Fantasy AU The Threads of Time and Fate (Kastellanos)

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope hung on every word of his, knowing what he was saying he would try, she believed in him that he could actually achieve what he spoke on. She reached for his hand as he seemed worried about not thing able to do anything at first, and her cheeks stained a little pink when he mentioned she would be returned to her father tomorrow.

Even as she had saw that glimmer in his eyes and opening his voice, of course she was worried. If he left her…what would happen? She chewed on her lip nervously at that idea and she then asked him a simple question. “Why…can’t I go with you?”

Although that in itself wasn’t a simple question nor would it receive a simple answer. But Hart would be able to already realize what she wanted. She didn’t want to go back to her father, she wanted to stay with her mate, go on that journey with him, and never leave his side. But this could prove a problem, with her condition worsening over time…

But still, if he left her and she succumbed to her illness when he wasn’t around- perhaps he would never forgive himself. Penelope on the other hand didn’t want to be separated for that exact reason. She didn’t want to leave this world without seeing Hart for the final time, and not having him there when she…it honestly frightened her.

 

[Kastellanos]

“Penelope…” Hart began, voice low, almost reverent, “You have no idea how badly I want to say yes.” He brought her hand to his chest, pressing it over the slow, steady thrum of his heartbeat. “You ask why you can’t come with me, and the truth is... there’s no part of me that wants to leave you behind. Not for a single day, not for a single mile, not even for a moment do I want to be away from my mate.”

Hart's eyes searched hers, filled with worry, the glimmer of pain at the mere thought of leaving her behind. “But this journey I’m setting out on… I don’t know what lies ahead or the dangers that we would have to face. There are places I’ll have to go, people I may have to face... Men or monsters who wouldn’t hesitate to harm me or anyone who is with me... I don’t know the dangers yet, but I know they’ll come, and I don't want you to get hurt. I would never forgive myself if that happened.”

Hart paused, voice filled with something unspoken. “You’re already fighting a battle within your own body, and I...” His words caught in his throat. He swallowed it down and forced himself to continue. “I couldn’t bear the thought of you being caught in another one. Not if I had the power to prevent it...”

Hart leaned in closer, his forehead nearly brushing hers. “But if you did come… I’d want you to be safe. In places I’ve cleared. Inns, quiet camps. Somewhere I could return to you, knowing you were waiting, not worrying if you’d vanished the moment I turned my back... If that would be more acceptable to you?”

He gently cupped her face, thumb tracing along her cheek with a reverence that felt almost like mourning. “I’m not pushing you away, Pen. I’m trying to keep you alive, to keep you safe. I need to know that if something were to happen out there… I wouldn’t come back and find the world emptier without you in it, I'd rather spend as much time with you as I can.”


He closed his eyes briefly, as though steeling himself against the ache in his chest. “When I said you’d go back to your father, it wasn’t because I wanted it. It was because I thought it was safe. But if there’s another way… if we can find one…” Hart opened his eyes, steady and full of something fierce, something unshakable, a silent promise that he didn't dare to air out in this moment.

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope listened to Hart’s words realizing what he spoke was true- she couldn’t..risk anything, she couldn’t put him in such a predicament, causing him more stress than he would already be in. And when he mentioned about her own battle, she bit her lip gently. She had taken comfort in the fact that she was so close to him, that she would never have to worry about being alone again— and that worry began to creep up on her once more, and she couldn’t help but feel that way.

Yet, when he mentioned if she did come she could do what he had asked her to, and the light in her eyes could be see- that glimmer of hope in them. She had leaned into his touch while he cupped her face, closing her eyes briefly as she could feel his heartbeat underneath her hand placed on his chest still. As steady as a drum, she knew his heart belonged to hers, as did her heart belong to his.

Her breathing steadied out and she finally decided to give him her answer, feeling her cheeks burn slightly with a light blush. “I think…that will be suitable,” she tells him now, reopening he eyes and looking into his. “I would only go where you’d deem it safe.. I…I wouldn’t want to put more worry onto you,” she admits, smiling softly yet a bit sadly.

