Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ A Dragon's Tea Party ❯ A Dragon's Tea Party ( One-Shot )

Crimson wings flapped hard, helping to give the panting, smiling man a little lift, pushing him to run even faster through the cold, dusty halls of the castle he owned. Running past ornate tapestries he giggled, looking over his shoulder and past one large, leathery, red wing. He couldn't see Arak in pursuit—until he turned around and nearly ran smack into him. While a short cry and a laugh he dove to the side just in time to avoid knocking him over, gliding down a winding stairwell, tail whipping dangerously close to the banister. With a shriek of delight, Arak not far behind, the half dragon bolted around a corner, long forgotten dust flying up in dusky clouds. Weaving down halls, through doors, he was lucky he got as far as he did, diving into a large dressing room used mainly for storage and looking more like an attic with boxes stacked everywhere, clothing trailed lifelessly draped over cardboard edges.

 

Nearly tripping past the cobwebbed mirror he ducked behind the heavy amber curtain of a dressing cubicle, drawing it shut again. He stifled a giggle, tucking red wings in close, sitting on the bench, tail curled about his ankles and swishing in anticipation. There was a seemingly new dress hanging on a hook. Eying it with a devious grin, he quickly shrugged his polyester jacket from his shoulders, pulling it off before deftly undoing his pants and stepping out of them. Clutched in his hand was a delicate looking pendant, a gem attached to the thin chain, the object his friend was pursuing him for. He paused to hear if Arak was approaching. He could be so quiet it was hard to tell sometimes. Peeking from behind the thick curtain, he saw no signs of life, save the spiders building their webs, whatever other bugs still managing to live in the damp corners and dusty walls.

 

Giggling once more, one-track mind holding no doubts, he christened himself with Arak's necklace and slipped the white dress on, the fabric dipping low across the back to make way for his wings, shoulders a sash, lined with a pale golden yellow, situating the bow better on his back and successfully hiding the necklace, the silky material slipping between red stained fingers. Running a hand through his muddy brown hair, he turned at an awkward angle to see himself in a cracked mirror, unable to contain a wide grin. Smoothing the ruffles of his dress, he wished he had gloves to go with them. He wasn't sure he could stand in heels, but he might have tried, just so he could laugh at the look on Arak's face. With an angelic face peeking through the curtain, he looked about, expecting his friend to pop up with a, “Boo,” and frighten him. Seeing no one still, he pushed aside the dusty, moth eaten fabric, slipping into the room. It felt rather drafty. Collecting his discarded clothing he ventured forth, past benches to sit upon and long racks labored with clothing of all sorts. Curiosity peaked, he begin sifting through the costumes. He had had no idea any of these sorts of things were down here; it was enough for stages of theatrics, for ball parties, every day use….it was astounding!

 

So absorbed in what he was doing, he didn't notice the spider that had climbed down on a spindling thread, invisible to the eye in the musty light given only by the copious amount of high place windows lining two of the walls. Once the missus had crawled onto Tai's neck however, he gave a yelp at the prickling sensation of too many legs crawling on his skin, swatting at the arachnid and jumping up, startled. Eyes wide at what could have attacked him, he swung around, expecting someone to be there, but seeing no one only worried him towards his invisible attacker. He muttered, brows furrowed as he turned, sulking, back to his work of browsing through the attire, stopping at a simple light navy blue crushed velvet dress.

 

“Ooh hello!” he cooed as he pulled the Victorian article from its hanger, holding up. It was in good enough condition, a little dusty around the edges, trimmed with lace across the bosom and hem. The sleeves flowed from the elbows, the back criss-crossed with satin.

 

“Perfect!” His mood dampened from the spider attack, now renewed upon finding such a lovely dress, he bounced out of the room, heels kicked up and flouncing, humming merrily, tail tucked beneath the dress and trailing out.

 

As he left the room, he wound his ways through the halls, knowing more or less where he was from previous exploring, though he often times wasn't on this low a level. Winding up a turning staircase he sat in an open window to take in the view. If he were up higher it would have been breathtaking. As it was, the low cut hills, the scenery, lush and rolling, nearly filled the sky with the canopies of trees in the distance, the sun making its way to the equinox. Making his way back to the upper reaches of the castle, he had nearly forgotten Arak was chasing him.

 

“Araaaak!” he nearly whined, loudly, voice bouncing off the stone around him and reverberating back to him in an echo, “where are you!” He stuck his bottom lip out as he reached the main vein of the castle, a grand staircase leading to the ballroom and beyond that the long entrance hall lined with columns and statues of lions on the farthest end. Torches were lit between the roman columns, suits of armor glistening and dancing with the molten light. It gave a welcoming glow despite the amount of sun filtering through the many windows and stained glass.

 

“Arak?” he called once more. Across the sweeping stairwell, following the deep purple rug across the span of the entrance toward the western wing where their bedrooms were and where, a flight down was a study room, and several flights up was the library. The phoenix was probably in one of those three rooms, and if all else failed he'd be in the grand bathing quarters, an entire room devoted to a swimming pool sized bath.

 

First, the bedroom, four poster bed shrouded with curtains, king sized bed neatly made, oaken furniture polished; it was one of the few rooms that was cleaned often. He wasn't there though. Next, down a flight, Tai getting tired for his ruse was growing old, though he still had fun with the dress—albeit his legs were getting cold. Now he had the choice to go either up, or down.  Would Arak be in the library or the study room?  If he had been chasing the dragon boy, he probably gave up, expecting to ruin his fun by turning in from the game and residing somewhere to wait patiently.  The phoenix could be stern, but was seldom angry.  He could be irritated but hardly frustrated.  To the library it was.  Turning off into a stairwell that lead both up and down, he purposefully bounced down the stone steps, gait losing its swing of happiness.  He never entirely knew what to expect from his friend.  Would he get a mundane lecture about his antics?  Would Arak dismiss it completely?  And still, how would he take to their outfits?

