Deliverance

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Perched on the worn steps of the amphitheater, Lumi reaches into the depths of his mind, clawing at the faintest echoes from the divine. C’mon! listen to me! he pleads in silence. The heavens stay silent. Of course they won’t answer. He’d known they wouldn’t. His heart has been heavy in the pit of his stomach since Khimi’s last words. Now he wants nothing more than to forget, to push past the pain in his gut and focus on something else, anything else. The divine, he decided some hours ago, would be the perfect distraction. The goddess had spoken to him before, whispered to him during times of need, but now she’s silent. I’m in need now! he thinks bitterly. With a strangled groan, he grabs two fistfuls of his hair and lets out a frustrated squeal, rocking back and forth on the stair.  

Meditation, he had been told by Saint Nina, is the key to reaching out to the gods. Unfortunately for him, meditation had always been far from his strongest skill, and if anything, it may be his worst. Still, he tries. He shuts his eyes tightly, breathes in through his nose, and holds it for a count of five. The wind whistles through the palm fronds above him, dust sweeps over the sandstone. Somewhere in the amphitheater seats, a bird flits and chirps, then flies off; the beating of its wings beating the quiet.  

He opens one eye. Nothing. No glowing symbols, no divine feeling, no revelations. He throws himself back on the steps with a dramatic thump, sprawling over the stones. “This is stupid,” he says to himself. “She coulda sent something… a message or a bird or something.”  

The clouds shift overhead. It’s quiet. A tear slips from the corner of his eye before he has a chance to intercept. He rubs it away furiously, cursing under his breath. “Stupid. Don’t cry.” He bites the inside of his cheek, masking a sob. “Please,” he whispers. “Just gimme somethin’. Anything… I don’t know what I’m doin’… I don’t know how to fix it. I thought—” His voice cracks. “I thought things would be different!” 

His jaw sets. He steels himself. Again! His eyes pinch closed as he works to clear a space in his mind. He imagines something different this time: the shifting sands north of the Dolman Jungle. It stuck out in his memories as a child; within moments of leaving the edge of the jungle he would reach the sandy, windswept terrain. Fields of dry grass spread out in short bursts, and he could hide in the thicket. There he would stare up at the clouds passing overhead during the day and the endless sea of stars at night. It was a place only for him. It would comfort him when he felt most alone. There, he’d wonder what he might find if he made the leap, left the tribe and rushed out into the world. He’d heard the stories from merchants and travelers who stayed with the tribe; everything on the outside sounded so intriguing, different. The Dolman Jungle, his home, had never felt more oppressive than in those time. In his youth, he resigned himself to live as a servant of his brother and believed that he would never be suited to live above his strength. That is the way of it within their tribe. Aslan tribes favor the strong, and it is something he knows he will never be. He knows the truth of his situation, he could never go back to the tribe even if he wanted. There was a reason that they never acclimated well into society, the tribes would never let them. It did not help that his brother would never let him return home, not after everything that happened. Lumi growls once the memory comes back to him. Sevrin left him for dead in the desert, beaten and broken. During his time at the temple he had imagined killing his brother hundreds of times and each time he felt sick at the thought, even after everything; Sevrin was still his brother.  

He sits with his back against the sandstone steps, the sun beating down on him through the shady canopy from the brush. The area around the shrine reminds him of when he was back in the jungles of Dolmas. The rich smell of the soil, the lushness of the greenery, the moist earth beneath his feet. He walks near the riverbeds. For the first time in, he prays to return home, that he would have the strength to endure the suffering that his tribe would put him through. I should have just… shut my mouth, he thinks while he remembers nights ago. How could I have—I thought he felt the same. He slams his head back against the step with a thud, the impact blurring his vision. Fuck. His fingers skim through his hair, feeling a wetness forming. His eyes well up with tears, and he rolls onto his side, curling his legs against his chest, his tail between his legs. Grasping his tail, he combs through the coarse hair. Is this the path you chose for me, goddess? I am a fool. Why put all of your trust into a fool? 

Lumi closes his eyes, nursing the pained spot on the back of his head. Nina told me only to use restorative magick when necessary, he ponders to himself and swiftly utters the incantation that comes to his mind. Warmth radiates from his palm over his head, the pain from his impact vanishes. 

Lumi opens his eyes, his dizziness worsens. I-I fucked up, he thinks, panic stirring in his chest. He sits up and surveys the surrounding area. The amphitheater seems to have vanished. Pushing himself up with his elbows, he finds the soft dirt beneath him instead of the sandstone stairs he had just stood on. A dense canopy surrounds him, massive trees that he immediately recognizes as Dolman elderwood. I must have teleported? But… Nina said that was something I couldn’t do until I was much older and wiser.  

Lumi stands, walking towards the closest of the elderwood trees. It is just like he recalls from his youth, the itchy dark bark and gnarled roots which stand almost as tall as himself. His hand presses against its massive trunk, and Lumi cannot help the emotions that fill him. The familiar scent of the rich earth fills his nose while he presses his face against the tree, his lips brush against the rough bark. It feels just like home. It is home. The sun reaches through the canopy in small, uneven rays, their touch creating thick areas of brush. Lumi passes through them while he gathers his bearings. Yet, nothing around him feels remotely close to the areas of the jungle he had explored previously. Hours seem to pass with his aimless wandering around the jungle, the sound of birds cawing in the distance, the only signs of life. Last time I was in Dolmas… there were animals everywhere. Beside a large elderwood, he pushes his hands through the decomposing leaves along the ground, seeking any signs of bugs or fauna. His hands overturn dozens of small bugs, which scamper back beneath the decomposing foliage. Definitely the jungle… but it just feels so different. He stands and follows the trunk of the elderwood, squinting towards the distance. Through the dense foliage, a sudden break in the tree line reveals something constructed and unnatural to the surrounding natural beauty. 

Upon closer inspection, a large stone building juts upwards through the forest, as if to reach for the heavens. Massive elderwood roots create massive cracks through the stonework structure, their tendril-like fingers digging deep into the stone, fighting to reclaim their territory. The area levels out, dozens of entrances into the building can be seen around, bits of tattered cloth or burlap hanging from many such entrances. An imposing staircase runs up the side of the structure towards the top and Lumi glances curiously at them, on either side, statues are erected, their heads missing, but their bodies are easily recognizable. Lions! This is a dream. There is no temple with lion statues. He feels positive he must be dreaming, but is helpless to break free of the dream’s hold.  

“Goddess!” Lumi’s voice pierces the jungle, swallowed almost instantly by the dense foliage. 

Silence.  

He calls again, louder this time. A sudden eruption—the canopy shudders as a flock of birds takes flight, their wings a chaotic symphony against the stagnant air. The sound rolls through the jungle, the first sign of life he’s encountered since arriving. A creeping unease coils in his stomach, but he presses forward, climbing the weathered stone steps of the monolithic ruin. Higher and higher. The tangled boughs of elderwoods begin to thin, unable to stretch their reach into the heart of the structure. Sunlight spills through the opening, unrelenting, heavy. The heat beats against his shoulders, branding him with its touch. It feels closer here—blazing, oppressive. His fingers find the nape of his neck, trying to shield himself, but the sun sears through. Again, he calls out. No response. A thought stirs. Hells, I died. Didn’t I? His gaze flickers upward. A few more steps. At the top, the structure unfurls into a vast, sun-drenched platform. In the center, veiled in taffeta, a small pavilion sways in the heat-laden breeze. Are those curtains?  

Lumi moves toward it, his bare feet whispering across the burning gray stones. He edges closer, silent in his approach, fingers brushing against a smooth column. Taffeta… that’s… odd. Taking the silken drape in his hand, he feels the softness of the fabric, reminding himself that whatever this is, it is not a dream. He peers inside the pavilion and to his surprise sees a large stone slab, a colorful mattress laid atop of it, dozens of vibrant patterned pillows strewn about. He slides to the other side of the column, trying his best to sneak, then peers in from another angle. At first glance he sees nothing, then—a lion. A massive beast, its golden mane thick and wild, lounges beside the stone bed. Behind it, a woman—inhuman in her beauty, built like a warrior carved from marble—trails her fingers through its fur. 

The silence shatters. 

“Took you long enough.” The voice scrapes rough against the air, softened only by its lilting vowels. A voice like the elders of his tribe, wise and worn. 

Lumi tenses at the words, edging back behind the column. His heart begins to pound, aware of his insecurities. It’s her. 

“It’s okay, Lumi.” A pause. “Or do you prefer Sevket?” 

He exhales sharply, the name twisting through him like an old wound. “I lost that name,” he mutters. A beat. Then, stepping from behind the column, he meets her gaze. “It’s just you.” 

Lumi gathers a handful of the golden taffeta, his fingers sinking into the delicate fabric as he carefully moves it aside. Beyond the veil, the great lion rests, its hulking form draped in lazy elegance. Yet its eyes—keen, knowing—watch him with an unsettling intensity. Though it wasn’t the first time Lumi had been around a lion, he feels uneasy at this particular lion’s size. He looks at the figure gently combing through the lion’s mane. A woman. Her russet hair tumbles freely over her shoulders, catching the light in coppery waves. Then, she looks up. Eyes like his. Gilded and luminous. Recognition sparks in his chest. Awe tightens his throat. She is—tall. Taller than Khimi, yet built with the same quiet strength. Her features, sharp and severe, settle into an expression of faint irritation that reminds him, yet again, of Khimi. Then, the realization lands. She’s an aslan too. Their last encounter had been fleeting—a mere brush with divinity. Now, here she stands in full, undeniable presence. The goddess rises with an effortless grace, the lion shifting only slightly as she moves. She adjusts the dull-hued shift draped over her frame, then gestures toward herself, her golden eyes steady on him. 

“Come, Lumi.” She motions toward the cushioned mattress, an invitation woven with command. 

Lumi walks cautiously towards her and swallows hard, excitement and nervousness filling him. He speeds past the massive lion, quickly bowing before the goddess. Her size startles him, from a distance he felt she must have only been slightly taller than Khimi, though now that he stands before her, he feels small. Smaller than he’s ever felt before. Heavens, she’d make Khimi look small. She sits on the bed, patting the cushion beside herself with a gentle hand, and Lumi drops onto the seat beside her, facing into the distance in which she gazes.  

“Much has changed,” she whispers. “Do not be afraid, Lumi. I have no qualms with you,” 

“I thought maybe… you killed me or something,” Lumi sighs loudly with relief. “I feared that I did something to offend you, goddess.”  

“Not just yet,” she says, her lip curling slightly. She looks down at Lumi with her broad nose. “Though, don’t count your blessings just yet.” 

Lumi looks at the canopy with watchful eyes. “Why did you bring me here? Where are we?” he asks, glancing back at her with wide eyes. 

“One of the first temples built on Talmus,” she replies, a bit of mirth in her voice. “This temple in particular was dedicated to myself, then later claimed by the snake men, then taken back by dragons. Then gifted to druids… the tale is long,” she sighs and shakes her head. “But, if you are referring to if we are here or there, or when and where… we are still on Talmus, still your time.”  

