A Measure of Love
Here's the long awaited sequel to "A Measure of Worth"! There are some elements of this story that won't make sense if you haven't read "A Measure of Worth" so I highly recommend that you read that one before perusing this one.
I hope you all enjoy it!
The morning sun warmed Virgil's shoulder through his fur as the hare stirred on a soft bed cushion. The large, feline arm around him pulled Virgil tightly against a furry chest. Marcus breathed evenly next to the hare's ear. Virgil wasn't sure if the lion was still sleeping or not, but he liked the feeling of Marcus's embrace. He kept his eyes closed, nuzzling his head back into his lover. Virgil had been living with the lion for almost a month and he couldn't believe how fast time had flown by. The hare's father had been appalled at first; especially since Marcus was a former general. With his father's military history, it was a surprise that he and Marcus had never met before. However, when Marcus explained that Virgil would not be joining the military under his care and his father had seen the extremely generous gifts that the lion was willing to bestow on the family for taking away a capable young man, the older hare's mind was swiftly changed. Virgil couldn't help but be a little offended at how fast his parents switched their opinions of his leaving. Money was money, though he supposed. Such a thing was not uncommon in the city either. Boys were often "bought" into apprenticeship if their skills were good enough. Virgil just wished that Marcus could have simply told his family the truth. It would have been better than making him feel like a commodity. The older lion purred behind him, gripping the hare closer and Virgil's cheeks grew hot. Well, at least Marcus made him feel like he was worth something. Virgil finally opened his eyes and yawned, blinking at the dappled sunlight that filtered through the linen blinds of Marcus's windows. The young hare still couldn't believe that he was living in such a luxurious place. At least it felt luxurious to him. His family's home had been little more than a hole in the wall, after all. The floor of the lion's room was polished stone, Virgil had no idea what kind, and the bed they laid in was beautifully carved from some kind of hardwood. Virgil yawned again and rolled over in the lion's grip to nuzzle at Marcus's strong chest. In response the large feline rumbled and licked the hare's head. Virgil's cheeks grew warmer from the lion's affection and his loins began to stir. A grin spread across the hare's face as he slid his hand down between their bodies to grip the lion's ample endowment. Marcus bumped his nose into Virgil's head and groaned softly as the hare began to stroke the feline's swiftly growing member. The lion hissed in Virgil's ear as his meat throbbed. "Frisky this morning, are we?" Marcus whispered. "Can you blame me? I can't help it when I'm near you," Virgil said, licking the lion softly. Marcus abruptly pulled away from him, though, sitting up and rolling his legs out of the bed. The feline pulled a clean, red chiton (a Roman tunic) over his head. "What's wrong?" Virgil asked; ears drooping as he too sat up. "This morning is important," Marcus replied as he tied a brown cord belt around his waist. "The Egyptian dignitary will be arriving around noon. The entire villa must be presentable for him by then." Politics; of course. Virgil had completely forgotten about the Egyptian's visit. Marcus had told him that the dignitary was less of a politician and more of a respected and powerful merchant. However, his visit was extremely important and would be beneficial to the entire Roman Empire. Virgil yawned again at the boring thoughts of politics. "Come on, get dressed. There is much to do today," the lion said. "Not for me..." the hare grumbled, but he slid out of the bed and put on an off-white chiton of his own nonetheless. The two lovers left Marcus's room and stepped out into the walled garden of the villa. It was one of Virgil's favorite places to relax when Marcus was working. Among the flowers and other plants in the garden, he felt free from the city, similar to how he felt when soaking in the baths. But there was no time to stop and meditate with nature today. The two marched from the garden into the dining room and took their respective seats on the couches across the table from each other. Like the bedroom, furniture in the villa was made of carved wood. The table was light-weight and had folding legs so that it could be stored when not being used. The outside benches were all stone and were undecorated. Virgil stifled a yawn as the lion's servants brought out their breakfast. It was lettuce and mixed nuts for the hare and eggs for Marcus as usual. Virgil's differing diet hadn't been too much of a change for the chef to handle, though it had been an initial worry of the hare's. Marcus didn't seem fazed at having to eat vegetables, but Virgil knew that they weren't his favorite. Virgil hated feeling like a burden. Once breakfast had ended, Marcus brought all of his house servants into the dining room to make morning announcements. This was a daily tradition in the household and it served to remind each servant of their duties for that day and to prepare them for any guests that might be arriving. Marcus had been telling them about the Egyptian visitor for almost four days already so this morning's meeting was more for posterity than for necessity. "Is one of the guest rooms prepared?" Marcus asked. "Of course, sir," Fabian, the leopard head servant, replied. He was largely in charge of Marcus's affairs around the house. He also did much to keep the other servants in check even though Marcus was a very laidback master. Virgil didn't think Fabian would ever use Marcus's name. The leopard was too accustomed to using the lion's various titles instead. "And what of his diet?" Marcus continued. "I have planned all meals according to your wishes, Marcus," Brutus, the ursine chef, replied. "We have several pounds of meats of differing varieties salting in the kitchen as we speak. I am also preparing a vegetable stew, which should be sufficient for the young master. Supper will consist of a stuffed roast for you and our guest as well as a large salad for Virgil." "Excellent," Marcus said. "A final note, before we begin preparations. The entire villa must be cleaned before our guest arrives. You all know how particular he can be." They knew? Virgil wondered if the Egyptian was a frequent visitor. All of the servants nodded in near unison and Virgil watched as they scurried away to perform their various tasks around the villa. Marcus calmly sat across the table, sipping some water. "Marcus?" Virgil asked. "Are you going to tell me who this dignitary is? Everyone else seems to know him already." The lion smiled. "Of course they know him. He comes to my villa every few months on what he calls, 'hospitality visits.' It's his way of keeping tabs on our city's economy and it gives him an opportunity to relax away from home for a while." "But... who is he? All you've told me is that he's a merchant." "He is the one of the most powerful merchants in Egypt. He owns several caravans that regularly ship goods into the empire. All you really have to know is that his good faith is extremely important and we can't risk upsetting him." Virgil reluctantly nodded; that much information would have to do for now. He had no idea why Marcus seemed so reluctant to share the Egyptian's name or even his species with him, but when the lion decided something, it was usually very difficult to change his mind. "So what can I do to help prepare for his arrival?" Virgil asked. "Since