Chapter 74 - Entwined Souls
Once more stepping back in time, we take you to visit a young brave and his wife...
Back to Chapter 73
I get this feeling I may know you
as a lover and a friend
but this voice keeps whispering
in my other ear, tells me
I may never see you again
'cause I get a peaceful, easy feeling
and I know you won't let me down
'cause I'm already standing on the ground
'cause I'm already standing...
on the ground
'Peaceful Easy Feeling' Eagles
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrc8XOlJsm0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8kR4Pwabw4
Swift Arrow watched and waited. He watched the child tussling with his playmates. Waited with bated breath as the sacred path of Winkte was chosen. Watched the youth mature into a quiet beauty that glowed with an inner light. He waited as the two-spirit took on the name White Wing and became an integral spiritual guide for the tribe.
From the time Swift Arrow entered manhood, he'd known this was the right path. That did not make his decision easy. He was the child of Great Eagle's old age, and the only son. Many times Swift Arrow had gone off alone to meditate and seek further guidance for his unconventional decision. White Wing was his life mate. The medicine men already were whispering he should take another wife, one who would provide Chief Great Eagle grandsons to continue the family line. That was not his destiny. Swift Arrow knew from his earliest visions he and his cousin, Great Eagle's sister's son, were to be the last of the line.
Climbing to the slim figure sitting on the raised outcropping, Swift Arrow sighed and put aside his musings. His feet crunched on the frost stiffened grass as he made no attempt to mask his approach.
"What troubles you so, that you greet the sun without a wrap against the chill?" His voice was soft, containing no rebuke, only the strong love he held for his wife. With a couple of agile leaps up the rocks, Swift Arrow came up behind White Wing. He opened the large fur he'd carried from their bed as he knelt at White Wing's back, and enclosed his mate in its warmth.
White Wing had been having troubled dreams, and he wasn't sure what they meant. He had woken early that day, leaving his husband still sleeping, and seeking one of his favourite places to call upon his spirit guides for aid in interpreting the strange visions.
Oddly, he was having difficulty summoning the guides this morning, and he sat in the cool air, breathing in the beauty of the day. Perhaps it didn't matter so much in any case. Oblivious to noises behind him, White Wing watched overhead as a flock of wild swans flew over, and smiled. At least one of his spirit guides had been called elsewhere this morning; evidently White Wing's need was less, and he therefore relaxed.
Swift Arrow's smooth voice behind him made his smile broaden, and it was only when the warmth of his husband's fur enveloped White Wing that he realised he'd even been cold.
"It's nothing," White Wing said, relaxing back into Swift Arrow's strong arms. "A dream that puzzled me, but my spirit guides tell me to let it go. There are better things to do right now, I think." He turned so that he could offer his husband a slow kiss, fully aware of the man's nudity.
Tipping White Wing's chin up, Swift Arrow took his time deepening the kiss. Long slow forays into the welcoming wetness of his wife's mouth, tongues winding around each other, he used his to encourage White Wing's to explore his own mouth. His fingers slid down the long graceful neck to rest over the steady pulse that beat in time to his own.
Heating from the rising sun, the flat rock they were on was surprisingly warm. Making small pleasurable noises in the back of his throat, Swift Arrow broke the kiss with tiny sips of White Wing's lips and then nibbled down his jawline to a delicately shaped ear. "You have another suitor, I see. Both your husband and the sun desire to warm you as you greet the coming day." He spoke huskily, and then pulled back further so White Wing could see the teasing smile on his face.
The welcome touches from Swift Arrow had White Wing sighing in deep pleasure, and he could hardly stop the return smile at his husband's gentle teasing.
"If it's warmth you seek to give, you are going the right way about it," White Wing murmured, turning more fully on the rock and reaching to remove his tunic. He had come out without leggings and had not laced up the neck to his tunic either, so it took little to be nude.
The rock and Swift Arrow's fur were both warm, and their bodies were rapidly heating now. White Wing had never been able to get enough of the strong brave that he had been bound to this past winter or more, and in fact rarely lay with other braves now. As the only Winkte in their tribe, this was an honor-and sometimes a duty-for both him and the warriors concerned on the eve of battle, or before a hunting trip, to exchange strength and give the braves some measure of magical protection.
Great Eagle, Swift Arrow's father, was a wise man who did not believe in forcing White Wing to share strength with any man he did not wish to, and for this White Wing was grateful. He loved Swift Arrow with all his heart, and his spirit guides and dreams had agreed with his own feeling that Swift Arrow needed all that White Wing could offer, although there were notable exceptions. Swift Arrow never failed to allow White Wing to perform the duty he had need to honor, but it was clear to White Wing that his husband did not relish the idea of sharing him.
Now, thoughts of sharing his body were centred firmly on the man at his side.
"You taste of sleep and willow," White Wing told Swift Arrow, wrapping his arms back around his lover's neck and licking back into the brave's mouth.
It was times like this, Swift Arrow thought as he sank into another kiss, that he truly could see both spirits of his Winkte bride. The grace and beauty with a core of quiet strength that White Wing faced the world with, and the playful lover so reminiscent of the lanky youth White Wing had once been.
Reluctantly pulling away from the kiss, Swift Arrow lingeringly removed White Wing's arms. A little purr escaped him as he ran his palms over the smooth flesh. Folding the tunic, Swift Arrow smiled with pride at White Wing's exquisite beadwork along the yoke. He spread out the fur, and after placing the mound of extremely soft doeskin down as a pillow, guided his wife to the warm surface.
"Let me pleasure you a while, so when we join I can assist you touching the clouds as you soar." Swift Arrow murmured as he fanned out White Wing's hair with slow strokes of his fingers. The thick mass of his own hair flowed around their faces like a curtain when Swift Arrow settled along White Wing's side and lowered his face for more kisses.
There had never been a more generous lover, apart from White Wing's childhood friend, Wind in the Grass, but White Wing wasn't thinking of Wind right now.
Nodding slightly, White Wing let his smile curve upward, his hand finding Swift Arrow's strong arm to caress as the man leisurely explored the interior of his mouth.
"Mmmm," White Wing sighed as they broke apart, letting his fingers trace up Swift Arrow's shoulder and neck and into the hair he loved and cared for as much as his own. "I love you," he smiled, his heart soaring already.
No-one had ever made White Wing feel the way Swift Arrow did. Truly, they were more than just bound together; they were complete when with each other. He'd known from a very young age that this brave was something special, and knew that Swift Arrow had waited a long time and with such patience before offering himself as a suitor. White Wing also knew that there were other, more suitable partners for Swift Arrow, and that some members of their tribe were not as pleased as his husband's father at their marriage.
White Wing had overheard conversations between some of the other elders before the binding ceremony, and had almost allowed it to alter his decision to take Swift Arrow as his husband, but for his dreams the night following. The dreams had shown White Wing in startling clarity that he and Swift Arrow's futures were meant to be entwined, and that nothing short of death could split them asunder. More importantly, Great Eagle's blessings were genuine, and he loved White Wing as his own child.
Sometimes, White Wing felt his heart would burst at the joy Swift Arrow gave him, and at this moment, he could only pull the man closer, giving in to whatever his husband wanted. It was no hardship; not when the pleasure was mutual and the love so strong.
