww... come on. You know you want it."

Garrett laughed and kissed Chris while trying to ignore that the cute
little shifter had a very firm grip on his enlarging manhood. "Guess you
decided it wasn't too big after all?"

"Nope. It was perfect. The whole night was perfect. Now if every night
could be like that I think I'd be content."

"Skye!" Garrett called out. "I think we created a monster."

Garrett pulled away and grabbed his uniform to get dressed. "Don't think
me leaving that bed is by choice."

"I know, I know. Duty and all that." Chris swung his legs over the side
of the bed and sat for a moment.

Skye returned, already dressed and gave Chris a questioning look. "You
okay?"

"Just feeling a little light-headed."

Skye put his hand on Chris's shoulders and pulled back quickly. "Shit!
You're burning up."

"Don't feel sick, just really strange," Chris said.

"Maybe you should check him babe." Garrett said.

Skye gave Garrett a glare. Since the magic episode with Zo, Skye had
several nightmares about using his gifts and finding horrible things
inside those he loved. He had told Garrett and gotten no sympathy. Now
Garrett was pushing him, knowing Skye didn't want to risk it.

"You're mean," Skye muttered. He sat beside Chris and reached out with
his other sight. Skye's dragon took note and he immediately felt the pull
of Chris's beast, just under the surface. He needs to stop fighting...
it's time, the dragon voice counseled. All of a sudden, Skye felt his
magic building like a tidal wave. He struggled to get control and pull
back but it wanted out.

Chris let out a strange cry and fell to the floor on his hands and knees.

**Garrett! Can't... stop...** Skye screamed in his mind as the power
broke through and wrapped around Chris.

Chris's form began to shimmer and before their eyes, he slowly started
morphing - fur began growing all over his body, his bone structure
stretched and rebuilt, becoming a panther. A huge, majestic black
panther, who collapsed to the floor breathing heavily.

"Shit! Shit! What did I do to him?" Skye cried out as he knelt by the
large cat.

Garrett knelt on Chris's other side and ran his hand along the sleek coat
and then looked up at Skye. "He's fine. Or at least I think he is. First
time shifting takes a lot out of you. He's beautiful. Look at your mark,
that ought to make your dragon purr."

Skye refused to give Garrett the satisfaction. Yes his dragon had already
noticed the little silvery patch of fur on Chris's neck and was quite
proud. However, Skye was much more worried that he'd hurt him.

"But it shouldn't be the first time. Remember, when he was attacked?"

"That wasn't a full shift and he probably hasn't been healthy enough
since. I'll call down and make sure we get someone to take care of him,
get him fed," Garrett said.

"But... I did this."

"You might have. Or you might have just helped him along."

"My dragon said he needed to shift right before I lost control," Skye
confessed.

"I'll see if Master Quanta is available this evening. Maybe he can
explain."


*   Scene 2   *

Skye watched carefully, waiting for a signal. Two of their opponents in
this round had already been eliminated but Skye had to give this last guy
credit - he was good. The staff spun creating a circle of brilliant blue
at the tips keeping Skye back as the man warily watched Gilian circle
him. Skye was already painfully familiar with those blue tips and hoped
Gil's plan worked.

Gilian got in under the guy's guard and got in a kick and a glancing blow
with her fist, distracting him. Her other hand dipped and signaled Skye.
He dropped and swung his leg out taking their opponent's feet out from
under him. Skye kept the momentum and scissored bringing the second leg
over and down on the man's chest slamming him into the floor. Now it was
Gilian's turn.

She leaped and landed on the guy with her full weight forcing the air
from his lungs. In the blink of an eye, she had his staff in her hands
and brought it down squarely under the guy's chin. It zapped and sparked,
their opponent jerked and his muscles spasmed. The chime sounded and
Gilian stepped off of him while Skye got to his feet.

He clasped Gilian's hand and gave her a smile as she pulled off the skull
cap and tossed it to the mat. He missed using his telepathy when he
fought, but the instructor had insisted he needed to learn how to fight
without it. Skye had to shield strongly to keep out the others' thoughts.
Even though his connection with Gilian wasn't as strong as those with
whom he'd bonded, he could still easily read her intent and anticipate
her moves. They all wore the shielding skull caps which the Academy said
blocked telepathy and bond-mate links. Skye chose not to tell them that
the skull caps were ineffective on him. He was worried that if they knew,
they'd start a whole new round of tests.

"Well done, well done," instructor Meckle said, pointing to the mat.
"Please, sit. Let's review."

Skye sat after stretching out his muscles a bit. He turned to see Gilian
doing the same. He was impressed. She wasn't very big - maybe 5'4" with a
slender, lean build. But she was fast and a whole lot tougher than she
looked. Her long brown hair was braided and tied up, making her pointed
ears more prominent. He could still see the resemblance to her brother,
Dillon, but Skye thought Dillon was prettier.

"Gilian, you fought very well but not efficiently. Part of these
exercises is learning to leverage your partner. You fight like you're
alone most of the time."

"Skye, you are doing well at reading the signals and I appreciate you
pulling your punches. You break any more of my fighters and I'm going to
have a tough time finding you sparring partners."

Skye gave a nod. Hope I didn't hurt this one... I think I was careful.
But then again I thought I was careful yesterday.

"He'll be fine by the way," Instructor Meckle said with a laugh. "Medics
say a day or two in dragon form and he'll be as good as new."

"How'd you..."

"I don't need your telepathy son, I've been training longer than you've
been alive. All that time with young men like you - I've learned a thing
or two about reading expressions and body language."

Skye nodded again feeling a little more impressed with their trainer. He
listened patiently while Meckle went through their last match and pulled
it apart move by move. He offered suggestions where it could have been
done better and compliments where he thought they were merited.

"Okay you're dismissed for today. Tomorrow we'll do the same, four
matches, four different partners. Like today I'll try to match the number
of opponents and their skills to give you a challenge but not put you out
too early. Then I understand Skye will be out for a few days. Just
realize I'll work you twice as hard when you get back to make up for time
missed."

"Yes sir," Skye said as he and Gilian stood and saluted, hand to chest
before heading out. They didn't speak until they were clear of the
training building.

"Thanks Gilian. You're really good. I hope I didn't mess you up."

Gilian stopped and gave Skye an odd look. "You aren't what I expected."

"Should I ask if that's good or bad?" Skye felt a little intimidated by
Gilian. She was prickly at the best of times, though if he thought about
it she didn't scare him like Leesai. But he did feel like he was
constantly being judged and evaluated.

Gilian snorted. "Good I guess. You aren't the average, spoiled, arrogant,
royal prick I was expecting. And you're still way too pretty for your own
good, but you can fight. I'll give you that."

"Uhm... thanks."

"Dillon doing okay?" Gilian asked as she started walking with him again.

"Yeah, but I'm worried. He doesn't seem himself. I don't know if elves
get sick like humans, but he refuses to go to the medics."

"Yeah, we get sick. What makes you think he's not well?"

"He's been getting dizzy spells and I think he has cramps. I've caught
him wrapping his arms around himself and bending over. As soon as I go to
say anything he pretends to be fine."

"You couldn't use your magic to check him? I heard you've got a talent
for healing."

"No, I think a medic is a better choice." Skye felt a lump in his throat
- what if he'd tried to examine Dillon and his magic had gotten away from
him like it had with Chris? Maybe the nightmares had saved Dillon.

"Fair enough. We're supposed to meet for breakfast. I'll see what I can
find out."

"Thanks. He can be stubborn."

"Runs in the family," Gilian replied.

"So how's basic training? River and Nik said it's painful."

"It is, but I probably understand it a little better. They're trying to
cram a lot of information into us while teaching discipline. I don't
always like it, but I get why. I heard you were training on armored
mechs," Gillian said.

"Simulators, yeah. We probably won't be in the real thing until the week
after Nik and River's bonding. Well... depending on how we do. They took
us down to see the real thing. They're not as different from the loader
mechs as I thought. But those astro mechs..." Skye gave an involuntary
shudder.

"You claustrophobic?"

"Just the thought of being in one of those in open space. They're tiny
compared to the loaders and armored mechs."

