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Wrecked	By : Wildfaerie Category: +S through Z > World of Warcraft Views: 6497 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: Based of Blizzard's World of Warcraft. All refrences belong to Blizzard though the characters are my creation. I do not make a profit on this at all.

Chapter List
- 13
- 14
Disclaimer: As per usual I do not own Blizzard or anything pertaining to them. However, my characters are my own.

Warning: Definitely still in the adult realm. Only read if you can handle it or are of age. HERE IS YOUR WARNING :P

AN: I know it’s been a while since I updated this story. A lot is going on in my life. Got caught up in the other stories I’ve been working on. But this one is still near and dear to my heart and I have an end goal in mind. Hopefully, y’all will continue to stick with me.

Chapter 14

A cold nose pressed to his cheek brought Sen’krii from his slumber. Tanga had awoken him several hours before dawn for his turn at watch. Carefully sliding his arms from around his sleeping mate, he fluidly rolled to his feet and stretched out the evening’s kinks. Though he was no stranger to camping and sleeping on the hard ground, he sure did miss his comfortable bed. Especially now that it was his and Taylin’s. Giving Tanga a quick pat on the head, he ordered her to rest. He found an old stump not too far away where he could keep an eye on his mate as well as keep his sensitive ears tuned to the foliage around them. Thankfully, they were mostly surrounded by a thick grove of trees and lush ferns which kept them mostly hidden from view, but they were still in the open. And this was close to centaur territory, plus the abundance of water and plant life attracted many of the Barrens’ wildlife, including hyenas and raptors.

A rustle in the underbrush a few yards to Sen’s right had his ears twitching. Slowly, Sen turned his sight towards the noise. Schooling his breathing, he stayed perfectly still. His only movement was the slight rise and fall of his chest with each slow breath, and his eyes as they followed the path of the soft disturbance. The rustling of leaves was intermittent, and the creature seemed low to the ground, so Sen figured it was an animal of some kind.

Suddenly, a small red raptor hatchling darted from the foliage. Not too far behind, a slobbering hyena chased, obviously hoping for an easy meal. Normally Sen would have let nature take its course, however his mate had started to soften his heart, so he took pity on the tiny raptor. Thankfully, the raptor’s path would take him right by where Sen was perched. Keeping absolutely still, the hunter waited. Just as the hatchling raced by, Sen quickly reached out and snatched the panicked raptor up by the scruff of his neck. He wrapped one hand around his muzzle to keep him quiet and from snapping at his savior. He slid his other hand down to keep hold of his back legs. Though he was small and his claws tiny, they were still sharp and could do damage. Staying completely still, he fully immobilized the young raptor and sank into the shadows. The hyena raced by, not even noticing his prey or the hunter perched in shadow upon the tree stump. After several moments and no sign of the hungry hyena, Sen slipped down from the stump. Carefully, he lessened his hold on the tiny raptor.

Realizing it was safe from at least the hyena, it began to calm slightly. However, a low growl was reverberating through its scaly maw. It wasn’t happy being held by a larger and unknown creature.

Tapping into his mastery over beasts, Sen softly soothed the trembling creature. Gradually, it began to calm. Reaching into his side pouch, Sen pulled out a small piece of jerky and held it out to the raptor’s jaws.

Eyeballing the meat, the raptor gave it a sniff. With a quick glare towards the troll, it snapped up the meat, nipping Sen’s fingers in the process.

“Can’ be havin’ dat, now mon,” he said softly. Originally, Sen had planned to release the little beast once the coast was clear, but after getting a good look at the little fellow, he decided on a different plan. He would be a gift for his mate. Since it was still a hatchling, Sen was unsure how large the creature may grow. It could stay as a diminutive companion or grow to a full-size pet. If that were the case, Sen would tame it as his own but allow Taylin to bond with him as her protector. But hopefully, if they were lucky, he would grow large and become Taylin’s own mount. Looking the raptor in the eye, “Stay wit’ meh an’ meh mate an’ ya be well protected an’ taken care o’. O’ ya can run off an’ take ya chances out dere,” he flicked his thumb towards the dense trees and hidden plains of the Barrens. “It be ya choice, mon.” Gently, he placed the hatchling on the ground. “What’s it gonna be, mon?”

The raptor looked at him with glowing intelligent eyes. It glanced out at the surroundings once before looking back at the waiting troll. Clicking its tiny claws in the dirt, it gave a soft chirp and hopped between Sen’s feet.

“Smart boy.”

A small angry chirp came from the little beast.

Sen looked down at it, “Mah apologies. Clevah girl.” He gave the raptor a soft smile. “Come, let’s get ta camp so ya can meet da rest o’ ya new pack.”

The little raptor fell in beside Sen’s feet as they made their way back to camp. Tanga was the first to notice the tiny new addition. She lazily stretched and trotted over to the hatchling. She gave a small hiss when the hatchling gave a shrill shriek at her proximity, cowering between Sen’s feet.

“Easeh girl. Dis be a surprise fo’ Taylin. Don’ ‘urt ‘er.”

With a sniff, Tanga gave a soft mew, accepting the animal as a new member of their growing family. At the small shriek, Bezwen had awoken from his nap. The little raptor immediately got his attention. He happily bounded over and gave a soft chitter, greeting the little female. She nervously chittered back. Bez released a shriek of happiness and knelt down to nuzzle the small muzzle.

Sen watched on fondly as his animals began to bond. Bez and the hatchling seemed to immediately take to one another as Bez rolled to the ground, letting the hatchling climb and play atop him.

“What’s that?” Taylin’s voice drew Sen’krii’s attention. She was sitting on their bedroll, watching the raptors play as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes. The shrieking raptors had roused her from sleep, and she was surprised to find the baby in their midst.

Padding to his mate, Sen took a seat at her side. “Sorreh ta wake ya up so earleh,” he said as he took her hand in his.

Hearing the Elf’s voice, the tiny raptor scampered over to investigate this new creature. Tentatively, she approached the edge of the bedding, looking back and forth between Sen and Taylin.

“Saved dis lil ting from a hyena. Tought mebbe ya’d like a companion o’ ya own,” Sen said with a warm smile.

“Oh Sen, he’s adorable.”

“She,” Sen corrected.

“She?” Taylin asked.

“Ya, she be a female.”

Taylin turned back to the skittish little raptor. She was stunning. Her scales were bright red that glowed like fire in the growing light of the rising sun. Her eyes were a bright yellow that shone with intelligence and mischief. Black razor-sharp talons tapped the hard earth as she watched her new masters inquisitively. Pulling the blanket over her lap, Taylin folded her legs to make a cradle for the little female. Softly, she cooed and called to the hatchling, and slowly held out her hand.

“Careful, mon. She still be wild,” Sen cautioned with worry coating his words. “Keep ya fist closed in case she goes ta bite.”

Ignoring her mate, Taylin stretched her fingers towards the small scaly muzzle.

Shuffling from foot to foot, the raptor stepped forwards and sniffed Taylin’s fingers. With a happy shriek it licked her fingers before nuzzling her snout against Taylin’s warm hand. Another chitter and the raptor climbed into Taylin’s lap and curled up.

Taylin wanted to squeal with giddiness like a fifty-year-old youngling. But she contained herself. Barely. “See! You can calm down now. What’s her name?”

“Since she be yours. Ya get ta name ‘er,” Sen replied with a soft smile. Their little family kept getting bigger and he hoped someday soon to add their own younglings to the mix. Taylin’s voice brought him out of his musings.

“What’s the Zandali word for red?”

“Rubi, why?”

“Hmm. I can’t decide so I’ll let her pick,” Taylin replied absentmindedly. Scratching the little raptor’s neck, Taylin got her attention before holding her hands out to either side of her scaly body. Giving her left hand a shake, “This one for Rubi or,” she shook her right hand, “this one for Ishnu. Ishnu means ‘good fortune’ in Darnassian. Which name would you prefer, little one?”

Bright yellow eyes looked up at Taylin then to each hand in turn. With a happy chitter, the little raptor bumped her scaly muzzle against Taylin’s left hand.

“Guess Rubi it is. Welcome to the family, little Rubi,” Taylin cooed to her new companion.

Rubi gave a happy chortle and nuzzled against her new mistress.

Smiling up at Sen, “Thank you mate. I absolutely adore her. But what happens when she gets bigger? I’m not a hunter, I won’t be able to tame her.” Taylin was slightly worried she may lose her new friend.

Grinning, Sen ran a finger along Rubi’s snout, “Don’ worreh mate. If she grows large, I can always tame ‘er, but she still be ya guardian an’ companion. Hopefulleh, she grow ta be big nuff ta be ya own mount. Sides, mebbe yah get mah powah ovah animals wit’ da bond. But no mattah wha’, she be yours, mate.”

Taylin’s smile grew as Sen’s words eased her worry.

Getting to his feet, Sen looked down at his mate and the tiny bundle of raptor in her lap. A sappy smile slid across his face. He couldn’t help it. Once again, he thought of her holding their small child.

“What’s that look for?” Taylin asked. She could feel his happiness and hope but had no idea what he was thinking.

His smile grew bigger, and he softly shook his head, “Nothin,’ mate. Since ya alreadeh awake, we should pack up an’ be on our way. Got a long trip ahead o’ us. Might as well get on da road.”

When Sen turned away to start packing up camp, Taylin continued to stare at him for a few more moments. ‘Just what is he hiding?’ she wondered. It hadn’t really felt like he had lied to her, but she did catch the momentary spark of giddiness from him at her question, but that wasn’t what concerned her. It was that tiny bit of fear that was hidden underneath and almost unnoticeable that got her attention. Deciding to shelve it for later, Taylin gently moved Rubi from her lap to the bed so she could dress.

A few hours later, the small group had made some headway into the Barrens. They had eaten a light breakfast of jerky and topped off their canteens in the lake. Taylin was riding atop Bezwen while Tanga, Sen, and Rubi loped along beside them. They kept a steady pace and were now in the shadow of a large mountain that separated them from the Crossroads.

Though the settlement was still miles away, Sen remained on edge. He knew they’d eventually have to come close to the Golden Road, which meant the possibility of crossing paths with other Horde would only grow higher. With that thought, Sen gripped his bow a little tighter. He’d taken to carrying it to have on hand quicker should the need arise.

Taylin sighed. She could feel her mate’s growing agitation, but there was nothing she could really do. An idea struck her. “Hey, Sen?”

He glanced up at his mate.

“Why don’t you have Sekre scout for us? If she stays high enough, no one should see her, and she can give us fair warning if anyone comes near.”

With a cautious chuckle, Sen gave a high-pitched whistle. A grey speck in the sky appeared and did a loop de loop before disappearing again. “She’s been circling us since we left.”

Taylin down cast her eyes in disappointment, “Oh.”

Sen placed his hand on Taylin’s knee, “Sorreh mate. Until I know we be safe, I’m gonna be alert an’ agitated.” Scooping up Rubi, he placed the tired hatchling in Taylin’s lap. “Just try an’ relax. Get some rest while ya can. Once we get ta da udda side o’ da Gold Road, I won’ be so edgeh. We can find a cave along da mountain dere fo’ camp. I wanna make da crossin’ inta Ashenvale at night. Be safah dat way.”

Taylin only nodded as she snuggled Rubi and let her eyes drift closed. He was right. Best to use this time to get as much rest as she could.

The sun was just past the midway mark when the Golden Road became visible in the distance. Taking shade under one of the few trees around, the pair of travelers took a rest while they discussed the next leg of their journey.

“Stop being ridiculous! It makes more sense for me to scout out the area while stealthed. No one will see me, besides, Sekre hasn’t alerted us to anyone nearby,” Taylin growled as she crossed her arms. The heat was starting to get to her, and she had had just about enough of her mate’s overprotective attitude.

Sen grabbed her roughly by the arms and shoved her against the rough bark of the tree. “I said no an’ dat’s final,” he all but yelled.

Taylin held her ground and locked eyes with Sen, “If I were somehow discovered, I would be the only one in danger. No one would know about our connection, and you’d be safe.” Her voice trembled slightly at the thought of him being in danger or to possibly lose him.