Noncommittal noises rumbled from Swift Arrow's throat at first. His thigh shifted to settle between both of White Wing's. "As I will love you until my last breath," he finally was able to voice. The evidence of his wife's desire lay proudly gleaming in a ray of sunshine. Swift Arrow smiled again, thinking of the effort it had taken to reassure White Wing that Swift Arrow did love all of him, including this part of White Wing's male spirit.
It was taboo for males to couple, and Swift Arrow never had the forbidden desire to lay with another brave. It was only White Wing that he cherished, and desired both souls contained in his life-mate's body. Slowly Swift Arrow ran calloused hands over White Wing's smooth skin using his touch to convey the depth of his all encompassing love.
Closing his eyes, White Wing opened himself up to Swift Arrow, savoring the touch of hands roughened by hard work, and blindly seeking the delicious mouth for another lingering kiss. White Wing's fingers stroked softly through Swift Arrow's luscious hair, and then sought strong muscles to cling to as the touches sent more shimmering delight through White Wing's senses.
Humming from the soft caresses, Swift Arrow followed the paths his hand took with his lips. He knew many especially sensitive areas on his wife's body, and would happily dedicate his life to discovering every other one.
When the light frissons of desire passing over White Wing's skin turned to small shudders, Swift Arrow removed a vial that hung by a thong from around his mate's slim neck. It had been a wedding gift from his cousin as well as a larger pot that was housed next to their sleeping pallet. The containers were filled with special oils that his cousin spared no detail in describing the proper use of with a cheeky lop-sided smirk.
Momentarily a cloud passed over Swift Arrow's eyes. The two had yet to meet because White Wing had been visiting another camp and his cousin had been unable to stay until the binding. If he thought about it, Far Rider might remember the child White Wing had been, along with his closest playmate who was now the young brave Wind in the Grass that Swift Arrow was mentoring.
Swift Arrow had known of his cousin's proclivities; it seemed he had always known and accepted as just another facet of Far Rider's multi-layered personality. It had been amusing to watch the sparks fly between his young charge and his cousin during Far Rider's visit. Swift Arrow knew, probably before the youth did, that his desires ran in the same direction as Far Rider's. The pair had then tried Swift Arrow's patience as it seemed he was constantly covering for them or diverting other members of the tribe from discovering them coupling.
Shoving all that aside, Swift Arrow coated his fingers with a few drops of oil. He gazed reverently up his young bride's body. "Spread your wings now..." he said huskily before beginning to prepare White Wing's body as well as sliding his lips over the firm length before him.
"Aiee," White Wing let out, unable to contain his voice as Swift Arrow's mouth engulfed his heated manhood. The fingers breaching his female side felt equally as good, and the loud cries soon became pleasure-filled moans and whimpers, not much less quiet. Some braves didn't like White Wing's vocalising during coupling, but Swift Arrow seemed only to encourage White Wing to be louder, as if it proved how well his husband could satisfy a Winkte.
White Wing's fingers found Swift Arrow's hair again as the brave worked his body. Stomach muscles rippled in effort as White Wing held back, wanting only to prolong the exquisite joy that Swift Arrow gave him.
"I'm flying," he whispered breathily, and then gave over to his soul's need to sing, his cries growing louder as the pleasure built.
Swift Arrow's heart swelled as his wife's cries of pleasure joined the song of the awakening birds in the trees near by. His humming vibrated down the hardness he suckled as he slid a finger deeper until he touched White Wing's core. Though still new to the experience, he swallowed most of the resulting flood of White Wing's essence.
Eyes black in his desire, Swift Arrow rose to his haunches and tilted up his wife's hips. In one smooth stroke he entered White Wing's body, adding his cry of joy to the symphony surrounding the lovers. He readjusted his hands higher up White Wing's back and lifted his bride until they were chest to chest, and his wife's slim legs straddled his hips. Only when their heartbeats and breathing aligned did Swift Arrow begin to move, sharing all that he was with his mate.
There was nothing as rewarding as being filled so completely by the person you loved, in White Wing's opinion. Swift Arrow's body and soul surrounded him, protecting him and offering all he could. In return, White Wing gave every part of his soaring soul and lithe young body to his lover, holding back nothing as their hearts fell into a complementary rhythm and they shared each other's breath and strength.
Tensing and relaxing his inner muscles almost without thought as Swift Arrow thrust into him, White Wing held onto the brave tightly, his cries still echoing in the rapidly encroaching day.
As their song rose, Swift Arrow felt their souls rise to the skies as well. Joined with his mate, Swift Arrow soared with White Wing until an explosion of light burst from him to White Wing.
Swift Arrow's body shuddered and the steady heart beating against his own helped even out his ragged breathing. Blinking his eyes open, he smiled on the beauty of a sated White Wing and lowered him back on the soft fur. Bearing most of his weight on one hip, Swift Arrow stretched out alongside, fanning out his wife's hair again and laying gentle kisses to eyelids, nose and his lover's temples.
Breathing deeply, White Wing relaxed back against the rock as Swift Arrow caressed him with warm lips. Behind his eyelids, White Wing saw himself in animal form, flying across the sun-streaked air, free and proud. He allowed his smile to grow as Swift Arrow's gentle touches continued, his senses full of the joy that coupling with this strong and wonderful brave brought him. Could he ever have imagined he'd be this happy?
Opening his eyes slowly, White Wing smiled up at his husband, his love shining through deep chestnut-coloured eyes.
"Thank you," he murmured, "I have never soared as far with any other. You are like the sun to my moon; you warm me completely." Smiling still, White Wing reached long fingers to stroke over Swift Arrow's strong cheekbones.
"No, you are the sun, who bathes your husband in your radiance." Swift Arrow's smile was soft, and then he turned his face to playfully nip at White Wing's fingers. "And speaking of bathing, you up to braving the stream? Or I can fill a skin while you stir up the hearth fire and start the morning meal?"
White Wing laughed; a long slow pealing of absolute joy. Truly, Swift Arrow was the most romantic brave he knew.
"I think I need to clean up," White Wing nodded, sitting up and searching behind himself blindly for his tunic. "Why don't we help each other wash, and then we can deal with food?"
Finding his soft tunic, he quickly slid it over his head and stood up while Swift Arrow slung the fur around himself.
"Little Star tells me Wind in the Grass has an admirer," White Wing said as they walked, "but she says Blue Shimmering Waters will not dare speak to him. I wasn't sure I should tell Star that her sister may be wasting her time. Wind is... well, I'm sure you know he will not be bound to anyone in any great hurry."
He sighed, sadness crossing his thoughts for his friend's difficulty. If only Wind had chosen the same path as White Wing when they were younger. Life would not be easy for the brave; not as easy as it was for White Wing, in any case.
Chuckling, Swift Arrow guided White Wing around a piece of deadfall as they neared a deep area of the stream. "No, I doubt Wind in the Grass will bind himself to anyone. Blue Shimmering Waters will have to set her sights on a lesser young brave, yes?" He dropped the fur robe on a moss-covered rock and turned to face White Wing. After kissing the tip of his wife's nose, he drew the tunic up and off. Clasping their hands together Swift Arrow began backing into the pool, gritting his teeth as the cold water climbed higher up his thighs.
