Drinking can be much more fun in case you have a handsome companion? This idea was very soon worked out by a mature fleshy gay who once paid…

A Knight s Victory Ch. 08

Alex rode with the knights as they brought Marco s body home to Eboli. Marco had not lasted the first night at sea he had barely regained consciousness. Since the moment of his death Alex had a numbness so deep it was painful. There was nothing more he could do for Marco and he had no wish to return to Eboli but he was caught like a wolf in a trap. If he tried to leave he guessed the knights would prevent him. Marco the countess s favorite was dead. The mission had been a disaster. Nine other knights had died. Six on the cliffs and three on the journey and many still carried wounds. Someone would pay the price for this failure.



They did not speak of the battle on the cliffs and Alex could remember little of it. He still did not know why Marco and the knights had been there or whom they served. Since Marco s death he could not find the energy to care. Whoever it was would have to face the Dragon Lord s retribution and that should be punishment enough. He knew he would have to face Catherine of Eboli and he could guess she had no love for him. He did not care.



It was strange to ride through the familiar woods and meadows. To see the ramparts of Eboli rise from the mist. For a moment Alex ached for the past but it was a tarnished memory now. He saw the knights gather to welcome home the bodies of their fallen brothers. Soon the way was lined with silent crowds not just the knights but grooms gardeners maids and other servants. He saw their grief but truly he felt nothing. Marco s death and his own guilt and regret seemed to be draining all feeling from him. He could not think of Wolfbane. The only person who did not come to offer respect to the knights slain in her duty was Catherine of Eboli. Instead as he dismounted knights came at once to take him to her. Alex knew he should be afraid but he felt nothing. He turned to watch as Marco s body was carried away knowing it would be his last farewell and then he went to face Catherine.



She was waiting alone in the throne room. He was brought to stand before her. He knew the news would have been sent to her by a fast messenger the moment their ship docked. Alex looked up at the woman whose ambition had sent Marco to his death. She stared back at him.



Your lover killed him she said. And I will have vengeance.



No! For a moment he felt something. She had touched the only thing left that mattered to him. Wolfbane might hate him but he did not want his curse to touch him again. He wanted to know Wolfbane was safe. You sent Marco to Thessaloria. What did you hope to prove? he saw her surprise turn to anger and knew how dangerous that was but he did not care. You sold him for gold to feed your ambition. He could guess that much at least. His death is on your hands.



And yours she said.



Yes. Alex bowed his head. He could not deny it. His lies had led to Marco s death. Punish me then he said and it was a plea. When she did not answer he looked up and was surprised to see the glimmer of her tears. But beneath them her face was a mask of coldness. He knew suddenly and certainly that she had loved Marco and she was afraid. She had lost even more than he had. At least Wolfbane was alive. But his lover s death would give her the perfect vengeance somehow he must prevent that.



I m sorry he said and meant it. You should not have sent him. The truth echoed in the silence.



What do you know of it of anything?



Despite the need for caution he could not keep silent. But you knew and yet you sent him why?



Because it was what he wanted her voice was harsh with tears. He wanted you.



The words hit Alex like a blow. He stepped back a pace. No! He chose you.



He was obsessed with you. Her smile was full of bitterness and hate. He wanted power and position but in the end he found it meant little to him without you. She stepped from the throne and walked towards him. I gave him everything and he served me with devotion he played his part to perfection. She laughed but it was a sound terrible with grief. He came to my bed but his heart was never mine. It was always you in his heart and in his dreams.



He could not find the words to answer her. The truth of what had been between him and Marco was not something he could share. And it was Marco who had killed it. But that truth was too personal to offer as an excuse. At last he looked into her eyes and said What he wanted I could not give him. He was better with you. Now we have both lost him.



If I had kept him here away from you he would be alive she said.



Alex bowed his head accepting her truth. In Thessaloria he lied to me and I lied to him. I can t change that now.



She turned away. Her shoulders were trembling but there was no sound. It was terrible to hear that desperate silence. Alex took a step forward but he knew she would not want comfort from him or dare accept it from anyone. He watched as she walked from the room her head high. And he knew she was his bitter enemy.



He waited and knights came. They led him to a tower room and locked him in. It was not a dungeon but it might as well have been. He sat by the window and looked out across the fields and forests of Eboli. Some part of him wondered what Catherine would do with him but he could not care. He hoped she would forget her thoughts of vengeance that Wolfbane at least would be safe from her.



####



Koios was used to intrigue and danger but the events in Firrese were outside his experience. After the battle on the cliffs they escaped to the waiting boat. All of them except Blyth who stayed with the dying knight. A choice Koios did not understand.



He was numb with the shock of what he had seen what he had done. It was many years since he had last killed a man. No one in the Dragon Lord s service was unused to violence but it seemed they had grown too comfortable over the years confident in their strength.



