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Master of Hearts

Private Meeting

With the soul sword threat all but minimized for the time being, everything seemed to take a breath the next morning as nothing hung over their head like a guillotines blade. That however didn't make the silence uneasy, Banavi all but worried that he was never around to protect Connor and that he was scared to leave Connor alone because it might be the last moment he sees his mate alive. But a long cuddle fuck helped settle all the tension so Banavi could go to work as relaxed as a worried mate could, leaving Emerald and Connor alone to prepare for the private event.

Connor still had work to do and with the soul sword threat gone he little to worry about, so he skimmed the dossiers, dressed, and made himself as presentable and clean smelling as he possibly could. Shia kept her hands of the diapers when she came in the next morning and only read a book to wait for her shift to end, letting Connor watch TV and listen to the news that reported last night's attack. Though it was mostly skeptical information as Mincridarn officials refused to comment or explain anything for the time being probably because they weren't going to deny what happened but wait to explain what did happen. The report came and went much like the hours of the days until Connor left with Shia, walking to work with discreate tails following them. Shia guessed they were guards assigned by the Mincridarn government.

Connor was handed off like a baton to Emerald at the entrance of the Cavern where he was lead to the locker room which immediately shut down when he entered. The moment he signed in he turned around to look up at Spera, who rubbed his back, “Are you sure you can do this tonight, you went through a lot last night?"

“I'm fine, if anything I just want to suck some dick and relax." Connor chuckled as he recalled Mia, he had never seen someone die before and her limp body still burned an image in his head.

“Yeah well, that's the problem, Ravinith has switched you out, you're on serving duty, Emerald is going to be attending prince Romulus. Until you can use your body or your magic again, that the most you can do. You're also going to be in the kitchen, or helping clean up." Spera informed with a reluctance and Connor nodded he should have expected as much.

“yeah… alright, that makes sense." Connor rubbed his brow and ducked into his locker and snapped his black thong into place, before slipping on all the latex sock and gloves, ring and arm band.

Spera breathed, “Sorry,"

“It's fine Spera, I'm sorry all that time we spent together kind of went to waste though. This week just been a fucking mess." Connor exhaled as he stretched his body, “But I don't want to stay locked up inside my room so just tell me what to do Mistress."

Connor's pleasant attitude made Spera nod before gesturing him to follow, where she lead him into the kitchen and through it, and pushed open a pair of double doors to a dark room filled with standing tables and recessed booths, the room was already bustling as people did a once over cleaning up all the tables and dusting anything that might have had a spot of dust. Spera reached out and pushed Connor up against the wall beside the bar, “We'll stand here until the Lord Minor gives us orders. So just keep your head low and wait."

“Yes Mistress," Connor whispered bowing his head to mimic Spera.

Though the wait lasted only a few minutes as Ravinith entered the room and stood in front of them, “How are you feeling Connor?" he whispered as a bartender stepped by with a bin of cups.

“I didn't get hurt, just bad memories sir." Connor answered and Ravinith breathed, exhaling tension, “I heard what happened and you should be proud knowing you stopped Mia and prevented her from hurting anyone else."

“I know sir and I don't hate what happened, it ended as well as it could have; I just hate the fact knowing she was being used." Connor admitted, before looking up at Ravinith, “I hate the person who used her."

Ravinith reached out and pat Connor's shoulder, “I know what you mean, I've been wondering the same thing; there is no possible way a human should have a soul sword, someone had to have given it to her, or tricked Mia into using it. But we can discuss this later, just try to smile." He finished rolling his fingers up Connor's cheek to leave him with some fleeting comfort as Ravinith walked away to harass others and check everything; pushing everyone into high gear in the last few minutes to make everything perfect. The speakers came on and the room filled with instrumental music, nothing classic but something that could have easily mixed in with modern movies, it was just a subtle empowering music that kept small sense of regality in the erotic environment.

Then one by one the servants lined up around the room and waited the last few moments before the first guests entered, Prince Romulus and his mate Tana who he wouldn't even carry on his arm that right was reserved for Emerald, who let go to go get them drinks while they greeted everyone at the door; he was the one who organized in the first place so it only made sense that Prince Romulus would be the first to attend. The bowed to those entering and smiled with practiced happiness the subtle conversation picking up drowning out the music; Connor did his best to ignore the small talk and kept his head down and just focused on his breathing and keeping his legs bent so they didn't collapse under tension.

The party separated into packs, classes of nobility, merchants, noble soldiers, and a hand full of royal blood. The guards lined up around the room, one such guard stood right beside Connor, a cheetah dressed in a slimming black vest and pants.; if they had been anywhere else, he would have looked like a waiter. However, there was one final addition that no one had expected, and Connor hadn't even felt the giant coming, it's footsteps were perfectly silent and soft like a wandering elephant.

A dragon, a red one with naked polished scales, Connor couldn't help but stare up at the figure whose wings were wrapped around it's body like a cloak, the dew claws hanging from opposite horns keeping his head held high. Ravinith greeted this last minute addition and guided the male to a booth where royalty conglomerated in the back corner of the room. A wingless guard followed closely behind, naked, but she stepped with the heavy echo of a spear that carried with her before taking a position along the wall next to the booth to keep her noble in line of sight.

“What's going on?" Connor whispered to Spera, “Who is that?"

“I don't know, I've never seen them before, hush and keep your head down." Spera directed pushing Connor's head down.

Ravinith's feet appeared in front of them, 'Spera, Connor is being asked to serve Prince Romulus, keep an eye on him."

“Yes sir." Spera answered before gesturing for Connor to follow, they side stepped around nobles and over tails, before bowing to the royalty, guards watching them closely though their heads never once moved.

“How can we help you?" Connor asked looking around the booth, Tana on the far left, Romulus beside her, with Emerald clinging to his chest and stroking him gently; it was clear that Tana still loved being cucked by her mate. Taking up the whole back of the booth, the Adestrian spread out, its wings unfurled and draping over the couch, but they were still compacted and only spread out maybe halfway. The crimson eyes of the dragon looked Connor up and down, but he continued to say nothing. Then on the right couch a princess from Leggala sat with timid composure, a maned lioness, whose mane was dressed up like human hair giving her features a more dynamic look with veiling bangs charmed with golden earrings. But unlike almost everyone other than staff and guards she was wearing clothes, but only a red silk crop top patterned with gold triangles and trimming, with sleeves that seemed distinctly designed to cloak her hands with draping excess. The Princess, Quinta Pimada's smile was broken by nerves, she was completely uncomfortable, and it made her look all to cute. Beside her glaring up at Connor with utter disdain was a familiar unapologetic tigress, Bellea Arwin who sat with no shame.

“Ohh… it's you again?" Bellea groaned rolling her eyes as she crossed her legs.

“You've met before?" Romulus asked all to intrigued, and Bellea waved off the comment, “He through a fit in my restaurant trying to kill an Archnem and failing pathetically you'd think someone who thought they might die would have better aim." Bellea bashed with a condescending suave attitude. Connor only smiled and turned his attention to the Lioness, “Is there something I can help you with Princess Quinta," disregarding Bellea and just moving along.

The sudden mention of her name left the lioness bashful and she shook her head, “No thank you," almost like she was trying to hide, Connor bowed his head in understanding before looking up at the Adestrian. Connor's heart racing as he wished he could get between the dragon's legs and touch his scales, “And good evening to you sir, I hope you don't find it rude if I ask for your name."

“I'm Lord Gonmondu, I'm sorry if my appearance frightens you." Gonmondu greeted with a gentle bow, but Emerald only chuckled at that, and looked at the Adestrian Lord shaking his head, “It's the opposite Lord Gonmondu, Connor is a little incubus for your kind; it's been his fantasy to serve a dragon."

The Lord looked up at Connor with flirtatious smile, “Is this true human?"

Connor nodded, “Yes sir,"

“I never would have thought… I'd be happy to rent you if you're available for purchase." Gonmondu offered and Spera pushed herself into the conversation, “Sorry, he isn't sir; he wouldn't be able to handle you."

“I could if I used my magic," Connor corrected, but Spera just shook her head, a smile cutting across her muzzle, “I'm sure you could but your magic is sealed remember?"

“I know that… I'm just saying, I could probably do it." Connor agreed as the Adestrian stood up kicking the table to the side till it pressed up against the Prince's shins, “Well, I can think of one way you can prove yourself to me," Gonmondu declared looming over Connor with an eight-foot presence, his claws stroking Connor's spine. The warm pressure through the armor made Connor shudder, “And what would that be sir?"

