Chapter 15: Here We Stand
#15 of Change of the Heart Book 1: Second Chances
Book 1, Chapter 15: The young adults of the Dancing Lights Clan have a picnic.
Chakats and the world they come from are created and owned by FA: goldfur
The art is done by the amazing and talented FA: sethtriggs
All cameo characters are owned by their respective owners
All other characters not owned by any other party are owned by me: Wolfbane115
All rights reserved
Travis woke the next morning feeling warm. He was wrapped in something fluffy that held him tightly to a body. He opened his eyes to see Baiyoshay sleeping softly below him. They had somehow ended up with Baiyoshay sleeping on hys back and Travis using hym as his bed. He could feel that Baiyoshay's large, fluffy fail was acting as their blanket. Travis felt warm and protected in hys arms, similar to how he had felt with Serenity. Baiyoshay was digging hymself deeper into Travis' heart. An idea sprung in his head of cuddling with both of them together. The initial balk that was expected did come, but the severity was inconsequential. The more prominent feelings were ones of joy and contentment. Hy wished he could spend the rest of the day being cuddled. Alas, there were things to do, people to see, places to be. They had to start their day.
Travis could still feel the love bite from last night. His shoulder still ached slightly and was tender to the touch. He had to baby it a little as he tried to get up. He gently tried to pull Baiyoshay off him but ended of getting pulled in deeper. His head was pulled in to rest on top of Baiyoshay's shoulder. A soft whimper escaped the Skunktaur as hy nuzzled into Travis' cheek. The scent and feel of his new lover being so affectionate brought a smile to Travis' face. He didn't want to disturb his friend, but the day was moving on without them. He tried again which brought a growl from Baiyoshay's throat.
"No. No getting up. Still sleepy." Travis chuckled and tried once more. The same response occurred. This time, Baiyoshay threatened, "You get out of this bed, and I'll bite you again."
"Promises, promises." Travis was able to force Baiyoshay to let go. He gave hym a few tickles to further get away from his clingy bedmate. Baiyoshay laughed uproariously as hys sides were tickled. Not wanting to be outdone, Baiyoshay tried to return the assault with hys own tickling. They both laughed together as they fought for dominance. Travis stood victorious at the end. He proudly gazed down from the side of the bed at the panting mess that was Baiyoshay.
Hy gazed up at the Human and said, "Alright, you win. I give."
"Good, else I'd have to do something more extensive."
"Like what? How extensive are we talking here?" hy asked. Baiyoshay licked hys chops to accentuate the desire hy felt for Travis. A blush did come over his face, but he held firm. He had been teased plenty enough. He was getting used to how things went around Chakona. Teasing back was starting to become normal to him. He just hoped his sanity didn't break with it all.
"Good question. I think I should shove my face under your tail and see if I can make you squeal?" Baiyoshay laughed again with that. It was delivered in the sauciest voice Travis could manage, complete with overexaggerated eyebrow wiggles to top it all off. Travis had to laugh right along at the ridiculous way he said that. He felt so wrong saying it, but it got Baiyoshay to laugh. That was a win in his book.
"Oh, that does sounds nice," Baiyoshay replied with a grin. Hy took one of hys hands to gently caress one of hys pert breasts. The nipple poked out from below as Baiyoshay gave a soft moan. "Can we do that now, please? I want you again."
"While I'd love to, we have places to be. We need to get the day started soon, or we might be late."
Baiyoshay yawned cutely, then asked, "What time is it anyway?" Travis brought his wrist up to check the time. There was just one little problem that he noticed almost immediately.
"It's just about..." Travis paused as he contemplated his bare skin. "Half-past a freckle." He had somehow misplaced his watch. He always wore his smart watch to bed since it helped track his sleeping schedule. He looked around to find either the smart watch, or the analog he takes into work. "Where's my--oh, there it is!" His digital watch had been haphazardly placed on his dresser sometime last night. He pulled it up and checked the time. "It's currently five ninety-three. We do have a few hours before we have to head out. Want to join me in the shower?"
"I'd love that. Thanks, love." Hy used the opportunity to hop out of bed and both started their morning routines. As per his usual, he cracked his back and neck. Baiyoshay cringed at the sound of bones moving. When Travis looked over, he gave an apologetic grin. He felt a new tightness in his chest right above his sternum. A quick stretch with a deep breath gave a resounding crack. Baiyoshay was in shock at what Travis' body was producing.
"Jeez, love. That sounds horrible. Have you considered going to a chiropractor?"
"Thought about it, never really got the chance. I probably need to, considering all the blows I've taken over the years. My back is all sorts of messed up after that one bad fall." He shrugged helplessly as he moved to the master bath. He'd get on that when he could. He had other concerns to handle right now. Chief among them entertaining a beautiful and aggressive Skunktaur that wanted more loving touches.
Travis led the two to his master bathroom. He noticed that the shower was just big enough to hold them easily. Since they were already divested of their clothes, they stepped in. Travis started the flow of water with a few twists of the knob. Baiyoshay came up behind and joined him. Hy wrapped hys arms from behind Travis. That had the side effects of pressing twin nipples right into his back. He enjoyed the feeling for a bit before turning around. In that moment, things were perfect. The outside world had been forgotten. All the pains and terrors of the past were left behind. There was just Baiyoshay and Travis in that shower.
