Shielded in Broken Armours

Part Two - Dance of the Dragons

Chapter Nine

General Zain-Reil stared at the high buildings rising about them, dark in the early morning light. Aquiline was a huge city, perhaps larger than Mnemon, the Angelian capital. Seen from the top of one of the hills surrounding it, it had looked like a giant, occupying the entire plateau, the houses long ago having slipped past the fortified walls and watch towers.

Tempesta had refused stopping that night, saying they would get plenty of rest after reaching the city, and that she did not want to get there in the middle of the day. Marzio did not blame her - he too would have avoided the crowd that was bound to gather. Town people were generally curious, and he doubted Demons were different in this domain. He remembered the trips he had taken to the three city-ports of the Mauri Confederation, and the way everybody had gathered to stare at him and his escort as they had passed through.

By day, the capital city of Demonis would probably be overflowing with people, but very few were awake this early in the morning, and even fewer dared show themselves. An emissary had been sent to the palace to announce their arrival in advance, and now the party made its way through the maze of streets and markets, carefully avoiding the three main access roads. Sneaking into the city had been easier than expected, even with the Lords' carriage. Luckily, it was not one of those used by nobles when taking a ride outside their homes, but a sturdy travel carriage that could be easily led by a good driver. It was one of the reasons why that had made such good timing on the road.

Two weeks had passed since he had last seen Ignis, and his heart carved for the sight of the young prince. No doubt, he would be there to greet them...

From the Demon Supreme Commander he had learned that Ignis had left so abruptly because of a situation that required his immediate presence in Aquiline. Marzio had had a few discussions with her after the one at the inn, and even if the woman did not seem too enthusiastic about his presence there she had not been as hostile as one would have expected. He even thought she actually understood his position, and even if she did not approve of his relationship with Ignis she would probably not do anything against it either.

As they had continued their route towards the capital city of Demonis, his thoughts of the young prince had begun to change a little. Of course, he still wanted the man, and not just because of what he represented but for other reasons as well. But a grain of doubt clouded those thoughts. Now that he was back in his palace, where no doubt the nobles and servants would answer his every whim, what use would Ignis have to be around him? The Angelian was sure at least half the people at Court would sleep with the handsome prince without a second thought. And Marzio did not want to be just another cheap fuck in his eyes.

These thoughts were not in accordance with the impression Ignis had left on him, or with what Owen and Tempesta had either said or suggested. They were just his fears, fed by the general's experience with the highborn in Mnemon. All one needed was a title and some wealth and everyone would be at that person's feet. Nobody gave a damn about such things as love anymore.

Well, perhaps nobody except Marzio and a few others. He wondered if things were different in Aquiline. From what he had seen and learned so far, the Demons were a passionate people, and that should make a difference in the long run.

At any rate, there was nothing he could do about it, and the thought of seeing Ignis was intoxicating, to say the least.

"Pretty nice, wouldn't you say?" someone asked, pulling him out of his thoughts. He turned to see a familiar face; the major that had been seated next to him at the banquet table, dressed in cavalry uniform, was riding alongside him, a smug smile on his lips.

"Bet you ain't seen the likes in Angelia," the man continued, undisturbed by the weary look on Marzio's face. "Aquiline's the finest city this side of the Mauri, if you ask me."

The Angelian nodded. "I hope it's not this quiet during the day. That would be very disturbing."

The major - whose name eluded the general at that moment - let out a short laugh. "Nay, dear sir, 'tis as loud as a wasp nest! You should see all the merchants and people swarming; you'd easily lose your way without a proper guide. I doubt you'll be allowed to take a walk without an escort, though. Which's a pity, really - merchants and their likes keep their tongue when the guard's around to hear."

"I doubt they would talk with me as it is, Major. I'm Angelian, remember?"

"Not to worry, sir," another rider from further back replied, shooting him an amused look. "There's many of them from Angelia and Terlandia with business in the city. Ya' only convince the young prince to give ya' and yer escort civil clothing. They won't bat an eye as ya' pass!"

The presence of foreign traders surprised Marzio, but he probably should have expected it. After all, Demonis had always held open trade with Terlandia and the Mauri Confederation. They had no reason to restrict Angelians' presence there, or in any other city. He wondered why his own people had to be so hard-headed about keeping this from happening. He could only think about benefits for both sides.

"Mind it now, general," the major cut in again, "we're getting into the Noblemen's Quarter. See the difference between the houses here and the ones we passed?"

And so on. He was offered information about the city without having to ask for it, and by the time the palace gates came into view his head was swarming with a thousand facts on trade, architecture and even some spicy details concerning persons he couldn't possibly know.

They passed the carved iron gates and entered a huge garden, and then rode for another fifteen minutes before reaching the palace courtyard. The building itself was huge, and set in the middle of a park that did not serve just for walks, but also held some military training facilities - or so the Demons told him, for tall trees hid anything of the sort from sight. Right in the middle of an immense stone-paved yard, the Royal Palace of Aquiline rose in all its glory. It was a huge construction, not built as a fortified castle but more like a country estate, only of greater proportions. A magnificent marble staircase led up to the main entrance, which was sculptured ebony with gold carvings, and was flanked by two marble statues, one representing a woman holding a sword and the other of a man holding a battle flag - made from real material in the colours of the Royal House of Demonis.

They dismounted and the Angelian lords were finally allowed out of the carriage - with the necessary complaints about their sleep being disturbed at such early hour. The Demons ignored those and Marzio joined the four as they were led up the staircase and inside the castle.

Kelan hardly acknowledged the general's presence, but the other three nodded in his direction and Lord Angus secretly shook his hand when the others were busy studying the great hallway stretching in front of them. There were servants there, going about their business but stopping to see them pass under the escort of some Palace Guards. General Neri-Lokh had taken the lead, with Kelan, Gettik and Elssi following, and then Marzio and Angus. The lord whispered to him, sleepily, "Perhaps you should lay low for a while, or at least avoid Lord Loreh-Ven if you can," and Marzio silently thanked him, even if the words expressed his own feelings on the matter.

But he had no idea what would happen to them next, had he? They could be thrown in the palace's dungeons and left there, for all they knew. He smiled, thinking he would at least see Ignis one more time before that happened.

The grand corridor gave way to a large marbled hall, three storeys high and with banners hanging down the walls bearing the insignia of Demonis' important houses. On the wall opposite to the door hung the banner bearing the crest of the House of Sagni-Dor, a golden dragon on a field of red; and in front of it, raised on a dais, was an imposing - and surprisingly empty - throne.

Next to the throne there stood a man. Well into his forties, with dark skin, curly hair falling to his shoulders and arrogant black eyes, he wore scarlet robes with ample embroideries, as well as a vicious smile that immediately gained Marzio's antipathy. The name Lavian Drak-Mer instantly came to his lips; from behind, he heard the muffled groans of several of the guards.

But where was Prince Sagni-Dor?

The man waited for them to approach the dais, Tempesta Neri-Lokh still leading the way. When they finally stopped, the accompanying guards formed a half-circle behind the Angelians, and they dropped on their knees. Tempesta only bowed her head, and the Angelians followed her lead; the man responded with a similar, but more minimal, gesture. Then the guards rose again.

"Welcome back to Aquiline, Supreme Commander," the man finally spoke, his voice strong and used to command. "I trust your journey home lacked of unpleasant surprises."

Tempesta nodded as she replied coldly, "That it did, your lordship."

Then the man turned to glance at the Angelians, and there was a quick glimpse of hatred in his eyes, that did not escape Marzio. 'This man does not want us here,' he realized. He would have to be careful around him.

"And these must be the honoured guests the Lord Prince spoke so highly of," the man said in their direction, studying them attentively. The Angelian general forced himself not to flinch as the dark eyes rested on him for a few seconds longer than he would have desired. There was a certain note in that voice that he did not like, though the tone was quite pleasant.

"We are honoured to finally make your acquaintance, Lord Lavian," Kelan replied, and again Marzio felt that there was more in the words that met the eye. He did not like this, not a bit.

The High Priest nodded again, and continued apologetically, "His Highness asks you to forgive him for not being able to greet you personally, but pressing matters required his presence outside the capital. However, he has left precise instructions, and hopes you will find your stay with us enjoyable." Then he spoke to Tempesta again, "General, His Highness also asked for a full report on your journey. I would like to have a look at it as well."

And then something happened that made Marzio understand what exactly it was that bothered him when Lord Lavian spoke of the prince. The Demon general replied "I am sorry, milord, but your status does not allow you access to military reports," and for a moment undisguised hate crossed the priest's face.

But it was swiftly gone, and the thin lips curled in a smile. "I'm sorry, I forgot about that," the High Priest apologized. He clapped his hands, and a few servants walked in the hall through a door at their rights. "My lords," he spoke to the Angelians, "if you will excuse me, I have other matters to attend. The servants will guide you to your rooms. Your belongings shall be delivered to you later today." And with another nod, he left through the same door the servants had used.

"He couldn't be stiffer if someone stuck a pike through his ass," one of the guards swore after he was well out of hearing. Marzio could not help smiling at the remark, but he saw that Kelan was not amused.

"Could we get to those rooms already?" he demanded angrily. "I want to get some proper rest!"

"Right this way, my lords." One of the servants, whose livery marked him higher in rank than the others, gestured towards another door at their left.

Marzio was just about to follow his four countrymen, when a young boy wearing a red tunic with a golden sash abruptly burst into the hall, and nearly collided with Tempesta in his way.

The guards laughed at this, and the woman asked him, "Where to so abruptly, Kheerah?"

Blushing furiously, the young page looked down at the floor. "I'm sorry, milady. I am supposed to show the Angelian general to his rooms, but I can't seem to find him anywhere."

More laughter from the guards. "Well, boy, you found him now!"

Marzio smiled and stepped forward. "I am General Zain-Reil," he told the boy gently. "And you are?"

The boy looked up at him with awed brown eyes, and then bowed deeply. There was something very familiar about him. Marzio was sure he had seen him before, but he could not remember where. "I am Kheerah, milord. Please, follow me." He turned to walk towards the main entrance, but Tempesta caught him by the shoulder.

"And where's Ignis having him quartered, hmm?"

"The Prince Heir's suite, milady," Kheerah replied shyly.

"Ah well... you're in for a treat then, General," Tempesta told Marzio. "That's one of the best rooms in the Palace. Not to mention it's in the Royal Wing." She shot him a knowing glance. "At any rate, security's tight, so heed my advice and don't try anything funny." She motioned for the other guards to follow her, and headed back the same way they came without a glance back.

Marzio sighed, not knowing what that actually meant but not very eager to discover it either. He gestured for the young page to show him the way.

---

The rooms assigned to him were at the left end of a corridor with only three doors, somewhere on the third floor. The page - Kheerah - unlocked the massive oak door and offered him the key. Marzio stepped inside a spacious room that probably acted as living-room, with two large window-doors leading on a small terrace overlooking what looked like an interior garden. All furniture was made of oak, with blue velvet upholstery on the few chairs and two loveseats facing the marble hearth.

There was a door to the right that probably lead to the bedroom, and he was about to go check when a little cough reminded him he was not alone. Turning to the boy, he smiled reassuringly.

"Thank you. That would be all."

The big eyes looked up again, and the page fidgeted a little. "Umm... Milord, whatever you need, just ring for me. His Highness said I should serve you as if you were he."

Marzio raised one brow. "Did he, now? Are you his servant?"

"I am his attendant, your lordship," the boy said proudly, then bowed deeply and left the room abruptly, before the Angelian had the chance to ask him anything else.

Marzio sighed. 'Ignis is not in Aquiline, but he left me the use of his attendant. Nice...'

Smirking, he peered through the door inside what was his future bedroom. The same colour dominated here, provided in more shades, and there was another door leading to a magnificent marble-tiled bathroom. The bed was canopied and opulent, and the general took a minute to test it - it was extremely comfortable as well. The various chests and wardrobes had been emptied, but there was a collection of leather-bound volumes in a bookcase covering an entire wall. There was also a small desk stocked with all necessary items for writing - all new, he noted - and a spacious window seat that would probably see much use, if he had his way.

Shrugging, he took off his boots and tunic and threw himself on the bed, suddenly very tired. 'So Marzio gets the Prince Heir's suite. And what comes next, Your Highness?'

---

Less than one week after their arrival in Aquiline, Marzio received an anonymous letter. Kheerah had given it to him with no explanation when he had brought him lunch, and he had stared at it for several minutes, not knowing whom it was from. There was nothing written on the outside of the paper, and the red wax seal represented a burning flame. Finally, Marzio decided that the only person he could possibly associate this with was Ignis. The letter was probably not anonymous, but merely unofficial.

He had not heard from Ignis in all the time he had spent there, but Kheerah had told him the prince had returned the previous day. He had half-expected to see him that very evening, but it had not happened and the Angelian had begun to settle with the thought that his company may not be welcomed anymore.

Now, with trembling hands, he opened the seal and unfolded the sheet of paper. It contained a very short and concise message in elegant handwriting.

'Dinner, at eight. My rooms.'

That gave him new hope. But 'dinner' could mean anything, from a private meal to a small feast. And how was he going to find Ignis' rooms in the immense palace, anyway?

'One thing at a time,' he decided. He would get some rest and then a bath.

But the thought of finally seeing the prince again did not allow him to close one eye, and the bath did not help him relax either. At first, it had been excitement. But, with the passage of time, it had turned into nervousness and uncertainty. He began to ask himself why Ignis had avoided him all this time, and some of the answers he came up with were very disturbing.

He hoped he would not look ridiculous in his choice of clothing. Not in Ignis' eyes, for the prince had never bothered to comment on such trivial things as clothing. But he remembered the looks he had received from various nobles on his short walks through the corridors.

No more blue, for the colour had begun to overwhelm him. He settled for a sleeveless forest green jacket, with bands of gold trim; it fit him tightly, a deliberate contrast to the flowing white sleeves of his shirt, which accentuated his shoulders. Black velvet breeches and his always-present boots and gloves completed his attire for the night.

It was a quarter to eight and he was still debating on the best method of finding Ignis' apartment without being too obvious about it, when a discrete knock on his door informed him he had a visitor.

It was Kheerah. The boy smiled up at him in complicity. "Milord, please come with me when you are ready."

Marzio was by now getting visibly annoyed with the boy and his use of nobility titles every time they met, but kept his mouth shut and silently followed his guide through the torch-lit corridor. The guards that had been stationed there had disappeared without a trace. To his surprise, the boy stopped in front of the massive door at the other end of the hall and knocked twice, then paused and repeated the action.

No answer came, but Kheerah opened the door all the same, and showed him in, Marzio's feet burying in a thick green-and-brown carpet. The page did not follow him inside, but instead shut the door and soon his steps could be heard descending the stairs.

The room was large, and magnificently decorated. Since it was already dark outside, dozens of candles filled the room with a warm light, casting shadows on the frescoes that covered three of the four walls. Each wall had its own theme - mythological, hunting, battle. Marzio could not make out the details in the semi-darkness, but he concluded that they must have looked astonishing by daylight.

The unpainted wall held a remarkable display of weapons, from swords and daggers to the more sophisticated crossbow, and a heavily ornamented armour that must have been worth a small fortune.

All the furniture in the room was carved mahogany - Ignis seemed to have a preference for this particular type of wood essence. There were shelves supporting leather-bound volumes, a few maps and various small carvings. A large table facing one of the immense door-windows that probably led on a balcony. Heavy drapes of burgundy velvet with gold thread patterns flanked each of the windows, which were closed to block out the chill of the night.

A smaller table had been set near the same wall as the entrance, facing the marble hearth where a fire burned brightly. It looked more intimate than the large one, and the couch and two armchairs placed next to it were beckoning him to go and sit down.

But it would not have been polite to do so without his host's invitation, so instead he decided to take a better look at the weapon collection. All the items seemed in extremely good shape, and Marzio could have bet that they were regularly put to use, or at least tended to. He raised one hand to touch the armour's breastplate, his fingers following the pattern of the Royal Crest. Was it real gold?

"The thing weights a ton. I avoid wearing it as much as possible."

The silent voice made him turn around to see Ignis leaning against the double door that probably lead to other chambers adjoining this one. The prince was wearing a calf-long velvet robe, loose shirt and trousers and in-door slippers, and seemed by far more relaxed than Marzio felt.

He came towards his guest, smiling brightly. "I see you got my invitation. Please, have a seat!" he said, gesturing towards the table near the fireplace.

The Angelian's anxiousness grew, and he swallowed, pushing himself into motion.

"Thank you." He eased his body on the plush couch, and forced himself to relax. Why was he feeling so out of place? "Is this a private dinner?" he added, now actually wishing it was not. The sole idea of being alone with the prince in his private rooms gave Marzio thoughts he should not have. At least, with someone else present, things would not get out of control.

He had no such luck.

"Why, of course," Ignis confirmed, sitting in one of the empty armchairs. And, as if things were not bad enough as it was, he had to say more. "It is also more or less secret, in case you were wondering. No one except me and Kheerah know that you are here tonight."

Marzio sighed. It was going to be a long evening.

Chapter Ten

The food was brought in by the young attendant, Ignis having given the day off to the rest of his staff. They began to dine, and with each bite Marzio was getting more uneasy. He could feel something was going to happen that night, and he had no idea what that was. The prince was his usual self, his every move seducing Marzio even further, hidden allusions behind his words, small gestures that compelled the general's attention. He began to actually lose awareness of what they were discussing, and focus on his host instead. He felt his blood burn in his veins, and his sight began to blur as he looked at the prince, painfully aware that nothing was probably going to happen between them that night. As usual.

He had to struggle to keep his control, hoping Ignis would not notice it, or at least not mention it. But fate was simply not with him, and the Demon was simply too used to analyze people not to notice something was different.

They finished eating, and with the third cup of wine came a pause in their discussion. The prince used it to study the Angelian intensely, his gaze grating on Marzio's already tense nerves.

"There is something wrong with you tonight," Ignis stated, his eyes narrowed, hands resting in his lap. He looked so innocent that Marzio wondered if his sight was not deceiving him. This did not look anything like the intriguing man he knew.

"Why should something be wrong with me?"

His voice was angry, and it only increased Ignis' suspicion. His eyes narrowed even more.

"You are hiding something from me. What is it? Did something upset you?"

Upset him? "Yes, someone upset me. You!"

Ignis looked at him, surprised. "I do not understand. I don't remember wronging you in any way."

That was too much to bear. "No? And where were you, these past three weeks?" he inquired on a tone that demanded an answer. "Where were you, during the trip here? Or afterwards, as a matter of fact." The Angelian did not give a damn that the prince held a higher rank than he did, or that he was not in the position to ask these questions. Besides, he knew the answers all too well.

Ignis just looked at him. "I owe you no explanation." His voice was steel, but Marzio did not care. He ignored the comment, and carried on with his own tirade.

"First, you come to me, seduce me and demand my affection. Then, you disappear somewhere without a warning, not caring one bit about how I might be feeling. No word, no letter, no nothing. And now you come out of your hiding place and expect things to be as they were?"

Ignis blinked, but did not reply.

"You hold me hostage, and refuse me the only thing that might make my captivity easier. You know damn well how I feel about you, yet you never give me a definite answer. You play with both my feelings and yours. What am I supposed to think? That I am not good enough for you?"

"Marzio, how can you say that? You know that I..."

"You what? You care for me? Then show it, by the gods, show it! Since you bloody well seem to enjoy playing with me so much, put an end to this senseless masquerade and take me to bed! Then you can play with me all you like!"

