Chapter 14
Author's Note
Warning: Highly adult content present in this chapter. Children discouraged from reading. Thank you~
Sitting down on a bench outside the tavern, Yuna smiled at Paine and gestured for her to sit as well. The older girl eyed her curiously for a moment before joining her on the bench. "Paine I've been thinking about it and I wanted to know something."
Ruby eyes narrowed as Paine warily responded. "What do you wish to know Yuna?"
Tucking her hair behind her ear nervously, the younger girl looked away. "Back before the crash you said you were considering leaving the group." Her eyes turned downcast. "Would you have left had the crash not happened so soon after?"
Paine closed her eyes with a sigh. She didn't have to think hard about the answer; truth was her bags had already been packed for a good week before the crash. The problem was admitting it to Yuna and knowing it would hurt the younger girl's feelings. "Yes." Short, simple. She would not explain the why because that would devastate the poor girl. Yuna was, after all, the reason she had intended to leave. The confusion over how she felt and the constant anger at the whole situation was just too much.
"But I thought we made a great team." Yuna's voice cracked at the word 'team'. It was true; she had never been more comfortable than with Paine and Rikku. Even her time spent with Wakka and Lulu when she had fought Sin alongside the man she thought she would love forever couldn't compare. She felt so much more freedom when it was just her and her two best friends and none of the burdens she had once held. "Did you have plans?"
Growing more uncomfortable with the questioning, Paine stood up. "It doesn't matter Yuna. The fact is I'm still here and I have no intention of going anywhere any time soon." She looked over at Yuna and motioned for the tavern. "I believe lunch should be available now. Come."
Yuna got to her feet and sighed before following Paine inside. Sometimes she wondered if she actually made progress with Paine or if it was all an illusion. She truly hoped for progress, there was just so much more to the silver-haired warrior than she let on.
As he approached the iron gates of the church, Sarion felt a chill run down his spine. He very much disliked this place but he needed their help and they owed him. He was just glad to have managed to send Rikku back to the tavern alone. She had pleaded with him to come along but his answer had been a definitive 'no'.
Rikku had been concerned that his getting rid of her was either because she had overstepped her bounds by clinging to him as she cried or that he intended to go somewhere to be alone when he died. Neither was acceptable to her and fortunately for Sarion neither were anywhere near the truth. In fact he had not minded her emotional outburst in the least. He felt terrible that she wept so over him but he had never had someone care for him like that before. Death was also not in the immediate future; at least he didn't feel like it was quite there yet.
The truth was that the sect that he was speaking with were very particular about who they dealt with and Rikku was not only an outsider but incredibly flamboyant. She would not fit in by any stretch of the imagination. Sarion, while not a native to the village, had ties with the people and had been more than helpful to their travelers that came into his woods.
Sarion walked down the broken stone path before reaching into his pouch and dropping a teardrop shaped ruby into the donation box hanging on the giant oak door before him. No sooner had the jewel struck the bottom of the tin than the door opened revealing the dark marble interior.
Inside, the walls of black marble were adorned with tapestries crossing the ages for thousands of years. Large square pillars of the black marble lined the hall with torches seated in hands of polished silver. It was quite the impressive ensemble for such a small village but the history behind the priests who lived here explained their riches well. They literally dealt in life and death.
Stopping after having passed dozens of tapestries, Sarion's eyes widened at a particular scene. There, standing on the deck of a red airship in the middle of the Thunder Plains and surrounded by people, was Yuna. All the crowd faces were painted as bland, nondescript visages to avoid distraction from the main focus of the artwork. Two faces were very distinct nearby the 'stage' however; Paine and Rikku stood out in vivid detail.
The scene portrayed was of significant purpose due to the impact that concert had achieved. Even Sarion had heard of this performance but to see it put to a picture was astonishing. Having passed an age of significant technology it seemed even more beautiful to see such an old art being used to portray the event.
"Remarkable, isn't it?"
Sarion spun, startled by the feminine voice. "Pardon?"
A hooded figure nearly a full head shorter than him tilter their head. Obvious by both the voice and their stance it was a female beneath the dark maroon robes, no other sign of femininity showed. The robe was as nondescript as could be and no flesh was exposed. "You seemed quite captivated by that tapestry. Is it of significance to you or was it just the pretty girl?"
Feeling a cold chill run down his spine, Sarion shrugged half-heartedly. "I am just impressed to see such artwork still exists." It was only a half-lie.
Turning away and walking back down the corridor the hooded girl spoke as she walked expecting, no, knowing he would follow. "It has been too long since you last visited me Sarion." Her voice was akin to poison-laced honey; sweet as could be but with an unknown result. "I had begun to think you would not return again."
His mouth dry, he cleared his throat as he caught up to the robed girl. "You know I do not venture out of the woods. Nothing stopped you from visiting me out there. It would do you some good to see the sun more often."
She stopped before a large wooden door and waited expectantly without a word. After a moment of silence Sarion stepped beside her and pressed it open with a small grunt of effort. After they had passed through she spoke again. "You know how much I dislike the outdoors."
He smirked and shook his head. "And you know how much I dislike how fast time moves out here."
