FSE

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Rhari glanced around town with a sharp eye. The red-tailed hawk always kept a sharp eye on his surroundings, even when he was in safe areas. It was good practice to keep up, because he'd made a lot of enemies over the years. Even in the safety of the capital, there were chances that someone might decide to stick a knife in him. Such was the life of Lady Siksta's personal hunter. Not that many people knew what his actual title was. Rhari was more or less a problem solver. While many problems a ruler had could be solved with brute force, sometimes... well things had to happen. Someone would have to figure out what was wrong, how bad it is, and fix the issue. All without drawing the attention that a full platoon of soldiers would.

The hawk breathed out a low sigh and glanced up the street. Quiet that way. It was before midday so most people were at whatever their jobs were. A handful roamed the streets. Children on errands. Guards patrolling. A lass on her way to the bakery. Nothing of note. Quick look the way he'd just come. Not much there either.

His eyes fell on the shop across the street. Simple looking building. Rather unassuming. Plain front, shutters opened just enough to let a breeze in. Door cracked just enough as well. It was open, but no one was patronizing it at the moment. Or at the very least, no one had entered or left in the time he'd been observing. A rather simple sign hung over the door. Wood and painted to show some odd bits of glassware flanked by bunches of herbs. It could be mistaken for an herbalist shop. A seeming backed by the bunches of herbs swaying in the breeze. Though he knew that it was more than that.

This was an alchemist's shop. It belonged to an alchemist that Siksta had asked Rhari to keep an eye on some time ago. A rather strange fellow. A yellow naga, viper type. Fellow had always seemed shy, painfully so, reclusive even. Even now, years after moving into this building, people were still wary of him. Not overly surprising, all considered. He had always been supremely helpful in the area. Willing to trade and barter for his medicines. Not everyone could afford the price some alchemists demanded. Though not everyone would be willing to look past this fellow's fangs to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Another look. The street was clear for the moment. Rhari rolled his shoulders and stole across the walk, gliding into the building. Not a soul noticing his entrance. Least of all the naga, who was hunched at the counter and displaying some odd signs of distress. Shoulders hunched, head hidden in his hands, and making some rather... strange noises. Xipilli was usually rather quick to notice someone entering the shop. Now he completely failed to notice the hawk's entrance. Nor did he notice Rhari as he laid his hands on the counter itself.

"Is there something wrong, Healer?"

Xipilli bolted upright and fixed Rhari with a look that could only be described as panic."Rhari!" came the near squeak. The naga looked at him, past, then tried to look at the hawk again before glancing away. "Sorry," the viper dipped down again, "was just pondering several potential potions and their practical uses."

Anyone else would have believed him. The line was so simple and straightforward. Yet Rhari knew him far better. He'd been the one to watch Xipilli for weeks. Following him. Learning his habits, mannerisms, everything about the viper. Like how he preferred to slouch and keep himself lower to seem less intimidating. How the necklace around his neck contained a potent anti-venom. Not to mention the naga's habits that were best kept from the public's ear.

There was something afoot and it was making the viper anxious. More than usual. Rhari narrowed his eyes and dropped his voice, "Are you certain, Xipilli?" Making sure to add a weight to every syllable. He leaned in, sharp eyes scanning the viper's face for any trace of falsehood or silent begging for help. While Rhari trusted the naga, to a degree, he knew that others did not. Not to mention just how valuable some of his reagents might be, doubly so in the wrong hands. A winged hand dipped to his belt and slowly drew a talon-like dagger. The motion hidden by the very counter he was leaning into. "Is everything okay?" His eyes stayed on Xipilli, but attention scanned the room. Nothing had been out of place when he came in. No signs of a fight or unwanted intrusion.

"Y-yeah," Xipilli's laugh sounded a little panicked. Rhari's feathers twitched as his head wanted to snap around and scan the entire room. "Just been," was that breath caused by fear or something else? "working on a few potions. Breathed in the wrong fumes is all. Made me feel a little..." his expression as he wiggled his finger near his temple was purposefully goofy, "wobbly." A reasonable enough excuse. Rhari knew enough about herbalism to know how dangerous some concoctions should be. Yet he also knew the care that Xipilli showed his craft. However, even the most careful of...

Glurk.

That sound was barely a whisper, hardly even heard. Rhari twitched as he fought to keep his head from snapping towards the sound. His grip tightened on the blade as muscles tensed. The slight roll of feathers as he gathered himself.

"Ah yes!" the cry and snap of fingers redirected the hawk's focus to the shaking smile of the viper. "Silly me, I half-forgot your medicine."

That was more in line with the Xipilli he knew. "You half-forgot why I was coming here today? As I do every three months? As I have for the last several years?" Yeah, that was very much in line with the healer. Perhaps he was just over-reacting. He, of all people, knew how nervous he made Xipilli. Maybe he was just being a little too intense today.

"Fumes," he half-laughed and waved as if to disperse the suspicion. "Now where did I..." Xipilli practically dove under the counter and hissed. The rapid motion and sound drew Rhari with him. The hawk's light frame easily mounting the counter and leaning forward, talon at the ready to strike whoever...

Was sucking the naga's cock.

If you had asked the hunter to list the top twenty things he expected to find under that counter, a pleasantly plump porcupine casually stuffing both of the naga's cocks into her mouth would never have made the list. In a split second, Rhari registered the sight, learned more about Xipilli's anatomy than he ever cared to know, and felt a burning blush flare under his feathers. A blush made that much worse as the porcupine looked up, caught his eye, and grinned.

"There it is!"

Rhari dove back to the floor and quickly sheathed the talon-dagger. Settling himself in what he prayed was casual boredom as the naga writhed back upright. "Forgot, had put it over here." Xipilli's strained, panicked-casual tone making far too much sense now.

Feathers ruffled with embarrassment, the sight of the naga's rather impressive cocks stretching the strange porcupine's maw locked in his mind's eye. "The same spot you always put it." Another nervous ruffle as he clicked his beak and tried to hide his own nerves, "But hey, fumes, am I right?" He clicked his beak again and trilled a laugh. Fumbling for his money pouch and digging out the prepared pouch. "Be wary of those fumes, Healer." Rhari quickly traded money for herbs, spun on a taloned foot, and hurried for the door. Plucking a pinch of the fragrant herbs from the pouch and tucking them into his beak. Praying and waiting for them to help settle that growing warmth as he did his best to casually leave the shop.