most of the servants will be cleaning the rest of the villa, I would appreciate it if you would tidy up our room," Marcus replied as he stood up from the table. "That seems silly," Virgil said. "Will he even see our room?" "You never know," Marcus said as he strode off towards his personal study. Those words left an uneasy feeling in Virgil's stomach. What did Marcus mean? Fabian had said there was a guest room prepared so why would the Egyptian see their bedroom? Virgil felt jealousy suddenly grip him like a vise, making his stomach churn. He told himself that he didn't even know this merchant and that being jealous over a stranger was foolish. Virgil left the dining room and crossed the garden once again. When he entered the bed room, he realized that there wasn't much at all that needed cleaning. He straightened the cushion on the bed and draped a decorative linen blanket over it. The rest of the room received a cursory sweep that wasn't especially necessary, but Virgil thought it would be better to make sure the room was spotless even if it didn't look dirty. When the hare had finished straightening what little furniture was in the room and opened the linen blinds to let the sunlight in, he walked to the door to assess his handiwork. Satisfied, he left the room to check the sun dial in the garden. It was almost noon when he looked. Perhaps he could get a glimpse of this merchant from the entry hall when he arrived. Virgil left the garden and entered the hall as a knock came from the wooden door. There were no servants present in the hall to answer it for whoever it was. Another knock sounded; this one louder and more insistent than the first. Virgil gulped and opened the door. A short, chubby toad stood on the stoop of the villa flanked by two wolves who wore the typical gold and blue attire of senatorial guards. The toad had a fine linen toga wrapped around him, but his brown-colored, fatty skin was spilling over the folds in some places. His dark brown eyes glared at Virgil with obvious contempt. This was no Egyptian. "I was wondering if the door would ever be answered," he said in a voice that was higher in pitch than Virgil was expecting. "I-I'm sorry, sir. How can I-" Virgil began. "You will address Senator Livius by his full title," one of the wolves tiredly interrupted. "Of course, my apologies, Senator," Virgil said. He was about to try asking what the toad wanted again when the senator turned to one of his guards instead. "Are all of the former general's servants so inept?" the toad asked. The guard stayed silent. Virgil felt anger swelling in the pit of his stomach, but he held it back. "I'm not a servant, senator," he said. "Is that so? I was unaware that the general entertained the company of young boys," the toad said. "Tell me, does Marcus take advantage of all of your assets or does he merely force you to play his flute?" Virgil felt his cheeks and ears growing hot. "H-he doesn't force me to do anything," Virgil said. "So you let him use your body willingly. How delightfully scandalous," Livius sneered, his round eyes narrowing to slits. The toad's hateful tone and insults made Virgil's stomach knot with anger, but thankfully, Fabian came to his rescue at the door. "What do you want, senator?" the leopard servant asked as Virgil moved out of the doorway to let him take over. "I was hoping to meet our esteemed guest from Egypt. Has he not arrived?" Livius's tone returned to semi-formal, though there was still hostility badly hidden behind his words. "He was not planning on arriving for another hour," Fabian lied coolly. "Pity. It seems I will have to return later if my schedule permits it," the toad replied. "I wanted to speak with him about a possible trade agreement." "He already trades goods with Rome on a regular basis. Are his current goods not enough for your... tastes?" Fabian asked. Virgil was amazed at how calm the leopard could be in the face of the toad's animosity. The senator scoffed. "I do not have to explain myself to you, whelp," the toad said. "It is a shame that Atum chooses this hovel over the lavish guest rooms at the Imperial Palace. Speaking with him would be much easier there and the servants more proper and dignified." So Atum was the Egyptian's name. At least Virgil now knew that much. "As I said, you will have to return later to speak with him. When he arrives, I am sure he will want to rest before talking business," Fabian said. "I can't guarantee that he will want to speak with the likes of you, however." The senator was silent for a while, glaring at the thin leopard in the doorway. "Very well," Livius said with ice in his voice. "I will return tomorrow when our guest has had plenty of rest; even if it means dealing with such unruly slaves." "We are not slaves, Senator," Fabian said. "We work for Marcus voluntarily. It's a shame that the only way you can find servants is to enslave them. Maybe if you didn't treat them like garbage, people would actually want to serve you." Livius looked appalled. "How dare you speak to me that way!" He shrieked. "This is not the Senate floor, Livius," Fabian said with as much stoicism as he could muster. "No one has to treat you like The Emperor here." The toad fumed and tried to retort, but the rest of Livius's words were lost in sputtering speechlessness. He turned on his heel, stomping down the cobblestone path that led to the main road from Marcus's front door. Fabian and Virgil both watched as the senator waddled angrily away. The guards followed suit, though they now walked more proudly than when they arrived. One of them looked back and nodded curtly to Fabian with a slight smile. "Well thank goodness he left," the leopard said. "What was that all about?" Virgil asked. "Never you mind," Fabian replied. "What were you thinking, answering the door like a common servant?" "I... just thought it would be helpful..." Fabian smiled. "Please, don't worry yourself over our duties. Livius is slime, that much is true, but even one that slimy can be cunning," Fabian said. "Thankfully, you didn't reveal too much about our affairs here." "How could I?" Virgil asked. "No one has told me anything!" "Please believe me when I say that it's for your own good, Young Master." Virgil frowned. He doubted he would ever get used to Marcus's servants calling him that. He decided not to tell Fabian about the senator's earlier underhanded comments. The hare doubted that telling the leopard would make a difference, but the sting of the toad's words still rolled around in his gut. He hoped that he hadn't told Livius too much about Marcus's personal life. "Why hasn't this 'Atum' arrived yet?" Virgil asked. "Who knows? He probably enjoys taking his time. Or maybe he knew the senator would try to intercept him before his arrival." Following Livius's unwelcome visit, Virgil was sent to the kitchen to see if Brutus needed any assistance preparing the mid-day meal. Cooking was one of the hare's favorite things to do around the villa. As was often the case, the meal was practically ready by the time Virgil arrived. It was relatively sparse, but such was the custom in Rome. The kitchen itself wasn't even that large compared to the rest of the rooms in Marcus's villa. The floor was earth instead of tile mosaics, which meant it didn't have to be cleaned as often. A stove that stood only four feet tall was built into the far wall. Two clay pots, one small and the other large, steamed on top and Brutus was kneeling in front of it as he added a few logs to the crackling fire underneath. Virgil cleared his throat to get the large bruin's attention. "Hello, Young Master," the bear said cheerily in his deep voice. "What brings you