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With one sentence the perfect vision of life came crumbling down around him, falling into piles of shattered hopes and dreams of the future.In truth, it would be hypocritical for him to be wrought with anger.'I should have killed her when I took Skyros', the dark thought ruminated dangerously in Akhilleus' mind as he ran a frustrated hand through his curling blonde locks and huffed indignantly.Patroklos batted his lashes dismissively, easily reading his companion's mood as if it were his own, "The socially polite response would be to congratulate a man when he chooses to take a wife""But you don't have to marry… her" his voice was pathetically minuscule, almost pleading in tone and yet hot with disdain.Menoitios' son shot his beloved a telling gaze, brows knitted knowingly as he bluntly spoke, "Iphis has fallen with child, a fate worse than death for a captive woman and so I did as I thought wise, I asked for her hand"A displeased scowl twisted Akhilleus' lips, distasteful thoughts brewing but he did not voice them."What did she say?" He asked, suppressing the growl threatening to escape his throat.Patroklos' smile was immediate but he promptly straightened his lip, "After a moment of contemplation she agreed. I have already written to my father and knowing his accepting nature it's unlikely he'll disapprove""At least there'll be no inlaws for you to please" Akhilleus huffed in vile amusement, certainly Iphis’ parents were long since decaying beneath Skyros’ war-torn rubble.The Lokrian remained silent as his companion continued to slowly spiral."But what is her dowry? She has none, a woman with no assets sole for the cloth upon her back and her body, one that was already tainted by other men, and born spoiled, rotting fruit. Iphis is not worthy of your hand!" He spat venomously,Patroklos' hands clenched as he spoke, "My hand is my own to give, whom are you to decide if she is unworthy of being my wife?"Akhilleus bit his tongue, disallowing further disgusting and vile comments to slip off it.Between them, the air grew stale and bitter in taste.His vulgar thoughts breed in the silence and Akhilleus did little to dissuade them.In his mind, Iphis lay dead, beautiful face marred with disfigurement, her soft flesh becoming a feast for flies and their foul, festering brood. He longed to thrust a spear through her selfish womb, mutilate her feminine body till it could no longer bring pleasure to even the blindest of men."Do not be wrought with me, my beloved, let us not argue tonight" With the soft-spoken plea, Akhilleus was brought out from the depths of his spiralling mind.He gazed upon his dear companion, frowning at the worry that etched his handsome face, bracing for an onslaught of harsh words.Never would Akhilleus lay a foul hand upon his beloved, but his tongue was none so controlled, indeed it was privy to slipping sharply.Instead, the nymph-born murmured, "My flame of rage falters only for you, my beloved, your sweet presence is solely able to douse it"Carefully he cupped his dear friend's cheek, stroking it with his blood-tainted hand, "Let us retire together and forget if only for tonight, our troubles''Patroklos welcomed the touch unflinchingly, responding with a chaste kiss on the corner of his lover's mouth.To their shared chambers they retired, and as their cloth fell upon the ground the issue was all but forgotten in the heat of their intense desire and affection.Possessive arms wrapped around a masculine waist, longing to never let go.Hot lips marked sun-kissed flesh, greedy and selfish in his love.A soft sigh of content escaped Patroklos, war-scarred fingers ran encouragingly through long waving tresses.Raising his dark blonde head, Akhilleus asked, "How does thou desire me, my beloved?"Eyes hooded with lust the Lokrian peered at his companion, words more akin to an order than a plea, "Take me as I took you last night"The nymph-born smiled, both out of fond remembrance of their last embrace and the opportunity before him to thoroughly possess and lavish his lover with attention.He grabbed the nearby and familiar pot of oil, coating his fingers generously as Patroklos parted his muscular thighs, both commanding and inviting.Dutifully and with more care than he'd give himself, Akhilleus prepared and pleasured his lover.Fingers massaged and stimulated the prostate laying just beyond the soft walls. His free hand grabbed his lover's awakening manhood, stroking it to full hardness.He took a moment to admire the well-endowed organ, how heavy it lay in his hand, its stiff girth, the wet head dark pink with arousal, the soft vulnerable flesh and visible veins.An intense desire burned inside him. With the lick of his lips, he suddenly took him in, holding the thick root and bringing it deeper. Indulging in the masculine musk emanating from his dark brown curls, breathing it in like a drug.Though the position was less than agreeable he persisted enthusiastically, fingers and mouth working in tandem with one another.Patroklos moaned, hands clenching in the soft furs as he resisted the enticing urge to thrust into the tight warmth and skilful hand.Ceasing from his affection momentarily Akhilleus uttered, "Don't hold back my beloved"The Lokrian nodded, threading his fingers through his lover's hair as his manhood was enveloped once more.Abandoning hesitation his brawny hips were free to thrust into the nymph-born's fervent keening mouth, taking it deeper than any mortal-born or well-trained porni could.Sensing from his companion's tensing thighs and low moans that his climax was nearing Akhilleus quickened his pace, yearning for the taste of Patroklos' seed upon his tongue.Moments later, as predicted, the Lokrian was overtaken by an orgasm, ejaculate spilling into his lover's awaiting mouth in pulsating spurts.Swallowing, Akhilleus released Patroklos' waning phallus licking his tingling lips and looking down at the vision before him.There his lover lay, basking in the pleasure of his afterglow, breast heaving and taut muscles twitching.His manhood throbbed at the sight, longing to sheath himself inside his beloved.Slick with seed and oil he sunk his phallus inside, the body beneath him accepting it gracefully and eagerly.Thighs wrapped around waist, arms around neck as they embraced, interjoining intimately and becoming one in form and soul.Self-control slipping he thrusted roughly, indulgent to his own pleasures and desires, body attuned succinctly with his lover's.It only took a shamefully short while for Akhilleus to reach his climax, seed spilling out of him and into the one beneath him.But this did not cease the love-making for both men were as blessed with stamina as they were strength.Into the night they persisted till their manhoods could no longer harden and the sensitivity grew took much.Then, the nymph born arose, separating their comforting loving embrace to murmur, "I'll have the servants draw us a bath"Patroklos simply hummed in response watching with tired eyes as his companion left, the scent of sex and perspiration still clinging to his loosely clothed form.Once made, they bathed together, a habit indulged since youth, one primarily born from Akhilleus' unrelenting clinginess that seemingly did not fade but instead worsened with age.Absent-mindedly the Lokrian ran a hand through his lover's tresses, ruminating on the domesticity and familiarity of it all.Here he was, washing his lover's hair when he had a fiance waiting patiently in her chambers for him.Upon finishing their bath they returned to bed.But Patroklos did not sleep, taking the opportunity to slip out of Akhilleus' slumbering embrace.He made his way to Iphis' humble chambers, guilt in his breast for having kept her waiting."How fare you, my dear?" He askedShe greeted him with a warm nervous smile and replied, "I am well I’d say, but around midday your men brought in a boar they hunted, trailing in its blood all about the place but not bothering to prepare it nor clean up after themselves! the gall some men process is staggering"Patroklos raised an eyebrow making a mental note to have strong words with said men, "It sounds like you, my dear had an eventful day as well"Iphis sighed, both unsurprised and disappointed, "I guess Akhilleus did not take the news well?"He shrugged, "he reacted as I suspected he would, which is to say not well"She frowned sympathetically as a moment of meaningful silence overtook them."Can you stay the night?" She asked, face lightly flushing, it had been a few days since their last intimate embrace and she desired it deeply.Patroklos smiled sadly, "I cannot stay long my dear, but I can indulge you for a few hours""That will be all we need" Iphis grinned, ridding herself and him of cloth enthusiastically.War-calloused hands and dark hazel eyes raked over her form before his strong arms brought her closer to himself.She leaned into the much-welcomed embrace, soft breasts meeting firm, full lips meeting thin as they kissed.A hunger overtook her, and eagerly she drank him in, separating to gasp in pleasure as his rough fingers delved in between her inviting thighs, rubbing her swelling bud and slick petals.Iphis thrusted into his hand, quiet moans escaping her mouth as her form shook.Drawn close as they were she felt the press of his awakening manhood against her thigh."Lay down so I may service you" He murmured and she eagerly complied, maidenhood clenching in anticipation.He laid down before her, pressing sweet kisses upon the wide expanse of her hips and welcoming thighs. In between them, his mouth explored, tasting the depth of her arousal on his tongue.Iphis gasped, his lips embraced her swelling bud, coaxing the sensitive glans out of its protective hood.Unconsciously her hand drifted to Patroklos' head, threading her fine fingers through his long hickory curls and bringing him closer to her aching maidenhood.She closed her dark eyes, indulging in the rapture overtaking her mortal form and thinking mind.With no concern for his own pleasure, he continued relentlessly until the woman came with his name upon her lips.Eyes glassy she gazed down at him, sweet pleas leaving her mouth, "Come here, my love, let us interjoin and form one once more, fulfil the urge I crave so dearly"He crawled on top of her, slowly breaching her slick folds with his well-endowed manhood."Do not tease me, my love, take your dear wife with deep unbridled passion" she murmured, coaxing him playfully.Indulgent to his lover Patroklos ravaged her, pace rough and hard, creating a symphony of abrupt choking moans and erotic sounds.Together they came, the walls of her maidenhood clenching around his seed-spilling manhood.Unbeknownst to the couple as the lay embracing stood a figure in the shadows, dark blue eyes hard with intensity and rage cold.But as quickly as it appeared it went.