He took a second to breath outside and lean against the door. Tongue rolling the pinch of herb and swallowing. "You are nothing but, nothing but... Ahh!" Muffled as it was by the door, Rhari knew an orgasmic yelp far too well. He leapt away from the door and hurried down the street.

Focus, Rhari_he chided. _You want that out of your mind? Think about something else.

Each blink just presented that image of the porcupine drooling on the naga's cock... cocks to him. Yet that was something he found focus on. The porcupine. Something about her drew a strange sense of familiarity. He'd never seen her in that context before. Though had never imagined Xipilli in such a context before. He felt he knew so much about the viper, knew so much about so many people. Yet he would have never imagined that the naga was that impressively endowed. Much less with twin cocks at the base of his tail too! How would that work during sex? Perhaps a coil thrown about his partner? How would that feel? TO be wrapped up as someone thrust so deep.

A merchant!

That's where he knew the porcupine from. She was a traveling merchant that sold all kinds of odd wares and strange objects. Lady Siksta had him track the Porcupine down once to inquire about something. What was her name? Something planty. Jasmine, no, it wasn't a flower. Willow? No, it wasn't a tree either. Holly felt closer to that.

"Ah yes, Juniper." Rhari had rounded a corner and saw the merchant's cart parked in an inn's yard. The cart was easy to spot, with it's minty green roof and the elegant _Cypress Curiosities_painted on the side.

Rhari crossed to the inn's fence and leaned against it with a sigh. It wasn't a large yard. Barely enough to let a couple mounts out at the time, even if it wasn't crowded by a couple wagons. Sharp eyes could pick out a few mounts in the stable itself. The stable-hands mindful about which ones they let out into the yard at a time.

Leaning into the railing, he watched the horses for a moment. In the back of his mind, something lurked. A low, hissing shape that coiled its way around his core. Offering up ideas of what it might be like to be with Xipilli. Giving up teasing thoughts of going back and sliding under the counter with Juniper. Sharing the fun with that porcupine, unwinding for a time. Worse they could say would be no.

Rhari shook his head and snorted to himself. Fine, if he was so focused on what happened back at Xipilli's, why?

Simple answer. It had been a while since Rhari had a bed partner. Between watching his back constantly and always moving, a steady partner was impossible.

Wasn't it? Juniper had managed.

The hawk sighed and narrowed his eyes. He knew of Juniper after having tracked her down for Siksta. Thinking back, he could place rumors about the merchant from earlier. Little rumblings and mutterings about Xipilli having a regular dinner guest and how they would sometimes get loud. If you know what they meant. Which yes, now Rhari knew what they meant.

Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. Just go into the inn, find someone tolerable, hook up privately and...

Rhari sat bolt upright at the fence, his sharp eyes locking on a too-familiar, golden palfrey. Feathers mantled as a low anger built up, driving the hawk from the fence and into the inn. He'd barely made it a step past the door, eyes still adjusting to the dark, when he heard the voice, "And that's when I said..."

Their eyes met at the same instant. Rhari's narrowing as he stalked across the common room. The collie's expression ran the gambit from shock to scared and back to his practiced smile as Bard grinned, "Rhari, what a pleasant sight! How are you? What have you been up to? Tell me everything about you!" His voice was shockingly deep for his slight build. Each question coming fast and conversational. The collie's black and white coat brushed and groomed until it shone even in the inn's dim interior. His smile was just that too-perfect edge of charming. As he tilted his head just so, one ear flopped forward in what had to be practiced cuteness. Even his travel clothes were too neat. The rich reds and golds seemingly fresh from the tailor, despite however far he must have ridden. "I was just telling them about... AH!" he helped as the red-tailed hawk calmly hooked his ear with a finger, pinched, and pulled him to his feet. "Excuse me, Ladies, seems my friend wants to have a word." Bard kept up his grin even as he stumbled alongside Rhari, having to walk backwards and bent over to keep from having his ear ripped off.

Rhari kept his grip on Bard's ear until they were in the short hall between the common room and the private rooms. The hawk swiftly turned and released the ear, sending the smooth collie staggering a few steps. He snorted and rubbed his ear lightly, giving the hawk a_look_before his muzzle split into a wide grin.

Bard's tone was easy and straight-forward, "Nice to see the hawk has returned to the coop."

Rhari frowned at him, "What?" His eyes narrowed ever so slightly, he knew Bard didn't think he was a chicken of any sort.

That smile twitched, "Um, ah..." Fingers scratched at the purposefully unkempt black and white hair. "Oh!" Bard's voice went smooth and low, "I see that the watcher has returned the sheep to the pen so they can speak like a cat." He grinned wider and tapped his nose in what seemed to be a knowing fashion.

"Bard, what in the nine hells are you talking about?"

Now the smile faded fully. Bard looking both confused and hurt that Rhari wasn't picking up his meanings. Yet he continued, this time adding some hand gestures. "A noble hawk swoops low so that they might..."

A winged arm silenced the canine, "If you keep this up, I am going to stab you, and I don't know when I'm going to stop." That sleek, hooked knife flashed in the hall's light. "Now, start again. Maybe with a hello this time."

That befuddled expression lasted a moment before the canine sighed and dropped his voice to a near whisper. "Hello, Rhari. Nice to see you again, it's been a few years. Maybe we'd like to take this somewhere more private than a hallway?" He stepped back and swung an arm invitingly.

"Was that so hard?"

"As hard as..." he stopped as the knife's tip brushed his flank. "Fine," he chuffed, "I was trying for an idiom." Rhari gave the canine a look as he lead the way to a door and opened it. "Some cant? Coded talk. By the Lord and Lady, haven't you heard any clandestine tales?"

Rhari stepped into the room. It was like any other inn room he'd been in. A decently sized bed, too large for one, but he knew Bard's habits. A simple desk fitted with a candle holder, small table, couple chairs, and that was it. Strangely, the table had a few items on it. A fiasco of wine, a couple still warm meat pies, some cheese, meat, and bread. "I think you meant Idiot. Cant should be hashed out before a meeting. Which this isn't." came the sigh. "Is it safe?"