to my humble kitchen?" "Fabian said I should ask if you need help," Virgil told him. "Excellent. The water just started boiling for the stews so if you would be so kind as to prepare some of the vegetables, I would greatly appreciate it." Under the ursine chef's instruction, Virgil chopped up several carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. For his own, smaller stew, the hare took it upon himself to gather some broccoli and asparagus as well. He watched as Brutus tossed several kinds of meat into the larger pot and added the potatoes, mushrooms, some shelled snails, lentils, and a number of spices that Virgil didn't recognize. The brown bear was one of the more attractive staff members that Marcus employed. Virgil admired his rotund, but muscular figure. However, the hare was sure that Brutus was married and Virgil would have never betrayed Marcus's trust by attempting to bed his chef. Still, if he had met the bear first and things had been different... He mentally slapped himself for thinking about Brutus in that way and concentrated on his cooking, pouring in the same ingredients Brutus had, minus the meat, spices, and snails. The hare also added the broccoli and asparagus, topping the dish with oregano and rosemary. "That looks and smells delicious," the bear said next to him. "Uh...thanks," Virgil replied. "I just copied you, to be honest..." "Ha! Good lad," the ursine said with a large grin. "Imitation is one of the easiest and best ways to learn!" Virgil smiled. "Brutus, do you think it's strange that Marcus took me in?" The bear shrugged as he stirred the larger clay pot. "Don't forget to keep stirring," Brutus replied. "It isn't that odd. Though, I was slightly surprised to learn that the master was not planning to train you with a blade. But I don't profess to know the master's mind and you should not either." Virgil nodded. At least the bear's words were a little comfort after Livius had been so insulting. Marcus stuck his head through the doorway of the kitchen. "There is still no sign of the dignitary, Brutus," He said. "Virgil, if you could bring the stew into the dining room, we will eat without him." The young hare nodded and poured the meal into a clay bowl for himself. "What a shame," Brutus said. "Though not at all surprising for Marcus's merchant friend." The bear ladled the meat filled soup into another bowl and handed it to Virgil. "What's he like anyway?" The hare asked. "Good natured would be the best way to describe him I think. He is a lover of many things," Brutus tried to hide a small smile. Virgil was about to ask what the bear meant, but Marcus called his name from the dining room. He hurried out with the two bowls and Brutus was quick behind him with two cups of water for each. The meal was swift, being only stew, and Virgil found that he had more questions in his head about Atum than before he had helped cook. But he figured that meeting the merchant would answer many of them. There was not much to be done around the villa after the noon hour had come and passed. It was clear that Atum was very late, but Marcus and his servants didn't seem too worried about it. With nothing to do, Virgil found himself in the garden again. He sat on one of the stone benches, looking up at the blue sky above. The cool breeze that drifted through the open garden and fluffed Virgil's hair slightly calmed his nerves. He had no reason to be so nervous about meeting the merchant, but he still was. There was something in the way Marcus and Brutus talked about him... It didn't help that, in spite of Marcus's caring for him, he still felt alone in the villa at times. The sound of someone walking through the garden nearby broke Virgil from his reverie. Marcus came into view around one of the small trees and glanced down at the young hare. Virgil looked up at his handsome lion expectantly. "I suspected you would be here," Marcus said as he took a seat beside the young hare. Virgil just turned away from him, looking at the flowers next to his long feet. "Hey, what's wrong, Virgil?" The older lion asked. "I... nothing," Virgil said. "You're a bad liar," Marcus replied. "It's about the Egyptian, isn't it?" "You mean 'Atum'," Virgil said, turning back to glance at the lion's face. Marcus didn't miss a beat when Virgil said the name, though the hare could have sworn he saw the slightest hint of a frown at the corners of the lion's mouth. What was he trying to hide? "Since he hasn't arrived yet, I bet we could kill some time," Marcus said. Virgil watched Marcus reach into his chiton and pull his member from under the folds. One of the lion's large hands was wrapped tightly around it. Virgil blushed hotly at the sight, turning his head to avoid looking at Marcus entirely. "I thought you'd be up for this," the lion chuckled. "You were ready to go this morning." Marcus stood, moving to stand in front of the young hare, his long, thick shaft inches from Virgil's nose. The hare gulped and sniffed it, Marcus's heavenly scent permeating his olfactory sense. Virgil started to pant as he felt his own erection growing under his tunic. "We can't... do this here," Virgil murmured, eyes fixed to the throbbing length before him. "People will see..." "Who will see?" Marcus asked. "The servants don't know we're here. They are all busy elsewhere." Butterflies fluttered in Virgil's stomach as the musky, delicious lion smell filled his nostrils. He licked his lips and took the head of Marcus's length into his mouth, rubbing his tongue against the foreskin protecting it. The older feline panted above him and groaned softly. A cool breeze ruffled their fur and chitons as Virgil took his own shaft in his hand and began stroking it. His hand moved in time with his slowly bobbing head while his soft tongue dipped under Marcus's foreskin, playing around the feline's tip. "Oh, Virgil...!" Marcus cooed above him in between pleasured gasps. The feline gripped Virgil's head, holding it in place while his powerful hips firmly thrust the thick phallus in and out of his hot, velvety mouth. The young hare let Marcus do what he wanted, bringing a hand up to cup and squeeze the lion's heavy orbs. He moaned around the throbbing member in his mouth, panting through his nose when the thick head wasn't bumping against the back of his throat. Marcus growled as he pulled the hare's head tight to his groin, burying Virgil's nose in his thick, musky crotch fur. Virgil gulped around the lion's shaft as it pulsed in his throat, unable to smell anything else but the older lion's masculine scent when he was able to pull away. Virgil remembered gagging when Marcus had tried that the first few times, but now it was almost easy. The hare did still cough a bit through his nose and Marcus let him catch his breath before Virgil continued slowly sucking his lover's dripping lionhood. Marcus's pre-fluid was so delicious to the hare. He gulped the salty liquid down eagerly as the lion's panting grew faster. Virgil dipped his head lower on the shaft, bumping his nose into Marcus's groin with each push and letting the oozing head of his lionhood into his throat for a swallow before pulling back. He knew it drove Marcus crazy when he did that and Virgil would shortly be rewarded for it. The young hare pumped his own throbbing shaft in his hand, tugging on the lion's orbs eagerly. As the hare's lips gripped the base of the lion's member, Marcus groaned and put one hand on Virgil's head. The shaft in the hare's throat erupted, spurting thick, sticky lion seed right into his belly. Virgil pulled back, letting Marcus's delicious essence fill his mouth as he blushed hotly and panted through his nose. His own juice fired from