"Space on the ships is tight, you need something to fix a hull breach
you've got to be nimble and fairly small. One of those big rigs would
never fit."

"Yeah, but it's barely an exo-skeleton space suit with thrusters."

"Like they'd ever let your precious ass go anywhere dangerous!" Gilian
laughed.

Skye felt a little insulted but also couldn't help but smile. It was the
first time he'd heard Gilian laugh.

"Hey! You guys talking about my ass?" a voice yelled.

Skye turned and saw River headed their way.

"Hey bro. River, I don't know if you've officially met Gilian."

"Pleased to meet you Gilian. We haven't been paired up yet."

"Nice to meet you River. Damn but you two could be twins," Gilian said
looking back and forth between the brothers. "If you weren't side by
side..."

Skye rolled his eyes and then River elbowed him in the gut.

"Turn around, let me see this butt you're so proud of," Gilian teased.

River made a show of it, turning around and flexing his ass.

"Nice, but sorry River, Skye has you beat there. Not that he needs to get
a swelled head, but he's got you on muscles and that ass of his is... so
round. Just makes you want to reach out and grab it..."

"Hey!" Skye objected. He began wondering if this was all teasing or not.
That was his first thought but he was picking up enough to know there was
something more behind it.

"Yeah, I know," River said sounding disappointed. "But I'm working on it.
If I keep working out maybe I'll catch up with him and then I can have
people lusting after my tush."

"River, you hardly need to worry. You have a very nice ass and you do
look remarkably alike," Gilian said.

"Come on River, all that matters is what Nik thinks and I happen to know
that he is very fond of your ass especially when you-"

"Okay! New topic." River said interrupting Skye as his face turned red.

When Gilian stopped laughing she turned and put a hand on Skye's
shoulder. "Thank you Skye. I'm starting to think you might just
understand how I feel about Dillon and why I need to be here for him."

"Of course I do. That was never the question," Skye said.

"What was the question then?"

"I asked him if he agreed, that he wanted you around."

"And did he agree?"

Skye hesitated. What should I tell her? That he said it was a mistake...
Skye decided to hedge instead. "You're here aren't you?"

Skye caught the surprised and somewhat suspicious glance Gilian gave him
before responding.

"He's been through a lot. Our family is not the most supportive."

"I might have picked up on that," Skye said with a smile, hoping to bring
down the tension.

"You know, Dillon is part of our family now. If you haven't already seen
it, you will. We've got his back and are all rather protective of him,"
River said.

"All?" Gilian asked.

"River means our wing. We're a tight group - sort of like brothers," Skye
said.

"I've heard some of the other guards talking about it. Well, not about
your 'wing' but 'belonging' together. Personally, it sounds a little
creepy." Gilian's gaze shifted behind them and a curious look crossed her
face.

Skye turned to see what she was looking at and smiled as he saw his mate
walking toward them.

"Hey Studly," River called.

Garrett gave a low growl. "My name is Garrett." He pulled Skye into a
kiss and then gave a nod to Gilian.

"I don't know, I think Studly fits better. Sure hope that's strong fabric
or you're going to need a new uniform," River teased.

**Would it bother you if I punched that arrogant look off your brother's
face?** Garrett asked Skye.

**Yes. You know it would. Besides you love the attention. Is that
impressive bulge because of me?**

**Of course it is. I haven't been able to stop thinking of you and
Christos all day. As soon as I could smell you, it was a bit
overwhelming.**

"Have a good night guys. I think I'll leave you to your public groping...
or pounding whichever Prince Garrett goes for," Gillian said before
heading off.

"Mmmm. Pounding... now that is a thought," River said moving closer into
Garrett. "What do you think big brother? If you're not up to it, maybe we
could find a discreet spot and Garrett could bend me over and do a little
pounding."

"River! Good thing you're going to be bonded in a few days," Skye said as
he moved River's hands off of his mate.

"Not official yet... Garrett could help me practice."

Garrett laughed. "Brothers and yet so different. If it makes you feel
better babe, I've been informed that Nik's been acting just as badly."

"You guys don't understand! It's been forever and they won't even let us
see each other," River objected.

"You haven't exactly gone without. Kleitos and Willow have both been very
attentive," Skye said.

"It's not enough," River grumbled.

"Any updates on Chris?"

"Yes, he's fine. Quit worrying. But that reminds me, I got a message from
Pater that we're on our own tonight. He and Father have other plans. Why
don't we stop for dinner on the way back? Then we can go back and get
changed before we meet with Master Quanta."

"Pizza?" Skye and River asked almost simultaneously.

"No. Absolutely not. If I thought it was for the pizza, maybe, but both
of you - and I mean both are just thinking about some deep dish Frankie."

"Yeah..." River said with a sigh. "But can't you just see that hot
Italian hunk served up with a nice glass of wine?" River purposefully
bumped into Skye and gave him a wink.

Skye grinned and then saw Garrett giving him the look. **Sorry.**

"Exactly. That's why I made a reservation for Pater's place."

"It's because he reminds me of you," Skye offered up weakly.

"I don't think so. Maybe if you need a pizza fix, we can get Jerrick to
pick it up for us or at least wait until you two aren't quite so needy."

"You are such a wet blanket," River accused.


*   Scene 3   *

Skye and Garrett waited in the lobby patiently. Skye's mind wandered as
they waited, he felt relieved that Chris seemed to be doing well. When he
had checked in on him, he was still in panther form and sleeping. Willow
and Dillon had both given their word that he wouldn't be left alone. Skye
looked around and began to wonder if Master Quanta had been pulled away
or delayed. Their arrival had been announced and they'd been told Master
Quanta was coming down personally to escort them.

So far, Skye was rather disappointed with the Mage Hall. He'd expected a
fortified castle with towers, where all sorts of magic was tested behind
thick stone walls. The Mage Hall looked more like a high-tech office
complex or campus.

"Sorry to keep you waiting. Prince Skye, Prince Garrett, welcome to the
Mage Hall," Master Quanta said in greeting.

"Not what I expected," Skye said.

Quanta looked a little confused. "I'm sorry, I'm not sure what you mean."

"This," Skye gestured around them. "Not very 'magical' looking."

"I suppose not, but I'm not sure what 'magical' looks like. We're
primarily a school with classrooms, offices, laboratories, and
dormitories." Quanta led them down a brightly lit corridor that was open
on one side to a garden courtyard. "The differences are subtle. You won't
find as much technology here and the building materials are all natural.
Most areas are open to one of the internal gardens. Even so, I get more
than my share of grief for the amount of science we've allowed in our
halls."

"Why's that?" Skye asked.

"Traditionalists believe that magic and technology conflict. Personally I
think there is a balance. Please, come in and have a seat." Quanta
directed them into a large office with a seating area against a wall of
windows.

"May I ask how long you've been the Master Mage?"

"Not long, perhaps twenty years. My predecessor was of a similar mindset.
He's the one who oversaw the construction of what you see around you.
I've made some small changes - mostly in the labs as we've learned more
about how technology and magic react to each other."

"Thank you for seeing us Master Quanta. I didn't think it wise to say too
much in my message, but Skye needs your help," Garrett said.

"Certainly. What seems to be the problem?"

"I'm not sure why but my magic has gone a little crazy. Things I've been
able to do before without a problem, now go wrong. The magic sort of gets
away from me."

"You mean things happen around you that you didn't intend - like fires
starting, strong winds, items being pushed or falling over?"

Garrett took Skye's hand and gave a squeeze.

"No, like when I tried to help someone relax and become aroused, my magic
took it several steps farther and I couldn't pull it back. Or when I, or
rather my dragon, felt Christos's beast stirring my magic just poured out
and caused him to shift."

Quanta sat back in silence, looking off into the distance. It seemed like
several minutes passed before he responded. "Have you recently hit a new
plateau in your transformation to dragon?"

"Yes, just a couple of days ago."

"This may sound odd to you Skye but just try to answer as best you can.
The dragon 'voice' you now hear, how did he respond to your magic pushing
your partner farther than you intended? Did he speak or give any
opinions?"