“You brought me here?” he asks in a hushed voice. “Wait! Are you sure I didn’t die? Am I here to serve a higher purpose? I didn’t get to say go—”  

“I do have a purpose for you,” she whispers, raising her hand to silence him. “Though I fear the path you’re about to embark on is an arduous one. When we first spoke, I told you that you would meet a man who would change your—” 

Lumi growls. “You did! But he isn’t who you think!” he exclaims, suddenly standing in anger, then blushing at his outburst. 

“He is who I say he is,” the goddess continues. “Though I cannot tell you the details, your fate was always going to be tied to his. It has and always will be. The two of you have such a strong pull to one another, even without my manipulation, you were always meant to cross paths, to become bonded to one another. When it comes to fate, even we gods are powerless to alter it.”  

Lumi puffs his cheeks. “You made a mistake, goddess. He’s an arse!”  

The goddess chuckles softly. “You speak to a deity with such familiarity,” she replies, clicking her tongue playfully. “Perhaps I did meddle too much in your affairs. Would you prefer that you never met him?” 

“W-what do you mean?” he asks, tilting his head, his ears wiggle inquisitively.  

“There was a time when a very faithful woman begged and pleaded to be given a child. She had failed seven times to carry the child to term, and so she called out to the Heavens. When no one else would answer her call, I did.” The goddess says, peering out over the bright landscape. “It is not the place of the gods to intercede in the affairs of mortals, not anymore… though it appears I cannot help myself, I have a weakness for certain suffering souls it seems.”  

Lumi looks at the goddess with a shocked expression, his mouth ajar. “Are you saying… you created Khimi?” Lumi asks with confusion.  

The goddess palms her face and looks at Lumi through her fingers. “Heavens no. He was made just like you. But it was I, not the gods of life, who aided his mother,” the goddess whispers. “I just helped to make sure that Khimi was nourished within Aleyna’s womb, that he would survive what hardships befell the seven before.”  

“Does Khimi know? Does Aleyna know?” he asks quietly. “I think he would want to know…” 

“Khimi doesn’t have faith in the gods. Besides, it wouldn’t serve any purpose to inform him now,” she says, gently tousling Lumi’s hair. “And then again, I proceeded to lend aid where I shouldn’t have once more. After you had failed your trek across the desert, I watched… waited. You had given up after what happened with the other aslan… and as you awaited death, I provided the moisture that nourished your dry and cracked lips, sent the clouds across the desert to provide you with shade. It was I who sent the manna to feed your hunger. It was I who diverted the temple’s caravan… all so that they may find you.”  

“I think you should have let me die,” Lumi says, his ears lying low. His tail flicks back and forth. “My family thinks I am a failure, Nina was being forced to banish me from the temple, and Khimi… well he fucked some whore,” he spits angrily.  

“How dramatic. You’re no longer a child, Lumi,” she replies in a knowing tone while she rolls her eyes. “Your family doesn’t know you’re alive, Saint Nina would never turn you out without knowing you were cared for, and Khimi… is a man,” she mutters quietly. “People make mistakes, men make mistakes.”  

“But I am a man as well,” he replies, glaring towards her. “I have never made that kind of mistake!”  

She chuckles softly, her voice low and reflective. “You’re different from most, and you know it,” she whispers. “All beastkin are different from mankind, but what I mean to say is that… we are all capable of making mistakes, and even though Khimi has his heart set on you, he still feels a duty to his kin. As I am sure if you walked Khimi’s path, you too would understand,” she pauses and looks back into the distance. “And while Khimi… is somewhat of an amalgamation between peoples, he, much like mankind, relies on his intellect and pushes away his emotions. While you, my child, instead embrace those emotions and use them as intuition and instinct. Khimi… did what he did… because he felt he owed it to himself as a man.”  

Lumi stares at the goddess, lost in her speech. He pulls at his hair. “Goddess, I hate him! I hate him! I feel torn,” he says with a quiet aggression. “I want to leave and never see him again. But… I do love him… it was as you said… the moment I set eyes on him.”  

“The bond you both share is incredibly powerful, the pull you feel towards one another will always be present. Walking away from such a feeling… will be difficult. Being a beastkin will only make it harder,” she says, taking his small hand into her own. “I think highly of you, Lumi. If I did not, I never would have appealed on your behalf. I never would have watched over you.”  

Lumi looks up from his lap. “And Khimi too?” he asks softly.  

“Not quite,” she replies solemnly. “My only gift was to Aleyna. I never watched over Khimi as I have watched over you,” she sighs. “Perhaps I should have. I had only known that both of your lives have been woven within the threads of fate for some time. These bonds are different for everyone, but there is no doubt that Khimi is your soulmate.”  

“That makes sense,” he says, tilting his head curiously. He looks up at the aslan goddess. “I think I knew that the moment I saw him, and I don’t think I ever felt that way,” he adds, releasing a deep sigh. “I feel like… he knew it too! But he used me to… to see what he wants, and now I don’t think I can forgive him.”  

“It isn’t my place to tell you to forgive him or not,” she replies quietly. “Remember though that the aslan tribes don’t always practice monogamy.”  

“Wai-what? That is beside the point!” he exclaims, standing quickly. “I want to be devoted to him, and I want the same in return… I don’t want anyone else,” he says, grunting in frustration.  

“I assure you that Khimi knew what he wanted the moment he made his mistake,” she says, standing to face Lumi. “I am certain that at that moment, he knew that he loved you as well.”  

“What a way to find out that you love someone,” Lumi sobs, tears welling in his eyes. “Oh, I am gonna go kiss a woman to see if I love Lumi or not,” he mocks in Khimi’s voice, then wipes his chin.  

“I cannot make your mind up for you,” she whispers, placing her hands on his shoulders. “I know you will do what you think is right. You always have,” she adds, smiling. “I shouldn’t keep you here much longer though, your body is still sitting back in Rhaz after all.” 

“Huh? How am I here, then?” he asks, a dumbfounded look on his face.  

“I’ve projected your spirit here, though I am glad you found the temple… I hadn’t expected you to arrive so far away,” she says with a laugh. “Sit with me for a while longer, until the sun begins to set,” she whispers. 

“I-I can’t really refuse you,” he says, seating himself beside her. “Goddess, I would like to know your name.”  

“I cannot promise you will remember it, even if you should hear it,” she begins, peering out over the canopy, the evening sun slowly setting. “They called me Y’sol. I was the first of the gods of Talmus,” she adds, her expression unwavering. “It takes time to remember the name of the gods. Most are not allowed the privilege of knowing our names.” 

“Y’sol…” he mutters to himself. “The name sounds familiar.”  

“I’ve given you my name before,” she says, glancing at him from the corner of her eyes. “It is the curse of the gods. Our names are forgotten by mortals, except those of whom we select to represent our intentions.”  

“You mean the saints?” he asks, pondering Y’sol’s words.  

“Just so,” she says, allowing a lengthy silence to pass between his question and her answer. 

Lumi sits beside Y’sol, peering out over the forest canopy from the pavilion. A slight breeze pushes the taffeta from beneath the pavilion, their shape dancing in the wind. The large lion sits before them, lying without a care on his side. Lumi strokes along the lion’s rib cage, feeling the lion’s muscular form while Y’sol watches carefully, her eyes never turning away from him. The hours pass, no words are passed between the two. Maybe she’s right… maybe Khimi does understand now. Rather, even if he doesn’t, I can show him how much I care. 

“I think I can forgive him,” Lumi announces suddenly, scratching beneath the massive lion’s chin. “But I’m starting to feel like you’re holding me hostage here,” he adds with a chuckle as he glances over at Y’sol. 

“You would accuse a god of such a thing?” she replies, feigning indignation. A theatrical sigh escapes her lips. “In truth, it pleases me to hear you say that you’ll forgive him.” 

Lumi groans dramatically. “So, you’ve been keeping me here until I made up my mind?” He tilts his head, gazing up at Y’sol with an amused expression. 

“I figured you needed time to think clearly, is all,” she replies, narrowing her eyes at Lumi. “I only provided you with an area free of your daily woes. Though in truth, I am gladdened by your time here. It has only strengthened my resolve in my decision to aid you.”  

“I suppose I do have you to thank for everything you’ve done for me,” he says as his tail flicks with his approval. “You’ve kept me alive, given me magick, and even introduced me to Khimi… but I must ask… Y’sol,” he says, struggling to think of the goddesses’ name. “Why is the magick I possess different from the others of the temple?”  

“I am not a goddess of the life domain, but one of the solar domain. Sometimes we are referred to as gods of flame, gods of light. They all have the same meaning,” she says sternly.  

“So my magick does not belong to the gods of life? The gods from the temple?” he asks, cocking an eyebrow.  

“The other gods of our domain do not see what I have seen in you. I appealed to the others, but none thought you were worthy. Not yet, anyway,” she says plainly.  

“So… my gifts come from you alone?” he asks, somewhat dazed by the revelation.  

She nods. “Correct,” she replies, looking sullen towards him. “Until you prove yourself capable, the others will not recognize you the same as I have. You must prove your mettle.”  

“So then… there is really no reason for me to have been worshiping these other gods at the temple?” he asks, his voice filled with hope. “Not that anything was wrong with giving thanks or anything,” he adds quickly.  

“The words of mortals can be heard louder for us in holy places. Such as the temple for example, your praise and thanks sounds clearly in a temple, whereas outside of one… it is nothing more than a whisper,” she says, laughing at his revelation. “If you’re meaning to abandon your duties as an acolyte, I have no qualms. However, a day may come when you need to call upon the others for aid, and they may not listen,” she adds in a more serious tone.  

“I never intended to abandon them. I was just going to offer praise to you… Y’sol,” he says, nodding his head in affirmation. “I think I won’t forget your name anymore. You’re the only one who ever looked out for me… so I have a lot to be thankful for.”  

“I’d rather you offer praise to all the gods of the Solar domain, otherwise they may be displeased with me if your loyalties lie only with me,” she says flatly. “We gods are allowed a modicum of freedom, however, we mustn’t go around gathering followers of our own. It would break the other gods’ trust,” she adds, giving Lumi a knowing look. “Well, then does this answer your questions?” she asks. 

“I will continue to go to the temple when I am around, though I feel I am not as motivated now knowing that you’re the only one who believes in me,” he says, standing to face Y’sol. “I appreciate everything that you’ve done for us, Y’sol. I know there are probably a lot more questions I should ask… but I can’t think of them right now.”  

Her lips curl knowingly. “There are things you cannot know,” she says, her aetherial eyes gazing directly into his. “Just know that it had always been my hope the two of you would wind up together,” she adds. “Now, are you ready to return? Hours have passed since your arrival, your friends may think you’ve perished by now.”  

“Hm, sure. Can we do this again sometime?” he asks while Y’sol grips his hand.  