A twist of his fingers and a whispered spell later, the already soft noises of the inn fell away fully. "Of course, I'm not some first year who forgets to ward his room." Bard caught the look that Rhari gave him, "Okay, I forget sometimes, but I've been a lot better about it." Bard hopped onto his bed and, in one motion, kicked his boots off and pulled his feet up into a cross-legged seat. His entire demeanor changed. The well-crafted and honed persona falling away to reveal one of Lady Siksta's best informants. "How have you been, fair hunter?"

Rhari chose to light upon a chair. "Just swinging in to talk to Lady Siksta. Give her a more thorough report than I can safely write out. And you?"

Bard clicked his tongue, "I was going to do the same, but sadly the Lady is away until the morrow." Rhari fixed him with a look and the collie held up his hands defensively, "I felt the same way when I showed up. So decided to hit the market, get a few things," he waved towards the table, "and figured I'd hole up in my room with a little companionship." The canine let out a wistful sigh, "Which I was in the middle of when you came in. Now they probably figure you're some jilted lover." He hopped off the bed and rounded on the table, "Cheese?"

Feathers ruffled, "Or you owe me money." Lady Siksta should be here today. He hadn't heard that she'd be out, yet he hadn't heard any hint of falsehood from the canine. Bard was an accomplished liar, but he did have some little ticks Rhari knew of. He was good, but everyone had some tell. Bard's was that slight twitch of an ear. Barely even noticeable. Well, unless you had eyes as good as Rhari did.

If he didn't know Bard better, he'd believe that look of hurt., "Money? How could you ever think that I owe you..." the canine trailed off as Rhari fixed him with one of those patented hawk stares. "Okay fine, that one time... Four times that I did borrow money from you. I've paid you back though, in full."

"Mostly."

"Mostly in full," Bard agreed then sighed. "Just can never let that go, can you?"

Rhari flashed an avian smirk. "Why, when I can keep holding it over your head." The red-tailed hawk sighed, shifted, then sighed again. "So, the Lady won't be home till tomorrow?" If she was out, then that would likely mean midday. Any earlier and she'd likely be home tonight. Rhari didn't know the brass dragonborn to linger when she could be in her own bedchambers.

"That's what I was told," Bard sliced some meats and cheeses, nudging the plate towards Rhari.

He grumbled to himself, but breathed a sigh and slipped closer to take a bite. "Fine. So long as you don't try to make me pay for the room. Again."

Bard held up a hand in a solemn vow, "Paid up front like a good boy." He grinned wider at the look. "Plus the innkeeper demanded after all the other issues I've had." He carved out a bit of cheese for himself, "I didn't even know she was his wife. Certainly didn't call either of our names out, which made the whole ordeal awkward for the three of us."

The hawk blinked. "The... three of us? You'll have to explain that one."

Bard flashed a wider grin, "Well you see, it all started when old Jamison and I decided to hit up the town. I'd heard about a new delight at _The Connoisseur's Choice._Something they called the Wall of Mystery." He added a wiggle of his fingers, "It's more a box really. Couple holes on either end and, well..."

Hours passed with the two of them swapping stories. It had been a while since Rhari got to catch up with Bard for more than a few minutes. Which meant that it had been a while since the hawk had been able to let his guard down. Probably even longer since the collie had been able to drop his stage persona and be himself. Something that the hawk encouraged and chided him about, whenever some of his mask would start to come back up. It hadn't taken them long to work their way through the snacks. Then onto dinner. All while steadily working their way through the wine he'd brought and into another bottle. Happily drinking from cups whenever they needed to wet their throats. Though when it came to resting their voices...

"Mmmmph," Rhari groaned through a stuffed beak, thighs trembling ever so slightly as Bard's skilled tongue dove into his folds. The collie not even batting an eye as he dug his tongue into the hawk's cloaca. Happily lapping away even as his hands roamed over the feathered thighs and rear. Rhari shuddered as his companion squeezed the base of his tail, making the feathers hike and fan for a second.

Not that he was idle. He'd been the one to initiate the sixty-nine. Threatening to throw Bard into bed if the collie hadn't stripped and jumped in. Something that Bard was all to happy to do, practically leaping out of his clothes. Then remembering to help Rhari undress. All to end up under the hawk, pleased noises muffled by that feathered rear.

Rhari stretched his body out over Bard's slender form. Feathered fingers teasing the canine's sac as he rolled his head slowly. A specially made leather guard protected the canine's cock from the sharp edges of his beak. Supple leather gliding over the flesh as Rhari bobbed his head. Each stroke and lap gaining him a reward of the male's precum. Something delicious and salty and so warm. A thing to truly savor.

"Ah..." Bard managed to pant, rolling his head just so. "Rhari... if you..." The hawk sat down, nearly shoving the collie's slender muzzle right into his vent. The feel of his partner's mouth trying to work, muffled words puffing against his walls. Oh heavens that was a delight! Yet Bard still just managed to squirm free, "Pttah!" he spat out a downy feather. Though his tongue lashed against the swollen mound in return. As if making the hawk's toes curl with pleasure was some sort of punishment. "If you keep going like that, I'm gonna pop!"

Rhari pulled back, "Ahnd?" came the slightly distorted reply. All before the hawk dove down again, adding a twist as his beak swept over the cock.

"Good heavens," Bard huffed. Rhari lifted his rear and got ready to drop again. The collie only just getting his hand up in time to block another smothering. He hooked two fingers and pressed them in, drawing a muffled trill from his feathered friend. He could feel his orgasm building already. Most of his companions were a lot more passive. Trusting in the more experience singer to guide them through the experience. A few knew what they wanted and voiced it. Rhari though? Something about the way the hawk took control of the situation was always striking. Reading the hawk was hard too. It had taken a long time for him to figure out how to read those slight glances and the minute ways the feathers were held. Each one having it's own meaning. "If you make me cum," he huffed, "It'll be longer before I can fuck you proper."

That seemed to make the hawk hesitate. Tail feathers twitching as the thighs pressed to either side of his head. Although that could also have something to do with the way he was pressing his fingers deeper into the hawk's vent. There wasn't anything there terribly similar to most of his partners, but he'd figured out a few things over the years.

"Fawn," Rhari pulled away and whipped off the beak guard, "But only because I want it." The hawk slipped off and dropped to the bed. Glaring up at Bard as he spread his legs.

"Only because you want it," Bard agreed and moved between those legs. "And because it has been a very long time since either of us have gotten to truly unwind." He included himself because he knew just how long it had been since Rhari got to relax. The red-tailed had let that slip during their conversation. Not to mention the way that the hawk had dove at his cock. That hunger that spoke volumes.