 

Grin returning at the thought that he was wearing a dress, he laughed, trying to muffle it from echoing in the hallway.  He doubted he would give away his position, but one couldn't be too careful.  The stairs curved gracefully, not far below revealing a rugged hallway, the green fuzzy carpet stretching the whole length of the hall, torches lit merrily, for only windows at either end gave light to the dim and musty hallway.  With crackling at each bearing he passed he made his way to the right, the heavy wooden library door near the end of the short side of the hall.  Pausing, he wondered if he should knock, but if he wanted to surprise Arak, there was no use presenting himself at the door.  Other than the contents of the underground storage and catacomb line wine cellars below the castle, there were no other beings to be found. 

 

If the magnificent half avian man wasn't there, the dragon would feel stupid for knocking to an empty room, no audience there to witness but his self, which was surely worse that performing it like a play to shrug off in front of many others; he wasn't easily embarrassed by his own antics unless Arak was scrutinizing him and disapproved.  He would certainly gibe at Tai for knocking to an empty room.  Nonetheless, he hesitated, purple eyes searching, a faint frown tugging his lips.  His fun was thoroughly ruined as he leaned his shoulder against the bulk of the door, successfully shoving it open.  The room was dimmed, the one wall with windows veiled with curtains, parted to let a small amount of light through the diaphanous underlying veils. 

 

The other walls were lined with shelves of books, nobly cases standing proudly erect and cleaned and polished so they flaunt their refined and ornate depictions, old though they were, and just as righteous, twisted with flowers, vines, patterns, and even animals.  Across from the various chairs, sofas, and reclined lounge chair was a large marble fireplace, crackling merrily, giving the room the rest of its light and plenty of warmth.  The leaves had yet to change outside but the wind at such a height was chilling, seeping into the stone of the castle and bleeding it of its heat.  The wall hangings, the fire from torches and small furnaces—the hearths if you will—kept used and lived in places of their home nice and cozy.  Arak was propped in the lounge chair, lazily sprawled like some sort of cat he was not, a book perched in one hand, his chin in the other, lying on his side to absorb the warmth and light of the fireplace, the sun behind him to light up the parchment pages. 

 

He seemed to pay no attention to Tai, hair falling forward across his eyes, veiling a steady gaze that might have been watching, observing the figure now standing with a huff in the doorway.  His friend was robed in a wine colored gown, parted down the front to tie.  It was what Tai called his 'lazy outfit' for the phoenix wore it whenever he had intentions to laze about a good part of the day.  A goblet with water was on an end table beside his soft and well-used chair, brass and plain, the crystalline liquid sparkling with radiance.  Arak sipped before his eyes flickered towards Tai, prompting a double take and forgetting the words on the page.  Removing the wire framed half glasses from his face he folded them, lips pursed in a slight frown, delicate brows furrowed in slight confusion and disdain.

 

"What are you wearing?" he asked softly, though his voice seemed to hold loud and firm in Tai's ears.  The dragon grinned, twirling around, the skirt of the dress billowing out, flaring and wrapping about his legs, showing off the beauty of the dress.

 

"Aw Arak, do you like it?"  He stepped farther into the room, wings shifting and stretching before resuming their position tight to hit body, tail nearly trailing to the floor.  The dress hadn't been intended for someone not quite six feet in height with a broader frame and no hips for support, and thus it was small on him, threatening to show off pale thighs.

 

"I'm not sure I'd say that," Arak finally answered, finding voice to speak as he quirked a brow.  Tai piled the clothing he had formerly been wearing over the edge of a padded chair, a small rip revealing the inner stuffing of the decrepit furnishing.  Tai held up the dress, modestly closing his legs for fear of flashing Arak, despite not caring whether he did or not.  Then again being scolded seemed to be threefold for Tai, taking it like a beaten puppy; even is Arak never liked the results, his friend had to learn sometimes.

 

  "Just why are you wearing a..... dress that should belong to a pre-teen girl?" the phoenix inquired, curious as to whether Tai was playing a game or was turning into a drag queen.

 

The reptilious man held up the deep blue dress he had chosen, specifically for the purpose of attempting to get Arak to wear it.

  "It's for our tea party!"

 

  "A tea party?"  Arak was starting to worry now.  What was his companion up to now?

 

  "Mhmm!"  He nodded vigorously, hair messily veiling his face, eyes glowing, grin wide.  So this was some bizarre game.  Tai sighed, closing his book and setting it aside, on the night stand, sitting up.

 

  "I had no idea we were having a tea party.  Tea sounds nice but if y ou wanted a party, we could just have it in the garden."  It was a suggestion.  It was cool enough outside to scold Tai for wearing something revealing enough to cause his to catch the chills, and Arak would be sure to point it out as soon as the dragon complained of how cold it was.  Tai frowned, boyish face pouting.

 

  "It's too cold out!"  Arak shrugged.

 

  "So why don't you change while I make the tea?"  Tai's eyes narrowed, as if pondering whether Arak was up to something or not.  His friend only arched his brows in expectation.

 

"Do you like the dress I picked out for you?" he asked cheerfully, changing the subject at the drop of a hat, holding the article up by the sleeves to be observed.  The backside of the skirt trailed behind, and it was long enough to nearly reach the floor.  Arak seemed to blanch despite the rich pallor of his skin.  He folded his arms, snorting.

 

  "I'm not going to wear a dress."  He looked at Tai steadily through narrowed eyes.

 

  "Come on Arak!  You're already wearing one anyway!"  The phoenix puffed up, blushing indignantly.

 

  "It's not a dress."  His voice was more vehement in his defense, warning for Tai not to push it too far.

