Venat discovered love at mere five hundred years old – a young teen by her people's standards – leaning over the edge of the crib and for the first time seeing the uncanny beauty of her little brother. Mesmerized by his eyes – as blue and perfect as the sky above Eitherys – when Nyx smiled at her light around her seemed brighter, colors lovelier and her heart squeezed painfully with a new, unusual emotion.
Used to and raised by their society's standards and customs, in that one moment, caught in the snare of sky-blue irises, she felt her very soul shift and instinctively knew her life will never be the same again. When their mother's smiles grew warmer and their father's gazes fonder – with elation and full of childish innocence, she attributed it to the wonder of her brother and if possible fell even more deeply, painfully in love with him.
Nyx was a good child, always optimistic and cheery, and quickly his sensitive heart became apparent. As seemingly moved by his looks, somehow none were ever able to say an unkind word in her little brother's presence. And as soon as she was allowed to, Venat took to bring him along on her little adventures near their parents' domain – in the wonder of his enamored eyes, discovering the world anew and learning to love all of creation – just like he did, with his smiles and disposition simply making their world better, brighter.
Their parents choose to pass into the aetherial sea when Nyx started nearing adulthood, and with their best wishes, Venat took it upon herself to always look after her brother and protect his sensitive soul. His beauty growing ever more pronounced, she couldn't help but worry about the time when it'll lure in the wrong females that wouldn't be able to appreciate the wonder her brother was. In her eyes, there was simply no woman alive that could understand and deserve his enormous heart – and care for him as he deserved.
Earning herself the title and seat of Azem, the Traveler, in the Convocation of Fourteen – the council ruling their star - when she came of age, Venat eagerly set to explore the Eitherys, dazed by the new sights and discoveries – and by it missed the upcoming danger. Coming back from her very first travel – full of stories and experiences she couldn't wait to share with Nyx and bask in the glory of his assured grins and wonder, she was shocked to arrive at their home in Amarout and find her beautiful brother Bonded to a completely unfit woman!
Cassiopeia, by then famed between their people for her skills in creation magic and beauty, a young woman with golden eyes and pearly-white locks, earned her ire by apparently seducing and convincing her Nyx to Bond with her in a mere year after they met – and during Venat's absence, no less! Infuriated by the sheer nerve of the woman, her dismal was met with a mocking raise of the white eyebrows and narrowing of the golden irises as Cassiopeia clung to her brother's arm during his sheepish introduction, yet seeing the uncanny, too-obvious way Nyx seemed utterly enamored with the woman, Venat held her tongue, only fuming internally. Around her wonderful brother, none seemed able to hold onto any negative feelings, so only when left alone with her new sister-in-law, she expressed her… annoyance with the situation and warned the younger woman to take proper care of her brother's soul – especially if she was seemingly so determined to claim it in the first place.
To give the credit where it was due, Cassiopeia seemed unmoved by her dismal, and with a matching chill assured her that now Nyx's heart was in the care of someone who could truly understand and appreciate the beauty of it. But because she said that with a strangely smug, amused look, Venat couldn't help but stay miffed with her – and her worry only grew.
The scandal their rash Bonding brought upon her brother had Venat fume on every and any rude remark whenever someone dared to question Nyx's choices – in that unable to ever stand against anything her little brother desired. And that he was happy with his pick was too obvious for her to ever express her worries about his new wife. By then known for her harsh temper and tendency to lash out if provoked, Cassiopeia seemed painfully unfit for someone as sensitive and good-natured as Nyx – but out of loyalty to him, Venat found herself forced to show her approval whenever someone questioned their union.
All changed – for her – when their son, Ares, was born.
Utterly enamored with her nephew – as he so clearly inherited his father's looks and sensitive heart – she could no longer find it in herself to dislike his mother… especially seeing how clearly Cassiopeia cared for their baby. Finally finding a common ground in their shared love for the boy – she learned the secret that originally made Cassiopeia so smugly amused with her misgivings – as her sister-in-law sheepishly admitted to the uncanny skill: an ability to see souls. And added that it was what led her to fall for Nyx at the first sight – more enamored with the beauty of his soul than his features. Soothed by that knowledge – and finally admitting that she did could see that Cassiopeia greatly cared for her brother – they grew to be fast friends, finally, if she still couldn't resist the feeling that the younger woman was still hiding something from her. But busy fawning over her little, gorgeous nephew – so fiercely reminding her of Nyx when he was as small – she put it off as the leftover of her worries.
Then their people's misgivings about the fruit of such an uncommon and rash union became apparent and she grew beyond dismayed as it seemed like everyone around them simply waited for any reason to point out something wrong with the perfection of her precious, little boy. Creating a united front with Cassiopeia against such idiocy – it was for naught as once it seemed like Ares displayed a dismally low ability for creation magic, their peers with almost glee put it off as the result of the scandalous Bonding.
Their people rejected the boy for that – and soon as well they discovered that despite their expectations, it seemed that Ares inherited his mother's temper – if powerfully magnified. That, combined with the baffling ability to control the aether of others that he started to manifest quite quickly… had their peers grow to call him wild and wrathful, with certain smugness of confirmation of their prejudices, treating the beautiful boy as some kind of a freak of nature. His parent's hearts aching for their boy's fate – Venat couldn't help but simply despise their people for causing her family misery with their blind beliefs. And at some level be glad that Ares took after his mother's temper – with some amusement watching how he made it known with the help of his unique gift.