Now, while he had a moment, Bard decided to tease his partner. Giving that swollen vent a couple swats with his cock. Thumping the hard flesh against the swollen, slick folds. "You know, I hadn't seen you this eager before. Almost be tempted to call you a randy bitch."

"Except you know I'd cut you for that." Rhari arched and narrowed his eyes, hissing as the canine pressed his tip in, only to slide it back out with a wet pop. "Least you won't have another bastard running around." Came the tease.

Bard just grinned back, "Won't be for lack of trying." He ran his chiseled tip around Rhari's vent, "Be kinda cute though. A collie/hawk gryphon." Nudging the tip in, he drew out, and thumped his length against that feathered slit some more. Savoring the feel of the downy underside and slick entrance. "Shame we're both guys."

Rhari snapped his beak, "And incompAAAT!" he gasped as Bard slammed forward. The hawk grabbing at collie's shoulder and the headboard as his insides clenched around the sudden invasion. "I hate you," he hissed, narrowing his eyes.

"I know it."

Bard easily slipped into a more comfortable position. Not even coming close to crushing the lighter male with his weight. His thrusts were sharp, short, but rolled just right. Rhari gasped as the canine probed him in a way that he hadn't felt before. Fucker must have been with another bird at some point. Figured out some tricks. Their last few encounters had been good, but nothing overly amazing. This one...

"Ah Haven," Rhari gasped, arching his body up into that furred form. Thighs shook and squeezed against his partner.

He could picture Bard's grin as the canine leaned over, "Not done already, are you?" He licked over the feathered cheek. Happily cupping Rhari's backside and drawing the red-tail against himself. Each thrust sent his sac crashing against the hawk's feathered backside. The avian's tail flagging just enough to tickle the dog's balls.

"Mmmph," Rhari grunted through a clenched beak, "I could go all night..." He opened an eye and rolled his head, "That all you got?"

Bard actually slowed down, his ears perking slowly. "Are you saying you want it rougher?"

Rhari grinned and rolled his head, "I'm asking if that's all you've got." Legs curled loosely around the collie, "I might have to break out my toy at this rate."

"Oh. Oh hoho, that's a challenge." Bard slid a hand down and gave Rhari's rear a swat, earning himself a squawk and glare. "Not gonna back down from that, Feathers." He shifted ever so slightly before digging in again. Pushing Rhari's rear up higher so he could really lean in and hammer away. "Not until I see that beak-gaping O-face of yours." He leaned forward as if to kiss, but was met with a snapping beak and a slight glare. "Oh, getting bitey?" Bard grinned despite the sharply hooked beak. "Didn't know you were that kinky."

It was getting harder to respond to his remarks. Bard's thrusts were quick and strong, showing off the collie's athletic form. Not to mention the way that he was working his hips. It was enough to send shivers through Rhari's body. The wet squelching of the canine's cock pounding into his cloaca filled the room. Pairing strangely well with their panting and the low creak of the bed. Made him wonder if the canine wasn't doing it on purpose. As if anything he did had to have a musical lean to it. He wasn't the largest male Rhari had seen, or been with, but it was how he used his instrument. Not to mention the steadily growing swell of his knot. Adding that little extra to each thrust.

While Rhari could feel his climax coming on fast, and it was getting harder to focus, he was well trained. The look on bard's face as Rhari wrapped his legs tighter around the canine and squeezed was priceless. "H-hey," Bard panted, tongue rolling from his maw, "H-hnngg..." he grunted as he tried to pull back. Even that little motion enough to make Rhari's insides clench harder around that engorged knot. "Need to let me thrust or..." he huffed and tried to buck his hips. Rhari's legs only wound tighter, not even giving him a hair of space to move.

Rhari's eyes narrowed with savage glee as he felt that knotted cock grow that much thicker. Feathers ruffled and the hawk huffed as he felt his peak hit. Cloaca clenching and dragging against the collie's cock. Which was more than enough to send Bard into shallow, sharp bucks. His furred sac clapping off that rear as he arched and whined. Each jump of his sac met with a warm thumping of seed against Rhari's insides.

Bard fixed the hawk with a wide grin, "That was pretty good wasn't it?"

Rhari narrowed his eyes enough to hide the evil glint, "Mm, it wasn't bad."

Now that got the collie to fix him with a look. "Not bad? The way you kept me in and how you pressed up into me? Had to have been one of the best orgasms of your life, and it wasn't bad?"

"Not. Bad." Rhari emphasized each word.

"Then, pray tell, how could I be better, My Fair Feathered Fiend."

"I am so glad you asked. Now for round two."

Bard arched a brow, "Round two, but you'll remember that it takes me about half a candlemark to pull out." He rolled his hips, tugging at the tie between his knot and the hawk's vent. "Or did you forget?"

"Oh I didn't forget." Rhari slipped feathered fingers down to frame his cloaca. The hawk huffed, ruffled feathers, and with a push, felt his hole stretching. Slowly, steadily the lips pulled at the base of the knot. A shiver raced through his body as he felt those folds stretch, expand... all while the canine's heavy length spat its seed into his depths. Rhari couldn't help but crane his head, watching as the steady pressure made his vent expand all that more before...

Plorp.

Both gasped as the dog's cock slipped out. Rhari bucking a bit more than Bard did as his overly sensitive petals were subjected to that pressure then sharp release. "Okay then," Bard panted as he dropped to the bed beside Rhari, "Round two then?" He grinned and leaned back, letting his engorged length lay across his belly. Ignoring the watery seed that stained his belly fur. "Must say, it's been a while since I've had someone want a second round so fast. Are you going to pin me to the bed and ride me?"

"Something like that." Rhari had slipped from the bed with utmost silence and gone right for his bag. He didn't carry much with him. A spare set of clothes, some rope, basic travel gear, a his bow, and... a special gift from ages ago.

A wide grin, "Well then, I eagerly await your mounting."

Bard lay in silence, the candle in the headboard only just illuminating the bed around him. It took the collie a long moment before he realized Rhari wasn't abed with him. "Rhari?" he asked curiously. A quick scan of the room found the hawk sliding around to his side of the bed. "Had to stretch your legs?"

