Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2020 10:55:17 -0400
From: Tripp Savidge <trippsavidge@gmail.com>
Subject: Dancing with the Dragon, Chapter 50: Now What

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 50, Now What, Copyright 2020 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 50: Now What
by Tripp Savidge

*   Scene 1   *

Skye couldn't remember ever enjoying food as much as the feast in front
of him. None of the food was fancy or even unusual, but it was all good.

"I'm a little worried about those sounds you're making," Garrett teased.
"Not sure I get that good out of you when we're having sex."

"That's bullshit, and you know it. I am so hungry, and we haven't had
real food in days."

"If I had my way, we'd never eat another ration again," River said,
obviously enjoying the food as much as Skye.

"You get used to them and sometimes, on a mission, you're happy enough to
be alive that you don't think about it," Corbin said. But given how high
his plate was piled, Skye was sure that Corbin was just as happy with the
selection.

"I hope I'm never that desperate," Venci said as he stood. "I'm going to
check on Boy and see if he's awake."

Skye turned to face Venci. "Is he doing okay?"

"As well as can be expected. Lady Telawynn had Itheral check him out.
He's malnourished, dehydrated, and physically exhausted, but Itheral
didn't think there was any permanent damage. He's already looking better.
He doesn't talk much, but he's always listening. The healer said it will
take a while for him to recover, and it may be months before he's where
he should be for his age."

"Sort of like what we went through with Christos," River said.

"I'll be right back." Venci left the room.

"So, now what?" Nik asked, looking around at the wing-mates seated at the
table.

"Great question. Skye, have you heard or sensed anything since we got
back?" Mica asked.

"The magic feels much better and stronger since we returned. But sadly
no, no other insights. Everyone knows that the portal back to Draga is
gone, right?"

"So we're stuck?" Bryan asked.

"Until Underhill decides to open a new doorway, yes," Lady Telawynn said
from the entrance. Her whiskey voice filled the room, and all heads
turned before they realized who it was and stood. She was as stunning as
always but had forgone her elegant court attire for an tastefully
embroidered shift and trews. Even so, she looked regal. "Such well-
mannered gentlemen."

Skye stepped into Lady Telawynn's welcoming embrace.

"I knew you could do it, Prince Skye. Welcome back," Lady Telawynn
whispered before releasing him.

"Thank you. I wouldn't have taken any bets. How are the dark fae settling
in?"

Lady Telawynn took a chair at the table and smiled when everyone waited
until she was seated before they did. "Some better than others. I think
all of them are struggling to adjust to the magic-they've lived without
it for so long, and for some, they've never experienced magic. King
Arnakkhor said he plans to check in on each of the tribes. Like the rest
of you, I think he will need to recover first. From what I've observed in
their short time, it seems that the night elves and dwarves are having
the easiest time. Unfortunately, it won't be long before they all start
feeling cramped."

"Why? Didn't Underhill create whole worlds for them that fit their
needs?" River asked.

"Not worlds, Underhill is not that powerful, nor do I think it has been
for a long time. They each have space enough to accommodate their
numbers, no more and no less. Underhill isn't as large as you might
think. It was never meant to be our home; think of it more like a way
station, a place in between where you can rest and recover on your
journey."

"But, Lady Telawynn, I thought you had lived here for centuries?" Skye
asked.

"Not by choice. There are those who choose to stay and serve here for
extended periods, but the number is small. Most come and go, but don't
worry, there are food and provisions to sustain us. As you've already
seen, time in Underhill passes differently and can be altered so that
what we have lasts until the portal reopens. Other than healing, you do
not necessarily age or change while in Underhill. For the dark fae to be
what they once were, they will eventually need to leave Underhill."

"Somehow, that does not make me feel better. Where will they go? I can't
see Ogres and Trolls fitting in on the streets of Caris, let alone some
of the other creatures. In some ways, I think Draga may be less
hospitable than the Earth they left behind."

"Yeah, I agree," Garrett said. "Do you think whoever is orchestrating
this has a plan?"

"I'm pretty sure the only orchestrator is Underhill," Skye responded.

"I agree and wish I had answers to share," Lady Telawynn gave a
nonchalant shrug that seemed uncharacteristic for her usual of always
being in control.

"Well, that sucks," River huffed.

"Are the dark fae treating you well, Lady Telawynn? For some, the court
of light's betrayal is still fresh."

"Oh, they aren't happy to see me, but they do acknowledge we've welcomed
them back. I always have my guards with me and keep my visits short."

"Maybe once Arnakkhor has recovered, let him deal with them. They weren't
all that friendly to him, and he was their king," Skye said. He turned as
he felt Venci and a new presence enter the room. Boy was with his wing-
mate, and the poor guy looked as terrified as ever. A noise caught his
attention as Chaz pushed back from the table and went to greet the siren.

"Chaz," Boy said timidly.

"Hey." Chaz pulled the siren into a warm hug and led him over to a seat
beside him that Kuai vacated to move over beside Mica. "Sit down, and
we'll get you some food."

"I got it," Venci said. "Itheral gave me instructions on what will help
him the most." The copper went to the sideboard and began loading a plate
for their new charge.

Boy nervously looked around the room. Skye opened his mind to Boy's
thoughts and noted that someone had already filled him in on the basics
of the wing. He was cautiously excited at being part of their "family"
but nervous that he wouldn't measure up to the handsome men around him.
He looked at each in turn, thinking about what it would be like to be
intimate with the wing-mates.

So, Mistral, guess that makes it abundantly clear that he likes men.

'He does, but I'm worried that he's still so afraid,' Mistral said.

**Tell me I'm wrong, but I think bonding him would make him a lot more
comfortable with the wing. I can't help but think this is all
overwhelming to him. And he'd be constantly doubting himself and
questioning why we would want him. Underhill makes me nervous, and I
haven't been through what he has,** Garrett mind-spoke to Skye.

Garrett's words landed like lead in Skye's gut. He didn't disagree, but
the thought of bonding Boy when he was so fragile seemed wrong.

'I agree with Garrett; perhaps we could ask the healer,' Mistral
suggested. 'An elf healer is likely attuned enough to magic to have an
opinion.'

**I think it's a good idea,** Garrett sent back.

Skye let out a sigh. He wasn't sure he liked Mistral sharing his
conversations with his mate. While he didn't want to keep secrets, he
could foresee the two of them ganging up on him.

Garrett started laughing next to him and Mistral snorted.

'For your own good, of course,' Mistral said.

"So I guess we focus on getting rested up for whatever comes next," Mica
said. "I sent Raphael, Bram, and Noud off to get a good night's sleep."

"Yeah, a night without fearing worms and beetles would be good. Tomorrow
I can find a quiet space and maybe reach out to Underhill and see if I
can get any answers. I also ought to check on the mages-though I'm not
sure there's anything I can do. And to be honest, at the moment, I'm not
up to anything except sleep," Skye said.

"Recovery is important," Jayce agreed, winking at Venci. "Anything you
want to share about what happened here while we were in hell world?"

Venci recounted his adventures of checking in the dark fae as they
arrived. Skye wasn't surprised that the log Venci used for recording
sounded like it was somewhat sentient, directing Venci where to send the
fae as their names were entered. It did make Skye wonder how Underhill
found the magic to create places for each of the races since much of it
happened before the mages had healed the heartstone.

Skye assumed from the magic he felt, that the curse had been removed. He
hadn't examined the stone closely yet, but he didn't feel any of the
darkness he'd noted previously.

"I've got to say I was glad for the night elves' help and yours as well,
Lady Telawynn," Venci said.

"I can't imagine how uncomfortable that was," Skye said. "I didn't see
all of them, and I only had a few direct interactions, which was more
than enough."

"You have no idea. I'll also admit I'm a little nervous that I'm now
known by every single one of them." Venci sighed. "I think I'll have
nightmares for decades at least..."

"Did any of them give you trouble?" Bryan asked.

"No, fortunately, I think they were all focused on getting to where ever
Underhill was going to send them. Having some of them speak directly into
my head was creepy as fuck." Venci visibly shuddered.

"The boggarts and banshees?" Garrett asked.

"Yeah, though a few of the banshees spoke out loud. Not sure it helped.
They weren't the scariest to look at, but it took everything I had in me,
and Lady Telawynn's support, for me not to run screaming. I'm not sure
Draga is ready."

"Everyone left Boy alone, right?" Chaz asked as he watched the young
siren eat.

Boy looked up at Chaz and gave him a soft smile.

"We don't think anyone knew he was here. I had two of my guards stay in
the suite guarding his door," Lady Telawynn said.

"I'm sorry we couldn't come with you," Chaz said, putting his hand on
Boy's shoulder.

"Venci and Lady Telawynn took care of me, and the guards were kind." Boy
glanced nervously around the table as he spoke.

"Is there anything you need?" Skye asked.

"What's going to happen to me now? You're not going to make me go with
the other sirens, right?"

"Absolutely not!" River said. "Like Venci probably already told you,
you'll be one of us now." River gestured to the other wing-mates around
the table. "We take care of each other, and you can go to any one of us
if you need something."

"River's right, Boy. We'll be your family now. We also need to come up
with a new name; I don't like calling you 'Boy.' Have you thought about
what you'd like to be named?" Skye asked.

Boy shook his head and stared at this plate.

"We'll figure something out, you don't have to rush," Chaz said, rubbing
Boy's back.

"Maybe the big eagles from those books you had me read, River. What were
they...Gwaihir, Thorondor, something?"

"I don't think he looks like a Thor, and Gwaihir doesn't exactly roll off
the tongue...maybe Revali from that game we were playing?" River said.

"Or you could name him after the harpy in Greek legend, Aello, and change
it to be a man's name," Nik suggested.

Garrett groaned. "Please, little brother, I tried to forget Pater's Greek
lessons."

"It's up to you, Boy, think about it and maybe ask the others. I have no
doubt they'll all have suggestions." Skye turned back to Lady Telawynn.
"Is there any news on the mages?"

"There has been no change. The healers said the only thing we can do now
is give them time. Whatever happened affected all of us, but any with
mage power got the worst of it. Even those mages who were not part of the
healing were knocked out. Master Mage Quanta's mate is sitting vigil with
him. I've been making sure Aksel eats and takes breaks, but there's
nothing else we can do."

"Good thing it didn't take out the healers," Nik said.

"Oh, but it did. They took longer to recover than the others, but they're
all awake now." Lady Telawynn's face showed her concern.

"Skye, should we worry that Gillian and Teak haven't returned?" Kuai
asked.

Skye closed his eyes and checked their bonds. He was relieved when he
found them immediately. "No, they're both fine. Gilian is connecting with
old friends, and Teak is on his way back."

"Can I suggest that once we're finished eating, we figure out rooms and
try to get some sleep?" There were several snorts in response from around
the table, and Mica rolled his eyes. "I know it's been a while for all of
us, but eventually, you'll need sleep."

"Speak for yourself, old man," Nik muttered.

River pulled Nik in for a kiss, and Skye couldn't help but smile. He had
no doubts that most of his wing-mates would be pairing up tonight if they
could stay awake.

'I think it would be best for them to get a little relief from the sexual
tension; might we encourage Bryan and Kuai as well?' Mistral asked.