---

Ignis stared back at Marzio, not quite believing his ears. The Angelian swallowed and cursed himself for speaking so bluntly, and he was not very certain how things would go from there. But he could not take his words back.

The prince turned his head away, staring into the burning flames as if the fire could provide him with an answer. He looked like a marble statue in fine clothes standing in a mahogany armchair, his breathing the only sign he was actually alive. He seemed deep in thought, holding his forehead with one hand and absentmindedly unbraiding his long hair with the other one. The reddish locks resembled the flames in the fireplace as he wound them around his pale fingers, and the burgundy eyes reflected the fire's blaze.

The argument had ended as swiftly as it had begun, and now the room was so quiet that the general could hear his own heartbeat. Marzio blamed himself for being so stupid. He had been tired of waiting. What if his lack of patience had destroyed everything?

One thing he was sure of, though; there really was an attraction between the two of them. But why did Ignis deny it? Why not admit to it, and get things over with?

Finally, a deep sigh escaped the Demon's chest. He crept from his seat and came over to the couch. Such grace and elegance in his movements... How could one not be attracted to the prince? How could one ignore his inner power, and not fully abandon oneself to his will?

They were inches apart now, and Ignis was watching him through narrowed eyes, the intense scrutiny jarring Marzio's nerves. 'I want you!' the Angelian felt like shouting, but he was frozen into place.

Ignis sat down close to him, drawing one silk-clad leg underneath him so he could watch Marzio's expression. His hands reached out and cupped the other man's face, slowly bidding him to turn around and look at him. Marzio complied.

The Prince of Demonis had always seen himself as a sensualist, as far as his bed partners were concerned. He enjoyed lingering kisses and passionate embraces, and the feel of naked skin under his fingers. Seduction was a second nature to him, and had proved very useful on several occasions. But would this work on such a man as Marzio?

He decided there was only one way to find out. Firmly holding the back of Marzio's head with his left hand, he trailed the fingers of his right one down and back up the man's neck, casually resting his thumb where neck met jaw. Marzio's pulse was steady, and he did not try to pull away.

Ignis smiled slightly. He leaned forward and rested his forehead on Marzio's left temple, brushing his lips over the soft skin of his jaw and stopping inches away from the sensual mouth. All the general had to do was turn his face a little, and their lips would meet.

He did not do it. But Ignis could feel his blood rushing through his veins, his pulse quicken at the proximity of the Demon's body. Ignis looked down, his eyes half-lidded. Marzio was definitely aroused, and the prince was suddenly thankful that his long robe hid his own desire. But there was no concealing his warm skin and rapid heartbeat.

One more question left to ask, one more thing he needed to know. And he had to tread carefully.

"You really meant those words, didn't you?"

His voice was deeper, filled with an emotion that mirrored Marzio's own feelings at the moment, and his eyes were burning into Marzio's very soul. Framed by the tender light of the candles on the dinner table and the flickering flames, Ignis really looked like a creature from a different realm. So intensely beautiful... how could one hope to possess such a being? How could one hope to capture one moment of his attention?

Yet Marzio had done just that. And he was determined not to lose him, to make the best of the chance he was being offered.

He sighed. "I apologize. I should not have been so blunt. But I do want you, Ignis."

"Why?"

The question caught Marzio off guard. Reading his puzzlement, Ignis explained, "Everybody has a reason, Marzio. It's because of who I am - everybody needs a favour, a commission, influence, or merely something to gossip about at Court. I am well aware of this. My question is, what is your reason?"

So much sorrow hidden behind his words. Ignis was well aware of being used, and even admitted to it. The Angelian shook his head; he had not meant to sound so selfish. Of course he wanted something in return. Something far more valuable than any of the things Ignis had just mentioned.

"I want you, Ignis. Not the Prince, not the warrior, not the man. Just you."

He could find no other way to explain it. No words to convey the emptiness he had felt inside before meeting the Demon, or the passion that had engulfed him from that day on, the desire he felt every time he caught one brief glimpse of him. He wanted nothing, yet it was everything. No favours, but the very essence of Ignis' being.

He was presumptuous enough to want Ignis' heart. And Marzio knew that the prince would have no problem understanding perfectly what he was asking for.

"You ask a lot of me, Marzio," Ignis told him. "You ask me to offer you something only one has owned before you..."

He blushed and tried to look away, truly ashamed. But the slender hands still holding him would not allow it. Nor would the burning eyes. Ignis bent forward again, to touch his lips on Marzio's.

This kiss was different from all the others they had experienced before; it was loaded with all those things neither of them had wanted to admit to. Desire. Passion. Longing. They melted together as their lips crushed, passionately savouring what was building up between them. It was breathtaking, and utterly magnificent.

And, that moment, something strange happened. It was like the very air around them had changed, like the world had turned into something new. Marzio had the strange sensation of re-living a few moments from the past, as the prince's hand tightened its grip on the back of his head, and the other one caressed his shoulder through the soft silk of his shirt, sending ripples of pleasure through him.

A tear escaped Marzio's eye, leaving a moist trail down his cheek.

Then Ignis drew back, and asked him with a tremor that was uncharacteristic to his lovely voice, "Are you sure, absolutely sure that this is what you want? Because there is no turning back. And, if you take my soul away from me and offer nothing in return, I shall have no more reasons left to live."

Marzio knew that. And he suddenly became aware of the real meaning behind what had just been spoken.

If there was one way the Angelians would ever win the fight against Demonis, if one path could be taken without defeat eagerly expecting their arrival, this was it. He would possess a lethal weapon against everything that meant Demonis and its Prince.

And he also knew he would never make use of it. Not after all he had seen and learned. Not after all that was left for him to discover. He would not use this. Never!

"You entrust me with your life, my prince." He looked into the burning rubies, not shying away for the very first time, emerald green holding Ignis' gaze. "I will not let you down."

The Demon's features softened as he relaxed visibly. His smile returned, brilliant and innocent.

He was safe.

He squeezed Marzio's shoulder in reassurance. "Come, then. You shall have what you have asked for, this very night." He rose to his feet, and entwined the fingers of his left arm with those of Marzio's right. His right arm circled the Angelian's waist, pulling him up and prompting him into motion. He walked backwards, pulling his willing captive along towards the door that led to the bedroom.

---

The room was exquisite, just like the rest of the Royal Suite Marzio had seen thus far. It was smaller than the one they had been in, but the same colours were present - gold, red, brown and black, in harmonious combination - and similarly lighted by burning candles.

A large locker and bookshelves occupied the entire left wall. The right one had the same large windows, with various paintings decorating the remaining space. Turning his head, he noticed the hearth on the wall at his back, and even more bookshelves and smaller paintings.

But their destination was, of course, the huge bed. Scarlet curtains fell down from the high canopy, pulled back by golden cords. The bed itself was not very high, and looked like it could easily accommodate at least half a dozen persons; large pillows were nearly lost in the sea of cream sheets falling down the bed frame in a flood of silk.

Ignis came to a halt in front of the bed. He smiled and captured Marzio's mouth again, his hands deftly unlacing the Angelian's jacket and shirt. The passion they had shared was still in the kiss, but something else was making its presence felt, lurking in the background. Raw, animalistic lust.

Marzio lifted his hands with the intention of pushing away the prince's robe, but Ignis caught both of them in a firm hold, making him stop. He let go and trailed his index finger on Marzio's lips. "Let me do this for you, please. Just stand still."

Once Marzio complied, he began removing the blond's outer garments, carelessly throwing them on the thick carpet, and nudged him forward to sit on the bed. Marzio raised one foot to remove his boot, but he stopped his motion in mid-air as Ignis dropped on his knees at the edge of the bed.

He could not bear the sight of the prince in that position; it was unconceivable, for a man of his status. "But Ignis, you don't have to..."

"Nonsense." He was prompted to silence by calm eyes looking up at him. "In here, we are equal. There is no need to follow any rules, as long as we both agree on what will come next. We needn't dominate, as we do out there. In this room, I am not the Prince of Demonis, and you are not the High Commander of Angelia. If you submit to me, you do it of your own free will. Now please relax and let me do this. I am not going to hurt you, you know."

Ignis seemed a bit annoyed with the constant interruptions, so Marzio did as he was told. He leaned back and supported the weight of his body on his elbows as Ignis removed first one leather boot, and then the other, his touch lingering briefly on the Angelian's bare ankles. Then the slender hands made their way up his calves and knees, over the velvet that still covered them. They caressed the inside of his thighs through the soft cloth, sending a jolt of sensations through Marzio's body. He slowly began to relax, and closed his eyes, only to open them wide as the clever fingers tentatively stroked his crotch through the breeches.

He could not suppress a low whimper. It took all the control he had left to keep him from taking the Demon right then and there.

"Aren't we eager tonight!" Teasing words, reflecting his thoughts, as Ignis finally rose and pushed him further onto the soft bed, leaning over him. The hand did not stop its motions, and Marzio was getting considerably aroused.

He made one last attempt to remove the rich robe, and to his surprise this time he was actually allowed to go through with it. He pushed the velvet garment off lean shoulders, careful not to hurt the fragile ligaments of the black-feathered wings. 'This is not about domination,' he reminded himself.

He breathed heavily, and felt he was being pushed down again. "You actually enjoy tormenting me like this, don't you?" he asked the red-haired prince, spreading his wings as he lay down so they would not get caught underneath him in an awkward position.

"You have no idea how much," came the reply, seared with a kiss. Then Ignis swiftly removed his own slippers and shirt, and returned his full attentions to the man in his bed. He finally got rid of Marzio's breeches, and pulled back to admire the general's body.

"Do you even realize how handsome you truly are?" he whispered so lightly the general barely heard the words.

Marzio had never understood why others seemed to find him attractive. He thought what they were after were rank, title and fortune. But Ignis couldn't possibly care for such trivial things; he had everything a person could ask for in terms of material wealth and a whole country to rule as he pleased on top of that.

"I have never considered myself anything other than plain."

"That's exactly the answer I was expecting. You never seem to be aware of your true value," Ignis said, one hand busying itself with the centre of Marzio's desire, the other exploring his broad, hairless chest. He was placing feather-like kisses on Marzio' shoulders and collar bone, and used this as an advantage to get his point across. "You have... always... looked... incredibly... beautiful... to me..." Each word was accompanied by one skilled flickering of his tongue on the sensitive skin of Marzio's neck, and between that and the hand pleasuring him, Marzio nearly lost his control. He gripped at the sheets furiously, trying to keep his hands from pulling the prince's body down over his own.

Obviously Ignis knew how to push people over the edge, but he also knew when to stop. As he did so, that mysterious smile crossed his lips.

"What...?"

Another passionate kiss, and then, stroking his hair, the prince bent over him again and whispered in Marzio's ear, the warm breath making the general's body tremble with desire. "I want you to take me."

Thus far, the Angelian had known Ignis as a man who liked to be in control. He had never seemed submissive. And yet his words... Surely he was not suggesting that Marzio should...

He looked, really looked at Ignis, thinking he had misinterpreted the request. No irony, no humour. Just silent pleading. He had heard correctly.

"You are willing to offer me that?" Marzio asked, still not very sure what course of action he should follow.

"Is it not what you wanted? What you have asked for?" Ignis retorted, raising one elegant brow and whirling one strand of golden hair around his finger.

"Yes, but I had no hope that you would actually want to go through with it, at the time."

The Demon chuckled. "As I said, you fail to give yourself credit for your actions. You need a little reassurance. Right now, I am willing to offer you control. I suggest you accept; the occasion may not come again."

Then he pushed himself up and left the bed, and for one second Marzio thought he had ruined it all, that he had offended him. But the prince returned, taking Marzio's hand and carefully placing a glass vial in it, brushing his mouth against the general's fingers as he did so. The vial glittered in the faint light, and Marzio took off the tap, careful not to spill any of the content; the discrete smell of rose oil filled the room.

He fondly looked back at Ignis. Unlike Marzio, who still had trouble realizing this was really happening, the Demon seemed to know quite clearly what he wanted. With slow motions calculated to entice, he slowly stretched his body on the mattress, long thick hair fanning all around him. It was an open invitation only a blindman would turn down.

Marzio put the tap back on, and placed the vial within easy reach. Lying down on his side next to Ignis, he began his own exploration of the prince's body. He stole kisses as his fingers roamed across translucent flesh, trying to determine where the force Ignis possessed came from. He felt the relaxed muscles and tendons, and he even distinguished dark veins underneath the white and supple skin shining golden in the candlelight. It was flawless, with no scar marring the pale perfection. Marzio's body had several, most of them obtained in battle; but they were proof of his strength and will to survive, and he was not ashamed with them. Ignis had not seemed repulsed by them, either.

The Angelian bent his head and tentatively sucked at one erect nipple, and felt the body under him tense. He lifted his head to look at Ignis' face, and saw the young man had closed his eyes and seemed to focus entirely on the sensations Marzio's attentions offered him.

That encouraged him. He licked and sucked at the other nipple as well, nipping at the skin playfully, recalling how his body reacted to that same type of touch. "Ohh..." Ignis moaned softly, his lush voice growing even deeper with pleasure.

Marzio began a full assault on the exposed torso, using his mouth and fingers to draw small sounds of pleasure from the pliant Demon. The navel seemed to be especially responsive to his touches, and he was delighted to hear Ignis urge him on as he began to lick his way down to the prince's crotch.

Only then did he become aware that Ignis' loose silk trousers were blocking his advance. 'You little daimon! I hadn't even noticed you still had these on.' True, there had been a good reason for his distraction, but it still struck him as unfair. Yet it was nothing that could not be easily dealt with.

He unknotted the ties, touching the cloth-covered bulge in passing. Understanding what he wanted, Ignis lifted his body from the mattress for a couple of moments, allowing the general to slip the trousers off easily. Marzio whistled slowly in appreciation of the sight offered to him, and could not resist the urgent desire to touch that most intimate part of Ignis' body.

The low, throaty sound that escaped the prince's lips as Marzio closed his hand on his manhood was worth all that had passed between them. It reflected Marzio's own need, and the general knew he would not be able to hold back for much longer.

"Turn over," he prompted, gently pressing his hand on one pale thigh to let Ignis know what he wanted.

In a flash of emotion, the Demon confessed a little fearfully, "I have never gone this far with a man."

Marzio's eyes went wide in surprise and delight. And unless the people of Demonis gave a different meaning to the word 'never', there could be no mistake. Still, Marzio would not back down now - he had waited for this moment far too long to throw it all away. He was sure the prince felt the same way about it, and would not have suggested it unless he was ready.

"It is a very precious gift you are offering me tonight, Ignis. I will not forget it." He bent down and kissed him deeply, savouring that unique taste again. "Don't worry. I'll make sure it won't hurt too much," he said on a reassuring tone.

Ignis nodded, realizing it was far too late to turn back. His mind told him it was meant to be this way, but he was still a little unsure about what it would feel like. He turned on his stomach and carefully arranged his wings so they would not get in the way and be damaged. He tried not to cringe as Marzio spread his legs and knelt between them, covering the slightly-trembling body with his own and burying his face in soft black feathers and silken hair. His breath was hot and laboured as he spoke against Ignis' neck. "Relax. Trust me."

Ignis winced at the thought. He was a little hesitant to fully abandon himself to the Angelian's mercy. But Marzio was right; and, at that very moment, he felt he could trust the man with his life. He sighed, voicing the thought so it would gain substance. "I trust you."

As Marzio pulled himself up, he saw something he had not noticed before. An intricate design covered the skin of Ignis' right shoulder. It must have normally been hidden from sight by the folded wing, not to mention layers of cloth, but now it was clearly visible. He touched it lightly, afraid he might damage it, but the ink did not wear off.

"Dreak tattoo," Ignis found the power to chuckle, fighting the excitement racing through his body. None of his former bed partners had noticed it before. "Let it be," he commanded.

Marzio decided he would, for the time being. His need for release had surged back. He poured a small amount of oil from the small vial on his fingers and lowered his hand between Ignis' legs, carefully spreading the pale buttocks. He ran his fingers around the prince's opening, feeling the ring of muscle relax at the touch. Then he slowly slipped one probing finger into the tight space.

Ignis' body tensed, and the prince let out a craving moan. Marzio took it as a good sign, and inserted one more finger, stretching him, cautiously preparing him for what was to be a much more painful invasion. Ignis' moans became louder, and Marzio reached under him with his free hand to pleasure the prince even further. He created a pattern between his exploring fingers and the hand stroking the Demon's member. He was getting nearer and nearer to crossing the thin border between pleasure and ecstasy. He had to do it soon.

Considering Ignis was probably loose enough by now, he began to pull out his fingers. Ignis tried to prolong the pleasure by clenching his muscles around the retreating digits, so Marzio hurried to shush him and spread more of the oil on his erect organ. Then he used both hands to pull Ignis' body from the mattress, and spread his legs even more. He placed the tip of his organ at the entrance of the Demon's body, and began to penetrate him, pushing past the natural resistance of the prince's virgin opening.

Ignis tried his best not to cry out and ask Marzio to stop. The pain was almost unbearable; but he also knew it was an unavoidable path in reaching the glory beyond. He bit his lip and gripped at the sheets and pillows, looking for a way to alleviate the searing pain. He would not scream; he would absolutely not scream!

Sensing his lover's discomfort, Marzio ceased his advance for a moment. "Are you all right? Do you want me to stop?" he asked breathlessly.

"No!" came the desperate answer. "I really want this, Marzio. We just need to go slower, that's all."

Deep inside, the general knew he could not have stopped even if he had been asked to. Remembering what the first time had been like for him, he took a deep breath and with one long stride he buried himself into the warm space.

Ignis was impossibly tight, and a groan escaped the Angelian's lips. Gods, it felt good. It felt better than good - it was paradise. And doing it with this particular man, with the one he would hold in his heart forever, made it a unique occasion.

Ignis gasped and kept biting his lip, but no sound of pain escaped his mouth. Moreover, he pushed his body further back, and sank into Marzio's embrace, trembling.

"Does it still hurt?" the general found the voice to ask.

"A little." Then he added reassuringly, "But it's more of a pleasurable pain now. I have lived through worse. And none of that ever made me feel the way I am feeling now with you. Please... more..." he moaned, as Marzio began to move out of him, only to enter him again a few seconds later, brushing against something so sensitive it sent sparks of pleasure through his body.

They were like two souls entwined, their bodies moving in unison with the determination of the mountain rivers to reach the calm sea after meeting and swallowing the vortex of lava and eroding of rocks. Faster and faster, until not even the spirits of hell could have stopped them.

Ignis attempted his best to last longer, but the melting sensation of Marzio's hardness stroking that treacherous spot deep inside him, along with his lover's hands pumping the wet smoothness of his swollen sex made him come first, shedding pearly semen all over Marzio's hands.

"Yes... Marzio... ahhhh!" he managed to growl, before falling into a shattering orgasm.

Marzio followed him shortly, the increasing pull of Ignis' inner muscles trying to swallow his manhood and the sound of his name leaving his lover's lips while he reached his climax working together to give him that release he seemed to have been waiting for since the moment his heart had left his chest to lay at the Demon's feet.

They fell together on the soft mattress, gasping for breath, one pale hand rising to tangle itself in gilded hair, and the Demon laughed silently. Were his father still alive, he would have called his young son a very naughty boy. But Ignis had never been against a little experimenting, and this time the results had turned out to be remarkably rewarding.

Chapter Eleven

It had never happened before, Marzio reasoned, lying in a warm embrace, in the afterglow of their lovemaking. Never before had someone cried out his name in such a manner. It felt good to hear it. It felt wonderful, and perfect.

