Dancing with the Dragon, Chosen

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 55, Shoulder Rub, Copyright 2021 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 55: Shoulder Rub by Tripp Savidge

• Scene 1 *

'A perfect fit,' Mistral purred in Skye's mind.

Skye buried his face in the crook of Noud's neck and inhaled. His blond hair tickled Skye's nose. 'Mm... and he smells good too.' Skye draped over the elf's lean body, his spent cock still hard and lodged deep inside his fae partner. Noud tipped his face a little farther to the side so Skye could kiss him.

"Don't want you to move. Feels so good," Noud said after the kiss.

Before Skye could agree, he felt a wing-mate's presence and then a tug on his hair. Seconds later, his shoulder twitched as the fairy landed.

"Skye, Skye, you need to wake up."

"Am awake," Skye grumbled, flexing his hips to coax another moan out of Noud.

"No, seriously. There are more elves on the way," Teak protested.

Reluctantly, Skye pulled away from Noud. He looked down at the fit, pale body, Noud's skin shiny with perspiration. His pert ass, so inviting. His hole leaking Skye's cum.

'He's going to be a great mate for some lucky dragon.'

'Until then, we can make sure he doesn't get lonely, and his ass doesn't get too tight,' Mistral suggested.

Skye shook his head. He realized that he was coming out from under the influence of the delea blossoms. Fairly evident since he was able to form thoughts again. Thoughts like where are my clothes? I can't meet the elves naked. He looked back at Noud and wondered why he felt so attracted to the elf when his magic didn't notice him.

"Teak, do you know where I left my pants?"

"Uhhh... you took them off when you saw Raphael. So I'd guess they're still there."

Skye sighed. Not exactly helpful. He tried to remember how far from the food table or throne they were when he and Raphael...

"Want me to do a fly-over and look for them?"

"Yes, please." Skye looked around to see if he could see the throne. Fortunately, it was only a couple of rows over and in sight. As he walked that way, he noticed something else. The grove looked lusher than when they'd arrived, and there were patches of delicate white flowers poking up through the thick moss.

'Maybe the sex magic? Remember what happened where the centaurs spilled their seed?' Mistral said.

'Yeah.' Skye saw Teak flying back toward him. He waited for the fairy to land on his shoulder.

"Not sure how, but your clothing is neatly folded and sitting on the throne."

"That's kind of freaky." Skye had to watch his step as the ground was uneven, and between the moss and the flowers, his bare feet were getting tangled. I hope we don't have those vines like what went after River. Skye had to stop and pull a green tendril that had wrapped around his ankle.

'That would be bad,' Mistral agreed.

"Is Chaz back with us?" Skye picked up his pants and began putting himself back together.

"Sorry, when I flew by...he um...was still distracted," Teak answered.

"Distracted?" Skye chortled. So that's what we're calling it. "Did you see who was taking our were-dagger's attention?"

"Arnakkhor's brother. I think he might like dick as much as Gregg." Teak moved a few feet away and transformed.

Skye was fascinated to watch the process. It happened so quickly, but the only way he could describe it was Teak grew and expanded, and when he was done, his feet touched the ground, and his wings retracted. He was the only one of their wing who had mastered having his clothes shift with him. Skye wasn't sure if it was innate fairy magic or just something that Teak had learned.

"While you finish getting dressed, I'll round up the newcomers." Teak turned and walked farther into the grove.

Skye may have glared when the fairy didn't seem to have any trouble with the ground cover or getting his feet tangled.

'Maybe he's like Willow and is more attuned to nature?' Mistral suggested.

'Yeah, we're going to go with that.' Skye pulled on the short boots and fastened up his doublet. He didn't think he needed to worry about the cape, so set it aside. He sat on the throne and leaned back, letting his eyes close for a moment. His memories were foggy. He knew he'd had more than a few partners since the chit broke, but as hard as he tried, he couldn't remember the details.

'I wonder if the memories will come to us eventually, or if it will be like when the petals fell?'

'Does it matter?' Mistral asked.

'Silly me. I was just thinking if I see someone, it would be nice to remember if I had my dick up their ass.' Skye knew he wasn't being completely reasonable, but he did not like losing control. He opened his eyes and looked over to where the food table had been before.

'Still there, and it's still loaded with food.' He realized that he wasn't hungry but didn't remember eating since this adventure began.

'Maybe the brownies are the ones that gathered our clothing.'

"Good point," Skye said aloud. He was alert enough to sense others approaching and then wanted to smack himself for not thinking to reach out to his wing-mates. He did a quick check on Garrett and quickly pulled his shields back up. 'Whew, that was close, Mistral.' Skye had been hit with all of Garrett's sensations when he'd connected and somehow knew if he wasn't careful, he'd get pulled back under.

'Are you not pleased that our mate is having a good time?' Mistral asked.

Skye wasn't sure how to respond. He wasn't exactly jealous, but he could admit that Garrett was much better at embracing his dragon's needs than Skye. He also hoped the twink elf Garrett was taking-not anyone Skye knew-would be able to walk when this was over.

"Are we too late?" one of the approaching elves called out.

"Not at all." Skye watched as eight elves he didn't recognize approached with Teak.

"We're sorry to be late. Our families tried to lock us up so we couldn't attend." The speaker was finely dressed and had an air about him that reminded Skye of Gilian and Dillon.

"Is it okay for you to be here? I don't want to upset anyone."

"But we had the dreams too!" another elf exclaimed. He also had fine features and fancy clothing.

"If your parents tried to detain you, how'd you manage to get here?" Skye asked.

"Underhill spoke to us in a dream and unlocked the door," a dark-haired elf said.

"But when we opened the door, it led us to the festival grounds," a blond added.

'Skye, I think we already knew that if Underhill wanted someone here, there was nothing to prevent it. If we don't accept them, Underhill may just keep us here until you give in,' Mistral said.

The memory of Gilian's arrival into the grove came back to Skye. 'Yeah, you're right.'

"Can you all hear me clearly? If so, I will explain to you as a group." After getting nods of affirmation, Skye continued. "What I will be doing is opening your ability to form a bond with a dragon and become a dragon- mate. It does not guarantee that you will find a suitable dragon, only that if you do, you have the ability to bond like a human. Is that clear?"

The group gave affirmation again.

"You won't feel anything more than a slight warmth. Some say they feel like a weight has been lifted. Nothing more. Your bodies will not change until you are bonded. Please take a moment to consider and make sure this is what you want. All of the others who have gone before got pulled under the delea grove's influence once the change was made. You should assume the same will happen to you. If you don't want to lose yourselves or have sex with the dragons and others in the grove, you need to leave now."

Skye had to remind himself that he was not repeating. While he'd said the same thing over and over again, these elves hadn't heard it.

'Not sure why you keep telling them that part. You know Underhill won't let them leave.'

Skye knew Mistral was right, but he didn't feel right "not" saying it. He gave the new arrivals a moment of silence, and one of the elves, the first one who had spoken, approached and knelt.

"Hey, no need for that," Skye objected.

"I would like to be changed," the elf said.

"Are you sure you want this? It could forever change your life. I don't know where you'll find your dragon or whether you might even need to leave Draga. It could separate you from your family."

"I'm sure. When my family tried to lock me in and prevent me from coming, even after I told them about my amazing dreams, I knew it was time to leave. Why would they deny me this opportunity? I love Underhill and the fae lands, but I want what my dream showed me. I want to travel to the stars and have adventures."

"This is not a guarantee that you'll find your dragon."

"I accept that. In my heart, I know I'll find him." The elf stood and stepped closer.

"Relax, it won't hurt. I suggest closing your eyes and focusing on your body and what you feel and sense around you." Skye stepped off the platform and placed his hand on the elf's chest. He opened his other sight as he called his magic. He'd done this many times now. Skye watched the elf's face as the bond was opened and the blockage burned away. The elf smiled and took a deep breath.

"It's done," Skye said.

The next elf stepped up to take his place as the first turned and whispered to the others. Skye repeated the words again, making sure the elf knew what was happening. Over and over, he followed the same steps.

"That was the last of them. Why don't you get something to eat while I get them connected with some dragons?" Teak gave Skye a concerned look before he led the group off.

The food was as good as he remembered, and the wine, or whatever the drink was, tasted perfect and quenched a thirst he didn't know he had. He had just finished when Teak returned with one of the elves. Skye realized it was one of the prettiest of the last group. He was tall and slender with golden-brown hair. His large eyes were slightly slanted, and his ears had a pronounced point.

"We need to take care of Benna. All the other dragons are um...occupied."

Skye was about to object when the elf started undressing. Skye felt strangely mesmerized and wondered what the elf would taste like. Within moments they were kissing, even though Skye couldn't remember moving. He felt Teak behind him, his hands warm, his cock hard as it slid up Skye's crack. The scent of the blossoms was so strong he coughed.

'When did we get undressed?' Skye asked Mistral. Teak's tongue on his hole and the warm mouth around his cock made it hard to think. He tried to focus, but it wasn't working.

• Scene 2 *

"...you lazy-ass princess. Wake up!"

Skye swung his arm to push back whoever was shaking him. He was comfortable and didn't want to wake up.

"If I have to pick up your sorry ass and do a throw down, I will," the voice threatened.

'He'll do it. We should move,' Mistral warned.

"Fine!" Skye grumbled and tried to sit up only to find that he was caught in a tangle of arms and legs. He managed to extricate himself and looked back to see that he'd been lying on top of Garrett. A puddle of drool covered Garrett's nipple and pec.

'Guess I know what we were doing when we fell asleep.' Skye stood and felt the world spin. He bent over and gripped his knees until the vertigo passed. 'Shit. We're naked again.'

Skye felt himself wobble and thought he was going down when a strong arm wrapped around him and pulled him back into a warm body.

"Give yourself a minute. I got you, bro."

"River?" Skye felt like he was swimming up through molasses. His thoughts were muddled, and nothing made sense. River walked him over to a hillock and eased him to the ground. Skye's vision cleared a little more, and he noted that the bodies he saw nearby were his wing-mates.

"Feeling better?" River asked.

"I'm getting there. What happened?"

River snorted. "You need to be more specific because I'm pretty sure a whole hell of a lot has happened. If you mean, why am I waking you up; I had a dream."

"Huh?" Skye looked up at River in confusion. 'Wait, how did he get dressed?'