 

  "Sure it is!  Maids women would wear them.  Come on, you made me hungry from running around so much—"

 

"If you hadn't have given me reason to I wouldn't have chased you.  Speaking of which, where is my pendant anyway?"  He stood, tapping his foot, Tai lowering the dress, expression a little uncertain.  Then he smiled, letting on that mischief was at hand.  He had filched Arak's light blue crystal pendant, hooked on a thin golden chain.  He had had it hanging on a perch in front of his bedroom window, catching the sun in the evening when it sank low towards the horizon, tucking itself in for the night.  Tai wasn't sure why the pendant meant so much to him, so he was only going to inspect it better to see if it held any secrets or magickal properties, and as much as Arak kept swatting him away from getting near it, he wanted to know why.

 

"I'll give it back if you have tea with me," Tai grinned, voice innocent despite the incorrigible intentions.  Arak sighed, quite peeved.

 

"You know how dearly I hold that pendant too me.  Why did you have to swipe it from its stand.  I should beat you for it!"  It was silent a moment, the dragon's eyes first questioning, then curious and conniving, sparkling.

 

"Beat me huh?"  He covered his laugh with a hand, Arak wide eyed before realizing what his friend took it for, blushing faintly through his rich mocha colored cheeks.

 

  "That doesn't sound like you Arak, maybe you should just so I know what it's like."  The half breed laughed loudly, voice clear and almost bell-like in the childishness of it, as he approached his companion, holding the dress at arm's length and pressing it into his arms.

 

  "Here, put it on.  I'll make tea."  Arak was almost flabbergasted.

 

  "What?  I never agreed to this!"

 

  "Well, you want your pendant back don't you?"  He winked, crystal purple eyes laughing mirthfully.  Arak seemed to be fumbling over which words he wanted to express.  Mouth opened, Tai gently closed it.

 

  "Since it's too cool out, even at noontime, shall we have tea in the common room then?"  Arak searched a moment for his misplaced voice.

 

"Sure," he managed to croak.  As soon as Tai had skipped out, singing lyrical nonsense aloud to himself, tail and wings bobbing behind him.  Arak's own wings ruffled in distress, glossy feathers sticking out before tucking back into themselves gently.  He sighed heavily, pinching the bridge of his nose, murmuring about how he would bite his tongue and good sense back to teach Tai a lesson that he apparently needed to learn.  The only bad part was, his puppy dog of a friend would either enjoy it or cry about it and it would be completely pointless.  If he cried, it would hurt Arak's heart more and if he enjoyed it—well, all the better that he might just learn his lesson.  Highly unlikely but nonetheless, he had to start somewhere.  Holding up the crushed velvet blue dress, he groaned.  It looked too small, certainly, although he was glad he'd have enough room for his wings. 

 

Wait no, he wouldn't wear this!  It would be giving Tai exactly what he wanted!  It would be simply disgraceful.  Then if he didn't Tai wouldn't get his fun and then the phoenix would never get back his pendant.  Why did Ellonia have to give it too him?  He shook his head.  Memories were not to be brooded over at this time.  Shifting his weight he looked over the dress again.  It seemed relatively plain enough, but trying to squeeze his frame into it was altogether something else.  He was suddenly interrupted.

 

  "Hey Arak?" Tai's shaggy head poked back in, smiling faintly at the fact that his friend might even be considering dressing up for his tea party.

 

  "Uh yeah?"  Looking up warily, the phoenix regarded his intruder with disdain, trying to convey how much he loathed being played with in such a way, but only making Tai's grin all the more wider.

 

  "Where's the recipe for scones?"  Arak would have paled if his dark skin had allowed, his wide violet eyes perfectly matching the hue of Tai's mischievous ones.

 

  "You aren't seriously going to attempt to cook are you?"  Tai's face fell.

 

  "What?  Why not?  What's tea without scones?  Or dainties?"  Setting the dress aside, he sighed once again, more to himself than aloud.

 

"You're more horror than help in the kitchen Tai," he pointed out, giving him a reasonable look, one brow arched.  The dragon looked as if he might cry, bottom lip stuck out, wearing his kicked puppy look.

 

  "But, but.... Arak!"  It was a complaint.  If he didn't look so pitiful, the phoenix would have just dismissed it as a childish tantrum and put his foot down on it.  Nevertheless, he held a soft spot in his heart for the boy, so he couldn't easily refuse.

 

  "Okay, I'll help.  I'll make pastries."  Tai brightened but still seemed unsure.

 

  "Here, why don't you find a different.... something for me to wear?  This.... dress is too small.  I can't wear something like a corset—not that size anyway—without either splitting seams or cracking a few ribs."  Tai looked the situation over, eyes searching the floor, toes scuffing the carpet.

 

  "Did you even try it on?"

 

"I don't need to in order to know it's much too small."  He inhaled deeply, picking up the dress and handing it back to Tai as he approached the door he was now standing in, leaning one shoulder against the frame.

 

  "I'll go to the kitchens to make something to eat for our tea and you can find me a dress that fits okay?"  He gently tilted the dragon's face to look at him, voice soft and low, expression firm, underlying with a sort of weariness unlike fatigue, a mental kind of stress.  Tai smiled.  If the doorframe hadn't have been there he surely would have fallen over.  Arak proceeded, brushing by Tai in a nonchalant manner but evoking a long, dreamy stare from Tai. Watching him, leave could have given Tai a nosebleed if he hadn't have pretended to glance down at the rejected dress instead of ogle the Phoenix's backside. If Arak ever said that he, Tai, had a short attention span it was only because Arak usually looked at the dragon when he spoke. Now, if he had turned his back to the playful young man when they held a conversation, Tai would make sure he wouldn't even blink, his attention rapt and focused solely on that small piece of heaven imparted on his close friend.