"I'd rather no one be alone while we're in Underhill. Mica, can you take
point on getting people paired up? I have one request: I want Bryan and
Kuai to share a room."

"What?" Kuai and Bryan both shouted at once.

"You two need to work it out. No partnering with anyone else until you
take care of things," Skye said firmly.

"But?" Kuai looked between Mica and Skye as if the gold would save him.

"I agree," Mica said, though he did look somewhat apologetic.

"If Boy is okay with it, I think someone ought to be with him as well,"
Garrett said.

Boy darted his eyes pleadingly to Chaz.

**Chaz, would you mind? I know that doesn't get you sexual relief, but
Boy seems comfortable with you.**

**Yes, I'd be glad to. And I'm too exhausted for sex.**

"Would you mind sharing a room with Chaz, Boy? I don't like the idea of
you being alone, and while you've had guards outside your door, I'm not
overly trusting of Underhill," Skye asked.

Boy blushed and averted his eyes, but the smile gave him away. "That's
would be fine."

'I do believe our young siren is very attracted to Chaz. He might be
hoping for a better look at our were-dagger,' Mistral whispered to Skye.

Yeah, well if he's going to be part of the wing, he might as well get
used to it. Having not been around men before, this is probably a lot to
take in.

"Venci, would you mind bunking with Jayce?" Mica asked.

"Oh, honey, are you sure? I'm not sure if Jayce is ready for that." Venci
fanned himself as he leered at Jayce.

Skye bit his lip at the look on Jayce's face. Maybe because he and Venci
had hooked up the few times Jayce had returned to Underhill from hell
world, but regardless, his innocent wing-mate looked good with the idea.

"Who can I partner with Gilian? She's rather touchy," Mica asked

"I'll check with her," Skye said. **Hey, Gilian.** Skye waited for the
mental acknowledgment.

**Skye?**

**We're doing room assignments so no one is left alone. Do you have a
preference?**

**If it is okay with Mica, I'll stay with one of my friends in the hold.
We've been catching up. Just call me when it's my turn on duty.**

**Will do,** Skye sent then opened his eyes to catch Mica watching him.
"Sorry, I should have included you. She's staying with a friend, so I
guess that leaves us with an odd number."

"Teak can stay with us," Garrett offered.

Skye turned to look at his mate and held in the laugh at how smug Garrett
looked. **Shouldn't you ask Teak about this?**

**Pretty sure the fairy will be more than happy to be in your bed.**

"That leaves Corbin and me. I was assuming we'd still sleep in shifts, so
at least a pair of us is always awake."

"Probably a good idea. We haven't seen anything from the Hell Hounds, and
Venci said there have been no signs of them since we left, but I'd rather
not take chances."

They finished eating, making small talk about their adventures and the
changes in Underhill. Teak returned just as the group entered the suite
of rooms. Skye couldn't help but eye the other doors nervously, wondering
if any of the dark fae would return here.

Teak followed them in and carefully removed the Mech Assault Photon Rifle
and laid it on the floor at his feet before collapsing onto the couch.
"So, what did I miss?"

"We're going to try and get a good night's sleep, but Skye doesn't want
any of us to be alone; besides, we don't have enough rooms for that
anyway," Mica explained.

"Would you be okay bunking with Garrett and me?" Skye asked.

"If I have to," Teak said dramatically.

"Is anyone else bothered by how quiet it has been since we returned?"
Corbin asked.

"Very," Mica muttered, dropping onto the couch beside Teak.

"Have any of the dark fae come back from where you sent them?" River
asked, looking at Venci.

"No, Lady Telawynn is the only one who's come and gone through the other
doors. We did send Arnakkhor's brother through once he was well enough,
but he entered on his own. I expected to see Jhaeros again since you'd
sent him to me," Venci said.

"It feels like we're waiting for the other shoe to drop. Do dragons use
that expression?" Skye asked, turning to Garrett.

"No, but I know what you mean. For the rest of you, Skye means it feels
like something else bad is going to happen, and you're just waiting to
see what it is and aren't sure how to prepare," Garrett explained.

"Pretty sure the gateway disappearing was a sign. But you know what?
Nothing we can do about it at the moment. Come on, Nik, let's make sure
we get as much fucking in as we can."

Nik jumped up and managed to beat River to their room. Guess he liked
that idea.

'You think?' Mistral said.

Skye watched the others head off as well. Seeing Corbin throw his arm
over Mica's shoulder made him feel warm and gooey inside. He had no
doubts the sex would be good for them, and Corbin's confidence might
distract Mica for a little while. And of course, Mica had volunteered
that they'd take the first shift on watch.

"You coming?" Garrett called.

"Give me a minute." Skye closed his eyes and did another check-in with
his wing-mates. Even though they'd just been together, he couldn't help
but be suspicious of Underhill. He tried to keep his mental touch as
gentle as he could, just a whisper, so he didn't disturb them. He barely
paused on River and Nik as they were already into something hot and
heavy. Gilian was sad and somewhat nostalgic.

I'll have to check in on her later, Mistral.

'Agree. Being here is like going to a childhood home for her. I'm sure
there are memories. Good and bad.'

Skye continued on. Chaz was totally focused on the young siren and making
him comfortable. Jayce... Skye pulled back with a snort. Well, it sure
didn't take them long, he shared with Mistral. Guess I don't need to
check on Venci then. A last check on Kuai and Bryan let him know they
were still alive-not happy-but they had to start somewhere.

Garrett's arms wrapped around Skye, and he sighed, letting his body be
supported by his mate's strong arms. He turned and pulled Garrett to him
for a tender kiss.

"I love you so much."

"And I love you, my prince. Come on, you need sleep. You're about ready
to collapse," Garrett held Skye's face and kissed his eyes and nose.

"But...we sort of promised Teak..."

"Mm-hm...look." Garrett turned Skye and guided him into the room they'd
chosen. In the middle of the large bed was one of the bed pillows with a
beautiful fairy sound asleep in the center. Teak was curled into a ball
with his wings furled.

Skye snickered. "How about that?"

"They're all exhausted, Skye. I've commanded enough troops in battle to
see the signs. Be glad they feel safe enough here to let go. They all
need some downtime." Garrett gently picked up the pillow and moved it to
the corner near the headboard where Teak wouldn't be disturbed. "He is so
beautiful, even when he's little."

"Yeah. I'm going to have to find him someone special who can appreciate
what a stunning creature he is."

Garrett helped Skye undress, then stripped and joined Skye on the big
bed, spooning behind him and wrapping his mate in warmth. "Sleep, baby,
I've got you."

*   Scene 2   *

Skye kept still and enjoyed the peace and quiet in the early morning-or
at least he was assuming it was morning. With no windows or sunlight, he
was going by how awake he was. Garrett was still wrapped around him with
his morning wood nestled between Skye's ass cheeks, reminding him how
much he missed being fucked by his mate.

He bit his lip as soft, tickling kisses were placed up his neck and
across his shoulders. Skye wiggled his ass, letting Garrett know he was
happy with their position.

**Love you, Skye. I missed this,** Garrett sent.

**Me too. I also miss having you inside me. Something we need to remedy
soon.** Skye lifted his head and saw that Teak was still asleep in his
pillow nest and hadn't moved. **I supposed we should get up and start
figuring out what we're going to do.**

Garrett groaned as he rolled onto his back. **Yeah, you're right.**

Skye turned over and straddled Garrett, giving him a proper good morning
kiss, before going to the bath. He didn't move quickly, but soon enough,
he and Garrett were filling their breakfast plates in the dining room.
They'd left Teak sleeping.

"Good morning," Corbin said. He and Mica were already up and had mostly
finished breakfast before Skye and Garrett arrived.

"No coffee, but the tea is pretty good," Mica said, holding up his cup.

"Anyone else up yet?" Skye asked as he sat at the table.

"Gilian and Chaz have both been and gone. We relieved Kuai and Bryan from
their shift, and I think they went to get freshened up," Corbin said.

"No need for a healer?" Garrett asked.

"You mean you guys didn't hear them?" Mica asked in a tone of surprise.

"Surely you felt it, Skye?" Corbin added.

"No, why? What did we miss?" Skye asked.

"Father Dragon, those two went at it like beasts. I'm surprised either
one of them is able to walk from what we heard," Mica explained. "You
must have been really out for it not to wake you."

"Even when we switched off with Chaz and Gilian, they were still going at
it. I wouldn't expect them to be with it today. I don't think they
slept," Corbin said.

"Poor Raphael will be so brokenhearted," Skye joked.

"Oh, please, Bryan's a dragon, he can handle both of them, no problem."
Garrett stood and went to the sideboard for more food.

"He's got a point. Willow is about the only one I know whose appetite
compares to a dragon," Mica said.

Skye couldn't help rolling his eyes. "We going to let the others sleep?"

"Is that okay with you?" Mica asked.

"Sure. I wasn't planning on going anywhere other than checking on the
mages. Better for them to recharge now while they can. Though I am going
to need someone to play guide, I have no idea how to get to the hold or
where they've got the mages."

"We can take you," Bram said from behind Skye. Skye jumped and turned to
see the good-looking, strawberry blond elf smiling at him. Noud, the
platinum-blond, stood beside him smirking.

"Shit! Can you please not sneak up on me?"

"He didn't sneak," Garrett muttered. "Skye, you need to accept that you
need a rest too. You're not as attentive as usual, and your reaction
times are off."

Skye slumped back into his chair. He wanted to argue but knew Garrett was
right. "Well, it's not like I'm planning to go into battle. If Bram and
Noud are chaperoning, they can keep me from making a fool of myself."

"Hmm, I don't know, Skye. That's quite a responsibility. I think we
better send a couple of wing-brothers with you too," Garrett teased.

"I'm good with that," Skye admitted, too tired to feel offended as he
looked over at Mica and Corbin.

"Guess we're going on a walk," Corbin stood and took his used dishes to
the cart.

"You don't have to clear, they'll do it for you," Bram said.

"I know, but they do so much for us that I don't mind helping them out a
little. Venci was telling us that the brownies don't like to be seen."
Corbin made up a plate of his favorites and set that aside as well.
"After rations, I figure it's the least I can do."

Venci had explained that the brownies wouldn't take food from the buffet,
but if it was set aside for them, it was considered a "gift," and a thank
you for their service.

The others followed Corbin's example and then followed Bram and Noud back
out into the ornate ante-chamber. They just stepped into what was once
the ruins of a grand hall when Skye stopped and gasped.

"Oh, my God! Wow." Skye absently walked farther into the room, gawking at
the elaborate columns and detailed mosaics. "It looks new..." Skye ran
his hand over the carvings on one of the columns fashioned to look like
an elaborate tree that reached up to the vaulted ceiling high above. "I
know Venci said Underhill had been changing, but I didn't expect this..."

"This is now one of the most ornate rooms in all of Underhill, or at
least of what we've seen. If you didn't notice, the golden throne is now
here, and the old throne room, where I understand you first had an
audience with the former queen is gone," Noud explained.

"Rather unnerving. It's as if the old one never existed," Bram added.
"Any room in the hold that wasn't being used disappeared. Some of the
rooms moved and others changed. It's the most action I've seen in my
lifetime."

