Chapter 4

It was dark by the time Leon arrived with Olas’ realm. He’d long since known the way from Featherton, could find his way blind if he truly needed to. He wasn’t sure if that was something to be proud about or ashamed. The estate was nestled up close to the hamlet of Beaksburg, where the gryphons waved, chirped and greeted him, knowing the most likely reason for his visit. Course they all assumed he was Olas’ favored mercenary, the noble half-elf that acted on their Lord’s request; little did they know the rest.

He clung to Draigo as the horse brought him along, the steed filled with vibrant energy. Draigo bound along as a horse of years younger, seeking to go faster than Leon willed. No doubt the horse’s mind remembered the pampering and the meals that he’d receive, to be a trophy instead of the working beast that he was. Was this visit going to be any different from the last? The half-elf watched the road and hills beyond, lingering on the reds and oranges that gave the forest the look as though it were aflame. Olas typically kept to his arrangement of one night a month, in exchange for his word and gifts that would aid Leon in his adventures; this was an oddity. Unease stirred in his gut, clenched his hands tight on the reins, did he like the idea that the gryphon wanted to see him?

It would go how it always went, he’d show up demanding answers for the quest and he’d be flirted with the entire time. It was a practiced dance both parties knew so well, his fingers had already started to imagine how they’d be caressing the rust gryphon’s feathers and his fine, dove furred haunches. There would be much blushing as the confident beast circled him like a predator, clicking his beak in anticipation. Lust would flow off him like a fog, dwell in the gaze that held Leon so. His beak would run through his hair, a hand groping his backside, promises of a night of passion would be laid bare. Would the half-elf stay and be captive to the lord’s unrelenting desires?

Leon scowled and shook his head of such enticing thoughts, for they were nothing more than a fancy. No matter what the lord displayed, what to come would only be no more real than the catbirds multitude of illusions. What could Leon offer such a person that had everything that he could not get from his fellow kin? Did he have land, connections, vast wealth; no. He was just a fancy plaything, a distraction from life’s challenges, to be used up and discarded when the gryphon eventually tired. That fact pressed a cold claw to the man’s heart as Draigo brought him through the estate’s first gate.

Towers rose from the path, each of pristine granite, woven beautifully by magical hands. It rested as a silent guardian, its windows lit with lights within, like the bright eyes of a larger beast. Its dark almond turrets had oval openings large enough for the gryphons themselves, leading to a perch so that they might rest. There they could see for miles, one was there now, clad in bright silver armor, its glowing eyes locked upon Leon the entire time. The gryphon gave a knowing nod, swishing his white tuft tail.

Inside the walls were fields of tamed grass, perfect for running around or rolling about to enjoy the sun. Various buildings rose from this, of elegant designs with gilded edgings, forged it seemed by the same hand as the towers themselves. They were surrounded by statues of ivory, famous gryphons of both the Steelbeak and Mysticfeather line, who had held sway over these lands for decades. In these faces Leon stared, wondering what they’d think of their latest blood, fooling around with someone of lower station as he.

Around shrubberies and gardens he was led, where servants stopped their tasks to wave and greet him with hand or wing. Their giggling and knowing whispers could only bring blood to the mercenary’s cheeks as Draigo brought him on the well-known path, straight for the stables and the pen beyond.

The stables were set within a sprawling pen, of sturdy wood of the finest oak, lit by a series of posts with mana stones. The fields were vibrant and green, hinting at a magical touch considering the time of year. Within the enclosed area, several draft horses were trotting or chasing one another about in play. Olas kept these to train, breed and ride, a strange hobby for a gryphon to have, but then again, he was anything but ordinary.

Dismounting the horse, he lingered on the horizon, where streaks of comforting oranges and reds reached out upon the tapestry of lavender. They stretched across the sky, like arms desperate to hold onto the coming night. The moon could be seen, soft and gentle, a perfect example of the gods Fureen and Sartren, only getting glimpses of one another, yet holding onto their passion. It was a tragedy that such lovers were to be drawn apart, sharing something so pure that Leon could never have. He sighed, pulled from his thoughts by the sound of an approaching horse.

It was of course Olas, that much was obvious, the gryphon having assumed an anthropomorphic shape. His form was wrapped in a dark blue tunic and black trousers, the gold stitching winking in the dwindling light like fire. Ears were perked in interest, his eyes twin seas of amusement and hunger as the catbird held firm the cantering Percheron horse below him; His autumn themed feathers were a stark contrast to the horse’s black fur. Out came a pleased song from the mage’s beak, carrying on the air to blush Leon’s cheek. Crown feathers rose atop his feathery head as he bid his mount to stop, practically leaping off.

With a flash of lavender light and plume of smoke, Olas landed on the ground upon all fours. He had returned to his normal shape. He stood five feet at the withers, his feathers and fur well groomed. Crown feathers rose as he approached the gate, exuding power and confidence with every stride. His haunches swayed, his tail flicked, it seemed that nothing mattered to this gryphon than the half-elf that stood before him. Leon groaned as he guided Draigo to the pen’s gate, this was going to be like all the other times.

“My darling Leo!” Chirped Olas with glee as Leon opened the gate to let his horse trot inside.