Centuries passed by and as the infamy of his vicious temper grew, so did his beauty – surpassing even that of his father eventually. Despite their people's misgivings about him, some females couldn't help but be lured in by it – or perhaps thought to use him for his gift. Following the stories between her travels – whenever visiting her brother's domain – she couldn't help but worry for the boy as she once did for his father, sharing in Cassiopeia's ache over seemingly none of her son's chosen lovers being able to understand his heart – breaking it carelessly when faced with the boy's ultimatum.
Asked about it – while knowing boys his age by then had a tandem of lovers to pick from – Ares with a lovely, shy smile explained that he hoped for what his parents shared – to love and be loved by someone for whom he was, not for his looks or ability. So with that desire in mind, the boy thought if one could discard their other lovers for him – perhaps they could come to love him, eventually. And yet, it seemed that as sincere as it felt for her – for others it was just another thing to ridicule him for.
Furious with their people again – yet helpless to do anything about it – she left for yet another travel and coming back a year later, she was shockingly introduced to her nephew's newest lover – Damon. Famous for his brilliant mind and cold, calculating demeanor – not to mention being a male! – to see how utterly enamored with him was his nephew…. Remind her of his father just too much!
Resigned to the thought that as his father before, Ares seemed determined to baffle her, she tried to keep an open mind this time – and quickly came to understand that as surpassing as it was – and unique – the two boys seemed just perfect for each other. What's more, seeing Cassiopeia's and Nyx's almost equal adoration for the cyan-eyed redhead – had her quickly know that for them it was as obvious. And noting how much calmer and almost… soothed Ares seemed whenever in the company of his chosen lover – not to mention the ridiculously enamored way Damon acted around him as well – sealed the deal for her.
When bare two years into their relationship they announced that they intended to Bond – she was one of the very few not much surprised by it, despite how unprecedented it was. But they seemed so deliriously happy together… she could only wish them the best and share in their happiness.
Millennium later, once she decided to step down from her function – her nephew seemed like the obvious choice for her successor, despite how much their peers disapproved. But used by now that no matter what, they'll always find something to take issue with Ares – she ignored them. When it caused a brief rift between her and her nephew's husband, she was mostly amused at Damon's 'pouts' about 'stealing' his husband from him. But after even he had to admit that Ares was simply perfect for the role – including his inborn gift – he 'forgave' her, disarmed by his man's obvious enthusiasm. Seeing some of her adventurous soul in the boy, she gladly blew their peers' minds refusing to slip into the aetherial sea, instead watching over her little family and cultivating her love for all of creation.
By mere accident, later on, she was the one to discover the growing rift between Ares and his husband. Catching him once between his travels and inviting him for a stroll through the paths of Amarout, Venat would have to be completely blind not to notice the way his sky-blue eyes would dart after any passing them child, and when he grew distracted with an achingly longing expression on his beautiful features whenever said child would sport red-tinted locks… seemed just too obvious. Yet openly asked about it, her nephew balked instantly, swearing his love for his brilliant husband and refusing to hurt his heart with his own impossible wants.
Understanding the impasse of the situation when faced with as distracted, distant looks on Damon's handsome face the next time she visited their domain – and aching internally at the new, unwelcome silence falling between the two dear boys constantly… Venat went with that to Ares's parents – wishing to find a way to help them but unsure about how to do that. And found that in the meanwhile, her beautiful brother and his wife decided that they fulfilled their journey and were ready to announce their wish to slip away. Yet hearing of their son's heartbreak, Cassiopeia came up with an idea of the last, perfect gift to leave for him and his husband. Deciding to wait with their announcement until Ares's and Damon's anniversary arrived, they made them an offer that as unprecedented as it was – clear enthusiasm on their faces was hard to miss.
The day Hades was placed in his brother's and his husband's care was the happiest and the saddest in their little family. Saying their goodbyes to her after delivering him to Ares's home, Cassiopeia thanked her for millennia of friendship and care – and somewhat unnecessarily asked her to look after her boys, which Venat solemnly swore to do. Nyx held her for a long, long moment in a tight embrace and thanked her for being his sister and loving him – while she tearfully but sincerely thanked him for teaching her to love – and for being her light – missing a somewhat sheepish smile on his wife's beautiful face.
She learned the truth of that smile years later while visiting her nephew's home.
Playing with the little Hades while Ares napped on the couch nearby – exhausted after the latest travel – she was baffled by Damon's seemingly careless remark as the redhead laughed at her inquiry if the boy yet showed any kind of aptitude for magic.
"Not yet," he said with a chuckle, fondly ruffling the boy's white locks while sitting on the floor with them. "But gods be praised, at least he doesn't seem to share any of the Nyx's ability!"
"Huh?" she hummed with distraction, awed when the boy between them grinned at her – and her brother's grin on the little face had her heart ache with longing for a moment. "What are you talking about…? Nyx didn't have any special aptitude."
The silence that fell after that, had her look up with confusion, and the way Damon looked at her – the uncertainty in the cyan eyes – somehow had her heartbeat stutter nervously.
"So… you didn't realize…?" he hummed with a strange, narrowed look, then tossed a somewhat sheepish – familiar – look toward his sleeping husband. "Where, then, did you think Ares's gift came from…?"
Venat blinked at that stupidly, following his gaze… and gasped when the understanding of his meaning downed. But that couldn't be…?
