============================================================ ============================================================ Formatting Instructions: 1 -- Save to disc as ASCII text 2 -- Open with Wordpad/Notepad 3 -- Use "Word Wrap" or "Wrap to Window" Notepad command: (EDIT) Worpdad command: (VIEW --> OPTIONS) 4 -- Enjoy! Contact: grey228@hotmail.com ============================================================ ============================================================ Last Time: Link is visited by three horny supernatural lasses who tell of his "destiny" to leave behind an heir to combat some unknown evil. He, being married to Malon, refuses. Rejecting their advances, Link is warned that his unwillingness to cooperate will lead to things worse than adultery. ============================================================ ============================================================ It is better to be loved, than to love. -- a Chinese saying ============================================================ "Sssh, not so loud now." Soft footsteps approached the bed as he hid under the covers hoping they'd just let him be. Fat chance though. "Waaaaake up Uncwo Cowd." Yep. Just as I thought, he groaned inwardly. A small hand pressed against his face for a little while before a sweet soprano chided, "Easy there, I think he's still asleep." "But Aun-tee Tee-fwa says to gwo!" "I know, I know. But she'll have to wait just like the rest of us." Cloud risked a peek and saw Marlene looking at him inquisitively. "Unca Cowd!" she squealed, "You're uuuuuuuup!" He winced as the tiny girl drove herself straight into his blanket covered belly. "Not too rough now," the healer's warning was gentle but firm. Marlene quickly settled down while her guardians conferred. "You're up early," Cloud patted his ward's head, "I'd thought you'd sleep in late." "Well not today," Aeris sat down beside them, "We've been waiting for over an hour." "For what?" he blinked as Marlene twiddled with a corner of the bedsheet. "We've a picnic remember?" the pink clad woman took up his hand and kissed it. "Right," he groaned and tried to wrap himself up, "Gimme another five minutes okay?" "Still sleepy?" Aeris had to laugh, "I suppose we did this to ourselves." "Uh huh," he stifled a yawn as he caught Marlene circling aimlessly around her slim guardian, "I'll be up soon. Go tell Tifa so she won't be mad." "Yessum," Marlene bolted out the door before Aeris could manage to call out. "Don't --- run," the slender woman sagged visibly, "Why won't she listen to me?" Cloud gave her a squeeze, "Don't try too hard. She's one of a kind." "Yeah," Aeris lowered her head, "I guess." "She takes after Tiff because she spoils her rotten, that's all." "Now Cloud," she pursed her lips, "Don't bad mouth her while she's not around. Golly, I wonder if you do this to me when you're alone with her?" "Only if we can still talk afterwards," he laughed as she stood up with an angry huff. "Hey," he sat up, "Kidding. I'm only kidding. Planet aside sake Aeris, I'd never thought you'd still be so touchy about this." "Well --- I am." Cloud put an arm around her as she lay down beside him. "You know once," she whispered, "Just once, I'd like to know what's it's like to have one." "Have one what?" he asked stupidly. Aeris looked up with smiling eyes while Cloud rolled his and groaned. "It takes time right?" "But not this long!" she said with exasperation, "The three of us have been going about like chocos in heat for over a year now!" "A year and a half by my count." "That's even worse!" she was beginning to sound shrill. "Easy," Cloud gave her a squeeze, "Easy now. Maybe there's something with that stuff I took." "Could be," Aeris lowered her voice, "Maybe we should see someone about that." "What for? I've got you." "I'm not a doctor," she pursed her lips, "Remember?" "You work wonders though." "But I wouldn't know if something's wrong with you," Aeris pointed, "Down there." "And I suppose if you were a man you would, huh?" he chuckled. "I suppose," she sighed and tried to get up but Cloud held fast, "Hey, wh-what are you doing?" He gave her a wink and tugged her, "We've still got time." "What!? No!" Aeris put her arms akimbo, "You know how I like things done!" "Yeah," he brushed aside the blankets, "And wind up spilling it all over." "Cloud!" she blushed as he slid off his pajamas. "Let's make sure it goes where it's supposed to. Come on," the young man said gently, "Maybe a double dose might help, too." "A-are you sure?" Aeris chewed her lip, "You don't want to save it up for Tifa?" "Planet knows she'll get at me tonight," Cloud groaned, "Not to mention you, then her again--" "Oh please," she reddened. "-- then both of you at the same time," he finished. "Oh all right," she sighed, "If it'll get you up." "You know it will," he gave her a wry grin. Aeris hesitated and closed the door to the bedroom. She turned around and partly unbuttoned her dress. She reached between her legs and began to stroke slowly as Cloud watched. He marvelled at how her slim fingers quickly became moist and glistening with her own juices. Tifa never got ready that fast --- or at least never without Aeris' help, he thought dryly. "Ready?" she looked up. "Yeah I guess," Cloud scooted himself to the side to make room, but Aeris just shook her head. "I want to be on top." "You're the boss," he said. She tried to explain herself, "I don't want to muss my hair." "With that bun?" he chortled, "C'mon. It's hardier than a Sweeper." "Ever the charmer you," Aeris dimpled her cheeks as she rested herself on one of Cloud's two dicks. He gritted his teeth as he felt her slick little cunny take him in slow and easy. "Oooh," she closed her eyes as she rested herself on her husband, "Mmmmn." Cloud grunted as he held her by her slim, waspish waist. "Go -- ungh --- bay --- uhh," he panted as she began to rock her hips. Aeris placed her hands across his chest for support as she rode him gently. His eyes glazed over as he saw her pert little tits play hide and seek with him past her faded pink dress. Cloud felt his other dick -- his 'lower' one -- rub against his wife's ass crack as he poled in and out of her. Don't come yet, he shouted at himself. At least not that lower one. Planet fuck me to hell, he gulped for air as Aeris began to swoon. "N-not t-too loud," she gasped as he began to buck. "I--ggk--uhh--unnnhh!" Aeris sealed his throes of pleasure by placing a gentle hand over his mouth. Cloud bucked and writhed as he spunked and shot his first load into his slender wife's body. She sighed and popped herself off his spent prick to let herself at his other one with a wet SLIIICCH. A satisfied moan slipped past her lips when Cloud suddenly jerked upwards and let go. "Well *that* was fast," Aeris blinked. "Sorry," he groaned, "Maybe later okay?" "Yeah, maybe. Thanks love," she kissed him lightly on the forehead and hopped off his withered prick. The young man lay there on the bed exhausted and spent. "Well don't just lie there," she scolded as she straightened herself out, "Get up! Get up! We've still got a picnic, right?" ************************************************************ "Well it's ABOUT time," Tifa stood as Cloud was lead into the kitchen by a giddy Aeris. "What took you so long?" "Nothing," the healer immediately replied, "He's slow to get up. Just like you!" "Yeah right," Tifa wrinkled her nose. Marlene quickly imitated her motion and added snorting noises. "Behave yourself," Aeris as always, announced her displeasure by reaching for her. Marlene took immediate cover behind Tifa as the healer stood a ways off and eyed her like a hungry hawk. "Ooh! How could you make me wait?" the busty woman pouted playfully, "You know what's today." "Sorry." "Hmph," Tifa sniffed and continued, "We never forgot yours---" "Okay, I'm *really* sorry," Cloud grinned and threw open his arms, "Happy birthday Tiff." As soon as the dark haired woman moved off to receive a kiss, Aeris swooped in and nabbed the girl by the shoulders. "Better?" the young man asked as he moved to the counter. "A little," Tifa's eyes followed him, "What were you two doing in there?" "Baby talk." "Oh," she paused and turned to Aeris, "Getting a jump on tonight already?" The slender woman grinned shyly as she held onto Marlene, "A little." Cloud poured a formidable black broth into his cup, took one sip and shuddered. "G-g-geeeez-z-z T--t-tiff," his teeth chattered, "What is this stuff?" "Well it's definitely not tea, that's for sure," Aeris soured, "I for one can't stand it." Tifa shrugged indifferently, "Dunno. Marla gave it to me. Said they found it growing near the ruins." Before the silence could engulf them, she quickly added, "But if that were true ---" "I'd be dead," Cloud soured and hastily set the cup down, "Still, it has this taste I can't really place." "You like it?" Aeris frowned. "A little," he flexed his shoulders, "What's it called?" "I'm not sure," Tifa wrinkled her nose, "But they can call it what they want -- it doesn't change the taste one bit." "Well, I won't bother for more," he gave her a half hearted grin, "Besides, I'd miss the tea." "Well, thank you," Aeris reddened slightly. Tifa wrinkled her nose knowingly at him. "Nice one, tiger." "Uh huh," Cloud gave them both a hearty grin, "Well, are we all ready to go?" "Yup," Tifa twirled her keys, "We're just waiting for you." "How nice," he said blandly, "Who's driving?" "I am!" Tifa spoke up before anyone else could. Cloud felt his heart leap to his throat as Aeris quickly shuffled Marlene out to the garage. The busty woman dangled the keys enticingly between her boobs as he mustered his courage to speak. "Gimme the keys Tiff," Cloud said evenly when the other two were out of earshot, "I'll drive." "Oh yeah?" she licked her lips, "Whose birthday is it?" "Yours," he stepped closer and held out his hand, "And I want to live to see the next one, 'kay?" "You bet we will," she smiled, "Now shut up and let's go." Cloud rolled his eyes as she firmly ushered him out the door. That was Tifa, he thought. Unlike Aeris, she still wore her hair loose and untied. The one thing he noticed was that she started wearing long pants after someone had made a lewd compliment about her legs shortly after they got back from the honeymoon. She smiled and shrugged as if she wasn't offended at all, but the pants stayed. "Get the door open," Tifa climbed into the truck's cabin. "Sure thing," Cloud spied Marlene's head in the backseat and gave her a wave. The girl tried her best to wave back despite the fact she was tightly strapped down into her seat. Beaming broadly, Aeris leaned out the side of the window. "You know where we're going right?" she asked. "Not really," he mumbled absently as he unlatched the garage lock. Cloud jumped when the truck roared to life and filled the air with its foul fumes. These damned 'internal burner' machines were a headache, but he reminded himself that it