Now as the boat cut through the waves under full sail they gathered in the tiny cabin. The Dragon Lord was at his most expressionless he studied each one of them before he spoke.



Word of what happened will not reach Thessaloria ahead of us he said. Our enemy will have no warning that his plan has failed.



It was Wolfbane who interrupted him. The only one who dared to ask the question. What does it matter if your enemy set the trap he will know you are gone from the city and he will have moved against you already.



The Dragon Lord shook his head. He won t dare move against me yet. He has too much to lose and he has lain too low for too long ensuring that he was not seen as a threat. It will take him time to gather his power in the city.



Koios began to understand. But Wolfbane simply asked.



Who are we talking of?



I will tell you said the Dragon Lord. But you must swear to keep this secret. When they all agreed he continued. It is the Duke. The old man has played a clever game and he knows that I cannot openly move against him.



Why not? Wolfbane asked.



How do you think he persuaded Islander knights to do his dirty work beyond the gold he no doubt paid them? My power irks the nobility of a dozen sovereign states. They fear the example set in Thessaloria.



So what will you do? It was Wolfbane again.



His plot has failed. My hold on his city is too entrenched. He could only succeed with me dead. As long as we can make it back to the Dragon Keep I will hold the city. He glanced round them all. You have already earned what you were promised. See me safe and you will be doubly rewarded.



Not one of them hesitated to join him. Even Wolfbane who had earned his precious galleon was ready to risk it. Koios had rarely seen a man so eager for a battle. He remembered how the brigand had fought on the cliffs and shivered. The Dragon Lord had picked his guards well with perhaps one exception. Even as the thought came into his head he heard the Dragon Lord say.



I do not believe Blyth betrayed us.



Koios did not know if this was said as comfort for Wolfbane or to reassure them all that the treachery had not come from within.



But the brigand snarled It does not matter. He has made his choice. And no one argued with him.



They made the crossing faster than any other vessel could have managed. The Duke could not have had word yet. But despite this the Dragon Lord made careful plans. The boat slipped into harbor after dark and Francesco and the Milanesse went ashore first. The Milanesse returned to give the all clear. Only then did the Dragon Lord leave the boat. The harbor inns were busy so a group of men attracted no attention. But they knew the Dragon Keep would be watched and the closer they came to safety the greater the danger.



They were two streets away from the keep when the attack came. The Milanesse went down in the first rush. Then Wolfbane s monster sword was driving the attackers back Francesco fighting at his side. The value of secrecy was lost and they made as much racket as they could. Sent by the Dragon Lord Koios darted away using his knowledge of the alleys and back streets to reach the Keep and summon help. His heart was in his mouth as he approached the guards. If the Duke had seized the Keep he would get a dagger in his belly. But he recognized the men on the gates and soon he was running back with a score of armed men behind him.



When Koios returned Francesco was wounded but still on his feet and fighting. Wolfbane was a fearsome sight covered in blood again but unharmed. Protected by the two of them the Dragon Lord was untouched. The men from the Keep soon rushed at the attackers and the battle was soon over. Even though the last of them surrendered the Dragon Lord ordered his men to leave no survivors. The streets of Thessaloria were wet with blood.



As they made their way back to the Keep Koios felt a chill of foreboding. He was not so certain that the Duke having risked so much would let it lie. He would know that the Dragon Lord would have revenge a cold hard revenge. With little to lose the Duke might as well roll the dice for a last time. If he had hired Islander knights once what else might he try?



####



Two days passed Alex was kept alone in the tower. Guards brought him meals which he did not bother to eat. Apart from the guards he saw no one. It was strange how little he cared. The only news he wanted would not come to him here.



On the morning of the third day things changed. The guards had brought him a breakfast of bread and fruit and left him. But then the key turned in the lock. The door swung open to reveal Sir Ambrose Valen. Alex noticed the difference in him at once. Valen was still wearing the patch over his ruined eye but the stick was gone and he looked much stronger.



Alex stood up as Valen entered. He said nothing just stood waiting to hear his fate. Valen had been part of the conspiracy against Wolfbane and Alex guessed he had come to do Catherine of Eboli s dirty work.



Valen eyed him critically for a moment. Catherine does not want you at Eboli he said. But she will allow you to join my knights under Richard Semple.



Alex just stared at him.



Is that an offer you would accept Valen asked.



After a moment Alex said What is the alternative?



Valen shrugged. There is not one but if you refuse she will most likely lock you away in the darkest dungeon and forget you ever existed.



No choice then Alex said. But why are you making this offer? He knew he was risking the chance for a sort of freedom but it hardly mattered to him and he could not bring himself to trust this man.



You saved my life. Valen regarded him steadily And if nothing else your skill should serve Eboli. Men like you should not be wasted. Better to die with a sword in your hand than locked in a dungeon.