“A kiss." Gonmondu answered as hand reached up to caress Connor.

“I could do that much." Connor agreed and Spera hid a mix of emotions behind her hand, as she watched the Adestrian open his lips his breath drying any ounce of sweat on Connor's skin. Connor tasted the dense nub of a tongue behind his own lips, the saliva seeping into his mouth, tasting of lukewarm water. The nub grew longer and longer, thicker and thicker filling up Connor's jaw before it pushed down into his throat, Connor's mind went numb with the shock and pleasure of being held and kissed by a dragon, he could barely breath and his face burned with his fantasies being complete. But such thoughts became perverted and darker as that nub sank down into Connor's throat. Gonmondu paused to gauge Connor's reaction, but there was none, Connor wasn't no slouch to being throat fucked but it was the first time he had someone's tongue that deep inside him, rolling, twisting rubbing the line and pushing deeper into place that had never been stretched before.

Connor grabbed the Dragon's horns and dragged himself away and coughed up the dragon's saliva and tongue, and panted his cock rigid and shaking, beads of salted semen dripping down on the floor between his legs. “You ok?" Gonmondu asked his twelve inches of tongue still hanging from the tip of his muzzle.

“Sorry… I was about to cum."

“Cum?" The Dragon asked and Connor leaned his forehead on Lord's snout, so he could let his erection settle.

“Fertilize." Romulus answered and Gonmondu's brows raised in shock but that quickly turned into dirty grin as he dragged Connor to the back bench and onto his lap before pushing his tongue back into Connor's lips, there was no resistance as Connor pushed that tongue deeper into his own throat, before wrapping his arms around the male's thick neck holding his breath close. Connor could feel his throat stretch to compensate push against esophagus and gag him, until he pulled far enough away to take a breath and dive back in. He fucked himself with the Lord's tongue, moaning as his shaft was tickled with two thick warm fingers, everything was kept slow so the moment was drawn out and the climax was barbaric, and stunning.

Gonmondu rubbed Connor's back before kissing his neck, sweeping up the seed with his hand and feeding it back to the delirious male, who licked the hand and the dragon's groin spotless. Connor could collapse right then and there, his legs were weak and he barely had the strength to stand, he could only look up at Gonmondu who stroked his face with a sausage thick thumb. “IF this is what you can do without magic, you must be an incubus with magic."

“I try sir." Connor smiled barely able to keep his eyes open, “I'm sorry I can't offer more, I would have loved to taste yours." He continued as he licked the tip of a segmented red spire that was thick soda can, if not just a centimeter wider. Gonmondu stroked out and tugged the rest of his member out of his own slit to expose the forearm long rod, “I could manage something like that…if you kissed me again." He agreed as he let his tongue hang out like an flirtatious offering.

Connor found himself pushed forward into the solid member by a slender tail dipping into his ass, six inches in and he was already stretched wider than he had ever been in his entire life. The tail rolled against his prostate and Connor's body bent under the shock. The pressure subsided as Emerald stepped on the tail and flattened it out with his feet before picking up Connor by his armpits, “As much as Connor would love that, he's in no condition to continue sir, and stay out of his ass please he's nothing more than paper compared to your strength… so why not wait and get a drink and finish your business before you finish?" Emerald proposed as he handed Connor offer to Spera who helped him stand up on limp legs.

Gonmondu lightly stroked himself just three times before adjusting himself on the bench so he could get comfortable, before bowing his head in agreement, “Of course, I wouldn't want to destroy such a cute concubine. If he's still taking orders I'll get one of your potions, I always prefer a cold dragon's fang. And what about you Prince Romulus?"

“A nebula, Tana will have some water." Prince Romulus ordered and Connor did his best to steady his hand as he wrote down their orders, before looking up at Spera; “Where do I take this again Mistress?"

She smiled, “You are so fried snowflake, it's behind the bar put it in the station marked drinks."

“Right… sorry mistress." Connor bowed before walking away nearly collapsing, still trying to recover from living out a perfect fantasy.

“He's cute, I wish I had a kobold like him back in Adestria," Gonmondu chuckled before looking up at his guard, “You could learn something from him Myurul, you always lacked such abilities." His voice hollowing out as he lectured the female guard, “Of course Lord Gonmondu," She agreed with a tight grip that dented the metal shaft of her spear. Gonmondu turned his attention back to Romulus and pulled the table away from the prince's shins and apologizing for the intrusion.

When Connor got to the bar he wrote down on last little addition before pushing the order down into the proper stand before leaning and taking a moment to breath and stretch his tense muscles, his hip was tapped and he looked up at Ravinith, “Stand at attention." He ordered quietly, and Connor obeyed, but he smiled with approval, “Keep up the good work." His compliment was sincere, and he gestured Connor out of the bar, “Go circle the table and collect any dishes."

“Yes sir, thank you sir." Connor accepted before taking a tray to collect what few cups were available, the simple task helped him breathe, and push his fantasies out of his head until he came back to the booth the ordered drinks and a bright smile. He was met with surprise, anxiety, and most of all distance, it was if everyone had take a spiritual step backwards from him, even Bellea had lost her condescending stare and averted her gaze as his she wanted to apologize but her own ego kept her silent. Connor laid out the drinks on the table and ended with Quinta who looked at her drink in confusion, “I didn't order this," she expressed with a sweet calmness that made Connor smile, she had fallen for his trap.

“I know," He nodded, “I just thought you might like it."

“Why?"

“Because it matches your stunning eyes." Connor smiled, and Quinta looked like she mentally collapsed as she processed the compliment, but when she did, she slumped into the couch. “Don't worry, it's not a potion, it's a strawberry lemonade, sweet and zesty I hope you enjoy it Princess Quinta."

Quinta pushed back the bangs that cloaked her left eye though it's not like the motion did much other than just drop it back into place; it was more like a nervous tick. “If you feel uncomfortable with drinking it, I'll prove to you its safe." Connor offered but Quinta shook her head, “No, it's ok, I'll have it, thank you."

Bellea just shook her head and rolled her eyes, the tigress like most of her family believed in female self-empowerment, they hated flattery and admiration and saw completely unnecessary. Quinta was almost the Polar opposite, her dossier said she is marginally feral, her hands were pretty much paws, dainty thick fingers that made it hard if not impossible to handle weaponry. That's why she had her hands cloaked they were her greatest shame, she was twenty years old and never once mated with another and refused joining with other nobles because they didn't want to laugh at her; she loved attention and compliments, if not needed them.

Quinta lifted the glass and sipped on the drink and winced at the bitterness, her reaction was so restrained and suppressed that her formality made Connor smile and chuckle, “Princess are you ok?" The lioness hid her lips with her hand and nodded, “It's bitter… I've never had anything like that."

“Sorry, I thought the sweetness might balanced it out, I'll get you a water if your prefer princess?" Connor offered and Quinta shook her head, “No, I do like it."

“I hope your not just saying that because I'm the child of Tethys, princess." Connor bluntly stated and Quinta balked and waved off his question, “No, of course not, I do like it I swear, thank you."

“I'm guessing you told them who I was Prince Romulus." All the guards in earshot flinched, while Connor sighed looking at the wolven prince who nodded his smile bright and entertained, “How did you know?"

“Lord Gonmondu has his legs shut like a vice only now realizing that he ordered the wrong drink because the Dragon Fang is an aphrodisiac that's supposed to increase how much seed one produces. Mistress Bellea is restraining herself even though I know she hates how close I am to her, and Princess Quinta she looked like she wanted to hide when she saw me again, and you sir, are smiling like you're a circus loving everyone's reaction to my very presence; and Lord Tana is just being Tana" Connor answered pointing everything out and Romulus bowed his smile never fading, while the mere mention of her name made Tana scratch at her loins, something Connor suppressed as he sat on her lap.

“I'm sorry if I'm interrupting something Tana, mind if I sit on your lap?" Connor asked and the Docile ewe shook her head, “That's what I thought… anyways I just want to say that this my job. I'm here to serve, so don't feel like you have to hide or act formal around me because of who I am, So if you want me to drink your seed Lord Gonmondu I'll do it, I promise." Connor assured as he pulled Tana's hands around his hips to keep her hands away from her groin. “Tethys has yet to correct me on anything, and for the most part it seems she's allowing me to live my life as I want; as long as I help her find the soul swords I think she's pretty hands off." Connor assured feeling obligated to clear the air or else he'd never see another dick again.