his length, splattering on the soil between Marcus's feet. Virgil gulped once and then again as the older lion above him shuddered with the last of his climax. The hare licked the sensitive head of the lionhood and sucked out the last few drops. Marcus rubbed Virgil's head and grinned down at him before lifting him into a tender hug as the two softly panted in the wonderful after glow. "I will always love you, Virgil," Marcus said suddenly. "Do you understand?" Virgil frowned. "Does Marcus force you to play his flute?" Senator Livius's voice rang clearly in his mind, making the aftertaste grow bitter in Virgil's mouth. "Marcus... Why am I here?" The hare asked. "Because I care for you," the lion replied, setting Virgil back down on the earthen floor. "You mean, because you want me to be here." "Of course I want you to be here," Marcus said. "Why wouldn't I want the one I love to live with me?" Virgil shrugged in response. "I need to..." the hare faltered. "Marcus, I need to know that I'm not just another one of your possessions..." Virgil regretted those words as soon as they left his lips. The lion's features turned to stone before his eyes, Marcus glaring down at him as if Virgil had just stabbed his very soul. The hare dropped his eyes quickly to the ground. "How dare you suggest that?" Marcus hissed through clenched teeth, his voice becoming louder with each phrase. "After all I've done for you! I treat you like a prince! Are you not the only one I spend time with? Do we not share a bed!?" "I... I'm sorry, Marcus... It's just-" Virgil said, trying in vain to take back his words. "No, Virgil," Marcus interrupted, his growling voice softening. "I took you in because you are someone I love, and because you needed help. If you are not willing to see yourself as anything but my possession than maybe I was wrong and maybe there is nothing I can do to help you." Water flooded the young hare's eyes. He didn't want to upset Marcus. He loved the lion with all of his heart. Gods, why was he so stupid sometimes? Marcus pulled him into another embrace. "Forgive me for becoming cross with you, Virgil," the lion whispered into his ear. "I realize how difficult it must have been to leave your family so suddenly. Let us put this unpleasantness behind us for now. It would not do to let our guest see our troubles." Virgil nodded, wiping the tears from his eyes with the cloth of his chiton. "Forgive me, Marcus, for being so foolish," the young hare whimpered. He was relieved when Marcus smiled. "I do. For now, there are other things I must attend to before Atum arrives. It might be best to put on a clean chiton for supper. It will be served in one hour." Virgil hadn't realized how late it had become, but the sun hung low in the sky, turning the flowers in the garden orange and proving how much time the hare had lost. He hurried to do as Marcus said before supper was served. Maybe their esteemed guest would arrive before they actually ate. On his way back through the garden from changing in their bedroom, the sound of loud, boisterous talking floated by from the dining room. Virgil recognized Marcus's voice, but the other must have belonged to the Egyptian. When the young hare entered, Marcus was standing behind his usual place around the table and one of the largest crocodiles Virgil had ever seen stood at the head. The reptile stood a full head taller than Marcus, making him a giant compared to the hare. He wore folded, linen robes that were much more transparent than anything a Roman would wear. It left very little to the imagination and the young hare struggled to control his libido at the sight. Dark green scales covered the croc's large arms and shoulders as well as the top of his head. The color shifted to a lighter shade of green on his lower jaw and underarms. A gold necklace sat around the reptile's thick neck with a large, dark blue stone embedded in the center. "Virgil," Marcus said as he noticed the hare gazing at the Egyptian. "This is Atum of the East Nile. Virgil is my young charge." "Ah! You finally found yourself an acceptable apprentice, then," Atum exclaimed in a jovial, baritone voice. "Well... yes, you could say that..." Marcus floundered. Virgil let his eyes casually wander South on the croc's body, noticing his light green gut first, which looked rather out of place on the rest of his spectacularly built physique; a sign of the croc's wealthy diet perhaps. The many folds in the cloth obscured Atum's groin from view, but Virgil's stomach butterflies flitted about eagerly from noticing the ample shape the linen folds tried to hide. Standing only a few feet from the croc, Virgil could smell him. A sweet, floral scent mostly covered the reptile's overtly masculine smell. The mixture was enticing and foreign. The perfume must have been an Egyptian thing. Atum's fingers sported golden rings on almost all except for two, his left small finger and the ring finger on his right hand. His powerful legs had lighter green scales on his inner thighs that stopped before reaching his knees and his feet were clad in simple leather sandals. Virgil couldn't help but wonder what the croc's scales would feel like rubbing up against him and if those scales did indeed cover all of his... parts... Marcus loudly cleared his throat. "Virgil, it isn't polite to stare," the lion said. Heat assailed his ears and cheeks as the young hare turned away quickly in embarrassment. "I uh... I'm sorry," he stammered. "I've just... never seen a... person like you before... uh, sir." Atum laughed as he sat on the couch in front of him. Marcus and Virgil quickly followed suit as it was customary to allow the guest to sit first. Once the table covered up the crocodile's lower half, Virgil realized with even more embarrassment that he hadn't even looked at Atum's face. The crocodile's amber eyes, surrounded by typical, black, Egyptian eyeliner twinkled with mirth as he glanced at Virgil from the head of the table. "I know there are not many crocodiles in Rome," he said in his deep, almost sing-song voice. "I must look very odd to you." He spoke Latin very well. Virgil could only barely make out the Egyptian accent in his words and he would have assumed that Atum was just another Roman if he had been dressed like one. "No, not odd..." Virgil said. "Forgive me if I offended you." Atum grinned, showing a set of very sharp teeth. Virgil gulped, the sight stirring a primal nervousness in him. His breath quickened and his stomach began to knot. He swallowed the fear, forcing it down within him so he could talk normally without looking a fool. There was no way Marcus would let anything happen to him, right? "When one travels as much as I, one becomes accustomed to strange looks," he replied. "But that aside, it is nice to finally meet Marcus's apprentice. Tell me, what are you learning under the general's care, young Roman?" Virgil looked from the burly croc to the handsome lion, but when Marcus didn't give him a clue about what to say, he decided to just improvise. "Well... I'm learning many things... like history, cooking, and a little politics." "Oh? I'm surprised swordsmanship is not on that list," Atum mused. "It was a condition of the boy's acquisition," Marcus cut in. "His family would only agree to the apprenticeship if I didn't teach him to fight." "Is that so?" "Yes," Virgil said. "My father was in Emperor Trajan's military and barely made it through the wars alive. He doesn't want my life endangered in the same way." Atum smiled. "There is little fun in life if it isn't at least a little bit dangerous," the croc said smoothly. "Now, don't go giving Virgil any ideas," Marcus chided. "Besides, our meal is