"I had this urgent dream that we needed to wake up and go somewhere. Next thing I know, I'm sputtering with water up my nose and in my face. There was no one around-or at least no one who was awake-but our clothes were stacked neatly beside me. I took it as a message."

'A brownie?' Mistral suggested.

"That was my guess," River answered, running a hand through his still-wet hair.

"I don't think I'm going to get used to you reading my thoughts." Skye saw that River had set his clothes and boots beside him. He started dressing.

"Sorry. My control isn't so good. Nik said I need to ask you for lessons, or maybe, if we ever get home, Beck can teach me."

Skye stood and stretched. "So...what are we supposed to do?" His brain seemed to be coming back online. He opened himself to his bonds and found that his wing-mates in the grove were all in a deep sleep.

'We should check on Revali,' Mistral said.

Skye concentrated and followed his connection to the young siren. Revali?

Skye! Are you okay? Is anyone hurt? Revali's mind-voice responded with a wave of anxiety.

A bit out of it, but River and I are good. The others are still out. Hopefully we'll be able to get back to you soon. Crazy day, right?

Skye, don't you know? Revali sounded worried.

Know what?

You've been in the grove for four days.

No, that's not possible. It was just last night we were at the party, Skye objected.

You're just teasing us, right, Rev? River asked, joining in the mental conversation.

Seriously, guys. It's been four days. Lady Telawynn has had the guards patrolling the border around the grove in case it opened again.

Holy shit, River exclaimed.

I'm so sorry, Rev. We didn't mean to leave you on your own. Are you okay? Skye asked.

Worried, but I'm better now that I know you are all well. Lady Telawynn stayed with me the first night. Then Quanta returned, and he's kept me with him since. He even let me sleep with him. And Lady Allanna has been checking in on me. I think she got a vision or something 'cause she said I shouldn't be left alone.

I wish I had better answers, Rev. We have no idea what's going on or why we're awake and the others aren't. We'll return as soon as we can. Skye looked at River, feeling at a loss for what to say.

Are you being treated well? River asked.

Oh, yeah. Everyone's been super nice, and the brownies make sure I have all the food I want and come and talk to me when the others have to be away.

Hang in there, Rev, River said before Skye ended the connection.

Skye looked around the grove. Almost everywhere he looked, naked men were sprawled out on the moss. The trees and vegetation were overwhelmingly lush and green. The blossoms' scent filled the air, and delicate white flowers poked up through the moss and fallen petals.

"It feels different." River reached up and pulled a blossom petal and lifted it to his nose.

"Aren't you afraid of being pulled under again?" Skye asked.

"I'm aware of it, but it doesn't seem to be affecting me. The air vibrates with magic."

Skye hadn't noticed, but now that River pointed it out, he could agree. "What now?"

"In my dream, it showed us leaving the grove while the others slept. Guess that means we walk the perimeter and see what happens."

"I don't think it sounds like much of a plan."

"Do you have a better idea?" River asked. "Storm's getting twitchy. He said we need to go in that direction." River pointed off to their right.

'He's right. I feel it too,' Mistral whispered.

"If we can leave the grove, should we try going out another way first?" Skye asked.

River turned and looked at Skye for a moment and then rolled his eyes. "Really? And how well has it worked every other time we tried to ignore what Underhill wanted?"

"Yeah. Lead on." Skye followed River and noticed that this time, he wasn't having difficulty walking. The vines and tendrils weren't tangling his feet like before.

"Um..." River stopped abruptly, and Skye almost ran into him. He peered over River's shoulder and saw a bright, sparkling light floating in the air ahead.

"Will-o-the-wisps are bad, right?" River whispered.

"In most of the stories, yes. You think that's what it is? I thought they only came out at night. And I guess I always expected them to be soft glowing lights." Skye noted that the thing floating in front of them looked more like a sparkler-the hand-held fireworks they'd played with when they were kids. The light was almost too bright to look at and seemed to shed star-shaped sparks.

"Should we follow it?" River asked.

"Was it in your dream?"

"No."

Well, that doesn't make me feel better. 'What do you think, Mistral?'

'Follow and see what happens,' Mistral suggested.

The "sparkler" moved farther away as they approached. To Skye's mind, it was a clear message of "follow me."

"Skye, it looks like there is a clearing up ahead," River said.

"Maybe the festival grounds? I think the grove was surrounded by forest on the other three sides."

River stopped when they reached the edge of the grove, the last row of delea trees behind them. "That's not the field where they set up the festival."

Skye looked at the rolling meadow of grass and wildflowers. "You're right." Not only was it many times larger, the festival grounds didn't have rolling hills or mountains in the background.

"Keep following?" River turned to look over his shoulder. "It looks like there is a narrow footpath."

Skye could see the "sparkler" still dancing ahead of them, just above the flowers. Path was generous. It appeared as though someone had passed this way and pushed down the grass as they walked.

"Not sure what choice we have. I'll keep my other sight open, just in case."

River walked on ahead, carefully stepping where the grass had already been trampled.

"Have we been walking forever?" Skye asked.

River turned to look back the way they had come. "It feels like it, and I don't see the grove anymore."

The meadow stretched to the horizon behind them as well as to their left and right. Ahead, they could see another stand of trees at the foot of the mountain.

"I'm thinking dark, sinister cave in the side of the mountain? How about you?" Skye asked.

"Could be an evil witch's cottage in the woods. You know, the kind that looks inviting until she gets you inside and tells you that she's going to cook you for dinner."

"If I thought you'd ever read a book, I'd say you need to pick something new."

"Hey! I read. Don't go dissing my Manga, and I'm pretty sure erotica still counts," River objected.

"Where'd you get erotica?"

"Dude. How can you be so clueless? They sell it everywhere and 'i n t e r n e t.'" River drew out the word with inflection like Skye was being stupid. "A lot steamier than those romances you were reading."

Skye stopped. "How'd you..."

River laughed as he turned around. "Oh, bro. You are so dense sometimes. It would be funny if it weren't sad. I knew you liked dick long before you figured it out. And your passwords suck. I checked out your history. I was hoping those gay romances might open your eyes."

"I was just curious. Jasper lent me one, and it had a really good plot about this family of brothers, and I couldn't just stop and not know how it ended."

"Riiiiiiiight. Jasper was so desperate to get in your pants, and you were oblivious. I told him he just needed to get you drunk and have his way with you. Figures he'd be as pitiful as you. 'Oh, no, that wouldn't be right.' I try, bro, I really do."

"Guess you can stop trying now. Pretty sure everyone is now very clear on the fact that I like men since I'm married to one."

"Heh heh, and then there's the holo of you having sex with that blue guy on the dance floor in Caris. When you come out, you come out big."

Skye grumbled, but he didn't have a good comeback. "Are we any closer?"

"The trees look bigger, so I guess... Skye, those trees aren't right. It's not my imagination, right?"

Skye looked at the tree line against the mountains. His magic sight wasn't telling him there was anything amiss, and then he saw what River was talking about. The stand of trees in the center was substantially taller than those around it. Like three times as tall. He'd assumed that meant they were closer, but from where they stood, he could now see that wasn't the case.

"I can't remember; were the elves in the big trees good or evil in the books?"

"I remember the movies better. Besides, that was just fiction. I mean, come on, the dragons here are the good guys."

"To answer the question, yes, we are closer. Storm and I were talking about why Underhill didn't just drop us off at the door. Storm thinks it's because we needed time to get over the effects of the delea grove."

"That would make sense. My head's much clearer now, and I guess...yeah, I feel better. Pretty good actually."

"Me, too." River started walking again. "Skye, do you remember much from the grove?"

"Bits and pieces. Sort of like I see snapshots. But nothing very clearly."

"Yeah. I remember more than when I first woke but still not much. Storm seems to have retained more of it and tells me it will come back in time. He said we had a great time."

'See, I'm not the only one,' Mistral huffed in Skye's mind.

"Mistral said the same. He thinks we should do that with the wing more often. I'm not going to say I'm completely on board, but I don't know... What I do remember was pretty amazing."

"I'm getting more feedback from Nik lately. Not sure it's as much as you get from Garrett, but damn, it was almost overwhelming in the grove."

"What do you mean?" Skye wondered if River was picking up more of Nik's thoughts.

"Not all the time, but often if we've got our shields down, I can see and feel what he does. It happened several times in the grove. I ended up having to shield him out."

"I'm not surprised." Skye had noticed that River was getting many of the same changes that he'd already gone through. The strength, the stronger powers, the magic.

They continued walking and finally reached the edge of the trees.

"Those are fucking huge!" River exclaimed.

Skye looked up but couldn't see the top of the trees through the canopy. The trunks were bigger than any he had ever seen. The smallest had to be more than ten feet in diameter. Most were more than twice that big.

"Does the path continue?"

"It does. Still not much of one. A cleared track about a foot wide, and the light is still with us," River said.

They continued on until they could no longer see the meadow when they looked back. River stopped when they neared one of the larger trees. "Um, Skye. There are steps."

Skye looked where the path seemed to end at the foot of a narrow set of stairs that wrapped around the large tree trunk. As he looked up, it climbed into the foliage as far up as he could see. The sparkler hovered about ten feet ahead on the stairway.

"Guess we're going up." Skye thought he would feel unsteady or that the height would get to him; however, once his feet were on the steps, they seemed to be sized perfectly, and he felt completely safe. When he looked down and could barely see the ground, he wondered how much longer they had to go.

"I think we're there," River whispered as he climbed through an opening in a platform above them.

Skye followed and bit his lip as his head cleared the floor. It wasn't just a platform. There were full-sized buildings among the branches. The structures were wooden with thatched roofs. The Will-o'-the-wisp floated in front of a pair of red carved doors in the nearest building.

"Subtle." Skye stepped onto the decking beside River. "Guess we knock?"

River shrugged and walked up to the doors. When they drew near, the sparkler winked out. River reached out to knock, but before he made contact, the doors swung open.

"Welcome. I hope you had an uneventful journey." The man who spoke stood before them wore a dark green kurta with matching, snug-fitted silk pants. He was tall and slender, with silver-white hair and beard. Distinguished looking and arguably handsome.

'Elf. Very old elf,' Mistral whispered into Skye's mind.

"Who are you?"

Leave it to River to cut right to the chase, Skye thought.

"I do have the advantage, River. Please, be at peace. I mean no harm to you or your brother." His startling blue eyes turned to Skye. "Welcome, Skye. You likely know me by the name, Keeper."

"You're Underhill?" River asked.