“I love you..and I trust you,” she tells him next, Penelope knew he only wanted the best for her, and she would count on him to fulfill his promise, no matter what.

 

[Kastellanos]

The morning sun was pale, filtered weakly through the thin clouds that blanketed the sky. A low wind whispered through the trees, carrying the scent of damp earth and early blossoms. The woods were quiet, save for the muffled crunch of leather boots against soil and the occasional clink of metal as Hart adjusted the strap of his satchel. He’d risen before dawn; it was a habit, mostly. The kind of routine born from years of needing to be prepared before the world was awake enough to remind him of its dangers, to patrol the woods and check the village for anything worth worrying about. Hart had spent the quiet hours checking and rechecking his gear: provisions, coins, dried herbs, a few sharpened knives, a spare water flask, and the compact med kit he made with the herbs and plants he found around the woods. It wasn’t much, but it was everything he might need if things turned.

Hart glanced sideways at Peneplope, his eyes lingering briefly on the softness of her features, she’d agreed to his terms, to his plan. But that didn’t stop the gnawing worry that burrowed deeper into his gut the closer they got to the village. Not to mention the silent concern in her chest for his mate, gnawing in the back of his mind if she would survive this journey or if he would be returning alone. He sighed softly, shifting the strap of the satchel higher on his shoulder, and cleared his mind.

“…Your father’s going to be furious.” Hart's voice cut through the hush of the trees, low and thoughtful. It was simply him trying to start a conversation, trying to keep the mood light as he gave her a soft smile, before is lightened a little and it seemed that the guardian was nervous. "I am sure we are going to get an ear full, it might even be past noon if we let him ramble. But Penelope… I know your father. I know how he thinks. Even if you had gone off with me. He’ll think I led you astray. That I put something else before duty. And maybe… maybe I did, but you are the sort of distraction that is worth it..”

“I’d do it again,” Hart admitted. “I’d risk his anger. His wrath. All of it. Because this matters. Because you matter. But I won’t lie to you about the consequences.” Hart slowed his pace slightly, his fingers brushing hers for a moment before he took her hand outright. His grip was steady, strong, like he was more than ready to blandly announce to the village ahead that Penelope was his mate and his alone.

“I just hope… whatever danger we leave behind doesn’t find its way here while we’re gone.” Hart's eyes darkened slightly, he was sure that the post had been abandoned or at least left on its own before. Some of the goods around his hut were luxury or seemed like from faraway lands. “The village may be small, but it’s not defenseless. Still… things are moving beneath the surface. I’ve felt it. Like the earth’s holding its breath.” He exhaled, voice quieter now, almost to himself, even with such facts spoken aloud, he was still worried.

“I hate leaving them.” But after a beat, Hart looked back at her, and the weight in his expression lifted, if only slightly. “But I’d hate more to leave you. And if this journey is what it takes to keep you safe and to heal you, then I’ll do it, and go no matter where it leads.”

They crested a small ridge, the rooftops of the village just beginning to peek through the trees in the distance. Smoke curled gently from chimneys, and the muffled sounds of morning routines reached their ears. Hart squeezed her hand gently as they continued together, his thoughts heavy with many things, but the smile and look in her eyes as he looked down at Penelope only glowed with love.

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope wasn’t used to Hart’s schedule, for she had usually woken later in the day. When the forest seemed so alive and vibrant, the small hut she lived in with just her father was neatly tucked away and unassuming to the untrained eye. No one would have guessed that was the village’s chief’s home.

She usually had slept in her bed until noon, but as she walked alongside Hart, she began to feel a tug of regret in her chest. She knew that leaving her father alone would be risky, and there would be a chance she wouldn’t see him again, but she knew he would be okay. For she trusted the other guardians, minor ones who were friends with Hart take great care of the village whenever Hart had stepped away for a time for various unknown reasons. But the top guardian of the forest probably could give an explanation as to why.

As his fingers brushed against hers she looked up at his face, offering a beautiful, yet understanding smile towards him. Sleep was still heavy in her eyes, but she continued on, knowing they could rest later. “I understand your fears…” she trailed off softly, “But the others are here and watch over like you do..” she was mentioning the other guardians.