 

Once Arak had vanished towards the kitchens, it took a moment before Tai blinked, noticing his friend had disappeared. Whimpering over the loss of his eye candy, he bundled the clothing around his arms, lingering a moment before smiling to himself and wandering off, his pace soon evolving from a trot to a flat out run, reaching the theater room with a pant. He had only gotten lost once and he was sure Arak had finished making the treats already, but he still had to find a suitable outfit and get to the common room before Tai gave up on him and got tired of waiting. In the obscuring light, he shuffled through the rack of clothing, hoping he might discover a certain something, finding an unused hanger for the dress that Arak couldn't fit.

 

“Hello there,” he grinned. Red stained fingers pulled his findings from the wire hanger, holding it up to the light weeping through the dusty windows. His grin was Cheshire. The best part was that it was a plus size with corset ties on the back. The poofy sleeves stretched, giving ample arm room.

 

Even with the plus size, it was fitted for a shorter person, go given Arak's height, the length of the skirt would even out and look as proportionally correct as it was supposed to, if not an inch or two shorter. Arak would yell and refuse, he knew, but either his dignity would give in, or his want for his treasured pendant would. It seemed cruel—even underhanded—that Tai would blackmail the person dearest to him, but most other dresses and costumes were made to fit women. Besides, the other outfit he was considering taking to Arak was a little revealing and not exactly proper for a tea party. It might have been for a strip club or Saturday night at a bar, but not for a tea party. Looking to the ceiling and worrying his lower lip, his smile was innocently devious, his decision made. Flouncing upstairs and to the eastern wing branching from the entrance, he burst into the empty common room. It had been prepared as far as brushing down the crimson chairs and sofa, a fire being lit, and the cherry wood coffee table having been polished, but Arak and the tea things were nowhere to be found. Luckily, the phoenix wasn't far off.

 

“Excuse me Tai.” Turning about, he had to move aside for fear of upsetting the tea tray.

 

“I wondered where you went!” With tail swishing, he wanted to jump on the man, but the sight of the pastries stopped him. They were too beautiful and delicious looking to be ruined. Out of his way, Arak was able to enter, diverting the dragon's gaze with softly swaying hips. The tray was set down as gently as possible, the porcelain of the cups, plates, and small pots tinkling together anyway.

 

“So uh….did you find something else for me to wear?” Arak asked, brushing darkened tresses from his face as he straightened up, turning to Tai with inquisitive eyes. The young man shook his head, startling himself from his mesmer.

 

“Ah, oh yeah! It was the only one that looked like it might fit, other than the whore outfit, but I didn't think you'd like it.” The dress was held up and Arak just stared.

 

“It looks like a French maid outfit,” he said flatly, eyes roving the ruffles and lace.

 

“To go with your maids-woman dress.” The phoenix let out a scoff, slapping a hand to his forehead. Tai whined, his grin sheepish.

 

“It's your favorite color at least!” Was that supposed to have made him feel better? Just because it was a purple color didn't make him want to wear the damned thing any more. He let out a huff.

 

“If I have to do this, can I make sure my pendant is safe first?” His eyes were exasperated and pleading. Tai whined but complied, fishing the necklace from about his neck, the gem buried in the bosom of his chest, hidden by the shadows and the front sash of his dress. Arak seemed to be at ease, relieved, a flitting glance of wanting to snatch his treasure from Tai's neck quickly expiring.

 

"As long as it's safe."  It was a murmur, almost a sigh.  Slowly, hesitantly, he reached out for the proffered dress, defeated.

 

  "I have to wear this?" he asked, eyes still begging.  He didn't want to be made a fool of himself; it was bad enough Tai made a fool enough for them both.  The dragon just grinned all the more.

 

  "You know the bigger the deal you make about it, the worse off you'll be.  You'll just embarrass yourself even more by making it worse for yourself," Tai reasoned, his voice low, something like concern tracing the outline of his words.

 

He was attempting to lessen the pain for Arak, who took a breath before nodding, muttering something to himself.  He glanced to his friend before averting his gaze.

 

  "Ok so.... either let me change in peace or help me with this thing."  The dragon smiled.

 

  "Alright; then get naked already and I'll help."  Arak was blushing faintly, lips pursued as he brushed bangs dipped in red away from his face, very self-conscious as he loosened the tie on his robe, unbuttoning the buttons secured at the shoulder that gave room for his wings, and shrugged the fabric from his shoulders, letting it slip to the crook of his elbows.  His back was to Tai, beautiful fiery wings golden, splashed with crimson, tiny strokes of silver here and there, brilliantly lit with the glow of the fire and seeming as if he had set them ablaze, glossy feathers shining.  The arch of his back, down to a narrow waist, creamy, rich, mocha colored skin, the stepping stones of his spine leading down to that perfect ass of his....

 

If Tai wasn't almost knocked unconscious from the sight, he would have needed a towel from his drool.  He was innocent sure, but his friend was beautiful, and the pleasure of watching him or thinking about him was simple enough.  Sure Tai could be serious and mature when he wanted to be, but it was easier and more fun to escape the pains and burdens of reality by dismissing it all and regressing to the age of a five year old.  However, most five year olds didn't ogle their friend's body.  Pushing back lewd thoughts, the dragon, tail slightly arched and hoping he didn't emit too many hormones that might alert Arak to his perverse fantasies, Tai took the dress from its hanger, having been too hasty previously to think about removing it from its frame.  The fishnets hanging over the wire, having remained hidden inside the dress, killed the second bird with only one stone.  His prey was unaware of the second surprise. 

 

"Once you're naked you can put on these."  Tai threw the fishnets at Arak's head.  Once he pulled them down his mouth gaped, wanting to say something to protest, but uncertain whether he should or not.  The pendant was on his mind.

 

  "Y-you just said... a dress."  His voice was almost wavering.  It wasn't rage... in fact it didn't like any emotion; more over lack of emotion on how to react.