The girl stopped suddenly, her robes swirling around her legs at the abrupt halt. Her voice was a mixture of concern and curiosity. "Why did you leave the forest Sarion? We did not do what we did just to have it all become for naught."
Sarion crossed his arms. Though her back was to him he could feel the sincerity in her voice overtaking the simple question. "It's a very long story. It doesn't matter why I left, only that I need your help, Koshka."[1]
Turning to face him, the girl threw her hood back and glared at him. Her long white hair cascaded down her back just a few shades lighter than her ivory skin. Her features portrayed a girl of late teens perhaps early twenties but her eyes showed a much greater age within. Anger flared in her ruby eyes as she glowered up at him. "I told you not to call me that Sarion!"
Unable to help himself, Sarion smiled despite the smoldering glare he was receiving. "Has anyone ever told you how adorable you are when you try to act angry…" he paused, enjoying the sight of her eyes narrowing as she waited. "Koshka?"
In a flurry of robes and white hair Sarion found himself on his back with a glare that could quite possibly melt iron inches from his face. "Why must you test me so? I see you once in nearly a century and you make it your mission to infuriate me!"
"I simply enjoy adding a little excitement to your day. It's so quiet and stuffy here." Even pinned down by this livid girl Sarion could not help but be flippant; it was simply his nature. That and he knew there was no danger to be had.
"Well, you do certainly manage to do that when you visit." Without warning she forced her mouth onto his, prying his lips apart with her tongue and invading his mouth. She let a soft gasp as his arms wrapped around her and pulled her tightly to him, returning the fiery kiss.
It had been too long since he had last visited but she knew he did not approve of her company. She was not sure why he had come to SafeHaven now but it was imperative that he left before the rest of them returned. Those she kept company with did not know about her affiliation with the 'man of the forest' and all wanted to claim him for themselves. Sarion was still pure and centuries old making him worth infinite amounts to those who dabbled in the dark arts. Especially those that could harvest the life force of others to continue their own existence.
Yuna and Paine's simple lunch of sandwiches was abruptly halted as the door to the tavern swung open revealing a terribly disheveled Rikku. Her eyes were puffy and bloodshot, her long hair hung limply; its typically vibrant gold a dull yellow. As she looked up both girls saw that her cheeks still had tears and her face was winced as if trying to hold more from rushing forth.
Startled by the sight of her cousin Yuna turned only just in time to catch Paine as she fell from her chair. The usually stoic warrior's face was one of apprehension and her right hand was pressed tightly to her chest as she trembled.
'No, he couldn't have… not yet, not in front of Rikku, not so soon…' Paine's mind was racing and the situation had caught her completely off-guard. He had been fine that morning; there was no way he could have died already.
"Paine!" Yuna looked back as her cousin walked past her and grabbed the young thief's arm gently. "Rikku, what's wrong? What happened? Where's Sarion?"
Rikku's face contorted as she struggled back a sob before meeting Paine's wide eyes. 'She knew? She knew all along!?' Closing her eyes and taking a calming breath she smiled weakly at Yuna. "He went for a walk after we visited the stables." Her eyes shifted to Paine's, a hard edge filling her voice. "I need to talk to Paine in a bit, okay Yunie?" She offered another smile even more forced than the first.
Paine swallowed hard and dislodged herself from Yuna before returning to her seat. So he was alright, but then why was Rikku crying? 'And why is she glaring at me like that? Unless… no, Sarion wouldn't just tell her, would he?'
"Will someone please tell me what's going on?" Yuna looked from Paine to Rikku. She was terribly confused as to why her cousin was so upset and now angry with Paine and why Paine had reacted as she did to seeing Rikku so distraught.
"I was just reminded of the people we lost when I was out today Yunie, I'm okay." She smiled a little wider in attempt to convince the worried brunette.
A frown creased Yuna's features as she looked at the younger girl for a moment before nodding. "Okay Rikku. If you wanna talk or anything please let me know."
The youngest of the three nodded and walked back to their room to get cleaned up and change; she was covered in dust from kneeling in the alley against Sarion and she knew her hair was in need of attention.
Watching the blonde depart, Yuna sighed and turned to Paine with a serious expression. "What's going on Paine?"
Paine averted her eyes. She didn't want to outright lie to Yuna but she wasn't willing to share this information with her; it wasn't her information to share. "I don't know what you're-"
"Paine!" Yuna slammed a hand down on the table startling them both. "I'm not some naïve little girl! Something was bothering Rikku a lot more than just some memories and your reaction tells me it involves you somehow!"
"I'm not up for talking about it right now Yuna." Paine stood and walked back towards their room, intent on getting this conversation with Rikku over with.
Yuna sat there with a frustrated expression before shaking her head with a sigh. "I'll get it out of you tonight Paine, one way or another." She smirked and took another bite of her sandwich.
Rikku glared at Paine as the older girl closed the door behind her. She waited as Paine crossed the room and sat on the bed across from her. Ruby eyes met her emerald ones and she opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted.