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When Patroklos returned to their shared chambers he found Akhilleus as he left him.Guilt weighed heavily on his breast and mind as he wrapped his arms around his lover's waist.He was not fond of deceiving Akhilleus both for the moral ambiguity and the tense anxiety that it'll undeniably bring.With a bat of Hypnus' winged brow, he fell into a peaceful slumber, filled with dreams that fled his mind when he awoke under his companion's loving gaze.A coy smile spread about the nymph-born's comely face as their eyes met, "how about a hunt? It has been too long since we've last stretched our legs!"The Lokrian raised a brow at the over-exaggeration before replying, "Adding to our provisions wouldn't hurt, but I fear you may bleed Artemis' woods dry…again""Again? I don't recall even doing it once" Akhilleus huffed dismissively.Patroklos shot his lover a knowing look, "last year, we had to visit and leave offerings at one of her temples to stave off her impending wrath"The nymph-born simply hummed, "You needn't worry about upsetting Artemis for we'll only be hunting just enough for two men after all"Frowning he replied, "Isn't that rather unwise? We're still in a war after all"Akhilleus simply waved off his companions' reasonable words, "The Dardanoi wouldn't dare"Patroklos simply sighed, knowing his lover's stubborn nature better than anyone else.By midday they were in the wilderness, bows in hand, two of the Lokrians hunting dogs at their feet.Silently they prowled the woods like starved lions, listening for the soft sound of leaves rustling only to find the wilderness eerily quiet, devoid of life."Iphis did mention our men being over-indulgent with their hunting" Patroklos murmured.And as if hearing just her name uttered was of the greatest insult to his very soul, Akhilleus snarled, drawing back the string of his bow and letting go.In his fantasy the arrow struck Iphis, its sharp head penetrating the soft flesh of her breast, cracking ribs and piercing her heart.A distressed and pained squeal arising from the bushes drew the nymph-born from his mind.The dogs pulled on their leads excitedly at the promising noise.Still wrought with anger, he stormed over, finding an injured hare, writhing in pain, an arrow sticking from its back.With a sharp twist of the neck, Akhilleus ended the poor creatures' suffering.As he held up the large hare by its ears Patroklos sighed in relief, "I feared for a moment you'd struck a juvenile and we'd attract Artemis' ire once more""Well, we shalln't let the meat go to waste" The nymph-born smiled suggestively.Flushing slightly at the implication the Lokrian retorted, "Neither you nor I need the extra virility and stamina, my beloved""You never know, perhaps I plan to be thoroughly ravaged and worn out before we return to camp" Akhilleus flirted, fashioning the hare to himself for safekeeping.They continued onwards until the nymph-born spoke again taking appreciation in his surroundings, "Do you remember spring on the mountain Pelion? The air smelt sweet and the flowers blooming, in moments like these I miss it dearly""Yes, I remember," Patroklos replied.Many of his memories involved Akhilleus, which was to be expected, given that since their first meeting the younger boy now man clung to him like a barnacle and followed him around like a lovesick puppy.The Lokrian took a moment to admire his dear friend, the way his long curling tresses of dark gold swayed gently as he walked, his face unblemished and beautifully masculine in its features now soft and youthful with remembrance.But hidden deep within Akhilleus' blue pools where no one else but Patroklos could see it was a sad longing, one of a man far from home with no way to ever return to it and the all-consuming and ever-present fear of death.They continued onwards in the unfamiliar land, led by the hunting dogs' superior noses and sharp ears, finding solely an overabundance of hares.As the sun fell and Nyx began to overtake the sky Patroklos raised his concern, "It'll soon be dark, we really should start heading back to camp""We're quite far away from shore I'm afraid, we'll have to spend the night here and return once dawn rises," Akhilleus said nonchalantly, looking around the clearing before continuing, "We shall make camp here"The Lokrian looked at his lover scrutinously, eyes narrowing, "You planned this didn't you?"His companion's guilty smile all but confirmed his suspicion but Patroklos could not find it within himself to be truly aggrieved, "I'll set about making a fire then"It was easier said than done, with aching hands and casual threats to Hḗphaistos the fire was made.Whilst the nymph-born was foraging for any herbs that would make the gamey taste of hare tolerable, a familiar and notorious plant caught his eye.Hollowed were its stalks, heart-shaped were its seeds, stumpy were its leaves and golden were its fruiting flowers.With greedy hands he grabbed the plant, ripping its thick black barked roots from the earth.Carefully he wrapped it in fresh hare's skin, hiding it away from prying eyes.Nevertheless, by the time Akhilleus returned to his lover, he had plenty of flavourful plants in hand, "I've found some herbs"Together they indulged in the wholesome domesticity of cooking, although their horde modest there was just enough meat to satiate their appetites.As the day grew darker, so did it fall colder, the two men grew closer together, unconsciously seeking both bodily warmth and the comfort of intimacy.Lips meet sweetly as they embrace, the flame of desire stirring in their loins, awakening their manhoods.But they did not undress completely, only slipping off their undergarments, exposing their hardened flesh to the night's chill air.Upon the earth they lay, covered by their cloaks, breast to breast and hip to hip.Akhilleus' head rested on his lover's shoulder, lips laying possessive marks, how beautifully the delicate bruises contrasted with his beloved's sun-kissed olive skin.Patroklos grabbed hold of both their manhoods, cold hand upon warm hardened flesh.His lover moaned hungrily, begging to be taken, longing for the feeling of the Lokrian's manhood inside him, yearning to intertwine in soul and form.But his pleas were to go ignored, for sex without oil was an experience best not repeated for either party.Despite this, Patroklos, ever the caring lover, was quick to lavish Akhilleus in his much desired and craved attention.Murmuring sweet nothings and salacious desires in his ear as he stroked his manhood to completion and continued long afterwards with a hand slick with seed.The pleasure from his loins and the emotions from his breast burst out like a breaking dam, clawing out from his throat as loud cries echoed, resounding in the wood's vast darkness.Hot tears fell from his lust-hazed eyes, rolling down his cheeks, unceasingly.Overcome, Akhilleus clung to him, a man possessed and desperate. From his loose tongue spilt words from a broken mind and aching soul."I love you so much, my heart aches from it. Without you, I am nothing, a lesser half of a whole being.The beast inside me longs to devour you whole so that you may live within me so that no other can lay their filthy eyes and hands upon you.You're mine, no one else can have you in the way I do, it is me whom owns your heart and soul.She is no more than a mistress, a consort, stealing you away from me, I won't stand for it!My beloved, don't let her take you away from me."Patroklos frowned, concerned by the thoughts and words spilling from his lover, and quickly replied reassuringly."I love you Akhilleus" He swallowed nervously before continuing, "more than I do Iphis. Her I am marrying out of kindness, not love"A bald-faced lie spoken with a half-truth.Exhausted his lover fell into a slumber, clinging to him tightly.There they lay, covered in their capes, the Lokrian running an intimate hand through his beloved companion's tresses, gazing upwards at the stars decorating the night sky before Hypnus too embraced him.