"Huh. I wonder if Underhill had to adjust to handle the dark fae? Lady
Telawynn said that there aren't usually this many in Underhill at one
time." Skye noticed the prominent pedestal in the center, just as Jayce
had described. Skye followed Bram and Noud out of the great hall as they
led him toward the hold. He decided he'd have to come back and explore
the room later.

"I don't know. Most of the elves I know try to limit their time here. The
brownies don't seem to be bothered, but for the rest of us, it can make
you a little crazy after a while," Bram said.

"I understand at least being paranoid, never knowing where you'll end up
when you turn a corner, or what you'll find." Garrett gave Skye a
shoulder bump, making Skye realize he was getting lost in his own
thoughts.

"Exactly! And even before they removed the curse and the magic got so
strong, it has always felt like you're being watched. That's much worse
since we returned."

Skye thought about it but didn't get that same feeling. He was very aware
of the presence of strong magic and even a sense of "other," but it did
not feel hostile. It was distracting but not uncomfortable, maybe like
feeling a constant buzz of excitement. He realized as they walked that
the hallways were looking familiar.

"That's interesting," Garrett said, looking at Skye.

"What?" Skye stopped.

"Your reaction to the magic here. I'm aware of it, but for me, it's like
that feeling I get when someone is about to use magic near me. Not bad,
though. I wonder why it affects the elves differently, especially since
this is their home."

"Excuse me for intruding, but I don't know of any elf who would consider
Underhill 'home.' A place to escape, rest, recover, maybe. I'll take a
forest glade on Draga any day over being here." Noud waved his hand
indicating the stone walls around them.

"We were taught that Underhill was the domain of the royal court and
their servants. All the stories we were raised with made it sound
powerful, magical, and out of reach," Bram added.

Noud nodded agreement. "We're almost there. They separated the remaining
mages into two rooms."

"Is it just me or is the hold much closer to the room of doors than it
was before?" Skye asked.

"It's not just you," Noud assured him.

"Can you take us to where Master Mage Quanta is? I feel that I should
check on him first," Skye asked.

Bram opened one of the doors for Skye and gave a nod.

Skye stepped in and immediately froze. Mistral, do you feel it?

'Like Zopyros and the heartstone,' Mistral whispered hesitantly.

"Prince Skye," a man said, standing from Quanta's bedside. "I'm Aksel,
Quanta's mate."

"Pleased to meet you, Aksel. I'm sorry it was under these circumstances.
Um...could you step into the hall for a moment?"

"Sure." Aksel followed Skye out, and the others gave Skye a strange look
after having him block the doorway.

"Please, Aksel, just stand still for a moment." Skye drew on his power
and opened his eyes to his other sight. He ran his hands just above the
surface of Aksel's body. He didn't sense the "darkness," but he didn't
want to take chances. "Okay, you're clean."

"Excuse me?" Aksel startled.

"I'm sorry. I need you to stay out here for a few minutes. Something's
not right," Skye said.

"Of course something's not right, my mate is in a coma!" Aksel snapped.

Skye put a hand on Aksel's shoulder, trying to send calming energy into
the gold. "I know, and I'm going to do everything I can to get him back.
But to do that, I need you to stay out here where it's safe. When was the
last time you slept? Now would be a good time to take a break." Skye
gently slid into Aksel's mind like Kwill had shown him and encouraged him
to sleep. Skye pulled back and watched Aksel give a reluctant nod before
leaving.

"Skye, what is it?" Garrett asked.

He thought about mind-speaking since he could tell Garrett had picked up
on something but decided the others needed to know as well. "I sense the
same darkness with the mages that I felt with the heartstone and from
before with Zo."

"You think the curse attached itself to the mages?" Mica asked.

"That's my best guess. Bram or Noud, can one of you find the healer?"

It only took moments before Noud returned with an older elf in long green
robes in tow. "Prince Skye, this is Itheral."

Skye gave a bow. "Thank you for joining us. Would you mind coming with me
while I check over the mages?"

"Are you a healer?" The elf asked. There was doubt in his eyes, and Skye
felt a bit intimidated meeting an elf old enough to have white hair and a
long beard.

"Not really-" Skye began.

"He is but not like most, Skye has magic and abilities that allow him to
see and do things that others healers and mages can't," Garrett said.

Itheral looked skeptical but joined Skye in the room with the mages while
the others waited outside. The men were laid out on narrow cots. Skye
approached Quanta first. He opened his other sight and let out a small
gasp.

"What is it?" Itheral asked.

"You can't see it?" Skye turned to Itheral in surprise.

Itheral shook his head, the look of skepticism even stronger.

"Here, take my hand. I'll show you." Skye took a firm grip on Itheral's
hand and let him see what Skye could. A shadow-like wiggling worm trying
to eat through Quanta's shielding. "I've seen them before. It's the
curse, they aren't physical, more like how the magic shows itself."

"It appears to be eating through his defenses." Itheral leaned in closer,
and the shadow squirmed as if it felt his presence.

"Master Mage Quanta removed something similar from Garrett's brother, but
that one was inside him and much stronger. This one appears to be weak
and sluggish, but I have no idea what spell Quanta used to remove it from
Zo," Skye explained. "I'm surprised the master mage can continue to keep
up his personal wards while unconscious."

"Can we check the others?" Itheral asked.

Skye took the healer's hand as they stood next to the other mage. Skye
didn't know his name but thought he looked familiar. He pulled his magic
and shared his vision with the elf. The "worm-like" shadow was smaller
and perhaps more transparent, but there was no question this mage was in
a similar state.

"I wonder if the reason they haven't woken is that they're using all
their energy to keep the curse out?" Skye conjectured.

They checked the third mage and found the same.

"Would you mind checking the others as well? Perhaps we should also check
those who have recovered," Itheral suggested.

"I expect we'll find the same for all those who were involved with
removing the curse, but let's be certain. Do you have any ideas of how to
remove it? Quanta is the only one I know to ask, and he's out of
commission."

'We could try. If we entered his mind, Quanta's subconscious might be
alert enough to tell us or perhaps point us to his memories,' Mistral
suggested.

Itheral led Skye to where the other mages were being cared for. Skye
looked down at the first man, getting ready to pull his magic again when
his breath caught. Holy fuck, Mistral.

'I feel it too. He calls to us, and is he not stunning?'

Skye couldn't help but stare at the handsome face surrounded by a halo of
hair he wasn't even sure how to describe. It was a multitude of shades,
from rich gold to deep brown. His chiseled face made only more attractive
by dark brown scruff. Skye assumed this was the druid that Jayce had told
them about. His fingers twitched as he looked down the man's body. Even
with the sheet completely covering him, he could tell the man would rival
many of his wing-mates. Skye reined himself in to keep from touching and
opened his other sight. He let out a sigh of disappointment.

"This one is the same." Skye checked the last man, and he too had one of
the shadows eating at his shielding.

"How do you see this?" Itheral asked, pulling his hand back.

"No idea. Quanta speculated that I was sensitive to magic, but I think
that was a guess."

"I am not a mage and have no idea of how to rid them of this parasite. I
deal with the physical body."

"Would you mind finding one of your stronger mages who has recovered?
Perhaps they can help?" Skye didn't argue with Itheral but thought it odd
how he denied being a mage. From what Skye had seen, healers used magic
in a similar way, but for a different purpose. Giving the thought up for
later, he moved out of the room and stepped into Garrett's arms.

"What did you find?" Garrett asked.

"The curse that was on the heartstone has somehow moved to the mages. It
doesn't appear to be nearly as strong, and right now, it can't get
through their magical wards. I'm going to try and do a deep dive on
Quanta to see if I can find the memory of how to dispel it."

"Can you do that?" Mica asked.

"The deep dive, yes. Can I find that particular memory? I have no idea.
Kwill is much better at it than I am," Skye admitted.

"How can we help?" Corbin asked while Bram and Noud shifted nervously.

"I can't think of anything you can do... maybe keep away distractions and
make sure the Hell Hounds don't show up."

"Do we need to help ground you? Or let you draw from us?" Garrett asked.

"Not for this. I won't be using magic."

Moments later, Itheral returned with another elf, not quite as old but
still more mature than many of the fae Skye had met. The man was dressed
in a simple jerkin and trews like most he had seen in Underhill. His long
light brown hair was streaked with gray, and he had a short-cropped
beard.

"Prince Skye, may I present Mordish, one of our court mages."

"Pleased to meet you, Mordish," Skye said with a bow. "How are you
feeling?"

"Still tired but otherwise back to normal," Mordish said.

"If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to check you over and then show you what
Itheral and I have found," Skye said.

Mordish nodded as he glanced nervously at Itheral. "You can trust him,
Mordish. His other sight is quite strong."

Skye hated stepping out of the warmth and protection of Garrett's arms,
but this had to be done.

"I promise this will not be intrusive." Skye opened himself to his other
sight and began. It seemed to come easier to him each time, and he didn't
feel tired or drained after doing so. He quickly saw that Mordish was not
shielding, and there were no immediate signs of the curse so he delved
deeper to make sure that it had not worked its way inside.

"No signs of the curse," Skye said out loud. "Before we go in with the
others, can you please build up your shields and ward yourself against
magic?"

"Of course, but I don't understand why."

"The curse they were removing from the heartstone appears to have
attached to the mages."

He led Mordish in to stand beside Quanta's cot. "If you don't mind
allowing me to take your hand, I can show you what I see."

Mordish nodded and took Skye's hand as Skye opened himself to his power
and let the elf mage see the curse.

"Oh...my..."

"It is weak but still dangerous, that's why I wanted you to shield." Skye
dropped Mordish's hand and was pleased the elf was holding it together.
"I'm going to try to reach Quanta's mind. If I can find the memory of how
he removed the curse from Prince Zo or if he's able to communicate, I'll
take your hand again."

"I understand," Mordish said solemnly.

Okay, Mistral, you're going to help me, right? Skye took a few deep
breaths and dropped his mental shields. He had a moment of panic,
wondering if the curse would jump to him when he was distracted.

'We know how to protect ourselves from magic. It shouldn't affect our
telepathy,' Mistral reminded him.

Skye let out a breath and gathered his magic, setting the wards in place.
Once that was done, he placed his hand on Quanta's head and eased into
the mage's mind.

**Quanta, can you hear me?** Skye had expected to get the same feeling as
he did when the subject was asleep, but something was different.

**Who... Skye? Is that you?** Quanta's mind-voice sounded like his
speaking voice.

**You're in a coma, Quanta. I'm trying to figure out how to help you.**

**No. I put myself in stasis, I'm being attacked, and I don't have the
strength to fight off the curse. It never occurred to me that it could
escape our spell or that it would latch on to me,** Quanta said.

**It appears to be much weaker, but it has attached to all of the mages
who were helping you. I was hoping you could tell me what spell we could
use to remove it. I doubt I have the training or power to do it, but the
elf-mage Mordish is here with me.** Skye was aware of Quanta's churning
thoughts as he took it in and tried to think through possibilities. Skye
was surprised when he got the clear message that Quanta thought that if
he'd had more training that he'd be more than strong enough.

**I'm not sure Mordish can do it alone, and the spell is complicated, is
there a way to connect us so I can speak to him myself?**

**I can do that but would never violate your privacy without your express
permission,** Skye sent.

**What choice do I have? The curse is working its way into me. I don't
think I have a better option. Tell me, is Aksel okay?**

**He's been by your side since you collapsed. I sent him to rest. And...I
may have used a bit of my magic to help him along.** Skye felt more than
heard Quanta's mental chuckle in response.