“I’m sure things will be alright,” she said, hoping she could quell some of his fears, but figured it wouldn’t be that effective. Knowing him doing this because of her made her heart ache just a little more. She understood his words of devotion and dedication to helping her, she couldn’t help but blush in return and wasn’t exactly sure how to respond. All she did was move and kiss him on the cheek, “I hope you do know I appreciate what you’re doing for me..” she tells him softly, after finally thinking through on what to say.

And as her village came in sight, she could easily spot her father, the man who had a strong build, and practically would loom over Hart’s, if it wasn’t for Hart’s extra height contributed from his antlers. He homed in on the pair and his rough features around his face softened when he saw Penelope- knowing that the storm from the previous night…she had been safe, and it was thanks to the man next to her.

He had his reserves around Hart, and he had known one of Hart’s previous reincarnations, long ago when he was a boy. The village had been attacked and if it wasn’t for the efforts of Hart and the other guardians, Penelope’s father wouldn’t have survived. So he had held some respect for Hart and the others in some way.

(Yes, you can rp him and move the story along :3)

 

[Kastellanos]

Icarius stood tall just beyond the outer edge of the village, arms crossed like the trunks of two sturdy oaks. His broad shoulders, wrapped in the usual faded leather guard, bore the wear of age and hardship, but not weakness. Though time had carved rough lines into his face, they softened the moment his eyes found his daughter. Relief broke over his expression like sunlight through heavy rainclouds.

As Hart and Penelope came into full view, Icarius stepped forward, it was clear her absence had created some worry in her father. He moved with the weight of a man used to watching over others, with a presence that even Hart’s antlers could barely overshadow and it left the guardian gulping softly,

"You found her in the storm then?" Icarius asked, his voice as gruff as ever, but not unkind. His eyes remained locked on Penelope for a heartbeat longer before shifting toward Hart. "She didn’t burden you, I hope."

Hart’s throat tensed. The wind that rustled the leaves felt like it whispered warnings into his ears, but he stood tall, hands respectfully folded before him.

"She was no burden," Hart softly explained, his voice calm but edged with nerves, but his love for the mortal woman pushed him to keep speaking. "She stayed with me, and... I watched over her. She was safe the entire night."

Icarius nodded once, slowly. His eyes narrowed slightly, waiting for more, seeming to already there was more before Hart even spoke. Hart took a breath before speaking, steadying his voice and nerves. "I know this may seem sudden, but I’ve made a decision, Icarius. I would like to take Penelope as my wife.” The words hung between them like the first crack of thunder before a storm. Hart pushed on.

"I want to find a way to cure her… whatever curse or sickness clings to her, I’ll search every corner of the forest if I have to. I don’t want to leave her behind anymore. I want her with me." Hart announced, staring the other man in the eyes. The silence and tension between them seemed to grow with each passing moment.

Icarius’s brows lowered, and the gentle light in his eyes hardened. "No."

Hart blinked. "Sir-?"

"You may be the forest’s top guardian, and I respect that," Icarius interrupted. His voice remained even, but firm. "But I will not let her be taken into danger on a wish and a promise. You don’t know how long she has, do you? Neither of us do."

"I-" Hart began, the man cutting him off.

"And even if you do find a cure," Icarius continued, stepping closer, looking down at Hart in attempts to intimidate the guardian. "Do you think the path there won’t try to kill her first? You ask me to trust that she'll survive what you can barely explain yourself?"

Hart’s jaw clenched. He understood the man’s fear, but he could back down now. "I would never let harm come to her," Hart said, his voice quieter now, steadier. "But if she stays here and fades slowly, I’ll never forgive myself for not trying."

“She’s all I have,” Icarius said finally, looking down at the woman in a look that held years of love and warmth for her, years of worrying and restless nights searching for himself the best he could.

“She’s all I want,” Hart answered, glancing over at his mate, silently praying to whatever gods were listening to help change Icarius’s mind.