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The first thing the men did upon returning to camp was bathe, ridding themselves of Gaia's delicate embrace as if it were Are's blood and gore.Despite returning to their usual mundane routine, an endless cycle of seemingly never-ending battles and a short day’s rest that passed all too quickly.Something had clearly changed between the two men, a feminine presence now stood tall in the lingering shadows, slowly emerging into the light of the masculinity-defined intimate relationship, a welcome presence for one and an invasion for the otherNo longer was Iphis a servant, the way she carried herself made that quite clear.Patroklos did not challenge her, it would be even fair to state he indulged it, allowing her to remain at his side.'Not only is she content to occupy my beloved's time and attention during the night, but she is seemingly adamant about stealing it during the day! Selfish and conniving woman!' Akhilleus seethed.Of course, Iphis' real intentions were none so ill, simply she, like him, enjoyed the Lokrian's valuable affections and companionship, Was that so wrong?Soon however she grew tired of the tension and one night, when Patroklos left the room momentarily she asked bluntly, "Do you have a strong distaste for me Akhilleus?""Yes," he replied shamelessly and curtly, abandoning all social rules and indict.Iphis smiled bitterly, mildly amused by his pure arrogance, "Seeing as you brutally conquered and captured my homeland one might naturally assume it to be the other way round"She continued, "You dislike those perceived to be better than yourself, those whom offend you personally with their impropriety and lack of decorum, and finally and wholeheartedly those who pose a threat to your fragile male ego. Now tell me, what threat do I, a woman of but humble means and bound to servitude pose against a man as blessed and as privileged as you?"Akhilleus' brow knitted, angrily, "Hold your insolent tongue Iphis before I rid your mouth of it entirely. As it stands now you are beneath me in both class and sex. You are but a lowly servant whom slivered her way into a powerful bed, you are nothing, irreplaceable and pathetic"Iphis was plenty used to intolerant men whom thought the world belonged to them. There once was a day when she'd lie down and take such bold threats on the chin, but now she simply had grown tired of it."My, how vile and ugly you sound Akhilleus, Why a kind and handsome man such as Patroklos still stays by your side is unbeknownst to me" In truth, it wasn't so, she just desired to hear it fall from the horse's arrogant mouth, what to him made him so unique and in any way deserving?The son of Thetis smirked smugly, "he loves me, more deeply than he does you for I understand him truly and completely as one half does his other,I know him as the man whom stands by my side as we spill enemy blood upon the battlefield and as the boy whom came to my father, begging forgiveness for the innocent blood staining his hands""I already know about Klysonymos" Iphis stated bluntly, unfaced by his words, "Over these years he's told me almost everything, there's little I don't know about him. I reckon I know him just as much as you do"Akhilleus hummed vindictively, "And yet despite being intimate all this time only now you fall pregnant?""It is not only you men whose necessities have been so…restricted" she spoke candidly, "I'm too far along for the herbs to work anyway"The nymph-born, against his better judgement, interjected, "Oh I'm not so sure about that, Gello is easy to call upon is she not?"An intense distaste filled Iphis' mouth, "It matters not for I do not wish to take them nor pray to Gello regardless"She frowned at him, her stomach churning in discomfort.It was at this moment Patroklos returned taking note of the odd and somewhat aggressive atmosphere, "Iphis, my love, do you mind giving me and my companion some privacy, I must speak with him most urgently"Once the Skyros-born woman left he turned a hard gaze to his male lover, "Your overwhelming jealousy is both baffling and irrational my beloved"Akhilleus raised a sceptical brow, "is it? Because a wandering gaze is rather indicative"The Lokrian rolled his eyes, "Out of the two of us I believe the man born of a beautiful nereid would draw the most attention""Yes, but to them I am unobtainable, an ethereal Adonis, they devour with their eyes for they cannot with their hands.But with you my beloved, they foolishly believe they may stand a chance to woo you, mortal born as you are.If I could hide you away from the rest of the world so that no one else could lay their vile lustful gazes upon you I would, whole-heartedly for I am a shamelessly possessive man, I hoard what I love most including-"Patroklos finished his sentence, "your lovers""Yes," Akhilleus smiled, continuing, "but you are much more than my lover, if a man is only half a soul then you, my beloved, are my better half"Knowing his companion's arrogance the Lokrian questioned the validity behind his words but did not speak it, "and despite your possessive nature you allowed me to take Iphis as a lover""Concubine" the nymph-born corrected with a playful snark.Patroklos retorted, "How is she my concubine if I am an unmarried man?""A harlot then" Akhilleus snided, suddenly grabbing a small apple and throwing it in the direction of his lover.The Lokrian, blessed with quick reflexes, caught it seamlessly.Whilst maintaining eye contact with his companion he bit into the fruit, tearing through its crisp flesh, indulging in its tart sweetness.The silent euphemism and carnal sensuality of the act made Akhilleus' body move without thinking.With eager hands, he grasped his lover's handsome face and pressed their lips together in a moment of pure unbridled passion.Tasteless to the apple's sweet juice wetting his companion's lip, his tongue indulged in the flavour of his beloved, the essence his soul truly craved and sought.Patroklos' stubble scratched against his soft skin in a way most pleasant and intimate.The nymph-born tore at both his own cloth and his lovers, carelessly tossing aside the expensive fabric only focused on fulfilling his lustful needs.Greedily Akhilleus crawled into his lover's lap, muscular thighs parting and seductively trapping the other's narrow hips."Somebody's assertive tonight" the Lokrian teased, his voice profoundly husky and his eyes dark with arousal."Not that I'm complaining" he added, laying his war-torn hands upon his beloved's hips and waist, suggestively grinding his hardening manhood up against him.The nymph-born keened, in the mood to be held rather than hold, moaning wantonly, "Take me"His lover raised a sceptical brow, wordlessly questioning why they weren't retiring to their private chambers to be intimate. Nevertheless, he was Indulgent to his beloved's whims.They shifted position, beneath Patroklos now Akhilleus lay, pushed up against the couch's soft cushions as his lover grabbed a nearby pot of oil to coat his fingers with, a testament to both their vivacious appetites and the commonality of their couplings.Strong thighs parted invitingly, warm and slick fingers delved between them, passing his achingly stiff manhood and into the dip of his taut rear.Carefully the Lokrian prepared his beloved, stretching his tight entrance with gentle precision and persistence, watching in delighted arousal as his lover’s hips thrusted back against his hand, eager and desperate."I want you inside me"Silently the nymph-born's plea was answered, groaning with pleasure as he felt his beloved’s well-endowed manhood enter him, a feeling intimately familiar and irreplaceable.He filled him, completed him, two pieces slotting together perfectly, no other man nor woman would fit him so well.Here in the loving arms of his beloved Akhilleus could let the perfect mask of perfection crack, unfurl his soul, and bare himself fully, all of his ugly imperfections and blemishes for which there were many.And yet Patroklos loved him still, laying his lips upon each and every flaw, murmuring sweet words spoken like they're nothing but heard as if they were everything.If there came a day when his beloved did not love him Akhilleus would rather die a miserable death for there was no reality more sorrowful.Lost in the heat of passion they groaned into one another, with their bodies intimately intertwined the outside world was left behind, obsolete.Akhilleus’ gaze turned to the curtained door where a figure stood, awkward and still. A sick smile spread upon his face as he pondered upon Iphis, ‘Is she listening? Watching as I fulfil and pleasure her beloved master in ways she could never? Is she weeping? Distraught over her inadequacy and irreplaceability?’“I love you, dearest to my soul” He purred to his lover, vindictiveness hidden under sickeningly sweet affection.Patroklos’ reply was immediate and whole-hearted, “I love you too, more than any other man”The display was a power play, letting the woman he had now grown to hate more than anything take a glimpse of the two men's intimacy.
