FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

"This is him, then? The bearer?"

"I am," Uther said, looking up at Dylann without fear. Even though Dylann was in his human form, he felt as if the mortal before him knew exactly who he was even before he'd been introduced by Davin.

"Uther Pendragon..." Dylann said, as amazed as he was lost in thought. "I never thought I'd see another bearer, if I'm being perfectly honest. Shows what I know."

"We- I never thought Dylann would consort with lust daemons so easily," Uther said, though he didn't look as angry as before. "I suppose many things have changed... the blue hair is new, though."

"To be fair, I was once of Temperance," Davin chimed in, before Dylann held up a hand to silence him. If he was annoyed by the gesture, he didn't show it as he allowed Dylann to continue examining Uther.

"Your memories are not gone, but with so many centuries and so many bearers within your mind I imagine it's very difficult to sort through the different identities," Dylann said, causing Uther to sigh and nod. "Dead men tell no tales, they say... but then, they never met one such as you. I would say you do not know how special you are, but that would be a lie. Have you been awake long, Uther?"

"As the bearer of the blade? No," Uther said, shaking his head. "It has been a confusing week, but despite knowing I had died... that I had wasted away and froze... I have not since felt the need to eat or drink. Sleep provides me little respite; even when my body has a chance to get comfortable, my mind flits across countless battlefields both natural and supernatural in nature. I am lost within myself, but only one name strikes me as my own anymore. Uther Pendragon, bearer of Caledfwlch. It is as if I am one man who has lived countless years and countless lives, though I know I am simply yet another unfortunate heir linked through steel and purpose."

"I think you'll remember who you were, eventually," Dylann said, reassuring him despite his serious tone and posture. "Though your old name will sound dead and hollow in your ears. Whatever you once were, you are now Uther. It's... good to see you again. Truly."

"...So what do I do now?" Uther asked, a tired expression as he looked between Dylann and the two lust daemons staring at them. "And what about them?"

"I consider them friends, so I think you can trust them," Dylann said, shrugging as he relaxed a bit more. "As for what you should do... I cannot offer you any advice other than to figure out who you were. Though from the sound of it, you may have been homeless."

"And if you were homeless, you either didn't have a job or you weren't paid well enough to find and keep a place," Liam said, folding his hands together as he leaned across his desk. "Would you like some help with that? Mammon likely would know a way to obtain both."

"And what would your price be?" Uther asked, a growl in his voice.

"...Price? I ask for absolutely nothing in return," Liam said. "I know daemons don't have the best track record with mortals, but we have been making an effort to live in your world for some time now. The Unity may keep us and the more rogue daemons in check, but even Pride agrees it's to our benefit and yours to live in peace. This is charity I offer, nothing more."

"You can probably stay at my place while we figure it all out," Dylann offered, causing Davin to laugh and shake his head. "What?"

"You have enough people there as it is. I know it's roomy there, but if you keep collecting strays then you're going to have a real problem on your hands eventually."

"Oh, and I suppose he can stay here at the bar?" Dylann asked sarcastically.

"Actually, he can stay at my place here on Earth," Davin said, shrugging. "I barely use it as it is, but I keep it clean and pay the rent and bills. He'll have more privacy there, too. All I'll ask is that he take out the garbage or do the dishes every so often. You know, help out with the chores. Is that agreeable, Uther?"

"...If that's all you require, then... I suppose it is acceptable," Uther relented, his stomach growling suddenly. "It would also be good to have a place to rest and eat, as well. I may not require it with the blade's magic sustaining me, but it is still uncomfortable to go without."

"It'll be good for someone to live in that place regardless," Davin said, smiling. "Oh, and don't worry about the landlord. He and I have an understanding. Though tell me if he gives you any trouble anyway."

"Thank you," Uther said, seeming to drop the hostility for once. "Perhaps I may even be able to organize my thoughts while I am there. To figure out what I should do now. There must be a reason I was chosen by this blade."

"Who knows?" Dylann said, crossing his arms. "It could be for any reason. Perhaps too many daemons around mortals, perhaps someone disturbed the tomb of the last bearer... anything could have awakened the magic of Caledfwlch. But we have much to discuss about this world you now find yourself in, Uther. Davin, if you will give me the keys and instructions to the apartment, I can take him there on my way home."

"That might be for the best," Liam said, watching as Davin tossed a set of keys at Dylann. "Anthros especially may be confusing to him. The last thing we need is a confrontation between him and innocent people just living their lives."

"Yes, I have noticed them. I had thought they were daemons at first, but I didn't sense any power in them," Uther said, rising to his feet. "Let us retire then, Lord Temperance."

"Oh gods, just call me Dylann," the blue-haired daemon said, rolling his eyes as Davin winked at him. "They'll never let me live it down if you start with that lord crap. Though I do appreciate the humility, all the same."

Davin laughed as Liam nodded farewell, watching as Dylann led Uther out the doors of the office. Sighing, Liam looked to Davin before massaging his temples.

"What do you think?" he asked, causing Davin to shrug.

"Who the fuck knows? That blade's been a pain in my ass as much as it's been a boon," Davin laughed, shrugging. "I guess we'll see what he does with it, yeah?"

"I suppose," Liam said. "I should probably see what Maerynn knows about him sooner than later, assuming we can get any leads to his identity. But if you'll excuse me, Davin... I have an appointment to keep."

"With her, huh?" Davin asked, hands on his hips. "Alright. I need to head back to the bar anyway. Send my love to Prudentia."