"I know you are angry with me for not telling you about Sarion. But your reaction today was the exact reason I did not do so; I was hoping to protect you and Yuna from such pain. He had intended to escort us on our way out and stay behind with claims of needing to return to his forest." Paine sighed and leaned back on the bad, propping up on her elbows. She was not well-versed in apologizing or sharing her feelings but she knew Rikku was terribly upset and this was the only way to smooth things over. "He told me the other day that it had been the only way to save all three of us. He knew the risks and made the decision in order to give us another chance at life."
Rikku leaned forward, fresh tears filling her eyes. "It's not fair that you did not tell me sooner Paine! When he purchased only three horsies today I confronted him and yelled at him! I was so angry with him for abandoning us!" She choked back a sob as the tears that had lingered in her eyes now fell freely down her cheeks. "Then he told me he was dying so he couldn't come with us; that it could happen any day now." Her voice dropped down to a whisper. "I'm tired of people leaving me Paine! You have no idea! I heard you talking to Yunie up on the Celsius before about leaving the group!"
Paine winced. That was not something she had been aware of. She had known that Rikku must have overheard some of her conversation with Yuna but had not been sure of how much. "Rikku listen…"
"No! I'm tired of everyone trying to 'protect' me from the truth! I might not be the most mature person in the world but I have feelings Paine!" Her voice had raised significantly at this point; the mixture of hurt and rage reaching a boiling point. "I lost my momma when I was little, I lost Buddy and Brother and everyone else in the crash! Lulu, Wakka, everyone we've ever known is dead! So when I found out, I thought about the fact I still had you and Yunie and it comforted me! But Sarion is a part of this family now too and he's… he's…" her voice cracked. "He's going to leave me too!"
Not accustomed to seeing Rikku so emotional, it actually caused her heart to ache at the sight of the girl who was obnoxiously cheerful all the time in such pain. She hadn't known of her mother's fate and had just assumed she didn't keep in contact. Moving from the bed over to Rikku, she sat beside the younger girl and placed a supportive hand on her back. "I'm sorry Rikku. I didn't know. I only wanted to protect you from feeling like this."
Rikku heard the sincerity in the voice of the usually cold girl and threw both arms around her neck and sobbed into the older girl's shoulder. "I just don't want to lose anyone else Paine!"
Feeling a rogue tear descend down her cheek Paine could only nod; the lump in her throat prevented her from speaking. She knew what it was like to lose those dearest and understood Rikku's anguish. There were skeletons in her closet that no one knew and she kept it that way on purpose. She knew that the more people you allowed into your heart the higher your risk of breaking it. Never again did she want to experience that hurt again.
After a short time Paine finally pushed Rikku away gently, seeing that the younger girl had fallen asleep. 'Poor thing has been through a lot today. Guess it makes sense she's all tuckered out.' Paine eased the smaller girl back onto the bed and covered her with her blanket. "For what it's worth Rikku, I won't leave you guys. I can't, at least not until I can find the words to express how I feel." Leaning down she placed a soft kiss on Rikku's cheek before turning and heading out for a walk. She needed some fresh air.
Torches lining the great hall flickered brightly as footsteps approached almost as if they responded to the incoming duo. The hall, like all others in the deceptively large church, was carved entirely out of black marble. Unlike the other halls however this one had maroon carpeting down the center of the isle with a gold trim. Another difference were the walls being covered in tapestries not of significant events but of the members of the church that had perished in their conquests.
"Sarion, keep up." The robed girl spoke impatiently.
Letting out a sigh, Sarion picked up the pace to match that of the surprisingly quick girl. "I don't know why you are in such a hurry. I told you it's nothing."
Clucking her tongue the girl didn't even look back as she made her way down the hall towards the large door at the end. "You're full of it Sarion. There's something wrong with you and I intend to find out what it is and fix it."
"How would you know if something is wrong with me?"
Reaching the door she stopped and waited expectantly until Sarion opened it. As she passed through she sighed in annoyance. "You taste different."
He blinked in surprise. 'I have a taste? One that is distinct enough to tell something is afflicting me?' Looking around the large chamber, his eyes came to rest on a large altar. "You're not looking to take my blood for some kind of ritual are you Koshka?'
She glanced back, an irritated look on her face. "I'm going to do a lot more than take your blood if you don't stop calling me that Sarion. Especially when the others arrive."
Sarion shrugged. "As you wish Kyia." He had no intention of getting her in trouble around the others; they were a frightening bunch.
Turning to face him she frowned. "Sarion, please just tell me why you are here and what it is that is afflicting you. You're a terrible liar and I know your presence here is more than a social visit." She looked away and dug the toe of her boot into the marble floor. "As much as I wish you were here to make your choosing, I know that is not the case."
Looking at her for a few moments before answering, Sarion took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. "What if that is why I came here?"
Ruby eyes flashed as she snapped her gaze to his. "If you are teasing me Sarion I will never forgive you."
He ran a hand through his hair. There really was no other way around it; it was this or just wait it out. "I am not teasing but I have a condition."
"A condition?" She snorted. "And what is it you desire enough to request such a thing in addition to all else you gain?"