"His is magnified, obviously," Damon continued in the conversational tone – as if he wasn't just completely blowing her mind – while her thoughts swam with the images and memories of how she and everyone else around her beloved brother just couldn't help but simply adore him. "As it often is with an offspring. Nyx wasn't even aware of it – or could control it, either – as sincere as he was in the belief that he doesn't have any ability. It worked sort of like an aura around him – spreading his innate cheer and optimism to those around him – and influencing them. Ares is much more powerful, but his gift focuses on his voice – enforcing his will so completely one would die with a smile to please him…"
"How did you…?" she gasped, gawking at him as he picked up Hades and hugged him against his chest, wrapping his arms around the boy when he cooed at him happily. Smiling at his son, his voice softened when he answered her unfinished question.
"By accident, really. Soon after Ares introduced me to them, Nyx said something I disagreed with… and as usual, I am not shy about my words, somehow, I just couldn't find it in myself to argue the point, either. I don't even remember what it was now…" he chuckled, rubbing his cheek against the white hair when Hades giggled playfully, waving his tiny hands. "Later, at home, I grew irritated with it and swore to clear it up the next time – to again be baffled when faced with Nyx, I just… couldn't. It was like his presence alone added light and color to everything around me – and as pleasant as it was, I grew even more unnerved about the whole thing, but when I pointed it out to Ares… he knew."
"He knew what…?" she frowned, looking toward her nephew.
"About his father's ability, I mean," Damon said with a sigh, then frowned when she looked at him with wide-open eyes. And seeing her shocked expression, he bit his lower lip with uncanny uncertainty, then sighed again. "Listen, Venat… I do not wish to mare your memory of him – I truly thought you knew, just like me.. wasn't talking about it. Since he couldn't control it and it was harmless… I never thought you had no idea. But Ares knew – obviously the same way Cassiopeia did, since he inherited her ability to see souls – and asked me to not mention it, since it would only cause unnecessary grief to his father. He made people around him happier, more positive… where is the harm in that?"
And only then she truly understood the words Cassiopeia said to her on the day they met – of being the only one who truly knew and understood his soul. Because – obviously – she was if from the beginning she knew what Venat missed since the moment he was born. Yet, knowing that didn't make her love her brother any less – as the gift, he has given her appearing and changing her world for the better… was too precious to worry about the details.
Nyx was her light and every time she looked at his sons, seeing his grin in their smiles and the obvious care between them – she knew she would never be able to repay the debt she carried to the universe for granting her the years she had with him – or being able to look after his children next. She would never betray his memory by doubt, only thankful that he was part of her life and just by that, taught her to love – him, their family, and the world around them.
So when she learned of what was coming and her role to play in it – for him, she tried to stop it. Because seeing the misery and hate in the eyes of her nephew's reincarnation and learning of the fate that befallen his beloved brother… was too painful. Because she swore to look after them… and she failed, obviously, but they paid the price.
And when the inevitable came to pass – because their people were incapable of change – she wept, mourning her beloved boys, yet remained steadfast, knowing that the world that comes after will need her to wait and play her part.
Growing aware of what their visitor from the future was not – the fact that as Zodiark was an embodiment of darkness, she became the incarnation of light – and at the end of her journey will need to lay down her life to keep the balance of their star in upcoming fight for its future, she didn't regret it.
As she weakened and her call grew quieter under the strain of Calamities – she took on residence inside the aetherial sea. She suspected her remaining, Unsundered brothers thought she was hiding from them and their games – when the truth was so much simpler.
After all, only there she found comfort, occasionally, briefly feeling a brush of her brother's soul – and even if it was her imagination or her longing for him – that helped her to remain sane in her vigil, waiting for the right mortal to mark as her Champion and set him on the path to the destined meeting – and gave her hope, that despite it all… all the sacrifice and sorrow… at the end of the road their star will survive – and it wouldn't be for naught.
Nico was busy packing his very few belongings when a light knock on the door of his temporary bedroom almost made him jump – and somewhat sure that it was someone who would finally demand him to leave the compound – he curled into himself involuntarily, then sighed and took on an easy expression, hiding his disappointment. It was nice while it lasted – having a roof over his head and not worrying about his next meal – but despite briefly wondering about asking to offer his services to be able to stay – he resigned, knowing he had nothing they didn't already have in abundance.
No, it was time to go back and face his reality – and his father's assured wrath as well – while in the last few days, he was not able to visit him and offer the part of his earnings as the proper tribute for the fact he was alive. That whenever that happened his father's fists grew especially heavy… made him wince internally, but well – it was how it is, and long ago he learned that crying about it didn't change anything.
"Come in," he said calmly, shoving the last shirt – a beautiful, soft thing kind Tataru gave him with such surprising enthusiasm – into a bag he borrowed from the Scions' coinkeeper.
"Ah, are you busy, boy?" he almost literally jumped out of his skin at the amused note in the deep voice, paling slightly as he turned around slowly and looked high up at the huge form of the Warrior of Light. Despite his famously cheery disposition, he couldn't help but simply be intimidated by his size alone, not to mention his own guilt about the whole thing that led him to meet him! And without the kind Raha around to counterbalance the effect the Warrior had on him… he smiled with uncertainty, shaking his head and swallowing thickly – dwarfed by the man as he closed the door behind him silently and neared him. Then the man blew his mind somewhat, easily falling to one knee in front of him, and even like that much taller than him, Nico involuntarily relaxed a bit, folding his shaky hands behind his back tightly and taking a deep, steadying breath. Logically he knew that the Warrior would never hit him – he was a hero, after all! – but the sheer size and power contained in his frame… Well, he couldn't help how his eyes darted toward the man's big hands when he folded them over his knee or involuntarily thought that if he did decide to do that – he could not imagine how much that would hurt. Yet, when his eyes rose to the Seeker's uncannily beautiful face, the strangely sad look in his ice-blue irises baffled him, and tilting his head slightly, curiously, he lifted his eyebrows when the man smiled somewhat ruefully and cleared his throat. "Again, I assure you I'm not in a habit of harming children, Nico," he said somewhat delicately as if reading his mind and Nico balked, guiltily dropping his gaze between them.
