The Moonstone (7/?)
Title: The Moonstone (6/?)
Pairing: Sehun/Luhan, Chanyeol/Baekhyun, Kai/Kyungsoo, Kris/Tao
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Wolf!AU, drama, mpreg, M/M , M/F
Warnings: None for this chapter
Disclaimer: They are not mine, obviously.
Summary:: Luhan's the most beautiful and cherished omega in the pack. Comparing to Sehun he's as weak as a child, as easily breakable as a baby deer - and more desirable than any treasure a man can ever possess.
But then his plump, deliciously soft lips fell on mine like cold feathers, pressing ever so gently; as delicate and sweet as only Luhan could possibly be. Caressing. Savoring like nothing else mattered - and nothing probably did.'>
Chapter 6
Chapter 8
A/N: I'm not overly proud of this part so feel free to be just as displeased >_>;
''Is that why he ran away?'' the golden-haired boy asks quietly when her fingers finally slip out of his tender hole, weight of what he's heard so overwhelming that even his voice doesn't sound familiar to his own ears. ''To avoid it?''
Boa smiles at him in that peculiar, unnerving way that has Luhan's nerves on fire in a flash. Mocking him. Teasing. ''Maybe. But that shouldn't concern you anymore, Little Sun. You are not pregnant, and in a few months...you will be ready again; you and Sehun will both be ready to fulfill the prophecy. At last. ''
''Sleepyhead!''
Luhan's eyes open to the bright rays of morning sun, heavy lids blinking away last traces of sleep as he gets up from the hard ground he's been sleeping on. It takes a moment for his sight to focus and when it finally does, Luhan's surprised to find out that he's not inside one of the huts.
Daylight. Trees. Grass. Where...?
''Hello? Earth to Luhan!'' there's some pressure on his back then and a pair of arms circling around his neck from behind. Familiar arms. ''You seem out of it, are you okay?''
Luhan tries to concentrate and summon the last thing he remembers in his memory but the action proves harder than it should, fleeting thoughts escaping his aching head with the speed of light and leaving nothing but anxiousness he can't quite put his finger on. He furrows his brows in confusion, knowing something's strange but unable to pinpoint what exactly.
''Did you have too much to drink yesterday? I'm sorry we forced you, but it was just a tiny bit, and it's a custom during every mating celebration, yeah? No harsh feelings, Luhannie? You do look a little pale... but otherwise you're all good!''
It's that sweet aroma of mating, fresh grass and new beginnings that awakens something in him then, too less to be a memory but far too vivid to be a mere dream. He turns around and looks Baekhyun in the eye, his own pupils dilated with uncertainty and fear.
''Where are we?''
Baekhyun's face falls at that and his expression turns into a worried scowl. ''Where could we be? Uh-huh...in the usual place, I guess? You know, where our mating celebration took place yesterday, and Chanyeol sort of had too much to drink, and he...anyway, here, just in front of the-'' and then he stops, dark orbs piercing Luhan's. ''Did you hit your head? Should I call Yixing? I'm sorry we left you outside after the celebration, I had no idea you didn't return to your hut, if I knew I would-''
''Baek.'' The other boy blinks at his stern voice, arms falling to his sides. Luhan grabs him by the shoulders and shakes, almost shouting now. ''Something is wrong, there were people here, bad people who wanted to hurt us. I saw them as clearly as I can see you right now, standing right here. Dozens of them. But it was...wait.''
''Luhan, you are sca-''
''You said that your and Chanyeol's mating celebration was yesterday? What I saw happened three weeks after that.'' Luhan takes a step back, eyes even wider and hands shaking as he rustles them through his golden hair, breathing heavily. ''It wasn't a dream, I know it was not a dream.''
Baekhyun worries his lower lip between his teeth then, giving the other male a worried look. ''Just...what are you trying to say?''
''You do know that I love you, right? That I would do everything I could to save you?'' Luhan trusts Baekhyun with his life, and although he's aware of how crazy and desperate his voice sounds right now he's also positive that Baekhyun will listen to what he has to say. If what he 'saw' was not a mere dream... - and Luhan's certain it wasn't - then they are all in danger. And every second counts.
''Of course I do, but what is it all about? You look really pale, and I'm just...scared.''
The golden-haired boy tells Baekhyun everything about things he saw and experienced during his blackout; describes all the horrors that came from the North following him and Sehun - the king, the Priestess, and the 'destiny' they spoke about, an army that leaves no trace behind them. Cruelty and pain.
Baekhyun just stares at him in horror, but after Luhan's done he slowly nods his head in understanding. ''You've always had this...some sort of premonition talent...'' he whispers. ''But this is horrible, I can't even imagine something like that happening...and Xiumin? Are you sure about him?''
Luhan licks his lips, lost in thought. ''Maybe we can reach him before he finds the enemy , before he tells them where we are? And Sehun...I need to go after him. If there’s a smallest chance of what I saw being real…I need to find him.''
---------------------------
Sehun's POV
I slipped away without a word, like a thief. It wasn't easy, leaving Luhan like this, not when I knew how much he needed me - my presence and acceptance after all that he's been through, my love that didn't die out just because he was touched by another and my voice, saying that from now on nothing bad will happen to him. That I will protect him.
I never told him, but I knew how he felt about me. And I knew with all the certainty in the world how I felt about him.
And I gave Luhan none of these, instead I just abandoned him - or at least that's what he's going to think as soon as they notice me missing - , leaving him alone with guilty conscience, heavy heart and burdens he shouldn't be forced to carry by himself.
But above everything else, I simply wanted him to be safe. Even without me, but safe. And so I left as soon as I felt that ghostly, all too familiar presence that sends chills down my spine even now, knowing it's too dangerous to be anywhere near the pack while they are close.
But…
''Sehun!''
I stopped mid track, dead body of a Northern scout falling to the ground with a gruesome thud. That voice...it couldn't be.
Could it?
''Luhan? What are you doing here? How did you find me?''