There was really only one way to deal with cold water, and that was quickly. White Wing held back his smile until the last moment, and then pushed hard, causing Swift Arrow to topple backwards into the stream.
The shock of hitting the icy water made Swift Arrow inhale deeply, taking in air and water when his head went under the surface. He held onto White Wing's hands though, so came back up spluttering water and laughing with his equally doused bride.
"Such a cruel wife; dunking your husband so." Swift Arrow's teasing smile was broad. A flick of his head got most of the hair and water droplets off his face. His hands remained holding White Wing against his body, "However shall you make amends for this abuse?"
Spluttering and laughing as much as his husband, White Wing pushed wet hair out of his eyes as he leaned into Swift Arrow. Lacing cool fingers together around Swift Arrow's neck, he teased the mirthful lips with his own as he answered in low, sexy, tones, "I'll make you the finest breakfast you've ever eaten."
"I've already consumed your finest offering." Swift Arrow waggled an eyebrow. He followed his cheeky pronouncement by flicking out his tongue to lick at White Wing's lips. Their playing soon deepened into a kiss until at long last he broke it with a sigh. White Wing's arms still wound around his neck, Swift Arrow stood, the stream's water cascading from their glistening bodies.
"For now you can wash your husband before the rest of the clan awakes and the day begins in earnest." Swift Arrow could willingly spend all of the day with his bride, touching and loving and basking in White Wing's presence. Unfortunately, there were matters to be discussed and duties to be performed. A frown momentarily furrowed his brow until White Wing nuzzled under his chin.
White Wing knew Swift Arrow was thinking of the things he needed to do before long. There were a number of things going on that as the chief's son, Swift Arrow would have to attend to. Much as it would be wonderful to be living in peace and for them to spend all of their time enjoying each other's company and loving touches, it wasn't to be. Today Swift Arrow and some of the other braves were going on a hunting trip, and they would probably be away for several days.
White Wing would not stop his husband from performing his duties, but he would take advantage of whatever time they managed like this.
Nuzzling and smiling against the warm skin, he kissed Swift Arrow where his lips lay, then shifted back to begin the job he'd been assigned, a lusty look in his eyes as he did so. Washing, perhaps, but others were not awake yet, and there could still be time for a little more play before Swift Arrow was needed elsewhere.
Although his eyes teased, he did exactly as he'd been bid at first, until he was kneeling waist deep in the water at Swift Arrow's feet.
"Some special attention is required here," he noted in serious tones, studying Swift Arrow's rising interest, but not yet touching it.
"Mm hmm," was all Swift Arrow could manage. When White Wing's normally coyly innocent gaze turned so lusty, Swift Arrow was dough in his wife's hands.
"I should call you a witch for stirring my blood until duty is far from my mind and all I desire is to idle the day away with you." Swift Arrow's face was serious; the furrow that often etched his brow before their binding in place. Then his lips twitched and lusty amusement twinkled in his dark eyes as his desire swelled in anticipation and from the soft puffs of White Wing's breathing.
"Of course I never would. I take great pride in knowing you enjoy our coupling as much as I do, and my heart swells to see you so playful."
White Wing said nothing, but smiled in pleasure at Swift Arrow's words. He reached for Swift Arrow's hardness, using gentle hands to clean it with the cold water. His smile grew as his husband gasped at the chill of it, but Swift Arrow certainly didn't go down. White Wing spent more time than was necessary ensuring the hardness was as clean as it could be, teasing with expert touches and desirous glances upward until he was sure Swift Arrow was close to taking matters into his own hands.
Licking his lips softly and slowly, White Wing kept his eyes on Swift Arrow's as he shifted his hands to the base of the brave's erection. Still holding his gaze, he leaned forward and kissed the tip of Swift Arrow's cock so gently that it almost might not have happened.
"Should I be so wicked so early in the day?" he asked softly, his warm breath caressing the object of his desire. "Perhaps now I should begin cooking, instead?" he teased with a cheeky grin.
"Don't you dare," Swift Arrow warned, though he smiled down at White Wing's teasing. The 'object' they were discussing bobbed as if nodding in agreement. "You would be wicked not to continue what you started, my not-so-coy wife."
White Wing's smile grew warmer, and he waggled his eyebrows briefly before tossing his hair back over his shoulder in order to take the head of Swift Arrow's manhood between gentle lips without hair in his way.
Once the hot strength was inside his mouth, White Wing closed his eyes and hummed his pleasure. Swift Arrow had the sweetest taste of all the braves he had done this to, and White Wing loved the texture of this cock against his smooth tongue. Alternating sucking firmly with swirling his tongue around the sensitive ridges and the underside of the tip, White Wing couldn't stop his hands from creeping around Swift Arrow's buttocks to fondle the strong muscles there.
He loved using his other senses with Swift Arrow, though it was hard not to look at him too. As he continued, he had to open his eyes once more, gazing up the brave's body with complete and utter love.
Swift Arrow laughed, though it cut off to a groan as his definitely not shy wife took him between soft lips. While White Wing had bathed him, he became acclimated to the small pool's water. Now, as his need elevated, the small waves lapping against his thighs helped cool his heated skin. He cupped White Wing's cheek, needing the extra connection to his mate. Desire spiraling higher, the simple touch grounded Swift Arrow, as only White Wing could.
Soar, fly! White Wing thought as he increased his steady movements, wanting only for Swift Arrow to feel the same pleasure and sense of leaving one's body that he'd had himself not long ago with his lover doing this to him. His hands stroked over and over the strength of Swift Arrow's buttocks as he took the length in further and hummed more deeply. His own cock was rigid between his legs, the cool water keeping his desire at bay, and he wouldn't touch it until Swift Arrow had reached the soaring heights this time.
It didn't take much more of White Wing's efforts until Swift Arrow began shuddering as he flew and his release raced through and out of him. His head went back, muscles standing out in rigid relief, letting White Wing provide the only support keeping him upright. Never had it been with any prior lover that Swift Arrow felt completely freed of earthly constraints; the all encompassing love and trust Swift Arrow and White Wing shared was that special.
Easily swallowing all the strength Swift Arrow offered him, White Wing kept hold of his lover's buttocks, steadying him, as he suckled and licked his slow way off.
Offering a sly grin upwards, White Wing stroked the firm buttocks reassuringly before slowly letting go and rising up on his knees more fully. This made his cock stand up out of the water, and White Wing lowered a hand, teasing Swift Arrow visually as much as himself physically.
"No," Swift Arrow rasped when he recovered his senses enough to see what White Wing was doing. He reached a hand down to help his wife upright. After kissing full lips, Swift Arrow turned White Wing around and gathered him close, back to front.
"Let me..." was all Swift Arrow said as his diminished length settled naturally between soft nether cheeks and he wrapped his hand over White Wing's heated flesh. He nuzzled through to the place where neck met shoulder and stroked White Wing in the way they both knew heightened his desire the quickest.
"Let me be your strength now," Swift Arrow whispered, the arm around White Wing's waist comforting and supporting.
Resting his head back against Swift Arrow's shoulder, White Wing let the brave support him as he gave in to the pleasure of a hand against his spiralling desire, the lips kissing his neck sending tingling shivers through his entire body.
