Disclaimer: I don't own Slayers, but if I did I would be incredibly happy. Anyways, I wrote this fiction for a friend of mine, and I hope they enjoy it, as I hope all of you do (I am a big Lina/Gourry fan, so I enjoyed writing it). Reviews and criticism are welcome, and I do admit it is heavy on the mush, but that is what was asked for.

I have to admit that I was a little embarrassed to right this part, but I finally got over it. I decided to look at it as a challenge, to see if I could write something that was intimate but at the same time powerful, and not tasteless. I'm still hesitant about posting this, but I finally managed to click the button . Anyways, I hope you all enjoy it.

My Only One

By: Kast

Lina could only feel his touch, she could only see him. The city was a blur in her vision, as if some deep, obscuring fog had settled over it. She could see him perfectly though, and that was all that mattered. His arm tightened around her a little more, and he brought his lips to hers for another kiss, a feeling which she relished. They walked the streets in a daze, embracing one other, as they slowly wound their way back to the festival. However, as the walk continued, Lina could hear a buzzing noise in her ears, threatening to break her tranquility…and it was only getting louder. Soon, the buzzing turned into distinguishable sounds, and small hints of conversations going around them were overheard.

"Is that Lina Inverse!" whispered one exultant lady to her companion.

"I believe so," the companion whispered back, "And her swordsman protector I believe."

"Who would have thought that little wisp of a girl could get such a handsome man," continued the lady, "He's selling himself short in my esteemed opinion."

"I share your sentiment," replied the companion, now silently chortling to her in rude mirth.

Just that little bit of dialogue had perked Lina's ears, and she began cocking her head from side to side, hoping to catch a glimpse of more scandalous talk. She was furious, enraged that these people could say such things. They didn't regard her as a woman, just a child who had probably used her black sorcery to bewitch a beautiful creature to follow her around, to do her bidding, to lover her on a whim. It made her blood boil.

Doubt lingered though…she knew that they must look crazed, staggering back and forth, almost appearing directionless as the wandered and stopped occasionally to kiss one another. Lina began to imagine the look on the faces of the people they passed, observing something so personal, so private…her face burned with embarrassment. The few people who recognized them at this point couldn't hide their astonishment, for all the previous talk of a relationship between the two traveling companions had been nothing more than frivolous gossip. Now, right before them, was conformational proof that it was true.

They must feel so vindicated…thought Lina, sarcastically eyeing the pair.

She had resented leaving the privacy of the balcony, and now the thought that she was being scrutinized by the entire city settled over her, bringing with it a deep feeling of unrest. Lina knew that she was overreacting, that she shouldn't care what these people thought or said, but in her mind, in some small way, she felt unsure…afraid.

"Something wrong, Lina?" asked Gourry, eyeing the flustered expression on her face. He had been oblivious, as always, to the happenings around him. He was simply enjoying the company of his lover.

"No," replied Lina, laying her head against his shoulder, "Nothing is wrong…"

"Something isn't right," continued Gourry, now looking around for the source of her dilemma. He knew he could sometimes be slow to grasp things, but he had always had a sixth sense concerning Lina. After finally noticing the looks they were receiving from the gathered crowds, he understood what was bothering her.

It was so incredibly intoxicating, the way she looked then. Her cheeks flushed and heated, her eyes showing a little hurt and indignation at their spectators. She was simply beautiful…perfect.

"Come on Lina," whispered Gourry, gently brushing his cheek against hers, "You don't need to worry about what they think."

At that moment she turned to look into his eyes, at first appearing surprised that he had noticed her ailment, but that was soon replaced by her typical guarded countenance.

"Who cares what they think," said Lina defiantly, "I'm Lina Inverse, the beautiful sorcery genius, there just a bunch of gawking sheep who wandered from the pasture."

Gourry smiled at this defensive declaration, and gently wrapped his arm around her shoulder.

"You don't have to say that Lina," replied Gourry, brushing a strand of hair that had fallen in front of her eyes, "If they are bothering you, we can leave."

Lina's mask broke down after that, and a small sniffle escaped her throat. This took Gourry completely by surprise, to actually see that she was this upset about this. He began to walk forward with Lina in tow, her leaning against his chest for support, her small whimpers barely audible over the roar of the now fleeting festival and its crowd.