As he explained it to her, she frowned. It was a lot to ask and a greater amount to risk over something that was so important to her. Sarion had no idea how she actually felt for him and had all these years. She was not willing to so easily give up what she wanted.
"And that is the only reason? Your intent is purely noble?" Kyia wasn't particularly surprised. She had always cared for him because of his unique qualities in personality and spirit. Unlike her sisters of the robes, she found him to be more than a bridge to power.
Sarion smiled. "Would you know me to be any different, Koshka?"
Rolling her eyes, she ignored his pet-name for her. "As you wish Sarion. I accept your terms." She approached him and looked up into his eyes, smiling pleasantly. "You truly are a great man Sarion. I look forward to your return in the near future."
With that she flicked a small blade into her hand and drove it into the center of his chest. The expression on his face broke her heart but she knew it was for the best. She had waited too long to just let the opportunity slip by.
Yuna sighed and looked up at the clock in annoyance. Paine had left hours ago and said she would be back by seven. It was nearly eight.
Paine pushed the door to the tavern open and made her way to the bar. Sitting beside Yuna she offered an apologetic smile that immediately dissolved the younger girl's anger. "Sorry I am late Yuna. I got turned around on my way back." Sadly it was the truth. She had gone to get the necklace she had bought enchanted and ended up in an area she was unfamiliar with. For being such a small village it was deceptively easy to get lost.
Unable to hold back the smile at seeing Paine's apologetic expression, Yuna nodded her head. "It's okay Paine."
When the bartender, a young girl with short black hair and blue eyes, approached her Paine scowled. "Are you old enough to be back there?" She had been served by a middle-aged brunette the night before; this girl looked young enough to be her daughter.
The young girl blushed and smiled at the scowling stranger. "You must be Paine. My older sister told me you outdrank the entire evening crowd last night!"
Yuna's worried eyes moved to the older girl. "Paine!"
With a shrug, Paine looked from Yuna back to the young girl. "Well if you did speak with her, hopefully she told you what I like."
The young bartender nodded with a smile. "My name is Kate by the way. I'll be working up here a bit more while my sister has time off. Her daughter is sick." She looked down and began pulling out a glass only to be interrupted by a timid voice. "Make it two?"
Paine looked over at Yuna in surprise. "I didn't think you drank Yuna."
Blushing and tucking stray hair behind her ear, Yuna smiled with uncertainty. "Well I don't. But I figured I'd give it a try!"
With a giggle, Kate made two drinks before pushing them in front of the waiting girls. When Paine reached for her money, she spoke up. "These two are on the house." Nodding to insist she was serious, she watched the strange two-tone eyed girl. If this was her first time drinking…
Yuna gasped as the liquid fire shot down her throat into her stomach and exploded, sending the heat all the way to her fingertips and toes. Looking at Paine, who wore a calm expression, Yuna felt her vision already swimming. "You drink that…" she shook her head as if trying to clear it. "on purpose?!"
The older girl laughed and placed her hand on Yuna's knee. "There's no shame if you can't handle it Yuna." Her eyes sparkled playfully.
Biting her lip, Yuna refused to back down from the blatant challenge. "I can handle it just fine!"
Paine smirked and leaned back on her stool. "Alright then Yuna." She turned to face Kate, their eagerly smiling bartender. "Keep them coming then."
Looking from her newly filled shot glass to Paine, Yuna gulped. Paine had a playful smile on her face and was holding her shot up in a 'cheers' position while she waited on the already buzzing girl to pick up her own. Taking a deep breath, Yuna raised the shot to her lips, her hand trembling slightly.
Ruby eyes never left the younger girl's as she took her shot and watched other girl gasping after taking her own. She was surprised Yuna had even taken a second shot but if there was one thing that the young girl had mountains of, it was stubbornness.
Empty shot glasses piled up and as the sun set patrons filtered in only to be ushered to the other side of the bar by Kate. She was enjoying watching this battle of will-power. She knew the brunette could not keep up with Paine but she was holding her own in surprising fashion.
Paine winced as she finished another shot, seeing Yuna forced into two swallows to get the harsh liquid down. "Feel free to give up at any time Yuna. I'd hate to have to carry you to bed."
Giggling from the strong effect the alcohol was having, Yuna leaned towards Paine with a grin. "I don't think either of us would object to such a thing Paine." Seeing the girl's ruby eyes widen, Yuna giggled more and had to grab the bar to steady herself. Why was everything moving?
Feeling a blush heat her cheeks, Paine nodded to the bartender. She knew tomorrow was going to be a miserable morning but it wasn't as if they had a schedule to keep. Besides, seeing Yuna intoxicated was pretty endearing. She hadn't heard Yuna giggle in so long. Tonight was going to be a good way to cap off an emotional roller coaster of a day.
Rikku stretched and let out a yawn before sitting up. When had she fallen asleep? She put a hand to her cheek; the one Paine had kissed while she slept. 'Was I dreaming or did Paine actually say all that?' She smiled and got out of bed, stretching again in the process. She could hear the evening crowd out by the bar easily though the thin walls but at such a contrast from the constant quiet lately she didn't mind.