The hawk smirked, "Something like that." Bard followed Rhari's hand as it moved. His eyes widening when he realized the hawk had some trick up his sleeve. Or rather on his lap. A rather nice harness of fine leather held a... what honestly looked like a penis, jutting up from the hawk's groin. The length tapered from a rather wide base up to a pointed tip, gently curving as it went up. Honestly, it was larger and thicker than Rhari would have picked, but he wasn't the one that had it made. "You wanted some tips?" the hawk crooned, slowly drizzling something from a vial over the deeply red length, "then bend over."

Instead of the worried look Rhari expected, Bard perked up. "You have no idea how long I've waited to hear you say that!" He happily flipped over onto his belly. Taking a long moment to stretch and lift himself up onto his knees. That curled collie tail of his arching to show off his pucker. "Take me, oh mighty hunter. Swoop down from above and drive your spear deep into my... YEEEP!"

Rhari crooned at the yelp, "Sorry, I thought the lube would be warmer than that." He massaged the slick lube against the canine's pucker, "Now... Tell me if you want it slower, Pup."

Bard didn't try to hide his eagerness. Happily gathering up a pillow to rest his chin on. "It's been a while since someone's tried to make me their bitch. I can't wait to see what you've got to show me, Feathers." There was a slight tremble in his hips, "Just take it slow, it's been a while."

Muscles relaxed, the hawk pulling back from the dive he'd planned. There was something in that tension, the slight unease, that gave him pause. Not long, a mere moment. Bard stood ready, eager even, but Rhari moved a bit slower.

The collie shivered as the smooth beak worked up his spine. Just barely using the hooked end to only just scratch his flesh. Slick, feathered fingers continued to tease his pucker. Rolling over and around the muscle before his pointed tip would come in and kiss. Barely even touching. Caressing. Rhari pressed close, sliding the length up between those furred cheeks. He couldn't help but shiver and huff, the feeling being translated through the base of the toy and into his body. This was something he rarely got to pull out and play with. He rocked his hips slowly. Sawing the length back and forth. Rhari leaning in to rest his keelbone right against Bard's spine. All while crooning sweet nothings into the canine's floppy ear.

It didn't take long before the pointed tip caught against the slick pucker. Rhari tried to slide past it, wanting to tease more. Bard either had other plans, or rocked at just the right angle. Both breathed out as the toy slid into the canine's rear. Muscle clenching just so around the invader. Not wanting to break stride, Rhari continued the press. Only stopping when his feathered body pressed tight to that cute furred ass.

Bard's form trembled, legs gave out, and the collie sunk to the bed under the hunter's slight weight. His breath coming in shorter pants, as if Rhari were weighing him down.

"We good?" came the whispered word and nibbles.

"Mmm...mhmm..." came the muffled reply, muzzle buried into a pillow.

Rhari started slow. His form rolling against the prone canine. Bard's ears fell back ever so slightly as he huffed into the pillow. It wasn't too long before he was starting to push back in time with the thrusts. The pair soon finding a pace that they could both enjoy. Rhari trying to match and meet the more experienced canine's rhythm. One hand fell to furred hips as the other lifted to rest on a shoulder.

Time lost its meaning for the couple. Rhari felt his core begin to burn. Muscles unfamiliar with this type of motion. Yet he pressed on. Urged onward by the collie's sweet whimpers and quiet gasps. His own body was starting to hum with pleasure. The steady press and roll of the toy against his still leaking vent sent shivers through him. The pressure and rubbing setting off some instinctive panting from the hawk. His tail feathers leapt and fanned, hips jerking to the side. Yet he continued on. Rocking faster into his partner.

"Ah..." came the huff.

"Nnnggh..." was the reply.

Teeth found the pillow and the furred form arched up with a panted, "Gonna cum..." followed by low, muffled pants as Bard's rear clenched tight around the toy.

Rhari drove himself forward and nipped at Bard's shoulder. Driving the toy as deep as he could do as his peak hit him as well. Cloaca clenching against nothing as the toy pressed tight to him. Each shift, every jostle, making him groan that much more.

Silence slipped over the couple as their shared pleasures overtook them. It was several long moments before Bard panted, "Well, you showed me." He half-panted. "Though... Long day. What's say we just put out the candle and..."

A flick of his wing snuffed the candle. Rhari already sliding off his partner. "You sleep in your own mess, Bard."

He laughed, "Of course, where else would I sleep in the bed I'd paid for." He shifted in the darkness. Rhari's eyes all but useless now. He could feel the collie get comfortable. Sigh. Then, "Sleep sweet, my friend. And many thanks for the swift lesson in how to treat a fella." He panted a quick kiss on Rhari's cheek and chuckled, rolling over in the bed.

It was only a moment more before he began to breath softly. Sleep plainly overtaking him. Rhari silently slipped the harness off and slid under the covers. He drew a knife from his pack and slid it under the pillow he'd claimed. Laying down and finally allowing sleep to take him some time later. Though not before Bard's tail began to thump against his thigh as the canine dreamt of something.

---

Morning came all too soon. Rhari woke with his usual speed. Eye cracking against the gray of predawn that dared to creep through the window. He held back a groan, out of fear that it'd make his hangover that much worse. "Can't believe I did that..." he huffed and rolled in bed slowly. Not just the drinking, but then all that with Bard.

Speaking of which... Rhari rolled over and looked back. The collie was gone. A quick scan of the room revealed that his bags were gone too.

Sigh.

"Just like him," came the quiet mumble. "least he paid the room first." His eyes narrowed, "I hope."

Getting his gear and going out didn't take too long. Bard had paid for the room, and even gave the innkeeper extra for a breakfast. Something that Rhari happily ate before heading out. It was still early by the time the hawk was on the road to the keep, but Lady Siksta always had someone on hand. Even if she wasn't due back till noon, at the very least, Rhari could go to the Guard's archery range, or catch up on happenings in the Kingdom. Figure out where to head next. Such was his life. Though the Lady had promised that, should he want, she would find a nice place for him to settle down.

The guards recognized him as he approached. Calling for an escort before he'd even made it to the steps. One of the clerks was happily beaming, "Ah Rhari, we were expecting you yesterday. Please, come in." The cougar stepped aside and bowed slightly.

"Yesterday?" Rhari followed, "I had been told that the Lady wouldn't be back until today."

The cougar's practiced smile twitched, "I am never one to doubt your sources, but you might need to check with that one. She's been here all week, awaiting your return."