"I’ll arrange some things for your journey," Icarius said, stepping back and turning away from them, seeming to need a moment to compose himself, but kept speaking. "Supplies. Maps. I’ll speak with the hunters to provide dried meat, herbs, and some old travel gear tucked away in the storehouse. It’s not much, but it’ll give you a stronger start than going in blind."

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope clung to Hart nervously, her hands clenched the fabric of his tunic as her face gazed upon the way her father looked at them both. She knew what answer her father would give, even before Hart began to plead his case to him. The steady ‘no’ made her frown and look down at her feet.

She couldn’t speak up against her father, knowing what he said usually is what she would follow. She had her entire life, and up until that moment her heart had never wavered like it did in this moment. She swallowed back tears, hearing the desperation in Hart’s voice, although quiet and not upfront, she could definitely tell he was not going to take no for an answer.

Penelope then heard her father say that she was all he had, and her already aching heart twisted further— she looked up at her father, her misty eyes focusing in on his aged features, seeing the love only a father could have look down on her. Her own eyes searched his, as if to tell him that she trusted Hart, even if her words failed her, Icarus would know that determined look in her eyes. His wife had succumbed to the same illness, and he should remember how that look was, for his wife often had certain resolves about her that he failed to fully understand.

And once he agreed finally, Penelope let out the breath she didn’t realize she had been holding. She then moved from Hart as Icarus turned away, and ended up giving her father a hug, as tight as she was able to manage. “I promise you you’ll see me again,” she says and buried her face against his frame. She loved her father so much, but she had never felt a love so deep like Hart’s before, and she knew she couldn’t let him leave without her.

 

[Kastellanos]

Hart watched as Penelope embraced her father, his heart swelling with a mix of relief and determination, a small smile spread along his face. He had never been more sure of his decision to take Penelope with him, his worries seemingly forgotten in the moment. Icarus turned to Hart, his expression a mix of resignation and concern. It seemed hard to send his daughter out into the world, and Hart wished there was more he could do to assure Icarus that she would return.

"I have traveled far and wide, Hart," Icarus began, his voice gruff with emotion, but his face still stoic as he looked to the guardian. "I have sought the counsel of the oracle, but her riddles were as cryptic as ever. I also ventured to the temple in Epidaurus, but the healers there could not provide a lasting cure, and I had to keep searching."

Hart nodded, taking in the information, grateful that he was filling in the places that were a bust. "Your journeys have not been in vain, Icarus. Every path not taken is a step closer to the right one. Perhaps we could try the Isles, I've heard a few whispers and stories in my years about the priests there and rumors about their healing abilities they had been blessed with." It was simply a rumor, but even rumors had some truth to them.

Icarus hummed thoughtfully, looking off in the distance as he seemed to be drawing up information deep within his mind. "The Isles is a journey across treacherous waters, Hart. You will need a sturdy ship and a crew that knows those seas like the back of their hands. I can provide you with a map of the safest routes, but you must promise to be cautious. The sea can be unforgiving, and I advise it be a last resort."

Hart nodded, accepting the knowledge as it was true, checking the mainland was safer than taking on the sea. "Tell me, Icarus, what supplies will we need for such a journey?"

Icarus listed the necessities with the authority of a seasoned traveler. "You will need plenty of fresh water and non-perishable food supplies. Dried meats, fruits, and grains will sustain you. Also, ensure you have sufficient medical supplies, including herbs for healing, bandages, and ointments. Do not forget to bring offerings for the gods; their favor will be crucial, but I am sure you'll be fully prepared for that."

Hart absorbed every word, committing the details to memory, his ears perking at the mention of gods. "Ah, I could always attempt to reach the gods. I recall doing it before, and I think I received a response. Would you be willing to attempt it with me, Penelope?" Hart's attention turned back to his mate, giving her a smile of encouragement.

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope slowly dropped her arms from where she had hugged her father, intently listening to what they had to say between the pair. She knew the journey ahead wouldn’t be an easy one- especially with her ailments, she only hoped that she wouldn’t become a burden to Hart.

She then turned away from the conversation, overlooking the village where she had called home for many moons, and yet, she knew where her home truly was, and that was to be with Hart- no matter where they roamed, being with her love was all that she needed.