They arrived at the castle a few moments later, the position of the moon indicating that midnight was fast approaching. He led Lina through the halls, using his free hand to soothingly run it through her hair. She was quieting now, her discomfort over being watched and judged subsiding as they entered deeper into the privacy of the palace. He knew she was still flustered though, a fact that irked him more and more. Had Gourry known that this would happen, he would have done anything to stop it…he didn't like seeing her sad.

The door to Lina's room, which stood open, finally appeared, and the walk came to an end before it. Gourry place his hand under Lina's chin, gently raising her head so he could look into her eyes. A few tears streamed down her face, and she quickly turned her head to break off his contact. Gourry didn't mind though, he knew that she was upset.

"Lina," said Gourry softly, still running his hand through her hair, "Did it bother you that much?"

"They shouldn't have been looking at us…saying those things," whispered Lina, her sniffles coming back in earnest, "We have…as much rig…right…to privacy…as they do…"

Her last sentence was broken by sobs, and she finally flung herself against his chest, her hands wrapping around his neck for support. Lina raised her head to look into his eyes, and the reflection of love that she saw made her blood burn hot.

"Not everyone was looking at us Lina," said Gourry, brushing away the new stream of tears, "But some people who recognized us must have been surprised to see us, I guess."

"Does that mean it is strange for you and me to be together?" asked Lina, a look of hurt pride taking over her features, "I wouldn't stare at them if they were…"

Gourry silenced her with a kiss, one that she eagerly returned. It was to overwhelming, just seeing her so vulnerable. The look of pure emotion on her face was so cute, so innocent…it stirred his desire with a ferocious intensity. It was odd, overwhelming…

Some deep feeling was rising, something powerful, almost primal in nature. Gourry knew in that instant that if he didn't stop this embrace right now, he didn't think he could control himself…gods and monsters how he wanted her right then.

"Lina," said Gourry breathlessly, breaking the kiss "I think we should both just…"

Gourry had started to turn, hoping to make his departure quick before she could react. He was too slow though, as Lina's hand shot forward and took hold of his arm.

"Gourry…don't go," whispered Lina softly, her voice seemingly trembling, her eyes now staring at the carpet, "I...I want you…to stay…with me…tonight."

This is it…thought Gourry, sensing his inner threshold for control coming dangerously close to shattering. He had to ask one more time though, for his own peace of mind, to confirm her intent. He had to be sure this was truly what she wanted.

"Are you sure, Lina," asked Gourry quietly, taking hold of her hand against his arm, "Is this really what you want?"

She raised her head to reveal her eyes, beautiful umber red eyes that pierced him with merciless passion. Her cheeks almost appeared ablaze, her innocent embarrassment over asking such a question clearly evident. Everything overwhelmed him, her beauty, the setting of her face, her scent…it was simply too much. Gourry raised her captured hand to his lips, gently pressing them against the inside of her wrist.

"I love you Lina," whispered Gourry, "I want you to know how much I love you."

"Gourry…" replied Lina breathlessly, wrapping her arms around his neck. Gourry's arms began winding their way around her waist, pulling her close to him. Their lips meet readily, and a kiss ensued that was purely divine. It deepened over time, and Lina could feel something strange pressing against her lips, which she opened slightly, unsure of what to expect. Her eyes widened in astonishment at first, surprise overwhelming her as she now realized what Gourry was doing. It felt wonderful, and she began to respond in kind, exploring his mouth with vigor.

The embrace ended with both participants pulling away slightly, their eyes locked in a way only true intimacy can create. Gourry, not satisfied with only tasting her mouth, began to rain kisses on her cheeks, slowing working his way down her neck. He brushed his lips against her collarbone, and a sound issued from her lips that drove him mad with desire. Her throaty moan reverberated through his mind, beckoning to him, and his body responded with reflexive instinct. He hastily scooped Lina up into his arms, carrying her swiftly across the threshold of her room. The door was closed with a forceful shove of his foot, and Lina, now taken back by his sudden change in countenance, looked timid, almost fearful of what to expect. She could see the fervor in his eyes, the preternatural lust that loomed in them. Gourry could feel her slightly shivering in his arms…and a great feeling of guilt swept over him. He had been so close to ruining what he had waited so long to achieve…

He regained his sense at that moment, seeing the confused, almost tearful expression on her face. Her eyes made him relax. Her hands clasped timidly in front of her chest made his blood cool.