Stepping out into the hall and rubbing her eyes, Rikku almost fell on her face once she entered the bar area. Sitting on the bar, legs crossed and leaning on her elbows, was Yuna. On the stool in front of her was Paine and beside them was a hefty stack of empty glasses. "Oh Yunie…" Rikku giggled and maneuvered her way closer but still remaining unseen by the two.
Yuna giggled and leaned close to Paine, whispering something that caused the older girl's face to redden significantly. And that was saying something to notice it over the flush from the alcohol. Paine looked to think something over before leaning close to the younger girl and whispering a response, eliciting a giggle from the brunette.
Calling the bartender over, Rikku gestured towards the two girls. "How long have they been drinking?"
Kate smiled in response with a giggle of her own. "A few hours now. I'm actually pretty impressed. I never expected the brunette to keep down more than three, let alone go toe-to-toe with Paine."
Rikku grinned. She knew Yuna was stubborn and when she had her mind set on something she would follow through. She had to admit she was also impressed. Rikku had caught Paine drinking on the Celsius a few times and had to help her back to her room. Yuna never saw it but Rikku knew Paine had kept it a secret on purpose. The last she wanted was to cause attention to herself or stress out Yuna over her.
As Kate approached Yuna and Paine, a hand in the air halted her. Paine shook her head and waved her off. She had had enough and Yuna was well beyond that limit and she knew more would lead to holding her hair while the liquor vacated her. That was not the way she wanted to spend the night.
Helping Yuna down from the bar, Paine let out a giggle as she had to support the majority of Yuna's weight while the younger girl leaned heavily on her. Rikku couldn't hear anything but saw Paine's face go beet red as Yuna whispered something to her, shiny pink lips grazing the older girls ear as she spoke.
Rikku watched as the two girls made their way, slowly, back to the room. 'Good.' She thought. 'They need to relax a bit after all of this craziness.' Looking up she smiled at the bartender and ordered a drink for herself. 'I could use some relaxing myself.'
With a pained groan Sarion sat up and looked around. He was on the walkway outside of the church. 'How did I get out here?' he wondered with a frown. Looking down he winced at the sensation in his chest. His shirt had been replaced with a black silk shirt but he could feel the wound beneath it. 'Did she really stab me?'
The night air held a chill but not an unpleasant one. The sky was clear and the moon was nearing full giving great illumination in the area otherwise devoid of light. Sarion thought back to the moments just before he had blacked out.
Sarion narrowed his eyes causing Kyia to actually take a step back. It was very unlike him to ever show hostility towards her. "It is not a request Kyia. It is a condition. I will not be staying here in SafeHaven. I will not be assisting any of you until I decide to. I will be leaving with the girls I came here with until I choose to return."
Her face remained calm but her voice carried and edge sharp enough to carve stone. "Girls?" Kyia's ruby eyes narrowed as she looked at the man before her, weighing his demands. "Have you slept with them yet?"
Without hesitation he shook his head. "I have not. It is not a romantic engagement. I saved them from a terrible crash in my woods and gave them my life force." She gasped. So this was what had changed within him. Before she could question him however, he continued. "I was content to simply die with knowledge I had given them a new chance at life."
"Something must have changed then." She interjected.
He nodded. "I realized it was selfish of me to simply abandon them in a world centuries changed from their last time walking it. They have too much to learn and see before I am confident in leaving their side."
And then she had stabbed him.
Sarion got to his feet and dusted himself off. He had at least hoped to say goodbye before departing but something told him it was better this way. Their heated moments on the floor inside had been a difficult halt and he wasn't quite sure either of them would be able to do it again.
Thinking it over, he didn't love the girl but he could not deny her incredible attractiveness. The touch of her skin set his senses on fire but he was never sure if it was mere attraction or if she was trying to bewitch him. Having known her for hundreds of years did nothing to convince him to trust her. If anything it gave him more reason not to.
He made his way back to the tavern and was surprised by the massive crowd within. Then he saw why.
Standing atop the bar was Rikku in her neon green short-shorts and orange top which had been tied in a knot at the front to expose her midriff. She was strutting from one side to the other, pouring drinks as the bartender giggled and shook her head.
As he made his way in her eyes met his and her expression changed to one of sheer delight. Before he could react she leapt from the bar and landed squarely on him; her legs around his torso and arms around his head pulling his face into her breasts. Sarion's face immediate turned red as she continued to press him to her chest. He couldn't quite breathe but figured there were so many worse ways to go.
"Oh Sarion you made it back! I'm so happy!" She giggled and finally relaxed her grip with her arms but continued to hold on with her legs.
Seeing her giddy expression, Sarion worried she might fall and braced her with his arms, careful to keep his hands in a respectable place. It didn't help that her skin felt softer than the silk he wore. "Rikku, have you been drinking?"
Cocking her head to side, she let out a giggle. "No silly. I'm just happy to see you." She lowered her head and looked up at him from under her eyebrows with a pout present on her face. "Can't I just be happy you're back?"