was he who pushed so strongly for them in the first place. Me and my fat mouth, he pruned as he swung the doors wide open. Save Planet my ass. He knew in his heart he wouldn't give a rat's ass about makou if it wasn't for Aeris. He cast a wayward glance at the truck's occupants and saw the healer holding her nose. Both of Marlene's hands covered her face as Tifa inched her way out. Cloud quickly shut the garage door behind them and hopped in. "So where are we going?" he asked as he strapped himself in. "Tifa's new worksite," Aeris flashed him a smile. "And where's that?" "Just a few miles north of town." Cloud felt the truck lurch as Tifa turned to him and grin. "Keep your eyes on the road Tiff." "What's the matter?" she laughed, "Don't trust my driving?" "I do," he tried to keep his voice in control, "I don't know about everyone else. Watch that turn!" He sucked in a breath as the truck veered to take a corner, pressing him against the door. "Oh hush love," Aeris quieted them, "She's been driving for us for some time now." "That's supposed to make me feel better --- ouch!" Cloud jumped as Tifa jabbed him in the ribs as she turned a second corner. "Watch it buddy," she made a face, "I bet Marlene drives better than you, biker boy." "Oh really?" he grinned. "Yeah," Tifa replied absently. He looked back with an sly gleam as Aeris' eyes widened. "You --- wouldn't --- dare," the healer began. "So how 'bout it kiddo? Wanna help Uncle Cloud win a bet?" Marlene nodded vigorously as the two women shouted a unanimous, "NO!" ************************************************************ It was night again before he knew it. After squaring things away, Link blasted into the house and up the stairs. Malon hardly had time to utter a peep before he smothered her with his excitement. 'That's it?' was all she could say after the music wound down. 'Yeah,' he braved a grin, 'Don't you like it?' Link felt his elation vanish as Malon chided him for buying such a useless contraption. 'Think of the nuisance,' she rolled her eyes, obviously dumbfounded by the bizarre box. Then as an afterthought, 'We've sung well enough before." 'But that was different,' he countered. 'How? Ugh, nevermind,' though Malon was less than enthused with his tinkering, she was at least forgiving. 'Just don't be so loud with your new toy,' she sighed before succumbing to her weariness and trundled off to bed. So, there he was alone by the small fire as he sat proudly over the neatly arranged drums and cylinders. His mouth twitched as he gave each one a dull sheen with a soft rag. "There," Link sat back admiring his handiwork. It was strange, this box filled him with an odd sense of pride -- although he'd feel even better had Malon's reaction been more enthusiastic. Ah well, he thought as he glanced towards the room where she was. "I suppose it's not your fancy," he sighed as he closed the lid. "Quite right beloved," a sharp voice came from nowhere, "I never fathomed your obsession either." Link jumped and almost fell over, nearly sending everything crashing to the floor. A vaguely human form emerged from around the firepit's corner, giving him the chills. Ruto flicked her fins rapidly as she looked at the music box with disdain. "You," he somehow found his voice, "How!?" "I've my ways," she gave him a passing wave. Unlike last time, Ruto was now clothed in a simple white chemise. A long ethereal piece of material shrouded her lower extremities, though it was slit in such a fashion that Link could make out her shapely blue legs whenever she shifted slightly. He felt a familiar hardness come to him as he struggled to keep himself in check -- and out of trouble. He gulped hard as she neared him, "Wh-why are you here?" "What do you think?" Ruto's smile made him cringe, "Did you think we'd leave you to Saria's devices?" "I told you," Link verged on a snarl, "I'm not going to do it." The fish-woman was unperturbed as she passed a glance up towards Malon's room. The young man abruptly froze, afraid that any scuffle would wake her. "She's beautiful beloved," Ruto allowed herself a small laugh. "Stop calling me that," he said through clenched teeth. The mer-woman narrowed her simple black eyes, "Why not?" "Because I'm not your lover." "Come with me," her lips drew thin, "And I'll show you what a fool you are not to." "I'd *be* a fool if I go with you," Link backed away, "What do you take me for?" "A man," Ruto paused briefly, "of vows." "Aye, and I gave it on my wedding day," he curled his fists. "Man fool, don't you remember?" "Remember what?" "Our vows," the blue skinned woman tapped her chest. "What vows?" "Our wedding vows," she drew up rigid. "I'd never wed you," he said unkindly, "Especially not a liar." "Regardless," the calm reply barely masked her anger, "I want you honour them." "Then you're a harridan and a liar." WHAP! Link recoiled as Ruto withdrew her hand. He blinked in shock and surprise. "How -- DARE YOU," her voice quavered as she fought to regain control of her emotions. He could only watch as she tore off her white trappings and lay them on the floor. Link began backing away but she abruptly caught his arm. "With your consent or without," Ruto hissed, "I shall make you see the truth of your inaction." He tried to resist, but somehow he could not. Was it a spell? Try as he might, Link staggered along with his captor to the centre of the cloth. Ruto clasped his head between her webbed hands and looked straight at him. "Now concentrate." "O-on what?" Link was surprised he could still speak, though only in a whisper. "On nothing," Ruto's eyes seemed focused somewhere else as he felt the air rush over him and the walls of the house began to ripple and shimmer like a pond. Nausea wrenched his guts as Link tried to keep his bile down. Just when he thought things couldn't get any worse, a sickening feeling came over him as he saw Malon descend the staircase from the bedroom. He wanted to cry out, but then he saw something that wasn't quite right. Two other men were in the house. Link didn't recognize them, but they were clothed outlandishly and their swords were buckled to their backs. Soldiers? They didn't seem to be in service to the King, he thought. No one so swarthy marched in our ranks, of that he was sure. Though they seemed to be talking loudly, Link could hear nothing. Malon seemed oblivious to her husband's presence as she fetched something from the pantry. Then as if alerted to her activities, one of the men reached around her waist and tugged her closer. What was going on? Malon tried pulling away from the man, but his companion immediately grabbed her and forced her to the ground. One of the men sneered and spat in her face as the other forcibly yanked her hair by the roots. Link could only stare in horror as the two strangers carried Malon up the stairs. Could he hear them, her screaming would have been frantic as she struggled against her captors. He tried breaking free but Ruto continued to hold him by the ears as she chanted her mantra. By now, the image of the house had vanished and the light was so bright he was forced to close his eyes. All the better. Malon, his mind screamed her name, as he felt the urge to vomit. He knew what was going to happen to her. Soldiers do what soldiers do. Link blinked. How? Where did I hear such a thing? More importantly, he shuddered, when did I become so callous? Presently, the blue skinned sorceress released her hold and the young man could move again. He caught his breath and began looking for something, anything for him to use as a weapon when he suddenly realized that he wasn't at the house anymore. What the--? He stood in silent awe as he stared out across the grey- skied coastline. Where am I? Link jumped when his toes felt the sharp nip of freezing water. Damn it, he cursed. Get back be before you ruin another pair of good shoes. He hopped back from the waterline and rubbed his hands together to keep himself warm. Turning his head about he saw a silent Ruto standing majestically in the surf. She was clothed again somehow. Link ran over to her, shouting over the roar of the waves. "The ranch!" he shouted, "Get me back to the ranch!!" "Why?" Ruto glanced at him sideways and casually asked, "What's your hurry?" "You know damn well why," he seethed, "Don't tell me you don't know what happened--" He paused as something inside him clicked. "--or what will happen if I don't--" he swallowed hard. "Yes," the mer-woman nodded fiercely, "Yes. Now you are beginning to understand." Link stood, unsure of what to make of it all. "Then--" he faltered, "--Malon is she--?" "No," Ruto delighted herself as another small wave crashed onto shore. He briefed an audible sigh of relief before apprehension seized him again. "Then, who were they?" "Who?" "Those men---" Link's jaw tightened as he corrected himself, "Those animals I saw; who were they?" "Who knows?" Ruto shrugged, "Perhaps they were part of an invading army. Or Hyrule's soldiers, had the current King been a tyrant or despot. Time expands everywhere. Like the sea. They could be anyone everywhere, or no one no where." His crisp eyes followed her gaze over the cold, grey waters. "I think I understand, just a little," Link rubbed his arms to stop his teeth from chattering, "But must I do as the three of you said to stop this -- this thing from happening?" "Can one who sails its surface dare to say he has seen the secrets below?" her fins fluttered with an arrogance he had come to expect from her. "Meaning you don't know." "I am only immortal, beloved," Ruto faced him sternly, "I am not a god." Link looked at her puzzled, "Are they not one and the same?" Her haughty facade gave way to the mirth lurking beneath, "My dearest, aren't you -- you're so naive!" The fish-woman's laughter relaxed him despite having been kidnapped and whisked to another place far from home. When Ruto had gathered herself, she extended a webbed hand. He took it cautiously. "If I do as you say," Link paused, "Then none of it -- None of what I just saw -- will ever happen?" Now it was Ruto's turn to be pensive, "There is no garuantee." "I see," he lowered his head, "But if I don't--" "There is a chance that it may. I do not truly know. As I've said, the sea --" "-- Expands everywhere, I know," he growled, "I heard you the first time." Link felt her grip tighten as Ruto stepped closer towards him. He stared blankly at the sand as she gave him a quick peck on the cheek. "You were always faithful to the one you loved. That was why I sought to rekindle your affections." "Like you did back at the temple?" he immediately felt his anger rise. Ruto must have sensed she struck a nerve as she quickly sought to change the subject. Gesturing with her free hand, she asked him, "Do you know where we are?" "No," he shook his head, "Should I?" The mer-woman looked up fondly at him, "The Shores of Torombo." Link could only shrug. "You - proposed - to me," Ruto suddenly became