Softening his hold, “Have ya fo’gotten ‘bout our marks? One look an’ almost aneh Horde will know ya belong ta a troll. An’ bein’ da onleh one ‘round, dey gonna make da assumption dat ya belong ta meh. Mah mark will be proof nuff.”

Taylin was crestfallen. She hadn’t even thought about that. “Then how will I get across? I won’t leave you.”

Sliding his hand up, Sen cupped Taylin’s cheek, “I got an’ idea, but ya gonna ‘ave ta stay quiet an’ do everehting I tell ya. I dun wanna lose ya eithah, mate.”

“I promise,” Taylin replied. She would trust her mate.

“Dat’s mah girl,” he said before he captured her lips in a soft kiss.

Cautiously, the little group of travelers approached the Gold Road. Sen’krii sat atop Bezwen with Tanga pacing them on his right. Little Rubi was doing her best to keep up on their left. To anyone, it would look like a loan troll hunter was simply out traveling the Barrens, but unbeknownst to any onlookers, a female Night Elf traveled under a large cloak within the shadows beside Bezwen. Sen had wrapped her in his large cloak, hopefully masking her scent in his own should they come across anyone with a keen nose.

Taylin wasn’t exactly thrilled at being in the heavy cloak with the Barren’s sun high overhead. But this way she could go undetected, and if a problem arose, hopefully slip away unnoticed.

The troll had once again donned his icy façade. He hoped any travelers they came across would take one look at him and decide to move on quickly. Inside, he was awash with worry. His precious mate was out in the open in heavily patrolled Horde territory. Once again, his hand wanted to stray towards his bow, but he kept himself in check.

Setting a steady, loping pace, Sen continued onward. They had decided to make as much headway along the road as they could. Sen had voiced his objection, but his stubborn mate had put her foot down. And, truth be told, it wasn’t a bad idea. Though they couldn’t travel at top speed, staying on the well-worn path would shave some time off their trip. And the quicker they made it to Ashenvale, the safer they both would be. They could easily hide among the trees and travel unseen to their final destination.

“Echuta,” Sen hissed. There before him, a tawny cat prowled out of the tall prairie grass and onto the road in front of him. ‘Just had to be a Tauren druid and in cat form no less,’ Sen growled to himself. They probably had a slightly better sense of smell than even Sen. He prayed the cloak would do its job as the cat approached them.

Ethok had been out hunting zevra for their blasted hoofs for the better part of the day. He was hot, tired, and couldn’t wait to return to the Crossroads to receive his reward then cool down at the inn with a nice jug of ale. But a strange sent had caught his attention, so he had followed his nose which had led him to an imposing troll. A troll he happened to recognize.

Sen came to a halt about ten feet or so from the druid. A large scar that traveled from the corner of the cat’s left eye to his left ear that was missing the last inch caught Sen’s attention. He knew that scar because he’d been there when the cat had received it. The druid hadn’t quite dodged a fireball a lucky mage had thrown at him. Well maybe not so lucky since Sen had quickly dispatched the human right after.

Ethok quickly transformed. “What’s a troll like you doing wandering the Barrens, old friend?”

Sen hopped off Bezwen and stood just in front of Taylin, “Just on my way to Splintertree. Another mission.” Sen hoped Ethok wasn’t headed that way, or he might try to tag along. However, the Tauren had been heading his way.

“Thought you had retired to help out your sister?”

“I had, but you know how we get. Needed a break from each other, so figured I’d make myself useful for a while.”

Ethok grinned at his friend, “Aye, sharing a roof with a sibling for too long can raise tempers. And you and Kreeva can have some might short fuses.” They both chuckled. Ethok gave Sen’krii a once over, “Keep an eye out, old friend. I thought I caught a whiff of Night Elf. Might be one prowling around.”

Not understanding what they were saying since they were speaking Orcish, Taylin stayed in tune to both her mate’s body language and what she could feel between their bond. At the Tauren’s last words, Taylin saw him stiffen almost imperceptibly. Whatever the bull had said, had put her mate on edge. Thankfully, the Tauren didn’t seem to notice. However, Taylin kept her fingertips on the hilt of her blades just in case.

“Aye, killed one near the centaur’s oasis last night. Caught it abusin’ that little hatchling, so I relieved her of it. It may still carry some of her scent.” ‘Hopefully that will put him off the trail,’ thought Sen as he flicked his thumb towards Rubi.

“You always did have a soft spot for animals. Well, I guess I’ll be gettin’ on. This heat is unbearable. Makes me long for the colder climates of Northrend. You gonna rejoin the war?”

“Nah mon. Just a mission or two occasionally while taking care of my sister. Keeps me on my toes and out from under her nose.” Again, they both chuckled.

Ethok extended his hand to Sen who clasped his wrist. “Stay out of trouble.”

“You too.” Sen almost wanted to hold his breath as the druid shifted back to cat form and passed him by. Quickly, Sen remounted and started to move on. Sen was just about to release a sigh of relief when Taylin’s panic hit him full force.

As Ethok had passed Sen’krii, he got a stronger whiff of Night Elf, but thought it came from the tiny raptor. That is, until he saw the slight shimmer of air and the faint outline of someone hiding in the shadows of Sen’s mount. Quickly, he swiped at the shimmer, pulling the cloak from the female. Just as he was about to pounce, Sen’krii had leapt from Bezwen’s saddle and stood between him and the Elf with his bow drawn, arrow pointing right between his eyes. Ethok took a few steps back.

“One more movement and you die,” Sen growled out coldly. His eyes were rimmed red, and Taylin’s fear was close to pushing him over the edge.

Ethok quickly resumed his Tauren form and held out his hands. He had no idea what Sen was doing hiding an elf, but he knew better than to challenge the angry troll. He’d seen firsthand just how fast Sen could draw that bow and just how ruthless he could be.

Sen was doing his best to think through the red haze of his anger and fear. He didn’t really want to kill his friend, but he wouldn’t hesitate if he thought his mate was in danger.

“Why are you traveling with an elf?” Ethok asked softly, his hands still up.

“That’s no concern of yours, and you’ll forget you ever saw her or you’re dead. I know where you and your family live. Don’t think I won’t kill them if I find out you told anyone about her.”

Ethok knew Sen was deadly serious. Then another scent caught his nose. Eyes widening, he glanced between the troll and elf before whispering, “Mates.”

Sen tightened the string of his bow, “You die.”

Just before he released the arrow, Ethok yelled, “Wait! Stop!”

Sen almost took pity on his friend, almost. Taylin’s safety came first, and he let the arrow fly. It embedded deeply into the Tauren’s heart, killing him almost instantly. The old bull fell to the ground with a thud as crimson pooled around him.

A shudder ran through Taylin as she watched Sen kneel by the body and remove his arrow with a sickening squelch. Once it was clean, he returned it to his quiver then began dragging the body off the road and into the tall prairie grass.

“Tanga, ya know wha’ ta do,” he said as he stood. Tanga prowled over and dug her claws into the Tauren’s chest then sunk her fangs into his throat.

Taylin looked away. “Why?”

Sen glance at her, “So no one knows it be a arrow dat killed ‘im. Who evah find ‘im will tink a savannah lion killed ‘im. Dis how I nevah got caught while spyin.’ If ya bodies were found, dere was no suspicion o’ someone ‘round.”

Sen’s voice was cold. It reminded Taylin of the early days when they first met. She wanted to shiver but wouldn’t allow herself. This was a part of who he was. A part she had already come to terms with. But to actually see him like this still chilled her. He showed no emotion, and she couldn’t even feel anything within the bond. Here was the cold, ruthless, killer she had glimpsed in his eyes all those months ago.

Reaching down, Sen picked up his cloak and draped it back around Taylin’s form. “Come on. We need ta get movin,’” Sen said as he hopped atop Bez.

Silently, Taylin slipped into the shadows and fell into step beside the raptor.

The mood was quiet and melancholy for the next couple of hours. Neither had said a single word since the incident. There was probably only a few hours of daylight left when Sen finally spoke, “Dere’s da mountains dat we’ll camp in fo’ da night. Dere’s a couple o’ caves up dere dat will be keepin’ us hidden.” With that, Sen turned off the road and headed for the rocky base. They found a cave hidden deep between some rocky outcroppings. They were completely hidden so they risked a small fire.

While sitting by the fire waiting for some of the gazelle meat to cook, Taylin finally got up the nerve to talk. “You knew that Tauren, didn’t you?”

Sen merely nodded.

“Then how could you kill him?”

Sighing, Sen settled himself next to Taylin, but he wouldn’t look at her, “Cause you come first, mate, always. ‘Is life meant notin’ compared ta your safeteh.”

Taylin didn’t know what to think. That he’d be willing to even kill a friend for her touched her heart, however she felt terrible for putting him in that position.

Sen could sense everything his mate was feeling, “Mate, it’s not ya fault. We both be knowin’ da danger. An’ I’d do it again if it meant keepin’ ya safe. I love ya Tay.”

Taylin finally looked over to Sen, “I’m still sorry.”

Sen draped his arm over Taylin’s shoulders, “It be fine, mate. Now, let’s eat, da food be readeh an’ dose two gluttons ‘ave hunted dey fill.” He flicked his thumb to the three animals resting by the cave’s entrance. Bezwen had even taken little Rubi under his claw and saw to her dinner. Now, she was snuggled up against the larger raptor.

After eating, Taylin was laying out their bed rolls when a movement out the corner of her eyes caught her attention. Sen had moved to a lookout position near the mouth of the cave. “Aren’t you going to have Bez and Tanga keep watch and come to bed?” Taylin asked.

“Not ta’night, mate. Gonna keep watch.”

“But you need your rest too,” Taylin protested.

“Dun worreh, I’ll get a hour o’ so jus’ befo’ dawn,” he said before tossing her a playful wink. “Now get some sleep, love. I wake ya when breakfast be readeh.”

Pouting, but doing as he asked, Taylin stripped out of her armor and pulled on the spare shirt she wore the previous night.

Sen couldn’t help but watch as his mate undressed, “Beautiful,” he whispered. He wished he could crawl in bed with her, but his worry wouldn’t let him. He didn’t think anyone would find Ethok’s body this quickly, and even if they did, he doubted anyone would suspect something enough to come snooping around. But better safe than sorry. He knew he wouldn’t get much sleep anyways, so might as well let the animals rest while he kept watch. Settling himself on a rocky outcropping just inside the mouth of the cave, Sen turned his focus to the outside area, his bow across his lap and quiver close at hand.

Tossing and turning, Taylin finally gave up. She had tried to sleep, she really had. Unfortunately, she had only managed a few intermittent moments of sleep. Though they had only shared a bed a handful of times, she was sorely missing the presence of her mate’s warm body. She had gotten used to him being by her side. The sun had fully set hours ago, and the fire had burned down to nothing more than faintly glowing embers. But a Night Elf’s night vision was nothing to scoff at. Taylin could clearly see her mate where he sat perched on a rock. It looked as though he hadn’t moved a muscle since she’d laid down. Silently slipping out of the bedding, Taylin softly padded to Sen’s side. She wasn’t surprised when he noticed her.

“Can’ sleep, love?” he asked softly without turning towards her. He had heard her rustling about as she tossed and turned. He had wondered if she was still torn at the death of the Tauren, however, her answer surprised and pleased him.

“No. I miss my mate,” she said as she sat on the ground below him and leaned back against the stone he was crouched on.

Sitting down, Sen lowered his legs to either side of Taylin, stretching out the stiffness and kinks.

Taylin leaned her head against Sen’s knee and wrapped an arm around his calf.

Reaching down, Sen gently ran a hand through her hair. The pair sat that way for close to an hour, just enjoying each other’s company. Eventually, Sen noticed Taylin’s breathing level out as her hand slipped to the ground. She had fallen asleep. Carefully, he picked up the sleeping elf and returned her to their bed. With a soft grin, he gathered up the sleeping Rubi and tucked her into his mate’s side. Almost instantly, Taylin curled around the warm raptor and fell into a deeper sleep. Padding back to the entrance, Sen resumed his perch and continued to keep watch for his small family.