“You talk to Tethys?" Lord Gonmondu asked only daring to sip on his drink as if to contemplate if he was going to go through with his plan or hold off.

“I do Sir, I died years ago when I was attacked on a pier in California and drowned. She brought me back to my life, however for me to live and use me as a vessel she had to cut out a piece of herself and use it to stich my soul back into my mortal body. So, I can see her in my soul scape, she teaches me things and helps me, she lives through my senses so she can probably here everything that were talking about." Connor answered as he leaned back and pet Tana's head, mainly just patting her steel wool.

“So when we were kissing, she was feeling that too?" Lord Gonmondu pressed and Connor nodded, “I believe so, or she our connection when I preform such things, she really hasn't explained that part to me yet. Either way Tethys is an ancient immortal a kiss probably means nothing to her sir."

“I wouldn't say that." Tethys corrected as he feet kicked up on the table, leaning back into couch beside Emerald the only free space really.

“Ok, well if you had any problems with what I do, now's the time to say it." Connor offered and Tethys bobbed her head, “I don't really have a problem with what you do Connor; I'm not supposed to get involved in your life, it's your choice and I'm not allowed to intervene. I'd get in trouble if I did, but this tiny spec of myself is a fraction of my true self, which means I have some mortal weakness… Preferences." Tethys answered and Connor had to count himself surprised, “Ok, consider me interested what turns on the Quartermaster to the Dark Amory?"

“I'm content with vanilla, but after experiencing your memories, tantric sex has always been interesting. I prefer long buildups before the release. I live through you so I like it when I can get a little bit of everything through your senses…" Tethys explained as Connor shushed the Prince before he could interrupt, “But I can modify my own memory and suppress sensations, so I just redact everything that doesn't matter."

“Ok, well I'll try and keep that in mind." Connor agreed before looking at the Prince, “Sorry, Tethys was talking." His eyes went wide, “She was talking to you, just now?"

“Actually, she's been projecting herself like an illusion, so I can see her, but no one else can, she's actually sitting right next to Emerald." Connor explained and Everyone's eyes turned to that empty spot on the couch as if expecting to see her, but she wasn't, instead it just made the Lord and Emerald scoot away to give her space.

Connor got up and walked over to Tethys and sat in her illusion and kicked up his feet to mimic her position, “She not here, only I can see her, and she says it's fine. She has her own sexual preferences, but she can block out memories and sensations like I thought. So anymore questions?"

“A thousand." Lord Gonmondu and Connor groaned standing up, “Well a good slave never works for free, that's what my owners said, so if it doesn't involve your blade Lord Gonmondu, consider my lips sealed." Connor stepped over toes and held up his tray, “is that all it'll cost to get you to talk?"

“I take cash too, but Lord Gonmondu; what do you think I'm worth too you?" Connor asked and the Adestrian fell silent, “Would anyone like some appetizers?" Connor got no response, so he nodded, “Well, I hope you enjoy yourselves while I'm away, I'll be back when I put up this tray." Leaving with a smile Connor went to the bar before pushing past and into the kitchen door to escape the atmosphere.

Spera joined him after a just seconds of privacy, “Connor, are you ok?"

“No, of course I'm fucking not." He pushed back as well as Spera's hand which tried to touch him, “I have the perfect fucking job, it's everything I wanted but now all anyone sees is Tethys, the first-born daughter of the qire. No sensible Mincridarn is ever to mate with me because I'm just steps below the gods of creation; and I know that's fucking arrogant, but didn't you see the way they looked at me… I might as well be royalty… I don't want that kind of attention Mistress." Connor relented as he collapsed against the wall and down onto his ass. “I want to live like this, I want to be a concubine, but now that I'm pretty much a celebrity my entire life is being examined, watched, my relationship with Banavi is being called into question because it's not appropriate, it doesn't look good…" Connor tapped the round tray against the ground and rolled it back and forth, just as Lord Ravinith came out and looked down at Connor.

“Are you ok Connor?" He asked and Connor got up from his feet and pushed the tray into the panther's hands, “I don't think I can work here anymore sir." Connor exhaled part of him dying as he walked away.

“What? Why?"

Connor pulled himself before looking back at Ravinith, “Because no Mincridarn is going to see 'me' anymore! I don't want to live as a mask for someone else! I'm helping Tethys, I'm not her and no one is going to see 'Me'…" Connor exhaled, “They'll only see the child of Tethys, because that's all that matters isn't it?" He finished clutching himself as his eyes burned with wet restraint because he didn't want to cry in front of anyone, he just needed to be alone, so he left.

“Connor stop-“ Tethys reached out appearing just beyond the corner he passed, “Just leave me alone Tethys, I need to be alone right now." He cut off walking through her illusionary presence and to the locker room. “I SAID STOP!" Tethys demanded and her words cut across Connor's mind, and he screamed in pain dropping to the ground clutching his head in pain, it felt like it had shattered but it remained perfectly intact.

“Connor… Connor! Gods, I'm sorry!" Tethys protested reaching out to caress the flailing Connor, but her hands only seeped through his body. Spera rushed to Connor's side and restrained Connor's kicking, “Ravinith get Emerald! He's bleeding!"

“I didn't mean to hurt you." Tethys pressed but Connor wasn't coherent all he felt in his mind was pain, and it blacked out his mind.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Master of Hearts

Aftermath

Connor woke up and saw only a white tile ceiling, the soft echoing of beeps made him glance at the machines nearby, he was once again in a hospital; what was it… Three times in a single month? His mind felt fogged, his hands felt stiff, thick and heavy, numb; he must have been on some serious painkillers. But a small sensation spread over his right hand, and he looked up at Banavi who was looking over railing, his warms woven through the bars so he could reach without overextending himself.

“You're awake." He whispered his voice some how warbled, smiling as he pet Connor's fore arm.

“I feel weird." Connor mouthed with dry lips.

“Just try to relax, you don't need to talk… here have some water." Banavi offered as he pulled away for a second to get a cup and offer him a straw, the water almost burned as it drained away the dryness down his throat.

“Iron's got you on some powerful painkillers, for the most part you're fine but they don't know if there will be any residual effects." Banavi explained before drawing the water back once Connor seemed done, “What happened?"

Banavi said nothing, his ears just fell and his grip grew tense, he just stiffly rubbed Connor's arm; to scared to admit the truth. He couldn't even look Connor in the eye, every where but Connor until he glanced up at someone beside the bed. Connor turned his head to see Iron standing over the bed his hands in his pockets, “Connor I don't know if you can understand me, but you're soul ruptured again… there is a hole in soul and you magic drained through it; you can't use magic anymore, I'm sorry… I know you tried."

Connor felt himself collapse; he couldn't even feel his own tears as they poured from his eyes as he let out a guttural wail as he realized more than just simple dreams died inside of him. He cried himself into a dark abyss where he felt and saw nothing, a void, and he felt completely and entirely alone. He sensed nothing, he heard nothing it's was like he was in a paradox; he knew he was somewhere but nowhere at the same time.

“Do you want to die?" A soft voiced asked from below him and Connor looked down beyond the veil of water that lapped at his toes, something he still couldn't feel. A black catfish composed of thousands of stars and galaxies and lined with imprisoning bands of blue looked up at Connor.

“Is this what hell is like?" Connor questioned and the Catfish nudged that much closer.

“It's better than this."

“I don't have a soul anymore do I? This is my soulscape isn't it?"

“You are your soul's core, as long as you exist you will always have a soul." Tethys assured her tone soft and heavy.

“Would the Gray God be even able to judge me? Send me to hell?"

“I don't know, I can take you there personally, or… I can banish this wisp of yourself and end you permanently?" Tethys offered barely able to speak.

“You shattered me soul didn't you?"

“I didn't mean too; I know how much you wanted to be a mage."

“You ruined my life; you gave me everything I ever wanted and took it away from me all at the same time. I wanted to help you but all you've done is make my life worse, you kept me alive and forced me to live through my parents' abuse. You gave me the chance to meet the one person I loved with every ounce of who I was. I found the best job in the world, only to find out that you stole my identity and locked me prison. You should have let me die! I hate you!" Connor cried out in desperation to express some last fragment of emotion before dropping to his knees, because what was the point of being angry anymore? He couldn't change anything.

There was a breath, a soft wind that was over Connor's and a steep wave rolled over Connor knocking him forward, his body drenched, and his eyes burned from the bright reflection as he looked back at himself. His body looked transparent in the still water barely corporeal a literal ghost of his former self. His reflection dragged away and rolled up out of the water and rolled itself into a droplet.