"Goodness, no. Though you might say I am a servant of Underhill. Keeper is more of a role than a name. Please, I'll be glad to answer your questions, but you must be tired and thirsty after your trek." Keeper turned and slid open a shoji screen door, revealing a low table with cushions set up for tea. He bowed and waved them into the room. They stopped long enough to remove their boots and place them on the mat at the entrance.

River was the first in and dropped onto one of the pillows, sitting with his legs crossed. Skye took the spot next to him. Keeper sat across from them and picked up the teapot, pouring cups for each of them.

"Help yourself." Keeper gestured to a plate of Wagashi, beautiful small sweets made in the shape of flowers.

Skye took a sip of the tea and felt some of the tension leave his shoulders. Crap, I should have checked it first. He made sure Keeper and River were not looking and cast a quick spell to ensure the tea was safe.

"I can assure you, it's just tea. A blend of matcha and herbs I grow that helps calm the spirit and clear the mind." Keeper didn't even look up as he spoke.

"You were going to explain things?" River prompted before Skye had a chance to ask how Keeper knew he'd checked the tea.

"Maybe start with explaining who you are and why we're here?" Skye added.

"Of course." He refilled Skye's cup as he spoke. "As I said, I serve Underhill and provide a voice, hands, and feet to carry out his wishes. And no, to my knowledge, he doesn't have a gender, but he sounds male, and it is what I can wrap my head around." Keeper paused. "I was born a seer in the fae kingdom on Draga and was selected to apprentice to the former Keeper after my thirtieth year. My abilities were a prerequisite as it enables me to hear and act on behalf of Underhill. The Oracle can also hear Underhill, but his or her role is different, if no less important.

"I trained for almost two centuries before my master passed on. My other duties include overseeing those who reside here, keeping the peace, and making sure that the farms and holds run smoothly."

"But I've heard Underhill..." Skye blushed, realizing he'd interrupted.

"You and River aren't typical fae. While not seers, your telepathy allows Underhill to communicate directly when needed."

"Was that true of the other platinum dragons before?" River asked.

"I do not know, and Underhill has never shared. There have been no platinum dragons in my lifetime-until you. To continue, most of my time now is spent in Underhill; however, I have crossed the veil and even traveled among the stars. It is not as easy to travel between worlds as it once was, but perhaps that will change now."

"Because the magic was failing?" Skye asked.

"Indeed. The dwindling of our races and the curse on the heartstone are certainly two of the main causes. But there are many others, lack of new blood and too much in-breeding, less use of the magic that was available, I could go on. But that brings us to why you're here. You have completed the tasks requested of you, and to show our gratitude, I'm empowered to offer something in return."

"Is this where you tell us we're allowed to leave now, and the portal opens back up?" River asked.

"Almost. There are some things to work out first." Keeper refilled River's cup.

"Like?" Skye ate one of the Wagashi.

"I would like to propose a partnership. A mutually beneficial relationship where Underhill and I help you, and you continue to help us."

"The heartstone is healed. Pretty sure Skye changed all the elves who were sent to the grove so they can now bond with dragons. You're saying that wasn't enough and we have to do more? What else do you want?"

Keeper paused silently for a moment, staring off into the distance. "There are those who would say it is the time of man, that the fae had their reign, and it is time for them to cross the shores and fade away. An interesting notion, but hardly true. That is what men would like everyone to believe, and I use that term for those in power, male and female, but certainly not all mankind. They even dare to dabble in dragon politics, inciting the metalics against the chroma. Pitting dragons against dragons."

"I'm listening." Skye saw River about to jump in, so mentally reached out to him. Give him a chance, River. Let's hear him out. Then we can decide.

River frowned but returned his attention to the tea and held his tongue. Skye noticed Keeper giving him a knowing smile when he turned back.

"Conflict is coming. Whether we wish it or not, dragons and fae will be pulled into the fight. For our mutual survival, we need to work together. We don't know who set the curse on the heartstone, but we must assume that even if the individual has since passed on, the organization or those behind it still exist. It is also curious that it was similar to the curse put on your mate's brother, no?"

"Yeah, we noticed that," Skye answered, glancing at River.

"Your lives have already been touched. Your parents, your grandfather... While we were successful in saving your grandmother, it was clear that those behind the attack were well funded and prepared. Our Oracle is not the only one who may have seen your impact on the future. Our fates and our futures are woven together."

"Whoa, whoa, slow down there. You're saying Grandma B was right? That some nameless bad guys had something to do with our parents' deaths?" River was clearly agitated.

"I am sorry. It was not an accident, and it was only through the intervention of our agents that you made it out unharmed," Keeper explained.

"You were watching us?" Skye asked.

"Not until your parents' accident. We had allies who were following some questionable non-humans who should not have been on Earth. One of them was driving the truck. They reeked of dark magic, which at that time, set off many of our wards. Since then, there have been enough incursions, and the dark magic has grown to the point that our wards are almost useless."

"Guess we got lucky that Garrett went after you and grabbed me by accident," River joked.

"Not luck at all. I received a vision and knew that we had to act. I made sure someone whispered the right things in Prince Argos's ear, and it wasn't hard to orchestrate having you be with your brother. You were always intended to be Garrett's and Nik's mates; we just nudged things along."

River's mouth hung open, and he turned to Skye. Is he smoking something?

Skye saw Keeper raise an eyebrow but didn't figure he was going to mind- speak anything that the man couldn't hear. I can tell you that he believes he's being completely honest. Your telepathy is good enough you'd likely know if he lied.

"I understand that it is a lot to take in," Keeper said.

"No shit, Sherlock," River muttered.

"We would like you to be a voice for the fae, help us rejoin this new 'Empire" and establish a presence at the table. Find homes and a place for the dark fae who were exiled. And most importantly, continue to help with rebuilding our people. While some elves want to deny it, Underhill wants me to assure you that dragons are as much fae as elves, fairies, and the other races. You and River more so. And regardless of the lies some would tell you, elves interbreeding with humans and dragons will not diminish our race. It will help us survive. Nothing Underhill or I ask of you will in any way conflict with your loyalty to your mates or the Empire. If anything, we can help you serve them more effectively."

"Back up. What do you mean, Skye and me more so?" River asked.

"I assumed you would already know. Your dragons should sense it even if the medics didn't tell you." Keeper looked confused.

"Knew what?" Skye asked.

"That you are of elvish descent. On your mother's side."

"And Dad's great-great-great-grandpa is a vampire." River buried his face in his hands.

"No one has told us. Does it matter?" Skye asked.

"Only in that you will have an affinity for other elves and that we are your heritage. You would be, in a sense, helping your own."

"Court of light or dark fae?" Skye asked.

"Your ancestor was from the light fae. One of the noble lines but not of any great renown. Which is likely how they ended up mated with a human."

"Okay. Let's say all this is true. What's in it for us? How is this a mutually beneficial deal?" River asked.

"We are not without resources. Now that you've restored the heartstone and the magic is rebuilding, it won't be long before we can begin using the portals again. We also have magical items and talismans that would help your wing."

"We're listening," Skye said. 'Pay attention, Mistral.'

"Underhill is somewhat like a parallel dimension-using your words..."

"Wait. Stop, stop. What do you mean using our words?" River asked.

"If you weren't already aware, Underhill can hear the thoughts and see the memories of those in Underhill. There are no secrets, and it means that Underhill can give me the words to use that you will understand."

"We'll just keep the whole creepy factor of that tabled for now." River shuddered and waved a hand for Keeper to continue.

"The portals would allow you to travel to other places quickly and almost in secret. You've seen the room of doors. Unlike the portal you use to enter Underhill from Draga, those doorways lead to other worlds. Including Earth."

"Where else do they connect?" Skye asked.

"Other planets, either currently or previously inhabited by the fae. There are two still in place for Earth, but the magic wasn't strong enough to activate them. When many fled Earth for Draga, Underhill followed and now coexists with their new home. That's why doorways to Draga are easier to open."

River nudged Skye. That could come in really handy if we have to leave wing-mates behind. It wouldn't help for the space flight portion, but we wouldn't have to go as long without seeing our brothers.

True. It's too bad not all of us can use them.

"Having access to Underhill would also allow you a way to escape or even provide a refuge to rest and recover where time is more...flexible," Keeper said.

"Unfortunately, some of our wing-mates are not able to come into Underhill," Skye said.

"Who is not able to enter Underhill?" Keeper seemed confused.

"It was my understanding that only the fae could safely be in Underhill. But I also have shifters, a vampire, a Felecian, and two psions who are part of my wing."

"I apologize, but you have been misinformed. It is true that the portals into and out of Underhill must be activated by fae magic, but anyone can pass through once the gateway is open. We regret that in the past, humans were abused and enslaved because of this limitation. Underhill wants me to assure you that the herbs and mushrooms that were used to further trap visitors have been removed or isolated. That does not mean Underhill is without risk or danger, only that prior practices will not be tolerated."

"You're saying that even a vampire can come into Underhill?" River clarified.

"Certainly. There are vampires here currently, though they were originally elves and not human before they were turned."

"I didn't think that was possible. I thought only humans could be turned," Skye said.

"The dark fae found a way around those limitations long ago. A vampire who was turned as a human would have the same limitations as any other human-"

"And an elf vampire could activate the portals," River interrupted.

"Yes.

"That's fuckin' scary."

"They 'are' considered a creature of nightmares and were readily accepted by the dark fae. Imagine the dexterity and strengths of the fae, their inherent beauty, and allure and magnify that with the powers of the dark gift. You should also know that within Underhill, our daylight does not affect vampires."

"Bet they like that." Skye pondered over Keeper's words. "The way you speak of the elf vampires, I'm guessing they're also evil?"

"Not in the sense you mean. It is better to think of them as self-serving with little empathy or compassion. By their nature, they do not work together."

"Why does Underhill allow them to stay?" River asked.

Keeper was quiet a moment, staring blankly before he responded. "They are part of the balance and have their place in the circle of life and death. Underhill only intercedes to the extent that no one interferes with the overall good of Underhill and the fae."

"So if any creature can pass through the portal, why can't our psions even get close?" Skye asked, thinking of Kwill's attempts to enter the fae kingdom.

"That is not because of Underhill. The spells that keep your telepathic friends at bay were set by the elf mages on Draga and prevent them from entering the fae kingdom. It is only coincidence that the recent portal locations have been within the fae kingdom."

"Do the portals have to be within the fae kingdom?" Skye asked.