His thoughts started to drift to both their immediate and distant future. ‘How will her parents take their daughter being mated to a troll? Where would they settle and begin a life? Taylin had mentioned something about Dalaran, and the idea had merit. But would they be allowed, or would they have to continue hiding their relationship? The Horde certainly wouldn’t give him any high-class missions if they believed his loyalty was compromised. How could he provide for his mate in a large city? Living off the land was easy, but city life was different. Could he make it work somehow? Not only for himself and mate, but for any future little ones as well?’ These questions and more tumbled through Sen’s mind. Steeling his shoulders, he came to a final conclusion. ‘They would face this together. They were both strong and intelligent. They would find a way to make it work. He would find a way. For her,’ he thought as he glanced back at his sleeping mate. With his mind at ease, he returned his attention to outside the cave.

A gentle prodding roused Taylin and the smell of sizzling meat assaulted her nose. Rubbing her eyes, Taylin came awake with a large yawn. Blinking, Taylin looked around and noticed that there was barely any light trickling into the cave, making it still very early. “Why so early?” she asked as she started to get dressed.

Sen couldn’t help the grin as she stripped out of his shirt, “If we get movin’ in da hour, we be makin’ da border o’ Ashenvale jus’ as da light fades. It be safah ta cross at night.” Once she was dressed, Sen handed her a bowl of breakfast. It was the last of the fresh meat and bread, but they still had plenty of jerky and a few peaches left. Once they made it to the forest, he could hunt for more food easily enough.

They were about twenty to thirty miles from the border as the sun moved closer to the horizon. The trip today had, thankfully, been uneventful. The only excitement had been Tanga as she scared off a couple of lions that came too close for her comfort. Coming to a halt under a shady outcropping, Sen dismounted and pulled out their last canteen. He took a small swallow before handing it to Taylin. “We be almos’ ta da border. Dere be a hole in da fence ta da west o’ da Barren’s Gate. But we ‘ave ta go t’rough harpeh territoreh. It be getting’ dark, so day should be in dere nests. But if one spots us, dey all gonna come. Dat harpeh screech be loud nuff ta wake da dead. Doe dere’s soemtin I been meanin’ ta show ya dat might hep us.” Sen grinned a toothy smile at his mate.

Taking a couple swallows herself, “Oh?” she asked as she put the canteen away.

“Watch,” Sen said as he slowly stepped further into the shadows before almost completely disappearing before Taylin’s eyes.

Taylin blinked. “You’ve got to be kidding me. I get your berserker rage and you acquire my shadow walking skills. Unbelievable,” she pouted.

Sen held in his chuckle as he swiftly stepped behind Taylin and wrapped his arms around his mate. Slipping his tusks around her neck, he placed a soft kiss behind her ear. “An ‘ere I t’ought ya’d be impressed.”

Taylin relaxed in his arms but continued to pout. “Maybe a bit, but I think you got the better deal.”

This time Sen chuckled.

“But I see your point. Doubt the Harpies would bother with a large raptor traveling through their territory,” she grumbled. Taylin scooped up Rubi and she, Tanga, and Sen quickly stepped into the shadows to silently trek the last miles to the Ashenvale border.

A couple of harpies came to investigate the large raptor, but a menacing growl from Bezwen and they quickly retreated to their nests. About two hours later the broken fence came into view. Finally out of harpy territory, all three stepped from the shadows. Without breaking his stride, Sen picked up Taylin and placed her atop Bezwen. When she shot a confused look his way, he smiled. “Ya had ta walk most dis trip. Ya turn ta ride,” he winked.

“But you barely got any rest last night. You should ride,” she complained.

“Dun worreh. Once we get inta da trees, we’ll camp fo’ da night an’ I promise ta get some rest,” he flashed her a smirk. “Mebbe.”

Taylin flushed. She knew exactly what was on his mind. Their first time had been in a tree after all. Sticking her tongue out at her mate, Taylin relaxed into the saddle and rubbed Rubi along the back of her scaley neck. The little raptor cooed and chittered happily. Reaching into a side pouch, Taylin retrieved a large stick of jerky. Breaking a small piece off, she fed it to Rubi. Leaning forwards, Taylin patted the side of Bezwen’s neck. “You were such a brave boy,” she praised him. Bez arched his neck in pride. Taylin giggled and held out the rest of the jerky. Bez gently took it from her fingers and preened even more. A happy chortle came from his maw. Another giggle escaped her lips as she rubbed along his neck.

“Would ya quit spoilin’ mah beasts,” Sen grumbled, though he couldn’t hide his smile. Truth be told, he loved watching his mate laugh and interact with his animals. It only strengthened the bond between them all, and they would fight that much harder to keep her protected.

Taylin rolled her eyes at her mate. “He deserves it. He’s walked more than we have. And though he wasn’t technically alone, he did go through a harpies’ nesting area by himself.”

Bez raised his head a little higher. He was quickly falling in love with both the elf and the little raptor. His master had chosen a wonderful mate, and he couldn’t be happier to be part of this little family.

As they came closer to the fence line, they all grew silent. The breach wasn’t far from the heavily patrolled gate and none of them wanted to risk being overheard. Sen unslung his bow, keeping it at the ready. Once they made it to Ashenvale, though they wouldn’t be completely out of danger, they would be safer. Keeping his eyes peeled, they quickly made their way to the fence line.

Just as they came to the broken wooden posts, they heard voices heading their way. Quickly, Taylin disappeared into the shadows of the dwindling light. Sen stepped up next to Bez and placed a hand on his hide to settle him.

Two Orcs came around the small hill and halted their conversation at the sight of the troll. The younger of the two eyed Sen suspiciously. “What you doin’ out here? You shouldn’t be so close to the border alone.”

“Aye. Those elves are always lurkin’ in the shadows… Wait. I’ve seen you before. You were one of the lucky ones from the Wrathgate. What are you doing way out here?” the older Orc said.

Sen had already slipped into his colder appearance so as to give nothing away. “Nasty business that was. Left Northrend just after. Didn’t like fighting alongside people who could just as easily slit your throat as the enemy. Out here killing harpies. They’re feathers make some of the best fletching for my arrows.” He gave them a smirk and nodded towards his full quiver over his shoulder.

“Only you would be crazy enough to take on a nest of harpies just for some feathers,” the older orc chuckled. “You should have seen how many of those walking corpses this man took down with just his bow and that cat of his,” the orc said, slapping the other orc on the shoulder. “You should come back with us to our outpost at the gate. We’ve got plenty of food and ale and in return you could tell some stories from the front lines. I’m sure you’ve got plenty.”

“Sounds good, but I’ve got to be headin’ on to Splintertree. Got a mission to start first thing in the morning. Was just headed there,” Sen replied. He hoped they would leave it at that, but luck wasn’t on his side.

“Then we’ll be happy to at least escort you to the gate and see you on your way,” the old orc offered.

Knowing he couldn’t say no without looking suspicious, Sen simply nodded. As he gathered Bez’s reins, he made a quick hand gesture to where he knew Taylin was concealed in shadow. He wanted her to go ahead through the broken fence once they were out of sight. He could easily find and catch up with her later. Hoping she saw, he placed his hand over his heart, looking as though he was adjusting the string of his bow that he’d slung over his shoulder. Love, understanding, and a touch of fear bloomed in his chest. He sent back his own love and assurance. He hoped he wouldn’t be too long.

Taylin immediately understood what Sen was trying to tell her. Staying in the shadows, she waited until they were out of sight, then quickly slipped into Ashenvale. She stayed in the shadows in case there were any orc or even elf patrols on this side of the border. She walked until she was about a mile northwest of the border outpost. Though she could feel Sen getting further away, his presence stayed steady and true in her heart. Continuing onward, Taylin thanked her night vision as she worked her way through the dense forest.

‘Falfarren River should only be a couple of miles ahead,’ she thought. She wanted to cross the river and wait for Sen on the other side. The southern part of the river was under traveled as most tended to avoid the area. It was quite a ways from any town or post and the wildlife was fierce. But what really made her nervous were the shadethicket barkrippers. One would be easy enough, maybe even two, but they tended to congregate in large numbers in and along the river. She’d have to be very careful.

Finally, the river came into sight. Taylin was exhausted and worried about her mate. Silently, she kept to the riverbank. She couldn’t see any barkrippers along the shore, but that didn’t mean there weren’t any. Their mossy hides helped them blend in with the green of the forest, and they also lurked just under the surface of the river. Keeping herself as hidden as she could, Taylin silently stepped into the cool water. Her movements soft and slow, Taylin made her way to the opposite riverbank. Almost to the shore, Taylin started to relax. Until a large slimy hand wrapped around her ankle and dragged her under.

Fear and panic gripped her heart as she kicked her legs, trying to free herself, but the grip on her leg got painfully tighter. Her breath running low, Taylin ripped a dagger from her hip. She curled inward and plunged the dagger into the creature’s arm. It immediately released her, and Taylin wasted no time kicking herself to the surface. Taking a deep breath, Taylin swam to the shore as fast as she could. A huge roar sounded behind her as something very large broke the surface and moved after her. Adrenaline spiking, she made it to the shore and raced into the trees. The large barkripper would have a tough time pursuing her through the dense woods. Her wet clothes and pack weighing her down, Taylin struggled to propel herself along. Nearing exhaustion, she heaved herself up into the closest tree and scrambled high within the branches, putting as much distance between herself and the lumbering creature below as she could.

There were both benefits and disadvantages to being well known in the Horde’s military. Benefits like getting free drinks at a local tavern, women to keep your bed warm, and being able to do and go just about wherever you want. Though Sen wouldn’t be partaking in some of those any longer. Though, currently, he was experiencing the disadvantages. The orcs stationed at the gate had plied him with drink and were insisting on at least one story before he left.

Keeping up appearances, he begrudgingly agreed. The younger orc that escorted him to the outpost had kept a suspicious eye on him. Though he desperately wanted to get back to his mate, he couldn’t risk any unwanted scrutiny. Choosing one of his shorter stories, he embellished it just enough to keep the crowd enthralled. It was a simple mission where he had helped Hemet Nessingwary, the great hunter, to set up a base in Scholozar Basin. He told them about hunting the great beasts out there and the funny hopping Oracles. Getting through it as quickly as he could, he finally bade them a good night and thanked them for the ale, “I really need to get going. It’s already much later than I planned on being out. And I still have a bit of a trek to go.” Before anyone could protest too much, he had gathered up his belongings and mounted Bezwen, both Tanga and Rubi falling in beside him. Quickly, he made his way north along the path, appearing to be heading towards Splintertree.

When Sen was sure he was far enough from the gate not to be seen, he veered off the path towards the west and where he could feel Taylin. Barely a minute had passed when an intense fear gripped his heart. His mate was hurt and scared. Immediately his eyes bled red, and he kicked Bezwen in the flanks, putting on a burst of speed. He was livid. That something had dared touch or scare his mate. There would be hell to pay. He railed at himself for leaving her alone for so long. He just hoped he got to her in time. Sen barely noticed his surroundings as he raced to his mate, not even bothering to make sure Tanga and Rubi kept up. His mind was focused solely on his terrified mate.

Taylin was doing her best to calm her racing heart. Her ankle throbbed from the bruises and scratches left by the beast now that her adrenaline had started to wear off. She could still hear the beast below, but it had calmed in its rampage as it tried to find her scent. Just as she had gotten her breathing under control, a white-hot rage lanced through her chest. Her mate was pissed, and he was headed straight to her at breakneck speed. Hiding herself deeper amongst the branches, she waited for her mate. A small part of her almost felt sorry for the beast below, for it wasn’t going to live much longer.

Sen closed the distance between him and Taylin as quickly as he could. He was pushing Bez to his absolute limit, as the raptor panted hard, trying to comply with his master’s demand for speed. Taylin’s fear abated slightly, and Sen allowed his berserker rage to recede just enough to stay coherent. Wherever she was and whatever had happened, it seemed as though his mate was safe for the moment. But since she was still scared meant she was probably still in danger.

Just before he came to a river, he picked up Taylin’s trail. Hopping off Bezwen, he crouched low and studied the shore. ‘There,’ barely noticeable in the mud were Taylin’s boot prints. If it had been any other time, Sen would have praised Taylin for her skill. There would have been no way anyone could have seen them. Sen was only able to because of how in tune he was with her scent. ‘This is where she crossed,’ he thought. Clicking his tongue softly, he had Bezwen follow silently several yards behind him. Sen swiftly swam to the other side and again crouched low. Ruby eyes cutting through the darkness, he scanned the shore.