“Are you Connor Mason?" The mirror of water below the droplet rippled as if it should have impacted. Water sloshed and Tethys climbed out of the abyss and shook her head in shock, “Mom,"

“Mom?" Connor asked glancing at Tethys and the water droplet, his own shock giving him enough strength to stand.

“What are you doing here?" Tethys asked stepping forward looking into the droplet.

“Fixing your mistake sweet water." The Qire answered before turning its attention back to Connor.

“What can you do to help?" Connor asked the water floating in front of him.

“I can't repair your soul Connor, but I can do the next best thing."

“And that is…miss?" Connor asked feeling obligated to at least show some respect and he leaned into the conversation, all to curious with what the goddess was talking about.

The Qire laughed, the empty blue sky starting to rain with her enjoyment, it smelled and tasted like honey, lavender and all the best scents that could have ever existed; “Your formality is sweet, but I come to you to help fix all the pain we have caused you."

“How are you going to do that Mom?" Tethys asked nervously.

“I can't give you back what you lost Connor, I'm not as gifted as my own mother-"

“Is Grandma getting involved?" Tethys shuddered her voice breaking with terror.

The Qire sighed, “Sweetwater please stop interrupting me."

“Sorry, Mom." Tethys relented bowing her head as her Mother exhaled, “As I was saying, Rebon might be able to fix such things, but you are my daughter's son. I feel obligated to intervene before I have to go beg to that bright women."

“Well, what can you do?" Connor pushed just tried to get the conversation to move forward and not loop. The droplet bobbed in the air, “Right, of course, I can't fix your soul but I can give you an equivalent."

“An equivalent? I didn't know there is such a thing."

“Conceptually there isn't, but there is a difference; however, such things hardly matter I promise you. What I can do is blend your soul with my daughter's."

“Mom, Connor wouldn't survive that, my very existence would shatter him."

“Sweet water, don't make me repeat myself I'm talking to Connor, now shush." The Qire scolded before rolling forward till she was just feet away from Connor. Tethys nervously just crossed her arms and said nothing else.

“Do you remember what it was like to have Tethys in your soul scape Connor?" The Qire asked and Connor nodded, “Good, because it wouldn't be much different than that, it would change how it appeared and it's lay out, but doing this wouldn't make you immortal like Tethys or as all powerful; it will however give you back your magical ability and gift you with other things as well."

“Other things?" Connor asked and the Droplet bobbed in agreement.

“You would be able to direct a small portion of her true potential for a short time; it will be something the both of you will have to figure out." The qire looked at Tethys and bobbed towards her, “Secondly, It will also force Tethys to feel everything you do, sense everything you sense…even your most deplorable acts Connor. Since she wants to use your body as a vessel, she should bear the costs as well." The Qire explained and Tethys' body slumped as she looked at her Mother, and then at Connor in a panic, but she didn't dare speak.

The Qire turned back towards Connor, “It's your choice, it's your life. IF you accept I will blend you two together, if not, I can take you to a special place in the underworld where you can live out your existence in peace."

“Do you know anything about the soul sword problem?" Tethys rubbed the stress down her face, dread draining the color in tattoos.

“Ohh?" The Qire questioned bobbing closer to Tethys, “Is that true sweet water? Is there a problem?"

“A small on-“ A crimson flash thundered across the blue water turning it all into blood and then back into water, “Yes." Tethys whimpered.

“So that's why you took a Mortal vessel after all these Eons? I was wondering why you suddenly changed your mind. Did you set deal with fates?" The Qire asked with a hostile pleasantry.

“Yes."

“It's null." The Qire declared in a deep cold tone.

“Yes mom." Tethys agreed turning away to hide he shame, a tendril of water reach out to spank her the smack enough to kick her up in the air in shock, “You need to apologize to this mortal for abusing him."

Tethys glanced at Connor, and her eyes dropped, “I'm sorry Connor, I took your body without permission and used your soul without consent."

“Don't look at me, look him in the eye, look at what you did to him." The Qire demanded when Tethys' gaze had dropped to her reflection, she huffed and looked at Connor strained to do so, “Please forgive me for using you." She was in pain and sincere and any ounce of hatred he had for her drained away, and exhaled, nodding, “You had the best intentions, you were just trying to get the soul sword back."

“Wait… was there a soul sword on Earth!" The Qire roared erupting into a tsunami of blood that bore down over Tethys. “When were you going to tell me this?! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW UNSTABLE .''=--090-[;'/ IS RIGHT NOW!"

Tethys tapped her fingers together in fear, “I hoped I could solve it before it became a problem." The tsunami shrunk but the anger persisted as it's blood rage still rolled through its rippling curves, “You and I are not done, your grounded; go to your plane."

Tethys instantly collapsed bellow the water and disappeared from view, the Qire exhaled and dragged it's blood rage down deep till it was only a black spot in the newly formed water droplet that hung in front of Connor. “I'm sorry you had to see that Connor, normally these divine interventions are supposed to be a bit more celestial than this, but family tends to stagnate it somehow.

“It's ok Miss Qire," Connor waved off and the black spot turned into a small bobbing light, “How precious, but what do you want? We gave you mortals free choice for a reason." The Qire asked with a sweet gentle tone like small bubbling brook.

“I want to be with Banavi, I love him, and I don't want to leave him like this." Connor answered and that soft light flashed with a blinding brilliance, “Love is always worth it Connor." The Qire finished before banishing Connor back to reality.

Connor surged like a tidal wave, sitting up with a fresh breath as if he was breathing for the first time in days. The numbness in his body faded, he could smell the ammonia, bleach and latex wafting in and around hospital room, and he could see the dark walls of his room, but most of all he could smell the sweet scent of fermenting apples. Banavi was tucked into a chair in the corner of the room like a doll wrapped loosely in a blanket, the odd position gave rise to a terrible snoring fit.

The door opened and a dove nurse looked at Connor and his eyes went wide, he shut the door partially before running off with soft taps. Connor stretched his hand and rolled his body; it was all strangely invigorated he looked to the bed side table and saw several sets of flowers and cards standing up on end opened. One of which even in darkness Connor could see the shimmering english calligraphy that was Dagia's name.

“Connor?" Banavi asked with a whisper in the night and Connor looked towards his mate and smiled, “I'm back… I guess." Banavi looked Connor up and down analyzing something deep within.

“What happened to you? You're soul, it's so complex."

“I don't know what you mean, but that probably has to deal with Tethys' and my soul being blended together." Connor admitted and Banavi just stared and Connor in shock, “Your soul is blended with Tethys' how is that possible?"

“Her mom intervened."

“Her mom…. The qire?! You talked to a god?"

“She saved me Banavi…Do you still want to be my mate?" Connor asked because there had been to much that had happened this week to shrug off, gods and immortals, magic and soul swords, it was fucking chaos; it seemed like a logical question. “I just want to know, I just, you've given me everything and we hardly see each other. You've always been there for me and I've never be able to return the favor other than give you a blow job here and there. I just haven't been able to give back as much as you give."

Banavi breathed, exhaling as nodded, “This hasn't been easy, all of this, the gods, Tethys; work most of all. It's hard, every second of the day I feel like I'll sense you dying, scared for your life or both at the same time; but I still love you Connor."

“Then can I get a hug sir, please, I just want to hold you?" Connor asked and Banavi silently bounced into his arms, and pushed Connor back into the bed, “Always… Princess." Banavi stabbed in with a smile and Connor fumed, “I'm going to stab her." Banavi laughed at the repressed anger, “I think you looked cute in that little skirt."

“I'll hurt 'you' sir, don't go there." Connor warned and Banavi just rubbed a no into Connor's chest; just as the door opened to expose a dumbstruck Iron who Connor waved to. “Morning-'

“ten-thirty" Banavi corrected.

“Good evening then." Connor greeted as he clutched Banavi tight, just glad he could hold him again.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

The entire hospital staff was called in for a complete and through review of Connor's health, blood tests, to brain scans, everything was collected and examined; when there was nothing that showed he was impaired or of poor health they demanded an explanation that Connor happily gave. When he was done almost everyone lost the ability to really be shocked, Connor meeting a god after everything that happened that week didn't seem off, it might as well have happened at that point. Iron however wouldn't let Connor go, demanding at least Connor finish the rest of the night in the hospital just in case something happened, as something very well could; but nothing did and Connor was free to leave much to Iron's protest.