“Perhaps in the future,” she says, embracing Lumi in her arms. “Just remember, everything you have… is because of me,” she whispers at the top of his head. Y’sol presses her lips between Lumi’s ears. The sounds of the jungle begin to fade into the distance while he closes his eyes. The world around him shatters, he feels lost in darkness. Lost, he feels the passage of time quickening, a starry sky around him moves then fades to daylight before returning to twilight. Where am I? And almost as quick as it begins, he feels a sharp pain at the back of his head, his eyelids grow heavy.

Cecilia’s

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Lumi opens his eyes, the sharp pain at the back of his head making him hiss through his teeth. His eyelids flutter as he presses his fingers gently against the swollen area. Guess I’m not as skilled at restorative magick as I thought, he muses, then quickly peers about the room. He spots a figure sitting near a large open window. The tawny drapes, heavy with age, keep the room shrouded in shadow, but Lumi’s enhanced vision picks out her features clearly. His eyes narrow on the devilkin woman, her black hair trailing around her shoulders as she looks at him with a cruel, uninterested gaze. She’s whittling a chunk of wood in her hands, utterly unconcerned. Lumi shifts, trying to find something or someone familiar. The smell of incense fills his nostrils. Same scent they use at the temple, he notes.

“Where am I?” Lumi asks, directing his voice toward the disinterested devilkin.

“Don’t worry, kitten,” she replies mockingly, her voice laced with boredom. “Your acolyte friends didn’t trust you to be brought anywhere else, so here I am.” She shrugs absentmindedly, crossing her feet on the chair opposite her.

Lumi shifts, sitting up straighter. “Do I know you?” he asks, squinting at her. “There’s something about you that feels familiar, but I can’t place it.” He sniffs the air, the scent oddly comforting yet foreign. “You’ve been around Khimi.”

“Of course you’d smell him,” she says, her lips curling into a teasing grin. “He claims you two are ‘mates’ or something equally absurd.” She chuckles softly, shaking her head. “Our friend even paid me a handsome sum just to babysit you.”

“Odd,” Lumi replies, rubbing his temples. “He never mentioned you. Khimi talks about most of his ‘friends’—well, he doesn’t really have any, but at least he tells me about his family.”

“Maybe I’m the type of friend you don’t tell other people about,” she says, leaning forward and brandishing a blade menacingly.

Lumi smirks, a glint of mischief in his eyes. “So, a whore?”

Her crimson gaze flickers toward him, eyebrow arching. “My, my. You are cheeky,” she replies, tucking the blade away. “Khimi said you had a great personality. But no. You and I both know Khimi isn’t into my type.”

“You seem to know a lot about him,” Lumi observes, leaning back. “And besides, his ‘type’ or not… that doesn’t seem to stop him.” He throws the blanket aside, standing unsteadily. “Do you know what happened a few days ago? With Khimi, I mean. Not my stupid blunder on the stairs.” 

“That was a week ago, sunshine,” she says with a roll of her eyes. “You’ve been out for a few days. Don’t worry, Khimi’s been by every day to check on you.” She crosses her arms, leaning back in her wicker chair.

“I don’t care whether he was or wasn’t,” Lumi replies, defiance tinging his voice. He pauses, a faint furrow creasing his brow. “It felt like I was only asleep for a moment.”

“Well, I’ve been watching you for four days,” she says, her voice tinged with a hint of frustration. “Khimi thought you’d been targeted by some crime. I told him you probably just tripped down the stairs.” She shrugs. “Now that you’re up, I guess I can get out of here—”

“Wait!” Lumi exclaims, staggering as he stands from the low bed. “You… you’re friends with Khimi, right?”

She watches him stumble, biting her lip. “In a manner of speaking,” she answers, intrigued. “Look, if you’re going to fall again, just sit down, okay?”

“Do you know what happened?” Lumi asks, locking his gaze with hers. His hands tremble slightly as his chest tightens. “Please. I need to know.”

“I was there,” she says, shaking her head with a slow sigh. “The woman was all over him. He was like a puppy—helpless, taken advantage of. Poor boy could barely stand up straight, practically paralyzed by his fear of vaginas.”

Lumi crosses the room to her, cupping his hands over her cheeks, tilting her head as he searches her eyes for truth. “Is he paying you to lie for him?” he demands, his voice low and insistent. “I just want the truth.”

She laughs, but her expression softens. “I swear,” she mutters, placing a hand over her heart. “I don’t do this often. Khimi only paid me to watch you. I’m telling you the truth when I say he cares about you deeply,” she adds with a soft click of her tongue. “If I could tell you what I know, you’d understand how much he cares for you,” she whispers, her voice laced with something unspoken. With a sudden motion, she slaps his hands from her face.

“Then speak plainly. Please,” Lumi pleads, his voice desperate. “I need to know. It’s important.”

“I can’t! I would if I could, b-but!” she yells in frustration, her fingertips writhing as if in pain. “Just… trust me!” she shouts finally, her fit ending, she grabs Lumi’s shoulder. “I’m bound not to tell you.”

“Fine,” Lumi replies, a hint of resignation in his tone. He pushes her feet from the chair and sits across from her. “What do you know about the woman Khimi was with that night?”

She clicks her tongue, her voice dripping with annoyance. “She’s a Lorian woman named Jilliana. Not bad looking,” she mutters begrudgingly. “But don’t worry, little aslan, also not Khimi’s type.” She quickly waves off his concerns as if to dismiss them entirely. “Not that I care about that or anything.”

Lumi leans forward in his chair, his expression serious. “Look, I know you can’t tell me everything… about your relationship with Khimi. Could you at least tell me something?”

“Depends,” she replies, eyes narrowing. “There are things Khimi and I have sworn to keep secret.”

“Since Khimi has told you about… me,” Lumi says, looking bashful. “Do you think he could… love me?”

“Love?” she snorts, amused. “There’s a chance, I suppose. In all the time I’ve known him, I’ve never seen him care for anyone. He hasn’t even seen anyone, and the women his mother tried to betroth him to, Khimi turned them down every time. He felt guilty about it, though. Supposedly, it was the same with his father, even when he was just a boy.”

“Heavens,” Lumi murmurs. “How many times was he betrothed?”

“None of them were formal, just introductions. But to answer your question,” she adds, clicking her tongue, “Aleyna tried to get him married seven times.”

Lumi blinks, astonished. “Seven times? And he turned them all down?”

“Yup,” she replies, rolling her eyes. “I’m sure you’re aware of how important it is for Khimi to produce an heir?”

Lumi swallows, his heart racing. “W-what? I knew it was important… but I didn’t know it meant that much to him.”

She narrows her eyes, frustration simmering beneath the surface. “His duty to his family means the world to him. I know that… hells! Why am I even telling you this?” she mutters to herself, a hint of anger lacing her words.

“‘Cause, I didn’t come to Rhaz for nothing,” Lumi replies earnestly. “Khimi means so much to me… more than anyone. In the short amount of time I’ve known him, I’ve fallen so hard for him that it’s painful.” He clutches the fabric of his linen shift over his chest. “Since I met him, he’s the only thing I think about,” he continues, lowering his head as he grips his tail in his palms. “It hurts so bad to think about someone else having him.”

“Sounds like a problem to me,” she says with a laugh. “I’ve never felt that strongly about anyone in my life, but I can tell from your expression that you aren’t lying.” She pauses in thought. “So, while certainly duty is important to Khimi, it was always obvious that he felt conflicted between his personal desire and his duty,” she says with an audible sigh. “Rashid has told me that Khimi would get excited about the mention of bandits, desert ruins, or adventure. He said Khimi would wander off on his own as a youth, seeking fights with ruffians. I met him when he was still in his youth, but only briefly. After he ran away from his home. Our friendship goes back many years, kitten.” 

Lumi’s eyes gleam with hope. “Maybe there’s a way he can have both. Pleasure and duty.”

She scoffs, raising an eyebrow. “You planning to give him an heir with that magickal asshole of yours?” she teases, a snort escaping her.

“I don’t think I can do miracles,” Lumi says with a grimace. “But if I could, I would gladly have his kids… if that’s what he wants.” His voice softens with contemplation.

Her nose wrinkles at his words. “From what you’ve said, I’m sure you would,” she mutters, crossing her legs and leaning back. “Look, don’t take this the wrong way, hon. Khimi’s got a lot of baggage. If you’re willing to accept everything that comes with him, you two should be fine.”

Lumi raises an eyebrow. “Should I just forget and forgive?”

She remains reflective for a moment, then purses her lips before replying, “Hells, I’d let him stew a bit longer—maybe get something expensive out of him. But don’t make him wait too long; he’s been beside himself without you.” She pauses, her gaze distant. “I can tell you that the night you spoke… was the first time I’d ever seen him that upset.” Pressing her finger against the tip of her horn, she exhales reluctantly. “I think you make Khimi a better person… I hate it, but it’s true.”

“Can you bring me to see him?” Lumi asks, a flush creeping into his cheeks. “I really need to talk to him.”

“No can do, mate,” she responds quickly, pushing herself to her feet. “It’s about time I got out of here; that acolyte Clara or whatever should be back soon.”

“Cecilia?” he asks, perplexed.

“Right, that’s the one,” she says, clicking her tongue. She knuckles her back with an audible groan. “You stay safe now, kitten. Don’t hit your head anymore, wouldn’t wanna have to babysit you again,” she adds, winking before she rushes past him, muttering under her breath.

Lumi turns in his chair. “Are you going to see him?” he asks. 

“Not now,” she says without turning back. She pushes her way through a cloth separating part of the room. “I’ll send him this way if I cross him.”

She departs from the room, Lumi hears the door close with an audible bang. Well, she left in a hurry. The small piece of wood left on the arm of the chair resembles a haggard lion. Poorly crafted, but equally thoughtful. He stands, walking to the window and rips open the drapes, peering down at the courtyard below. He spots the devilkin speeding through the area, a determined expression on her face. Clasping the wood carving to his chest, he watches her brush past a small group of acolytes, she nearly crashes into them before she exits the premises. The faces of those entering the courtyard are familiar, Mido and Cecilia head to the stairwell of the dormitories. 

Lumi purses his lips and pulls the drapes back closed before seeking something to eat after remembering how hungry he is. After a moment of searching, he settles back down on the bed with a bowl of roasted chickpeas. I wonder if the acolytes know what happened? The door opens quietly, the hanging curtains in the room sway from the sudden breeze. He listens to the quiet conversation between the two figures. They pull back the hanging curtain, Cecilia and Mido beam at Lumi. 

“Glad to see you’re awake,” Cecilia says, placing a wicker basket full of linens on the floor. “Did that devil wake you?” she asks. “Well, it doesn’t—”

“Lumi!” Mido calls out, entering the room behind Cecilia. “You’re awake,” he cheers, his ears standing on point and his cropped tail wagging behind him. The basket of linens falls to the floor, and he rushes to the bed. “Tell us what happened!”

“I… don’t want to alarm you…” Lumi begins, gauging their expressions. “I hit my head,” he says plainly as he rubs the tender spot. 