about to arrive." "Most excellent! Tell me, what are we feasting upon today?" Atum said with obvious glee in his voice. "A stuffed roast if I remember correctly," Marcus said, smiling. "Delectably delicious, no doubt. Brutus was never one to skimp on luxury." As Atum made his prediction, the ursine chef and Fabian came in from the kitchen with the meal. Brutus placed the roast in front of the two carnivores and Fabian gave Virgil an absolutely enormous salad. The bear grinned at the croc as he lifted a large knife. "I affectionately call this dish, 'Roasted Surprise,'" The bear said as he cut the meat open. Atum's eyes widened with glee as large chunks of meat, bread, and even a few vegetables spilled out onto the serving dish from Brutus's incision. Virgil could have sworn that he heard the croc's stomach rumbling from anticipation. "Brutus, you have completely outdone yourself!" Atum said excitedly, placing a gentle hand on the bear's round belly. Brutus blushed, stepping around the crocodile to remove the hand and serve the meal. With his cheeks and ears still slightly reddened, he scooped some of the filling and several slices of the roasted meat onto clay plates and handed them to Marcus and Atum. "Please, enjoy, Masters," the bear said before ducking back into the kitchen. Marcus lifted his cup of wine. "To old and dear friends," he said. Atum and Virgil nodded as they lifted their cups and repeated the sentiment. All three dug into their meals immediately after the short toast. There was little time for chatting when the food was in front of them. Virgil marveled at the Croc's ability to fit so much of it in his mouth at once, but it was probably because of the reptile's long snout. Atum devoured three whole plates of the roast and filling, washing it down with several full cups of wine. Marcus only ate one and a half helpings and Virgil was barely able to finish his own salad. As they had been eating and the light from outside faded to darkness, Fabian came in and lit the oil lamps around the room. The dim light threw dancing shadows over the dining hall, making their faces look almost otherworldly. When the plates were more than clean, two different servants that Virgil recognized, but couldn't name swiftly took them and folded the table. Atum reclined on the couch once the table was removed, patting his belly with satisfaction as he continued sipping his latest cup of wine. Virgil noticed the folds of his robe shifting with the croc's body and caught a short glimpse of Atum's lighter green crotch scales. When he glanced up, the croc was looking at him and smiling with a slightly drunk look on his face. The young hare's heart raced in his chest, but he tried his best to not show it, looking over at Marcus instead. "Marcus," Atum said. "Brutus has become an excellent cook. I rescind the criticism I had when you first acquired him." Marcus laughed. "He certainly has. But I think he would prefer to hear your praise in person, don't you?" "Oh, make no mistake," the croc said, grinning. "I intend to fully show him my appreciation before I leave." The tone of Atum's voice and the insinuation of his speech made Virgil's mind whirl with decadent thoughts of the crocodile and bear. He felt his crotch start to stiffen, but quickly forced himself to think of something else before it became too noticeable. "So tell me, my friend. What brings you to our fair city this time?" Marcus asked. "Your letter was very vague." Atum shifted his gaze from Virgil to Marcus when he replied, letting the young hare calm down. "Oh you know," he said. "The Senate called me here to discuss some revised trade agreements. I assume it has to do with the type of goods I am allowed to send to Rome from my country, but even I wasn't told the specifics of the summons." Marcus frowned. "I would wager twenty Dinari that Livius has something to do with it," he grumbled. "Oh?" Atum mused. "He can be a sneaky one, but why do you think he would summon me to the Senate?" Marcus shrugged. "Fabian told me that Livius came here earlier, looking for you. We still don't know what it was exactly that he wanted." "He's most likely just being his conniving self," Atum laughed. "The old toad has always wanted more from everyone around him, so it's only natural that he wants more from me. But enough of this talk. I can see we're boring your young charge with politics." Virgil's cheeks reddened. He had thought a stealthy yawn behind his closed mouth would go unnoticed. "Uh... I'm sorry. I didn't mean..." Virgil stammered, trying to find his tongue and a topic of conversation. "W-what do you like most about Rome, Atum?" He was hoping the sudden shift in topic would distract them from his disinterest. "Ha! A tricky question," the croc said. "What's not to love about Rome? The food is amazing, the people are enticing, the culture is fascinating, and the architecture is brilliant." Marcus chuckled. "Just don't get him talking about the baths." "And the baths!" Atum exclaimed, grinning. "Here we go again..." Marcus sighed with a barely hidden smile. Atum continued as if Marcus had been silent. "You see, Virgil," he said. "In Egypt, bathing is not as prevalent as it is in Rome. We use scented oils to mask the smell of one who seldom bathes. The baths are one of the many great pleasures in this fine city! Nothing compares to the feeling of being freshly washed and cleaned, certainly after spending much of one's life being filthy. And it is wondrous to sit in the dim lit caldarium and just watch the many beautiful sights around you..." There was a pause as the crocodile gulped down the rest of his wine. Virgil was having trouble distinguishing truth from exaggeration in the croc's speech, but he was still enjoying listening to the handsome reptile talk. "In any case, there is much I love about this city," Atum said. "In fact, I could use a bath after being on the road for so long." Marcus chuckled. "You could take a dip in mine before you go to sleep. We finished building it two seasons ago." "Maybe I shall!" Atum said, grinning that large, toothy grin. "Will I have the pleasure of both of your company?" Virgil couldn't help imagining what Atum looked like in the nude. His heart thudded in his chest as he pictured the large crocodile lazily floating over to him in the water of the caldarium; Atum's large chest pressing against his; and the reptile's hot tongue slithering its way into his mouth... "Unfortunately, no. We should be getting to sleep, right Virgil?" Marcus said. "Oh, yes... I suppose we should," Virgil replied sheepishly. "What a pity," Atum mused. "Oh well, there is always another time perhaps." The three got up from the couches and Marcus ordered Fabian to show Atum where the bath was. Virgil wanted so badly to follow the croc, but he knew that Marcus would have been furious. Instead, he and the lion retired to bed and Virgil slowly drifted off in his lover's embrace.