He launched at me with such force that his little frame managed to knock me down to the ground, our sweaty bodies pressed together in a desperate embrace a second after. ''I can't believe you were able to follow me while I hid my presence, it's not possible.''
''I'm the only one who can sniff you from everywhere in this realm.'' he answered quietly, eyes turning somewhat sad and yet glowing with determination I've never seen before. ''Wherever you go, I will always be there. So don't try to fight by yourself ever again, not when you have me.''
''How did you-''
But then his plump, deliciously soft lips fell on mine like cold feathers, pressing ever so gently; as delicate and sweet as only Luhan could possibly be. Caressing. Savoring like nothing else mattered - and nothing probably did.
Not then.
---------------------------
It's quite an addicting mixture the way Luhan's cold, soft lips press on Sehun's skin with dizzying sweetness and innocent desperation, so void of passion in the sexual sense and yet ripe with need neither of them can explain. It feels natural to press their bodies together and just hold tight; so natural that for a long, heated moment Luhan forgets about everything else. His white hands find their way up Sehun's neck and then rest on the side of his face; touching the other male for what feels like the very first time. Somehow, Luhan's not ashamed neither of his own boldness nor the fact that this is the first time he's being intimate out of his own will, intimate with no one else but Sehun.
He yearns for and desires; and when Sehun's pearly teeth clash with his, he knows he's wanted, too.
In his arms is where he belongs.
''I have so much to tell you,'' Luhan whispers when they break the kiss, his voice coming from the very depth of his chest. He sounds like a fish out of water, needy and restless. ''I...''
''You found me.''
Sehun presses his mouth to Luhan's nape and the other boy shivers with sudden urge to be held down and dominated; instincts that should be deep asleep after first heat now wide awake against all odds, tingling his nerves and setting them on fire. The silver-haired male nibs and licks at his neck and Luhan can feel his limbs gradually becoming clumsy and limp, resting heavily on Sehun.
Giving in.
''I'm sorry, I didn't...want to become like this.'' he manages weakly, but a pair or strong arms circle around his waist like a stone pillar nonetheless, being a silent 'I got you' Luhan has been unconsciously waiting for all this time. ''We shouldn't...''
He isn't entirely sure what he wanted to say but it loses all importance anyway when Sehun crushes him in a hug and just … smiles. Smiles like he knew everything from the very beginning.
''It's alright, I'm here for you now. And don't worry - we won't; not when time isn't right.''
Sehun's low voice and the unsaid promise behind his words make the other boy gasp. It's hard, so, so hard, but slowly he untangles himself from the silver-haired male's embrace and faces him eye to eye, still a little unsteady on his feet but determined enough to ignore every single inconvenience at this point. His eyes wander to the dead body sprawled on the ground nearby, a grotesque and grim reminder of what's awaiting them if the wheel of fortune cannot be turned. If what he saw wasn't just his own mind playing tricks on him.
''I'm here because I have something to tell you. It can't wait any longer, even if I wanted it to. It may sound crazy, but please...''
I know what you're about to do, I know who chases us and why, I know we aren't safe, I know I can't afford to lose you.
I know I have to do something before they tear us apart.
It's a matter of weeks until Sehun becomes mature; his beauty and growing strength already something that cannot be underestimated and yet hiding so many more promises it's astonishing. Luhan catches himself staring at one bluish vein visible on his right biceps and it crushes his heart to imagine those arms holding someone else, circling around shoulders that aren't his. Sehun gazes at him expectantly and Luhan clears his throat, knowing he doesn't and won't understand, at least not yet. Not fully.
''I chased after you because I saw something. In a dream that didn't feel like a dream.''
---------------------------
''Luhan said...what?''
''I know what you think, it sounds strange but he-''
''Baekhyun, there's a difference between being 'strange' and just fucking unbelievable! Think before embarrassing yourself in front of everyone again, you are not a child anymore! I can't believe this is happening.''
''I...what? Of course I am not a child, and I'm damn sure you know that much after fucking me so many times during past few years, asshole!''
''I'm an asshole? Just because now you're so happily mated, exclusive and what-not? I guess Chanyeol literally fucked your brains out in the process of becoming a perfect match for dear and sweet Byun Baekhyun.''
''You...bastard. Bastard.''
''Well, what did you expect? That we'll clap our hands and happily leave a territory we fought for all this time? Because some lunatic said so?''
''How can you even call Luhan a lunatic? After all we've been through, after all those times he was right in his warnings?''
''Listen, you -''
''Silence. That's enough of you, Chen. Baekhyun, sit down. You too, Chanyeol.''
Everyone falls silent when Kris gets up, now pacing back and forth with his stern eyes fixed on Baekhyun's pale face. Chanyeol has his right fist raised like he's still considering beating Chen to a pulp for addressing his mate like he just did, but their leader's fearsome posture makes him back down eventually. They sit in pregnant silence.
''This is not a trivial matter.'' Kris says finally, noting that Baekhyun intentionally avoids his gaze. ''When Luhan sees things, they are usually relevant to reality in one way or another. If what Baekhyun just told us is true, this is the first time Luhan had such detailed, fearsome vision to warn us about. I don't believe it to be mere coincidence.''
''Are you joking? Do you really believe that some … wolves from the North came after us? Those monsters from the tales? Kris, please! Are we really going to throw everything away because of this...unlikely scenario Luhan saw in his dream? A dream. Nothing more.''
Kyungsoo gulps. The situation isn't good and the conflict that arose makes it gradually worse, but even though he really wants to do something - feels he should do something, even - his head stays blank and without a single decent idea. Baekhyun's face is burning red with anger as Chanyeol holds him, but it's Chen that seems on the verge of erupting with fury.
''We will speak no more of this. What needs to be addressed is our course of action.'' Kris keeps his voice low, but Chen doesn't give in.
''That's what I'm trying to do right now. Discuss our course of action.''
''Chen, maybe you should...'' Suho puts a hand on the other man's shoulder, grasping it tightly before Chen manages to get up and face their leader in a confrontation he can't possibly win. ''Just stop. Don't do this.''