 

  "Well yes, but this is part of the outfit.  Come on Arak!  Don't be a killjoy.  Besides, if they had any gloves I would have worn them."  To himself he added, 'If you don't want to wear them I can think of something else to do with them.....'  But Arak needed some warming up first.

 

  "Why am I doing this?" the phoenix breathed, annoyance resonating but swiftly dissipating.

 

  "Because you love me," the shorter brunette replied simple, his smile adoring.  Tai chose not to reply, letting his robe pool about his feet, feeling Tai's eyes bearing into his back and shifting uncomfortably.

 

He looked at the fishnets.  He was sure it wouldn't be comfortable, but he'd be elated if they didn't fit in the sense that, had he been a woman they'd still not fit.  Stepping into one leg it took some adjusting, getting the netting and the toe right.  It felt weird, like something hugging his leg all over.  It wasn't like leather or jeans, just spare compressions of the spindled thread.  He felt bare even though both his legs were now wearing the stockings, and instead of keeping him warmer it felt like it was getting draftier.  He pulled the stockings up to his hips.  They were a little lower, whether that accounted for the stuff he had to fit in them, the fact that he had longer legs, making him tall, or both, but knowing he had enough room—the fabric a little loose at the waist—told him the dress would fit too;  if the stockings were too big at the waist, albeit women usually wore them, then either someone with really wide hips wore them, or someone rather large about the middle wore them. 

 

Maybe the dress wouldn't fit and he could go back to his robe.

 

  "Come on Arak, stockings shouldn't take this long to put on."  He would have sent a glare but it was too short lived to be anything but pitiful.  When he was satisfied, at least happy that he wouldn't be flashing his friend, he looked over his shoulder, again shifting uncomfortably.  The stockings rode up his backside, giving Tai even more reason to keep staring.  He caught the brunette's gaze and prompted him with his eyes to hand over the dress. The satin was smooth and cool, but it only made him think about how naked he'd feel wearing it, how drafty it would be despite the amount of covering it provided. Turning the article over in his hands, he noticed the back was zippered, which, when left unzipped would leave ample room for his wings.  Slowly, he stepped into the dress, the carpet soft beneath his feet, pulling the thing easily over his hips.

 

He blushed as he brought the poofy arms to his shoulders, making it a tighter fit, stretched across his wide frame.  The room it left for the bosom  spread evenly enough, the lace adorning his collarbone, the arms having room to function despite the scratchiness of the white lace.  He lifted his wings a bit, adjusting the dress continuously, the feel of it completely wrong.  He felt naked, nearly the entirety of his legs exposed in his attempts to cover himself.  There neck piece, the small hat that would have perched atop his head, the gloves, and the shoes along with any accessories—such as a feather duster—were missing, perhaps in a box somewhere in the theater room.  Tai took it upon himself to adjust the shoulders of the dress until they were riding lower, like the sash across the dragon's own dress, exposing more flesh, the phoenix shrugging uncomfortably, his blush still evident, eyes averted as if in defeat. 

 

Tai stood back and clapped when he was done, smiling.

 

  "Good now we can have tea like proper ladies!"  He giggled before bouncing towards a love seat, ruffled skirt flouncing with him, tail and wings bobbing.  He turned to Arak with a smile, hands clasped with pleasant demeanor.

 

  "Now Miss Arak, please seat and make yourself comfortable."  He gestured to the small couch.  Gingerly, stepping carefully for fear of messing up his dress or sending a bit of lace or ribbon into array, he situated him closest to the fire, unsure of how he was supposed to sit in a dress.  The skirt was so short he couldn't sit with the ruffles under him, instead feeling the leather of the couch through the netting.  He wiggled, hands in his lap, wings tucked tightly to make room, quite aware of his appearance as Tai sidled next to him, crimson dragon tail twining itself around his friend's leg, smooth scales threatening to snag the mesh of the leggings.

 

  "So what kind of tea did you make?" he inquired, pouring them each a cup.  From the looks of it, milk, honey, sugar, and a couple lemons slices were present, giving an array to any combination of fixings for their beverage.

 

"White clove," Arak murmured.  Nodding, the brunette who had taken over as host, boosted his cup with several spoonfuls of sugar, a little honey, and milk.  Arak almost blanched at the sugar high he knew Tai would get.  Today had been his day to relax, so why was he caught up with chasing his friend around the entire castle, then being forced to cross-dress and have a tea party with him?  Life was so cruel.....

 

  "Here you are," Tai said kindly, placing a hot cup of tea in Arak's hands.  For a long second he just stared at the cup before bringing it to his lips, held in both hands, the steam fragrant and warm, washing over him softly.

 

  "Nah uh!  Pinkies out Arak.  We're <i>ladies</i>remember?" Tai interrupted, avidly watching the brunette, eyes sparkling.  Arak glanced at him before he complied, sitting up straighter and drinking his tea slowly, sipping for not wanting to burn his tongue more than trying to look delicate or dainty.

 

The life of a woman was not for him.  When he repeated the action his friend grinned, imitating him and making a happy noise of approval.

 

  "You make such good tea."  It was almost a croon.  Arak just nodded, off in his own little world of sulking.  Tai could be adorable but making him wear a dress?  Halfway through his first cup of tea he was offered one of the small pastries.  They were light, golden in color and accented with fruit jams, filled with custard, or powdered with snow soft sugar.

 

  "Mmm.... absolutely wonderful!" Tai exclaimed after his third one, having wanted to try one of each.

 

  "Tai?" Arak sighed, a small smile escaping, regardless of trying to cover it.  "How do you manage to get powdered sugar on your nose?"  The brunette looked blank, then confused before shrugging.

 

  "I have powdered sugar on my nose?  I don't know......your treats are good.  I didn't imagine them to be <i>that</i>good but...."