“Olas.” Grunted Leon, slipping inside and fastening the pen’s lock with a click. “You’re aware that we saw each other already for the month?”

“Of course! But you can’t blame me for seeing my favorite hero in all of Lumara! How did that little adventure go with the Horrid Howlers? I heard you gave those dastardly gryphs a rightful thrashing.”

So, he was keeping tabs on him. He wasn’t all that surprised. “It went alright, had a slight hiccup with Hekate, but we pulled through in the end. Wasn’t that exciting.”

“You don’t give yourself credit my dear, I always find your adventures thrilling and amusing. Even the small little quaint ones like these!” Olas slipped around the mercenary with a pleased coo, staying but a hand length away, like a predator and Leon was his next meal. “I’m glad that your companions were able to help, but I’m sure you were the star of the show.”

Leon’s cheeks were burning, this close it was hard to not take in the gryphon’s earthy scent. It was like a treasured spice, thick and enticing. It reminded him of the forest as it sent a shiver down his spine. His blood whispered about previous nights, passion that they shared, without thinking he caught a quick peak to the lord’s thick and furred sheath, immediately looking away and cursing himself. He was supposed to resist this! He pushed down such thoughts with gnashed teeth, knowing the gryphon was doing this all on purpose, a dance to arouse his lust for him. “ Olas, what is it you wanted with me? You sent your butler. Let’s stop dancing around it.”

“Right. Cause you didn’t pick up your bracer!” He snagged the man’s arm with a hand, tapping at his metal bracer, “I do recall giving you one so that I could contact you, yet I can’t help but notice you’re not wearing it.”

“I didn’t like the idea of someone tracking my movements.” He pulled back his arm as the gryphon chuckled in amusement.

“Was that all? I could do that already! It was merely a way to communicate so I didn’t have to-“ The gryphon opened and closed his wings, “Pop up as you said in your own words.”

“Having your face suddenly appear in wood, stone, my morning breakfast or the fur of Hekate’s backside were quite alarming.”

“I do remember that one time. But that only reinforces my point.”

“That you should have a direct line to me at all times?”

“And how is that so bad?” Olas cooed, brushing so close that he and Leon’s faces were touching, “It always warms my heart to talk to my strong, handsome half-elf hero.” Up went a hand to caress the man’s chin, “Just wear the bracer my dear, it will be easier for both of us. Then I won’t need to send the help to collect you whenever the need for you strikes.” With a wistful sigh the gryphon released him and turned, gesturing for the man to follow with a wing.

He padded after that swaying behind, the tail hypnotizing as it swished back and forth. The sinful haunches that had held his hands far too many times. It didn’t help that Olas was flashing the man his plump, furry orbs that could fill out his palm. As the fire inside him begged to be paid attention to, it was all Leon could do to push away the thoughts and race to Olas’ side, to not be seduced by his fluffy behind.

“That is a lovely specimen you have their Leo. I’m surprised you’ve managed to hold onto him for so long.” Olas gestured to Draigo, who was now striding up upon several of Olas’ horses, “Considering the accident with your last one.”

“Hetake is trying to do better, and Krantor her mate, horse meat isn’t his favorite.”

“How strange, most enjoy the taste, myself included.” He chirped as his horses paid attention to his passing, “Not you though my dears, you will always be safe from my talons!”

“Just cut to the chase Olas.” Leon put himself in front of the larger catbird, staring into his amusement filled eyes, like this dance had a forgone conclusion. “Why did you bring me here?”

“Ooo, taking charge are we?” Purred Olas, “Or are you mad that I interrupted a night with your friends?” The gryphon rubbed up alongside him, nuzzling at Leon’s cheek with a seductive trill, “We could always have a party here tonight if you want.”

“Olas!” He yelped as the gryphon grabbed his butt, giving it a squeeze. “Just tell me why.”

“Why indeed.” He slipped away, guiding Leon towards his home. “I had the wonderful thought today in my time. There I was, woefully tending to the commoners when I heard the most delightful news!”

“News about what?”

“The circus Leo!”

“Circus?” He asked with hesitation, as the gryphon seemed to bounce on his paws with delight. “What’s so great about the circus?”

Olas gasped, stopping mid stride. “Have you not been?” His feathers ruffled as his eyes went wide, “Oh you must go!” The gryphon rounded on him, running his flank alongside Leon’s back, “Which brings me to my next request.”

Leon groaned, “Olas if this has to do with my cock, please, the horse one you gave me is enough.”

“Oh, heavens no, not that!” Olas playfully batted him with a wing, “Though it pleases me to know you enjoy your horse cock as much as mine.” He padded away, turning to draw the man’s eyes into his plump sheath. It trembled and twitched, the blunt tip of Olas’ molted shaft cresting out of its dove furred container.

He averted his gaze, before his cheeks burned right off. Trembling, the man tried to keep the image of control, but knowing deep down if the gryphon gave the order now, he’d be his. He pushed the seductive bird back, “Olas, Olas, why the circus?”

“Because of my daughter!” Chirped the gryphon fondly, “She ever does love the circus. Why I remember when she was a gryphet, she used to cry tears of such joy. I figured that we could make it a day, really enjoy ourselves.”

“Sounds like a wonderful time. What does that have to do with me?”