Liam chuckled as Davin left the office, closing the door behind him. He sat there for a time, before opening the envelope he'd received that morning. In it was a single glass key, though as it caught the light one got the impression it held more secrets and mysteries than one could ever learn in a mortal lifetime. Standing, he walked over to the door before placing the key into the keyhole. With a final twist, light began pouring from the cracks in the door.

"No time like the present," Liam said, mentally bracing himself as he opened the door to a world of light.

*******

"I really do like this place," Orias said, massaging Seth's backside as the wolf sat on his lap facing him. "Most the energy of this place goes to Lust, as it should, but even I get a portion of the lust generated here. What a generous pocket of reality you have here; I feel like a new daemon."

"Yeah, it's pretty great," Seth said, his voice deeper than normal. His vocal chords hadn't changed, but he'd been wanting to talk more like a 'man' ever since Orias had called him one. They were sitting in one of the more private booths, curtains drawn so they wouldn't be disturbed. One usually had to pay for the priviledge, but as an employee Seth had free access. "I'm glad you like it here."

"The view is amazing, too," Orias said, smirking as his eyes locked onto his. "I bet a sexy thing like you gets whatever he wants around here. If not, you should."

"You think so?" Seth asked, grinding his hips against Orias' as he groped him especially hard.

"Any man should feel honored to bottom for such a testosterone-filled alpha like you," Orias said, his words stirring something deep within Seth. "Though I hope you'll let me top you, still."

"I do love feeling your cocks in my ass," growled Seth, smiling as he began tweaking Orias' nipples. He was still not sure how that worked but hey, he was enjoying it all the same. "Though yeah, now that you mention it... I can't really see myself bottoming for anyone but you. They wouldn't be able to satisfy me, I think. Not the same way you can, babe."

"I can imagine why not," Orias said, hissing in pleasure as Seth worked his chest over. "Mm, babe. You're making me horny."

"You're always horny, it seems," Seth laughed, leaning in to kiss him on the neck. "Should we head back to your place or mine? Or maybe one of the rooms here piqued your interest?"

"I'll take you here and now," Orias said, his sultry voice sending shivers down Seth's spine as he unbuckled his belt.

"We're not supposed to have sex in the booths," Seth said, but he offered no resistance as he felt his pants being slid down and exposing his ass. "It's kind of an unspoken rule..."

"Live a little," Orias said, fingering Seth's hole. Even though it wasn't lubed, Seth moaned as it slid in with ease no doubt in part due to how his scales were. "If you worry about every little 'rule' out there, how do you expect to live your life?"

"Mmm... I guess it won't fucking hurt this time," Seth said, panting as two, then three fingers started pumping in and out of his hole. "Fuck me, god dammit."

"Anything you want, babe," Orias chuckled, slipping his hemipenes out of his pants with his free hand. "I love a confident man who knows exactly what he wants."

"Shut up and shove them in me," growled Seth, positioning himself over those beautiful cocks of his as Orias slipped his fingers out of him. He felt so empty without them, but he knew how he could feel full again. "Now."

"So wild..." Orias laughed, squeezing his cocks together. "I'm still a bit big for you, so go slow. It'll be more pleasurable for both of us, that way."

"Yeah. Alright," Seth said, doing as he was told. He was horny and needy, but he wasn't stupid. He was relaxed due to the massage, and had been loosened up even further by his big fingers in his hole. Even so, he couldn't help but feel a little apprehensive as those cocks began pressing as his entrance once again, and he found himself looking into Orias' eyes. It always helped when he did that, and this time was no exception as those wonderful orbs glowed and helped relax him further. He wasn't unaware of the effect, but he welcomed it all the same.

"Mmm, yessssss," Orias hissed, feeling Seth's greedy hole begin to swallow both his cocks at once as he worked them in slowly and gently. "You're doing so well, babe. Keep going... that's it, relax..."

"So full," Seth panted, yet he knew he wasn't even halfway down those shafts yet. "You're so big..."

"I can tell you love it, though," Orias said, hissing again as another inch was swallowed up. "You must get fucked all the time, if you're this loose..."

"I don't, really... it's been a while actually," Seth said, starting to get into a rhythm. "Too busy... with work... oh god, I needed this..."

"Ah, sorry then," Orias apologized, though his hands were spreading Seth open further as he thrust even more inside of him. "You could have any man you wanted, so I just assumed we were the same that way..."

"I don't know if I should feel insulted or not, but god damn those cocks are... mmmf. Fuck me deep, daddy..."

"Then relax. You're almost there," Orias encouraged, feeling the muscles around his cocks loosening even further as he slowly slid down to the base of his cocks, where they were connected. "That's it... that's it..."

"God I feel like a whore," Seth said, blushing despite himself. "But I just... can't stop..."

"Then don't stop. Be a whore if you want. Use me, ride me, do what comes naturally..." Orias said, reassuring him. "Fuck, this is so hot..."

"If I'm a whore, then so are you," growled Seth, getting into it. "Fuck it. I'm gonna milk you dry. Don't you dare pull out."

"Hell yeah," Orias moaned, licking one of his gleaming fangs as Seth began bouncing up and down. "Knew I saw something special in you."

Seth was too into it as he panted, merely nodding as he bounced in time with Orias' thrusts. He was worried a few times that he'd be too eager and have them pop out of him but Orias was an expert lover, keeping his hands planted firmly around his waist and pushing him back down. How was he even taking this in the first place, nevermind multiple times in one night? He only knew that Orias was getting close as he hissed and moaned, giving him that look that Seth had seen more than once. He squeezed and massaged with his ass, knowing just how to get what he wanted out of the cobra daemon. With a final thrust Orias arched backwards as Seth felt those cocks pulsing hot seed deep into him, the cobra's eyes rolling back into his head in bliss as Seth moaned in satisfaction. He wasn't sure why, but it felt even better than before as he kept milking him for all he was worth. He wanted every drop inside him. He needed it.