 

The phoenix shook his head light heartedly, using his fingers as a napkin to brush away the white sweetness, and before he could locate a napkin, his hand was clutched in Tai's, the dragon's tongue kissing away the powder.  Those half veiled amethyst eyes..... was that some kind of perverse lust for him or the food?  No, he blinked and Tai just had a kind of dreamy look in his eyes.

 

  "You're so sweet Arak," he giggled.  Ignoring the comment despite being flustered by the display, Arak drained his cup to the dregs, setting it on his small plate on the table.  Tai was still holding his hand, watching him.  Pulling away, the taller man brushed the ruffles of his skirt, smoothing them out, sensing his friend's hand drawing near and shying away from it.  Gentle fingers tenderly brushed deep red bangs out of his eyes, violet targeting violet and holding the edgy phoenix's eyes still.

 

For a long still moment their gazes were locked, merely gazing at one another until Arak blushed, eyes hinting annoyance and throwing the question towards Tai.

 

“What is it?” A grin unveiled itself across Tai's boyish face.

 

“Oh I was just thinking about how innocent you looked in a maids outfit. Were you really serious about beating me?” It took the wary phoenix a moment to register what had been said before his eyes widened.

 

“B-beat you? No, I couldn't,” he shook his head, knowing he'd regret showing his weakness. “I trust you enough not to hurt my pendant, as dear as it is to me.” He chewed his bottom lip, worrying, apprehensive. His young dragon friend was up to no good, especially when his smile never faded, that coy glint bright in his eyes. Arak was hoping Tai was more afraid of the threat of being beaten, but that smile of his was still plastered quite firmly to his countenance. Tai wiggled closer to Arak on the love seat, causing his companion to shift uncomfortably, crimson feathered wings ruffling slightly at the pretentiousness of Tai's advance, his subtle body language and insistent gaze. 

 

As Arak pulled back, fearing that he may soon wide up on the arm chair of the seat, Tai leaned forward, thumb grazing the line of the phoenix's lower jaw, bringing his face barely more than several good inches away from him.  Arak opened his mouth to speak, closing it instantly upon recognizing his gesture as not a very smart one, lest the dragon take advantage of him, tail still wound about his leg, brushing his calf and threatening to slither up his thigh in a seemingly innocuous and unintentional caress.  The trapped brunette whimpered, cringing back when Tai continued to close the space, stopping short with a giggle, avidly watching a worrisome face, his countenance softened a bit.  He wasn't trying to intimidate the poor man, but his advances unsettled the usually quiet and rather solaced young man.

 

"Aww Arak, what's wrong?"  His voice held concern, his eyes sincere despite belying the intent he with held beneath it.

 

  "You're invading my personal space," the bird dryly pointed out, swallowing to clear his throat.  His heart had been thumping—still was, and his friend was unrelenting in his proximity.

 

  "Invading it?  I figured you didn't mind how closely I could stay to you, considering all those cold nights I spent snuggled up to you for warmth."  Arak took a breath and sighed.

 

  "That's different."

 

Mumbling he averted his gaze, trying to inconspicuously break free of Tai's gentle grasp.  The fact that he was very self-conscious didn't aid in the fact that being so close to the man that made his heart suddenly beat furiously with such innocent yet intimate actions, nearly made him swoon from shortness of breath.  He felt like he might be beginning to think illogically.  There were few times Tai could make him do that....was the young dragon even aware how the taller brunette reacted?  It never seemed like it.  His sweetness, his innocence, even those scarce nights when things went 'bump' all night long, when Tai appeared to mature quite a bit older into a sort of perverse gentleman, the dragon never seemed to change; if he was pretending to be oblivious to the kind of responses he elicited from Arak, then he played the part well, very convincingly. 

 

The phoenix drew a steady breath, eyes flitting back in time to meet Tai's half veiled gaze, ebony lashes dusty his pale cheeks, unexpectedly upon him, tenderly, sweetly kissing his friend—a gentle kiss, warm lips gracing the smooth curve of darker skin, ending softly with an endearment to the corners of the phoenix's lips.  Both pairs of violet eyes had fluttered shut, Arak unconsciously leaning into the kiss after the initial shock at the abruptness of it.  No, Tai had given him plenty of time and warning to foresee the action, preventing it if he so wished.  When the dragon had parted, his other hand brushing Arak's other cheek, reddened fingers weaving through blood dipped hair, pulling his companion forward by the back of his neck, the hand that had been smoothing over his chin now also finding its way to grip chocolate locks. 

 

As he kissed him once more, slowly, Arak opened to him, not quite as hesitantly as his masquerade of pulling away and flinching from Tai's advances had shown.  Tai was shifting to sit on the couch, drawing his legs up between Arak's, hand still on his neck, the now freed hand brushing away his friend's wily bangs before traveling down the soft and subtle curves of Arak's masculine frame, finding his waist a decent spot to settle, giving his back support as the phoenix continued his gradual decent to the couch.  He was trying to pull back, regardless of his face tilted to the side giving Tai all the more access to enter his mouth with a curiously passionate tongue.  Arak had forgotten how to breathe minutes before, every second rushing by and at the same time taking a life time to live through.  He gasped for breath when he pulled away, wings resisting the urge to flounder at being laid back upon them, face suddenly staring at the ceiling once he found the will to open his eyes, brows creasing once more as heated lips trailed down his throat.

 

He moaned, hands somehow managing to find their way to Tai's head, twined in silken hair.  Tai was pressed against him, one hand sneaking up a wanton thigh, fingers dancing over the fish net, his other hand having ventured between bare shoulder blades where the zipper had been left undone, fingers raking over exposed flesh and eliciting a shiver, another soft moan accompanying it.  It wasn't just Tai pressed upon him, alleviating his weight with both elbows and knees, but that Arak was arched against him, conforming to the shape of his body, every cell seeming to cry out in ache for contact.  How long had it been?  As a slow second passed the phoenix's reeling mind finally came to somewhat of a standstill, suddenly acknowledging that Tai had stopped.  His perception was muddled, breath nearly panting, eyes dreamy, his grip a desperate clutch.  Tai watched solemnly, eyes prodding to ask, "Was this okay?  Am I going somewhere I shouldn't?"