“Well, if I want to enjoy myself fully. I positively must have you there! So, it occurred to me, that you and your little friends can be my bodyguards!”

“Bodyguards?” He rose a brow, the gryphon had to be joking. Olas was one of the most powerful magicians in this part of the kingdom, any protection that Leon and the others could provide was laughable at best, plus the gryphon had his own guards. Then he saw the twinkle in Olas’ eye, the delight. This was a game, a way to conceal having Leon right in his paws, at his beck and call. One that he was expected to play along with. He groaned, “We’re adventurers Olas, we travel around and slay monsters. We don’t do the bodyguard thing.”

Olas caught Leon’s chin with a tender hand, the talons able to tear through flesh should he choose. Yet with upmost care he diverted the man’s gaze to his own, drawing so close their lip and beak might meet. “I can pay you.”

He blushed and pulled away, he’d almost pressed forward and locked tongues with the bastard. “It better not be with your ass.”

“In coin.” Olas squawked before following the man, wrapping a talon around his waist, and pulling him in, “Though you could just consider fucking my ass an added perk. I do so know how you like to hold me down and pound me till I’m squawking your name.”

“You’re serious about just the coin then?” He held the gryphon’s chin, “This better not be a trick to get me into that circus, only to sneak away and have me chug your balls.”

“Though that idea crossed my mind, no, not every time can be like our rendezvous at Tomigus. You will just be accompanying my daughter and I to the circus.” He chuckled and waved a wing, “And fighting off any nefarious miscreants that try to hurt us.”

“You think there will be at a circus?”

“You should know better than anyone that people want us gryphons for our bodies.”

As the lord chuckled at his comment, Leon could only think on how easy this job would be. Sure, Olas was going to have his fun, but if his daughter was coming along, that would mean no instances of the gryphon turning this into a sexual adventure. “Fine you win, but the pay will have to be great indeed. We are experienced adventurers you know.”

“Of that I am quite aware! I do so love the stories that you tell me of your previous adventurers.”

“When can we accompany you to this circus?”

“I should imagine in two days, can’t see it taking them that much longer to unpack their things.”

“On Fireday?”

“Just the start of the weekend.” Olas chirped with glee, “First thing in the morning, I don’t want to waste a single moment of that day.” A wing wrapped around Leon and dragged him close, feathers brushing him, the gryphon’s scent overpowering. Desire lurked in those kind eyes, so powerful, enticing.

“Olas.” He struggled to say, “I need to get back to others and tell-“He was cut off by a sensual talon resting on his chest, beak drawing closer.

“Are you sure sweety? All the way out here…By the time you ride back it will be night. How about you come inside, and you can give my haunches one of your famous massages, you can tell me all about your adventure.” His voice lowered, dripping with lust as he ran a solitary talon along Leon’s neck, “Doesn’t that sound thrilling?”

He tried to pull away but found himself trapped. Not only by the gryphon’s forceful gaze, but that of his burning blood. “Olas I-“Came the last of his resistance, only to be whisked away as Olas whispered in his ear.

“And you can fuck me to your little heart’s content. Can you picture it my hero, my tail clenching you every so tight, milking you for every drop? You’ll hear me squawk your name, throw back my beak and shriek in passion. Then, since I know you’re the greatest of gentlemen, you’ll throw yourself to all fours and suck my thick cock until I’m filling your precious belly with seed.”

He gulped at the imagery now pulverizing his thoughts, he couldn’t pull away from the gryphon; not now, not with how a fire had been ignited in his veins. Without a thought he surged forward, hands caressing the gryphon’s head as he plunged his tongue into the lord’s beak. Eyes hooded as he moaned and pressed ever closer as Olas returned the gesture. For a solid minute they were groaning into one another, losing themselves as an air of passion overtook them.

“Good boy.” Olas parted, a smirk of victory about him as the two were connected by a thin strand of saliva. “Now let’s get you into something more comfortable. Ideally me.”

Chapter 5

Hours passed until night had gripped the land in its inky claw. The trees, roads and buildings were all still visible, only because they did not reflect the stars. It was as if everything was a shadowy memory, a silhouette of what once existed, only to be brought back to life once the sun had returned.

Olas rolled to the side of his bed, his chest rising and falling as he panted. Around his chambers were the aftermath of he and Leon’s activities, empty potions and vials, magical concoctions to better aid and enhance their passions. The room was dimly lit by a mana lantern’s glow, instilling a sense of calm after the raging carnal whirlwind that had swept through them. Leon was flushed, lying on his back, despite his initial resistance, a pleased look across his face. Olas’ tail flicked, soaking up the novelty of having a handsome, naked half-elf laying just a forelimb reach away.

Was this how it was supposed to be? Wrapped in a warm, invigorating shroud of delight that still tickled with every breath? Though words were not coming, he’d never felt more connected than he did in these fleeting moments between the pair. The concerns and worries of the day were lost, held at bay by the mere look from this man. It should have been terrifying that such a person could hold Olas in such sway, and yet he couldn’t get enough, he wanted more. He wanted his bed to always feel this welcoming, instead of the cold means to an end that it typically was.

“What is it?” Leon opened an eye, meeting the gryphon’s own. “Something wrong?”