''This is madness. Madness. And all this because Kris can't think straight when it comes to his beautiful and perfect Luhan, a porcelain doll who sees right through the nature of things and everything else. Really, it's quite sad... he should just fuck him already and stop this ridiculous circle of adoration that - ''
Baekhyun and Kyungsoo shout at the same time when Tao delivers a powerful blow that strikes Chen right in the chest and sends him flying onto the table, breaking the hard wood. ''One more word,'' he hisses, pressing his foot to the other man's throat. ''And I'll have your head.''
''Easy, easy, easy...'' Yixing mutters as soon as he regains his senses, gaping at Chen's bloodied face. ''Fighting among ourselves is not going to help.''
''Tao, please!'' Suho yells when the other still doesn't change his position, applying pressure on his friend's neck with deadly precision. ''He didn't mean it. Please stop.''
It takes several minutes for everyone to calm down again, but when Kyungsoo finally finds his voice to speak, he does just that.
''Luhan said we have to run. I'm not trying to convince you, or tell anyone what to do...but I believe him. I believe we should do what he says, because if there is even the slightest possibility that we might get assaulted and hurt, I would rather leave everything we have behind and stay safe. I care about you all too much to stand...this.''
''But is it really safe to move right now? In a few weeks Baekhyun will be in heat, and all...'' Kai argues weakly, but there's no trace of fight in his voice. ''And you, Kyungsoo - ''
But the smaller boy just shakes his head before anyone manages to say anything more, knowing all too well where Kai's deduction is leading. ''Of course you're right, Kai. But I prefer to take my chances out in the wild while in heat than among those who may hurt me just because of that, you know? And yes, soon enough Baekhyun won't be able to do much, including fighting back. Do you think Chanyeol will manage to protect him when we're surrounded by foes? What will happen if he doesn't?''
Kai knows the other boy isn't just talking about Baekhyun but also about himself, and the feeling of powerlessness in providing Kyungsoo comfort mortifies him the very moment he realizes how insensitive his previous question was.
''I...don't know.'' Kai lies, unable to hold Kyungsoo's gaze under the solemn heaviness of his big, sad eyes.
He does, of course he does. He just prays he won't ever be forced to witness such a horrible thing.
---------------------------
''I'm sorry you found out this way. It was never my intention to lie to any of you, but I just didn't want that ugliness to spoil what we achieved, to undermine my already fragile position. I thought that maybe...you don't have to know. At least not everything. For that I'm … deeply sorry, Luhan.''
Sehun doesn't seem half as shocked as Luhan suspected he would be after listening to his story, and that simple fact alone is proof enough that what he saw has actually a lot to do with the truth. He didn't hide or omit anything, not even one detail as he described the future events his dream revealed. No matter how much it hurt, Luhan knew that it wasn't the right time for riddles.
No more games.
''You don't seem very surprised.'' he says aloud as they dash through the fog, looking for any sign of Xiumin or the enemy he is about to encounter. ''But I still am. Even though I saw future events, I don't know how to interpret them. I don't know who...who I am. Who you are. I have no idea what kind of danger we're facing and how to stay safe.''
Sehun doesn't say anything and for a long moment Luhan hears nothing but strong gusts of wind ringing in his ears as well as his own beating heart, pumping blood that slowly turns cold. He knows that everything , every piece of this puzzle their life turned into, starts to fall into place but the prospect of hearing the truth he doesn't want to know scares him more than anything - and makes his newly found relationship with Sehun seem...oddly distant.
''At least tell me if...'' Luhan blinks a few times, puffy lids getting rid of tears forming in the corner of his eyes before they fall. He fights off the momentary weakness and continues, staring at countless rows of dark trees they leave behind. ''You and that woman - were you really about to...? Is there truly...some sort of twisted prophecy you ran away from?''
Because I don't want it to be. It can't be.
Sehun stays silent for a few more minutes and just when Luhan's convinced he won't say a word, the other boy's low voice breaks the stillness around them.
''What you witnessed was a course of fate that crushed your pride and robbed you from freedom because of my failure, and yet... your worst fear is what happens to me in the very end of this bargain.''
''Sehun...what I meant-''
''I know. And we won't find Xiumin before night falls. It might be too late already.''
Luhan stops. Several feet in front of him, Sehun halts as well.
''You didn't answer me.''
The silver-haired male turns to face Luhan, taking in how pitiful and tired he looks with those glassy, sorrowful eyes and lips pressed together into a strained line. He doesn't deserve the suspense of living in a fake world that will shatter in his arms sooner or later; the lie their created around him swallowing everything he fought for.
''Luhan.'' There's nothing else Sehun can do but close the distance between them and take the other in his arms again, pressing Luhan's lithe, trembling body to his own. Even if the gesture might seem traitorous, comforting the smaller boy is something he does almost automatically, without thought. It's all he can do for him right now. ''I will tell you everything I know if that is your wish.''
Nothing urges him forward when Sehun's that close - not even chasing after Xiumin, they lost his trace anyway - so Luhan lets the other boy lead him towards a small pond surrounded by willow trees no further than several meters away. The place's astonishing; a spark of light dancing on the surface of still water and floral whispers rustling between fresh leaves, serene and almost magical. It calms his senses and Luhan allows himself a moment of peace, gathering his galloping thoughts as that sweet, evening breeze feels his nostrils with deep aroma.
''You were here before.'' He says quietly when Sehun lays him down on the ground, taking a place next to Luhan a moment after. ''It's beautiful.''
''We incidentally happened to be nearby, and running too far away from the pack is dangerous, taking our circumstances into consideration. Xiumin is gone. For now.''
''Is the cause lost then?'' Luhan whispers, closing his eyes and covering them with a shaking hand. ''Was I too late after all?''
''No.''
The golden-haired boy feels gentle fingers pressing down onto his temples, massaging delicate skin underneath with such tenderness his heart almost skips a beat. He knows Sehun's face is only inches away from his lips, but the contact he awaits never comes.