"I… I know," he squeaked a bit, and nearly slapped his hand over his eyes at that, instead waving his tail with agitation at his own stupidity. There he was – in a situation any of his friends would have died to be, in the presence of the man they grew up admiring, listening eagerly to the stories of his adventures – and he was making a complete fool of himself! "I know, I'm sorry..."
"It's not something you should apologize for, my boy," the Warrior sighed then carefully – as if not to spook him with a sudden movement – lifted his hand and pressed his finger under the Keeper's chin, gently forcing him to look up in his eyes again. The uncanny tenderness in the pale irises somehow had Nico's heart decide to jump in his throat and pound furiously and caught in the snare of that look, he couldn't help but now understand why the Warrior seemed so well matched with the man he chose to call his – as unguarded by his usual, silly grin – the kindness of that look had his heart simply ache. "You should just know that I paid your father a visit earlier… and it'll be a while before he is able to raise a hand at any child – if ever again," the somewhat playful wink the Seeker sent him had Nico smile involuntarily despite the spark of shame that the man – his hero – knew of that, apparently. "But it is in part a reason behind my visit, too," the Warrior sighed, dropping his hand as his pale irises trailed over the boy's face with a strange mix of something like uncertainty and maybe… hope?
More than unsure, Nico almost unconsciously leaned back against the edge of the bed behind him, falling a bit awkwardly to sit on it. Rolling his hands in fists in his lap, he exhaled slowly and smoothed his expression with an easy smile.
"I'm already packed and ready to go," he said, waving toward his still-open bag.
"I see that," the man said carefully, then frowned and funnily pouted, making Nico gawk a little to see such an expression on the Seeker's beautiful face. So unfit for the brave hero, yet somehow it made the boy barely stop his lips from twitching with amusement – and baffled him even harder when the Warrior shifted to fully sit on his knees and his long, black tail swiveled behind him with some sort of visible agitation. "Oh, Azeyma… I suck at this," he muttered, running his fingers through his messy, black hair and only now Nico noticed that he missed the bandana he was sporting earlier in the day. Getting close to the evening now, and with him and his… man gone for most of the day from the compound – Nico assumed that they had to be busy with some important, Scion business – and that was what led him to quietly pack and get ready to leave – not wanting to cause any trouble for the people so busy with protecting their world.
"Is there… a problem?" he asked with uncertainty, shifting uncomfortably when the black-haired Seeker seemed busy looking around the small bedroom as if looking for words.
"He should have done this," the man muttered, then ran his hand through his hair again and sighed, focusing on him again as his pale skin seemed to almost… color somewhat, and his amusing pout grew more pronounced. "Raha," he added at his confused look, then rolled his eyes slightly. "He's so much better at reassuring people… Anyway, let me get to the point before I make a mess of things… Nico, do you want to go back?" he asked seriously and the boy blinked slowly, then snorted involuntarily at the pure absurdity of the question, but stilled utterly when the Warrior only frowned – apparently completely serious.
"Is that… a trick question?" he asked finally with uncertainty.
"Huh?" the man tilted his head slightly and his tail swiveled again, then he flinched visibly as understanding sparked in his ice-blue eyes. "Ah… no, obviously, I'm serious, boy. It is very important for me that you understand that I take the choices of others extremely seriously and if you so wish, I'll bring you back to your life – no questions asked or explanations necessary."
"I… don't understand," he admitted, blinking with confusion as his ears lowered against his head in distress. "What… choice do I have?" he shrugged helplessly, then chuckled humorlessly. "It was nice – being here – but since it's all over, I…"
"See… I am messing it up!" the Seeker sighed with resignation, then muttered something barely audible under his breath and exhaled slowly, rolling his big hands in the fists in his lap. "Listen, Nico – and consider it at your own… pace, okay? You can stay here until you come to a decision, but if you… don't wish to go back, you can stay – with us, I mean, not here, exactly."
"Huh?" he hummed with confusion, unconsciously leaning forward and folding his hands together as his heart stuttered nervously. "I really… don't understand."
The Warrior muttered under his nose again, and he almost chuckled at another silly pout on his features before he looked at him with a strange… earnest in his pale eyes.
"Obviously, you were to our home, in the Mist, yes?" he said slowly and Nico flinched, dropping his eyes with guilt and curling into himself slightly. "I don't mean it as an accusation or to make you feel bad, Nico," the Seeker added in a softer tone, then delicately nudged his knee until he dared to look up again. He swallowed thickly, then simply nodded, looking anywhere but into the man's eyes. "You did what you had to do to survive – and none of us is going to blame you for that, I swear. I simply ask… because if you're willing, it can become your home, too…" he trailed off with a sheepish smile when the boy gasped and his eyes shot to the pale irises as his jaw simply dropped. "You do see how bad I am at this, yes…? But that's the choice I meant you have, boy. I can see you're… intimidated by me – and don't know me other than the person I play for the public – as is my task and role, but… I hate the idea of letting you go back to that life," the Warrior sighed, shrugging helplessly. "You seem like a bright, good lad, and I think… you deserve better than fighting to survive on the streets. Not to mention your father… and all that," the man sighed again, but Nico couldn't tear his eyes away from him even as his face heated up at the reminder. "But as if anything else in life, I believe, that will have a price, so if you decide to consider accepting…"
"What price…?" he gasped breathlessly, leaning forward again as his heart thundered in his throat.