Later on that evening, they had decided to stay in the village as her father decided to throw a large feast in her honor, to send her off with good fortune. The entire evening was bittersweet, with some tears being shed- but Penelope promised to her father he would see her again.

It was only when the night was winding down and Penelope was curled up in a bed, resting against Hart’s frame. Her head laid on his chest as she thought of the journey ahead and everything her father had supplied them. “Do you think we’ll be okay?” She asked in a soft tone, but already knew what the answer was. They would. She could feel it, and with Hart being with her she didn’t have to be afraid of anything anymore.

She looked towards him, yawning a little as she knew it wouldn’t take long for sleep to overcome her. She hoped that Hart would be able to rest easy, despite everything. She knew he was worried about her, and she only hoped that he would be able to relax at some point, but…that wouldn’t be likely.

 

[Kastellanos]

Hart held Penelope close as the firelight dwindled, the warmth of her breath brushing his collarbone, soft and steady. The sound of the feast still lingered faintly outside, muted laughter, clinking cups, the scraping of chairs, but it all felt a world away now. When she asked if they’d be okay, his arms instinctively tightened around her. Not protectively. Not possessively. Just... to anchor her there, in his arms, where she’d always be safe if he had anything to say about it.


“I think we’ll be okay,” Hart murmured against her hair, gently kissing the top of her head like it would clear the worries away. “But I also know it won’t be easy. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared. Not of what’s out there... but of... slowing you down. Of not being enough. Of seeing you hurting and not being able to stop it.”

Hart's voice caught, just faintly, but he swallowed it down. He needed to be strong for Penelope; he didn't need her to worry or create more for her.

“But more than that... I’m grateful. That I get to do this with you. I’d go anywhere, face anything, if it meant staying by your side. Being your mate is...” Hart paused again, then gave a soft huff of laughter, “The easiest hard thing I’ve ever done.”

"Let's rest for now, we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow." Hart kissed her temple and fell quiet after that, letting her slip into sleep even as his eyes stayed open far too long.

•☽────✧˖°˖Morning came quietly.˖°˖✧────☾•​

Hart hadn’t truly slept. Not really, but he’d dozed just enough to keep from moving or waking his mate. He sat there, watching her for a moment. The way the early light touched her hair. The soft lines of her face, peaceful and relaxed. She looked so small like this, yet she carried more strength than anyone he knew.

Smiling faintly to himself, Hart leaned down, brushing the back of his knuckles gently along her cheek first, murmuring, “Pen… Mornings come.”

No response. Hart kissed the edge of her jaw, then the corner of her mouth, then lower, gentle, lingering presses of his lips along her neck, her collarbone, until he felt her stir just slightly.

“Time to wake up, love,” Hart whispered with a smile, his voice husky from sleep, his lips softly pressing against her skin. “Big day ahead. Time won’t wait, even for the prettiest girl in the village.”

“Did you dream of anything good? Or was I not charming enough to show up in your sleep?” He chuckled softly, and despite the nerves curled in his gut, something was grounding in this moment. In her. Always her. Another kiss, this time just below her ear.

“We’ve got a long road to walk, Penelope,” Hart murmured, trying to rid his own body of the sleepy feeling. “But I’m ready when you are.”

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope wanted to tell him that she would be okay, to reassure his worries and to mainly quell any fears that he had. But she knew she couldn’t. She couldn’t promise anything. Listening to how he spoke and told her of what he was worried about made her heart ache more than she realized.

Feeling his kiss and then hearing how grateful he was, she gave him small laugh in return before cuddling up with him fully and closing her eyes. “I love you Hart,” she murmured out finally, “I know that I will be okay, as long as I have you..” he would hear her say finally. She knew that he would take care of her, regardless of what would happen.

It wasn’t long until she fell into a deep slumber, easily falling asleep in his arms. It was when he stirred her awake with his affections once more did she make a noise of discomfort. “Mm..can we just sleep in for a few more moments?” She asked him, smiling a bit from his words. “You know I did dream of you…but in my dream you kept asking me to bed, not to get out of it,” she told him sleepily.