Connor was dragged home with all the simple gifts people had left him while he had been comatosed for the last several days. When they got home Banavi made breakfast and started working in the garage, he wasn't going to leave Connor alone again; and he could already do most of his work from home anyways. However, that didn't mean Connor was free to do as he wished, Banavi left him with a formal stationary and ordered Connor to write thank you letters to everyone who came to see him, and assurances that he was fine. Each letter was meant to be personal and sincere not a copied statement, just like the gifts all different in their own ways.

Nearly halfway through the assignment, soft but dense knocks echoed on the door. Banavi must have set up new detection system because he was out of the garage dusting off his hands before opening the door in a manner of seconds, exposing Lord Gonmondu, who craned his head and ducked through the low opening to enter with his guard. “I'm Lord Gonmondu an extension of Adestria's ambassador. I'm sorry for lack of coordination, I know it's rude to come unannounced but I was hoping I could apologize for my behavior to your mate. If… he would see me." Lord Gonmondu apologized couching down to look at Banavi, before looking at Connor who came around the couch to greet them.

“Would you like some tea?" Connor offered and Banavi relented, “Call me if you need me Connor."

“OF course sir," Connor agreed before gesturing the lord to follow and sit which he did and the Iron wood couch for once creaked under strain.

Lord Gonmondu was dressed completely different, his body was dressed in ornate silk that accented his red scales, as well as bountiful gold that cloaked his body, rings, horn ornaments and enough gold around his neck to make rappers jealous; but not one spotted looked over excessive, everything matched and flowed together, it almost seemed strange to see such a hoard of wealth worn so freely, no mincridarn would wear such gaudy regal attire. The Lord Bowed his head, “Thank you, anything caffeinated will be fine."

“And you miss?" Connor offered the ballistic plated guard who stood in the corner between the living room and the entrance. The Dragoness glanced at Connor and her gaze hardened, she said nothing and just went back to her duties. “I'll take that as a no." Connor accepted before walking into the kitchen to flash boil a kettle of water with his reawakened magic, the first time he had actually decided to try anything with his magic.

His magic flowed with an excess that caused the metal lid to launch into the ceiling the water in the pot instantly evaporating into a geyser of force. “Are you alright?" Lord Gonmondu asked leaning forward on the couch to look into the kitchen. While Banavi burst out of the garage, “What was that loud noise!"

Connor sighed under the overprotective nature of his mate, “I'm fine Banavi, promise, I just tried heating up water for tea with my magic." Connor answered as he flexed his hand, it was strange he didn't feel stronger and he was sure he used enough magic to boil the water, but that kind of excess was almost absurd. The lid clanged against the floor as Banavi leaned into the kitchen to make sure, “I'll just cook it the simple way, until I can figure out how to use my magic again."

Banavi exhaled in relief and nodded, “Serve the tea cakes in the tin they should still be good," He nodded, gesturing his noise to the bar.

“Yes sir," Connor agreed picking up the lid to only get his thumb burned, “Damn that's still hot." Connor noted suckling on his thumb before taking a towel and picking up the lid to cap the pot.

“That hurt?" Banavi asked with a docile Confusion coming up to examine the wound.

“Yeah… something wrong sir?" Connor asked as Banavi rubbed the sore gently, “I didn't feel it."

“But, the brand… you're supposed to feel what I feel." Connor noted and Banavi nodded, “Yeah, I know, what ever happened to your soul, the burst or whatever, it must have erased it magical bindings."

“Can you fix it?" Connor asked and Banavi flinched looking up at Connor, “You want me to redo the brand… you want me to brand you again?"

“I kind of got used to it, and I kind of like it. I love being bound to Banavi…. Can you make it visible this time? I want people to know that I'm more than just your mate sir." Banavi's mind seemed to collapse because he only stared at Connor, but his smile burned like a sun. “Of course Connor, I'll get all my supplies ready, and when Lord Gonmondu leaves I'll fix it." Banavi approved almost bouncing off with a giddy stiff step because he was still trying to appear formal around the noble.

Connor started another pot of water and left it to boil before popping open the cake tin before taking one of the pieces up to the guard first, “Here take this?" Connor offered, “I'm sure you want to test it for 'poison' before the lord tries any." Connor pushed as he handed over a small ball of cake cloaked in a chocolate shell. The guard rolled it in between her fingers the chocolate already melting onto her warm scales, she pushed the ball between her lips and chewed barely before swallowing it like a pill. Her face brightened up but she hid how much the new flavor pleased her behind the metal plating of her helm, “Would you like another?"

“Yes please," She nodded seeming to speak against her own best judgement, and Connor left her with another chocolate one that she enjoyed at a savoring pace chewing it lightly, while offering the Lord to pick his own, he picked a white chocolate.

“What are these?" He asked before pushing it into his muzzle.

“There cake balls with chocolate shells," Connor answered as he sat down at the table taking one himself.

“They are delectable, your owner is a talented cook." Lord Gonmondu approved before taking another one. “What are you doing Connor?" he asked glancing down at the stationary.

“Thank you letters to those that brought me gifts while I was in a coma for three days… Why are you here sir?" Connor answered before directing the conversation as leaned back on the couch. The Lord's gaze softened and he exhaled a wisp of fire like cigarette smoke, “After you collapsed and were taken to the hospital the Minor, Ravinith, told us what happened… That you quit and why you quit, I wanted to come and apologize for how I treated you and showed such disrespect to your name."

“It's fine-“ Connor sighed and Lord Gonmondu reached out and grabbed Connor's arm.

“No, it's not; I ignored your name and as a Lord I could not insult my own title more. My duties are to explore diplomatic relations with humans, to see them and I ignored you, I didn't see who you were and what you wanted." Lord Gonmondu let go of Connor's arm and just caressed his elbow, “And I see that now; so I beg for 'your' forgiveness Connor Mason." Lord Gonmondu apologized his deep resonating voice a soft and gentle as it could be, and such warm words burned Connor's heart as he started to cry because that was all he wanted.

Lord Gonmondu nudged himself closer and offered his shoulder to Connor who clutched at his clothes, feeling so warm and complete in the dragon's embrace, it made him feel cat like sunbathing in his touch. “You know Connor, you looked amazing in that armor of yours, what happened to it?"

“Iron took it off of me when I collapsed, and he doesn't want me wearing it until he knows how my new soul and body work." Connor breathed as he cleaned his eyes with his wrist.

“New soul?" Lord Gonmondu asked and Connor nodded, before getting up to clean his eyes and nose with tissue; “You're going to probably read it in a report or news articles soon enough so there's no point in hiding it." Connor exhaled as he balled up the tissue in his hand before crossing his arms to steady himself, “My soul ruptured when I collapsed in the Cavern, I had permanently lost the ability to use magic. But," Connor breathed, “Tethys' Mom got involved… I spoke with the Qire." Connor answered letting the comment sink in making the Lord rise to his feet and the guard stared silently.

“You spoke with the Qire? What was it like-" Lord Gonmondu cut himself short seeing the sinking Connor's dying gaze and shook his head, “What did she do?" He corrected easing Connor and himself back onto the couch.

“I don't know what she did, but the Qire couldn't fix my soul but she could do the next best thing, and offered to blend my soul with Tethys'. I'm not an immortal or some special celestial being from what I can guess it's more like she made our connection a bit more permanent. I server as her vessel, but I live off her magical abilities. It's not going to be like before, Tethys feels everything I do." Connor answered doing his best to explain and Lord Gonmondu nodded, “But will 'you' be fine Connor?"

“Yeah, I'm fine, I just don't know how everything is going to work. The visons my own magical abilities, they've changed I can feel that. I'm not stronger, I just, it feels like everything is more streamlined like there is no resistance." Connor explained and Lord Gonmondu nodded and cupped Connor's tense hand and sat them down in his lap. “There is nothing wrong with your magical abilities, your probably right, some mages are distinctly gifted because magic flows through them with ease. The reason you caused your pot to exploded is because your magic is focused, it takes far less magic to do things that it once did, so you need to restrain yourself."

Connor accepted the counseling with nod, before holding the cinder block long hand so he could feel the minute gapes between the scales but found himself distracted by the kettle that was screaming. “I'll go get the tea ready." Connor reluctantly finished as he pushed himself away from the Adestrian's hold.

“Right, thank you." Gonmondu agreed adjusting himself so he went back to his original seat so he could graze on the small cakes.

When Connor returned with a tray, he noticed a distinct difference, to the coffee table, it was cleaned everything stacked and pushed to the side and in it's place an tall and wide gift wrapped box was laid out n the table wrapped in blue ornate silk and royal purple bow and twisted threads of gold. Connor sat the tray down and prepared the cups, a teacup for himself and a mug instead for the lord, who seemed almost insulted by the lack of surprise or comment.