“What?!” Cecilia and Mido ask in unison, their voices filled with disbelief.

“How? What happened?” Mido asks quickly. “Hit your head?”

Lumi nervously bites his lip, his cheeks growing flush. “It’s actually really embarrassing. I was trying to get comfortable… and I slammed my head into one of the stairs. When I went to use restoration magick I lost consciousness,” he says quietly. 

Cecilia, confusion on her face, shakes her head. She seats herself on the edge of the bed. “You hit yourself on the head and lost consciousness for four days? We should really take a better look at you.”

“I hit my head really hard?” Lumi says, questioning himself. 

“There has to be more to it,” Mido says, placing a hand on Lumi’s leg. “You were whispering in your sleep. The words you were saying were like the incantations we speak.”

“Calix mentioned it could have been High Talman,” Cecilia says, looking concerned. “Lumi… not to sound rude, but you can barely read, how do you know High Talman?” 

Lumi laughs at the suggestion. “I promise, I just hit my head really hard.” 

“We all used restoration magick on you. You should have awoken, Lumi,” Cecilia says with growing concern. “Something just doesn’t add up.” 

Mido shakes his head in disbelief, his short tail wobbles while he speaks. “She’s right, nothing should have kept you down that long,” he adds to Cecilia’s concern. 

“Unless there is some underlying reason we aren’t aware of,” Cecilia adds quickly. 

“I am good! I swear!” Lumi exclaims, looking at both figures on the bed. “I promise both of you that I am feeling fine,” he adds. I don’t know how much Y’sol would want me to tell anyone.

“Either way, Lumi,” Mido says, taking a long sideways look at Cecilia. “I think you should take it easy for a while and stay here.” 

Lumi grabs a handful of roasted chickpeas from the bowl and gives them a long and thoughtful pause before he pops them into his mouth. Fat chance, they can’t keep me here if they tried. 

 Lumi offers them both a wide grin. “I am feeling fine. I can find somewhere to stay.” 

“Lumi, I am beginning to think you’re keeping the wrong kind of company…” Cecilia says quietly. “I looked into the man you’ve been staying with. Everyone has been saying it, too, Ziad Zeybek is a very powerful man… he most certainly has ties to many questionable people. Dolman mercenaries, slavers, corsairs, assassins, murderers, and the list goes on.” 

“A few nights ago… Khimi was seen with Omar Kappas,” Mido nods in agreement with Cecelia.

“Is Omar Kappas supposed to sound familiar?” Lumi asks, casually chewing a handful of chickpeas.

Mido rolls his eyes, frustration etched on his face. “He’s a slaver, Lumi,” he replies through gritted teeth. “His men capture people in the desert and force them into a life of slavery. That’s the kind of friends Khimi keeps!” 

“I doubt they’re friends. I think I heard him mention him once. He called him ‘fat Omar,’” Lumi says, looking unconcerned as he pops another chickpea into his mouth. “Anyway, I think it’s fine,” he prattles, chewing with his mouth open.

Cecilia lets out a sigh, her expression serious. “Look, all we’re saying is that maybe it’s for the best… if you just stay here a while. At least until we know for certain if Khimi is a decent person.” She gives Lumi an unamused look, hoping to drive her point home.

“I know Khimi is a good person,” Lumi replies in frustration. “You don’t know him like I do,” he spits. “Like… yeah. He made me cry and all, but he’s just… dealing with a lot.”

“Lumi… just last week he made you leave his house. Then he told you in a drunken stupor that he cheat on you!” Mido finishes in a shout, mystified at Lumi’s reaction. “Wh-what are you even thinking?” he asks in disbelief. 

“I’m thinkin’ that… without Khimi I never would have met any of you… and that I should probably go back and see him,” Lumi says, pushing the bowl of chickpeas across the bed. His ears twitch in frustration. “I’ll stay here if you’re going to make me, but I’d like to see Khimi soon.” 

“Great! I’ll make you a spot on the floor,” she says, grinning, then standing from the bed. 

“The floor?” Lumi asks, a blank expression on his face. 

“I’ve missed my bed…” Cecilia sighs while she crosses the room, quickly grabbing a handful of pillows from a wicker basket. 

“Lumi, this all feels very rushed. Your decision to want to speak with Khimi. You just said the other day you didn’t care if you ever saw him again,” Mido whispers, nearly pleading. “Just think about it before you run back over there. Please?” he begs. 

“I’ll think about it,” Lumi says brusquely, unamused by Mido’s pleading. “I appreciate everything that you guys have done for me, but really, you don’t need to worry about me.” 

Cecilia kneels on the ground. “I don’t understand either, though,” she says. She begins to lay pillows out over the floor. “You really did seem intent on leaving Rhaz with Mido and Augustus. What happened?” she asks without looking up from her work. 

“I just… had a bit of a revelation. That’s all,” Lumi replies thoughtfully. 

“Well, at least Khimi did come to check up on you every day,” Cecilia adds before she sits on the body of pillows. 

“He is probably some sort of pervert… maybe he just likes beastkin,” Mido whispers, his cheeks turning red.

Cecilia gives Mido a look of reproach, whispering in a corrective tone, “That’s… inappropriate.”

“Khimi… isn’t like that. I mean, he’s certainly handsy, but I like it,” Lumi says, smiling at the two of them. 

“Th-That’s too much, Lumi. I didn’t care to know that,” Cecilia says, closing her eyes with an audible sigh. 

“You’re only proving my point,” Mido groans, crossing his arms. “I mean, yeah, the guy came to check up on you, but that doesn’t make him a saint. Sometimes people in his position take advantage of people like us!” he places his hand over his face in anger. 

“I never said he was a saint,” Lumi grumbles. 

“Alright, maybe you knocked something loose in your head. I’m going for a bit to clear my head,” Mido scoffs, standing abruptly with a loud tsk. He tosses the curtain aside on his way to the door, his head shaking in disbelief. 

“Mido… !” Cecilia calls out. 

The door slams loudly in response.

“You know,” she begins with a sigh. “Mido has become quite fond of you in the short period he’s known you,” she adds with soft eyes. “He doesn’t want to see you hurt.” 

Lumi tugs on his tail. “I hadn’t really picked up on that until now,” he says, blowing air through his lips. He grabs the bowl of chickpeas from the bottom of the bed. “So, you’re gonna let me go see Khimi now?” he asks, his eyes bright with anticipation as he pops a handful of roasted chickpeas into his mouth.

“I still think he’s bad news,” Cecilia replies, rolling onto her side. She twirls her black locks around her finger. “I won’t stop you if you decide to see him. Though, you should know, Mido will probably be upset.” 

“He’ll be leaving Rhaz soon anyway,” Lumi replies in a frank tone. 

“How can you say that?” Cecilia asks in disbelief. “He cares about you! Augustus and Mido wanted you to travel with them!” she exclaims loudly, pushing herself to her elbows. 

“I can’t!” Lumi replies. “It was never going to happen! I mean, I wanted to, but I can’t.”

“That wasn’t how it sounded before you scrambled your tiny brain,” she jests. 

“Rude,” he replies, standing from the bed. He pauses, allowing a period of silence to pass between them. “I saw the way Augustus looks at you, by the way. Maybe you should travel with them. ‘Auggie’ would love it,” he adds. 

“I rather like my small room and the creature comforts of the city. Thank you,” Cecilia says playfully. “Auggie is more than welcome to take a permanent position in the city if he wants.” 

“I’m… gonna go. Perhaps you should invite ‘Auggie’ over,” he teases, grabbing one last handful of chickpeas before heading towards the door. 

“Maybe I will,” Cecilia calls back in response. She sighs again, then drops onto the pillows.

“Thanks, by the way!” Lumi calls back from a distance. “For everything!”

Reunion

---

Lumi waves enthusiastically to the guard before the gates of the estate, hoping for acknowledgement. Ignored, he fixes his gaze on the estate ahead of him, on the place that he has come to believe should be his home. With a disapproving scoff, he waits only a moment before walking past, shooting a scowl at the man. But his confidence dwindles with each passing step he draws nearer to Khimi’s chamber. Am I making a mistake? he thinks briefly as he rushes beneath the awning, passing the servants, and guards. He can’t help but feel doubtful. He pauses before the doors, the scorching sun beating down on him as he begins to pace frantically.

A frustrated growl slips past his lips, and his ears pin back. Fueled by heat, need, and desire, he squares his shoulders and rips open the double doors by the twin brass loops.

Inside, the room is just as impressive as it was the first time he laid eyes on it. Rays of brilliant sunlight stream through the windows, casting rippling blue patterns across the sandstone tiles. With a satisfying bang, he slams the doors shut behind him before striding forward. I hope he’s here—he better be here. His eyes sweep over the familiar furnishings, taking in every detail as though it were his first time. A bowl of fresh fruit sits on a nearby table, an assortment of local and exotic fruits arranged in an appealing display. His mouth waters at the sight, and he reaches out to pluck a handful of grapes, popping them into his mouth as he begins his search. 

 The sound of water splashing alerts him to Khimi’s whereabouts. Lumi rounds the corner and finds him. Khimi steps out of the pool, dripping water over the tiles, an angry expression on his face that instantly melts the moment their eyes meet. Gods help me! Lumi can feel his heart race, the grapes in his hands fall to the floor, bouncing and scattering every which way. He takes in Khimi’s form, his mouth instantly overburdened with saliva. In his nakedness, Khimi rushes across the room, sliding across the wet tiles as he wraps his arms around Lumi. Breathless, Lumi stands, fighting back unwelcome tears. He allows Khimi to drench him in silence, his hands slowly rising to return the embrace. He tugs him in harder, urging Khimi tight against him. Choking back a sob, he coughs as Khimi wrenches him from the ground, lifting and spinning him. 

Lumi holds on, emotions surge through him as he buries his face in Khimi’s chest. His heart pounds hard, harder than it ever has. His fingers grip so tightly onto Khimi’s shoulders that they leave scratches. Khimi’s lips press between Lumi’s ears, making them twitch uncontrollably. Finally, back on solid ground, Lumi pushes himself away and takes a step back, admiring the sight of Khimi’s damp form in front of him. 

A smirk plays on Khimi’s lips as he brushes past Lumi, locking the door with a key kept in the side table. The sound of the lock clicking shut echoes through the room, and Lumi can’t help but return his smirk. 

“Shall we continue?” Khimi questions, leaning back against the door. His wet bangs cling to his forehead, framing his dark eyes. Lumi feels his cheeks flush at the sight of him, standing bare before him with such unrestrained confidence and frustrating arrogance.

“How do you know I came here for you?” Lumi asks, trying to hide his embarrassment as he turns his cheek.

“If I can be honest, I didn’t think you would,” Khimi replies thoughtfully. “But now that you’re here… you’ll never slip past me again.” A coy grin plays on his lips as stretches, blocking the door further, but in his nakedness, it just looks absurd. “There’s no way out now.” 

Lumi’s eyes dart over Khimi’s form; there’s something intoxicating about him, something that draws him in despite how different they are from one another.