''Are we safe here?'' He doesn't open his eyes, scared of what he might see painting those handsome features. ''Shouldn't we go back?''
The pressure on his temples lessens and travels down his cheeks instead, a little caress that has Luhan gasping with shameless need once again. It's most bizarre what Sehun's touch does to him. ''Probably. But I believe we have a few moments, so let me tell you a story before we go.''
''A story?''
''Yes. It's a long tale, but I will cut it short for now, until a better time comes...so listen carefully, Little Sun.''
''Wha-!''
But Sehun just shushes him quiet, his melodious voice the only thing Luhan hears from now on; engulfing him in fire, smoke and almost painful desire to know and devour the painful truth that haunts them.
''Long, long time ago the Sun had a human body, a gentle human heart and mind that could foresee future events. It is believed that she was the most beautiful maiden our world has ever seen, with long, silky golden hair that could change color and even burn with flames if she wished them to. The Sun grew up alone and yearned for contact with other creatures, and that's when she encountered a pack of wolves in the woods, wolves that could turn into humans - and look just like her. They noticed how powerful the Sun was, so powerful that she managed to learned how to become one of them, how to shift her beautiful human body into a lean wolf with golden fur, shimmering with sun rays. She was unique, unlike any of the others. Wolves treasure power and strength above everything else, and so they called her their first and only queen, a leader figure they never knew before. But there was a limit to what she could do - the world didn't know darkness in those ancient times, and her energy started draining slowly as she supported the light that shone above the Earth. She was dying.''
''Dying? The Sun was dying?'' Caught up in the story, Luhan fails to keep quiet. His voice is just above a whisper, but he knows that Sehun hears him clearly. ''What happened then? She didn't die, did she?''
''Of course not.''
Luhan decides to open his eyes then and the emerald glow of familiar orbs, mere inches away from his face, makes him swallow a surprised gasp. He remembers the last time he saw Sehun's eyes shining like this - the first night they found him in the snow, the night when Luhan fought for his life.
''One day, when the Sun was very weak...she found a peculiar stone lying in the grass. A crystal she had never seen before, white as snow and clear like the sky; emitting a different kind of light than the one she was so used to. This light was cold - shimmering blue, green and silver.''
''The exact opposite of hers.''
''Yes. The Sun felt some unknown kind of power radiating from the crystal and tried to pick it up out of curiosity, but as soon as her fingers touched its surface the stone shattered into pieces, leaving her with nothing but dust. The Sun gazed at what remained of the beautiful crystal and sadness overwhelmed her. A single tear fell on the shards.''
Only after a few seconds pass and Sehun's voice quietens does Luhan realize that the silver-haired boy traces his cheek with a finger, wiping away a wet trail that appeared out of nowhere.
''I think...I've heard this story before. How could I forget?''
''So you know how it ends.''
''Tell me.''
Sehun smiles. Luhan doesn't even manage to blink before he's lifted up in his arms and flipped over, now straddling the other's thighs and towering above that beautiful face he can't quite look away from. Their hands join as Sehun's back rests on the ground underneath Luhan's body, obedient and pliant.
''After the Sun's tears fell on the broken crystal the light she saw before appeared again, this time so strong it almost blinded her. She closed her eyes, afraid of losing her sight, and when she opened them again there was a silhouette of a man standing right before her, a man with silver hair and pale skin. In his presence she slowly regained her strength, and soon enough they decided to become one; to rule together as day and night. The Sun and the Moon, who from now on watched over the Earth when she could finally rest. Two royalties that led the wolves, wielding the powers controlling ice and fire. Darkness and light.''
Sehun pulls one of Luhan's hands and presses his delicate fingertips to his mouth. Another tear falls on their joined palms and he kisses it away, drawing a strained moan from Luhan's parted lips. ''That's the story I wanted to tell you.''
''But how...I don't understand.''
''It's a legend I didn't believed in, not until they captured me as a child and forced to serve in the Ice Kingdom. I was locked away from the rest of the world for three years like a slave, but the truth reached my ears in the end - I realized that there might be something special about the story I believed to be a mere fairytale, something crucial I missed. You see, the essence of the Sun...is eternal. Her human body, the one we hear about in the tale, might have died or disappeared, I'm not even sure, but it can't cease to exist. While on Earth, it simply changes its form. Rebirths. And so does the Moon.''
Luhan stares at him with wide eyes, hands frozen in Sehun's grip. His breath catches in his throat but at the same something clicks, like he suddenly remembered a long forgotten truth.
''Are you saying...it's me? And you?''
''They looked for the child of the Sun all this time I've spent as their prisoner. I was supposed to become your...supporter, a battery for powers you are able to wield only while I am close. The priestess believed that you would wither and die if I'm not by your side soon after reaching maturity, and if they lost you they would also lose the chance to use you as a pillar for their ruling. After mating with you, the fake ruler that occupies throne of the North could finally gain respect and evidence stating that he's meant to lead. Your children would have nothing standing in their way to unify the realms.''
Luhan lowers himself on his forearms and presses the side of his face to Sehun's chest, listening to the other boy's heartbeat. A hand sneaks up his long neck and starts to stroke his golden hair.
''It would be the brightest future possible for the King, to have both you and me, so close but kept apart so that we won't pose any threat. I managed to run away, hoping something can be done to prevent this fate...and found your pack.''
''That day,'' Luhan cuts in, ''You lied to us. You said you don't know why the cold and ice can't hurt you, you said you were running away from ghosts and curses. You knew...why didn't you tell me earlier?''
''Luhan... until the last moment, I wasn't entirely sure if it's really you they are looking for. I couldn't risk it. I couldn't let you believe we can be together if you weren't the one. And the pack couldn't know who I am.''
''...''
They fall silent, and after a long moment of heavy breathing Luhan finally gets up from the ground and looks around. It's dark already.
''They won't enslave us. I'm not theirs to have.''