He sighed. His long history of failed relationships was not easy to put behind, but he was feeling utterly satisfied for the first time in years. A new bond had been created between him and the prince, something he could not yet define, but it was there nonetheless.

The brushing of a soft material tickling his belly and down below brought him out of his reveries. He looked down to find a grinning Ignis playing with a long black feather.

"It seems the word 'gentleness' is out of your vocabulary, General."

Marzio turned bright red. "I'm sorry... I must have torn it off when we were... when we - Ahhhhhh... You'd better stop that or else I'll end up doing some serious damage to your wings," Marzio warned playfully.

"I'm not that breakable, Marzio!" Ignis said, sounding a little offended.

"I know you aren't. But that feather just happens to be black, not white," he couldn't help adding.

"Hey! Just wait till you have a brute pounding your behind!" Ignis replied in mock indignation.

"Should I take this as your way to tell me you didn't enjoy what we just did?" asked Marzio, faking annoyance. "Because I don't recall you complaining earlier, you know..."

"I am not saying that! I am just saying that you should not consider my losing a damn feather as a sign of weakness. I am not weak," the Demon said vehemently. "But next time, do try to be more careful," he added shyly, feeling an inner warmth travelling over him from head to toe every time the Angelian brushed his body against his.

"Next time? But I thought I was just a careless brute to you," Marzio teased again.

"You are, but I happen to l-" Ignis bit his tongue before the forbidden word left his mouth. "Like this brute," he finished.

"Hmm, I feel much better knowing that," Marzio said, kissing his jaw line with infinite tenderness.

Ignis' left hand brushed the damp locks away from his forehead. "Such rich hair," he whispered, his voice full of love and acceptance. "You know, I don't think I have ever seen this shade of golden blond before meeting you."

Marzio sighed. "And you fell for me the moment you saw my hair? This is childish," he said, chuckling.

"Perhaps. Or perhaps it was destiny that led you on my path."

"You believe in destiny?"

Ignis nuzzled at his neck. "On a wider scale? Yes, I do. What we do with our own lives is our making. But we are all part of a great design, which will eventually be accomplished. Whether it is now, or tomorrow, or in a thousand years. It will happen, for it is inevitable."

There was a hidden meaning in those words, but Marzio knew the prince well enough by now to realize he would be given no further information on the subject. Instead, he should focus on more mundane things, things he knew would be explained to him.

He liked this, cuddling with Ignis in the huge bed, snuggled up close under the warm covers. He felt comfortable, and safe. In the arms of the wonderful young genius that was the Prince of Demonis, he felt truly protected.

It would not last - it could not. But he remembered some of Ignis' words that, as usual, had sounded trivial at the time. "It is in small things that I find happiness." Now he understood their true value.

He raised a hand to capture some of the luxuriant red hair splayed all around them. "Have I told you how special you are to me?"

"No, you have not. But I already knew that. You are the one in need of constant reassurance," Ignis replied, trying to mask the overwhelming sense of security he felt at those words.

"You always read into my soul, Ignis. How is that possible? How can you know my thoughts without me voicing them?"

The prince giggled. "Magic," he offered. "Do not let it surprise you. I do this a lot, and not only with my friends. Let's leave it at that."

A couple more minutes flew by. The night was quiet and peaceful. The candles had gone out long ago, and they just laid there in the blessed darkness. Marzio felt like dozing off, but there were some more questions he needed answered before he did so. And he had to be very careful, this time.

"Tempesta told me about Rasya," he began.

Ignis stiffened. "How much did she say?"

"That the two of you were really close. That she died protecting your life."

A sad voice asked him, "Why would you care about someone you have never met?"

"Because Rasya was more than your lover. She was your friend. And I... I would like to become your friend, too. I am not trying to pass any judgement, Ignis. And I know I could never take her place - but at least let me get a little closer."

"You already are. It doesn't get any closer than this." Ignis proved his point by tightening the embrace. "But I am glad you asked me, instead of somebody else." He sighed. "I was happy... with her. I could forget some of my problems. We used to sneak out of the palace and into the city, in the guise of soldiers or travellers. Blend in with the crowd, go into taverns, and at plays... speak to common people about their troubles and concerns. I still do that; only it was different, when there were two of us."

Ignis drew his breath and Marzio realized he was holding back tears. He could see the pain building up inside the prince's soul. He gently kissed his silky hair and his cheek. "I'm really sorry I brought this up. I did not wish to open old wounds."

"Don't be sorry." He was smiling sadly now, and touched his lips to Marzio's forehead. "These are good memories. Happy memories."

Marzio hugged his lover skin-tight. "I never got to thank you for saving my life," he said, trying to lead them both to safer ground.

"You know it is not necessary."

"You could have let me die."

"You're pushing it again." Ignis' voice told him the prince did not hold it against him at all.

"Sorry. Just curious."

"And when are you not curious? You always seem to have something to ask, some new subject that has managed to capture your interest."

"You can't deny that supernatural healing powers do have a certain appeal," he said. "And then, there is that tattoo... Very mysterious and very distracting, Meris Sagni-Dor," he purred, and jumped up suddenly as Ignis pinched his bottom. "Ouch! What was that for?"

"Calling me by my family name in my bed, that's what!" It seemed Marzio had finally managed to wipe out any sign of sadness from the prince's face.

"Oh, it was only that. I thought you were jealous of your own tattoo," he teased.

"Foolish Angelian!" laughed the prince, slapping his lover's shoulder playfully. "Now, I suggest we get some sleep. Tomorrow will be a busy day for me, and I would rather be awake during it."

Marzio sighed and moved into a more comfortable position, laying his head on Ignis' shoulder. He closed his eyes and let the beating of his lover's heart lull him to sleep. Before falling into a blissful nap, he felt the Demon's jet-black wings surround his naked body protectively.

---

Sunlight streaming through the semi-transparent lace curtains roused Ignis from his restful slumber. He yawned and rubbed his eyes, trying to chase away sleep. His senses told him the hour was late, compared to the time of morning he usually got up.

His movements made the sleeping form huddled against his body whimper, but did not fully awake it.

For one moment, Ignis could not recall who it was; but then the past night's events came back to him, and a happy grin spread across his face. He wrapped his arms tightly around Marzio, and nuzzled at the soft locks of hair. Golden, just like the light coming in through the window.

He had never thought it would be so passionate, so fulfilling... His heart filled with joy again, casting away the heavy clouds that had gathered during the past three years. Marzio had pulled him away from loneliness, and had taught him to feel love again.

'Such a wonderful night... it makes me wish it had not ended so soon...'

He kissed the locks that tickled his face, and caressed the Angelian's back. Gently, lest he woke him up. He felt warm, and comfortable, and he loathed the thought of getting up. Still, pressing matters awaited his attention.

He carefully pushed away the bed covers and unfolded his wings from around the sleeping man's body to look down and admire his lover in the tender light. So beautiful he was, laying there deeply asleep, curled against Ignis, his left hand across the prince's waist, his face buried in the younger man's chest. Ignis could not hold back an affectionate smile. No reason to wake him just yet.

He lifted up Marzio's body, slowly pushing him onto the mattress. The Angelian stirred, but did not open his eyes. Ignis sat up on the bed, and pulled the warm covers over his lover, tucking him in. Tenderly, he brushed away some of the rebellious blond curls to have another look at the peaceful expression on Marzio's face, and placed a fleeting kiss on his lips. Then he stood up and looked around for his robe. It had landed on the floor, together with the rest of their clothes. He donned it, then gathered the rest of the items and placed them on the trunk at the end of the bed. They were a little crumpled, but there was nothing he could do about that.

A bath was in order, he decided. He made for the bathroom, careful not to make any loud noise. He slinked past the door, and soundlessly closed it behind him.

The marble was cold beneath his bare feet, but he paid little attention to it. Swiftly, he submerged himself in warm water and removed any bodily remains of the previous night. But its memory still burned inside his heart. He laughed while rubbing himself down roughly with a towel, and then put his robe back on. He returned into the bedroom, as quietly as he had left it. His hair was relatively wet, but he had rubbed out as much water as he could manage.

Marzio had moved in his sleep, and was now hugging a pillow. But there was no sign he was awake, so Ignis began the challenging task of choosing the proper attire for the day. He truly hated the over-adorned garments the nobles wore at Court, and therefore all his clothes had a simple style to them. Still, they were made of rich materials, the simple cut and carefully-chosen colours offering him a certain dignity over the peacock-like style of the highborn.

He did not feel like making an appearance that day, but holding open trial was one of the things he felt obliged to do for the lower-ranked and common people, and he had failed to attend that duty for almost two months on account of the recent military campaign. It was going to be a rough day.

Skipping his daily training was also something he regretted, but a glance at the sleeping form in his bed made him change his mind quickly. He'd had plenty of 'training' that night.

There was clatter coming from the other side of the wall, and Ignis knew it had to be Kheerah, setting up his breakfast. He unlocked the heavy door, and entered the spacious room.

The boy bowed deeply as his master approached, and when he straightened his body he was met by a warm smile. There was no doubt the prince was in a good mood.

"Kheerah, did you deliver General Zain-Reil's breakfast yet?" he enquired.

"No, your lordship. He is usually still sleeping at this hour."

Ignis chuckled. "Excellent. When you are done with setting up the table, just go back to the kitchens and bring it back here, alright?"

"Milord?"

The young attendant was a little disoriented at first, but the look on the prince's face spoke volumes.

"Just do as I say. And no word of this to anyone, understood?" he added, on a somewhat threatening tone.

"Y-yes, my Lord Prince!" the boy shied away.

"Good," he nodded, returning to the bedroom.

Marzio was beginning to stir, and as Ignis approached the bed and sat down on its edge sleepy green eyes looked up at him.

"Good morning," he smiled, reaching out to caress a tanned shoulder creeping out from under the covers. "Did you sleep well?"

"Mmm... absolutely," Marzio grinned back. "There were voices coming from the other room, and you were not here, and..."

"And?" The Demon raised an eyebrow.

"And I was beginning to miss you!" the Angelian complained, then suddenly sat up to capture the prince's lush lips in a kiss.

Ignis' body shuddered with laughter as they lost their balance and fell back on the bed. He could get used to this.

He pushed the blond man away, sitting up again. "Alright, most eager one, time to get up! Breakfast is here, and we haven't got all day!"

"Breakfast?" the general questioned, following the prince in his motions, oblivious to the fact he was stark naked. He pushed his hands under Ignis' ceremonial robes, caressing the Demon's chest and shoulders. He licked his lips provocatively. "Mmm... I could use an appetizer..."

Ignis was beginning to get aroused, but as much as he wanted to abandon his duties in favour of much more pleasurable activities, he could not do it. He shot Marzio a reproachful glance, gently removing the skilled hands from under his robe. "I am truly sorry, but this is not the right time."

Marzio's face fell, and Ignis cursed himself under his breath. He had hurt him without a reason.

"Marzio, as much as I would like to spend the day with you, this land does not rule itself. And right now, I must attend to my duties. You know this." Marzio nodded, still disturbed, so the Demon continued, "However, I am sure I can find out a way to make up for it, later tonight."

A brilliant smile curled Marzio's lips, and the Demon found himself caught in a searing kiss once more. He embraced the Angelian really tight, and hoped he would not be exhausted by the time night fell. That would prove a real impediment.

Marzio pulled back and caressed the wet reddish hair that tumbled on Ignis' shoulders. "Hmm... At least let me brush your hair for you. I've always wanted to do it."

The prince agreed, pulling out of his arms. "So, what are you waiting for? Get dressed already. Or are you planning on having breakfast in the nude?"

Marzio looked around for his clothes, and Ignis indicated the place he had put them. He watched his lover while he got dressed, admiring once more the toned body and the way he moved. He really had to have a sparring match with Marzio one of these days.

Something wicked crossed his mind, and he voiced it. "Kheerah almost fainted when I told him to bring your food here."

The general froze into place, staring back at him open-mouthed. Ignis giggled, and busied himself tying the Angelian's shirt and jacket laces.

"Don't worry, he is absolutely discrete. The Court may not yet be aware of our little adventure last night... and if it gets out, it won't be from Kheerah's mouth."

He brushed his lips against Marzio's soft cheek, something he had discovered he really enjoyed doing. He checked him from head to toe and, knowing this was as good as it would get, he started pulling the man into the other room. "Come now, I'm getting hungry!"

---

Breakfast proved to be a good idea, also because Ignis informed Marzio he did not have to spend his days locked in his rooms. In fact, he even wondered how come the general had not explored half the palace by now, and had a good laugh when Marzio replied that it did not feel proper to do so without permission.

"You can go wherever you want, just as long as you don't leave the palace grounds without an escort. I'll get you a plan if you like, but meanwhile just feel free to ask around. The guards can be extremely useful, given a chance."

"So you train them to be tour guides or something?" Marzio chuckled.

"Not at all, beloved," Ignis replied, and Marzio's heart jumped at the endearment. "But they won't mind a little chat while they're on duty. Standing there all day doing nothing can be so boring."

Oh yes, it could. Marzio had been through it, and probably so had the young prince; it was all part of standard military training.

"Besides," the prince added, "my guards really like you. You haven't given them any trouble this far."

That did not feel right. "What did Kelan do this time?" he couldn't help asking. He knew the man would be trouble, no matter where he was.

Ignis sighed. "Not too much, just the usual scheming. Or so Tempesta says. I have yet to see the man myself - and I admit I am not looking forward to that moment. Oh, and she also says they miss your presence. At Court."

Marzio glared at him suspiciously. "What do you mean, at Court?"

"Well, I couldn't have kept them locked in their rooms, could I? And Lavian insisted that they see 'Demonis in all its glory'."

There was a dark irony in the prince's voice as he repeated the High Priest's words, and Marzio had a fairly good idea why. "The two of you don't get along too well, I take it?"

Another sigh, and Ignis tossed down half of his wine. "Let's just say that, if possible, I would throw him down the highest tower without a second thought."

"Throw who down a tower?" came an intrusive voice, and Marzio turned around at once. Praise the gods, it was only Owen. Still, Marzio could not suppress a shudder as he realized the Dreak would know why he was there.

Ignis seemed calm, and obviously not surprised at his Captain's sudden appearance. "You're not stupid, Owen, and you damn well know who I'm talking about, since you've been here for five minutes already."

Now Marzio was really surprised. Ignis had not looked at the door once while they had been in the room. "You could hear him come in?" he asked, not very sure if it was the right thing to do.

"Hear him is not the correct word," the prince replied, and Marzio sensed the change in his tone. Subtle, almost non-existent; and it had been there ever since he had said the Angelian should feel free to explore the palace. 'Which was precisely five minutes ago,' he realized.

"Feel me is more like it," Owen agreed. "He says he can smell me occasionally, although how he does it is still a mystery."

Ignis leaned forward to whisper to Marzio, but his voice was loud enough so that the other Dreak could overhear his words. "Only when he has sex. I smell perfume all over him."

Marzio blushed furiously, and coughed to hide his discomfort; Ignis chuckled devilishly, knowing perfectly well whose perfume it was, and Owen looked totally befuddled; but all three let it go.

"You missed training this morning, so I was worried something might have happened," the captain finally cleared things out. "I came to see if you were alright, but Kheerah said you were having company for breakfast."

Marzio was a little baffled by this exchange, not sure what to believe anymore. Thankfully, Ignis decided to finally put an end to the whole discussion, lying through his teeth with such ease only a good politician could use. "You worry too much. I simply got up late, and decided to have breakfast in pleasurable company." And it just had to sound completely reasonable, of course. "Besides, I must say I am not looking forward to attending trial today. I thought Marzio could help me relax a little."

Owen smiled. "I see. I shall wait for you outside, then."

Ignis sighed deeply when he heard the door close. His smile returned, and so did a part of his good humour. "One would say that my missing training is the end of the world. Don't worry, beloved, he doesn't suspect anything," he added, turning to Marzio and hugging him.

"How can you be certain?"

"It's not so hard. He is aware I favour you, of course; but I do not have the habit of spending the morning with my bed mates, and he knows that perfectly well. Your very presence deceived him."

Marzio could not help but feel an annoying pang of jealousy at the mentioning of other people sharing his lover's bed. He tried very hard not to think how many there had been before him, or if Ignis truly held him in a high, special place in his heart, from where he could look down at the others and claim with true conviction how little they had meant to their prince, and how impossible it was for them to ever get a glimpse of Ignis' love.

The prince got up. "I shall see you tonight, then. Or perhaps you will come see me in the Great Hall today?"

'Great Hall? Oh, that's right; the trials.' "Yes, I might stop by later. I thought I'd begin my 'exploration' with the library."

Ignis smiled, then bent down and stole a quick kiss. "Whatever you wish, Marzio. If you do, you'll have a pleasant surprise waiting for you there. And remember," he threatened him with one finger, like one did when chastising a child, "I know where you live."

Marzio stood as well, accompanying the prince to the door. There were at least ten guards outside, but none seemed to find his presence there threatening, or at least strange. Ignis introduced them all by name, and they were all were quite friendly, in spite of their stern faces and stiff position. Then Ignis was on his way down the stairs, and the Angelian returned to his own rooms, making a plan in his mind of what he should go see first. He was particularly curious of the library - where he would probably find plenty of information on Demonis - and the barracks. All the talk about training had reminded him it had been quite a while since his last fighting practice, and there had to be some sort of facility built near the soldiers' quarters he could make good use of.

Chapter Twelve

Marzio made it to the Great Hall early that afternoon. He had found what he was looking for, but both the library and the huge training hall had been empty. One of the few guards he had encountered had told him that, because of the great mass of people that had come there that day, security had been reinforced in the Hall and everybody was on alert. But the woman had assured him that he would find plenty of people in the training hall at any time of the day, and the library staff would be more than happy to assist him. On a normal day, and she had emphasised those words.

He understood, and continued his walk around the many corridors, getting a general feeling of the place. Even without a plan, he knew he would not get lost. The palace was built in such a way that a good soldier would have no problem with orientation. And all the corridors seemed to meet in one place, which had to be the hall both Ignis and the guard had mentioned to him - and the one they had been received in upon their arrival in Aquiline. So he had decided to go take a look.

Luckily, he was on the ground floor. The place was crowded with people, and all the balconies on the two upper levels seemed packed. He saw soldiers everywhere, not just the Palace Guard but also Ignis' Personal Guard - which made perfect sense, of course, and Ignis would probably want Tempesta there as well.

The four guards stationed at the massive door nodded as he passed, and one - which he recognized from earlier that morning - pulled him aside to show him a half-hidden niche on the right. It provided easier access, he said, and since it was slightly elevated it would allow him to see above the crowd. "No use getting cramped with all these people. It's already getting hot in here."

"Why are you being so kind to me?" he found himself whispering to them man. "I am..."

The man laughed. "I know who you are, General Zain-Reil," he said. "His Highness likes you and you make a good impression. So unless you're looking for trouble, you're more than welcome to watch." He opened the door that kept the niche from being taken over by unwanted visitors, let Marzio in and closed it back after him. He winked. "Just knock when you're done, and we'll let you out."

He nodded, turned away from the door and continued down the narrow path, occasionally bowing to the people standing there in groups of two or three. All looked like nobles, and most of them were young. They didn't even give him a second glance as he passed, being concerned with what was happening in the hall.

He finally found an excellent spot for observation, and looked past the sea of people at the throne Ignis occupied.