"They do not. Underhill can establish them wherever he wishes. If you agree to partner with us, a portal could be set to a location convenient to you. Perhaps within the palace."

"Hm...not sure they'd be happy about that. Security and all," River said.

Keeper shrugged. "Not Underhill's issue."

"I'm assuming that Underhill has no control over the spells in the fae kingdom or what happens outside of this realm," River conjectured.

"Yes and no. We cannot affect the spells, but Underhill can use magic, sendings, and influence to a limited degree outside of Underhill. It is easiest if we work through fae who have agreed to serve and act as agents, but we can act independently if we must."

Skye let the words sit for a moment as it seemed there was something he was missing.

'Would entering into this agreement make us agents?' Mistral asked. 'From what he has said, I don't see why it wouldn't be in our benefit unless it somehow indebts us to them.'

Skye felt a wave of relief as Mistral nailed what was nagging at him. "Keeper, if River and I accept, would we then be agents like those you mention? And is it one of those deals with the fae where we're in any way indebting ourselves?"

"There is no debt or obligation, and you would be very different than the agents of Underhill. Agents act solely on our behalf. I prefer to think that what we are offering would make us partners, colleagues working toward a common goal. Not unlike how you think of a team. It would enable us to communicate with you more easily, and we would not have to rely on sendings or dreams. We could provide information and warnings that we pick up from our agents. And, if circumstances permit, lend additional magic or assistance in times of need."

River toyed with his teacup. We must be missing something. Storm and I think it sounds like a good deal.

It does, which is worrying me even more. What's the catch? Mistral isn't seeing one either.

"I have given you much to think over. Perhaps you will be better able to decide after a good night's rest?"

"Uh...it's morning..." River glanced over to Skye as if confirming his words.

"It was evening when you arrived. It is well into the night. I'm sure the time in the delea grove has thrown off your normal cycles. Your wing- mates and the elves will sleep until at least mid-morning tomorrow. You have time."

Keeper stood and escorted them to another building. There appeared to be several rooms off of the entrance, and Keeper slid back the shoji screen on the right to show them into a room set with two sleeping mats.

"Breakfast will be waiting for you when you wake. The bath is through that door." Keeper pointed, gave a slight bow, and left, pulling the screen closed behind him.

"We're awake, right? Not dreaming?" River asked as he unfastened his jacket.

"I honestly don't know how to tell anymore," Skye confessed. "Not sure my imagination could make up anything this strange. And from our conversation with Keeper, I have the impression we have to decide on this partnership before we get to leave."

River grunted. "Yeah. Maybe that's the catch we're missing. I don't think Underhill plays fair."

• Scene 3 *

"We need to make it very clear that we won't do anything that is not in the best interest of our mates and the Empire. I'm not about to commit treason. And you know, they should be offering you treasure for all the shit you've already done, not making another deal." River emptied his cup and set it back on the low table. They'd spoken when they first woke and continued to debate over breakfast.

"Sometimes, I think I can see signs of the elves as they were in the fables. Their logic and reasoning sure doesn't work the same way as ours. As for the deal, I'm also going to add our families and wing to the list." Skye stood and stretched.

"Agreed. Did you decide on whether you want a portal in the Palace?"

"I was thinking if we put it near Willow's garden, that would let Quanta set some wards and warning spells, but it would still be convenient for us to use. Willow would also notice anyone disturbing the surrounding area or trespassing where they shouldn't be."

"What confuses me is why go through this formality? You've already done what Underhill wanted, and it's not like we were given options. How is this different?"

Skye had been wondering the same thing and hadn't come up with any good answers. "Maybe we ask?"

River opened the screen and stepped out into the open entry area. He picked up Skye's boots and handed them to his brother while he sat and pulled on his own. "The sooner we get answers, the sooner we can get back to our mates. I couldn't sleep well without Nik."

"I'm ready to go home. Draga, not Earth."

"I miss the other guys, even Leesai." River chuckled.

"Me too." The dappled sunlight made a kaleidoscope of color on the deck outside the building. The sounds of birds filled the air.

They hadn't stood there long, enjoying the sounds and smells, before the red doors opened in the other building. Keeper stepped out and hailed them.

"Good morning. I hope you both slept well."

"I think we're both ready to be back with our mates. Thank you for providing breakfast."

"Well, thank the brownies. They do all the work. Please, join me."

Keeper took them into a different room this time. A seating area was set up with cushions, and one wall was open to the outside, letting them look out into the canopy.

"Why live so far removed from everyone else?" River asked as he sat.

"It allows me the freedom to come and go as I please. The others find it difficult not to constantly ask questions about their future and what I've seen. There is also an added layer of protection as some would like to sway me in their favor."

"Doesn't it get lonely?" Skye picked up a cushion and hugged it.

"I have had many companions and lovers over the years, but yes, it does. I have suggested that the next Keeper be a life-bonded couple. Underhill agreed, but it is not yet time for my apprentice to be revealed. Have you considered our proposition?"

Skye looked at River, who nodded.

"We have but do have some questions."

"Of course."

"Keeper, if you are a seer, does that mean you've already seen this future and know what's going to happen?" River asked.

"I have seen possibilities, but with each decision, there is the chance that a different course will be taken. One of the first rules for being a seer is not to share too much lest you affect the outcome."

"Sounds like Allanna," River muttered.

"We walk a fine line. Please, what are your questions."

"The biggest is why? Underhill had no issue sending Hell Hounds to threaten me and get me here. Nor did he seem to have issue in telling me what was expected. Why the formality of asking us to agree?"

Keeper fidgeted and even for an elf, managed to show he was uncomfortable. He took a deep breath. "Expediency was needed. Though you were never in any danger from the Hell Hounds. If they'd ever managed to get close enough, they'd have acted more like love-starved puppies than ferocious beasts. Not that they can't be deadly, but you are already considered family.

"The most important reason is because agreeing establishes intent. Sharing the same goals and willingly working together makes it a stronger relationship and sets a foundation for trust. We realize that we need to earn this and intend to do so. I need you to believe me when I say that being on the same team will bring the best results for both of us."

"But you can't say more, or it could change the future," River said.

"Exactly."

"We have some caveats that we need to put on the table before we go any further. There are some lines we won't cross and River and I need to know now if that is a problem." Keeper nodded when Skye paused. "First is that we will take no actions that bring harm to our families, the wing, or the Empire. River and I are not about to betray the trust of our mates."

"Agreed. What else?"

"We won't do anything that would bring harm to humans or others as a race. No genocide, regardless of what it might gain us."

"We are in complete agreement. Our objectives are the same, I assure you. Anything else?" Keeper asked.

"No more sendings and threats to get me to do stuff. And absolutely no sending Hell Hounds or any other scary fae creatures to push us. You want or need something, you ask and abide by our decisions."

"Acceptable."

"Then I am willing to welcome Underhill to the team," Skye said.

"Me too," River added.

"I had another question. In the vision, Dillon was there and so was Theon. Does that mean anything?"

Keeper was quiet for a moment, something Skye had come to assume meant the seer was speaking with Underhill. "Please don't be angry; the answer is yes and no. Their inclusion wasn't relative to current events; however, there could be a time in the future where Dillon will be with child. Also, you will likely have sex with Theon and gift him with the ability to be a dragons' mate."

"Is there going to be a queue of guys waiting for Skye's magic when we return to the elf palace?"

"No. They will know nothing of what has transpired here. When the time is right, Underhill will send dreams to those who would benefit from Skye's touch, and they will likely search you out."

"Great. And Theon is 'likely' to be one of them at some point, but you can't tell me when," Skye grumbled.

"You will know. Either I will get word to you, or Underhill will communicate directly. If it helps, you won't need to bring them to Underhill or the grove. The grove's magic has been recharged enough that it can perform as it was meant to-bringing couples together and ensuring their fertility."

"So no more 'sex magic.'" River leaned over and smacked Skye's leg.

"Oh, I would strongly encourage you to have as much sex in Underhill as you can. It doesn't have to take place in the grove for Underhill to benefit. Saying your wing could rest here is not without ulterior motives. I feel confident in saying that anywhere your wing gathers for a period of time, there will be lots of sex. It will take many years for the magic to come back as it once was. As you say, every little bit helps."

Skye opened his mouth to retort but had to stop when Mistral interrupted.

'Don't even bother. You know he is absolutely right. And if we gathered here, where we could feel safe and know that Underhill was helping protect us?'

Skye closed his mouth and nodded. 'Maybe that would be a benefit. Perhaps Keeper could even arrange for quarters that would handle all of us.'

"Does this mean the portal to Draga will open now?" River asked.

"Soon. It would be best for you to speak to your wing before the chaos that ensues when the gateway returns. You also have some unfinished business?"

"Oh, right. The dwarves." River tapped his fingers on his leg. He turned to Skye. "What are we going to do about Bram and Noud? Not to mention breaking it to Lady Telawynn and the others that we stole Raphael."

"My magic hasn't noticed Bram and Noud."

"But there's something..." River stared off for a minute until Keeper cleared his throat.

"Might I suggest that before you make any rash decisions, you speak to your telepathic wing-mates?" Keeper winked.

Okay, then. 'Mistral, I'm thinking he just did what he said he couldn't.'

'Perhaps since he only hinted at a course of action that does not in any way address the question, it doesn't count?'

"We will speak again before the portal reopens. Might I suggest you confer with your team and determine the best way to handle your return? The gateway does not have to exit where you entered, nor does it have to be the one we make 'public.'"

"You're right. We need to talk to the others. It's not like we can send all the dark fae through. There's nowhere for them to go. It would be better for them to stay where they are until we make sure of a good welcome and a destination that's better than what they already have. Do you know, Keeper, will Arnakkhor continue to speak for the dark fae?"

"For a while longer. I think he is tired of the role and will be glad to hand it over to someone new."

'Not our problem. Thank goodness,' Skye thought to Mistral.

'We can hope not. There are more than enough problems for us to handle already.'

"Are you ready to return to the grove? The others should be waking soon," Keeper asked.

"I have a lot more questions, but I guess that's enough for now. Is there a way we can contact you?" Skye asked.

"I will find you when the time is right."

That's a diversion if I ever heard one, River mentally whispered.

• Scene 4 *

"I'm already having second thoughts," River groused as they entered the grove.

Skye knew what his brother meant. The trip back had taken no more than a few minutes, while on the way to Keeper, it had taken most of the day to cross the meadow. "I thought we'd agreed why that happened?"