He had to swallow his heart at what he saw. Signs of a struggle had made deep furrows in the mud. Marks from Taylin’s hands and knees as she had pulled herself ashore before jumping to her feet and running into the trees. And, over her tracks, something very large had ripped its way after her. Deep prints showing just how heavy the creature was. Only one thing around here was that large and that lurked around the river, barkrippers. Moving swiftly and quietly, Sen followed their trail. He knew Taylin was close and he was starting to pick up the sounds of the frustrated creature. Sen realized his heart was tugging upwards. ‘Smart girl,’ he thought. She had taken cover above.

Slipping behind a tree not far from the one his mate was perched in, he coiled his legs and launched himself upwards. Grabbing ahold of a sturdy branch, Sen swung himself up to land silently on his toes. Crouching down, he scanned the forest floor below. About ten yards from his tree and only about five from Taylin’s was the creature. Moss and rotten plant life hung from its huge frame. Large forearms supported its mass as it walked on its knuckles much like an ape. Beady eyes were narrowing in on Taylin’s location as the scent of decay and water assaulted Sen’s nose.

As large as the creature was, Sen knew he couldn’t count on taking it down with a single arrow. And he was just fine with that. He wanted to make this thing bleed for hurting what was his. Eyes and body going cold, Sen slowly stood and took aim.

Following their link, Taylin searched for any signs of her mate. Suddenly, a slight movement amongst the branches of a nearby tree caught her attention. Focusing hard, Taylin managed to just barely make out Sen’s outline as he drew his bow. Faster then her eyes could follow, Sen let his arrow fly.

Just before the arrow embedded itself deep between the creature’s eyes, Sen launched himself from the branch. He was a blur as he sailed through the air and hooked his hand in the stringy fur and moss around the creature’s head. Swinging himself onto its back, Sen drove his dagger deep into the back of its skull. Warm blood oozed and spurted over his hand and down the barkripper’s back. A mournful howl broke through the night as the beast fell forwards, dead. It landed with a dull thud as Sen jumped from its back. Flicking his wrist, he knocked most of the blood off his hand and dagger before wiping the blade across his thigh to rid the rest of the blood. Resheathing his dagger, Sen looked up into the tree his mate was hidden in. With a hefty leap, he jumped onto the closest branch.

‘Magnificent,’ Taylin thought as she watched her mate dispatch the barkripper. He had killed it so swiftly and easily. His power and skill astounded her. No wonder he held a place of notoriety among the Horde. He was breathtaking and again, she couldn’t believe he had chosen her for his mate. Suddenly, she was face to face with the deadly hunter as he crouched before her on her branch. She couldn’t help it as her blood warmed when he stared at her.

His rage satisfied; Sen looked over his trembling mate. She was caked in mud and her hair was streaked with dirt and grime. Tears had worn tracks through the dirt smudging her cheeks. She was filthy, but right that second, she was the most beautiful thing in the world to him. Their eyes met and Taylin launched herself at him. Bracing himself, Sen caught her and held her tight. “Shh… I be ‘ere mate. It be alrigh’. Ya okay?” he spoke softly to her, running a hand down her wet hair. The last bit of adrenaline left her, and she collapsed in his arms. Gently, he picked up his shaking elf. Settling himself against the trunk, he tucked Taylin into his lap. His hand stroking up and down her back. “Mate?” he asked with concern.

Taking a deep breath, Taylin cleared her jumbled mind, “I’m okay. It just caught me by surprise. Though, I think it may have twisted my ankle when it pulled me under or when I was trying to kick free. Hurts like a son of a bitch.” She hissed the last words as she tried to flex her ankle.

“Careful, love,” he said as he slid a hand down her calf and gently wrapped his hand around her ankle. Carefully, he slowly rotated the slightly swollen joint, noticing several tears in her leather armor near the end of her shin. Blood seeped through the gashes and his heart clenched. His mate had been badly hurt and he hadn’t been there to protect her.

Taylin hissed through clenched teeth. “Stop,” she pleaded. Fresh tears stinging her eyes.

“Sorreh, mate. It not broken, but it be badly sprained. Ah need ta get ya out dose pants so can clean da claw wounds,” his grin going a long way to distract her from the pain.

“Oh goody,” she pouted. “What I wouldn’t give to have your regeneration right now,” Taylin whined as Sen wrapped her leg in clean bandages. It had been hell when Sen had pulled her boot off then her pants. Her ankle was now badly swollen, and the bloody gashes stung like bees when the leather was peeled away. They had used the last of their water to clean her wounds. Thankfully, the cuts were shallow, and the bleeding had mostly subsided. Taylin grit her teeth, “I’ll never get used to that burn or itch from those bandages.”

Sen flinched when Taylin dug her nails into his shoulder as he wrapped her ankle. “I’m sorreh, mate. I should nevah ‘ave left ya alone fo’ so long,” he said as he turned his gaze away in shame.

“Don’t take this on yourself. I wasn’t careful enough. But what kept you?” She was surprised he had taken so long. He usually didn’t like letting her out of his sight. Taylin did a double take. He looked almost sheepish.

“Da orcs wouldn’ let meh leave til I gave dem a storeh ‘bout one o’ mah missions. I tried ta leave, but dey insisted.”

“So, while I was being attacked, you were living it up around a cozy campsite?” she growled.

“I sed I was sorreh.”

He turned his eyes to her, and Taylin’s breath hitched. His gaze held such a deep remorse that there was no way she could be upset with him. Sighing, “It’s alright. Besides, you did come to my rescue.”

Sen perked back up a bit. “Do I get a reward fo’ rescuin’ da damsel?” he teased.

Though he appeared to be mostly back to himself, she could feel just how torn up inside he really was. “Maybe,” she winked. “But first I want to get cleaned up and there’s a place not too far that will help with that and with the healing.”

Gently picking her up, Sen had her wrap her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck as he made his way carefully to the base of the tree. He had a pretty good idea of where she wanted to go. There was a Moonwell a couple of miles to the west of where they were.

At the base of the tree, Sen found Bezwen and a grumpy Tanga waiting for them. A struggling Rubi was gripped gently in the cat’s jaws. “Sorreh ol’ girl. Tank ya fo’ takin’ care o’ Rubi,” Sen apologized. Tanga placed the squirming raptor at his feet then thrust her nose into the air. Though she would do anything for her master or his mate, she was not a babysitter. The little whelp had squirmed the entire run and had even pulled her whiskers when she had tilted her head up to keep her nose and the ungrateful hatchling out of the water. Rubi chittered angrily at the feline before tucking herself between Sen’s feet. With a hiss at Rubi, Tanga gave a hard shake, spraying everyone with water.

Sen rolled his eyes at the pouting cat, “Feel bettah, mon?” Tanga gave a defiant mew as she flicked her tail. “How did I get stuck wit’ so maneh emotional females?” he said, shaking his head in exasperation.

Taylin giggled, “Because you love us.” She placed a quick kiss to his cheek.

Sen could only chuckle at that.

When the clearing with the Moonwell came into view, Sen left Taylin atop Bezwen at the edge of the trees. It may be close to midnight, but most Night Elves were nocturnal, and Sen was taking no chances. Quickly, he scouted the area. Not finding a trace of anyone, Sen made a soft click with his tongue. Bezwen immediately obeyed and cautiously approached the small well.

As they stepped into the small glen, Taylin felt at peace. She was home. The deep purple and greens of the forest surrounded her as small slivers of moonlight danced across the Moonwell’s surface. Stars glittered over head as she looked to her mate. He waited at the edge of the well. He was still tense. Though she couldn’t blame him. He was deep in enemy territory and out in the open, not to mention, he was leaning against the lip of one of the elves’ most sacred places. The fact that he was here because it was what she wanted wasn’t lost on her. The incredible lengths he went to just for her made her heart race. Even without a direct link to his heart, his love for her was undeniable.

Sen couldn’t keep his eyes off his mate. Even covered in muck and grime, she seemed to glow. When she drew near, Sen helped her down from Bez and held her bridal style. He had Bez and Tanga drink from the well. The cool water rehydrating them after their race through the forest and the magic replenishing their lost energy. Then he had them patrol the perimeter. He didn’t want any more surprises or interruptions while he tended to his mate.

Setting Taylin on the edge of the well, Sen began to gently remove the rest of her clothing. Once she was completely naked, he rinsed off her leather gear, laying it out on the ground with a few rocks to help the leather keep its shape and not shrink. It would have to be retreated soon. But they’d worry about that later. Turning, he held Taylin’s eyes within his heated gaze.

‘Too close,’ he thought. He had come too close to losing his precious mate. His instincts were still frayed, and he needed to feel his mate in his arms. To know in both mind and body that she was alright and still with him. Sliding his arms under her knees and around her back, Sen carried her down the steps and into the cool, glistening water. He hadn’t bothered to remove his own armor. It needed to be rinsed just as badly as hers had been. Letting her half sit, half float on his folded knees, Sen let her rest her back against the lip of the well as he removed the bandages from her neck, leg, and ankle. Cupping his hands, he scooped up the crystal water and let it cascade over the bite at her shoulder. Then he gently massaged the water into the wound. It was already mostly healed, but the healing magic of the well would likely reduce the chances of it scarring. Sen trailed his fingertips down her body, barely ghosting over the swell of her breasts, skimming down the side of her waist, and followed the line of her leg under the water.

Goosebumps broke out across Taylin’s skin. His touch caused a shudder to ripple through her. She bit her lip as he rubbed the water into the fresh wounds on her leg. The pain subsided to a dull throb before disappearing all together. When he rolled her ankle around carefully, Taylin realized the swelling had gone down as well as the stiffness. Sighing in relief, she looked at her mate with hooded eyes, “No more pain. So, I think it’s time my mate claimed his reward.”

Her voice was low, and Sen’s lips twitched into a grin. “Not jus’ yet, mate. Onleh fahfilled part a ya wishes. Still need ta clean ya up,” he winked as he tugged on her other ankle, pulling her away from the edge and letting her sink deeper into the water. Her head tilted back, allowing her hair to fan out just under the surface. Sen slid his fingers through the silky tresses, brushing out the dirt and debris. Her hair cleaned, he pulled her closer and began to rinse the dirt from her face. Once her skin was free of the last of the dirt, and only her pale lavender flesh glowed just below the surface, did Sen pull away to remove his armor.

Suddenly, Taylin’s hand flew to her mouth to stifle a giggle. Cocking his brow at her, she pointed over his shoulder. Looking behind him, Sen had to work at not laughing himself. At the top step inside the well, Rubi was half running half swimming in tiny circles as she tried to catch her tail. Giving up, Rubi attempted to stand before wobbling and toppling dizzily into the water. Neither Taylin nor Sen could hold back their giggles at the little raptor’s antics. Righting herself, Rubi hopped out of the well, shook herself dry, and curled up on the base step for a nap.

Turning back to his mate, Sen pulled her fully into his lap and wrapped his arms tightly around her. He nearly crushed her against him. Pressing his cheek against her own, “I could ‘ave lost ya tahday. Dat’s twice, mate! Twice dat I feared fo’ ya life. Ya realleh are gonna be da death o’ meh.” His voice was almost trembling.

She had never seen him like this. “Wait… Twice?” she asked confused.

His hands clenched at her a little tighter. “Dat night ya cut ya arm on meh tusk. Ya lost so much blood; den ya passed out. I swore ya stopped breathin’ a couple o’ times. Even back den, I was protective o’ ya. I should ‘ave realized den dat ya were mah mate, but I was stubborn an’ ya a Night Elf. But ya scared da Loa outta meh dat night. Kept a hand ‘round ya wrist the whole night, your pulse da onleh ting dat kept meh sane.”

Taylin gasped. She never knew how bad she had been or the toll it had taken on Sen. Though he had been in denial, he had still feared for her death. “I’m sorry Sen. I never knew.”

“An’ I hadn’ planned on tellin’ ya. But woman, I ‘ave ‘alf a mind ta throw ya in a cave til I eithah fill ya belly wit’ mah whelp or til I get mah instincts undah control,” his voice rose slightly, and his tone shifted to a deeper timbre. “Preferableh da first,” he smirked as he pinned her against the wall of the well.