Virgil woke suddenly. The room was still dark, and he could feel Marcus's strong arms around him. He sighed, upset that he startled himself awake for no reason. Then he noticed the shadow in front of him. He nervously looked upward at Atum's grinning face. The crocodile was naked and Virgil gulped at the sight of the reptile's incredibly thick shaft, jutting out from his groin. Marcus licked the young hare's ear... no... the tongue was... smooth...? Virgil turned his head, confused. Brutus looked back at him instead of Marcus. What was going on? The bear licked his ear again and Virgil heard himself moan softly as he felt the bruin's member pressing against his back. Without a word, Atum gripped Virgil's head and guided the hare's tender lips onto his pulsing phallus. His pre-fluid tasted better than Marcus's and Virgil found himself gulping and suckling on the thick length. Brutus pressed the tip of his shaft into Virgil's hole and the hare moaned around Atum as the bearhood pushed all of the way into his hot, clenching passage. Virgil panted, his own member stiffening as the two masculine animals had their way with him. Brutus's length pulsed inside of him as the bruin moved his hips and nibbled on the hare's shoulder. Atum's shaft shoved its way into Virgil's throat and the fat head of it oozed onto his tongue with each thrust. Virgil felt their pace quickening and he started sucking and clenching harder. Atum groaned as his member exploded in the hare's mouth, filling his cheeks with delicious crocodile essence. Virgil gulped and gulped, trying to swallow all that the croc had to give. Some dribbled down his chin from Atum's eager thrusts. Brutus growled as his shaft throbbed thickly in Virgil's rear, spilling the bear's seed deep within. Virgil clutched his full belly as both of their climaxes slowed and eventually stopped. And without a word, they both left the hare there, panting and dripping with their juices.
Virgil sat up in the bed suddenly, the realization that it had been a dream practically slapping him in the face. The hare sighed and grumbled at his own libido as he fell back down to the pillow. His back was cold. Virgil turned in the bed, but Marcus wasn't behind him as usual. Confused, he got up and noticed the lion wasn't even in the bedroom. Where could he have gone? Virgil grabbed his chiton from earlier and pulled it over his head, not even bothering to tie the cord belt around his waist as worry assailed his gut. He left the room to try and find his lover. The garden at night was even more peaceful than during the day. The young hare was about to step into the clearing at the center of it when he heard hushed voices and stopped. Marcus and Atum were seated on the stone bench where Virgil had pleasured Marcus earlier. Virgil gulped as his stomach butterflies furiously flapped within him. It was dark, but the moon above that filtered through the leaves let the hare see enough. Both had cups of wine in their fists and Atum had his arm around Marcus, holding him as they both chatted and drank. The crocodile was only clad in a towel from the baths that barely fit him, but Marcus was fully clothed. If it had been any other situation, Virgil would have felt even more attracted to them both, but on this night, as the two met in secret, jealousy gripped him. The hare quietly fled the garden. He didn't want to hear what they were talking about. It was probably about their relationship anyway. Virgil tore off his chiton back in the bedroom and angrily threw himself onto the bed. He was such a fool. Water filled his eyes. He tried to hold it back, but it was no use. The tears flowed for a long time, but eventually, they stopped and he just laid there motionless on the bed, thinking hateful thoughts until Marcus eventually staggered back into the room. Virgil kept still; pretending to be asleep as the older lion gently slid into the bed and put an arm around him. "Where were you?" Virgil asked suddenly. "Oh, I didn't mean to wake you," Marcus said. "I was just out reminiscing with Atum." "I know," Virgil said with more animosity in his voice than he initially intended. "I saw you sitting in the garden with him." Marcus was silent for a short while. "We were just talking," he said. "With cups full of wine and his arm around you." "Virgil, it's not what you think," Marcus said. "Then tell me what it is so I don't have to keep guessing!" The lion sighed. "There was a time when Atum and I were bedfellows," Marcus began. "I knew it," Virgil said angrily. "Let me finish. I met him in Egypt while stationed there during one of Trajan's wars. He had been trying to create a trade deal with Rome for a long time and our... relations helped the deal along." "How did you two sleeping together create a trade agreement?" Virgil was understandably skeptical. "No one else knew we shared a bed, but our complete trust in one another and the friendship that others saw in us proved that Egypt and Rome could become allies." "Oh good, I was worried there wouldn't be a happy ending," Virgil said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "If you want to continue being difficult, then I won't tell you the rest of the story." Virgil clapped his mouth shut. He didn't really want to get Marcus angry. It was a wonder that all he said hadn't already pushed the lion over that edge. Marcus probably understood Virgil's thoughts, though. And maybe the wine was keeping Marcus calm. After a short pause, Marcus continued. "Atum... likes the company of many. I wanted him alone. We parted on friendly terms." Marcus put an arm around his lover and pulled Virgil into a tight hug. "I admit that I was trying to keep our past a secret from you," the lion said. "I thought that you would be upset if I told you outright. It seems that I caused you much... grief by not telling you instead. For that I am truly sorry, my love." Virgil sulked in Marcus's arms. All of his worrying and jealousy was for nothing if Marcus was being honest. He didn't want to stay angry with the feline. He didn't like feeling this way. "What can I do to make you trust me?" The lion asked. "Well... sneaking off in the middle of the night to meet with an ex-lover in secret isn't helping." Marcus's laughter surprised Virgil. He had been serious. Why was the feline laughing? "Acting angry doesn't suit you," Marcus said. "I saw the way you undressed Atum with your eyes before supper." "T-that... wasn't-!" Virgil sputtered. "He noticed it too..." The hare's cheeks burned under his fur, the jealousy in his stomach replaced with those furiously beating butterfly wings. "Don't worry, Virgil. He was truly flattered," Marcus said as he gently licked the back of the hare's neck. "But we should get some sleep. If Livius is planning on showing his fat face around here tomorrow, being tired and ornery won't make his visit any more tolerable." Virgil sighed. He still wasn't sure if he believed Marcus, but he had no definite proof. Both the lion and the croc had been somewhat clothed out in the garden after all. He stared at the wall for what seemed like an eternity before Morpheus finally pulled him into the black embrace.
The next morning, Virgil was engrossed in a game of Roman chess with Fabian in the villa's spacious, marble lounge. Marcus had tried to teach Virgil how to play the game himself, but winning was far too easy for the former general against such an inexperienced player. Fabian was trying to teach Virgil the more advanced aspects of the game so that both the hare and the lion could enjoy playing the game together. In a way, it was a surrogate lesson for teaching Virgil how to use a blade. He was learning tactics instead. Marcus and Atum were discussing politics nearby and Virgil hadn't been bothering to pay attention. One of the other servants entered the room from the entry hall. "Marcus, sir," The servant said. "Senator Livius requests an audience with you and your most esteemed guest." Marcus nodded. "Very well. Invite the Senator in." Virgil gritted his teeth as he stared at the board in front of him. He knew Livius would show up again eventually. He had just hoped it wouldn't be so soon. The toad waddled loudly into the room, his two lupine guards silently following. As everyone in the room stood for the senator, Virgil wondered if his guards ever did anything besides follow Livius around. Both of the wolves straightened their backs and pulled the spears they carried tightly