coy, "Here." He could hardly believe it, was she blushing? Nevertheless, he remained cool and unconvinced. "Well, were it true," he sniffed indifferently, "Then I chose the worst place to do so." She chuckled, "It is cold now, but come spring the waters will warm." "I suppose," Link stood unmoved by memories that he knew nothing of. A tug on his arm drew his attention. "Walk with me," Ruto pleaded softly. "Where?" "Anywhere," she gave him a weak smile, "As long as you are with me, you may do as you wish." It that were only true, Link thought darkly but he kept to himself. Instead he said, "I cannot tarry long--" "And for as long as you wish," Ruto halted his protests by cradling his face, "Time has no meaning for us. Not here." "Perhaps, but Council contests your claim." The two jumped at the newcomer. "Y-y-you!" Ruto recovered quickly from her surprise and immediately demanded, "What are you doing here!?" "Making sure the Edicts are followed, spawn of Dagon," his icy glare focused on her alone. Link felt the mer-woman's hands shake as she attempted to put herself between him and the stranger in their midst. The man had neatly trimmed black hair and was clean shaven, his face a mask of restrained anger. He had the most arresting eyes he had ever seen; an intense blue in hue deeper than that of the blue skinned woman in front of him. What's mroe, the color apparently hadn't restricted itself to the man's corneas either -- the whites were tainted in a deep hue. He appeared younger than an old man, but something told him it was only a guise. Link could sense something foul before him, a rot was dwelled deep within the black cloaked man and he was sure it something he didn't want to find out. Ruto and the stranger were deeply immersed in conversation as the rancher deduced his observations, but he could overhear everything as he was standing next to his captor. ". . . rest assured," Ruto hastened to explain, "I am following the plan we discussed before. Nothing dire will occur." "Were it true," the man pointed at Link, "Can you explain this man?" "He was --," Ruto came abreast her captive charge, "He *volunteered*." "Heed this, daughter of R'lyeh," the stranger snarled, "Bend them or break them; each moment of time occurs but once." "Once," he repeated with vigor. "I understand," she clenched her hands and looked at the sand, "There shan't be anymore -- incursions." "Pray to your gods that there shall be no more," the man said coldly, "For your sake." Ruto's exposed skin paled by several shades as the stranger puffed a glowing reed thoughtfully. "And remember," he exhaled a thin stream of chalky smoke, "I *shall* be watching each and every one of you -- this time." "I'll do well to remember," Ruto tossed her oblong head in defiance, "Now be gone!" The man's cold, dead blue eyes passed over them with chilling indifference before he stepped into the waves and began walking out towards the sea. Link and Ruto watched as his towering form was swallowed up by the frigid waters. When they were alone once more, Link found his voice and his curiosity. "Who was that?" he asked Ruto. The blue skinned woman stood silent and gazed out over the choppy waters, but he heard her whisper, "Our master." ************************************************************ The moonless night sky hung ominously over the ranch. Excellent. The dark figure crept into the room where Malon still lay asleep. It hovered by her for a moment before it made for the footchest. A small box lay to one side, its beaten appearance belied the valuable prize inside. Silent hands skillfully bundled it up quickly before closing the chest lid. Malon stirred from the slight creaking of the hinges, but she drifted back to sleep as the intruder quickly made off with her husband's ocarina. ============================================================ Clearly . . . true love is incompatible with marriage; Everybody knows that love can have no place between husband and wife. -- Andreas Capellanus, De Arte Honeste Amandi ============================================================ Midnight approaches. The witching hour. What's keeping her? Odd. If you don't like her, why do you care? But she comes every night. The same time. The same place. His eyes hung on the door awaiting her knock. Knock. Come on, damn you. But I've nothing with you. Ever. His eyes snuck a glance at the jar. It was a wilted rose he had carefully preserved in the finest formula he could buy. He still remembered the old man's odd look when he so feverently demanded if formaldehyde was best for his treasured rose. My Rosa, his fingers brushed the vessel as he wondered what kept the dead tissue from coming apart. Had circumstances been more favourable, perhaps I could have rescued you from the eternal damnation that was meant for others far more deserving. Saved you. But what then, vampress? Would I have killed you in the name of my duty? Or when you finally succumbed to your thirst and went for my throat? Presently, a knock came to the door. He jerked away from his misery and remained still. Perhaps tonight, he thought. Perhaps tonight she will just go away and leave me alone. "Reinhardt?" a soft voice called for him when he gave no answer, "Are you well?" Of course I am you witch, he stood. His shadow covered the entire door as he opened it slightly. A slight, gray haired girl stood in the hallway. Her cleanly pressed nightshirt was one size too large for her small frame, not that he cared. It was his sister's before she married a French fabric peddler and moved away from the village years before Dracula's plague overtook the countryside. "Good evening," he put on his best face, "Is there something you need?" Her eyes flickered for a moment before she went with the routine they've rehearsed since she moved in. "No," the grey haired girl wore a bright toothy smile, "Nothing of course. I'm all right." "Of course," Reinhardt moved to close the door, "Good night Carolyn." "Good -- night," young Carrie murmured as the large man retired to his solitude. Reinhardt listened as her footsteps receded down the hall before the familiar CLUNK of the door signified her departure. Alone. At last, he sat down and clasped the jar once more. Rosa. My darling Rosalind. The brackish liquid shook as he set the jar down and reached for another. Unlike the preserves in the rose jar, this dark liquid was consumable. Reinhardt stared deeply into the bottle's murky depths before he downed its contents. ************************************************************ Young Carrie retreated down the hall and into her room. As usual, she crept about and made sure the windows and doors were tight and locked. Even with Dracula banished, there's still no telling what may happen in these parts of Europe. Even in Victoria's England, there were the murders by the Ripper. She shuddered as the descriptions of the womens' bodies reminded her so much of the hanging corpses she had seen in the Count's castle. Keeping those thoughts in mind, she attended to her task with renewed diligence. Satisfied, she set the still glowing lamp beside her bed, in the house they lived in. But it wasn't exactly ours though, Carrie reflected sadly. The spirit of the man she thought she knew in the past year had faded -- no, degenerated into a sad wreck she now lived with. She drew the bedsheet back before kneeling beside the bed. Clasping her hands together, the girl wondered if he'd even forget this in his hour of gloom. "Dear Lord," she murmured, "I thank thee for another good day --" Carrie paused, unsure what her next words would be. A deep fluttering in her stomach however, hinted strongly what it might have been. "And for the peace and prosperity that has returned since Dracula's destruction," she finished quickly and got up ashamed of herself. What thoughts have I! If someone had the ability to see them, she would've died from embarrassment. She quickly hopped into bed and prayed that sleep would cloud her thoughts. Wickedness, was what her step-mother would've said had she still been alive. Carrie knew her late guardian would never have approved of such an arrangement with Reinhardt but in the wake of the devastation, she had no one else to go to except the Church -- and she wasn't intent on being a nun. Nor did she like their self-ordained righteousness. The little gypsy still remembered who lit the first fires of her caravan. Surely they are in Purgatory now. The irony was not lost on her -- her kinsmen's murderers wearing the same cloth of those she now fought for. Carrie had been so immersed in thought she didn't realize her hands had snaked their way slowly between her legs. Reflexively, her hands began running slowly over her cotton covered crotch. She suddenly froze when she realized what she was about to do. She hesitated a bit, then decided the blanket would cover her sins. "Surely no one can see this," she murmured, "And it's -- it feels so -- goooooood -- ummmmmph." Her slim fingers slid between her moistened lips with an undeniably wet SLIIICH. She bit her lip as her wetness seeped through her nightie. I must have it washed before the next night, lest the stench betray me. Carrie let out a soft sigh as the musk of her sex pervaded her nostrils. She sighed again as she imagined her fingers were Reinhardt's -- Reinhardt's -- "Ooohhg!!" Carrie groaned as she thought about it. She only seen it once when he had to step off the path on their way to mass months before, but it stuck with her even as she stumbled frantically back to the path before he realized he was being spied upon. As the preacher delivered his sermon on the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, she found herself looking sideways at his crotch rather than the heavy book before her. "Ummm," Carrie felt herself shiver with unfettered delight as she ran over a small nub. It's that spot again, she was sure of it this time. The same place that made her gush without abandon when she was riding with Reinhardt. Although he hadn't noticed when they dismounted, Carrie had thought she pissed from the fear of falling of the horse and being crushed by its hooves. Thank God he bought that velocipede from the cider man, her mind rambled on. Now we can carry about like the rest of the well off. Her fingers were now slick with her own juices as she furiously attacked her engorged clit. "Oh God," she whispered, "Oh God." This must be what Heaven feels like, she gasped as she made the connection. That's probably why the clerics forbade it; suppose it was a reward from God to those who've earn it. But this is so good, Carrie pushed the theological mess out of her mind. I'm so c-c-c-close, I can feel it. So close to -- to -- "Ah!" she let out a muffled squeal as she came in several short spurts. Her little butt muscles clenched as she ran her entire hand down the apex of her legs. "Uffa, uffa, ungh," she panted excitedly and turned on her side to