Alex felt his lips curl back from his teeth more a snarl than a smile. He did not ask what crime he had committed that Catherine could hold him prisoner indefinitely or send him to his death. There was no point. He had no rights here. The King had pardoned him for Gareth but such pardons could be revoked. Valen s offer of a death fighting was a good as any he would get.



I will take your offer he said coldly.



Don t you want to know the terms of your bond?



Alex shook his head. Such words were for show nothing else.



Don t be a fool Valen snapped. You will serve a term of five years. After that you will be free to make your choice. Do you accept these terms? If you do you must sign a bond that I will hold.



Alex nodded tired of all the words the games. I will sign whatever you want.



There is one thing more before you decide. Valen looked him in the eye. Richard and my knights are at Sword s Rest there is trouble in the Dark Forest again. That is where you will be sent. The fighting is hard and bloody.



Alex laughed. It was not a pleasant sound but he appreciated the subtly of Catherine s revenge. I don t care where I fight he said. He half believed it. Whatever Valen and Catherine thought after everything a return to Swords Rest could not harm him.



Valen was frowning at him. You must also pledge to give Richard loyal service and the respect and obedience due to your commander. Do I have your pledge?



He will have my loyal service. Alex said and met Valen s gaze unflinching.



Valen smiled pleased by their deal. You are young and strong the time will soon pass and perhaps you can earn your place again.



Alex knew what they intended he would be lucky to survive a year. But he could not care. He took the offer because he did not want to be locked away with time to think. He wanted to fight. You will have my sword and my pledge he said and stared Valen in the eye daring him to ask more.



Valen returned his stare for a long moment and then called for a scribe to prepare the bond.



####



Alex returned to Swords Rest and from the first night the nightmares came dreams of Marco Gareth and Wolfbane in endless dances of death and betrayal. Despite his bravado determined as he was not to care the dreams and the keep weighed heavy on him and he came to dread sleeping. But he was not at Swords Rest to sleep. He was there to fight. The brigands had returned to the woods. But where Wolfbane had united them all to his rule and law now there were many bands venal and lawless as rabid dogs.



Richard Semple and his knights were hard pressed. Even so Semple showed no pleasure to see him but he could hardly spurn the offer of another knight and whatever Valen s intention Semple was too fair to allow his dislike to spill over into harsh treatment without reason. Alex gave him no reason to be displeased. He sparred and he fought as Semple ordered. He took more than his share of the watch willingly. When the other knights took furlough he did not complain.



If Swords Rest brought him new misery his escape was fighting. His skill was better than it had ever been. None of the knights not even Richard himself could match him. If they wanted him dead he made it easy allowing Semple to send him where the fighting was most dangerous. But Alex did not care the danger dulled the memories and it seemed the less he cared the more invincible he became. But he was not a fool he knew that no man whatever his skill was invincible.



The young knights followed him. Impressed by his skill and eager for danger and glory. Semple did not like it but his task was to see the woods cleared and so apart from the odd lecture about caution he let him have his way. Without trying Alex had earned a place for himself among the knights. But he was careful to make no friends. He was not fool enough to think Catherine of Eboli would forgive or forget.



But duty was ingrained in him learned from the time he first held a sword and he served Semple honestly. After a two day foray deep in the woods Alex returned with his bloodied knights as the sun hovered above the dark trees. As grooms came to take the horses he sent the young knights to rest two needed the surgeon s care and he made they sure their wounds were attended to before he went to report to Semple.



Then Alex began the long climb the to the commander s chosen room high in the north tower. As he climbed he cursed Semple s choice of accommodation. Exhaustion pulled at him a cut to his leg required attention but the news he carried would not wait for the surgeon to finish. Riding back through the Dark Forest he had passed close to Wolfbane s old camp what he had seen there sent him to Semple.



Alex paused at the top of the stair easing his aching leg. The commander s door stood open just a few strides away. He was about to walk forward when he heard Valen s voice. Alex froze. Hard as he had tried he had not managed to drive Wolfbane from his memory. Nor had he heard word of the Dragon Lord s fate or Wolfbane s. He listened hating himself for the weakness but too desperate to care what he risked to eavesdrop.



Catherine is decided Valen said. The Duke offers a fortune but it is about more than the reward now. The man is now a prisoner in his own city. We failed him and Catherine s pride will not countenance it.



Alex held his breath as a chair scraped across stone. He missed Semple s first words and crept a step closer as the commander finished.



If you have come to me for knights Swords Rest cannot spare a single man the brigands overrun the woods and threaten the towns and villages already.



The brigands will wait. Catherine is determined to see this done and we will need every able knight in Thessaloria.



What of Blyth? Semple asked.



Alex s hand slid towards his sword hilt as Valen laughed. Let Blyth hold Swords Rest for you. Leave him a dozen knights.