“What is this?" Connor asked finally when he looked down at the strange gift wondering where it had come from because it would have been hard to hide, or how it even got inside without him noticing.

“The Minor, Ravinith, he told me about your little deal. That if you did well at the event, he would give you a gift; This is from me and the other royals you served to apologize for the way we ignored you. It was a complex moment, and we were all blind to what you wanted, we don't want you to hate us, we want to help, and we promise to do things right in the future and talk to you." Gonmondu smiled as Connor found a small letter from Ravinith tucked beneath the ribbon “And a bribe from Ravinith who wants you to come back and work for him; he believes you are one the best concubines he has ever met because you actually enjoy serving others and the way you talk to your mate… I can see that he's right."

Breaking the black raven wax seal Connor removed the folded hand made card stock, the rough nature of the paper and the speckled dotting meant that it was probably some kind of recycled newspaper.

“Connor when we first met I wasn't sure if you'd be worth the time, I had reviewed and hired to many humans, all of them failed in some way; even you have your flaws of course no mortal is perfect. But you are perfect for this job, you have an unorthodoxed talent for getting beneath one's fur and scales and I hope you come back because everyone could learn something from you. You were here for two days and the Cavern already feels empty without you, so I hope you consider returning when you are capable. -Ravinith" The letter read but just at the bottom edge in a less appealing blue was another addition, “If pain and experiences forge a blade, you are one of the most powerful 'little daggers' I've ever seen; Heal well Connor, -Spera"

“You better come back I have a lot of money riding on your ass, -Emerald." The Incubus in a shimmering green gel ink.

The letter made Connor chuckle and he barely had the heart to fold it back up and move on to the rest of the gift because it was more than enough, but he dropped it on top of the stationary because the next letters he wrote would be to them. Turning his attention back to the rest of the box Connor tugged at the threads and ribbons to unwrap it all and expose and pull back the ornate marine blue silk wrapped in lavender waves and effigies of Tethys swimming amongst the fabric that Connor soon hung out in front of him, realizing it wasn't some mere square of silk but an actual dress.

“It's a dress?" Connor questioned looking at Gonmondu who nodded, “It's regal ware from Matra, a gift from Lord Bellea Arwin," answered as he exposed additions, roles of blue fabric, “Would you like me to show you how to wear it?"

“Would you?" Connor nodded and Lord Gonmondu put down his mug and stood up to help Connor undress even drag down his underwear before rolling out a long strip of fabric which served as an fundoshi, but excess that hung out was served as a decorative extension as the pointed tip hide the threads that were used to tie the dress to Connor's hips. It was a front slit blue dress that almost seemed reminiscent of what Master Ravinith wore. But the last thing Connor wore was an erotic crop top with sleeves that suited decorative gloves that left the fingers exposed, it was tight and left the stomach completely exposed. The dark blue designs emphasized the silver in Connor's Aranium, but it almost didn't feel complete it needed just a little bit more to tie it together, so Connor left and went to his room.

“I'll be right back, I have to get somethings."

Gonmondu bowed his head in understanding and picked up his mug to sip on the tea while he watched Connor's ass fade away down the hall.

What Connor needed he found sitting in the jewelry box on his dresser, opening the drawers he exposed silver cuffs, the slave bindings Banavi had made for him. He touched them and one by one put them where they needed to go, the locks sealed with green light and the seams faded away completely; it just felt right, and he didn't want to hold back anymore. Banavi said it was his choice to wear them, they had agreed to wait, but wait for what? This was what he had always wanted, he loved Banavi and he just wanted to prove that.

When Connor returned Gonmondu only stared, “Are those-?" He found himself lacking his words as Connor nodded, “these are slave cuffs, Banavi made them for me, he didn't want me to put them on until I was ready; they're supposed to be permeant." Connor answered as he came back around the couch.

“Well, they suit you." Lord Gonmondu complimented holding the mug lightly in his hands.

“Thank you," Connor accepted his nerves biting him as he was little excited wondering how surprised Banavi would be when he finally came out of the garage.

Connor stroked the edges of an ornate Iron wood box wondering how to open it until he saw the metal clasps at the bottom holding down the lid; a strange tower chest? Connor could only guess as he tore back the clasps to break the seal, it was clearly designed for Mincridarins. Connor tugged on the handle on the top and struggled to lift the forty found lid, until the Lord pushed it back down after a mere inch was lifted. “As fun as it would be to watch you struggle, don't strain yourself Connor, the cargo is delicate."

“Cargo?" Connor questioned as Gonmondu lifted the lid to expose a glass egg banded with ornate gold, the core of which vibrated with a radiant sparkling blue light.

“Whaat is this?" Connor asked with a cat like curiosity as he touched the egg and like a plasma ball the cores light reached out and lapped at his fingertips with a freezing magical energy that froze the glass surface like a settling frost.

“This is a spirit egg, it what mages use to contain their magical pets, or familiars. I remember how much you like dragons, so I got you something special." Lord Gonmondu smirked as he pets the surface. “I wasn't sure if you'd ever be able to use magic, so I wanted to get you something that would help you with your chores and duties. It's called a Dragon Sprite, legends says that when the first dragons born and the heavens had yet be created, that the unhatched children of Dragons would roam the world playing and get up to their usual mischief. They don't make particularly good familiars because of their tricks and playful attitudes, but they make excellent pets, their smart, easily trained and their bodies and personalities change and grow to match those they are bound to. There is a saying that those who care for Dragon Sprites will never know sadness." Gonmondu explained tapping the egg before picking up a small ornate hammer behind the egg and handing it Connor.

“I love this sir, but, I don't know anything about how to take care of dragon sprites."

“There spirts Connor, they don't need food or sleep, they'll regenerate on their own as long as their soul remains intact. What you need is to give it lots of attention and love, they tend to get jealous when you ignore them or don't play with them." The Lord assured and Connor looked at the egg all to happy to accept but it felt almost like to much, it one thing to items, but it's something else entirely different when it's almost the equivalent to a puppy.

“Am I legally allowed to own a dragon sprite?"

Lord Gonmondu shook his head in frustration, but breathed, “Connor, its fine, I promise."

With that last ditch effort to refuse, Connor took the dainty but heavy hammer and struck the glass, a gold aura burst from the hammer and it wrapped around his hand and dragged it against the egg. The aura seeped through the glass and guided the whole attention of spirit inside towards Connor's hand before small pulses of energy started to bounce between through the tendrils of golden light, as if it was computer program uploading and downloading information.

“This is strange, normally it takes but a moment to establish a connection." Lord Gonmondu noted watched the display leaning in to watch the connection. “Do you think it has something to do with my soul being blended with Tethys?"

“Possibly," The Lord nodded picking up his cup of tea and sipping on it, before the glass cracked and just sloshed away like a waterfall to expose a small partially transparent blue dragon looking being. It looked Adestrian it's purple wings wrapped around it's body, it's tail curled up into it's chest. It looked like an infant like the legend would suggest, but when it opened it's eyes Connor saw something else.

“Tethys?" Connor asked as the being unfurled its body and crawled out of the purple pillow where the egg had once been, it stretched and groaned before looking up at Connor small cat fish whiskers grew from the end of its muzzle and the end of it's tail grew a small vertical fin, “Hey." Tethys greeted her tone impossible to mistake even though her voice was softer and smaller.

“What are you doing?" Connor asked as Tethys rubbed her ass as if it was in pain.

“Mom bound us together, but I can't do what you do Connor. I'm not a concubine, I can't do that… So I slipped into this body so we could separate our consciousness, so you can live your life and I don't have to taste dick every night." Tethys explained crossing her arms as she huffed.

“But if you're not in-“

“Connor sweety, Consciousness and the soul are two completely different things. You'll be fine, you can still use magic and our souls are bound. I can't change that, Mom would kill me if I even tried, but it's not like would do that anyways." Tethys whispered towards the end with a sullen tone, she wouldn't look him in the eye until she changed the topic, “but my “Mind" is in this little body." She explained taping her chest.

“What about the visions? Don't I need you to regulate them?" Connor asked and Tethys fell silent, “You rushed out my body with out even considering that didn't you?"

“Well, I should still be able to regulate them, were still connected. Don't you remember how that brand worked when you were bound with Banavi, it's kind of same thing." Tethys' own claim made her grimace in apprehension.