to their sides in silent salute as Marcus stood. He nodded to them in return. The toad didn't seem to notice as he shuffled politely by the hare and leopard, offering his chubby hand in greeting to Atum. The toad was shorter than Virgil, so Atum was nearly twice his size. Still, the croc shook Livius's hand and Marcus offered the toad a seat. "To what do we owe the honor of your visit, Senator?" Marcus asked as he and Atum sat down and Virgil went back to his game with Fabian. "Regrettably, sir, my visit is strictly about business," the toad said. "I was hoping to arrange a more exclusive partnership with Atum here." "My agreement to such a deal would depend on the terms, Livius," Atum replied. Since the crocodile wasn't Roman, he didn't need to use the senator's title. He probably did it on purpose to annoy the toad. Livius forced a smile. It made his face appear even uglier. "They are simple," he said. "I desire first pick of your goods coming into the city for the businesses that I run. In return, I can offer a twenty percent increase in your usual fees." Atum scratched his chest idly as he contemplated the small senator's offer. "I fail to see how this benefits you," he said. "I merely desire the best goods for my shops," Livius replied. "By purchasing your goods before others, I gain an edge over my competitors." "Of course," Atum mused. "But you must understand, as an Egyptian, it would go against my principles to offer an unfair advantage to one party over another." "Indeed?" Livius asked. "It seems as though Atum is not keen on your offer, Senator," Marcus said. "That would be a pity," the Senator said. "Would an endorsement from one of Rome's most influential generals help to sway his opinion?" Marcus narrowed his eyes at the toad. "Be mindful of where you are, Senator," Marcus said. Virgil was growing angry. He couldn't believe that Marcus would even entertain the toad's company after how rude he was the day before. Surely Fabian told Marcus what he had said. "My apologies, general," Livius said, smiling that ugly smile. "Though it would be a shame if your... tastes were discovered by the other Senators." "What?" Marcus asked, his glance quickly shifting to Virgil and then back to the toad. "You have no right-!" Virgil began. "Virgil! Be quiet and let the senator continue," Marcus interrupted. "But -!" "Silence!" The lion yelled, glaring at him. "I hope you can control your pet," Livius said. "It won't be a problem," Marcus replied, never taking his eyes off Virgil. "But you shouldn't worry yourself with matters that don't concern you, Senator." Anger welled up in the hare's gut as he lowered his head. He felt betrayed. "As I was saying," Livius said, turning back to Atum. "I am prepared to offer you a twenty percent pay increase in return for first pick of your goods coming into the city." Virgil had heard and seen enough. The toad's voice aggravated him to no end. "I'm going out," he announced. "Good. There will be fewer childish outbursts then," Livius said. Virgil clenched his fists and teeth furiously, stomping out to the entry hall. Fabian caught his arm as he swung the door open. "Virgil, wait," the leopard said. "Why should I?" The hare said through his teeth. "Listen, I know how you must feel, but please try to understand." "That fat toad has no right to speak about us like that! How can Marcus endure his presence in the villa at all?" "Livius is a senator," Fabian said. "He hasn't said anything overtly hostile yet, so Marcus has no reason to throw him out." "Not even after he insulted both you and me yesterday?" "I am a servant, Virgil," Fabian looked at the floor as he released the hare's arm. "Politics is a difficult animal. I'm sure Marcus has his reasons for hearing Livius out." "Well I can't listen to any more," Virgil said as he turned on his heel and marched out the door. It would have been simple for Marcus to just kick the senator out of his house. Why was he allowing someone so despicable to remain? Virgil sighed as he kept his gaze focused on the ground in front of him. It was probably a political thing. Fabian had probably been right. The hare had to admit that he knew almost nothing about politics. The dirt under his feet became the familiar cobblestones as the villa's fields turned to the buildings of the city proper. His thoughts whirled through his head; a tornado of doubt and anger filled his mind. He shook himself in an attempt to push the thoughts from his mind, but they remained. Virgil sighed, and stopped walking. Where was he even going? For that matter, where was he? Looking up, he noticed that he was suddenly outside the bathhouse where he and Marcus had their first intimate encounter. He must have been walking for longer than he thought. Virgil shrugged. Maybe the warm water would calm him down. He paid the fee and quickly crossed the atrium to shed his clothes in the changing room. He felt like a steam bath would help so into the small room he went. The hare found an empty seat on the stone benches of the room and leaned back. It was hot, but that was the point. There were a variety of other men around him, but Virgil didn't look too closely at anyone. Instead he closed his eyes and tried to relax in the warm, moist air of the room. Several minutes passed. Or maybe it was hours. He didn't care. Time seemed to melt away with the hare's anger. He realized that the initial fault had been his. Livius had an idea in his mind about the relationship Virgil had with Marcus and the hare had done nothing to show him that his idea was wrong. In fact, Virgil had inadvertently told the senator that he was correct. Gods, he was so stupid. Marcus's reputation was probably at stake and all Virgil could do about it was run away from the problem. He was still a coward. He hadn't changed at all. Someone eventually sat down next to him and the hare opened an eye curiously. A familiar, green, crocodile shoulder filled his vision and Virgil moved back slightly from surprise. "This is a nice place you've found, Virgil," the naked croc said. The young hare was speechless for a moment as his curious eyes drifted down to Atum's crotch, catching a rather long eyeful of his thick, flaccid length. "I get the impression that you like me, little rabbit," Atum said. Virgil's eyes snapped back up to the crocodile's smiling face as he tried to find his words. "Uh, well I... um... H-how did you find me here?" he finally managed to ask. "Marcus thought that this was a logical place for you to return to. He told me about the meeting you two had here," the large croc said, with a wide grin. "I also witnessed your masterful work in the garden yesterday... color me impressed." Virgil blushed heavily at Atum's compliment. "Y-you saw that...?" "I did and I'd offer you a taste of what I have to offer as well... if you like." Virgil's heart almost stopped. It was getting increasingly hot in the steam room. Virgil wanted to say yes. He desperately wanted Atum's body pressed up against him with that thick shaft sliding in... "Uh... n-no, Marcus would-" Virgil began. "Yes, I know. I wouldn't be offering if Marcus wasn't aware of it." The hare gulped as Atum leaned closer and licked his green lips. "We should ask... I-I don't want to do anything without Marcus..." Virgil managed to squeak out. Atum laughed and sat back in his seat. "Good lad," he said. "You would make him proud." Virgil was confused. What had just happened? Was that a test? Atum took a deep breath and was silent for a few moments. "You know, it was very brave of you to stand up to the senator like that," the croc chuckled. "Brave maybe, but useless," Virgil grumbled back. "Sometimes the act of bravery is