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There Iphis stood, peaking through the rippling colourful curtain, her gaze transfixed. Before her laid the visage of her lover, entwined with another.However, she could not find it within herself to be jealous. No, if anything it captured and aroused her attention.It was perverse, to lay your uninvited eyes, upon a moment most intimate. The art of sex, the intertwining of bodies melding into one, it was erotic, it was beautiful.She left the men to their loving embrace, retiring instead to her humble chambers.There she found solace in her own touch.Her hand dipped between her soft thighs, her maidenhood slick with arousal she stroked, her bud, swollen with desire she brushed.Back arching and hips juddering with pleasure as she thrusted back against her own hand.Her fingers delved between her slick folds, oh, how strongly she ached, yearning for the touch of her lover, the caress of his war-torn hands, the feeling of his manhood inside her, his lips upon hers.She was not a virgin before Patroklos, far from it. Upon Skyros' rocky shores, she was a porni, a woman enslaved, selling her body to men for coin.That was her life until Akhilleus himself tore up the island she once called home.Any woman or man that caught his eye he captured, taken as both war prisoner and servant.She could still remember that day clearly.There she stood, holding back the tears attempting to shed from her dark eyes, the sob clawing behind her ribcage and threatening to escape from her throat.Her cheaply made peplos, worn down by years of wear, colours faded, edges fraying, still stained with the blood of her people, those she cradled in their dying breaths.The chains around her wrists were invisibleSilent and complacent, as she was taught to be from birth, her mind raced.'Am I to be raped? Violated and imprisoned? Treated as nothing more than a body lacking in mind? As a vessel for their selfish, self-serving pleasure and nothing more?' Approaching footsteps brought her attention from her scattered anxiety-driven thoughts.Before he stood two men."Is she to your liking my beloved?" Her captor asked, hair as blonde as Skyros' once bright now blood-stained sand.The other man with locks of dark hickory was seemingly taken aback by the question, "It matters not if she's to my liking, she is to be a servant or freed"He whom captured her huffed indignantly, "Since I am bestowing her upon you as a gift your liking of her matters most greatly. And do not think of denying me this I tire of you disregarding my gifts”The other man's brows furrowed but he held his tongue, "she will do me nicely" he relentedSmirking her captor replied, "Then I have chosen well, I know your tastes better than anyone else my beloved"The other man remained silent as his companion continued, "Now I have other matters to attend to, you shall rejoin me after… acquainting yourself with her"When her captor left, her new master turned to her, "My apologies about Akhilleus, since joining this war he seems to be engulfed by it… you needn't worry, I’m not in the habit of mistreating either captives or servants”“And which am I? Servant or captive?” Iphis asked, bluntly.He smiled kindly, “depends upon you, If you stay a captive I’ll arrange a way to free you by escape or ransom" his hazel gaze was hard with serious sincerity, piercing into her very heart and soul, "wouldn't you like to return to your homeland of Skyros?"Silently she pondered the possibility of returning but what life could she have upon Skyros' wartorn shores other than that of a wanton whore? Her prospects looked grim, to say the least."And if I were to become a servant?" She asked, voice quiet and unsure of herself.He raised a brow, "there's not much to it, a bed to sleep upon, food to eat and coin to keep, just like any other servitude"Still sceptical of what the man desired from her, Iphis asked, "What type of service?"Realising her fears the man quickly reassured her, "I have no need for such a service, I do not wish to lay with you""Oh…" Iphis’ silence said it all, she assumed, incorrectly, that the man before her, solely lay with men.He chuckled good-humouredly, "No, I also fancy women, I just don't make a habit of laying with servants or captives…I am, however, in the habit of knowing my servant's name""Surely a servant should also know the man of whom she is serving?" Iphis teased light-heartedly.The man flushed with awkward embarrassment, "Allow me to introduce myself then, I am Patroklos, son of Menoitios""Menoitios the King of Opus?" She enquired, shocked that the humble and kind man before her was a prince.Patroklos’ smile was stiff as he replied, "Yes the same he, but you needn't address me by my royal title in fact I would prefer you didn't"Iphis frowned, "How come you, a Lokrian, fight with the Myrmidons?He shrugged nonchalantly, "Ah…it is a long story, although I am a Lokrian by birth I was raised alongside Akhilleus due to an incident when I was a young youth…I shalln't go into detail now… I was fighting alongside my fellow Lokrians but once Akhilleus and the Myrmidons joined this beastly war he asked me to fight alongside him and so I did"Patroklos and Iphis proceeded to talk for many an hour, and slowly she opened herself up to him as the days drew on.Their relationship was a slow burn, growing steadily more intimate over time. She became less of a servant and more of a companion.It was Iphis whom made the first move for she knew Patroklos would never.From their first kiss to their first night together she knew he was different from the other men she had lain with. He was a dutiful lover, caring for her pleasure.Whether or not he loved her more than Akhilleus mattered not to her for she felt the depth of his love in his touch and in his words…The hand between her thighs retreated as her mind drifted to Akhilleus and his hatred for her once more.She knew the seed of his disdain for her, it was relatively simple in retrospect, envy. He yearned for what she, as a woman, could have and what he, as a man could not.Absent-mindedly Iphis cradled her stomach, A maternal protectiveness ceased her heart. She never once considered herself a would-be mother but now, she longed for it, a child of her own, one born of her own blood and fathered by Patroklos' seed.Unfortunately, this, bound by cruel fate, was not to be.That night as she slumbered she awoke to a sharp pain within her pelvis, an aching and cramping all too familiar to her.She resisted the urge to curl in on herself and instead arose, something was not right, something was very wrong.The pain ceased her much more, coming in waves, growing stronger one after another."I must find Patroklos' her mind repeated over and over, an unending mantra that spurred her to reach him.Upon leaving her chambers she was hit by the outside air. Nausea wracked her form and upon the earth, her stomach emptied.She collapsed, tears rolling down her cheeks as she cried, "Patroklos!"At once her lover ran to her and gathered her within his arms, holding her close as she cradled her stomach and wept.