It didn't take much, as it never did, unless Swift Arrow was purposefully wanting him to last, but that wasn't a bad thing right now. White Wing let his voice rise, the note peaking as his body spilled forth. As if Swan had lifted him into the air, White Wing felt weightless in his lover's arms, and would have dropped straight back into the cool water had Swift Arrow not held him where he was. The pulsing of his lover's heart in time with his own as it slowed down brought him back to earth, and White Wing slowly turned as Swift Arrow's hand dropped away, his own arms circling the other man's neck as their lips met.
"I love you," he murmured once more, lips barely moving.
"As I love you," Swift Arrow answered as softly, pulling White Wing close. He dipped back in for more soft kisses until his belly rumbled in hunger. A rueful smile on his face, Swift Arrow broke away, patting White Wing's taut bottom.
"You've fed one of your husband's hungers, now the other is protesting in neglect," he tsked, a teasing light softening his dark eyes.
"Then I must feed that too," White Wing smiled back at his husband as they made their way out of the water. White Wing recovered his tunic and pulled it on as Swift Arrow wrapped his fur around himself.
Taking his husband's hand once he had flicked his hair out of his eyes, the two made their way back to their lodge, slipping inside quickly before many eyes caught their dishabille, although White Wing didn't really care who knew what they had been up to.
Once he had pulled on his leggings and tidied his tunic, White Wing combed his hair out, waiting for Swift Arrow to finish his own dressing. He smiled lovingly and gestured for Swift Arrow to be seated so he could braid the brave's hair.
As he worked, White Wing hummed lowly, once more pondering the strange dream he'd woken to.
Sitting where he could easily watch White Wing prepare their meal over the small lodge fire, Swift Arrow sorted through his weapons. Enjoying the grace with which his wife moved, he worked mostly by touch. Fingertips running over his blades, he set aside those in need of sharpening. He stroked over the fletching of his arrows, determining if any needed repair, before testing the straightness of the shafts and sharpness of each point.
Contentment filled every fiber of his being as neither felt the need to speak while they worked separately. When White Wing brought over a bowl of food, Swift Arrow caught his wife's hand.
"Come, indulge your husband before the hunting trip takes me away from your side. Let me feed you first, so I am assured-for now at least-that you are eating properly. You lost too much weight last time I was gone." Swift Arrow tempered his words by pulling White Wing down to sprawl partially in his lap and nuzzling the long neck he never could get enough of.
"I worry about you, and then I can't eat," White Wing admitted softly, kissing Swift Arrow's cheek as he wound arms around the brave's neck. "My dreams were odd last night; you must take care. Sssh." He placed a fingertip to Swift Arrow's lips to silence the likely protest that anything bad would befall him. "Please, for me?" he whispered, his warm breath tickling the shell of Swift Arrow's ear.
"Alright; for you I will take extra care, but only if you also promise to eat whenever those 'worries' come over you." Swift Arrow tapped the tip of White Wing's nose, then spooned up a mouthful and aimed the utensil at White Wing's lips.
He also worried-nearly to distraction-whenever they were parted, but had to put his faith into the spirits and the rest of the clan to watch over this special Winkte.
"I promise," White Wing repeated dutifully, and opened his mouth to the food Swift Arrow offered. He would do his best, though he couldn't guarantee anything, but it was better not to say too much or Swift Arrow would only worry too. Then he wouldn't be concentrating on his own safety, and that was the last thing White Wing wanted.
"Is Snarling Bear going with you?" he asked between the mouthfuls that Swift Arrow kept feeding him, trying to keep his tone casual. For a change, Snarling Bear hadn't been hanging around last night, and that was unusual if he was in the hunting party. He had still been hopeful of sharing strength with White Wing again, but it was not likely any time soon; not if White Wing did not choose it, and he didn't think Swift Arrow was about to condone it either.
"No," Swift Arrow answered, spooning another mouthful that White Wing pushed away indicating Swift Arrow should eat it, "Snarling Bear will remain behind this time. Why; do your spirit guides suggest he should go?" Swift Arrow asked, not guessing there would be any other reason White Wing would ask after the other brave.
White Wing shook his head, smiling in what he hoped was a reassuring way. "No. He..." he hesitated, taking another spoonful and chewing it carefully as he mulled over how much to say about Snarling Bear's interest in him. "You know he was also my suitor before you won my heart... well, you always had my heart, in truth," he assured his lover, kissing him gently on the cheek as Swift Arrow chewed another spoonful of food.
"And... he seeks me out before hunting trips. He thinks I can offer him power, but I can't. Not any more. Is that bad of me? That I save myself only for you when there are others who need my gifts?"
Searching Swift Arrow's eyes, White Wing knew his love was not in doubt, but he wanted to be sure his husband was glad of his limitations, not sorry that his Winkte duties seemed reduced since their binding.
"He frightens me sometimes," he whispered against Swift Arrow's warm cheek, wrapping his arms around the brave's neck. "He's so... intense."
"He is determined, yes," Swift Arrow said cautiously, setting aside the bowl to pull White Wing close. Brows creased in worry, he kissed his wife's crown. "Do you fear for your safety? I already planned to have Fire Dancer and his wives keep an eye out for you. Should I have Wind in the Grass stay behind; place his bedroll outside our lodge?"
Snarling Bear was a good warrior, and Swift Arrow sincerely hoped there was nothing untoward in his behavior towards White Wing. He would speak to Fire Dancer, but subtly; it wouldn't do to raise suspicions needlessly.
White Wing shook his head, pulling away from Swift Arrow a little to look into his husband's face with loving eyes.
"That isn't necessary. He will not do anything..." I don't think he will. "I will be all right. You have no need to worry. If I am unhappy..." afraid "...alone, I will stay in Fire Dancer's lodge. His family has welcomed me before. You will need Wind with you, in any case."
Smiling as easily as he could manage, White Wing got to his feet in a graceful swirl of beads and fringes. The sense of foreboding that hovered under his ribcage seemed heavier suddenly, but there was no tangible danger that he could warn Swift Arrow of; his dreams had been too confusing to decipher. Later, he would try the spirit guides again, and see if anything real could be discovered.
"Come, the others will be gathering, and it would not do for the chief's son to be the last on his horse."
"Are you that eager to be rid of your husband?" Swift Arrow joked after noticing the shadows flit across White Wing's face.
"The elders will want to confer and read the spirit signs again. I'll have plenty of time to hone my blades... and perhaps warm your bed one last time." He waggled his brows and kissed White Wing's temple.
"Do not worry mit'áwa* , I will take extra care, and will make sure you are well looked after too."
White Wing couldn't stop the smile from spreading across his face at the suggestion of having Swift Arrow with him for a little longer. He moved back towards his husband and wound arms around his neck, kissing him lightly and tickling under his hair.
"I love you more than you will ever know, was'telakapi'*."
Unable to contain his feelings of foreboding, White Wing kissed Swift Arrow over and over, hoping whatever it was would go away if they made love again.
Not trying hard to fend off White Wing's attack, laughing Swift Arrow let their momentum carry them back to the lodge floor. Tangling their legs and twisting, he soon had his randy wife pinned.
"As I love you equally so, you insatiable imp." Swift Arrow swooped in and placed kisses of his own wherever he could until White Wing's sweet giggles joined his.
There was nothing else beyond this, for now.