Chapter 6
Chapter 8
Pairing: Sehun/Luhan, Chanyeol/Baekhyun, Kai/Kyungsoo, Kris/Tao
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Wolf!AU, drama, mpreg, M/M , M/F
Warnings: None for this chapter
Disclaimer: They are not mine, obviously.
Summary:: Luhan's the most beautiful and cherished omega in the pack. Comparing to Sehun he's as weak as a child, as easily breakable as a baby deer - and more desirable than any treasure a man can ever possess.
But then his plump, deliciously soft lips fell on mine like cold feathers, pressing ever so gently; as delicate and sweet as only Luhan could possibly be. Caressing. Savoring like nothing else mattered - and nothing probably did.'>
Chapter 6
Chapter 8
A/N: I'm not overly proud of this part so feel free to be just as displeased >_>;
''Is that why he ran away?'' the golden-haired boy asks quietly when her fingers finally slip out of his tender hole, weight of what he's heard so overwhelming that even his voice doesn't sound familiar to his own ears. ''To avoid it?''
Boa smiles at him in that peculiar, unnerving way that has Luhan's nerves on fire in a flash. Mocking him. Teasing. ''Maybe. But that shouldn't concern you anymore, Little Sun. You are not pregnant, and in a few months...you will be ready again; you and Sehun will both be ready to fulfill the prophecy. At last. ''
''Sleepyhead!''
Luhan's eyes open to the bright rays of morning sun, heavy lids blinking away last traces of sleep as he gets up from the hard ground he's been sleeping on. It takes a moment for his sight to focus and when it finally does, Luhan's surprised to find out that he's not inside one of the huts.
Daylight. Trees. Grass. Where...?
''Hello? Earth to Luhan!'' there's some pressure on his back then and a pair of arms circling around his neck from behind. Familiar arms. ''You seem out of it, are you okay?''
Luhan tries to concentrate and summon the last thing he remembers in his memory but the action proves harder than it should, fleeting thoughts escaping his aching head with the speed of light and leaving nothing but anxiousness he can't quite put his finger on. He furrows his brows in confusion, knowing something's strange but unable to pinpoint what exactly.
''Did you have too much to drink yesterday? I'm sorry we forced you, but it was just a tiny bit, and it's a custom during every mating celebration, yeah? No harsh feelings, Luhannie? You do look a little pale... but otherwise you're all good!''
It's that sweet aroma of mating, fresh grass and new beginnings that awakens something in him then, too less to be a memory but far too vivid to be a mere dream. He turns around and looks Baekhyun in the eye, his own pupils dilated with uncertainty and fear.
''Where are we?''
Baekhyun's face falls at that and his expression turns into a worried scowl. ''Where could we be? Uh-huh...in the usual place, I guess? You know, where our mating celebration took place yesterday, and Chanyeol sort of had too much to drink, and he...anyway, here, just in front of the-'' and then he stops, dark orbs piercing Luhan's. ''Did you hit your head? Should I call Yixing? I'm sorry we left you outside after the celebration, I had no idea you didn't return to your hut, if I knew I would-''
''Baek.'' The other boy blinks at his stern voice, arms falling to his sides. Luhan grabs him by the shoulders and shakes, almost shouting now. ''Something is wrong, there were people here, bad people who wanted to hurt us. I saw them as clearly as I can see you right now, standing right here. Dozens of them. But it was...wait.''
''Luhan, you are sca-''
''You said that your and Chanyeol's mating celebration was yesterday? What I saw happened three weeks after that.'' Luhan takes a step back, eyes even wider and hands shaking as he rustles them through his golden hair, breathing heavily. ''It wasn't a dream, I know it was not a dream.''
Baekhyun worries his lower lip between his teeth then, giving the other male a worried look. ''Just...what are you trying to say?''
''You do know that I love you, right? That I would do everything I could to save you?'' Luhan trusts Baekhyun with his life, and although he's aware of how crazy and desperate his voice sounds right now he's also positive that Baekhyun will listen to what he has to say. If what he 'saw' was not a mere dream... - and Luhan's certain it wasn't - then they are all in danger. And every second counts.
''Of course I do, but what is it all about? You look really pale, and I'm just...scared.''
The golden-haired boy tells Baekhyun everything about things he saw and experienced during his blackout; describes all the horrors that came from the North following him and Sehun - the king, the Priestess, and the 'destiny' they spoke about, an army that leaves no trace behind them. Cruelty and pain.
Baekhyun just stares at him in horror, but after Luhan's done he slowly nods his head in understanding. ''You've always had this...some sort of premonition talent...'' he whispers. ''But this is horrible, I can't even imagine something like that happening...and Xiumin? Are you sure about him?''
Luhan licks his lips, lost in thought. ''Maybe we can reach him before he finds the enemy , before he tells them where we are? And Sehun...I need to go after him. If there’s a smallest chance of what I saw being real…I need to find him.''
---------------------------
Sehun's POV
I slipped away without a word, like a thief. It wasn't easy, leaving Luhan like this, not when I knew how much he needed me - my presence and acceptance after all that he's been through, my love that didn't die out just because he was touched by another and my voice, saying that from now on nothing bad will happen to him. That I will protect him.
I never told him, but I knew how he felt about me. And I knew with all the certainty in the world how I felt about him.
And I gave Luhan none of these, instead I just abandoned him - or at least that's what he's going to think as soon as they notice me missing - , leaving him alone with guilty conscience, heavy heart and burdens he shouldn't be forced to carry by himself.
But above everything else, I simply wanted him to be safe. Even without me, but safe. And so I left as soon as I felt that ghostly, all too familiar presence that sends chills down my spine even now, knowing it's too dangerous to be anywhere near the pack while they are close.
But…
''Sehun!''
I stopped mid track, dead body of a Northern scout falling to the ground with a gruesome thud. That voice...it couldn't be.
Could it?
''Luhan? What are you doing here? How did you find me?''