Skye turned to Garrett and heard his comforting voice in his head. **Go
ahead Skye. Be honest.**

"He was pleased but he wanted me to do even more. This is
embarrassing..."

"Please Skye, it may help."

"He wanted me to 'claim' and 'own' Christos, he thought giving him
overwhelming pleasure was our duty and if I didn't push back I think he
would have done more."

Quanta laughed and Skye felt a bit offended that he could find this
amusing.

"Dragons. I'm sorry Skye, I know this must be strange and very
uncomfortable. Did you tell Garrett about these thoughts and what your
dragon wanted?"

"No."

**Why Skye? We share everything - how did you even manage to keep it from
me?**

"Garrett what would you have told him?"

"That it is the nature of some dragons, usually those who are leaders, to
have such urges."

"Don't feel badly Skye, dragon nature still confuses me at times and I've
had a very long time to adjust. Was there anything similar when you
forced Christos to shift?"

"Yes. My dragon sensed that Christos needed to shift, that it was
important for his health and that he'd been fighting it."

"I think you can stop worrying. We'll do some tests to make sure but I
believe you're experiencing some awkward growing pains. I've been around
long enough and have observed it in my own dragonlings to say this is
'normal'. It is only unusual in that you have abilities beyond the gifts
of most dragons."

Garrett laughed and put his arm around Skye. "He may be right Skye. Mine
wasn't so noticeable but remind me to tell you about Kleitos's fire-
starting phase."

"This never happened to you Garrett?" Quanta asked.

"Nothing so impressive." He held out his hand and a small swarm of
glowing lights formed, a little larger than fireflies. They spun into the
air, circled around him and then vanished as he closed his hand into a
fist. "They started showing up whenever I got really excited, usually at
the most inopportune times. Zo used to tease me mercilessly until he had
his own problems."

"Can you form other types of light?" Quanta asked.

"I can do a fist sized globe - it's fairly bright and can last almost an
hour."

"You know if you worked with us and trained you could do more."

"Not a particularly useful skill," Garrett responded.

"If you can form hand light, you can do other things as well. Perhaps we
could find something that would be 'useful'. At least think about it. But
for now, let's take Skye down to one of the labs and see what else is
going on."

"What do you mean?" Skye asked.

"Don't worry, I'm not putting you through tests like Rilien. Just
checking to see how much dormant magic you're carrying. It might give us
a sense of your potential and what you can expect to show up. If you have
any uncontrolled, 'wild' magic, that will show as well."

That sounds reasonable. **Garrett, do you think it's okay?**

**Might give you peace of mind. Though don't let him kid you, I doubt
he's going to let either of us avoid him for too long. Maybe you should
keep your mind open to him - something might slip.**

**You are definitely Pater's son. Maybe with a future in spying?**

Garrett gave a squeeze to Skye's ass as they stood. **Nope, my future is
definitely in the sex business. And I plan on getting up in your business
like no other's.**

Skye followed Master Quanta out the door with a little extra spring in
his step and a smile on his face.

The room Quanta led them to was uninspired. Skye thought the rooms under
the Verdilat Temple were much more fitting to magic. This room was a
plain box, smooth walls, plain floor, one door and no windows. Quanta
went to a built in closet and began pulling out some equipment.

"Just relax. I'm going to set up some monitoring equipment. It won't
interfere with your magic and may give us some insights. One of my
inventions that gets me in trouble."

Quanta set a number of devices in a circle and then started marking a
circle on the floor with what looked like a squeeze bottle. When the
circle was complete, he used the same bottle to create symbols at
equidistant points around the circle.

"First test Skye. What do you see when you look at the symbols? Take your
time and look at each one."

"Hmmmm. They look like hieroglyphics to me. Wait... this one is for
water, this is air, earth, and fire. I'm not sure about these others."

"Good. Let me know if anything changes." Quanta walked counter clockwise
around the circle and spoke softly. As he did the symbols and the circle
began to glow a soft blue.

"They're glowing."

Quanta looked up at Skye and smiled. "Okay, carefully step inside the
circle and don't smudge the lines or symbols."

Skye felt resistance as he crossed the circle, like the air was thicker
and didn't want him to pass. When he stood inside, it felt warmer and
there was a tingling sensation on his skin.

"You doing okay?" Quanta asked.

"Yeah... just feels weird. Sort of like electricity across my skin."

"Very normal, just means you are sensitive enough to feel the magic. Now
what comes next is rather anti-climactic. I want you to concentrate on
each symbol in turn until I tell you to move on. Just look at it, try and
get a sense for how it feels and what it represents. Don't be afraid if
you get a physical sensation, smells or tastes."

They began the process and Skye was intrigued enough to forget that this
was a test. He was so focused and fascinated by the sensations he didn't
pay attention to anything else. When he focused on the symbol for earth,
 he could smell freshly turned dirt and feel it on his hands and feet.
The next symbol he hadn't recognized but brought up the smells and images
of a forest, the next was like a summer breeze that he could feel on his
skin. The fourth was the warmth of fur, he could feel, smell, and
sense... a wolf, or maybe a large dog. They continued on symbol by
symbol. When Skye was back to the symbol for earth he wondered if Quanta
would let him do it again.

"Take a breather Skye. Just relax, don't try and read any more - maybe
look over here at your mate."

Skye opened his eyes and saw Garrett staring at him, a slightly worried
expression on his face.

**Garrett, have I told you recently how gorgeous you are?**

A smile grew on Garrett's face, the worry fading away. **Not in a few
hours, but it's always nice to hear. You feel okay? It's been over two
hours since you started. You haven't even moved."

"It couldn't be," Skye said out loud. "A few minutes maybe."

"Do a couple stretches Skye. I'm guessing Garrett just told you how long
we've been at this?"

"How?"

"Perfectly normal. Once you're up to it, step out of the circle and sit
down. I'll pull up the results and see what we've got."

Garrett was there to pull Skye into his arms and sat with him on the
floor.

"What happened?" Skye whispered.

"Not much. You stood still and looked at one symbol, then moved on to the
next. Quanta walked around watching you and I think he did some kind of
magic. I couldn't understand him, but he said stuff, things glowed, there
were sparkles and he moved his hands. Guessing that was magic."

Quanta came and sat on the floor next to them with a tablet in his hand.
"Interesting."

"You going to share?" Garrett asked.

"Of course. Realize that this is preliminary and very high-level. If you
went through a full testing we could get very detailed. So... no surprise
but you have a good bit of magic. I'd say you've unlocked about forty
percent of your potential. Given when you started your change - that's
pretty quick. I wasn't sure given that you were born human and then
obtained a dragon form how this would turn out. Since you were worried
about your magic going out of control, let's deal with that first. It is
not going out of control. As I expected and said earlier, these incidents
are just normal growing pains and indicative of you balancing things out
with your dragon. Saying that, I do wonder if perhaps you have been
holding back or restraining your dragon?"

"Maybe," Skye said.

"You will have to find a balance. Denying the change or who you are
becoming is not a solution. I expect part of this is blowing off magical
steam. You've held back so much your body can't contain it all. So your
dragon is using it for what he thinks you should be doing. You need to
listen to your dragon. Skye, I have four dragonlings of my own who I
helped through their change, not to mention grandsons and great
grandsons. You can't fight it."

"So I'm a mage?" Skye asked nervously.

"While you have a lot of magic, you are not a mage. If you weren't aware,
most mages are human. That's why I thought it was a good possibility for
you. Dragon's by nature are magical creatures and any dragon will test as
having some magic. You just happen to have more than most. Okay, a lot
more. Compare that to Rilien. Elves are also magical creatures but he
also has mage talent. It is rare for elves, certainly less than one
percent. As a mage, Rilien can pull magic from the world around him,
focus it and give it direction. He's like a conduit."

"I'm not sure I understand the distinction and I was raised with magic,"
Garrett said.