Word Count: ~5976
Glossary of Lakhota Terms:
Mit'áwa: my lover
Was'telakapi: beloved
On to Chapter 75
Back to Chapter 73
I get this feeling I may know you
as a lover and a friend
but this voice keeps whispering
in my other ear, tells me
I may never see you again
'cause I get a peaceful, easy feeling
and I know you won't let me down
'cause I'm already standing on the ground
'cause I'm already standing...
on the ground
'Peaceful Easy Feeling' Eagles
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrc8XOlJsm0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8kR4Pwabw4
Swift Arrow watched and waited. He watched the child tussling with his playmates. Waited with bated breath as the sacred path of Winkte was chosen. Watched the youth mature into a quiet beauty that glowed with an inner light. He waited as the two-spirit took on the name White Wing and became an integral spiritual guide for the tribe.
From the time Swift Arrow entered manhood, he'd known this was the right path. That did not make his decision easy. He was the child of Great Eagle's old age, and the only son. Many times Swift Arrow had gone off alone to meditate and seek further guidance for his unconventional decision. White Wing was his life mate. The medicine men already were whispering he should take another wife, one who would provide Chief Great Eagle grandsons to continue the family line. That was not his destiny. Swift Arrow knew from his earliest visions he and his cousin, Great Eagle's sister's son, were to be the last of the line.
Climbing to the slim figure sitting on the raised outcropping, Swift Arrow sighed and put aside his musings. His feet crunched on the frost stiffened grass as he made no attempt to mask his approach.
"What troubles you so, that you greet the sun without a wrap against the chill?" His voice was soft, containing no rebuke, only the strong love he held for his wife. With a couple of agile leaps up the rocks, Swift Arrow came up behind White Wing. He opened the large fur he'd carried from their bed as he knelt at White Wing's back, and enclosed his mate in its warmth.
White Wing had been having troubled dreams, and he wasn't sure what they meant. He had woken early that day, leaving his husband still sleeping, and seeking one of his favourite places to call upon his spirit guides for aid in interpreting the strange visions.
Oddly, he was having difficulty summoning the guides this morning, and he sat in the cool air, breathing in the beauty of the day. Perhaps it didn't matter so much in any case. Oblivious to noises behind him, White Wing watched overhead as a flock of wild swans flew over, and smiled. At least one of his spirit guides had been called elsewhere this morning; evidently White Wing's need was less, and he therefore relaxed.
Swift Arrow's smooth voice behind him made his smile broaden, and it was only when the warmth of his husband's fur enveloped White Wing that he realised he'd even been cold.
"It's nothing," White Wing said, relaxing back into Swift Arrow's strong arms. "A dream that puzzled me, but my spirit guides tell me to let it go. There are better things to do right now, I think." He turned so that he could offer his husband a slow kiss, fully aware of the man's nudity.
Tipping White Wing's chin up, Swift Arrow took his time deepening the kiss. Long slow forays into the welcoming wetness of his wife's mouth, tongues winding around each other, he used his to encourage White Wing's to explore his own mouth. His fingers slid down the long graceful neck to rest over the steady pulse that beat in time to his own.
Heating from the rising sun, the flat rock they were on was surprisingly warm. Making small pleasurable noises in the back of his throat, Swift Arrow broke the kiss with tiny sips of White Wing's lips and then nibbled down his jawline to a delicately shaped ear. "You have another suitor, I see. Both your husband and the sun desire to warm you as you greet the coming day." He spoke huskily, and then pulled back further so White Wing could see the teasing smile on his face.
The welcome touches from Swift Arrow had White Wing sighing in deep pleasure, and he could hardly stop the return smile at his husband's gentle teasing.
"If it's warmth you seek to give, you are going the right way about it," White Wing murmured, turning more fully on the rock and reaching to remove his tunic. He had come out without leggings and had not laced up the neck to his tunic either, so it took little to be nude.
The rock and Swift Arrow's fur were both warm, and their bodies were rapidly heating now. White Wing had never been able to get enough of the strong brave that he had been bound to this past winter or more, and in fact rarely lay with other braves now. As the only Winkte in their tribe, this was an honor-and sometimes a duty-for both him and the warriors concerned on the eve of battle, or before a hunting trip, to exchange strength and give the braves some measure of magical protection.
Great Eagle, Swift Arrow's father, was a wise man who did not believe in forcing White Wing to share strength with any man he did not wish to, and for this White Wing was grateful. He loved Swift Arrow with all his heart, and his spirit guides and dreams had agreed with his own feeling that Swift Arrow needed all that White Wing could offer, although there were notable exceptions. Swift Arrow never failed to allow White Wing to perform the duty he had need to honor, but it was clear to White Wing that his husband did not relish the idea of sharing him.
Now, thoughts of sharing his body were centred firmly on the man at his side.
"You taste of sleep and willow," White Wing told Swift Arrow, wrapping his arms back around his lover's neck and licking back into the brave's mouth.
It was times like this, Swift Arrow thought as he sank into another kiss, that he truly could see both spirits of his Winkte bride. The grace and beauty with a core of quiet strength that White Wing faced the world with, and the playful lover so reminiscent of the lanky youth White Wing had once been.
Reluctantly pulling away from the kiss, Swift Arrow lingeringly removed White Wing's arms. A little purr escaped him as he ran his palms over the smooth flesh. Folding the tunic, Swift Arrow smiled with pride at White Wing's exquisite beadwork along the yoke. He spread out the fur, and after placing the mound of extremely soft doeskin down as a pillow, guided his wife to the warm surface.
"Let me pleasure you a while, so when we join I can assist you touching the clouds as you soar." Swift Arrow murmured as he fanned out White Wing's hair with slow strokes of his fingers. The thick mass of his own hair flowed around their faces like a curtain when Swift Arrow settled along White Wing's side and lowered his face for more kisses.
There had never been a more generous lover, apart from White Wing's childhood friend, Wind in the Grass, but White Wing wasn't thinking of Wind right now.
Nodding slightly, White Wing let his smile curve upward, his hand finding Swift Arrow's strong arm to caress as the man leisurely explored the interior of his mouth.
"Mmmm," White Wing sighed as they broke apart, letting his fingers trace up Swift Arrow's shoulder and neck and into the hair he loved and cared for as much as his own. "I love you," he smiled, his heart soaring already.
No-one had ever made White Wing feel the way Swift Arrow did. Truly, they were more than just bound together; they were complete when with each other. He'd known from a very young age that this brave was something special, and knew that Swift Arrow had waited a long time and with such patience before offering himself as a suitor. White Wing also knew that there were other, more suitable partners for Swift Arrow, and that some members of their tribe were not as pleased as his husband's father at their marriage.
White Wing had overheard conversations between some of the other elders before the binding ceremony, and had almost allowed it to alter his decision to take Swift Arrow as his husband, but for his dreams the night following. The dreams had shown White Wing in startling clarity that he and Swift Arrow's futures were meant to be entwined, and that nothing short of death could split them asunder. More importantly, Great Eagle's blessings were genuine, and he loved White Wing as his own child.
Sometimes, White Wing felt his heart would burst at the joy Swift Arrow gave him, and at this moment, he could only pull the man closer, giving in to whatever his husband wanted. It was no hardship; not when the pleasure was mutual and the love so strong.