Rhari nodded and narrowed his eyes ever so slightly, "So I see." Bard is so dead when I find him."I shall have to apologize to The Lady for keeping her waiting."

The smile returned, "Of course, I believe she's in her study right now, this way."

Hunting down Bard would be a waste of time and effort. So what if he'd pulled one over on Rhari? Really should have known better than to trust him outright. The collie loved to play little tricks. His affable personality had won him plenty of friends and gotten him out of countless scrapes before. Rhari had personally seen him, pinned to a wall, blade to his throat, talk his way out of being killed. So there was nothing wrong at all with being tricked by him. Especially when said trick had been nothing more than a minor delay.

Even with a couple day's head start, he was proving to be exceptionally easy to follow. Rhari would have started sooner, but Siksta had kept him around most of the day for chats. Then a couple minor problems around the city had to be cleared up. Something that the Lady wanted handled discreetly. Then Siksta said he should take some time off. That things had been quiet and some rest would do him good.

So here he was, on foot and tracking down Bard to give that collie a piece of his mind.

If Bard was okay.

Rhari knelt by what had been a showy palfrey. The once gloriously golden pelt marred by bloody patches. Broken arrows stuck from the poor mare's body. Sharp eyes easily picked up the signs of a battle. Not much of a battle. Rhari was more surprised that there would be someone this close to the main city. A couple days of travel wasn't far, and this road was fairly well traveled.

Trained eyes scanned the trail. They'd gotten Bard to come off the road somehow. Not more than a few feet. Barely enough for the brush to cover what was left of his poor horse. Judging from the marks, he'd tried to turn and run. A few bolts had stopped that. "Poor, brave girl." Rhari gave the horse's neck a pat. "You were too good for him."

His heart wasn't in it though. Worry gnawed at his core. Much as Bard annoyed him and enjoyed to pull little jokes, he was a good friend.

And Rhari wasn't going to let a friend stay in danger.

Picking up the trail was easy enough. Their trail away from the horse was hours, if not days, old. It had been hidden fairly well too. It took Rhari working in a spiral to find it. After a few hundred feet, the trail became more obvious. Dozens of boot prints on the ground. Some blood. A bit of cloth from Bard's tunic. Little breadcrumbs that lead the hawk to the bandit's lair.

Now, a smart person would have turned around and headed for the nearest garrison. He had enough pull to get a few Guards. Then returning and taking care of whoever this was would be easy. Though no telling what might happen to Bard in the meantime, or when the Guards attacked. Not to mention that it'd take at least a day to get it all organized.

Rhari rolled his shoulders and pulled out a metal cylinder. Checking it quickly, all it took was a flick of his wrist and the cylinder extended out. Flowing into an ornate, curved and spiked, bow. He took a quick look over it. Ran his fingers over where the bowstring should be, and pulled back. Magic shimmered in the air, a bare visible flicker, as he drew the magical bow back. No sooner had it reached his cheek than another whisper of magic formed into an arrow. Just a bare shimmer in the air, hardly even visible. He held it a second then slowly released the tension. Good, the bow was still ready. A great gift from the Lady, it had never failed him before. It wasn't going to fail him now.

Bard coughed and curled up on himself. Boy, he'd gotten into quite the pickle here. He'd been stupid, following a cry for help just off the road. Should have sensed that it was a trap, but the roads had been so calm as of late. Figured there would be no way that it would be bandits this close to the cities.

Rookie mistake.

He tried not to look at the bandit that was busy pulling his pants back up. The collie wanted to snarl or snap, lash out, something, but all he did was play silent. Let the bandit think he was asleep still.

They'd jumped him, taking his horse out before poor Black Rose could do more than rear. Nothing precise either. Just a flurry of bolts that, gods be praised, had mostly missed him. One bolt had caught him in the leg, another in the hand, and then Rose had fallen and pinned him to the ground. Maybe he could have cut them down. Rescue himself, but he was hurting. No, it had been better to play the part of the dumb singer. Offer them some entertainment and what few coins he had. Sing a few songs. Win them over. Slit their throats in the middle of the night. Business as usual.

Oh they'd taken entertainment from him alright. Their leader had taken a liking to his slender figure and pretty face. Gladly taking him back to their hideout, patch him up, and then...

The door shut and a muffled, "E's out cold. Givem a couple hurs afore you go, ey?" followed by a rough laugh slipped through the heavy door.

"I'll give you a couple hours," Bard hissed under his breath and sat up slowly. The room wasn't much. A storage room that had been converted into something akin to a prison. Meaning it had a pallet in it, and that's it. He didn't have anything beyond his bandages and lice-ridden bedding. Even light was a luxury he wasn't afforded. All he had was what leaked around the ill-fitting door.

Bard moved slowly, partially out of fear of being heard. Mostly out of fear of what pain movement would cause. His thigh screamed as the bandages pulled taut. The collie winced and bit back a hiss. If he hadn't spend all his magic on helping some travelers, he would have worked up a little something to help himself. Despite that having been... some time ago, he hadn't been able to rest properly. Poor bedding, injuries, poor company, it all conspired together to keep him from getting a proper rest.

One good night. Just a handful of hours was all he'd need. Then he could work up something. He'd tried to work his silver tongue, but they weren't interested in words.

Fsst. Hrrglll... thump.

The strange sound made his ear swivel towards the door. It was just that hiss, then it sounded like something choking. The sound niggled at him, so familiar yet... he couldn't think. He was out of it enough that he failed to notice the blood under the door until it touched his feet.

"Hey, what's go..."

Fssst!

Another hiss, another thud of something heavy outside the door. Bard tried to get to his feet. The effort left him panting and wincing in pain, but he somehow found himself propped against the door. Head braced to the aged wood as he tried to listen. What was happening? It couldn't be a Guard raid, it was far too quiet. A farmer perhaps? It had sounded almost like someone shooting arrows, yet... not quite right either. Something about it had been off.

Keys jingled and were silenced. His ears strained as he heard metal whisper against the lock. Breath caught as the key turned and...

Thunk.

The door bounced against him and slammed shut. "Bard?" came the low whisper, "I know you're in there, Bard. Get away from the door, you preening sack of potatoes."