Taylin hadn’t even realized he’d moved their positions. Before she had time to register anything else, he had crushed his lips to hers. The kiss was desperate and demanding. She submitted completely to him. He licked her bottom lip, and she parted her lips to allow his tongue entry. He swept it across her and over her fangs hungrily. Taylin’s body became ablaze with heat, her body wrapping tightly around his. Her hands grasping for purchase in the creases of his armor.

Wrenching his head back, Sen caught Taylin’s fevered gaze, “Stay,” he commanded.

Taylin could only nod under his piercing stare.

Swiftly, Sen stepped from the well. Within moments, his armor was on the ground. He didn’t worry about it losing its form. The chain mail and chitin would keep the leather from losing its shape. Besides, he had other things on his mind as he made his way to his deliciously naked mate.

Taylin held her breath as Sen stepped into the well. Everything about him radiated power and masculinity. He moved with the grace of a predatory cat as he stalked her. Every muscle and sharp line of his body was on display as moonlight made his teal skin glisten like marble. Warmth pooled between her legs as he slid his body between them.

Their eyes locked and Sen grinned wickedly, “Dis be mah reward, but I t’ink ya be enjoyin’ it jus’ as much.” His voice was low, almost a growl. His hands quickly wrapped around her hips, and he lifted her out of the water. Placing her on the edge of the well, he knelt between her legs. “Lean back,” he commanded, and she obeyed. Her hands gripped the outer edge of the well wall as she leaned as far back as she could. Spreading her legs wide, Sen lowered his head to the apex of her thighs. “Beautiful,” he murmured.

A blush stained Taylin’s cheeks at both his praise and being spread so open before him.

Tilting his head upwards, Sen let his tusks rest along the creases between her thighs and pubic area. Slowly, he dragged his tongue up her damp seam. A shudder made its way through Taylin’s body. Wrapping his hands around her inner thighs, Sen slid his tongue between her folds until he found her sensitive nub.

Taylin’s breathing became sharp pants as he swirled his tongue around her clit, stopping only to flick it with the tip. That tongue of his felt incredible. He knew exactly how to use it.

Sen could not only feel her reactions under his hands as her muscles clenched at what he was doing to her, but he could also feel her pure euphoria thrumming down their link. He used that link to his advantage. Changing his speed or pressure based on the nuances he felt from her. Sen grinned in pride as he pleasured his mate. He took as much enjoyment from her pleasure as he did from his own release. As she started moving closer to that precipice, Sen slid his hands up her thighs and used his thumbs to open her lips to his hungry gaze. Her scent and taste was an assault on his senses, and he breathed and drank deep. Giving a lick to her swollen nub, Sen flattened his tongue against her and pushed it down to her entrance. He closed his jaw slightly, letting his teeth drag over her clit at the same time he slid his tongue inside her.

Taylin moaned Sen’s name at the sensation. Her body was on the edge and Sen seemed to know exactly what to do to push her higher.

Darting his tongue in and out, he caused her breathing to become ragged. She was close and they both knew it. Curling his tongue, Sen rubbed it hard against her inner walls, at the same time, he scraped his sharp teeth over her throbbing bud.

She bit back a loud moan as she came. Her body clenching around Sen’s skillful tongue.

Pressing his teeth harder into her flesh, he lapped up her honey. Her body shook, but he was nowhere near done with her. He was just getting started.

Just as she was coming down from her high, Sen slid a thick finger into her quivering passage. Simultaneously, he sealed his lips around her overly sensitive bud.

She skyrocketed back to that edge, having never fully finished coming down from the first orgasm. As Sen would suck on her clit, he would push his finger in deep. The double sensation caused her to gasp. Her fingers struggled to find purchase on his water slickened skin. His rhythm became quicker the closer she came to that peak. With one final deep thrust, he curled his finger and bit down gently on her nub. Taylin came instantly. Sen’s name followed by a prayer to Elune left her lips in a rushed moan. Before she could take another breath, Sen pressed a second finger deep within her. “Sen!” she all but screamed.

He chuckled against her. “Yeah, mate?” he asked while looking up her sweat glistened body.

“Please…,” she struggled through her clenched lips.

He pumped his fingers into her rapidly before stilling his hand. “Please what?”

“Please. I can’t take much more, and I need you,” she whimpered.

Sen gave her his most wicked grin yet, “Mah reward, ‘membah?” And with that, he lowered his head, capturing her nub between his lips and teeth at the same time he pushed his fingers as deeply as he could.

Taylin shattered. Her knuckles turned white as she gripped the ledge behind her. Every muscle clenched and spasmed as she fell from that white hot peak.

Sen curled his fingers and spread them wide, pushing against that hidden button. Moving his other hand to her hip, Sen kept his mate where he wanted her as she shook uncontrollably.

She bit her lip to hold back her scream. Sen had pushed her so quickly to another orgasm, it was almost painful. Her nectar flooded over his hand and Sen smirked up at his beautiful mate. His gaze cocky with the quivering mess she had become. Tears had stung her eyes with the orgasm’s intensity. “Bastard,” she growled out once she had regained her senses.

Chuckling, Sen raised up on his knees, so he was almost eye level with her. “Nope. I know mah pa. Besides, I know ya enjoyed dat.” To punctuate his remark, Sen lifted his soaked hand to his lips and licked his fingers clean.

His gaze held hers and she gulped down air. She hated that she loved it when he got cocky like that. It made him even more sexy. And what’s worse, is she knew he knew that as well. Taylin released her death grip on the well and crossed her arms, “Cocky, Goddess damned, troll,” she muttered.

Sen laughed, “Ya can try ta hide it all ya want, but I can feel how excited I make ya.” He placed his hand on his heart and smiled wide, flashing his teeth. “But ya words may come true wit’ wha’ I plan ta do ta ya. Gonna give new meanin’ ta corruptin’ da Moonwell,” his smile grew wicked as he wrapped his arms around her back and pulled her into the water.

A squeak left her lips as he caught her off guard. Finding herself straddling his lap as he sat back on his heels, she slapped his chest halfheartedly. “Give me a minute to recover,” she grumbled.

Sen’s smirk didn’t fade in the least as he ran a hand through her hair, “Fine, but onleh one.” He rocked his hips up, pressing his stiff member against her abdomen.

Taylin let her forehead fall on Sen’s collarbone as she draped her arms over his shoulders, “You keep saying I’m going to be the death of you, but I’m pretty sure it’s the other way around. I think you’re going to kill me through sex one of these times. Probably cause me to have a heart attack from over stimulation.”

“Death by a too full ‘eart, followed by death of a broken ‘eart ‘cause I’d follow righ’ behind ya,” he teased.

“Wow, way to kill the mood.”

“Dun ya worreh, mate. I can make ya blood hot easileh,” he said with a low, gravelly voice. His words and voice alone were enough to do the trick, but he took it one step further as he ran his tongue over just the edge of her mate mark.

Taylin’s body clenched. “Cheater,” she whispered. Leaning up, Taylin licked along his long ear from tip to base. “Two can play at that game,” she breathed and before Sen could react, she sealed her lips around his mark and pressed her fangs into his skin.

Sen roared as he was instantly pushed to the brink of orgasm. In the blink of an eye, Sen had her pinned against the edge of the Moonwell and he was sheathed to the hilt within her. Having both been on the edge, they came instantly at their joining. Both panting and shaking at the sheer force of the crashing of orgasms they could feel resonating between them. When Sen’s member relaxed, he rested his forehead against Taylin’s, his tusks resting on her shoulders. “You leetle mate…are gonna…be…da death o’ both us,” he panted out between labored breaths.

“But what a way to go?” she quipped back, her own breathing just as harsh and ragged.

“Now who bein’ cocky?” he chuckled.

“Guess I learned from the best,” she teased.

“Dat so, mate? Den I bes’ be teachin’ ya even mo,’” his voice became wickedly low as he began to gently rock his hips, his member already fully hard again. Sen worked her to that peak again slowly. He took his time with long drown out thrusts, enjoying every soft mew and moan he coaxed from his mate’s lips. But before she could fall, he stopped.

Taylin looked at him in confusion. She was so close, and he just quit. Glaring at him, Taylin was about to ask what the hell he was doing when he picked her up and made his way to the steps.

Taking a seat on the top step, Sen put her knees on the smoothly worn stone at his sides. The water lapped only a few inches high around them. Leaning back on his elbows that rested on the well’s rim, he looked up at her. “Ride,” was all he said as he grinned.

‘Well, it is his reward after all,’ she thought as she did as she was told. Bracing one hand against his firm chest, Taylin began a steady pace of lifting and lowering herself onto his thick shaft.

His eyes hungrily traveled over her body as she rode him. Her round breasts bouncing in time with her movements, her thighs clenching at his sides, and her wet hair tickling the tops of his thighs when she arched her back. She was absolutely breath taking. But he had had a wicked idea and couldn’t wait to see her reaction. Holding a hand out in front of her lips, “Suck,” he said simply.

So caught off guard by his request, Taylin obeyed. She wrapped her delicate hand around his wrist and slid her lips around one of his fingers. She sucked on the end of his finger, but Sen’s next words had her blushing.

“Nah. Like ya were pleasin’ meh,” he said soft but firmly.

Complying, Taylin swirled her tongue around his finger and began moving her mouth up and down its length.

“Jus’ like dat,” he praised.

At his words, she doubled her efforts. Her hips moving almost in sync with her mouth.

Sen was momentarily entranced. Clearing his head, Sen focused. Neither would last much longer, so he needed to hurry. Withdrawing his hand from her lips, Sen used her saliva to trace a circle around a pert nipple.

Taylin moaned then arched her back when he tweaked it.

Sliding his hand over her breast and up her throat, he held his fingers out to her again. “Again,” he demanded.

This time she sucked his finger for all she was worth.

Pressing up against the roof of her mouth, Sen kept her mouth open as he withdrew his finger. He wanted as much saliva to remain as possible. Leaning up just slightly, he wrapped his other hand around her hip. “Touch ya self,” he commanded.

Blushing, Taylin began to rub her breasts and tease her peaked nipples.

“Not dere, mate. Lowah,” his voice was deep and husky.

Her cheeks burned crimson, but again, she obeyed. She let her hand travel down to the curve of her body until she reached the apex of her thighs. Leaning back slightly, she began to rub at her swollen bud.

Sen’s mouth watered and his heart skipped a beat. Not only was she obeying his every command, but damn did she look sexy doing it. Her eyes were clenched shut in ecstasy as she rode him and pleasured herself. She was fast approaching that cliff. Her hand started to move faster. ‘Can’t be having that,’ Sen thought. “Slow an’ easeh, girlie. We be gettin’ ta da end soon enough,” he growled softly.

Instantly, she slowed her hand at his demand.

“Dat’s mah girl,’ he said while waiting for her eyes to close again. As soon as they did, he leaned forwards even more and slid his saliva slickened hand around behind her, being sure to keep his wet finger off her skin. When Taylin bit her lip, he knew she was close and, more importantly, distracted. He swirled his wet finger around her puckered hole.

Taylin’s eyes shot open and he pushed his finger in to the first knuckle. “Sen!” she yelled as her pace faltered at his intrusion.

“Jus’ relax, mate an’ dun stop. We both be almos’ dere,” he panted softly.

He was right, but his finger at her back door felt wrong. But the Goddess help her, it also felt good.

Feeling her pick up her pace, Sen grinned. Pressing harder, he worked his finger to the second knuckle. The resistance gave and he slid in all the way to the base.

Taylin moaned loudly. She was stretched tight, bordering on painful. When his finger pushed all the way in, she came. Her whole body shattered. Sen’s name and a curse fell from her lips.

Feeling her body clench him tightly, Sen quickly followed her over the cliff. Rocking his hips upwards hard, he met her hips forcefully as he pushed down with the finger inside her.

Pleasure ricocheted through her system, intensifying her already soul shattering orgasm. Sen released stream after heavy stream of his seed deep within Taylin’s womb. Taylin collapsed against her mate. She was exhausted and completely spent.

Removing his finger, he rinsed it off in the well’s water before wrapping his arms around the trembling elf. When his own heart had stopped racing, he asked, “Like dat mate?”

She could only nod. She didn’t have the energy or mental capacity to form a coherent word, let alone a sentence.