A brilliant man, he decided. The guards did not allow anyone come closer than fifty paces from the dais, and all the people that took part in the trial, either as accused or defenders, were separated from the rest. Even four hours after the trial had begun, there were many left, he noticed, and Ignis would probably take his time with all of them. That meant the prince would probably be too tired to actually come and see him that night; but Marzio knew he would not blame the young man for it.

He was not really curious about the legal procedures, but about who would actually be present there. He could see Tempesta standing behind the throne, and Owen and a few other officers moving around the room overseeing security. There were also several figures in the crowd that looked very much like guards dressed in civilian clothes to his experienced eye. Nevertheless, the people acted more civilised than he had anticipated.

A couple of older men and women in fine clothes were seated close to the throne, and since Ignis consulted with them occasionally Marzio concluded they must be his advisors. Lord Lavian was among them, of course, but he did not sit right next to the throne as one would have expected.

He spotted Lord Kelan and his three companions somewhere on a balcony, and was surprised they had come at all. But they must have been as curious as he had been, and this was a good place to plot as any. There were also Angelians in the crowd, and he concluded they must have been some of the merchants the Demon major had mentioned to him upon their arrival. Some had darker skin, and he also saw some Demons with fair skin or blonde hair.

"Half-breeds?" he wondered. He knew they existed, naturally, but he had never seen any outside the territory of the Mauri Confederation. Angelia was very strict when it came to maintaining a 'pure' race, which if one would ask him was bullshit. But there was nothing he could do about it.

A friendly chuckle took him out of his thoughts. "Isn't it amazing? Back in Angelia, they would never be allowed to live."

Deep in thought, Marzio had not noticed anyone approach him. He turned to his left to see a pair of pale blue eyes studying him with disarming sincerity. They belonged to an elderly man, dressed in long white robes that covered most of his body, but could not hide the fair hair and broad white wings.

Marzio froze into place. He knew this man; he had seen him at least a dozen times seated at his uncle's table.

"Lord Tanis...?" he asked hesitantly, not sure if his eyes did not deceive him.

The man smiled politely. "Fancy meeting you here, Marzio Zain-Reil." He offered his hand. "I am sorry if I startled you. Prince Sagni-Dor said I might run into you one of these days, but I was rather expecting to meet you in the library."

Still not sure of what was happening, Marzio shook the older man's hand. The voice was just as he remembered it, and the secure handshake...

But this man was supposed to be dead!

Tanis Seer-Neis, Duke of Apheion, had been one of the most illustrious strategists and politicians Angelia had ever had. He had also been a good friend of his family's, and had even taught Marzio Court etiquette, of all things. Yet the general was sure he had seen him killed nine years ago. He had seen him fall, his body dragged through half the battle field. He had been declared dead, and there were enough eye witnesses to certify that.

Marzio blinked a few times, trying to make sure he was not seeing things. The man was still there, still solid, and seemed a little amused at Marzio's unhidden shock. "I take it you were not informed I was living here," he concluded finally.

"I was not informed you were alive," Marzio corrected, and the man laughed warmly.

"So our dear prince is back at his old tricks. That is very good news, indeed."

Did the man mean Ignis? Was this the surprise he had mentioned earlier that day? Knowing Ignis, it was probably so.

Lord Tanis - for he was now sure the man was truly Lord Tanis - kept smiling at him. "It has been a long time since we have seen each other, Marzio. I must confess you look more and more like your father."

"Excuse me, but... how?"

The older Angelian replied indulgingly, "How did I get here? How come I am still alive? That, my young friend, is a long story. And I do not want to keep you from any plans you might have."

"Can I get the short version, at least?" The general was hesitant; of all the persons he had imagined as traitors, this man was the least likely he had expected. The duke had been a respected man in Angelia, and had no reason to betray his country and cross to the other side.

"You worry too much, Marzio," Tanis told him. He crossed his hands on the wooden stall that separated the niche from the hall and kept smiling. "I bet I know what bothers you, as well. But I have not betrayed my people.

"As you know, I was seriously injured in battle nine years ago. When I regained consciousness, I was in a dungeon with Demons as my guards. They considered me an important hostage, and tried to get as much information out of me as they could. But I did not reveal anything.

"Finding out about this, Prince Nicolas - Ignis' father, that is - summoned me. He said that he admired my strength and devotion to my country. He offered me a deal: I would become his son's tutor for four years, and in exchange I would be offered my freedom. I would also have access to all the documents I considered necessary, and the opportunity to study Demon culture and civilisation for half a year before my lessons with the prince began.

"Naturally, I accepted. It was the perfect opportunity to gather more information on the enemy, which could prove useful to us once I returned to Angelia. But, at the time, I did not know what would lay. After six months spent mostly in the Palace Library, I was sent away to a place I had only heard about, the Monastery of Dreak, to meet the Prince Heir.

"As far as I knew, I was the only foreigner that was allowed to go there, by special permission of the Prince. For the Prince Heir had refused to return home after the first four years of training, as it had been expected. So I had to go there and teach him.

"I still remember my first meeting with him - I was so impressed by the young Heir and his outlook on things. He was always one step ahead of his peers, it seemed; and he was more intelligent that anyone I had met up to that point. We have learned a lot from one another; and when the time of my release came, I refused to return home. I realized that I had fallen in love with this country and its people."

Marzio was not surprised to hear this; he felt the same thing, and it had nothing to do with his love for Ignis. "They are so different, and yet not hard to understand if you truly want to."

Tanis smiled. "In spite of what we Angelians say, their culture is far more advanced than ours. It is what bothers us, the reason we call them barbarians. But no person in its right mind would deny it."

"So you remained here, and became a scholar, in spite of your family's grief."

"Grief? Ha! My wife probably gave a large ball in honour of my passing," Tanis said bitterly. "In a way, Ignis is my son more than my own children ever were. And home is where you find happiness."

That gave Marzio something to think about. He had not been there for too long, but it felt like he could spend the rest of his days in that country without anyone asking anything about it.

"It is different," he admitted. "Different from what I was raised to believe in. And it beckons to me. But I cannot stay here, I cannot hide."

Tanis nodded sadly. "You are right, I guess I am hiding. But I was older than you when I was brought to Aquiline, and I did not have your strength, or a powerful guardian to ensure my safety." He looked down at the people gathered in the hall, and then at Ignis. "He trusts you, Marzio. I can see it in his eyes when he speaks of you. Don't you dare let him down, you hear me!"

One look at the figure on the throne, and Marzio's heartbeat quickened. "I would never dream of it."

The old man closed his eyes and gripped the wooden rail for support. He looked like he would fall, and Marzio almost jumped to keep that from happening. But the Angelian recovered just as fast.

"I am getting too old for this," he told Marzio, breathing deeply. "And I believe it is time for me to return to my studies. Do come by the library some time, though - we can talk more. You can tell me what King Teh-Kai is up to these days."

"I will," the general promised. "I still have questions about Demonis that need an answer. And about Ignis, too."

Tanis smiled again. "Those, my friend, you must ask him directly. He is not particularly pleased with people gossiping about him." Then he added low enough not to be overheard, "One thing I can tell you, though. He does not do politics..."

"... in the bedroom, I know. General Neri-Lokh already warned me about that."

The Angelian duke turned Demon scholar nodded knowingly. "Then she has seen it too. At any rate, now that you like each other you absolutely have to ask him to take you into the city himself. He'd never refuse you the favour, and he needs a few hours of freedom."

Marzio agreed and watched Tanis take his leave, sighing in relief when the man got out of sight. Keeping things from him would be just as difficult as keeping them from Ignis' other good-willed friends.

---

Fresh morning air filled the palace corridors, as Marzio made his way toward the training hall. The chill was invigorating, and the Angelian was inexplicably excited at the prospect of demonstrating his skills to the Demons. One month ago, he would have never have though about it, let alone go through with it; but now, he was feeling a new person.

He wondered briefly if Ignis would be up as well. If he truly did not miss training often, it was likely they would meet up in the training hall. Still, the young prince had been worn out the previous night, so there was the possibility of him still resting; and Marzio had not been able to check, on account of the three guards stationed in the hallway.

As he approached the training hall, he could already hear voices and the clashing of metal. Leaving the entryway behind, he was overwhelmed by the familiar scent of sweat and the noises he treasured, of men - and women, in this case - training in an enclosed space. The hall was now bursting with activity, unlike the deserted view that had met him the other day.

The hall was rectangular and conceived in such a manner that it gave the impression of an out-of-doors facility. A small gallery surrounded the oval training ring, which was spacious and covered in a thick layer of sand. Many of those present at that hour were gathered around the small palisade going round the gallery as they watched those that were already sparring in the ring, cheering loudly every now and then.

Because of this, Marzio had no view of those inside the ring. However, he saw a couple of familiar faces, including Meris Owen, caught in conversation close by. He approached with the intention of asking the Dreak officer to partner him that morning, lightly tapping the Demon on the shoulder to let him know he was there.

Just as the captain turned and smiled in acknowledgement, a strong voice Marzio immediately identified ordered, "Switch!"

The Angelian grinned. It seemed he would see Ignis that morning after all.

Sensing his interest, Owen took one step sideways to offer him a clear view of the ring. Marzio leaned his elbows on the wooden palisade of the enclosure, and studied the fighters with great interest.

Ignis was inside with three other fighters, but fought only one of them; the others were content to watch, jumping out of the way if necessary. However, the sweat on their bodies indicated that they had had their turn. The prince, shirtless and sweaty himself, was sparring with a man of solid build that clearly outweighed him, but he did so with a skill the Angelian had rarely encountered.

"Does he do this every morning?" Marzio asked Owen, who had abandoned the conversation in favour of observing the fight together with him.

"Mostly," the Dreak smirked. "But you've missed most of it. He's been at it for half an hour now."

It was a decent period of time for any good warrior, but what impressed the general was that Ignis showed no sigh of fatigue; quite the contrary, he seemed as relaxed as if he were taking a stroll through the park around the palace.

Marzio watched as the Demon prince sent his adversary down with one strong blow. Again, he shouted "Switch!" and one of the two that had stood by watching took the fallen man's place. The sturdy guard got up and made his way towards the gallery, a little out of breath.

"How long does he usually last?"

Owen watched with vague indifference, and did not turn as he replied. "It depends. Usually he only spars for an hour or so, though he hardly pulls out all his energy just for training. Unless he's fighting a Dreak; then he gives his best no matter what. If you ever get to see that, you shall notice it is a very elaborate duel."

Marzio got an idea. "Perhaps the two of you could show me?"

"Hmm... I'm not really in the mood for doing any back flips just for fun this morning, but Tempesta might be interested. If I can find her, that is." Something caught his eye and he turned towards the ring. "Watch this," he told Marzio.

The general decided there was something familiar in the fighting technique he witnessed now, though he could not determine what that was. Something about the way Ignis handled his sword and about the way in which he moved, at any rate.

Glancing along the opposite side of the ring, he noticed several persons who had not come there for practice. It was most evident in their clothing, which was all brocade and jewelled finery. Nobles, he decided with a hint of surprise. One of the women caught his attention; not because she was prettier than the other or anything. But while the others were whispering among themselves paying little attention to the ring, she was studying Ignis just as closely as Marzio did, drinking in his every move. Her features were familiar, too, though he was sure he had not met her before.

He frowned, not liking the way she looked at the prince. It was the same predatory glance the general had received several times from those who had wanted him for themselves, a certain fixation that was hard to shake off.

He was about to ask Owen who she was when a startled cry made him revert his attention to the ring just in time to watch Ignis send his adversary, now disarmed, flying on the ground with a well-placed leg kick. 'That must be the back flip,' he mused, as the prince picked up the practice blade the guard had dropped. "That's enough for today," he said as he helped the woman stand. Waving one hand in recognition, he made his way to where Marzio and Owen were, a radiating smile on his lips.

"I was expecting you here one day or the other," he told Marzio, throwing him one of the swords. "Were you planning on joining us for training?"

The Angelian caught the blade and swung it a little, testing its sturdiness. "It was the general plan. If you would have me, Your Highness," he added with a low bow, which made several people, including Ignis, chuckle. Across the field, the woman that had been watching the fight had disappeared.

"Any impressions so far?"

"Several. Your fighting technique... I have seen it before, but I cannot tell where," Marzio confessed.

"Care to give him a hand?" the prince winked at Owen, who nodded.

"Perhaps because Ignis is the man you fought during the battle on the Mauri," the captain suggested amiably.

Marzio's jaw went slack, but he recovered fast enough. "Well, that should make sense. Though you obviously forgot to mention it before," he reproached the prince.

The red-haired Demon blinked, and a short laugh escaped his lips. "I thought you already suspected it. Oh, never mind! Come along, now. I challenge you!"

The general looked at him, a little surprised. "Are you sure? I mean, are you not tired or anything?"

"I took you down once; I think I can repeat that performance. Or perhaps you do not want a rematch?"

And how could Marzio refuse him? Though he sincerely doubted he could defeat him, being considerably out of practice. Perhaps when he had regained his full potential, they would be standing on equal ground. Still, he had a few tricks that could work in his advantage if necessary, without seriously harming Ignis.

"Very well. A rematch it is!"

Ignis grinned as he watched Marzio jump over the palisade to join him in the ring. "I would lose the shirt, if I were you," he told the general. Then he asked for silence, and made his way towards the centre.

Marzio heeded his advice, then followed suite. It was not like he was ashamed with his own body, right? And it would also offer his new-found lover some distraction... Well, he would have the same problem, to say the truth, as memories of their night together invaded his mind.

He treaded on the thick layer of sand which served to protect the fighters from severe impact with the ground underneath. He took position in front of Ignis, grinning. Dreak or no Dreak, he would give him the challenge he wanted.

Soon they were moving together in a deathly dance, only the cling of metal accompanying their moves. They were both exquisite swordsmen and would not easily give in to the other. The duel was balanced, and it gave Marzio a reassuring feeling. This was different from a real battle - it was not about life and death, but rather about honour and about which of them had the better skills. And Ignis was, by all means, the perfect opponent, reading his moves as Marzio did the same, fully dedicated to their game, at ease with their bodies. If the Demon felt any tiredness from his earlier training, he did not show it. And while at first Marzio had felt like he was having the upper hand, now the situation seemed equilibrated.

Marzio's tricks did not work, though. Ignis either found a way to parry this or that stroke, or simply stepped out of the Angelian's range if he felt he could not make it. And there was a constant shadow of a smile on his lips, something not even the hard blows could wash away.

The Angelian felt like they could go on like that forever. It had become more than a duel - it was a kind of lovemaking in itself, without them ever achieving body contact. Each strike, one touch; each parry, one kiss. It made him feel strange, losing contact with the rest of the world so much it was just him and Ignis moving around each other in an endless dance whose moves they alone decided.

And then, Ignis broke the circle. One strong blow made Marzio's blade fly all the way to the other side of the ring, and Ignis' weapon was fixed in front of him, touching his chest right where his heart was. The prince's smile never wavered, his breath heavy and his eyes burning with passion as he waited for Marzio to yield.

"Do you surrender?" he asked for all to hear, yet knowing fully well this was not a real defeat for the Angelian.

"I do," Marzio confirmed, still caught in the web they had sewn about themselves.

Ignis nodded once, then lowered his sword and let it fall on the sand. He gripped Marzio's shoulder in what might have looked like a friendly gesture, yet the pressure was a little too strong for that. Reassurance, Marzio realized. Strangely, he did not feel the need for it any more.

"You did well," the red-haired Demon whispered; then louder, "It seems to me you are a little out of shape, my friend."

Marzio swore lightly, trying to contain the sudden desire to hug his lover and kiss him deeply. He knew what those last words meant to all gathered there. If the Demon monarch had called him 'friend' in front of all these people, then he would damn well be treated as such and considered their equal. Word would undoubtedly spread, and he would no longer be an unwelcome intruder in their midst.

But Ignis felt the need to do more than that. Not letting go of his shoulder, he guided him back towards the gallery, where Owen watched him with a new-found respect. The captain seemed genuinely surprised about something, and Marzio longed to find out what that was.

"Captain," the prince said in that solemn voice that made those around him obey without objection, "see that Marzio gets some decent training, will you."

With that, it was done. Being called by his first name in front of so many meant recognition. No one would dare look down at him without risking the prince's wrath.

Captain Alisi-Feit hit his fist to his chest as Ignis bent over and crossed on the other side of the railing. Ignis turned and winked at Marzio, then left without a glance back.

Owen also smiled, his tone reverent. "Well then, Marzio... do you still have enough energy left for some more exercise?"

"I think so. Why do you ask?"

"I have never seen someone other than a Dreak last this long against him at that pace," the captain confessed. "You have made a very good impression on all present. Including myself." He winked again, "On Ignis too, I believe, though he most certainly will not admit to it. He will grant you every wish from now on, rest assured. In fact," he whispered in the general's ear so that the others would not hear him, "he might even make love to you if you ask him nicely."

Marzio forced himself to look outraged. "What is it with you people!?"

Chapter Thirteen

"You are good with a blade," Ignis observed later that afternoon. They were having dessert - or rather, Marzio had been having lunch when the prince had arrived, so Ignis had confiscated one of the baked apples with chocolate coating - a dish Marzio had taken a liking on the moment he had tasted it - confessing to having a weakness for everything that included that particular brownish sweet.

"You're not half bad yourself," Marzio replied half-jokingly, refilling his wineglass, and enjoying the delighted chuckle that came from his lover's direction at the clear understatement. "So, any other plans for today, or do I get you for myself the rest of the afternoon?"

Ignis' expression turned serious. "I'm afraid not. I have a meeting with the representatives of the Merchant Guild, trying to undo some mess Lavian's made while I was gone."

"Oh. So that cuts our time to what? Half an hour or so?"

"I was actually going on two full hours, but if you don't want me here that's fine," the prince replied smugly. He knew damn well Marzio did want him there. "Oh, and before I forget - you'll get a visit from my tailor tomorrow."

"Tailor, huh? And what business do I have with your tailor, pray I tell?" Marzio rested his elbow on a drawn knee, watching Ignis stand and stretch out his body languidly. 'He looks more beautiful every time I see him.'

"Well, your clothes are getting a little worn, so I thought a few additions to your wardrobe would do no harm. Besides, with autumn here you'll feel the need for something a bit warmer than what you already have. And then, of course, there is the matter of the banquet."

That managed to get the Angelian's interest. "You mean the one next week?" He had heard various rumours concerning what was to be the celebration of Ignis' fifth year on the throne, but having received no official invitation he had presumed he was not included on the guest list. It seemed it was too much to hope for.

Smiling, the Demon bent over him. "That's the one. Don't worry, though, I'm making sure your four countrymen are properly outfitted as well. We don't want you to reflect badly on your king and country now, do we?"

He took Marzio's glass away and pulled him on his feet, putting his arms around him and leaning his head on a strong shoulder. He sighed in contentment as the general returned the embrace, and hummed softly as he led them both through the steps of a waltz.

"I certainly hope your dancing is as good as your swordplay, beloved. The ladies at Court have been dying to get their hands on you."

"Hn. Though I am flattered, I could not care less about the ladies. Not that I'm saying you don't have some fine women... But I prefer to think of myself as 'already taken', thank you very much."

Ignis grinned. "Are you willing to tell them that?" Taking in Marzio's half-shocked expression, he continued. "I did not think so. Nor am I looking forward to it, I confess."

"Then let's leave things as they are," the Angelian suggested. "A bit of secrecy has never harmed anyone." Then he remembered something. "I was going to ask you for a little favour."

"Oh?"