"I didn't mean to scare you Lina," said Gourry softly, "I think I just forgot who I was for a moment."

Lina could see the intensity of his eyes lessen, and she herself visibly relaxed in his arms.

"I knew you wouldn't hurt me," whispered Lina, her right hand now resting on his cheek, "I don't think my jellyfish could ever hurt me."

Gourry smiled at the mention of her special name for him, and began to slowly proceed towards the bed. A large, gauzy canopy was brushed aside, making room for Gourry to gently deposit his charge. He watched contently as she sank into the soft satin sheets, her soft sigh of pleasure his treasured reward. Both her slippers and his boots now forgotten on the floor, Gourry laid next to Lina on the bed, gently caressing her face while pulling her close to him.

"We could stop now," said Gourry, "I'd be happy just to hold you while I slept tonight."

Lina, flashing her patented smile, snuggled up even closer to Gourry, firmly pressing her body against his. She saw him shake for a moment, and her smile widened, along with her blush, with the knowledge that she could affect him in this way.

"I think you know why I asked you to come here," replied Lina, now twirling a piece of his golden hair through her fingers, "I want this."

Gourry simple grinned, but Lina could see some mischievous undertaking in his features. Suddenly, she felt a hand resting on her breast, softly caressing it through the silk of the dress. Her back arched, and a surprised gasp escaped her throat. It was…unreal. She felt as if her skin was on fire, as if her clothes would burst into flames where she lay.

"Gourry…," whispered Lina, between her gasps of surprise and small sounds of ecstasy.

His hand moved away, slowly drawing over her side, to the ties and clasps of her dress. He undid them with amazing precision…almost experienced in manner…a feat she decided would have to be discussed later…

The ties and restraints now removed, Gourry began to gently tug at the now, in his mind, obtrusive fabric. He could hear, from the now absorbed recesses of his mind, a small voice saying something, beckoning for him to stop. Only until it took on the tone of a pleading, frightful sob did he realize that it was Lina, now sitting upright in the bed, who had emanated the plea. She clasped the dress to her chest in a death grip, her eyes shining with moisture.

"Lina?" asked Gourry tenderly. He could tell something was once again wrong, but this time, he believed he knew the problem all too well…

"Yo…You'll just…laugh…" replied Lina, once again being overtaken with a fit of emotion and tears, "I'm not…"

Gourry had heard enough. He felt so angry…the way those people had talked…instances from their previous adventures of fools who had made snide remarks about her appearance…all of it leading to this. He placed his hands firmly over hers, which were now clasping the dress to her alluring frame. He just held them there though…he wanted the decision to remove the silk to be solely hers.

"I may not remember much," began Gourry, his eyes closed in concentration, "But I can remember the way people would talk about you…even the things I sometimes said."

That last part had stung both him and her.

"But…" he continued, "I never meant any of it…just like I know you never mean those things you say about me. I love you for who you are…not for your body, or your power…just for the person in here."

Gourry moved his right hand, placing it over her now quickening heart. Lina was taken back, how could she…how could she have this wonderful person, this man who said such simple, wonderful things…

A beacon of love shone from her eyes. He had moved her to such heights, and to such a pinnacle of tenderness that she knew he would love her, regardless of physicality. Slowly she dragged the soft fabric over her breast, hesitantly, though surely, baring herself for her lover. Gourry could feel his hands moving with hers, and once they stopped, he opened his eyes.

"Beautiful…" said Gourry, the only word that escaped his mind at the time. They looked so supple, so surreal…the thought of well-endowed women actually being attractive repulsed him now. This slight elf, an enchantress, in front of him was perfect, her cheeks showing a very visible blush, her head tilted in such a humble, bashful manner. His body burned hot…a fever that could be quenched in only one way.

"You're just saying tha…Gourry!" her sentence, which had started in a meek tone, ended in an exclamation of surprise. She hadn't even noticed him make a move, but he had appeared before her, showering her body with the touch of his lips. The dress finally found its way onto the floor with the other discarded clothing, and now she was clad only in a pair of silk stockings and a very lacey piece of lingerie. A grin came to Gourry's face.