Travis brought his hands up and played with those gorgeous mounds. He idly twiddled them. Baiyoshay moaned and gasped in response to the pleasure assaulting hys mind. One hand came up to trap Travis hand to a breast while the other went to grip his head. Travis had a thought struck him about something he remembered about the last few times he had seen Baiyoshay in female phase. He pondered a little bit as he felt hym up. Baiyoshay seemed to notice since the hand on his head gripped a little harder. Sharp points of the claw brought Travis back to the present. He smiled goofily as Baiyoshay shook hys head.
"Alright. Spill," hy ordered. "What's gotten in your head now?"
"Just wondering how you hide these in public," he said as he gave the subject a little tweak. Baiyoshay stifled a squeak of surprise before growling lowly. Fortunately for Travis, this was a growl of desire and not of anger.
"I custom order tops with extra padding to keep them contained. On the rare occasion I get frisky, I may wear one of my lighter tops to let them show."
"Oh, does someone have a slight exhibition streak?"
"It does feel rather naughty knowing people can see me and the girls. I'll only do it with someone I trust with me, though. Someone like you." Travis could feel heat grow on his cheeks at that declaration. There was also a redirection of blood flow that was impossible to hide. Baiyoshay laughed and had the hand trapping Travis to hys breasts go lower to play with him. "Oh, you like that idea? Want to see me stretch a top in public? Showcase everything?" Travis coughed slightly as his erection gave a throb.
"I wouldn't be opposed..." he trailed off as hys strokes became a little more insistent.
"That's good, love. I appreciate that you find my form so alluring."
"How can I not, Baiyo? You're beautiful." This time, Baiyoshay was the shy one. Hys ears folded back as they tinted a slight red. Baiyoshay looked away, but Travis wouldn't let that happen. They had been doing so good recently that Travis was sure they would end up Companions soon. He snagged Baiyoshay's muzzle before hy could fully turn away. He placed a chaste kiss right on hys nose. Baiyoshay returned that with a full kiss filled with heat and passion. Travis returned everything that hy could into that kiss.
Once they broke for air, they got started with cleaning themselves. Mixed in was some light teasing and petting that got them hot and bothered. Travis ended up behind Baiyoshay, softly washing that giant tail. He stroked it lovingly for a time. He then decided to wash hys rump with equal measure. As he rubbed the fur of Baiyoshay's haunches, he got a devilish idea. Baiyoshay was wide open for a sneaky attack. He decided to go for it since they were already here. The reaction he got was well worth it.
Baiyoshay made a sharp chirp that told Travis he made the right choice. He continued to eat out the pussy that he had full access to. Baiyoshay leaned forward and pressed hys forehead to the shower wall. Hy made all sorts of cute noises as Travis diligently did his work. He added a few extra fingers to keep Baiyoshay right on the edge of orgasm, but not fully allowing release. The growling and whining told Travis that he was giving Baiyoshay one hell of a time.
"Is this cleaning or play time?" Baiyoshay asked with a laugh.
Travis responded with, "Can it not be both? I think we have to clean this as well." He took his hand and went a little higher than normal. Baiyoshay felt something press into hys backside that wasn't supposed to be there. The yelp that Travis caught nearly made him laugh. It was way too precious seeing Baiyoshay so vulnerable and sweet.
"Easy there, love. That's playing with fire. Don't think you should be playing with my ass when I'm fully loaded."
"Now, now, sweet Baiyo. I trust you to not douse me in your chemical warfare. I just want to see how much teasing you can take." Travis seemed to be on a roll tonight. His confidence had him trying things he normally would have been hesitant to even think of bringing up. He normally wouldn't take the lead like this, but his time with Serenity gave some form of confidence.
Baiyoshay said shyly, "Just, be gentle? I've never really done anything with my bum." Travis was already going to be gentle since he didn't want to hurt Hym. He had grabbed a significant amount of lubrication from Baiyoshay's pussy, so he was confident that things would go smoothly. Or so he hoped. With deliberate care, he eased in a finger.
Baiyoshay gasped loudly. Travis couldn't exactly tell if it was in pleasure or pain. Maybe both? The squeezing sensation on his finger didn't seem to be Baiyoshay trying to push him out. More than likely, hy was trying to adjust to the new intruder. After a few minutes, Baiyoshay asked for another finger. Travis obliged and went a little faster to boot. However, he didn't go any further than that since this was teasing. He did push Baiyoshay right to the edge and always backed off when hy felt nearly ready to blow. After a bit more time in this pattern, Baiyoshay finally had enough.
"Deities above, stop teasing! It's too much! Please!" Travis was grinning to himself at how Baiyoshay was begging for hys release. He decided that enough teasing had occurred for the time being. He upped the speed and ante, bringing Baiyoshay to the brink once more. This time, he threw hym off the cliff and into the arms of passion at full speed. He was going to make sure that Baiyoshay's mind would be blown to Terra and back.
Baiyoshay came with all hy had right into Travis' face. The release of juices felt akin to a fire hose with how much strength was put into it. Travis didn't mind the hose down he received.
In fact, he was king of giddy with how Baiyoshay was reacting. He kept the pleasure going with more stimulation. Baiyoshay was getting weak in the knees with all the teasing. Hy started to fall as hys legs started to give out. Travis quickly adjusted his position to grab onto the over-stimulated Skunktaur. He held Baiyoshay as hy recovered from hys orgasm.