prolong the feeling. Completely enraptured by her new discovery, Carrie tore off her nightshirt and coiled her blanket into a messy, ill- managed roll. Oh God, I'm going to this, she panted and wrapped her nubile legs around her makeshift lover. She looked at the door to her room and felt a pang of guilt. Will he know when he takes me? Looking down at the tangled quilt, Carrie bit her lip and lay down on it. But it feels so nice, her hands clawed into the blanket as her hips began to rock. I'm sure he'll forgive me. She put her thumb to her mouth like old times. Carrie became doubly ashamed; she had thought she abandoned that habit long before. But now -- "Hummmmmnnhh," her tongue flicked around it as she wondered how large his dick really was. Up close, so she could really, really see it for all it's worth. I wonder if it's anything like my thumb. Her bucking grew slower then stopped altogether. I must ask for forgiveness tomorrow, she lifted herself off the bed, feeling the incredible dampness from her body leaking onto the blanket. Fearful she would be found out, Carrie quickly crawled back into her nightshirt and spread the quilt out as far as possible. Hopefully, it will dry before daylight comes. And if he asks, she thought as she drifted off to sleep, I'll say it was by accident. "Just an accident Reinhardt," she murmured as her eyelids began to droop, "You'll forgive me won't you?" Her thumb was still in her mouth as she began to snore. ************************************************************ Shadows were short and small as the noon sun beat down on Planet. The heat was stymied by the oft cool breezes that found themselves passing through area. Trees dotted the land, though the occasional rock outcrop took their place. It was pleasant, quiet, and eeriely untouched by civilization, but it could have easily been called paradise by the fauna who dwelt upon it. The grass was undisturbed save for the single spot where the checkered cloth was laid out. An assortment of plates rested on top of it with busy hands laying out more. "Hey, have you seen those little cakes Missus Hollins brought us the other day?" "Who?" Cloud brought out the food and contented to place them where ever there was room. He looked up to see Tifa rollicking with Marlene in the distance. "The Hollins," Aeris sighed as she rummaged through the basket, "Don't you remember?" "Not really," the young man shrugged, "How about a hint?" "They have a little boy. About Marlene's age." "Oh," Cloud scratched his head a bit, "The ones with the kid who pounced Nanaki?" Aeris immediately grinned, "That's them." Before he could say more, Tifa and Marlene came over. "Hey, are we ready?" "Almost," Cloud replied as the pink clad woman turned her attention back to the basket. "What'cha looking for?" Tifa bubbled beside her. "Did you pack those pastries with the sweet cream?" "Um, kinda," she was suddenly quiet. Aeris looked up and asked, "You didn't eat them did you?" "Um, yeah," Tifa took on the look of a little girl whose mother found out hidden secret in her room. "Argh, Teee-faaa! I asked you to wait!" "For Planet's sake, Aeris! I was starving!!" Tifa suddenly pointed at Cloud, "And how did I know it was gonna be that long for dopey to get up!" Aeris reddened as Cloud hid a grin. Tifa quickly remembered why the wait was so long and decided to press her point. "I mean honestly," she tried to keep a straight face, "I can't stand to wait that *long*, Aeris. It's really *hard* to keep myself from *gulping* down all that sweet *white*--" "Oh STOP IT!" the healer was ready to collapse from embarrassment. "All right," Cloud was verging on tears as he fell over laughing, "Okay. Enough you two." "Oh look what you did now," Tifa winked and feigned irritation, "Now I'm all agitated and what not. I need a nice long walk to relax myself. Coming tiger?" Cloud caught her glance and chuckled, "Oh, I will be. Soon." "Can I come twoo?" Marlene tugged the woman's suspenders. The girl was eager for whatever shenanigans her adventurous guardian was opting for, but Aeris knew exactly what Tifa had in mind. "Um, no," the healer said hesitantly, "I need you to help me a bit here." "But Unco Cowd can help!" the girl protested loudly. "No, he's -- um," Aeris racked her brains for an excuse. "-- finished with my chores," he picked up the line, "Now its your turn." "No fwair!" Marlene folded her tiny arms, "I made the sandwidges!" "You do as you're told," Aeris immediately soured, "Now come here." "NO! I donte wanna!" "Don't complain now," Cloud said to his ward as he waved his wife off, "Everyone does their fair share of work." "What do you dwo?" the girl looked intently at him. "Well I, ah --- er, little help?" he looked around. Tifa wrinkled her nose and sighed, "It's so simple. He works to keep a roof over our heads." She patted her small charge. "But you work twoo!" Marlene challenged. "Right," she puffed a cheek, "But do you um, do -- any -- housework?" "Howse work?" "That's right," Aeris smiled wanly, "Laundry. Cooking. Teaching you homework. Tucking you in at night. Making sure you're full, fat, and frisky." "Oh," Marlene said as her eyes fell to the ground. "Well, I think you know how much we do to keep you happy," Cloud tickled her cheek. "Um hmm," both women nodded in agreement. Marlene only kept silent. Oh boy, Cloud thought. Why couldn't she be more --- more secure? I'd better bring her some cheer. "Be a good girl and help out," the young man grinned, "And I promise I'll let you drive on the way back." "Urk!" Tifa choked as she looked at him like he was mad. Aeris' mouth hung open as Marlene instantly perked up. "Weallwy? Pwomise?" "Um hmm," Cloud nodded firmly and patted her cheek, "I promise." He glanced at his wives. Their eyes said oodles as they swallowed his decison and turned back to their business. "Well," Tifa finally stood and announced, "I won't be out long, but start without me okay?" "Take your time loves," Aeris looked up and smiled knowingly, "We're in no rush." ************************************************************ "'Our master'?" Link echoed when they were alone again, "And I wager kings' have masters then as well?" "Don't be a fool, beloved," Ruto snapped, "For every one who possesses a power, there are hundreds if not thousands, more powerful." He quirked a brow as she went on, "And they hold those lesser in sway." "How quaint," he sniffled and she glanced at him tring his best not to die from exposure. "Perhaps a fire is in order." Link nodded quickly in agreement. Anything to get out of this cold, he thought as he followed her to a cave around the next bend. It was small, but it shielded them from the freezing winds. In a short while, a decent fire was started and thriving on the stack of driftwood piled nearby. She's made ready, Link thought glumly as he stared dully at the fire. His captor busied herself with making neater the little cave she had led him into. "That's better," she tossed a hefty piece of firewood into the flames. The fire crackled loudly as he sat mute and drew a line with his nail in the cold, hard ground. Ruto came and sat beside him, silent but attentive. "He said something," Link said suddenly, "About me, didn't he?" "Pay no heed to that mad man," she dismissed his question with a wave of her hand but he wasn't about to let it by. She flinched when he caught her hand -- Ruto was about to jerk away and slap him when he brought her hand up to his face and examined it. He marvelled at the thin smooth membrane that spanned her fingers; a transluscent webbing that obviously made her adapted to life beneath the waves. She relaxed as Link held her hand between his before he turned her hand palm up and looked up at her. "Satisfied?" she asked softly. "In a short while," he let her hand slip away, "Tell me about -- this plan you mentioned. Why must I father your child again?" She glanced at him in such a way that he could see the spots that dotted the top of her head. "I told you," she started. "No. I want the truth," Link demanded quietly, "If I'm to do this, I want to know for what cause." "As ever, beloved," Ruto murmured. "The truth," he sat and waited. "Now that I'm here with you," she leaned to one side, "I really don't know what to say." "Surely you do?" he asked surprised. "No," Ruto shook her head sadly, "What can I say of a man not only lost to time, but to himself?" "What? You're wrong," Link said, "I know who I am." "Do you?" her bottomless black eyes bore into his, "As Farore's Champion, your life has been a cascade of past lives, abandoned friends, and --" she faltered and looked down, "-- forgotten loves." Link felt anxiety in her next words, "But what do you care? Let's hurry and finish so can get back to your Malon." "No wait," he even surprised himself, "I want to hear you out." "Really?" she looked up again. "Yes. You've the time and I've the need to know." "If you must." "I must," he insisted. "You know," she closed her eyes, "You've never known more than thiry years before you're called to your duties." "Duties?" he croaked, "What duties?" "Combatting the Nemesis," Ruto said plainly, "The Destroyer. Harbringer of Doom --" "Has he a given name?" Link grew weary of her elusiveness. "He did." "When?" "Before the first time you fell him." "I defeated him?" "Yes," she answered. "But then why --" "He returns, always. He's too powerful even for you to stop." "Then what about you? Your coven?" "Even together, we cannot face him," Ruto shook her head, "It's complicated." "Then how long have I been doing this?" he was almost afraid to ask. "Over a century ago," she stopped while he held his breath. "100 years?" he was dazed, "Then that means --" "You lived at least three lives more than most people," she nodded. "When?" he stuttered, "How?" She waited for him to calm down. "How many people --" Link stopped then looked at her, "When were you?" It seemed an appropriate question now. "I was yours," she dipped her head, "Last time." It seemed a little clearer now. Things made a little more sense. Somehow, he knew -- but some things still puzzled him. "Rue-to," he tilted her chin towards him and saw some very human tears in her eyes, "I'm sorry I still don't remember, but --" "It's not through your fault," she let him dry her tears. "Then whose?" Ruto's face hardened, "Saria's." Of course, he thought. That wanton little green haired girl at the temple. He suspected he had known of her before, but what did she do to him? "Saria," Link said quietly, "Who is she?" "She was your first," Ruto became haughty and he could see her nostrils narrow, "Or so she claims." "You've your differences with her I see," he said placidly. "More than you can imagine," the mer-woman said curtly. "What did she do to me?" "Changed you," was all the she said. "How?" he asked. "It's complicated." He became thoughtful, "Then I gather -- there were others?" "There was Nabooru." "The one adorned with metals all