enough, not the results. I think that's why Marcus took you in. He saw your strength of spirit. I would wager, however, that your worst enemy is yourself." "Heh, you're right about that..." Virgil sighed. "I just... I get these ideas in my head and... I think they have to be the truth, but I always end up fooling myself..." Atum smiled. "You're young. Youth allows for mistakes as long as you learn from them." Virgil nodded. "Well now I know that I shouldn't jump to conclusions," he scoffed. "I hope Marcus threw Livius out on the street." "Unfortunately he didn't," Atum said. "The toad was never impolite, you see. In Egypt, we reserve the right to not host a guest we don't like. Rome requires a certain amount of decorum no matter who enters your home." "I think I understand that now," Virgil said through a sigh. "Even if I don't particularly like it." The two just sat in the steam, watching the other men enter and leave periodically. Virgil liked the feel of Atum's scaly leg against his as he observed the many fine looking males around him. It was proving difficult to prevent himself from getting excited. He needed a distraction. "So did you accept his deal?" Virgil asked. "No," Atum replied. "It would have been a violation of my personal code of business." "I wonder if Livius will retaliate." "I doubt it," the croc said as he nudged Virgil's shoulder gently. "He knows that it would do him little good. All he wanted was to show Marcus that he knew something about him that wasn't common knowledge. Livius feels it gives him an advantage." "Does it?" Virgil asked. Atum didn't answer and for a while, both were quiet. "Come with me," the croc abruptly said. "I'd wager Marcus has a private room set up for us by now." Those familiar butterflies assaulted Virgil's stomach yet again. A private room; just like before? Just like when Marcus... The hare stood after the croc did, eagerly following Atum's thick tail out of the steam room. The air was cold in the rest of the bathhouse, but the reptile in front of Virgil didn't seem fazed. They passed through the dim pools and down the familiar passageway that led to the private rooms. The hare's heart was racing and he kept licking his two front teeth nervously. Why was he so nervous? No, it was probably excitement. How had he ever gotten this lucky? Marcus was waiting for them in the same private room, his spectacularly well built, nude body barely visible in the dim, filtered sunlight that streamed in through the small window, high up on the wall. The lion smiled as they entered and sat on the edge of the short table in the center of the room. "Marcus, I'm sorry," Virgil said. He hated to keep saying that. "It's alright, Virgil. No harm was done." "I still feel awful..." The hare said. "Let's see if we can make you feel something else," Atum said as he closed the door and immediately hugged Virgil from behind, pulling him close to those smooth scales. The hare gasped, stiffening quickly as the croc's tongue moved across his neck. He felt Atum's thick shaft pulsing in between his back and the reptile's belly and heat rushed to his cheeks. The crocodile carried him over to the table where Marcus began running his hands over the hare's chest and legs, Virgil stood on the table as the lion's raspy tongue and smooth lips slid over his maleness, making him moan in pleasure. Atum grabbed a nearby jug of massage oil and slathered his member with the grease until his length was glistening. Marcus pulled off of Virgil suddenly. "Go easy on him," he said. "He can be pretty tight back there." Virgil leaned on his feline lover as the croc behind him pressed that incredibly thick head against his entrance. The lion inhaled his young apprentice's member again as Virgil tried to relax. He let out a deep breath and hissed as the reptile's length sank into him. Atum wrapped a scaly arm around the young hare and pulled him closer gently until Virgil's back was pressed tightly to the croc's muscular chest. Virgil panted and whimpered softly as Marcus's tongue slithered around his throbbing erection. Gravity pulled him downward on Atum's member and as the crocodile's sack pressed up against the hare's, Virgil moaned loudly from being so full. Atum panted heavily, just entering Virgil's tight passage making his shaft drool a plentiful amount of pre-fluid inside the hare. Marcus stood and pressed his chest against Virgil as he locked lips with the masculine crocodile. Virgil could hear their tongues and lips sliding against each other and the sound made his heart beat even faster than before. He licked Marcus's chest, sucking gently on a nipple as Atum began thrusting. Gods above it was wonderful. Virgil's whole body vibrated with pleasure as the croc's length slid in and out of him. He wanted Atum to fill his belly with seed. Marcus broke the kiss and stepped up onto the stone table. He gently guided Virgil's head onto his lionhood and the hare eagerly swallowed it to the root. "Ah, look at him go," Atum marveled in between heated panting. "What a talented young man..." "Virgil, don't stop..." Marcus whispered as Virgil started to pull his head off to respond to Atum. Instead he sank his lips back down to the base, bobbing his head on the full length of Marcus's long shaft. The lion spilled pre onto his tongue and down his throat from Virgil's skillful tonguing. Atum grabbed the hare's hips and set into a powerful rhythm. Virgil had no choice but to go with it as the thrusts shoved his nose harder into Marcus's crotch. The lion grabbed Virgil's head, his panting and moaning reaching a fever pitch. "That's it, boy," Atum said eagerly. "Give him your seed!" "Oh Gods, Virgil...!" Marcus hissed The young hare moaned around the pulsing lionhood as Marcus shoved it into his throat. Thick ropes of lion essence flowed from the tip into the hare's gullet as the feline above him practically roared in pleasure. His chest heaved from the spasms of ecstasy and Virgil gulped hurriedly around his member. Atum's thrusting became more erratic as Marcus climaxed, the croc bent over, pressing his chest and belly against Virgil again. He lewdly licked Marcus's belly as the lion's climax faded. Virgil coughed slightly, but didn't lose any of Marcus's offering onto the table when the feline pulled his length from his mouth. Atum quickly took it into his instead, letting Virgil lick and nibble on Marcus's orbs. The croc inhaled the former general's shaft and moaned around it. Marcus grabbed his head and started forcibly grinding his lionhood onto Atum's tongue. That set the crocodile over the edge and he shuddered against Virgil's body as his member exploded within the hare. That familiar warm, wet feeling flooded him and Virgil felt his own body convulsing in climax below the croc. Atum's thick hands ran over Virgil's chest and full belly as his erection continued shooting his sticky, warm essence into him. Marcus grinned down at them both when Atum's panting through his nose started to lessen and he slowly pulled his head back. The croc pulled himself out of the hare and Virgil lay slumped over the stone table, trying to regain his breath. Marcus sat and gently lifted Virgil upright. He hugged the hare to his chest and kissed him passionately, their tongues rubbing together as Virgil's hands rubbed his feline lover's back. Atum slid onto the end of the table behind the hare and joined the embrace, the three of them just enjoying each others' company. "I will always love you, Virgil," Marcus said. "Do you understand?" Virgil just nodded as he hugged his lover tightly. He might have been naive, but he could learn. He would learn. Virgil would make the one he loved proud of him one day.