"I was wondering if you and I could... uh... visit Aquiline one of these days. Together, I mean."

Violent laughter erupted from the Demon. "Did Tanis talk you into this, or have you come up with it alone?" He waved one hand, dismissing any answer "Never mind. I'll take you into the city, if that is what you want. The Harvest Festival is next week as well; that's why I allowed the banquet to be held in the first place. Everyone will be worn out for a couple of days after, and we can sneak out of the palace in the relative safety of anonymity."

They retreated to the large bed in the adjoining room shortly after, and Ignis sunk contently against Marzio's body, enjoying the sense of safety his lover's arms around his waist offered. Marzio's lips found their way down his neck, and he tilted his head back to allow him better access.

"You don't want to go either, do you?" the blond whispered, his breath across the Demon's skin sending delicious tingles through his body. "I heard you are not particularly fond of banquets."

"You've been listening around, I see." There was no anger in the words. "They are not only a complete waste of time, but also money." He laughed a little. "Not that I'm miser or anything, but I can come up with at least half a dozen better ways to spend those funds. The southern roads are getting worse, and we need new irrigation systems..."

Marzio chuckled. "And let's not forget the sum you'll be spending on some clothes that are not really necessary."

A well-placed elbow in his ribs told him that was not a matter his lover was willing to be flexible on. "That comes from my private funds, not the national treasury. Besides, the nobles can have as many banquets as they want, provided they use their own income to fund them. I'm not really stopping them from it. In fact, I believe there are several major balls each month."

"Not that you attend any of those."

"Of course I do. Occasionally. I have quite a few friends among the aristocracy. After all, I'm supposed to be a social person, and they are partly my support on the throne, whether I like it or not."

"The pleasure of being a ruler, right? You mentioned private funds, I believe? What are those? I don't recall King Teh-Kai ever having any."

Ignis smiled, for once happy with Marzio's curiosity. He may have been Angelian, but there was genuine interest behind his questions, with just a faint hint of concern. "The Royal House has monopoly on certain goods. And I own shares in several ventures which earn me good interests. On those I pay taxes like everybody else, of course. On the whole, it's just honest business. It also allows me access to some information that would otherwise be out of reach."

"You probably have spies lurking everywhere in the city." Marzio stated, resuming his earlier activities with new enthusiasm.

"Very apprehensive, beloved. But not only in Aquiline. My secret intelligence service operates in most of the territory, plus the Mauri Confederation. I've got several sources in Terlandia. And let's not forget Angelia," he added with a roguish smile.

"You never cease to amaze me, my prince," Marzio told him, slipping one hand past the Demon's tunic and shirt to caress his chest, while the other lingered over his stomach for a moment, before continuing its route lower.

Capturing a handful of golden hair, the Demon pulled Marzio's head up so their faces would be only inches apart. "I'll start worrying the instant that happens," he said, bringing their mouths together as Marzio struggled to unbuckle his belt one-handedly.

Arching his back and letting out a contented moan, the prince allowed himself to enjoy his lover's attentions.

---

Having spent a fairly decent amount of time at Court, Marzio was accustomed to attending banquets. However, he was curious what surprises the night would bring - because if Prince Sagni-Dor had lent a hand in preparing this one, it meant he had had something special in mind. And when Ignis had something in mind... well, one never knew exactly what to expect.

The clothes ordered for Marzio had arrived promptly, and the Angelian was pleased to see that the tailor had managed to create a perfect duplicate of his high uniform out of thicker fabrics. In fact, most of his new clothes followed the Angelian style to the letter, much to his relief - he didn't know how Kelan would have reacted to seeing him dressed in Demon clothing.

So, wearing his new dress uniform and accompanied by a Palace Guard cadet - Kheerah was busy helping his master get dressed - Marzio slowly made his way to the banquet hall, trying to refrain from staring at what had become of the palace.

Each corridor was lit by dozens of torches, and flower garlands held together by red and gold ribbons adorned the walls. The effect was somewhat mystical, giving Marzio the impression of walking through a field rather than a hallway.

He passed many pairs and groups of Demons: nobles and courtiers, servants making the last adjustments to the décor, and not a few stationed guards. But even these guards looked different than normal, wearing red tunics trimmed with gold, white trousers, boots and gloves, and golden tresses stating each one's rank. The higher the rank, the more gold trimming and tresses, it seemed.

The highborn were another story; colour was the style for them, in an array of combinations that was astonishing, some of the clothes managing to look downright ridiculous but others having achieved the proper combination and giving a distinguished look to the one who wore them. The Angelian general noticed make-up not only on the women but the men as well, and jewels glittered in the torchlight everywhere he looked. His uniform, of simple cut and not exceedingly adorned, earned him more than a couple of dubious stares from those he passed by; but a rare few looked upon him with something bordering on admiration and respect.

Marzio wondered once more what could possibly happen that night, and sincerely hoped Ignis would not be wearing some over-adorned tunic of ill-chosen colours. But knowing the prince, he would probably prefer one of his uniforms over civilian clothing. The general unconsciously licked his lips - Ignis looked incredibly good in uniform.

He finally entered the banquet hall, and for a moment he stopped in the doorway, for the most incredible sight welcomed him. Hundreds of candles made the white-painted room shine like it was broad daylight and not just after sunset. The flowers-and-ribbons theme had been kept in this room as well, but the only flowers he could see there were roses - white and pink, yellow and red, filling the room with a faint scent. The tables were covered with expensive white silk, and formed four parallel lines, two on each side of the door. Carpets covered the floor under them, but left more than enough marble-tiled floor exposed in the middle for dancing. The Prince's table was placed on a dais opposite to the door, U-shaped and with only fifteen chairs, five of which were to be occupied by the Angelians.

The four Lords of the Angelian War Council had already arrived and had taken their places at the table when Marzio had entered the room. By Angelian tradition, the most honoured guest received the first seat on the right of the table, regardless to where the host sat. It was the position Kelan Loreh-Ven now occupied, followed by the Lords Elssi, Gettik and Angus. Marzio was to be seated next to the latter and an imposing Dreak that occupied the second place at the Prince's right.

What Kelan and his friends did not know was that, in Demonis, those seated closest to the Prince's right were considered the most important guests. Tanis had only told Marzio that earlier that day, when he had come to congratulate Ignis and inform him he would not be attending the banquet. Whatever his reasons, Ignis had agreed; Marzio suspected Tanis did not want to let the other Angelians know he was still alive, but he had kept silent on the matter.

Marzio reached the high table and greeted his countrymen most politely; his greeting was promptly answered, with just a hint of disdain from Kelan. It was the first time Marzio would be forced to spend more than a few minutes in their company, having avoided them as much as possible for over two weeks, and he hoped it would not turn into another fight. Hopefully Kelan would behave in the presence of most of Demonis' elite.

After sitting down, Marzio introduced himself to the older officer on his left; the Demon shook his hand vigorously and introduced himself as Meris Keefer, Master of the Monastery of Dreak. Having heard of the man before, mostly from Ignis who had spoken very highly of him and had called him his mentor, the general was genuinely flattered to be seated next to him.

As Marzio was reasoning what it would be like to be trapped between his own nemesis and Ignis' allies, two familiar faces approached, and everybody except Meris Keefer rose in greeting. The new arrivals were Lord Lavian, dressed in the heavy red and purple robes of his office, and a young woman Marzio recognized as the one who had been spying on Ignis during his sparring. Marzio realized there was a certain resemblance between the two, only confirmed when the woman was introduced to them as Lady Sanja, Lavian's niece.

Much to Marzio's disdain, Sanja took the place at Ignis' left. 'Tough luck,' the general reasoned, while noticing the dark looks exchanged by Lord Lavian and Meris Keefer. 'She is a beautiful woman, in spite of the ill-chosen dress and by far too much make-up. She looks a bit artificial... surely Ignis has no interest in her? She seems interested in him...'

While Marzio had a hard time to decide whether to be jealous or not, Kelan was exchanging pleasantries with Lavian. 'These two are getting along - just what I needed!' he thought, trying to stop fidgeting in his chair and glaring at Sanja with hostility. He hoped the other people at the table did not notice it, especially Meris Keefer and the Demons seated across from him. Luckily for him, the heralds announced the arrival of Prince Sagni-Dor and everybody in the hall had to stand.

Marzio was once again left breathless as he watched Ignis advancing through the hall confidently, flanked by General Neri-Lokh, Captain Alisi-Feit and six other guards, guests bowing deeply as he passed by them. Ignis looked simply divine, his clothes a variation of the Dreak uniform with forest green tunic, black breeches, boots and gloves, and a blood-red outer garment that rippled across the floor with every step the prince took. The tunic's seam-lines and upper front were heavily embroidered with a gold-thread leaf pattern, and a strange eagle-shaped brooch was fixed on the left side of the outer garment. His reddish hair was held away from his face by a gold coronet, and one of his priceless swords hung at his side. The Supreme Commander of Demonis had abandoned her uniform for a lovely red taffeta dress with burgundy patterns and silver lining, while Owen was wearing the same uniform Marzio had seen on all the guards, naturally more adorned and with a golden circlet on his forehead proclaiming his rank.

Marzio saw Ignis smile and nod in his general direction before circling the table and helping Tempesta into her chair and sitting down while Owen placed himself behind his chair. Then he motioned for all to be seated, and turned to whisper something to Tempesta before putting on the serene mask he always had when ceremony was involved. Marzio had thought at first it was some sort of religious exigency, but he now knew Ignis was merely concentrating on the matter at hand.

Thus composed, the prince listened to the speeches various members of his Court, ambassadors and the representatives of the Guilds delivered, congratulating him on his glorious reign and his recent victory and the gods knew what else; for Marzio had stopped listening and was focused on Ignis and Ignis alone. He watched every tiny gesture, every little shifting in the prince's bearing, and found he could determine when Ignis knew those speaking were sincere or not. His lips would curl even so slightly when someone pleased him, a quick frown would pass across his forehead or he would move a little in his chair when he was annoyed with someone else. Ignis was unreadable on only two occasions: when Lord Lavian spoke, and when Lord Kelan followed suite, voice all milk and honey though Marzio could feel the venom underneath. Then the prince replied with a speech of his own, and to his credit he did not read it as many of those present had. When he was done, the banquet proper commenced.

With the first course conversation began - the part Marzio disliked most, when everybody would gossip and lie under the guise of polite dialogue. And Ignis smiled. Through the first two courses he smiled the fake smile he put on for shows just like this one. Few received a genuine smile, Marzio among them, and the general was dying to know if Sanja did, as well.

Meris Keefer turned out to be a very interesting person, quite open-minded and friendly. He confessed he had only arrived that afternoon, and had not had too much time to speak with Ignis in private, but he seemed to be very confident in the prince's decisions. Then Tempesta joined in and they exchanged opinions on several tactics and strategies, their discussion turning into a heated debate about the recent battle. Meris Keefer pointed out Marzio's mistakes, Marzio pointed out Kelan's mistakes, Tempesta pointed out everybody's mistakes. And Ignis pointed out his own mistakes, which made a pair of green eyes and two pairs of brown ones turn to him in time to see him grin victoriously, Lavian's niece clinging to his arm like a forgotten weight.

Marzio realized he did not like the woman at all. He hated the sweet looks she gave Ignis and the way in which she always managed to reach out for something at the same time the prince did, casually touching his hand too many times to be considered proper. It was clear she was trying to gain his attention, which was an implicit threat to Marzio's relationship with the man. Marzio had been hurt far too many times not to notice such details, and he hated not being able to do anything about it. He was planning to find the proper moment to address Ignis and... and what? What could he say that would not sound too suspicious to his table companions?

"Is something the matter, General?" Meris Keefer asked, pulling him out of his daze. "You went terribly silent all of a sudden."

Marzio's blood went cold as he realized everybody's attention was now fixed on him alone. He took a moment to recover, not missing the suddenly worried look he got from Ignis. "Everything is fine, Meris. Thank you for your interest," he finally replied, gaze fixed on the prince asking for a little comfort.

Ignis nodded his way, his eyes and his smile suddenly warm. "I hope nothing has inconvenienced you, Lord General," he spoke, true to his position that night. "I wish for all my guests to feel excellent tonight."

Marzio smiled back, but at the same time Kelan snorted. "Your Highness, I am sure General Zain-Reil is feeling perfect. Your presence is all it takes for his mood to raise."

Ignis' hand trembled as he placed the glass he was holding back on the table. 'The nerve he has, to say something like that in front of all the people gathered here!' Marzio thought.

Prince Sagni-Dor recovered extremely quickly. "Lord Loreh-Ven, I am not very certain I understand what you are implying," he said coolly.

"Only the obvious, Your Highness. It is a well-known fact in Angelia that General Zain-Reil has a... shall we say 'inclination' toward beautiful men. Like yourself, for example."

Marzio would have spoken up, and he saw Ignis preparing to cut in; but help came from someone he had least expected. Sanja, who had been following the conversation with interest, exclaimed in outrage, "Lord Kelan, I can assure you there is no threat! Prince Sagni-Dor only likes women!"

This time, Ignis went pale, coughing lightly behind his handkerchief to show his discomfort. He gave Sanja a shaking smile and turned to face Kelan. "My lord, I have long been aware of Marzio's preferences, and yet I see no danger in calling him my friend. As for whom I fancy, that is my business and mine alone." Offering Marzio a little smile as well, he turned to Keefer. "So, what theme are you considering for next year's graduation party?"

Understanding why the prince was changing the subject, Meris Keefer indulged him. "I was thinking perhaps the Dance of the Seasons. We had a hunting theme when you graduated and... "

The discussion went off in that direction; then came the time for dancing, and Sanja's efforts to gain Ignis' interest seemed to blossom as Ignis kissed her hand gallantly and invited her to dance with him. One dance became three, then five, and Marzio was now positively fuming. It was not enough that she had been flirting with Ignis, but now he flirted back! And the way he held her, turning dangerously close as the song grew slower and slower until the pairs were practically holding each other... Damn! This was driving him insane!

And then... then the prince leaned forwards even so slightly, and whispered something in her ear which had her smiling; a smile that widened as Ignis kept saying Seleh only knew what! Marzio's hands clenched under the table and he had to try hard not to let his inner turmoil show. What the hells was Ignis doing?!

He started feeling misled. He had been certain Ignis was feeling something for him, and that something was not a mere fixation. Had he been just another affair? Had Ignis used him? Was the Demon now discarding him like one did an old pair of gloves?

His head swarmed with so many questions, and a million possible answers to those questions... He could not stay there any longer. He couldn't stand looking at those two together for any longer!

Getting up from the table abruptly, he hurried out of the hall not bothering to look back.

Chapter Fourteen

Ignis took the shortest way he could think of to his rooms, barely realizing Tempesta had followed him. If Marzio's abrupt departure from the banquet hall had raised quite a few brows, his had been a bit smoother but it had cost him a precious quarter of an hour. The prince was not even sure what had gone wrong; one moment Marzio was happy, and the other he looked like all his ships had drowned. The Demon suspected it had something to do with his dancing with Sanja - he had been much too friendly to the woman. But even so, why would Marzio become as angry as he had been? Surely he knew Ignis felt nothing for Lavian's niece! Or perhaps he didn't?

Well, he had been getting bored at the banquet anyway. He would go to Marzio's room, find out what had happened, and make amends if necessary. Marzio was much more wonderful than he could have hoped for, and he was not about to let him get away because of some stupid misunderstanding! Yes, that had to be it: a misunderstanding.

Reaching his private wing, Ignis headed straight for Marzio's door and knocked, but he received no answer. He was certain Marzio was in there, and wondered why the refused to answer. He placed his hand on the handle and tried to open it.

It was locked. Marzio was trying to keep everybody out, then.

He smiled. The locks had not been changed, and he still had a key somewhere. The room had been his, after all.

He returned to his own suite, to find his Supreme Commander waiting for him there. "Well? What happened?"

"I don't know just yet, but I intend to find out." He went into his study and began searching the drawers of his desk furiously. The key had to be there somewhere!

He emerged several minutes later, victoriously holding a bronze key. "Found it!"

"What's that?"

"The spare key to my old rooms. He can't keep me out forever."

She looked at him disapprovingly. "You're trying to break in? What if he left his key in the lock?"

He smiled impishly. "There is always the balcony." They may have been on the third floor, but he could fly and land on the veranda.

"Aren't you taking this a little too serious? Maybe he's just tired and went to sleep."

He stormed down the corridor. "I sincerely doubt it. Now stop pestering me!"

He rushed out again and inserted the key in the lock on Marzio's door. Thankfully, it unlocked at the first try. He silently pushed the door open and entered. Each step was taken carefully, in order not to attract the general's attention. There was light coming from the bedroom, so that was his destination.

He saw Marzio sitting on the large sofa, staring out the window and into the night. He did not move as Ignis approached, and did not seem aware of anything around him. He kept rubbing his wrist absentmindedly and did not react as the Prince of Demonis sat down next to him.

Ignis touched his shoulder lightly, to draw his attention. "What's going on?"

Marzio jumped as if burned, swiftly turning his head to face the young prince. "Khest! What are you trying to do, scare me to death?"

There was hidden pain in his lover's voice. Ignis instinctively wanted to reach out and hold him close, but he refrained himself from doing that, afraid it might offend the general greatly. "I'm sorry," he said softly. "I did not mean to startle you."

Marzio sighed. "How the hell did you get in? I remember locking the door."

"Does it really matter? Tell me what happened. Why are you so upset?"

The blond's face remained cold. "I think you'd better leave."

Ignis narrowed his eyes. "I won't. Not until knowing what went wrong. You seemed to be enjoying yourself tonight." He tried to take his lover's hand in his, but Marzio jerked it away.

"Ignis, please... just go away."

Ignis got up and left the room, and for a moment Marzio thought he would do as asked. But the prince returned, holding two glasses of wine. He sat down and offered one to Marzio, in such a familiar gesture that the general felt like screaming.

His hand shook as he accepted it. "Why did you come here? Why won't you just leave me alone?"

"Because this is my palace, because I don't want to; and, most importantly, because I care for you, Marzio."

Marzio refused to meet the eyes fixing him. He returned to staring out the window, placing the goblet on the small table next to the sofa. "That's what you keep saying."

Ignis was sick of this game. He knew that something had gone wrong that evening, but it seemed Marzio was determined to give him a hard time finding out what it was. He did not like this curtain that had suddenly been drawn between them. Things had been evolving very well up to this point.

He breathed deeply. "I won't leave this room until you tell me what is bothering you." The general opened his mouth to speak, but Ignis cut him off. "Don't try to deny it. You do not storm out of a room like you did tonight for no reason. Something made you uncomfortable, and I want to know exactly what."

Marzio clenched his fists, in an attempt to control his anger. He really felt like strangling Ignis, at that moment. Why did the prince want to pull it out of him at all costs? To make him feel embarrassed, maybe?

He replayed the memories in his mind: Ignis, in the Great Hall, smiling at that willowy woman, Lady Sanja, kissing her hand and dancing with her; whispering words in her ear with the confidence of a lover. He had wanted so much to be in her place... No, wait! What had he been thinking? Ignis' arms, and kisses and sweet words - it was his place, not hers, and he wasn't willing to share.

But he could not tell Ignis that; the prince wouldn't understand. And Marzio wasn't even sure if he wanted him to understand.

Damn, just thinking about that woman made his blood rise to his head. He could feel his nails digging in his palms from the tension building inside of him.

"Marzio?"

"Humph!"

"Oh, come on now. Stop sulking. It isn't like you!"

"Like it would actually matter..." he whispered.