The Warrior twitched slightly then smiled weakly, sheepishly, and pointed at himself with a wave of his hand.
"Me," he said… as if that was a detriment! Then he chuckled quietly at his baffled expression. "You're so young… so you may not realize, Nico, but my fame… it's not all glory it seems to be," he sighed softly then dropped his gaze between them as his deep voice rang a tad… hollow. "If you agree, and decide to live with us – me and my Raha, and our family – you have to know that… it's not going to be an easy path, my boy. As the whole situation that led to our meeting has already proven… there are those who would like to use any means – even hurting innocents – for their gains when faced with the idea of my fame. The price would be that knowledge, Nico, and ever forward wondering if your friends like you for you – or for what they think they can gain by knowing you. Because if you agree – and once our… task is done and we're free to… live, I plan to marry my Raha – and if you're willing… and come to like us and want to stay with us – as again, is completely up to you – to all, you would become known as… our son," something infinitely… vulnerable flashed in the ice-blue irises when they darted up for a second before dropping again, and the man cleared his throat self-consciously. "And as… difficult it can get, the only thing I can do is to… assure you that if you choose to follow that path – I'll do all in my power to protect you from any harm… but even I can't change how the people think or react, so…"
"I… I…" he stammered nervously, gaping and swallowing audibly when those pale eyes rose again with the uncertainty that made his heart squeeze painfully. "That you would even… That… I would be… h-honored," he gasped out finally, stopping his tail from the way it wanted to wave madly in enthusiasm. "And… s-stupid not to… accept. I have always really admired you… as long as I can remember. I don't know why… or if I can o-offer anything… but if you are s-serious…" he trailed off with a quiet gasp when the Seeker's beautiful face lit up with his famed grin – yet somehow… seemingly so much more sincere than ever before. "…I would love to stay with you," he finished in numb awe as his heart strangely… calmed its furious pounding, and settled into its proper place.
"Marvelous," the Seeker sighed with obvious relief and his tail shamelessly waved with enthusiasm as he stood up, but now somehow his unusual height… didn't seem as scary, but almost reassuring when he offered him his big hand and when Nico numbly accepted – his looking somewhat… tiny in the man's yet its incredible heat seemed to instantly sink into his skin – pulled him to his feet. Again dwarfed by the Seeker, looking up at his beautiful face, yet this time the boy couldn't help but grin brightly when the man rested his hands on his shoulders and delicately led him toward the door of the bedroom. "You won't regret this, I swear. Now… we're going to tell my Raha… but, please, don't mention how… awkward I made it, or else he will tease the seven hells out of me," he sighed with exaggerated resignation, and Nico downright giggled embarrassingly – but nothing less could contain the pure… awe in his heart at the prospect of this man – with that uncanny beauty hidden behind his cheery attitude – seemed to want him… as his own, true father never did. The hero whom he grew up admiring… and how could he ever deserve to be this man's son…?
He didn't know – couldn't figure out what he did or how did he get to this… fork in the road – but in thought, he swore to all of the Twelve to one day find a way to repay the favor the universe granted him – and become worthy of this miracle.
"Oh, and since you're already packed…" the man chuckled somewhat sheepishly after leading him out of the room, then playfully ruffled his dark hair – black but a few shades lighter than his own – and winked at his confused look. "…afterward we can get you settled with our family – if you are brave enough, I mean. Ralla – my little sister – when we explained to her and my mother – and to Raha's sister and her kits – that we're going to ask you that… Well, she fell completely enamored with the idea of a slightly less old, older brother – and one with a skill in stealth, no less! While Raha tried to explain… that it's not truly magic – she refuses to agree and can't wait to pester you to teach her – so, yeah… That's a thing you have to account for as well… even if now it's too late to back off," he chuckled at Nico's baffled expression, then nudged him down the long corridor. "Not to mention my mother's… ah, enthusiasm for the idea of having her own boy to spoil – and you're not that much younger than I was when I… left our tribe, so I have to warn you… she can be quite bent on recompensing for that. It's a long story – better left for another day, judging by your expression – but there's also… a secret you will have to learn and keep to yourself – but if you met Themis… I guess, you have to know as well he's not the only one of his kind around here – and once we're done with our task – and can look for a more fitting, bigger home for our family… Well, before that time, you have to get used to the idea that your life will never be the same again, my boy – and from now on, you'll be part of a very big and extremely unusual family… that's all."
And despite his confusion – and his heart going mad again but this time with elation – Nico grinned, straightening his back and taking on a confident look – he didn't really feel, not yet, but promised himself that one day he'll learn to act and be… worthy of the already-there fondness in the ice-blue eyes.
"I can't wait," he said and was rewarded with another, blindingly beautiful grin.