"Let me think... Skye's magic is like a battery, he has a self-charging
internal source of magic that he can use in predefined ways. Like his
telepathy and telekinesis. From how his magic resonated on the tests, I'd
say he'll develop more nature-based or druid-like abilities. Being around
'natural' magic will help him recharge faster, but it isn't necessary.
Rilien doesn't have a battery, he needs to plug into the natural source
of magic. The strength or potential of the mage defines how much magic he
or she can draw and shape. Drawing in the magic is almost instinctive -
like breathing. While some uses of magic will be easier and feel more
natural, a mage is not limited in the same way as a dragon."

"So Skye can run out, use up the magic he has and then has to wait to
recharge. But a mage can keep drawing from the natural magic as long as
needed?" Garrett said.

"In simple terms, yes. However, there is a cost to the mage. Having magic
flow through us takes a toll. Though the magic is somewhat unlimited, the
mage is not. We will get tired and eventually pass out. Over extending
and using too much can cause physical damage - wear out our bodies
prematurely."

"Well that sucks," Skye said.

"Yes it does. A good mage learns to use the power wisely."

"But dragons can be mages, right? Like you?"

"Yes, but it is very uncommon. And I'm not a dragon, I was born human."

"But you're the Master Mage. Doesn't the Master Mage have to be a dragon?
You know, Dragon Empire and all?" Skye asked.

Garrett nudged Skye and gave him a smile. "Why would you think that?"

"I'm sorry. I just assumed with dragons in charge all the important
positions would be, you know, dragons."

"Of course not. Other races, including humans, have prominent positions.
Like Admiral Cocachet," Garrett said.

"But how... you said you've been Master Mage for twenty years? When..."

"Skye, I'm a bond-mate. I've been on Draga for almost 200 years. My mate
brought me back from Kember Sla." Quanta pulled up his sleeve showing the
life-like tattoo of a gold dragon.

"Your mate brought you back? They didn't do the 'chosen' thing back
then?" Skye asked.

"No they did. I was just an exception - it was a day I'll never forget."

"We'd like to hear if you'd be willing to share," Garrett said looking to
Skye for confirmation before pulling him into his arms and letting him
rest against his chest.

"I was just a novice at the time. I'd been claimed by the Priestess on my
day of transition. That was a common practice back then, maybe still is.
When a boy became a man, he was presented to the Priestess at the temple
for review and blessing. If he found favor, then he was claimed for the
temple. I was the youngest of four, two older brothers and a sister, but
the only one to be claimed. I don't think I'd even been there two weeks
when my life changed."

"You mean you were selected to become a priest?" Skye asked.

"Goodness no. Only women served as priests, and the most senior were
elves though it wasn't until sometime later that I even knew elves were a
race. I was selected to be a Temple Servant, one of the boys and men who
cared for the worshipers."

"Cared for?" Skye asked. I know what it sounds like, but maybe I'm wrong.

"Our bodies belonged to the temple and we were to give pleasure to those
in need. Though, I never got past being a serving boy. My job was to
serve food and drinks to the Priestesses and their guests."

"So how did you become a bond-mate?" Garrett asked.

"At the time, I thought they were a delegation from a neighboring kingdom
- four men, all handsome and in rich clothing. They had arrived early in
the day before anyone had arrived for prayers or service and I was sent
in with a tray of drinks - nothing unusual about that. I couldn't help
but stare at them, they were so different than the men I'd seen in our
village. They were meeting with the high Priestess, discussing some type
of business and I would offer up the tray before each, allowing them to
select. I was so nervous as it was the first time serving anyone of
importance. One of the men reached out and steadied my hand and when he
touched me it was like fire coursing through my body. We were expected to
keep our eyes downward out of respect, but I was so startled I looked up,
directly into his eyes. I was immediately lost. They were the most
beautiful blue eyes I'd ever seen and I couldn't pull away."

"I remember the high Priestess herself tapping me on the shoulder and
startling me. The man chuckled and reached out brushing his fingers
across my face. It rekindled that fire and I moaned. I was so embarrassed
that I wanted to run and hide. Now all of them were laughing and rather
than ushering me away, the man tipped my chin back up and looked me
directly in the eyes. I have no idea what he said, I just remember
thinking I would do absolutely anything he wanted."

"The Priestess asked one of the other serving boys to come and take my
tray. Of course I thought I was going to be punished, but then she was so
kind... She told me everything was fine and I was to take a seat next to
the man. He pulled me up next to him and wrapped his arm around me. They
continued to talk in their foreign tongue and then the Priestess told me
that I would be going with the man. After that he pulled me closer to him
and his hands wandered over me as they continued their business. His
touch brought on feelings I'd never had before and I was embarrassed at
how my body reacted. But he didn't seem bothered at all. I watched as the
other temple boys were paraded in front of the men, each of them disrobed
and turned showing themselves. Sometimes one of the foreign men would
reach out and touch the boys or examine them more closely. I didn't
really care, I was so focused on what the man was doing to me. After the
last boy had been through, they talked some more."

"I'm sorry but I've got to ask. Was he like rubbing your back or touching
you intimately?" Skye asked with a blush.

Quanta laughed. "Oh, very intimately indeed. I was wearing a simple shift
and it was very easy for him to reach any part of me he wanted. I can
tell you that I wouldn't have dared stopped him. I knew how we were
expected to behave but more importantly I enjoyed it. I'd never felt such
pleasure and he seemed to be quite talented. He also seemed to enjoy how
I responded and he kissed me a number of times. My first kisses... Not
long after they'd seen all the other boys, the Priestess brought me a
small chalice of wine and asked me to drink. When I finished, I grew warm
and I guess I fell asleep. The next memory was waking up in a strange and
terrifying place. There were lights and sounds I didn't recognize and
everything seemed strange and 'wrong'. But then the man was there and I
could understand his words. I was so incredibly relieved I clung to him
in desperation. He explained that I was his mate and that we would be
bonded."

"Were you back on Draga?" Garrett asked.

"No, we were on his ship. They put me out just long enough to get to the
ship and do the implants. I was bonded within just a few hours of waking
and I never left his side. He was a medic and responsible for checking
the health of those to be chosen. That's why he'd visited the temple, I
came to learn that the Priestesses selected the most beautiful boys to
serve and then tested them, presenting the best to the Protectorate. My
mate knew as soon as he saw me that I was his and pulled a few strings to
claim me then and there."

"That must have been terrifying," Skye said.

"It was, until the bonding. Once we were bonded, I knew I could trust him
and he helped me adjust. He did his best to always keep me with him and
so I adapted quickly. It wasn't until we returned to Draga that we knew I
had magical talent. He transferred to one of the HealthCorps facilities
on Draga so I could be trained and there you have it."

"So why didn't he know you were to be a mage sooner?" Skye asked.

"If we'd stayed longer on Kember Sla he might have. But on a ship in deep
space, magic is very limited. You need a planet full of life to generate
magic. So while there were magical creatures and a small amount of magic
due to the crew, there wasn't enough to trigger my gift. Something to
think about when you go back out."

"So are you saying Rilien couldn't come with us and train on the ship?"

"No, I'm sorry. There's not enough magic. He needs to be trained here.
Once trained he could survive on a ship without magic but it would be
difficult. Most planets with life have magic, but not all. Even you will
struggle if you spend too long in space." Quanta said.

"Garrett, what are we going to do? I can't just leave him behind. He's
family," Skye said.

"We've got time, perhaps Master Quanta can help us figure something out."

"Let's see how much he can pick up before you need to leave Draga and go
from there. He seems to be quite determined to get back to the Palace. Is
that because of your bond?" Quanta asked.

"Probably. I don't know. He's been through some tough times and we're his
family now," Skye said.

"You may be relieved to know he will be returning tomorrow. But, I'm not
giving up on you two either. Please consider letting us test your
talents. We can help you with your gifts and perhaps develop some useful
skills - beyond creating hand light. I would also like to understand more
about your bonding. It may present you with some unique opportunities."

"What do you mean?" Garrett asked.

"We already know that bond-mates can share magic and leverage each other.
From what we've seen with Rilien, Skye's bond with him is similar enough
we think the same might be true. Now extend that to the others Skye has
bonded and the implications multiply. Having never seen it outside of
bond-mates or a one-to-one pairing, I honestly don't know what it could
mean."

"But Rilien's okay? I haven't hurt him or messed up his magic?"