She pushed up against his frame, her butt deliberately pressing up against where his groin laid, wondering if she could get a rise out of him…it was still pretty early in the morning, the early light wasn’t even golden yet. But, not like he would follow through, considering if he did, he may just tire her out more, but..she didn’t care.

 

[Kastellanos]

Hart smiled as he felt Penelope's soft body press against his, her playful tease not lost on him. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer as he nuzzled her neck, inhaling her sweet scent. More kissing trailing along her skin, his hands wandering about her body and feeling her skin.

"You're a temptress, my love." Hart murmured, his voice low and husky with desire. Every so slowly moving to whisper in her ear as his hands ran up and down her hips. "But we have a long journey ahead of us, and I want to make sure you're well-rested."

Hart gently turned her to face him, his eyes meeting hers with a mix of affection and mischief. "Trust me, Penelope, when we find a place to rest for the night, I will make sure you have all the attention you desire. But for now, we must be strong and focused. The road is treacherous, and I need you by my side, alert and ready."

Hart brushed a strand of hair from her face, his touch tender and loving, moving to start sitting up and leaving the bed warm where he once was. "I promise you, my heart, that tonight, under the stars, I will breed you with all the passion and devotion you deserve. But for now, let's enjoy the early morning light and the adventure that awaits us."

He kissed her forehead, Hart's lips lingering for a moment. "Come, my love, let's start our day."

With that, Hart removed himself from the bed completely, preparing himself for the day and started getting dressed, glancing at his mate as his eyes burned with passions. He was going to be true to his word later that night, she only hoped that it was clear to Penelope.

 

[FaeWhisperer]

His kisses were soft and gentle as he had pulled her closer to him. She closed her eyes shut and just took in the moment. But when he had turned her to face him- what he said next made her cheeks turn pink. Even deeper so when he told her he would breed her underneath the stars.

That fact certainly wouldn’t help her focus at all, but she gave him a soft, shy smile, and and was searching his gaze. “Alright,” she murmured softly. “I…will be alert and focused for you,” she told him with a small laugh at the end of her words. She moved to touch his hands as he kissed her forehead, and then when he moved she let out a little sigh. She soon got up herself and stretched a little slightly.

When she stretched she intentionally tried to distract Hart, but Penelope had promised she would focus. So she too went to dress, although she took her time. She then went for a wooden comb and tried to untangle to hair. As she was doing so, Penelope glanced over to Hart and noticed the passion burning in his gaze. Her chest felt tight and she felt her heart in her throat. She wondered what he would do next, but she knew he would restrain himself.

 

[Kastellanos]

Hart watched Penelope as she stretched, her movements fluid and alluring. He could feel himself weakening; the desire to claim her right then and there filled his mind. He moved closer, his hands reaching out to gently grope her, feeling the soft curves of her body through her clothing. His touch was firm yet tender, a promise of the passion that awaited her later.

"Penelope," Hart murmured, his voice low and husky with restrained desire. "You're playing with fire, and you know it. Your attempts to distract me are working, but you must understand that it will only result in our mating being rather rough later. I can only hold back for so long."

He leaned in, his breath hot against her ear as he whispered. "You are an evil little tempest, you know that?"

Hart stepped back with a chuckle, his hands falling to his sides as he fought to regain control of his urges, contining to dress and get ready himself. "I promise you, my love, that when the time comes, I will make it worth the wait. But for now, let's get ready and stay focused. The road is long, and we have much to accomplish before we can indulge in our desires."

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope let out a soft, frustrated sigh. “I understand,” she murmured softly and then moved to put her comb away. She then grabbed her own leather pack for the journey ahead and she turned to him. “Promise me something though,” she began with a small hum.

She turned to Hart and gave him a little cheeky smile. “Obviously I’m not asking you to do much but whenever we take a break between now and tonight..do you think you…could pleasure me a little?” She bit her lip nervously. “Just..to keep me satisfied until later,” she asked softly yet the begging and lust filled voice was there.