“Should?" Connor questioned fiercely.

“Look the visions are projected into your soul and then relayed into your mind, that's why it can cause your soul to burst, it's magic being pushed into your soul. If it was just a telepathic implant, you'd only feel pain in head. As long as my soul is in your body it should create enough of a buffer and suppress how much information you get. Yes, my consciousness can help regulate the flow of information, but my soul is the primary barrier. So, the problem will be trying to figure out the balance, so I don't have to intervene, so it's the same problem as before. But with my consciousness separated it will be harder to intervene, there most likely be a delay but I can do it… I promise I'm not pulling your tail Connor, I just… I can't do what you do." Tethys assured nervously making it impossible to know if she was telling the truth, or lying.

Connor picked up his cup of tea and walked away he needed a break, but he couldn't relax enough to take a sip, he mainly just held it for warmth, “So I need practice? I need to feel how people died?"

“No, Gods Connor no," Tethys denied, shaking her head, “You're an empathic diviner, that means you can experience all kinds of things from the past, it doesn't have to be death."

“Then how do we practice? What am I supposed to do, because I can't go through another vision like that, it hurts… It hurts too much." Connor exhaled remembering Bailys. Tethys waved for Connor to calm down, “I know, I don't want you to do that either."

“I can find you a trainer?" Lord Gonmondu offered but Connor couldn't bring himself to respond, “No one wants to see you die Connor."

“I can think of one person," Connor whispered as he sat down the cup and leaned against the dinning room table. “I just… I can't keep up with all of these surprises, I just need a break."

“I'll arrange a meeting, you can meet the trainer and then you can decide. Just ask and I'll do what I can to help, I promise." Lord Gonmondu offered before his guard came up behind him.

“Sir, we need to go, or you'll be late." The Guard pointed out referring to the watch on her wrist. The Lord nodded pushing down her hand, “Connor, thank you for the tea, I enjoyed seeing your smile as long as that lasted… Prince Romulus and Princess Quinta left something for you." He finished with a reluctance as he bowed farewell to Tethys, “May the gods be with you both."

“And with you Lord Gonmondu." Connor finished waving off the lord before taking a heavy breath and walking away he didn't have the energy to do anything else, he needed to go lay down. However Tethys had other things in my mind when she called out to him, “Connor, I know I'm in hot water because of everything that happened but will you please come and sit down, I just want to talk to you."

Connor relented shaking his head as he picked up the teacup and sat down in front of the two-foot-tall dragon and sipped on the tea to calm himself down. “I did use you, I selected you because of your heart and because if you had lived you would come here and have the abilities resources and abilities to help me. There is nothing I can say that express how cosmically sorry I am, you deserved better and I know you hate me but please just breathe and look around, because I just want to help you live and I'll do everything I can to help…. Yeah it was a rough start, but we'll get better I just want to know if you'll still fight with me." Tethys apologized as she picked up a guard less needle point dagger and offered the hilt to Connor.

The sleek black metal case was stamped with the head of a howling wolf, the gift from Romulus. Connor looked into Tethys eyes, she meant everything she said and though their conversation was tense and this new physical distance divided them, he didn't hate her. He wasn't that vindictive or petty, but he nodded and took the dagger, “I don't hate you Tethys, I'm just scared."

“And you have every right to be, but you'll always have me, and I'll be right here beside you; so if you need my help just ask." Tethys assured as Connor unsheathed the sharp dagger designed to look like a slim raven's feather, the weight of the tiny weapon left everything in the hilt, and it almost felt like a wand. He could help but give it a little playful flourish, and before he could do anything all the faucets in the house burst up like a geyser.

“Let's just keep that sheathed for now." Tethys confiscated, taking the dagger and sheath before tossing it into some void over her shoulder.

“Connor!" Banavi groaned loudly before he stumbled out of the garage drenched in water, “Why the hell did the water main just burst?" he questioned snapping the water off his hands.

“No clue sir, just freak accident." Connor lied waving off the comment his gesturing making Banavi flinch and stare at the cuff around his wrist.

“You're wearing them… Connor what are you wearing?" Banavi asked coming around the couch admiring Connor who stood up to do a small sway in his new clothes, “Do you like it, it was a gift from Lord Bellea?"

Banavi reached up and Dragged Connor down to his height, “You look good anything, but I do like the idea, you did say you wanted some everyday clothes, we could go shopping for something like this." He approved with a kiss and touchy admiration, “But clean up, I'm going to go and turn off the water."

“Yes sir, of course." Connor nodded and before he flicked his hand Banavi suddenly stopped him with a quick loud burst of disapproval, “No! no forget about it, I'm calling Lilen I don't want to shatter the pipes."

“Right… good idea." Connor agreed tying his hands together with his fingers.

Banavi rolled his eyes with a smile, “I'm going to take you out for Dinner."

“I've always heard the Cavern is good." Connor smiled and Banavi's smile beamed, “Excellent idea." His eyes glanced towards the Dragon Sprite, “And who's your small friend?"

“Oh that's Tethys." Connor answered and Banavi paused looking expecting it to be joke but when Connor barely chuckled his eyes darted to the small dragon, “I have to many questions, but we'll talk later." Banavi finished before jogging away taking out his phone to call Lilen as he kicked through ankle high water in the garage.

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When Lilen finally arrived he might as well have kicked open the door with how hard he opened it up, “Is it fucking destroy my house week? Come on Lilen really?" Banavi scolded from the garage, the shark cowering under the aggression, “Sorry, Newport, but where's Connor?"

“He's helping mop everything up, it's kind of dangerous for him to use magic right now." Banavi explained nodding to the water, Lilen couldn't hide his surprise, “He did this? Did you get into a fight or something?"

“It was an accident," Connor called out from the kitchen, “I wasn't even trying to cast a spell and I pretty much every faucet in the house blew up."

“Gods above and Below, what are you wearing Connor?" Lilen asked with a bright smile as he whisked Connor away from his work to spin him and look him up and down, “You look amazing," But he reached up and held Connor's jaw, “But I'm glad your ok."

“Lilen hands off my mate just come here and fix everything." Banavi ordered and Lilen smiled with sharp bright fangs, before leaving Connor alone, “I'm coming Newport." Lilen replied just as he round the corner into the garage, and helped make quick work of everything, before sitting down with everyone to have tea, but not with him but Tethys, Connor was kicked outside and he could barbaric yelling from the two of them minutes after he left; he tried not to listen and just sat by the edge of the pool letting the cold water lap at his knees while he just played games on his phone.

Tethys' interrogation didn't end for several hours, Bad cop and worse cop having said there piece finished and summoned Connor to the back door; the tension they had created still hung like a fog in the room, dense, heavy and suffocating. Connor did what he could to breathe through it, glancing at Tethys who appeared almost broken under the onslaught. Banavi reached out and Dragged Connor's wrist to his side before dragging his face down to kiss his lips, “Sorry about the wait, are you hungry?"

Connor nodded, “I'll take a shower and get dressed, go and finish your letters."

“Yes sir," Connor agreed before getting dragged away by a hug from Lilen, “Hey, do you think you can do some training Thursday?"

“Yeah, I need a safe place to learn how to use my magic." Connor agreed and Lilen rubbed Connor's shoulders, “I'll come and get you in the morning, but I'm going to go, get some rest. I have to teach magical philosophy tomorrow."

“isn't that a bit much for cubs?" And Lilen shook his head, “You're never to young to learn about how magic works."

“Right," Connor nodded before getting a farewell kiss from the shark before he turned to leave with only a small wave; leaving Connor alone with Tethys who looked up at him with teary eyes. “You have really caring friends."

“They didn't hurt you did they?" Connor asked and Tethys shook her head, “Can… can I get a hug?"

“Yeah, sure… come here." Connor agreed opening himself for the small being, who clung to his body, Tethys was shaking like a leaf. “Are you ok?" he asked carrying her to the couch.

“I be fine, just please hold me." She begged and Connor kicked up his feet and let her settle in his chest, “They can be a bit intense, I'm sorry if they scared you."

“I thought my mother was bad…" Tethys chuckled with a pained laugh before curling deeper into Connors chest, while he stroked her side and waited for her to calm down which seemed to happen when she fell asleep or the divine equivalent. Connor set her down and picked up the stationary to continue writing letters until he came to the last one, Quinta's, a single gemstone no magical qualities just a cleanly cut and polished, in the lid of the case she had left a note.