Late at night when they came back to their lair and settled into their nest – beyond exhausted from the long, eventful day, Raha sighed with bliss when he curled into his lover's possessive embrace and couldn't help his silly, lovesick grin while his Snark nuzzled against his ears with loud, happy purrs, still so disarmingly excited about Nico's easy acceptance of their offer. As excited – but, honestly, less surprised – by it, he ran his fingers along the bumps of his lover's spine, then delicately petted the fine fur at the base of his tail, nuzzling against his heated skin with as happy, but quieter purrs – already more than loving his mate's obvious pleasure.
His beast's heart was truly enormous – he always knew that – and considering his earlier loneliness… his Senri was utterly blown away by the fact of the growing number of the people whom he was free to care for – as his nature demanded. Logically Raha knew that likely once the things settle down, it wouldn't be all that easy – as it took but a look to know Nico wasn't used to other's care – and he suspected that once he realizes all his agreement accounted for – and the tad… overbearing tendencies of his beast – he might get spooked. Leaving the boy temporarily in T'rhasa's care to… kind of softened him up – as a few were able to resist Senri's mother's delicate beauty – not to mention how instantly she grew almost… scarily determined to smother the boy with affection – and between the younger kits downright awed by their new playmate (and especially his skills), he hoped that by the next time they can visit – they wouldn't find the boy asking to be relived from his agreement! And all that before ever mentioning the fact that of their 'possession' or the idea that once they're ready to move from the Mist – to Lavender Beds, most likely, as his lover so adorably desired – there was also Hades and Hythlodaeus to account for – as Damon kept insisting that even if they don't choose to live with mortals, they will need their own room for any visits. And Themis, obviously – as they couldn't possibly expect the young immortal to fend for himself… or something!
Earlier checking on their… newest guest, while he sent his Snark to ask the boy – he and Damon were somewhat baffled to find the strange woman – apparently at least partially a voidsent – still unconscious. Securing her in one of the empty bedrooms – and with a spell making sure… she couldn't leave it or harm anyone if she did wake up during their absence – they settled upon a decision to let her recover at her own pace – honestly, mostly unsure how to proceed with her, as unprecedented as her being was. Deciding to next day call in Y'shtola to have a look at the new arrival with her unique vision – they left her be for now.
When he somewhat sheepishly admitted to his lover where he found the woman – almost expecting his beast to be miffed with his secrecy – he was a tad… baffled when instead Senri… downright laughed his ass off, instead!
"Oh, this is priceless!" his mate gushed between his chuckles while Raha patiently waited for him to calm down. "Seriously, I wouldn't think of anything more fitting, Raha! The asshole always complained about the boredom… To sentence him for even more of it – brilliant, my mate!" he finished, bursting into booming laughter. And beyond pleased with himself at that reaction, he couldn't help his wide, devious grin at his lover's praise.
Yet, now… after the call he received from Alphinaud earlier in the evening, they had to change their plans for the next day – and as the implications of the development sank in, he couldn't help but grow quite… nervous about how to break the news. Especially when his lover seemed so blissfully happy… it was a shame to ruin the mood.
But at his immortal's quiet insistence, Raha took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, tightening his arm spanning his lover's waist as he leaned back to look into his beautiful face, almost wincing when Senri's instant grin fell quickly at the sight of his expression – and likely when he felt his apprehension.
"What's wrong, my prince?" his lover asked quietly, raising his hand to rest it against Raha's cheek and smoothing his thumb over the corner of his mouth as his ice-blue irises darkened with worry. "…doubts?"
"No, not at all," he said, shaking his head slightly then sighed softly and smoothed his hand up and down his mate's back, letting it rest over his beautiful behind as he bit his lip with uncertainty, then exhaled and decided that there was simply no easy way to put it. "Snark… earlier, when Alphinaud called, he told me that he convinced the Forum to lend us their way to communicate with Hydealyn, my heart, but the way it works…" he trailed off with another sigh, lifting slightly to brush the tip of his nose against his lover's. "…it's likely to be… painful, especially for you…"
"What is it then?" his lover frowned, trailing his pale eyes over his face with uncertainty.
"According to what I understood from his explanation – and to Damon's guess – we will have to delve into the aetherial sea, my beast," he whispered, smoothing his hand over his mate's heated skin when Senri stilled utterly and his eyes narrowed ever-so-slightly, growing distant and much, much cooler.
"I see…" his lover exhaled slowly then leaned his head in, resting his forehead against his and closing his eyes. "…and you are worried for my… mental stability if we encounter something… or someone unexpected."
"I am," he admitted openly, raising his hand stuck until then between them and delicately pressing it over his mate's neck as he tilted his head slightly to brush his lips against Senri's. "I… trust you with every fiber of my being, my heart, but after the last time… after Radz-at-Han and what happened there, it's obvious to me… Senri, those scars will always be a part of who you are – and as much as I wish there was a way to fix them… As much as I know the reason behind them, I can't help but simply shudder in fear of losing you, my beautiful beast, if facing this… is too much."