over?" his voice registered distaste. "Yes," Ruto sported a small smile at his expression, "I never saw what drew you to her." "Now that I think of it," Link made a face, "I don't know either." They both shared a quiet laugh but the crackling of the flame soon became prevalent again. "So now what?" he asked, "What of that man who accosted you a little while ago?" Her eyes sparkled in the orange glow, "He is one of the Council's flunkies." "Council? Of what?" "Of everything," she said quietly. "Your masters." "Only in certain matters." "Which ones?" he became fascinated. "It's --" "-- complicated," Link finished for her. Ruto's eyes twinkled with a mirth he'd not seen since his capture. "What's it got to do with me and you now?" he went on as if he didn't notice. She became grave, "Because Council ordered us to set you free." "So I won't be called to battle this -- this centuries old demon," he said relieved. "Hopefully no. We planned that our descendants --" her face flushed slightly, "-- will do as you did." "Each moment of time," he echoed the blue eyed man, "Happens but once." "But once," she grew silent. Link leaned forward and kissed her. Ruto blinked. "I thought you didn't like me," she said surprised. "You're right I don't," he said matter-of-factly, "But I thought you would cry again." She looked at him confused. "I never make girls cry," he said slowly, "Growing up as I did was hard enough already." "Oh," flaps on the side of head fluttered slightly, but Link didn't feel any alarm. Indeed, he thought it was quite endearing. "This will the last time I'll see you, beloved. I shan't ev--" "Wait," he cut her off. "What?" she cocked her head. "I dunno," he blinked, "But I think -- I think I'm beginning to remember something." "Like?" she sounded hopeful. Link shut his eyes. A faint chorous of memories surfaced briefly, then faded as another set of waves crashed onto shore outside. Ruto mistook his silence and was about to stand when he mumbled something. "Pardon?" "Pearls," he said, "You hated me when I gave you that big pearl." His mind siezed upon the memory and it played out like a bad dream. 'Didn't you know it will never grow anymore?' 'But -- but --' 'It's the most horrible thing you could've done! And to think you killed something that could've lived for so long - - I hate you!' Her eyes immediately flooded and tears ran down her smooth blue cheeks as he grinned like an idiot. "I didn't know better did I?" Link dried her face as he did earlier. "You didn't air-breather," she rested on her haunches and looked down, her leg fins flicked lightly over the sand. "Well, for all it's worth, I'm sorry." Ruto looked up and saw his first true smile since his ordeal and she finally let out a joyous laugh. He leaned against the rock wall as she clasped his hands to her breast. "I shan't ever ask this again," she vowed, "I promise." "Yeah," he felt his mouth go dry, "Shall we?" "Let us," Ruto edged closer and placed a reassuring hand on him, "And we do what is demanded." Link felt her hands stray across his face as she brought his chin up. "Just once is all that's needed," the mer-woman murmured as she held his head close to her chest. "Yeah," he repeated without gusto, "Just -- this -- once." Ruto released a pent up sigh as his hands pulled off her satin chemise, exposing her vaguely human breasts. Her nipples though, bore the same uniform colour of her body. And the tops of her breasts sported dark colour spots much like the ones on top of her oblong head. Ruto tired of his silent examination and let out a soft sigh to let him know she was ready. Link hesitated only briefly before he pushed all thoughts of Malon out of his mind and focused on the task at hand. He stared deeply into her eyes, thoroughly entranced by her alien features. His fingers traced them as she closed her eyes and let him explore. Her webbed hands grabbed a handful of his hair as best they could before she pressed forwards and kissed him. Link shuddered inexplicably as her hands ran down his neck and across his back. My word, he thought. She's so -- so warm! Quite different from her appearance. Link gulped as his pulse began to race. Ruto continued to plant tender kisses across his face as she straddled his lap. "Ungh," she moaned softly as his own hands began to swarm over her body. Link disengaged from her liplock and he nuzzled her pert, little titties. She smells so different, he groaned as he kissed each of her spotted tits. It's so much saltier and so -- he couldn't find the words to describe it, but it felt different. But in a good way. A *very* good way. Excited and encouraged, he nibbled softly on her mono- coloured nipples, eliciting a gasp from Ruto's lips even as her own hips began to grind slowly against his body. He pushed her down far a little bit away from the campfire so they could proceed with out danger of being burned. She lifted her hips up slightly so he could slide off the white strappings which covered her lower half. "Oh my," Link swallowed hard as gazed at her smooth, featureless pelvis. "Something the matter?" she looked at him. "I'm not sure where --" he started but the blue skinned seductress gave him a shy smile. "It's there. It's just very, very, very --" she guided his hand to her mouth and wetted his fingers one by one, "-- very small." His eyes grew wide as she moved his hand back to her marble smooth pubes. She pressed his index finger against a slight depression in her otherwise flawless blue skin. Link felt his pulse race as he felt her body begin to tremble. "Oh -- my --" he sucked in his breath as she gasped. "Go on," she urged, "P-push." She can't be serious, he thought. It felt no larger than the eye of a needle. But she was. Slowly her sphincter slowly relax under his touch. Needing no more guidance, Link wriggled his finger until she opened just wide enough to encompass the tip of his finger. "Oh, oh, oh, ungh," her eyes were closed as she lay back, leaving her totally at his mercy. Freed, her hands snaked up her lithe body and took hold of her erect nipples. She slid her thin web membranes over their tops, relishing in the texture of her own soft skin. Not to be outdone, Link bent over and nuzzled her featureless belly and she gasped with pleasure. He never felt so turned on as he continued to push gently until the first knuckle was immersed in her body. Ruto groaned and rocked gently against his invading finger. Her ass was beginning to tremble and the tiny hole was starting to secrete a sweet smelling juice. Link felt his finger worm deeper and deeper inside her body as she continued to gyrate her hips. "Oh, be-be-be-loved. I --- aaagh," Ruto's voice stretched as he pushed his finger in until his hand met her polished ass. His finger now felt warm and slick as she sighed and pulled him down for a kiss, however he wasn't about finished. She gasped when his finger bent slightly backwards then straightened out again. Her eyes flew wide as he did it again, but in the opposite direction. Encouraged by her heavy breathing, he nuzzled the base of her neck and felt her body spasm each time he crooked his finger. "Oh! OH! OOG!" her hands tore at his shirt as he began to twist his finger in tune with its wagging motion. Her cunt began to quiver uncontrollably as she responded to his activities. Ruto felt her body buckle under his furious finger fucking. "AAAAAAAAHHHH!" her ass suddenly lurched into the air as she uttered a pleasured scream. Link watched his finger pop out her tight, wet hole as she sagged back into the soft sand, tired and spent. He lifted his finger and took a cautious whiff of her juice. It smelled faintly familiar as he rubbed it under his nose and glanced at the blue skinned woman before him. Ruto looked at him with shining eyes as she sat up and gave him a deeply passionate kiss. "My beloved," was all she could say as she began to pull off his shirt. "Now," he murmured. It wasn't a question. "Yes." Link watched as her green-grey tongue flicked out and gently grazed each of his exposed nipples. He shuddered as she began kissing his body. He groaned as she went even lower, her hands sliding into his work pants. Ruto freed his semi-stiff dick from its confines and briefly touched its tip with her bridgeless nose. Its head peeked out a little from its sheath, but the redness on its tip signified its readiness. He shivered with anticipation as she let his dick rest against the side of her face. "You're almost ready," Ruto whispered as her tongue enticed him some more. A single drop of pre-cum oozed out and she let it sit there for just a moment before she sipped it past her pale lips. "Uffuck. M--more," he begged, "Please." She acquiesed quickly to his demands and kissed the tip of his dick several times before she took it into her mouth. "Uh -- huh -- ungh!" he gasped as she began running his dick in and out of her oversized head. Ruto's small, pin like teeth grazed his cock head slightly before she'd just let his dick rub against the roof of her mouth. "Augh," Link groaned mightily as he succumbed to her oral services. Looking down, he could see she had maybe half a hand length to go before she would wholly engulf his dick. "Ungh. C-ca-can you t-ta-take more?" he barely got the words out before her hands cupped his ass and drove him even deep into her mouth. His gritted his teeth as he felt himself on the verge of cumming. Suddenly, Ruto stopped and sat up. His dick came out of her mouth with a wet PLOP! He blinked, wondering what she was up to. "Lie down," she commanded. Her haughtiness had returned as quickly as it had gone. Link did as she ordered and half expected her to mount him and be done with it. Instead Ruto gave him a weak grin and laughed nervously. "Now what ever happens next, don't cum unless you warn me. Understand?" "Buy what if --" "No buts!" her voice held a trace of fear, "If you do, I might choke to death. Do you want to kill me?" He sensed her trepidation and he wondered what she had in mind. "If it's that dangerous, why do it?" "Because," she hovered over him, "You enjoy it." "Ruto, I --" "Don't argue, beloved," she cut him off, "It's getting soft." She rocked her neck briefly side to side before she lay down on her belly with her chin resting on his stomach. His semi-stiff dick lay to the side of her head. "What are you doing?" his voice hoarse. "Just pull me off if you're about to, all right?" she whispered. He didn't know what to make of it, so all he could say was, "Y-y-yeah." Ruto opened her mouth slightly and backed down towards his feet. What in the world, he wondered. Suddenly, he felt a tingling sensation as his dick brushed against her neck. What the? His eyes widened when he realized that his dick had somehow disappeared into the side of her head. Now, he was scared. "Rue-t-aouah!" his crossed as he felt his dick get assaulted by a thousand flailing fingers, each one flicking over his head and shaft. The tingling. It was