Sen chuckled at his exhausted mate. He had pushed her over the cliff several times tonight and she was nearly boneless in his arms. He preened in pride. “We need ta get rinsed off an’ dress. Need to find some place ta sleep cause we meet ya parents tonight,” Sen said as he started to get up.

“Can’t move,” she muttered softly. “And it’s tomorrow night.”

Sen chuckled at her again, “Check da moon, love. It be getting’ close ta mornin’ so it be tanight.”

Taylin groaned. He was right. It was well past midnight.

“If ya get dressed quickleh, I promise ta let ya sleep late inta da day,” he urged her. Another groan his only reply. Ignoring his protesting and limp female, Sen picked her up and carried her to the outer steps where he placed her next to the softly snoring hatchling. She grumbled when he let her go. “Get dressed an’ I’ll even carreh ya ta where we be sleepin,’” he winked at her as he redressed.

With his final encouragement, Taylin begrudgingly got her armor on. Thankfully, it had mostly dried out. Only her boots remained heavily damp. Taylin scooped up the still sleeping raptor and waited with puppy dog eyes for her mate.

With an exasperated sigh, Sen swept her into his arms bridal style. With a long whistle, he called Tanga and Bezwen to his side. Setting Taylin side saddle atop Bezwen, Sen began rummaging through his saddle bags.

“Hey, the deal was you’d carry me,” Taylin pouted.

Rolling his eyes at his mate, Sen found their empty canteens. “So needeh,” he teased.

Taylin stuck her tongue out at him.

“I will, jus’ gonna refill our watah while we ‘ave da chance.”

Taylin continued to pout while he topped off the canteens and returned them to the saddle bags. Keeping one arm wrapped around Rubi she held her other out towards Sen, her hand opening and closing like a child begging to be picked up.

Again, Sen rolled his eyes at his mate’s antics, but picked her up. This time, he wrapped her legs around his waist, bracing her weight with an arm. “Gonna be climbin,’ so gonna need mah ‘ands, love. An’ no teasin’ o’ I won’ carreh ya,” he said with a smirk as he remembered the first time he carried her like this through the trees.

Taylin yawned sleepily, “Too tired, or I would.”

“I still can’ believe ya be ovah tree hundred,” he jabbed.

“Shut it,” Taylin said as she cradled Rubi between them in one arm and curled her other around Sen’s neck.

When she laid her cheek over his heart, Sen knew he’d have to find a place quickly before she fell asleep in his arms. His own body was moving slower then he liked as his energy flagged. Reaching the tree line, he told Bezwen and Tanga to keep pace below while he traveled through the branches. It was less likely they’d be seen, and he could cover more ground. He wanted to get as close as he could to Astranaar tonight, so he and his mate could rest most of the day.

Racing along branches and jumping limb to limb when he needed, Sen came to a halt in an extremely large tree. He wanted to get his bearings. Looking around, he saw a rocky cave entrance fifty or so yards away. He knew where they were. That was Talondeep Pass that led into the Stonetalon Mountains. They had come further than he thought. Adjusting his precious cargo, Sen pushed on. Though it was seldom used, the tunnel was a point of travel in this area. He didn’t want to stick around the area for too long. There was a secluded ledge about a mile or two past the tunnel that he had used many times before as a camp site while out scouting. The trees kept it hidden from above, and the boulders from the mountain kept it hidden from below. Unless someone stumbled upon it blindly while traveling through the trees as he had years ago, you could only find it if you knew it was there. Picking up speed, Sen raced for the ledge.

There was only a couple of hours until dawn’s first blush when Sen finally made it to the ledge. His muscles protested and he had tapped most of his energy reserves. The Moonwell’s magic waters had nourished and revitalized him, but traveling straight on for over two days with next to no sleep would take its toll on anyone. The branch he was perched on made a partial bridge to the ledge. He would have to jump the last few feet because the branch became too narrow to support his weight. Gripping his now sleeping mate a little tighter, Sen glanced below him to the base of the tree. Bezwen and Tanga waited below, and he called out a series of commands to the two.

Bezwen grumbled. They’d been there many times before and he hated the climb to the ledge. It took him days to free the bark from his teeth after. Growling at his master, Bez protested. He could keep watch just fine down here.

Sen’s eyes turned hard as he clicked his tongue again.

Bez sighed. He would never outright disobey his master. Using his nimble front claws, Bez flicked open a clasp at the base of his neck. Raising up, he let his saddlebags fall to the ground behind with a thud. Sen had designed the harness so Bezwen could easily rid himself of any burden should he need to flee or fight. Left in only his armor and saddle, the raptor looked up. Eyeing a branch high above him, Bez coiled his legs and leapt. Snapping his jaws around the branch, Bez used his momentum and swung his back legs onto the branch. His claws dug deep for purchase as he regained his balance. Looking up at the next branch, Bez repeated the process until he perched on the same branch as his master.

Sen gave Bez a stiff nod before turning to gage his leap. Taking three quick, long strides, Sen jumped and easily cleared the distance to the ledge. Landing as softly as he could, Sen tried not to wake the sleeping bundle in his arms. Though she stirred slightly, she didn’t wake. However, the tiny bundle between him and Taylin was eyeing him with annoyance at being disturbed before burrowing deeper under Taylin’s chest. Sen stepped out of the way just as Bez made the leap.

Bez chittered at Sen before curling up against the cliff and scratching at his teeth with his front claws. He hated the taste of bark and how it pricked at his gums.

Crouching next to the pouting raptor, Sen kept his voice low as he tucked his mate into the curl of Bez’s warm body. “Sorreh, boy. But the mo’ protection she be ‘avin, da bettah I feel.” He nodded to Taylin’s sleeping form.

Glancing from his master to his mistress, Bez tucked his tail protectively around the sleeping elf. The trust Sen showed him with caring for his mate mollified the raptor.

With another quick glance at his mate and mount, Sen jumped back into the tree to retrieve the packs and saddlebags from below.

Tanga waited by the pile of supplies, guarding her master’s belongings.

Sen dropped down gracefully next to her. “Your turn,” he said while holding out one of the smaller packs.

Gently taking it in her jaws, Tanga ran at the tree with full speed and leapt straight up. Her sharp claws finding easy purchase in the rough bark of the trunk. Quickly, she scaled the tree and leapt to the ledge.

Sen hefted the remaining pack and two saddlebags over his shoulder and returned to his mate’s side. Softly, Sen told Bezwen to rest with his mate while he set up camp.

Bez laid his head down next to Taylin’s hip, effectively encircling the sleeping female with his scaly body. Anyone foolish enough to slip past his master would have to go through his claws and fangs before they could even think of touching the females in his care.

A smile graced Sen’s lips while he worked. The scaly dolt had come to adore his mate just as he hoped. He was even just as protective of her. Both his animals had taken a shine to her. Though Tanga still showed some jealousy now and then. She had been the alpha female of his little pack for a long time, and she didn’t like taking orders from anyone but him, his sister being the only occasional exception. But even the aloof natured cat had begun to warm to Taylin. It was evident in where she always chose to lounge. Always close to his mate or even at her side. Tanga had been going the extra mile to see to his mate’s protection. He couldn’t have asked for better companions. Even little Rubi had been a blessing. While his beasts saw to his mate’s safety and protection, Rubi provided her with comfort and support.

The light was just beginning to seep through the trees as dawn broke. A small camp was set up that would see their needs met for the next couple of days. They were only a three to four hour trek from where they planned to meet Taylin’s parents, having traveled much further in the night than he had originally planned. He hadn’t bothered with a fire. Though they were well secluded and far from any well-traveled paths, Sen didn’t want to risk the smoke being seen in the daylight. Besides, the sun was coming up and his mate had Bezwen to keep her warm.

Removing his armor, Sen stripped down to just his simple leather pants. He desperately needed to rest, and he wanted to do so comfortably. Though the ledge was small, only about twenty feet deep at its widest, it stretched more than double that in length. Narrowing down to mere inches at each end. The only way to the ledge without a flying mount was the way they had come or by scaling the forty-foot sheer cliff face below him. Small patches of foliage grew along the ledge, but only a single tree had managed to take root. Though still a sapling compared to the giants surrounding them. It was still large enough for Sen to climb and rest comfortably on its lowest and largest limb, as long as he stayed close to the trunk. Much further out and the branch would bend under his weight.

He was just about to climb his way to that branch when his sharp ears picked up the faint whimpers of his mate. Crouching down, he looked her over as Bez’s head came up. Worry was clear in the raptor’s eyes. Sen reached out and placed the back of his hand against Taylin’s brow. She wasn’t feverish, so what was the problem? At his touch, Taylin’s whimpers had subsided, but when he removed his hand, they returned. ‘Ah,’ he thought. He was the problem. His mate had instinctually searched for her mate for comfort. When she couldn’t locate him, she began to struggle. Shaking his head, Sen quickly picked up the elf, leaving Rubi in his raptor’s care.

He told Bezwen and Tanga to take turns keeping watch and to nap in between until he relieved them. Until then he was going to rest, completely.

Bez and Tanga knew that meant they were the only eyes and ears paying attention. Sen wouldn’t be helping at all. Bez returned to his nap as Tanga took first watch.

Carefully, Sen climbed the small tree. He settled himself down against the trunk and curled his arms and legs possessively and protectively around his mate. Covering Taylin’s ears, Sen released a piercing whistle. A moment later, silvery gray feathers alighted on the branch before him. “Need ya ta be mah eyes. Need ta sleep,” he whispered as he closed his eyes. The fatigue was catching up with him. A slight rustle of feathers was his reply as Sekre alighted on a thin branch overhead. Her sharp eyes piercing through the deep forest.

The sun was already making its descent past midday when Sen finally awoke. He felt well rested and refreshed. His mind immediately snapped to panic when he realized Taylin wasn’t in his arms. Swiftly, he scanned the area homing in on their link.

Her eyes caught his as she felt the rise of his panic, but both calmed when they locked gazes. She was sitting on the large branch across the ledge from him. She had shed her armor and was wearing nothing but his shirt and her leather pants, bare feet dangling to either side of the tree limb. When she had woken up, she had realized all her wounds had healed. Her hair was pulled back in a tight braid to keep it out of the way while she cleaned and honed her daggers.

All three, he noticed.

Tanga, Bez, and Rubi were softly snoring below him and Taylin raised a finger to her lips for him to keep quiet. She had finally convinced the two that she would be fine, and they needed their rest. Besides, Sekre was currently perched above her and had taken to flying quick scouting circles around the area every so often. She had promised she wouldn’t leave sight of them, and they had only just fallen asleep.

Sen stretched and silently rolled to his feet. Traveling as far as he dared along his branch, Sen leapt to Taylin’s. “Afternoon, mate,” she whispered as Sen crouched before her. “And before you say anything, don’t you dare get upset with those two. It was hard enough convincing them I’d be fine. But they need rest just like you did. And if you scold them, they’re liable to never listen to me again,” she warned, her voice barely above a whisper. Unknown to her, two slitted green eyes finally closed.

“Wouldn’ dream o’ it mate,” Sen grinned. “You be dere master jus’ as much as meh. Doe, I’m sure one o’ dem probleh kept dere eye on ya anehways.”

“You’re probably right, but they still needed to sleep,” she agreed. Sheathing her daggers, Taylin buckled the matching blades to her belt and laid the bone dagger across her thigh. Fingering it lovingly, “I don’t think I ever thanked you for this, so thank you, Sen.” Her words were soft as she caught his eye. “Though I was surprised you gave it to me. You were still so distant back then.”

“I’d been watchin’ ya train an’ struggle to find ya self. An’ ya needed some kind o’ protection. Didn’ wan’ ta see ya get ‘urt, even back den. I was a fool fo’ not seein’ ya den, but I nevah gonna let ya outta meh sight now if I can ‘elp it. An’ if gifts be makin’ ya happeh, I’ll gladleh give em to ya all da time,” his smile lit up his face and made Taylin’s cheeks tinge pink.

“As long as I have you, I’m happy. But I won’t say no to a present now and then.”

Sen chuckled. “As mah mate wishes.”

“So, where are we anyway?” she asked.

Sen straddled the branch as he sat down. “‘Bout a tree hour walk ta where we supposed ta meet ya parents.”