Baiyoshay groaned out, "Love, that was amazing! You're a natural. Want me to return the favor?"
"You don't have to. It's not necessary."
"Oh, I think it is. You deserve some loving as well." Baiyoshay was able to get up but just barely. Hys legs were still shaking from the overload. Hy was able to regain enough motor control to grab Travis and push him to the wall. Travis couldn't help the giddy feeling from having an amorous Skunktaur pushing hym to the wall. The erection he sported was sandwich between them. Baiyoshay's fur tickled as it rubbed and teased him. Baiyoshay laughed heartily as hys hand reached down to grab hold of Travis' cock. Travis then felt Baiyoshay bite him once more. This time, Baiyoshay was gentler with the teeth. The combination of what Travis was experiencing left him breathless and even more aroused than he thought possible.
Baiyoshay released him and dropped to hys belly. Travis was engulfed in a hot mouth without any preamble or warning. His own hand went to Baiyoshay's head as the other supported him against the shower wall. The warm wetness of Baiyoshay's mouth was equal parts erotic and terrifying. He knew on an intellectual level that Baiyoshay would never harm him. The occasional nip of hys teeth reminded Travis that Baiyoshay was very kinky when it came to pain. A hint of fear blasted through him as he had an image of a single bite that could be disabling. He forced that fear down deep to the darkest parts of hell where it belonged.
He felt his climax building in his lions. He didn't know how Baiyoshay wanted to finish off the blowjob. He didn't expect hym to swallow since that was an acquired taste. He had a thought of Baiyoshay's breasts and how they would look blasted with his cum. He didn't want to ask for such demeaning act. He was content with whatever Baiyoshay would decide their act to end. When he felt Baiyoshay come off his cock, he saw a mischievous grin. It seemed that he was not as discrete with his staring as he thought he was.
"You getting close love?" He nodded, huffing, and puffing with the pleasure. Baiyoshay's grin grew even wider as hy pumped harder. "You want to cum on these tits? Want to mark me with your seed?" Travis wanted to nod again but held his position. His eyes snapped shut when an insistent tug brought a hiss out. "Answer me, love. And it better be the truth, or we'll be having words." The threat was clear to Travis. He would have to answer honestly if he didn't want to be bitten again. He swallowed his pride and answered. Through hell or high water, he was going to start being honest with those he cared for. No time like the present!
"Yes!"
"Good boy," Baiyoshay praised. Hy leaned in closer to envelope Travis' member in hys cleavage. The extra stimulation was getting to him. The sight of Baiyoshay taking what hy wanted proved to be Travis' undoing. He felt his impending release start to form. "That's it. Cum for me, love. Give me all of it." He couldn't hold it anymore. The pleasure was overpowering any self-control he had left. Baiyoshay added in some licks to the tip to quicken the process. Travis was gasping and moaning in pleasure as he blew everything he had.
Streams of sticky, white cum landed on Baiyoshay's breasts and face. Hy gave a joyous gasp as the first shot landed directly on hys face. Hy aimed Travis down so that hys breasts were coated with the following shots. The hand-job never stopped during Travis' orgasm. Baiyoshay was going to milk Travis for all he was worth. Deciding to fulfil Baiyoshay's wish, Travis gave a few thrusts of his hips to prolong his release. By the time he was spent. Baiyoshay had been coated in his load from head to tits. Hy giggled as hys Human lover gasped with the last load.
Baiyoshay didn't mind being blasted with cum. It would wash out easily enough. Besides, seeing Travis happy was reward enough for the situation. They were progressing nicely in hys opinion. Soon they would be companions, maybe more if the fates were willing. There were some lingering doubts that Travis would not ask or even accept, but Serenity had assured Baiyoshay that Travis was interested. It would just take time to break through all his walls and trust issues. They were working on him, though, so there was good chance that they would soon be a closer family. They just had to be patient.
Travis had to catch his breath. His mind was still buzzing from what he experienced. Thoughts and words were not coming to him. There was no way he could get his head cleared in a timely manner with how the aftershocks kept derailing everything. A few minutes passed before Travis could get any words out. When he did, he started to laugh as the reality of the situation dawned on him. He was beginning to do things that he originally thought were impossible for him. He was actually living life now and not merely passing through. He was making connections and friends that cared and supported him. He may even be making a new family. One that loved and honored him as much as he did them.
"Wow. That was awesome, Baiyo." Baiyoshay stood from the floor with a lovely chuckle. Hy started to rinse off the ejaculate that had accumulated in hys fur. As hy did so, Travis came along and helped out as best he could. Baiyoshay accepted the help and leaned into him more. They gently washed each other from their earlier fun.
"Hmm. I enjoyed it as well. We may have to explore what else we can do. Especially with my bum." Travis stopped as he realized what hy was offering. While Travis hadn't ever experienced that before with anyone, he was brave enough to at least try most things once. That thought brought him to what he did with Serenity their first night and how he had willingly done something outside his comfort zone. If he could do it once, he could do it again.
"If that is your wish, we can try."
"Oh, don't worry, love. We'll take it slow. Anyway, help me clean up? As you said, we don't want to be late."