 

Arak, noticing how tense he was, ease up, taking a deep breath and exhaling shortly, trying to regain his bearings.  Surely, he wasn't <i>that</i>sensitive was he?  He certainly didn't consider himself deprived.  Allowing himself to settle against the couch, Tai hovering over him, he took notice that his dress was nowhere near long enough to completely cover himself in the position he was in: with the body bearing down atop him, now pulled away, the once muffled draft was now felt anew and much fiercer.  He blushed, closing his eyes, unsure what to say.  He could feel, could sense the dragon moving down upon him, his shadow like a warm blanket, tangible with the solidity of his body.  His kissed his eyes, Arak's fingers clutching the shoulders of Tai's dress.  They should stop.  This wasn't appropriate.

 

  "You look so beautiful," a warm murmur came to his ear, the hand that had stilled on his thigh now groping his ass.

 

Another whimper escaped the phoenix's throat, his body flushed, his panting almost suddenly returning as he gave up taking proper breaths.  He jerked against the couch.  Had his mind been able to clear in the least bit, his resistance wouldn't have waned so quickly.  Roaming lips met his collarbone, nearly hidden by the ruffly bosom of his maid's outfit.

 

  "T-Tai," he managed to gasp, voice fairly solid.

 

  "Mhmm?" Tai hummed after a moment, sending a shiver through Arak's body.  His answer was met with a loud groan as his hand worked, the other picking up where it had left off, outline the ridges of the phoenix's spine.

 

“Tai!” he exhaled, voice louder and firmer. The dragon drew out a last, reluctant-to-part kiss, teeth grazing rich milk chocolate colored skin. The shorter brunette looked down to Arak with a pout, lips parted, eyes heavy with lasciviousness, brows arching ever so slightly in question. It took the bird a long moment to find his voice, eyes locked in a shameless stare. His cheeks were on fire with blush and he didn't speak until a prompting pinch was administered, making him jump slightly.

 

“Ah…. Tai—what?”

 

The dragon broke into another smile, a sweet, pleasant one upon hearing his beloved stutter.

 

“Didn't I saw you were sweet?” he asked in return, his voice a flowery murmur. He sat back, tail twitching, having left its warm perch around Arak's leg. He hummed, sipping his tea as if nothing had happened. Breathing shallow, his wits somewhat scattered, his eyes searched the free spirit, a little baffled with mouth agape as if about to speak. Sitting back up and adjusting his skirt so as to stop flashing Tai, he couldn't help be realize, the dragon had wanted him—was about to have taken him!—so why did he stop? Unable to find his voice, he closed his mouth, wings shuffling as he was presented with another cup of tea.

 

 

 

************************

 

 

The afternoon had been eaten away with Tai's chattering, the tea and dainties soon diminishing, mostly because of the dragon who had ended up with a sugar rush, his antics having needed to be calmed considerably. Their rendezvous hadn't been spoken about or mentioned at all, but it unsettled Arak, leading him to a state of brooding as Tai fell into sleep on the couch, curled up like a child, wings tucked in close; his energy had burned off from his sugar high and now he cashed. Arak had wanted to change out of that frivolous dress, but with Tai's head cradled in his lap, one hand gripping the hem of his skirt, he couldn't move for fear of rousing the sleeper.

 

He still had not gotten his pendant back. The embers died down, the fire having been extinguished, burning itself into ashes and leaving the pair in a heavy darkness. It was getting cold in the mid afternoon, and the short revealing maid's dress with fishnets did little to keep the phoenix warm. By early evening, Arak was stiff from sitting so long, a coldness creeping into him, his wings acting like a blanket to heat him, folding about him like drapery, just as soon as he stood and stretched. Although he could have raised his body temperature to keep him toasty warm, it took too much energy, and besides, if Tai felt hot warm he was he'd cuddle up right away and never let go, asleep or not. Arak also like the idea of a long hot bath in a personal, porcelain, lion-footed tub. Gathering the young reptilious brunette in his arms, he held him against his chest like a sleeping child, trekking across the entrance of the castle towards his bedroom.

 

Upon entering, the curtains parted to let in the dying glow of the mottled gold and rust-hued light of sunset, he deftly pulled back the heavy blankets piled atop his bed and settled his friend on the downy mattress, the only protest emitted as a whimper when Arak's embracing arms left. He was content as he curled next to a large pillow.  Drawing the curtains around the four-poster bed, he tucked Tai, thinking to undress him, though not wanting to fight the dress off.  The night would get cold, but after a moment's contemplation, he decided he should.

 

Carefully pulling the dragon's arms free, slipping the outfit over narrow hips, the satin hung over his arm, amethyst eyes roving over a toned and pale body.  He was only wearing the crystalline blue gem necklace.  Arak felt the urge to reclaim his treasure, snatching it from Tai's neck, but he refrained.  Breathing softly, the shadow's so heavy he would have lost the dragon if he had been as dark skinned as he, the phoenix let a candelabra, bringing to the bedside table.  The flickering light brought a fiery tint to smooth skin, Arak's eyes roaming over the dips and curves of his body.  He stood still, deciding whether or not he was crazy.  How beautifully innocent Tai looked. 