He rolled over onto the man, supporting himself so that his entire weight did not rest against him. Hands on either side of Leon’s torso, Olas’ beak loomed overhead. Ears perked as he gave an honest warble, radiating through his very being. How wonderful this man looked, brow raised, a smirk coming to his lips as he guessed what the gryphon wanted.

“You want another round do you?” A hand rested against Olas’ chest, grasping at his feathers, eyes drifting down between his legs before back to the gryphon’s face.

A tender talon placed upon his lips silenced the man, questions bursting within his beautiful verdant eyes. Olas dwelled upon the freckles that were smattered about his nose and cheeks, ever so cute as the man wondered what could possibly be going between his ears. “No.”

“Then…what do you-“

He silenced him with a kiss, beak parted to gently rest on either side of Leon’s cheek. Inside, explosions of bliss coursed through him, leading way to passionate groans and moans as he slid a hand ever delicately around the man. He swooned as Leon pushed back, eyes hooded, hands wrapping around the feathery chest that held him trapped. When they parted, foreheads rested against one another, enjoying the closeness shared. Olas’ heart trembled as the question came tumbling out, “Will you stay?”

For a moment, Leon stared at him, almost shocked by the request. Perhaps because it had lacked the regal nature he usually conveyed, or the command he wielded like a sword, instead it was raw; a glimpse into the gryphon’s vulnerable heart. The half-elf scoffed, pushing away the gryphon’s face with a smirk, “Almost got me.” He slipped out from under the gryphon to the edge of the bed, “Don’t start getting all mushy with me featherbrain.”

Oh, Leon was not to get off that easy. Olas rolled so that he was right up against the man, encompassing his entire body beneath his own. Forelimbs moved to hold him tight as feathers and fur nestled perfectly up against soft skin. Leon tried to squirm, but it was too late, Olas had him right where he wanted him. Beak rubbed up against the man’s cheek, applying gryphon kisses with a melody of trills.

“Stop!”

He continued applying his affections, each one bringing a new shade of crimson to Leon’s cheeks. Resistance was met with firm control, keeping him secure.

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“Come on, are you that needy?” Leon laughed, shifting to push the gryphon off him, who half-heartily complied. It however came with a price; the half-elf found his hand secured by the gryphon’s beak. “Hey!”

Olas held, eyebrows raising up and down as he fought the urge to giggle. As Leon went to wedge his hand free, the gryphon held it ever firm. Not enough to harm the man, but enough so that he could not retrieve his hand.

“Olas, you’re being-“

His red-orange tuft tail flopped against the bed, accompanied by a playful rumble.

“Show off.” When the gryphon released him, Leon batted him across the face, only for the gryphon to push him down to the bed.

“You little minx. I do believe that needs to be punished.”

“You wouldn’t-“

With a yelp of surprise, Olas grabbed the man, rolled over and shoved him into the sheets. Talons gentle danced over his sides, teasing places he knew too well. These were his weaknesses, would cause his legs to kick, his body to thrash. The gryphon’s ears perked, crown feathers raising as he proceeded to torture the man with a flurry of tickles.

“Olas you monster!” Laughed Leon, squirming, but unable to slip free, “Stop it!”

“That’s what you get for bopping a gryphon on the head Leon, you’ve brought this on yourself.” Olas replied, “What did you think was going to happen?”

“You…fucking…dick!”

Together they laughed, cheerful and free, soon rolling against the sheets, pressed up close to one another. Olas landed on his back, his feathery wings spread wide, the half-elf firmly secured against his chest most tenderly. He glanced down to that red face, the façade of a scowl for inflicting upon him such an assault. Hands crawled along the man’s back, shifting to a most affectionate stroke. Everything was as it should be, held so close against him. The gryphon could close his eyes here, drift away to the man’s gentle weight upon his chest. It was seductive, overpowering, he didn’t wish for it to end.

“I have to go.” Leon went to push himself free, only for the gryphon to lock him in, securing his fate. There would be no escape without a fight. “Lemme go.”

Olas caressed Leon’s head, “Never.”

With a sign of ingenuity, Leon used this moment to slip free, gaining the upper hand. He grabbed the gryphons’ wrists and pressed them to the bed; he leaned forward, looming overhead.

Their eyes met, the air between them starting to grow warm once more. How many times had they been in this spot? Passions soon overboiling until they were enraptured in one another, crying out their delight to the halls? The gryphons heart began to quicken, seeing a glimmer of care within Leon’s tender eyes. It splayed his ears forced him to act, he shifted up, parting his beak for a kiss. To his astonishment Leon covered it, denying him. “What-“

It was the lords turn to have his head pressed back into the pillows, Leon’s visage softening as he beheld the gryphon’s form. A hand stroked those furry ears, sweeping back to caress crown feathers as he drew close. Eyes closed as he stole a kiss. “Asshole.” He spoke softly, betrayed by the fondness within the word.

Beak parted in victory as he wrapped his arms around his mercenary, pulling him down into another hug. He warbled as Leon’s face buried itself into his neck, giving into the gryphon’s demand.

“One hour-“ Grumbled Leon as the gryphon’s tail coiled behind him, “One hour more and I’m gone.”

“That’s what you said last time.” Smirked Olas.

“But this time I mean it.”