Today's itinerary had Baiyoshay and Travis meeting Kairen, Amethyst, Sequoia, and Serenity at one of the local parks nearby for a picnic. There were several spots all around Amistad and the surrounding suburbs. They were well maintained by the city to offer residents and tourists the opportunity to enjoy nature. Several hiking trails were established in such a way that one could technically walk from one suburb to the other. It wasn't exactly something one could do in a day since there were several kilometers between. Today's excursion would be mainly focused in the area between the neighborhood of East Hill and Amistad proper.
Baiyoshay and Travis had entertained themselves with some cuddle time before they were supposed to get moving. They ended up laying on the couch with Baiyoshay's upper torso laying in Travis' lap. Music played from the speakers around them that was soft and smooth. They enjoyed the feel of the other, just relaxing and vibing to the music. Travis was so in the groove that he had started to gently pet Baiyoshay's stomach. As he fell deeper and deeper into the rhythm, Baiyoshay adjusted his pattern to include touching hys a little more intimately. Travis didn't realize that as they were relaxing that his hand kept brushing and rubbing Baiyoshay's chest and nipples. The other was used as a pillow for hys head overall, the scene was exactly what Travis loved. Good people and good times.
As time went on, Baiyoshay mentioned their plans for the day. Hy still needed to grab hys contribution for the picnic. There was some discussion how Baiyoshay would bring enough to go around, and it was decided that Travis will help out. They could easily grab the drinks on the way to the park. As for Travis, he was given the duty of finding a dessert to go along with the entrée Sequoia made and the sides the others were bringing. The main course was some grilled chicken. The ideas that Travis had to go with chicken were cookies or cupcakes. Baiyoshay had suggested that he go with the cookie option since they were easy to make or purchase. Travis seemed to have boundless luck as there were several containers of fresh cookie dough in the freezer.
Deciding that all three flavors were good, Travis started making them. Snickerdoodle, chocolate chip, and macadamia nut cookies were placed on a baking sheet and placed in the oven. Once they were baking, Baiyoshay and Travis decided to return to their previous arrangement. This time with a twist. Travis went to his bass to pass the time as he entertained. Baiyoshay was happy to listen as he started work on a new song. When asked what the inspiration was, he commented that the incident on the_Orion_gave him a new perspective on what it meant to be a survivor. He wanted a song that made one recall those that had come and gone over time. While it did have some somber and melancholy to it, there was also a sense of living on. It wasn't a complete thought yet. It did give them something to do as the cookies baked themselves.
Travis had noticed as time went on that Baiyoshay seemed to be distracted. Something was bothering hym. Now, Travis had been on the receiving end of many lectures about overthinking things. This was different though. Baiyoshay didn't seem to be worried about their interactions or anything of that sort. Hys worries seemed to be heavily external. Travis didn't want to pry, but with the way the darkness seemed to be encroaching on Baiyoshay's soul, he couldn't let this last much longer.
When he had the opportunity, Travis asked, "Baiyo? You alright?" Baiyoshay seemed to be brought out of whatever trance hy had entered hymself into. Several blinks brought focus and clarity back. Baiyoshay smiled sheepishly at having been caught out by Travis.
"Sorry, love. Been thinking a lot lately."
"Didn't you warn me about that just recently?"
"Oh, ha, ha," Baiyoshay said sarcastically. "That's because you tend to overthink on things that don't matter in the long run."
Travis shrugged before saying, "True. For real, though, what's going on, Baiyo? If it's something I can help with, I'd happily assist." Hy smiled warmly and placed a hand on his shoulder. Travis could tell that Baiyoshay was happy for something he had done or said in that moment.
That was confirmed when Baiyoshay said, "Well, look at you. Offering emotional support."
"Hey, that's what friends do, right?" Baiyoshay nodded in agreement. A hand went to the Human's neck and brought him down. They shared a small kiss that Travis could tell was meant to be more then just friends. Baiyoshay pulled back and gave a lick-kiss on the nose.
"I'm hoping we can be more than friends. However, I don't want to make that official until after the picnic today." They settled back down in their spots on the couch. Travis waited patiently as Baiyoshay gathered hys thoughts. It didn't take long before Baiyoshay started talking again. "As for help, I don't think you can exactly help me. I've been working a case that has been giving me problems." Travis nodded quietly. He could understand when something wasn't going your way. He's had that happen at the most inopportune times in his life which led to some really bad days and years.
"That bad, eh?" he said sympathetically.
"Worse. Our victim disappeared nearly two weeks ago, and we haven't been able to find her. The chief is getting frustrated, and the mayor may get involved if we don't find something soon." By the time Baiyoshay had finished the explanation, Travis had brought out his PADD and was typing in commands. Baiyoshay noticed the action. There was a slight moment of indignation for being ignored, but that was stamped dead by his next words.
"Can you give me a description of the victim and her name?"
"Uh, vixen Morph, early thirties. Works at a local brothel. Name is Olivia Hanson."
"Thanks," he said. Baiyoshay was originally concerned about him not caring. That changed to concern of what exactly he was doing when he started singing a tune. "Time to do some sketchy shit, doo-dah, doo-dah. Hope I get away with it, oh, da-doo, da-day..." He looked up to see Baiyoshay's flabbergasted and horrified expression. "What?"
"Uh, what exactly are you doing?"
"Tapping into the security cameras and implementing an algorithm to find your victim."
"You can do that?"