"...How's my wolf doing?" Orias said, once Seth collapsed against him, panting.

"I'm so horny and hard, but I can't seem to cum," he managed to say after a while, though somehow he didn't mind.

"Well, I'm sure I can help with that," Orias said, before placing a finger in his own mouth. Withdrawing it, he pulled Seth slowly off of him until his cocks popped out and quickly spread his saliva over his hole; he wasn't exactly sure how Orias had done it, but he felt as if his hole was sealed tight now. When he gave Orias a questioning look, the cobra merely laughed. "Wouldn't want my seed to go to waste this time, would we? That glue will wear off though, don't worry. But lay down and relax. I'll take care of you..."

Seth allowed himself to be laid down on the booth seat as Orias knelt next to him and pulled down his pants and thong halfway down his thighs, giving the wolf's exposed and pulsating member a quick test stroke before greedily engulfing it. Seth moaned as that expert tongue swirled and wrapped around his shaft, a rush of excitement flowing through him as it brushed against those dangerous fangs of his every so often. The more he focused, the more he felt as if his cock was just a bit bigger somehow. It was probably just more of that magical daemon saliva at work and his own neediness playing tricks on him, but whatever the reason he simply enjoyed the moment as he approached his climax. Sensing he was close, Orias redoubled his efforts until the wolf arched his back, his seed spilling forth like water from a dam. He could feel his lustful energy flowing into Orias as much as his own seed, every drop feeding the daemon directly. The feeling of it was better than any orgasm he'd ever experienced before, but it was over as quickly as it had begun.

"Delicious, as always," Orias chuckled, licking his lips as he pulled off of Seth. The wolf laid there in utter bliss and contentment before he slowly came to his senses, pulling his thong and pants up around his waist before sitting up.

"As... always?" Seth asked, his heart still racing.

"We've done this more than a few times, remember? Though this is the first time you've taken both of me so well," Orias said, praising the wolf as he ruffled the hair on his head. Allowing him to pull him closer, Seth cuddled against his lover gratefully as he caught his breath.

"...Thanks, by the way," Seth said, smiling. "That was... the best sex I've ever had. And that's including earlier."

"I aim to please..." Orias whispered, giving his ear a small nibble. "It's been some time since I had so much fun with a mortal. Or even a daemon, really; you'd be surprised how lazy some are when it comes to sex, and I don't mean the slothful variety."

"How long has it been since you were on Earth, then? You mentioned something about that when we first met."

"Quite possibly longer than you've been alive on Earth, little wolf; I'm not so good with estimating the ages of mortals, since for a daemon like me it wasn't very long. I lost too much of my power and had to float about for a while due to a disagreement I had with some of my brothers. Fights like that weren't as uncommon back then as you'd think, though it seems daemons are now tired of our eternal, endless struggles. It's nice, not having to fight someone just because your aspects disagree with each other. I'm glad to have a physical form again, regardless."

"Were you always a cobra anthro, then?" Seth asked, curious.

"Oh, hm... not quite, no," Orias said, eyeing him curiously. "Last time I was a mixture of a few different animals, more a chimera I suppose. But even if I still desired that form, it was much too much energy to maintain even when I was at my most powerful. A mistake I won't make again. This form is much simpler, and much more enjoyable when it comes to my kinks."

"Why even have a chimera form, then? Seems it'd get in the way..."

"Well, I was of Wrath a long time ago, before I turned to Lust," Orias said, causing Seth to look up in surprise. "It was easier to maintain when everyone was always fighting each other in countless wars and petty struggles. Even without war, mortals hate and grow angry over the smallest of things. Wrath is plentiful, but once I laid with my first mortal I knew I couldn't go back to Wrath. But why the sudden interest in who and what I am, hm? I know we're dating now, but most mortals don't really probe with such deep questions so soon."

"I'm a bit of a daemonologist, I suppose," Seth said, shrugging. "Or I was, anyway. Most of what I learned is... well, somewhere in my head I guess. It was all easier to remember when I was a merwolf for some reason, but now it's usually just flashes of insight I cannot control."

"You could remember because of Temperance, but not now..." Orias said, realization dawning on him. "But let's not talk of such serious things anymore, at least for tonight. How do you feel after all of that?"

"Good. Very good," Seth said, feeling a rush of energy hit him. "I mean, I'm a bit sore but... you know, now that I think about it, why is it that shoving both your cocks in my ass didn't hurt one bit?"

"Perks of being me, I suppose," Orias chuckled. "My members are covered with a special lube of sorts... it numbs pain and increases pleasure. I'll spare you the details, however."

"Feels good, either way," Seth chuckled. "Though I feel like I could go for another round, now. It almost feels like I got some good sleep, even."

"That'll be the energizing properties of my seed you're absorbing. To keep you going, and going, and going..." Orias chuckled, giving him a kiss on the lips. "But we don't want you becoming some sex-crazed slut, do we? So we'll just pace ourselves."

"Yeah. Plenty of time to figure this out," Seth giggled, exploring up and down Orias' torso. "Damn I could get used to this, though."

"Hm? Not falling in love with me, are you?" Orias chuckled.

"No. Though I am definitely in lust with you," laughed Seth, burying his face into his chest. "Is that bad to say? I don't really know."