“Y’know, I can jump over the wall in the back… but, I don’t wanna leave,” Lumi whispers as a sense of surrender washes over him. “Khimi—”

His words are halted as Khimi surges towards him, enveloping him in a spine-shattering embrace. Lumi gasps, his body instinctively wrapping around Khimi’s as they are swept onto the large poster bed. The sheets beneath them are decadent and smooth against their skin, Rhazian silk. Khimi’s weight presses down on him, their bodies fitting together snug. Lumi closes his eyes, overwhelmed by Khimi’s hot breath on his neck. Khimi’s lips part, his tongue trails along Lumi’s exposed collarbone, then his shoulder. Lumi struggles to keep control of his senses as Khimi fondles him more eagerly, his hands groping and squeezing every part of his body. In a burst of impatience, Lumi reaches for his linen shift, struggling to remove it with Khimi still on top of him. But before he can make any progress, Khimi takes hold of the fabric and rips it apart from the neckline. Without hesitation, he yanks at the fabric, revealing Lumi’s boyish form beneath. 

Lumi’s lips curl into a sinful grin as Khimi collapses back on top of him, their bodies pressed together like they were made for one another. Khimi’s lips trail down Lumi’s neck, leaving small welts in their wake. Their fingers tangle together, squeezing tight as  Khimi rolls his hips forward, and Lumi gasps as he feels the thick, throbbing heat of Khimi’s cock grinding against him. Precum leaks from Khimi’s swollen tip, smearing across Lumi’s abdomen. He’s so much bigger than me. He glances down between them, his eyes widening as he takes in the sight of Khimi’s length, bobbing and drooling. He’s so big—how is he even real? Gods—whatever, it’ll be fine! 

Lumi’s breath hitches, his chest rising and falling like he’s been sprinting, his skin flushed a deep, needy pink. Khimi’s hands trails down Lumi’s side, teasing every inch of skin before squeezing his ass. Lumi’s hips jerk forward instinctively, a low, desperate moan escaping his lips. “K-Khimi!”

“Lumi,” Khimi rasps. His lips brush against Lumi’s chest, leaving a path of warmth that makes Lumi’s nipples stiffen into aching peaks. “I need to tell you something.”

Lumi’s breath comes in shallow pants, his chest heaving as he looks down at Khimi with burning eyes. “Now?” he manages to choke out as heat fills his cheeks.

“The time we spent apart…” Khimi starts. He rests his forehead against Lumi’s chest, the warmth of his breath sweeping over his nipple. “I realized there is something I should’ve said.” His lips find Lumi’s nipple, tongue flicking over the sensitive bud before suckling it into his mouth, drawing a whimper from Lumi’s throat. “I care for you—so fucking much.”

“I love you!” Lumi blurts out, the confession tearing from his chest like a dam bursting. His cheeks blaze with embarrassment, but he doesn’t care—not when Khimi’s mouth is on him, not when his body is on fire. He pushes himself up onto his elbows, his chest rumbling with a contended purr. “F-fuck me!”

Khimi’s eyes widen in surprise, his lips parting as he stares up at Lumi. “I thought you were mad at me?” he asks, his voice tinged with confusion, but his hands don’t stop their exploration, sliding lower to cup Lumi’s ass, squeezing him possessively.

Lumi tilts his head to the side. “Oh, I’m mad at you. Furious even. I’d love to beat you,” he replies hurriedly. “But—” 

“You mean it? You love me?” Khimi asks, inching closer to Lumi’s face.

Lumi scoffs, his breath hitching as Khimi’s hand slides further down, fingertips brushing against the sensitive skin behind his balls. “Uh, yeah. I do. I love you,” he stammers out, his voice trembling. “But I think—”

“You didn’t give me a chance to finish my thoughts before,” Khimi interrupts, his fingers teasing at Lumi’s entrance. “I never wanted you to go.”

Lumi’s lips press into a thin line as he stares at Khimi, his body trembling with need. “So let me get this straight—you told me you needed space but actually didn’t want me to leave?” he asks. “You even suggested we sleep in separate rooms.”

“I was upset, things were tense between us,” Khimi explains, his voice trailing off.

Lumi lets out a long, heavy sigh and looks at Khimi with pleading eyes. “I just wanted to be here with you,” he says in a soft voice. “I know you have commitments… but you asked me to come here. Then, you told me that I needed space… what did you want me to think?” His voice breaks with emotion.

Khimi pauses his minstrations with a look of regret. “I was… I-I don’t know what I was—” he stammers as he leans in to capture Lumi’s lips.

Lumi can hardly catch his breath, the taste of Khimi’s mouth too irresistible. Eventually, he forces his cheek to the side to interject between insistent kisses, “You were being stupid.” His own emotions bubble to the surface as Khimi’s tongue tangles with his. “And I was being emotional… but what happened after…” He trails off, unable to finish his sentence as tears well in his eyes.

“I can never apologize enough,” Khimi pleads, his eyes softening. “I mean it.”

Lumi shakes his head, trying to hold back the tears. “I don’t want this to be something that keeps us apart,” he whispers. His hands cup Khimi’s face, his thumbs brushing over his high cheekbones, and then he nuzzles his nose against Khimi’s. Their breaths mingle, hot and heavy, before Lumi leans in and crashes their lips together in a kiss that’s all teeth and tongue and desperation. “But… look at me,” he murmurs against Khimi’s mouth, pulling back just enough to lock eyes with him. His hand lifts and he playfully smacks Khimi’s cheek, the sound echoing through the room. “Don’t you ever look at anyone else the way you look at me?”

Khimi doesn’t flinch, his stubbled jaw grinding against Lumi’s palm as he rubs it like he’s trying to brand himself there. “Do I… need to make a promise?” he asks hesitantly, his voice thick with desire.

Lumi’s eyes sparkle with unshed tears, but there’s a fire there too, a hunger that can’t be ignored. “Just say it…” he whispers, barely able to hear his own words over the pounding of their hearts.

“I promise, Lumi,” Khimi breathes, his lips brushing against the palm of Lumi’s hand in a kiss so tender it makes Lumi’s stomach drop. “I promise, my eyes are only for you… you’re the only one who has ever made me feel this way.”

Lumi brushes away a tear from his cheek, his hand trembling like he’s about to fall apart. “I’m sorry,” he whispers, his voice dripping with regret and longing. “It’ll never happen again.” His gaze drops down to Khimi’s cock, thick and heavy and—gods, he’s so hard. The veins pulse along the shaft with every beat of his heart and beads of precum glistens at the tip, teasing him. “We shouldn’t leave you like that for too long,” he adds, sniffling.

Khimi lets out a nervous chuckle, his hips bucking, as if he can’t help himself. “It can wait as long as it needs to… though I’d love to finally have you.”

Lumi blushes at the thought, his cheeks flushing a deep red as he feels his own cock stiffen in response. The growing pool of precum on his abdomen only adds to his arousal, along with Khimi’s strong, musky scent filling his nostrils. “I-I think I’m ready,” he whispers, his voice trembling as he reaches a shaky hand between them to grasp Khimi’s thick shaft.

Khimi’s breath hitches as Lumi’s fingers wrap around him, his cock throbbing in response. “I’ve dreamt of being with you since the day we met,” he confesses, his voice rough with need as he gently brushes Lumi’s hair out of his face.

As Lumi strokes the length of Khimi’s shaft, precum coats his fingers, slicking his movements. “I wanna hear about these dreams,” he teases, flashing Khimi a perky grin that somehow manages to harden Khimi further in his hand.

Khimi’s breath catches, his chest heaving like a beast in heat as Lumi’s tries to wrap his fingers around his girth. “Can I tell you about them another time?” he gasps, his hips jerking wildly, grinding the swollen head of his dick against Lumi’s palm. “Because right now, one is happening.”

Lumi rolls his eyes, but there’s a wicked glint in them as he presses his thumb against Khimi’s slit, smearing a thick glob of precum down his shaft. “Fine,” he purrs, his voice dripping with seduction. “But then we’ll have to make all those fantasies a reality too.” His lips curl into a devilish grin, and he leans in so close their foreheads touch, their noses brushing. Then their tongues clash—messy and hungry and desperate.

With a surge of wanton strength, Lumi shoves Khimi back onto the bed, their lips never parting as he straddles him. The tattered remains of Lumi’s linen shift fall away like they were never there, revealing his toned, tanned body. His chest heaves, nipples hard and begging for attention as he shifts higher, grinding against Khimi’s abdomen, teasing his cock through the dark curls above his groin. 

Lumi’s fingers trail down his own back, spreading his cheeks to expose his tight, pink hole. He gasps at the warmth and heft of Khimi’s cock pressed against him. Impatiently, Khimi bucks his hips, sliding himself between Lumi’s cleft. The flared head beads at the tip, leaving a pearlescent trail dripping down Lumi’s lower back, drooling past his entrance. It’s what Lumi’s been waiting for, he had always wanted Khimi to take him. To feel the fullness of his fat cock pushing into him, pleasuring him in ways he had only dreamed. He had envisioned this moment in his mind time and time again while at the temple.

Khimi cranes his neck to continue kissing Lumi, and Lumi eagerly reacts by shoving his tongue into Khimi’s mouth, brushing it along Khimi’s teeth, wanting to press into his throat. Their tongues make contact, slipping together. Lumi reaches back, guiding Khimi as he continues moving his hips. A sharp gasps escapes him as Khimi presses against him. Then, after another painful buck, Lumi winces and pulls back from their kiss, reaching between them to rub back Khimi’s foreskin and expose the slick head. 

A whimper escapes Lumi’s lips, his body trembling as he positions himself just right, allowing the head to sit flush with his hole. “I’m ready,” he breathes. His tail flicks behind him, swishing with excitement as he lowers himself, wiggling his hips from side to side.

Khimi grasps Lumi’s ass firmly with both hands, his hips grinding forward, the slick tip demanding entrancein the soft hole. The heat radiating from Khimi prickles against Lumi’s skin, drawing a small, involuntary whimper as the pressure intensifies. His whole body reacts instinctively—his muscles contracting and aching as each motion sends ripples of tension through him.

“G-gods… it hurts,” Lumi gasps, his voice a shaky whisper as Khimi coaxes him down, guiding him slowly onto his cock. A sharp wince cuts across his features; he groans, the burn of the stretch setting his nerves ablaze, his entrance resisting and then reluctantly yielding. His inner walls flutter, forced open inch by inch to accommodate the girth. Tears prick his eyes, but he blinks them back. Then—pleasure. It spikes through him like lightning when Khimi brushes something deep inside; something Lumi didn’t know was there. A gasp breaks from his throat, his whole body tightening. Pain and bliss twist together into something dizzying, almost unbearable.

“I-I…” His words crumble into a cry as his cock jerks, shooting hot ropes of cum across Khimi’s chest. His breath staggers, chest heaving, lashes wet. “I-I’m sorry,” he pants, cheeks flaming as he hides his face behind trembling fingers. His ears twitch, brushing the backs of his hands.