"Legally, not really. But since I have some privileges that are still active right now, I'm able to do what I can to help within the guidelines I have." He tapped a few more times before he sent the algorithm on its way. He was hoping that this would not take long, but he knew from experience that it could. There were some other factors that would have also extended the timeline. All they could do now is hope that Olivia would be somewhere out there. "Now, if she pops up anywhere, I'll get notified. Then you will know."
"How long do you expect that to take?"
"Eh, who knows? I can only do so much. I don't have the bandwidth or memory to do any other city besides Amistad right now. Not only that, but with how much ground I have to cover, the algorithm will take some time to parse through all that data to find her. Could take as little as a few days, could take as long as a few weeks. Just hope and pray that she pops up somewhere with a camera in view." Baiyoshay didn't like that more time would be wasted, but if Travis was sure he could find hys victim, then it would be worth it. Deciding to let it go for now, Baiyoshay took a deep breath. In that breath, something new wafted into hys muzzle. Something sweet. Travis also could smell it, and commented, "Looks like the cookies are done."
They stood together and went over to the oven. The cookies were definitely done. They were pulled out and left to set for a few minutes. Travis pulled out a few containers to transport the gooey goodness that was their dessert. Travis and Baiyoshay placed the dessert in containers to keep them warm. They were packaged up and secured for their trip to the picnic spot. When he checked the time, he said that they should get going. Baiyoshay agreed and the two started their way.
The Human and Skunktaur had made their way to the designated spot in near record time. They were lucky that today seemed to be a fast day for the transportation services. There was hardly any traffic to impend their journey. With lady fortune on their side, they were able to make a quick stop for the drinks before moving on to the park. The found the others waiting for them as they approached. Sequoia was the first to spot them from their picnic blanket. Seeing the obvious invitation, Baiyoshay and Travis joined the others to enjoy the day.
Travis noticed that the spot was a little out of the way from the trail. It wasn't far enough to lose one's way, but just far enough to be secluded. The grove of trees surrounding their little spot offered enough concealment to ensure some amount of privacy. A hint of fear tried to take route and warn him that this was an ambush. He stamped that out quickly and reassured him that they would never do that. They were his friends, his family. People he loved and cherished. They would not be so cruel. As they turned a corner of the grove, Travis knew that he was right. Sitting on a picnic blanket talking amongst themselves was the rest of their group.
Serenity turned to face them as they approached and sad, "Baiyo! Good to see you again. Hi, sugar." Shi got to hir paws and enveloped both of them into one of hir trademark hugs. They were soon joined by Kairen, Amethyst, and Sequoia to exchange greetings. The warm welcome they received was akin to being received in a warm home from the winter cold. Travis grew melty inside. This was unusual and strange to him. There were parts of him that wanted to run away from the new feelings. That part of him was squashed by the desire for more. He wanted to be welcomed like this every day. If he played his cards right, he'd make it to that level.
"Good to see you, Serenity," Baiyoshay said just as warmly. They shared a quick nuzzle before Travis was engulfed by a purring Chakat. He was getting used to hir affections now, so he easily returned everything shi gave. A logical portion of his mind should have been confused by their general affection since Sequoia was right there. That thought process lost traction as the feelings of those around him drowned out his logical brain. His heart was now in full control. The effects were further amplified when Sequoia embraced him as well and gave him his own nuzzle. It seemed that he was being dragged into this family unit one embrace at a time.
"Come! Have a seat, guys!" Kairen called out from hir spot next to Amethyst. Baiyoshay and Travis joined with the others on the picnic blanket laid out. Travis ended up being smushed between Serenity and Baiyoshay. Sequoia had settled hirself so shi was perpendicular to them. Kairen and Amethyst were across, snuggling into each other. Travis caught the sight of their tails intertwined. Travis felt his heart melt at the love they had. Kairen was the loud mouth pervert at times, however shi very rarely ever acted on such lewdness. Amethyst was calm and collected most times. When you get hir motor running, though, shi is as perverted as Kairen with much more willingness to act. It made them the tag team couple to spice up any day.
Sequoia was a different person all around. Shi had a passion for life that rivaled most Chakats. This extended to what hir job entailed as part of the Department of Environment. Shi wanted to maintain Chakona for future generations. Travis admired hir zeal and hir own compassion. He had felt a little out of place with all these taurs around him. Being the only biped in the group and the only Human brought a sense of being outnumbered that Travis was all too familiar with. He knew he shouldn't have to fear. They haven't done anything to him to make him think they were planning anything untoward. That feeling quickly died away and was buried where it belonged. That wasn't the end of it, however.
Travis looked over to Sequoia a few times to judge hir feeling of Travis being so close to Serenity. He had vowed when Serenity had asked him to be a Companion that he would never come between Serenity and Sequoia. The did encourage him that his fears would not come true. He wanted to let it go, but he couldn't stop the feeling of worry that he would do something to ruin everything. Poly-style relationships were hard enough as is. It would take a lot of work before he was entirely comfortable. Those therapy sessions with Amethyst seemed a lot more palatable than he first assumed.
The discussion they were having turned to their lunch when rumbling stomachs started making noises. They dug into the basket that held their meal for the day. Sequoia had made grilled chicken while Kairen and Amethyst worked together to make some macaroni salad. Serenity had gotten a few bags of chips from the store to add in as a side. Travis was pretty sure that Sequoia would fatten him up with all the good food shi cooks. He made the comment that Sequoia was a superb cook. Shi blushed at the praise, but said that shi was happy to do so. Serenity responded that Sequoia was going to put all of them in a food coma if they weren't careful. Kairen turned that down a different path when shi said that they would just burn it off with their after-dinner activities.