Noncommittal noises rumbled from Swift Arrow's throat at first. His thigh shifted to settle between both of White Wing's. "As I will love you until my last breath," he finally was able to voice. The evidence of his wife's desire lay proudly gleaming in a ray of sunshine. Swift Arrow smiled again, thinking of the effort it had taken to reassure White Wing that Swift Arrow did love all of him, including this part of White Wing's male spirit.
It was taboo for males to couple, and Swift Arrow never had the forbidden desire to lay with another brave. It was only White Wing that he cherished, and desired both souls contained in his life-mate's body. Slowly Swift Arrow ran calloused hands over White Wing's smooth skin using his touch to convey the depth of his all encompassing love.
Closing his eyes, White Wing opened himself up to Swift Arrow, savoring the touch of hands roughened by hard work, and blindly seeking the delicious mouth for another lingering kiss. White Wing's fingers stroked softly through Swift Arrow's luscious hair, and then sought strong muscles to cling to as the touches sent more shimmering delight through White Wing's senses.
Humming from the soft caresses, Swift Arrow followed the paths his hand took with his lips. He knew many especially sensitive areas on his wife's body, and would happily dedicate his life to discovering every other one.
When the light frissons of desire passing over White Wing's skin turned to small shudders, Swift Arrow removed a vial that hung by a thong from around his mate's slim neck. It had been a wedding gift from his cousin as well as a larger pot that was housed next to their sleeping pallet. The containers were filled with special oils that his cousin spared no detail in describing the proper use of with a cheeky lop-sided smirk.
Momentarily a cloud passed over Swift Arrow's eyes. The two had yet to meet because White Wing had been visiting another camp and his cousin had been unable to stay until the binding. If he thought about it, Far Rider might remember the child White Wing had been, along with his closest playmate who was now the young brave Wind in the Grass that Swift Arrow was mentoring.
Swift Arrow had known of his cousin's proclivities; it seemed he had always known and accepted as just another facet of Far Rider's multi-layered personality. It had been amusing to watch the sparks fly between his young charge and his cousin during Far Rider's visit. Swift Arrow knew, probably before the youth did, that his desires ran in the same direction as Far Rider's. The pair had then tried Swift Arrow's patience as it seemed he was constantly covering for them or diverting other members of the tribe from discovering them coupling.
Shoving all that aside, Swift Arrow coated his fingers with a few drops of oil. He gazed reverently up his young bride's body. "Spread your wings now..." he said huskily before beginning to prepare White Wing's body as well as sliding his lips over the firm length before him.
"Aiee," White Wing let out, unable to contain his voice as Swift Arrow's mouth engulfed his heated manhood. The fingers breaching his female side felt equally as good, and the loud cries soon became pleasure-filled moans and whimpers, not much less quiet. Some braves didn't like White Wing's vocalising during coupling, but Swift Arrow seemed only to encourage White Wing to be louder, as if it proved how well his husband could satisfy a Winkte.
White Wing's fingers found Swift Arrow's hair again as the brave worked his body. Stomach muscles rippled in effort as White Wing held back, wanting only to prolong the exquisite joy that Swift Arrow gave him.
"I'm flying," he whispered breathily, and then gave over to his soul's need to sing, his cries growing louder as the pleasure built.
Swift Arrow's heart swelled as his wife's cries of pleasure joined the song of the awakening birds in the trees near by. His humming vibrated down the hardness he suckled as he slid a finger deeper until he touched White Wing's core. Though still new to the experience, he swallowed most of the resulting flood of White Wing's essence.
Eyes black in his desire, Swift Arrow rose to his haunches and tilted up his wife's hips. In one smooth stroke he entered White Wing's body, adding his cry of joy to the symphony surrounding the lovers. He readjusted his hands higher up White Wing's back and lifted his bride until they were chest to chest, and his wife's slim legs straddled his hips. Only when their heartbeats and breathing aligned did Swift Arrow begin to move, sharing all that he was with his mate.
There was nothing as rewarding as being filled so completely by the person you loved, in White Wing's opinion. Swift Arrow's body and soul surrounded him, protecting him and offering all he could. In return, White Wing gave every part of his soaring soul and lithe young body to his lover, holding back nothing as their hearts fell into a complementary rhythm and they shared each other's breath and strength.
Tensing and relaxing his inner muscles almost without thought as Swift Arrow thrust into him, White Wing held onto the brave tightly, his cries still echoing in the rapidly encroaching day.
As their song rose, Swift Arrow felt their souls rise to the skies as well. Joined with his mate, Swift Arrow soared with White Wing until an explosion of light burst from him to White Wing.
Swift Arrow's body shuddered and the steady heart beating against his own helped even out his ragged breathing. Blinking his eyes open, he smiled on the beauty of a sated White Wing and lowered him back on the soft fur. Bearing most of his weight on one hip, Swift Arrow stretched out alongside, fanning out his wife's hair again and laying gentle kisses to eyelids, nose and his lover's temples.
Breathing deeply, White Wing relaxed back against the rock as Swift Arrow caressed him with warm lips. Behind his eyelids, White Wing saw himself in animal form, flying across the sun-streaked air, free and proud. He allowed his smile to grow as Swift Arrow's gentle touches continued, his senses full of the joy that coupling with this strong and wonderful brave brought him. Could he ever have imagined he'd be this happy?
Opening his eyes slowly, White Wing smiled up at his husband, his love shining through deep chestnut-coloured eyes.
"Thank you," he murmured, "I have never soared as far with any other. You are like the sun to my moon; you warm me completely." Smiling still, White Wing reached long fingers to stroke over Swift Arrow's strong cheekbones.
"No, you are the sun, who bathes your husband in your radiance." Swift Arrow's smile was soft, and then he turned his face to playfully nip at White Wing's fingers. "And speaking of bathing, you up to braving the stream? Or I can fill a skin while you stir up the hearth fire and start the morning meal?"
White Wing laughed; a long slow pealing of absolute joy. Truly, Swift Arrow was the most romantic brave he knew.
"I think I need to clean up," White Wing nodded, sitting up and searching behind himself blindly for his tunic. "Why don't we help each other wash, and then we can deal with food?"
Finding his soft tunic, he quickly slid it over his head and stood up while Swift Arrow slung the fur around himself.
"Little Star tells me Wind in the Grass has an admirer," White Wing said as they walked, "but she says Blue Shimmering Waters will not dare speak to him. I wasn't sure I should tell Star that her sister may be wasting her time. Wind is... well, I'm sure you know he will not be bound to anyone in any great hurry."
He sighed, sadness crossing his thoughts for his friend's difficulty. If only Wind had chosen the same path as White Wing when they were younger. Life would not be easy for the brave; not as easy as it was for White Wing, in any case.
Chuckling, Swift Arrow guided White Wing around a piece of deadfall as they neared a deep area of the stream. "No, I doubt Wind in the Grass will bind himself to anyone. Blue Shimmering Waters will have to set her sights on a lesser young brave, yes?" He dropped the fur robe on a moss-covered rock and turned to face White Wing. After kissing the tip of his wife's nose, he drew the tunic up and off. Clasping their hands together Swift Arrow began backing into the pool, gritting his teeth as the cold water climbed higher up his thighs.
There was really only one way to deal with cold water, and that was quickly. White Wing held back his smile until the last moment, and then pushed hard, causing Swift Arrow to topple backwards into the stream.