River turned and glared. "Like he couldn't just flick his metaphorical hand and make it go away? I have this sinking feeling that while we may get help, it will always be in a convoluted, fucked up way. Pretty crappy way to thank us for saving their asses."

"Not sure Underhill thinks like a person. And maybe the help won't always have so many complications." Skye wished he could argue with River, but he did have a point.

"Nik's still out. Did you check the others?"

"They're coming around, but no one is awake yet." Skye felt a niggling fear at the strong scent of the blossoms. 'I really hope we don't get pulled under again.'

'I wouldn't mind. It seems to be the only way to get the sex we need,' Mistral complained.

"Skye, look behind you." River pointed.

Skye turned and saw that the meadow was gone. Now there was an old-growth forest. He watched River walk past him and into the edge of the trees beyond the delea grove. He didn't go far before he turned around.

"Just checking. Seems we can leave the grove now." River walked farther into the grove, Skye assumed in search of Nik.

Skye was surprised how long it took for everyone to be functional again and then there was finding their clothes. He thought they had help from the brownies on that one, since they managed to get all the elves covered enough to leave. Most of the dragons were acting a little sex-drunk. The guards from the hold arrived shortly after their return and helped to get everyone dressed and stationed themselves along the path to make sure everyone made it back.

"Good thing the grove got so much bigger," Teak said as they waited for the last of their wing brothers to join them.

"No kidding. So many elves." Skye saw Aksel somewhat stumbling toward them.

"Are you well?"

"Yeah, yeah. I'll be fine. Just a little woozy. Fuck, that was amazing. Wait, do I look presentable?" Aksel ran a hand through his hair and straightened his shirt.

"You look fine. Quanta is on his way to help you back," Skye said.

"Ah... I thought he talked to me but wasn't sure if it was my imagination." He followed the path as Skye steered him toward one of the waiting guards.

"All the elves are cleared out." Chaz stepped up beside Skye. He and Teak were the first to recover when River and Skye got back to the grove.

"Let's get our guys back to the hold. They're still a bit out of it, but they can walk."

"I get why we had to walk so far. I don't remember being this out of it, but maybe we were." River had an arm around Nik's shoulders, keeping him moving in the right direction.

"I'm going to grab Garrett, and we can decide what to do once everyone is back in our rooms."

"What about Mattekin?" Teak asked. "He didn't go back with the others."

"We'll keep him with us. Did Arnakkhor and Kazemkhor go back with the elves?"

"They did, everyone except Raphael. Not sure you'll get him away from Bryan," Chaz said.

"Bram and Noud went back too," Teak added.

Right after Chaz mentioned them, Skye spotted Bryan and Raphael walking together hand in hand. Jayce and Kuai were right behind. Skye had a moment of worry until he saw the smile on Kuai's face as he apparently teased Bryan. 'Maybe things will work out there just fine, Mistral.'

'Of course they will. Won't be too long until they'll be pulling in Kuai for a threesome. Just because they're bonded doesn't mean they've lost all good sense,' Mistral said.

It took until early evening before everyone was clear-headed enough to talk about important stuff. Skye had gathered everyone in their sitting room and was waiting for people to get settled. Revali had made the rounds as if he was personally verifying that everyone was well. After he was sure, he attached himself to Chaz. Skye watched as Gilian gingerly lowered herself onto the couch.

'I really want you to tell me it's a hallucination, Mistral.' More and more of Skye's memories of the grove were coming back, and a few made him uncomfortable.

'Sorry. Pretty sure we did it with her too. I don't think we could have imagined-'

'Stop, stop, don't even think it. I don't want to remember. If anything I want to bleach some of those images out of our head.'

'But Garrett and Mica at the same-'

'Mistral! Stop!'

Skye could feel his dragon retreat in a huff and could picture him stomping off to somewhere in the dark recesses of his mind.

Fortunately most of what he remembered he liked and thought was pretty hot. And it wasn't that what happened with Gilian was-. No, he wouldn't give it another thought.

"You okay?" River leaned in and whispered.

"The memories are coming back." Skye looked at his brother and saw him go a little green.

"Say no more. I mean seriously, we're not talking about 'some' things. Right?"

Skye held out his pinky, and River mimicked him, doing the pinky swear they'd done since they were little.

"Hey, Gil, you okay?" Venci said in his sweetest voice.

Skye braced himself.

"I'm fine!" she snapped.

Fortunately, no one died, and there was no blood. But any of them would have to be blind to not notice how she limped like she'd ridden a horse for the last five days. Well, I guess in a way, she did, Skye snickered to himself. For some reason, she was the only one showing any signs of discomfort. He figured if Venci had a choice he would have taken at least as many dicks, and he wasn't acting strangely.

"Everyone's here," Garrett said, wrapping his arms around Skye to pull him in closer where he was seated in his mate's lap.

"Okay. Sorry to jump into such serious talk after what happened, but well, not really a choice."

"Do you want me to leave?" Raphael asked, prompting a growl from Bryan, who picked up the elf and pulled him into his lap.

"No, Raphael, you're one of us now. For any who hadn't already figured it out, Raphael is now a wing-mate. It happened in the grove, and if you hadn't guessed, Raphael is also Bryan's bond-mate."

There were hushed "ooohs and aaahs" that followed. Skye had used his other sight to check as soon as he'd seen them stumbling toward him after waking up. The tendril of light from Raphael's core had connected to Bryan's. While the bond was still weak, it was there.

Skye launched in to the explanation of what had happened with Keeper, and River joined in several times to help relay the details or answer questions. He thought everyone took the news well, and given his fear that they might object to partnering with Underhill, Skye had kept his mind open to them while he and River explained.

Have you been paying attention to their unspoken thoughts and emotions? Skye asked River privately.

A little. I'm not as good as you, but they all seem to think it was a good decision.

Thanks for validating. That's what I got too.

"I think we should assume that Underhill might still mess with us or help in convoluted ways that we're not expecting," Mica threw out to the room.

"Obviously," Venci scoffed. "But then again, some of that interference has been positive. I mean, who knew elves were so into dragon dick? Or, I guess I should say were so into having dragon dick in them." Venci chortled.

Corbin rolled his eyes and attempted to continue without acknowledging what everyone was now thinking. "At least we're working together. I'd much rather have it, him, on our side than working against us. Still not sure I believe the Hell Hound bit."

"I have no desire to be a chew toy, so let's not test that one," Jayce said.

"If you decide to have a portal inside the palace grounds, you need to warn the Emperor," Mica said.

"Maybe Pater first," Nik added.

"Anyone have thoughts on how we should handle our return?" Skye asked.

It was hours before Garrett helped Skye into bed.

• Scene 5 *

'Mistral, I'm not sure how much more of this I can take. I don't want to talk any more, and I don't want any more meetings. Ever!'

Mistral's snicker did not help Skye's mood. 'Patience. I'd much rather be out flying or maybe tracking down that cute elf. You know, the one who gave us his cream as soon as we were inside him?'

'I am doing my very best NOT to think of any of the elves from the grove.'

'Tut, tut, tut, Raphael is a wing-mate, you can't ignore him,' Mistral teased.

"UGH!" Skye hadn't intended on voicing his frustration. Every head at the table turned to him.

"Skye?" Garrett gave him a concerned look.

"Sorry. I'm not used to all this talking."

"Nor am I." Arnakkhor rolled his shoulders and stretched his neck. "But we've made good progress."

"You're confident the others will be patient and wait for the Emperor's people?" Mica asked.

"It won't be easy, but compared to what we've already endured a few days or weeks is nothing. They also would prefer not to have their only option be the fae kingdom of the light elves. The betrayal is too fresh in our minds, even if the ones who exiled us are long dead."

"It will take time to rebuild trust." Garrett stood and stretched before moving around to rub Skye's shoulders.

"I do wish it could be otherwise." Lady Telawynn's gravelly purr filled the room. "I assure you, Arnakkhor, that I will personally champion the dark fae's cause with Regent Thilleon and the future king as well as the Emperor."

Arnakkhor gave a respectful head bow to Lady Telawynn.

"With all the notes I've taken from speaking to the various clans and races, I have enough for the Emperor's people to get started. I'm sure he'll want to send his own experts, but at least they'll be somewhat prepared."

"Are there any who need immediate medical attention?" Master Mage Quanta asked.

"We have dealt with all the critical issues, but there are those with longer-term ailments and injuries who would benefit from the Empire's care. Nothing that is imminently life-threatening," Itheral replied.

"Is everyone still in agreement? We will take a small group to speak with the Emperor and Prince Argos privately. Give them time to make arrangements and then open the primary portal back into the fae kingdom," Mica said.

"If Underhill cooperates," River muttered.

Skye waited for everyone to agree. "Thank you all for helping with this."

"Perhaps Underhill will return your armor before you face Prince Argos." Lady Telawynn managed to sound completely serious, but Skye saw the sparkle and picked up on her amusement.

"You're telling me. Explaining all this to him scares me more than anything. Especially having to explain new wing-mates who will need education and help adjusting to a strange world." Skye glared at his mate and Nik, who snickered into their hands but chose not to say anything.

"Do you have any idea of timing?" Arnakkhor asked.

"I have the meeting with the dwarves, and then after that, I guess we wait for Keeper to show up. He said we would speak again before the portals reopened," Skye said.

The group began to break up, moving into small clusters of conversation as their work was completed for the moment. Skye sat quietly until Lady Telawynn slid onto the chair beside him.

"You aren't alone." Her deep voice and confidence made Skye feel a bit more hopeful.

"Thank you. I'm sorry about stealing Raphael."

Lady Telawynn laughed. "And I'm sorry my people stole you from your home. It is good to see him happy. Bram and Noud have both come to me and requested that they be relieved from their duties. I thought you'd want to know they plan to petition you to allow them to serve."

Skye looked at Lady Telawynn. She was so incredibly regal and pulled together he often felt like a child when speaking to her. He somewhat knew this was likely but still didn't have answers. "I'm not sure what to do. Keeper said I need to ask Kwill and Beck, so that's my plan."

"Understood. I expect after what happened in the grove, there will be others. Also, to warn you, some of the elves were not happy about their children being changed. Of course they were the noble-born. I have already given warning, but be aware."

• Scene 6 *

Skye heard Gramthor before the knock sounded at the door. He watched Corbin and Mica step out to deal with the dwarf king. The volume grew louder, and Skye did his best to ignore the shouting and arguing outside their rooms.