Sarion felt as though his mouth was full of cotton. While Kyia had sex appeal Rikku had the whole package. She was both adorable and sexual and she had absolutely no problem showing that side it seemed. "I'm glad to see you too Rikku. Is everyone else here?"
Rikku nodded with a lopsided grin. "Paine and Yuna had a drinking contest before going back to bed. I decided to stay out here and Kate over there was nice enough to let me help around the bar."
Looking up and noticing the majority of the men staring at them, Sarion felt suddenly self-conscious but was not quite willing to set the young girl down. He leaned close, making her blush this time. "Everyone is staring," He whispered it quietly though with the noise he likely could have spoken normally and still been unheard by others.
She looked over her shoulder and saw the same stares that Sarion had before turning back with a playful smile. "Well then," she whispered breathily as she leaned closer and closer to his face with her own. "Why not give them something worth staring over?" Giggling at his confused expression she planted a kiss on his lips, tightening her grip on him with her arms and her legs.
His breath was taken from him the moment their lips met; this was not the lusty kiss from a girl he had dealings with. This was a passionate kiss from a girl who had bared her soul before him earlier that day and was now doing it again with this contact. Without a single word being said he understood her fear of both losing him and this simple kiss. He felt her elation at him returning the kiss as his grip on her tightened as well.
She had slid down his torso, locking her feet behind his back and her arms around his neck. She had never felt such an incredible feeling before as their tongues met and caressed each other. It wasn't as though she had never kissed anyone before but to consider any of those previous lip contacts as 'kisses' after this one was impossible. It felt as though time stopped and the only two people moving were her and Sarion. The taste of his mouth was intoxicating and the scent that came from him, always like that of fresh spice.
Sarion was lost in the moment as well. Rikku's lips were sweeter than the freshest nectar he had found in his travels and the feel of her skin was making his heart pound in his chest. After what felt like an eternity their kiss finally broke leaving both of them staring into the other's eyes. His emerald eyes were bright and vibrant to match hers and she leaned close, pressing her cheek to his. "Stay. Here."
In a daze, Sarion nodded as Rikku untangled herself from him and walked over to the bar. She leaned over and spoke to the bartender who immediately burst into giggles before nodding and handing something to the other girl. When she reached Sarion, she took his hand without a word and led him down the hall beyond their room and unlocked the door with her freshly acquired key.
When she turned back to him and their eyes met, Sarion swallowed hard. Her expression was a heavy mix of desire and trepidation. She reached out and took his hand, leading him inside before closing the door behind them. He could see her trembling and placed a hand on her cheek with a warm smile. "Rikku…"
She stood on her tip-toes to kiss him, effectively cutting him off. "There's no need for any of that Sarion. I've thought about this enough." She took his hand in both of hers and led him to the bed before sitting on it and leaning back, motioning for him to follow.
Sarion followed her lead, now positioned over her and looking into her wide emerald eyes. Leaning down he kissed her, softly at first but then with more intensity. Resting his bodyweight on his knees he slid both hands up her sides, drawing a gasp from her as his hands brushed her breasts as he lifted her shirt. He broke the kiss just long enough to slide the shirt off, over her head.
Rikku shuddered under him in anticipation. She had never gone even this far before and her fears had completely been blown away to be replaced by her desire. His touch sent electricity through her and as he slowly began trailing kisses down her jaw to her neck she couldn't hold back the whimpers building in her throat. As his hands caressed her breasts she let out a breathless moan and arched into him. She had never been so hot, it felt as though they out in the desert. Reaching up she lifted his shirt up and off, biting her lip as he immediately resumed his trail of kisses down her neck to her chest. Her breaths were coming in short pants as she reached down and shimmied off her shorts, exposing a tiny yellow thong being the only obstacle left covering her.
As his mouth made its way between her breasts, Sarion couldn't help smiling at the strained sounds coming from Rikku. Her fingers were clenching the sheets and her hips were pressed tightly against his as she trembled beneath him. He had never gone this far before himself so he was simply going based on her reactions and the tales he had discussed with others.
Rikku gasped and propped up onto her elbows as she felt his kisses continue to trail down, past her naval. Looking down at him with wide eyes she felt her face redden as he looked up and smiled at her reassuringly. Sarion then moved his hands and slid down the last barrier between him and his mouth's destination.
When his slow descent finally reached its long anticipated end, Rikku threw her head back and groaned out his name. "Sarrrrrion!"
Yuna giggled and flopped onto the bed. She had never felt quite like this before and it was a nice experience. "Paaaaine!"
Looking down at the giggling brunette Paine could not help but smile. "Yes Yuna?"
Two-toned eyes attempted to narrow but failed miserably as she continued to giggle. "Get down here."
No sooner had Paine sat beside Yuna than the younger girl grabbed her shoulder and pulled her down beside her. Feeling a blush creep up her neck, Paine couldn't help but stare into the other girl's eyes. 'Why does she make me feel like this? Could I ever really leave her side?'
Seeing Paine in deep thought, Yuna inched closer so that she was close enough to feel the breath of the older girl. "What's on your mind Paine?" She reached out and brushed silver strands aside to better see those beautiful ruby eyes. 'How can someone have eyes so beautiful? I could just stare at them forever…'
"Just thinking, Yuna." She blushed at their closeness. Not that she was uncomfortable, quite the opposite in fact.