"Exactly what's that supposed to mean!?"

Ignis clasped Marzio's hands in his own, but the Angelian pulled them away immediately. "I wonder when you'll stop acting like you really give a damn about me. Go back to your women, where you belong! Just because I was blind enough to trust you doesn't necessarily mean you have to be stuck with me for all eternity! I don't want that for us, Ignis. I just want... I want... Argh, forget it! Now, if you won't leave the room, I will."

Strong arms pinned him down on the sofa as he attempted to stand. He tried to shake them off, but Ignis only increased the pressure. Sometimes it was easy to forget how strong the Prince of Demonis really was only by looking at his deceptive frailty.

"You're jealous," the Demon spoke in a firm voice.

He was. Utterly, completely jealous. And furious enough to throw the prince half-way across the room, if possible. "Let go of me!" he growled, still trying to break free.

"I will do no such thing, my Angelian fool." He looked utterly serious as he stared into Marzio's eyes. "You misjudge me, Marzio. Do you really think that you were just another amorous adventure? After all that has happened between us, do you think I would betray you when the first opportunity presented itself? Think about it," he continued, finally letting go and standing up. "Don't let yourself be guided by jealousy - it will blind you. Consider things carefully for a moment, and then we can talk about it."

Marzio pulled himself up, feeling a little calmer by knowing that things would be sorted out right then and there, without any interference.

"She kept following you around like a pet," he said after a short break. "But you never seemed to notice her until tonight." He picked up the glass and sipped a little of the wine.

She? Oh, right - she. Ignis had to keep himself from laughing. He didn't think Marzio would appreciate his good humour right now. "I suppose you are referring to Sanja?"

Marzio's only reply was a very articulate and eloquent "Hn".

Ignis took a deep breath. Gods, this needed to be said, and soon. "Oh, I noticed her, alright. She would do anything to end up in my bed. She hopes to have my child."

Marzio nearly choked. "Your child?"

Ignis sat down on the sofa, trying to get a firm hold on his emotions before telling his lover the inevitable. Smiling with a calmness he did not feel he urged himself to proceed. "Naturally, that is out of the question. Even the thought of bedding her is thoroughly disgusting. But maintaining appearances can have some advantages."

"Oh, really? And what 'advantages' were there tonight, except making me feel bad that is?" the Angelian asked bitterly.

Ignis crept in closer to his precious guest. "I believe your real question is why I was flirting openly with her. Well, after what she said tonight, I thought that if I showed some interest in her Kelan would stop being suspicious. That is what we both wanted, isn't it? That nobody threatened our relationship."

His hand touched Marzio's knee softly, not intrusively but merely a gesture of affection. He placed a light kiss on Marzio's neck, and the Angelian found himself fighting against his body's reactions. The shivers he experienced told him he was going to lose this battle. 'This is not right! I am supposed to be upset!' But it felt pleasant, and warm. Ignis' hands started stroking his shoulders, and he felt the tension beginning to regress.

"You see, Marzio, I have no intention to betray you. If I had, I wouldn't have asked you to come to the banquet in the first place. As for Sanja, she can wait her whole life for the opportunity. I care more about my horse than I do about her." He sighed, "I am tired of all their intrigues. What I want is someone who does not give a damn if I am a prince or a mere soldier; someone who can try to understand me. And you were doing a very good job at it thus far." He used his fingers to knead the tense muscles of the general's shoulders.

"I doubt that anybody could ever fully understand you, Ignis," Marzio said. He tried to relax and enjoy the sensations that spread through his body. His anger once subsided, all he could feel was affection. "So you're not planning anything serious just yet."

This time Ignis did give way to a timid laugh. "Of course not, silly - but I think that depends on what you understand by 'serious'. At any rate, a child is out of the question for now. There are many other problems that need to be solved before that happens." He began to press a little stronger, following a circular pattern around the places where Marzio's wings joined his upper back. "And as much as I appreciate Lord Lavian's concern for the future of this land, I will not give in to this plan of his."

The general closed his eyes and sighed. He truly hated politicians and their machinations. "Oh, so now it is his idea?"

A soft chuckle. "Most of it, yes. Of course, he is not aware that I know about it. He and Sanja have been at it ever since I happened to compliment her dancing, one night."

Ignis leaned in closer, and Marzio could feel his warm breath on the left side of his neck. He whispered in his ear again, as if sharing a secret. He had done it so often, that by now it seemed natural. "Now, Marzio... I have a little favour to ask."

Marzio suspected Ignis was planning to offer him some sort of retribution, and there was no telling what he would come up with. 'Predictable' was not a word one could easily associate with him.

He touched the goblet to his lips again, not bothering to open his eyes. "Hmm?"

"I want to seduce you tonight."

The Angelian slowly turned his head to look at the young prince. He was smiling too. "But I thought you have already done that."

"Not exactly, beloved. Not like I have always wanted to." He made his point quite obvious by pushing his hand under Marzio's trousers, and squeezing his behind.

"You little urchin!" Marzio yelped, a little startled.

And then the prince added, just in case, "And I'd like to take the lead this time, if you don't mind."

His voice was low and seductive, and Marzio felt himself shiver again; what surprises did that night have in store for him? Since refusing was not one of his options, he finally gave in. "Alright. But shouldn't we move to the bed?"

"Perhaps later." Ignis said as he began unlacing Marzio's tunic. "Right now, this sofa looks comfortable enough for what I have in mind."

---

Ignis pushed open Marzio's tunic, placing kisses on his neck and collarbone. He continued to stroke his lover's shoulders and upper arms through the fabric, making his way down the Angelian's torso to unbuckle the leather belt and pull it away. He stole a kiss from the blond, tangling his fingers in the soft curls, and turned him around so he could have easy access at the broad back. His body felt particularly impatient tonight, but he had some special plans in mind, so it would have to wait until later.

He kept licking and nibbling at his lover's throat, while his hands made their way down Marzio's back, and then up his chest, unlacing the shirt and slipping one hand under it to caress the steel hard flatness of the pectoral muscles under it. Leaning over the general's left shoulder he turned his lover's chin with his free hand and caught that full lower lip with his teeth, gently sucking at it. He trailed the tip of his tongue on the moist surface, and Marzio captured it between his lips, finally crushing their mouths together.

The Angelian could not recall having experienced such kisses ever before. They were deep and passionate, and made him forget everything around him for a few minutes. When Ignis finally pulled away, they were both panting heavily. The Demon slowly pushed the silk down from Marzio's shoulders, and began the massage again, focusing on the upper back and neck; the general moaned softly.

Ignis stood, pulling his lover up by the opened ends of his shirt. He removed it completely, then stepped back smiling. "Lay down on your stomach. Oh, and this time you get to remove your own boots!" He picked up the discarded clothes and carefully folded them. They were placed on an ottoman nearby, followed by Ignis' heavily decorated outer garment and tunic.

Marzio had no problem lounging on the sofa. It was wide enough to sleep in, if necessary. He complied with Ignis' wishes, wondering what the prince was planning. If it was anything like the last time they had argued...

The red-haired Demon straddled his legs, and began to stroke Marzio's back with wide movements, occasionally going up his wings and then down again, to caress the sensitive area where wings were joined to shoulder blades, following a pattern only he knew. Marzio began to feel a pleasant heat spreading through his body as his lover focused on certain sensitive points.

"What are you doing to me?" he asked, resting his head on his crossed forearms.

"What does it look like?"

'Like you were trying to stop my heart,' Marzio thought. But he just limited himself to the mock-protest "I've had a massage before; it's not supposed to feel like this."

Ignis giggled. "I don't suppose you have ever had an erotic massage, have you? Now please stop talking, close your eyes and relax. Focus on your body's responses."

'Right! Like I am able to do anything else at this moment.' His senses were in rebellion, and by the time the prince finally stopped the sweet torture he had called an 'erotic massage', Marzio was fully aroused. Ignis leaned down to press small kisses up his spine, nuzzle at the soft white feathers, and lick at his ear shell seductively. Marzio's breath caught and he began to shiver in anticipation.

The Demon prompted Marzio to turn on his back and ran his hands over the smooth chest. "Ready for whatever comes next?"

The Angelian nodded, slightly disturbed by the way his body stirred at each stroke.

"Good. Now, just hold still and keep focusing. There's no need to respond, understood?"

He moaned as Ignis ran his thumbs over his nipples, pressing a little. "What about you?"

"Oh, don't worry. We'll get to that part later. For now, you are my only concern; and I intend to make you feel this as much as possible. Close your eyes!"

He obeyed the order automatically, even if it was given on the softest tone possible. He was experiencing Ignis' authoritarian side tonight, and the swiftness of his reaction to the prince's command scared him a little. During the whole time he had spent in the army, he had never obeyed orders with such precision.

The slim fingers were replaced by a warm mouth, and Ignis was soon licking Marzio's exposed torso, occasionally using his teeth to enhance the sensations. He seemed to remember all the sensitive spots he had discovered during their first night of lovemaking, and took full advantage of this. Marzio's groans grew deeper, and his erection was painfully restrained in his trousers. But he was determined to let Ignis have his way, and see where it would lead.

All too soon he was drowning in a sea of pure delight. He was warm, and comfortable, and flustered, and nothing else mattered anymore. Just his lover and the profound bliss he was receiving from the young prince.

Lush lips captured his mouth again, and they began the kisses once more.

Marzio arched his body up a little, but the prince pushed him back down and pinned him to the sofa with the weight of his body. He rubbed against him, and the Angelian finally caught hold of the long hair, forcing Ignis' mouth away from him long enough to gasp some air before he suffocated. The Demon moved his mouth to Marzio's neck, sucking gently at the tender skin. Marzio bit his lip; he was going mad just from the sensual foreplay. "Mmm... Don't stop..."

He felt the Demon murmur against his skin, his right hand now trailing the front of his trousers, stroking him through the material. He let out a small whimper, and was soon silenced by the moist mouth pressed down on his, tongue slipping inside, slowly stroking, exploring every inch of him it could reach. By the time Ignis let go, Marzio's lips were swollen.

The Demon ran a finger over his lover's temple and brow, then down his cheeks to finally land on the oversensitive skin of his mouth. Marzio flinched. It stung, but he did not pull away.

"You opened your eyes," Ignis playfully scolded him.

"Yes. I had to see your face. I was beginning to think I was dreaming."

The prince's fingers closed his eyelids again, his words reassuring. "I know it's difficult, but try to hold on a little longer. Now comes the pleasant part."

Marzio heaved a sigh. If the 'pleasant part' was still to come, what had Ignis been doing so far? And exactly how long were they going to be able to keep this up?

Ignis was aroused as well, but he refused to let his self-control slip. He was planning to make up for all the lost nights, for every little pain he had involuntarily caused his beloved.

Marzio became aware that his trousers had been removed only when the chilly air touched his heated skin. But he paid no attention to the cold; his whole body was on fire, and Ignis was now exploring the tender skin of his inner thighs, nuzzling and grazing with great care, as if taking care not to break a precious porcelain figure. He reached out a hand to fondle Marzio's testicles, cupping their heaviness and pulling gently at them to prolong his lover's pleasure. He ran a finger up the burning erection begging for his attention

"Ohh..." the general groaned at the touch.

Wanting to hear more of the sensual noises Marzio was making, Ignis guided the hard member to his lips, hungry to taste his lover's passion. He took the head into his mouth, resisting the sudden urge to go down on his lover without warning. He wanted to see just how much the Angelian was able to take before finally giving in.

Marzio's word exploded, thousands of colours dancing before his eyes, his sight washed away by the ecstasy of Ignis' lips surrounding his burning flesh. He groaned deeply, and thrust his hips up. He wanted more of that exquisite warmth and euphoria. "Yes... take me..."

But Ignis would not have any of it. He grabbed his pelvis bones, gently pushing his hips down and holding him in place, determination evident on his face as he resumed his previous task without unwanted interruptions. This time, he leaned down and drew his tongue across the tip.

Talking a deep breath, he decided to gift his lover with a special treatment. It had been some time since he had last done this, and Marzio was certainly larger than all his previous male companions. But he knew it was worth a try, and the tempting sight before him only served to push on his decision. He took his lover back in his mouth, this time moisturizing the flesh with hungry licks of his tongue, closing and sliding his lips down on the slippery surface. He fought to control the gag reflex, swallowing Marzio's member, inch by inch, until he could feel the head kissing the back of his throat. Satisfied with himself, he started moving, caressing his lover over-sensitive flesh with the wet softness of his throat. Marzio's moans became whimpers and he began thrusting his hips, grabbing Ignis' red hair in a tight, almost painful grip. The Demon didn't seem to mind, instead he took it as encouragement and began to suck faster, swirling his tongue around the head, grazing his teeth along the length. Yes, it had been a very long time since he had last done this; but there were things that once learnt, at next try they came almost naturally.

'And come it will!' He had to refrain from laughing as he caught up the pun in his thoughts. His lover writhed underneath him, trying to break free from the confining grip Ignis had on the strong hips, to thrust deeper into his mouth. But that would be too easy, and Ignis had no intentions of hurrying things up. So he continued his motions, still pinning the general down on the sofa.

Marzio felt every nerve of his body go on fire. He wanted, needed more of that heat, he wanted it to embrace his body forever. But such a thing was not possible; he was being drawn slowly but securely over the brink by the chords of his lover's skills.

"Gods... more... more!" he cried out, giving up on thrusting upwards and pulling his lover's head down instead.

The prince nearly choked, so he let go of the blond's hips and pulled his hands away from his hair, tearing a few strands in the process but honestly not giving a damn about it. He held down Marzio's wrists, and allowed the Angelian's hips to move up in time with the movements of his mouth.

Soon Marzio's groans were loud enough to be easily heard down the corridor, had anyone been listening. Nearly sobbing, he finally clenched his teeth and hissed, digging his fingers into Ignis' soft shoulders as he climaxed in a gasp of air.

Ignis waited until his lover had relaxed before he swallowed thickly and released him, leaning on one of Marzio's thighs while he caught his breath again. Once he regained his normal pulse, he finally pulled back, licking his lips, as Marzio reached out to stroke the tender face. "That was incredible," he whispered.

Ignis chuckled. "You didn't think I had it in me, eh?"

He was right. Marzio hadn't. "Where did you learn how to do this?"

"The Monastery. Since there's no stopping a bunch of horny teenagers when they find themselves in a confined space, the instructors always closed an eye on what was going on in the bedrooms. As long as we were there for classes and training and nobody got hurt, it was all right. True, that was six years ago and I am a little out of practice..."

Marzio made a face. "Out of practice, huh? In that case, I swear I won't get anywhere near you when you get back in shape."

The prince gave way to a stream of laughter, and Marzio could not help but join him. He knew there was no way he could keep this particular promise; not when the temptation was too great even for him.

Ignis finally managed to regain his composure. "So, did I manage to convince you there is no reason for you to be jealous?" he asked seriously.

Ignis' concern made Marzio feel ashamed of his own stupidity. "Very much so. Though it had nothing to do with what you did to me just a moment ago. But what about you? You didn't..."

A malicious grin spread on the prince's face, making Marzio shudder involuntarily. "No, I did not. But I do not recall having said I was done with you for the rest of the night."

Chapter Fifteen

They lay together a little longer, Ignis' arms circling his lover's waist tightly, his face buried in the golden fall of Marzio's hair. The Angelian could feel his hardness pressed against his thigh, but Ignis made no reference to that whatsoever. Instead, he offered, "Beloved... We don't have to do this if you don't want to. I'm more than happy with all the things we have had together so far."

"It's alright." The general ran his fingers up his lover's back, and sighed. "It's been a long time since someone took me, that's all. I guess I've gotten too used to being the dominant part of the equation. But I want to do this. With you. To me, that makes all the difference."

Fingers turned his face so he could see Ignis' expression; it was extremely serious. "Marzio, if at any point you want me to stop, just say so. Understood?"

The Angelian nodded, and watched Ignis as he stood up and removed the rest of his clothes. He let his eyes roam over the slim, sculptured body, his mind still trying to cope with the astonishing idea that he had been the only man allowed to possess it.

Possess. Such a dominant word... still, was it not what he had felt when he and Ignis had first met?

The prince finally finished and moved towards Marzio with natural grace. He pulled his lover up so he could lean against the back of the sofa, and sat down in his lap resuming his explorations once more, a little more fervently and not missing one inch of dampened flesh in his way. He firmly spread Marzio's wings and then unfolded his. He then leaned over so that their chests could touch, and their feathers mingled together in what looked like a strange ritual.

Marzio buried his face in the pale skin, breathing in his lover's scent. He had the fleeting impression he could feel Ignis' mind brushing his, foreign thoughts invading him. 'Only my body. They only want my body. You asked for something else.' But it was gone as soon as it had begun, and Ignis' soft smile as he looked at him was the only reality he could see now.

He focused on his body's response as Ignis slowly ran his hands up his sides. His right one, supernaturally healed, held no scar from the wound he had received, but was considerably more sensitive than he remembered. The warmth spread through his limbs again, and he quivered slightly under the Demon's touch.

Ignis rubbed his body against Marzio's and claimed his lips once more. The Angelian permitted the clever tongue to explore his mouth, and the kiss seemed to go on forever. The prince allowed both of them short intakes of breath from time to time, but his mouth would remain fastened on his lover's. His right hand descended to explore lower zones, stroking his lover into hardness once more. The Angelian felt he was being pulled down by a vortex of emotions, the young prince's body the only support that was offered to him.

Ignis slowly pulled away, and drew Marzio down just a little, spreading his legs. His fingers were now touching the delicate area right under his testicles, searching for the small pucker of flesh behind. He ran his fingers over Marzio's opening, trying to ignore his pulsing need a little while longer. Making small circles with the tip of the digit, he slowly slipped his index finger inside, coated only in his lover's pre-cum. He knew he needed to be careful if he didn't want to hurt his lover, for this time they could not count on any lubrication.

The blond arched his back at the pressure, gripping at the expensive plush the couch was made of. In an attempt to lessen his lover's discomfort, Ignis began pumping his manhood, moving in sync with the in-out motion of his finger.

At this, Marzio seemed to relax visibly, and when he started to push on his lover's hand, Ignis' proceed to add a second finger, exploring and stretching, trying to make the penetration as painless as possible.

He hesitantly pulled out. "Beloved? I don't think I have any..."

Marzio groaned in frustration. "Oh, it doesn't matter. I can take it!"

"But I don't think we should -"

"... your spit," gasped Marzio, urgency blurring his words.

"My wha... oh!" Taking the meaning of the words, Ignis spit-coated his shaft as thoroughly as he could manage without giving his long neglected erection the little push it needed to explode then and there. Sensing his lack of decision, Marzio could take it no more, and wrapping his long legs across the slim waist, he took his partner's erection and guided it to the pulse of his entrance.

Ignis' eyes widened like two full moons. But before he got a chance to protest, Marzio pleaded through clenched teeth "Shut up love, and fuck me!"

It was all it took to put the Demon's fears at bay; clasping the back of the sofa with his right hand for better leverage, he entered his lover's body, painfully slow for both of them.

The Angelian let out a growl that had been building inside him ever since he had learned about the red-haired prince's intentions. Whatever pain he might have experienced was not comparable to the exquisite rapture he felt at being connected to his beautiful seraph in such an intimate embrace.

Ignis' left hand circled Marzio's torso and crushed their bodies together once more. He tried to focus on giving his lover the utmost pleasure he had been able to feel when it had been Marzio moving inside him. He relaxed his grip and gradually began to move his hips, steadily at first but increasing his tempo when he felt Marzio's inner muscles tighten around his throbbing erection.