"What kind of activities?" Baiyoshay asked. Of course, hy knew the answer to that. Kairen was pretty predictable when it came to being naughty. Shi made offhand jokes and sensual remarks all the time to throw people off their game. The real fun happened when people responded by matching hir energy. If you could catch hir flat footed, one could get a very flustered and giggly Kairen. Then they would be treated to something real nice later. What that was, no one who knew would tell. It was something good though by the shared looks and laughs.
"I'm thinking some adult wrestling would burn a few calories, wouldn't you say?" Kairen teased easily. "Get some passion and heat going on." Sequoia snickered at the memories of some of their more intimate encounters. Baiyoshay seemed to try to come up with something to respond while being a little off balance. Travis chuckled at Baiyoshay's fluster, but soon had the attention on him. "Maybe our resident Human would join us?" Travis had been wanting a test of his improvisation skill. He especially wanted to see if he could put Kairen in hir place. It was time to fight fire with fire.
He tested the waters with, "Oh, does Kai-kitty want lovings and rubbings?" A solid jab to feel out hir response. Would shi meet the energy, or ante up? He knew shi wouldn't fold easily. He just needed to get into his own groove. Match hir blow for blow until either he folds, or shi does. Should be easy, right?
"That'd be very nice. Serenity and Sequoia mentioned you are a little more adventurous than other Humans."
"I can be when I want to be. Why? You want to try something risky?" He rose one eyebrow with a smirk to see if shi would take the bait. He wasn't disappointed. Shi took it hook, line, and sinker.
"I'm up for anything, hot stuff. I'll be sure to blow your mind." Shi offered quite the view when shi stretched. Shi was not big on clothes in general. Sure, shi wears something when required or requested. If shi didn't have to wear anything, though, shi was back to being as naked as the day shi was born. The only piece of clothing that shi wore willingly was hir choker. So, when shi put hir hands behind hir head and stretched, shi gave everyone a tantalizing view of hir well-sized breasts.
Most Chakats were considered fit by nature. You sometimes got the slimmer ones like Serenity that have slightly better metabolism rate. Then you get Chakats like Kairen that seemed to have been given the body of a fertility deity. There were curves in all the right places. The twists and turns of hir body gave hir a slight chubby look that fit hir really well. Hir breasts were the largest of the group if you discounted Baiyoshay. Hir dark pink nipples stood proudly at all of them. Travis could sense that the air was changing around them. Things were getting hotter, and Travis was enjoying it. From what he could see, the others were also taking in the amorous tension.
"You really think you can handle me, Kai-kitty? I must warn you that a few things I'm into aren't for everyone."
"Are you talking about that lactation fetish you have?" Travis held back a shocked gasp. He only told Serenity about that. Sequoia found out later but shi seemed to be okay with it. Granted, he never told either of them to keep it a secret. It was just embarrassing to have that aired out so casually. That embarrassment was tempered by the increased purring from Serenity and the look of intrigue from Baiyoshay. Sequoia was enjoying the entire by-play with gusto. Amethyst seemed to be fidgeting slightly. Travis couldn't tell on the off glance what exactly was causing that reaction. By the twitching tail and the perked ears, one could say shi was slightly antsy. Travis let it slide and focused on the verbal sparring he was locked in.
"That, and a few others. I do wonder how you taste." Amethyst focused long enough to give an answer. It was small and soft, but just loud enough for all to hear it.
"Good." Kairen giggled and teased Amethyst by groping hir. It seemed that Amethyst's antsy movements were because shi was as turned on as hir denmate. That was a good indication that this was okay.
"I see. I may have to see what you taste like."
"Maybe I can even get full mother's milk? I bet you'd like that. Think Ren would be kind enough to share?" Travis' first reaction was to instantly tell Kairen shi didn't have to do that. He never wanted anyone to change something about themselves just for his sake. He didn't care that they were willing to do so. This was a change that could be considered selfish and rude to ask. He would never put anyone in that situation.
His thoughts were derailed when Serenity gave a low meow of approval. Hir purring also went to very audible levels that shook Travis. Being so close to hir, he felt the full brunt of a very happy and aroused Chakat. From the responses of the others, they were just as bothered as Serenity was. He even noticed that Sequoia had turned fully to hir belly to hide something beneath hir. Travis would have been appalled a few weeks ago. Now, this was all part of the fun of being with a Chakat household.
"Oh, please do! I'd love to suckle and be suckled by you," Serenity half growled through a moan. It was alluring to know that Serenity was entertained by all this. He had a flash of seeing Kairen and Serenity suckling each other. He was still not fully on board with that happening outside of fantasy, but he was getting there. It was a very slow and delicate process to go through. He'd manage it, though. There was a small part of him that was interested in seeing that in the future. The tenting of his pants was proof of that.
"That does sound exciting. I wonder if there is anything else you'd like to suck on? Or would you rather have me suck on something" he asked playfully. The minute he said that, he felt heat rush to his face. He couldn't' believe he had just said that out loud! He never would have been that forward or perverted if it wasn't Kairen. There was a sense of safety that told him he could speak his mind no matter how perverted it was. This was going a little too far out of his comfort zone, though. This was on the same realm as leering in his eyes, which was a despicable thing to do. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him whole. He wanted to take it back, or at least hide from the shame that he knew would be coming.