Taylin’s eyes lit up. “Really? We traveled that far last night? Just how long did you run?”

“Til jus’ befo’ da sun came up.”

“No wonder you slept for so long,” she exclaimed. She was shocked. Sen must have run for miles while carrying her to get them so close.

“Eh, da adrenaline from da fight carried meh farther den I realized til I saw we be close ta dis place. Used dis ledge as a campsite maneh times befo’,” he shrugged. The wind shifted and Sen picked up a barely noticeable change in her scent. It made his instincts sit up and take notice and his mouth watered. Plucking the bone dagger from her lap, Sen got to his feet. “Commere,” he said before jumping back to the ledge and tossing her dagger next to his bow and their armor.

Curious, Taylin followed.

Sen walked to the back of the ledge and leaned against the cool stone in the shade. Crooking his finger at her, he bade her to come to him. As soon as she was in reach, he pulled her to him and buried his nose into the crook of her neck. The change in her scent was stronger, but he couldn’t figure out what it was. Suddenly, it hit him. Dropping to his knees, Sen lifted the bottom edge of the shirt Taylin was wearing and pressed his nose to her abdomen.

Slightly worried, Taylin squeaked out, “Sen, what is it? What’s wrong?”

Sen looked up at her with the largest smile she’d ever seen on him. “Won’ be completeleh sure fo’ a week o’ so, an’ I know we said we not readeh, but Tay… I pretteh sure ya be carryin.’” His eyes danced with happiness.

Taylin’s knees went weak, and she collapsed to the ground next to him. “What?! You’re joking. But we’ve…,” her voice trailed off as she stuttered. “But we’ve only been together a handful of times. Are you sure? How can you tell?”

Growing slightly worried at her reaction, Sen answered truthfully, “It onleh takes once, mate. An’ like I said, won’ be sure fo’ at least a few mo’ days, but da scent be dere. It faint, but it dere. Ya not happeh to be carryin’ mah whelp?” His final words were soft and filled with worry and pain.

Taylin snapped out of her thoughts. “Our child,” she corrected. “Took both off us ya know. And of course I’m happy. I just didn’t think it would happen so soon. We don’t even have our own place yet and we’ve only been mated just over a week.” Her fears were making her tremble, but Sen wrapped his hand around hers and pressed both to her abdomen.

His voice was soft and gentle, “Shh… No matta wha’, I be wit’ ya, Tay.” He lowered his gaze to their hands, “Ya jus’ made me da happies’ mon evah.”

His words sliced through her fears as she followed his gaze to their twined hands, “Our child,” she whispered in awe.

Sen couldn’t help it as he reared his head back and roared his happiness into the canopy above, startling a flock of birds from the trees. He may end up regretting that later, but right now, he was entirely too happy to care.

Taylin launched herself forwards, tackling Sen to the ground as she kissed him for all she was worth, both hands wrapped firmly around his tusks.

All three animals snapped awake at Sen’s roar and quickly dashed to their side before taking in their positions and the happiness that hung thick in the air around them. Stepping carefully to Taylin’s side, Tanga pressed her nose into the curve of her hip. With a happy mewl, she licked Taylin’s cheek. There’d be a new youngling come late winter.

Taylin rolled her eyes when Bezwen chortled and pranced happily in a circle. She just knew she’d never be left alone again.

The two left the happy couple and assumed defensive positions along the edge of their campsite.

Seeing his animals retreat, Sen’s eyes turned molten as he stared up at his mate. Swiftly, he flipped their positions and captured her lips. He made love to his mate, gently and deeply. His every touch a gentle caress. It was still days before they would be sure the pregnancy took, and he wasn’t about to risk harm to his mate or their possible child. But he made sure his mate was deeply satisfied.

They lounged within the shade of the cliff. Sen was still naked and Taylin back in only his shirt. Every so often her hand would snake down to cover her abdomen. She still couldn’t believe that she was pregnant. Though she had wanted to wait, she couldn’t deny her happiness. ‘Our child,’ was on repeat in her mind. Her stomach brought her out of her thoughts as it growled hungrily.

Sen chuckled, “Guess I be needin’ ta feed ya both,” he winked. Getting to his feet, Sen quickly pulled on his loin cloth and pants before grabbing his bow and quiver. “Stay put, I be right back,” he commanded, both to Taylin and the two standing guard.

Jumping across the gap, Sen shimmied down the tree and took off as soon as his feet touched the ground. About thirty minutes later, Sen returned with four plump rabbits slung over his shoulder. They were already skinned and cleaned.

His speed impressed Taylin, “That was fast.”

“Now dat ya carryin’, I ain’ evah gonna leave ya alone fo’ long. ‘Specialleh wit’ mah instincts still so strong.” He noticed Taylin had been busy while he had been gone. A small fire was crackling away with a spit already set up. Their bowls and canteens were set out to the side. And, much to his disappointment, she had pulled her pants back on. Sen tossed a rabbit each to Tanga and Bezwen. Seeing the little raptor next to Taylin eyeing him with hunger, “I didn’ fo’get ‘bout ya.” He pulled a small cloth tied bundle from his pouch. Carefully, he loosened the ties and tossed a brown thing to the ground before Rubi.

Taylin screeched as she jumped to her feet. It was a mouse, and it was still alive.

Sen laughed at his mate. “Nevah seen a rogue scared a mice n’ spidahs,” he teased.

Calming down, Taylin watched Rubi chase and pounce atop the little mouse. “Why alive?” she asked.

“She needs ta learn ta hunt fo’ ‘erself. I dun mind providin’ like I do wit’ dose two, but soon she be needin’ ta pull ‘er own weight.”

Taylin could see his point. “A little warning next time?”

“An’ miss seein’ dat look on ya face? Nah, I dun t’ink so,” he said as his lips twitched into a smirk.

“Ass,” Taylin muttered under her breath.

“Wha’ was dat, mate?” he asked as he dug through a saddle bag. His sensitive ears had heard her clearly, but he loved to mess with her.

“Nothing at all,” she quipped.

Finding the large pot he was searching for, he headed to the fire. “Ya be lyin’, mate,” he sing-songed as he cut one of the rabbits into large pieces and dropped them into the pot along with a bundle of mushrooms he’d found while hunting. The earthiness would soften the gamey taste of the meat and add extra liquid while it braised.

“Am not,” Taylin pouted, but the corners of her mouth twitched upwards.

Sen poured water into the pot, partially covering the meat. Carefully, he used a stick to push some burning embers aside. He dug a hole as close to the fire as he could. Though they were on a rocky outcropping, dirt had piled deep across the surface over the hundreds of years it had been there. Placing the pot in the hole, he made sure the lid was secure before covering it with a thin layer of dirt. Then, using the stick, he covered it with the burning coals and embers. It would take hours to cook, but the meat would be fall off the bone tender. Glancing over his shoulder, “Mebbe I be needin’ ta take mah ‘and ta dat pretty leetle ass a ya’s fo’ lyin ta ya mate.” A wicked thought crossed his mind, “O’ bettah yet, in dat ass.”

Taylin’s cheeks flamed bright red,” Why you… you…,” she stuttered before stomping away from her now laughing overly pleased with himself mate. She plopped herself under their tree and kept her back to the troll. ‘I can’t believe he brought that up,’ she thought. Her cheeks were still burning from embarrassment.

Once he had the other rabbit spit over the fire for them to eat soon, Sen stalked over to his overly embarrassed mate. He could feel just how mortified she felt. To his mind, she had no reason to feel embarrassed. And there were many more things he wished to do with and to his mate in the future. But if he didn’t calm her down now, she may never let him try anything else with her. Crouching down next to the elf, he spoke softly, “Ya know, ya be damn sexeh when ya poutin’ an’ all flustered.”

Taylin’s blush traveled all the way to the tips of her ears. “Flattery won’t help. I’m pissed at you. I can’t believe you said that. And so easily,” she flushed even brighter.

“Dere be nothin’ fo’ ya ta be embarrassed ‘bout, love. Ya enjoyed it, didn’ ya?”

“Go away,” she snapped.

“Well?” he pushed gently.

Shyly, Taylin slowly nodded.

“Den no need ta be embarrassed. ‘Sides, I did it ta ya. An’ I plan on doin’ mo’ den jus’ dat, so it not a big deal.” Sen could see the gears turning in her mind as her eyes got as big as saucers. Sen held up his hand, “Easeh, mate. We be takin’ it slow.”

“But there’s no way that can fit. No. No way,” she cut him off. She couldn’t help it when her eyes darted to between his legs then to the ground as her blush spread anew.

Sen knew exactly where her mind went and chuckled when her eyes followed. “I said we be takin’ it slow, but onleh if ya wanna. I won’ force ya mate. I always make ya feel good, dun I?”

Taylin nodded again. Keeping her eyes lowered to the dirt between them, “You won’t think less of me if I agree?” Taylin plucked a couple of stems of grass in nervousness. She was still embarrassed as hell, but secretly she was curious. It had felt good, and her mate never hurt her. Nor did he push her past what she wanted or allowed. If she said no and meant it, he would respect her wishes. She always came first in his world.

Sen rolled his eyes and sat down beside her. “Dat be wha’ ya worried ‘bout? Tay, ya mah mate an’ futah motha ta mah child. I could nevah tink less o’ ya. I love ya ta mah vereh soul, mate. ‘Sides, I da one askin’ ya. Do ya t’ink lessah o’ meh fo’ wantin’ it?”

Taylin rolled his words over in her head and then shook it, “No.”

“Den dere be no need fo’ dis. No reason ta be embarrassed. Wha’ we do be our business an’ dere be no harm if it be makin’ us happeh,” he waggled his brows at her.

“What’s gotten into you? I mean I know you like sex, but you’ve never spoken like this before?” Sure, he had always been insatiable, and Taylin wasn’t complaining, but he seemed even more persistent in his need for her.

“It be da change in ya scent. Makes ya even mo’ irresistible wit’ knowin’ ya be a fertile female. Dat an’ knowin’ dat ya be carryin’ mah, our,” he corrected himself, “child. Makes meh wan’ ya even mo’ den befo.’” He shrugged. It was hard enough keeping his hands off her with them being new mates and his instincts driving him. Now it would be damn near impossible.

Sen rose to his feet to check the rabbit over the fire. He could feel Taylin as she relaxed and took in his words. He was beyond pleased that she hadn’t completely shied away from him or told him no. And his instincts to calm his mate relented. Her overly emotional state wasn’t good for the early stages of her pregnancy. Her body could terminate and that was the last thing he wanted, even if he loved riling her up.

Her mind was a jumbled mess. His words made sense, but she couldn’t help but still feel slightly nervous and embarrassed as her mind played images of what she thought he may want to do with her. She couldn’t help the heat that blossomed lower within her body at those images either. She made up her mind that she’d be at least willing to try whatever he asked unless she felt too uncomfortable. The smell of the cooking rabbit hit her nose and her stomach growled again. Her thoughts forgotten for the time being. “Tell me again why I did all the cooking back at Kreeva’s?” she asked, sitting down next to him. Her mouth positively watering.

“We nevah asked ya ta, but ya seemed to like it, so we left ya ta it,” Sen answered as he rotated the spit. “An out ‘ere, it makes meh feel like a good mate ta provide fo’ ya,” he revealed.

Taylin was surprised yet again at his openness. “Your instincts really demand a lot from you,” she said absent mindedly.

“Aye, but dey will get easiah ta control, ‘specialleh when ya whelp,” he stated matter of factly.

“Sorry you got stuck with such an emotional and stubborn mate.”

“Ya be perfect fo’ meh. An’ I love it when ya challenge meh. Doe ya always seem ta know jus’ when ta submit.”

She giggled, “Comes from being tied so deeply here,” she tapped his heart. “I spent months trying to learn to read you, and now that I can feel you next to my heart, I can read you better than anyone. But that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy occasionally pushing your buttons just as you do mine.”

Sen couldn’t deny that. “See, perfect fo’ meh,” his grin flashing his teeth.

They fell into a comfortable silence as they ate. The sun had sunk low and soon they would need to head out to meet up with Cadren and her parents.