**Don't feel guilty; I'm sure it was needed. My mate is stubborn. Please
take care of him...if something happens.**

**Quanta, you will be fine, and you can take care of him yourself. But of
course, I would look out for him. Are you ready?**

**I am.**

Skye reached out and took Mordish's hand. "I'll be speaking into your
mind and then will connect you to Quanta. Please focus on your breathing
and try to remain calm, okay?"

"Yes." Mordish took a deep breath and closed his eyes.

**Quanta, Mordish is now with us. May I assume you have met?**

**Hello, Mordish. Thank you for helping,** Quanta said,

**It is an honor, master mage. I'm nowhere close to your level, but I
will do everything I can.**

**That's all I can ask. I'm going to show you my memory of how I have
removed this curse before, and I'll explain as best I can.**

Skye felt like he was watching a movie as Quanta replayed his memories
and explained to Mordish what he had done and what was required. He
patiently answered questions, and by the time Mordish was sure he
understood, Skye was eager to be done.

**Rest now, Quanta. I'll let you know when Mordish is ready to attempt
the spell.**

**Skye, do me a favor and tell Aksel I love him.**

**Of course, but can't you tell him yourself? He's your bond-mate.**

**Not while I'm in stasis. It's like being asleep, and sadly, I can hear
him, but I'm not able to respond,** Quanta explained.

**I'm so sorry, maybe I could connect you, and you could tell him
yourself.**

Skye felt the waves of gratitude from Quanta before he broke the
connection. He dropped Mordish's hand and lowered himself to the floor to
rest a moment.

"Wow," Mordish whispered. He looked down at Skye with a worried
expression. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, just tired. Do you think you can do it?"

Mordish was quiet for a moment. "Now that the magic is so much stronger
here, yes. But I doubt I can shield myself and cast that spell at the
same time. Even if I do all the sigils and wards ahead of time, I don't
have that kind of skill."

'We could easily shield Mordish and ourselves while he did the casting.
We may also be able to get help from any of the other elf mages. Even if
they are not strong, they could keep the circle so it doesn't escape
again,' Mistral suggested.

Good idea, I'll need to rest first, but I could do that. "Mordish, I can
help protect you. Perhaps we can see if any of your fellow mages could
join to prepare and assist with the protective wardings?"

"It will take me a few hours to gather everything and chalk the glyphs.
I'll talk to the other mages, and then we should probably move the master
mage to a separate room."

"Agreed. Now, tell me what you need from me..."

*   Scene 3   *

"I really appreciate everything you did for us, Venci. And I'm so sorry
you were on your own. We need to make sure that never happens again,"
Skye said, laying his hand on top of Venci's.

"I did okay. Lady Telawynn was very supportive, and seeing a couple of
the wing-mates helped."

Skye closed the large leather-bound book with a sigh. "It's sad how few
there were of some of the races. I can't even imagine how long it will
take them to rebuild." Skye and Venci were seated at the ornate desk in
the antechamber reviewing the names of those who had passed through.

"Do you have any idea of what happens next? I spoke with Lady Telawynn
while you were checking on the mages. So far, they've found no sign of
the portal and have started sending searchers outside into the forest."

"Did she have any ideas? Perhaps it's in one of the new areas Underhill
set up for the dark fae?"

Venci shuddered. "If it is, then it's as good as not having one. I don't
think any of her guards would be welcome to search there. Not sure if you
noticed, but there's a bit of hate toward the elves."

"That doesn't surprise me, some of them have personal memories of the
betrayal. I guess we should be thankful they're being respectful of Lady
Telawynn. Perhaps when I've helped the mages, we can start searching as
well. I'd like to see the forest again when I'm not being held captive."

"You weren't a captive when you left," Venci said.

"No, but I also wasn't in the mindset to stop and look around."

"Have you tried reaching out to Underhill?" Venci asked.

Skye groaned and put his face in his hands. "No."

Venci snickered. "Is there a reason. I mean Underhill has been so good to
you."

"Is that what you call it? I'm avoiding it because I'm afraid Underhill
might answer, and it will be something I don't want to hear."

"Pretty sure that's a given regardless. But the sooner you know, the
sooner we can deal with it. Not sure if anyone else is getting them, but
my dreams have been really unnerving since being here."

Skye startled and looked up. "What do you mean?"

"Sort of like that first vision you told us about but instead of you,
it's me having sex with elves. And no question it's a dream cause every
elf I've met in this place is snooty and stuck up. I doubt they could
thaw out enough to spread their legs."

Skye laughed. "Not all of them, Venci. Let me tell you about Raphael, the
ranger who went with us." Skye proceeded to recount Raphael's
interactions with Gilian and then how Skye had finally gotten the ranger
to try some dragon dick. "So maybe elves here aren't a lost cause after
all."

"What are you two up to?" River gripped Skye's shoulders and dug his
thumbs into Skye's neck as he began to massage the tight muscles.

"Venci was telling me a bit more about what happened on this side, and he
showed me the log of who came through," Skye answered.

"Well, Nik and I did what you asked. I went over the heartstone inch by
inch, and I didn't find a thing. Unlike the last time, it felt...'good.'
Not sure what it would feel like to a mage that could tap into all that
power, bet it would be a rush."

"I'm not so sure. I think if the mage wasn't careful, it would burn him
up like dry leaves," Nik said.

"Yeah. I think you're right, Nik. Well, thank you for checking. That's
what I thought when I checked it," Skye said. Skye had taken a few
minutes to examine the heartstone and the room of doors after finishing
breakfast.

"Did you think the room seemed a lot bigger than before? And the doors
were...I don't know...cleaner and more elaborate?" Nik asked.

"I did. Did you notice there was writing over most of them?" Skye asked.

"Wonder if we could have read it, would we have known we were going into
hell world?" River asked.

"I asked, but Bram and Noud said it was an archaic form of Elvish, and
they couldn't read it," Skye answered.

"Where are the others?" Nik asked.

"Garrett is getting a snack. He was hungry after our nap. Several of the
others went in to check out the grand hall. And I think a few of them are
in the suite talking."

"Did Kuai and Bryan show face yet?" River asked with a laugh.

"Oh, honey, those boys are having some challenges. They came out just
long enough to grab food and then disappeared back into their room. And
before you ask, they both walked liked a Caris pleasure servant during
Festival," Venci said.

River and Nik both started laughing.

"I didn't want to intrude, but I did check in on them, and they're both
doing well. I didn't detect even a hint of anger," Skye added, tapping
his temple.

"Maybe since Raphael's already had the pleasure of both, we can shove him
in the room with them?" River suggested.

"Can I watch? I would love to see that elf in the middle of those two."
Venci fanned himself dramatically.

Skye gave Venci a play punch in the shoulder. "I'm sure you'll get the
chance eventually. Thank you, River. I didn't realize I was so tense."

"I think we're all still wound a bit tight. This place makes me nervous.
Hey, Venci, you're the one with magic hands, why aren't you taking care
of my bro?"

"Eh, he's been too busy taking care of Jayce," Skye teased.

"Oh, please. There's enough of this magnificence to take care of both of
you."

"I'm glad you and Jayce hit it off. Maybe you can get him to come out of
his shell."

"And have to share? Oh, no, sugar, he's not ready for me to take the
training wheels off quite yet."

River barked out a laugh and turned as Noud walked in.

"Prince Skye, I'm sorry to disturb you, but Mordish wanted me to let you
know they're ready," Noud said with a bow.

Skye took a deep breath and squeezed Venci's hand. "Thanks, Venci."

"Don't worry, bro, I've got your back," River said, putting an arm over
Skye's shoulder.

"You want me there too, love?" Nik asked River.

"Nah, you hang out with the guys. Maybe keep Garrett out of trouble."

"What? I don't get in trouble." Garrett walked in with a piece of fruit
and glared at River.

"Do you want me with you, babe?" Garrett pushed River off his mate and
hugged him.

"Wouldn't hurt to have you nearby. I can't imagine why I'd need you or
River there, but I'd appreciate the support. I'm still not back to being
myself." Skye stood and took Garrett's hand, following Noud back to the
hold. River trailed behind them and was joined by Chaz when they walked
through the grand hall.

"Is it time?" Chaz whispered to River.

"Yeah, keep your fingers crossed that this works. I think Mordish may be
in over his head, but he's all we've got," Skye answered.

"What he said," River said, pointing. "You can help me be 'moral' support
and protect his ass from all the horny elves while he works."

Noud snorted and began laughing. He looked over his shoulder at Skye. "Is
that a regular problem for you, sir?"

"What? No! Don't listen to my brother; he makes shit up."

"Mm-hm... he's probably right though. You need to be protected. I may not
be able to control myself," Noud teased.

"See, wha'd I tell ya?" River said.

Skye didn't need to turn around and look at River to know he was
gloating. And worse, his mate was silently snickering as well. **Watch
it, Garrett.**

**You know, being with you, I've gotten much better at reading elves,
right?**

**Yeah, so? Where are you going with this, Garrett?**

**Since you're not paying attention, I thought perhaps I should mention
that Noud is really horny at the moment and would like very much to be
fucked by you.**

"Ugh," Skye groaned out loud. Mistral, I need to get my shit together and
soon. If Garrett starts noticing before I do, I'm in trouble.

'Not sure why having the pretty elf lust after us is a problem, but if
you say so,' Mistral responded.

Skye was relieved to reach the room where they'd set up to do the spell.
Mordish was there as were two elves that Skye hadn't met.

"Ah, good, Prince Skye. Please let me introduce Oisin and Fionn, my
fellow mages."

"It's a pleasure to meet you." Skye noted that the two new elves were
much younger than Mordish. Oisin had dark blond hair and green eyes, and
Fionn was a petite blond with huge blue eyes. Fionn looked like he could
have stepped right off the cover of a manga-surely he was older than he
looked.

**Those two are both really, and I mean really happy to see you, Skye.**
Garrett sent while nudging him in the middle of his back.

**Stop it, Garrett. This is important; lives are at stake,** Skye
retorted.

**I don't know, I think seeing that little twink elf try to mount you is
pretty damned critical to my mental state.**

Skye closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he felt calm again, he
looked around and saw the elaborate chalked circle on the floor with
sigils at the three points of the triangle on the inside. There were more
glyphs chalked on the stone walls. While Skye had listened to Quanta tell
Mordish what he needed to do, most of it went over his head. He did get
enough to know the markings worked as a barrier to contain magic as well
as prevent other magic from the outside interfering.

"Is this dangerous?" Aksel asked, startling Skye. He hadn't seen Quanta's
mate, or maybe he was too busy noticing the elves.

"He won't be in any more danger than he is now. If it helps, the curse is
on the outside and hasn't been able to get through to Quanta. His wards
have protected him. Would you like to speak with him before we begin? I
think he'd like that. Come on."