"Oh, I do," Kairen responded excitedly. There was a glint in hir eye that told him that shi was going for gold here. He prepared himself for something really out there. There were so many things shi could do to push his buttons and he tried to ready himself for every eventuality. He wasn't prepared for Kairen to lift hir hind legs and present hirself for all to see. "I think you'd love the taste of my kitty cock. Want a lick?" Travis gaped in shock as Kairen went full on exhibitionist.
It seemed shi really was blessed to be a fertility deity. Shi was definitely on the above average side of what Chakats were. He had only seen Sequoia and Serenity this way. Comparing the three, each had differences that he quickly noticed. Shi was dark pink in color, easily matching hir nipples. While he couldn't see anything else, he was pretty sure everything matched at hir backside. Kairen's cock slid out of hir sheath and twitched heavily. Shi gave a light huff as shi fully exposed hirself to everyone. Shi didn't seem to have a care in the world that the others were staring, and neither did the others care that Kairen was giving a show.
Sequoia was huffing and puffing from hir spot. Hir lower body humped slightly as shi played with hir own breasts. Beads of milk started growing on hir dark grey nipples that shi lazily lapped off hirself every so often. Seemed shi went through with getting hir milk production started. Baiyoshay was staring unabashedly. Hy tweaked hys own breasts as hy bit a knuckle to stifle hys moaning. Serenity started growling lightly as shi rolled onto hir side. Travis looked back to check on hir and saw that shi was just as horny as the others. Hir black cock was poking out from hir sheath, but hadn't fully exposed itself yet. In that moment, Travis had a thought hit him of sucking on Serenity till shi filled his stomach just like their first night together. That thought just as soon left. There was a trill that brought his focus back to the pair across from him.
"I do!" Amethyst yelled. Shi seemed to be the most affected out of the entire group judging by hir actions. Shi turned to lie across hir denmate's side and took Kairen into hir muzzle. Travis couldn't look away as shock and horror took over his mind. He hadn't meant for this to devolve into debauchery. He had just wanted to play a teasing game with Kairen. This was too much!
He was saved from further embarrassment when Serenity called out, "Alright, enough already!" Shi wasn't angry or even embarrassed. Hir words were actually amused if one could believe it. "Amy, please get off of Kairen and settle down. Kairen, be a dear and put that away." Amethyst whined pitifully as shi settled next to Kairen. Kairen took a deep breath and closed hir eyes. Hir cock returned to its hiding place without any fuss. Well, from hirself that is. Travis had lost his mind.
"Oh, deities above, I can't believe that happened!" He placed one hand to his face as he forced himself to calm himself. Serenity placed one hand to rub his back in circles. Hir and Baiyoshay encircled him and kept him centered and conscious. He was grateful for their support and unwavering friendship. He swore that he would get over these mental issues.
"Sorry, Travis, Ren" Kairen apologized. "That got out of hand."
Serenity replied with, "No worries, Kai." Shi turned to face Travis and gave a questioning look. Shi was silently asking him if he was okay. He returned hir question with a half-hearted shrug. While he wasn't totally turned off with the whole thing, he for sure was not fully into it either. Shi accepted his response and returned hir attention to the group at large. "While I am all for an orgy, that's not the reason why I brought you all here." Everyone seemed to grow sober with hir words. Travis could tell that this would be important for them. Whatever was going to be discussed would change their dynamic.
Amethyst sighed before saying, "You're right, sis. We need to have this conversation sooner rather than later." The other nodded in agreement. Travis felt his nerves starting to come alive. Warning bells had started going off in his head. Once more, he had the choice to stay or flee. It was much easier to choose to stay this time, but only just. He would face this trial with his head held high.
"Thank you. To start, this family meeting is in discussion on Baiyoshay and Travis and the expectations we have for them. As the spokesperson of the clan, I will oversee as arbiter." Shi paused as shi regarded the two aforementioned people. They both knew that this conversation was going to happen, but Travis was the nervous one of the two. He didn't know what to expect. Luckily, this was going to be a good thing for all of them. "Baiyoshay," Serenity started. "We talked for a while. I like you and think you are good for Travis. I want your relationship with us and with him to grow and thrive." Baiyoshay nodded happily in response.
It seemed like a fairytale to Travis. They were accepting of Baiyoshay and wanted hym to be part of the family. You can say a lot of things about Chakats and their kin, but you could never say they didn't work fast in bringing you in. Baiyoshay seemed to have been caught in their net just as he was. A new vision encroached in his mind. He saw himself and Baiyoshay as members of the Dancing Lights Clan. It was such a happy thought that he couldn't help smiling. He said a prayer to fate that his dream would become reality.
"We of the Dancing Lights Clan are offering friendship to you," Serenity continued. "We enjoy your company immensely and would be lesser without you in our lives. Do you wish to be considered friend of the Dancing Lights Clan?"
Baiyoshay answered, "I do. I care for all of you as good friends. We shall see what the future holds for us. Though, I am confident that we will end up being more than just friends." Hy gave Travis a wink that said Baiyoshay was pretty sure what that future would entail. Travis trusted that it would be a happy ending for all of them.