It was in the middle of their carnal dance when something he had read somewhere hit the back of his mind. He had felt it several times when Marzio's thrusts had threaten to split the mattress in two. An all-jolting sensation that seemed to originate in some point deep inside him. Those moments had surely been the highlights of their lovemaking, that and the fact he was loosing his 'virginity' in the arms of the man he loved.

With that in mind, he slightly altered his position once, twice... "Ahhhh!" His lover's cry told him he had finally found that sensitive spot he'd been looking for. Marzio's moans of pleasure increased in sound and tempo, and he tried to force his body down so he could prolong the incredible feelings Ignis' motions inside him were giving him. His own erection, tightly trapped between the heat of their bodies, was gratefully accepting the friction of the Demon's increasing rhythm dictated to both of them. He almost could feel the prince letting go as his own control completely abandoned his body, and biting desperately into the Demon's shoulder he came hard between their fevered bodies, spilling his seed all over both their abdomens, sensual cries of pleasure escorting his fall into climax. From some distant part of his post-orgasmic brain he could feel his lover's warm liquids sating the thirst of his body.

They remained into that embrace for long minutes, violently panting with exhaustion. It was Ignis who finally let go of the wood backrest and pulled Marzio's head to his chest with both hands. His heart was beating wildly, mute witness to what had just transpired between them. He buried his hands and face into the damp yellow locks, kissing them lightly.

"Perfect," he whispered. "It was perfect." And the general could not argue with that.

The Demon let his hands slide to his lover's face, pulling it up so that he could look into the green eyes. They burned as Marzio smiled up at him. The man seemed utterly content, and a lot more self-assured that he had been before.

"Are you certain you have never done this before?" he asked teasingly, his voice a little raw. There was no accusation in his words.

"Not with a man. Not once," Ignis honestly replied. "But you are a good teacher."

The general chuckled. "Only when I have such a beautiful pupil."

The prince blushed and tried to direct the conversation towards more important matters. "How are you feeling? I didn't hurt you, did I?" he asked with almost child-like vulnerability.

Marzio almost wept at the naked concern he saw in those large, expressive eyes. "No, my heart, you did not. I couldn't be better. Though I think the bed would provide better comfort for us to rest, don't you agree?"

The Demon didn't pause to think it over. "Completely. Come along." As the blond took the extended delicate hand into his, his lover guided them both to the bed.

Once they were tucked under the fluffy cover of the blankets, Ignis proceed to wrap himself around the general's hardened body. This relaxed young man, with a soft, dreamy expression on his face bore little resemblance to the powerful, petulant prince that had dared General Zain-Reil to display his sword skills in front of his fierce, devoted soldiers.

Here, in his lover's arms, he was no more than a fragile heart.

---

Tempesta woke up at the sound of Owen's voice calling her. Her neck hurt; she looked around to see that she had fallen asleep in one of the armchairs in Ignis' rooms.

She pushed away the hand still shaking her. "All right, all right, I'm up!" She stood up, stretched her body and looked at the captain. His worried face instantly pushed away whatever sleep was still left in her.

"Where is Ignis?" Owen asked her.

She frowned. "Is he not in the bedroom?"

"No. Nor is he in his study, the bath or on the balcony. And his bed was not slept in either."

"I know. But he should be back by now." Tempesta rubbed her temples. There was something she had to remember...

"Where did he go?"

"Pardon?"

"Where did he go last night?" Owen repeated. It was his duty, as Captain of the Prince's Guard, to watch over Ignis' safety. Of course, Ignis always seemed to find a way to elude surveillance, but he never disappeared without letting anyone know where he had gone.

"Hmm... let me see..." Tempesta thought out loud. "He left the banquet hall and came back here. Then he went into General Zain-Reil's room, and..."

She paused. Now she remembered it.

"... and what?" Owen inquired.

For the first time in years, Tempesta blushed furiously. She coughed, trying to hide her embarrassment. That night was something she would not easily forget.

She had waited in vain for Ignis to return to his suite. After about an hour or so, she became suspicious and followed his tracks down the corridor, to the door of the rooms Ignis had occupied as Prince Heir, and that had been generously offered to the Angelian General during his stay in Aquiline. She had not seen anything suspicious at the time, given Ignis' clear infatuation with the man; but now she saw it as dangerously close to the Prince's apartment, the only thing separating the two being the Consort's suite, currently unoccupied.

She tried the door handle, and it opened with no effort. She stepped into the dark room, ready to draw her weapons at any time. The living room was empty, but there was light coming from the bedroom, and whispered voices that she could not recognize. She hesitantly took another step in that direction, reassuring herself she was doing this for Ignis' security. If all was in order, she would not make her presence known.

A stifled cry made her close the distance that separated her from the half-opened door. Hand on the pommel of her sword, she carefully looked inside the room.

She froze into place, not being able to look away from the sight that met her eyes.

This was not the first time she had accidentally walked in on the young sovereign while he was having intercourse, and most certainly not the first time she had seen him completely naked - a glorious sight few had been permitted to see, if one would ask her. She had also known that he and General Zain-Reil would eventually end up in bed. (Well, sofa actually, but who was looking?) What she had definitely not been counting on was that she would actually see them in the middle of that act.

She should have turned away instantly, but she just couldn't do it. She allowed herself that sinful vision for a little longer, knowing that a second occasion would not present itself. And she confessed to herself that they actually looked perfect together. Whatever animosity she might have still held towards the Angelian disappeared; Ignis was very exigent when it came to his bed partners, and would not sleep with just anyone.

She had finally left, not willing to risk Ignis' wrath if he discovered her presence. She had returned to the prince's suite and waited for him there, finally falling asleep in an armchair.

She looked up at Owen, who now seemed worried both for Ignis and her. "Neri, what is wrong?" he asked softly.

"Nothing. All is great. Don't worry, Ignis is fine. Better than fine, actually. It's just that..." She tried to find the right words to say, and stumbled in her own thoughts. "When was the last time he spent the whole night with one of his affairs?"

Owen raised a brow. "After Rasya's death? Never, as far as I can recall. Did he and the general...?"

"What do you think?! But he really should be back by now. It's well past dawn."

"Well, one of us has to go check if he is still there." He looked straight at her.

"Absolutely not! I am not going in there..." '... again,' she almost said, but stopped just in time. "You go!"

Owen had never seen Tempesta this troubled before. There was something she was not telling him, and it was driving him mad to find out what that was. "Alright. We both go," he offered, reaching out his hand gallantly. "Shall we?"

So Tempesta sneaked into the room again, this time accompanied by Owen. She remembered that the door had not been locked, as Ignis always did when he wanted privacy. She wondered if he had forgotten, or he had simply not been planning for things to happen as they did. Was he suddenly doing something spontaneous for a change?

She had half-expected to find them still in bed, but they were not. There was laughter coming from the bathing room though, and this time she recognized both voices.

She sighed in relief. "We are done here, let's go," she whispered to her companion.

"Not a chance," he whispered back. "I am not going anywhere until I make sure he is perfectly safe."

Tempesta suspected he was more curious than she had been, and pulled him away from the door. There was no way she would let him see something like that - he would enjoy it far too much for her taste. "I'll look," she whispered. She glanced past the open door, taking great care not to be discovered.

Apparently she had nothing to fear; Ignis and Marzio had other things on their mind than look after possible intruders. The Angelian did not seem to care about such things in the first place, and Ignis must have probably just forgotten the doors were unlocked.

They were both inside the large bath, drops of sweat and warm vapours clinging to their bodies. The Angelian had his back to the door, and was nibbling at Ignis' neck - or at least that's what it looked like to her. Ignis' eyes were closed, and the expression on his face pure rapture. It looked like he was enjoying this greatly.

A chill ran down her spine; this was not just another one of the prince's regular affairs. And as if that was not sufficient, she was getting turned on by the quite erotic image in front of her eyes.

For an instant, she actually believed she would get away with the intrusion, but in a split second the prince's eyes snapped open and fixed on her, as if he had known she was there all along. A wide, utterly wicked grin spread across his face. He winked, like he dared her to interrupt them.

She drew back immediately and was out of the suite in less than a minute, dragging Owen along. She closed the heavy door and rested against it, closing her eyes and taking short breaths.

"What did you see?" the young Captain asked her.

Tempesta looked right at him. No use denying your feelings; wasn't that what Ignis had told her once?

She stepped away from the door. "Nothing that I haven't seen before. Come along," she gestured towards the stairs. "Let us return to my quarters. I feel... inspired," she whispered seductively. And she knew fully well Owen would never refuse such an offer, when coming from her.

---

Marzio decided one never truly sneaked out of a palace unless one did it in the company of royalty. After a truly glorious night, and a very refreshing start excessively late that morning, the prince had made up his mind it was time for the Angelian general to get his glimpse of Aquiline, and Marzio was not one to complain. So they dressed in merchant grab and, having left a note of their whereabouts Tempesta was to receive from Kheerah later that afternoon, somehow managed to end up into the crowd filling the streets of Aquiline undetected by the guards. Having more experience at this than the general, Ignis naturally chose the safest way out: to the servants' buildings and then out the back gate, where there was only one guard posted. The prince told him something and the man let them pass without a second thought, just nodding slightly in acknowledgement of his sovereign, a minimal gesture both Ignis and Marzio appreciated.

For the Angelian it was strange to find himself in the city with only the prince, walking through the crowd as if they belonged there. He had heard of nobility going out incognito, but he did not think Princess Selena had ever gone out on such occasions without at least three bodyguards accompanying her. Of course, she was not the warrior Ignis was. And from what he had heard, the prince had gone out alone and come back in one piece. He really didn't know why he was worried.

Ignis warned him to stay close; the streets were a maze packed with people that had come from all over the country for the Harvest Festival. Merchants and peddlers, actors and musicians, simple country folk and even some noblemen, all could be found on the streets of Aquiline. No one paid any attention to either of them, though Marzio had expected the guards that had passed them to recognize at least their prince if not him as well.

Through the mixed crowd it seemed they were all but invisible. Various other Angelians greeted Marzio out of courtesy; he knew none of them. He thought he'd seen some familiar faces in a group of Royal Guards, but Ignis had avoided that one for obvious reasons. The others, from the City Guard, he had no ways of knowing, although he easily recognized their uniform from the descriptions he had read and heard.

They walked through streets and markets, stopping in front of this and that stall; Ignis bought sweet-mead and some apple pie for them both, waving away Marzio's offer to pay his own share with an annoyed air. "You are my guest, remember? I would feel offended. Besides, it's not like I'm trying to buy something really expensive here!" Later they stopped for a performance on an improvised stage, with the topic that was on everybody's lips, the recent crash between the Angelian and Demon army. They laughed heartedly at seeing themselves portrayed on the stage, Ignis by a man twice his size and a hand-span shorter, and Marzio not much better off. The prince softly cursed his people's vivid imagination, and Marzio mentioned the image his own countrymen had of the Prince of Demonis, which sent them both in another fit of mirth and grasping for breath five minutes later.

By the time they entered a tavern, early in the evening, Marzio was already a little tipsy. The prince - who had shamelessly held his lover's hand and casually brushed against Marzio's body all the time, for who was to know their real identities? - said it was not a problem. Besides, Ignis was flushed with drink himself. How many mugs of mead had they had, anyway? More than five each, that was for sure.

The servant girl led them to a free table, rare occurrence in a packed place like that, flirting with both of them as she did with all the patrons, but a little more interested in Marzio in particular which made him feel awkward. But it passed. They were joined by none other than Tempesta and Owen, both in civil clothing but not hiding their faces. From then on, the evening turned into a pleasant conversation over dinner and enjoying the Demon dancers that entertained the crowd.

Marzio had his eyes on a particular dancer, a girl moving gracefully to the sound of the lute. He was not attracted to her in a physical way, but rather to the intoxicating way in which she moved. It was splendid.

"A good dancer, that one," Tempesta commented over the table, following his gaze.

"She is," Ignis confirmed, sliding one hand under the table to rest it on Marzio's thigh.

Marzio sighed and squeezed it with his own. "I'm sure you would do much better than she," he told his lover.

The prince chuckled. "Your faith in my talents is remarkable. Do you want me to give it a try?"

"What? In a tavern!?" Owen could barely maintain his countenance. "Why don't you two go get a room, hmm?" he said just as Tempesta's elbow landed in his stomach, but could not stop his grinning.

"You've had too much wine tonight, captain," the woman admonished him. Then she turned and pointed a finger at the prince, "And you... While you're at it, why don't you try that Dreak dance you do so well? I am sure the crowd would be overjoyed!"

Ignis leaned heavily into Marzio, increasing the pressure on his lover's leg. "Why general, what a splendid idea. An erotic dance is all they need!" Naturally, it was clear he would not do it, but rather toyed with the idea of having the freedom to do so.

"The Dreak have such dances?" Marzio asked him. "I was under the impression you only did warrior dances."

Tempesta shrugged. "We have a dance to honour Drako and his lover Seleh."

That did it. "Seleh and Drako? Lovers? Why, there's an idea!" the Angelian burst out, just as Ignis' hand clasped over his mouth all too quickly.

"Do not mock these things," he said after he was sure he could release Marzio safely. "I know it may sound a little strange to you, but it is common faith here. And it makes perfect sense, if you think about it. Our people were named after two men who in their turn got their names from Seleh and Drako's minions."

"Angel and daimon..." Marzio whispered. "You know, there is a certain logic in this. We worship Seleh, therefore our main trade is agriculture. You worship Drako, so obviously you make good warriors. All those legends explaining our physical differences - air and water for Seleh, earth and fire for Drako." It was amazing what connections his inebriated mind made. It was as if he had opened his eyes to a new world of possibilities. "This is madness... and it sounds so true. But what of the wars, 'Nis? What of those?"

The prince kissed his cheek. "All lovers have their fights, beloved. But peace will come, you'll see. Peace will come very soon."

"Oh, come on!" Owen burst out indignantly. "Don't tell me you believe all that crap about the Prophecy!"

Ignis went silent all of a sudden. He turned to his Captain of the Guards and fixed him with narrowed eyes until the man was forced to turn his head away. "Owen, what I may or may not believe about the Prophecy is none of your concern, nor will it be for a good while. Understood?"

Intrigued by the unexpected chill that had awoken in his lover, Marzio asked him just as Owen was assuring Ignis he had understood, "Prophecy? You never mentioned anything of the sort. What's it about?"

Ignis' hand tightened in Marzio's as the red-haired man turned to him. "It is an old legend. It says that there will come a prince who will bring peace between Angelia and Demonis, and that prince will be a chosen of Drako. It is one of the few religious myths my people still believe in."

"Let me guess. Some people think you're the one." Marzio smiled at his lover and caressed the back of his hand with his thumb. "And no wonder, considering all the things you have accomplished so far. Sign this peace treaty and you will be their hero!"

But Ignis shook his head, smiling sadly. "Even I cannot work miracles. If King Teh-Kai is not willing to sign this treaty, those who believe in me will be very disappointed. And what will happen then?"

"Stop being such a fatalist!" Tempesta exclaimed. "I thought we were going to have fun tonight, not brood over the treaty. Besides, even with another war coming, you have full support of the army!"

"Yeah, and you can kick my ass anytime you want!" Marzio backed her up, earning himself three dubious glances from the Demons. In fact, it seemed to him that he was being sized up. "Anything else I should know?"

"The Prophecy also speaks about the prince's lover, a red-winged angel. But clearly it is not the case here, so we can all go to bed happy tonight. Right, Ignis?"

Ignis looked down at his fingers, intertwined with Marzio's, and long moments of silence passed before his eyes cut through Owen again. "I am going to pretend this discussion never took place, Owen. I suggest you try doing the same." He then smiled gently at Marzio. "When I take you to visit Drako's Sanctuary - and I will take you there - look at the altar's right wall. You'll find a mural of the Prophecy there. It will probably answer those questions that need to be answered. As for the rest, only the gods can know."

Marzio agreed, sensing for a moment Ignis was trying to hide something so ominous it could have led the prince to self-destruction if revealed. But he had learned to respect the Demon and his secrets, and he was not about to upset him even more than Owen had. It seemed the rivalry between the two still led to some disputes, and Marzio had just witnessed one. The fact that Ignis was willing to forget all about it said much about his self-control, even if it was weakened by a few pints of alcohol.

Thankfully Tempesta was cautious enough to put an end to any future disagreement. "You two look tired. Maybe you should head for the palace; I don't want to have to carry you back."

Ignis shook his head. "I should think I can handle my drinks better than this. But Marzio is not used to our strong spirits. Come beloved, her ladyship has ordered us to leave, and we don't want to upset her." The Demon general waved her hand to dismiss his mockery, but helped Marzio as he swayed on his legs when standing up.

Of course, this meant that Ignis would have to support him while walking, which was fine with both. It was also a good excuse when they passed through the palace gates again, for the Angelian clung to his lover with all he had, rejoicing in the pleasantness of Ignis' proximity and the warmth inside him.

The guards had a good laugh at this; but why had they not made any lewd comments? Ah, but Ignis was supposed to only take women into his bed.

"Prince Sagni-Dor, your palace is enormous," the Angelian declared solemnly while they were climbing the stairs to the third floor.

He stumbled and threatened to lose balance, but Ignis held him firmly. "Oh no, you don't!" he laughed. "You're going to bed on your own feet. Come, it's not far now."

He was undressed and put to bed in less than ten minutes, and Ignis promised to send him an infusion to cure his hangover first thing in the morning. Fuzzy and tired, Marzio offered a mumbled "thank you" and was asleep in no time at all.

Chapter Sixteen

The massive doors opened, allowing him to step into the dark room. He was used to the lack of light, and knew no creature hid in the darkness. He had nothing to fear, except maybe himself.

The woman beckoned him closer, thinned hands of a spectre and long polished nails unnaturally visible. Motley wings shifted as did the colour of her eyes, constantly alternating between blue, teal and green. It had always unnerved him as a child - now it was just another detail in a picture.

He was shaken awake from his stare by the cold, unemotional sound of her voice, and felt his body react the same way it always had in the past, as a frightened, diminutive creature trying its best to pass unnoticed by the sight of a ravenous predator. Even when he thought he was fully prepared for this moment, he couldn't help the tremors that run throughout his body upon hearing that voice, so plain, so unnaturally devoid of sentiments, and yet so extremely powerful.

"It has been long since the last time you were summoned, child. The master is very contented with your actions so far."

He bowed to her; a content god was always a good omen.

"Are you pleased with the general, young prince? Or do you find him too flawed for your liking?"

"He is not more flawed than the rest of us. And I've never thought myself to be any better than he is. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say he's much more than I have ever hoped for," he declared; presented with the choice of a direct answer was a very rare opportunity.

She nodded. "The time for him to make his choice in front of the Gods nears. Meanwhile, you are not to influence him in his decision. If he comes back to you, he is the one you have been expecting. If not, then your efforts will not be all in vain, young prince - but you cannot force things to go the way you want them to go. Understood?"

"Yes."

"Very well then. Do not despair; if it is meant to be then you shall see each other again."

---

The delegation sent to negotiate the peace treaty reached Aquiline on the twentieth day of Kheus, although the news of their arrival had come from the city of Celios two weeks prior. The dreaded prospect of being separated from Ignis only registered with Marzio in the week before to their arrival, when the preparations for his and the Lords of the War Council's departure began to be made. Ignis also started to show signs of uneasiness, although never around his lover.