Khimi chuckles low, smug and breathless. “Is it really that easy to make you come, kitten?” he asks in a low, lustful voice. 

Lumi’s ears flick again, red creeping down his neck. “M-maybe,” he stammers. 

Khimi’s fingers trail up and down Lumi’s spine, leaving goosebumps in their wake, before gripping the soft flesh of his ass and pulling him closer. “I’m barely inside you.” A beat. Then he continues exploring Lumi’s lithe frame, tracing every curve and dip. He leans in, his lips brushing against the shell of Lumi’s ear. “Don’t worry, kitten,” he whispers, his voice a low growl. “I’ve been waiting to ruin you.” 

Lumi gasps and leans against Khimi’s shoulder, nearly sobbing as he feels the heat radiating from the muscular body beneath him. His skin prickles with anticipation as Khimi’s strong arms wrap around his lower back, holding him tight. Lumi can feel every muscle pressed against his own. Khimi begins with a precursory thrust, it’s gentle at first, almost teasing. Each subsequent movement pushes deeper inside, causing Lumi to mewl with pleasure. He coils his fingers into the soft sheets on either side of Khimi, surrendering to the overwhelming sensation coursing through his body. With that, Khimi pushes forward, his cock sliding into Lumi’s tight heat inch by agonizing inch.

He can feel every thick vein along Khimi’s shaft as it slides within him, a sensation that Lumi had never known he needed. His inner walls clutch at the massive girth, eagerly drawing Khimi, deeper and deeper. With each thrust, Lumi’s toes curl and his entire body trembles with ecstasy. Khimi breathes huskily into his rounded ears, fueling Lumi’s moans even further. The pleasure builds within him until he can no longer hold back.

His flaccid cock leaks like a fountain as Khimi’s movements increase into a fevered pace, stretching him, filling him. Lumi’s breath hitches, his skin painted red with desire. He buries his face into Khimi’s shoulder, hiding his shame as he surrenders to the fucking. His gut churns, or maybe it’s just Khimi’s cock in his stomach. He can’t be sure, but gods does he feel deep. His body quakes as Khimi pistons into him, the steady slap of their flesh a lewd, wet chorus echoing through the room. His focus shatters, pleasure crashing through his balls, his cum erupting in thick, pulsing ropes between their bodies. His brow creases with bliss, his tail stiff as a rod as he yields. He dissolves against Khimi, an utter mess, craving more of the explosive releases Khimi wrenches from him so easily.

With one eye open, Lumi glances at Khimi. “I-I’m sorry.”

Khimi’s breath is ragged, his control fraying. “Did… did you just come again?” he huffs, his voice strained. 

Lumi nods, his lips against Khimi’s throat, his sharp fangs nipping at the flesh. “I want it,” he moans shamelessly. “Your cum. Deep inside me.”

Khimi growls, low and guttural, and wraps his arms around Lumi like iron bands. His pace quickens, thrusts deepening. Lumi moans, throwing himself back onto Khimi’s cock, taking it deeper, whimpering. Sweat slicks their skin, muscles straining. Lumi reaches back and spreads himself open, giving Khimi better access—begging silently for more. He bites his lip, overwhelmed, his eyes glimmering with unshed tears. I can’t come again… But his body has other plans. The same intense sensation persists, the obscene pressure pounding against that sensitive spot. He finally understands, with an impossible certainty—the goddess was right—they were destined for each other. Every inch of their bodies fits together perfectly. This doesn’t merely feel like the first encounter, nor the hundredth. Every movement, every touch is overwhelmingly familiar. It feels deeper, more meaningful, it’s a connection he knows was fated.

A sudden stillness. Khimi grunts, a sound between a rasp and a groan. His cock jerks inside, bobbing against the soft, yielding walls, unloading jet after jet of hot, thick seed. Lumi shivers as the heat of Khimi’s seed spreads within him and instinctively pushes himself upright, grinding his hips down with force to take him deeper. His fingers curl into the cum-matted hair at Khimi’s abdomen, tugging at the dark curls there as he drives himself down with all his might. Khimi’s hands roam along Lumi’s thighs, then sink into the flesh of his ass, 

Lumi feels Khimi softening inside while he wiggles back and forth. “It’s so warm,” he gasps, reveling in the warmth spreading inside of him, his head tilts towards the ceiling as the final throbs of Khimi’s orgasm subside. “And wet.” For the first time, he feels completely filled, sated. It’s as if a deep, unquenchable hunger within him has finally been satisfied. He bites his lip, unable to contain himself as he continues to work Khimi’s length inside of him, clenching and unclenching his muscles.

“I didn’t mean to finish so fast,” Khimi murmurs, his hands calmly teasing the soft hairs along Lumi’s leg. 

“Don’t worry about it,” Lumi chuckles. “I came first anyway, and second,” he adds with a widening grin. His ears twitch as he uses every muscle in his body to continue pleasuring himself with Khimi’s length. “Probably third, fourth, and fifth.”

“Where did you learn to move like this?” Khimi questions, clearly lost in the feeling of Lumi’s body writhing over his own. “Fuck, kitten…” he moans, his nails sinking into Lumi’s tender thigh. “S-slow…”

“It just comes naturally,” Lumi teases, his tongue flicking along his teeth in a dangerously playful manner. “Maybe it’s just a beastkin thing—fuck like an animal and all.” He grins knowingly. Pausing only briefly to study Khimi, who’s trembling. “I’ve always thought a lot about sex… and I’ve seen other aslan having sex, so I just do what I imagine feels good.”

“You weren’t kidding when you said you were always horny?” Khimi remarks through gritted teeth.

Lumi chuckles softly. “Nope! And you make it so much worse!”

Khimi’s grip tightens around Lumi’s legs as their bodies shift; he rolls atop Lumi, quickly entwining their fingers together. A blush heats Lumi’s cheeks as he feels Khimi’s arousal pulsing through him. He lifts his hips towards Khimi’s sides, desperately trying to wrap his thighs around him, though Khimi’s hulking form makes it nearly impossible. Instead, he interlocks his ankles as best he can. Khimi starts to move. It’s slow at first, dragging his length through him, eliciting lusty moans, each movement threatening to burst him into euphoric tears. He shoves himself deeper, the position allowing him to fill every inch of Lumi, or rather, he forces Lumi to take every inch of him. Each thrust forces the slick, creamy seed to dribble from Lumi’s overfilled depths. Their eyes lock, and a wicked grin spreads across Khimi’s lips as he squeezes Lumi’s hand for reassurance—their palms slick with the heat of their encounter. The rhythmic slap of Khimi’s heavy, cum-soaked sack against Lumi’s wet, quivering ass only deepens the pleasure, driving Lumi into a frenzy. He growls and writhes in Khimi’s embrace, using every ounce of strength in his legs to press back against him. 

Grinding his teeth, Lumi looks into Khimi’s eyes and growls, “I want all of you.” A moan escapes his lips as Khimi playfully pins his hands above his head. 

Khimi smirks and slams his hips forward with a force that makes Lumi’s entire body jolt. “Like this?” he taunts, charging his hips a second time, the sopping sound of Lumi taking his whole length filling the space between them. 

Closing his eyes, Lumi’s head thrashes from side to side, completely consumed by the intensity. “Y-yeah,” he gasps. His feet dig into the small of Khimi’s back, guiding Khimi’s movements as he angles his hips higher and urges him to bury the entirety of his thick shaft within. “Harder, please. Khimi… please,” he begs between breaths, his hands struggling against Khimi’s grip.

Khimi releases a sound, deep and animalistic, that sends a shudder coursing through Lumi’s body. He picks up the pace, his hips snapping forward with a force that makes the bed shake. 

Lumi howls in pleasure, screaming as he pulls Khimi down onto him with his legs. “K-Khimi!” he moans. The shouts echo through the courtyard, carrying across the estate. 

Khimi’s hands slide down Lumi’s sweat soaked sides, his breathing heavy and labored as he fucks Lumi into the mattress. His voice breaks as he murmurs, “I feel like I’m… hurting you. But you feel… too good.”

“Pretty sure you’re breaking me,” Lumi says between gasps, “but it feels like heaven.” His lips are slick with drool, his entire body trembling as Khimi continues to pound into him with a single-minded determination. “K-Khimi… I love—” His words are cut off by another wave of pleasure.

Khimi breathes, “Lumi…”

Both of them are panting heavily now, their bodies slicked with sweat as they move together in a frenzy. Lumi is certain that everyone in the estate can hear their fucking, but he doesn’t care. In fact, he wants them to know that Khimi belongs to him and always will. Khimi reaches behind Lumi’s head and pulls their mouths together in an eager, possessive kiss. Their lips meet and their tongues tangle in a heated dance, saliva running down Lumi’s cheek. Give me everything. There is no sense of restraint between them as they give themselves over completely to each other’s desires. Khimi’s eager humping continues, his damp hair steadily dripping sweat onto Lumi’s body. Lumi wraps his arms around Khimi as they kiss, his fingernails scraping across Khimi’s back. When Khimi breaks the kiss to reach down and stroke Lumi’s cock, Lumi moans beneath their pressed lips. The heat builds inside of him until he feels like he is going to burst, his head swimming in the clouds as he slams it back against the mattress.

“How is your cock so big?!” Lumi exclaims in disbelief, his eyes rolling back as he feels himself stretched. His thighs tense around Khimi’s waist, his body shuddering with the effort of taking him in. 

“Gift from the gods,” Khimi says with a certainty in his tone, his voice dripping with arrogance. But even he is starting to lose control, his breathing is shaky, his body trembling. He pulls back until only the tip of his cock remains inside. 

“Leave it in!” Lumi begs, his voice desperate as he tightens his legs. “I want to feel it here,” he adds, running his hands along his abdomen, eyes glazed over with lust.

Khimi blushes—really blushes—at Lumi’s words, sweat dripping from the end of his brow and nose onto Lumi’s chest. “Really?” he asks, his voice hesitant but overcome with desire.

“I wanna… be filled with your seed,” Lumi whispers, his cheeks burning crimson as Khimi smirks down at him. The words are filthy, absolutely depraved, but he knows they’ll keep Khimi going. 

Khimi kisses the crown of Lumi’s head. “Horny little lion.” Their lips meet once again as Khimi pushes himself back into Lumi, drawing out another loud gasp from both of them. 

Lumi can feel his insides tensing along the length of Khimi’s cock, desperate to milk him more. Khimi forces himself to the root, his cock throbbing and his testicles contracting as he moans aloud. Lumi matches his every movement, caressing his own abdomen and smiling gaily as they both give in fully to their desires. The heavy vein along the base of Khimi’s length continues to pulsate, filling him with waves of pleasure until he feels he’s going to burst. Cum flows over the silken sheets beneath them, escaping from Lumi’s hole, still plugged by Khimi’s girth. As they lay tangled together in a state of pure bliss, Lumi runs his fingers through Khimi’s sweaty hair and thinks, We should have been doing this all along. 