When the hour was up, Leon this time kept his promise. The man had slipped free of the bed to retrieve his scattered garments all under the enchanted eye of his feathery consort. Before he had hugged and kissed the lord wizard goodnight, Olas gifted upon him another bracer, one that could communicate with him and warn the gryphon should the half-elf find himself in mortal peril. He kissed the man goodnight and let him depart, wishing him a safe ride back to Featherton.

He'd smirked at how the man was walking, a funny gait thanks to the powerhouse resting between the gryphon’s legs. From his bed chambers he observed with a flicking, amused tail as Leon retrieved his horse, lighting the way with a mana lantern he must have borrowed from the staff. There the gryphon lingered, wistfully sighing until the mercenary was little more than a dot on the dark tapestry of the night. He wheeled around, already the sting of his absence starting to poke and prod along his sides. Ears splayed, head drooped, his presence would be missed, the halls around him began to feel emptier, devoid of what wonderment they held.

Bottles and potions clinked as the gryphon began tending to their mess, evidence of their passion scattered about the floor. Ones made to ease entry, others to clean and increase virility and restore endurance. All perfect to ensure a long and passionate night that would be addicting to any living creature. Olas’ steps came sluggish, a ghost of himself that was alive mere minutes before. To the bed he stared, picturing them laughing together, already he regretted having him depart. Should he have forced the issue? Made the request more of a demand? Why would the half-elf leave what was a place of comfort and warmth for his quaint village with his friends? Didn’t he see that everything he could ever want was here within these walls?

There should have been no choice given. When it was his turn to tend to the man that held his heart in such sway, he should have remembered about his anatomy and locked the pair of them together. Then Leon would have been forced to stay, panting and blissful in his afterglow. It would have been a wonderful end to a delightful night, one he was certain Leon would have enjoyed.

Though did he see it that way? Was this all just an extra bit of the exchange that needed to be fulfilled? He arranged several of the empty potions upon his study’s desk, wondering if the man only put up with his affections because of the gifts, freedom, and power that the gryphon gave to him. If these things were retracted, would he even stay? The cold thought sent a shiver down his spine, that all this happiness was an act, Leon being just like all the others that desired something of him. “Maybe he thinks you’re treating him like a love slave?” Olas asked himself, catching his reflection in the glass.

He laughed at something so ridiculous, “Do you hear yourself? You’re being ridiculous. All these doubts and questions, of course Leon cares for you! Yes, he has the agreement of once a month, but he always indulges when you ask, comes when called. You see the looks he gives you, those fleeting, powerful looks of desire and delight. If he didn’t want you, he could have left at any moment, it’s not like you’ve ever raised a voice to stop him.” Shaking his head, he returned to arranging his sheets, using spells to be rid of any stain of fluids that might reside upon them. He chirped and hummed to himself as he worked, Leon after all was his oldest friend, known to him since they were children. He was being paranoid, the mercenary had friends to inform of their next quest, he would spend the night another day.

It didn’t take too much of his time to ensure his quarters were pristine, lacking any evidence of their carnal escapades. He slipped to the halls, practically bouncing on his hinds as he softly warbled to himself. Ears perked as Olivia called to him, asking if he needed her attentions to his room. Had she been listening to the entire time?

“I’ve taken care of it Olivia, thank you!”

“I’ll be the judge of that!”

“Just don’t break anything on your inspection dear, I don’t want to spend the night undoing whatever curse you accidently afflict upon yourself”

“If I get cursed master Olas, you’ll never hear the end of it!”

He chuckled to himself, not doubting she’d live up to such a threat. One such time came to mind, of when she’d slipped on a pool of lube that he’d neglected to remove with his prestidigitation spell. She’d nearly spent thirty minutes lecturing to him like he was a spoiled child, threatening to withhold his dinner. He’d scoffed at the laughable threat; he’d have just summoned it to his hands. She’d managed to turn three shades of red that day.

Up along the spiral stairs Olas did tread, his talons clicking softly upon the marble. Mana lanterns lit his path upon his request, the stones coming to life with but a click of his tongue. Their warm radiance chased away the shadows that dwelled down the network of hallways that stretched out from here, like the many roots of a grand red wood. It wasn’t until he’d reached the top floor did, he come to his daughter’s quarters.

It was a simple crimson door, with runes engraved in the draconic tongue. Olas chuckled as they forbid his entry, but he’d found they’d never had the power to do so. The lord reared up, rapping his talons against the wooden surface, his voice brassy and filled with joy, “Oh Luna, are you in there? I’d like to have a word with you. This is your father by the way!”

Silence greeted him, leaving the gryphon to roll his eyes and place an ear to the door.

Inside was no better than the quiet halls, only the steady thumping of his heart reached him. Either his daughter was practicing how silent she could be, or she wasn’t in there. Pulling back, he gave the sign one last roll of his eyes, there was only one way to find out. “I do hope you’re decent in there darling, we’ve discussed this before! If you’re going to have dearest Arion over and fool around with the charming gryphon, you’re to be loud and vocal. That way caring fathers don’t walk in to catch you getting pounded harder than a block of adamantine!”

Still not a sound.