"I think it's perfect," Orias said, smiling. "Why would it be bad? You desire me, and I desire you. It doesn't need to be more complicated than that, wouldn't you say?"

"...When you put it that way, yeah," Seth agreed, dragging his tongue across his bare chest. "When will I see you again? After we're done here, I mean."

"Hm? I figured you'd come back to my place for tonight," Orias chuckled. "Or maybe I could come to yours? I am curious to see where my new boyfriend lives."

"Yeah, sure babe!" Seth said, excited to bring Orias to his apartment. "Though... my bed isn't that big, honestly."

"I doubt we'll be doing much sleeping anyway," chuckled Orias, tweaking one of Seth's piercings. "Let's get out of here."

"What time is it, anyway?" Seth muttered, checking his phone. "Oh. I have another hour..."

"Surely they don't need you here, or they'd have sent for you already?" Orias asked. "Just clock out early."

"Well... okay," Seth said, feeling uneasy about it. "I don't like to do that, but I guess I've earned it this once. Davin will understand... probably..."

"If he's as good a boss as you say he is, then he will," Orias said, reassuring him. "But if you feel that strongly about it, we could try to find him first. Maybe he'll join us, even..."

"Hah, no. Bar's too important for him to skip out on it for a booty call off the premises. But you're right, we'll probably be able to find him. He's gotta be out of that meeting by now..."

Seth stood, drawing the curtain open as Orias followed him out. Navigating the club, they weaved in and out as they finally emerged into the area with the dance floor and full bar. Seeing Davin, Seth made a beeline toward him.

"What can I ge- oh? Seth... nice outfit," Davin chuckled, realizing who he was talking to. "Looks good on you. But who's this, hm? Is that why I couldn't find you earlier?"

"I was showing him around. He's my boyfriend... we sorta just hit it off immediately, you know?"

"And you dressed just like him, I see," Davin said, raising an eyebrow in curiosity. "Interesting..."

"Not too hard to pull off, when you know a daemon or two," Orias said, winking. "Besides, I had to repay him somehow for tearing all his clothes off..."

"That was pretty hot," Seth chuckled, remembering. "Still can't believe you did that."

"Hm, I see," Davin said, nodding. "Seth, can I speak to you in private? Assuming your boyfriend there is okay with that?"

"By all means," Orias said, bowing his head. "Take all the time you like. I'll be out warming up your seat, Seth."

"See you in a bit, Onyx," Seth said, blushing as he used his nickname again. It really did sound tough to him, sighing wistfully as he watched the cobra anthro walk away.

"How long have you known him?" Davin asked, his voice betraying nothing. "Very long?"

"Oh, just tonight really. It's more of a sexual thing than anything else," Seth said, shrugging. "Why do you ask?"

"I'm genuinely interested in all my employees' lives. But he's a daemon, isn't he?"

"I mean, is it that obvious?" Seth asked.

"Not that obvious, but your outfit reeks of daemonic magic. Besides, he just has that attitude. He hasn't done anything to you, has he?"

"You mean like anything bad? No," Seth said, confused. "Why does this matter, though? I mean, you didn't ask questions when Dylann hooked up with Mark that one night..."

"Dylann isn't a lust daemon, for starters," Davin said, before sighing. "Look. I just have bad experiences with my own kind, so maybe I'm being biased... just be careful, hm? Don't rush into things. Take it slow."

"If you say so," Seth said, not sure how he felt about this. "Though you're starting to sound a bit like my father, you know?"

"Heh, I suppose I am," Davin chuckled. "Just know I've got your back if something happens with Onyx there. You have my number, and I never sleep. Don't worry about calling me if you need my help with anything, even if it's just to chat my ear off about your sexual exploits."

"Oh... okay," Seth said, feeling somehow reassured and bashful at the same time. "I hate to ask this now that we've had this talk, but can I..."

"Go. I'll clock you out, once I've had a 'stern talking to' with Mark. He should know better than to clock others in... but then, if he thinks you've earned it you probably have. Have fun, Seth."

"Will do... thanks boss," Seth said, his tail wagging behind him as he hurried after Orias. He panicked for a bit as he walked out into the alleyway and didn't see him, but the revving of an engine put him at ease as he remembered they had parked on the street. Running down the alley, he hopped on the motorcycle and wrapped his arms tightly around Orias' waist, feeling wild and free as he and his lover peeled out onto the street.

*******

Zale sighed, looking at the clock grumpily again. It was getting pretty late and Dylann still wasn't home. He hoped there'd be an explanation for why later, but right now he couldn't help but feel a little bit sulky about how his night had been interrupted. He had to admit though, Dylann was a Temperance daemon for a reason if he could just stop in the middle like that; it'd taken Zale a while to get him to open up to the idea of even trying anything sexual with him, and of course this happens right after. Still, the bed was comfortable enough, so he simply relaxed on his stomach as he laid his head down on the pillow and looked over at the small fish tank on the table across from him.

He knew he was overreacting a little, especially because he was feeling lonely without anyone else home. Mark was working until much later while Zale had the night off, and he had thought Dylann had been finished with the business at the bar from earlier. But when he remembered he was in Dylann's bed, he couldn't help but smile at that. Deciding to stop feeling sorry for himself, he rose and sat on the edge of the bed as he looked over at the bettas in the tank.