He launched at me with such force that his little frame managed to knock me down to the ground, our sweaty bodies pressed together in a desperate embrace a second after. ''I can't believe you were able to follow me while I hid my presence, it's not possible.''
''I'm the only one who can sniff you from everywhere in this realm.'' he answered quietly, eyes turning somewhat sad and yet glowing with determination I've never seen before. ''Wherever you go, I will always be there. So don't try to fight by yourself ever again, not when you have me.''
''How did you-''
But then his plump, deliciously soft lips fell on mine like cold feathers, pressing ever so gently; as delicate and sweet as only Luhan could possibly be. Caressing. Savoring like nothing else mattered - and nothing probably did.
Not then.
---------------------------
It's quite an addicting mixture the way Luhan's cold, soft lips press on Sehun's skin with dizzying sweetness and innocent desperation, so void of passion in the sexual sense and yet ripe with need neither of them can explain. It feels natural to press their bodies together and just hold tight; so natural that for a long, heated moment Luhan forgets about everything else. His white hands find their way up Sehun's neck and then rest on the side of his face; touching the other male for what feels like the very first time. Somehow, Luhan's not ashamed neither of his own boldness nor the fact that this is the first time he's being intimate out of his own will, intimate with no one else but Sehun.
He yearns for and desires; and when Sehun's pearly teeth clash with his, he knows he's wanted, too.
In his arms is where he belongs.
''I have so much to tell you,'' Luhan whispers when they break the kiss, his voice coming from the very depth of his chest. He sounds like a fish out of water, needy and restless. ''I...''
''You found me.''
Sehun presses his mouth to Luhan's nape and the other boy shivers with sudden urge to be held down and dominated; instincts that should be deep asleep after first heat now wide awake against all odds, tingling his nerves and setting them on fire. The silver-haired male nibs and licks at his neck and Luhan can feel his limbs gradually becoming clumsy and limp, resting heavily on Sehun.
Giving in.
''I'm sorry, I didn't...want to become like this.'' he manages weakly, but a pair or strong arms circle around his waist like a stone pillar nonetheless, being a silent 'I got you' Luhan has been unconsciously waiting for all this time. ''We shouldn't...''
He isn't entirely sure what he wanted to say but it loses all importance anyway when Sehun crushes him in a hug and just … smiles. Smiles like he knew everything from the very beginning.
''It's alright, I'm here for you now. And don't worry - we won't; not when time isn't right.''
Sehun's low voice and the unsaid promise behind his words make the other boy gasp. It's hard, so, so hard, but slowly he untangles himself from the silver-haired male's embrace and faces him eye to eye, still a little unsteady on his feet but determined enough to ignore every single inconvenience at this point. His eyes wander to the dead body sprawled on the ground nearby, a grotesque and grim reminder of what's awaiting them if the wheel of fortune cannot be turned. If what he saw wasn't just his own mind playing tricks on him.
''I'm here because I have something to tell you. It can't wait any longer, even if I wanted it to. It may sound crazy, but please...''
I know what you're about to do, I know who chases us and why, I know we aren't safe, I know I can't afford to lose you.
I know I have to do something before they tear us apart.
It's a matter of weeks until Sehun becomes mature; his beauty and growing strength already something that cannot be underestimated and yet hiding so many more promises it's astonishing. Luhan catches himself staring at one bluish vein visible on his right biceps and it crushes his heart to imagine those arms holding someone else, circling around shoulders that aren't his. Sehun gazes at him expectantly and Luhan clears his throat, knowing he doesn't and won't understand, at least not yet. Not fully.
''I chased after you because I saw something. In a dream that didn't feel like a dream.''
---------------------------
''Luhan said...what?''
''I know what you think, it sounds strange but he-''
''Baekhyun, there's a difference between being 'strange' and just fucking unbelievable! Think before embarrassing yourself in front of everyone again, you are not a child anymore! I can't believe this is happening.''
''I...what? Of course I am not a child, and I'm damn sure you know that much after fucking me so many times during past few years, asshole!''
''I'm an asshole? Just because now you're so happily mated, exclusive and what-not? I guess Chanyeol literally fucked your brains out in the process of becoming a perfect match for dear and sweet Byun Baekhyun.''
''You...bastard. Bastard.''
''Well, what did you expect? That we'll clap our hands and happily leave a territory we fought for all this time? Because some lunatic said so?''
''How can you even call Luhan a lunatic? After all we've been through, after all those times he was right in his warnings?''
''Listen, you -''
''Silence. That's enough of you, Chen. Baekhyun, sit down. You too, Chanyeol.''
Everyone falls silent when Kris gets up, now pacing back and forth with his stern eyes fixed on Baekhyun's pale face. Chanyeol has his right fist raised like he's still considering beating Chen to a pulp for addressing his mate like he just did, but their leader's fearsome posture makes him back down eventually. They sit in pregnant silence.
''This is not a trivial matter.'' Kris says finally, noting that Baekhyun intentionally avoids his gaze. ''When Luhan sees things, they are usually relevant to reality in one way or another. If what Baekhyun just told us is true, this is the first time Luhan had such detailed, fearsome vision to warn us about. I don't believe it to be mere coincidence.''
''Are you joking? Do you really believe that some … wolves from the North came after us? Those monsters from the tales? Kris, please! Are we really going to throw everything away because of this...unlikely scenario Luhan saw in his dream? A dream. Nothing more.''
Kyungsoo gulps. The situation isn't good and the conflict that arose makes it gradually worse, but even though he really wants to do something - feels he should do something, even - his head stays blank and without a single decent idea. Baekhyun's face is burning red with anger as Chanyeol holds him, but it's Chen that seems on the verge of erupting with fury.
''We will speak no more of this. What needs to be addressed is our course of action.'' Kris keeps his voice low, but Chen doesn't give in.
''That's what I'm trying to do right now. Discuss our course of action.''
''Chen, maybe you should...'' Suho puts a hand on the other man's shoulder, grasping it tightly before Chen manages to get up and face their leader in a confrontation he can't possibly win. ''Just stop. Don't do this.''