If the brigands should guess Swords Rest is so weak…. Semple fell silent.



Blyth will not argue. His sword is pledged. A long moment s silence Valen s voice was hard when he spoke. But he must not know the truth. Catherine wants the brigand dead.



Suddenly light-headed Alex leaned a hand against the wall. Cold sweat slicked his back. Wolfbane was alive. But the first proof he had was word of his death sentence. Catherine was going to send knights to take Thessaloria for the Duke. And have her revenge on Wolfbane for Marco s death.



Alex took a step backwards towards the stairs careful to keep silent. He had heard Wolfbane s death ordered. He was honor pledged to serve Catherine of Eboli. The Dragon Lord and Thessaloria were not his problem but he had heard Wolfbane s death ordered. Even though Wolfbane hated him it was the only thing that could make him break his pledge and honor.



He took another step towards the stairs. If he could slip away from Swords Rest unnoticed he might have the night to get clear. It would be enough to see him safe to the coast but even as he thought it through Alex heard the sound of boots on the stairs. Valen and Semple fell silent and he knew they too had heard someone approaching.



Alex was trapped. Before he could move the knight reached the top of the stairs.



Blyth… his greeting died as Semple s door was flung wide and Valen appeared.



The knight advanced unwittingly blocking his path to the stairs and escape. Alex palmed his dagger and used the hilt to strike the knight down clearing the way to the stairs. But Valen was at his back blade in hand. Desperately Alex twisted aside. He was too slow. Valen s blade took him in the shoulder. He wrenched away dragging clear of the blade and turning to strike again with the hilt of his dagger.



Valen went down like a fall of rocks his sword clattering on the stone. For some reason Semple was slow to react. Before he could Alex punched him in the face. Breathing hard Alex stood among a litter of fallen bodies. He had made his choice and now there was no turning back. The skirmish had taken moments. He listened but there was no outcry no sound of running feet. Blood was running down his back and arm. The wound high on his shoulder was hard to reach but gritting his teeth against the pain he managed a rough bandage and prayed the blood would stop.

He did not waste time binding the unconscious men. They would be found soon enough and unless he killed them they would raise the alarm. But Alex had no wish to have more blood on his hands.



He pulled Valen s cloak around his shoulders to hide the blood and made his way to the stables fending off questions. The grooms saddled a horse for him and brought a spare mount not questioning his story that he must ride to Eboli fast. It was dark as he set out leaving Swords Rest grim and silent behind him. Careless of the danger he urged his horse to a gallop. Ospinrath was the nearest port. Valen and Semple would know it but he had no choice. If he could take ship they could not catch him and he would have a chance to bring warning to the Dragon Lord and Wolfbane.



####



Alex reached Ospinrath the following day in time for the morning tide. He walked the small harbor searching for a boat that would carry him. He dare not risk approaching an Islander vessel blood soaked as he was with only the coin he had from selling the horses. He knew he would not find it easy to buy passage.



He reached the end of the harbor stumbling with exhaustion. The wound on his shoulder was no longer bleeding but it was a constant burning ache. It needed a surgeon s attention and he knew the loss of blood had weakened him. Alex pushed the thought aside. He had neither coin for a surgeon nor could he risk the chance of being discovered. Desperately he glanced to the last boat. It was a small craft not a merchant vessel little more than a fishing boat. But it was his only hope.



Alex trod carefully across the plank and onto the boat s deck. A couple of sailors looked up from stowing crates.



Is the captain aboard?



One of them nodded his head towards the stern. Alex found the captain mending sail dressed and working like his sailors.



Alex nodded greeting his mouth dry. I need passage to Thessaloria.



We re bound for Alhem a day s ride up coast from the city but I don t carry passengers the captain spat into the sea dismissing him.



Alex knew his coin would not be enough to change the man s mind but then he saw the medallion hanging round the captain s neck. Quickly he pulled Mneme s medallion from his own neck and offered it silently.



The captain took it between his fingers and studied it. Then he turned a hard gaze on Alex. How did you come by this?



Mneme of Thessaloria gave it to me he said.



Another long stare and then the captain handed him the medallion. You have passage to Alhem.



He would not take the coin when Alex offered it.



You ll sleep on the deck and lend a hand if asked.



Alex nodded and slipped the medallion back round his neck whispering silent words of thanks to Mneme for her kindness. He had passage to Alhem and the coin to buy a horse for the ride to Thessaloria. Alex eased his aching body to the deck and prayed he would be able to make the journey fast enough.



####



Koios was with the Dragon Lord when the commotion started. The huge doors opened to reveal a dozen guards surrounding one man. At the Dragon Lord s nod they allowed him to approach. Koios was slower to recognize the new comer. Then with a jolt of shock he saw it was the Islander knight.