"Not that I've seen. If anything I think you've made him stronger. He's a
smart boy and has the gift. Now it just needs to be developed and
trained. If you want to really help him, come up with a way he could be
useful to you."

"Why to me?" Skye asked.

"You don't see it? He may have come to you only recently, but given his
devotion and how much he loves you and your 'wing', as you put it, I
don't think anything would stop him if he thinks it's for you."

"Can't he do it just because it's what 'he' wants?"

"Sure, but I don't think that's how Rilien works," Quanta said.

For the first part of their walk back to the palace, they held hands and
kept silent. Skye knew Garrett was giving him space to think.

"I don't like how dependent they are on me. Why can't they just be
themselves?" Skye asked.

"Many dragons would be rather pleased having such devoted friends."

"Garrett, this goes beyond devoted. I can feel it. I know it to my very
core. Not being with us is slowly killing Rilien - I don't mean
literally. But he gets sadder each day. When Christos said there was
nowhere he'd rather be than sandwiched between us - he meant it. Meant it
with every fiber in is body. I could feel it - like his body's rhythms
aligned with ours. No one should feel that amount of joy and satisfaction
just from being with me... us."

"Why not?"

"My god Garrett, I'm just me. At home I'm not even old enough to drink!
All these people are depending on me. They look at me like I'm their
world and I have no fucking clue what I'm doing. What if I fail them?
What if I let them down? How do I keep them all happy? It would break my
heart if I hurt them - or was responsible for them getting hurt. There's
just not enough of me to go around."

Garrett stopped Skye and pulled him into his strong arms. "It's okay
babe. You aren't alone. What was it that the wise old dragon told you?
That 'when the burden is too much for you to carry alone, you ask for
help.'"

Skye couldn't help but smile, burying his face into Garrett's neck. "The
great sage, Jos, yes I do believe he said that," Skye whispered.

"You do know that whispering into my neck and tickling my ear is a good
way to get yourself bent over and fucked?"

"I love how romantic you are." Skye nibbled at Garrett's ear.

"Seriously Skye, look at how Dillon and Willow jumped in to care for
Chris. You didn't even have to ask. Every day there are more
demonstrations of them watching out for each other. Haven't you noticed
how any of those who are bonded are constantly touching each other? Not
always intimate, sometimes just an arm over the shoulder or standing
close together, a casual touch. Maybe we need to be more intentional on
sharing the burdens and challenges. If Rilien's lonely - have everyone
take turns stopping by, checking on him. Father Dragon, given how sexy
and needy that elf is, let them take turns getting him off."

"Like we did for Christos when he was in the infirmary... Yeah, that
might work."

"One step at a time Skye."

They entered the suite and found Dillon and Chris spooned on the couch
under a blanket. A fire was burning in the fireplace and the lights were
turned down low.

**They look so peaceful,** Skye said.

**They look fucking gorgeous. Have I told you how thrilled I am that you
manage to bring the most beautiful men into our lives?**

**Maybe once or twice.** Skye leaned down and kissed Dillon's forehead
and just took a moment to take in their beauty. He placed a delicate kiss
on Chris's lips and watched as he slowly stirred, a smile brightening his
face as he woke.

"Hey..."

"Hey yourself. You doing okay," Skye asked.

"Better now that you're here." Chris pulled Dillon's arm more tightly
around him and wiggled his ass to wake up his friend.

"It's late, why don't you go to bed?" Skye suggested.

Skye turned at Garrett's chuckle and gave him a questioning look.
**What?**

"Skye and I need to get ready but why don't you two climb in the bed and
get it warm for us?" Garrett said.

"You mean it?" Chris asked. Dillon looked up eagerly.

"Yes, of course he does." Skye said offering a hand to Chris.


*   Scene 4   *

"Thank you for taking time out to speak with me Skye."

The man speaking wasn't like anyone Skye had ever seen, let alone met.
Captain Nekko was a bit taller than Garrett, built like a body builder
with an almost impossibly narrow waist and hips. Oh... and he was green.
Sort of a new leaf green, not quite yellow-green, but close. As far as
Skye could tell, he had no hair, just two antenna-like things on a
perfectly smooth head. His eyes were large and dark and seemed to be
taking in everything at once.

"You're the boss, or the Captain rather," Skye said nervously. For as
large as Captain Nekko was, he wasn't threatening but he certainly was
distracting. Skye's dragon was restless and the room seemed too warm to
be comfortable.

"I understand you're going through the change. I apologize if I'm making
you uncomfortable."

"Just nervous I guess."

"Try to relax. I promise I'm not going to attack you, no matter how good
you smell or how aroused you get."

"What?" Skye squeaked gripping the arms on his chair tight enough to hear
them creak in protest.

"Pelurians have an extremely well-developed sense of smell. So how are
you adapting to the Academy?"

"Well, I guess. Parts of it are a bit tedious but I like the simulators
and hands on work. The fighting is too much like work but I understand
it's important. The trainers have all been much nicer than I expected -
so I guess that's a good thing."

"Maybe they're scared of you."

Skye felt a moment's panic then saw the spreading smile on Captain
Nekko's face.

"I'd think they're used to a lot tougher and scarier guys than me."

Nekko snorted. "That's why you 'are' so scary. You are too pretty and too
unassuming to be dangerous. They look at you and think soft and pampered
- because they think that's how you should be treated. Then you get in
the training room and destroy them without breaking a sweat. I've
reviewed your matches so far and I'm impressed. I'd say you really didn't
need any more time to hone your craft, lest we create a monster; however,
I've been told it's not for you but your partners."

"Not sure I'm following."

"The fighting. You're paired up with others from your team. The training
isn't for you to learn how to fight, it is for them to learn about you.
I've seen it in their faces, in the way they hold themselves - they come
away with a very different perspective of you and a whole lot more
respect."

"Thanks... I think."

"What do you think about the approach we're using for on-boarding your
team?"

"I like it. It think it will help them fit in and have a purpose. I
wasn't really sure how I'd keep them busy."

"Trust me, it was selfish on my part. You've got some very talented
people that will help my ship run better. Since they're also your guards
they don't count against my staff assignment. Also should work out well
for them. They get very marketable skills and can do work they find
interesting and challenging."

"I know some of the guys are pretty excited about what they'll be doing."

"They should be. Also means the rest of the crew won't be nearly as
suspicious about the extras. Though over time, I'm sure they'll figure it
out. Hopefully by the time they do, they'll be so entrenched with the
crew and operation, no one will care."

"Was there a particular reason you wanted to meet with me Captain Nekko?
I'm hardly senior enough to be on your radar."

"Really Skye? You are a Royal, a Prince of the Empire and bonded to the
next Emperor. Not to mention you have Prince Argos watching over you like
a Tedurian Viper Hawk. His attention brings fear into the hearts of most
citizens."

"I'm sorry sir. Did he say something to you?"

"He didn't need to. I am very attentive to what goes on around me. I see
who is watching and who is asking questions. Not to mention having my new
ship pulled back into space dock for modifications. You're telling me he
doesn't make you nervous?"

Skye paused to think about it before answering. "No, not really. I'd say
I probably trust him and look to him more than anyone else outside of
Garrett. Not that I'd want to make him angry without cause..."

"Well you sure are tougher than you look. I am still trying to figure out
how best to use you."

Skye couldn't help but blush as his dragon purred, I can think of ways he
could use us... Stop, Skye scolded. That's not what he meant. Skye caught
the odd look in in Nekko's eyes as he spoke. "What do you mean sir?"

"Given how your pheromones just spiked, let me say I would definitely
give it serious consideration. Though I'd want clear permission from your
mate first. But what I was trying to say was I'd like you to be included
in things that are likely beyond your rank as ensign. We might be able to
use your designation as 'Hand of the Emperor' but I need to check into
that more. I understand you've also been selected to do medical
training?"

"Yes sir. They said it was a strong aptitude and I guess I made an
impression on some of the medics when I was helping them with flood
victims."

"Medical doesn't really get involved in ship's operations or planet-side
engagements so that doesn't help us. I understand you are a fairly strong
telepath?"

"Yes sir, I am."