incredible. Each one was like a smooth, wet finger but a thousand times more dynamic in their motion. It was a feeling he was sure no one -- no, no Hylian -- could ever manage. They went over his dick head as they carressed his shaft; each one seemed to have a mind of its own -- it was like having his dick pawed by a thousand hands at once. All thoughts of Malon abandoned, he looked down and saw her legs scissor in the sand, making a fan pattern as she began grinding her hips in cue with her bizarre love making. Oh man, he squeezed his eyes shut as he tried to hold back. The wet SQUIRT, SLIICH, SQUIRT, SQUIRT, SLIICH of her motions were driving him mad with lust as he began thrusting slowly and mildly at first, but as Ruto's eyes closed and her fins began fluttering in an increasing frenzy, he began to get bolder, fucking her head like it was an actual cunt. He could see some of the mysterious flagella grasping his cock as he poled in and out the side of her head; each one was bright pink and seemed no larger than a woman's smallest finger. He grinned madly as he watched his dick become coated with a sweet smelling, clear gel. I could get used to this. The plainess of the thought didn't trouble him the least as his ass began to buck faster and fiercer. Suddenly, Link winced. Fuck. Oh fuck. I'm gonna, gonna -- The mer-woman's eyes grew wide when he suddenly grabbed her roughly by the shoulders and literally lifted her up as a sperm geyser blew up in her face. "MMPHHAAAAAAAUUGH!" Link as his balls unloaded into empty air. Ruto quickly sensed his frustration and made a grab for his dick and began milking it for all it was worth. She let out a playful laugh before another spurt prompted her to squeal with delight. "Ooooh!" Cum kept coming out on her hand in short little spurts as she kept her gentle tugging motion and whispering over and over, "Beloved, beloved." "Aaaah, ha. Hah," the young man could only pant as the blue skinned seductress lovingly massaged his spent cock. He let out a satisfied groan as Ruto used her thin webbing to clean the rest of his cum off his dick. Her hands strayed up Link's chest as he let her down. "Now, you're ready," she murmured softly as she sat atop of him. "So soon?" Link was aghast but his dick was already responding positively to her ass on his crotch. "We've not long, remember?" Ruto reminded him. "Oh," he became troubled again, "Of course." "Malon." They both said in unison. Ruto allowed herself a pale smile before she lifted herself up and Link could see his cock standing more or less erect. "Hard," she commented dryly, "But let's make sure shall we?" "Wh-what now?" his eyes wide. He didn't know what to expect. She didn't bother to answer as she straddled his chest. Ruto arched back, placing her hands on his shins. Her perky boobs stood up, defying the heavens as her fins began to flit. Link twitched when he felt her aquatic protrusions tickle his privates slowly at first, but the rate increased as he lay back and let her do her best to arouse him. He let out a satisfied sigh as he cast his gaze downwards at her smooth cunt. I'm really going to do this, he thought. Shove my piece of meat right up into that tiny, tiny -- he groaned mightily when he thought of Saria back at the temple. What kind of a monster am I? At least she's a full grown woman, he gazed at the wondrous creature on his naked body. He felt his prick immediately rise at the thought of tearing up that hellishly small opening. Ruto gasped in surprise when he took one of his fingers and pressed against her marble smooth fleshpot. She let out a satisfied hiss as his whole finger slid in after just a little wriggling and a half twist. From there on, almost no more effort was needed before she began groaning softly from his attentions. "Umm," she sucked in a breath as her hips began grinding slowly against his new motions. Link marvelled at how fast her pussy became damp and slick against his simple motion. Was her kind that much more sensitive there? "Oh beloved, don't stop!" she cried out, her fin stroking became more frantic than before, "Don't fucking stop!!" He was more entranced than shocked by both her language and her frenzied thrashing. Not willing to wait any longer, he popped his finger out and reached for her. Ruto sat back upright as he grabbed her roughly by the waist. "Beloved?" she asked confused. "Now," he demanded. Her normally narrow eyes widened as she realized what he meant. Funny that she should be scared now, he paused for only a moment before more pressing matters came to hand. "Wait I --- nnghh!" she grunted in mild pain as he pressed the bloated head of his fuckmeat against her prime piece of pussy. Damn that's tight, he marvelled. I wonder how we ever -- he stopped when he suddenly realized why her mood changed so abruptly. "Tell me," he said in ragged voice, "Tell me you've fucked me before." Link felt Ruto's whole body tremble as he began pushing harder against her cunny. "Tell me now, dammit. Yes or no, or it'll --" he was torn between tearing her apart or letting her go. "No beloved," she finally whispered, "We never got the chance." "Wh-what!?" he almost shouted, "You mean we never --?" "Y-you were always afraid of h-hurting me," she looked at him with a fear only a woman could muster as he held her against his throbbing cockhead. He was on the verge of finally ending this madness and now he finds out about *this*. Damn the heavens, he gritted his teeth. I don't want to kill her. "What now beloved?" she echoed his thoughts precisely. "Okay," he stroked the back of her calves where the fins met her skin, "I -- I think you're doing all right. Just go slow." "Go where?" her voice a tad hoarse from their crazed petting. "Sit on me," he rasped, "What else?" Ruto shivered as he rubbed his hands over her breasts in an attempt to coax her. The two gasped as his cock wedged open her hole just a little bit. "Oh my g--" she panted, "Oh - oh - oh - unggh!" Her legs were quaking from squatting over his body for so long. Link did his best to hold her up by placing his hands under her freckled ass, but then again, he wasn't fucking a normal woman and damned if he knew what to do except let her guide herself through it. Suddenly she stopped her progress as if her body refused to take anymore of his cock -- or any related punishment from it. Try as she might, she couldn't go down any further. Shit, he looked at her and saw she was near panic, this is madness. Utter madness. I'll never be able to fit in there, he gulped. He realized then, why they probably never did this before. Crazy, he watched as she pressed down a little harder. This is fucking insane! Ruto grunted with more effort and his fat dick slowly eased its way into her puckered hole when suddenly -- "Not so -- fast -- aah!" he barely had time to shout a warning before she lost control and slipped. "Oh, I --- aaaaahh -- AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" Ruto let out one good scream before her ass went all the way down on his thick length of meat. There was no doubt that she was hurting, and hurting badly. "Dammit," he muttered as he held ber tightly, afraid that any movement might spur pain. She sobbed loudly as he hugged her tight, cradling her back and gently urging her to keep still. Presently her crying lessened to whimpering as Link kissed her tears away. "I didn't want it this way.'" "I know. I just --" she gagged slightly from the premature impalement. He rocked her gently as he felt her tight little sphincter slowly relax and accustom itself to his enormous size. Looking down, he saw how it stretched obscenely around his big fat dick. "I'm sorry if I scared you." He looked up and saw that she wore a mask of dulled pain. "That's all right," he said quietly, "I'm used to you scaring me half to death by now." Ruto managed a weak smile before, "Shall we?" "Are you sure you can?" Link stroked her pale blue cheeks. She lowered her head, "The faster this is over, the better." "I'll try," he breathed deep, "Here we go." Her eyes widened as he held her close and began to rock slowly in the sand. The next time she screamed, it was much, much later; and it was more from the pleasure than the pain. ************************************************************ "Hey Tiff!" Where are you?" "Over here!" she waved wildly. "Wait -- up!" Cloud grimaced as he struggled over the losse rocks. "Tiger, tiger, tiger," she tapped her foot, "Maybe I should start calling you something else." "Tiger -- sounds -- nice," he pulled up to her level and lay down exhausted. "Tigers have stamina and grace," Tifa berated, "Not like you, slowpoke." Cloud could only wheeze in reply. "Hmm," she paused, "That's a nice one." "What?" "Slowpoke," she laughed and jabbed him playfully. "Hmph," he snorted, "You coined it. I only answer to it." "Don't get cocky with ME mister," she gently twisted his ear, "It might work with Aeris, but not me!" "Funny that should come from you," he flattened himself on the warm stone and yawned. "A smart mouth too," she leaned over and kissed him. "Like you huh?" Tifa smiled blandly as he gave her the once over. Her suspenders straps were in disarray, giving her that 'one- strap-off-the-shoulder-slut-look'. Sweat had stained the front of her shirt and her black mane of hair gave off a musky scent. She caught his stares as she drew back her dark mane. "What are you thinking about?" she wore a sly grin. "Nothing really," he gave her a sly wink, "What are you thinking about?" Tifa leaned and whispered to his ear, "Eight inches." "Really?" Cloud chortled, "I'd like to think of it as an even twelve." "In your dreams," she wrinkled her nose, "And in my nightmares! You know how much room I have --" she rubbed her bare tummy, "-- and you barely fit inside as it is." "Only when you make me do double duty on you," Cloud tugged her closer, "That's why you like to go both ends, huh?" "You got that right tiger," Tifa lay beside him. "And to think," he planted himself over her, "You're the big boned one." She grinned and batted her eyes, "Not as big as you tiger." He grinned and kissed her. Her tongue instantly flared in response and flicked through his mouth. Cloud ran his hands under her bodice and grabbed giant handfuls of her chest. Tifa tugged his belt off and snaked her hands into his pants. She gasped as he planted kisses down the nape of her neck. "Ouch! Here?" her suspender straps fell to the side, "It's gonna be really rough on my back." "Uh huh," Cloud yanked her top off and revealed her mountainous chest to Planet at large. He eagerly sucked the dark droplets she had for nipples as he drooled lavishly over her lithe, curvaceous body. "Tiger I'm serious---ah!" she bit her lip as he began kissing down her body, "I-- oh shit-- won't be-- fuck-- move-- tonight---umgwaa!" Tifa gushed as he slid several fingers into her hairy muff. "You're wet Tiff," he brought his head back up as he twittled her