''This is madness. Madness. And all this because Kris can't think straight when it comes to his beautiful and perfect Luhan, a porcelain doll who sees right through the nature of things and everything else. Really, it's quite sad... he should just fuck him already and stop this ridiculous circle of adoration that - ''
Baekhyun and Kyungsoo shout at the same time when Tao delivers a powerful blow that strikes Chen right in the chest and sends him flying onto the table, breaking the hard wood. ''One more word,'' he hisses, pressing his foot to the other man's throat. ''And I'll have your head.''
''Easy, easy, easy...'' Yixing mutters as soon as he regains his senses, gaping at Chen's bloodied face. ''Fighting among ourselves is not going to help.''
''Tao, please!'' Suho yells when the other still doesn't change his position, applying pressure on his friend's neck with deadly precision. ''He didn't mean it. Please stop.''
It takes several minutes for everyone to calm down again, but when Kyungsoo finally finds his voice to speak, he does just that.
''Luhan said we have to run. I'm not trying to convince you, or tell anyone what to do...but I believe him. I believe we should do what he says, because if there is even the slightest possibility that we might get assaulted and hurt, I would rather leave everything we have behind and stay safe. I care about you all too much to stand...this.''
''But is it really safe to move right now? In a few weeks Baekhyun will be in heat, and all...'' Kai argues weakly, but there's no trace of fight in his voice. ''And you, Kyungsoo - ''
But the smaller boy just shakes his head before anyone manages to say anything more, knowing all too well where Kai's deduction is leading. ''Of course you're right, Kai. But I prefer to take my chances out in the wild while in heat than among those who may hurt me just because of that, you know? And yes, soon enough Baekhyun won't be able to do much, including fighting back. Do you think Chanyeol will manage to protect him when we're surrounded by foes? What will happen if he doesn't?''
Kai knows the other boy isn't just talking about Baekhyun but also about himself, and the feeling of powerlessness in providing Kyungsoo comfort mortifies him the very moment he realizes how insensitive his previous question was.
''I...don't know.'' Kai lies, unable to hold Kyungsoo's gaze under the solemn heaviness of his big, sad eyes.
He does, of course he does. He just prays he won't ever be forced to witness such a horrible thing.
---------------------------
''I'm sorry you found out this way. It was never my intention to lie to any of you, but I just didn't want that ugliness to spoil what we achieved, to undermine my already fragile position. I thought that maybe...you don't have to know. At least not everything. For that I'm … deeply sorry, Luhan.''
Sehun doesn't seem half as shocked as Luhan suspected he would be after listening to his story, and that simple fact alone is proof enough that what he saw has actually a lot to do with the truth. He didn't hide or omit anything, not even one detail as he described the future events his dream revealed. No matter how much it hurt, Luhan knew that it wasn't the right time for riddles.
No more games.
''You don't seem very surprised.'' he says aloud as they dash through the fog, looking for any sign of Xiumin or the enemy he is about to encounter. ''But I still am. Even though I saw future events, I don't know how to interpret them. I don't know who...who I am. Who you are. I have no idea what kind of danger we're facing and how to stay safe.''
Sehun doesn't say anything and for a long moment Luhan hears nothing but strong gusts of wind ringing in his ears as well as his own beating heart, pumping blood that slowly turns cold. He knows that everything , every piece of this puzzle their life turned into, starts to fall into place but the prospect of hearing the truth he doesn't want to know scares him more than anything - and makes his newly found relationship with Sehun seem...oddly distant.
''At least tell me if...'' Luhan blinks a few times, puffy lids getting rid of tears forming in the corner of his eyes before they fall. He fights off the momentary weakness and continues, staring at countless rows of dark trees they leave behind. ''You and that woman - were you really about to...? Is there truly...some sort of twisted prophecy you ran away from?''
Because I don't want it to be. It can't be.
Sehun stays silent for a few more minutes and just when Luhan's convinced he won't say a word, the other boy's low voice breaks the stillness around them.
''What you witnessed was a course of fate that crushed your pride and robbed you from freedom because of my failure, and yet... your worst fear is what happens to me in the very end of this bargain.''
''Sehun...what I meant-''
''I know. And we won't find Xiumin before night falls. It might be too late already.''
Luhan stops. Several feet in front of him, Sehun halts as well.
''You didn't answer me.''
The silver-haired male turns to face Luhan, taking in how pitiful and tired he looks with those glassy, sorrowful eyes and lips pressed together into a strained line. He doesn't deserve the suspense of living in a fake world that will shatter in his arms sooner or later; the lie their created around him swallowing everything he fought for.
''Luhan.'' There's nothing else Sehun can do but close the distance between them and take the other in his arms again, pressing Luhan's lithe, trembling body to his own. Even if the gesture might seem traitorous, comforting the smaller boy is something he does almost automatically, without thought. It's all he can do for him right now. ''I will tell you everything I know if that is your wish.''
Nothing urges him forward when Sehun's that close - not even chasing after Xiumin, they lost his trace anyway - so Luhan lets the other boy lead him towards a small pond surrounded by willow trees no further than several meters away. The place's astonishing; a spark of light dancing on the surface of still water and floral whispers rustling between fresh leaves, serene and almost magical. It calms his senses and Luhan allows himself a moment of peace, gathering his galloping thoughts as that sweet, evening breeze feels his nostrils with deep aroma.
''You were here before.'' He says quietly when Sehun lays him down on the ground, taking a place next to Luhan a moment after. ''It's beautiful.''
''We incidentally happened to be nearby, and running too far away from the pack is dangerous, taking our circumstances into consideration. Xiumin is gone. For now.''
''Is the cause lost then?'' Luhan whispers, closing his eyes and covering them with a shaking hand. ''Was I too late after all?''
''No.''
The golden-haired boy feels gentle fingers pressing down onto his temples, massaging delicate skin underneath with such tenderness his heart almost skips a beat. He knows Sehun's face is only inches away from his lips, but the contact he awaits never comes.