"How are you all doing?" he said, the merlion chuckling as he stood and walked over. Checking their feeding schedule, he knew they'd eaten recently... so instead of messing with them, he decided to start doing some pushups. Living above the water, he realized he had to do more to keep his muscle tone and mass. Swimming everywhere was, unsurprisingly, a good workout... but even if he'd had a pool he could go to, it was a bit late to go swimming now. A pang of longing filled him as he remembered Atlantis and its warm waters, but he put it from his mind as he focused on his reps. Up, down... up, down... he got into a rhythm as his discipline kicked in. He was a soldier through and through now, even if most of his memories of those times were buried deep within. His mind wandered as he remembered the weight of a harpoon in the water, how it felt to train the new recruits... before long, he realized his muscles were about to give out, so he stopped himself and rested on his knees. His muscles burned, but in that burning was the pleasure of knowing he'd done well.

"...I miss it," he sighed, running a hand over his scaled legs as he talked to the fish. It's not like they could understand him, but he felt some comfort in hearing his own voice instead of being trapped in his head. "The warmth, the currents... you'd all have liked it there, I bet. Well... maybe not. Everything's very big there. You'd probably get eaten up, huh?"

Sighing, Zale ran a hand through his mane. It was as long as it had been in the ocean... in fact, he'd had a hard time convincing Pride - Lucian, he reminded himself - to allow him to keep this form in its entirety. He had enjoyed being a lion, sure. But once he'd been a merlion for so long, he knew he couldn't come back fully from that. There were even moments where he would go to do something Dylann had asked for without even thinking about it, but the sea-goat was quick to realize his mistake and would end up doing it himself. Zale supposed they were all adjusting to a 'normal' life on Earth, but Zale especially had been having a difficult time. The sound of a key turning in a lock caused him to jump, though he smiled when he heard the light footsteps entering the apartment.

"Welcome home," Zale said, opening the bedroom door to Dylann's tired face. "How'd it go?"

"Can we lie down first?" Dylann asked, not even caring about Zale's somewhat sweaty chest as he relaxed against it. The merlion couldn't help but feel happy in the presence of his love, no matter the form. He helped Dylann get undressed before they both climbed into the bed again, his smaller human form fitting nicely in Zale's strong, powerful arms.

"That bad?" Zale asked, concerned with Dylann's tense expression. "What happened?"

"No, not a bad thing, just complicated. You see... every so often there's an artifact of power that chooses a host. A mortal host," Dylann specified, causing Zale's eyebrows to raise. "One of those is a sword: Caledfwlch. It's often confused for the mythical blade Excalibur, but it's not the same as that story. The reason I was called away tonight is because we found a new host of that legendary blade. A new Uther Pendragon."

"Not 'Arthur'?" Zale asked, causing Dylann to chuckle.

"Arthur is just a legend from a story. Though I wouldn't be surprised if a past Uther had something to do with that, somehow," Dylann said, breathing in Zale's musk. "...You were working out, hm?"

"Sorry. I got a bit antsy," Zale apologized, smiling sheepishly. "Do you want me to shower or...?"

"No, it's actually... um, you smell nice," Dylann said, blushing a bit. "Manly. But I'm getting distracted. Liam, Davin and I decided it would be best if Uther lived in Davin's apartment for a while, at least until he gets his bearings. I'll spare you the details, but considering death is a prerequisite for bearing the blade, it's a rather intense experience for a new host to go through. I had to bring him up to speed on how the world works now, since the last Pendragon walked the earth centuries ago."

"That does sound a bit exhausting," Zale said, nodding. "Sounds like you had a busy night."

"I'm sorry we got interrupted, but I'm afraid I'm not in the mood now," Dylann sighed, closing his eyes. "Just when you got me worked up, too..."

"It's okay," Zale said, giving him a small squeeze as he reassured him. "We'll try another time. It's not about the sex for me anyway. I just..."

"Just what?" Dylann said, looking up into his shimmering rainbow eyes. Zale felt his heart melt at how innocent and vulnerable he looked in that moment in spite of what he truly was.

"...I just love you so much," Zale said, his eyes watering. "I want us to be intimate and all that, but that doesn't matter as much as just being with you."

"And Mark?" Dylann asked, a look of insecurity on his face. "What about him?"

"I love him, too," Zale said, smiling. "I know, scandalous right? But I can't help how I feel. I love you both."

"I see..." Dylann said, a small smile on his lips. "I was worried I was taking you away from him, but if that's how you feel then I guess it's okay."

"How do you feel about... us?" Zale asked. It was his turn to feel insecure now, waiting for Dylann to answer as he bit his own lip.

"I'm still in love with you, if that's what you're asking," Dylann sighed, closing his eyes. "But do I really deserve this happiness? After everything I... maybe I should just abdicate my title. I'm not worthy of it."

"Don't do that!" Zale said, a hard look in his eyes. "Any of that. Were you selfish? Yes. Did you make mistakes? Yes. But if you quit, then it will be a slap in the face to the rest of us. Atone for what you did, as you are. Am I understood?"

"You sound like my Commander again," chuckled Dylann, before nodding. "Okay. I suppose my conscience has been beating me up about it lately. But I can't keep doing that."

"No, you can't. You know I've forgiven you," Zale said, pulling him in tightly. "I know what I said when I was coming out of it though, about being toyed with by daemons and... I was conflicted. I didn't want to choose. Despite everything, I wanted to stay there... and I still do. Atlantis has marked me Dylann, but I can't leave Mark either. I won't."

"You've said similar things, before," Dylann said. "Is this really what your heart wants?"

"It's where my heart still is," Zale said, smiling. "You thought it was all about just worshiping and serving you like some kind of god? It was beautiful there, free from the worries of this world. Sure, it has its own problems from time to time, and it doesn't have the same protection Earth does... but it was paradise for me. Especially with you there."