“I’m still mad at you,” he whispers into Khimi’s slick hair. 

“I had a feeling,” Khimi begins. Pausing, he looks into Lumi’s eyes. “But I hope… you’ll stay. At least spend the day with me, let me prove to you that I care.”

Lumi feels himself blushing, thinking back on their earlier conversation. This wasn’t quite what he expected to happen, but here he is. “I can hardly say no to that,” he responds, a hint of playfulness in his tone as he reaches for a feather pillow above him.

Khimi begins to protest, but then hesitates, his head drooping forward.

As Lumi pulls the pillow from the stack, he notices something on the bed beneath it—his black loincloth, hidden and crumpled. A new shade of crimson tints Khimi’s cheeks as Lumi picks up the loincloth and examines it. White stains now cover the once-black cloth, and Lumi can’t help but simper at the thought of Khimi using it for his pleasure.

“Did you… wank into my loincloth?” Lumi asks, his arousal mounting as his tail teases against Khimi’s leg.

“Maybe.” Khimi whispers, his face still flushed with shame. Glancing up with a blend of nervousness and undeniable desire, he confesses, “Actually… I smelled them while I was jerking off… and then I… I ended up cleaning myself with it.” His fingers twist nervously in his hair, tugging at the strands as if punishing himself for the confession.

“How many times?” Lumi purrs suggestively. “Looks like… a lot?”

“Once or twice,” Khimi admits, biting his lip.

“Hells!” Lumi groans, his tail tightening around Khimi’s leg as if trying to pull him closer. “Your balls must hold an ocean of cum.”

Khimi’s smirk widens into a cocky grin, and he lets out a low chuckle. “You haven’t noticed by now?”

How could he not notice? The first time he’d seen Khimi at the temple, his eyes had been drawn to the obscene bulge between his thighs—those heavy, swollen orbs that hung like ripe fruit, begging to be tasted. And after he had gotten his first taste of Khimi’s cock, those globes continued to haunt his dreams ever since. He’d fantasized about them resting on his chest, slapping against his ass, bouncing as Khimi fucked him raw.

Lumi’s face burns, but he tries to play it down. “Anyway, it’s fine, I’d do the same thing,” he prattles, smirking at Khimi lying atop him. He gives his loincloth a sniff for good measure. “I think it smells better with both of our scents.” 

Khimi snorts, amused. “Whenever you say shit like that,” he mutters playfully, before leaning down to lave beads of sweat from Lumi’s chest and neck, “I just want to ravage you.” 

“Ca-can you continue then?” Lumi asks timidly, his toes curling as Khimi’s lips trail down his body.

Khimi nibbles on Lumi’s shoulder before responding, “Anything for you.” 

Lumi pushes himself up onto his elbows and scoots towards the head of the bed. As Khimi’s cock slides out of him, a thick stream of creamy white cum follows, oozing down Lumi’s tail and pooling on the silk sheets beneath him. The sight is obscene—his hole still twitching and clenching around nothing, the slick mess between his thighs, the way his chest heaves as he tries to catch his breath. Lumi releases a contented sigh and sprawls out like a feast laid out for Khimi’s consumption. 

Khimi groans, his cock stiffening at the sight of his handiwork. “Gods…”

Lumi’s chest swells with pride, a smug little grin playing on his lips as he looks up at Khimi through hooded eyes. “Again?” he asks, his voice dripping with innocence even as he raises his hips expectantly.

“You’re a fucking fiend,” Khimi rasps, “a lustful little lion.”

Lumi rolls onto his stomach, stretching out like a lazy cat. His arms reach forward, fingers digging into the soft silk sheets beneath him. He lifts himself up on his knees, presenting his quivering buttocks to Khimi with a raunchy wag of his ass—his tail still slick with cum. Khimi’s seed drips down Lumi’s sack and onto the sheets beneath him from his overflowing hole. He arches his back, encouraging Khimi. Khimi pulls himself against him and places his heavy cock between his cheeks. His hips move slowly, rubbing the softened cock against the leaking hole as Lumi’s hips wiggle back and forth tauntingly.

 Khimi grips the base of his cock, tapping his mass against Lumi’s cheeks, driving his length to harden further. He grabs Lumi’s waist with one hand and slides the tip against the eager, creamy entrance. He presses the tip inside, Lumi’s entrance clenches onto him as if to pull him in. Lumi can feel Khimi’s girth gradually forcing its way inside, stretching his walls wide again. It still hurts. Tears well in Lumi’s eyes as he lowers his head onto the silken sheets and watches between his legs as Khimi press deeper inside of him. With each thrust, he can feel the thick ridge of Khimi’s cock rubbing against his warm inner walls. And yet, despite the discomfort, he can’t deny the intense pleasure he feels. Eager, he pushes his body back, forcing Khimi’s cock inside of him at a quicker pace. His body rocks with the motions, cum drips over the sheets. Khimi lets out a rasping moan as Lumi takes him into his heat. 

He holds tight to Lumi’s waist, pushing his body back and forth. Lumi can feel his insides hugging, nudging aside for Khimi’s cock. The foreskin along the head rubs back and forth against his warm walls. Each time he moves his body, he fights to hold Khimi in. Khimi places his hand beneath the base of Lumi’s tail, stroking the sensitive joint where it connects. Lumi’s tail waves between them like a victory flag as he whines, pressing his face into the sheets. Then it grows limp as Khimi works his thumb around the soft skin just beneath his tail, stroking upwards along the joint.

“It’s sensitive there,” Lumi pants, his voice breaking.

Khimi chuckles, all too pleased with himself. “I know.”

The sensation is something Lumi had never felt before, though he is quickly growing to enjoy it. His body begins to shudder, his ass grinds against Khimi, hungrily drawing him in with each backward movement. He moves forward, his hole clenches firmly to the immense cock, as if to drag it with him. He moves more rapidly, causing bubbles of cum to form around the edges of his stuffed hole. Desperate to have all of Khimi, he spreads his legs wider, slamming his ass back against with even more vigor than before. He brings his mouth onto a pillow, sinking his fangs into it as he lets out another series of whimpering moans. There is no telling how many times he had come, he had quit counting sometime earlier. Grabbing hold of his cock, he squeezes at the tip in an attempt to stave off his next orgasm, yet the pleasure proves to be too much. Cum gushes into his palm. His pace slows slightly, his entrance clenched from orgasm. But Khimi is relentless, grasping his hips and thrusting inside him with even more force. 

“Khimi,” he chokes out, the moan sticking in his throat when he uses the power of his hips to pin Lumi beneath him with quickened thrusts. The added weight drills Khimi’s cock into him deeper, forcing the tight confines of his insides into a wider spread. The pleasurable ache of being stretched so full loosens Lumi’s jaw, and he whines as Khimi’s teeth lock onto his ear. “Khimi,” he pants out again.

“We should have done this before,” Khimi says, breathing heavy at the back of Lumi’s head. 

Lumi’s tail swipes against Khimi. “Ri-right!” he pants, his ears twitching in delight. “Th-that’s what I said!” 

“Does it feel good?” Khimi asks, though his voice seems to tell Lumi that he knows it does. 

“Y-yes, I—” Lumi starts, his words become strangled, he moans once, then again, his brow pinching. Khimi’s cock presses down past that sensitive part. “I’ve ne-never come… from just… playing with… my ass,” he croaks, his words coming out broken.

“How many times?” Khimi asks with another pointed thrust.

Lumi moans again, trying to think clearly. “I-I lost count,” he admits. “A lot.”

“You lost count?” Khimi’s smug cheer only adds to Lumi’s arousal. 

“W-when you go real deep… I’m pretty sure I-I come… every time… at-at least it fe-feels that way,” Lumi gasps, biting down onto his forearm to stifle his cries of pleasure. In response, Khimi pushes particularly deep inside him, testing the theory.

Bending over Lumi, Khimi sinks his teeth into the nape of his neck. He presses his hips harder against Lumi’s ass and wraps a hand around Lumi’s cock, stroking him in rhythm with their movements. As they continue to move together, beads of cum begin to ooze from Lumi’s slit. Then, Khimi snaps his hips hard against Lumi and cum sputters into his waiting palm. His teeth glide to Lumi’s shoulder, drawing out pained whimpers. The idea of Khimi marking him awakens his animalistic instinct—the primal instinct to mate takes over as Lumi pushes his hips back with feral lust.

“I’ll never let you go again,” Khimi snarls between kisses. His breath is hot against Lumi’s. “I can’t.” 

“O-okay!” Lumi cries, happy that Khimi cannot see his blushing face. He pants, overstimulated. His insides are filled to the brim, his body burns with a fevered need, and his ass is undeniably—raw. Sweat soaks into the sheets. “I told you b-before… you h-have to keep me!” 

Lumi begins to feel dizzy, the heat from their exchange overwhelming. He reaches for Khimi’s hand, and Khimi responds by grasping it, understanding the gesture. Khimi’s fingers dwarf his own. He steadily moves back, gripping Lumi’s hip, his pace slows to a crawl, pulling nearly completely out of him before plunging back inside. Lumi moans and whines, feeling his hole vacated, only to be filled completely within seconds. Khimi’s balls, sweaty and cum-soaked, slam against Lumi’s ass. He nudges himself down deep and grunts as he draws near release. Lumi reaches back, his fingers raking along Khimi’s thighs. His feet curl as another mewl passes his lips. Khimi’s cock twitches violently, spurting thick ropes of cum deep into Lumi’s undulating insides, each pulse hotter than the last, flooding him with sticky, creamy warmth. Lumi’s ass clenches instinctively, his tight little hole milking Khimi’s dick for every drop, sucking it dry. Khimi holds himself against Lumi, his eyes rolled back into his head. He lets himself finish unloading inside, growling curses between his teeth. Still buried inside, Khimi leans down, his sweat-drenched chest pressing against Lumi’s back as he nips and sucks at the boy’s neck, leaving angry red marks in his wake. His lips trail lower, pressing hot, open-mouthed kisses between Lumi’s shoulders. 

As they collapse onto the bed, both panting and spent, Lumi mutters, “Gods.” Then stretches out his legs behind him. 

Khimi wraps his arms around him and teases, “Give me a bit and I can go again.”

“My ass is feelin’ sore already,” Lumi says, shaking his waist, feeling Khimi’s cock pumping inside of him. “You might be the only one moving next time.”

Khimi kisses the back of Lumi’s neck and shoulders. “I’d be happy to know if you enjoyed this.” 

Lumi chuckles, running his fingers through his sweat soaked hair. “You don’t need me to tell you I had a good time,” he whispers with a blush. “I’ve… never felt anything like it.” 

“I’m glad for that,” Khimi whispers, his parted lips brushing at the back of Lumi’s neck, his tongue licking the glistening, salty sweat. “I’m really am sorry. I’m sorry about everything that happened before.” 

A defeated sigh leaves Lumi’s lips. “We’re both to blame. I thought about everything that happened… and imagined how you must have felt. I know about how you’re expected to have an heir and stuff… and how many times you’ve almost been married off.” 