Blyth looked unkempt and haggard milk pale beneath the dark stubble. At the guards urging he moved forward but without his customary grace and he showed no sign of his usual pride he even seemed indifferent to their rough handling. He moved slowly and one of the guards grabbed his arm to hurry him.



Unhand him the Dragon Lord said and rose from his seat to come round the desk.



Surprised the guard stepped away. Blyth staggered and then stood for a moment as if gathering his strength. He limped as he walked forward to halt a dozen strides from the Dragon Lord. After the events in Firrese Koios was surprised that his master seemed not to consider Blyth a threat. Koios came to stand at his master s side. Francesco moved to flank him. Blyth glanced around. His gaze passed over Koios and Francesco with the merest hitch of acknowledgement and then searched the shadows.



He is not here. The Dragon Lord s voice was cool. I can send for him.



Send for him Blyth s command was urgent. Even if he will not see me he must be told. His breath game in gasps and Koios saw the drip of blood slide along his fingers to the stone floor.



The room was silent. Tell us your news. The Dragon Lord s voice was soft compelling.



Blyth spoke through gritted teeth hunched as if against the pain of his unseen wound. Catherine of Eboli is sending her knights to take Thessaloria for the Duke. They will be here within days Blyth looked as if he would say more but with a gasp he slumped boneless to the floor.



For a long moment the room was silent all eyes on Blyth s motionless form. Then the Dragon Lord moved. He walked forward as Koios stood frozen. He could not believe what he had heard.



Send for the physician the Dragon Lord was staring down at Blyth. And send for Wolfbane.



Do you believe him Koios came to his master s side. If Eboli is attacking us why would he come here? Koios did not say it but he knew his master understood the danger posed by an attack on the city by the knights of Eboli backed by the Duke. Beneath their gaze Blyth stirred and muttered. At first Koios could not make it out but Blyth groaned and muttered again.



Wolfbane….



I believe him the Dragon Lord said softly. Send for Wolfbane.



####



Alex woke and realized he was being carried through the stone halls of the Dragon Keep. He knew at once whose arms held him.



Let me down he croaked. But Wolfbane ignored him and kept walking.



Let me down I can walk. His voice was stronger this time.



Don t be a fool Alex.



Let me down he snarled.



His legs were released abruptly and his feet hit the floor with a jarring thump. But Wolfbane s arm still supported his shoulders. Alex shrugged it off thankfully close enough to brace his good arm against the keep walls. He took shallow breaths as his injured shoulder throbbed beneath fresh bandages. A measure of time passed.



Are we going to stand here all night? Wolfbane asked impatiently.



The words cut him. You can do what you please he snapped. Pain plus the intimacy of waking in Wolfbane s arms had nearly shattered his fragile pride.



Marco would have laughed at him or made him suffer for his pride as he no doubt deserved. But Wolfbane waited silent for a moment and then said more softly I was told you wanted to see me.



I brought a warning. But you will have heard it already from the Dragon Lord.



I have and the Dragon Lord is ready for them. He has good spies. Wolfbane s voice was calm none of the wolf in it tonight. But in one breath he had stripped Alex s excuse bare. You didn t come for the Dragon Lord. Why did you come Alex?



I owed you a warning he said braced for the dismissal that must come.



Is that all? Wolfbane asked softly. Then his voice hardened. What about an explanation?



You made your choice without one. Alex needed to be alone. He would accept rejection but not condemnation. He had that much pride. It s too late to go back on that choice now he snarled trying to work out which direction he must take to escape the keep. But unwilling to trust his knees not to buckle he held place and prayed Wolfbane would leave.



But instead Wolfbane nodded his head Perhaps I was hasty. But you had given me cause to doubt you.



Alex could not believe they were to have this discussion in a corridor of the Dragon Keep. Wolfbane so unnervingly calm and reasonable it seemed certain he was mocking him. Worse that very calmness made it clear that he felt nothing. But Alex was not calm. His shoulder was throbbing. So close to Wolfbane his resolve and nerves shredded until he could hardly think. Go away damn you he snarled. Leave me alone.



His voice echoed in the darkness. When Wolfbane did not move Alex stood trapped like a fly in amber. He could see the rise and fall of Wolfbane s chest as he stood silent waiting. He smelled of the sea. Alex s eyes traced the familiar curve of his muscles beneath the loose shirt the long oiled plait glistening dark against the pale cotton he followed the powerful line of his neck to the powerful jaw the curl of his lips. He looked away.



Go he said. I will trouble you no more. The slate is clean between us.



But it s not said Wolfbane. I killed him.



It was the last thing Alex expected. A sound escaped him something between a curse and sob. He turned away and took one stumbling step.



The past can t be changed Alex Wolfbane s voice was low and strange almost unfamiliar.



Alex took another step half fell and then stood head pressed to the cold stone. Wolfbane moved closer but did not touch him. He was grateful for that and for the long silence. He wanted Wolfbane to leave but he did not and at last stubborn as he was Alex had to speak even though he knew he would betray himself. He pulled himself upright.