Skye made sure his magic shielding was in place and extended it to
envelope Aksel as he took his hand. **Can you hear me?**

**Holy shit! You're in my head!**

**Relax and let me lead. In a few seconds, I'll connect with Quanta, and
you should be able to hear him, similar to your bond link.**

**Okay.** Aksel's body stiffened as he was afraid of what he'd hear.

**Quanta, we're here, and we're about to begin. I have Aksel with me...**

**My love. I'm so sorry for scaring you,** Quanta sent.

**Oh, Father Dragon, it is you...**

**I love you so much. Trust Skye. If there's anyone who can make this
work, he can. Wait for me, and I promise I'll make this up to you.**

**Just come back to me, sweetheart. You're my everything...you've got to
come back, please. I love you more than anything!** Aksel broke into
tears.

Skye pulled back and released his connection with Quanta. "Aksel, if you
want to be in the room, you can, but you'll need to stay outside of the
circle and not interfere. Can you do that?"

"Yes." Aksel's voice wavered, but Skye felt the determination behind it.

"Okay, Mordish, it's time to begin," Skye said, stepping back to be out
of the way.

"Are you still okay shielding me? Even with your help, this spell may be
beyond my abilities, but there's no way I can cast it and protect myself
as well," Mordish asked.

"Of course. Can you draw from Oisin and Fionn?" Skye asked.

"It's not that I won't have enough magic since the heartstone started
recovering, the flows of magic have been stronger than ever, it's my
skill and ability to hold the magic, not that there isn't enough
present."

"I'll help you however I can. I'm sorry I'm not more proficient. I just
began my training with the master mage."

"We'll do our best." Mordish carefully stepped into the circle and then
directed Oisin and Fionn where he wanted them. They both remained outside
of the circle at two points of the triangle.

"Where do you want me, Mordish? I don't have to be touching you to
protect you."

"Ah, that's helpful. Could you take the other point of the triangle, just
be careful not to smudge the circle or the sigils."

Skye stepped into position and saw River give him a thumbs up. He was
standing against the wall with Garrett and Chaz, well outside the circle.
Skye concentrated and extended his magical shielding around Mordish like
an impervious bubble.

Mordish began to chant in a melodious tenor voice. Skye could feel the
magic tingling along his skin and remembered from Quanta's instructions
that this was how Mordish gathered in the magic he would need. Skye
hadn't realized that some of the process worked differently for elves
versus humans. The glyphs and chalked lines on the floor began to glow
with a bright golden light. Skye could hear Oisin and Fionn chanting as
well, and soon the glyphs marked on the walls glowed as brightly as those
on the floor.

When the tingle became a low throbbing vibration, Mordish ended his
chanting and began casting the spell.

Skye kept his mind open to Mordish, mentally repeating the words along
with him. He could feel Mordish struggling with the magic and followed
Mistral's prompting on how he could help. He whispered reminders when
Mordish stumbled and did his best to help the mage hold the power he'd
need. Skye found himself wishing he'd completed a lot more lessons with
Quanta; they would have been very helpful right now.

Skye's position let him also keep his other sight on Quanta and could see
the web of the spell weaving around the shadow-like worm. Unlike the one
that had been in Zo, this one was sluggish and barely moved. He checked
on the other mages, and they were both quietly chanting to keep up the
protective barrier.

Mordish's voice reached a crescendo, and Skye knew he was uttering the
final words of the spell. The shadow was now wrapped in the glowing
strands of magic and was hovering above Quanta's body. The magic grew
brighter until it was almost too much to look at and then with a flash
and an audible bang, the curse was gone. The magic quickly dissipated,
and Mordish slumped to the floor.

"One moment," Oisin called out as he and Fionn released the magic
barrier.

From the cot, Quanta let out a loud gasp and blinked his eyes open.

"It actually worked," the master mage muttered.

"Help me with Mordish!" Skye called out. Garrett and Chaz were there in
seconds, and Garrett lifted the mage in his arms. Skye did a quick check.
"He's unconscious, but he's okay. I think it was too much for him. But he
did it!"

"He did. Can someone direct me to his room?" Garrett asked.

"Can I-" Aksel gestured toward Quanta.

"Please, the curse is gone. Give your man a hug and welcome him back,"
Skye said.

As Aksel wrapped Quanta in his arms, Skye did another check to confirm
that the curse was truly gone. While he was checking, he looked for any
other injuries or problems the healers might have missed. His head jerked
up when Quanta gripped his hand.

"Thank you. I knew you could do it," Quanta rasped.

"Hey, I was just the support guy. Mordish did all the work," Skye
quipped.

"You're a terrible liar, Skye. You might want to work on that, being a
royal and all," Quanta said.

"How do you feel?" Skye asked.

"Anxious to be up and also starving. Give me a chance to eat, and we can
tackle the others."

"Um, I'm afraid Mordish will be out for a while. Maybe tomorrow?" Skye
said.

"I won't need Mordish, with the magic in this place, I can do it easily,
but I would appreciate you being my backup."

"Me?"

"Consider it a continuation of your lessons, which I expect you to resume
once we're out of here," Quanta said.

"You don't have to convince me. After this, I'd feel better being a
little more prepared. I also told my wing it would be a requirement for
any of them who could use magic."

"Good man. How about you take a break, and I'll send someone for you once
I've eaten and feel up to taking on this curse."

"Do you know what happened?" Skye asked.

"Not for sure, but I can conjecture. We were mostly done with removing
the curse and in the final step where we had it contained before we
destroyed it. Unfortunately, the moment the heartstone was free of the
spell, all the pent-up magic burst out, interrupting the final step. The
curse was diminished but not destroyed. I guess it attached to us in the
blast."

"Are you sure you're up to it? You've been in a coma for days?" Aksel
asked.

"I've been resting for days. It wasn't like I could actively fight it,"
Quanta said.

"We can help reset the room for you, Fionn and I can do our part," Oisin
said.

"Who would you like for us to bring in? We could do that while you're
eating," Fionn added.

"Slow down, Mr. Wizard. How about you eat and nap. When you wake if
you're still up to it, then give us the word, and we'll get things
ready," Skye said, pleased to see Aksel nodding in agreement.

"But I just said, I've been resting."

"And if that's the case, you'll wake up refreshed after an hour, and we
can get started. But I think it's interesting that when I visited you in
your coma, you were alert and had been working out all the possible
scenarios. You were not sleeping."

"Fine. Fionn, we'll start with the druid, Mattekin. He's the strongest
and will be able to help us finish off the others in no time."

Skye felt his stomach flip. He wasn't sure he was ready to have the
handsome druid awake and demanding answers. Because Skye knew Mattekin
would have questions as soon as he felt the pull. Fortunately, he thought
that would be a problem for tomorrow because he had no doubts that Quanta
would be out as soon as his head hit the pillow.

*   Scene 4   *

"Skye, did you see this one? It has images of many of the dark fae."
Garrett shouted across the grand hall.

"Yeah, but I didn't look too close. It was giving me the creeps. I wonder
why Underhill moved the throne." Skye didn't touch the elaborate piece,
afraid after the last time he'd caused a transformation, that it might do
something. It was a stunning piece, and the gems seemed to glow with an
inner fire.

Garrett stepped behind the throne and looked around the hall. "I bet this
is where it used to be or at least a room similar. With the carved
columns and the way the ceiling is done, it looks like a forest from
here."

"Without the collapsed section and all the debris in the way, it seems so
much larger. You could probably put all the fae currently in Underhill in
here, and it would still feel empty," River said, stepping up beside
Skye.

"I don't think that would be a good idea, pretty sure it would get bloody
and violent real fast. The ogres and trolls didn't strike me as quiet
spectators," Nik added.

"Hey, Gilian, Raphael. I was beginning to think you abandoned us," Skye
called out when the two rangers entered the grand hall.

"My apologies, Prince Skye. I did clear it with Mica. Lady Telawynn asked
me to help with the search for the portal," Raphael said when he got
closer.

"Everything okay? Did you find it?" Skye asked.

"Nothing so far. It doesn't have much of a magical presence when it's
dormant," Raphael explained.

"I thought if it was okay with you and Mica, I might help them search,"
Gilian said.

"I think that's a great idea. Between your ranger skills and having spent
time here all your life, you're probably both equipped better than many.
Actually, I think we all ought to help search once we get the mage
problem fixed," Skye said.

"Have you tried reaching out to Underhill again?" Gilian asked.

"Yeah, Skye, have you?" Garrett said.

Skye turned and glared at his mate, even more infuriated by the huge
smile on his face. "No, not yet."

"Hey, bro. Your call. We can give you some alone time or stay here and
just hang back in case it goes sideways," River offered.

"Well, while you ponder, Raphael and I will get to work." Gilian gave him
a grin that said she knew he was procrastinating.

"Thanks," Skye muttered and considered his options. What do you think,
Mistral? Maybe we should try the room of doors. With the heartstone, it
should have a direct line to Underhill, right?

'It would make sense, and every other time we were alone, so probably
should keep the others back.'

"King Arnakkhor," Chaz greeted the night elf as he walked into the grand
hall.

"Arnak, it's good to see you up and well," Skye said.

"I waited until I had the strength to trounce you. Really, Skye? Pushing
me through the gateway?" Arnakkhor growled as he approached where Skye
and Garrett were standing.

"You are important and needed to be safe. We had it under control," Skye
said.

Arnak grabbed Skye's arm at the elbow and pulled him into a hug. "Thank
you. Not just for me but for Jhaeros and Allana."

"Are they doing well and settling in okay?" Skye asked.

"Much better now that we have food and a safe place to sleep." Arnak
stepped back and looked at the throne before running his hand over it.
"It looks as good as ever, but where is the other?"

"Other what?" Garrett asked.

"There was a second throne, not identical but similar in design that sat
beside this one. I never thought I'd see this room again." Arnak gazed up
at the ceiling.

"I don't know. No one has mentioned another throne, and this room was a
crumbled ruin only days ago," Skye said.

"That's sad. Underhill seems to be...so much less than it once was. The
magic feels as strong as ever but...it's just not right," Arnak said.

"Between the exile of the dark fae and a curse on the heartstone, I'm
afraid Underhill has struggled. Perhaps now it can begin to recover,"
Skye said.

"Hopefully, but we'll need to find somewhere to settle before then. We
are grateful for the food and shelter, but we need a new home," Arnak
explained.

"I have no idea what to tell you, Arnak. We can speak with the regent for
the fae on Draga once the portal opens, but unfortunately, until
Underhill chooses, we're stuck here."

Arnak's shoulders slumped, and he let out a sigh. "I know, and I keep
reminding myself it is so much better than where we were. Feeling magic
again, having food and not having to be on constant alert..."

"Maybe you take this time to rest and let your people heal and recover,"
Skye said.

"Agreed. I'm going to begin visiting the others. Can your man show me how
to reach the other tribes?"

"I can take him to Venci. He has the book," Chaz offered.

"Thank you, Chaz."

Skye turned back to Garrett and stepped into his arms as Arnak and Chaz
left. "It is not your problem to solve, Skye. You got them here; that's
what Underhill asked of you."

"I know, but now we're trapped here, and I gotta assume there's another
request coming," Skye said.

"Maybe stop putting it off and ask?" Garrett nuzzled into Skye.

"I know. I was just thinking that before Arnak came in. I think I'll try
it in the room of doors."

"Want me to be with you?"

"Not sure if Underhill will speak to me with anyone else around. You
should probably wait in the antechamber. You'll still know what's going
on and be nearby if things go wrong."

"River will want to be close by too," Garrett said.

"River will what?" River called out.