"I would be worried you were still under my influence, but this form is unable to exert it over you. Especially with the Vices and Virtues here as well. So I believe you... it makes me happy to hear you say those words, actually."

"But you won't take me back any time soon, will you?" Zale asked, feeling somewhat sad. "Not even to visit?"

"No. I meant what I said," Dylann said, a stern look in his eye. "A full year before I even consider it. I fear you being in my realm again so soon will only reinforce how you were before Lucian brought you back. The fact you're longing for it now only confirms my suspicions."

"...You're right," sighed Zale. "I know. Have you found a replacement for me, at least? I worry for the recruits..."

"They're all seasoned warriors, now. While they have a new commander, I have not chosen a second to replace you," Dylann said, surprising Zale. "Perhaps I will choose one someday, but I only think of you when I try to appoint one right now. And I cannot make such a decision while I'm emotionally compromised that way."

"I'm sorry," Zale sighed, though Dylann only laughed and kissed his pec. "What?"

"It's been a long time since I've felt anything other than 'duty', 'discipline', or 'the right thing'," Dylann said, allowing himself to just be a human instead of a king. "You get so focused on what you believe is right, that your view is the only view... and you think you know best, no matter what anyone else believes or knows. When I kept you and Seth, and when we took Mark as well, I felt as if I was doing the right thing. I had given you a choice, or so I thought. It's so easy to forget I'm the same as any other daemon..."

"Honestly, morality's difficult even for us mortals to navigate and we have to live with it every day of our short lives," Zale said, after giving it some thought. "Even we can't agree on the right thing all the time, and we've seen some horrific fucking shit. Yet you feed off all of it, don't you?"

"...As long as their conscience is clear and they believe what they do is right, yes. I feed from it," sighed Dylann. "It was why I was worshiped as a god, and why I allowed it. It was how I grew so powerful. Humility, conscience, self control... and a few others, I suppose. I think I see your point, but I've existed for a long time."

"In your own bubble, and sometimes literally," Zale laughed. "You don't learn anything by isolating yourself in your own echo chamber, sorry to say."

"...I guess that's true," Dylann said. "That must be why I changed so much when I still was a lawyer. Even just pretending to be mortal, I've learned so much."

"Exactly. Now stop beating yourself up. You're immortal, remember? Can't live with this shit over your head forever, can you?"

"Oh, I can try," joked Dylann, causing Zale to chuckle. "I need to do much more before I've atoned, but I can't do that if I'm always guilting myself over what happened. I can't change the past. That's what I keep telling myself, but..."

"Easier said than done, I know" Zale said, rubbing his hand down Dylann's side. "We'll both take it a day at a time, then. As normal a life as we can both manage."

"...Yeah. That will help us both," Dylann agreed, giving him a quick kiss on the lips. "I can't bring you to my realm so soon, but maybe I could set up something between here and there. For when you want to swim?"

"...You don't have to do that," Zale said, though he was happy it was even being offered. "You already spent so much energy already..."

"I insist. You've been so kind to me despite everything... let me do this for you. If it bothers you, just think of it as another way of me paying penance for my actions."

"...Okay. I'll accept, then. Though I won't fall to my knees again in your presence, will I? It's hard enough for me not to do that here."

"Oh, no. It'd be like the bar; free of any direct influences. Under my protection, but about the same as any other place otherwise. It's already done, actually."

"You already...? Wow, that was fast," Zale said, blinking in surprise. "I guess it wouldn't be too hard for you though."

"I was thinking about making it for a while, actually. I just wanted to be sure you thought it was okay before I 'finalized' it. Here, Ill give you a key so you can go there whenever you like."

Turning over, Dylann reached into the bedside drawer and withdrew a small, metal key with a Capricorn symbol on it. How long had it been there? Zale's large hand closed over the small item as he treasured it.

"Thank you," Zale said, smiling. "I'll be sure to use it. Any door, or...?"

"Any door would work but the one to the apartment probably works best," Dylann said, wrapping an arm around him. "It returns you to where you were before entering, you see? So you could just head straight back here to shower."

"You sure you want me to shower?" Zale asked, pressing Dylann into his chest again. "Maybe we both could, now I think about it..."

"...Cleanliness is next to godliness..." Dylann said, inhaling Zale's scent. Now that he had had a chance to relax, perhaps he was starting to get in the mood again. Zale didn't care too much either way, even if his own arousal was building at the thought. "Maybe after a quick swim? We should really test that key out first."

"Let's," Zale said, smiling as he slowly sat up. "I don't need to bring my swim trunks, do I?"

"No," laughed Dylann. "It's a place just for you and whoever you want to bring. But it has plenty of room for you to exercise your tail."

"Oh, yeah. I can do that," Zale said, bringing a hand to his forehead. Dylann followed as Zale walked into the hallway toward the apartment entrance; taking the key, he inserted it into the lock and twisted it. He didn't feel anything special happen, though as soon as he took the key out and opened the door he was greeted by a wall of water.

"...That almost gave me a heart attack," Zale said, worried for a split second that the apartment would be flooded. "Well... here I go."

Zale smiled as he walked in, feeling the pressure of the water comforting him as he focused. It wasn't long before his legs and tail had merged into the more familiar and powerful fish tail he had missed using. So, he really did have that boon. His gills began to work as soon as he was fully submerged, and he twisted around to smile at Dylann closing the door behind him. The door winked from existence, causing Zale to panic slightly.

"Peace," Dylann said, his voice echoing through the water. It wasn't as powerful as when he was in his full glory, but Zale still wondered at how his human form could do that. Dylann even seemed to walk along the floor quite easily. "You can always find the door with that key. Though here, let me make sure you won't lose it."