Ears splayed, was she truly out? That usually got her attention. He strut to a window within the hallway, peering out to the starlit sky. She was always in at this hour unless she’d snuck out while he and Leon were engaging in their many matings. Had they been that loud? Olas chuckled to himself, perhaps he’d have to show some restraint in the future. “Alright darling, I gave my warning, I’m coming in!” With a trill and tracing a rune upon the air, Olas launched it at the door, “Klaan.” The word came harsh, masked by the click of his daughter’s door. It creaked open as his feathers settled.

“Darling, I’m here.” Olas announced as he strode inside, finding the room devoid of light. Naturally his dark vision kicked in, allowing him to gaze upon her quarters in shades of black, grey and white. With a click of his tongue the mana lanterns within flared to life.

The room was large enough for several gryphons to rest with their wings extended, circular in nature with a large turreted ceiling. Along the wooden beams lay a singular perch, that would allow Luna to gaze upon her room. It was of course dominated by books, of history and spell craft to only name a few. In organized piles they were sprinkled around the room, almost like pillars themselves, reaching out for the ceiling above. Her bed was large, untidied, with more pillows upon it than the mattress itself.

“Darling?” His voice waivered as he tentatively slid around the book pillars, careful to avoid his tail catching and dragging them down like some clumsy red dragon might.

His gaze shifted to dark jewelry that adorned her weathered dressers, crafted with fine gems and shimmering in the mana lantern light. That began the journey to busts of ivory that his daughter had crafted with her hands, imperfect emotions captured of the gryphon form, then to the charming pictures of them painted when she was just a young gryphet. Olas sighed at the bright face of his daughter, unburdened with the weight of his decisions; where she might run and play with him, hanging on every word he said. He gave a heavy sigh, those days vastly out of reach. As he neared her bed, he spied origami figures that he’d given to her over the years, spread out in a diorama. His beak parted to a smile as a warmth touched him, even if their relationship was strained, there were still threads to bring it back.

“But if she isn’t here, then where?” Olas turned around, breaking through the cloud of nostalgia and memory that had gripped him. She of course had many hiding spots across their estate and that was even if she was here. The gryphon lashed his tail, hoping that his lusts for a certain mercenary had not denied him the chance to invite his daughter to the circus. He paced, head down as he strode to the hallway, taking in the scent that wafted through the air.

Soap and lavender, evidence of Olivia’s cleaning solutions. The wizard pinned his ears, padding around, beak close to the marble as he tried to catch the tiniest whiff of his daughter. He’d have tried a locating spell if he’d remembered to prepare one for the day, but alas, he wasn’t omnipotent.

“Doe’s Olivia’s room need to be cleaned master Olas?” Olivia called from floors down, the eagerness apparent in her voice.

“What makes you think it needs to be?”

“Let me count the ways. Books that need to be sorted to her shelves, clothing that needs to be tucked and put away, bedding that needs to be made and not disorganized like some sort of beast!”

His beak opened and closed several times. Did he really want to sour things with his daughter further? “Actually Olivia, she took care of it! Wouldn’t you know, she listened to us for once!”

“You expect me to believe that? The gryphet hasn’t cleaned her room in nearly a decade!”

An indignant squawk left him, “Then why did you go about asking me?”

“Did you take care of it?’

“Perhaps another time! I’ve already upset her this morning, I really don’t want to do so again. Not when I have the most charming news!” He replied, already picturing the maid gryphon rolling her eyes at his excuse.

Around the hall he carried on, like a tracking direwolf they had in Drenedar. Unlike the horse sized canine, he did it with far more style. He had wings after all, and feathers. Now he might not have been one of the fabled gryphon trackers, but he had enough instinct in him to find a scent to follow it. Ears perked as he finally caught whiff of Luna, her scent going down the west wing of this floor, where there could only be one answer, the observatory! He warbled at his own success, crown feathers rising swiftly, she’d always loved spending time there since she was a gryphet! The lord pranced around in a circle three times before he caught himself and took a deep, composing breath. He had to focus; his daughter was upset after all.

The observatory was at the highest sections of the estate, past his vast library of which contained many tomes that had captivated his attentions over the years. At the top of three levels of spiral staircases the observatory sat, the door here one decorated with stars. It still bore the paint from when Luna had been a gryphet, holding brushes as they lovingly applied every stroke of black, lavender, and yellow paint. Sartren’s glory she’d once said, eyes practically twinkling.

With a resounding chirp of delight, he burst through the doors, “Hello my sweet gryphet, I’m so glad to have found you! Doing a little astrology before taking to bed?”

Luna was leaning back in a circular chair, flat enough that she might rest upon her spread wings. Before her was a telescope of great proportions, one that dominated most of the room. Its shaft rose through the ceiling, giving those that gazed with its eyepiece a front row seat to all the splendor that Sartren had crafted all those years ago. Within the gryphoness’ talons was a quill from one of her feathers, and a scroll of parchment in the other. She was busy scratching away, seemingly oblivious of her father’s entry. Around her were piles of books, some open to various passages of constellations.

Charts were spread out on a wooden table, where measuring implements rested upon it. Around this were shelves upon shelves of multi-tombed books.

“Must you swing in here in such a fashion?” Luna groaned, her ears pinned to the back of her neck, “You’ve nearly deafened me.”

He chuckled nervously as he shut the door with delicate care, ensuring not a sound was to be had. “Apologies my little Starfire, I did not mean to hurt your precious ears, or disrupt your research.”