"Want to be nearby when Skye talks to Underhill," Garrett explained.

"Damn right," River huffed, coming over to them. "So we're doing this?"

"Yeah..." Skye sighed.

They left the great hall, and River and Garrett gave Skye a hug of
encouragement before Skye walked into the room of doors.

It really is bigger, isn't it, Mistral? Skye looked around and noted the
multitude of doors and couldn't help but wonder where they all went. He
walked over to the door they had used to go to hell world, noting that it
no longer hummed with magic. He glanced up at the lintel to see if he
could read the writing, but the stone was smooth. He reached out pulling
the magic to see if he could activate it, but nothing happened.

'It appears that doorway is now closed as well. You weren't imagining it.
I clearly remember the writing carved above the doorway,' Mistral said.

Skye looked at a few of the other doors running his hands over the
different surfaces. Each door and surround was different, and several of
them still had writing carved above. Writing Skye couldn't decipher.

"I guess I've put it off long enough," Skye said into the room. He walked
over to the pulsing heartstone and pressed his hands against the smooth
surface. Closing his eyes, he tried opening his mind and felt like he'd
been sucked into a whirlwind of power. The pure, vibrant magic flowed
through him, lighting up every nerve in his body. Skye couldn't imagine
how it would feel to a true mage who could pull this flow into them and
channel it into magnificent feats.

Skye forced himself to step back. He didn't think he could focus enough
to speak with Underhill while touching the heartstone, but he could take
heart in knowing that it was healed with no signs of the curse remaining.
He closed his eyes and made sure he dropped all of his mental shields.

"Underhill, if you can hear me, please answer. What do you want of me?
Why aren't you letting us leave?" He listened and waited. He could feel
his wing-mates clearly and even the other elves he'd come to know. He
sensed a multitude of minds, some he even recognized from meeting the
dark fae, but of Underhill, nothing.

"Please, Underhill, I need to return. Talk to me!" Again nothing beyond
the concern from his wing-brothers as they felt his frustration.

"Come ONNNN! I did what you asked! I saved the dark fae and brought them
back to Underhill, I brought the people to help, and they removed the
curse. What more do you want from me?" Skye shouted.

He paced the room, banging on the doors and grumbling. "Why can't you
just talk to me and tell me what I'm supposed to do?"

Skye continued pleading and demanding for several more minutes. He even
tried holding on to the heartstone while he asked. Underhill did not
respond in words or visions. He might as well have been talking to the
stone walls. Frustrated and angry, Skye returned to the antechamber.

"Nothing. Absolutely freaking nothing!"

River grabbed Skye and pulled him into his arms hugging him tightly.
"It's okay, bro. We'll figure it out. We'll get the mages fixed up and
then help search. You promised to show me the magical forest, right?"

"Yeah," Skye conceded.

"Aksel came by while you were yelling at Underhill. He said Quanta is out
cold, so it will likely be tomorrow before he's ready to attempt anything
with the other mages. He also said that Mordish woke up and seems to be
doing okay," Garrett said.

"Okay, so now what?" Skye asked.

"Why not sit down with Lady Telawynn and any elves she thinks can help to
work out a plan for locating the portal and figure out what we need to do
if we're going to be here a while," Nik said.

"I think that's a good start, Skye. You okay with that?" Garrett asked.

"Sure. Might as well."

*   Scene 5   *

"You feeling any better," Garrett still had the towel over his face as he
dried off, and the words were muffled.

"We're going to have to re-braid your hair soon, it's a bit gross, and I
swear I can still smell beetle guts and smoke."

"Thanks," Garrett gruffed.

"Maybe you should think about not keeping it quite so long. Do you
realize how much time we spend on your hair?" Skye asked.

"Fine, I'll work on it tomorrow. If you don't need me to help with the
mages, Venci can help me do it while you're distracted."

A soft knock sounded at the door.

"Come in, Chaz," Skye called out.

"Sorry to bother you but do you have a minute?"

"Always, come on in," Garrett said as he wrapped the towel around his
waist.

Skye thought it only made him look hotter. And he could tell Chaz felt
the same.

"Before I forget, Mica put Noud and Bram on first guard shift." Chaz
paused. "I need your help; I'm doing my best, but...it's about Boy. I'm
guessing it's because your magic noticed him, but I'm having a terrible
time not doing things. I swear he wants me to, and last night after I
fell asleep, he clung to me like a monkey. I woke up with him on top of
me and our arms and legs tangled, his morning wood pressed against my
stomach. If I wasn't sure he was sound asleep, I'd swear he was trying to
seduce me. Oh, and he decided on a name. He wants to be called Revali,
Rev for short."

Skye dropped onto the bed and sighed. "Well, that part's good. I was
kinda afraid this would happen. Maybe his body is trying to catch up now
that he's not starving. It could even be my magic giving him a push. I've
noticed almost everything magical is stronger here in Underhill. I have
been monitoring his thoughts whenever we're close, and he's pretty much
horny all the time. I can tell you that even if he wasn't awake, he's
thought about being with you enough that it might not have been
accidental."

"Shit. What do I do?" Chaz asked.

"You don't do anything. Skye needs to get over it and bond the siren
already. We all know it would help him adjust," Garrett said.

"Traitor," Skye accused his mate.

"Really? I'm just saying out loud what you and Mistral have been arguing
about for hours. You know I'm right, and even more, I'm in your head and
know that you know I'm right."

"Ugh, that hurt. We'll need to be gentle..."

"Of course." Garrett turned to Chaz. "Would you mind bunking with Teak
tonight? You could use Boy's, sorry, Revali's room if he's with us."

"Fine with me, but Teak might not be okay with it. To my knowledge, he
hasn't been with any of us but Skye," Chaz said.

"Ask him, and we'll take it from there," Garrett said.

Chaz stepped out and returned a few minutes later. "Um...we're good. Teak
said he'd sacrifice for the newbie. You know he's still carrying that
rifle wherever he goes?"

"Yeah, it's sort of like his woobie. I'm sure he'll grow out of it," Skye
said.

"He's an adult!" Chaz objected.

"Yeah, but these are trying times, and we've taken him pretty far out of
his comfort zone. Enjoy yourself and be gentle with him. Until me, he
thought he only liked girls," Skye said.

Chaz smiled and gave a mock salute before pulling the door closed behind
him.

"I'm jealous," Garrett grumbled.

"Hey, pretty sure Teak will be back. You know he's told me a few times
he's curious about trying things with the two of us. He thinks you're
sexy."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. So how about you help me focus on Revali. I'm so glad he decided
on a name, I hated calling him Boy."

Another knock sounded at the door. Garrett walked over and opened it to
find Revali standing on the other side.

"Hey, Revali. You coming in?" Garrett asked.

"Chaz said you wanted to talk to me?" Revali blushed a shade deeper.

"It's your call. I know he told you more than that, and if you don't want
to have sex or just aren't ready, that's fine. You don't even have to
have sex to be bonded."

"Skye." Garrett gave him a warning glare before turning back to Revali.
"But you should know, Revali, that they all think that's the way to go,
and even Gilian who opted for the no sex option regrets it."

"She told me," Revali said barely above a whisper.

"What? You've even been talking to Gilian about this?" Skye asked in
surprise.

"Venci and Chaz explained it to me, but the others all gave their
opinions. They said it will prove to me that I belong and you're my new
family. They explained how they can sense and sometimes hear each other
in their heads." Revali took a deep breath. "They also warned me that it
might make me really attracted to them. Though not sure how I'd tell the
difference." Revali's voice faded enough, Skye barely caught the last
part.

"That's all true," Garrett said.

"And it's okay that I'm not as attractive as them?" Revali looked at the
floor and didn't make eye contact.

"Oh, Rev. You are beautiful. I know it's hard right now to see it, but I
see what's inside," Skye tapped Revali's forehead and then his chest over
his heart, and the magic jolted through both of them with each contact
eliciting a moan from the siren, "here and here. We'll take good care of
you, I promise." If Skye wasn't already sure about Revali, now there
could be no doubts.

"I'd like that. It's nice not being hungry or scared all the time,"
Revali admitted. "What was that...when you touched me?"

"My dragon's magic telling me that you belong with us," Skye answered.

"Why don't you join me in the shower and then let Skye and I make you
feel good." Garrett took Revali's hand and led him into the bath. Skye
moved to the doorway and watched as Garrett carefully undressed Revali
and complimented him on how attractive he was. He turned on the shower
and made sure it was warm before he directed Revali to step in.

"Sorry there's not room for all three of us," Garrett said as he
stripped.

"I'm fine watching this part. I already took a shower."

Garrett laughed. "So did I, but this is different." Now fully nude, the
muscular hunk stepped in behind Revali, soaping his hands and running
them over his lean shoulders.

Skye wondered if Garrett saw the worship in Revali's eyes as his mate had
stripped. He didn't think it was surprising. Garrett was worthy of a
master sculptor. And Revali certainly noticed Garrett's cock, given the
longing stare and the way he licked his lips.

Now that Revali had been cleaned up and had some food in him, he was
starting to look more like a man and less like a boy. He had flawless
golden-brown skin, and his nipples and cock were a deeper brown
contrasting against his body. His dark brown hair was coarse and ragged
and long enough to reach his shoulders. Skye would have to ask Venci to
see if he could fix it. And like Christos when they'd brought him home,
Revali was too thin, but Skye could imagine how good he would look
someday.

"Tell me if I do anything that you don't like or that hurts. I want you
to feel good," Garrett said.

Skye watched as Garrett gently washed Revali from head to toe, letting
his strong hands explore and give pleasure. Revali wasn't as huge as
Garrett, but he had a nice cock and seemed to be very happy with the help
showering.

Garrett turned off the water and turned Revali toward Skye and the
waiting towel. Skye wrapped one around Revali's shoulders and began
wiping him down with a second. Skye knelt and did his legs then stopped
briefly to lay kisses over his hard dick. "It's beautiful." Skye took
Revali into his mouth, enjoying the taste and heat of his manhood. He was
glad that the magic wasn't still sending jolts through his system-
somehow, it understood when he had accepted the need to claim a wing-
mate.

Garrett pulled back the covers on the bed while Skye helped Revali into
the middle. "Anything you want, or don't want?" Skye asked.

"I have no idea," Revali stammered.

"Same rules as before, just say stop if anything hurts or you don't like
what we're doing." Garrett rested his hand on Revali's stomach and looked
at Skye. **You have a preference?** Garrett mind spoke to Skye.

**I got to taste him already. You suck him while I kiss him and work his
nipples. I was thinking I'll eventually go for hitting all his tender
spots once we know what he likes. You okay if I keep our connection
open?**

**I'd be upset if you didn't.** Garrett smiled and leaned across the
siren to kiss Skye.
Skye pressed his palm against Revali's cheek turning his head so Skye
could kiss him properly. He let his hands explore the siren's body while
Garrett tucked a pillow under Revali's hips and began his own magic.

I hope Revali is ready for this, Mistral. Garrett's mouth and tongue are
not for the weak-hearted. Skye felt his own dragon hole quiver at the
thought of what Garrett would be doing for their new wing-mate. He was
pretty sure there wasn't a single wing-brother who would not be
completely undone by that magical tongue.