 

Brushing aside muddy bangs, Arak let his fingers trail down softly sleeping skin, down a pale shoulder, trailing down his chest, fingertips finally leaving.  Swallowing and shaking his head, knowing he was being foolish, he pulled the covers up to Tai's chin before whispering a goodnight and closing the heavy chamber door behind him as quietly as he could.  With every intention of settling into a nice warm bath, the teat things needed to be taken care of first and foremost, lest he forget and find them a week from now with spiders spinning their webs on the inside of the good porcelain.  Pace brisk from the cold, wings bobbing and keeping him as warm as they could with long sunset colored feathers, Arak re-entered the lounge room, gathering the tray in the darkness, assuming it as all there indeed before setting off for the pristine kitchen.  Finally, setting the things carefully on a counter, he decided he'd wash them later.  He'd have to come to the kitchen to prepare something to eat eventually, sooner than he would the lounge room, more than likely.

 

 

************************

 

 

For having claimed a smaller guest room to suit his tastes, the 'public' bathing room would have been closer, but he chose the long and rather cold trek up one tower, down the hall, and to a more private bathing room.  The large porcelain tub wasn't made for a person as small as he—lest they get lost in it—even with his height, but the size of his wings made to accommodate the space.  He was glad the room filled with steam quickly enough after turning on the tap, a lavender bubble bath rising in a mountain of foam to envelope his senses.  He sighed loudly in contentment, hastily ridding himself of the ridiculous costume he had been goaded into wearing and stepped into the knee-deep pool of paradise.  As he soaked, head back and eyes closed, feathered wings half in and half out of the bath, his mind wandered.  Thinking back to the unexpected kisses he had received, a faint blush rose to his cheeks and he submerged himself even deeper, the foam a bed of clouds obscuring him.

 

His stomach growled.  He felt embarrassed to admit that he probably wouldn't have minded Tai ravaging him until he screamed.  The thought made him swallow hard, eyes closed, hiding beneath the bubbles, idle hands twitching.  Blowing bubbles, he attempted to push the lewd thoughts from his mind before letting him get away with himself.  Concentrating on washing himself clean, the bubble bath was mostly gone once he stood, dripping, shaking out his wings and stepping onto a fur rug before noticing he had company.  It took him another moment of staring to remember he was still naked.  And still partially aroused.  Clearing his throat and turning modestly around—the dragon having not bothered to dress himself upon waking—and pulled a cotton towel about his waist, finally daring to face his friend, a towel in one hand for the young brunette as well.

 

"Here," the phoenix spoke up when Tai said nothing, his face still looking quite sleepy.

 

Instead of taking the offered garment, he rubbed his eyes, yawning, red tail and wings hanging limply in half consciousness, wandering forward and bumping into Arak who caught him in a hug.  Arak, quite a bit taller than the smaller brunette, held him easily against him, chocolate lock splashed against wet skin, a cool cheek pressed warmly against hot cocoa colored skin.

 

  "Mmmm."  It was more a pleasurable sigh of contentment, Tai leaning deeply into Arak, curled against him as if he might fall asleep standing up.  Somewhat at a loss, the phoenix scolded his friend, wrapping the extra towel around Tai.

 

  "Shame Tai!  The castle gets so cold at night I wouldn't doubt if you caught cold."  His voice, though, was a murmur, the child-like dragon holding fast and comfortably in his arms.  The room was warm, misty trails faintly lingering from the steam, but soon, with the door standing wide open, it would be freezing.  He could have stoked the fires as he usually did at nights and mornings, but the happily cooing brunette in his arms rather drew him away from his chores.

 

Smiling as Tai sighed against his shoulders, eyes closed as though he might fall into an even deeper sleep, Arak ran a damp hand through dry hair.

 

  "Come on Tai.  Back to bed with you.  I'll be up shortly."  Tai protested when Arak tried to move him, encircling arms tightening around a lean back.

 

  "I need to dry off Tai," the phoenix reasoned, but could not shake him.  Whining in rebellion, Tai snuggled all the more closer, nuzzling the curve of his companion's neck and making Arak shiver slightly, wiggling to get away from sensitive breath.  Sighing, he picked Tai up, his small body somewhat warmer, though still cool from his journey to the bathroom.

 

  "I'm still wet you know," Arak pointed out, situating the towel around Tai better, so his delicacies might not be exposed. With Tai latched onto him like some sort of monkey Arak held him by the thighs, slender legs wrapped around his waist, arms around his neck, and grunted as he hefted the weight within his grasp. Wings spread slightly as though they might help equilibrate the balance. As he made the journey back, retracing well known steps without the aid of the candles he had snuffed out before leaving the bathroom, Arak made it to his bedroom, his towel clinging for dear life a good part of the way but soon giving up, dropping at the steps of a cold stone staircase, torches lit—as always—to better his vision.

 

Closing his chamber door behind him, Arak withdrew into the innards of his room, the candles mounted in their holders still valiantly fighting to stay alive. Once more depositing the dragon onto his bed, afraid he might lose an arm from how dearly Tai had clasped on previously, so he was surprised when there was little resistance. Throwing the towel aside after tousling wet hair with it, his body having dried in the cold castle air, he blew out the remaining candles, snuggling in bed, fighting the covers to situate his wings, pulling the drapes around his side of the bed. Lying on his side, the dragon immediately curled into his figure, molding to his shape, jostling the phoenix as he made himself very comfortable. Once he gave a deep sigh Tai lay still, limp in Arak's arms. Offering a small smile, the taller man draped one wing over his friend, sheltering and keeping him close, running a hand through choppy hair, his other holding him around the waist.

 

For a long moment he felt tense, a little uncomfortable that their naked forms were wrapped together, bare skin against bare skin. Exhaling in concentration, he let himself relax, Tai's breath soft in his ear, tail tip twitching against a darker colored leg in his slumber. The phoenix kissed Tai's forehead softly, holding him all the more closely as Arak called forth the innate fire that burned within, raising his body temperature until it was a sauna under the thick covers. The dragon groaned softly, face pressed against heated flesh. He murmured in his sleep. Arak closed his eyes, slightly confused about the earlier happenings but was too weary to think about it. He could feel the pendant around Tai's neck pressing against his chest, and so he fell asleep, knowing it was safe.