The shock of hitting the icy water made Swift Arrow inhale deeply, taking in air and water when his head went under the surface. He held onto White Wing's hands though, so came back up spluttering water and laughing with his equally doused bride.
"Such a cruel wife; dunking your husband so." Swift Arrow's teasing smile was broad. A flick of his head got most of the hair and water droplets off his face. His hands remained holding White Wing against his body, "However shall you make amends for this abuse?"
Spluttering and laughing as much as his husband, White Wing pushed wet hair out of his eyes as he leaned into Swift Arrow. Lacing cool fingers together around Swift Arrow's neck, he teased the mirthful lips with his own as he answered in low, sexy, tones, "I'll make you the finest breakfast you've ever eaten."
"I've already consumed your finest offering." Swift Arrow waggled an eyebrow. He followed his cheeky pronouncement by flicking out his tongue to lick at White Wing's lips. Their playing soon deepened into a kiss until at long last he broke it with a sigh. White Wing's arms still wound around his neck, Swift Arrow stood, the stream's water cascading from their glistening bodies.
"For now you can wash your husband before the rest of the clan awakes and the day begins in earnest." Swift Arrow could willingly spend all of the day with his bride, touching and loving and basking in White Wing's presence. Unfortunately, there were matters to be discussed and duties to be performed. A frown momentarily furrowed his brow until White Wing nuzzled under his chin.
White Wing knew Swift Arrow was thinking of the things he needed to do before long. There were a number of things going on that as the chief's son, Swift Arrow would have to attend to. Much as it would be wonderful to be living in peace and for them to spend all of their time enjoying each other's company and loving touches, it wasn't to be. Today Swift Arrow and some of the other braves were going on a hunting trip, and they would probably be away for several days.
White Wing would not stop his husband from performing his duties, but he would take advantage of whatever time they managed like this.
Nuzzling and smiling against the warm skin, he kissed Swift Arrow where his lips lay, then shifted back to begin the job he'd been assigned, a lusty look in his eyes as he did so. Washing, perhaps, but others were not awake yet, and there could still be time for a little more play before Swift Arrow was needed elsewhere.
Although his eyes teased, he did exactly as he'd been bid at first, until he was kneeling waist deep in the water at Swift Arrow's feet.
"Some special attention is required here," he noted in serious tones, studying Swift Arrow's rising interest, but not yet touching it.
"Mm hmm," was all Swift Arrow could manage. When White Wing's normally coyly innocent gaze turned so lusty, Swift Arrow was dough in his wife's hands.
"I should call you a witch for stirring my blood until duty is far from my mind and all I desire is to idle the day away with you." Swift Arrow's face was serious; the furrow that often etched his brow before their binding in place. Then his lips twitched and lusty amusement twinkled in his dark eyes as his desire swelled in anticipation and from the soft puffs of White Wing's breathing.
"Of course I never would. I take great pride in knowing you enjoy our coupling as much as I do, and my heart swells to see you so playful."
White Wing said nothing, but smiled in pleasure at Swift Arrow's words. He reached for Swift Arrow's hardness, using gentle hands to clean it with the cold water. His smile grew as his husband gasped at the chill of it, but Swift Arrow certainly didn't go down. White Wing spent more time than was necessary ensuring the hardness was as clean as it could be, teasing with expert touches and desirous glances upward until he was sure Swift Arrow was close to taking matters into his own hands.
Licking his lips softly and slowly, White Wing kept his eyes on Swift Arrow's as he shifted his hands to the base of the brave's erection. Still holding his gaze, he leaned forward and kissed the tip of Swift Arrow's cock so gently that it almost might not have happened.
"Should I be so wicked so early in the day?" he asked softly, his warm breath caressing the object of his desire. "Perhaps now I should begin cooking, instead?" he teased with a cheeky grin.
"Don't you dare," Swift Arrow warned, though he smiled down at White Wing's teasing. The 'object' they were discussing bobbed as if nodding in agreement. "You would be wicked not to continue what you started, my not-so-coy wife."
White Wing's smile grew warmer, and he waggled his eyebrows briefly before tossing his hair back over his shoulder in order to take the head of Swift Arrow's manhood between gentle lips without hair in his way.
Once the hot strength was inside his mouth, White Wing closed his eyes and hummed his pleasure. Swift Arrow had the sweetest taste of all the braves he had done this to, and White Wing loved the texture of this cock against his smooth tongue. Alternating sucking firmly with swirling his tongue around the sensitive ridges and the underside of the tip, White Wing couldn't stop his hands from creeping around Swift Arrow's buttocks to fondle the strong muscles there.
He loved using his other senses with Swift Arrow, though it was hard not to look at him too. As he continued, he had to open his eyes once more, gazing up the brave's body with complete and utter love.
Swift Arrow laughed, though it cut off to a groan as his definitely not shy wife took him between soft lips. While White Wing had bathed him, he became acclimated to the small pool's water. Now, as his need elevated, the small waves lapping against his thighs helped cool his heated skin. He cupped White Wing's cheek, needing the extra connection to his mate. Desire spiraling higher, the simple touch grounded Swift Arrow, as only White Wing could.
Soar, fly! White Wing thought as he increased his steady movements, wanting only for Swift Arrow to feel the same pleasure and sense of leaving one's body that he'd had himself not long ago with his lover doing this to him. His hands stroked over and over the strength of Swift Arrow's buttocks as he took the length in further and hummed more deeply. His own cock was rigid between his legs, the cool water keeping his desire at bay, and he wouldn't touch it until Swift Arrow had reached the soaring heights this time.
It didn't take much more of White Wing's efforts until Swift Arrow began shuddering as he flew and his release raced through and out of him. His head went back, muscles standing out in rigid relief, letting White Wing provide the only support keeping him upright. Never had it been with any prior lover that Swift Arrow felt completely freed of earthly constraints; the all encompassing love and trust Swift Arrow and White Wing shared was that special.
Easily swallowing all the strength Swift Arrow offered him, White Wing kept hold of his lover's buttocks, steadying him, as he suckled and licked his slow way off.
Offering a sly grin upwards, White Wing stroked the firm buttocks reassuringly before slowly letting go and rising up on his knees more fully. This made his cock stand up out of the water, and White Wing lowered a hand, teasing Swift Arrow visually as much as himself physically.
"No," Swift Arrow rasped when he recovered his senses enough to see what White Wing was doing. He reached a hand down to help his wife upright. After kissing full lips, Swift Arrow turned White Wing around and gathered him close, back to front.
"Let me..." was all Swift Arrow said as his diminished length settled naturally between soft nether cheeks and he wrapped his hand over White Wing's heated flesh. He nuzzled through to the place where neck met shoulder and stroked White Wing in the way they both knew heightened his desire the quickest.
"Let me be your strength now," Swift Arrow whispered, the arm around White Wing's waist comforting and supporting.
Resting his head back against Swift Arrow's shoulder, White Wing let the brave support him as he gave in to the pleasure of a hand against his spiralling desire, the lips kissing his neck sending tingling shivers through his entire body.