“So, you heard about all that, huh?” Khimi asks, his voice carrying a trace of weariness. “Ennui?”

Lumi nods, then snickers. “Someone of your position… even the acolytes seem to know everything about your family,” he says, placing his head on top of his crossed arms. 

“I do want to produce an heir… maybe I just like the idea of having a family. I still feel very lost on certain things, but I know my feelings for you are genuine. I’ve never met anyone who has made me feel like you have,” Khimi says, slowly moving his hips back and forth, his cock sliding in and out of Lumi rhythmically. 

Lumi hums, closing his eyes as pleasure coils inside him. “I’d have your children if I could, you know,” he murmurs, puffing out his cheeks. “I’d love to! They’d be cute!”

Khimi’s cheeks flush a bright pink as he gazes down at Lumi’s petite form. “I’ll hold you to that,” he says with a hint of playfulness in his voice.

Lumi coos excitedly. “Alright, well… when the day comes!”

“When the day comes,” Khimi echoes, his lips twitching into a smirk. “I’ll put a litter in you.”

“You can try,” Lumi challenges, giggling—his laughter trailing into a comfortable silence. Eventually, he exhales, voice turning softer. “I dunno, Khimi… sometimes it just feels like there’s so much pressure on you, all the time. Like I’m here, but you’re… somewhere else. Distant.”

Khimi’s grip tightens on Lumi’s waist as he rolls onto his side, pulling him close. Slowly, he begins to hump into him, while silently urging Lumi to raise his leg. “I promise it won’t h-happen again,” he whispers. His breath ghosts over Lumi’s ears as he feels Khimi’s cum dripping from their connection.

“I promise to be more understanding of your life… and be there for you. You can rely on me… let me be there for you… open up to me,” Lumi says, wincing slightly at his movements. “Please don’t stop,” he begs.

Khimi laughs breathlessly. “We’re having a serious conversation,” he pants. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” Lumi replies, moaning softly as their lips draw close. “I’m just saying I should have been more understanding too,” he says gently, the sound of their bodies moving together echoing around them.

The soft squelches of their efforts are arousing, but Lumi can’t focus on anything but the burning warmth inside of him. 

“I messed up,” Khimi admits regretfully. “I should never have gone to Omar’s. I only went because I wanted to drink and drown my sorrows,” he confesses, his grip on Lumi’s hips tightening as his pace quickens. “We could have been doing this that night instead…”

Lumi laughs and turns his head to the side, moving with Khimi’s eager thrusts. “I forgive you… I don’t want anything to come between us,” he says, panting against Khimi’s lips.

“You’re too kind,” Khimi murmurs, pulling Lumi closer by his waist. “I think it might take me a while to forgive myself.”

Lumi rests in contemplative silence, his tail gently wrapping around Khimi’s thigh as he processes. The exhaustion from their activities finally catches up to him, and he struggles to keep his leg lifted. “I want you to forgive yourself,” he insists. “I can’t have you sulking when you’re fucking me.” 

“I wasn’t—” 

“Khimi!” Lumi growls fiercely, turning to look back at him. His hair, wild and damp, sways with each movement. “You slowed down as soon as you started talking about forgiving yourself!” 

“I’m sorry—” 

“Don’t be sorry. You’re supposed to be fuckin’ me!” 

“I’m just… I just feel guilty, is all,” Khimi starts as he leans over Lumi, driving his cock deeper. His fingers dig into Lumi’s thigh and lift, holding his leg up for better access. 

Lumi pants, his body shuddering while Khimi hits the sensitive area again. “And… I j-just wa-want us to get past all of this.”

“It’s not that easy… Lumi,” Khimi mutters, biting Lumi’s shoulder. “I know we will move past all of this. But I still feel guilty.” 

“Please, Khimi… I need you to—” Lumi begs, desperately, “—I need you to forgive yourself.” 

Khimi sighs against Lumi’s neck before relenting. “Fine.”

Khimi sinks his cock into Lumi’s insides and holds still, his chest nestled against Lumi’s back. Lumi’s flaccid length weeps seed over the fabric, the pressure building deep in his groin. His mind numbs at the sensation, his thoughts turning to their future as he is filled with a sense of warmth and security. The warmth of Khimi’s breath tickles his neck, and his heart beats faster, echoing the deep yearning he’s carried for so long. Never before had Lumi experienced such a profound desire for anything beyond what he feels now: to be truly loved, to be cherished by someone who genuinely cares. The urge to scream with joy bubbles up inside him, but instead, he reaches for Khimi’s hand. As his fingers close around Khimi’s, tears spill freely, tears of happiness and relief.

Lumi tenses his muscles against Khimi’s girth. Moments later, Khimi’s fingers tighten over Lumi’s again, sweat glistens between them and once more Khimi’s cock throbs eagerly against Lumi’s soft walls; warmth spreads with slow pulses inside Lumi. Lumi’s head tilts back against Khimi, his lips parted as Khimi grinds into him through his orgasm, each stroke hitting that spot that makes his vision blur and his toes curl. Completely and utterly filled, Lumi whimpers as Khimi slowly relaxes. 

Khimi rests his lips on Lumi’s shoulders, winded and panting rapidly. His heart beating fast against Lumi’s skin. The two lay in a long silence before he finally breaks it, “How would you feel about…” he starts, hesitating for a moment. “What if we traveled together and left Rhaz for a while?”

Lumi’s tail wags excitedly at the thought. “But isn’t your duty here in Rhaz?”

Khimi runs a hand through Lumi’s feathery hair, his touch slow and deliberate. “I think I need a break from my duties,” he muses. “I’ll ask Rashid to watch over the estate while we’re away. And besides, I’m Khimi Zeybek… I can do whatever I want.”

Lumi grins, wiggling against him. “Will it just be us?”

“That was the plan,” Khimi replies, grazing his teeth lightly over Lumi’s tanned shoulder. “Having others along could be… inconvenient.”

Lumi tilts his head, considering. “But you’ve said travelin’ through the desert is dangerous.”

Khimi smirks. “We can go anywhere we want. The Desert Cities, Dolmas, even all the way to Loria if you’d like. Just imagine it—you and me, exploring the world together.”

Lumi purrs in delight, eyes half-lidded as he pictures the journey. “Can you really do that?”

“I want to try,” Khimi says, his voice quieter now, more certain. “We can always come back here for breaks, and I’ll keep up with my duties then. But I need time away to be myself… with you. Anywhere but here.”

“If you’re sure, there is nothing I’d love more than to travel with you,” Lumi replies, his purrs giving away his excitement. “Where are we gonna go first?” he asks, excitedly. 

Khimi chuckles. “To take a bath.”

Before Lumi can object, Khimi flips him onto his belly, pinning him down again. As Khimi rises to his knees, his softened length slips out of Lumi, followed by a rush of his cum. He playfully smacks Lumi’s soft ass before rising from the bed. With little effort, he grabs Lumi by the ankles and tugs him toward the edge, eliciting a fit of giggles as he slides across the sheets. After a brief moment of teasing and playful resistance, Khimi sweeps him up effortlessly and strides toward the wading pool. Without warning, he plunges them both into the deeper end. Lumi flails instinctively, arms latching onto Khimi as the sudden immersion sends a shiver through him. The water is tepid but not quite comfortable, and with a few clumsy strokes, he paddles toward the edge. He grips the ledge and turns, eyes narrowed in mock indignation.

“I didn’t think you’d actually dunk me!” Lumi shouts, sputtering.

“You’ll be fine,” Khimi replies, blowing air between his lips as he swims lazily over. Reaching the shallows, he settles onto one of the submerged steps and pulls Lumi toward him. “I’ll scrub your ears if you want,” he offers with a grin, tilting Lumi’s chin up with a gentle touch.

“Just don’t get water in them,” Lumi pleads, nestling himself between Khimi’s legs.

Khimi hums, running his fingers through Lumi’s damp tail. “Your tail hair is coarser than I expected… when I first imagined touching it, I thought it’d be softer.” He cups his hands in the water, letting it trickle over Lumi’s head before massaging the rounded ears with slow, deliberate strokes.

“Would you rather it be soft?” Lumi asks, tilting his head inquisitively.

“No… I just—” Khimi hesitates, his fingers stilling for a moment. “I bought something for you… but I didn’t realize until after touching your tail that it might not be what I intended.”

Lumi purrs at the attention, eyes slipping shut. “I don’t need any gifts. Just being with you is enough.”

Khimi lets out a quiet chuckle, rubbing Lumi’s ear a bit more vigorously. “That’s the thing,” he murmurs. “I had it refitted after I first touched your tail. It was meant to be something special.” Shifting Lumi from his lap, Khimi stands and wades out of the pool.

“Wai-wait, what did you get?” Lumi asks, blushing. He watches anxiously while Khimi exits the pool. 

“Wait—what did you get?” Lumi asks, blushing as he watches Khimi kneel beside the bed, rummaging through a small chest. His curiosity is momentarily overshadowed by the sight of Khimi’s naked body, his gaze helplessly drawn to the way his cock swings with every step back toward the pool.

Khimi smirks, catching Lumi staring. “Let me see your tail.”

Lumi swallows hard, his face burning. “Alright,” he says, shyly swaying his tail toward Khimi. 

“Hope you like it,” Khimi sighs nervously and sucks his teeth. He slides the golden ring onto Lumi’s tail. 

“Heavens!” Lumi exclaims, nearly slipping back into the water. He twists to get a better look, eyes widening at the extravagant gift. The golden ring is adorned with a massive, glinting sapphire in an elaborate setting, connected by delicate chains to a second, smaller spiral-shaped ring. “Khimi, someone’s going to stab me for this,” he says with a breathless laugh. “It’s huge… and lovely.”

Khimi frowns. “So… you don’t like it?” His voice dips with uncertainty.

“I love it!” Lumi replies, shaking his tail for Khimi back and forth. “You managed to get it to fit too! Look!” he exclaims and whips his tail to and fro, water spraying across the tiles while he does. 

Khimi exhales in relief. “Good. I was worried you’d hate it.”

Lumi’s expression softens. “I’ve only ever had this,” he murmurs, fingers brushing the golden choker around his neck. “Nina gave it to me.”

Overcome with affection, Lumi throws his arms around Khimi, pressing their bodies together. He cups the back of Khimi’s head, pulling him into a deep, lingering kiss. Khimi’s hands slide down to his backside, fingertips tracing over the new piece of jewelry as their tongues entwine. With a firm grip, Khimi lifts Lumi effortlessly, carrying him out of the water. Their lips never part as he lowers Lumi back against the cool tiles, his own body flush against him. When they finally break for air, Khimi props himself up on his elbows, gazing into Lumi’s eyes. 

Lumi purrs uncontrollably, his chest heaving, face flushed with desire as he stares back into the deep cerulean of Khimi’s eyes. 

“Lumi,” Khimi whispers, voice rough with longing. Then, he kisses him again.