It wasn t your fault he said and swallowed to force the words out. He hated Wolfbane for making him speak them but it was just punishment. The fault was his and mine. Memories stabbed at him like knives. He had been a fool to come. Wolfbane did not want him or need his protection. But of course he had known that which made him doubly a fool.



Another long silence. Wolfbane moved closer and raised a hand to touch his good shoulder. The light touch sent a shiver through Alex. An ache to match the pain in his shoulder head turned away he clung to the last shreds of pride. He did not want Wolfbane s pity. The metallic taste of blood was in his mouth his teeth savage against his lip to keep silent.



Wolfbane moved to his side. Alex gasped as his fingers brushed his neck.



Alex you re hurt. At least let me help you.



He shook his head shivering again and struggling with the urge to surrender to lean into Wolfbane s touch. Knowing if they stood like this much longer he would not be able to resist Alex took a breath and forced himself to move. He had managed a dozen strides when Wolfbane called after him.



Where will you go? He sounded curious rather than concerned.



To Ismene s he answered without even thinking and kept walking. Wolfbane did not follow. Alex sighed with relief when he escaped the Dragon Keep. As he plodded doggedly through familiar streets he cursed himself for an idiot. He had fooled himself into thinking he was coming to protect Wolfbane but the Dragon Lord s spies knew much more than the warning he brought. Worse he had fooled himself into thinking that Wolfbane after everything might still care. He had shown himself a fool and earned Wolfbane s pity but that was not what he wanted.



I m a wolf too he muttered.



What s that you are mumbling?



Ismene s voice. He had arrived at the steps to her porch without realizing it. Alex looked up to meet her dark gaze and was struck by a sudden panic. Why had he thought he would get a welcome here? She had always favored Wolfbane over him and after what he had done….



I had hoped you might have a room he said. But if you don t that s all right. I can look elsewhere.



She came down the steps and took his arm choosing his good side at a glance. Foolish boy she said. Of course there is a room for you. As they climbed the steps she slipped an arm beneath his shoulders noticing as he winced. What have they done to you?



She led him to a room downstairs in the family part of the house. It was a small room with a narrow bed and he guessed that it had been used by one of her sons or grandsons. She insisted on tending to his shoulder though he told her the wound had been recently cleaned and bandaged. Afterward it felt easier. When he thanked her she reached to touch his face and asked.



Why did you come back?



He knew it wasn t question that needed an answer but more in the way of a warning. After a moment she stroked his hair. You need to rest but first you must eat. She brought him a dinner of bread and soup and stood over him until he had managed to eat it all. Then she tucked him into bed.



Alex mumbled embarrassed thanks and rolled over turning away from her dark gaze. He wanted to ask about Wolfbane but while he could just about bear Ismene s kindness he could not bear her pity.



####



He woke to hear Ismene say He s still asleep.



And shivered to hear a familiar voice answer impatiently. Well it s past midday and time he was up.



Alex was about to move but he froze as Wolfbane continued. The Dragon Lord wants him gone from the city before the knights of Eboli arrive. And he s right. We need to find a boat that will take him and soon. He sounded cross.



And why can t you take him? The Golden Rose is ready to sail.



Ismene…



You owe him that much when he came to bring you warning.



He came to relieve his conscience nothing more said Wolfbane.



Alex sat up and reached for his clothes clean and mended. As he struggled to dress he ignored the soft voiced argument beyond the door. Finished he stood up testing his balance until he was sure of it and then walked to the door. Both Ismene and Wolfbane startled when he appeared.



Wolfbane s gold flecked eyes raked over him and by his frown found nothing to be pleased about in his appearance.



Are you fit to travel Wolfbane asked no time wasted on pleasantries. The Dragon Lord wants you gone from the city. He has trouble enough to deal with.



Alex nodded but before he could speak Ismene butted in.



Wolfbane will offer you passage on The Golden Rose won t you? She laid a hand on his arm and Wolfbane nodded reluctantly.



Alex did not have the strength to argue. He was a fugitive and he understood why the Dragon Lord wanted him gone. He had signed a bond to serve Catherine and it gave Valen or whoever came a reason to approach the Duke for his return. This time the Duke would not pass the decision off to the Dragon Lord he would simply allow the knights access to the city. It would be a pretty irony if his lame attempt at a warning instead brought more danger. He muttered thanks and turned back to collect his sword and few possessions.



He heard Ismene and Wolfbane continue their low voiced argument but when he returned they fell silent. He turned to thank Ismene but she silenced him with a shake of her head and pulled him down to kiss his cheek. She pressed a pot of salve into his palm and smiled.



Make sure you keep that shoulder tended until it is healed. It was all she said but her dark eyes were kind.