Zale watched as a chain necklace formed through the loop of the key, the links made entirely of the aquamarine he had known and loved. It was deceptively strong, but after testing it with a few tugs he clasped it around his neck. It wasn't able to go over his head without undoing the clasp, so he felt confident it wouldn't fall off even if he was doing some wild maneuver.

"Thanks," he said, surprised he was able to talk underwater. "Oh! I can still..."

"Why wouldn't you?" Dylann said, smiling as he tried to swim over to him without his power. After a few frustrated attempts, he managed to start getting the hang of it as he reached Zale's arms. "Humans aren't very good swimmers. Well... I'm not, as a human, anyway."

"You just need practice," Zale chuckled, looking upward. "Is there a surface?"

"No. It's more like a fish bowl, really," Dylann chuckled. "Though no opening. Just an orb of water to practice in. Though you'd think you were swimming for miles and miles with how it keeps you from the edges, so feel free to do whatever you like. When you're ready to head back, you just need to focus on finding the door while you have that key in your possession."

"You don't have any gills?" Zale asked, concerned for a moment.

"I don't need them. Immortal daemon, remember?" Dylann said, smirking. "Besides, it'd be a bit of an oversight if I made a realm where anyone could drown, since it's just supposed to be a fun place to swim. Rules can be bent in such places... though gills will help you breathe even better, so there's that."

"Good to know," Zale said, before holding Dylann tightly. Before he could be asked what he was doing, Zale launched them with his powerful tail as he laughed. It felt good, being able to swim like this... and soon Dylann was relaxed enough in his arms that he knew he was enjoying this too.

"Thank you for this wonderful gift," Zale said, slowing down after a while. "It's a bit barebones though, isn't it?"

"Oh, that's intentional. Tell me what you'd like here and I can modify it."

"Kind of like a fish tank... wait," Zale said, realizing something. "I'm a fish in a fish tank, aren't I?"

"Oh I hadn't even... sorry," Dylann stammered, blushing deeply. "I just..."

"Oh I'm only joking," Zale said, giving his face a quick lick. "Relax. But I'll think of some ideas and tell you about them later. Should we go shower now?"

"I am getting a bit pruney," Dylann said, noticing his skin. "I forgot humans do that with their skin when it comes to water."

"You do bathe, don't you?" Zale chuckled, causing Dylann to smile sheepishly.

"Yeah, but usually a quick cold shower?" Dylann said. Zale simply shook his head as he focused on finding the door, and it appeared before them. Letting go of Dylann, he focused as his legs reappeared and he leaned over, turning the key in the lock before opening it.

"We need to fix that. A long, hot and steamy shower just for the two of us," Zale said, taking Dylann's hand as he lead him back into the apartment. He was worried for a moment they'd leave a mess, but as soon as he crossed through he found he was dry as soon as he left the water. Just as well; Zale didn't want to make any excuses for why everything was wet in case he used this key elsewhere... and cleanup would have been a pain anyway.

"Is there room?" Dylann asked, closing the door behind them and connecting it back to the outside world.

"There is in the master bathroom," Zale chuckled, leaning over and gently nibbling Dylann's ear. "Come on. You'll love it. I'll even wash your back."

"Okay," Dylann said, following after Zale as the merlion walked toward his and Mark's bedroom. Dylann had insisted on taking the 'guest' bedroom, though even that room was still large enough for two big anthros to sleep in. Zale smiled as Dylann shivered in the colder air of the large bathroom as the merlion dug around in the closet for a couple of towels. Setting them on the side, he opened the glass door of the large shower before beckoning for Dylann to enter.

"So... I've never really done this before," Dylann confided, closing the door after him. Turning around, he didn't see how close Zale was before bumping into him. Instead of being knocked down, Zale quickly steadied him with one arm.

"It's just showering. But with two people instead," Zale insisted, smiling wickedly as he turned the shower on. As the water poured out of the shower nozzle, Dylann yelped as a blast of cold water hit his skin, being pushed out by the hot water following soon after. After a few moments of letting the hot water run over their fur, skin and scales, Dylann let out a sigh of contentment as he leaned against Zale and allowed himself to be massaged and groped. He could tell he was doing something right when he felt Dylann's hardening cock against his thigh.

"Turn around, babe," Zale said, grabbing a loofah and body wash from the nearby shelf. It was specially designed with furs in mind, but it would work just as well on human skin if not better. Soaping it up he waited for Dylann to do as he said before he began washing his back with it, kneading and massaging muscles with his spare hand.

"You don't have to..."

"Hush, my lord," Zale whispered, though he had anything but humility in mind as he pressed his cock against his back. "Let me take care of you, for once. Order me around. Please."

"...Ah... a-are you sure?" Dylann asked, gasping as he felt Zale grab around and begin soaping up his hairy chest. It wasn't just his head that had blue hair, but any hair on his body. Zale was pleased the first time he'd realized how hairy his chest and abs were, the two almost connecting in the middle but not quite. "Then... let me wash you, now."

"As you wish," Zale said, handing him the loofah. He stood still as Dylann timidly turned around, though from the look in his eyes Zale could tell even that wouldn't last much longer as he soaped up the merlion's chest first. His smaller hands only served to turn Zale on even more, realizing just how much difference there was between them. And yet, there was a noticeable difference in how Dylann looked now than how he had looked when they had come back to Earth.

"You've been working out?" Zale asked, purring as the loofah was slowly dragged across his nipple.