It didn't take much, as it never did, unless Swift Arrow was purposefully wanting him to last, but that wasn't a bad thing right now. White Wing let his voice rise, the note peaking as his body spilled forth. As if Swan had lifted him into the air, White Wing felt weightless in his lover's arms, and would have dropped straight back into the cool water had Swift Arrow not held him where he was. The pulsing of his lover's heart in time with his own as it slowed down brought him back to earth, and White Wing slowly turned as Swift Arrow's hand dropped away, his own arms circling the other man's neck as their lips met.
"I love you," he murmured once more, lips barely moving.
"As I love you," Swift Arrow answered as softly, pulling White Wing close. He dipped back in for more soft kisses until his belly rumbled in hunger. A rueful smile on his face, Swift Arrow broke away, patting White Wing's taut bottom.
"You've fed one of your husband's hungers, now the other is protesting in neglect," he tsked, a teasing light softening his dark eyes.
"Then I must feed that too," White Wing smiled back at his husband as they made their way out of the water. White Wing recovered his tunic and pulled it on as Swift Arrow wrapped his fur around himself.
Taking his husband's hand once he had flicked his hair out of his eyes, the two made their way back to their lodge, slipping inside quickly before many eyes caught their dishabille, although White Wing didn't really care who knew what they had been up to.
Once he had pulled on his leggings and tidied his tunic, White Wing combed his hair out, waiting for Swift Arrow to finish his own dressing. He smiled lovingly and gestured for Swift Arrow to be seated so he could braid the brave's hair.
As he worked, White Wing hummed lowly, once more pondering the strange dream he'd woken to.
Sitting where he could easily watch White Wing prepare their meal over the small lodge fire, Swift Arrow sorted through his weapons. Enjoying the grace with which his wife moved, he worked mostly by touch. Fingertips running over his blades, he set aside those in need of sharpening. He stroked over the fletching of his arrows, determining if any needed repair, before testing the straightness of the shafts and sharpness of each point.
Contentment filled every fiber of his being as neither felt the need to speak while they worked separately. When White Wing brought over a bowl of food, Swift Arrow caught his wife's hand.
"Come, indulge your husband before the hunting trip takes me away from your side. Let me feed you first, so I am assured-for now at least-that you are eating properly. You lost too much weight last time I was gone." Swift Arrow tempered his words by pulling White Wing down to sprawl partially in his lap and nuzzling the long neck he never could get enough of.
"I worry about you, and then I can't eat," White Wing admitted softly, kissing Swift Arrow's cheek as he wound arms around the brave's neck. "My dreams were odd last night; you must take care. Sssh." He placed a fingertip to Swift Arrow's lips to silence the likely protest that anything bad would befall him. "Please, for me?" he whispered, his warm breath tickling the shell of Swift Arrow's ear.
"Alright; for you I will take extra care, but only if you also promise to eat whenever those 'worries' come over you." Swift Arrow tapped the tip of White Wing's nose, then spooned up a mouthful and aimed the utensil at White Wing's lips.
He also worried-nearly to distraction-whenever they were parted, but had to put his faith into the spirits and the rest of the clan to watch over this special Winkte.
"I promise," White Wing repeated dutifully, and opened his mouth to the food Swift Arrow offered. He would do his best, though he couldn't guarantee anything, but it was better not to say too much or Swift Arrow would only worry too. Then he wouldn't be concentrating on his own safety, and that was the last thing White Wing wanted.
"Is Snarling Bear going with you?" he asked between the mouthfuls that Swift Arrow kept feeding him, trying to keep his tone casual. For a change, Snarling Bear hadn't been hanging around last night, and that was unusual if he was in the hunting party. He had still been hopeful of sharing strength with White Wing again, but it was not likely any time soon; not if White Wing did not choose it, and he didn't think Swift Arrow was about to condone it either.
"No," Swift Arrow answered, spooning another mouthful that White Wing pushed away indicating Swift Arrow should eat it, "Snarling Bear will remain behind this time. Why; do your spirit guides suggest he should go?" Swift Arrow asked, not guessing there would be any other reason White Wing would ask after the other brave.
White Wing shook his head, smiling in what he hoped was a reassuring way. "No. He..." he hesitated, taking another spoonful and chewing it carefully as he mulled over how much to say about Snarling Bear's interest in him. "You know he was also my suitor before you won my heart... well, you always had my heart, in truth," he assured his lover, kissing him gently on the cheek as Swift Arrow chewed another spoonful of food.
"And... he seeks me out before hunting trips. He thinks I can offer him power, but I can't. Not any more. Is that bad of me? That I save myself only for you when there are others who need my gifts?"
Searching Swift Arrow's eyes, White Wing knew his love was not in doubt, but he wanted to be sure his husband was glad of his limitations, not sorry that his Winkte duties seemed reduced since their binding.
"He frightens me sometimes," he whispered against Swift Arrow's warm cheek, wrapping his arms around the brave's neck. "He's so... intense."
"He is determined, yes," Swift Arrow said cautiously, setting aside the bowl to pull White Wing close. Brows creased in worry, he kissed his wife's crown. "Do you fear for your safety? I already planned to have Fire Dancer and his wives keep an eye out for you. Should I have Wind in the Grass stay behind; place his bedroll outside our lodge?"
Snarling Bear was a good warrior, and Swift Arrow sincerely hoped there was nothing untoward in his behavior towards White Wing. He would speak to Fire Dancer, but subtly; it wouldn't do to raise suspicions needlessly.
White Wing shook his head, pulling away from Swift Arrow a little to look into his husband's face with loving eyes.
"That isn't necessary. He will not do anything..." I don't think he will. "I will be all right. You have no need to worry. If I am unhappy..." afraid "...alone, I will stay in Fire Dancer's lodge. His family has welcomed me before. You will need Wind with you, in any case."
Smiling as easily as he could manage, White Wing got to his feet in a graceful swirl of beads and fringes. The sense of foreboding that hovered under his ribcage seemed heavier suddenly, but there was no tangible danger that he could warn Swift Arrow of; his dreams had been too confusing to decipher. Later, he would try the spirit guides again, and see if anything real could be discovered.
"Come, the others will be gathering, and it would not do for the chief's son to be the last on his horse."
"Are you that eager to be rid of your husband?" Swift Arrow joked after noticing the shadows flit across White Wing's face.
"The elders will want to confer and read the spirit signs again. I'll have plenty of time to hone my blades... and perhaps warm your bed one last time." He waggled his brows and kissed White Wing's temple.
"Do not worry mit'áwa* , I will take extra care, and will make sure you are well looked after too."
White Wing couldn't stop the smile from spreading across his face at the suggestion of having Swift Arrow with him for a little longer. He moved back towards his husband and wound arms around his neck, kissing him lightly and tickling under his hair.
"I love you more than you will ever know, was'telakapi'*."
Unable to contain his feelings of foreboding, White Wing kissed Swift Arrow over and over, hoping whatever it was would go away if they made love again.
Not trying hard to fend off White Wing's attack, laughing Swift Arrow let their momentum carry them back to the lodge floor. Tangling their legs and twisting, he soon had his randy wife pinned.
"As I love you equally so, you insatiable imp." Swift Arrow swooped in and placed kisses of his own wherever he could until White Wing's sweet giggles joined his.
There was nothing else beyond this, for now.
Word Count: ~5976
Glossary of Lakhota Terms:
Mit'áwa: my lover
Was'telakapi: beloved
On to Chapter 75