"Raha…" his lover chuckled sadly, moving his hand over to the back of his head and tangling his fingers in his loose hair as he brushed his nose against his cheek and down to the edge of his jaw. Slowly rolling them over, Senri pinned him down into the pillows with his weight, trailing sweet, reassuring kisses down his throat as he nudged his thighs apart to accommodate him and he complied easily, involuntarily purring his enjoyment at the surrounding him heat and scent of apples swiftly swelling with the tang of arousal. Greedily pawing at his wide back while arching his neck to grant his lover easier access, his cock quickly grew more than interested under the heated press of the pale skin of his mate's abdomen… even more as Senri purred – a deep, rumbling sound that sent a shiver of delight down his spine – then slowly trailed his too-pretty, too-hot mouth lower, down his collarbone, following the lines of his soon trembling muscles with his rough tongue until it tore a helpless mewl of arousal as it circled one of his nipples, then trailed lower still, to dip in his navel as Senri shifted his weight, lowering and delicately pulling his thighs up around his shoulders. Drowning his shaky hands in the soft, ink-black strands and delicately petting his lover's sensitive ears, he fought to catch his breath, involuntarily rolling his hips slowly in Senri's delicate, but possessive grip – losing his mind in painfully sweet, maddening anticipation when his mate's scalding breath fanned his wanting flesh, and whimpering helplessly at the gentle, rough-textured lick from the base of his dick to its tip. "Raha… if you're by my side… I can face anything – for you, my beautiful prince – none matters but your happiness… so don't worry about losing me, my heart, for now… I do know my priorities…" Senri whispered heatedly against his skin, and he fought to understand… but when the scorching heat of his skilled mouth surrounded his throbbing flesh, Raha swore, arching under the onslaught of pleasure with a choked whine of his name, chanting it desperately as his mate maddeningly slowly swallowed him down, with his big hands petting his trembling thighs soothingly.
"…oh, gods…" he gasped, curling his hand in Senri's dark hair as the other shoot to tangle in the blankets below him, desperately trying to hold on and not spill instantly when his mate's throat flexed around his cock and his nose brushed his skin. Fighting to stay utterly still, he couldn't help the way his tail gained the will of its own, curling in a possessive claim around Senri's shoulders and tightening ever-so-slightly with each mad beat of his heart as it seemed to try to jump out of his chest. "…S-Snark… ngh, fuuuck…" he mewled at the first rumbling, vibrating purr, gasping at the friction as he just couldn't help but roll his hips slowly, utterly focused and mesmerized by the sight of his flesh passing that too-pretty lips. "My Snark…" he moaned deeply, fisting the hand in his hair, and pulling his head back just enough to roll his hips harder, forcing him to take it as soon he fucked his mouth with relish. "…my good boy…" he purred near-deafeningly, arching with a gasp that trailed to a wail as Senri followed easily, so eagerly bobbing his head and purring his enjoyment at the rough treatment.
Insatiable, his Snark, in his need to please him… making him as insatiable in his need to submit to his hunger. Ever and always a perfect match…
His thoughts – a bare minimum as it already was – ran to a stop as his mate's inviting, rumbling purrs grew more and more intense, their vibrations choking the air out of his lungs on whines of bliss. The sheer pressure to come became a living thing under his skin, drowning all sense and reason, and he couldn't help but simply tumble over the edge with a choked groan of his lover's name, chanting it on gasps and mewls of indulgence as Senri swallowed around his flesh eagerly.
Numb with pleasure, he merely rumbled out inviting purrs when his lover lifted with a delicate, playful lick on his spent flesh, then nuzzled against his abdomen with his own happy purrs, while pulling his limp thigh over his shoulder and sneaking his hand between his buttocks, working his body into an almost embarrassingly swift submission and arousal. Petting his black hair lazily and rolling his hips slowly in rhythm with his ministrations, he was even more aroused by the time his beautiful beast pulled back, setting his leg down as he tossed him a wide, slightly crooked grin, smoothing his big, hot hands up his sides as he leaned above him, trailing his lips up his body until they met his in a deep, delicious kiss – sending his senses for a spin with his taste.
"How do you want me, my prince?" his mate purred teasingly against his lips and Raha chuckled breathlessly, wrapping his arms around his neck and pulling him down on top of him, to coil his legs around him as he arched under his weight in a silent invitation. Growling softly in approval, Senri buried his face against his throat, nuzzling into his skin affectionately as he took him slowly, sliding inside him with a deep, rumbling groan of relief that sent Raha's heart aflutter. Coiling around him tight like a vice, fisting one hand in his hair to pull him back into the kiss, he let himself drown in his taste, purring his enjoyment when Senri braced around him and swallowed his gasps and groans hungrily as he started to rock into him, in slow, smooth rhythm he couldn't help but match, arching and undulating under his weight to meet each scorching stroke.
Still kissing as his mate narrowed his world to the sensations only, rocking his very soul with his taste, scent, and heat – feeding him his ridiculously arousing mewl-purrs as the pressure and rhythm increased, at the edge of the orgasm as his body shook with need, he gave in easily feeling a slight, familiar push at his soul – and his world expanded to something beyond compare as their senses combined and his lover's pure, indicated devotion – his love and adoration so deep it felt like a surface of the sun, scorching away any and all doubts and insecurities – his own Sun, his mate – and the beast that hid inside him, claiming his soul at the deepest level of his being, and for a long, perfect moment they were one – one mind and soul, combined – and he wept at the bliss of it, too lost in sensations…
And when it ended – always too quickly – he couldn't do more than simply bask in the glory of it, lazily smoothing his hands over his lover's body when Senri pinned him down with his weight, happily nuzzling against the mark on his shoulder with near-deafening purrs.
"I don't think… I'll ever get enough of it," he finally whispered with a slightly sheepish chuckle, running his fingers through his mate's sweat-dampened hair.