“It was hard to find something that shined as bright as your eyes; and thank you for the drink, I really did enjoy it, -Quinta"

Connor couldn't tell if it was playful banter or if she was just flirting, but either way he couldn't help but keep it close, and on display above his computer where he could always see it. Connor sealed the letter he had written with blue wax and left set it in the basket he planned to take with him to the Cavern because Ravinith would know where to send them.

When Banavi was finished bathing he wore only black vest and brown khakis, but he didn't come out of his room empty handed tucked under his arm was a worn wooden box, and he looked up at Connor and took a deep breath, “Are you sure you want me to brand you again?"

“Just tell me what to do sir, I want this."

Banavi nodded, “Lay flat on the floor and I'll take care of the rest, just so you know it will hurt a little."

“I figured as much," Connor agreed before following Banavi into the living room and laying down on the rug before leaning his chin on his forearms, while Banavi knelt on his ass, and flicked open the open the box to expose long thin silver needles, no pens or inks. “What are those?"

“Branding needles, slave traders use them to outline the pattern used for the design before infusing their own magic into the skin to create the brand. That's how the soul connection one works at least, there are several ways slaves are branded, some far more painful than others. Don't worry, just relax, I'm going to start." Banavi assured as a sharp pin dipped into his skin and slowly and quickly the sensation spread around his lower back. The pain wasn't intense and it passed quickly, “Alright the outline is set, now this is the part that hurts the most, I'm going to start projecting my magic try not to move or struggle."

Connor felt an electrical jolt jut down into his back and the sensation spread until it burned. His fingers dug into the carpet and he coughed his painful cries that he tried to restrain as much as he could, so he didn't scream. Connor could feel something happening, more than just the burning spikes, he felt his own skin changing spreading out from a single point, it felt like something was being drained out onto his back, a deep heavy liquid like wax if not denser.

Minutes passed and the pain subsided, and the needles were removed one by one and laid in the box, “It's done, you're lower back sore will be sore for a while." Banavi treated scratched Connor's back as a means of tickling his spine and skin.

“When you did this the first time did you purposely move my body to the floor so I wouldn't realize it?" Connor asked as he sat up rubbing his back.

“No, that was actually you, you were having an intense dream and just slumped to the floor." Banavi chuckled as he reached around Connor's hips to pet his stomach and tickle the navel with his claws. Connor had to remove the hands as his senses flexed in protest, he couldn't stand being tickled. “I think it's about time we leave sir?"

“Yeah, it's already late and I didn't get much work done, I want to wake up early so I can get back to it." Banavi agreed setting the branding needles on the coffee table before nodding to the sleeping dragon, “And her?"

“I don't want to leave her alone, she can use magic but nothing strong enough to actually defend herself." Connor explained as he picked up the basket and slipped Tethys inside before covering it all with a small blanket for privacy.

He before kicking on some old black flipflops since that was the best he could do with out socks. He hooked the basket into the crook of his arm and carried it close to his chest, even with Tethys it was still surprisingly light, mainly because she barely weighed anything to begin with.

The night was still early, but it was dying to a purple and orange dusk and the black night. Streetlamps lit the way, and Mincridarins huddled in packs in front of familiar garages and front yards, most of them just smiled and stared watching them pass before leaving until a familiar face ran down to greet them, and jump into his thigh. “You're ok!" Mail cried clinging to Connor's hip.

Connor knelt down and wrapped an arm around his side, “Sorry about scaring you Mail, I'm sorry about scaring you," he smiled before drawing away to pull a letter from the basket, “Can you give this to Dagia for me Mail?"

Mail nodded, before looking back at the small group of cubs who were sparing in a chalk circle, “I'm going to home guys." He called back getting disgruntled protests from the cubs, “I was just about to kick you butt, get back were not finished." A female polar bear demanded running after him protest, but Mail was far to fast for her, and when she realized she couldn't catch up she glared up at Connor and shot daggers with her eyes. “I hate you," She firmly declared before kicking stones back up to the chalk ring.

Connor said nothing else and just continued walking away with Banavi, to the Cavern but this time he didn't undress he wanted to show himself off just a little bit. But Banavi stripped down completely and followed behind Connor until the got to the podium where Varis glanced up at them; it was almost like he never slept. The falcon greeted them with a bow, “It's good to see your alive and well Master Connor, Master Newport you should be honored to own such a capable slave."

“I am, and would you happen to have a table available, or a private room so I can mount my mate in privacy?" Banavi smiled looking down up Connor as Varis nodded, “I can arrange for a private setting. Just let me get you an escort." The falcon agreed as he turned around and whistled sharply, “You have a guest Spera."

The doe looked at Connor and dropped everything pushing her tray of drinks into someone else's hands before jogging over and dragging Connor into a hug, “You're alive, I thought I would never see you again." She smothered Connor between her breasts.

“I'm sorry-“ he started before Spera dragged him away, “No, you have nothing to apologize for, I'm just glad your safe, you had us all worried. You looked dead when the healers took you, you were so cold and pale; and the light in your eyes had died."

“The fuck Varis!" Emerald protested rising out of the shadows, “Connor's back and you didn't even try to tell me?" The incubus ranted as he turned Connor around to face him before quickly jumping back, “What the hell happened to your soul? Are you alright?" Emerald Analyzed looking Connor up and down.

“You want to come and sit with us?"

“I need to know about what's going on with all of this." Emerald agreed gesturing to all of Connor, before smiling, “You look amazing by the way."

“Thank you it was gift from Bellea, I do have to admit that I love Matra's clothing styles, this silk just breathes." Connor smiled swaying lightly in front of Emerald.

“What's in the basket Connor?" Spera asked nodding to the woven whicker.

“Just letters and thank you notes for everyone… I actually was hoping Master Ravinith might help me send them out for me, is he available?" Connor asked looking up at Varis who nodded, before turning his Gaze to Spera, “Take Connor's owner to room three,"

“Master Newport, please follow me and I'll make sure you're comfortable while you wait for your mate.' Spera directed leading the rabbit away while Emerald followed along. While Connor deviated and pushed himself into the kitchen before knocking on the office door.

Master Ravinith's voice called out for him to enter, Connor slipped inside the panther was bent over his desk working on papers until he looked up and noticed Connor and stood up from his desk, “I heard you were out the hospital, I didn't think you'd visit so soon, are you ok?"

“I'm fine sir, I know my soul is a little different. I'm guessing Iron told you what happened?" Connor asked as Ravinith came around the desk, “He summarized to the best of his ability, do you want to talk about it?"

“I'm sure your busy sir, but Spera and Emerald are in room three with Newport, if you want to sit in and listen I was going to tell them what happened." Connor offered and Ravinith bowed his head, “I would appreciate that, but did you read my card?"

“Was it your Idea to send Lord Gonmondu instead, because I like dragons?" Connor asked and Ravinith smiled, “It seems I can't hide anything from you, but the blade is still raised; will you come back and continue working here?"

“I want to, but I feel like you would struggle to find clients for me other than maybe religious fanatics or depraved."

“What if I could guarantee that any clients that ask for you, want only you?" Ravinith offered and Connor smiled with heavy breath, “If you could do that it would be an easy answer Master Ravinith."

“Then I expect you to be available next week for work, same schedule, I'll have you work with Emerald or Spera whoever is available, I don't want you working alone." Ravinith declared and Connor nodded, “Thank you sir… I'm sorry about running off like I did."

“it was disappointing, but I understand why you retreated; but next time, talk to me before you do that again. I own you and it's my job to protect you, is that clear?" Ravinith declared and Connor agreed with a bow, “Yes Master Ravinith."

“Master Ravinith, before we leave I have something I was hoping you could help me with." Connor added as he lifted the blanket and pulled out the stack of letters before handing them over. “Letters, thankyou's and apologies, I don't know where to send them." Connor explained and Ravinith flipped through them, “I'm not a messenger, but I'll send them," Ravinith agreed as he flipped through the stack, “I apologize, I see why you brought these to me, don't worry I'll make sure your letters get read. Prince Romulus and Princess Quinta were quite upset when they heard what happened, so they'll be happy to know that you have recovered."

“Thank you sir," Connor finished before opening the door for Master Ravinith following behind him until they entered a lavish erotic room with fabric veils hanging from the walls and ceiling, while shelves lining the circular room displayed dildos, lubes, whips, ropes and cuffs. A king's bed was fitted with silk sheets and cleanly prepared, but everyone was sitting on pillows around a small table dotted with empty coasters. Connor sat beside Banavi and across from Ravinith before telling them everything he could remember his soul, and the divine intervention with the Qire.