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In Akhilleus and Patroklos’ shared bed laid Iphis.“Shouldn’t we take her to the medical tent?” Akhilleus frowned, masking his selfish annoyance over the Skyros woman's presence as mild concern.Patroklos shook his head, “This matter is far more delicate than some simple war wound"Although the Lokrian was blessed by Asklepios with profound medical knowledge he was none so arrogant as to claim he knew everything, especially in regards to the female form.He called upon a servant by name, "Diomede! Bring me the priestess of Hygieia, it is most urgent!"As the Lesbos born maiden did as beckoned Patroklos turned to his male lover, "My beloved, can you watch over her as I get poppy milk from the medical tent? It shall take only a moment"Once the Lokrian left Akhilleus turned to Iphis, "Oh quit your bemoaning it is most dreadful"Through her teeth, she replied, "No more dreadful than the pain wracking my form, you have no right to complain, especially when It was you whom placed upon me this curse!"Akhilleus did not reply, his avoidance of defending himself only served to solidify the accusation in her mind.She gazed up at him, eyes burning with rage, "You cruel man! Do you have no soul? No heart? Do you feel better now? Did your vile act cure your petty jealousy?!"As Akhilleus took a step towards her, Iphis retreated, growling like a wounded she-wolf, "Go away! Do not dare touch me with your blood-stained hands! Slayer of innocents, raper of women!"Oh, how the Nymph-born longed to bite back but as fate would have it his beloved had returned before he could utter a retort.However, the following words Patroklos would say to his male lover set a blaze inside his breast, "Akhilleus, I think you should leave, Iphis is in a fragile state and your presence isn't aiding""Leave?! This is my quarters! If anyone were to leave it should be her! She's the servant!"Patroklos' brow knitted, "I'll have servants set up chambers for both Iphis and me when she's stabilised, for now just go about the day as so planned"Before Akhilleus could argue his beloved shot him a stern gaze, it was clear how unmoving he was in this matter and there was nothing his male lover could do to change that.Defeated, the nymph-born left the tent in a huff and found a secluded place to lick his proverbial wounds and sulk.“Oh thank the theos I thought he’d never leave” Iphis groaned, "Did you add honey to the poppy milk?"Patroklos nodded, bringing the kylix of poppy milk to his lover's lips, eager she was to drink in the precious liquid, underneath its strong bitter taste was a dull sweetness."Not nearly enough” she cringed, laying her head down again.Her soft breasts rose with slow shallow breaths, with each rise and fall she fell deeper into the soft furs beneath her, weary bones lulled into relaxation. The pain wracking her womb faded, replaced by a blissful euphoria of the poppy."Ah, you have already given her some of Demeter's milk" The womanly healer hummed, "that shall make this easier"Her wise and experienced hands made quick work of Iphis' blood-stained peplos and perizoma."She's miscarrying, how long have you been with child?"The answer was trapped within Iphis' throat, so her lover spoke for her, "two months".She hummed, grabbing the speculum, sticking it with oil and slowly inserting the cold metal instrument into Iphis' maidenhood, she flinched away from it."I'm surprised you can still feel that" The healer murmured."The poppy dulls pain not sensation" she murmured, voice sullen and quiet.With a few cranks, the speculum opened, allowing the healer to peer inside.It was an uncomfortable sensation being pried open, having your most intimate parts gazed upon and studied. Iphis held back the urge to squirm.But after a few moments it was over, the healer she closed removed the instrument."Your cervix is dilated enough for it to pass naturally, you shall be fine" She then turned to Patroklos, "There is nothing more I can do, it is up to her now. I shall take my leave and send prayers to the theos for her recovery, you know what to do from here"A silence enveloped the chamber, Iphis arose, drawing her knees to her breast and embracing them.And then, she broke, even though the poppy induced euphoria, sadness seeped from the cracks in her face. The ache within her breast grew darker with each passing second.It tore Patroklos' heart to see the woman he loved suffer but he knew what she was going through was far worse. She had a miscarriage, their child is gone, rejected from her womb."I'm sorry" she spoke through the sobs breaking free from her chest and escaping her throat.He was quick to reassure her, "You needn't apologise for something you did not do"She looked at him with tear-stained eyes, "but what if I did? What if I am cursed by Gelo? What if I cannot carry a child? What wife would I be if I cannot give you that?"Patroklos cradled her face, "Iphis, stop it, this was not your fault, you're not to blame" he wrapped his arms around her in an embrace "Even if you cannot bear me a child it does not matter, it does not make you a lesser woman, it does not change how I feel for you, I love you"She could not speak, too choked up by the raw emotions clawing at her ribs and heart.With weary eyes she looked down at her legs, stained with blood, a disgust filled her, "I want a bath"Meanwhile, elsewhere the nymph-born sat, sullen and distant, beneath the shade of an olivetree, gazing into the rolling ocean“My dear son, why are thou sulking so?” The mighty Nereid asked, voice soft as silk, hair like curling waves.Akhilleus sighed, “My godly mother you would not understand, I have made a mistake, a grave one and only now am I suffering from the ramifications of my stubborn impulsiveness”“Ah my beloved child, lay upon me the cause of your pain and all shall be rectified”, Thetis spoke, drawing him to her soft breast in a mothering embrace.Her son wept, embracing his mother tightly, “My god-born mother, I have spilt innocent blood, that of Patroklos’ unborn child, all to satisfy my own bitter jealousy, It was I, not the revenant Daimon Gello, whom caused Iphis’ miscarriage and now I pay the price for that, he cares for her now than ever before, I fear he has grown to love her more than me”Though her motherly love was all forgiving a violent shiver still ran down her spine, she was stunned into silence, gobsmacked by her son's cruel immorality.Akhilleus' jaw clenched as he paced, “I could pray to the gods, beg for them to lay upon Iphis many a curse but It would be for not. My beloved Patroklos will marry Iphis and she will become his everything, for whom does a man love more than his lover? His wife”“Why must Hera be so cruel? If marriage is built upon love then why must it solely be between a man and a woman? Why cannot I and my beloved companion wed? It is unfair!”Thetis smiled bitterly, “My dear son, we both know marriage isn’t based upon love, it is a soulless union built upon the promise of children”, her gaze turned hard, “and you…cannot bear his”Akhilleus grew sullen, a dark expression spreading upon his face, “Then neither shall she, what makes her worthy of bearing Patroklos’ child when I cannot?”“I pray for Gello to lay her curses upon Iphis, may her unworthy womb remain barren till the end of her days, may any pregnancy end with blood and death, never shall she hold within her arms a child of her blood and Patroklos’ seed” Under his breath he whispered for only himself and the gods to hear.Tears fell from Thetis’ eyes, every bone within her body screamed for her to stop the vile prayer and yet…she did not.