Wolfbane led as they set off for the harbor. He set a fast pace but Alex forced himself to keep up. A boat was waiting at the harbor wall to row them out to The Golden Rose. Alex watched the galleon loom closer Wolfbane silent beside him and thought how different this was from the way he had once imagined it. There was a rope net to climb but one jarring bump against the galleon s swaying side and Alex was done for. He ended slung across Wolfbane s shoulder as he climbed and came aboard The Golden Rose like a sack of grain or a bride. He bit back an urge to mad laughter as he was deposited without ceremony on a wide bunk in a surprisingly large cabin.



Wolfbane surveyed him critically. Rest he ordered. The tide s running we ll be at sea within the hour.



Alex shucked off boots and britches and slid beneath the covers. He was too tired to think which was a mercy.



####



He slept for most of the next two days as The Golden Rose slipped away from Thessaloria and headed south. It was as much as he knew about their destination or Wolfbane s plans for him. He did not see Wolfbane. Food was brought to him but apart from that he was left alone. It was a bit like being in prison. On the third day Alex worked out with his sword practicing forms and lunges thankful the injured shoulder not his sword arm. The exercise eased his mind and the next day he left the cabin. No one stopped him and so he went on deck repeating his exercises and then sparring with an imaginary adversary. He glimpsed Wolfbane but that was all. Some of the sailors stopped to watch him spar.



He repeated the practice each day spending more time on deck but still somehow never coming close to Wolfbane. Then one morning as he finished the exercises a huge shadow fell across the deck and a familiar voice said You ll get nowhere fighting with yourself.



He turned to find Wolfbane baring his teeth in the wolf grin. Would you like an adversary? He was holding the monster sword and as Alex hesitated his grin changed to a mocking smile. Afraid? There was a hint of anger in his eyes.



Strung tight from days of silence Alex knew this would be a mistake. But as always pride trumped good sense. No but perhaps you would like to choose another blade. I wouldn t humiliate you in front of your crew.



Wolfbane laughed and came at him. As he fought Alex s anger became ice cold determination. He would have this victory and prove he could match the wolf. The narrow space of the deck littered with obstacles favored Wolfbane and the monster sword. But Alex s speed took back that advantage and he twisted and teased Wolfbane like a bear on a chain and soon sweat slicked his skin and his breath shortened. Alex pressed harder using subtleties of skill to wear Wolfbane down and goad him to rash attacks.



They were taking ridiculous risks fighting like this with sharp blades on the swaying deck. For a moment Alex wondered why Wolfbane would indulge him but then the ice of his anger drove him forward and the thought was forgotten. He set out to exploit Wolfbane s weakness without mercy. He glided away drawing Wolfbane on and then leaving him out of position and off balance. Alex felt a surge of triumph and with a twist of his blade he ripped the monster sword from Wolfbane s hand. It fell to the deck with a heavy clang.



They stood staring at each other over the glittering steel of Alex s blade. The icy fury faded and for a moment he thought he saw something in Wolfbane s gaze but then his eyes narrowed and it was gone. Alex knew that for his pride s sake he had made yet another mistake. But what else did he have left?



The sailors cheered his victory and Wolfbane cursed them laughing as he did so. And soon he disappeared among them swapping jokes and insults. Alex was left alone with the cold comfort of his victory. For a while he stayed on deck watching Wolfbane. Hoping. But Wolfbane did not come near him and Alex escaped to his cabin and slept the afternoon away.



He ate alone and then as darkness settled and The Golden Rose dipped quietly with the swell he went on deck and stood by the rail looking out across empty water. Moonlight laid a shining trail across the waves as if it were offering a silver road for him to follow. With a shake of his head Alex wondered how far they were from land. Perhaps he could swim for it. He smiled ruefully he did not even know which direction to pick. The deck creaked softly. He did not turn recognizing the wolf s tread and the huge shadow that soon engulfed him.



Wolfbane came up close behind him and Alex smelled wine on his breath.



Sweet Alex deadly as nightshade.



The words were slurred softly malicious. Wolfbane was drunk. Alex turned side-stepping Wolfbane s clumsy move to block his path. Not just drunk but roaring drunk.



You re drunk he said.



Wolfbane laughed and reached for him. Alex side stepped again.



Go to bed he snarled.



Wolfbane gazed at him for a long moment and then grinned and turned on his heel. Alex sighed with relief. He had faced down the wolf. But it was a dangerous game to play trapped in the middle of the ocean. He decided that the next day when Wolfbane had recovered from his hangover he would ask when they would next touch land. Wherever it was he would leave The Golden Rose.

He returned to the dark cabin. As the door latched behind him he froze. A huge figure sprawled across his bed. Alex advanced a step his heart racing. I meant you to go to your bed. Against all sense he moved closer.



Actually this is my bed said Wolfbane with the wolf grin glittering in the moonlight.