"Interesting... that might help make you more than a standard
communications officer. Do you know what kind of range you have?"

"Not really sir. I haven't tested it. I know I could still mind-speak
Garrett when he was on Draga Starbase and I was here. I was able to sense
Kwill, he's a Psion, from several light years away, but I don't know if
that was because of him, or me."

"Damn. That just put you in a whole different league. Can you mind-speak
just dragons or other species as well?"

"Humans are pretty easy. I can't say I've tried with many... I am pretty
good with elves now, nymphs, fairies, fauns and dragi. Sorry I don't know
about any others."

Skye felt a little bit of pride when he saw the shocked expression on
Captain Nekkos's face. Maybe I have more to offer than I thought.

"This may not be as difficult as I thought. I would like to meet with you
more regularly once we get closer to launch. I'll see what protocol I can
leverage and come up with some options for your on-board service. We'll
fine tune that before we ever put a foot on the ship. Also, while your
men will give your safety and protection first priority, we still need
them to understand I am in command and that it is my ship."

"I don't think that will be a problem sir."

"Good."

Skye watched and could see that Captain Nekko was deep in thought,
perhaps struggling with a question?

"May I be blunt with you Skye?"

"Certainly sir."

"First, are you reading my mind, my thoughts?"

"No sir. I'm shielding very tightly. If you were to get very upset or
emotional it would probably still get through, but beyond that no."

"At some point I'd like you to try. I'm interested to see if you can read
Pelurians. I may see if we can test you against some other races as well.
But there is something else we are going to need to work out before we're
trapped on a ship together - in close quarters."

"Sir?"

"Has your magic noticed me?"

"How'd you know about that?"

"I talk to people and I observe. You didn't answer me."

"I don't know. I haven't touched you - that's usually how I know or my
dragon gets agitated but I've been sitting on him and making him be
quiet."

"Would you be so kind and just get it over with? That will tell me what
the next question is."

Captain Nekko held his hand out across the table. Skye took Nekko's hand
and tried to keep breathing - his dragon was clawing at his skin and fire
raged through his body and back into Captain Nekko. Captain Nekko let out
a loud moan and made some very strange sounds as he squirmed in his chair
and his eyes rolled back.

Skye pulled his hand back and stared at the floor.

"Holy fuck. I need a new uniform. Okay, well then. As I started to say
earlier we are going to need to work out a few things being on a ship
together. I can't spend my entire voyage hard and aroused. Your scent is
triggering all my mating reactions and that was before the magic. If that
little show means what I think it means..."

"Yeah, it does. I'll talk to Garrett."

"Crush a man's ego. You don't have to sound quite so disappointed."

"It has nothing to do with you Captain Nekko. Honest." Skye's critical
voice was back in full force berating him for adding yet another to his
growing list.

"Good. Because I for one am so looking forward to it."

Skye left the office and returned to the training area to see who he was
partnered with for his next match. Kuai Lung - haven't seen him since we
got our assignments. Skye wanted to reach out to Garrett but could sense
that Garrett was engaged in his own match. He felt bad for his next
opponents, for some reason he thought he might go rather hard on them.

Skye was somewhat apprehensive as he and Kaui faced off with the two
Micanni. They would likely be the envy of any competition body builder...
well perhaps except for the squashed faces, huge tusk teeth, and gray-
green skin. Skye wouldn't consider himself small, but compared to these
guys... and poor Kaui looked positively tiny. At lease these two didn't
appear to have the traditional military chip on their shoulder. It was
hard not to feel protective of Kaui, he reminded Skye so much of Jasper,
his best friend back on Earth.

Kaui had two vibro sparring knives. The real things were lethal - these
would register any impacts and calculate what 'would' have happened
feeding the combat computer the results. One of the Micanni had a ball
flail, fortunately also not real. Oh, it would still hurt but if it
weren't fake it could easily crush a skull and break bones. Skye had a
staff and the remaining Micanni had a blunt short sword.

The Micanni with the ball flail faced off with Skye and did an impressive
muscle flex as he swung the weapon, building up speed. The first swing
came way too close for Skye's comfort and only his speed kept him from
being taken out already. He managed to place a couple of good kicks and a
strike with his staff but the Micanni ignored them as if they were a mere
annoyance. The flail swung toward him again and as Skye watched to avoid
the blow, a fist hit him in the gut hard enough to knock the wind out of
him and throw him backward. He rolled and regained his feet, eyeing the
muscle bound creature with new respect.

Kuai caught his attention and Skye maneuvered around so they were
fighting side by side, alternating with feint, distraction, and attack.
Kuai was positively wicked with his blades but couldn't seem to get in a
clean strike. Every time he'd get close, the two Micanni would work
together and the other would block. Having sparred with Avric and Kagan
when he was on the Black Phoenix, he knew that many of the Micanni
trained for years to be the very best mercenaries. Unfortunately, these
two seemed to be of similar skill.

Kuai didn't have the size or brute force to go up against them directly.
Skye had the strength but wasn't sure he could handle both. Even worse,
their opponents had realized that they couldn't turn their backs on Kuai.
As many times as Skye tried to distract one or the other, they seemed to
catch on and protect each other from letting Kuai inside their guard.

Kuai was using his size and speed to get the guy worked up but not
getting any real strikes. Skye was afraid that if the Micanni actually
connected with Kaui, it would be over quickly. He had to outweigh him by
a factor of three.

At Kuai's signal, Skye moved around, dropped to his knees, bent over and
held the staff horizontally above his head. Kuai mounted him like an
Olympic gymnast, stepping up his back then vaulting from the staff. He
spun and landed with his feet on the muscled opponent's shoulders. Kaui
brought his blades down on either side of the Micanni's temples. The
chime sounding as soon as the sparring knives made contact. One opponent
down.

Just as quickly Kuai vaulted to the ground as the Micanni pretended to
die, falling face forward. Skye managed to roll to the side lest he be
pinned. The other foe turned in surprise to see his comrade hit the mat.

Skye watched for the right moment, moving behind the hulk as he kept his
eyes on Kuai. Their opponent seemed to have decided that Kuai was the
bigger threat and spread his legs as he spun the ball flail, keeping Kuai
back. Skye saw the nod from Kaui and made his move as Kuai feinted. Skye
dove between the Micanni's legs, twisting and landing on his back between
his opponent's legs - he looked up to see the second startled Micanni
staring down at him. He grabbed both ankles and lifted throwing him to
the floor.

Kuai leaped on the downed Micanni bringing both sparring blades down on
the man's neck. The chime sounded

"Well done. Record time even," instructor Meckle said.

Their opponent stood and shook his hand. "How did you do that? I didn't
even see you move! And no little twerp should be able to lift me and
throw me like that."

"All in the leverage," Skye said with a smile.

"Leverage my ass. What in the seven hells are you?"

"Gentlemen, please take a seat."

Skye winked at Kuai and sat beside him as they pulled off their caps. He
didn't know him well but he couldn't help but smile back when he saw the
grin spread across Kuai's face. He not only reminded Skye of how much he
missed Jasper but also of how he looked forward to getting to know Kuai
better. Kuai wasn't a big guy, about 5'6" with a slender ripped build,
black silky hair pulled back in a bun, and large dark eyes with long
lashes. His fine features edged him more toward pretty than handsome, but
it was the sparkle in his eyes that made Skye's gut clench and other
parts swell.


*   Scene 5   *

"Have you seen them?" Skye dried his hair with the towel feeling a little
more refreshed after a shower.

"No. I just heard the others talking about their arrival. I think they
are with the Emperor." Dillon turned to look at Skye and stared. His eyes
trailing over Skye's body.

"Sorry." Skye wrapped the towel around his waist. He was so used to
having Dillon around he didn't usually worry about being covered. But
there was something in Dillon's look and his focus on Skye's bits that
made Skye feel very exposed.

"You have nothing to be sorry for, except maybe covering up the parts I
wanted to see."

"Dillon!" Skye walked over to see what Dillon had set out for the
evening. He squeaked when Dillon grabbed the towel leaving him naked
again.

"Much better. I need to throw this in with the laundry."