Sticking her bottom lip out in a pout Yuna inched closer still, her nose grazing Paine's. "You can talk to me Paine. We've known each other for a long while now and we've been through more than I could ever list." She smiled and wet her lips. Was it getting warmer in here? The fire was going thanks to Kate having stopped in earlier during the day to keep it temperate for the potentially cool night. "I've always wanted to know what was going on in that mind of yours. You were always so secretive."
Were it not for the alcohol, Paine likely would have tried to change the subject but her loose lips moved on their own. "I've grown to be that way over the years I suppose. You and Rikku are the first two people I've been as comfortable as I have been in a long time."
"That was you being comfortable?" She giggled until she saw Paine's eyes narrow slightly and cleared her throat hastily. "Sorry Paine but you were always so distant. I always thought you didn't like me and wanted to be left alone. I pushed and pushed but I was always worried you'd go deeper into your shell."
Paine shook her head. "That couldn't be farther from the truth." She blushed at her admission. "What I mean is that it was just difficult for me to open up for anyone. You saw more of me than I shared with anyone else."
Yuna felt a blush creeping into her cheeks as she tilted her head to the side to inspect the girl in bed beside her. Hesitantly she brought her hand up and ran her fingers along Paine's right cheek, feeling along her perfect cheekbone back to her jaw. When Paine did not shy away or scold her she bit her lip and traced the same fingers down her jaw to her chin.
Feeling her stomach doing flips, Paine gently took hold of Yuna's wrist. Immediately the younger girl's eyes lowered in embarrassment, 'and perhaps, disappointment?' and moved to retract her hand. Paine's grip remained firm, causing Yuna to look up in surprise as her fingers were brought to the soft pink lips of the silver-haired beauty. Placing a soft kiss on the fingers before her, Paine's eyes never left Yuna's.
"P… Paine…" Yuna's mind was reeling. She was sure the people out drinking could hear her heart racing and her breathing had become rapid and shallow. 'What is this feeling? It's not the alcohol and it's definitely not unpleasant.'
It was as if this was a dream. Paine's heart was pounding in her ears and her hands were trembling. Slowly parting her lips, she pressed Yuna's index finger into her mouth and ran her tongue across it drawing a wide-eyed response from the other girl. Seeing that her actions were not being refused, Paine drew in Yuna's middle finger as well, sucking on them gently while still holding the younger girl's wrist.
Yuna bit her lip and felt the warmth in her stomach spreading throughout her body. She had never been so turned on by anything before. There was nothing she wanted more than to taste those bright pink lips. Somehow finding a way to blush further, she realized that was not all she wanted to taste of the silver-haired beauty beside her.
Paine kept her eyes locked on Yuna's as the younger girl slowly withdrew her fingers from Paine's mouth. Feeling her breath hitch, she nearly went rigid as soft lips suddenly engulfed her own. She moaned shamelessly into the younger girl's mouth, surprised to find Yuna's tongue probing her own.
Running her fingers through the soft, silver hair of the woman she was assaulting with her mouth, Yuna pressed her body against the other girl's. Her breathing was shared with Paine's as their lips remained together, only breaking briefly for the occasional gasp for air. Her grip tightened, causing Paine to moan softly before rolling over on top of the younger girl.
Somehow between their impassioned lip-locking shirts were removed and bras discarded. Paine's hands were the first to roam and find Yuna's welcoming breasts. With a soft caress, her thumbs playing across the other girl's hardened nipples, she had Yuna arching into her touch with whimpers escaping her lips. A gasp escaped her own as Yuna's hands found their mark, giving the dominant girl's breasts a firm squeeze before sliding down to her hips.
This was the first time Yuna had ever done anything even resembling this with anyone; let alone another girl. That didn't mean she wasn't more than enthusiastic about it however as Paine was finding out rapidly. Her hands undid the belt around Paine's waist and she made quick work to remove the pesky pants from the girl atop her.
Paine gasped as Yuna's hands trailed back up her thighs to get a firm hold on her backside to pull her tight against her own hips. Reluctantly removing her hands from Yuna's firm breasts, she trailed her fingers down the younger girl's stomach to the waistline of her pink shorts. Hesitating for only a moment she grabbed the waistband and slid the shorts down and off to reveal the girl beneath her had also gone without panties for the day.
Yuna bit her bottom lip as Paine finally broke their intoxicating kiss. Looking up into the ruby eyes above her she saw nothing but adoration. 'Well, a little bit of lust but why have I never noticed this before? She is looking at me like I am the only person on Spira… Is this because of what we're doing or has she always been like this?' She reached out and grasped Paine's right hand, taking her index and middle finger into her mouth. Watching Paine's eyes widen and the tremor that ran through her had Yuna's body responding even more than she had already been. She understood sexual desire but to see someone so worked up by her and only her was an incredible feeling. Removing the fingers from her mouth and leaning up, she gently bit Paine's earlobe before whispering softly. "I want you to take me Paine…"
Eyes wide, Paine turned her head to face Yuna, earning herself a sensual kiss in the process which she gladly returned. She had kept expecting to stop or have Yuna stop her; now that she knew that was not the case her heart nearly leapt from her chest.