“And yet you have.”

“What pray tell has caught your eye?”

“Nothing grand or enlightening if you must know.” A withering glance was cast in his direction, “But gazing upon the sky was better than listening to the noise coming from your chambers.”

“Right.” He winced, ears splayed, “Though I’m glad to see you in this place, I did so love it when I was a child.” Olas sighed and ran a talon over the smooth metal of the telescope, fond memories of his youth, excited by the knowledge that he would read the stars, tell of great prophecies, wield magic that not many could master. “You take after me in that regard.”

“Don’t say that dad. Or else I’d be sleeping with random humans I found off the street as well.”

“He’s a half-elf darling.”

“Entirely missing the point dad.” She scoffed, snapping away, “Is he still here? Or with his job complete, has he slunk back to his real friends.”

The bitterness in her voice stung, but the gryphon pressed forward, not to be phased by it. “Yes, he did return to his friends, but it was to inform them of their next job opportunity.”

“And what would that be?” She asked with a sarcastic tone, “Helping some kittens from trees? Defeating ancient evils, or perhaps venturing into some lost tombs. All of which he can come back, catching your ear and use you.”

“He wouldn’t do that-“

“You don’t think so?”

His heart trembled at the thought, only to be pushed down by his true intentions to come here. “I know so dearest. I can see it in his eye whenever he visits, he was positively thrilled to take the next job.”

“Goodie, and what does that have to do with me?” She yelped as he did slide to her size, nuzzling up against her with an excited trill.

“How about you and me, go to the circus!”

Luna blinked, her voice coming staggard, “The circus dad? I’m not four anymore.”

“Oh, but you used to love the circus!” Olas wrapped a wing around her, face pressed close as he was spirited away to those youthful days, where she’d chirp and cheer to see the antics of the performers on display. “How you used to chirp, nip at my tail! Oh, you gave the servants quite the fright I remember!”

“Dad I-“ She looked away, ears splayed.

“Dearest, I figured we would make it a father daughter day! We will laugh, smile, really enjoy ourselves.”

“With your boytoy there.”

He chuckled away her concern, “He will be our bodyguard my dear. We’re nobles, people want us for our money and our bodies.”

“Maybe our money sure.”

“Speak for yourself princess.” He chirped, already thinking to his knight in shining armor.

“Dad, just ask him out instead of going to all these lengths to have him around. Leave me out of it.” Luna snapped, heaving herself away from the telescope, clearly, she was not going to get any peace.

That wasn’t what he’d wanted! Chirps of concern sprung through the air as he followed in her wake, “But Luna, I want to spend time with you! If I didn’t would I be asking you right now?” He rubbed up alongside her flank in an affectionate gesture, then caressed her jaw. Though she was the spitting image of himself and her mother, it lacked the utter hate behind Isadora’s gaze. “Let me make it up to you? I know things have been…difficult-“

“That’s an understatement.” She replied, pulling her head away.

“Dear, please.” He asked of her when she went to stride away, the tentative nature of it catching her ear. When she turned, her ears were splayed, the fierceness in those eyes faded. With a gesture he conjured a shimmering portal of light, passed its surface the past made again. There he was, proud father, cradling the tiny gryphon that would grow. He chirped and sung to her straight from his soul, never wishing to let her go.

“That’s unfair.”

“You used to be so close to me. I just wish for that to be how it is again.” He brushed against her, nuzzling into her cheek. He warbled softly as she pushed back.

“Alright you win.” She sighed, “We can go to this stupid circus. Since you insisted.”

“Splendid!” He perked up, giving her a goofy, infectious grin.

“Calm down dad, you’re going to hurt yourself.” Laughed Luna as Olas hopped around her like a youthful gryphet, “Maybe this won’t be so bad.”

“Of course, not dear, the venture will be absolutely excellent!” He stretched his wings wide, feeling a song building within his chest. He opened his beak to find a wing covering it.

“Please, as nice as your singing is…I’m much too tired for one.”

“Very well.” Cooed Olas, nuzzling into his daughter’s offered wing. “Would you like to look at the stars like we used to?”

“I would like that very much.”

** ** ** ** ** ** **

It was late into the night that Leon returned to Featherton, bags had begun to form beneath his eyes. Draigo had carried him swiftly through the path, lit by the mana lantern he’d carried. They’d not spied a monster, creature or beast, the way to his gryphon benefactor was a road of safety. He’d been stopped only briefly by the town’s gryphon guards, their eyes filled with questions on why he, in his insanity had left the comfort of Olas’ estate.

“If you only knew the half of it.” He’d yawned as the gryphons squawked and chirped at the absurdity of it all.

“Well, as strange as this is, you can come in.” The lead guard had grunted, his feathers fluffed, “Though you’re a weird one Leon.”

“That I am. Now goodnight fellas, try not let a weird half-elf ruin the night.”

“You wouldn’t. I was beating the lot of them in cards.”

The stable doors had creaked open at his touch, the air stark as the rest of the night. It stunk of horse and manure as the mercenary dragged in Draigo by his reins. Quaint was the pen that they’d been given, perfectly sized for one horse and a bit of room for it to wander around. In the stallion went without any fuss, trotting over to a hanging satchel of hay in the corner. With a snort Draigo began to nibble away, oblivious to the ghost of a man behind him.