''Are we safe here?'' He doesn't open his eyes, scared of what he might see painting those handsome features. ''Shouldn't we go back?''
The pressure on his temples lessens and travels down his cheeks instead, a little caress that has Luhan gasping with shameless need once again. It's most bizarre what Sehun's touch does to him. ''Probably. But I believe we have a few moments, so let me tell you a story before we go.''
''A story?''
''Yes. It's a long tale, but I will cut it short for now, until a better time comes...so listen carefully, Little Sun.''
''Wha-!''
But Sehun just shushes him quiet, his melodious voice the only thing Luhan hears from now on; engulfing him in fire, smoke and almost painful desire to know and devour the painful truth that haunts them.
''Long, long time ago the Sun had a human body, a gentle human heart and mind that could foresee future events. It is believed that she was the most beautiful maiden our world has ever seen, with long, silky golden hair that could change color and even burn with flames if she wished them to. The Sun grew up alone and yearned for contact with other creatures, and that's when she encountered a pack of wolves in the woods, wolves that could turn into humans - and look just like her. They noticed how powerful the Sun was, so powerful that she managed to learned how to become one of them, how to shift her beautiful human body into a lean wolf with golden fur, shimmering with sun rays. She was unique, unlike any of the others. Wolves treasure power and strength above everything else, and so they called her their first and only queen, a leader figure they never knew before. But there was a limit to what she could do - the world didn't know darkness in those ancient times, and her energy started draining slowly as she supported the light that shone above the Earth. She was dying.''
''Dying? The Sun was dying?'' Caught up in the story, Luhan fails to keep quiet. His voice is just above a whisper, but he knows that Sehun hears him clearly. ''What happened then? She didn't die, did she?''
''Of course not.''
Luhan decides to open his eyes then and the emerald glow of familiar orbs, mere inches away from his face, makes him swallow a surprised gasp. He remembers the last time he saw Sehun's eyes shining like this - the first night they found him in the snow, the night when Luhan fought for his life.
''One day, when the Sun was very weak...she found a peculiar stone lying in the grass. A crystal she had never seen before, white as snow and clear like the sky; emitting a different kind of light than the one she was so used to. This light was cold - shimmering blue, green and silver.''
''The exact opposite of hers.''
''Yes. The Sun felt some unknown kind of power radiating from the crystal and tried to pick it up out of curiosity, but as soon as her fingers touched its surface the stone shattered into pieces, leaving her with nothing but dust. The Sun gazed at what remained of the beautiful crystal and sadness overwhelmed her. A single tear fell on the shards.''
Only after a few seconds pass and Sehun's voice quietens does Luhan realize that the silver-haired boy traces his cheek with a finger, wiping away a wet trail that appeared out of nowhere.
''I think...I've heard this story before. How could I forget?''
''So you know how it ends.''
''Tell me.''
Sehun smiles. Luhan doesn't even manage to blink before he's lifted up in his arms and flipped over, now straddling the other's thighs and towering above that beautiful face he can't quite look away from. Their hands join as Sehun's back rests on the ground underneath Luhan's body, obedient and pliant.
''After the Sun's tears fell on the broken crystal the light she saw before appeared again, this time so strong it almost blinded her. She closed her eyes, afraid of losing her sight, and when she opened them again there was a silhouette of a man standing right before her, a man with silver hair and pale skin. In his presence she slowly regained her strength, and soon enough they decided to become one; to rule together as day and night. The Sun and the Moon, who from now on watched over the Earth when she could finally rest. Two royalties that led the wolves, wielding the powers controlling ice and fire. Darkness and light.''
Sehun pulls one of Luhan's hands and presses his delicate fingertips to his mouth. Another tear falls on their joined palms and he kisses it away, drawing a strained moan from Luhan's parted lips. ''That's the story I wanted to tell you.''
''But how...I don't understand.''
''It's a legend I didn't believed in, not until they captured me as a child and forced to serve in the Ice Kingdom. I was locked away from the rest of the world for three years like a slave, but the truth reached my ears in the end - I realized that there might be something special about the story I believed to be a mere fairytale, something crucial I missed. You see, the essence of the Sun...is eternal. Her human body, the one we hear about in the tale, might have died or disappeared, I'm not even sure, but it can't cease to exist. While on Earth, it simply changes its form. Rebirths. And so does the Moon.''
Luhan stares at him with wide eyes, hands frozen in Sehun's grip. His breath catches in his throat but at the same something clicks, like he suddenly remembered a long forgotten truth.
''Are you saying...it's me? And you?''
''They looked for the child of the Sun all this time I've spent as their prisoner. I was supposed to become your...supporter, a battery for powers you are able to wield only while I am close. The priestess believed that you would wither and die if I'm not by your side soon after reaching maturity, and if they lost you they would also lose the chance to use you as a pillar for their ruling. After mating with you, the fake ruler that occupies throne of the North could finally gain respect and evidence stating that he's meant to lead. Your children would have nothing standing in their way to unify the realms.''
Luhan lowers himself on his forearms and presses the side of his face to Sehun's chest, listening to the other boy's heartbeat. A hand sneaks up his long neck and starts to stroke his golden hair.
''It would be the brightest future possible for the King, to have both you and me, so close but kept apart so that we won't pose any threat. I managed to run away, hoping something can be done to prevent this fate...and found your pack.''
''That day,'' Luhan cuts in, ''You lied to us. You said you don't know why the cold and ice can't hurt you, you said you were running away from ghosts and curses. You knew...why didn't you tell me earlier?''
''Luhan... until the last moment, I wasn't entirely sure if it's really you they are looking for. I couldn't risk it. I couldn't let you believe we can be together if you weren't the one. And the pack couldn't know who I am.''
''...''
They fall silent, and after a long moment of heavy breathing Luhan finally gets up from the ground and looks around. It's dark already.
''They won't enslave us. I'm not theirs to have.''
Chapter 6
Chapter 8