He wasn't sure what to expect when the door finally opened. Seeing Arnakkhor usher in the female dwarf hadn't been on his list of possibilities. Behind them walked a young man who took all of Skye's attention. Mistral came alert and started a low purr.

'He's sexy.'

'Yes, he is, and if he happens to have a blond brother, I'm going to think Underhill is playing with us again,' Skye thought to his dragon. He consciously kept himself seated and didn't move closer as his body demanded.

Mica and Corbin followed the group in and shut the door behind them, taking positions on either side as if standing guard.

Skye, do you feel it? Mica mentally whispered. Corbin and I felt the pull as soon as we were near him. And Gramthor still isn't happy about you talking with them, but we got him to give in. We think he's assuming you'll make them disappear-and not in a good way.

Skye? Garrett entered from their bedroom and came up behind where Skye sat on the couch, his strong hands dug into the muscles on Skye's shoulders.

Don't even say it. We need to hear them out first.

Garrett bent and kissed Skye's temple. He's hot.

Skye inwardly groaned and waited for Arnakkhor to speak.

"Prince Skye, Prince Garrett, I'm sure you remember meeting Kabli at the celebration. And this is her son Kibli." Kabli attempted a curtsey while Kibli gave a low bow.

Skye was somewhat surprised that Kibli had no resemblance to his mother. If he hadn't been told the man was a dwarf, it would never have occurred to him. Kibli was around five-foot-five with a stocky, athletic build. He had dark hair that fell to his shoulders with thick dark brows, dark eyes, and dark scruff-certainly not enough to be called a beard. His skin was several shade's darker than Kabli's pale white complexion. Skye could feel the young man's fear rolling off of him in waves. He desperately wanted to reach out and comfort him but knew it wasn't the time.

"It is a pleasure to meet you. Please sit." Skye gestured to the couch across from him. The dwarves reluctantly sat, and Arnakkhor stood behind them, putting a reassuring hand on Kabli's shoulder.

"It's okay. You are safe here. I assure you," Arnakkhor said in a low voice.

With how nervous they were, Skye thought it might help if he began. "Kabli, I understand that you received a vision from Underhill. Can you tell us about it?"

Kabli glanced up at Arnakkhor, who nodded.

"In my dream, you told me that Kibli was special." She looked around the room for a moment. "It was here. You said that Kibli would be going with you and be part of your team and that he'd be well cared for and have a good future. That he'd be safe from Gramthor. Then the dream changed, and you were holding Kibli's hand and introducing him to other men. Everyone was dressed in their finest in a grand hall. It was even more elaborate than the one in the hold. It had mirrors and gold and many men dressed in ivory standing along the walls."

"Keep going," Skye encouraged.

"A handsome man with dark hair, a short beard, and fine features took Kibli in his arms and welcomed him. He said they would take care of him and that they were glad he was part of your wing. I'm afraid for my son, Prince Skye. My king despises him, and I'm afraid he will hurt him."

"Do you know why?" Skye got an immediate image of Kabli arguing with Gramthor, spurning his interest.

"Kibli's father was a night elf. One of Arnakkhor's scouts who often brought messages to our clan. I knew it was forbidden, but I was in love. Once Gramthor discovered I was with child, he had me taken deeper in the caves, and I was not permitted to see my love again."

Skye looked up at Arnakkhor. "Where is Kibli's father now?"

Arnakkhor's face fell. "I am sorry to say he was killed on one of his scouting trips. We did not know he had fathered a child, or I would have tried to intervene sooner with Gramthor."

"Kibli, what do you want? Did you have any dreams about this?" Skye asked.

Kabli took her son's hand and squeezed.

"I did. I would like to go with you."

Skye waited, but it didn't seem like Kibli was going to say more. "Can you tell us what you dreamed?"

Kibli blushed and looked at his hands. "In my dream, you and the man behind you...um...welcomed me into your clan. In the dream, you told me that I was a brother and now had a new family, one that would love and accept me."

"Arnakkhor, is Kabli safe to return to the dwarves? Will Gramthor take action against her if Kibli were to leave?"

"I believe she would be. Gramthor seems to hate Kibli and I don't know why, it can't be just because he is a half dwarf-half elf. While inter- race couplings are often fraught with challenges, it doesn't explain the depth of Gramthor's feelings. Sadly, as Chieftain, he sets the tone, and his followers will treat Kibli with equal disdain. He would face a life of mocking and abuse if he stayed with the dwarves. Once he is out of the picture, there will no longer be a reminder. Kabli's skills as a craftsperson are valued, and I know she once stood high in Gramthor's favor. I think she will be able to live in peace."

Skye nodded, thinking about it and the memory. Perhaps it would appease Gramthor's pride if Kibli wasn't there to remind him of his rejection.

"Kabli, even if Kibli were to come with us, I would make sure you are able to see each other in the future. I'm not sure where the dwarves will ultimately live, but we can arrange for meetings so you do not lose touch with each other."

Kabli started sobbing and scrambled off the couch to kneel in front of him. She began kissing his feet.

Skye looked up at Arnakkhor, hoping the king would do something. "Please, Kabli, this is not necessary."

Finally, Arnakkhor interceded and helped the female dwarf to her feet. He spoke to her quietly, and she calmed. She turned back to Skye and curtseyed again.

"Thank you." Kabli pulled Kibli into her arms. He was more than a head taller than his mother. Skye was both sad for their separation and pleased that they might be able to give the young man a brighter future.

"Kibli, do you need to return to the dwarf hold to say goodbyes or collect your things?" Garrett asked.

"No. My mother is the only one who cares, and I left my things in the hall. I'm sorry, but I don't have much. My tools belong to the clan, so I have nothing but a few sets of clothing and a few things that mother made for me."

After more soft-spoken words between mother and son. Arnakkhor put his hand on Kabli's shoulder and led her to the door.

"I'll make sure she is safely returned home and speak with Gramthor. May I tell him that you will be taking him back to Draga to deal with the 'problem'?"

Skye smiled. "Yeah, that will be fine. We'll see you later, right?"

"Of course." Arnakkhor nodded and followed Kabli out the door.

Garrett came around and dropped onto the couch beside Skye. He took his hand and brought it to his lips. What can I do to help? It's pretty obvious he's supposed to be one of us. Is this where you hedge and say, 'Sex doesn't have to be part of this'?

The laugh snuck out before Skye could stop it. Kibli looked at them curiously.

Skye leaned his head back into Garrett's arm and sighed. "Okay. Where to start?"

"There's something I didn't say earlier. I uh...wasn't comfortable sharing with my mother here."

"I kind of guessed that your dream might have included some other things given the way you blushed," Skye said.

Kibli blushed even more and diverted his eyes.

"Don't feel bad. Maybe let Skye explain first, then you can tell us if there's anything else in the dream that might be important?" Garrett said. "Guys, why don't you join us? I don't think Gramthor is going to return."

Mica and Corbin sat on either side of Kibli.

"This is somewhat complicated so hear me out, and then you can ask all the questions you want. Deal?" Skye asked.

Kibli nodded and glanced at Corbin and Mica. Skye was pleased they gave the half-dwarf reassuring smiles.

"I am a platinum dragon. I don't know if you've ever heard of them or I guess, any dragons. Not sure what legends they taught on Hell World. Oh, that's what we've been calling the planet where you were."

"It fits."

"Anyway. Dragons are also fae, and we have inherent magic. Mine and my brother River's is stronger than most dragons. One of my gifts is that my magic identifies people who bring something important to my wing. A wing is the dragons' version of a clan, pack, or tribe. It's also a little different from other dragons' wings in that ours shares a bond. We are connected to each other and can sense each other's emotions and strong thoughts. River and I, as well as a couple of our wing-mates, can speak telepathically and facilitate our brothers speaking to each other mind to mind."

Skye took a deep breath. "Gee, this is harder when you don't even know about dragons. Anyway, all dragons have an unusually strong sex drive- compared to other races. Platinums, even more so. What that means to you is that sex plays a large part in our lives, how we deal with each other, and um...how we connect with new wing-mates."

"Fuck, bro. Don't botch this." River strode into the room, jumping into the conversation with Nik on his heels.

"Kibli, this is my brother-biological brother-River and his bond-mate, life partner Nikias."

Kibli nodded as River and Nik took seats.

"So Kibli, you attracted to dudes? I mean we've got a couple of females in the wing, but mostly men."

"I...uh..."

River scowled. "You know, if you're going to get your freak on, do you want it to be with a male or female?"

"River, I'm not sure any of that translates into his language," Skye objected.

"I've kept to myself, and none of the dwarves I knew did it for me. They weren't exactly kind."

"Good point," Garrett mumbled.

"Skye, do the thingy." River waved his hand at Skye.

"I think what he's trying to say is if you touch Kibli, it will confirm whether the magic notices him and also allow you to see if he is sexually attracted to you," Nik explained.

Kibli couldn't get any redder, and his words were barely a whisper. "I liked what happened in the dream."

"There ya go." River's face lit up with a smile like he'd proven a point. "Kibli, I'm going to put my hand on yours. What Nik was explaining is that my magic reacts to someone who is destined to be a wing-mate. The feeling isn't the same for everyone. It may be like a jolt of energy or a tingle. For some, it's even stronger and can feel erotic as well. Is it all right if I touch you?"

Kibli nodded, and Skye knelt in front of him, gently laying his hand on Kibli's. The power slammed into Skye, making him moan as his body tingled all over. His cock got so hard it was painful. When he opened his eyes, he was lying on the floor, looking up at Garrett's smirking face.

"Huh. What do you know? He must be one of us."

It took a moment before Skye could sit up and was worried when he saw a horrified look on Kibli's face.

"What's wrong?"

Kibli looked down at the large wet spot on his pants and turned his head away. Skye reached up and tipped Kibli's chin back toward him so he could look into his eyes. "It's okay. There's nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about. This is what I meant when I said the magic causes a reaction."

Skye pulled his magic and sent it into Kibli, not enough to start a bond but enough to calm and comfort him. While he did so, he also let his mind slip into Kibli's and had several questions answered within moments.

"This means that I am supposed to be in your wing?"

"It does. When someone joins our wing, I use my magic and bond them, connecting them to the others. Because of my nature, the usual way is to bond while having sex, but it is not required. Some wing-mates have been bonded without any intimacy. That's up to you."