clit, "Tifa Lockheart, you've been a bad, bad girl." She laughed as he mimicked Aeris' soprano but she grimaced as he began to crawl on top of her. "Oh tiger," she panted breathless, "Please, put something under me okay?" "Yeah," he groaned, "Wait --ungh--" He pulled out his invasive digits, much to her disappointment as he tore off his clothes and folded them in a neat pile. He grabbed her jeans and yanked them off too, spreading it over the pile and forming an impromtu bed. Tifa lay down on the makeshift pad and sighed as Cloud continued his feverish foreplay. "I missed these," he buried his face into her chest. "Since when?" she laughed, "I remember you had them last night." "Um hmm," he was too busy cleaning her tits with his tongue to form coherent words. "I guess a little workout does bring out the best in you," she said softly as he planted himself over her. "Okay Tiff," he nuzzled her face, "Where do you want it?" "Where would you like?" she smiled. "Your pick," he grinned back, "Ladies always have the advantage." "I can see she's been working on your manners, hmm?" she smiled broadly as he pressed a kiss to her forehead. Cloud nodded absently as he brushed each nipple against his lips. His tongue flicked out only briefly to savor the salty taste of her skin and to elicit her sweet sighs. "So, where to missus?" his two cocks hovered over her tight tummy, barely grazing her skin. Tifa hesitated as he hung over her eager and waiting. For a moment, Cloud thought he saw a flash of concern in her eyes. But it was gone before he could make anything of it. "Tiff?" His voice brought her back to reality and to their current situation. "Oh. Sorry," she wore a little smile, "Daydreaming." "Huh, I'm usually the one doing that. Now where to?" the frustration was in his voice as his dicks began to soften. "Here, put'em between my tits for a while okay?" He happily complied as Tifa scooted down slightly. Cloud groaned with pleasure as her mounds squeezed his twin fuck sticks. He grunted and rocked his hips back and forth over her body as she enclosed him with her arms. She lay there quietly as she slowly tit-fucked him. "Uuugh," he panted, "Ye-yeah--uuuh--" Cloud attained a glassy eyed gaze as he lurched his hips in ever larger strokes. "Uhh!" his teeth chattered as he tried to form words, "T- tiff." "Yah?" she looked up. "Y-your--uffuck, hah! Tongue," he was barely coherent, "Fuck. Suck me." "You wanna fuck my mouth?" Tifa smiled wryly. "Yeah I -- aaah!" the young man shuddered with incredible pleasure as she planted a wet kiss on his lower prick as soon as it came near her face. "You want more?" she pouted her lips to tease him. He nodded feverishly and rasped, "Yah! Puh-please!" Tifa grinned and guided his hips over her waiting mouth. "Oh man," Cloud shuddered as he watched her put one dick, then the other into her ever-widening mouth. He stiffened as she gagged slightly -- but that was just reflex. Tifa's nails caressed his nuts as she urged him to relax and settle on top of her. "Uhhfuck, uhhman," he panted as he hilted himself on her face. She let out a muffled groan as his dicks jockeyed for position inside her eager mouth. Cloud felt her grip tighten a little, tugging his sac in rhythm with each lash of her tongue. With her other hand, Tifa pawed his slowly bucking ass as he rode her head to a slow satisfying orgasm. "Unnghh," the young buck let out a pent up sigh as he released himself, "Fuck aaahh, mmmmmnggh yeah!" "Whew," Tifa scooted out from under him, smacking her lips, "Now that's what I call a load, tiger." "Yeah," he collapsed from the chore and kissed her, "You're incredible, Tiff." "Oh?" she swished her mouth playfully. "Yeah, I mean how can you eat this stuff day after day --- OW!!" Cloud yelped as she renewed her hold on his nuts. "Don't be a smart ass," her eyes flashed briefly before she relented her grip, "You can be such a *handful* compared to Marlene." "Hehehe," he brought her hands together and kissed them, "And since when did you find that out, hmm?" Tifa let a wry smile pass her lips before she gently shook him off and reached for her clothes. "Hey," Cloud reached out and pinched her ass, "What d'you think you're going?" "Getting dressed," she gently swatted his hand. "So soon? We haven't even---" "We can wait 'till t'night," she flung her big black mane and stood up, "We'd better get back too. Leaving Aeris with Marlene is just cruel." "No it isn't," he circled his arms around her, "She adores the little 'boco. Now what's up?" "Definitely not you after what I did," she gave him a quick laugh. "C'mon Tiff," his tone became serious, "Something's with you today." "Nope," the busty woman sighed, "Not me. It's my birthday remember?" "You know by now that you stink at lying," Cloud sighed and turned her so she faced him straight on, "Out with it, Tifa." The black haired woman looked down and shook her head, "Sorry Cloud--" alarm bells sounded in his head; when she called him by his given name nowadays, it was always bad news, "-- but y'know if I stink at lying, then you're worse when it comes to secrets." He stroked her cheek softly, "Since when?" "Okay tiger," Tifa gave him a pallid smile, "All right. But promise me---" "What?" "Promise you won't tell anyone. Even Aeris." "Yeah, all right," Cloud felt the hairs on his neck stand on end. "You promise now?" "Yes," he felt his guts churn as she leaned close to whisper. What could be so terrible that-- "You're a daddy." "Well, of course I am," Cloud gave her a confused look as he thought of Marlene. "No tiger," Tifa smiled weakly, "I meant YOU'RE A DADDY." The young man blinked to make sure he heard right. "Y'mean?" She nodded solemnly. "Wow," Cloud couldn't find the words as he held her tight, "Oh man -- I gotta -- I mean -- WAAAHHOOOOOOO!!!!!" "Cloud!!" Tifa let out a shriek as he lifted her up and swung her around. "You're one of a kind Tiff!" the spiky haired young man could hardly contain his joy as he set his wife down and gave her a passionate kiss. "Tiii-gerrr!" Tifa squirmed out of his grasp, "Control yourself!" Cloud laughed as kissed her again, "I am. I just don't know if I can do this again in a few months and hey, why're you cryin'?" "Oh please," she was babbling, "Oh please don't." "Tiff," he tried to calm her down, "Tifa. Tifa!" "Don't tell her please," she was crying, "Don't tell Aeris." Cloud was puzzled, "Why not?" Tifa was biting her lip so hard, he was afraid she would cut it. "Tiff, love," he steadied her, "I already said I won't say a word. Now tell me what the hell's going on." "Okay," she took a deep breath, "You -- you remember how we were talking about this -- ths baby business just last year when we were coming back from the villa, right?" "Yeah," Cloud dimly remembered, "Kinda." "Right, okay," Tifa had gotten herself under control that he relaxed his grip, "Well, Aeris and I, we had a pretty good talk after you took Marlene to bed." "You two actually talked?" he saw his chance to tease her about her sapphic activities but a glare immediately halted his fun. "Cloud, I'm serious." "Okay," he promised, "No more interruptions." Tifa went on, "We thought about who should --" her ears reddened a little, "-- go first." "'Go first'?" Cloud looked at her confused, "I thought you two liked it when I --" "No!" Tifa became annoyed, "Don't you get it, dummy?" "What!?" "I mean with Marlene and everything we've got going now, don't you realize what having another baby means?" "Dunno really," Cloud scratched his head. "Ugh," Tifa sighed, "Care to try harder tiger?" "More um, stuff we gotta buy?" "And not just that," she closed her eyes, "They don't all come out at Marlene's age -- Planet forbid -- babies need a lot of time just well, argh -- time. Time to grow up. So we'd figure we'd stagger our children. It's a whole new thing we're dealing with y'know?" "Yeah okay, I think I understand. But we can also take turns with 'em like we do with Marlene," he countered, "And I still don't see what the big deal with not telling Aeris." "Well, I'm getting to it." He felt Tifa shudder inexplicably. "Tiger, you remember how she came back, right?" her dark brown eyes flashed a glimmer of hurt and pain. "How could I forget?" Cloud became quiet. Tifa squeezed her husband tightly as he braced for the news to come. "Well," she started slowly, "You know how long Aeris said she was alone with Greylorn?" "Yeah," Cloud felt an inner hate stir, "I think so. A day or two right?" Tifa stroked his cheek gently and she felt his body relax. He only stared past her and said what was obvious to him by now. "What did he do to her?" "It's not that--" "Then what?" "I -- don't -- know," Tifa let out a frustrated sigh, "Aeris said she'd know if something was wrong but then--" "But?" Tifa shook her mane of dark hair, "I doubt if she knows exactly." "That fucker," he hissed. Knowing what that cold hearted bastard was capable of, Cloud was surprised the man didn't just kill Aeris and be done with it. Although he never dare say it to the face of either woman, he was sure Greylorn had derived some sort of sick pleasure from watching the healer suffer. Perhaps it was to punish her for the things her ancestors did as Alegnin Sephiroth had sought to do. Or maybe it was a parting blow to rob Aeris of true happiness -- by sterilizing her. "Tiger." A gentle voice brought him back to the reality. "Yeah?" Her hands gripped his tightly and he nodded gravely. "Hey look," Tifa was thoughtful now, "Maybe it's just been bad luck --" "I doubt it," Cloud shook his head, "I bop both of you at the same time." "Well, I dunno what else then," the dark haired woman said sadly. "Me neither." Her voice hardened, "Do something for me, tiger." "What?" "Fuck her." Cloud stared at her in surprise, "What'd you just say?" "Fuck her," Tifa said flatly, "Just do her as much as you can before junior--" her hands drifted to her stomach, "-- pops up." "Oh," he was put off by her choice of words, but then again Tifa was always the pragmatist. Afterall, it was she who concocted their living arrangements in the first place. "I guess we pray for the best, huh?" he said softly. "Yeah," Tifa rested her head on his chest and sniffed, "Poor Aeris. Damn that bastard." But you can't wholly hate him either Tiff, the young man thought glumly. No, he was the one who brought her back in the first place. And with that, came the privilege of doing what he wanted to the Cetra's body. And if he knew Aeris, she already was way ahead of both Tifa and him. Which might explain a few things, like why the petite woman took such a great interest in Marlene's welfare. Tears came to his eyes as he thought of it more and more. But if the ordeals he went through had taught him anything, it was that he wasn't just going to give up if things went sour. Had he did, not one thing would be alive and breathing on Planet this day -- nor the two women he loved. "Don't worry Tiff," he sniffed, "I'll do my