Sen’s mind drifted as he thought about his mate’s parents. ‘How would they react to me? Would they be upset with Taylin and possibly abandon her?’ He didn’t like that thought one bit, but it was a possibility. But she would always have him and his family along with Cadren and he took some solace in that.

Taylin’s mind was having similar thoughts, but the possible baby was added to the mix. ‘If they accept Sen, should she tell them about her possible pregnancy, even though they weren’t completely sure yet? And what if they deny Sen or couldn’t accept him? Would she tell them then?’ All she could do was hope for the best and if the timing seemed right, she would tell them about the baby. She had already decided on a clean slate and no more secrets. Even if this may be more shocking than having a troll mate. Taylin scooted back against the rock wall and closed her eyes. She wanted to get a bit more rest, so she’d be well rested when she saw her parents. Feeling Sen move beside her, she cracked her eyes open just as he shifted her, so she was nestled between his long legs and her head rested in his lap.

“Rest, love. I’ll wake ya up when it be time ta leave,” he said softly as he undid her braid and ran his thick fingers gently through her hair.

With Sen’s calming scent surrounding her, Taylin quickly drifted to sleep.

In Darnassus, Cadren had slept most of the day and spent the rest trying to figure out how to break the news to Taylin’s parents. Having come up with nothing, he found himself pacing nervously at their front door. Taylin’s family had always treated him like a son, which should have made talking to them even easier. However, it was the exact opposite. The sun had just started to sink, and he could hear movement inside Taylin’s home. ‘Here goes nothing,’ he thought. He just prayed her parents would believe him.

Nervously, he knocked on the door. Taylin’s mother answered. She was dressed for work and probably about to head there despite what she had suffered. Cadren had always admired that strong will and figured Taylin had inherited that from her. Taking a deep breath, “Good evening, Mrs. Shadowsong. May I come in?”

“Cadren, what a pleasant surprise. And you know you can call me Me’lynn. To what do we owe the pleasure?” she asked.

Stepping into their home, “You may want to take a seat.”

“Oh? What’s the matter?” She could tell he was nervous. She had always loved the boy and was always surprised that he and her daughter had never become a couple. They had always been inseparable. ‘Too late now,’ she thought sadly as she took a seat at the kitchen table.

Cadren pulled a chair close to her side. Sitting down, he reached for Me’lynn’s hands. “Is Mr. Shadowsong home?” he asked.

Getting worried at Cadren’s behavior, Me’lynn shook her head. “No. He had a council meeting this afternoon, but he should be home soon. Some foreign dignitaries were there so they had to meet during the day. Draw back to keeping with our nocturnal roots.” His nervousness was causing her to chatter.

“I don’t know how to tell you this, so I’m going to just come right out and say it.” Cadren took a deep breath, “Taylin is alive.”

Me’lynn yanked her hands from Cadren and stood so quickly her chair toppled over and clattered to the floor. “What!? But how? Are you sure? How do you know?” Her questions poured forth in her confusion and excitement. She had known in her heart of hearts that her baby was still alive somewhere out there.

“Please, Me’lynn, if you’ll calm down I’ll explain what I can,” Cadren said firmly.

Getting her composure back under control, Me’lynn righted her chair and sat down. “Please, Cad, tell me where my daughter is,” she almost pleaded.

“Should we wait for your husband?” Cadren asked softly.

“I suppose we should, but please. Is Taylin safe and alright?” ‘Why wasn’t she here herself,’ she wondered as she tried to keep her emotions in check. She had always prided herself on being able to keep a level head no matter the circumstances. But it was proving difficult this time. Her precious daughter had been presumed dead for months, and now she learned she was alive. It was almost too much.

“Taylin’s as safe as she can be and when I saw her two days ago, she was perfectly fine and healthy,” Cadren answered.

“Then why isn’t she here with you?”

“When your husband gets here, I promise to explain everything I can,” Cadren said, slightly frustrated. He hated how distraught the woman appeared. He loved her almost as much as his own mother. And he truly hated that he couldn’t tell her everything. But he had promised Taylin. He wouldn’t reveal anything about Sen or where she had been these last months.

“Yes, I’m sorry. You’re right. Please, make yourself at home. While we wait for Jal’reth, I’m just going to run down to the shop and put a note on the door that it’ll be closed for the next few nights. Please help yourself to anything in the kitchen. You know your way around. I’ll be right back.” And with that, Me’lynn raced out the door.

Cadren just stared at the closed door. Taylin’s mother was always cool and collected. But now she seemed more like, well… like Taylin. He chuckled at that thought. ‘Yup, definitely takes after her mother.’ Looking through the kitchen, Cadren found a loaf of freshly baked spiced honey bread. Cutting himself a piece, he was just sitting down when Taylin’s father walked in the door. Cadren blinked, he wasn’t quite sure what to say.

“Ishnu-alah, Cadren my boy. Haven’t seen you around much lately. What are you doing here?” Jal’reth said as he hung up his coat.

Cadren placed his fork down. “Sorry I stopped coming by. It started to become too hard. Too many fresh memories. But I’ve got some great news to share with you and Me’lynn when she gets back. She went to put a closed sign on the door to her business.” He tried to be as vague as possible to avoid any questions until Taylin’s mother returned.

“I understand and don’t blame you. We all miss her terribly,” Jal’reth said as he helped himself to a slice of the sweet bread as well. His wife’s cooking was something he always enjoyed coming home to.

Trying to come up with something to change the subject with, Taylin’s mother saved Cadren the trouble as she burst through the door.

“Oh, thank the Goddess you’re home. Has Cadren told you yet?” Me’lynn wheezed out as she shut the door. Her hair was slightly messed, and she sounded like she was out of breath.

‘She must have run all the way there and back again,’ Cadren thought.

“Told me what?” Jal’reth asked looking between his distraught wife and his daughter’s childhood friend.

Me’lynn couldn’t contain herself any longer and threw her arms around her husband, laughter bubbling up to her lips. “Taylin’s alive,” she exclaimed excitedly.

Jal’reth was stunned. He knew his wife had believed she was still alive, but he had given up hope. A smile broke out over his lips, and he squeezed his wife tightly, “But how? Where is she? And where has she been?”

Me’lynn laughed at her husband as he asked almost the same questions she had. “We were waiting for you to get home then Cadren would explain everything. He’s been to see her,” she chirped before taking a seat.

Both parents turned towards Cadren, and he grew nervous again. “I can’t tell you everything because I promised Taylin to let her explain most of it, but I will tell you what I can. Taylin sent me a letter days ago that she was heading to Ratchet. I flew there immediately because I just couldn’t believe she was really alive. You see, originally, she had planned to fake her own death to escape Leidan.” He had explained all about who Leidan really was and that he had threatened them both if she didn’t do what he wanted. Both her parents had been very relieved. They had heard the rumors about that man and truthfully didn’t want their daughter anywhere near him.

“So, I just had to see her for myself. I met her just outside of Ratchet and she’s perfectly fine. She’s happy. What I can tell you is that she had amnesia. That’s why she never contacted anyone or came home. She only recently got her memories back. I can’t tell you where she was because that’s her story to tell. She’s going to meet us at high moon tonight just outside of Astranaar.” Cadren finished with a sigh. He could tell by the looks on their faces that they had a hundred questions, and he knew he couldn’t answer most.

“But why didn’t she come back with you?” Me’lynn started the questioning.

“You’ll understand when you see her.” It was the best answer he could give.

Suddenly fearing for her daughter, “Was she badly injured or in some kind of trouble?”

“I promise she’s alright and perfectly healthy. As for trouble… No. Not in the way you think.”

“But you said she was safe,” Me’lynn gasped.

“She is, or at least she was when I left her, but you know Taylin. I can’t promise trouble hasn’t found her since I left,” he smiled, hoping to distract them from going further down that line of questioning. He didn’t want to outright lie to them if he could help it. But with her chosen mate, she wasn’t exactly safe in the truest sense of the word. But he didn’t want her parents to worry either.

Standing up, Jal’reth exclaimed, “What are we waiting for? Taylin’s in Astranaar so let’s get going.”

“Just a moment sir. May I have a moment alone with Me’lynn?” Cadren asked.

Jal’reth looked to his wife.

“It’s alright honey. Would you go pack us a bag with several nights of clothes? We’ll stay the day in Astranaar, and we may stay longer depending on what Taylin has to say.”

“Alright,” Jal’reth said before heading to their bedroom.

“Now, what is it dear?” she asked, turning to Cadren.

“I promise she really is fine and happy. But she’s bringing someone to meet you. And I’m asking you. No matter what, give them a chance. For Taylin’s sake.”

Me’lynn’s eyes lit up, “She’s found someone, hasn’t she?”

Cadren shook his head, “I promised, Me’lynn.”

She nodded.

“Oh, and she doesn’t want anyone else to know about her until she’s spoken to you,” Cadren quickly added on.

“But why?” she asked. Cadren shook his head again, but Me’lynn spoke for him, “I know. I know. You promised to let her explain.” Me’lynn giggled.

“Thank you for understanding. She really missed you both, you know.”

“Oh, shoo. You’re going to get me all teary and after I’ve finally calmed down. We’ll meet you at the Flight Master in an hour. And thank you, Cadren. You’ve mended a mother’s broken heart this night.”

Cadren stood and wrapped the woman who was second only to Taylin and his own mother in a tight embrace.

Me’lynn hugged him back before wiping her eyes. “I said shoo. Now off with you. We’ll see you in an hour.” She lightly pushed him out the door with a teary smile. Me’lynn rushed to the bedroom. After hearing what Cadren had to say, and if what she suspected was true, there was something she needed to make sure got packed.

The sun had long since set and Sen came awake with Tanga’s cold nose bumping against his own. He mentally kicked himself. He hadn’t meant to doze off. Not only was he supposed to be keeping an eye on his mate, but he was also supposed to wake her when it was time to leave. Glancing at the glowing moon above, he figured they only had about four hours until midnight. They would be cutting it close unless they hurried. He had wanted to get there early to scout the area and to give Taylin some time to mentally prepare herself. Softly, he nudged Taylin awake.

Taylin’s eyes fluttered open and she yawned. She felt fully refreshed until she realized why Sen had woken her. Nervous butterflies took flight in her belly. It was time to see her parents and introduce them to Sen’krii.

“Need ta hurrah, mate. I may ‘ave fallen asleep too,” he said almost sheepishly as he stood to gather his armor.

Taylin gawked at her mate and burst into a fit of laughter. “Oh! The great war seasoned hunter fell asleep on watch! That’s just too rich. Mr. Overprotective and ‘I’m the best hunter’ actually messed up.” She had to wipe the tears from her eyes she was laughing so hard.

Sen rolled his eyes, “Ya, ya, mon. Now hurrah an’ get dressed. Ya can tease meh all ya wan’ once we get movin’. Keep it up an’ we gonna be late.” He gave her ass a quick smack to get her moving.

“You can count on it,” she grinned as she quickly buckled her armor.

They were about an hour away from the meeting spot and Sen had had just about enough of his mate’s teasing. Though he couldn’t deny the sound of her giggles did make him want to smile. They were both riding Bezwen and moving at a fast pace through the forest to make up for lost time. He had let her have her fun at his expense for most of the ride, but her last little jab pushed him over the edge. Sen slid a hand from her waist, up her body, over her breasts, and wrapped it gently around her throat, pulling her back against him so he could whisper in her ear. “Enough, mate. Keep at it an’ mebbe I’ll get ya all hot n’ flustered befo’ ya ‘ave ta see ya fameleh.” He slid a finger dangerously close to her mark.

Taylin froze.

“O’ mebbe I’ll jus’ pin ya ta a tree fo’ dey get dere. Den da first ting dey gonna see is dis beast’s lips an’ ‘ands on dey daughter,” Sen licked the tip of Taylin’s ear.

She shuddered. Both in trepidation and arousal. “Okay. Okay. You win, I’ll stop. But on one condition.”

“An’ wha’ dat be, mon?” Sen asked with brows raised in curiosity.

“That once we’re done with my parents, you find the closest tree and make good on that threat.” A deep chuckle followed by a low growl reverberated along Taylin’s back.

“As ya wish, mate,” he purred in her ear. His hand traveled slowly back down her body and gave her hip a gentle squeeze.

Taylin laid her head back with a smile and a sigh. It was going to be a long night.
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