"A surprise," said Gourry, staring at Lina, soaking in every aspect of her being.

"What do you mean, 'a surprise'," asked Lina, confused by his declaration.

Gourry simply shook his head to dismiss her question, and returned to drawing her attention elsewhere. Her back arched, her fingers dug into the sheets, she tossed her head from side to side, and her breathing became erratic. There was an energy in the room, and wild, untamed thing that seemed to seep into every pore of her body. It was electric…alive. The sensation of Gourry's caresses and kisses could be felt slowly traveling down, past her breasts, moving lower…

Lina could feel his hands gently tugging at her left stocking, drawing it down past her knee, sliding it off her foot. On the way, he kissed the inside of her thigh, then her calf, and finished by placing his lips lightly against her ankle. The right soon followed suit, receiving the same delicate treatment, and now only a thin piece of intricate lace separated her bare form from him. He'd been waiting for this moment.

"You're so beautiful Lina," said Gourry, now hovering above her, his arms supporting his weight. His pants were the only garments he had left…somehow his shirt had managed to disappear throughout his activities. Maybe it was cursed…

"Gourry?" Lina's voice distracted him from his thoughts, "Please be gentle."

"I love you, Lina," replied Gourry, "I meant what I said before… I would never do anything to hurt you."

"I know," said Lina, her voice still shaking, "I'm just nervous…scared I guess."

Gourry gently kissed the center of her forehead, her cheeks, her neck, and finally her lips. His hand, meanwhile, was slowly tracing its way around the curve or her breasts, moving down to the last thing that stood in the way.

The last bit of clothing made a light sound as it hit the carpet, and now Lina, fully unclothed, was draping her right arm across her body, modestly covering herself. Even after all this, she was still shy…Gourry could only smile.

"I never thought you would act like this, so…modest," whispered Gourry, "I can't describe it, but it drives me crazy."

Lina felt like her whole body blushed at that comment. But it didn't matter anymore, she was content. The man she loved was before her, and she loved him. That was all that mattered anymore. Still, if the blushing made him crazy for her, why give it up? Lina flashed a sultry smile at that thought.

The rest of the night passed as a dream. She could remember a sharp pain, a growing feeling of ecstasy, and then...a deep sleep.

Lina awoke, the first light of dawn shining through the window falling onto her eyes. Gourry was already awake, gently running his hand through her hair. He seemed to be enjoying himself, just holding her, watching over her as she slumbered.

"Good morning," said Gourry, "Sleep well?"

Lina nodded a yes for her answer.

"I feel like I'm glowing," replied Lina, "It's a strong, tingling sensation."

"A tingling sensation?" asked Gourry, scratching his chin in thought. Lina smiled to see that he was still his old self. It felt different though, because now they had shared something special, something unique. The difference wasn't frightening though…it was just…wonderful. Lina stretched as she yawned, arching her toes and back like a feline waking from a long nap in the sun. She was still exhausted though, and decided that more sleep was definitely in order. Laying her head on Gourry's chest, she snuggled close, closing her eyes. A few moments of silence passed before she spoke.

"What now Gourry?" asked Lina, enjoying her new pillow immensely, "Where do we go from here?"

"I don't know Lina," replied Gourry, "Making plans isn't my area of expertise. For now, though, I just want to be here, with you."

"I love you," whispered Lina softly, drifting off into a deep slumber.

Gourry, not wanting to wake her, get his reply to himself. He brushed back a stray strand of hair from her face, so he could see it without obstruction. She looked so beautiful, just laying there, dreaming about a great adventure, or some lost treasure that she had recently unearthed. Maybe dreams about him…

Gourry looked out the window, and his mind shot back to the night he had conceived his plan. The sun looked exactly the same as it did then, the first few rays of light just peeking over the mountains to the east. Everything had fallen into place, like a puzzle. His efforts had produced the result of complete success, and now…what?

Looking at Lina's sleeping form again, he decided it didn't matter. As long as they were together, nothing else was important. With that last thought, Gourry felt a wave of fatigue overtake him, and decided his lover had the right idea. Settling back down into the bed, he laid his head on the soft pillows, and let sleep overtake him.

Fin