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The poppies swayed gently in the breeze, smelling of earth, their colour a vibrant red, like the blood from a mortal war wound, like the blood flowing from betwixt a woman's soft thighs.But it was not for its elegant petals that earned Iphis' cold glare but its bulbous seed pods.She could take up a knife, slice into the green tender flesh and drink her full of the opaque sap leaking from the fresh cuts.But she stood still, unmoving, the urge however, plagued her everything thought and every twitch of her fingers.The poppy's milk was a gift from Demeter, for those struck with pain, it served as a blessing, alleviating their suffering with one simple taste. However, it would come with a cost, for it was hard to let go of a theos’ love especially one so tempting.She had seen great men, soldiers hardened by endless war and battle fall to the poppy, their bodies wasting away but their minds ravenous, living only for their next hit, that addicting surge of euphoria.Iphis was determined not to end up like them, she would rather die than become a pitful broken shell of the woman she once was.A wave of nausea wracked her, It was like the dreaded morning sickness all over again except this time she, cruelly, wasn't even with child.She shook but not from the cold, she hungered but not for food, she could not sleep for she craved, longed for that euphoric embrace her once more.However she persisted, abstaining for she knew better, the pain had mostly subsided, and she no longer needed nor deserved Demeter's blessing.“My love, please eat something” her betrothed pleaded, offering her bland bread to fill her empty aching stomach.Unable to deny his kind eyes she held out her hand. She had no appetite but to please him she ripped and ate the bread in pieces.Each swallow like a shard of glass ripping through her dry throat.She reached for water, drinking it eagerly, but her thirst… It was never satiated.“Leave me please, the poppy has made me a poor companion, I am irritable and I do not wish to inflict my misplaced anger upon you when you, my love, of all everyone, deserve it the least” she muttered, gaze transfixed by the mocking poppies once more.Heading Iphis’ words Patroklos left her be, drawing his attention from his fragile lover no matter how hard it was.Since her miscarriage, Akhilleus was uncharacteristically quiet but it was not out of respect for the loss of a child. He knew what it was that plagued his beloved's thoughts, he had heard everything. But only now was he fit to confront him, the heat of his anger died down into a cold rage.His lover was where he left him last, finding solace from the sun's rays beneath the shade of an olive shrub indulging his godly mother's company."Greetings my goddess, daughter of the mighty Nereus” The Lokrian greeted with respectful familiarity, having known Thetis since his boyhood youth.The eldest nereid smiled, “Thou needn't be so formal Patroklos, you know me by name and face after all”He returned her grin, “Whom am I to deny a goddess her wishes?" But he did not sit next to his companion, "how do you fare Thetis? This war is surely spurring havoc between both theos' and mortals""Of course, it would be you to ask such a question before my own son does" she shot Akhilleus a playful glare, "despite my self-centred and sole child either angering or displeasing the other theos with his usual antics I am well"She sighed, "Thankfully us nereids and nymphs have little investment in regards to this war and therefore aren't arguing amongst ourselves, unlike the Olympians…"The conversation was short-lived for even an immortal goddess still had her responsibilities, even so, the nereid placed a maternal kiss upon both the men's cheeks before walking into the ocean."Be thee well Patroklos and be sure to look after my foolish son for me! Theos knows he needs it!" She called before sinking beneath Pontos' waves.A still silence embraced them, one soon broken by the oldest of the two lovers."Why did you do it?" He asked simply, hands upon his hips as he stood over his companion, an imposing and stern figure."Did what?" The nymph-born enquired coyly with a smirk upon his face, however when met with his lover's cold gaze he shrunk back and replied pitifully, "Phthonus was whispering in my ear, goading me, taunting me with sly remarks, it was he whom suggested I slip the silphium into Iphis' mint tea"Patroklos huffed, "So you were jealous? Is that it? And you believe this somehow undoes or justifies what you did to Iphis?"Akhilleus remained sullen and silent as his beloved continued his justified berating."Because it does not! I have half the mind to leave the Myrmidons and rejoin my fellow Lokrians one more!" He held his tongue back from spewing vile insults, and sighed in frustration, "Look, I think it would be best for us to have some time apart to… recollect our thoughts and allow our wounds to heal"Upon hearing this the nymph-born’s face turned ashen and his mouth agape, "No! Please do not do this to me! I cannot bear it, be angry with me and ignore me all you like but do not leave me, I beg of you!"Patroklos bit the inside of his cheek, as his lover grovelled upon his knees in front of him, grabbing onto the hem of his chiton and clinging on tight."I'll do anything! I can't lose you I'll be lost, half a soul! I would sooner take up a blade and slit my throat than part with you! Just give me a chance I can change, make it up to you!"Despite his better judgment, the Lokrian's heart clenched with sympathy, he could feel Akhilleus’ tears soaking the end of his chiton, pure white cloth staining a light grey.He knew his companion, his manipulative tendencies, and yet he always bent to them, those pleading heart-wrenching words for they weren't lies but far from it, the cold hard truth.Patroklos sucked air through his teeth, folding was once more but unbreaking, "Fine…but you must apologize to Iphis herself, it is her whom you have to beg forgiveness from"Akhilleus stilled, looking up at him, biting back his pride as he replied, "I will"With Iphis already being in a foul and irritable mood the apology went as expected, poorly. His words, shallow as they were, served only to vex her further.Her hands, shaking with rage and poppy withdrawal, blindly grabbed at what was within reach and chucked it in the fair-haired man's general direction.The terracotta jar broke upon hitting Akhilleus' broad breast, falling to the fall in sharp pieces but leaving him unharmed in all but pride.She sighed, running a frustrated hand through her nerve-frayed locks, glaring at both the mess she made and the man standing amongst it."Akhilleus make yourself scarce before I decide to throw a dagger at you instead" she growled. And the nymph-born sheepishly obeyed, gaze turned downwards to the earth as he retreated.Now alone she muttered to herself, "another mess for me to clean up…and It was a freshly cleaned floor as well"
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Day by day Iphis grew stronger, the poppy's addictive roots finally withdrew from her tender flesh, dying away till they were nothing but dust.Her thoughts were no longer occupied by their bitter milk for her mind was drawn to other bodily pleasures.Desire stirred within her once more, relighting the fire of longing and the flame of Eros. Due to her affliction, she had not laid with her lover in quite some time but by now the blood had passed and her ravenous hunger for him returned in full.“My beloved" she called from their shared chambers, seductively lying atop their fur-covered bed. Her voluptuous and feminine form barren of cloth, her sun-kissed skin flushed with desire.Patroklos, although previously occupied with polishing his armour, was quick to service her, his finely woven chiton and perizoma fell to the earth, discarded in his eagerness to join his lover.Their mouths meet hungrily, with great passion and vigour.Patroklos pulled away only to lay his sweet kisses elsewhere, laying his affectionate lips upon the tender flesh of her lean neck and the perking mounds of her breasts.War-hardened hands held her hips still as his head travelled further downwards, extending his loving mouth to her navel.Eagerly she parted her soft thighs for him, revealing her womanhood, folds slick with arousal, aching for his touch.He was on her in an instant with an unrivalled passion, craving her sweet taste and intimate scent, treating her maidenhood like a place of worship and he, the humble devotee.Greedy, she arched her back, hips thrusting to meet his talented tongue.The pleasure was overwhelming, moans, as soft as the furs she laid upon, escaped her lips as he sucked her sensitive bud.Her full and quivering thighs enclosed around his head, her nimble fingers threaded through her lover's hickory locks as her orgasm quickly approached.All was lost in the gratification, overwriting her every thought and qualm, all that mattered was the here and now.She came with a soft moan, her body tensing and relaxing in a matter of moments. She lay still, basking in the unfurling rapture.He withdrew his pleasing mouth, to gaze up at her, admiring her bliss-stricken beauty. He licked his lips, savouring the taste of her sweet nectar upon his tongue, He too had missed this.A satisfied smile spread upon her fair face, how blessed she felt to have a lover so kind and caring, never once had he left her unsatiated or unsatisfied.She held out her welcoming arms, "embrace me, my dearest" she purred, her voice so sweet and tempting that he had no choice but to obey.He laid his form against hers, beholding her in his own arms. His manhood, erect and well-endowed, pressed against her navel, relighting the flame inside her."You can, my dearest” she whispered, knowing full well his un-sureties and apprehension, “I long for you inside me”Patroklos arose to guide his stiff member between her welcoming petals. He penetrated her womanhood with a pleased groan, oh how he strongly missed the way she wrapped around him.Eagerly Iphis wrapped her thighs around his waist, trying to bring him closer, and his manhood deeper."Let go my beloved you needn't hold back with me" she hummed, gazing up at him, both their eyes dark with desire.Their lips then meet once more, as their bodies move as one, rocking to the same inaudible song, their souls and forms intertwining.It did not take long for him to find his pleasure within her velvet heat. His hips shuttered, seed spilling into a womb that could never bear.Though they lay tenderly in a sweet embrace,Patroklos was still deep in his thoughts and asked, "My love, do you find me too forgiving?"Iphis pursed her lips with a hum and reached out to cup his face gently, "Sometimes, but you cannot help it, my beloved, you have a kind heart, some may say it to your detriment and others that it's your most honourable quality"He sighed, handsome head leaning into her comforting hand, "I promised the honourable Peleus, a man like a second father to me, to take care of his sole son, to be the wiser to his brasher but Akhilleus does not make it easy for me… especially him committing an act such as that…"Iphis' lip quivered and her eyes grew cold, "...No matter how hard I try I just can't forgive him…I don't think I ever will""You don't have to, he does not deserve it" Patroklos mutters, wrapping his arm tightly around her waist, protective and comforting.Iphis frowned, bold and harsh words spilling from her lips as she laid her comely head upon his breast, "he cares only for himself, his selfish arrogance is akin to Narcissus… Only that it is you, my beloved, who is the reflection he so obsesses over, the love that will eventually drown and kill him"A still silence passed between them, with the Lokrian simply running his hand through his lover's dark locks, the elegant tresses falling betwixt his fingers like soft waves.There was a contentedness between them, one of freely spoken thoughts and nonjudgmental replies.Although Iphis slept by his side, Hypnos evaded Patroklos, he lay with his eyes open, mind ruminating in the night-born quiet.Finally, he sat up, his decision made, he needed to see Akhilleus.