"Then we are in accord, friend. Moving on to you, my sweet sugar," Serenity declared with a bop to Travis' nose. He went cross-eyed trying to track the finger to which Serenity giggled. Regaining hir composure, shi resumed, "We know that you are troubled by fears and insecurities. You have made great strides in conquering those with our help. There is just one thing that needs to be addressed right now: your jealousy." Shame fell on him like a sack of rocks.
"I know. I hate it. I don't want to be that way anymore."
"That's why we are here discussing it. Answer me this: why are you jealous?" He had to think on that answer for a bit. He knew the real reason was because he wanted to be like them. To love and be loved as carefree as they could. For a Human, that was difficult. For one that had loved tarnished by abuse, that was nearly impossible. The idea that anyone would pick him was laughable. Yet, these people were choosing him. They wanted to be with him, to love him. He just couldn't see himself loving them in the same way. Deciding on his next words, he gave his answer.
"I am jealous because I want to love as you do. To be able to love freely without strife or fear. To know that I am accepted for who I am." He took a breath as the last thought brought tears to his eyes. "To no longer feel like I have to hide myself." Serenity nodded at his answer before looking at the others. Each of them knew tidbits of what he had gone through. The sincerity he held to his words convinced them that there were things that happened they would never know. There was a mutual understanding that they would have to live without knowing the whys of how Travis came to be in this state. That was fine with them as long as he would not let those events ruin this chance he had.
Amethyst said softly, "The best way to love like that is to let go of the fear of being hurt." Shi had somehow hit the nail on the head with that one statement. That was exactly why he struggled with loving the way he wanted. There was always a constant fear that he would be harmed emotionally or mentally. Shi had found the chink in the armor and was now exploiting it with all the skills learned from hir job. "You fear being replaceable. That someone else would come along and take your place among us. Trust me when I say this Travis: that will_never_ happen. We refuse to let it."
"My sister is right," Serenity added. "You are mine, now. Mine to me. Letting you go is unacceptable." Travis felt warmth blossom in his heart. The emotions he felt surrounding him gave validity to what they were saying. Travis could bet his life that if he couldn't feel the honesty from them, he would have scoffed and ended everything right there. By the grace of some other power far above this reality, he had ended up with empaths that were not afraid of letting him feel what they feel. To demonstrate their love and lust for him. There was that small piece of doubt that wouldn't leave him alone.
"I do believe you. I saw it just now during our banter." He sighed in equal parts longing and assuredness. "While it did overwhelm me, I enjoyed the honesty and forthrightness you all showed."
"But?" Amethyst prompted. He was avoiding saying his fears like he usually tried to do. Yet, like most times he tried, he couldn't hide it as well as he liked.
"I can't get my brain to just accept that I am wanted. I hate that every time you have demonstrated that you want me in your life, my first reaction is to think you don't really mean it. It's cruel and unfair to you. I want to change. No, I_need_ to change. This has to stop before I ruin everything I want. Will you help me?"
Serenity looked over to the others. There was silent communication between the Dancing Lights Clan. As they were coming to a decision, Baiyoshay scooted closer to wrap Travis in a hug from behind. Hys head rested on top of Travis' own. He placed a hand on the two that were resting over his heart. He took deep breaths to keep himself calm. That doubled to have Baiyoshay's scent invade his nose. That calmed him down further. He would not be broken any longer. His past would not hold him hostage. He will be better for the sake of the Clan. This he swore.
The Clan seemed to come to an agreement, to which Serenity declared, "We extend our support to you on several conditions." Travis swallowed hard. He knew there would be conditions. There always were. Unconditional love did not exist in reality. There was going to be give and take. Travis would accept whatever conditions they place. He had no room or ground to refuse. He would do them with all his might, or die trying.
"Name them. Tell me what I must do." Serenity was glad he was taking this so well. Shi had been careful to not convey that they would be cruel or make unreasonable demands. They wanted to see Travis stand tall on his own two feet. To do that, he must better himself and improve his mental wellbeing.
"You are to do everything in your power to be the best you can be. That means taking care of your mental and emotional state. You are to be honest with us when you are not feeling well in any way. That also means to take steps to better your mind and your coping skills when you are low. To this end, we desire that you begin therapy with Amethyst as soon as possible. We ask this so we do not end up in codependence."
Travis could feel the dread and fear slipping away. With every word Serenity said, the dark thoughts that still nested below the surface were silenced. He knew that his mental state was considered abysmal. Most people would go as far to say that he was permanently damaged. He couldn't blame them. Actually, he agreed with them for the most part. His brain was damaged in many ways. The great thing was that he was slowly repairing all the wrongness that had plagued his thoughts. As they days passed by, his mind grew stronger and more resilient. Just being in close proximity to someone who cared helped seal the tears and cracks that had formed. Adding in therapy would reinforce the repairs and make him whole once more. There was no debate on what his next words would be.
"I accept those terms, Ren. Thank you."
"Then it is decided. Once Amethyst is cleared to take you on, you are to begin therapy with hir. You will take what shi teaches and tells you to heart and apply it to your life. There is just one last thing." Travis felt the seriousness of the situation devolve and dissipate. Joy and naughtiness returned to their picnic to what it had been before. Serenity's grin at him made his heart flutter in anticipation of what was coming. He braced for anything shi could throw at him. "You still up for an orgy later?" Travis' laughter was loud, boisterous, and unburdened by his fears.