Marzio had been curious to see if King Teh-Kai had at least found the common sense to send someone who could do the job properly, and was pleased to see that the man in charge of the delegation was Lord Roland Bela-Fer. A good diplomat and an even better negotiator, the elderly lord was friends with Marzio's uncle and a distant relative of Marzio's brother-in-law, Gareth. He also brought the general news from his family, which were greatly appreciated. Kelan did not like his presence as much as Marzio did, but then again it was to be expected. Ignis also asked the his Angelian lover what kind of man Lord Roland was, and the general was very pleased to inform his lover that he could be trusted to keep his word, unlike an "old acquaintance" of theirs that was not directly named in the conversation. Lord Gettik was also to remain with the delegation in Aquiline and the general was more than glad to inform his lover about it; Kelan on the other hand seemed delighted at the prospect, for an obscure reason Marzio swore he would find out sooner or later, certain of the fact the king's advisor was planning something.

They were to leave on the twenty-fifth day of Kheus, and during that last week Marzio's meetings with Ignis had become something to look forward to. The prince had certain business to take care of but tried his best to limit his working hours to mornings, and spend his afternoons with Marzio. It was a good arrangement, but one that required the general to go drag Ignis out of his work-induced daze every day. He didn't mind, relieving Ignis' stress was something he always looked forward to.

That was why, early in the afternoon on the last day of his stay, Marzio knocked at the door of Ignis' suite and then let himself in. Usually, the prince was either in his study or the bedroom and thus it took him some time to answer the door, so he had told Marzio to get in and wait in the living-room. Which was exactly what he did this time... only Ignis did not show up.

But, unlike those other times, the door to Ignis' private study was open.

Now, the only place in Ignis' rooms that Marzio had not seen during his stay was precisely this study. He had been in all the other rooms, on the balcony - his lover had even taken him to see the Consort's suite once. But the study... it had just never come about. And the open door provided an irresistible pull for the general. So, one step at the time, he approached and peeked in calling softly, "Ignis, are you in here?"

He received no answer; but that didn't stop an adventurous spirit like the general's. Fighting down the feeling of anxiety at knowing he was invading a strange and unknown space, Marzio took the final step into the room.

It was another world, in a way that made it certain it belonged to Ignis and him alone. The room was actually smaller than Marzio had expected, and an ordered chaos ruled there. Books governed the left side, on two rows of triple shelves, with large trunks lined on the floor against the walls. There was also Ignis' mahogany desk, just as Marzio remembered it from the prince's tent, except perhaps for the maps which had been replaced by bound volumes and piles of papers.

A closer study of the book spines revealed they were most codices of laws, as well as others on economy and religion and probably other things of interest to the Demon sovereign. Ignis must have done much of his work in that study, and who could know how much valuable information his desk contained? Not wanting to anger his gracious host on his last day there, Marzio managed to control the strong temptation of taking a look and he kept his hands away from the desk.

The wall opposite to the door held the fireplace, a log burning slowly in it; hanging above it was a magnificent painting of a Demon couple. Marzio stepped closer, examining it in the afternoon light. Both wore rich clothing and jewellery; the Angelian recognized the man's white robes and golden coronet as being very similar to the ones Ignis wore occasionally. There was no doubt to Marzio they were Ignis' parents.

There was little likeness between father and son; safe for the colour of his eyes, hair and skin, the young Prince of Demonis was a masculine version of his mother.

Morgana LeDomme, Marzio knew, had not been highborn; she had been the daughter of a very rich merchant who had acquired strong ties with the Demon nobility, a very smart and strong spirited woman who had managed to gain Prince Nicolas Sagni-Dor's attention and love. Ignis got most of his looks, intelligence and strength of will from his mother, although he had inherited his father's stubbornness and scepticism as well. Morgana had deemed it necessary to educate her son not only in the ways of the ruling class, but also in those of the common people, and Ignis had been a keen learner. The prince had confessed he did not shun physical work, and that fact had proved very useful during his training as a Dreak. Apparently the trainers at the Monastery cared little for difference of status, for all the Dreak were considered equal and therefore it mattered little where one had come from. So aside from a warrior's training Ignis had learned how to do menial labour, and thanks to his mother's teachings he had not complained about it as the other highborn cadets had.

At any rate, it was thanks to his mother's education that Ignis had not turned out to be an arrogant nobleman and that he had learned to love and respect the common people. And even though she had died when Ignis had been merely eleven, she was always present in the prince's mind. He spoke little of his father, however, although he had confessed he had loved him just as much. Marzio did not know if it was because rumour had it Nicolas Sagni-Dor had been murdered and his assassin never caught, or because Ignis thought his father had been too weak. It was common knowledge even in Angelia that his wife, and later Lord Lavian, had truly ruled Demonis in his stead. He had been a good man, but not too skilled in politics; Ignis was both a good man and a good politician, somewhat of a paradox in a world of lying and scheming. And he was also a good leader, a thing which weighted a lot in a country with a strong military tradition. Marzio had found himself wishing sometimes that Ignis had been born in the Angelian royal family - he would have made Angelia a great nation, just as he had done with Demonis. However, in the end all that Ignis wanted was peace for his country and its people, and he would soon achieve it.

Having finished examining the painting, as well as the large and detailed map of Demonis and the smaller one of all the Eastern Lands that flanked it on each side, Marzio turned his attention to the rest of the small room. He noticed another painting, half-hidden by the open door, so he hurried to study it as well. This one was a portrait of a Demon maiden wearing a sky-blue velvet dress, sitting outside on a summer day. She had short-cropped hair and was not a spectacular beauty, but her lovely eyes and open smile reflected a beautiful soul and a caring heart.

Marzio knew who she was even before his fingers followed the fine script on the gilded frame. Rasya Talien-Kay, Ignis' former lover. And yes, he could imagine her playing that part... something inside couldn't stop telling the general he had practically replaced her. But only for two months, while Ignis and she had had almost two years together.

'Too little, much too little... even a lifetime with him wouldn't be long enough.' He tore his gaze away and stepped toward the right wall, the one with two windows and little else - just a small table containing painting supplies for the easel supporting a sheet-covered canvas.

"What are you doing in here, my nosy friend?"

Marzio turned to find Ignis standing in the doorway, arms crossed and a little frown creasing the smooth forehead. It was not a good sign.

The Angelian did his best to make his shrug look spontaneous and innocent. "The door was open; I called before entering, but you didn't seem to hear me".

Ignis' raised eyebrow looked indulgent, and that little gesture did plenty to help Marzio relax. "I needed something from the library. You­ on the other hand should not be in here at all." He sighed. "Oh well. I should have told you not to enter this room..."

Marzio was about to leave hurriedly but Ignis' hand caught him by the wrist and his face softened. "No, stay. What is done is done, and you've probably seen most of what's important by now anyway. You know, besides you and me only Rasya and Tempesta have ever been in here since I moved in." He nodded toward Rasya's portrait. "Not quite what you would have expected her to be, is she?"

Marzio had indeed envisioned her different. "She seems... fragile. I had imagined her somewhat more imposing. But then again, I had imagined you different, also. What is that?" he pointed toward the covered canvas, causing the prince to actually smile.

"Your curiosity will probably be the end of you, my dear general. But not today." He took his lover's hand in his and guided him to stand before the easel. "I find painting a good method of relaxation. This is just my latest work. Go ahead, uncover it." Seeing the general's hesitation, he couldn't help half a grin. "Go on now. I think you'll like this one."

Marzio pulled away the sheet, revealing a rendered battle scene between Angelians and Demons. And right in the middle of it, mounting his warhorse and holding a blood-sullied sword, was a blond-haired and green-eyed general that looked very familiar.

Seeing himself through Ignis' eyes for the first time was quite a shock for the Angelian. The painting made him look... very much in control. "This is not me," he whispered.

"Of course it is. You as I saw you that day, as your enemies saw you. Perhaps even as your soldiers saw you. You had a very thoroughly developed - not to mention twisted - way of underestimating yourself when we first met. I hope you got past it, at least partially. Now, beloved... I have this as a physical reminder of you. But I wish to offer you something to remind you of me as well."

Marzio looked up to find Ignis smiling, all signs of disapproval gone from his face. So he merely put his hands around Ignis' body and smiled back. "A gift, for me? Haven't you given me enough already, my lovely prince?"

"It's just a trinket, actually. Something not easily linked to me. I don't want to get you in any trouble with King Teh-Kai." He produced a pendant on a gold chain from a pocket and placed it in Marzio's palm, kissing his cheek lightly. "I've hidden some books you might find interesting in your luggage, but this you can wear if you so choose. Actually, I'd feel honoured if you did," he added quietly.

Marzio inspected the small gold pendant; it had an oval shape and embedded in it was a ruby cut in the image of burning flames, so carefully carved one could see the overlapping tongues of fire. Elegant and exquisite - something he could easily associate with his Demon lover.

He hung it around his neck and let it fall over his tunic. "Then I will always wear this in your honour," he promised.

"I don't need you to honour me Marzio. Just remember me. Always..." he said with a slight hitch in his voice.

Those weren't the words Marzio wanted to hear from his lover. They were loaded with an alarming sense of... finality. And he couldn't understand why. So it was with that uncertainty and sudden fear in his voice that he asked, "Why do I need to remember you, Ignis? I don't need to remember what I have no intention to forget, ever."

The almost sad look he received from the prince did nothing to calm his worries, but the solid body suddenly pressed against his did soothed the rapid pulse of his heartbeats.

"In the game of life, nobody deals the 'forever' cards, my love. Only time will be the maker of our future. And I just pray to the gods that this future will find us together. Now, whatever shall we do today?" he added, quickly changing the course of their conversation.

"Don't you have work to do? You said you had to get something from the library, and you always work after coming back from there."

Ignis shook his head leniently. "Marzio, it's your last day here, and most likely to be for a long time. I already got all that I needed, and I'm quite sure nothing life-threatening is going to happen if I solve this matter tomorrow. Come." He pulled Marzio back into the living-room. Telling the general to make himself comfortable, he recovered a pile of documents that had been lying carelessly on a shelf and took them into the study. He returned to find his lover lounging in one of the armchairs, and with many interesting ideas on how the afternoon could progress.

---

Twilight found them in the same place, with Marzio sitting in the very same armchair. The only difference was a sated Ignis sitting across his knees, lean legs swinging over one armrest and wings stretched over the other, an arm around Marzio's shoulders and the other curled in his own lap. His head was resting on a broad shoulder, and he smiled as his lover played with his long hair.

The prince had been restless and eager to please that afternoon, and Marzio had somehow managed to keep up the pace, still not having figured out where Ignis got that much energy and creativity from. He had also been lenient enough to make love in front of the bedroom fireplace, a silly fantasy Marzio had always wished to fulfil. The general was certain he'd never had a lover like Ignis, nor was he likely to get one. In fact, he wasn't sure he wanted anyone else...

"You've spoiled me for others, you know," he murmured, running his hand through the sinful red hair again. Oh, what he would have given to do that every time he wanted! He'd never seen anyone, man or woman, Angelian or Demon, with a hair quite like that, blood-red in the evening shadows and shining like liquid copper in the sunlight.

In his arms, Ignis purred. "Mmm... thinking again, beloved?" he asked in that low, sexy voice that made Marzio's blood boil every time he heard it.

"I was pondering what I would give in exchange for handful of your hair at my daily disposal. A strand would work too... can I have one?" he asked, getting Ignis to laugh and pull away, only to straddle his legs and look him in the eyes.

"Your damsel, am I now? Last time I checked, only fairytale maidens gave strands of their hair to their departing knights in shining armour."

"Well, you're absolutely not a damsel, and I most certainly wouldn't want to see you wearing a dress, no matter how appealing the thought may be. Besides, no maiden I ever met had hair quite like yours, so long and just begging to be touched. Not even Princess Selena - and I happen to know she's taking really good care of hers while you just have it. Can I cut a strand, please?"

Elegant, reddish eyebrows rose and Ignis offered him a mysterious smile. "You can, if you have the patience to braid it first and promise not to tug. I've never met anyone with an obsession for my hair, you know," he continued, while Marzio quickly parted a thin strand and started braiding it. "And it's an obsession I'll reciprocate for these golden locks of yours... hmm so soft..."

It was an easy job, the fine strands seemingly alive between the Angelian's fingers, until Ignis decided to start nibbling at his neck. And he was hard to ignore when he asked for attention, even harder when he was claiming it, but finally Marzio managed to complete his task and curl the thin, oh so thin braid around a finger.

"Do you have a knife around here?" he asked, not risking pulling out his own hidden dagger. He wasn't supposed to carry any weapons until his departure, and its presence on Marzio's person in the prince's private rooms could have been easily seen as a threat.

Ignis murmured something about not underestimating him and before Marzio could say anything the prince reached out for the Angelian's left boot, pulling out Marzio's hidden dagger and giving it to him like it was the most natural thing to do.

'Well you didn't expect him not to notice did you? He's a warrior, after all, and a damned good one at that.' He used the blade to cut away the red braid - a pity actually, but he'd chosen it so that the place would be hidden underneath a good portion of hair, and cut it a few good inches away from the roots. He returned the dagger to its initial place and was about to put the braid in his pocket when his wrist was caught in Ignis' grip once more.

"Not in there, you'll ruin it. Look at this." Under the general's puzzled eyes he picked the gold medallion in his other hand and run a finger on one side. A small click resounded in the silent room and the medallion opened in half, revealing a secret compartment. Ignis carefully detangled Marzio's handiwork from around his finger and placed it into the revealed slot, then closed it again and grinned up at his startled lover.

"A locket? Why you... you... nasty daimon!" Marzio accused when recovering from his little shock. "Were you even planning on telling me about it?"

"No, my sweet, because I expected you to figure it out on your own one day." He shrugged, placing a chaste kiss on his lover's lips and settling against Marzio's body once more. "Now, before you say it, yes we are both incurable romantics and at times nauseatingly sweet to each other - to put it in Owen's words. And yes, I am fully aware that you would never admit it in public, just as you will probably deny there ever was anything going on between us during these past two moths. But it doesn't matter; it's enough that we both know it. I also want to add that, the next time we'll see each other again, you can expect me to jump your bones as soon as we are alone."

"Why Ignis, that is a most un-princely way to put things," Marzio sniggered, circling his beloved's waist and at the same time nervously eyeing Kheerah, who had just delivered their dinner and heard Ignis' every word. But the young attendant seemed to have grown deaf when it came to this type of conversation, and Marzio suspected the boy had heard enough of them in the past few months to last him for a long time.

"Now, oh mighty Demon Sovereign, would you mind telling this humble servant exactly how do you know when we will meet again, if it isn't too much to ask? I'd like to prepare myself in advance for when the hurricane hits."

Ignis gave in to the laughter he'd been trying to muffle and at the same time caressed Marzio's face. "Humble you are not, no matter what you say. And I hope we shall meet again whenever the treaty will be signed, provided of course you will still want to see me. Look, I know I have no right to claim you as mine, with hundreds of miles separating us. But no matter what, I'd very much like to be your friend if nothing else."

"I would like that, my prince; and you will always be so much more than a friend to me. I don't think I can ever repay your kindness and attention. You've helped me solve so many problems I was struggling with, and I didn't even have to ask. And I think... I think I feel something for you I have never experienced before." Finally Marzio, driven by an all-powerful desire to reassure himself his feelings were true, brought himself to ask, "Ignis, you have a little more experience than myself in this field. How do you know if you are truly in love?"

It was the first time since Marzio had met Ignis that the prince stared at him as if speech had left him. His eyes were sad, so very sad, and he reached out a trembling hand to capture Marzio's. "It is difficult to explain. You... simply know it. You feel like you would spend eternity in your lover's embrace, and do anything to ensure his or her safety, going so far as to sacrificing your life and happiness for the one you love. And you would not do this because your sense of duty requires it, but because you could not live with the knowledge that your lover is in danger, hurt and suffering - or even worse, dead."

For the first time in his life Marzio felt all those things, and more. He felt them and grasped their meaning and all he could utter was an indiscernible sound between a moan and a sob. Now he began to understand everything...

Ignis kept holding his hand, but squeezed his eyes and lowered his head. His voice was a whisper when he managed to get it out. "I'm sorry; I did not mean to sadden you. You see, I too have taken a great liking on you, Marzio. It hurts my soul to see you leave, knowing what might expect you when you get home. But if you were to stay here they would believe you a traitor, and your family would have to suffer some of the consequences. I have barely known you for a few months; but they have known you for a lifetime. Don't be mistaken, I will miss you greatly. But I know we shall see each other again. And I want you to know that I... I feel for you... what you feel for me... and I..."

The prince's resolve cracked and his eyes filled with tears. His body shook as he visibly fought to keep them from falling. Marzio had never thought he would see his lover cry, and he resolved that they would not part like this - not like this! So he grabbed the slender body and held it to him, allowing Ignis to burry his face into his chest and stroking his hair for one last time.

And then the Demon looked up, and taking Marzio's head in a strong grip he allowed his emotions to mingle with the ones in his lover's emerald eyes. His voice was strange, carrying an undercurrent that had had always been there, but muted and barely noticed before. "You ask me how you know when you love somebody. You just do, Marzio, you just do. Now, please hold me for a while."

So Marzio kept silent and held him, not knowing what else to say, and kept his eyes on the flames consummating the lug in the fireplace. A light touch brought him out of it and his eyes met Ignis' gaze. The pads of the prince's fingers ran over the general's face, swift and tender, as the Prince of Demonis brought himself to smile a little. "I will remember you, my brave Angelian. Should you ever need sanctuary, or a place to spend a few quiet weeks, my door will always be open. And no matter how far you are, or where you go, I will always be with you in spirit."

---

The following morning, there was a formal farewell ceremony in the throne hall. Not many people were there, just the Angelian delegation, Marzio and the four Lords, and on the other side Ignis, Tempesta, Lord Lavian, Owen, a few other Demons with important positions at Court and of course Ignis' ever-present guards. Waiting outside was their escort, led by Marzio's acquaintance Commander Beren. Just so that Marzio wouldn't get bored, Ignis had said with a smug smile on his face.

It was not a very elaborate affair, merely the prince wishing them a good journey and handling Kelan some official papers for King Teh-Kai, "in the hope they will help smooth things between you and him". Of course he'd been referring to their failure to win the battle between the two lands, but he was wise enough not to mention it. Kelan was also wise enough to accept, although it was not very sure the king would actually get those documents. Marzio carried their copies, just in case.

Then Ignis formally took farewell from each of the four Angelians that would return home. Marzio was the last, and expected the same cool and controlled handshake the others had received. But no; his sweet, tormenting, daimon of a lover offered him a wide smile and a hug that nearly crushed his bones, and that in front of all those people, and actually thanked him for being his friend.

And honestly, Marzio didn't mind one bit, not even when he received looks that varied from surprised to envious to Kelan's disgusted snort. He even went so far to return the embrace - a bit less enthusiastic, for everybody's benefit - and refrained from kissing the Prince of Demonis one final time. Their farewells had been said in private the previous night. And then, letting go of Ignis with an air as detached from the world as it could be managed, bowed respectfully one last time before turning and leaving the hall, trying his best not to look back. He managed to get into the courtyard before turning and giving one last look at the palace that had been his home for nearly two months, and to the familiar tall figure he could see looking out from a window on the third floor. He sighed and mounted his horse, trying his best not to show his inner turmoil as the small party set on its way for the city port of Quiris.

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~ The End of Part Two ~
~ Part Three - Rise of the Phoenix ~
~ return to index ~