Pressing the younger girl to the bed gently, Paine returned her lips to Yuna's with renewed passion. She used her left hand to brace herself as her right grazed between Yuna's legs causing a sharp moan to escape the girl. Paine caressed between the Yuna's legs softly for a moment before carefully pressing her first finger into the very ready girl beneath her. A whimper escaped the younger girl's lips causing Paine to hesitate until a firm grip on her wrist held her fast.
Gently working her finger into the girl writhing beneath her Paine gasped as Yuna's free hand began rubbing between her legs. She trembled as she carefully added a second finger, biting her lip as she felt Yuna begin to press into her with a finger of her own.
Pressing her forehead to Yuna's, neither girl could focus on the kiss as their hands worked each other gently at first but with more intensity as their own arousal increased. Looking into the two-toned eyes beneath her Paine bit her lip, struggling to determine if the words fighting to break loose were worth risking this incredible moment.
Finally her will broke. "Yuna…" she panted out. The other girl's head tilted to the side as she struggled to focus on the girl above her through the incredible sensations she was feeling. "Yuna, I…" She closed her eyes and trembled as Yuna's fingers were drawing her closer and closer to orgasm. "Yuna I love you."
Without missing a beat the young girl looked up into the ruby eyes above her, Paine's feelings laid bare, and responded without hesitation. "I love you too Paine."
Paine brought her lips down to Yuna's with renewed passion and it wasn't long before both girls were calling out each other's names as they finished together. In a tangle of sweat and otherwise fluid-soaked sheets, Yuna caressed Paine's cheek with a smile. She could never recall being so happy, so content. "Paine…" She whispered softly.
Running a hand through the now-tangled brown hair before her, Paine smiled. "Yes Yuna?"
Blushing, despite their previous actions, Yuna bit her bottom lip. "Would it be alright with you if…" She looked away, embarrassed by the question.
The older girl understood immediately. Yuna was not going to be comfortable with broadcasting their feelings or actions and would like to keep it quiet. "It's fine Yuna. We don't have to tell anyone."
Yuna looked back with a frown that startled Paine. "That's not what I want at all Paine. I want to be with you and I am not ashamed of it. I want to hold your hand while we walk and be able to kiss you any time I want." She bit her lip again, looking at the older girl with a 'don't hurt my feelings' eyes. "Unless you'd be embarrassed by being with me."
Closing the distance and kissing the younger girl, Paine allowed her lips to linger for a moment before pulling back. "I would be more than happy to hold your hand and whatever else you like in public Yuna." She grinned and leaned close. "Anything else you like."
A blush filled the brunette. "I might hold you to that." Seeing Paine smile she giggled and kissed her again before resting her head on the pillow. Her mind wandered to Sarion and Rikku and if they were okay but figured they would be fine. Right now her only concern was keeping the girl beside her from returning to that cold shell she hid within. There was no way she would ever want to give up the side of Paine she had seen tonight.
Author's Note
Holy smokes. I don't know how I managed to pull of nearly 8500 words of content. But I did it! And I'm pretty damn happy with it. I spent a full 10 hours writing this today in addition to a few hours yesterday. It's not 0016 and I work in 7 hours but SO WORTH IT!
Please let me know what you thought, of everything. Kyia was a fun addition (and I hope people caught the references… if not, fear not. There will be more.). I also surprised myself with the impromptu Rikku/Sarion scene. Totally didn't plan that. And as I wrote, I kept thinking of "break" points but I just kept going and going…
As for going and going… how was that Yuna/Paine scene? Decent? Over the top? Either way I enjoyed writing it so it's there now.
On to reviews!
DragonGirl323: Thank you for all the glowing reviews! I am so glad I made someone as talented as yourself interested in my story. At this point you last commented on Chapter 9 so by the time you get here you'll hopefully REALLY be hooked! I am willing to think 10-14 have been my best work. Reviewers and personal inspirations have helped TONS! Hope you enjoy!
GEN Yuna and SGT Tidus: Yes, I originally joined back in 2004 under 13D (Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist). However a fractured pelvis kicked me out. Spent 7 years retrying until finally I was able to get back in Feb 2011. I'm actually a Medic, but we're pretty on par with those Infantry guys in training at least. And stay home! Lol. I understand the draw of deploying but really, it's hell out here. We have ceremonies daily for our fallen… it's rough. Back to story! I know a Yuna/Paine is not usually a fan favorite but I always liked it so gave it my best. Glad you are actually enjoying it! I will certainly check out you and your wife's story as well. Hopefully this chap didn't scare you off! Stay safe man.
Private PM Reviewer: Your loyalty has been a huge lift to my writing. All reviews and messages inspire me to want to write more. This chapter is largely thanks to you for some ideas here. You'll recognize I am sure.
Thank you, all of you! Expect more to come soon! And please excuse the typo's/grammar. I was threatened with bodily harm if I did not get this posted before bed.