"You noticed? Yes, I have been. Though it's a bit easier to put on muscle for me than others," Dylann said. "Not just because I'm a daemon either. This form just responds positively to that sort of thing, if I allow it to. Besides... it feels good, like I've done something productive."

"That's good. Get those endorphins and testosterone flowing. Hell, maybe I'll workout with you from now on," Zale offered, moaning a bit as that loofah washed lower and lower.

"I'd like that," Dylann said, reaching around to wash Zale's back as he hugged him. "I do better with a partner than alone anyway... and who better to train me than my former commander?"

"Damn right," Zale chuckled, feeling very protective of the smaller man. They allowed the water to wash over them before he felt a hand against his member, stroking and rubbing hesitantly. "Ahh... you don't hav-"

"I... want to," Dylann said, blushing as he placed the loofah on the hook next to them. "I've been so pent up, and... I want you."

"Then you shall have me," Zale said, growling seductively as he allowed Dylann to do what he wished to him.

"Then sit," Dylann ordered, pointing to the built-in shower seat complete with tail support.

"Yes, my lord," Zale said, getting into the moment as he obeyed. It wasn't that he was obligated to say it, and Dylann was doing nothing special of his own, but the two of them were enjoying the roleplay of it all. What surprised Zale as he watched Dylann walk toward him wasn't how seductive and needy he looked, but that he knelt before him and began to stroke and lick his shaft with his hands and tongue. Zale was far too big to fit very far into his mouth, but what he lacked in that he more than made up for in his worship of his cock. As if sensing him about to protest, Dylann stopped to look up at him with a commanding air that stopped his voice in his throat.

"I want this. I want to serve you for once, even in as small a capacity as this. You wish to obey me, right?"

"Y-yes," Zale said, gasping in pleasure.

"Then enjoy yourself. I know I am," Dylann said, before bringing his face back down onto his member and moaning. "I need this as much as you do."

"How are you... so good at this?" Zale asked, moaning as Dylann seemed to know how to please him in just the right ways.

"I'm a Temperance daemon, not a virgin," Dylann chuckled, licking him from base to tip before kissing the head of his cock. "Though it has been a long time since I had a lover. I hope that doesn't bother you."

"Nah, just forget how old you are sometimes," Zale said, amazement in his voice. "I don't mind though. This feels amazing, babe."

"If you really want to do me a favor, though," Dylann said, winking as he cupped and massaged his balls, "then hold out for as long as you can. Control yourself until you can't anymore. I think we'll both enjoy this more if you do."

"Heh, need a snack do you? I can do that, though," Zale chuckled, but he began to focus more on keeping himself from going over the edge. He had already been hard enough as it is, but he kept himself from exploding as Dylann backed off every so often. He was filled with pleasure and bliss as he was constantly edged, brought to the brink over and over as the water ran over their bodies. He allowed his thoughts to wander as he went into a slight trance from the constant pleasure, his body responding more than his mind to Dylann's ministrations as he pretended to be under a spell. It was when he was approaching his climax yet again that he felt a tap on his thigh, prompting him to look down at Dylann.

"I'm ready," Dylann said, pumping Zale's cock with both hands faster and faster. Nodding, Zale simply allowed it to happen as Dylann locked his lips onto his head; moaning, he pulsed load after load of seed as Dylann swallowed what he could, cum dribbling down the sides of his mouth as he tried to keep up. Once he was finally spent, Zale relaxed as Dylann milked him a bit longer before taking his mouth away and coughing slightly.

"I didn't know you swallowed," teased Zale, smiling when he blushed in response. Seeing how Dylann's cock throbbed with need still, the merlion helped Dylann rise before swapping places with him, this time kneeling before the sea god.

"What are you..."

"It's only fair if I return the favor, hm?" Zale asked, giving him a rough lick. "Let's see how long you last this time..."

The steam kept rising and fogging up the glass of the shower, Dylann's moans increasing with volume and frequency as the merlion gave it all he was worth. Dylann must have already been close as it didn't take long at all for him to lose control. As his cock pulsed over and over, Zale was able to easily swallow every drop compared to Dylann's performance. He knew that it would be different had he been in his anthro form, but while Dylann was human he could easily keep up with him. Either way it seemed like Dylann had gone a long time without any kind of sex, taking a little while before he was fully spent.

"...Th-thank you," Dylann shuddered, leaning forward against Zale for support. "Oh. And I'm not your l-"

"I know," Zale chuckled, shutting him up with a small kiss. He could taste himself on Dylann's lips still, but he didn't mind. They were in the shower, after all; what better place to get clean? "But I do enjoy some role play, don't you?"

"Oh! Yes, I thought that's what you were doing. I just... wanted to be sure."

"Well, let's get ourselves cleaned up," Zale said, slowly rising to his feet as his muscles complained. "But we should really do this again."

"...Yes, we should," Dylann agreed, taking Zale's hand as he helped him to his feet. The two spent the remaining time in the shower mostly in silence, with only a word of confirmation here or there to aid the other in washing some unreachable part on themselves. Once they were finally clean, Zale turned the shower off and opened the door. They dried each other off before wiping up the remaining water on the floor that they'd accidentally dripped from themselves, before Zale scooped Dylann up into his arms. With a surprised yelp Dylann wrapped his arms instinctively around the merlion's neck, blushing as his face was suddenly very close to his.

"Where to now, 'my lord'?" teased Zale, giving him a wink.

"...Can we watch a movie?" Dylann asked, looking up at him with some note of excitement. "I haven't really been watching many, lately..."

"Sure," Zale chuckled, carrying him out of the bathroom. "Pick out what you wanna watch, babe. I'll go make the popcorn."