best." The busty woman looked up and nodded fiercely, "That's our tiger." They both shared a tearful grin before they straightened their clothes and headed back. ************************************************************ Ungh. Damn the day, Reinhardt cursed silently as sunlight filtered through the cracked eaves of the shutter. The big man sat up, groggy and dizzy. And I've done it again, he thought as his vision slowly cleared. Ah. Yes. The pool of spit near the jar brought back familiar memories of nights he had tanked himself drunk and mired his soul in misery. All while his companion had slept down the hall unknowing and quite possibly oblivious to his depression. He stood and lumbered to the door. All quiet, he said to himself. Perhaps she slept in late. The big man ushered his feet into his boots and stepped out to the outhouse to relieve himself. Aaah. Better. He gave himself two good shakes and headed to the small well. Drawing up a bucket of fresh water, he carried it easily back to the house and poured it into a pot set over the fire pit. A bit later, he had a decent flame going and the water was about ready when he heard light steps behind him. "Good morning." He turned around and saw Carrie in a frilly pink dress that left her skinny calves exposed. Scandalous, he thought. No woman would don this, unless she was a whore. Then he felt like smacking himself -- it was another of his sister's old wardrobes, one from her childhood. "That dress is too small for you," he remarked as casually as he could. "It was the prettiest one," she said and stepped closer to see what he was doing. "Put on a longer dress, Carolyn," he growled softly, "Father Krueger wouldn't stand for it. And neither will I." "Nor will I stand for skipping mass, Reinhardt." "Mass?" his heart skipped a beat. "Yes," the young girl's eyes widened, "You mean you forgot again?" "I --" he winced as began ticking the days off with his fingers. "Reinhardt," Carrie was in shock, "Today's the Sabbath --" "Be quiet. I'll be ready in a minute," he picked up a dishrag and stirred it in the pot before applying it to his face. He took a moment to wipe himself where it counted before rinsing the cloth and hanging it up to dry. "Do you need it?" he turned to Carrie. "No," she shook her head, "I made ready before sun up. I was just waiting for you to rise." Witch, he thought. Instead, he sniffed and poured the water over the fire, dousing it. He headed back to the room to dress and almost closed the door when she managed to squeeze by. "What are you doing?" he demanded. "Helping you dress," she went to his dresser. "I don't need your help," he held the door open, "Please leave." "If you didn't sleep in, we wouldn't be late for church," Carrie didn't turn around, "And you're not wearing your old clothes again." "What if I am?" Reinhardt was miffed by her presence, but he wasn't angry. Rather, he was more annoyed by her persistence than anything. "You can always ask for a ride by one of the other parishioners --" and hopefully be kidnapped and spiritted far away, he thought. While her back was turned, he quickly made for his clothes and boots. Ah, dressed. Now she *can't* make me change unless she wants to be really late. "Here, I --" Carrie turned about and frowned. "I'm all ready," Reinhardt nearly smirked. She held up a white scarf, "At least don't wear that red one to church." "Why not?" he stood his ground, "I think it's fine." "Well for one thing, you've not washed it in ages," she stood on his bed and pulled off the filthy scarf. "Here," her flimsy arms encircled his neck as she fussed over his collar. He sniffed, offended that he was being told how to dress by someone just half his age. Her lovely scent immediately stirred him as she placed her hands on his lapels and tugged them tightly downward. Incredible. Irked as he was, he was amazed that she would put up with his antics this long. What's wrong with you girl? Can't you see I don't want you around? Go play with your dolls, Reinhardt bristled. And leave this work to a real woman. "There," Carrie hopped off the bed before he could ruminate further, "All ready." She smoothed her own dress and was halfway out the door when he regained his voice and his senses. "Thank you." "Huh?" the young girl half turned and saw him staring at her oddly. His stoic facade cracked when he gave her a small nod; it was gone before she caught it. "Th-thank you," he repeated. "You're welcome," she shrugged and turned to leave, but he could've swore he saw a sparkle in her eyes he'd never seen before. Carrie was already aboard the velocipede and didn't look up as he hitched the grey Morgan to the carriage. Neither said anything more as they headed down the road to the village. ************************************************************ Stupid, little, *^!@!*(#! Aeris bit down hard on the plastic wrap, trying to break the seal. How can they make these things so hard to -- aaaaaaargh!! --- open!! POP!! The package broke open under her fierce effort, almost spilling out the contents over her faded dress. Dammit, she cursed inwardly as some of it splashed onto the checkered cloth. The healer kept herself in check before she let her temper run away. When the three of them decided to take Marlene under their roof, she had taken it upon herself to ensure that she'd be raised correctly; that meant no swearing, no rude gesturing, no -- well, whatever Elmyra had taught her, Aeris was hell bent on passing it along to her ward. If there was any better legacy to her departed surrogate, Aeris hadn't stumbled upon it. Unless -- The tiny woman felt herself cringe at the thought. Yes, she remembered the talk she had with Tifa. Aeris wiped the mess absently as she brewed over the matter. How many times had she lain awake through the night while her lovers slept, and wondered if she was capable of having children? Why not? 'Because you are the last,' he'd said. It's been so long since she even heard his icy demeanor, but his wickedly cold presence chilled her to the very soul. Aeris knew the blue-eyed man almost never truly meant what he truly said. He also lied with alarming frequency, especially when it suited him. How could she tell what was lie and what was truth? Aeris noticed her hands were trembling and she held them close together. As usual, they didn't stop shaking until she focused her mind on other things -- things which happened after those terrible days. Greylorn always made her deeply afraid. Even that cursed knife he had given them always frightened her until Cloud took it and stored it in his locker at the station. The funny thing was that she never really felt that way about the villa, just the knife. Perhaps it symbolized his omnipresence -- and quite possibly of his return -- in their lives. "Auntie?" "Yes dear?" Aeris glanced up from her inner troubles and saw Marlene standing politely beside her. "I fwound sum fowers," she held up two posies in her tiny hands. "They're very pretty," the healer managed a smile, "But don't pick them up next time. They're for everyone to enjoy okay?" "To heck with 'em, they can get their own flowers," a husky voice growled then grabbed Marlene from behind. The healer jumped in surprised as the two tumbled in the grass. "Marlene! TIFA!! Stop it!" Aeris swatted at her friend, but with no apparent effect other than making the brunette laugh even harder. "Where's Cloud?" the healer raised her voice over the ruckus. "Right here," he sat beside her and gave her a playful punch. Marlene squealed when she managed an escape from her tormentor, the posies she'd gathered flew every which way. Tifa bounded after her, hands extended and ready to deliver the tickling of a lifetime. "Come back here ya'little squirt," the busty woman shouted, "And get yours!" "Teee-fa," Aeris was beginning to get annoyed. "Let 'em have their fun," Cloud have her a big grin as the two began to roam farther away, "It's her birthday and she can do what she wants, right?" The healer sighed and lay on her back, "Oh, all right." "Hey, you feeling okay?" "Yeah," Aeris yawned, "Just a little tired is all." "Lie down then," Cloud suggested. She caught the look in his eye and held up a hand, "Oh no you don't. I know what you're thinking Cloud Strife." "What?" he grinned innocently. "Tifa talked you into this didn't she?" Aeris pursed her lips. "What're you talking about?" he gave her a weak grin. "Don't gimme that mister," she pushed him away, "I know what's up." "Okay then," Cloud said curtly and got up without another word. "Love?" the healer started but he had already yanked out his trademark blade from the truck's cargo bed. Aeris nearly jumped, half-remembering the last time she had provoked him enough for him to respond in such a manner. Could he be any moodier? She watched pensively as he buckled the weapon to his pauldron harness. "Well if all's the same with you, I'll get some practise before they get back," he said without gusto. "Cloud," the healer placed a kind hand on his, "Don't do this to yourself." "I can't," he let out a mild laugh, "You two should know better." "We know," Aeris nodded and placed his hand on her chest, "I know." He didn't squeeze or grope, instead Cloud pulled his hand back to his side and stood before her like a shy little boy. "Sorry," he twiddled his foot, "But you know Tiff --" "I know that too," Aeris smiled and grazed his cheeks with her delicate florist fingers, "And don't worry, she'll make a great mom." He blinked in surprise, "Y-you know?" "You can't keep these things from me," the light haired woman sighed, "It's like a curse y'know?" A dull green aura surrounded her small frame briefly before he realized what she meant. "Oh," he mumbled, "I -- guess there's nothing more to hide then?" "Guess not," she said softly. "Sh-should we tell her?" Aeris shook her head, "She'll tell me when she feels it's right." Cloud only stared at the ground, silent and sullen. "Don't trouble yourself about it," she tip-toed and kissed him on the nose, "No matter what happens, I've no regrets. I'm as happy as I'll ever be, all right?" "Yeah, okay," he said glumly, "Whatever you say." "Good. Now cheer up," Aeris smiled, "Want to nap with me?" "Huh?" "A quick snooze," she sat back down on the grass, "But hands to yourself mister -- I don't Marlene seeing that stuff. And besides, we can do that later." "Yes ma'am," he lay beside her so she could rest atop him. His buster blade served to insulate them from the damp ground. "Comfy?" he asked as she snuggled close. "Very," she murmured. Cloud nuzzled Aeris, savoring her sweet scent as she fell asleep in his arms. He drifted off soon after. ============================================================ ============================================================ Next Time: Emulsion Contact: grey228@hotmail.com ============================================================ ============================================================