Then I ll find another he said. But before he could retreat Wolfbane was on him not so drunk he could not move fast. His arm caught Alex across the chest throwing him down on to the bed.



Alex landed hard and lay for a moment half winded. Long enough for Wolfbane to hold him pinned and press down in a fierce kiss. At the same time his fingers shredded Alex s shirt. Then Alex felt teeth and lips nipping his neck. A surge of lust took his strength. Wolfbane was kissing his neck as his other hand slid slowly down between his legs. Alex whimpered as he cock surged in response betraying him completely.



He heard Wolfbane laugh his fingers sliding deeper to cup his balls as his thumb teased his cock. Wolfbane was a huge shadow above him. Alex felt a moment s terror and darkness. Wolfbane had teased him like this before. Then it was Gareth face was before him and his head was full of his mocking smile. He groaned in the darkness. Is this revenge?



For a sparring match! Wolfbane roared with laughter.



It was not what he had meant but Wolfbane s laughter chased Gareth and the darkness away. He wished he could call the words back. Of all the foolish things he had done and said why must he choose now to be an idiot. Alex held his breath praying Wolfbane was too drunk to think further on it. For a moment he thought the danger passed then Wolfbane s head came up his breathing hitched on a half gasp. His fingers stilled. He froze still as a predator.



You think I would… All the drunken playfulness was gone from his voice leaving it raw and empty. Force you for revenge.



No! Alex was terrified. It s just that I hate games and it reminded me…. After a moment he reached to touch Wolfbane s rigid arm Please he begged.



A long silence. Alex s heart thudding until he thought his ribs must burst. Wolfbane was still as a statue gilded by the moonlight. I would never hurt you Alex. I know I ve given you reason to think otherwise but I never thought you were afraid of me.



I m not afraid of you. I love you. Alex said the words coming in a rush as he tipped his head back instinctively exposing his throat to the wolf. Offering a surrender more complete and absolute than any Gareth or even Marco had forced from him. He knew no other way.



A frozen silence. Above Alex Wolfbane was a faceless shadow the only sign of life the ragged gasp of his breathing. Alex s did not move. He knew he did not have the words to make this right.



Say it again Alex.



Or perhaps he did. It was a demand a challenge a test but he did not care. I love you he whispered and slid closer. The words made him ache a sweet release chasing the fear and the shame away.



Silence then Wolfbane s fingers stroked his throat. His lips followed with feather light kisses along the length of his throat over his breast bone and down his ribs. Alex whimpered in relief and laced fingers through Wolfbane s hair determined to never let him go. Soon he felt Wolfbane unlacing his britches. He bucked his hips to help shed them groaning as Wolfbane s fingers and tongue caressed his aching cock. Alex twisted his legs trapped by britches and boots and groaned as Wolfbane s mouth left his cock as he reached to pull them off.



Now he writhed free pulling Wolfbane s head back down lifting his hips to meet him. Even has he gasped with the first rippling explosion Wolfbane s fingers spread his ass moments later he was thrusting into him. Then they were matched skin sliding against skin thrust for thrust and breath for breath. Again and again until they lay tangled in each other breathless and spent.



Trapped beneath Wolfbane s weight Alex squirmed until he could see his face. He reached to brush aside tangled hair. He took a breath So?



Wolfbane smiled a lazy wolf smile. From the moment on the road when I saw the bravery and passion beneath the lace even when you were dressed in lace as the fop Simon I wanted you.



It was true. Alex flinched and dropped his gaze shamed to remember his first betrayal but Wolfbane s fingers reached to raise his chin.



The past is full of our mistakes but they don t matter now. You came to do your duty twisted as it was he said and reached to touch Alex s face taking the sting from the words. I know you well enough now to understand it. Before Alex could answer he continued his voice lighter. And I have loved you more with every day your passion and bravery even when your foolish stubborn pride and twisted loyalties drive me to fury.



Alex swallowed. I have no other loyalties now.



And will you give up your stubborn pride? Wolfbane teased.



I m not stubborn….



Wolfbane roared with laughter. In retaliation Alex bit his thigh and then snaked his tongue upwards. Wolfbane s laughter turned to a gasp and it seemed he was not spent after all. Grinning Alex bent to tongue and suck Wolfbane s cock happily ensuring his own pleasure as he did so. Afterwards they slept. But they woke to go on deck and watch the sun rise. Alex barefoot in britches and his torn shirt Wolfbane bare chested. Alex realized the sun was rising off the starboard bow.



Where are we going? he asked.



Calibrea. There was an edge of excitement in Wolfbane s voice.



But that s… It was the other side of the known world a place of mystery and adventure months of sailing away. Alex grinned silently thanking Ismene. Perfect he said before Wolfbane s lips silenced him.



The Golden Rose sailed for the horizon.



THE END