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When he silently waltzed into his lover's chambers he was greeted by a lustful and desperate sight.Akhilleus laying with a woman with a ravenous savagery, it was neither kind nor gentle.He was using her plain and simple, there was no love, only primal heat.Lost in the act neither his lover nor his female companion noticed Patroklos' presence but he was quick to make it known."Glad to know your bed has not grown cold in my absence Akhilleus" He remarked humouredly, jealousy was a rare emotion for him, even now Phthonus had no hold on him.The nymph-born's reaction was akin to a hound hearing his dear owner's voice, ecstatic excitement, his attention swiftly switched from the woman beneath him to his lover."My beloved! Oh how dearly I have missed your sweet presence, it has been too long since you last graced my chambers" he smiled widely.It had only been a matter of a few days…Patroklos' gaze however landed upon his lover's bedmate, recognising her promptly as a familiar face, one of Akhilleus’ favourite female companions and yet there she was discarded and abandoned, bruises darkening the tender flesh of her neck and hips, pity struck his heart at once."Diomede I am no longer in need of your services you are dismissed" Akhilleus spoke bluntly, eyes never straying from the man before him.Quickly and quietly the Lesbos heralded woman gathered her discarded peplos and fled the chamber, silently thanking the theos for the interruption."You needn't be so rough with her-" Patroklos began his scolding but was cut off swiftly by his lover's lips colliding with his.It was needy and eager, the kiss of lovers finally reunited after years of separation.When they separated their heated kiss, Akhilleus growled lowly,"You smell of her, Iphis' fine and possessive perfume, you've laid with her, haven't you? Did you come here to test my already crumbling resolve? Do you want me to beg? Plead for the touch I long for every day? Because I will do so gladly, you know I have no pride, no dignity when it comes to you my beloved Patroklos"The Lokrian eyes softened, "There is no need for that my love, I've come to satisfy my own needs as much as yours, just lay upon the bed and I'll tend to both our wants in due measure"Swift was he to obey his companions' words watching with a yearning gaze as Patroklos undressed teasingly, his manhood aching with desire upon seeing the bare flesh he so dearly loved.His lover straddled him at once, the position often taken when the Lokrian was receiving, he was first and foremost, a talented rider."Your thighs can kill a man" Akhilleus purred, admiring his strong muscular legs.Patroklos chuckled lightly, having heard those words plenty a time before, "Perhaps instead of my spear I should instead strangle the Dardanoi with my thighs"The nymph-born's eyes darkened in jealous arousal, "no, they would be none so worthy of such a blessing""Possessive man" the Lokrian chided playfully, grabbing the nearby jar of oil, finding it near empty, "we shall have to buy more after tonight"Akhilleus flushed, "I may have been overly self-indulgent in your absence…" he admitted quietly.Patroklos simply raised a wordless brow, dipping his fingers in the meagre oil before preparing himself with careful and slow ambition, it had been a while since he received and Akhilleus was well-endowed.Rarely did he draw the process out but with his lover gazing up at him so eagerly he found it a befitting time, a playful smirk gracing his lip.Quickly did his desperate gaze turn into a dire plea, "Please my beloved cease your cruel torment, I've been yearning for your embrace for many a day now"Patroklos smiled, how amusing it was that a man so strong would yield to such simple teasing, "if I truly desired to be cruel I'd bind you to the bed and lay with myself just outside of your reach"Akhilleus bit back a moan, his lover's words and voice never failed to arouse him."But thankfully for you, I'm in a favourable mood" he stated, taking his companion's member in hand and guiding it to his entrance, it was still slick with Deidamia's nectar and stiff with desire.The nymph-born groaned, hands moving to his lover's hips as he sank down upon his manhood, engulfing it in his tight heat.It was now Akhilleus' role to lie back and let Patroklos take control, who, after taking a moment to adjust, began to move with great ambition.His hips rolled back and forth, riding him like a thoroughbred horse, each movement grinding his lover's manhood against his prostate, it was euphoric and deeply intimate.Some ignorant men foolishly believed relieving to be a purely submissive act, one worthy of shame, an insult to one's masculinity.But for Patroklos and Akhilleus it was not, both were secure in their manhood, each took turns giving and taking, for in truth they enjoyed both positions.There was no lesser, they were equals, two halves of the same soul and in this moment they were intertwining, reforming as one complete being."I love you so much it hurts whenever we part" Akhilleus groaned, eyes hazed over in pleasure, "Friend, companion, lover, soul mate" There is no word great enough to describe my feelings for you"Patroklos, too lost in the passionate euphoria, added mindlessly, "Husband"His lover's gaze darkened with a possessive heat, "Husband, yes, that is what we are, married, hearts, souls and bodies bound to one another for all eternity, you are mine, I am yours, no man nor theos can break our bond""Perhaps we shall get rings to commemorate our union?" The Lokrian quipped, thinking little of his remark that unknowingly laid a seed within his companion's mind.Their passionate coupling resumed, uttering words of affection to one another, moaning with overflowing pleasureAkhilleus was first to spill his seed, followed swiftly by Patroklos, but it would take more than one orgasm to fulfil their carnal hunger.Their manhoods, as swiftly as they had softened, hardened once more.But the night was young and their tight embrace warm, they could afford to indulge just this once.