"Mhmm," Senri agreed with a sweet, reassuring kiss on his skin before lifting above him to brush the tip of his nose against his with a silly, goofy, lovesick grin on his beautiful face. Dazed by it, Raha couldn't help but reply it with his own – as enamored – when he wrapped his hands around his lover's cheeks and pulled him down into a deep, sweet kiss, more than enjoying the way their too-happy purrs mixed as their tongues tangled. Pulling apart after a moment, he was caught in the snare of the ice-blue irises so full of emotion his heart instantly tripled its rhythm, singing its achingly beautiful chorus in a deafening staccato. "I love you," his Snark breathed matching its song, then buried his nose against his throat and sighed softly with bliss.
"I love you too, my beast," he purred, wrapping his arms around him securely, possessive in his claim over that heartbreakingly beautiful soul behind the pale ice of his irises. And I'll protect your heart, he added in thought, tightening his arms around him. No matter what it takes…
"Are we ready for this?" Ares whispered against his ear after their hosts slipped into a deep, dreamers slumber and Damon peeled his eyes open, pulling his husband's arms around him tighter as he bit his lower lip, frowning with consideration.
"I don't know," he finally admitted reluctantly, sighing deeply as he closed his eyes again. "I hate being blind," he muttered petulantly. As fun as it was so far – he couldn't but simply despise not knowing what was about to happen.
"I know," his lover chuckled, rubbing his chin over his head. "But so far… we had been managing, right?"
"I guess so…" he sighed, then tightened his hand around Ares's forearm. "Are you sure… ah, do you think Senri can handle that trip?"
A long moment of silence had him instantly unnerved, but he relaxed slightly when Ares chuckled fondly, hugging his arms around him securely.
"He's determined, that's for one reassuring," his husband whispered against his ear. "Whatever happens, your… ah, the lesson you gave him truly straightened out his priorities, love. I'm not exactly sure why… but since last night he had been calmer, more stable than ever – even when that Keeper provoked him, trying to insult his relationship with Raha… I admit, I was surprised he didn't snap, as he normally would do. Well, until…" he trailed off with a chuckle.
"Until we popped in?" he asked with a snicker.
"Mhmm," his lover agreed, then sighed. "Seeing that man lay a hand on you was too much, but still… the Keeper survived – if worse for the wear, and that – in my opinion – speaks volumes, all things considered. Somehow your words… well, as negative as it sounds, reinforced his… obsession with Raha, I think. And with all his being, he's now focused on protecting his own mind – and heart – if to by it protect Raha's, as you told him."
"Good," he sighed with relief without opening his eyes.
"Is it…?" Ares hummed with obvious amusement.
Despite that, Damon considered it seriously and answered honestly, without hesitation.
"Yes," he whispered. "For someone else, it might not be… healthy, the way he is with my boy, but Senri… He had been broken long before meeting Raha," he added softly, sadly. "If he didn't… fall for him that hard – I would dare say eventually… he would self-destruct, crushed by the hopelessness of his fate, Ares."
"Like I would if I didn't meet you," his lover chuckled self-consciously and he only smiled somewhat ruefully, too well knowing the truth behind this statement.
"As I would go mad with boredom without you," he whispered instead, relaxing when his husband chuckled again, but sounding more amused again. Then he sighed and smoothed his hand over Ares's arm, more than enjoying the heat of his body against his back. "But my question stands, love… Do you think he can handle it? It'll be already… hard trip – considering we have to be extremely careful of the sea's pull – and I rather not worry about him… slipping if something goes wrong."
"Only one way to find out," Ares sighed, pressing a kiss on top of his head and relaxing behind him. "Ready or not… time to have a word with auntie Venat…"
At that, Damon snorted inelegantly, snickering quietly.
"Hmmm?" amused at his outburst, Ares nipped at his ear playfully.
"Just… can't wait to see her face, that's all," he gasped and grinned when his husband muttered a profanity, then sighed with resignation. Still grinning, he nudged him with the back of his head slightly. "Want to bet if she's going to freak out?"
"You and your bets…" Ares chuckled helplessly, then fell silent for a moment and Damon waited, his grin downright devious by the time he spoke next. "…okay. What's the prize this time?"
"Ummm…" he pretended consideration, rubbing his cheek against his arm under his head. "…a surprise, to be named later?"
"…what are you scheming now?" his husband asked suspiciously and he grumbled a complaint, trying to bite back his snickers at the same time. "Ah, nevermind. Okay, so if she 'freaks' you win?"
"Mhmm," he nodded eagerly, in thought already crooning his assured victory – and impatient to see his husband's face when he hears the prize he planned to demand upon his inevitable win. "Hopefully by tomorrow Hades is well enough to take over the barrier – but still, I think we should keep back that trip until we're sure of it – and preferably until Meteion bashes against it again to see if my spell worked and she'll be still forced to face me and pay her due… But once we're in the clear with that – And hopefully all goes well in the sea on the way to her residence…"
"Okay, you're on then… but if she does not 'freak out,' to be completely clear, I can demand anything I want of you and you'll comply without a word of complaint, yes?" he asked softly, innocently – and in his glee, Damon missed the suspicious note in his deep, rumbling voice.
"Yes, obviously," he agreed easily, then purred with delight when his husband nipped on his ear again.
"That's good. It's going to be more fun, then," Ares snickered quietly, and suddenly… Damon peeled his eyes open again, wondering if actually… or rather, having a feeling like he just jumped headlong into his husband's trap. Chasing away the ridiculous thought, he relaxed into his embrace, smiling as he slipped back into their shared head.
After all, his victory was assured – how could it be not? – and whatever 'scheme' his lover seemed to think to surprise him with – well…
…what could possibly go wrong…?