"You feeling better? No more twinges?" Skye asked.

"Quit worrying. I'm fine."

"How about Rilien, are you sure he's well? I really expected him to be
here when I got home." Skye was trying to keep his mind focused. He could
feel Dillon thoughts like a gentle caress and if he didn't come up with a
distraction things would get very heated, very quickly.

"He is... and very glad to be back. He and Willow are helping River get
ready. Ril and Willow asked Pater to be excused from tonight's dinner but
if it's okay with you he'd like to stop by later."

"Why skip dinner?"

"With the Emperor's brother visiting they thought it would be awkward.
They still aren't comfortable with how they fit in with the family."

"That, I understand. I wish you could be a guest rather than my valet. It
bothers me not having you at the table."

"I like serving you. And I'm not about to let anyone else check your food
and drink. Celebrations are one of the best times for a poisoner to make
a move."

"I don't like risking you Dillon. Do you think it is something I could
learn to do with my magic?"

"I don't know enough about magic to tell you Skye, it's not much of a
risk for me. I can detect most poisons just by scent. Actually... with
your increased senses you might be able to as well. Growing up in the fae
court, we are trained to recognize the scents and tastes of poisons used
on Draga."

"So, if it were from off-world, you might not recognize it?"

"Possibly."

"Then I have a new priority next time I meet with Master Quanta. If he's
going to teach me anything he can start there." Skye looked up as the
door opened. Garrett walked in and paused. "Very nice. You should greet
me like this all the time."

"You'd get bored," Skye said picking up the pair of leggings.

"I doubt that. What do you think Dillon?" Garrett asked.

"I agree with you. Maybe he should just stay naked whenever he's in the
room."

"You guys have been letting Willow corrupt you." Skye caught the look
pass between Dillon and his mate and felt a blush start from his toes and
go all the way to the top of his head.

"He does have some good ideas," Garrett said.

"Well you need to get showered and dressed. Father and Pater are waiting
for us. Your uncle and his mate have arrived."

"I had other ideas." Garrett walked up behind Skye squeezing his ass and
kissing up his shoulder to his neck. "Much, much better ideas." Garrett's
hand slid around Skye's body to his inner thigh and then gently teased
his rock hard erection before he took it in his hand and stroked. "I
think you'd enjoy my plans more."

"I know I would, but it's not up to me." Skye barely managed to get the
words out.

Garrett released him and started going through what Dillon had set out
for him. He held up the tights. "Dillon, did you let Skye pick?"

"No sir but Prince Argos's valet said 'elegant formal' and I know Prince
Argos is especially fond of this style."

"Skye you might have to behave yourself. It's nearly impossible to hide
an erection in these."

Skye gave an evil laugh. "Better be nice to me...but they show off that
delicious muscled ass of yours so well. Makes my mouth water just
thinking about it. Don't you agree Dillon?"

"Oh yes sir, but then it does the same for you."

"Ha! So I won't be alone in showing my excitement. Of course, looks like
someone else is already hard. You didn't get enough love last night
Dillon?"

"That was ages ago... sir."

Skye pulled on the heavily brocaded jacket and held out his arms while
Dillon got everything adjusted. Dillon's hands ran over Skye's butt and
gave a gentle squeeze.

"Not you too..." Skye said.

"Sorry, I couldn't help myself."

"Right? See I'm not the only one." Garrett pulled on his boots giving
Dillon a wink.

"So Garrett what are they like? I'm assuming your uncle's partner is a
dragon also."

"I've only ever seen Claudius a couple times in my life. Father doesn't
talk about his brother much. If I'm remembering right, I think Claudius's
mate is a blue. I've never met him."

"Blue? I didn't know there was such a thing," Skye said as Dillon
finished the final touches on his ensemble.

"They aren't as common and like the other chromas, keep to themselves. As
a group, they don't have the best reputation, sort of like the black
dragons."

"What's his name?"

"Don't know. I just know from Father and Pater that they've been together
for a long time."

"Any suggestions on how to handle them?"

"Not really. But I'd say keep our link open and be cautious." Garrett
pulled on his boots and moved over to the chair where Dillon was waiting
for him. "Loose or braids?"

"Braids. That way it doesn't cover your ass." Skye said. "So you think
they may be up to something?"

"No idea. Just better to be safe. Besides shielding won't hide lust."

"Before Kwill left he was giving me some pointers. I still can't hide it
from someone with whom I'm bonded but I can hide the lust and sex
thoughts from others." Skye watched Dillon expertly comb out and braid
Garrett's hair.

Garrett shook his head getting a glare and a poke from Dillon. "Hold
still."

"Of course you can Skye. You couldn't be like all the other dragons and
let everyone know you're horny, could you?"

"Garrett... Come on. You know I hate this. The way total strangers look
at you like they're picturing you spread and ready."

"It's supposed to make you feel good - let you know you're attractive,"
Garrett said.

"It makes me feel guilty. I only want you to notice."

"Ahem," Dillon loudly cleared his throat.

"... and a few others," Skye added.

**Someday Skye... you are going to have to stop fighting. Draga. The
Empire. They don't work like Earth,** Garrett said mind-to-mind.

"Damn. I wish Kwill were here," Skye said.

"No word from him?" Garrett asked.

"No. I can still sense him but not as strongly or clearly as a bonded. I
hope he's at least back for the ceremony."

"Your turn Skye," Dillon said as Garrett stood and offered up the chair.
"Loose curls okay? I think it would go well with what you're wearing."

"Oh definitely," Garrett jumped in. "Soft and touchable."

By the time they were ready and on their way to the drawing room, Skye
was feeling as nervous as ever. They arrived and found most of the family
already present. Nik and Zopyros were of course absent. Skye took a deep
breath and did a mental check to make sure he was shielding
appropriately.

"Skye, Garret, please come," Darius called out.

Garrett took Skye's hand as they approached Darius and Prince Argos. They
were speaking with two men. The first was easy to recognize; Claudius was
obviously related to Darius. He was as tall as Darius but not nearly as
large or muscled. His gold-blond hair was cut short and he looked older,
more care-worn. The other man was somehow not at all what Skye was
expecting. He was maybe 5'2" at most, and more fine featured and petite
than either Rilien or Dillon. His hair was jet black and straight, just
brushing his shoulders. When he turned Skye was surprised that his eyes
were black as well.

**Thought you said he was a blue dragon?** Skye asked Garrett.

**That's what I was told. Why?"

**His eyes - shouldn't they be blue?**

Skye could sense the mental snicker. **I'm a gold, I don't have gold
eyes.**

"Claudius, you probably don't remember him but this is our oldest son
Garrett and his bond-mate Skye. My brother, Claudius."

"Pleased to meet you," Skye and Garrett said in unison giving a slight
bow.

"And Claudius's partner Tiev."

"Pleased to meet you Tiev."

"These two are pretty easy to recognize Darius. Can't turn on the holo
without Prince Skye showing up and usually Garrett's attached to him.
Though I don't think they do justice to his beauty," Claudius said giving
a bow in return.

"Definitely not." Tiev added. He turned and looked at River across the
room. "I see it now, subtle but yes, different ... Sorry I thought when I
first met your brother that you were twins."

"We get that a lot." Skye tried not to let the embarrassment show because
both were thinking about how attractive he was and Claudius seemed
fascinated by Skye's scent. He found their thoughts most inappropriate.

"Your Majesty. Dinner is served," one of the servers announced as he
opened the doors to the formal dining room.

"Please, everyone join us." Darius made a flourish pointing people into
the room as he stood by.

Once they were all seated, Skye felt the tension before he heard Claudius
speak.

"You allow shifters to dine with you? Things have changed..." Claudius
said with a sour face.

Skye felt his dragon go from quiet to enraged and couldn't hold back the
low menacing growl. It only quieted when he felt Pater's hand on his own.
Argos was seated on his right, Garrett on his left. He heard the thought
very clearly as Pater caught his eye - the heat from his grip almost
painful. **Darius will deal with it.**

"Etiquette and politeness have not been changed. While I'll overlook it
once, please mind your manners Claudius. Christos is our son and a Royal
Prince, if it offends you - then you have my permission to leave."
Darius's delivery was cold and clear.