'We will help keep him grounded. Wouldn't do for him to pass out. And if
we're planning ahead, I think Garrett should help us with Teak. If he
hasn't fully converted to men by then, Garrett's rimming skills will
finish him off.'

Skye bit back the laugh and continued kissing while his fingers teased
Revali's nipples. They hardened quickly at his touch, and the siren
arched his back in pleasure. Skye swallowed Revali's gasp as the siren
felt the first brush of Garrett's tongue over his tender hole.

**Relax and let yourself enjoy, Rev. Garrett is the very best at bringing
pleasure,** Skye whispered into Revali's mind. Skye shared Garrett's
senses, feeling and tasting the sweet little rosebud that had never been
touched by another.

**I can't think...** Revali mentally moaned.

**You don't have to think, we've got you. Let go,** Skye kept pinching
the siren's nipples and tugging at them as Garrett's tongue started
working his way inside the virgin hole. Skye released Revali's lips and
moved down to suck on one of his nipples.

"Mmm, he tastes so sweet, baby," Garrett growled as he grew his tongue,
extending it farther inside of Revali. The siren arched and moaned as the
wet heat filled him with a sensation he'd likely never experienced.

"He's going to be an amazing wing-brother," Skye said before kissing down
the hint of treasure trail to Revali's dripping cock. Skye licked it
clean and then took him deep into his mouth as Garrett continued to open
up the siren's ass. **He wants more, Garrett. Go deeper and maybe grow
your tongue a bit more. He's absolutely loving this so far.**

**Gladly. Skye...is it just me or are the sensations and the tingle of
magic stronger than usual?**

**I'm trying not to think about that. Yes, it is much stronger and I'm
having to hold back.**

**What happens if you don't?**

Revali cried out, and Skye's mouth filled with spurt after spurt of
delicious cum. He sucked and swallowed as fast as he could to keep up. It
was even sweeter than he expected, and he enjoyed every drop. The siren
twitched and shivered with the aftershocks of his orgasm.

**Mm, that was good, and we're not even going to think about me losing
control.**

**He's ready for you, and I used my pre-cum to slick him up. Wanna give
him a charge so I can ride him while you fuck him?** Garrett asked.

Being bonded, Skye didn't need to confirm or ask Garrett if that was what
he really wanted, he knew. Skye liked that Garrett was so versatile and
that he didn't follow the stereotype of what you'd expect from a large,
muscled hunk who was well endowed. Skye drew enough of his magic to bring
Revali back to full arousal.

"Thank you," Garrett kissed Skye before reaching around and fingering
himself. He leaned down and kissed the siren while Skye got into
position.

Garrett had been thorough, and Skye slid easily into Revali's tight heat.
He still went slowly to make sure that the siren had time to adjust. My,
God, Mistral his ass feels good. Snug and silky like it was made for my
cock.

'Our wing-mates are going to enjoy our new brother. And I think we'll
need to feel his pretty dark cock inside us. I want to watch him come
apart,' Mistral shared.

Keeping their mind open to their lovers made this much easier, and soon,
Skye was fully seated into the no-longer virgin ass. Skye then helped
position Revali so Garrett could lower himself.

'He won't ever be alone again. Our wing won't be able to get enough of
him,' Mistral said, and Skye felt his dragon pushing him to go deeper
into Revali.

"Ohhhhhhh," Revali moaned as Garrett sank down, taking all of him into
his dragon hole.

"I told you we'd take good care of you," Garrett said as he began to lift
and then lower himself.

Skye massaged Revali's thighs as he took him slow and steady, fighting
Mistral's push to go hard and fast. Now that he and Garrett had found a
rhythm, Skye used his powers to stimulate the places he and Garrett
couldn't reach. He could feel the overwhelming pleasure that was surging
through the siren. Skye was somewhat relieved at how much Revali liked
what they were doing and that he didn't want it to ever end. They
continued to pleasure him until Skye knew that their wing-brother was
close.

"Let's change positions. You get on your back and pull up your legs, and
we'll put Rev in between us. That way, I can give him the mark when he
cums."

"Don't stop," Revali moaned when they pulled off of him and shuffled.

'He likes having our dick inside him,' Mistral preened.

Skye tried to ignore Mistral while they got everyone repositioned. Skye
encouraged Revali to move, taking Garrett while fucking himself on Skye's
cock. He needed to act quickly as he noted the siren was close to
climaxing again. Skye began to pull his and Garrett's magic so he could
complete the bond.

Mistral? Skye called out mentally as he began to panic. The magic was
coming too fast and too strong. It was like a tidal wave of power pulling
him under. Every nerve seemed to light up, not just in him but in Garrett
and Revali as well, his mind reeled as he felt not just Garrett's
sensations but Revali's as well. Skye gasped and almost gagged at the
cloyingly sweet musky smell that filled his nose. A strong scent of
flowers. Skye couldn't catch his breath as the siren picked up speed,
fucking himself and Garrett like a man possessed.

Skye opened his eyes to see a gentle rain shower of pink blossoms falling
around them, covering them and the bed.

**Give him the gift. He will make such beautiful dragons one day,** a
deep voice echoed in Skye's mind.

Skye felt a spike of fear since he knew it wasn't Garrett or Revali in
his mind, and he'd specifically blocked out his wing-mates.

'Underhill..." Mistral whispered.

"UGH!" Revali cried out.

Skye knew he couldn't wait. He leaned forward and bit into Revali's
shoulder, pushing their combined magic into the siren to complete the
bond. Skye felt himself losing his grip on his powers, there was too much
magic, too many sensations, and too much pleasure. It rolled over him,
dragging him under like the tide. His orgasm hit at the same time as
Garrett's and Revali's. The feeling was so intense he thought he'd black
out. The orgasm seemed to go on and on, and Skye couldn't help but agree
with the voice, Revali would make the perfect bond-mate for a worthy
dragon.

**Don't fight it, Skye, you will save my people and restore the balance.
Now, take the elves, they need the gift as well,** the voice echoed in
Skye's mind, sweet and seductive. He had a fleeting thought that
something was wrong, but the harder he thought, the quicker it slipped
away. He couldn't remember ever being as turned on or in as desperate
need for sex as he was at that moment.

"Even better than I imagined," a new voice whispered.

Skye groaned as he felt the hard prick slide into him, filling him.

"Yes, more!" Skye cried out. A curtain of platinum blond hair fell around
his head as sweet lips pressed into his. Skye wrapped his arms around the
slender, lean body and pulled the man deeper. He wanted this so badly. He
could still feel Garrett and knew his mate had slid into a tight
welcoming ass and wondered how soon he could try it. Skye could even
taste the vestiges of cum that his man was getting from the dick he
sucked.

Skye struggled to clear his thoughts, but nothing seemed to work. There
were too many distractions, too much sensation, too much overwhelming
pleasure. He wasn't sure when he realized that Noud was the one fucking
him, and he wasn't bothered at all. The beautiful elf would make a dragon
very happy one day. Skye wondered why he was having sex with Noud, his
magic didn't notice him, did it?

'Quit overthinking and enjoy, Skye. As soon as we finish with Noud, we
need to fuck Bram. This is what we were meant to do,' Mistral argued.

Right, Skye thought. He does feel so incredibly good, and he is pretty.

The scent of the flowers seemed to grow even stronger, and Skye felt
himself reach the point of no return. Just as he was about to cum, a warm
mouth took him in and drank down his release. He felt the heat of Noud's
cum fill him and looked up into his beautiful blue eyes.

"You'll make beautiful dragonlings, Noud."

When Noud pulled away, Revali leaned in and kissed Skye sharing the cum
he'd taken from him. Skye was vaguely aware of seeing Garrett taking the
Siren from behind as Bram lowered himself onto Skye's still hard dick.

"My turn," Bram groaned.

*   Scene 6   *

Skye woke from the strange dream with a gasp. He tried to sit up but
couldn't move. What's going on? he thought but didn't get a response or
even a snide remark from Mistral. Reluctantly he opened his eyes and saw
the top of Revali's head on his chest.

Skye's eyes went even wider when he felt the warm heat of someone's
breath across his cock. "What the..." he whispered. Skye closed his eyes
and realized there wasn't just one body on top of him, but three? Maybe?
Skye tried to gather his thoughts and use his telepathy. Oh, my God, what
did I do, Mistral? Why am I still so horny?

**Go back to sleep, baby. I'm still tired,** Garrett sent, even his mind
voice sounded groggy.

**Garrett, can you tell me why Bram, Noud, and Revali are on top of me?**

Garrett audibly growled and grumbled, and Skye could tell by the shifting
bed that his mate sat up.

**Huh? How about that. Guess it wasn't all a dream.**

**Garrett, you are so not helping. What's going on?**

'We should fuck them again,' Mistral whispered.

Now, you decide to answer? What's going on, Mistral?

"You okay, Garrett? Is there anything you want me to get for you?" Mica
asked, with a slightly muffled voice.

"Hey, Mica. I'm a little out of it. You wouldn't happen to know what
happened, would you?" Garrett asked.

Skye groaned as it struck him that he was completely naked with three men
on top of him with Mica and God knows who else in the room. Maybe if I
keep my eyes closed, he'll think I'm asleep.

"Pretty sure you had a bit of an orgy. If it helps, you weren't the only
ones affected. All the wing is a bit rattled this morning."

"You too?" Garrett asked. "What's on your face?"

"Oh yeah, and, Skye, you can stop pretending. I know you're awake. I'm
wearing a scarf. It's not perfect, but I can't find our helmets, and I
can at least think with all these friggin blossoms everywhere," Mica
said.

"Can you maybe help me? I can't move," Skye said as he conceded that he
was pinned. As soon as he got the words out, he yelped as a wet mouth
sucked in his morning wood.

"You sure? I think Noud has other ideas."

Oh God, Mistral, why is Noud... shit, that wasn't a dream either. That
means... Skye felt Mistral purr in pleasure, but his dragon didn't
answer.

"Um, Skye, pretty sure we can all feel you starting to panic. Might want
to shield or something," Mica suggested.

"Mica, where did the flowers come from?" Garrett asked.

"According to Raphael, they're delea blossoms. And at some point last
night, they floated down out of thin air covering all of us. The effects
were...intense."

"Oh, crap, Gilian!" Skye said.

"She's okay, Skye. She was sleeping in the hold with her friend and
didn't get caught up in things. Raphael, however, wasn't so lucky. He
stopped by to see Bryan and well..."

"Underhill!" Skye cursed.

"But why? What does Underhill get out of enticing our wing into sex with
each other?" Garrett asked.

Skye felt his face heat with shame, for the moment, glad he wasn't
sitting up and making eye contact.

"Father Dragon," Garrett muttered, and Skye felt the bed shift again.
When he looked up, his mate was looking down at him, realization clear in
his eyes. "Raphael too?"

"I don't think so. And I already checked, Revali is the only new wing-
mate. But Revali, Bram, and Noud are all very likely to have a dragon
bond-mate in their future."

"How, Skye? I thought that..." Mica started.

"It's horrifyingly easy to do, Mica, and I'm pretty sure Underhill may
have given me a nudge."

"Nudge? So that's what we're calling it?" Mica said, the disbelief clear
in his voice.

"More like a magic roofie. What the fuck, Skye? One hot siren wasn't
enough for you?" River accused. He was also wearing a cloth over his
face.