"That was in my dream. But it wasn't just you, it was him as well." Kibli pointed at Garrett. "And at the end, you bit me." He gave Skye a confused look.

"Well then, we'll leave you to it. I'm hungry. Come on, Nik, let's go see if we can spot a brownie." River extended a hand to Nik and pulled him to his feet. He turned and saluted Garrett and Skye with his fist to his chest. "Soldier on, men."

Skye shook his head and sighed. 'I'm not sure the delea grove did good things for him.'

'He's fine. Wouldn't you rather see him like this than somber and depressed? It means he's feeling good and not too worried,' Mistral said.

"We want to make sure we have your consent and that you know what you're agreeing to. Once you've joined our wing, there's no going back. You'll feel us up here." Garrett tapped his temple.

"Will I also be able to mate with a dragon, like the elves?" Kibli asked.

Skye looked at Garrett. Maybe hold off on that? I'd like him to better know what he's getting into first.

Agreed.

"That is a separate choice and one I'd suggest you defer for now. Decide once you know more. It may be difficult enough adjusting to all the changes once we're out of Underhill. We'll help you, but I'll be honest, you're going to be overwhelmed."

"Okay. I'm sure."

"Mica, can you and Corbin make sure we're not disturbed. Also, maybe let the rest of the wing know what's going on, so they're prepared?"

"Good point. The feedback seems to be much stronger in Underhill," Mica said.

Skye stood and offered a hand to Kibli. He took it, but Skye could feel how nervous the man was. He reached up and cupped Kibli's face, looking into his dark eyes. "It's going to be fine. I'm going to speak in your mind now." Skye waited for Kibli to acknowledge. Can you hear me?

Kibli nodded. How is this possible?

I'm a telepath. We'll teach you how to better frame your thoughts and even how to shield so you can keep others out. Not so scary, is it?

No. I feel really warm, like you're hugging me.

That's my magic. We're going to go into the room where we sleep. Garrett's going to help you get ready, and we'll take things as slow or as fast as you want. If you don't like something, let us know.

Skye watched as Garrett led Kibli into the bath then turned his attention to getting himself and the bed ready. He was glad for the short break so he could clear his mind and talk to Mistral about how they should handle their new wing-mate.

'He's a virgin.'

'I picked up on that. Figured we'd need to go slow and build up to things,' Skye said.

'He's going to have a quick trigger,' Mistral said. 'No one his age should be a virgin. This is wrong. I do not like the dwarves.'

'We all have baggage, Mistral. I'm not happy with how he was treated but let's focus on making him happy and his future, not his past.'

Skye knew his dragon was not satisfied, but it served no purpose to punish Gramthor or the other dwarves. It wasn't like it would change anything.

As he lay on the bed staring at the ceiling, Skye realized that he was looking forward to bonding Kibli. Gramthor obviously had very poor judgement on what made a man attractive. Because from what Skye had seen, Kibli was a hunk. He wasn't even feeling guilty or hesitant, which he thought was rather odd. Skye wasn't sure what was different. He glanced down at the bed to make sure there were no flower blossoms he'd missed. No, nothing.

He heard soft voices from the bath and noticed the silence when the water shut off. Skye wasn't worried, he knew Garrett would take very good care of Kibli. It also meant the dwarf would be somewhat comfortable with Garrett's touch and presence. For Skye, the magic took care of that, but adding Garrett to the bonding process took more finesse. Especially with a skittish virgin. 'Hmm... We're going to have to ask him how he identifies. Does he think of himself as half-dwarf, half-elf, or something else?'

'He's going to be so tight, and we're going to make him feel so good. No worries about him ever wanting to go back to "them."'

It was surprising how much venom Mistral could insert into a word without saying anything nasty.

Skye looked over when Garrett cleared his throat. His breath caught. Kibli was standing in front of his mate, naked. Wow. He reminded Skye a lot of Chaz, but stockier and with more body hair. He still had a muscled, athletic build but didn't have that leanness that Chaz did. And his body hair was a little curlier, and it covered part of his stomach as well as a dark treasure trail and spread on his upper chest. His nipples looked puffy and were a dark brown, big enough to be noticeable even under the fur.

Eyes trailing down the darker trail, there was a dark, thick bush, and nestled in it was a good-sized, uncut cock, asking for attention. Large, heavy balls, hung between his hairy muscled legs.

"Pretty fucking hot, right?" Garrett said.

"Yeah..."

"Turn around. You gotta show him that sweet ass of yours."

Kibli blushed and turned with Garrett's helpful hands guiding him. Garrett was right, Kibli had a plump round ass surprisingly not hairy except for a dark path down his crack.

"See, you stunned him speechless. I told you he'd agree with me. Come on, time for us to show you what you've been missing." Garrett led Kibli over the bed and nudged him to sit.

"Remember. You can say stop at any time." Skye noticed that Kibli was staring at him, his eyes roaming over his body. Skye got up on his knees and stretched his arms over his head, and watched as Kibli's mouth dropped open and his eyes went wide.

"He's smooth."

"Remember, I told you, dragons don't have body hair and can't even grow beards until we're over a hundred. Skye was born human but got a dragon form when we mated. " Garrett climbed onto the bed and sat beside Skye.

"Beautiful..."

"Yeah, he is. And if you want, he'll let you touch any part of him. We like being touched."

Kibli crawled forward and gently ran his hand down Skye's chest and stomach. He hesitated when he reached Skye's cock, so Skye took Kibli's hand and wrapped it around his erection.

"It's so warm. You don't have the skin over the end." Kibli looked up into Skye's eyes in question.

"Dragons don't have foreskins, and there's a procedure where I was born that removes that part when we're babies. Have you ever touched another man before, Kibli, or been intimate with someone?" Skye was pretty sure of the answer but thought it was good to get it out in the open.

"No."

"I promise we'll take good care of you." Garrett leaned into Kibli and laid a gentle kiss on his lips.

Garrett and Skye repositioned Kibli on the bed, placing him on his back in the center with his neck cradled in his arms and his legs spread. Skye was on one side, with Garrett on the other.

"Perfect," Skye whispered as he ran his hand over Kibli's chest and stomach, feeling the muscles under the skin. His cock stood straight and tall, begging for attention.

Garrett bent and licked one of Kibli's nipples, eliciting a whimper. "You like that?"

Kibli nodded, and Garrett returned to the nipple to give it more of his attention. After a few moments, Kibli was lifting his hips and moaning.

I like this one. We're going to get him off before we really get started, right? Garrett moved to the other nipple.

Yeah. He's too keyed up to enjoy. Skye took Kibli's dick in his hand and began stroking. Skye's cock was longer, but Kibli's felt thicker, and he still had his foreskin. As Skye stroked, the glans was slowly revealed as the dwarf got harder. A drip of pre-cum formed on the tip, and Skye licked it up, letting his tongue tease the slit.

"Ohhhh...."

"Relax." Garrett moved from Kibli's nipple to claim his mouth. Skye's mate was a good kisser, so he thought it appropriate that Garrett teach the man how to do it right.

'I don't think he can get any harder. Let's suck him. I want to taste,' Mistral prompted.

Skye took the head into his mouth as he continued to stroke. Kibli immediately started thrusting his hips.

'Can't have that.' Skye moved between Kibli's legs and slid his arms under the dwarf's hips holding him in place. He was strong enough and had enough of a grip that Kibli wasn't going anywhere.

"Ohmm..." Kibli moaned into Garrett's mouth.

"Don't fight it. Let Skye make you feel good," Garrett said before returning to Kibli's nipples.

Skye went all the way down, burying his nose in Kibli's curls and letting the cock slide into his throat. He swallowed and licked before moving up and down, memorizing every inch. It was a very nice dick, one that the wing-mates would enjoy.

Garrett was back to kissing Kibli while he pulled and twisted on the dwarf's swollen tits. Skye could feel Kibli's muscles clenching, his cock getting even thicker in his mouth. Kibli's gasp was muffled, having Garrett's tongue in his mouth.

Skye almost choked before he began swallowing as fast as he could. There was so much cum he was struggling to keep up. He wanted to save it for Garrett, but there was too much. When the pulsing finally slowed, Skye held the last few bursts in his mouth. He pulled off, and Garrett was there. Their mouths connected, and his mate sucked the sweet cream from him. Licking the inside of Skye's mouth to get every drop.

There are advantages to being in each other's head, Skye thought. Pleased that Garrett was already waiting when he'd pulled off of Kibli. Once Garrett seemed satisfied that there was no jizz left, he returned to Kibli's mouth while Skye began licking the dwarf clean.

"That was..." Kibli rasped.

"Called taking the edge off." Skye rubbed Kibli's legs and thighs, pleased that the dwarf's cock was already coming back to life.

Garrett lay on his back and pulled Kibli on top of him. Garrett used his knees to spread the dwarf's legs, opening him up for Skye.

"He's got a nice ass. I think you should rim him before I get inside." Skye ran his hands over the smooth ass cheeks, separating them and admiring the dark-haired trench that led to a tiny pink pucker. Skye was excited, thinking that no one had touched that sweet opening, licked it, or tried to get inside.

'That's our job. We can get him started, then let Garrett get his tongue in him. He'll be begging to be fucked in no time,' Mistral said.

Skye kissed Kibli's ass, then teased his tongue along the valley, barely brushing over the entrance.

"Uhhhhhhh." Kibli's hips lifted to meet Skye's tongue, making Skye smile. "You are really big. And your nipples..."

"Go ahead, suck them. I know you want to." Garrett groaned seconds later. "Harder. You don't have to be gentle."

Skye lifted his head. "You should know that most dragons are nipple sluts. They love having them sucked and played with, and it gets them really horny. If you suck long enough and hard enough, you'll also get a treat. Dragons always produce milk even when there's no dragonling."

Garrett groaned even louder, and Skye could feel the effects through their bond. If they weren't careful, Garrett would be the one begging to be fucked.

Skye began licking again and gave more attention to the virgin opening. Keeping his shields down, he knew Kibli was feeling overwhelmed at the sensation. But Skye also realized that they needed to change positions before Garrett stopped thinking.

"We're going to trade places, Kibli." Skye lifted the dwarf from Garrett and then crawled around, sitting in front of him and spreading his legs while his mate moved in behind the dwarf.

"Your nipples aren't as big." Kibli hesitantly reached out and gripped one of Skye's.

"Probably because I wasn't born a dragon," Skye managed to get out as his cock hardened and his ass throbbed.