"Rhari?" he whispered back and tried to pry himself off the door. It opened just enough to reveal the hawk. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh you know, I was just in the neighborhood. Thought I'd drop by and what the fuck do you think I'm doing here?" Sharp eyes took in everything about the collie. "Can you walk?" that playful tone dropped immediately.

He tried to take a step, hissed, and nearly fell against the hawk, only just catching himself on the door frame. "No. Not in much of a shape to do anything." He shivered and closed his eyes, biting back a yelp as Rhari did a quick examination of his wounds.

"Filthy. Probably have to fight off an infection too. Should be able to save your leg, though maybe a one-legged dog would garner some sympathy." Rhari grabbed his arm and stepped under it, "My horse is outside. He'll carry two, but not for long. I know of a safe house close by." Helping the collie up, he stepped over the two guards. Bard taking a moment to glance at his captors and notice the strange wounds on them. A clear hole bored into one's neck, and the other's head. "Gave them a taste of Siksta's Grace. Can't take the whole camp, but..." Rhari helped Bard towards the door to the small cottage.

He leaned on the smaller hawk more than he should have, "Does the Guard know?"

"They will once we tell them. My priority was to get you out first."

"So you do care."

"I don't want anyone to kill you before I can skin you alive myself." Rhari peered outside, "Making me late for a meeting with the Lady. Getting me drunk, bedding me, and leaving in the morning? It looks clear."

Bard tried to smile, but it was hard when he was hobbling so, "You needed a chance to unwind. You enjoyed it as much as I did." Rhari's horse was waiting in the shadows of the cottage. A dappled gray hunter. Sleek, muscled, with bright, intelligent eyes. It watched Bard dubiously as he limped towards it.

A huff, "Neither the time nor the place." Sharp eyes scanned the area around them, "Can you mount?"

"With some help, he admitted, "probably."

Rhari spared him a look, "Not going to drop dead on me, are you?"

"Nah, I'll be fine," came the lie.

Rhari was quick and efficient. Getting Bard up onto the back of the hunter without much struggle. Though he did chide the canine, "Slide back onto the pillion."

"Oh sure, make me ride bitch." He tried to joke, but winced with pain as he slid off the saddle.

The hawk easily vaulted into the seat, "Unless you know where we're going. Just stay low and duck when I start shooting."

Bard winced, but did as he was told, making himself as small as possible. Leaning forward and grabbing the back of the saddle. He wanted to cling to Rhari, but the hawk was already drawing his bow. The strange, antler-like metal shifting and writhing as it altered itself. First going to a long bow, then thickening and growing shorter. He could feel the hum of magics as the hawk drew on that invisible string and spurred the horse into motion.

Their escape was a blur. Rhari twisted and turned in the saddle. Only loosing a mage bolt when needed. The horse was quick, quiet, and clever. It's form stretching out low as it leapt away and practically flew across the ground. Bard, too used to his late Rose and her easy gait, had to cling to the saddle.

In what seemed like an instant, Rhari dropped to the saddle proper and leaned forward. "Hold onto me!" Bard gladly grabbed his friend's waist and leaned forward. Ears tucking flat as the wind whipped around them. He caught Rhari reaching into a pocket and pulling out a square of paper. Could barely see the coded message there. Though he recognized the whispered word of awakening. The paper already folding itself into a bird shape as Rhari threw it into the woods. A message to the nearest Guard post no doubt. No matter how fast the horse, that bird would give the Guard ample warning.

Except Rhari didn't seem to be heading for a road. He drove deeper into the woods. That hunter of his picking its way through the game trails and plowing through brush and creek alike.

"Where are we going?" he called against the wind.

Rhari twisted, "To a friend."

He knew that was going to be all he'd get from the hawk. So he just hung on and waited. Not that he had to wait too long before the hunter skidded to a halt and Rhari practically launched himself from the saddle. Bard barely had time to sit up before the hawk was banging on a cottage door. "Come on you old hermit... wake up."

Candle light came from a window. Slow creak of heavy steps on wood, "Hold on... who in the blazes could it be at this hour..." An ancient looking ox cracked the door and blinked at them, "Why, it's a pair of lostlings out in the cold. No need to go busting my door down to ask for help. Don't sleep as well anymore. How can I help ye?"

Rhari took a breath and ruffled, "Apologies for the noise, but we could use somewhere safe to stay tonight. My friend has been hurt."

The ox's eyes looked past Rhari and to Bard, "One hell of a bush he fell into, eh? Lost all his clothes while he was at it." He wheezed a laugh, "Not one to judge. Why once I got into the wild weed, found myself twenty miles from home, no pants, and a rather interesting brand on my," he twisted to point at a haunch, "unmentionables."

Bard started to dismount, "On your arse? Why that sounds like a story I'd like to hear." The world tilted sideways and he started to fall.

Only for a pair of strong arms to grab him, "Now I said unmentionables. Which means don't mention it." The ox winked playfully. He settled the collie onto the ground and helped him into the room. "Grab what you need."

Rhari was already shouldering packs and following them in. The inside of the cottage was nothing too special. Why Bard was certain he saw the entire thing from the doorway. A central fire pit burned low, barely more than embers. Herbs, game, and who knew what else hung from the rafters. A bed sat against one wall. A table another. Bard's eye caught movement and he stifled a yelp. Though the noise made Rhari jump and look about.

"No need to be alarmed, Pup. Just a mirror."

It was exactly as stated. A simple mirror made of highly polished metal. No more than a foot across, but slightly domed. It cast the room back at them as the trio entered the cabin. Bard winced as he got a look at his own body.

"Sorry," Bard tried to laugh, "I've had a rough couple days." He looked around the cottage.

A heavy hand fell on his shoulder, "No need to worry, Pup. If ye be wondering where yer going to stay, it's right there." He pointed towards the reflection of the bed.

Before Bard could ask what he meant, the collie felt the world lurch around him. The cabin rippled and rolled as something unseen washed over him. He glanced around and nearly fell over. "What..." his voice echoed back at him, strangely distorted. The room seemed distorted as well. The rough hewn wood having a new wave to it. Only Rhari seemed normal. The hawk already making for the bed and putting his packs down.

"Little trick of mine," the ox's voice came, strangely distant now. Bard looked and saw the older hermit standing in the mirror. Except it looked like a window now. A clear spot in the strangely rippled room. "It'll keep you two safe, so long as you don't make too much noise. Now, I'll stable your horse and get you a poultice for your friend."