Claudius scanned the others quickly and sat back in surprise. He eyed
Skye warily and turned as Tiev whispered to him.

"My apologies. I've spent too much time away from the world. Sometimes I
find I am very out of step with the Draga of today. Prince Christos,
please excuse my rudeness."

Christos gave a nod but said nothing. Skye mentally reached out to him.
**You okay Chris? Want me to rip his arms off?**

A smile crossed Chris's face. **No, but I think you might have to get in
line. Pater looked like he was going to have a go at him.**

There was an uncomfortable silence as the first course was served.
Kleitos was focused on Christos. Claudius and Tiev seemed to be totally
focused on their food and everyone else was just waiting.

"So Claudius, what brought you out of hiding? You said you wanted to wait
to tell us until we were all gathered," Darius asked.

"A number of things actually." Claudius looked to Tiev who nodded. "Some
things are just better handled in person. No better way to put it...
father is failing. Medics say a month or two at most."

"He's lasted much longer than we ever expected," Darius said.

"We've got a good team caring for him. But in a way it is a blessing. His
mind has been gone for so long... there's very little quality of life,"
Claudius explained.

"Thank you for caring for him."

"Let's be honest. We did it for us, not him." Claudius reached out and
took Tiev's hand bringing it to his lips. "I was never good at politics
and my social skills were embarrassing at best. Just the thought of
playing nice for all those society folks makes me crazy. I wanted a way
out, a way to be with Tiev and it was convenient."

"And the other reasons?" Darius asked.

"It's lonely. The seclusion is taking a toll on us. We've made friends
and tried to put down roots but it's not the same. When we watched the
coverage of Garrett and Skye's bonding it was too much. We've missed out
on too much life. I think it is a little late to assume we'll ever be
matched with a chosen, but we could somewhat live vicariously through
your family."

"I certainly understand why you made the decision. I know how devoted you
and Tiev are to each other, but finding a chosen who is a match for two
dragons... the odds are against you."

"We realize that and so we are moving on. That's why it would be good to
reestablish ties here," Claudius said.

"You want to come back to court?" Argos asked in surprise.

"Oh, goodness no. That would never work. I'm not asking to have my
position restored or anything so preposterous. Just hopefully reconnect
with family. Once Father is gone, there is nothing to keep us. We are
thinking of moving back to Capital City"

"We're not asking to move back into the palace either. Just perhaps be
able to visit more frequently," Tiev added.

The next several courses passed with small talk and catching Claudius and
Tiev up on what was happening. Skye picked up from the conversation that
while Claudius hadn't visited much he had spoken regularly with Darius
over the years. Skye became more and more aware that Claudius and Tiev
hadn't shared all their reasons. Unfortunately, neither of them were
thinking about what those reasons were.

"Prince Skye, I was just admiring your bond-mark. You've just recently
bonded and yet it looks complete," Tiev said.

"Thank you. Yes, it is. The medics say I've already completed the bond-
mate changes. Now I just have to survive the dragon changes," Skye said
with a laugh.

"So should we be expecting a little one soon? You are fertile?" Tiev
asked.

Skye caught his breath. The thoughts he picked up on made his head spin.
**Garrett!**

**Breathe baby. It will be okay.**

"No, not for a good long while." Skye's mind struggled to decipher the
thoughts - Tiev's excitement that Skye was 'fertile', how attractive and
healthy he looked, his resemblance to Darius and Claudius. What pretty
little dragonlings he'd make. Skye felt a wave of calm as Dillon placed a
hand on his shoulder when he refilled his and Garrett's wine glasses.

"Oh you should. Some men are just made to produce perfect little
dragonlings. I'm sure yours will be beautiful," Tiev cooed.

"No need to rush things. Garrett and Skye have plenty of time. I think
it's good for them to enjoy their time together before building a
family," Argos said.

Skye saw the look Tiev gave Claudius and the responding expression made
Skye's blood run cold. His dragon was irritated and pacing - even Kleitos
and Chris had picked up on the change in his mood and were looking on
with concern.

"Still it is so exciting to know you can bring life into the world," Tiev
said.

Skye felt his stomach flip as Tiev gave him a look that could only be
described as predatory. He stared down at the dessert in front of him and
realized he had no appetite left. He caught a flicker of thought and felt
the heat as he turned to Pater. If looks could kill - there would be one
very dead blue dragon, Skye thought.

End Chapter 26 | (Glossary of Imperial Guards and Family included below)


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Special shout out of thanks to David S. and Duane B. for being beta
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Please check out my other stories on Nifty: Tyler's Adventures and Troy's
Adventures under 'High School', The LAB under 'Science Fiction / Fantasy'
and My Heart Belongs to Daddy under 'Incest' (though it does not contain
incest.)

Skye's Imperial Guard:
* Bryan O'Dell, gold dragon - 5'10", body builder, red hair, pale
complexion, and emerald green eyes
* Chaz Blackclaw, were-dagger, 6'1", Ranger - athletic build, medium
complexion, shoulder-length dark brown, wavy hair, chiseled face with
dark brows and lashes, a neatly trimmed beard and striking blue eyes
* Feired Fornay, silver dragon, 5' 11" slender swimmer's build, pale
complexion, silver-white shoulder-length, straight hair, pale blue eyes
* Fiske Abusson, gold dragon, 6', lean muscled swimmer's build, warm gold
skin, slender hips, thick, straight shoulder-length brown hair, blue
eyes,
* Gilian, elf, Ranger - 5'4", slender athletic build, long, rich brown
hair and brilliant green eyes
* Greggory Wolf, werewolf - 6', muscled athletic build, short dark beard,
dark hair and pale green eyes
* Jayce Roberts, gold dragon, 5'10" - pretty, ripped athletic build,
notable 'v' torso, curly shoulder-length, golden brown hair, brown eyes
with gold starburst
* Jos Trall, gold dragon, 5'9" - body builder, red-gold hair, skin more
bronze than gold, blue eyes
* Kuai Lung, Chinese gold dragon, Asian in appearance, 5'6", ripped,
slender build, black shoulder length hair, large dark eyes and a pretty
face
* Leesai Tedurian, Felecian - female 6'6" muscled and ripped, skin is a
deep golden brown and has a mane of light brown hair, yellow cat's eyes,
a little larger and set farther apart, cheekbones more pronounced than a
human's , has a tail
* Mica Kaber, gold dragon, 6'2" lean athletic build, shoulder plus length
blond hair, blue eyes, Skye refers to him as his "surfer dude"
* Quinn Corbin, gold dragon - 5'11" muscled athletic build, dark brown,
short-cropped brown hair, dark brown eyes

The Family Relationships:

* Argos D'Or Drakken, Prince, bond-mate to Darius, 'Pater' of Garrett,
Zopyros, Kleitos, & Nikias. Born on Earth - Greece. Has some
characteristics and magic of a red dragon but not a dragon form. Artist.
* Claudius D'Or Drakken, gold dragon, without royal rank, brother of
Darius.
* Darius D'Or Drakken, gold dragon, Emperor, Father of Garrett, Zopyros,
Kleitos & Nikias, bond-mated to Argos.
* Garrett D'Or Drakken, gold dragon, Prince, oldest son of Darius/Argos,
assumed heir to the Empire, bond-mate to Skye Tomas Eklund. Commander
within Galicon.
* Kleitos D'Or Drakken, gold dragon, Prince, third son of Darius/Argos.
Medic.
* Nikias D'Or Drakken, gold dragon, Prince, fourth son of Darius/Argos,
chosen is River Markus Eklund. Student.
* River Markus Eklund, chosen of Nikias. Most assume he will be a
platinum dragon, Born on Earth - U.S.A. Student.
* Skye Tomas Eklund D'Or Drakken, platinum dragon, Prince, bond-mate to
Garrett. Born on Earth - U.S.A.
* Tiev D'Or Drakken, blue dragon, partner of Claudius.
* Zopyros D'Or Drakken, gold dragon, without royal rank, second son of
Darius/Argos. Medic specializing in non-dragon/magical species.
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