"Shit. Morning River. Can someone tell me who else is in the room since
my head isn't working so well right now, and I can't seem to look for
myself?" Skye said.

"Oh, I just walked in," River said. "Mica was the most alert, so he got
to sit bedside with you until you woke up. The rest of the wing...not so
good."

"And you're just fine?" Skye asked.

"Sure, Nik and I just went with it. Pretty hot, if you ask me. Looks as
though Noud likes your dick, bro."

Skye really wanted to find a dark hole to hide in. Mistral, I wish you'd
get your mind off our dick. You need to help me figure out how to explain
to Revali, Bram, and Noud that their lives just took a really big turn. I
hope they like dragons. Oh, God, that does feel good...

End Chapter 50 | (Characters included below)


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Thanks to the volunteer beta readers/editors who helped with this
chapter: Grant, Mark, Mike, Pavel, Robert, Scott, and Wesley


Cast:

* Aksel, gold dragon, bond-mate to Master Mage Quanta

* Allanna, night elf, mate to Arnakkhor, King of the Unseelie

* Arcturus, bear-shifter, 6'7", black curly hair with a thick beard, dark
brown eyes and fair complexion. Notable body hair on a thick muscled
body. Unusually well-endowed. New to the wing and position and placement
is not yet decided. Living with Mica temporarily. Has a younger half-
brother Charlie.

* Argos D' Or Drakken, human, Prince, bond-mate to Darius, 'Pater' of
Garrett, Zopyros, Kleitos, & Nikias. Adoptive father of Christos. Born on
Earth - Greece. Has some characteristics and magic of a red dragon but
not a dragon form. Artist. His valet is Benson.

* Arnakkhor - night elf, King of the Unseelie, 6' tall, ebony black skin,
hair, and eyes.

* Beckus "Beck," psion, 4'7" (138.4 cm), blue skin, blue eyes, and white
hair. Bonded as a pair with River and also a member of Skye's wing. Son
of Kwill.

* Braden Thomas, Ensign, gold dragon, 5'10" robust, dark blond hair,
round face, pale gold skin, light blue eyes - Personal Assistant to
Prince Skye and Prince Garrett. Member of Skye's wing. Previously served
in HealthCorps.

* Bram, elf, guard in service to the Queen Mother, Lady Telawynn,
strawberry blond hair, pale green eyes, about six feet tall, muscular for
an elf assigned to Skye's team going into Underhill

* Bryan O'Dell, gold dragon, 5'10", bodybuilder, red hair, pale
complexion, and emerald green eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing.
Temero: Biology and Anthropology

* Caladwen, elf, former Queen of the Fae, grandmother to Gilian and
Dillon

* Charlie Eklund, human, grandfather of Skye and River, married to Nancy.
Born on Earth - U.S.A.

* 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.
Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Security

* Christos D' Or Drakken, were-panther, Prince (without rights of
succession), adopted son of Darius and Argos. Born on Draga. Student. A
member of Skye's wing.

* Claudius D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, without royal rank, brother of
Darius. Executed for Treason.

* Corey Armstrong, human. College mate of Skye from earth. 5'11", fit,
athletic build, dark tan, brown hair, brown eyes. Former Prince Consort
to King Tertian of Pembra. Bonded to Ronan D'Or Talon, a gold dragon.
Member of Skye's wing.

* Darius D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, Emperor, Father of Garrett, Zopyros,
Kleitos, and Nikias, Adoptive father of Christos and bond-mated to Argos.

* Dillon, Elf, 5'9" slender and fit with auburn hair and green eyes.
Grandson of the former Queen Caladwen and brother of Gilian. Serve's as
Skye and Garrett's valet but is treated more like family. Biologically
changed by Skye's magic - enabling him to bond and carry a dragonling. A
member of Skye's wing.

* Feired Fornay, silver dragon, 5' 11", slender swimmer's build, pale
complexion, silver-white shoulder-length, straight hair, pale blue eyes.
Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Food Services

* Fiske Abusson, gold dragon, 6', lean muscled swimmer's build, warm gold
skin, slender hips, thick, straight shoulder-length brown hair, blue
eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Surveillance and Data
Analysis

* Garrett D' Or Drakken, gold dragon (Rett), Prince, oldest son of
Darius/Argos, heir apparent to the Empire, bond-mate to Skye Tomas
Eklund. Commander within Galicon. A member of Skye's wing. Black hair,
dark eyes, dark olive/golden skin. Smooth, bodybuilder physique.

* Gilian, elf, Ranger, 5'4", slender athletic build, long, rich brown
hair and brilliant green eyes. Sister of Dillon and granddaughter of the
former Queen Caladwen. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero:
Botany

* Gramthor - dwarf, chieftain of the exiled dwarves, 4' tall, dark brown
hair and beard

* Greggory Wolf, werewolf, 6', muscled athletic build, short dark beard,
dark hair, and pale green eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing.
Temero: Geology and Archeology

* Ian Cornell, human, 5'11", human bond-mate, Priest at the palace,
stocky athletic build, pale skin, dark hair, bright blue eyes, perpetual
five o'clock shadow. Bonded to the gold dragon Nelson "Nels"

* Itheral, senior high elf healer living in Underhill, slender, long
white hair, white beard.

* Jayce Roberts, gold dragon, 5'10", pretty, ripped athletic build,
notable 'v' torso, curly shoulder-length, golden brown hair, brown eyes
with gold starburst. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Medical

* Jerrick Lopez, copper dragon, long auburn braids, 6'1", ripped,
swimmers build, copper skin, dark brown eyes. Part of Protectorate Patrol
and a medic. Member of Skye's wing.

* Jhaeros, night elf, son of Arnakkhor and Allanna, 6' tall, ebony skin
and hair with dark eyes.

* Jos Trall, gold dragon, 5'9", bodybuilder, red-gold hair, skin more
bronze than gold, blue eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero:
Ship's Systems

* Kavide, night elf warrior serving Arnakkhor, black skin, hair and eyes

* Kazemkhor, night elf, brother of Arnakkhor. Ebony skin, gray eyes,
black hair. About six feet tall with a slender lean build.

* Kessalee, elf, master mage, older elf, silvery white hair plaited into
fanciful braids, a neatly trimmed goatee and pale gray eyes

* Kleitos D' Or Drakken, [KLEE-tos] gold dragon (Ormarr), Prince, third
son of Darius/Argos. Medic. A member of Skye's wing.

* Kuai Lung, Chinese gold dragon, Asian in appearance, 5'6", ripped,
slender build, black shoulder length hair, large dark eyes, and a pretty
face. Member of the guard and Skye's wing. Temero: Ship's Systems and
Programming

* Kwill, psion, 4'8" (143.5 cm), blue skin, black hair, bonded partner
with Skye. Member of Skye's wing.

* Leesai Tedurian, [LEE-say] 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. Member of the guard and Skye's
wing. Temero: Security

* Lord Eluf Sorenson - formerly human, Vampire King. 6'2", lean, fit
build with white blond hair and blue eyes. Dark ivory skin. Distant
ancestor of Skye and River. Due to bonding with Skye must feed on dragon
blood. Member of Skye's wing.

* Manoson - gnome and chieftain of the tribes evacuating hell world

* Mattekin, druid shifter assisting Master Mage Quanta with the healing
of the heartstone

* Mica Kaber, gold dragon, 6'2", lean athletic build, shoulder-plus
length, blond hair, blue eyes, Skye refers to him as his "surfer dude."
Commander of Skye's guard and member of his wing. Temero: Engineering and
Maintenance

* Mordish, elf, court mage in Underhilll, mature with light brown hair
streaked with gray and a short-cropped beard

* Nancy Eklund, human, grandmother of Skye and River, married to Charlie.
Born on Earth - U.S.A.

* Nikias D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, Prince, fourth son of Darius/Argos,
bond-mate to River Markus Eklund. Student. A member of Skye's wing.
Temero: Astrogation and Engineering

* Noud, elf, guard in service to the Queen Mother, Lady Telawynn,
platinum blond hair, pale blue eyes, about six feet tall, muscular for an
elf assigned to Skye's team going into Underhill

* Quinn Corbin, gold dragon, 5'11", muscled athletic build, short-cropped
dark brown hair, dark brown eyes. Member of the guard and Skye's wing.
Temero: Tactical and Weapons

* Raphael Night Blossom, elf, Ranger, raven black hair, leaf green eyes,
very pretty

* Revali, siren, first introduced as "Boy, 5' 9", skinny/malnourished,
golden brown skin, dark brown eyes, dark brown hair, looks younger than
his age. A member of Skye's wing.

* Rilien Eklund, (formerly Rilien Meadowdove), Elf, 5'6" often described
as delicate and pretty with fair skin, ash-blond hair, and green eyes. He
has a slender, fit build. Rilien has magical ability and is expected to
become a mage. His father was a high elf mage, his mother was a meadow
elf married to Tiberius Meadowdove. Skye's ward and a member of his wing.

* River Markus Eklund D'Or Drakken, platinum dragon. Prince, bond-mate to
Nikias. Born human on Earth - U.S.A. Student. A member of Skye's wing.
Temero: Tactical and Weapons

* Skye Tomas Eklund D'Or Drakken, platinum dragon (Mistral), Prince,
bond-mate to Garrett. Born human on Earth - U.S.A. Temero: Communications
and Medical. Fitness model build with golden skin, platinum blond hair,
and blue eyes.

* Taleel Del Nuit - General, black dragon, 6'3", ebony skin, pointed
ears, silver/mercury colored eyes, shiny, straight black hair often worn
in a top knot with ponytail. Bodybuilder physique. Part of Protectorate
Patrol and decorated General in Ground Forces. Member of Skye's wing.

* Teak Swallowfly, fairy, with a human form 5'11", large colorful wings
that become a tattoo when he shifts to human. Athletic build, golden
brown, curly hair to his shoulders, bright blue eyes, rich, warm brown
skin. Former thief and spy and noted hacker. Now works with Pater's
agents on clandestine research and spying for Skye. Member of Skye's
wing.

* Telawynn, elf, Queen Mother, mother to former Queen Caladwen, Great-
Grandmother to Gilian, Dillon and King Theon

* Tennat, psion, in service to Emperor Darius

* Tiev D' Or Drakken, blue dragon, partner of Claudius. Executed for
Treason.

* Thillean - former elf king and consort of Caladwen, now Regent

* Thockta - chief of the ogres evacuating out of hell world, his father
was Chockta

* Valters, night elf, 6'2" athletic warrior build, ebony black skin,
black hair and dark gray eyes, left in command of the other night elf
warriors when the king left

* Venci Lopez, [VEN-see] Copper dragon, lean, slender build, auburn
pompadour, copper skin, dark brown eyes. Senior Personal Assistant to
Prince Skye and Prince Garrett. Member of Skye's wing.

* Willow Eklund, Nymph, 5'10" muscular and voluptuous, large dark
nipples, with golden green skin, blue and green eyes, and greenish blond
hair. Skye's ward and member of his wing.

* Zade - night elf warrior in service to Arnakkhor, black skin, black
hair and eyes

* Zopyros D' Or Drakken, gold dragon, currently without royal rank,
second son of Darius/Argos. Medic specializing in non-dragon/magical
species. Being held by the priesthood in penance for crimes against the
Royal family.

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