What had he done? Leon closed shut the pen’s door, a pit gnawing at his insides. He’d left the refined and comforting surroundings of Lord Olas, trading them for the squaller that was of a horse’s pen. One of filth, stench and cold, when he could have been trapped in the warm embrace of his feathery benefactor.

But that was it wasn’t it? Muscles groaned; bones felt like lead as he dragged himself across the floor. What could have been came to him, of a night of serenity, held ever close, listening to the enchanting sound of Olas’ heartbeat. Totally safe, secure, resting his cheek tenderly against those red-orange feathers.

“Oh, stop your belly aching.” He hissed to himself, slinging off his pack and letting it fall to the ground. His armor then coming next with a series of clangs. He’d have to clean it come tomorrow, but he was far too tired. “You’re being a sentimental fool; this road has already been walked.” Blood shot eyes stared into the horse’s water bowl, reflecting his scowling gaze, one filled with hate, hurt and sorrow.

Draigo turned to snort at him, giving the man a questionable stare. His tail flicked as if to ask him why he was just standing there.

“Don’t give me that look. I’ve told you this before, it always ends the same. It seems good at first, but then it slaps you in the face. You’re left drained, hallow, gasping for breath and hoping for death.” He crouched to his pack, unhooking the bedroll strapped to its base. He glared at it’s worn surface; it would be a pitiful replacement for his gryphon.

The horse’s hooves shifted, bringing with it an inquisitive muzzle. He nudged at the man, staring at the bedroll as though it had any sort of answer for him.

“Come off it. What do you know?” Though he tried to push away his horse, Draigo nudged against him with a snort. “You got your food over there, tend to that.”

But the beast did not retreat, instead seemingly more concerned with him than any of its other base desires. As if to ask if they should not return to the gryphon, the night was not yet over.

Leon groaned and rested his bedroll on the hard floor, laying himself down upon it. The horse’s muzzle followed, unphased as he tried to ignore it nibbling on his ear. “Could you stop?”

Draigo snorted.

“You weren’t there for Quintus.” The mere mention of that name sent shivers down the half-elf’s spine, a phantom whinny catching his ear. He grabbed the horse’s head, holding it against his own as dark thoughts started to fester and grow. “He had me wrapped around his finger, unable to think clearly, unable to escape. Know what he did?”

The horse’s ears flicked expectantly.

He pulled up his tunic and shirt to reveal off color scars that traveled along his side, “I tell others those are marks from battle, some failed adventure, but they are reminders to not be stupid. He took a hook, wide as my finger and dragged it through my flesh. Punishment he’d said, rewards for me forcing him to do that. If I hadn’t put him down, he’d have been the end of me. I’d have wound up as that Ceullus’ pleasure slave, doing whatever he demanded, all for the promise of another hit of his essence.” Leon slumped, still picturing the blood upon his hands as he’d smashed that cruel horseman’s face in with a block of iron. He’d never been more satisfied to hear bones snap, eyes pop. “I remember how I laughed, for nearly ten minutes you know.” He chortled grimly to himself, trying to forget the longer amount of time he’d spent crying.

As if sensing the turmoil now casting it’s inky fog around him, Draigo pressed his muzzle back to Leon’s face, demanding pets.

“You’re needy don’t you know that?” He received a commanding snort and swish of the tail, the horse’s needs met as he began to stroke and scratch below his chin. “Is this the payment I have to give for talking with you?”

Draigo huffed, eyes closed.

“Figures, all the four-legged things in my life are needy bitches.” Leon sighed, “So that’s why we can’t go running back to him Draigo. People like him? Rich and wielding that much power? Why would he ever have anything real for people like us? We’re just a game to him, some grand fantasy that he gets to live out. The best thing we can do is enjoy the ride while it lasts, take pride in the fact I get to dick down some fluffy butt blue blooded gryphon.” The moment the words left his mouth he felt hallow, any semblance of joy he’d had this evening draining with his next breath. “No matter how you wish it would be different. The world isn’t fair. Don’t get attached. You’ll just get hurt when he discards you after he gets his fill…like all the rest.”

When the horse pulled back to return to his meal, Leon was left staring off into oblivion. Still the thought of those warm sheets haunted him, whispered for him to return. He shifted, the cold, hard floor ever apparent. He could have had the gryphon, clutching him tight, feeling his breath upon his neck. It was a fantasy, a façade, but oh a powerful one that teased at him now. He closed his eyes and pictured their last exchange, Olas was good he had to give him that. There were moments as he was in his clutches that he felt like the gryphon cared about him, that in those brown eyes was the sea in which he wanted to get lost in. His heart would grow weak, crying out for him to say what Leon had always dreamed of.

“But that’s not how the world works.” He whispered, shattering his comforting thought.

Sleep did eventually take him from the realm, spirit him off to the realm of dreams. Slumber however was a cruel mistress, tormenting the mercenary while she had him. His dreams were filled with Olas, the gryphon’s sinfully dominating every moment with his fluffy goodness. Every breath contained the lord’s scent, drove the man wild. It was maddening, but all too comforting at the same time. How he wished reality could match moments like this.

** * ** * * ***