"Doesn't matter. He loves it just as much as I do. Don't be afraid to use your teeth." Garrett's head disappeared between Kibli's ass cheeks, and the dwarf sucked harder on Skye's nipple.

"That's one sweet hole." Garrett was making happy slurping noises as he got to work.

Kibli gasped and had to pull away. He leaned his head into Skye's chest and made sweet whimpering noises. Garrett pulled the dwarf back, lifting his hips and tilting him forward so Kibli's face was in Skye's crotch.

Before Skye could say anything, Kibli took the head of his cock into his mouth and began to suck. It was apparent from the dwarf's sucking when Garrett managed to get his tongue to push through the opening. Kibli got several more inches into his mouth.

Skye... Not sure you're going to believe this, but Kibli has a ring. The virgin elf thing.

Skye remembered his first time with Dillon. "Oh..." He excused himself and grabbed a towel from the bath before returning and laying it out on the bed. It never occurred to him that being a mix of elf and dwarf, Kibli would inherit the restrictive ring that showed a male elf was a virgin.

"Is everything okay?" Kibli asked.

"It is. You have a virgin ring in your ass. All elves have them. It will break and produce a small amount of blood the first time you have sex. Not likely something your clan would have known about or explained since it only happens with elves."

They moved back into position, and Kibli seemed to forget all about the interruption as Garrett's tongue worked its way inside him. Not surprising. Skye found it impossible to think when Garrett rimmed him. Moments later, Skye sighed when Kibli swallowed his cock and began to suck.

'My god, Mistral, he must be a natural. He's this good, and it's the first dick he's had.'

'If you recall, Dillon was rather spectacular the first time he sucked you,' Mistral said.

'True, I wish you'd been awake for it. He was amazing.'

'I still have your memories and more than a few repeats to make up for it.'

"Ahhhheeeee...uhhhhh... please. More..."

Skye began to wonder if Kibli might suck a load out of him before they got down to business. He decided they better tap out before it was too late. Besides, Kibli needed the experience of sucking on Garrett's monster.

"Don't stop. Please..." Kibli pleaded when Garrett pulled away.

"Patience, pretty man. Skye's got something better that you're going to love." Garrett took Skye's place and kissed Kibli before guiding his head down to his cock.

"It's too big..."

"You don't have to get it all in. Just suck on the head if you want."

Skye knew that once the lust took over, Kibli would do his very best to get all of Garrett down his throat. Or at least that's what happened with all the other wing-mates they'd shared.

Skye rimmed Kibli a bit more to make sure he was back to being ready after their swap. Garrett, help distract him when I get inside him. I don't remember that Dillon said it hurt, but let's not take chances.

Easy. I'll twist his tits, and he'll be so turned on he won't notice. I'm putting it out there right now. I gotta fuck that ass when you're done.

He deserves nothing less, Skye said.

You going to magic up and give him the full treatment?

Just some. He's already overwhelmed, and I don't want to break him. There will be a lot of opportunities to show him what he's missed. We don't have to do everything on the first go.

Skye made sure the towel was in place and lubed his cock before placing the tip at Kibli's entrance. Garrett winked at him over Kibli's head as the man continued to suck his mate. Skye applied gentle pressure and waited until he heard Kibli gasp before he pushed harder.

"UGHHHH!" Kibli cried out and pushed himself back, breaking the barrier and swallowing Garrett's cock in the process.

"God, you're tight." Skye had forgotten how snug elves were the first time. He'd have to really work him before Garrett had any hope of getting inside him.

He's only got an inch or two to go, babe. I don't think the guy has a gag reflex cause I'm already in his throat.

'He was made for our wing,' Mistral said.

'You may be right. I don't think he's going to last long. I may have to bond him and let Garrett take him after.' Skye kept a slow rhythm, going deep and then taking his time to withdraw before sliding in again.

Kibli was groaning, grunting, and making some amazing sounds around Garrett's dick. Skye didn't have to be in his head to know Kibli was enjoying himself.

Skye closed his eyes and pulled his magic. Once he felt it thrumming through his body, he extended his pull to Garrett across their bond and pulled his magic as well. Skye vibrated with the power flowing through him. He used his other sight to look deep into Kibli.

With Garrett ravaging his nipples, pushing his cock into Kibli's throat, and Skye's cock massaging pleasure centers the dwarf probably didn't know he had, there was no need for Skye's telekinesis. He let the magic flow into and around Kibli, filling every corner of his body.

Kibli's orgasm came fast and hard, gripping Skye almost painfully and pulling him over the edge. Skye felt his release burst deep inside their new wing-mate and released the power to create the bond. Skye spread his body over Kibli's back, kissing his neck, and then when he felt the bond snap into place, he bit.

"AHHHHH!" Kibli cried out-another orgasm slamming through him and squeezing the last drops out of Skye.

Skye and Garrett gave Kibli time to recover before Skye slid his cock out of the no longer virgin ass. Kibli had already released Garrett's dick when the first orgasm took him. With teamwork, they moved the dwarf enough to change positions.

"Um... maybe move to the other side of the bed. That boy makes a lot of spunk." Garrett bent down and began slurping up Kibli's spent jizz from the sheets. "Kwill is going to love this one. Tasty and damn, he makes a lot."

Skye slid into a sixty-nine under Kibli while Garrett moved in behind the dwarf. Garrett began by felching all of Skye's cum out of their brother. Skye knew his mate thought it was a treat since dragons absorbed the seed. It wasn't often Garrett got to combine two of his favorite things. Eating cum and rimming.

Skye pulled Kibli's dick into his mouth and grinned as it quickly hardened. Kibli sucked Skye's cock in as if it were the most natural thing ever. His groans and moans making lovely vibrations as he sucked.

"So tight," Garrett growled.

"Ahhhhhh..." Kibli pulled off and let out another wail of pleasure, his cock giving Skye a nice burst of pre-cum.

Skye wasn't sure that Kibli would stay conscious through Garrett's fucking, he was already overwhelmed. Fortunately it was in a very good way.

• Scene 7 *

"Are you sure?" Skye asked again.

"It was a dream, Skye. Not a memo. I'm as sure as I can be. I saw us meeting Keeper in this room right after breakfast and me holding the book," Venci said.

"Relax. We've got you," Garrett massaged Skye's shoulders. It was becoming a habit.

"Don't' even say it. Yes, I'm going with you. Discussion is over," River glared and put his hands on his hips.

Skye had suggested that only he and Garrett return to warn the Emperor and give an update. That idea hadn't gone over well. River insisted he wasn't letting Skye out of his sight. Nik wasn't about to let River go without him, and Venci had another damned dream telling him that he needed to go. And of course, Mica insisted that at the very minimum, he or Corbin go with.

Skye wanted to growl. He also hated leaving any of them behind. Kibli hadn't even woken up yet, and Revali was in tears because Skye was leaving. Mattekin was being broody, and Bryan and Raphael couldn't be more than five feet apart before they started freaking out.

"I should have brought some of my tea. You look like you could use it." Keeper came into the antechamber from the grand hall. He looked as dapper as the last time Skye had seen him, but now he was dressed in more "elvish" style with a waistcoat and pants.

Venci hip bumped Skye. "You didn't tell me he was a fox. Grrr," Venci whispered.

Keeper's eyes sparkled, and he smiled, looking right at Venci. "I see you got my message."

"I did, but you neglected to say what I should wear. I hope the leathers are okay?" Venci purred, as he let his vest fall open, showing his perfect chest and abs.

"That will be fine, you wear it well."

'What the hell, is Keeper flirting with Venci?'

'Pretty sure that's mutual flirting,' Mistral snickered.

"Is everyone ready?" Keeper asked.

"We are," Garrett answered.

"Have you decided where you want the portal to open?"

"There is a Japanese garden at the palace with an arched bridge over a koi pond, and at one end is a torii gate. Can we do it there?" Skye asked. They'd decided against putting the portal in Willow's garden until they had a chance to ask. The nymph would go ballistic if they trampled his flowers. "Also, can you set the time as close as possible to when the portal was closed but maybe late at night when the fewest people will be awake?

"Too much has happened for you to go back to that time; however, I will set it as far back as I can. I will not open the main portal until you've returned. Venci, you have the book?"

Venci held up the large leather tomb he'd used to record all the dark fae who had returned. Skye wasn't so sure about giving the Empire that much information on the fae., It reminded him of the movie where they made the superheroes register. That hadn't gone well.

Keeper extended his hand and gripped Skye's arm. "This time, it is necessary. Venci can begin the work of finding new homes. He has all of his notes from speaking with Arnakkhor and the others."

"And when we're ready to return?" Skye asked.

"You know how to open the doorway. The only difference is that only those who pass through with you now can activate this portal to return."

"Will you still be cut off from Draga?" Garrett asked.

"No, once the portal is activated, Underhill's connection to Draga will return. We will be able to monitor what's happening and use our agents to communicate if needed."

Skye let out a sigh of relief. That had been one of his concerns.

Keeper turned and waved his hands over the mosaic mural on the wall of the antechamber. As they watched, it blurred and reformed, showing a perfect replica of the garden with the torii gate at the center. The gate began to glow, and the image in the center changed.

"Well, it's dark," River said.

"As you requested, on Draga, it is the middle of the night." Keeper stepped out of the way and gestured to the gate.

"Here goes," Skye was about to step forward when Mica's arm shot out and stopped him. He glared and cleared his throat.

"Right. After you." Skye tried not to sound grumpy.

Mica was the first to step through, then Garrett and Skye, followed by Venci with River and Nik bringing up the rear.

Skye stumbled onto the bridge when he passed through the portal. Loud klaxon alarms filled the night, and bright searchlights blinded him from various points on the palace walls.

"So much for a stealth entrance," River said from behind him.

End Chapter 55 | (Characters included below)

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Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed the story. Comments, questions, and feedback are welcome at trippsavidge@gmail.com. Please note, you can join the Google Group "Dancing with the Dragon" to receive notifications for when new chapters post as well as bonus scenes and Q&As. You can request to join through Google Groups or send me an email, and I will invite you.

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

Cast:

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

• Allanna, night elf, mate to Arnakkhor, King of the Unseelie, has the gift of foresight

• 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

• Grandma B - Skye's maternal grandmother, confesses she was rescued and hidden in Underhill.

• 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

• Kibli, half-elf/half-dwarf rescued from Hell World, son of Kabli, rejected by the dwarves

• 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

• 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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