His mate was still in her ‘heat’ stage, and she knew it wouldn’t quiet down unless he did something about it. Her hands gripped the leather strap as she awaited his answer. Penelope hoped he would agree to something, so she said, “Be it mouth or hand..I’m not entirely picky,” she says with a blush on her cheeks.

“but if you think that’s not best…then I won’t push for it,” she adds in lastly, giving a soft sigh and glance away from his face. She never knew the urge to ‘mate’ with him would be this strong, but it was. And she couldn’t help it anymore.

 

[Kastellanos]

Hart's heart raced as he gazed into Penelope's eyes; it was like something in his mind snapped at her words, and he couldn't deny her any longer. He felt a surge of arousal, her heat calling to him in an almost primal way. As he lifted her effortlessly, setting her down gently on the bed in a quick and single swoop almost, Hart couldn't help but feel a deep sense of responsibility and longing.

As Hart knelt before her, his hands trembling slightly with anticipation, Hart's senses were overwhelmed by her scent. It was intoxicating, a heady mix of desire and need that clouded his thoughts and heightened his own arousal. He leaned in, beginning to trail gentle kisses along her inner thigh.

Hart moved higher, his lips and tongue exploring every inch of her skin, savoring the taste and feel of her. His hands gripped her hips, holding her firmly as he began to pleasure her, his movements slow and deliberate, designed to draw out every ounce of satisfaction.

He began with soft, teasing kisses along the sensitive skin of her inner thighs, his breath hot and tantalizing against her flesh. He moved higher, his tongue tracing delicate patterns. Hart took a moment to savor the sight and scent of her, his senses overwhelmed by the intoxicating aroma of her arousal. He leaned in, his tongue gently exploring her folds, tasting her, and relishing the way she responded to his touch.

His movements were slow and deliberate, each lick and kiss designed to draw out her pleasure. He used his fingers to part her, allowing him deeper access gently. His tongue swirled around her most sensitive spot, teasing and caressing, trying to hear the moans and cries of his mate in pleasure.

 

[FaeWhisperer]

Penelope gasped softly as Hart went to pick her up suddenly and took her to the bed in an instant. It was then that he moved in between her legs, his head moving there and giving her soft and delicate caresses- the pleasure began to move through her body up and over her in waves. And she delighted in this, gasping out happily while her hands tangled in his hair.

Then, when his mouth connected on to her soft delicate folds, she let out a satisfied moan. She knew that wearing a skirt with no underwear was a good decision, and she was happy to be in this position with him. The way his tongue danced in and out of her, only caused her scent of arousal and heat to grow further. The red stained honey that was sticky, sweet and a bit bitter all at the same time that flowed from her entrance proved further that from his actions, she was definitely enjoying herself.

Although their journey was a crucial one, so was this time when his mate was in heat. How unfortunate timing that she was though— for since a female human’s ‘heat’ could last up to seven days, this would not prove easy for Hart, nor Penelope. Penelope knew that this wasn’t just normal for her either.. being around Hart had caused her to feel so many things all at once, especially this desire she felt.

 

[Kastellanos]

Hart's focus was singular as he knelt between Penelope's legs, his senses heightening with every soft gasp and moan she released. The scent of her arousal filled his nostrils, a heady mix of sweet and bitter that drove him wild with desire. He reveled in the way her hands tangled in his hair, guiding him, urging him on.

Hart knew that her heat falling as they took their journey was rather bad timing, as he would rather stay within his home with her, filling her up again and again. There would be plenty of time for such a thing once they found a cure; that is what Hart would set his mind to.

His tongue danced along her delicate folds, tasting the sticky, sweet nectar that flowed from her entrance. Each lick was deliberate, designed to draw out her pleasure and intensify her heat. He could feel her body responding to his touch, he explored every inch of her. His eyes stared at his mate when he wasn't working on pleasing her.

Hart could feel the heat radiating from her, her body responding to his every touch. His fingers moved in sync with his tongue, one hand caressing her inner thigh while the other gently teased and toyed with her, dipping in and out with a slow, deliberate motion. Hart's tongue swirled and flicked, focusing on her most sensitive spot, while his fingers explored her depths, curving to hit the perfect angle.