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With the sun arouse a new day but the two warriors were none too eager to leave the warmth of their bed and the comfort of their embrace.Akhilleus especially was Indulgent, running an affectionate hand through his beloved's long hickory tresses, watching with transfixed admiration as the dark curls slipped through his fingers.It was one of those rare instances where Patroklos awoke last and Akhilleus took it as a blessing from the theos, a precious opportunity to quietly admire and gaze upon his lover unperturbed by the horrors of war.Entranced by the rhythmic rise and fall of his lover's breast, a consoling reminder that the man whom he loved above all others was alive and well.Gently he brought him closer, his unyielding arms wrapping round his beloved's upper waist, their legs intertwining.One word was all it took to break the domestic bliss, a name, one he's grown to despise and will forever do."Iphis…"It was mumbled, near incoherent and yet it wracked Akhilleus' heart so utterly. He scowled, his fiery anger melding with his love for the beautiful man next to him.Never before had a mortal woman roused such a violent and smouldering fury inside him.Somewhere deep within the recesses of his mind, he knew she did not deserve it, his hatred, but this did not cease the thoughts plaguing him.Gritting his teeth Akhilleus embraced his beloved tighter, oh how he longed to wring Iphis' slender neck and choke her till she was blue in the face.But it was a fruitless thought, laying a hand upon her was out of the question, Patroklos was himself forgiving but not THAT forgiving.However the nymph-born will not admit defeat so easily, he is determined to win his dear companions' favour and thereby his love.Akhilleus, despite his internal lamentations, released his hold upon his lover and arose.Quietly as to not awaken the other man he draped his bare form in a loose chiton and left the bed-chambers.Within a few moments, he returned, food in hand."My beloved" He purred, "I've procured you some breakfast"Patroklos arose, staring dazed for a moment before unconsciously grabbing the warm bowl held out for him, his lip curling into a warm smile upon gazing into it, "Trahana with pomegranate seeds""And honey… your favourite" his lover added, beaming with pride.Together they ate, indulging in the short moment of solace until the chaos of the day swept them away.But every move made by Akhilleus was a calculated one, every sweet word and gesture was a manipulation, another step towards his goal.And Patroklos, knowing full well his lover's intentions, could only watch as the walls enclosed around him, a fly in a spider’s web.Like a would-be bride the Lokrian was lavished with endless gifts, ones he could not reject for the sake of saving his companion's pride and face, even as they grew more ludicrous.Finely tempered blades and near-indestructible armour? That was of use to a warrior.Sweet-smelling hair oils and intricately woven chitons? That was befitting of a prince.A Jewel-covered spear so blunt it couldn't cut a fig and so fragile that it would break in one simple stab? Now, Patroklos thought, was both ridiculous and useless.But in war, there was little time to fuss over these things, and after a heated battle, the Lokrian busied himself by tending to any wounded soldiers.Akhilleus meanwhile, had other ideas and chose instead to converse with his mother."My dear child" Thetis greeted, "another battle won and plenty more to fight, I hear you were quite fierce, slaying men left and right"Her son, smug in his accomplishments, beamed, "Yes, though in truth, my beloved Patroklos was quick to give pity to many Dardanoi that surrendered under threat of my spear, he tends to them now as we speak"The nereid smiled, always fond and thankful of her son's lover, "I see, I'm pleased to hear that the war has yet to tarnish his kind heart and forgiving spirit" Her face grew dark, "especially with what you had done to Iphis…poor girl"Akhilleus face own grin faltered, shifting into a slight grimace as he spoke gravely, "I know, I am blessed by the theos to have a companion so perfect to forgive my misgivings, that is why I wish to gift him something befitting of his beautiful soul"Dainty brow raised she asked, "What do you have in mind, my child?""A pair of the finest and purest gold rings forged by the great Hephaestus, my name carved inside his and his name carved inside mine"Thetis smiled amused, "My child that is quite lavish indeed, you know I care for your Patroklos like he were my own son but there are plenty of talented jewellers in Phthia why not use their services instead?"Her son pouted pitifully like a child, "But mother, it is well known that Hephaestus is the greatest jeweller of all, what short-lived mortal talent could compare to that of a Theos? If you truly view my lover as another child then please, do this for me"Upon being subjected to her son's pleading gaze the nereid conceded, never able to resist her son's will.After a few days, Akhilleus had within his hand the rings, gorgeous in appearance and pure in make.But this was but one part of his gift, what use was a ring if it was unblessed?And so he prayed, calling upon Eros and Psyche, a couple bound by love and soul.Within a few moments, the rings glowed with the theos' light, laying down an invisible blessing upon its precious surface.Smiling Akhilleus slipped upon his third finger the golden ring, shimmering with the god's magic, "My beloved Patroklos cannot deny a ring so beautiful"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Patroklos had seen many rings, from extravagant pieces only worn by the most affluent and esteemed to simple bands invaluable only in sentiments.
This ring, however, was neither balan nor ornate, curiously he beheld it, and despite weighing little it felt heavy in his palm.
His lover's gaze was burning, brow cocked and smiling expectantly.
What was the point of having a ring if you weren't going to wear it?
And like a rabbit in a snare, he was caught.
The moment he slid the golden band over his finger he could not take it off again, it was physically fused to him, inseparable from his flesh.
Fear struck Patroklos and it was then he noticed his lover's left hand, they bore matching rings…
“Akhilleus…what did you do?” His voice was calmly still, stifling his emotions.
But the nymph-born only smiled, pleased, lips unmoving as he spoke to his beloved.
“I bound our souls”
Patroklos’ eyes widened, “bound our souls! that’s a matter of phrase not an actuality! I can hear your thoughts as if they're my own!”
“
But don't you see my beloved? This is a blessing! we do not even have to open our lips to speak to one another”
He felt like he was going mad, couldn't his lover hear his thoughts spiralling? “this is more a curse than it is a blessing! Don't you understand? You've tied our fates together!”
Akhilleus reached to embrace him but Patroklos stepped back, “I need to go”
“My beloved please…”
But he remained firm, “No, I'm going, you… need to find a way to fix this mess you've made”
As he stormed out of their shared chambers Akhilleus’ mind murmured quietly.
“I can’t there's no way to undo it…”
Unconsciously, Patroklos’ feet led him to Iphis.
“My love? Whatever’s the matter? Your features are shrouded in a dark cloud”
Akhilleus’ thoughts came in sneering with bared teeth and all, voicing his distaste quite clearly.
The Lokrian sighed wrapping his arms about her.
“So quick you are to embrace her, does she know that we lay together last night? That your seed is inside me and not her?”
Iphis pressed her form against his, indulgent.
“Whore”
Patroklos growled back,
“Don't call her that”
“Well it's true, isn't it? She was a pornai on Skyros, once a whore always a whore”
His lover gazed up into his grimace-stricken face, silently asking him with her soft eyes.
“It's Akhilleus…”
She sighed, “When is it not? What did he do this time?”
“Meddling Bitch”
Patroklos’ brow furrowed, mentally blocking out his lover's words, “He bound our souls together”
“What” Iphis was naturally dumbstruck, “How did he even do that?”
A fair question really, this was something completely unheard of outside of expressions.
“It's this ring, it binds me to him and him to me, a so-called ‘blessing’ from the theos, I swear he's gone mad”
Iphis’ brow furrowed, glancing at the golden ring claiming her lover's third finger like a wedding band, “...Is there a way to remove it?”
He shook his head, “No, I can't even take the thing off”
The voice returned possessive and unhinged,
“And you never will, with every passing second the metal embeds itself further until it's fully fused with our living flesh”
“What if we asked a blacksmith to cut into it?” She paused before jokingly suggesting “or even cut your finger off, the same result really”
Akhilleus seemed to bristle at that,
“If a blacksmith were to even draw the tiniest amount of blood from your finger I'd kill him brutally”
Chuckling half-heartedly Patroklos retorted,
“What if I were to cut my own finger off?”
His lover's voice grew silent, and Iphis was looking at him oddly.
“You can hear his thoughts can't you?” she surmised.
Patroklos bit his lip, “that is not all, both our minds and fates are intertwined”
“Then that means…” Iphis trailed off, a sentence that answered itself, all knew the prophecy of Akhilleus’ fate.
He sighed, “It's almost comforting… to know that I'll be dead by the war’s end, perhaps that was my fate, soul-binding or not, I was destined to die upon the battlefield, never able to return to my homeland since I left it”
“No, you will see Opus again”
But before he could enquire what she meant, Iphis continued, lips upturned, “For our wedding”
Patroklos returned her bittersweet smile, “Then it is settled, we shall have a seaside wedding”
Their lips met and soon they fell into bed, eager but passionate.
……
Their mental bond was strong, strengthening with each passing day not only was it thoughts they shared but now it was everything.
The tarty sweetness of a pomegranate, the gentle brush of a shoulder, the sharp pain of a blade and the intensity of pleasure.
As he lay with Iphis so too did he lay with him.
“Her heat wraps around you so well, clinging so tightly as if she's scared to let you go”
Akhilleus groaned.
Patroklos felt an invisible hand wrap around his manhood.
“Enjoying yourself are you?”
“Immensely”
he purred,
“Do not stop”
The Lokrian, attentive to both the lover beneath him and the one speaking in his mind,
“I thought you'd be jealous of the attention I'm giving her”
“Oh, I am! So dearly do I desire to be in her place, to be held in your tender embrace”
He smiled devilishly, gaze landing on the gold band on his finger,
“Why be my wife when you're already my husband?”
Patroklos smirked upon hearing his lover whine mentally, knowing full well his to rile him up,
“I promise I'll pay a visit to your bed chambers next”
“You better!”
….
Over time Akhilleus’ view of Iphis changed, no longer did he despise her.
He had no love for her, but he could feel Patroklos’ and maybe, that was all that mattered.
The Lokrian can bear two rings after all…