Rhari breathed a sigh, "Thank you, Hermit. I hate to rush in like this, but..." The hawk glanced at Bard, who was unsteady on his feet.

"Pah, I know how these things are. No need to worry your feathers."

Bard sank against a wall. Rhari quickly coming over, "Come on, let's get you into bed."

"Magical mirror cabins? How come I don't know about this?" He could feel the darkness throbbing at the edge of his consciousness. Knew he had to keep himself awake.

"Well you would," Rhari helped him to the bed and started to strip those bandages, "if you were less concerned about the best inns, and focused on allies instead."

Bard grinned a bit as he lay back, "Well, you know me."

"Barely."

That made him blink. "You know me better than most everyone, Rhari." Bard winced as the hawk touched his wound. "Shame I don't know you." He watched as the hunter started soaking the wound. Only stopping when the ox appeared at the mirror/window and tapped. He held up a wooden bowl and made to set it on the table. Only to have it appear on their side of the mirror. Another joining the first.

Rhari retrieved the medicines. A pungent, if floral, smelling paste. "You know all about me you care to know."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Silence as the hawk stirred the paste. "You've never expressed any interest in me beyond how to get into my pants. You ask about the travels, the kingdom, new songs, everything in my orbit. Never me." He slapped a hearty glob of poultice on the wound. Bard arching to hiss through clenched teeth. "It's going to sting."

"Aayyyyye ask about you all the time." Bard huffed and shook. He was on the verge of passing out. He needed the rest, but what had been a driving need to stay awake had now become stubborn anger. That low, burning coals of anger that woke him up a little. He mimed his own happy tone, "Rhari, what a pleasant sight! How are you? Tell me everything about yourself. Ah, my ear! Sound familiar?"

Beak chattered in annoyance, "That? That's just you bantering. Same as when you chat up those..."

"Very lovely women." Bard felt his eyes drifting closed and laid back on the bedding. "All of whom want a little excitement and fantasy. Want to dance the dance with someone who flatters them and compliments every aspect of them. Someone I'd woo, bed, and move on. Not spend hours talking with over wine."

"And then bed."

Bard huffed, shivered, "That... that is a bonus." He was feeling hot, and not in the good way. "Rhari, tell me about yourself. Talk to me. Just something to keep me going." He held back a cough, "I don't feel so good."

Water sloshed, then was wrung from a cloth. The warm, moist scent of herbs filled the air, "What do you want to know?"

"Anything. Why you are... you."

Silence. Then a knock at the wall, "Shh. Torches coming up the path. They shouldn't notice you two, but they could still hear. I'll try to turn them off. Just an herbalist as far as they know."

Bard cursed his luck, ears straining as he heard banging at the door. The noises metallic and distant. Rhari kept working, using his body to block what his hands were doing. Bard could feel the warm, herby water as it washed his fur slowly. Low voices outside. The ox's slow, accented mumbling. Harder questions shot back. Innocent, good natured banter.

"I was barely a fledgling." The words were soft, hardly more than a whisper. Certainly so quiet they wouldn't carry to the mirror. Even then Bard held his breath as Rhari shifted, using his form to muffle the sounds further. "Still had pinfeathers when bandits attacked. We weren't much. A little farm at the edge of the kingdom. Enough to get by. Help the neighbors. Pay our dues to some far off Queen none of us had ever seen. It hadn't been a good year. Harsh winter, dry summer, but we had enough harvest. Plus mom was a great hunter. Knew how to track, find forage, fish. Enough that bandits found our larder too tempting."

A thud from the other room. Bard peered and saw the distorted images of bandits moving through the cottage. All while the ox watched with mild annoyance.

Rhari trembled as the sound of their rummaging stirred something. His voice dropped even lower. "Father and I were the only ones home. He hid me in the root cellar. Threw some of my brother's clothes at me. Told me to change because if they found me..."

The hawk swallowed and bard felt something hit his hand. Something warm and wet. "They decided to wait, see what else they could get when my mother and siblings came home. I lay in that cellar and listened to them as they..." Rhari bit off what he was going to say with a stiffed noise. Something the Ox hid with a loud burst of his own coughing.

Silence fell, broken only by Rhari idly dipping the cloth into the water and the bandits continuing their search. It was only when they left that the hawk spoke again. "I wanted to do something, but couldn't. I was too afraid to even breathe sometimes. It was days before the Guard rode in. Longer before someone found me. They figured me for a boy. Orphan of the state. Figured I could either go with relatives or go into the Guard." Rhari snorted quietly, "I chose the Guard. I didn't want to be helpless or afraid again. Didn't want anyone else to feel like that."

Bard felt something welling up inside him. That fear and pain writhed in his own gut only to be tamped down. He had to keep up that practiced mask. "I had always wondered why..." He trailed off for a moment, "Well, figured if you wanted to live like a male, that's none of my business."

Rhari stiffened a little, "You knew that I'm..."

"Please," he grinned, "I've been with enough avians to know the difference. That's just biology, you're you, and you're still my best friend, Rhari."

A sniff, "I'm your best friend? That's kind of sad."

"Who else would ride into a bandit camp and save my sorry ass?"

Rhari smiled a bit and shook his head, "I'm not going to make a habit of it. Sit up, I need to put on some fresh bandages." Bard winced and got up slowly, huffing as the hawk started to wrap his wounds. Rhari glanced over his shoulder as a something shuffled past the mirror. It was the Hermit, giving them the all clear sign. Rhari nodded, then watched as the old ox snuffed the candle and took to his bed. "Are you... okay?"

"Yeah, why wouldn't I be?" Bard grinned in the darkness.

Then he took a breath. A slow, shuddering breath that shook through him.

"Hey, Rhari?" It was harder to take the next breath as his mask began to crack.

The hawk breathed a questioning noise.

"I'm... not... okay..."

His next breath broke the mask and Bard fell back into the bed with a sob. His entire body shaking as the last few days all caught up to him in a rush. Rhari cooed gently and rubbed his head. Drawing closer once the collie reached for him. Giving him a feathered chest to sob into and arms to hold him tight. That dangerously hooked beak proving to be rather gentle as Rhari combed it through the messy hair.

Best friend, huh?

No.

Friend didn't quite cut it for what they were for each other. Lover wasn't right either. Hells, there might not even be a word for what they were to each other. Not that it mattered. Bard would be okay. Rhari would see to that.